Enjoy Shopping & Dining with Safety & Convenience at Ortigas Malls

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 As the country gradually eases out of the pandemic, more and more Filipino families are enjoying everyday trips to the mall, though still on “safe mode” – making only quick visits or hanging out mostly at nearby community malls which consistently enforce government health protocols.   

Leading mall operator Ortigas Malls believes many responsible shoppers these days feel more confident resuming their malling lifestyle at malls such as Greenhills, Tiendesitas, Estancia, and Industria. Aside from the high convenience factor they offer, mall-goers appreciate the consistent enforcement of safety protocols to keep staff and patrons safe, which after all is what being in a community is about.  

“At all Ortigas Malls branches, we take being part of a community to heart. Above everything else, we prioritize our mall guests’ health and safety, allowing them to worry less and enjoy more. To do this, we heavily invested on safety measures and work closely with our retailers. We also make sure to continually engage our patrons, reminding them to observe health protocols at all times. Health is everyone’s concern so we made sure to enforce our safety program as a community project,” said Arch. Renee Bacani, Vice President of Ortigas Malls.

Experience safe malling

Among the earliest mall chains to have 100% of its staff and employees inoculated and boosted, all Ortigas Malls branches also carry the local government unit’s Safety Seal Certification. The seal is issued only to establishments that strictly comply with the Inter-Agency Task Force health guidelines and policies, and is renewable every 6 months, subject to continued compliance.

On top of strict adherence to health protocols, Bacani said Ortigas Malls patrons also find their branches ideal for quick trips, as well as for enjoying specific leisure activities with the family. Each branch is located in highly accessible spots and has ample parking facilities. More than that, each branch offers a distinct shopping community experience that is both special and matchless. This means, customers never have to waste a lot of time wading through a maze of establishments they don’t intend to visit nor risk exposure with crowds they don’t intend to mingle with.

Get the perks of being an Ortigas Community Card  member  

Giving mall-goers that truly neighborly feel is the Ortigas Community Card, which grants card members exclusive privileges when they shop or dine from merchant members in all branches. They also get to enjoy extra perks including free parking and complimentary use of the customer lounge in Greenhills.

In Greenhills and Estancia, members even get to avail of discounted car wash service and free use of ShopBox. Applying for card membership is also via the Ortigas Malls mobile app downloadable on App Store and Google Play.

Enjoy what you love, with those you love

Every Ortigas Mall offers something special for you and your loved ones. Depending on your shopping needs or leisure preferences, you can enjoy everyday malling assured of safety and convenience. Here’s a short directory of what each mall uniquely offers:

• Greenhills Mall – Located along Ortigas Avenue in San Juan City, the mall holds the distinction of being Metro Manila’s first-ever shopping complex. Boasting of over 2,000 stores and regarded as a true haven for one-of-a-kind finds, it is a must-stop destination for specialty products such as clothing, shoes, gadgets, pearls, jewelries, and so much more! Customers can check these newly opened stores – Difam Gadgets, Electric Cyclery,Koomi, Nailandia, Peri-Peri, Romantic Baboy, Zig, and OMG.
  

 

• Tiendesitas – This shopping complex along E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue in Pasig City, and showcases the most beautiful products and services only available in the Philippines. Its attractions range from remarkable native finds to pet and plant stores, DIY, and personal care services. Exciting new attractions include Allan Paintings, Felicity Art Hub, Mitch and Carol Art Gallery, Moonleaf Tea, P-charge, Wandeluxe Boutique, Petmall Clinic, and PetMall Shop.

 

• Estancia – Located along Meralco Avenue in Pasig City, this mall boasts of a distinctly affluent shopping, dining, and entertainment experience. Designed to delight the senses, it pleases everyone looking for top-of-the-line products and services, as well as the ultimate pampering experience. Recently opened, must-visit stores include Crisostomo, Hai Chix and Steaks, Noah Wellness Center, and Srixon Pro Shop. 

 

• Industria – This neighborhood mall is located in Circulo Verde along Calle Industria in Quezon City. If you relish non-stop indoor fun and adrenaline rush, a visit to Industria can certainly make you feel bubbly and healthy! Ideal for people of all age groups and risk appetites, it’s your go-to mall for a wide array of adrenalin-kicking action and adventure.

For those who prefer to simply shop from home, there’s always My Home Dashers available in all malls. It’s a personal shopper service that delivers right to the customer’s doorsteps whatever food cravings, gadget needs, figurine collections, and practically everything else they need. Availing the service is just one call away at 0917-815-6640 for Greenhills, and 09178519262 for Tiendesitas, Estancia, and Industria.

Enjoy every day with your loved ones, at Ortigas Malls, and do watch out for upcoming events! For more information, please visit ortigasmalls.com.

 

Watch Kwentong Jollibee’s latest Valentine series to find out what does love truly mean?

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What does love truly mean? This February, the award-winning and highly anticipated Kwentong Jollibee Valentine series is back to tug at everyone’s heartstrings, launching a new trio of special short films that show the different ways people experience love and discover its true meaning.

“It’s the sixth year of the Kwentong Jollibee Valentine series and what we always realize is that love comes in different forms and can be defined in myriad ways, unique from person to person. The stories were inspired by true-to-life experiences of real people in the pandemic, with unexpected twists that lead people into finding what love truly means for them,” said Jollibee AVP and Head of Brand PR, Engagement and Digital Marketing, Arline Adeva.

Directed by Antoinette Jadaone and JP Habac, the Kwentong Jollibee 2022 Valentines series tugs the heart of Filipinos with stories of finding real love.

“As in our past runs of Kwentong Jollibee, our goal is to celebrate the uniqueness of each love story and showcase the timeless lessons that can inspire and give hope to our viewers. All three episodes are anchored on powerful truths that surfaced during these challenging times when all kinds of relationships were somehow put to the test.” she added.

Pandemic or not, no Valentine’s Day is complete without a Kwentong Jollibee series. Last year’s viral triple treat—LDR, First Date, and Hero—showcased that strength can be found in love, especially one that is determined to make things work despite hardships. This year, Jollibee is at it again with a new trilogy that is sure to touch the hearts of audiences across generations.

Hold on to real love in the face of never-ending challenges with the Kwentong Jollibee “600 Days” Valentines episode.

600 Days, is love worth the trouble? —This is the question posed by Brian and Mina’s story which is, set to premiere on February 9 on the brand’s official Facebook page. The couple was first introduced in last year’s #LDR, which chronicled their struggles as the distance and pandemic kept them apart. They thought the worst is over, but as the pandemic progresses, new challenges keep rocking their relationship. Do they have what it takes to still make things work? Find out in this heartwarming sequel by the same director of Kwentong Jollibee LDR, Antoinette Jadaone.

Kwentong Jollibee’s “Dream Guy” is a swoon-worthy love story made for the K-drama fans.

Dream Guy, which will be released on February 13, tells the story of Kaye, a hallyu fan who dreams of having her own ultimate oppa love story. For her, meeting Jung feels like starring in her very own K-drama, but he might not be what she imagined him to be. This charming love story also helmed by Jadaone will surely delight the hearts of Korean love story fans.

Meet the different types of love through the stories of three girlkada members on 

Kwentong Jollibee’s “ILY”.

ILY, streaming on February 18, is a different kind of love story that will make young people realize all the more the value of the people they have in their lives. Directed by JP Habac (who also directed the recent blockbuster short film One True Pair The Movie), it’s the perfect short film to watch with your besties or even the whole family.

Kwentong Jollibee has released 36 short films since it was first introduced in 2017. Inspired by the genuine life experiences of the brand’s loyal customers, the episodes have truly resonated among Jollibee fans of all ages, marking more than 800 million views on Facebook and YouTube. And with the way the episodes thread together the universal experiences of pain, love, and loss, the storytelling is truly felt by people all over the world — leading Kwentong Jollibee to receive recognitions both locally and abroad.

Don’t miss the stories of love this Valentine’s season by catching all three #KwentongJollibee special shorts on Jollibee Studios YouTube channel and on Jollibee’s Facebook page.

BeachTowns Rising as the Country’s Premier Investment: Landco Raises the Bar in Beachside Developments in Batangas

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Known for pioneering landscapes for more than 30 years, Landco raises the bar once again, offering a premier investment on its BeachTowns projects rising in Batangas.

There is a growing trend that the affluent are snapping up properties away from the city as the pandemic continues to fuel a work-from-home lifestyle that no longer tethers business owners and professionals at the office.

People see the value of working from a seaside environment. With the BeachTowns, it’s easier to have work-life balance, stay productive, live a healthier lifestyle and reenergize by the beach in the new setting.

“Having a property in these BeachTowns is something that homeowners and property investors can enjoy now as their dream beach house, second home or an exciting new business venture in the new normal. At the same time, it’s a long-term investment that appraises in value,” Landco Pacific Corporation CEO Erickson Y. Manzano stated.

One of Landco’s premium developments is Punta Fuego in Batangas which captured a solid footing in the upscale market. Its property appreciation is about 1,200 percent since it was launched.

“It’s the perfect time to invest in BeachTowns for its long-term property value appreciation, given Landco’s track record. It’s also a lasting legacy that can be passed on to the next generations, ensuring the well-being and financial security of many generations down the line,” he emphasized.

Setting a new standard for luxury beachside living, Landco BeachTowns are master-planned communities offering pristine white beaches, accessibility to the city, strong WIFI connection, world-class infrastructure, modern facilities and resort amenities.

Batangas is one of the top tourist and leisure destinations near Metro Manila and renowned as an idyllic beach getaway for city dwellers, weekend warriors and those who opt to work from the beach in the new norm. Captivating for its dive spots, stunning beaches, golf courses, historical and cultural attractions, fresh seafood, wellness sites, local culinary offerings and strong coffee, Batangas is the perfect location of Landco’s thriving Beachtowns. Only two to three-hour drive from Metro Manila, it’s more accessible compared to other tourist spots.

The Beachtowns provide a sense of balance away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and capture the best of what Batangas has to offer – balmy shores, seemingly endless stretches of white sand, incomparable crystal blue waters and easy access to modern resort facilities. It’s resort living at its finest.

In Calatagan, which is known as the playground of the affluent, its BeachTowns feature breathtaking view of sunsets, a laidback resort lifestyle, easy access to golf courses, equestrian clubs, dive spots, cultural and historical attractions.

The BeachTowns in vibrant Laiya, San Juan bustling with tourism in Batangas, are accessible to the rows of restaurants and bars along the white sand and caters to those with an active lifestyle from sailing, paddleboarding to yoga by the beach.

The properties provide the perfect seascape of their clients’ dreams, from exclusive residential beach communities of Playa Calatagan and Playa Laiya to the residential and commercial spaces in the inclusive seaside communities of Leisure Tourism Estates (LTE): CaSoBe and Club Laiya.

LTE are master-planned mixed use residential and commercial developments primed for the tourism market. These developments are for those who would prefer to be immersed in the middle of the vibrant tourist destination, mingle with leisure seekers and the sporty set; and have the option to build a dream business by the beach.

Sustainability at the Core of Landco BeachTowns

For decades, Landco has always been guided by its strong commitment to sustainability in its real estate developments and provided socially and environmentally responsible investment choices for its investors.

“Championing environmental stewardship, the over-all health and welfare of communities, and resource efficiency in our property developments which are aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, are at the heart of Landco’s operations especially in the BeachTowns, not because we have to, but primarily because it’s the right thing to do,” Manzano enthused.

Creating long-term sustainable value for its developments of BeachTowns in Batangas, its latest LTE: CaSoBe and Club Laiya are both LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) registered with its water recycling measures, permeable pedestrian tree-lined walkways, and scenic bike lanes around the beachside properties to reduce carbon footprints.

Recently, Millennial Resorts, which provides the hospitality facilities and services for its LTE, was awarded the very first EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Certification for a resort hospitality project in the country, for its Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe in Calatagan, Batangas.

For more information about Landco BeachTowns, visit https://www.landco.ph/ or FB page: https://www.facebook.com/LandcoPacificCorporation.

Get great deals on sewing machines and extra gift vouchers in Brother’s New Year Flash Sale

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Sewing enthusiasts and business owners in fashion and clothing can enjoy amazing deals plus additional eGift vouchers when they shop for a new Brother sewing machine in Brother Philippines’ New Year Flash Sale, which is extended until March 31.

A wide selection of the latest Brother sewing machines are available for purchase, from the affordable and budget-friendly JK17B mechanical sewing machine with 17 built-in stitches that goes for only P9,995, to the start-up NV800E embroidery machine with 138 built-in embroidery designs that goes for P79,995. No matter what your business or hobby is, there’s a Brother sewing machine that can bring your designs to life.

Each of these participating Brother machines also comes with an eGift voucher that can be used in your next purchase. To claim the eGift, simply register at https://bit.ly/BrotherSewingMachinePromo after buying your desired machine during the promo period.

In addition to getting a new sewing machine, you can also level up your sewing and craft skills with free classes held by Brother! Made for beginner and intermediate users, these classes can improve your craft and help you make better creations. To join, just sign up at https://www.brother.com.ph/en/contents/onlinesewingclass.

For more details about the New Year Flash Sale and other promotions, you may visit our Facebook page https:// https://web.facebook.com/BROTHERatyourside. You can also call the Brother Helpdesk Hotline at (02) 8 581-9898, or through the toll-free line at 1-10-BROTHER, or send an email to helpdesk@brother.com.ph.

For product and service inquiries, visit Brother Philippines’ official accounts:

Website: https://www.brother.com.ph/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/BROTHERatyourside.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brotherphils/

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/BrotherPHLinkedIn

Viber Community: https://bit.ly/BrotherShopatHomeViber

Working Together towards a more effective and Efficient Foster Care System

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Every child has the right to grow up in a family. But while Filipinos are known to have strong family ties, poverty and difficult living conditions have forced thousands of children to grow up without a home or a family of their own.

Kaisahang Buhay Foundation Incorporated (KBF), a private, non-profit Child and Family Welfare organization, with its mission to raise awareness on the impact and benefits of foster care in the country, recently held a Virtual Blogger Event with a theme "FosterCarePH: Working Together towards a more effective and Efficient Foster Care System".

The event was in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Norfil Foundation Inc., and Association of Child Caring Agencies of the Philippines (ACCAP, and the Advisory Committee on Foster Care (ACFC).

“Today is a special day, a milestone for many families and children in the Philippines. It marks the first time that we, at the Advisory Committee on Foster Care (ACFC), is undertaking a public event to deliver a very important message– an urgent call for potential foster care families to welcome abandoned children into their homes.” said Gil Velez, KBF Strategy Planning Consultant, in his opening remarks.

Through the event, KBF hopes to share and spread awareness about their initiatives to increase the number of foster parents who are willing to provide abandoned and neglected, and other disadvantaged Filipino children with temporary parental care. 

Velez, who is also an adoptive parent, echoed the call for more Filipinos to consider adoption or becoming foster parents, “There are hundreds of children waiting to be adopted, waiting to find temporary homes. I am not a social worker, but I am an adoptive parent and I have seen first-hand, many children in orphanages waiting to find temporary and eventually permanent homes in families where they will be loved and cared for unconditionally.”

The Virtual Blogger Event is the first of three events this year, spearheaded by KBF and PR Agency, Red Havas Manila, to promote awareness on foster care programs in thePhilippines and encourage more Filipino families to become foster parents.

Awareness on Foster Care in PH

During the event, Miramel Garcia-Laxa, Division Chief, Sectoral Programs DivisionProgram Management BureauDSWD Central Office walked the audience through the highlights of the KBF and DSWD Awareness Survey on Foster Care in the Philippines.

The survey, which ran from May 12 to June 2, 2021, was initiated by the Advisory Committee on Foster Care (ACFC) through Kaisahang Buhay Foundation Inc., (KBF) in partnership with DSWD was conducted to:

●      Assess awareness of the public on foster care as a concept

●      Describe the interest of the public in learning more about foster care; and

●      Collect contact details of individuals willing to participate in the foster care program

The highlights of the survey showed 53% of respondents saying they are familiar with foster care while 93% indicated interest in learning more about it. Among these interested respondents, 68% prefer to get more information about foster care on Facebook.

“This is why we are gathered today, to amplify the call for more awareness. With your help and your platforms, we inform and encourage more Filipinos to be a part of our foster care programs,” said Laxa.

The Joys of Foster Care

During the discussions, the program invited 2 guests in the person of Leticia Solana, a foster parent who has cared for more than 50 foster kids, and Randy Sinay, a former foster child who is now a Jail Officer with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

Randy, who was left for adoption in an orphanage by his biological mom, became a foster child at age 2. 

“When I was young, I used to be teased as “ampon” but my foster parents always defended me. They always introduce me as their “bunso” even if I was only their foster child and they always made me feel like I was a part of their family,” Randy shared.

Meanwhile, Mommy Letty, who has been a foster mom since 1988, decided to foster children after her children moved out and started their own lives.

“I’ve had 56 foster children already, but I still find it heartbreaking when they’re taken away from me. Despite them being stubborn and hard to care for sometimes, I treat each child as my own,” shared Mommy Letty.

Randy shared how despite reconnecting with his biological family, he still has a deeper connection with his foster family.

“Even when I met my biological parents, the connection I’ve had with my foster family remained strong. After I graduated, I still went home to them. The care and love they have shown me remains strong up to this day,” Randy added.

Despite the challenges, Mommy Letty shares how being a foster mom gives her a sense of fulfilment, “I’m happy even if they get adopted and taken away from me. At first, it’s hard to let go but I find comfort in knowing that they will finally have a permanent home.

Randy called for foster children to not think that they are alone, even if they are foster or adopted children. “Reciprocate the love and care you get with respect and love,” he added. He also appealed for people to consider fostering because he knows how much abandoned children need a loving home.

Mommy Letty made the same appeal saying, “there are a lot of children that need us, they need more of us to provide them with a loving home and care for them,” she appealed.

Foster Care in PH

In the question and answer portion of the event, Program Management Bureau, DSWD Central Office, Director Wilma D. Naviamos and Director Glady Quindoza-Bunao, Executive Director Kaisahang Buhay Foundation Inc., and Vice-President Association of Child Caring Agencies of the Philippines (ACCAP), expounded on the challenges of the foster care system in the Philippines.

“Pre-pandemic, we’ve had challenges in recruiting foster parents. The pandemic made this even more difficult. One challenge is changing perception, especially the attachment of foster parents because most people think it will be very difficult to let go of a child once they are adopted,” Director Glady shared.

“From the government side, while we have an information drive to raise awareness on foster care, we were also impacted by the pandemic. A grassroots approach is needed, we have to bring the program down to the barangay level. We also are expanding the support needed by foster parents,” added Director Wima.

Both also shared how the government and partner foster care NGOs also provide financial subsidies for foster parents. Under the foster care program, there are volunteer foster parents, parents who are financially capable to provide and care for foster children, and subsidised foster parents who are financially supported by the government and its partner NGOs depending on their financial standing.

A big challenge is also ensuring only qualified and capable families are able to foster. There are requirements and standards put in place to ensure that the foster families can sustainably care for the children to protect the child and make sure the families who will care for them are of good character.

“We want to ensure that the child is safe and will get the care they need. We also make sure that the families are ready and committed because fostering is a big endeavor that requires time, commitment and resources,” added Director Glady.

“We have also streamlined the documentary requirement to make it easier for more Filipinos to apply. What’s important is for us to ensure the level of commitment of our applicants. Because of the pandemic, we have also offered online application options to make the process more convenient,” added Director Wilma.

DSWD works closely with NGOs to make sure that the process is made easier and to provide support for all foster families before, during, and even after their involvement in the foster care program.

Be a foster parent

Foster care has been around for a long time; however, a lot of Filipinos still do not know how and where to start their fostering journey.

Ma. Teresa Nuqui, Executive Director, NORFIL Foundation Inc., called for the public to join the mission of providing foster homes to more abandoned children.

“Our foster care programs allow abandoned, in need, and displaced Filipino children to believe that there is hope; that there are caring and loving families who will give them homes to call their own. The number of abandoned children in the Philippines is increasing, we need to reach out and encourage more people to provide foster homes to these children and provide them with a chance for a better future,” called Director Teresa.

To learn more about fostering and #FosterCarePH, visit https://adoption.dswd.gov.ph/ and https://www.kbf.ph/