Saturday, January 3, 2026
Fans enjoyed experiential booths, live performances, and the NU Bulldogs’ championship victory that capped off this year’s biggest campus esports gaming event
realme returned to Campus Playfest powered by Collegiate Center for Esports for the second time, as the official smartphone partner, bringing a fresh round of exciting activities and special moments at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall to the country’s biggest year-end celebration in esports.
During the event, guests Sharlene San Pedro and Doc Z visited the realme experiential booth, where the Squad enjoyed interactive games and grand raffle prizes, such as the realme Buds T310 and the realme C85 5G smartphone. Both creators also joined the realme Squad Match, a best-of-three exhibition Call of Duty: Mobile Showmatch powered by the realme 15 Pro 5G, playing alongside fans from the realme Community, with Doc Z sweeping the rounds and claiming victory with a 2-0 score.
The event also marked the finale of realme’s ambassador search, introducing Eli Ruivivar and Dale Bascara, as the new ambassadors, celebrating a milestone for the brand and its growing community, as fans cheered their announcement. Both of them received a cash prize of P50,000 and a one-year contract during the awarding, led by realme IMC Lead Patty Gonzales.
Adding to the excitement, Campus Playfest featured live performances from Ena Mori and One Click Straight, captivating the audience with their sets and a memorable finale, as Letters from June serenaded the crowd with a final act that fired up everyone.
The crowning moment of Campus Playfest was the PCC National League Grand Finals, which delivered intense Mobile Legends Bang Bang action as the NU Bulldogs, composed of Herrero, Paculan, Bangsal, Blas, Estacio, and Alvarado, dominated the series against DXRV Esports and secured the championship with a 3-to-1 finish after a strong performance throughout the game. Showcasing their skills using the realme 15 Pro 5G as their gaming phone, the team took home a prize of P100,000 as this season’s PCC Mobile Legends National League Season 3 Champions. Estacio also earned the realme Finals MVP title and received a realme 15T 5G in recognition of his standout gameplay.
Looking ahead, fans can look forward to the next season of the realme Regional Wars and the realme Mobile Legends Cup as realme continues to support the growing local esports community.
Discover the Power of the realme C85 Series 5G
Anyone looking to experience a reliable, stylish smartphone this season can check out the new realme C85 , now available in Kingfisher Blue and Swan Black on Shopee, and TikTok. For a limited time, buyers of the realme C85 will also receive a complimentary TechLife 20W Power Bank 5000mAh worth P1,199, valid until December 14, 2025.
Additionally, every realme smartphone purchase this season earns one raffle entry into the brand’s holiday promo, giving customers the chance to take home exciting prizes such as the realme GT 7T (12GB+256GB), realme Pad X Wi-Fi, TechLife Smart Watch P1, or a grand prize trip for two to Thailand or Vietnam. Head to the nearest realme Store now and experience the realme C85 series, built for gaming, streaming, and more.
Check out the official realme Facebook and Instagram pages to stay updated about the latest realme announcements.
Turnover ceremony of the 2-storey classroom building at Tarlac National High School, led by Security Bank Foundation Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr. and Jesus V. Del Rosario Foundation Executive Director Kana Manglapus
Tarlac City, Philippines – More than 10,000 students at Tarlac National High School (TNHS) will benefit from safer, more conducive learning spaces following the turnover of a newly constructed two‑storey, 10-classroom building by Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI), with one classroom sponsored by the Jesus V. Del Rosario Foundation, Inc. (JVRFI).
The turnover ceremony was led by SBFI Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr. and JVRFI Executive Director Kana Manglapus, together with school officials, local partners, and members of the Security Bank community.
One of the oldest and largest public secondary schools in the country, TNHS has long grappled with overcrowding and limited classroom space. Despite these challenges, the school continues to produce high-performing students and runs inclusive education programs serving out-of-school youth, young mothers, working adults, and learners in correctional facilities under the leadership of Principal Yolanda Gonzales, recently recognized as the Best Principal of the Year at the 26th World School Summit in London.
"The outstanding performance of Tarlac National High School offers a ray of hope for a better Philippines,” said Rafael Simpao, Jr., SBFI Chairman. “Under the remarkable leadership of Principal Gonzales, we see how public schools—when given the right support—can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best and help shape a brighter future for our youth.”
The newly completed building is dedicated to THNS’ Special Program in Sports, providing student-athletes with a safe environment where they can pursue both academic and athletic excellence.
“This new facility shows what is possible when vision, care, and opportunity come together,” said Principal Gonzales. “With this support, even the biggest challenges can be transformed into success stories—for our students and for our community.”
Jane Canlas, Branch Manager at Security Bank Tarlac- Tañedo and a proud TNHS alumna, also expressed her appreciation for the project. “It is both an honor and a privilege to now represent Security Bank in giving back to my alma mater,” Canlas said. “This donation reflects our commitment to empowering communities through education, and it is deeply meaningful to see it benefit the school where my own foundation was built.”
To date, Security Bank Foundation has donated 887 classrooms to 151 schools across 91 cities and municipalities nationwide, helping create safer, more supportive learning environments for Filipino students.
Learn more about Security Bank Foundation’s education initiatives by visiting https://www.securitybank.com/foundation/
Children from Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Biñan enjoyed an early Christmas celebration with teachers, McDonald’s employees, parents, local officials, volunteers, and members of the media.
Manila, Philippines — This Holiday season, the spirit of giving reigns supreme in the hearts of every Filipino—and in every McDonald’s store. And what better way to share happiness this Christmas than with a Happy Meal?
McDonald’s Philippines Founder and Chairman Dr. George T. Yang channels his inner Santa Claus with the release of the McDonald’s Christmas online video, which shines a spotlight on the importance of sharing. In the video, he sings with legendary singer and composer Jose Mari Chan, as they inspire kids and adults to share a Happy Meal, a toy, and feel-good moments that will last a lifetime.
“All of us love seeing the twinkle in children’s eyes whenever they receive a gift, which is why this Christmas, we would also like our own children to experience that special feeling that comes with giving a gift,” said Dr. Yang.
Early Christmas on World Children’s Day
As an early Christmas surprise, McDonald’s gathered together children and families supported by McDonald’s charity of choice, the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), for food and celebration. On World Children’s Day last Nov 20, 2025, McDonald’s, RMHC, and media partners visited the Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit in Biñan, Laguna, to spread cheer and the spirit of giving.
The children of Bahay Bulilit Biñan experience the magic of giving through fun games and an exciting magic show.
The community experienced an early Christmas celebration with their McDonald’s favorites and Happy Meal toys, games, and fun interactions with Ronald and the Gang. Holding the celebration at Bahay Bulilit Biñan was also meaningful for Dr. Yang, because the facility was his personal gift to the children of the city. Bahay Bulilit Biñan was inaugurated just last October.
“The people of Biñan consider this new Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit in our city a truly meaningful gift from Dr. George Yang,” said City Mayor Angelo Alonte. “It’s not just for Christmas—it’s a gift that will benefit our children for many years to come. We are deeply grateful to Dr. Yang and McDonald’s Philippines for always prioritizing the welfare and education of our children, and for spending time with us to celebrate this early Christmas party.”
The gift of education with every Happy Meal
Customers can also support RHMC through every purchase of a Happy Meal. Starting December 5, McDonald’s Philippines is inviting customers of all ages to channel their inner Santa Claus through the Happy Meal “Buy One, Gift One” initiative.
Proceeds from the sale of every Happy Meal support the construction of Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers all over the country.
Inside each Happy Meal are two special toys—a child receives the first toy, and then the second toy can be given to a sibling, a friend, or anybody who will appreciate the gift. More than the toys, “Buy One, Gift One” is one of the many ways McDonald’s is highlighting the value of sharing.
Every feel-good moment that comes with every Happy Meal extends beyond the act of sharing a meal and a toy and actually reaches the lives of many preschoolers all over the country.
For every Happy Meal purchase, a portion of the sale goes to RMHC, to fund the construction of Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers in different communities. Each Bahay Bulilit serves as a safe space for preschool kids to learn and play, and for the kids to develop basic skills that will prepare them for formal schooling.
To date, there are 53 Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers all over the country, serving the early childhood care and development needs of at least 5,000 children every year.
And this Christmas, every child attending all 53 Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers will also get to enjoy a special McDonald’s meal and a Happy Meal toy—a surprise Holiday treat for thousands of learners.
Said Dr. Yang: “It’s truly inspiring when all of us come together and share our blessings, especially for a cause as worthy as supporting the education of young children. Education truly is one of the greatest gifts we can give children, and it’s a mission that we at McDonald’s support all year round.”
Even beyond the Holiday Season, customers can continue to support the development of Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers through the purchase of a Happy Meal.
Christmas cheer at the drive-thru and on the menu
McDonald’s also invites guests and customers to experience unique Holiday vibes at the drive-thru. Colorful lights, Christmas decor, and other surprises await customers as they enter the McDonald’s drive-thru, making what would normally be an ordinary experience truly magical and inspiring.
Even the McDonald’s menu has Christmas-inspired items that customers can enjoy. These include the new McDonald’s Honey Butter Chicken and the White Choco Cereal McFlurry—sweet treats to satisfy Holiday cravings.

MANILA, Philippines - PUMA proudly stands behind the athletes who shaped one of the most thrilling UAAP seasons in recent history. From the opening tip-off to the high-stakes Final Four and Finals stages, the brand supported the UP Fighting Maroons, FEU Tamaraws, and the league’s top-performing Hoops Squad athletes with high-performance footwear and apparel that elevated their confidence, endurance, and identity on the court.
UP Fighting Maroons’ Road to the Finals
The UP Fighting Maroons began UAAP Season 88 with strong momentum, establishing themselves early with a series of rivalry games and pressure-filled matchups. Tests against powerhouse squads like UST and DLSU helped define their grit and sharpen their resolve, shaping a team built for a deep postseason run. By the time UP entered the Final Four, the Maroons had developed a rhythm grounded in teamwork, composure, and day-to-day improvement.
That focus carried the UP Fighting Maroons through the do-or-die semifinal stage and into the championship series, where the team displayed unwavering resolve and composure. Across high-pressure moments and tightly contested possessions, each player refused to back down and consistently rose to the challenge against elite competition. While the season ended just short of the title, UP’s Finals run stood as a testament to their resilience and growth. Throughout this journey, PUMA stood with the team, supporting them from preparation and conditioning days to their most critical in-game moments, helping athletes move with freedom, stability, and confidence in their school colors.
Showcasing the Season’s Brightest with PUMA Hoops Squad
Alongside the UP Fighting Maroons, PUMA also amplified the league’s finest talents through the UAAP Season 88 Hoops Squad—a curated roster of standout athletes chosen for their leadership, consistency, and ability to impact games when it mattered most. Representing multiple schools and various playing styles, the Hoops Squad showcased how elite performance and distinct personality can shine through when backed by cutting-edge gear built for speed, agility, and court responsiveness.
This year’s lineup featured some of the season’s brightest performers, each wearing PUMA footwear crafted to match their style of play. UP’s Gani Stevens and FEU’s Kirby Mongcopa brought versatility and finesse in the Hali 1, a sleek and supportive silhouette equipped with NITRO™ cushioning designed for energy return and smooth transitions. Ateneo’s Divine Adili relied on the MB.05 World Tour, a round-toe, quick-response basketball shoe built for precision footwork, fast cuts, and uptempo play.
Completing the roster, NU’s Jolo Manansala suited up in the PUMA HOOPS x TMNT MB.01 Baxter Stockman Basketball Shoes, a stability-focused, responsive sneaker that offers balanced cushioning for both slashing offense and controlled defense. As well as Adamson University’s Austin Ronzone sporting All-Pro NITRO™ 2, a state-of-the-art basketball shoe engineered with NITRO™ SQD foam for multi-directional cushioning and lightweight explosive movement. Together, the Hoops Squad demonstrated how talent backed by the right tools can raise the level of collegiate basketball, inspiring fans and fellow athletes throughout Season 88.
Community and the Spirit of UAAP Basketball
Beyond the court, PUMA brings the spirit of the game to the crowd with exclusive PUMA x UP and PUMA x FEU fanwear collections. These pieces allowed supporters to represent their schools with pride, creating a unified look across arenas and turning every game into a celebration of culture, community, and school spirit. With players performing at their peak and fans proudly wearing their colors, UAAP Season 88 became a testament to resilience, unity, and the growing passion for Philippine basketball.
Celebrating Athletes and Legacy
After another unforgettable season, PUMA honors the dedication of its athletes for their grit in tight contests, their growth across months of competition, and their commitment to excellence. By uplifting these players and the communities that support them, PUMA continues to build its legacy as a champion of Filipino sports, bringing teams, fans, and future champions together under one shared drive: one team, one community.
Visit the PUMA store and its official website at PUMA.com to get the latest lineup of fanwear for UP and FEU. Follow PUMA Philippines’ official website and social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to learn more.
Transform URC favorites into crowd-pleasing holiday treats
The holidays have a way of turning all of us into ambitious home cooks—but sometimes, all you really want is something delicious without the stress. The secret? Some of the best holiday treats don’t require fancy ingredients at all. In fact, they’re probably already hiding in your snack stash.
With a little imagination (and your favorite Jack ‘n Jill snacks), you can magically turn everyday merienda into festive, feel-good dishes. These easy, clever recipes are perfect for Noche Buena spreads, barkada parties, potluck moments, or those sweet holiday surprises you throw together at the last minute—but pretend you planned the whole thing.
Check out these easy recipes you can try, featuring your favorite Jack ‘n Jillsnacks:
Piattos Nacho Bake
This quick, flavor-packed party tray transforms Piattos chips into a warm, cheesy, crowd-pleasing nacho bake. The crispy chips serve as a savory base that pairs perfectly with gooey melted cheese, salsa, and your favorite toppings—ideal for barkada movie nights or last-minute holiday entertaining.
Ingredients:
● 3–4 packs Piattos (Nacho Pizza recommended)
● 1–2 cups grated cheese (quick melt or cheddar)
● ½ cup salsa
● Optional toppings: cooked ground meat or beans, jalapeños, olives, onions, sour cream
Directions:
1. Arrange Piattos chips on a baking tray or oven-safe dish.
2. Sprinkle generously with cheese.
3. Add salsa and any optional toppings you prefer.
4. Bake for 5–7 minutes or until the cheese melts.
5. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Nova Snack Mix
This colorful and crunchy snack mix brings together the best textures from Nova, Vcut, and Knots, combined with nuts and chocolates for a sweet–savory blend. It’s the perfect grab-and-go treat for holiday road trips, game nights, or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
● 1 pack Nova
● 1 pack Vcut
● 1 pack Jack ’n Jill Knots
● ½ cup nuts (peanuts, cashews, or mixed nuts)
● ½ cup chocolates, marshmallows, or other mix-ins
Directions:
1. Combine Nova, Vcut, and Knots in a large bowl.
2. Add nuts and sweet add-ins of your choice.
3. Toss until everything is evenly mixed.
4. Serve in a bowl and enjoy
Cream-O Cake
This no-bake Cream-O cake turns a classic cookie snack into a soft, layered dessert you can whip up with minimal effort. With its creamy center and steamed cookie base, it tastes like a cross between a refrigerator cake and a moist pudding—perfect for holiday potlucks.
Ingredients:
● 10 packets Cream-O Vanilla
● 1 ½ cups evaporated milk
Directions:
1. Separate the Cream-O Vanilla filling from the cookies. Crush the cookies finely.
2. Mix crushed cookies with evaporated milk until fully combined. Divide mixture into two parts.
3. Line a pan with parchment paper and pour in the first half. Spread evenly.
4. Steam for 5 minutes and cool for another 5 minutes.
5. Spread the Cream-O filling over the cooled layer.
6. Pour in the second half of the cookie mixture, spread evenly, and tap to remove bubbles.
7. Steam for 10 minutes. Let cool completely before serving.
Wafrets Chocolate Milkshake
This rich and creamy milkshake blends the chocolatey goodness of Wafrets with ice cream and milk to create a dessert drink kids (and adults) will love. It’s a sweet, refreshing treat that works as a fun recess drink, after-school snack, or holiday merienda.
Ingredients:
● 2–3 sticks Jack ’n Jill Wafrets (plus 1 extra for garnish)
● 1 cup milk
● 2 scoops chocolate or vanilla ice cream
● 1 cup ice (optional, for thickness)
Directions:
1. Chop Wafrets into small pieces.
2. Add Wafrets, milk, ice cream, sugar, and ice (if using) into a blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour into a glass and garnish with a whole Wafrets stick.
5. Serve immediately.
Hello Vanilla Wafer Balls
These bite-sized wafer balls are a fun, customizable holiday treat you can coat in chocolate, peanuts, powdered milk, or even coffee. They’re easy to make, delightful to eat, and perfect for gifting—each piece delivers a creamy, crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
Ingredients:
● 4 Hello! Vanilla Wafers, crushed
● 1 tbsp chilled all-purpose cream
● 1 tsp condensed milk
● 2 tbsp coating of your choice (crushed Hello! Chocolate Wafers, crushed peanuts, powdered milk, or instant coffee)
Directions:
1. Mix together crushed Hello! Vanilla Wafers, all-purpose cream, and condensed milk.
2. Divide the mixture into six portions.
3. Roll each portion into a small ball.
4. Coat each ball in your preferred topping.
5. Refrigerate for 20 minutes before serving or gifting.
Tip: Crush the wafers using a hand blender, stand blender, food processor, knife, or rolling pin.
Holiday Snacking Made Creative
This season, let your favorite Jack ‘n Jill snacks shine beyond everyday merienda. With these easy and versatile recipes, you can turn simple pantry staples into delightful holiday creations perfect for sharing, and celebrating all month long.
Universal Robina Corporation (URC) produces iconic brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Cloud 9, Maxx candy, Cream-O, Payless, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste coffee, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).
Enjoy these easy and simple festive Jack ‘n Jill recipes this holiday season.
Friday, January 2, 2026
Pru Life UK is taking centre stage at the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) as a premium sponsor, reaffirming its partnership with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and strengthening its commitment to champion Filipino stories both on and beyond the big screen. The collaboration reflects the company’s mission to be a dependable partner Filipinos can trust at every life chapter—an embodiment of its Count on Pru Life UK promise.
As a festival partner, Pru Life UK will play an active role in MMFF’s flagship events, including the Parade of Stars on 19 December, and the prestigious Gabi ng Parangal on 27 December. Through its participation, the company hopes to honour the storytellers and creatives behind the festival, while supporting an industry that continues to shape the nation’s culture.
Pru Life UK’s involvement highlights its belief that the stories Filipinos bring to life, whether of triumph, resilience, hardship or hope, deserve support and protection.
“The MMFF has long been a cherished holiday tradition that brings families and communities together. As we support this year’s festival, we reaffirm our Count on Pru Life UK promise, because behind every film is a story of a Filipino family doing their best, dreaming bigger, and hoping for a better tomorrow. These are the same stories that inspire us to protect what matters,” said Kathryn Cajucom, Head of Brand and Integrated Marketing Communications.
“Just as MMFF films portray the realities of everyday life, Pru Life UK aims to stand beside families in their own journeys, helping them plan, recover and move forward with confidence,” Cajucom added.
This year’s MMFF, themed “A New Era for Philippine Cinema,” will feature eight official entries, showcasing a range of genres and fresh perspectives for audiences nationwide. All films will screen starting 25 December, continuing the festival’s legacy of uniting Filipinos through stories that reflect the heart and spirit of the nation.
Foodies in Bulacan have another reason to visit SM City Marilao as Jiang Nan Hotpot finally opens its door to bring in authentic Chinese dishes that blend tradition, comfort, and bold flavors.
Conveniently located at the 2nd level, West Wing Expansion, Jiang Nan Hotpot features a menu that highlights rich sauces and carefully prepared soup bases, ranging from light and savory to rich and aromatic. Diners can customize their meals by selecting from a variety of fresh ingredients, including premium meats, vegetables, seafood, and noodles, which are cooked directly at the table.
As SM City Marilao is now full steam ahead as a lifestyle destination, Jiang Nan Hotpot certainly tops the list of comfort food restaurants with its flavorful offerings and inviting atmosphere, making it a favorite choice for those seeking quality food and a satisfying dining experience close to home.
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