Saturday, November 29, 2025
MANILA, Philippines—For many Filipinos, Christmas is the most anticipated time of the year. It is the season for long-awaited grand reunions, when families and friends finally come together after months or even years apart. It’s one of the most cherished traditions in the country. But not everyone is privileged to make these gatherings happen. Some spend the holidays away from their families, missing out on the joy of being together.
This year, McDonald’s Philippines hopes to bridge that gap by giving select groups a chance to celebrate for free. Dubbed “Grand Reunion at McDo,” this nationwide holiday initiative will transform select McDonald’s Party Rooms into festive spaces for meaningful reunions happening simultaneously across the country, bringing the warmth of the season back to those who need it most.
“By creating spaces where groups can once again gather meaningfully, McDonald’s taps directly into the Filipino cultural values of pagsasama-sama, pagsasalo-salo, and gratitude. It offers a simple yet heartfelt reminder that those who help make Christmas special for others deserve their own celebration too,” said Ada Lazaro, Chief Marketing Officer at McDonald's Philippines.
How to be part of McDonalds’ Grand Reunion
Customers are invited to visit McDonald’s Philippines’ Facebook Page and share their story on the Grand Reunion post — why they want to come together, what kept them apart, and what makes their bond worth celebrating. On December 8 from 2-4pm, McDonald’s will accommodate groups of up to 10 members, with two groups per party Room for a total of 20 guests.
Aside from a heartwarming and distinct story, participants will be selected based on how their stories embody the spirit of togetherness during the Christmas season. Participants may choose their preferred McDonald’s branch.
Each group will receive boxes of Honey Butter Chicken McDo, made extra special with a “shake, tear, and sprinkle” moment using Garlic Parmesan and Snow Cheese Powder. It’s a simple ritual that turns the meal into something to savor together. A McDonald’s “Happiness Host” will also be there not just to lead light games or toasts, but to help make the gathering feel a little more shared, a little more memorable.
Reinforcing Filipino values
Lazaro added the initiative aims to reinforce Filipino values of bonding and connection during the Christmas season by offering a venue for meaningful reunions.
“In a season that can often feel overwhelming with crowded schedules, growing expenses, and emotional demands, Grand Reunion at McDo offers a refreshing alternative, a warm, uncomplicated, and inclusive holiday gathering that doesn’t require grand preparations,” she quipped.
For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Meta, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X.
This holiday season, Smart Infinity, the premium postpaid brand of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) partners with SMEG Philippines to make the season more rewarding and stylish for its valued members.
From November 21, 2025 to February 23, 2026, existing Smart Infinity members can take part in an exclusive raffle, with a chance to bring home SMEG’s most coveted kitchen appliances, a perfect blend of form and function that elevate everyday living into an art.
Up for grabs are the iconic SMEG FAB 5 Mini Refrigerator and the SMEG Espresso Coffee Machine with Grinder, statement pieces that embody timeless design and Italian craftsmanship. Members can also win other SMEG essentials – from blenders and coffee machines to toasters and kettles, designed to transform every kitchen into a showcase of style.
To join, members must opt in to the raffle by texting SMEG to 5858. Members may also register via the Smart Infinity website or coordinate directly with their Relationship Manager. A confirmation SMS will be sent, indicating the number of raffle entries earned.
Raffle entries are awarded to members who:
• Upgrade their plan (from 3500 to 5000; 5000 to 8000; or 8000 to 9500)
• Add a new line under Plans 5000, 8000, or 9500
• Successfully refer a new subscriber to Plans 5000, 8000, or 9500
Each plan corresponds to raffle entries: Plan 5000 earns one entry, Plan 8000 earns two, and Plan 9500 earns three, giving members more chances to win as they move up to bigger plans. Winners will be announced on February 27, 2026.
“Our partnership with SMEG is a celebration of loyalty and lifestyle. As we honor our members this holiday season, we bring them experiences that reflect the elegance and exclusivity of the Smart Infinity way — rewarding choices that elevate everyday living,” said Tina D. Montinola, Head of Smart Infinity.
For more details, visit https://smart.com.ph/Postpaid/infinity-smeg or contact your Smart Infinity Relationship Manager. Your next timeless reward awaits. #
Greet the holidays with full hearts at Solaire Resort North this Thanksgiving. Celebrate with your family and indulge in hearty feasts that await you, from lavish buffets to perfectly roasted turkeys. This November, gather with loved ones over a decadent meal of your choice and enjoy the bounty and blessings of the year at Solaire.
Relish in the abundance of a Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet at Fresh with a decadent selection of dishes ready to be served. Savor a night of endless delights featuring delicate carvings of herb-roasted turkey or honey-glazed ham, perfectly accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes or fresh cranberry sauce. Don’t miss out on an amazing Thanksgiving Dinner at Fresh for Php 2,999++ with free-flowing beverages and an unlimited serving of lobsters for the entire night.
Sit down at Café Mangrove for a more relaxed meal this Thanksgiving and indulge in an intimate get-together with family or friends. Decadence is laced in each bite of Café Mangrove’s
Thanksgiving Turkey Plate highlighting a generous serving of a perfectly roasted turkey prepared with a mixed sausage stuffing and a cranberry gelee, paired with a sweet potato mash and grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Taste this savory and sweet delicacy at Café Mangrove for Php 840++ available from November 20 to 30 to celebrate Thanksgiving the right way.
Remember the bounties of the year with gratefulness in each bite amongst the ones you cherish most at Solaire Resort North. For reservations and inquiries, visit sn.solaireresort.com/offers/dining/fresh-thanksgiving-dinner or sn.solaireresort.com/dining/cafe-mangrove, call +632 8888 8888 or email snrestaurantevents@solaireresort.com to book your table for Thanksgiving today.
At the ceremonial signing of the partnership were (seated L-R): Ronette Tanjuatco, General Manager for Finance; Tan Eng Hwa, Chief Finance Officer; Steven Tan, President and CEO of Mazda Philippines; Ronaldo Reyes, VP and Dealer&Broker Sales Channel Head, Security Bank; Joey Sison, FVP and Focus Segments Head, Security Bank; and Camille Caducio, SAVP and Senior Relationship Manager, Security Bank Standing (L-R): Saul Babas of Mazda Philippines and Allan Remis, AVP and Dealer – Metro Manila Team Leader, Security Bank; Darryl Panado, SAVP and Dealer – North&Central Luzon Team Leader, Security Bank; Norren Guevarra, AVP and Dealer – South Luzon Team Leader, Security Bank; Jaja Acosta, SAVP and Focus Segment Specialist, Security Bank; and Jet Puzon, AVP and Relationship Manager, Security Bank.
Makati, Philippines--Security Bank has partnered with Mazda Philippines to deliver more flexible and competitive financing solutions for customers looking to own a premium vehicle.
Through the Bank’s award-winning Auto Loan solutions, the collaboration empowers more customers to experience the sophistication and performance of Mazda’s lineup with financing designed around convenience, transparency, and value.
"This partnership allows us to give our customers not only the luxury and performance that Mazda is known for, but also the ease and flexibility of owning their dream car through Security Bank’s Auto Loan," said Ronaldo Reyes, VP and Dealer&Broker Sales Channel Head at Security Bank.
Security Bank and Mazda are offering a limited-time, all-in downpayment Auto Loan offer on select Mazda vehicles until December 31, 2025, available across authorized Mazda dealerships nationwide.
“Beyond financing, our collaboration with Mazda Philippines aims to deliver innovative mobility solutions such as leasing and alternative ownership programs, reflecting the evolving preferences of Filipino drivers. We’re committed to strengthening our partnership with Mazda across both retail and wholesale segments,” said Joey Sison, FVP and Focus Segments Head of Security Bank.
Mazda underscored its confidence in the partnership. “We believe more people should experience the premium ownership of a Mazda. That is why, in partnership with Security Bank, we are thrilled to offer an opportunity to upgrade to a globally acclaimed Mazda that seamlessly suits your lifestyle,” says Steven Tan, President and CEO of Mazda Philippines.
With this partnership, both companies reaffirm their commitment to providing exceptional value and convenience to customers—driving them towards smarter, more sustainable mobility solutions.
ARTA, BSP, and DICT team up with GCash for the Nation initiative to push for full government digitalization
In line with the government’s vision to eliminate red tape and corruption, the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), together with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and the country’s leading finance app GCash, convened to champion the complete digitalization of public services. The workshop, “GCash for the Nation: Building Capabilities Toward a Sustainable Digital Ecosystem,” was held at the ARTA premises in the UP-AyalaLand Technohub, Quezon City.
Bringing together leaders from economic, regulatory, and local government sectors, the session underscored a shared commitment that digital transformation is key to transparent, efficient, and citizen-centered governance.
“Digitalization is not just ease of doing business but an assurance against undesired allegations such as corruption. Every time we move a process online, we create a system that is accountable, traceable, and citizen-centered,” said ARTA director general Ernesto Perez.
Government and industry leaders agreed that moving processes online not only speeds up delivery but also ensures every transaction is properly documented and verifiable. However, one major challenge remains—shifting from paper-based audits to digital validation. BSP deputy governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat highlighted this social shift, emphasizing that building trust in digital platforms is essential for the government’s transformation journey.
“Digital finance must build not only convenience but also trust. Through the years, we’ve already established financial inclusion, and we have now evolved into driving financial health,” she said.
As the country’s leading finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, GCash reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government agencies in adopting paperless and cashless systems. This collaboration aims to accelerate the shift toward e-payments and digital records, improving ease of doing business and minimizing bureaucratic bottlenecks.
“The digital economy reached ₱2.25 trillion in 2024, signaling our shift toward a fully digital future. (At DepDev), we are driving digitalization across planning, policy, and implementation while advancing key reforms to simplify business processes. We look forward to working with all our partners to bring Filipinos closer to a more comfortable and resilient way of life, “said DepDev assistant secretary Reynaldo Cancio.
Through the partnership, ARTA and GCash will roll out capacity-building initiatives for local and national government units, enabling them to develop digital systems aligned with the government’s transformation roadmap. These initiatives include digital payment integration, streamlined records management, and strengthened citizen access to essential services.
“Digital transformation requires both technology and mindset. We’re here to build the digital backbone that allows government agencies to deliver faster, cleaner, and more inclusive services to Filipinos,” said Cleo Celeste Santos, GCash vice president and head of public sector.
“GCash is proud to stand alongside ARTA and our government partners in advancing a truly digital nation—one that enables transparent, efficient, and inclusive services for all,” Santos added.
The workshop underscored ARTA’s “whole-of-government” approach to reforming public services—an effort that aligns seamlessly with GCash’s vision of “Finance for All.” By empowering agencies with secure and efficient digital tools, GCash continues to play a pivotal role in building a safe, trusted, and inclusive digital economy—helping government institutions uphold transparency, accountability, and sustainable governance for every Filipino.
“Once fully deployed, we will anchor a sustainable digital ecosystem that streamlines transactions, strengthens transparency, and accelerates the country’s digitalization agenda,” said GPPB-TSO Capacity Development Division officer-in-charge Renlay Concha.
GCash for the Nation program brings digital and financial literacy training to different regions across the country. Earlier sessions were held in Pangasinan and in the National Government Agencies cluster in NCR, Eastern and Western Visayas. These will be followed by the next runs in Cagayan Valley on November 25, and Albay on November 27. Through these continuing efforts, GCash remains steadfast in its mission to enable Finance for the Nation by empowering communities, MSMEs, and government partners through digital innovation.
For more information, visit https://www.gcash.com.
MANILA, PH – November 2025 – The holidays are a time for joy, connection, and celebration. However, they can also be a significant source of financial stress as this is the time for spending on gifts and celebrations. For Filipinos, the festive mood kicks off as soon as the “Ber” months come in. The earlier the season begins, the longer your budget is at risk of being overspent.
Sun Life believes that the key to a stress-free holiday and financial security is early and smart preparation. Here are five practical ways to manage your finances for the season, so you can enjoy the festivities without the dreaded post-holiday debt.
Set a realistic holiday budget and track it closely.
Before the festivities begin, determine how much you can comfortably spend without compromising your essential expenses or savings goals. Break down your budget into categories – such as gifts, food, travel, and entertainment – and monitor your spending as you go. Using a simple spreadsheet or a budgeting app can help you stay accountable and avoid unpleasant financial surprises when the season ends.
Shop early, smart, and strategically.
Impulse buys are the fastest way to exceed your budget. A strategic approach to shopping helps you get the most value for your money and stay on track. First, create a gift list with specific spending limits for each recipient, and stick to this list to avoid overspending. Second, leverage early sales. Holiday deals do not just happen right before Christmas, so take advantage of major promotions that happen throughout the “Ber” months. Spreading your purchases out over a few months eases the financial burden on a single paycheck.
Focus on experiences over expensive gifts.
The true spirit of the holidays lies in creating lasting memories, not accumulating material things. Shifting your focus on experiences can significantly reduce your financial load. You may opt to get creative with gifts by considering homemade or DIY gifts to add a personal touch to your presents. Alternatively, you can plan a simple gift exchange, like Secret Santa, to limit the number of people you buy gifts for. For celebrations, plan affordable alternatives. Instead of catering, host a festive potluck where everyone contributes a dish.
Use cash or debit for holiday spending.
Credit cards can be a great tool, but they make it easy to overspend and accrue high-interest debt that lingers into the New Year. Dedicate a portion of your savings specifically for your holiday budget. If you need to use a credit card, set a limit that you know you can realistically pay off in full when your bill arrives.
Save a portion of your bonus and protect your financial future.
The holidays often bring a special bonus, or the much-awaited 13th month pay. While it is tempting to spend it all immediately, this is a good opportunity to boost your long-term financial health. As a gift to yourself and your loved ones, consider a financial product that helps you save for the long term. For instance, Sun Life Save and Protect is a reliable protection and savings plan that helps safeguard your loved ones’ future and supports your journey towards achieving your life goals. This affordable plan provides up to 20x maximum insurance protection coverage and a money back guarantee benefit after 20 years.
Enjoying a debt-free holiday is all about having disciplined financial habits. With the peak of the holiday season fast approaching, take the time to reflect on your spending and set financial goals for the coming year. A Sun Life financial advisor can help you review your spending, analyze what to do differently next year, and assist with setting your short-term and long-term financial goals to secure a brighter future.
For more financial literacy tips and stories, visit www.sunlife.co/LifeGoals. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
The OPPO Find X9—OPPO’s most advanced and refined flagship device to date—is now available across the Philippines.
Combining an exceptional camera system, intuitive AI-powered tools, and next-level hardware performance, the OPPO Find X9 sets a new benchmark for mobile imaging and intelligent productivity.
Delivering a New Standard in Flagship Photography
Bannered by OPPO’s most powerful camera system to date, the OPPO Find X9 redefines smartphone photography through its continued partnership with Hasselblad.
The OPPO Find X9 features the Hasselblad Master Camera System with three 50MP lenses for exceptional clarity, depth, and dynamic range. It also debuts the industry’s first ultra-clear 50MP default shooting mode, delivering 8K-level detail across all lenses. With its 120x Super Zoom, the OPPO Find X9 captures distant subjects with clear detail, making it ideal for travel, events, and everyday moments.
The LUMO Image Engine delivers cleaner detail, better contrast, and accurate results in any lighting. Paired with OPPO’s True Color Camera, which interprets two million spectral pixels, the OPPO Find X9 produces photos with natural, lifelike colors.
Beyond its photography capabilities, the OPPO Find X9 can record 4K video at 120 FPS through its main camera, enabling high-quality slow-motion footage with exceptional stability.
Powering Productivity Through Intelligent Design
Equipped with an intelligent suite of AI-powered tools, the OPPO Find X9 is designed to help users stay organized, productive, and efficient throughout the day.
The groundbreaking AI Mind Space serves as a smart hub for tasks, notes, and reminders, making it easy to capture and access information. This is complemented by ColorOS 16, which offers an intuitive interface for smooth, fast app and task switching.
The OPPO Find X9 introduces Gemini Live for real-time help with scheduling, research, and content creation. For hybrid users, Apple Connect enables smooth integration with the Apple ecosystem for easier cross-platform work and communication.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage, the OPPO Find X9 delivers smooth performance for editing, multitasking, and creative work. Its 7,025mAh silicon-carbon battery, with 80W SUPERVOOCTM wired charging and 50W AIRVOOCTM wireless charging, ensures reliable all-day power.
Elevating Everyday Experience with Modern Craftsmanship
The OPPO Find X9 showcases OPPO’s commitment to blending technology with artistry. Its ultra-slim 7.99 mm design and premium finish offer a refined look and comfortable grip. Available in Titanium Grey and Space Black, it suits users who value both style and functionality.
The OPPO Find X9 is now Available Nationwide
The OPPO Find X9 (16GB + 512GB) is now officially available nationwide through OPPO’s official stores, e-commerce platform on Shopee and partner channels.
OPPO Bundle Offers
● PHP 1,000 off when purchased with the all-new OPPO Enco X3s
Shopee
● Online Exclusive Perks until November 24
● Free DJI Osmo Mobile SE
● PHP 2000 OPPO product discount voucher
● PHP 1500 Shopee platform discount voucher
● PHP 200 pesos Product Review GCash cashback
● 0% Interest Installment via SPayLater for 3 months
Postpaid Plans
● Globe GPlan 2499
○ Initial cashout of PHP 26,000
○ Inclusive of 25 GB data, unlimited all-net calls and texts and unlimited landline calls
● Globe GPlan PLUS 1799
○ PHP 2,038 per month or 24 months
○ No lock-in period
● Smart Postpaid Plan+ 1999
A limited DJI Osmo Mobile SE Stabilizer worth PHP 5,430 is up for grabs for all postpaid plans.
To know more about the OPPO Find X9, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
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