In just less than a month a lot of people will start to get busy. It's not because of the work but because the season of giving has started already. The time of the year where people enjoy endless festive gatherings and happy reunions with family and friends. Since festivities require a bigger, comfortable and easy access venue, well we did try to locate some interesting hub for you to experience. For this holiday season, we scouted five themed and interesting cafes across the country that will take your Christmas gatherings to another level of cuteness and joy with the convenience of GCash Scan to Pay. Holiday get-togethers, after all, become extra special when spent over good food, good laughs and pleasant memories in a lovely setting.

1. La Petite Parisienne (Le Village E. Rodriguez Sr. Quezon City)
Let your family or friends try a little slice of Paris in the metro by taking them to this wine bar and restaurant, which translates to “little French girl.” The establishment’s main attraction is its wall-to-ceiling wine library, carrying a wide selection of classic and premium French wines. They also serve artisanal cheeses, pastas, and pastries to complement your Parisian dining. If you want to wine al fresco, herd your companions to their Quezon City branch’s rooftop for a more chill and cozy dining experience.

2. Café Xocolat (Katipunan, Quezon City)
The holiday season is the best time to indulge in anything and everything chocolate. Dining here for a simple Christmas reunion with friends or loved-ones will give you an indulging chocolate fix that will keep you warm and cozy throughout the season, thanks also to their comfy and charming interiors. A must-try is their Xocolat pork belly partnered with cacao bagoong sauce and their Chorizo Blanca, a white chocolate-infused pasta dish. Cap the holiday get-together with their popular drink, Taza de Xocolat for a more decadent chocolate experience.

3. Wizardy Cup Café (Lipa City, Batangas)
Pinoy Potterheads don’t need to apparate to the UK or the Universal Studios in Osaka or even to that massive Harry Potter-themed café in Seoul to relive the wizarding world of the Boy Who Lived. Wizardy Cup Café is a similar Muggle-friendly café that opened late 2017 in Lipa City, where you can bring your friends for some magical Christmas date. While not as grand and intricate (and expensive) as its Korean counterpart, customers get the chance to dress up in Hogwarts robe and carry a wand while in the café. The coffeeshop also accepts requests for customized wands. Their menu features whimsical items with spell-sounding names. Of course, there’s the popular wizarding beverage, Butterbeer!

4. Laundrafe and Co Café (Makati City)
If you’re torn between tackling those mountains of laundry and meeting your friends for a holiday get-together, then this café is your win-win solution. This Dutch-inspired boutique café, which prides itself as the country’s first laundromat and coffee shop in one, will let you do the laundry while enjoying a nice time with friends over Instagram-worthy snacks, meals, desserts, and drinks. It's warm and comfy European-style interiors will make you think you’re home entertaining guests while doing chores on the side.

5. 528 Ilawod Café (Daraga, Albay)
If you’re in this side of the country during the holidays, this café is worth a visit with friends or family. Touted as Albay’s first specialty coffee shop, 528 Ilawod Café offers a more intimate dining experience, tucked in a quiet village where old colonial houses still abound. While its coffee is its top draw (served AeroPress style), its rustic interiors and homey vibe—warm natural accents, beautiful and intricate wall paintings that tell the history of coffee, and old sewing machines turned into tables—also keep diners coming back.

So, do you think you'll get to enjoy these 5 themed cafes for your next venue of celebration? Well, it's always a feel good situation where you can find interesting places.

Okay, talking about desserts and cravings? Well, we have something for you that will definitely cover for that longing of yours. I know it is already out in the market but here are our tips for the best ways to quench those cravings.

1. Watch your favorite dessert on TV. Yes, a clip of your fave or desired dessert on TV or you can check out YouTube for that. Get a glass or saucer and spoon. Imagine that glass/ saucer is filled with your desired dessert. Then have also a glass of water beside you. In every imaginary bite fill that mouth with a gulp of water. Now, do that at least in 5 minutes.

2. Alternatives. If you want ice cream you can have an alternative by crushing ice and pretending that it is ice cream.

3. Take a nap and dream of your favorite dessert. Perhaps this is one of the cheapest ways to quench that craving of yours.

4. If you know window shopping, then perhaps you might do the same with desserts. You watch your favorite dessert savored by someone else at a far and imagining that it is you who are taking it. This might get you into trouble.

5. Or you can simply visit a Jollibee Food Store. Go to the counter and order that soft, cold and yummy Cookies 'n Cream Sundae Twirl. You might end that craving with just spending Ph39.00.


I'm sure there's a Jollibee near your place like this the country’s number one fast-food brand and still growing even in abroad. Just recently they announced the latest addition to their delectable desserts – the Cookies ‘n Cream Sundae Twirl!

A new twist to our favorite Jolly Twirl, you can now experience the thicker and creamier vanilla soft-serve now encrusted with crushed Oreo cookies, with sweet white chocolate coating, and topped with a whole Oreo cookie!

“The mix of crushed cookies, with white chocolate coating, and a whole Oreo on our popular soft-serve ice cream is a delightful combination we can’t wait for everyone to experience,” said Kay Segismundo, Jollibee’s Senior Marketing Manager for Complementary. “The awesome new Cookies ‘n Cream Sundae Twirl is the perfect treat for any time of the day!”

Treat yourself to a wonderfully-sweet Cookies ‘n Cream Sundae Twirl for only P39! It’s available for dine-in, take-out, delivery, and drive-thru at all Jollibee stores nationwide.

For more updates on Jollibee products, don’t forget to like Jollibee Philippines on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Studios on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on Twitter and Instagram.

"In Public Service dapat nandun ang puso mo... (in Public Service, your heart should be there to serve)" or interpreted in another way "Don't go to Public Service if your heart is not into it." True that in Public Service the Public goes first with the services that you do to them. With that, a lot of projects, infrastructures, and plans are being laid in the City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. Creating more opportunities for the people. This is the thrust of the Public Servant tandem of Congresswoman Florida "Ate Rida" Robes and Mayor Arthur Robes. Serving the people of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.

Of course, without their supporters and constituents, the progress of SJDM would not be possible. It is a 'give and take' ecosystem, as one of the sayings that go ' the more you sow the more you will reap'. And since the people of SJDM planted a good public servant they are now reaping the benefits that made the city to where it is now.

In an interview with Congresswoman Robes, she shared some of the highlights of their "Thanksgiving" or "Pasasalamat" to all their supporters and to all who helped them in the process. One of which is the Town Hall Meeting or Ulat Sa Bayan where they will report to their constituents the progress and development of the city. Also, to make use of the time and resources they'll be kicking off their yearly gift-giving for the people. They'll do this from December 1 up to 17, giving gifts to around 80,000 households in 59 barangays. The lighting of the Christmas Tree and some other activities highlighting the talents of San Josenos.

Also, Congresswoman Robes, through the interview, gave her thanks to many personalities and organizations that have helped in the development of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. Naming them are her husband, Mayor Arthur Robes; their Supporters; President Rodrigo Roa Duterte; Senator Cynthia Villar for sponsoring Saint Bernardette Churros and Maternity Hospital together with Secretary Mark Villar, and Secretary Duque; the Bahay Partylist for the HOA Building; Senator Bato Dela Rosa for the promised Philippine National Building; Senator Nancy Binay and Secretary Mark Villar for the Sports Complex and Convention Center; and Philip "Kuya Ipe" Salvador.

Indeed there are many things to be thankful and that is why Congresswoman Florida Robes is blessed with so many things because she is very much thankful to everyone.

When you say gift everyone expects of a wrapped box or anything that is covered to conceal what's inside. To make it more of a surprise. I just didn't realize that gifts can be in any size, one of which that is overwhelming is the Gift of Wonders in Tiendesitas. I'm amazed at how they create a big wonder like that. Anyway, it's just amazing to go around the mall and see more than a life-size gift where you can get inside and see some interesting features.

Tiendesitas starts the Christmas season right with festive activities and surprises for everyone. Beginning November 4, 2019 until January 5, 2020, friends and families can visit the Gift of Wonders, a bigger-than-life installation that will awaken your Christmas and gift-giving spirit, located at the Food and Pet Village.

Reminiscent of borderless worlds, enchanting interactive visuals and marvelous discoveries, the Gift of Wonders highlights everything there is to love about Christmas and this planet we call home. The House of Stars is an immersive installation with vibrant colors and dancing lights that encapsulate the light and warmth of a Filipino Christmas. While the Pets Unleashed is an animated installation that highlights the grandeur of the planet through the eyes of various animals inhabiting this shared home, reminding us this Christmas season to stop and appreciate the world we live in and to enjoy life with our families and pets by our side.

Check off all the items remaining in your Christmas list or even splurge on great finds for yourself as you shop to your heart’s content from November 13 to 17 in Tiendegram, located on Level 1 of Building B. There will also be a Christmas Bazaar all weekends of November and December 2019.

As Tiendesitas continues to showcase the best that the Philippines has to offer and provide guests with a strong connection to our culture, there will be a Parol Making Contest from November 22 to 23 from 3 p.m to 6 p.m at the 1st level of the Food Village. Participants will then showcase their handmade parols and parade them on November 24, 2019.

Pilipinas Got Talent finalist, Bughaw Folkloric Dance Group, will entertain shoppers and guests with inspiring Filipino folk dances from all Sundays of November to December from 6 p.m to 7 p.m at the 2nd level of the Food Village while on November 11, everyone has the chance to bring out their inner child with a chance to play iconic Filipino games like patintero, piko and sungka in Larong Pambata, Lalaban Ka Ba?

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with Himig Pasko, Tiendesitas’ Caroling Competition for both adults and children. On November 9, choirs from different schools and organizations will serenade the audience with their best and most loved Christmas carols for the adult edition. On November 16, it’s the kids turn to spread Christmas cheer with their best local Christmas piece.

On November 29, from 6 p.m to 9 p.m, join Tiendesitas as they recognize the young artists in the industry with the PPOP Awards for Young Artists 2019.

Kids will also get the chance to Meet & Greet Santa every Saturday of December (December 7, 14, and 21) at the 1st level of the Food Village from 6 p.m onwards. Pets won’t be left out of the celebration with a Pets Christmas Paw-ty for all our furry friends to enjoy on December 14 from 2 p.m to 6 p.m.

For more information and updates, please visit and follow Tiendesitas on Facebook and Instagram and sign up for our newsletter at ortigasmalls.com

It's a record-breaking for Lazada's 11.11, which was shown by the figures recorded. A high numbers of sales in the Philippines, as Filipinos logged in by the millions to choose from over 11 Million deals available in the biggest 24-hour Shopping Festival.

Filipinos went online starting midnight of 11 November to catch the massive discounts on thousands of local and international brands. During the first hour, 1 Million shoppers have joined the occasion and 1 Million items have been immediately sold. By the end of the day, the Lazada Millionaires Club, where sellers past the P1 Million sale mark earn membership, rose to a new total of 1,141 sellers.

“The support of customers to this year’s sale affirm 11.11’s crucial role in driving growth for eCommerce in the country,” said Ray Alimurung, Philippines’ Chief Executive Officer. “Lazada is proud to be the pioneer of this Shopping Festival in Southeast Asia and look forward to setting new records with our partner brands and sellers in the upcoming mega campaigns we will have locally.”

The Most Entertaining Shopping Festival Yet According to Lazada, Filipinos shoppers established a new record with 11.11 combined shopping time reaching as high as 205,000,000 Minutes (comparable to the time spent watching the entire Harry Potter franchise 187,000 times) which also means that during this year’s 11.11 the traffic is 6x higher compared to a regular day.

The new record time is linked with Lazada’s expanding offerings on the platform which includes new interactive and livestreaming content such as GUESS IT!, LazGames, and new tech innovations that make online shopping more seamless and enjoyable experience for sellers and customers.

“Lazada's Shoppertainment strategy centers on giving our local consumers more reasons to experience shopping in a new way, browse through our ever-expanding product assortment, and adding items to cart. 11.11 gives us a preview of how the landscape is changing, and Lazada is proud to be redefining retail for Filipino shoppers,” said Chief Marketing Officer Neil Trinidad.

The Biggest Winners This Year. Filipinos proved to be shopping-savvy, collecting up P170Million-worth of vouchers for the 24-hour sale run. Big discounts were used by shoppers across categories, on top of the price mark-offs that reached as high as 95%.

Among the top performing brands during 11.11 include: Xiaomi, RealMe, and Huawei for Mobile; CooCaa, Philips, and TCL under Home Appliance; Pampers, Huggies, MamyPoko under Mother & Baby; Hydro Flask, Klean Kanteen, Mitsushi under General Merchandise; Maybelline, L'Oréal Paris, Olay for Health and Beauty; and American Tourister, Adidas, FitFlop under Fashion.

To learn more about Lazada 11.11, visit Lazada.com.ph, facebook.com/LazadaPhilippines and Instagram.com/lazadaPH.

This is it pancit!!! Yes, the two lovable love teams from Kadenang Ginto are in for something new with their careers as each love team will be having their very own movie. The Gold Squad stars Andrea Brillantes, Francine Diaz, Seth Fedelin, and Kyle Echarri will bring the magic of young love from TV to digital as they star in their first movies as love teams. The streaming will start on iWant so better watch out for it.

As part of iWant’s first anniversary offerings, the movies will not only feature the phenomenal love teams of Kyle and Francine’s KyCine and Andrea and Seth’s SethDrea, but will also encourage fans to join in the fun by letting them decide which of the two movies will stream first via a Facebook poll that will run from November 13 to 22.


Two long-time friends will navigate romance in KyCine’s “Silly Red Shoes,” which revolves around sweet and shy Chuck (Kyle) and simple and good-hearted Ashley (Francine). Planning to revive his family’s worn-out shoe business, Chuck asks for the help of Ashley to model a new pair of shoes for a contest. Insecure of her “alien feet,” which change sizes every day, Ashley finds a reliable and determined shoemaker in Chuck.

As the two grow closer, they discover a secret behind a mysterious pair of red shoes that seem to be too perfect for Ashley.

Meanwhile, in SethDrea’s “Wild Little Love,” Sam (Andrea) is a spoiled, rich girl forced to attend a public high school as punishment for her wild, chaotic behavior. Having a hard time adjusting to her new environment, she gets help from hardworking chick magnet Jake (Seth), who teaches her the ways of the simple life.

As the two start to catch feelings for each other, they slowly discover that the large gap between their socio-economic backgrounds will hinder their blossoming relationship.

“Silly Red Shoes,” which is directed by James Mayo and co-produced by Dreamscape Entertainment and Spring Films, also stars Anna Luna, Karen Reyes, and Herbert Bautista.


“Wild Little Love,” meanwhile, is directed by Benedict Mique and co-produced by Dreamscape Entertainment and LoneWolf films. It also stars Carmina Villaroel, Alfred Vargas, Criza Taa, Jin Macapagal, and Victor Neri.

Are you Team Silly or Team Wild? Vote for the movie you want to watch first via Dreamscape Entertainment’s official Facebook page (facebook.com/DreamscapePH) starting November 13 (Wednesday), 8 PM until November 22 (Friday), 10 PM.


Watch The Gold Squad’s first movies on the iWant app (iOs and Android) or iwant.ph for free on November 23 and 27. For updates, like www.facebook.com/iWant, and follow @iwant on Twitter and @iwantofficial and @dreamscapedigital on Instagram, and subscribe to www.youtube.com/iWantPH.

Probably I'm one of the expectant of the lighting ceremony of the Ortigas East Christmas Street Musical Light Tunnel, not just because I was invited but looking forward to seeing this musical light show. So, good thing I was there to witness and have some photos under it.

Ortigas & Company leads in welcoming the most wonderful time of the year in Metro Manila once again as it opened the Ortigas East Christmas Street Musical Light Tunnel to usher in the holiday season on November 4, 2019.

Set to light up the premier developer’s Ortigas East estate in Pasig City, the Christmas Street Musical Light Tunnel will brighten the holidays for the whole community with an enchanting light display playing alongside well-loved Christmas songs. With this show, families and friends can come together to celebrate the joy of the holiday season within the bustling estate.


“Ortigas & Company continues its rich tradition of ushering the Christmas season for the whole community by bringing back the Christmas Street Musical Light Tunnel at Ortigas East. This one-of-a-kind spectacle aims to bring together families and friends inside the bustling estate to celebrate the holidays and inspire hope and joy for all during this yuletide season,” says Jaime E. Ysmael, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ortigas & Co.

To light up this holiday spectacle, famed musical troupe Buganda Drumbeaters, students from Meridian International Business, Arts and Technology (MINT) College, the Rosario Zooombrgy of Pasig City, CCF Saints Dance Ministry, and employees from Ortigas & Company unveiled the lights and musical display through a series of festive musical numbers during the launch.

In addition to the lights and musical display, a mural to be designed in collaboration with students from MINT College will be unveiled in front of the Silver City 1A building during the holiday season. Titled EVERYTHING COUNTS, the mural aims to inspire environmental awareness among the whole community and invite them to come together to take immediate action towards environmental conservation and preservation.

Guests are also invited to take part in the festivities in the estate through the #OrtigasEastDanceChallenge, an activity where families and friends are encouraged to dance to the lights and sounds of the Christmas Tunnel and post their videos online. Those who come up with the most creative dance videos stand a chance to win prizes. Guests can visit and follow Ortigas East on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/OrtigasEastOfficial/ for more information on the contest mechanics.

There will also be a StrEAT Food night market open every night from 6PM to 10PM starting November 5, 2019 until January 5, 2020, where foodies in the Metro can gather to enjoy their favorite Filipino street eats. Foodies are also encouraged to bring their own utensils to the night market in support of the estate’s focus on eco-friendly and sustainable standards.

A variety of holiday activities are also happening inside the estate’s retail destination, Tiendesitas, where families and friends can gather to enjoy the fun and festive celebrations within the bustling community. Guests can kick-off the holidays as they visit the Gift of Wonders - a larger-than-life installation that will awaken the Christmas spirit during the gift-giving rush at the Food and Pet Village.

The Ortigas East Christmas Street Musical Light Tunnel will be open to the public every night from 6PM to 10PM starting November 4, 2019 until January 5, 2020. For more information and updates, please visit and follow Ortigas East on Facebook.

We all know what we can find in the North, there's the ice caps, the snow, and of course Santa but at SM City North EDSA, well, it's a winter wonderland as they take the line "Let it Snow!" Yes, they truly let everyone presented during the unveiling event feel the snow and the chill in a winter wonderland. It's a Magical Holiday at the Christmas launch as SM City North EDSA officially unveils its Christmas centerpiece at The Block Atrium. Families and friends can explore a winter wonderland accentuated by a 45-ft. Snowflake Christmas Tree from November 8, 2019 to January 5, 2020.


"Year after year, we at SM Supermalls work tirelessly to bring Christmas experiences that awe and inspire our shoppers to create unforgettable moments at SM. This year, we bring the magic of ice and snow to life through a fun-filled Christmas experience a Magical Holiday at SM City North EDSA to light up the holiday season for our shoppers," said SM Supermalls COO Steven Tan.

Gracing the launch is the country’s very own queen, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, complemented by magical performances from singer Marynor Madamesila and Ballet Manila.

One of the highlights of the celebration are activities celebrating the upcoming release of Disney’s “Frozen 2”. Kids and families are given the opportunity to meet and greet Elsa and Anna on November 29, 30, and December 1 at The Block Atrium. Frozen 2 merchandise will also be available at The Block Atrium to complete that magical shopping experience. Shoppers can look forward to a magical ballet featuring Ballet Manila on December 14 and 21 at The Block.

Shoppers can catch other holiday activities at SM City North EDSA, including a Magical Science Show on November 10 and December 14, Santa Meet and Greet on December 8, 15, 22 to 25, Christmas Carols by National University Chorale on December 15, all at The Block. Light up your holidays with the Firework Show on November 8, December 14, 21 and 28 and Skygarden Live: Christmas Series concert on December 6, 13, 20 and 27 at the Skygarden.


#GoNorthThisChristmas with your family and friends for a magical holiday celebration and #SparklingSMallidays at SM City North EDSA. For more updates, visit https://www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM City North EDSA at Facebook @smnedsa, Twitter @smnorthedsa, and Instagram @smnorthedsa.

Okay, this one I missed but thanks to our friends from Nippon they were able to send me some photos and some details of what transpired during the event day. I just really missed seeing in person the graffitis and arworks made. So here's the story of the Paint Party done the Nippon Paint way.

 Mr. Pinoy Hoops and Nippon Paint Coatings Philippines Inc. held a #PaintParty last November 9, 2019, in celebration of Mike Swift’s birthday. The party was celebrated at the Tenement Home, Taguig’s Famous Court.

#Paintparty is a one-day event staged with a mission to beautify and inspire the Tenement community, aside from painting the tenement ramps, apartments, and corridors, the whole event was also armed with other fun-filled activity such as Graffiti Wall painting, 3x3 Basketball game, and a free concert held in the evening of November 9.

During the event, Nippon Paint Coatings Philippines and Mike Swift announced that they will join forces in supporting and strengthening the basketball community by painting a thousand basketball courts nationwide thru the #Everycourtcandream campaign. In the coming days, Nippon Paint Gang (Nippon Paint and Mike Swift’s Paint squad), will go to different places in the Philippines to look for a basketball court to paint.


So, if you're community does have basketball courts that are nearly forgotten with colors, this is your chance to liven that play area and get into the good hoops.

Do you want your basketball court to be painted next? Follow Nippon Paint Coatings Philippines Inc. and Mike Swift Facebook page for updates.

facebook.com/nipponpaintcoatingsph
facebook.com/IamMikeSwift

This event was also made possible through the cooperation of Tahanan Inc., Chookstogo, Nike, MNL Kingpin and Kings of the Court.

If you're a lover of music and concerts then you'll definitely want to witness and be part of the Philippine leg of the biggest international Filipino Music Festival that is finally here in our country. One Music X (1MX) is finally coming home to its Filipino audience as it is all set to rock the grounds of Manila this coming November 22 (Friday).

Following 1MX sold-out concerts in Dubai, UAE, and Singapore, where world-class Filipino artists conquered the international stage, the stars this time will get to showcase their singing prowess in their homeland.


Watch out for the biggest music acts to be led by outstanding performers KZ Tandingan, Yeng Constantino, Darren Espanto, Sandwich, Itchyworms, Mayonnaise, IV of Spades, Agsunta and more surprise guests.


One Music X was launched in 2017, spearheaded by record label Star Music, FM radio station MOR 101.9 For Life!, music channel MYX Philippines, OPM music portal One Music PH, and the global multiplatform media hub for Filipino news and entertainment, The Filipino Channel (TFC), with a goal to showcase Pinoy talents on the world stage.

The music festival is also part of ABS-CBN’s continuing efforts to bring immersive Kapamilya experiences in awe-inspiring live shows, fan meets, theater productions, and concerts here and abroad. Experience the most awaited music festival in the country, 1MX Manila, on Nov. 22 (Friday) at the Centris Elements in Quezon City.

Tickets cost P899 for VIP and P499 for General Admission. To get your tickets, visit www.ticketnet.com.ph.

The new season of iWant's Bagman will officially be released for streaming today at 12 noon. If you ask me Arjo Atayde is one good and versatile actor, he really knows his craft and you can find the passion in every character that he plays. This is what I always observe whenever he has new movie or TV series, he really knows how to make the character he plays stand out and you can't find any trace of previous roles that he portrays on the current. Always new, not as him but the figure of the person he is playing.

That is why a lot of different roles are being offered to him because of his passion and his dedication to the craft.


Catch Arjo Atayde plays his character as Benjo in the new season of BAGMAN. This time he plays the same character but a lot more. A more interesting level of the character a much more intriguing story about politics, society, family and more.

The best weapon of every successful man is the beauty and heart of their beloved spouses. Girl power is not strength or might but it is the heart that they possess and the charm that they have, that is what Congresswoman Florida “Rida” Robes have. A loving, submissive wife equipped with faithfulness to the Lord. Another secret to success shared by Congresswoman Rida is their “communication”. Their good communication with each other really made the Congresswoman and Mayor tandem the best public servants that the City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan ever had.

Just recently, we were able to have a short interview with the Congresswoman about her reaction to the award that Mayor Arthur Robes received being the representative of the City. She was very happy and proud, according to her it is not just the work of one man but with the help of the vice mayor, city councils, and the different departments. An effort made by everyone to finally receive the Seal of Good Local Governance.


We were also asked the congresswoman of what’s the newest activity for the City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, happy and excited Congresswoman Rida shared that they are now in the process of creating another Guinness World Record. After claiming the title of being the Largest Lantern Parade, they are now aiming to break another record as the Largest Living Nativity. Currently, UK is the titleholder but everyone is hoping and praying to get that title from UK. Congresswoman Rida together with the City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, aims to make that Living Nativity a sight to see. The prestige of the city and the country wouldn’t be as hard as it is.

With this, the vision for the city to be the next tourism destination in the country will be possible. Lead by Congresswoman Rida and Mayor Arthur Robes the city will move to that dream.

KAMPANA Awards is an initiative of KWENTO NI TOTO to recognize the hard work of Public Relations (PR) Practitioners and Agencies in bringing the campaigns and promotions from different brands and companies to the public through various platforms. Particularly, through the digital sphere where bloggers, influencers, and content creators, like us, share opinions, stories, and observations.

It's about time to appreciate their dedications as PR Practitioners and PR Agencies by the partners - the bloggers, influencers, and content creators - who have worked with them in moving the campaigns and promotions to its success.

With this, Kwento Ni Toto is launching today the KAMPANA Awards. Derived from two prefixes of two Tagalog words which are 'KAMpanya' and 'PANAwagan', thus, creating KAMPANA or bell in English.

The KAMPANA Awards embodies the feature of a bell, creating noise to call attention, this is the personality of every PR Practitioners and Agencies. Equipped with creativity, working attitude, and dedication that leads to the success of every campaign from different brands and companies.

Through this award, we can create a sphere of a good and harmonious relationship with the practitioners and the online media community. Together we can communicate with the public and share outstanding campaigns.

So, nominate your choice for this year's KAMPANA Awards with the following categories.

CATEGORIES

Bloggers and Media Partners Pili (Choice) Award

• KAMPANA Bloggers and Media Partners Pili Award for PR Person
• KAMPANA Bloggers and Media Partners Pili Award for PR Agency

For these categories, we will have 2 processes, nomination and voting. On the list of nominations, we will pick the Top 5 Finalists. Then we will have the voting period where agencies and practitioners can campaign with the bloggers, influencers, online media, and vloggers.

• KAMPANA PR Agency ng Taon
• KAMPANA PR Person ng Taon
• KAMPANA Kalimbang ng Taon (campaigns or activation created by PR agencies that interest your readers and followers)
• KAMPANA Malikhain Awards (campaigns or activation created by PR agencies that made an impact because of its uniqueness and creativity)

Of course, since Kwento Ni Toto also shares entertainment stories we also have categories for celebrities and TV Stations.

• KAMPANA Celebrity Endorser ng Taon
• KAMPANA Batang Celebrity Endorser ng Taon
• KAMPANA Kwelang Endorser ng Taon
• KAMPANA Ingay Istasyon ng Taon (TV Station that created a buzz through their campaigns)

ELIGIBILITY AND CRITERIA TO CONSIDER IN CASTING YOUR NOMINATIONS

• PR Practitioners/Agencies residing in the Philippines. 

• Has worked and practiced his/their expertise for a minimum of 5 months (for new practitioners and agencies) and have created or participated at least one project or campaign. 

• Created an impact not only on the brand but also on its online partners (influencers, bloggers and vloggers). 

• Delivered the campaign and made online partners very much involved and active. 

• The uniqueness and creativity stand out in making the campaign.

• The nomination is from Nov. 10 to 30.
• The release of the Finalists is December 2.
• Voting is from December 2 to 12.
• The announcement and release of KAMPANA AWARDS winners will be on December 15, 2019.

It's shopping time once again and I'm sure you are all happy and excited about this upcoming sale event. This the highly-anticipated 11.11 sale of the year and it still continues to make waves as Lazada continues to redefine the total shopping experience in the Philippines. The country’s #1 eCommerce platform kicked-off its biggest one-day sale of the year, 11.11, with local event The World of Lazada, teasing the first-ever live interactive countdown concert show in the country. Lazada’s 11.11 Super Show will be broadcast on ABS-CBN and live-streamed on the Lazada app, on November 10. This will mark the first time the show is being telecast on a national network.


With more than PHP 11 Million vouchers and 11 Million product offerings and massive deals and discounts, in-the-know savvy shoppers can look forward to only the best from each of their favorite product categories such as ‘Women & Men’s Fashion,’ ‘Health & Beauty,’ ‘Sports & Outdoors,’ ‘Toys, Babies and Kids,’ ‘Home & Living,’ and ‘Electronics.’

Lazada’s 11.11 provides brands and sellers more ways to reach consumers through new formats and channels. New in-app game LazCity Wonderland enables consumers to build and explore a virtual city of LazMall brands with special brand vouchers. Moreover, in-app facial recognition game Moji-Go will make it even more fun to win exciting vouchers when you play during 11.11. Users just need to match facial expressions to win coins that can be converted to vouchers. In introducing new games, consumers are promised an engaging shopping experience where redeeming rewards are easier than ever to achieve.

“As the first eCommerce player to bring the shopping festival concept to Southeast Asia, we continue to break new ground and accelerate the region’s progress in eCommerce. We are proud to see that Lazada has made 11.11 one of the key industry growth drivers in Southeast Asia, changing the way people shop and the way sellers do business,” said Ray Alimurung, Philippines’ Chief Executive Officer. “Our Group has been experiencing 100 percent year-on-year order growth in the past four quarters, and with more than 50 million annual active consumers on our platform, I am sure this 11.11’s growth will be another record-breaker. It is already better and bolder – it may well be the biggest too!”

The World of Lazada brought to life the latest shopping innovations, together with products from the bestselling categories to create a truly immersive, seamless and entertaining shopping experience.

“Beyond just a shopping platform, Lazada aims to be a lifestyle destination. For us, that means having the best selection of brands and deals and creating the most engaging shopper experiences. For 11.11, we’re pioneering innovation even further with new interactive shoppertainment features and exciting games!” said Neil Trinidad, Chief Marketing Officer.

The event kicked off with a tech-infused interactive fashion show where models and KOLs strutted down the catwalk showcasing best-selling fashion brands from Lazada. Delighted audience members were able to use the Lazada Image Scan on select items as part of their purchasable #OOTD (Outfit-Of-The-Day) goal outfits and add to cart using the new image scan feature within the Lazada app. Participants were also able to take part in makeup GRWM (Get-Ready-With-ME) masterclass in which Lazada’s AR Technology – Magic Mirror – was featured. This is a brand partnership with L’Oréal.

Lazada also shared their latest innovation in shoppertainment with GUESS IT!, a 4-hour interactive livestream in-app gameshow that aired across six markets on November 4. The event set a new livestreaming record for Southeast Asia, with more than 1.1 million views. In the Philippines alone. Hosted by Sam YG, it featured Mimiyuuuh, David Guison, Bangs Garcia and Kimpoy Feliciano who competed to answer fun trivia questions and guess the price of select items. Mimiyuuuh emerged as the Guess It Queen. The game show also allowed online shoppers to participate through interactive questions, special vouchers and a list of the Must-Buy items that they could add to cart.

The Top Deals & Exclusive Offers to look out for at Lazada’ 11.11:

Enjoy discounts of up to 95% off all throughout the day, 11M+ of vouchers up for grabs from your favorite local and international brands and sellers. Don’t forget to set your alarms at 12 midnight as the biggest discounts will come your way from 12mn-2am and 12pm-2pm.

Adding to the brand’s already strong portfolio of thousands of local and international brands, this year has brought even bigger Brand Mega Offers from partners.

The First-Ever Interactive Livestream Countdown Concert on November 10 – the Lazada 11.11 SuperShow

As the grand culmination of the event, Lazada Philippines Chief Executive Officer, Ray Alimurung and Chief Marketing Officer, Neil Trinidad provided guests a first look of Lazada’s very first interactive livestream countdown concert, the Lazada 11.11 Super Show, which will be simultaneously broadcast nationwide on ABS-CBN and livestreamed on the Lazada app on November 10, 2019 at 10.30 PM.

In partnership with ABS-CBN, the Lazada 11.11 Super Show will be broadcast on TV and live streamed on the app. The show will be hosted by the country’s top stars, Vice Ganda, Billy Crawford, Karylle and Mimiyuuh with performances from James Reid, Maja Salvador, Mayward and many more. The show will also showcase Voucher Rain, a fun, interactive game where shoppers can slash their way to collect vouchers. Partner brands such as TRESemmé, Promil, Platinum Karaoke, Sun Life, and Hyundai will showcase even more surprise performances. Hyundai will raffle off a brand-new Hyundai Reina, and shoppers can simply follow the Hyundai store on Lazada and wait for the winner to be announced on November 11. The show will end with the biggest surprise yet - a special simulcast performance of Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, who will be performing live at our sister brand TMALL Gala Show and livestreamed on our Lazada app.

Go Where Your Heart Beats with Lazada’s biggest 11.11 super sale this year and enjoy the most entertaining shopping experience, the best deals and biggest discounts.

To know more about Lazada 11.11, visit Lazada.com.ph, facebook.com/LazadaPhilippines and Instagram.com/lazadaPH.