Make your holidays more stylish with Robinsons Department Store’s Christmas Shop Collection

MoIt’s the most wonderful time of the year to transform your home into a festive masterpiece that your whole family will love. Whether you’re into traditional Christmas colors or love experimenting with unique hues, you can find the perfect decorations you’ll need at the Robinsons Department Store Christmas Shop.

With Robinsons Department Store’s diverse collection, there’s no shortage of Christmas trees, baubles, figurines, throw pillow covers, and many other items to bring in the holiday magic to your space. The best part is you can purchase them with exciting promos happening at Robinsons Department Store branches nationwide.

If you don’t know what theme to go for yet, here are some design inspirations you can pull from:

Classic Christmas

Nothing beats the traditional Christmas look – trees adorn with red, green, and white decor, and Santa Claus greeting everyone with his welcoming smile. Robinsons Department Store’s collection of Christmas Balls (price starts at P249), Fillers (price starts at P99), and Ornaments (price starts at P249) can add personality to your tree. Make any room feel warmer with a Santa Hanging Decor (P599) on your front door or by mixing and matching festive Throw Pillowcases (price starts at P129) on your sofa.

Natural Elegance

With “Golden” from K-Pop Demon Hunters becoming a hit everywhere, here’s your chance to add the shimmery hue to your Christmas decorations. Natural Elegance pertains to a dainty and sparkly aesthetic with shades of gold, white, and soft shades that bring a timeless sophistication to any home. The mini Christmas tree tabletop decor (P499 each) adds a shiny touch to your dinner spread, while the elegant Christmas wreath (P2,999) can brighten up a room. Let your Christmas tree bloom with unique baubles, such as one with a seashell-like design (P469) and one with mini pearls (P349). The Fillers (price starts at P49) and Ornaments (P99) can help make your tree stand out even more.

Pretty Pastels

Soft pastels are in this holiday season. Inspired by desserts and childlike wonder, Pretty Pastels can bring out your whimsical side with Robinsons Department Store’s colorful pieces. Decorate your tree with cookie-inspired Hanging Decor (P499 each), a cupcake-shaped Ornament (P199 for a set of 3), and a candy cane Filler (P199) for a sweet touch that you won’t see in others. Pink Nutcracker figurines (price starts at P16,999) and intricate Gingerbread House Tabletop Decor (price starts at P349) add more fun to every corner of your home.

Bejeweled Christmas

Jewel tones have an opulent vibe with its vibrant shades and glittery designs. Robinsons Department Store’s Bejeweled Christmas collection contains striking blues, purples, teals, and more that will remind you of gemstones shimmering under the light. The colorful Christmas Balls (price starts at P99) and Ornaments (price starts at P249) can help make your tree look elegant without scrimping on color. Feel like royalty with a giant Nutcracker figurine (price starts at P16,999) by the door or small ones (P699 for a set of 4) watching over your noche buena.

Very Berry

The Very Berry theme is a treat for plant lovers thanks to its fruit and floral-inspired decor. Give your home a fresh look with a berry-filled Christmas Wreath (P2,499), Potted Tree with Berries (P399), and Pinecones Tabletop Decor (P179). Robinsons Department Store also has Throw Pillowcases (price starts at P129) with poinsettia flowers and red berries printed on them.

Holiday Feast

If you love hosting holiday get-togethers, you can impress your guests with your cooking and your table-setting skills. Robinsons Department Store’s Serveware Platter (P369) and Kaela Wooden Platter (P349) are perfect for pastries and finger foods. Curated Home’s holiday-themed coasters (P250 for a set of 4) can give your spread that festive feel. You can also support local artisans with Abaca Christmas Placemats (P99 each), which comes in circle and rectangle shapes.

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Let the holiday magic come alive in your home with the Robinsons Department Store Christmas Shop, now available at all branches nationwide and online marketplaces like LazMall, Shopee Mall, and TikTok Shop. Start planning your decorations and shop the Christmas Shop collection now. Check out the e-catalog to see all the beautiful pieces.

A first-time mom’s guide to the Terrible Twos, according to MakatiMed

Trust comedian Jerry Springer to come up with a spot-on description of a toddler in the Terrible Twos. “Having a 2-year-old is like having a blender,” he said, “without a lid.”

 

Indeed, the dreaded behavior—tantrums, kicking, hitting, blood-curdling screams, and all-out defiance towards Mom and Dad at the most inappropriate times and places (the mall, at church, in a restaurant)—can be frustrating even to the most experienced parent. Moreso for first-time mothers who may have only heard or read about the Terrible Twos but wouldn’t know what to do if it finally struck.

 

According to Bernadette C. Benitez, MD, pediatrician at top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), the Terrible Twos is a normal developmental phase that occurs when a child is between 18 to 30 months.

 

“At this age, they’re walking, climbing, and speaking in two-to-three-word sentences,” says Dr. Benitez. “They’re also starting to understand emotions, test boundaries, assert their independence, and realize that what they want may not necessarily agree with others. Most importantly, their nervous system is still highly immature, which makes it difficult for them to manage and regulate their big emotions.”

 

Not getting their way coupled with not being able to express themselves makes them upset, which results in a serious meltdown. So, what’s a first-time mom to do? 

 

“First of all, take a deep breath and remind yourself that no one’s at fault,” notes the MakatiMed doctor. “As a parent, you did nothing wrong. And as annoying and sometimes embarrassing as it is, a tantrum means your toddler’s just behaving developmentally appropriate for his or her age. The goal is to calm your kid down. To do that, you must be calm yourself.”

 

How you handle an outburst depends on what caused it and where you are, reminds Dr. Benitez.

 

If they freak out in a public place, take your toddler out to a quiet spot so you don’t disturb others. Go for a walk so they can simmer. Get down to your toddler’s eye level and speak to them in a gentle yet firm tone. “Asking reassuring questions like ‘What’s bothering you?’ ‘How can I help?’ as well as applying deep pressure touch such as rubbing their back, holding their hand, and letting them sit on your lap can help settle their nervous system and make them feel comfortable and safe,” says Dr. Benitez.

 

If they have a meltdown after you say no, the pediatrician suggests ignoring the tantrum. “By calmly ignoring the tantrum, you teach the child that their outburst is not an effective way to get what they want. This process helps the child learn to self-regulate and find better ways to express their feelings,” explains Dr. Benitez. “Stay firm with your decision not to give in, and show them you mean business.”

 

Now what if the kid keeps saying no? “Instead of asking yes or no questions, give them choices. ‘Would you rather do this or that?’ or ‘If you don’t do this, then this will happen.’ You can also ask an older toddler what they prefer. By guiding them to make choices, you allow them to express themselves and understand what they truly want,” says Dr. Benitez.

 

If they hit or kick a playmate, separate the two, then apologize to and comfort the child who was hurt. “As for your toddler, find out why they hit, then state in a calm yet firm voice that you acknowledge their feelings, but inflicting pain on others is not the answer and has consequences,” recommends Dr. Benitez.

 

And if they repeatedly throw tantrums? Impose a time-out. “Let them sit or stand in a corner and stay there until you say they’re done. A time-out can help them manage their feelings. It will also remind them to behave better unless they want to sit or stand in a corner again,” the MakatiMed doctor says.  

 

At some point, first-time moms may have an outburst themselves. “It’s only natural to raise your voice or lose your temper. You’re only human,” assures Dr. Benitez. “Cut yourself some slack. Once you’ve calmed down, it’s important to model accountability and apologize to your child for your own behavior. Strive to do better next time, because there will be a next time.”

 

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AstraZeneca and Diabetes Philippines Launch Movement to Combat a Disease Affecting Millions of Filipinos

Coinciding with World Diabetes Day, Diabetes Philippines and AstraZeneca officially launched the ‘STOP Diabetes ACT NOW,’ issuing an urgent call for Filipinos to have earlier screening for diabetes, a lifestyle disease affecting 4.7 million Filipino adults1 and the fifth leading cause of death in the country,2 and to significantly reduce the risk of developing severe life-threatening complications.

With the theme “Driving Better Diabetes Outcomes Through Early Screening and Holistic Care,” the speakers discussed Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), the most common type of diabetes, and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), a severe complication usually caused by T2D.

“As we celebrate World Diabetes Day, we in the medical community, as well as our patient partners, sound the bell to ACT NOW,” Dr. Francis Pasaporte, past president of Diabetes Philippines, said.

Understanding T2D

Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't make enough insulin.3 Insulin is a vital hormone that helps sugar, particularly glucose, be used for energy. When this process doesn't work efficiently, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Left unmanaged, this can lead to several complications, such as Chronic Kidney Disease, where around 40% of T2D patients develop during their lifetime.

According to the latest report from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 7.5% or an estimated 4.7 million Filipinos aged 20-79 years old are living with the disease.1 

Alarmingly, the same statistics also show that an estimated 53.5% of adults in the country remain undiagnosed, highlighting the need for early screening of T2D to prevent disease progression.

The Philippine Statistics Authority also reported that diabetes was the fifth leading cause of mortality among Filipinos in 2024,2 emphasizing its severe impact on national health.

Dr. Fatma Tiu, President of Diabetes Philippines, highlights the growing burden of diabetes in Filipino families and highlights the shared responsibility behind the STOP Diabetes: ACT NOW movement during the interactive discussion, the World Diabetes Day Agham Kapihan.   

“Diabetes is a big problem that is affecting our nation,” Dr. Rey Rosales, Treasurer of Diabetes Philippines, said, “Which is why early screening is one of the most powerful tools we have to save lives and prevent severe complications such as CKD.”

STOP Diabetes, ACT NOW

Dr. Rey Rosales discussed the burden of diabetes, saying that 7 out of 10 working-class Filipinos are affected by diabetes, impacting their most productive years.

To unite in their call to halt the further progression of diabetes and its complications, healthcare experts, patient advocates, and partner organizations came together to launch the STOP Diabetes, ACT NOW campaign, encouraging Filipinos to get early screening and undergo treatment. 

“Our battle cry has always been the diabetics of tomorrow will come from the children of today,” Dr. Fatma Tiu, President of  Diabetes Philippines, said. “We don’t need to look far—we will start by screening the family members of our diabetic patients, and through the Stop Diabetes program, we will create clinics all over the country utilizing PhilHealth programs.”

Patient advocates present in the forum shared how mindful eating and early screening can change lives for people, especially for avoiding severe complications like CKD.

“I hope more people become aware of the food they eat,” Arch. Cynthia Clemen Y. Duntz, president of the Diabetes Advocacy Society Inc., said. “In our community, we are science-based; we have members who are also endocrinologists, and they give their recommendations on what’s best.”

“Let's get ourselves screened,” Reynaldo Abacan Jr, President of Dialysis PH, said. “Even if we don’t feel any symptoms at the moment, we might have developed the disease already. Which is why early screening is important, so we can give people the chance to implement lifestyle changes and get treatment.”

A representative from state-backed health insurer PhilHealth assured that members can receive financial assistance from the government through the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) and the Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) package.

Dr. Lydia Labro of PhilHealth introduces updates to the YAKAP Program, including the addition of early diabetes screening to help Filipinos access know their status and get immediate care.

“We are now focusing not just on the curative, but also on the preventive, promotive, rehabilitative, and palliative,” Dr. Lydia Labro, representative for PhilHealth, said. “Under the Yaman ng Kalusugan Para sa Lahat program, we cover primary care consultations, essential diagnostic tests like HbA1c, which includes essential anti-diabetic medicine, so that every member can focus on their treatment.”

“Our bold ambition is to reduce and ultimately eliminate complications and deaths because of cardiometabolic diseases like diabetes.” Dr. Cyril Tolosa, Medical Affairs Director at AstraZeneca Philippines, said. “We've been continuously partnering with diabetes educators, patient groups, local government units, our doctors in the clinics, and drugstore chains to continuously look for these patients who have diabetes and screen them for kidney disease.”

Dr. Cyril Tolosa, Medical Affairs Director of AstraZeneca Philippines, highlights the company’s goal of eliminating deaths from cardiometabolic diseases and its partnerships to strengthen early diabetes and kidney disease screening.

To close the event, Dr. Nines Bautista, Vice President of Diabetes Philippines, reiterated the call for early screening and immediate treatment for diabetes.

“Let us renew our shared commitment to the call to action of Diabetes Philippines to STOP Diabetes, ACT NOW,” Dr. Bautista said. “We can make a lasting impact by promoting early screening, issuing prompt and effective treatment, and optimizing the management of co-morbid conditions and preventing the serious complications of diabetes.”

“Today, we are reminded that diabetes is not just a medical condition but a public health and a social concern that touches families and communities across our nation,” Dr. Bautista added. “Through awareness, education, and united action, we can empower every Filipino to live healthier, longer, and more fulfilling lives,” he added.

The event concluded with a commitment exercise, calling on everyone to involve their communities and help Filipinos take charge of their health and stop diabetes in its tracks.

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About AstraZeneca 

AstraZeneca (LSE/STO/Nasdaq): AZ is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and BioPharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. Based in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. Please visit astrazeneca.com and follow the Company on X @AstraZeneca. 

Holiday traditions shine brighter as Shangri-La Plaza lights up its grand Christmas tree

At Shangri-La Plaza, the annual Grand Tree Lighting ceremony happened on November 15, 6:00 PM at the Grand Atrium—but not just with the simple flick of a switch. Shang invited everyone to witness the anticipated event presented through A Symphony of Sparkle, the poignant musical narrative highlighting a season abounding with traditions of Songs & Splendor, Gatherings, Giving, and child-like Wonder.

 

With Farley Asuncion as its musical director and Rory Fortich as its musical arranger, the spectacle combined music, dance, narration, and multimedia, scored live by a band and orchestra, with each act spotlighting elements of Filipino Christmas, including caroling and Simbang Gabi with family to create a magical experience. An evening of musical storytelling unfolded, featuring the Philippine Madrigal Singers, the Manila String Machine, vocal powerhouses Johann Enriquez and Sheena Lee Palad, and captivating performances by the Speed Dancers and Ballet Manila.

On the same day, Gucci added to the holiday’s high spirits with an exclusive event where guests enjoyed a first look at the Cruise 2026 Collection, paired with cocktails specially curated by Michelin Selected restaurant Juniper by Josh Boutwood.

The season is indeed merry, shining even brighter with the Shang decking its halls in iconic holiday décor. This year’s décor story fuses crystal brilliance with timeless ornaments, thoughtfully arranged to appear as if the elements were floating midair, highlighted by a massive Christmas tree installation suspended at the center. A backdrop of vivid gold and green sets the stage for a richness of nostalgia, elevated through Shang’s luxurious and festive touches. The result is a warm, multi-sensory experience filled with glowing lights, visual wonder, and an enchanting holiday charm.

    

Exciting events and activities follow the Grand Tree Lighting as Christmas at the Shang goes full swing.

 

The exciting Wishes & Wheels: Holiday Raffle Promo starts on November 15. Get a chance to win 1 of 2 Hybrid Lexus LBX for a single receipt worth PHP 2,500 and up.

 

A line-up of wonderful performances lifts the spirits this December with Christmas Ensembles: Weekend Showcases of Motion and Melody. Make sure to catch the sweet serenades of the OB Montessori Greenhills  on December 12, Ateneo Boys Choir on December 13, Studio Dance by Lina  on December 14, St. Theresa’s College Quezon City on December 20, and the Mandaluyong Children’s Choir on December 21.

 

Take the entire family or friend group to a Christmas day movie date as the best Filipino films begin screening for the Metro Manila Film Festival at the Red Carpet Cinema on December 25.

 

December 26 presents even more great shopping experiences with Shangri-La Plaza’s Boxing Day Sale. Get the chance to grab what you missed during the holiday rush and at discounted prices.  

 

Finally, bid goodbye to 2025 and welcome the New Year with the Encore of Lights fireworks display on December 30, 8PM, at the Streetscape. Let timeless traditions that make up the heartbeat of Christmas sparkle and shine anew at Shangri-La Plaza.   

 

For updates and inquiries, follow Shangri-La Plaza on Facebook at www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficial and on Instagram @shangrilaplazaofficial.

 

Western Union and GCash Offer $0 Transfer Fees from Hawaii to the Philippines

GCash, the country’s leading super app, partners with Western Union for a special promo that removes transfer fees for those sending money from Hawaii to the Philippines.

For many Overseas Filipinos around the world, including in Hawaii, sending money back home serves as a love language. The partnership between GCash and Western Union hopes to ease the burden from distant loved ones by ensuring that every dollar sent is fully enjoyed back home without extra fees, whether it's helping with monthly expenses, celebrating a birthday, or marking a special milestone.

“This partnership allows Western Union users in Hawaii to send money to GCash wallets in the Philippines with zero transfer fees. It’s a special promotion designed to bolster support for the vibrant Filipino community in Hawaii as they, in turn, support their families back home, “ says Paul Albano, General Manager for GCash International.

The promo is specially designed to make remittances more accessible, giving senders peace of mind that every dollar sent goes straight to their loved ones.

“By removing transfer fees, we’re ensuring that every dollar sent goes directly to their families. At GCash, supporting the Filipino community means helping every hard-earned dollar make a difference,” added Paul Albano, General Manager for GCash International.

Users can enjoy this promo—either at Western Union stores across Hawaii or via the app—until December 31, 2025. For all other exciting promotions, and to learn more about GCash, visit www.new.gcash.com.

 

 

About GCash 

GCash is the Philippines’ #1 Finance Super App and Largest Cashless Ecosystem. Through the GCash App, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills via partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones. Its mobile wallet operations are handled by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt, the first and only $5 billion unicorn in the Philippines.

  

GCash is a staunch supporter of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly UN SDGs 5,8,10, and 13, which focus on safety & security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, respectively.

 

HONOR Foldable and Magic Series Price Drop Happening This Lazada Super Brand Day Sale!

Global AI device ecosystem company HONOR Philippines is joining the Lazada Super Brand Day Sale this November 20–21, 2025, offering up to 48% off on HONOR devices. Amazing deals await, including the HONOR Magic V3 for only Php 71,199 (from its original price of Php 89,999) and the HONOR Magic6 Pro for Php 43,799 (from its SRP of Php 59,999).

 

Aside from the huge price cuts, HONOR is giving away up to Php 11,990 worth of freebies, such as FREE JBL Soundgear Frames, HONOR Watch GS 3, HONOR Earbuds II, and Bluetooth Speaker II.

 

“This is the first time we’re doing this! You can now get the foldable phone of your dreams, the HONOR Magic V3, with a whopping Php 18,000 price drop, or get our other handsets for an even more affordable price—as low as Php 3,949,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

 

Don’t miss this limited time offer and get your hands on your dream HONOR device while supplies last. Shop now at the Lazada Super Brand Day Sale from November 20–21, 2025: https://bit.ly/HONORSuperBrandDay.

 

Never miss the latest updates—visit HONOR’s official website at www.hihonor.com, or follow their social media platforms: Facebook (@HonorPhilippines), Instagram (@honorph), and TikTok (@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

 

 

About HONOR 

HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.

 

Spark joy in every goal, turn your savings into rewards with Metrobank

 

What truly sparks joy for you? Maybe it’s that long-overdue beach vacation, the sense of financial wellness you’ve been working toward, or simply knowing your savings are growing for something that matters most — your peace of mind. 

Whatever brings you happiness, big or small, Metrobank wants to spark even more joy along the way. That is why it recently introduced the Spark Joy Promo to get you one step closer to your dreams by rewarding your everyday saving habits.

Because if you think about it, saving isn’t just about numbers on your bank account— it’s about the life moments you’re working toward. Now, Metrobank is giving you an extra reason to feel good about it with a guaranteed eGift of up to PHP10,000 just for growing your money with the Spark Joy Promo.

 

The promo runs from October 24, 2025 to February 28, 2026. It’s simple: the more you save, the more you earn — not just in interest, but in instant rewards that give you additional money boost. 

Joining is easy. If you do not have a deposit account with Metrobank yet, you can open an account at any Metrobank branch or start an eSavings account through the Metrobank App. 

Once your account is set or if you already have a Metrobank deposit account, simply register for the promo via the Giftaway portal and start building your savings. All you need to do is reach the required average daily balance (ADB) of at least PHP15,000 and maintain it for six months — or continue adding up. The higher your ADB growth, the bigger your eGift reward will be. 

For example, if your savings grows by PHP15,000 and you maintain it, you’ll get a PHP300 eGift. If you reach and sustain PHP 500,000, you can unlock a guaranteed PHP10,000 reward. It’s like hitting a “level up” moment in your savings journey— and who doesn’t love a good win? 

Think of this as a joyful challenge to yourself: to save with purpose, to reach milestones that matter, and to treat yourself along the way. Whether you’re saving for short-term happiness or long-term security, Spark Joy makes the journey rewarding— literally. 

To learn more or to register, check the Metrobank Spark Joy Promo page or drop by your nearest Metrobank branch. 

Because with Metrobank, your savings don’t just grow— they spark joy.

ABOUT METROBANK

Metrobank is the country's second largest private universal bank that empowers both retail and business clients with customized financial products and services fit to help reach their goals and full potential. It has an extensive consolidated network that spans over 960 domestic branches nationwide, more than 2,200 ATMs, and above 29 foreign branches, subsidiaries, and representative offices. The Bank believes that its robust capital position and balance sheet strength will provide ample support as it navigates through uncertain times. Capital ratios are among the highest in the industry, with total CAR at 17% and Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio at 16.3% as of end-September 2025. Consolidated assets stood at PHP3.6 trillion, making it one of the strongest and well-capitalized banks in the country (https://metrobank.com.ph).