Thursday, November 28, 2024

Awesome Gift Shopping Awaits at Big Bad Wolf Davao Book Sale with Books as Low as P60

The magic of the most festive season is in the air! This holiday season, say goodbye to gift-giving stress and get ready to spread some cheer with good reads.


The spirit of generosity is stronger than ever during this time of the year. The good news is you can shop for books for all your loved ones without breaking the bank! When it comes to finding the perfect selection with the best prices, the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale is your ultimate destination. From gripping novels, to inspiring biographies and exciting children’s stories, Big Bad Wolf Books has got it all. With prices up to 95% off, you can buy gifts for everyone on your nice list! 


Whether you’re on a limited budget or have room to splurge, Big Bad Wolf Books gives you the opportunity to give more and make the holidays truly special. Need gift ideas at P100 and below? Check out these titles that are perfect for kids and kids at heart!


       










If you have more room in your budget, Big Bad Wolf Books also offers these amazing finds at P500 and below. Check out these titles at the Big Bad Wolf Cagayan de Oro Book Sale!


 

 


In the spirit of the season, share the gift of reading to members of underprivileged communities through the Red Readerhood Program at the book sale. Attendees can visit the Red Readerhood counters and hand over books from the book sale to donate to the beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Through this initiative, attendees can help Big Bad Wolf Books distribute books to children, schools, and other communities who have limited access, giving them the opportunity to discover the power of reading.


Big Bad Wolf Books made sure that every attendee will have an incredible shopping experience at the book sale. Metrobank is offering an exclusive 3-month 0% installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth a minimum of P3,000 to lighten the load of your holiday shopping. Furthermore, Seda Hotel and Ayala Malls are hosting a raffle giveaway! For a minimum spend of P5,000 at the book sale, Wolfies can get a chance to win gift certificates from Ayala Malls or an overnight stay at Seda Hotel.


To level up the Big Bad Wolf Books experience, Swedish furnishing brand IKEA offers a cozy display where attendees can unwind, scan through their reads, or indulge in some snacks. Plus, with a minimum spend of P3,000, they can also get the chance to win P50,000 worth of furnishings from IKEA! 


The book sale in Davao is packed with mind-blowing discounts, awesome books, and incredible deals. What’s more is Big Bad Wolf Books is hosting a “Christmas Howliday Market” with food stalls, acoustic sessions, and bouncy castles for the kids! Plus on Friday and Saturday, November 29 to 30, attendees can take advantage of Wolfie's Midnight Madness and enjoy exclusive promos from 12:00 Midnight to 2:00 AM. 


Davaeños, better hurry because this extraordinary book sale won’t be here for long. In a few days, Big Bad Wolf Books is packing up and leaving Davao with all the goods. Don’t miss a beat the book sale at The Tent, Azuela Cove, Davao City, until December 2, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Midnight daily. Follow Big Bad Wolf Books’ social media pages to know the latest updates. 


For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)  




About Big Bad Wolf Books

The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of readers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone.

One of the company’s best highlights is its book sales, which is popular among readers around the world. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them.

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has toured 15 countries and 37 cities. Among these include different cities in Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates. 


How to Succeed in Becoming a World-Class Hotelier according to Discovery Hospitality

 


In the dynamic and competitive world of hospitality, standing out as a world-class hotelier requires more than just knowledge—it demands passion, resilience, and an unrelenting dedication to service.

 

As one of the pioneers of providing world-class hospitality in the Philippines, Discovery Hospitality continues to develop and shape exceptional hoteliers. Thus, it prides itself on having many of the industry’s best and brightest to propel the proudly homegrown brand to where it is today. This is further proven by the many recognitions they received.

 

Just this year, Discovery Primea was hailed as the “Best Luxury Business Hotel” while Discovery Hospitality won the “Leading Hospitality Brand in the Philippines” and “Best Hospitality Services Provider” awards at the 2024 World Business Outlook Awards. Vice President and Head of Digital Marketing and Branding Blessy Townes was also named “Hospitality Digital Marketing Leader of the Year for Asia-Pacific” by the same award-giving body. Prior to that, Discovery Boracay and Discovery Coron were also at the 2024 World Travel Awards and the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024.

 

These accolades are proof that Discovery Hospitality is continuously setting the standard in the industry, making its respectable leaders the perfect models hospitality industry aspirants can look up to. Here’s how one succeeds in the hotel business:

 

Take it from someone like Mirriam Magpantay who has been with Discovery Hospitality for the last 25 years. She started as an Operations Supervisor and is now the Vice President and Head of Sales and Operations Administration.

 

Her advice to aspirants: "You have to have the passion and dedication in whatever it is that you do.” It’s also important to be agile and flexible in a constantly changing hotel landscape. Success, she notes, hinges on the ability to adapt to new challenges while maintaining a commitment to providing exceptional service.

 

Tenacity and continual self-improvement are highlighted by Blessy Townes, Vice President and Head of Digital Marketing and Branding. As the hospitality industry is in constant flux, resiliency and being on top of new trends and technologies are the keys to success. Townes also highlights the value of building a personal brand and nurturing relationships in the industry: "Don't be mediocre. Be the best in your field... Networking can open doors to opportunities and insights you wouldn’t find otherwise.

 

 

Hospitality is about more than just service—it’s about making a lasting impact on both guests and staff according to Senior Vice President and Human Resources Head Didoy Fullon. Quoting Will Guidara, founder of hospitality agency, thank you, Fullon explains, “The moment you begin to pursue service from the lens of hospitality, you understand… you have the ability to make people’s lives better by creating a magical world they can escape to.” This philosophy is the driving force behind Discovery’s commitment to providing not only excellent service but also meaningful experiences.

 

A Partnership for Future Hospitality Leaders

Daniel Perez, Chief Operating Officer of Enderun Colleges; and Jun Parreño, Chief Operating Officer of Discovery Hospitality Corporation at the MOA contract signing.




Do you think you have what it takes to be a successful hotelier? Let Discovery Hospitality help pave the way to a bright future for you. In line with its mission to foster excellence in the industry, Discovery Hospitality has partnered with Enderun Colleges, the country’s top hospitality school with a wide range of collaborations with global hospitality brands, enabling its hospitality students to grab opportunities beyond the Philippine soil.

 

This partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement signed by Chief Operating Officer of Enderun Colleges Daniel Perez and Chief Operating Officer of Discovery Hospitality Corporation Jun Parreño, will provide four (4) grants of up to PHP 100,000 each for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, majoring in Operations Management with a specialization in Hospitality.

 

Starting January 2025, selected students will benefit from these grants and gain priority access to internships at some of the most prestigious properties under Discovery’s portfolio, including Discovery Boracay, Discovery Coron (formerly known as Club Paradise Palawan), Discovery Primea, and Discovery Suites. This hands-on experience will allow students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings, preparing them to become future leaders in the hospitality industry.

 

This collaboration between Discovery Hospitality and Enderun Colleges underscores both institutions' shared commitment to academic excellence and the professional development of future hospitality leaders.

 

 

Art Festival in Tagaytay Celebrates Artists and Collectors


Art Tag is not a collection of galleries but of artists, artworks, collectors, merchants and their merch. Its mission is to connect artists and collectors to support the local art scene in the country. Its initiatives strive to create unique artist-led experiences and strengthen local art-driven initiatives.

 

Philip Abadicio has been a PR expert and art enthusiast for many years and his latest project and advocacy is Art Tag. His idea aims to benefit the artists directly and at the same time, provides a glimpse into some of the collectors’ artworks before it goes on sale. 

 

The unique selling proposition of Art Tag is that art is directly sold by artists and collectors to the general public as opposed to other art markets or expositions wherein galleries represent artists and sell their works.

 

Art Tag intends to create two markets annually, one weekend before Christmas and another during the summer season, or what’s called “Tag-lamig” and “Tag-init”, respectively. The first Art Tag will also have a market for gifts, food kiosks, a Christmas caroling competition and fire pits aside from the sales of reasonably priced artworks by contemporary artists. 

 

Participating artists include Popo San Pascual, Kutz de Jesus, Raiñer Duhaylungsod, Xander Calceta, Reb Belleza, David Kaufman, Ruth Cancio, Isaac Sion, Dante Palmes, Dominic Escobar, Dante Enage, and many others. 

 


The first Art Tag Christmas 2024 happens on the weekend of November 30 to December 1, 2024 at the garden outside Tag 4120 Restaurant & Art Gallery, Lagusan Drive, Brgy Tolentino West, Tagaytay from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. You can also visit their FB and IG pages for more information or contact 09209264120.

 


Enjoy the cool weather of Tagaytay while scouring the Art Market and then having some warm snacks from the food kiosks amidst the Christmas carolers in the background. This and more only at Art Tag Christmas 2024!

Sunday, November 24, 2024

A 20-Year Legacy of Building Dreams: SMDC’s Journey to Building The Good Life

 

Bloom Residences in Paranaque is one testament to SMDC’s commitment to building homes that bring Filipino families together and give them a taste of The Good Life.

SM Development Corporation (SMDC) has always been more than just a real estate company—it’s been a dream-builder for Filipinos. Marking its 20th anniversary, SMDC reflects on two decades of creating homes, transforming communities, and making the dream of homeownership a reality for Filipinos from all walks of life. As of the end of 2023, SMDC has completed over 183,000 residential units across the Philippines, continuing the Sy family’s mission of empowering people through access to quality living.


Living the Good Life

Leading the charge today is Jessica Bianca Sy, Vice President and Head of Design, Innovation, and Strategy at SMDC, who is ensuring that SMDC’s vision evolves to meet the needs of the future. With a focus on sustainable living, Jessica’s leadership emphasizes creating communities where Filipinos can thrive for generations. "We’re not just building homes," she shares. "We’re building sustainable communities where families can thrive for years to come, where every Filipino can live the life they deserve."



For two decades, SMDC has been building sustainable communities all over the Philippines. Style Residences in Iloilo City is its first development in the Visayas.

 

Legacy in Motion

The story of SMDC is one of legacy and long-term vision. It all began with Henry Sy Sr., whose commitment to providing quality footwear for Filipinos laid the groundwork for something much bigger. Henry Sy Jr. then took this vision further by focusing on creating a nation of homeowners, ensuring Filipinos could enjoy stability and pride through homeownership.

 

 

Prime location, high investment returns – Sail Residences at MOA offers thriving, sustainable living by SMDC.


Today, Jessica Bianca Sy continues this legacy, working to ensure every Filipino has the opportunity to live the "Good Life" in a community built with sustainability in mind. As Jessica puts it, “Our focus is not just on creating spaces for people to live in, but spaces where they can build their dreams, forge lasting connections, and experience the Good Life.”

Next Stop: The Future

From high-rises to mid-rises to house-and-lot developments, SMDC has it all for discerning Filipino buyers. Cheerful Homes 2 offers a horizontal development with SMDC’s signature sustainable community features.


Looking ahead, SMDC remains committed to innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. The future is bright, with a continued focus on creating vibrant communities that reflect the changing needs of today’s Filipinos. As the company evolves, it’s clear that SMDC’s mission to provide not just homes but spaces to live, grow, and thrive will carry on for generations to come.

 

Friday, November 22, 2024

Powerful Camera, Powerful AI: OPPO Find X8 now available for pre-order in Philippines

 


Fresh off its global launch in Bali, the highly-acclaimed OPPO Find X Series returns to the Philippines with the OPPO Find X8, now available for pre-order. Boasting an exceptional camera system and slew of impressive AI features that set new benchmarks among flagship smartphones, the OPPO Find X8 blends cutting-edge innovation with an ultra-modern design, premium durability, seamless performance, and a refreshed user experience with the new ColorOS 15.

 

Here’s everything you need to know about the OPPO Find X8 and how you can enjoy special  pre-order deals and perks:

 

Flagship Hasselblad Master Camera System

OPPO continues its partnership with Hasselblad to deliver renowned imaging technology to its latest flagship smartphones. Equipped with three 50MP lenses, the OPPO Find X8 offers stunning clarity with its Ultra-Wide, Wide, and Telephoto cameras, while AI-powered Telescope Zoom ensures crystal-clear shots up to 120x zoom. Meanwhile, OPPO's HyperTone Image Engine elevates photo quality by combining multiple frames to deliver exceptional dynamic range and natural aesthetics.

 

A true concert-ready companion, the OPPO Find X8 is built with Stage Mode, a unique feature that allows users to capture performances at long range with impeccable detail. It also has a Lightning Snap feature that enables action shots at a burst rate of 7 frames per second, giving users DSLR-level control over every moment.

 

 


 




Pro-Grade Editing with AI Photo Remaster

Building on the success of the AI Eraser, the OPPO Find X8 introduces a powerful trio of AI editing tools that takes your photos to the next level. AI Clarity Enhancer sharpens low-resolution or cropped images into ultra-HD masterpieces, while AI Unblur restores natural details for lifelike skin and hair textures. Completing the suite is AI Reflection Remover eliminates glare and reflections, letting your perfect shot shine through every time.

 

Slim, Strong, and Stylish Design

The OPPO Find X8’s slim profile of 7.85mm and lightweight 193g design offers a premium feel with a sturdy build with its IP68 and IP69 certifications, making it resistant to dust, water, and extreme environments. The Cosmos Ring camera setup further refines OPPO's iconic design, reducing the camera bump by 40% for a sleeker look.

 



 

Powerful Battery and Next-Level Charging

Running on a 5630mAh silicon-carbon battery, the OPPO Find X8 provides a full day of intensive use and recharges to 100% in just 48 minutes with 80W SUPERVOOCTM. For the first time in the series, 50W AIRVOOCTM wireless charging has been introduced, adding convenient power-ups to the mix.

 

Unmatched Display and Smooth Interface

The OPPO Find X8 also stands out for its 6.59-inch, 4500-nit bright display and new ColorOS 15 interface, offering faster touch response and up to 40% improved stability with OPPO’s in-house Luminous Rendering Engine. The OPPO Find X8 also sets the benchmark for bezel-less design with the thinnest bezel ever seen on an OPPO device, at just 1.45mm on all sides.

 

 

Photo by Magic Liwanag

 

Experience the new benchmark for flagship smartphones with the OPPO Find X8

Be among the first in the country to experience the elegance and excellence of the OPPO Find X8, priced at PHP 54,999, and comes in Space Back and Star Grey colorways.

 

Pre-order the OPPO Find X8 now at all OPPO authorized stores. Customers who will pre-order get freebies worth PHP 9,000 - an OPPO Enco Air3s and a Black Tape Bluetooth model for record player MDY.

 

Comprehensive Protection for your OPPO Find X8

Avail of OPPO Care’s Protection Plan with one-year extended warranty for PHP 1999 for all purchases until November 30. With the extended warranty plan, customers can now have up to two (2) years of unlimited free repair services for any performance malfunction caused by factory manufacturing. This offer is available only for purchases at the OPPO authorized stores.

 

Official OPPO E-Commerce Stores

The OPPO Find X8 will be available on OPPO’s official Lazada page starting November 22. It will also be available on OPPOs official Shopee and TikTok Shop pages starting November 29.

 

All purchases on OPPO’s official e-commerce channels will include the following until November 30 only:

 

     Free OPPO Enco Air3 Pro

     100% Free Shipping

      PHP 200 GCash Product Review Cashback

     OPPO PHP 2000 off Product Voucher

 

Operators

You can also purchase the OPPO Find X8 via your preferred operators and available device plans and get the following benefits:

 

Globe

     First Sale starts on November 22

     OPPO Find X8 will be available via Plan 2499 with Php 17,000 cash-out

     Comes with free OPPO Find X8 Textured Magnetic Half-Pack Case, OPPO 50W AIRVOOCTM Magnetic Charger, and an OPPO Enco Air3s until stocks last

Smart

     Pre-order starts on November 22, First Sale starts on December 8 for postpaid plans

     First sale starts on November 22  for prepaid

     OPPO Find X8 will be available via Signature Plan+ 999 (with cashout)

     Comes with a free OPPO Find X8 Textured Magnetic Half-Pack Case, OPPO 50W AIRVOOCTM Magnetic Charger, and an OPPO Enco Air3s until stocks last

 

Credit Cards and Home Credit

The OPPO Find X8 will also be available in installment plans via  Credit Card in 6- month or 12-month and 24-month installment plans at 0% interest in select OPPO stores. It is also available via Home Credit in all partnered OPPO stores nationwide with lowest monthly payment of Php 2,289.

 

You can make your Christmas even merrier when you purchase your all new OPPO Find X8 by participating in OPPO’s Maligayang PaskOPPO holiday campaign where you can win discount vouchers and prizes in all authorized OPPO stores nationwide.

 

 

For more details and updates on the OPPO Find X8, MyOPPO App benefits, and OPPO Care plans, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

Black Friday, Cyber Monday Sale with Discovery Hotels and Resorts

 


Planning for your next trip before the year ends or for 2025? Homegrown hospitality brand Discovery hotels and resorts is ready to welcome you to experience its globally-renowned services and amenities at its award-winning properties around the Philippines!

 

For Black Friday Sale and Cyber Monday Sale, enjoy up to 60% OFF on stays and experiences across the Philippines. My Discover Elite members have exclusive access to the sale from November 22 to December 6. Special rates will be made available to the public from November 29 to December 6, 2024.

 

Serene Escapes at Discovery Resorts

There’s always something new to discover amongst the Philippines’ 7,641 islands and there’s no better way to venture and immerse oneself than at Discovery Resorts properties that deliver world-class Filipino hospitality.

 

Nestled on the pristine shoreline against the true blue seas of Boracay Island stands Discovery Boracay. Its home island is known for its spirited nightlife balanced with the tranquility of the white beach. Bask in a unique blend of adventure and luxe island hospitality at the resort, starting at PHP 11,682 nett . Rates already include roundtrip airport transfers to and from Caticlan Airport, daily breakfast for two (2) at Sands Restaurant, and 10% savings on Forno Osteria and Bogart’s Bar.

 


Found exclusively on the beautiful Dimakya Island, which is known as an island surrounded by a thriving marine ecosystem, is Discovery Coron (formerly known as Club Paradise Palawan), delivering warm, unparalleled hospitality to its guests. Whether it’s mentally disconnecting and staring off into the peaceful sea or exploring the island’s many natural attractions, Discovery Coron is ready to offer special room prices starting at PHP 10,384 nett when you choose to stay in the Garden Suite. Rates already include daily round-trip land and sea transfers via Busuanga, breakfast at Firefish, 10% savings on Food and Beverage, and 20% savings on massage treatments at Glow Spa.

 

Samal Island’s youngest property, Discovery Samal, boasts a balance of activities that can cater to all kinds of guests. Whether they’re looking for good fun through watersports or peaceful unwinding by the sea, Discovery Samal is the best place to be with special room rates starting at PHP 14,000 nett. Rates already include round trip land and boat transfers from Davao International Airport to the resort, daily breakfast for two (2) persons at The Shoreline and 10% savings on F&B Outlets, Samal Escape Spa Treatments, and Water Sports Activities.

 

Urban Retreats with Discovery Hotels

Seeking a place to unwind without leaving the urban jungle and enduring the long travel time? Discovery hotels are primed to deliver a serene environment amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

 

Located at the heart of Makati City’s bustling central business district, Discovery Primea offers exceptional services and amenities that make for the perfect staycation place. Experience quality hospitality without going too far from home with rates starting at PHP 8,000 nett when you choose to stay in the Business Flat. Those who will book may also avail of the special breakfast rate of PHP 900.00++ per head.


 

Up north of the metro in the equally bustling central business district of Ortigas Center, Pasig City lies Discovery Suites, the perfect venue to unwind within the city with special rates starting at PHP 4,700 nett a night for a Junior Suite. Rates already include breakfast, internet access, and 15% savings on Food and Beverage.

 

Quiet Coastal Beauty in Hidden Jewels

Nothing beats the serenity found at hidden gems in the form of resorts.

 

For Manami Resort in Sipalay, Negros Occidental, escape real life and immerse in the resort's securely tucked natural oasis. This jewel allows guests to feel like they are in a different world with its prime rooms and top-tier services. Come away from life’s inconveniences for rates that start at PHP 31,860 nett for 3 days and 2 nights for a stay in the Oceanview Suite. Rates already include daily breakfast for two (2) at Lingaw Restaurant, PHP 1,500 food and beverage credit per day, in-room Linong Head, Neck, and Shoulder Massage, 60-minute Signature Linong Massage for two (2), complimentary use of snorkeling gear, rashies, and other non-motorized equipment, and complimentary spelunking trip in our in-property cave for two, among others.

 


Warmth and serenity await visitors at Chema's By The Sea. Those who want to leave their worries behind and relax amidst the luscious offerings of Davao’s land and sea. Room rates start at PHP 6,050 nett when you choose to stay in the Gardenview Cottage. Rates already include breakfast and boat transfers.

 

Revel in life’s majestic offerings for up to 60% off on rooms and experiences during Discovery hotels and resorts’ Black Friday and Cyber Monday Sales. For more information, visit www.discoveryhotels-resorts.com.

 

Make your stay a little extraordinary by unlocking exclusive offers and extra perks when you become a Discovery Elite member. Sign up today at www.mydiscovery.ph/

 

 

THE MANAGEMENT COMPANY

DISCOVERY HOSPITALITY CORPORATION
Discovery Hospitality Corporation (DHC) is a proudly home-grown Filipino hospitality group, managing the Philippines’ best-loved brands—Discovery Resorts, Primea, Discovery Suites, Kip&Kin, and Signature Collection. It has emerged as a pioneer in the Philippine hospitality industry – owning and operating a diverse and vibrant collection of properties in the Philippines’ most celebrated destinations. Confident in the growing Filipino hospitality industry, the group leverages its brand equity and trust for further growth in hotel management and expansion. Driven by its purpose to care for its stakeholders, DHC strives to deliver authentic experiences that are true to the locale and build hotel brands that inspire the modern traveler, underpinned by genuine Filipino warmth. For more information, visit www.discoveryhotels-resorts.com
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Sip the Season’s Warmth With 7-Eleven’s City Cafe Signature Hot Chocolate

  Warm up your holidays with 7-Eleven’s City Cafe Signature Hot Chocolate! Starting at just P35, it’s the perfect sip to make your season me...