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Ortigas Malls promoting the power of community this holiday with fundraising concert, night market, loyalty program
A less fancy, yet more meaningful celebration. Ortigas Malls welcomes a hopeful holidays with the launch of the Christmas with the Stars Fundraising Concert and Greenhills Night Market, as well as the Ortigas Community Card. In photo: (L-R) Maritess Ortigas; Aio Hernandez, President of IPWG; Jose Emmanuel Jalandoni, Ortigas Malls President and CEO; San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora, First Lady Keri Zamora, and their daughter Amanda; Arch. Renee C. Bacani, Vice President of Ortigas Malls; and Atty. Michael David I. Abundo, Vice President and Head of Corporate Resources.
It’s officially the holidays and Ortigas Malls welcomes back its guests with meaningful and genuine experiences perfect for the cool, festive atmosphere, by launching its heartwarming holiday event of the year, the Christmas with the Stars online fundraising concert.
As the local entertainment and performance industry continues to grapple with the effects of the pandemic, Ortigas Malls teamed up with the Kilabotitos—Ogie Alcasid and Ian Veneracion—to create a fundraiser for the benefit of the Independent Production Workers Group (IPWG).
IPWG is an organization that provides assistance to creatives who work in live events–concerts, theater, etc.–and represents thousands of workers in the entertainment industry. To date, 70%-80% of these workers are still struggling to find work.
“It’s been oft-repeated that Christmas is not only a season for joy but is also a season for giving. We wanted to combine both with Christmas with the Stars—not only will our mall-goers and fans be treated to a night of good music and good company, they will also be able to help our live entertainment production workers get back up on their feet,” said Arch. Renee Bacani, Vice President for Ortigas Malls during a launch event held on November 4 at Greenhills.
To unveil the fundraising concert and the various holiday activities in store for the community, Ortigas Malls treated media guests and esteemed patrons to a night market-themed event in Greenhills, San Juan City. The fun-filled night consisted of a night market, food trucks, and a joyous parol exhibit that gave guests early holiday cheers. The event was graced by San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora.
“With the holidays upon us, it is our hope to spread cheer through simple yet meaningful events that we’re sure our patrons will love and make them remember that they will always be part of the community at Ortigas Malls,” Bacani added.
CHRISTMAS WITH THE STARS FUNDRAISING CONCERT
Christmas with the Stars, scheduled on December 11, 8 pm. online, will be headlined by Ogie Alcasid and Ian Veneracion alongside the best OPM singers and performers in the country.
Every P1,000 single or accumulated receipts from any establishment in Ortigas Malls entitles a customer a free ticket to the online concert and support the cause.
The concert will be accompanied by online mini-concerts every Friday starting Nov. 12 on the Ortigas Malls social media pages so patrons can shop safely, enjoy music, and donate for the recovery of live performance workers.
ORTIGAS COMMUNITY CARD
Aside from the fundraising concert, Ortigas Malls also unveiled its first-ever loyalty card—the Ortigas Malls Community Card. This loyalty program is designed to give mall-goers and shoppers a VIP experience across its malls. Its exclusive privileges can be used in Greenhills, Tiendesitas, Estancia, and Industria.
“After many months of being cooped up in the safety of our homes, it’s nice to feel connected to a community once again. We would like to share this experience with the patrons of Ortigas Malls so they may find a trusted program that adds value to their lifestyles, through the use of the Ortigas Community Card,” said Arch. Bacani of Ortigas Malls.
The rewards program allows members to enjoy real time perks–from free parking, carwash, free use of Shopbox, free shopping fee from My Home Dashers, and discount coupons from Ortigas Malls merchant members.
“This is our way of giving back to the community and is only a teaser of more perks, privileges, and functionalities coming for our Community Card members,” said Bacani.
Register for an Ortigas Mall Community Card through the Ortigas Malls Mobile app for free.
GREENHILLS NIGHT MARKET
Christmas is all about spending time with friends and family, something that has been limited during the months spent in lockdown, which is why Ortigas Malls sought to make up for time lost with the opening of the Greenhills Night Market.
Enjoy al fresco dining in a safe environment with over 50 food stalls and food trucks and colorful parols exhibit all while enjoying the beats and the vibe from the nightly DJ.
With the night market located smack dab within the ultimate shopping destination, Greenhills, patrons can conveniently do their holiday shopping while savoring the flavors and offerings of the night market. The night market runs from Nov. 4, 2021 until Jan. 7, 2022 from 4 pm to 11 pm. Entrance is free.
With the grand launch of the Christmas with the Stars concert, Ortigas Community Card, and the other fun events lined up, mall-goers and shoppers can find their way back to the things they enjoy, at the same time discover new and rewarding ways to have fun with the ones they love.
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Cyberzone holiday tech gift guide
1:14 p.m. December 6, 2024
For the tech lover in your life, Cyberzone is a treasure trove of innovative gadgets and accessories.
If you’re looking for the perfect gift for the tech-savvy person in your life, look no further than Cyberzone. This haven for gadget enthusiasts offers a wide range of cutting-edge devices and accessories that are sure to impress. Here are some top techy gift ideas to consider:
1. Smart home gadgets
Transform any home into a smart home with a variety of gadgets available at Cyberzone. From smart speakers like Amazon Echo or Google Home to intelligent thermostats and security systems, these devices can automate tasks, enhance comfort, and improve safety. Here’s a list of smart home devices that would suit anyone’s space.
2. Wearable technology
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the perfect companion for a fitness enthusiast to track workouts, monitor heart rate, and stay connected.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra: A fitness tracker will revolutionize your fitness journey by providing real-time data and personalized insights.
For the fitness enthusiast or fashion-forward individual, wearable technology is a great gift option. Choose from a variety of smartwatches, fitness trackers, or even augmented reality glasses that can track health metrics, provide notifications, and enhance experiences. On a budget? Here are 5 budget wearable technology devices available at Cyberzone.
3. Gaming accessories
Powerful mechanical keyboards from Akko will elevate your gaming experience with its responsive keys, customizable lighting, and ergonomic design.
Unleash your gaming potential with Logitech G304 wireless gaming mouse, designed for precision and speed.
Elevate your loved one’s gaming experience with high-quality accessories from Cyberzone. Whether it’s a new gaming headset, a comfortable gaming chair, or a powerful gaming mouse and keyboard, these items can make any gamer’s holiday season extra special. If they’re a mobile gamer, here are some must-have gaming accessories for their mobile gaming life.
4. Portable chargers and power banks
Keep your loved one’s devices powered up on the go with a portable charger or power bank. These handy gadgets are perfect for travelers, commuters, or anyone who spends a lot of time away from a power outlet. By the way, who said power banks have to be boring? Here are 5 aesthetic power banks that would make pretty Christmas gifts.
5. Drones and quadcopters
Take your aerial adventures to new heights with DJI Avata 2—perfect for both hobbyists and videographers alike.
Soar through DJI NEO—a palm-sized mini drone sure to provide endless entertainment.
For the adventurous spirit, a drone or quadcopter can provide hours of fun and excitement. Cyberzone offers a variety of models to suit different skill levels and budgets.
6. Virtual reality (VR) headsets
Let your loved ones dive into a new world with a VR headset. These devices offer a unique gaming experience and can also be used for educational purposes or to explore virtual tours.
7. Tech-inspired gadgets
Beyond the traditional tech gadgets, Cyberzone also offers a variety of unique and innovative items that are sure to impress. From smart kitchen appliances to futuristic gadgets, you’re sure to find something special for the tech lover in your life.
When shopping at Cyberzone, don’t forget to also check out the latest promotions and discounts to get the best deals on these techy gifts. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect gift that will delight any tech enthusiast this holiday season.
Treat yourself for a year well done
Get all of your Christmas shopping done at Cyberzone and on the SM Malls Online app.
Shop your favorite tech and gadgets at the Cyberzone Gadget Craze and win big prizes—hurry, promo ends December 31, 2024!
Treat yourself and get the chance to win big! The Cyberzone Gadget Craze returns with incredible gadgets to wrap the year with a bang! You could win big when you shop until December 31, 2024.
For top brands, big deals, and legit XPs, you #GotITAtCyberzoneStay updated on the newest gadgets and competitive tech deals by visiting Cyberzone at an SM Mall near you or through the SM Malls Online app. For the latest tech news and gaming event information, follow SM Cyberzone on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit its website at www.smcyberzone.com.
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The search is over for the perfect cup of Joe! Experience coffee time at its finest at SM Supermalls this July
July 11, 2023 1:27 p.m.
Filipinos love their coffee! It’s a staple beverage among Pinoys for a reason: a cup of Joe fuels their day and boosts their energy.
This is why SM Supermalls makes everyone’s coffee time a leveled-up experience with only the best deals and promos for the love of a perfect cup of Joe!
Grab the best in-store coffee time deals
From July 1 to 16, coffee lovers can get over 800 deals available on artisan and specialty iced coffee from well-loved coffee shops at SM. There will also be hot bundles and pairings for those who love their coffee piping hot.
Where art, coffee, and locals come together
A consideration among avid coffee drinkers is having the ambiance to the perfect cup and conversation. Look no further because trendy spots are up at SM! Your favorite malls will set up booths where coffee-preneurs can sell their products. Treat your senses to different blends and varieties of coffee made by a pop-up of small and medium businesses owned by the locals in your area. These spots will have comfortable lounges and eye- catching art backdrops.
Baristas will also show off their skills at the Barista Face-Off, while musicians fill the lounge with mellow music on weekends from July 1 to 16.
Let your #CoffeeTok skills shine through
If you are on TikTok, this is your sign to make the most creative content about coffee! AweSM prizes are at stake for the best Coffee Hangout TikTok entries, with the most likes and views.
For details on how to join, go to @SMSupermalls on all social media.
Enjoy an adventurous ride and sip at the same time
Just outside the malls, SM will be dressing up designated areas for a Coffee Time Biker’s Pit Stop. Bike, stop, and sip your fave drink as SM creates a special stop where bikes may be temporarily parked near the café or at the malls with available open areas or al fresco.
Whether it’s a morning pick-me-up or a midday break, SM Supermalls makes coffee time even more special with its own blend of caffeinated activities from July 1 to 16.
To know more about Coffee Time at SM, check out www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.
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Women bartenders on creating cocktails with Tanduay, defying stereotypes, thriving in a male-dominated field
March 29, 5:30 p.m.
As renewed interest in cocktails continue to grow, bartenders are also taking the spotlight, and in El Nido and Siargao, two bartenders are paving the way for women to shine in a male-dominated industry.
Sharleen Antonio works with her husband and fellow bartending professional, Larry Guevara, in one of Palawan’s top beach destinations. Riza Delguime, meanwhile, is a bartender for a leading resort in the country’s surfing haven.
Creating Tanduay-Infused Cocktails
Both women have been bartending for years and share a preference for Tanduay in creating cocktails.
“It’s very easy to mix in cocktails because of its unique and bold character. I usually go for the classic Tanduay Dark Rum in my root beer and rum with a squeeze of fresh lemon,” Antonio said.
She shared that they used Tanduay rums in her bar management class back in college, so she is very familiar with the brand. Collaborating with the brand, she came up with three Tanduay-infused cocktails that are perfect for any time of the year — the Mango Basil Mojito, Tanduay Espresso Martini, and Tanduay Old Fashioned.
Delguime likes Tanduay’s sweet and strong flavor. Foreign customers would usually ask what rum brand she uses in her cocktails and would then request drinks infused with Tanduay rums.
“I have my own signature cocktail, which is perfect when I mix it with Tanduay. We have female guests here in the resort who would request for cocktails that are not too strong, and I would make one for them also using Tanduay,” she said.
Delguime further shared that the bartending scene in Siargao has always been “good and clean.”
“There are different varieties of bars here like sports bars and pool bars, and they are all super busy because of the many tourists who visit our island,” she said.
Breaking the Glass Ceiling
Antonio shared working in a male-dominated industry wasn’t easy in the beginning. Women bartenders used to be seen as just “cotton candies” behind the bar to attract male clients and rake in tips.
“While I may have experienced some catcalling and received some indecent proposals from male guests in some instances, I have to say that I have been lucky to have always worked with my husband behind the bar. In 2016, we joined Pilipinas Got Talent Season 5 to show that there is more to bartending than meets the eye,” she shared.
Advice for Aspiring Bartenders
Delguime advised aspiring bartenders to just be themselves.
“That would be the key to your success. Bartending is fun, and you get to entertain guests,” she said.
Antonio, meanwhile, has made it her advocacy to educate people about bartending as hospitality and F&B professionals.
“Gone are the days when women were simply considered as bar backs or force multipliers during busy bar shifts. Or worse, simply as ornaments behind the bar,” she noted.
Antonio wants to motivate, inspire, and empower women bartenders and those who would like to start a career in the bartending industry. She and her husband have been conducting workshops and seminars around the country to help aspiring bartenders better their craft.
“It is my wish that female bartenders will continue to flourish and leave their own mark in the field we all so love and are passionate about,” she said.