Turnover ceremony of the 2-storey classroom building at Tarlac National High School, led by Security Bank Foundation Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr. and Jesus V. Del Rosario Foundation Executive Director Kana Manglapus
Tarlac City, Philippines – More than 10,000 students at Tarlac National High School (TNHS) will benefit from safer, more conducive learning spaces following the turnover of a newly constructed two‑storey, 10-classroom building by Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI), with one classroom sponsored by the Jesus V. Del Rosario Foundation, Inc. (JVRFI). The turnover ceremony was led by SBFI Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr. and JVRFI Executive Director Kana Manglapus, together with school officials, local partners, and members of the Security Bank community.
One of the oldest and largest public secondary schools in the country, TNHS has long grappled with overcrowding and limited classroom space. Despite these challenges, the school continues to produce high-performing students and runs inclusive education programs serving out-of-school youth, young mothers, working adults, and learners in correctional facilities under the leadership of Principal Yolanda Gonzales, recently recognized as the Best Principal of the Year at the 26th World School Summit in London.
“The outstanding performance of Tarlac National High School offers a ray of hope for a better Philippines,” said Rafael Simpao, Jr., SBFI Chairman. “Under the remarkable leadership of Principal Gonzales, we see how public schools—when given the right support—can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best and help shape a brighter future for our youth.”
The newly completed building is dedicated to THNS’ Special Program in Sports, providing student-athletes with a safe environment where they can pursue both academic and athletic excellence. “This new facility shows what is possible when vision, care, and opportunity come together,” said Principal Gonzales. “With this support, even the biggest challenges can be transformed into success stories—for our students and for our community.” Jane Canlas, Branch Manager at Security Bank Tarlac- Tañedo and a proud TNHS alumna, also expressed her appreciation for the project. “It is both an honor and a privilege to now represent Security Bank in giving back to my alma mater,” Canlas said. “This donation reflects our commitment to empowering communities through education, and it is deeply meaningful to see it benefit the school where my own foundation was built.” To date, Security Bank Foundation has donated 887 classrooms to 151 schools across 91 cities and municipalities nationwide, helping create safer, more supportive learning environments for Filipino students.
Learn more about Security Bank Foundation’s education initiatives by visiting https://www.securitybank.com/foundation/
It has now become a tradition for HONOR to launch its biggest hit X9 series every January
Manila, Philippines, December 26, 2025 – Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has dominated the mid-range smartphone market with its iconic and biggest hit HONOR X9 series. Started with HONOR X9a 5G in 2023, HONOR has been dropping hits after hit, literally. At this point, the new year’s campaign of the viral phone series has already become a tradition.
“When we launched HONOR X9a 5G, we literally had zero expectations. What we had was hope and confidence in our capabilities, and then it exceeded all expectations. We did not let the success get into our heads; we just thought it was beginner’s luck. So, we leveled up with HONOR X9b 5G, and again it became a massive hit. Then HONOR X9c 5G came and it was our biggest feat yet, outdoing everything we’ve done in 2023 and 2024,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
The HONOR X9 series has been synonymous with its exceptional durability, raising the bar year after year. What began with 5-foot drop tests evolved into a 50-foot intense drop test– and this year, HONOR X9c pushed to the extreme, dropped from a helicopter hundreds of feet above ground, further proving its unmatched toughness.
“One can only think about how we can even top the past three generations of HONOR X9 series. We must admit, it has become a challenge at this point, but with the technology and talent we have at HONOR, it is indeed a good challenge. I’m very excited for everyone to witness what we have been planning for the past few months,” Cheng continued.
That unforgettable moment—when 264 brave participants dropped their HONOR X9c 5G simultaneously—earned HONOR a coveted spot in the Guiness World Records for “The Most People Performing a Mobile Phone Drop Test Simultaneously.” This historic feat positioned HONOR Philippines as a benchmark in delivering credible, impactful messaging, reinforcing HONOR’s place as the standard for innovation, durability, and trust with the Filipino consumers.
The question remains, is HONOR ready to follow the success of the past HONOR X9 series? Stay tuned.
For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).
In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide (https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/) or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).
The new year is in full swing, with fresh plans, back-to-work routines, errands, and life settling back into rhythm after the holidays. As days pick up pace again, small inconveniences become more noticeable, like waiting in checkout lines, fumbling for wallets, or typing out full card details online.
Many EastWest cardholders are discovering a easier, simpler workaround: paying with just a tap of their phone through Google Pay™. Google Pay is now available in the Philippines for compatible Android and Wear OS devices, and EastWest is one of the first local banks to support it. Cardholders can add their EastWest Visa or Mastercard credit card to Google Wallet and start paying instantly — in stores, in apps, and online — without ever reaching for their physical card.
Smoother Steps Through the New Year Faster grocery runs
The start of the year comes with packed schedules and full carts. Checkout does not have to slow you down. With Google Pay, simply unlock your phone and tap it on the contactless terminal. Payment goes through in seconds. No card swiping, no fumbling, no delay. Online shopping without typing anything Restocking essentials? Booking trips? Paying for deliveries? Google Pay eliminates the need to enter long card numbers or security codes. Select Google Pay at checkout, confirm, and you’re done.
Commuting to avoid holiday traffic
Beat the traffic and take public transport. Taking the MRT-3 can cut your travel time in half and, best of all, it’s tap to pay enabled. Travel safe by keeping your wallet secure in your bag. All you need to do is tap your phone on the turnstile to pay.
Why the Tap Life Works
The value isn’t only speed — it’s the ease you feel.
It’s secure. Google Wallet uses tokenization, so your real card number isn’t shared with merchants. It’s widely accepted. Contactless terminals in groceries, cafés, shops, and more already support tap-to-pay. It’s consistent online. Many apps and websites now allow fast checkout through Google Pay. It’s convenient. You can head out with just your phone and still pay almost anywhere that accepts contactless payments. It’s a simple upgrade to everyday life — one that becomes even more meaningful during the busiest time of the year.
EastWest’s Steady Push Toward Easier Banking
By enabling Google Pay for its credit cards, EastWest continues its shift toward easier, modern, and mobile-friendly banking. More card products, including select debit cards, are expected to follow as Google Pay adoption grows in the country. Sometimes the best upgrades are the ones you barely notice, except for how much lighter your day feels. From paying in store to shopping online, the Bank helps simplify daily tasks so life runs a little more smoothly. The Tap Life brings a quiet sense of ease. A tap at the terminal, a tap online, a tap at the MRT, and you are done.
Makati City, Philippines – Security Bank Corporation is advancing its technology transformation with strategic investments in modern architecture, artificial intelligence, real-time data platforms, cybersecurity, and automation. These initiatives strengthen the Bank’s operational resilience and scalability delivering faster, safer, and more seamless customer experiences, reinforcing its BetterBanking commitment.
Over the first nine months of 2025, the Bank has streamlined core systems and processes, resulting in improved speed, reliability, compliance efficiency, and enhanced service delivery. These advancements have been recognized by regional awards bodies, affirming Security Bank’s position among the Philippines’ most innovative and future-ready financial institutions.
Building a future-ready banking foundation through APIs and real-time platforms
Security Bank received the Technology Excellence Award for API–Banking at the 2025 Asian Technology Excellence Awards for its Enterprise API Platform (EAPI). By transforming banking capabilities into secure, reusable API products, the Bank now enables faster deployment of new services, more consistent digital experiences, and seamless integrations across channels—supporting growth and market agility while strengthening Open Banking readiness.
Digitizing compliance and transforming branch operations
The Bank’s Transactor Due Diligence (TDD) platform was named Best Compliance Risk Technology Initiative at The Asian Banker Global Financial Technology Awards. Now deployed across 346 branches, the fully digitized KYC workflow has reduced processing time, improved customer experience, strengthened compliance integrity, and eliminated paper reliance, supporting both operational efficiency and sustainability. Enabling real-time intelligence and smarter decision-making Security Bank’s Data Streaming Platform earned recognition as the Best Data Integration and Framework Initiative in Asia Pacific by The Asian Banker. By shifting from batch processing to real-time streaming, the Bank can now deliver insights instantly, improve reliability, support faster transactions, and enable real-time analytics, placing Security Bank among the few Philippine banks operating enterprise-grade streaming architecture.
Strengthening competitive advantage
These initiatives mark a disciplined transition toward a platform-based, API-enabled, real-time digital banking environment, supported by:
Enterprise API deployment at scale Fully digitized branch compliance processing Real-time enterprise data streaming capabilities Security and resilience embedded by design Collectively, these deliver BetterBanking experiences for customers, stronger operational performance, and enhanced competitiveness and scalability for future growth.
Looking ahead
Security Bank will continue its multi-year technology roadmap with investments in in: Artificial intelligence and automation for fraud management , service, and operations Advanced cybersecurity and real-time threat monitoring Core banking and payments modernization to enable real-time services API monetization and embedded finance partnerships Further digital across operations and branches
“Security Bank is building a modern, secure, and customer-centric foundation designed to support sustainable growth while continually improving customer experiences,” said Lucose Eralil, EVP and Chief Operating Officer at Security Bank. “Our progress reflects disciplined execution and a forward-looking approach, and these recognitions reinforce the strength of the transformation we are delivering.
MANILA, December 3, 2025 — Looking for tech gifts that suit every lifestyle on your list? This December, Logitech’s holiday lineup brings together thoughtful picks designed for every kind of user.
From home workstations to stylish setups and on-the-go essentials, this curated list is sure to fit a wide range of routines and personalities, making holiday gifting easier and more meaningful.
Festive Upgrades for Those Who Work From Home
Give the gift of smoother, more comfortable workdays with space-saving essentials built for productivity. ● Signature Slim Solar+ Wireless Keyboard K980 Working by a big window or an open area during the day? The K980 charges using both solar and artificial light, making sure it’s always ready to go. Once fully powered, it can last for months even in complete darkness. The low-profile keys and full-size layout also give a laptop-like feel for smooth, familiar typing. ● Signature K650 Wireless Keyboard and Signature M650 Wireless Mouse This dynamic pair is built for long hours at your desk, combining a keyboard with cushioned support and soft-touch keys with a mouse shaped for a natural grip. The K650’s stable wireless connection and long-lasting battery keep your workflow smooth, while the M650’s SmartWheel gives you precise or fast scrolling when you need it.
● MK250 Compact Keyboard + Mouse Combo A reliable keyboard and mouse set that connects seamlessly over Bluetooth in seconds, freeing up your USB ports. The compact keyboard layout keeps your workspace tidy, while the mouse offers reliable tracking and a long-lasting battery, so you can work all day without interruption.
Take Holiday Productivity Anywhere with These Portable Essentials Take productivity wherever with compact tools that fit easily into your bag. Whether you’re working on campus, in a cafe, or just out and about, these items are your best travel companion for both work and play. ● Combo Touch for iPad The Combo Touch features a detachable backlit keyboard and trackpad with a protective case, letting you switch between typing, sketching, reading, or watching. It supports four different modes, so you can adapt your iPad setup to whatever the moment calls for.
● Flip Folio Another solid iPad case option that is lightweight and flexible. The Flip Folio has a magnetically detachable keyboard so you can type where it’s most convenient. Use it attached or separately for a setup that fits your mobile workflow.
● Keys-To-Go 2 Slim, light, and ready for big ideas, the Keys-To-Go 2 lets you connect to any Android, ChromeOS, Windows, iPadOS, iOS or macOS device wirelessly. Its built-in protective cover shields the keys when you’re on the move and makes it easy to slip into any bag.
Cozy Gifts to Lighten Your Work This Christmas Season Support better posture and smoother routines with these ergonomic gears designed for everyday comfort. From clearer calls to more relaxed hand positions, these thoughtful choices bring ease into long hours at your desk or during everyday digital use. ● Wave Keys + Lift Vertical Mouse The Wave Keys has a curved layout that aligns with your fingers, while the Lift mouse encourages a handshake grip to ease tension in your wrist and forearm. This convenient pair provides a more natural, comfortable posture that supports longer, healthier use, perfect for both professional and recreational use. ● Brio 300 Webcam The Brio 300 offers a full HD 1080p webcam that automatically adapts to lighting, so your video calls always look natural even in dimly-lit rooms. Its noise-reducing mic helps your voice come through clearer for a more polished presence in every call, and the integrated privacy shutter adds an extra layer of comfort and confidence when the webcam is not in use.
Sleigh in Style with These Fashion-Forward Items For design lovers that enjoy something that not only looks good on their desk but also feels great to use. This selection of items combines personality, color, and modern functionality that will surely brighten anyone’s day. ● POP Keys This playful, typewriter-style keyboard brings personality to any workspace with its bold colorways and bouncy mechanical keys. The swappable emoji keys add a fun twist to messages, while the customizable 12 function keys provide quick access to your favorite shortcuts.
● Pebble Mouse 2 M350s Simple and chic, the M350s adds a minimalist touch to your desks that matches its everyday practicality. The compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for smaller workspaces and fits easily inside bags.
● G515 TKL LIGHTSPEED Wireless Keyboard Upgrade your desk with the G515 TKL for a premium, low-profile typing experience. It comes with factory-lubed double-shot PBT keycaps for a smooth, durable feel and offers LIGHTSYNC RGB with access to millions of colors for easy customization. Additionally, KEYCONTROL and G SHIFT let gamers assign up to 15 action keys for faster in-game commands and better control
● G435 LIGHTSPEED Gaming Headset Keep the fun going with the G435, perfect for nonstop music listening, gaming, and more. It comes in three vibrant colorways to match your style, and with LIGHTSPEED wireless plus up to 18 hours of play time, you can stay connected and entertained all day.
No matter the lifestyle or routine, there’s something to enjoy with Logitech and Logitech G. Check out Logitech’s top picks by visiting its official website and following its Facebook page. Don’t forget to explore Logitech G’s own website and Facebook page as well to stay updated on all things gaming, from new gear to upcoming promos and announcements.
MANILA, December 18, 2025 — The holiday season is in full swing, and wish lists are filling up fast. To beat the shopping rush, Logitech has prepared a series of must-have items picked especially for everyone you’re shopping for.
Thoughtful Gifts for Her
For the woman who balances work and play throughout the day, the G309 Wireless Gaming Mouse offers precise HERO 25K tracking and reliable LIGHTSPEED connectivity, making everyday browsing and playing feel effortless. Pair it with the G522 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Headset, which delivers rich audio fidelity and customizable LIGHTSYNC RGB for immersive gaming, streaming, or even virtual calls. Alternatively, the Wonderboom 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker turns the vibe and fun up a notch with its dynamic range and deep bass, perfect for laid-back afternoons or holiday gatherings.
If she prefers on-the-go productivity, the MX Anywhere 3S, tracks on any surface, including glass, to keep her workflow smooth, and features quiet clicks for focused sessions. A great complement to this is the MX Keys Mini, a space-saving keyboard option built for fast, fluid typing and equipped with programmable Fn keys to keep her workflow smooth.
Action-Packed Gifts for Him
Keep the holiday spirit alive with exciting and practical gifts for the men in your life. The Everboom speaker brings 360-degree sound and features both Party Up and Relaxation Mode to match any occasion.
For gamers, the G502 X Plus LIGHTSPEED delivers fast, reliable control with LIGHTFORCE hybrid switches, dynamic LIGHTSYNC RGB, and an adjustable DPI-Shift button for instant playstyle changes. If he loves racing sims, the G923 TRUEFORCE Racing Wheel adds a next generation force feedback system to make every turn, brake, and shift highly immersive.
For work hours, the MX Keys S keeps typing steady and accurate with spherically-dished keys designed for comfort. Paired with the MX Master 4, which enhances control with haptic feedback and a customizable action ring that puts his favorite shortcuts right under the cursor for a smooth, focused setup that fits busy days and quick breaks.
Fun Gifts for Kids and Teens
Make their holidays brighter with gear they will use all year. The G522 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Headset pulls them deeper into their favorite titles, with PRO-G drivers that deliver layered, detailed audio. It’s great for not only long gaming sessions but also online classes, group calls, or catching up with friends.
For a chic everyday setup, the Pebble 2 Combo brings color and personality into their desk space. This compact keyboard and mouse duo keeps things simple and stylish, making it easy for them to switch from homework to casual browsing.
Productivity-Boosting Gifts for Students Now is the perfect time to reward the hardworking students in the family with special gifts to keep them both entertained and productive.
The Ultimate Ears MiniRoll delivers big, bassy sound in a compact speaker, perfect for listening to music while studying, doing assignments, or after-school lounging. Meanwhile, the Pop Icon Combo adds a splash of personality to any desk with its vibrant colors and contoured design. This stylish Bluetooth keyboard and mouse set features SilentTouch Technology for whisper-quiet clicks, making everyday typing and navigating smoother and more enjoyable.
Make gift giving merry and stress-free this Christmas by exploring Logitech’s lineup of must-have tech essentials at www.logitech.com, and follow Logitech PH on Facebook for holiday treats, product spotlights, and seasonal surprises.
San Mateo, Rizal— The holiday spirit was truly felt at Estancia de Lorenzo as they hosted the Pasko Salubong celebration at the Alfresco area of Lorenzo’s Modern Filipino Cuisine . The evening began with a warm and welcoming program that set the perfect festive tone for all attendees.
Guests were treated to a scrumptious dinner buffet specially prepared by Lorenzo’s Modern Filipino Cuisine, featuring a delightful array of modern Filipino favorites and holiday classics that satisfied every palate.
While guests enjoyed their meals, they were entertained by Bub Quartet by Vince del Rosario, adding a magical touch to the evening and creating a joyful holiday atmosphere. Since it’s the season of giving, Guests had the chance to take home raffle prizes at Estancia de Lorenzo, featuring a Php 1,000 food and beverage voucher for Euna Japanese Asian Restaurant, a 30-minute ATV ride for two, and more.
The celebration brought together families and friends to share in the warmth, laughter, and spirit of the season, making it a truly memorable Christmas Eve at Estancia de Lorenzo. Estancia de Lorenzo is inviting guests to welcome 2026 with a bright-lit celebration at their New Year’s Eve Countdown on December 31, 2025.
For more details and reservations, kindly visit Estancia de Lorenzo’s official social media pages. Be sure to follow Estancia de Lorenzo’s officially verified Facebook page.
For your security, do not transact with any Facebook pages that are not verified and official. Please conduct all transactions through their official website only.
Guests were treated to a scrumptious dinner buffetspecially prepared by Lorenzo’s Modern Filipino Cuisine, featuring a delightful array of modern Filipino favorites and holiday classics that satisfied every palate.
While guests enjoyed their meals, they were entertained by _______ , adding a magical touch to the evening and creating a joyful holiday atmosphere. Since it’s the season of giving, Guests had the chance to take home raffle prizes at Estancia de Lorenzo, featuring a Php 1,000 food and beverage voucher for Euna Japanese Asian Restaurant, a 30-minute ATV ride for two, and more.
The celebration brought together families and friends to share in the warmth, laughter, and spirit of the season, making it a truly memorable Christmas Eve at Estancia de Lorenzo. Estancia de Lorenzo is inviting guests to welcome 2026 with a bright-lit celebration at their New Year’s Eve Countdown on December 31, 2025.
For more details and reservations, kindly visit Estancia de Lorenzo’s official social media pages. Be sure to follow Estancia de Lorenzo’s officially verified Facebook page.
For your security, do not transact with any Facebook pages that are not verified and official. Please conduct all transactions through their official website only.
Close to 100 bikers and active mobility advocates “rode the Arches” as McDonald’s Philippines organized the first Tour de McDo in Rizal, in celebration of National Bike Day.
Antipolo City, Rizal — Cycling enthusiasts and active mobility advocates were in for a treat as McDonald’s Philippines hosted the first Tour De McDo in Antipolo City, Rizal, held in celebration of National Bike Day last November 23.
Close to 100 bikers joined a fun 25-km ride around the picturesque hills surrounding Antipolo City, as part of McDonald’s efforts to champion sustainable active mobility, under its Green and Good program.
This leg of Tour De McDo started and culminated at the McDonald’s Mambugan store, which is one of the nine Green and Good flagship stores in the country. Each Green and Good store features environment-friendly innovations, which include the use of solar panels and solar-powered lampposts, rainwater harvesting tank, power-saving motion sensors and LED lights, and energy-efficient air-conditioning systems. And as part of the efforts to promote active mobility, each Green and Good flagship store has outdoor features such as Bike&Dine—bike-friendly stations where riders can rest, securely park their bikes, and access repair kits while they enjoy their McDo favorites.
Aside from McDonald’s Mambugan, the eight other Green and Good flagship stores are UN Del Pilar (Manila), Shaw Boulevard Wack-Wack (Mandaluyong), Delos Reyes (Tagaytay), Nuvali (Sta. Rosa, Laguna), Sta. Monica Commonwealth (Quezon City), Ayala Crescendo (Tarlac), Davao Global Township (Davao City), and Il Corso Cebu (Cebu City).
Tour de McDo Rizal brought cyclists around Antipolo City, showcasing breathtaking views of lush greenery, urban landscapes, and some of the city’s most famous landmarks. And even those unable to join the event can follow the route on their next ride–the map is available on the Strava app (https://www.strava.com/routes/3421788780055546154).
Tour de McDo Rizal was McDonald’s third cycling event this year, following the kickoff ride in Baguio City last April 27 and the celebration of World Bicycle Month in Ayala, Makati Last June 29.
“McDonald’s has made great strides in our efforts to promote sustainable practices and innovations, and we are glad that our customers’ passion for caring for the environment while enjoying an active lifestyle has met its match in Tour De McDo (Ride the Arches),” said Denise Barrameda, McDonald’s Corporate Communications Senior Manager. “We are committed to growing Ride the Arches into a bigger, wider, and more inclusive movement, as we open more Green and Good stores nationwide and strengthen our advocacy for sustainability, health, and community well-being.”
Tour de McDo participants showed their support for Ronald McDonald House Charities by purchasing RMHC socks (left photo); after a fun 25-km ride around Rizal, participants enjoyed a special post-ride cyclist meal (right photo).
Launched in February 2023, McDonald’s Ride the Arches is an award-winning, world-first initiative that invites cyclists across the country to pedal from one Golden Arch to thenext.
Aside from the scenic community ride, participants of the Rizal leg were treated to a post-ride meal of 1-pc. Golden Chicken Curry with Egg, Rice Small Orange Juice, and received an exclusive Green and Good T-Shirt. The event also featured a special raffle, where lucky winners received McDonald’s Gift Certificates and Be Our Guest cards.
In addition, participants also came together at the booth supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), where cute pairs of RMHC socks were sold, with all proceeds going to Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers—providing young children with a safe space to learn and play, and making every purchase a meaningful contribution to their growth and education.
The celebration of National Bicycle Month doesn’t stop with Tour De McDo Rizal. From October 26 to November 30, between 4:00 AM and 10:20 AM., McDonald’s App users can enjoy the special Cyclist Meal—1-pc. Golden Chicken Curry with Egg, Rice and Small Orange Juice for only ₱109, available at all McDonald’s stores nationwide.
The holiday season is a time for celebration, but also a moment when many Filipinos feel the pressure of balancing festive spending with long-term financial responsibilities. And with year-end bonuses coming, the temptation to splurge can be even harder to resist.
Still, this season offers the perfect opportunity to make thoughtful choices that support one’s financial well-being, not just during the holidays, but throughout the year.
In its recent webinar, “From Bonus to Balance: Holiday Budgeting Made Simple,” Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa) encouraged Filipinos to take a more mindful approach to holiday spending and focus on decisions that support their long-term goals.
The webinar shared these holiday budgeting tips people can use all year long:
1. Save First, Spend Later It’s a good practice to set aside a portion of one’s income—including holiday bonuses—before spending on non-essentials. Saving first helps prevent accidental overspending and supports financial stability long after the celebrations are over.
Living within one’s means is equally important. The holiday season can bring social pressure to spend more than usual. So, staying mindful of what one can realistically afford is essential to prevent overspending, borrowing, and unnecessary strain on one’s finances.
2. Follow the 50/30/20 Budget Method The webinar recommended the “50/30/20” budgeting method as a practical way to keep finances on track. This means allocating 50% of income for essential needs, 30% for personal wants, and 20% for savings. This balanced approach allows one to enjoy the season while still protecting their financial priorities.
Once a budget is in place, sticking to it becomes just as important. Straying from one’s spending plan—especially during the holidays—can quickly lead to credit card debt or a depleted bank account. Maintaining discipline helps keep expenses manageable.
3. Pay Off Credit Card Debt in Full Clearing high-interest balances is one of the most effective ways to lighten the financial load going into the new year. By paying in full, one can avoid accumulating interest and begin the next year with a clean slate. It also frees up funds that can be redirected toward savings, investments, or achieving other financial goals, making overall money management more effective.
4. Build Your Emergency Fund Preparing a financial cushion is crucial for emergencies, illnesses, and even natural disasters. Sun Life Grepa encouraged participants to set aside an emergency fund equivalent to three to six months of expenses, ensuring that they have a reliable safety net when unforeseen situations arise.
5. Focus on Your Goals and Dreams Having a clear sense of what they are working toward — whether saving for education, buying a home, starting a business, or planning for retirement — can make all the difference in how people manage their money. When goals are defined, each financial decision becomes more intentional, which helps keep spending in check.
6. Prioritize Your Health and Wellness Financial wellness goes hand in hand with physical and mental well-being. Investing in one’s health — through regularcheckups, a balanced diet, and insurance plans — can prevent unexpected medical expenses and reduce stress, creating a stronger foundation for long-term financial stability.
Sun Life Grepa helps Filipinos maximize their income while prioritizing health, wellness, and financial security. Through a range of life and health protection plans, the leading life insurer empowers families to enjoy the present with confidence, knowing that both their well-being and financial future are protected.
By combining practical budgeting strategies with the right financial solutions, Filipinos can make their year-end bonus and everyday earnings work harder for them—supporting their goals, securing their health, and building a more stable, worry-free future.
To learn more about Sun Life Grepa’s financial protection and wellness solutions, visit www.sunlifegrepa.com or speak with a Sun Life Grepa financial advisor today.
Classic fruitcake from The French Baker in SM City Marikina and SM City San Mateo
The holidays are a time to celebrate traditions, togetherness, and good food—whether lovingly prepared at home or thoughtfully picked up for sharing. For families who want a little extra ease this season, SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown offer a wide selection of ready-to-take-home holiday favorites that make Noche Buena and Media Noche just as special. From comforting classics to party-ready trays, these mall dining staples let you focus on what truly matters: enjoying the moment with family and friends.
For Noche Buena, familiar flavors set the tone for meaningful gatherings. Café Mary Grace offers hearty pastas, savory mains, and signature cakes perfect for sharing, while Classic Savory brings its Chinese-style dishes that generations have enjoyed. Max’s Restaurant completes the spread with its iconic fried chicken, pancit, and Filipino favorites—easy to order, easy to serve, and always welcome on the table. For bigger family celebrations, Pizza Hut makes sharing simple with pizzas, chicken, and group meals, while Buffalo Wings n’ Things adds bold-flavored chicken wings and saucy platters, and Stuff’d brings a fun, modern twist with burritos, quesadillas, and wraps.
Flavorful spread from Peri Peri Charcoal Chicken at SM City Marikina
For Media Noche, welcome the New Year with dishes meant for sharing and abundance. Hap Chan makes it easy to bring home Chinese favorites perfect for a prosperous celebration, while Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken adds flame-grilled, bold flavors that elevate the spread. Bacolod Chicken Inasal brings smoky, grilled Ilonggo cuisine goodness that pairs well with any holiday feast. End the night on a sweet note with classic cakes from Conti’s and breads and pastries from The French Baker—ideal for serving, gifting, or enjoying as the clock strikes midnight.
Café Mary Grace’s all-time favorite Mango Bene Cake is available at SM City Masinag, Marikina and San Mateo.
With everything in one place, SM Malls in the East Metro make holiday planning simple and enjoyable. Whether adding to home-cooked dishes or bringing home a full spread, these dining options help make celebrations smoother and more memorable. Drop by SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, or SM Center Antipolo Downtown and pick your favorite holiday eats. Celebrate the season with good food made easy—so you can focus on traditions, laughter, and togetherness.
