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This January 27, Chocolate lovers, unite to celebrate the National Chocolate Cake Day! Indulge in the ultimate sweet escape with the most decadent chocolate cakes at SM Malls in the East Metro. Whether you crave a classic slice or a fancy twist, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s take a delicious tour through SM Marikina, Masinag, San Mateo, and Antipolo Downtown for the best chocolate cake finds.
Heartfelt

Celebrate the day with Goldilocks’ iconic Round Chocolate Dedication Cake. Soft, moist, and topped with a rich chocolate frosting, this cake is perfect for sharing heartfelt messages or simply enjoying with your loved ones. Personalize it and make this sweet moment even more special!
Chocolatey Treats at SM City Masinag

At SM City Masinag, it’s a chocolate lover’s paradise. Relish the Chocolate Bliss and Chocolate Mousse from Red Ribbon—a heavenly duo of velvety textures and bold cocoa flavors. For a touch of elegance, savor Mary Grace’s Chocolate Truffle Cake, a decadent masterpiece that’s perfect for any celebration.

A Symphony of Chocolates at SM City San Mateo

Triple Chocolate Cheesecake from The Taste of Czaczacza in SM City San Mateo

This baby Chocolate Cake from Mary Grace Café is ready to be taken home today

 

Indulge in Mary Grace’s Chocolate Cake, a Belgian Chocolate filled cake that is crowd favorite that never disappoints. Or discover the unique delight of The Taste of Czaczacza’s creations—a chocolate cake experience that will leave you craving more. Head to SM City San Mateo and let these cakes redefine decadence.

SM City Marikina: A Chocoholic’s Wonderland

Chocolate is heaven from this cake from Dulcinea SM City Marikina

Chocolate cake and macarons on this crowd favorite Boston Chocolate Cake from BreadTalk SM City Marikina

 

Dainty buttercream flowers on this rich chocolate cake from Hearts & Bells SM City Marikina

 

From the luxurious creations at Dulcinea to the premium selections at Bread Talk, SM City Marikina’s chocolate cakes are nothing short of spectacular. Don’t miss the dainty designs and indulgent flavors of Hearts & Bells—perfect for both celebrations and everyday treats.
Don’t Just Dream It, Eat It!

Celebrate National Chocolate Cake Day by treating yourself and your loved ones to these irresistible chocolate cakes. Head to your nearest SM Mall in the East Metro and take your pick from these rich, creamy, and oh-so-chocolatey options. Your sweet escape awaits—grab a slice of happiness today!

Many of us think of chickenpox as a childhood illness — a harmless rite of passage that fades into memory once the itchy blisters heal. However, what most people don’t realize is that the virus behind chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), never really leaves the body. Instead, it lies dormant in the nervous system for years, only to reawaken later in life as a painful and potentially debilitating condition known as shingles.

Shingles, or “kulebra” as it’s locally known, is a viral infection that can cause severe discomfort. It’s the same virus that caused your chickenpox but reawakens when your immune system is weakened.

In a radio interview, Family Medicine and Geriatrics Expert Dr. Cheridine Oro-Josef, likened the pain of shingles to “a dormant volcano suddenly coming to life.” She emphasized that the most challenging symptom isn’t the rash itself, but rather the nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia or long-term nerve pain. Her patients often described this pain as “barbed wires” piercing the skin, which can linger for months or even years after the rash has healed.

“When it develops there, it can be extremely painful because it affects the nerves. Our sensations come from our nerves, so if they are inflamed or affected, the pain can be really intense,” Dr. Oro-Josef said.

Shingles primarily affects older adults, particularly those over 50, as well as individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions such as asthma, coronary heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, depression, or rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, about 24 percent of adults aged 50 to 59—around 2 million Filipinos—are at risk of developing shingles.

Spotting the signs

Shingles often starts with signs that are easy to miss. You might feel itching, tingling, or a burning sensation on one side of your body. This early feeling can seem like a minor skin irritation but is actually a warning of more noticeable symptoms to come.

As shingles progresses, a painful rash usually appears. It begins with a few red spots or small blisters that quickly turn into clusters of fluid-filled blisters, which then crust over. In addition to the rash, shingles can cause sharp, shooting pain that can last for more than 10 days. You might also experience fever, headaches, sensitivity to light, and fatigue.

Dr. Oro-Josef noted that since the VZV can spread through direct contact with fluid from shingles blisters or through airborne particles if the blisters burst, individuals with shingles should isolate themselves. This helps prevent spreading the virus, especially to those who haven’t had chickenpox or been vaccinated.

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“If you’ve already been vaccinated against chickenpox and had the disease, you likely have some protection against shingles. However, if you haven’t had chickenpox and are exposed to someone with shingles, you could contract chickenpox instead,” Dr. Oro-Josef explained.

Staying ahead of shingles

While shingles is a viral infection, there are effective ways to reduce the risk. Dr. Oro-Josef emphasizes that preventing shingles isn’t just about hoping for the best; it requires a proactive strategy.

She also highlighted the importance of consulting a healthcare professional before using any ointments or topical treatments on skin rashes. “Sometimes, patients use different ointments, which can alter the appearance of the rash. This makes it harder for doctors to diagnose shingles since the rash might look different. If you have a painful rash or blisters, see your doctor right away.”

Maintaining a strong immune system is key. This involves managing stress, eating a balanced diet, staying active and vaccination according to Dr. Oro-Josef. Shingles treatment can be expensive, making prevention crucial.

Understanding shingles and taking preventive measures can make a significant difference. With the right approach and knowledge, you can fend off this painful condition and safeguard your health. Consult your doctor about shingles treatment and prevention or visit www.whatisshingles.ph.

Filipino travelers can now enjoy the convenience of cashless payments in more places in Japan with GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app and largest cashless ecosystem.

With GCash Global Pay’s expanded coverage, users can scan to pay everywhere in Japan, from metropolitan areas to countryside destinations, thanks to the partnership of Alipay+ with PayPay. This unlocks access to cashless payments at over three million merchants spanning shopping and leisure. Users can enjoy dining out, booking accommodations and tours, souvenir shopping, and availing services, no matter where their trip takes them—all with the digital wallet they can trust.

“As more Filipinos make Japan their top travel destination, GCash is committed to pursuing partnerships that enable them to make the most out of their experience there,” shared Paul Albano, General Manager of GCash International. “GCash users no longer need to worry about the constraints of limited payment options, knowing there’s a readily available and secure payment method they can rely on.”

Since becoming available in Japan in 2023, GCash has sought to empower more users through its affiliation with Alipay+. With the latter’s expanded partnership with Japan’s leading QR payment operator, PayPay, GCash has become part of the country’s mission to promote in-depth tourism. Today, going cashless with GCash goes beyond major city centers like Tokyo and Osaka. Smaller towns and rural charms in Japan are now included, allowing Filipino tourists to enjoy a more immersive experience in the country. The expanded coverage means access to a more diverse set of merchants, too by enabling cashless payments local businesses like izakayas, wagashi shops, guesthouses, and anime merchandise shops.

GCash users heading to Japan can make payments by scanning PayPay QRs and enjoy a seamless and familiar QR scanning experience: Customers can scan the merchant’s PayPay QR or show the merchant the QR code generated by the “Pay abroad with Alipay+” option on the GCash app. After completing their transactions, they may also view their receipts in the local currency and Philippine pesos.

GCash users enjoy benefits such as real-time and low foreign exchange rates, and zero service fees, allowing them to maximize their travel budget. GCash adds to this experience by offering exclusive promos on the GCash app through A+ Rewards. Here, users can avail of exclusive discounts when they pay with Global Pay QR.

Just in time for the holidays, Alipay+, in collaboration with PayPay merchants, will offer an exclusive 10% discount (up to a maximum of JPY 1,000) to GCash users paying via PayPay QRs in Japan from December 20, 2024 to January 10, 2025.

“Through the partnership between Alipay+ and PayPay, we are making a crucial step forward in bridging a gap in global tourism through seamless, cashless payments,” shared Albano. “So whether this holiday season takes our users to Japan’s metropolitan cities or off-the-beaten-path tourist destinations, we at GCash look forward to them unlocking the best travel experience.”

To discover more travel promos, tap “A+ Rewards” on the GCash app and, in the upper left corner, select “Japan” as your destination. To learn more about GCash Global Pay, click here.

Groundbreaking partnership addresses tech industry’s growing environmental challenge

GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app and largest cashless ecosystem, is proud to announce a new partnership with Zolo, a global leader in sustainable IT Asset Disposal (ITAD) solutions and a trusted full-service provider of IT asset management. This collaboration aims to minimize the environmental impact of electronic waste by responsibly refurbishing and reselling unused devices.

According to The Global e-Waste Monitor 2024 report, the Philippines generated 540 million kg of e-waste in 2022, with lack of access to proper e-waste disposal facilities as one of the key contributors to this challenge. E-waste is one of the biggest challenges of the digital age, and GCash is leading the way in managing its carbon footprint and promoting responsible e-waste management.

“By finding ways to extend the life of devices and embracing creative approaches to repurpose and recycle, we’re doing more than reducing waste—we’re advocating for a sustainable economy, one where resources are reused, valued, and given new life,” said Pebbles Sy, chief technology and operations officer at GCash. “This collaboration proves that when like-minded organizations join forces, we can achieve so much more for the planet and our communities.”

Zolo, an Australian company with operations in the Philippines and a carbon-neutral company that helps businesses manage their IT assets sustainably, shares GCash’s vision of a greener planet. By extending the lifecycle of electronic devices, Zolo helps conserve resources and reduce the demand for new materials.

“It is a pleasure for us as someone who is trying to push the boundaries of sustainability to find a partner that we can do this with. It is not easy in the Philippines to find such a partnership,” said Saar Herman, country manager at Zolo. “At Zolo Philippines, we are deeply committed to bringing sustainability into places, companies, and communities.”

This partnership aligns with GCash’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainability, which include its GForest initiative. Launched in 2019, GForest has evolved from a reforestation effort into a significant eco-movement, now encompassing agroforestry to support the livelihoods of local communities. By working together, GCash and Zolo aim to inspire other organizations to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to a healthier planet. To date, over 2,810,000 trees have been planted by the movement created by GForest, covering 11,600 hectares and providing incremental livelihood to 8,600 farmers.

Meanwhile, proceeds of GCash’s partnership with Zolo will go to the ABS-CBN Foundation, a non-profit organization active in environmental stewardship and community service.

“GCash has created a movement that allows millions of Filipinos to participate in meaningful action to protect the environment and combat climate change. Now, we’re leading the charge for another movement—addressing e-waste and expanding the lifecycle of unused devices,” stated CJ Alegre, sustainability head at GCash. “We are forging a sustainable legacy. Together, we are pioneering a sustainable revolution in fintech where every transaction brings us closer to a greener future.”

GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, has partnered with Ria Money Transfer (Ria), global leader in the cross-border money transfer industry and business segment of Euronet Worldwide, Inc. (NASDAQ: EEFT), to make sending money home more seamless, convenient, and affordable for Filipinos around the world.

Throughout this partnership, Filipinos in the U.S., Australia, Singapore, Middle East, and across Europe can now remit funds straight to their families’ GCash digital wallets even without a GCash Overseas account. The benefits of sending money to GCash via Ria include real-time receiving anytime and anywhere, low service fees, and competitive and transparent exchange rates.

The collaboration with Ria, which has an extensive network of more than 595,000 locations in nearly 200 countries and territories, is part of GCash’s active push to expand overseas alongside global remittance partners.

“We’re continuing to strengthen partnerships around key corridors so we can help Filipinos wherever they may be. We are also strengthening our presence in Ria money transfer stores all over the world as a sign of our commitment to grow with Ria,” said GCash International General Manager Paul Albano.

“At Ria, we partner with companies that share our vision to connect families, friends and communities,” said Steve Peregrino, Regional Director of Business Development at Ria Money Transfer. “We look forward to working closely with GCash allowing us to provide all Filipinos worldwide with seamless service”.

We also look forward to working closely with GCash to connect families, friends and communities across the globe,” said Steve Peregrino, Regional Director of Business Development at Ria Money Transfer. “Our shared vision is to bridge the distance between all Filipinos worldwide through seamless financial transactions.”

GCash’s push towards overseas expansion also seeks to boost Philippine remittances, which contributed 8.5% to the Gross Domestic Product or GDP in 2023, according to data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

“With a stronger economy through remittances, we empower both Filipinos here and abroad. This is in line with our commitment towards Finance For All–making it easier for Filipinos, wherever they may be, to access financial services conveniently,” Albano added. “This is part of GCash’s push to help Filipinos thrive everyday, prepare for rainy days, and prepare for that ‘one day’ of their dreams–wherever they may be in the globe or wherever their loved ones are.”

Your next favorite hangout, dining spot, or fun experience is just around the corner—don’t miss out!

Looking for fresh places to dine, unwind, and enjoy? SM Malls in the East Metro have welcomed a wave of exciting new shops that will tantalize your taste buds, boost your lifestyle, and add more fun to your everyday. Let’s dive into the newest gems waiting for you.

Flavor Fusion at SM Center Angono

It’s always a tummy-filling trip at Romantic Baboy in SM Center Angono

 

Sweet and cool Korean Bingsu at Hallo Mango SM Center Angono

 

Dairy Queen at SM Center Angono

 

SM Center Angono is upping the foodie game with Romantic Baboy, where Korean BBQ dreams come true; Hallo Mango, serving sweet, refreshing mango desserts to brighten your day; Dairy Queen, for iconic soft-serve delights; and YoGrab Frozen Desserts, offering frosty creations perfect for cooling off. Whether you’re craving a sizzling feast or a tropical treat, Angono’s newest spots are worth the trip.



Downtown Delights at SM Center Antipolo Downtown

 

Hap Chan Tea House recently opened at SM Center Antipolo Downtown

Frozen Yogurts with Granola from Tah Mee at SM Center Antipolo Downtown

 

At SM Center Antipolo Downtown, yogurt lovers can rejoice with the arrival of Tah Mee Frozen Yogurt, offering creamy, healthy indulgence. Pair it with a visit to the iconic Hap Chan Tea House, where comforting Chinese dishes and aromatic teas await. It’s time to savor the perfect balance of taste and tradition.



Global Treats at SM City East Ortigas

Du Hsiao Yueh at Ground Level of East Wing in SM City East Ortigas

 

Yummy Ma La Pot at the 2nd level, SM City East Ortigas

Tex Mex at FoodCourt, SM City East Ortigas

Zus Coffee at SM City East Ortigas

 

 

 

 

 

Dingers Wings and Pizza at FoodCourt, SM City East Ortigas

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buchiton at FoodCourt, SM City East Ortigas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Barcada at FoodCourt, SM City East Ortigas

 

Sumu Niku at the East Wing of SM City East Ortigas

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fully Booked at the Main mall of SM City East Ortigas

 

 

 

 

 

SM City East Ortigas has unveiled its new East Wing, offering an exciting mix of dining and shopping options. Foodies can get a taste of the world by enjoying wings and pizza at Dingers, Taiwanese cuisine at Du Hsiao Yueh, Coconut-infused refreshers at Yococo, flavorful hotpots at Yummy Ma La Pot, refreshing lemonades at Smashing Lemons, Japanese Yakiniku at Sumu Niku, and iconic donuts at Krispy Kreme. Coffee lovers will appreciate Kenangan Coffee and Zus Coffee, while the expanded food court includes Barcada, Buchiton, Thaiwadee, Seoul Yummy, Lechon Belly Kitchen, and Tex Mex for diverse global cuisines, all at their FoodCourt located at the East Wing second level. Bookworms and Pop Mart enthusiasts can also explore Fully Booked for their next great read and collectible selection. Experience it all at SM City East Ortigas!

Healthy Snacking at SM City Marikina

 

 

Crowd-favorite frozen yogurt at Llaollao SM City Marikina

 

 

 

 

 

Llaollao Frozen Yogurt at the Ground Level of SM City Marikina

 

 

 

 

 

Take a break with guilt-free indulgence! Llaollao’s famous frozen yogurt is the perfect blend of creamy and healthy, topped with your favorite fruits and sauces. Satisfy your sweet tooth today without the guilt at SM City Marikina.

Fun & Finds at SM City Masinag

 

 

 

 

 

Sundaes and refreshers from Momoyo at 2nd level of SM City Masinag

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wellness made easy and affordable by Luxe Slim in SM City Masinag

 

 

 

 

 

Sea of fun at Fantasyworld SM City Masinag

 

 

 

 

 

Something for the ‘gram while buying donuts at Dunkin SM City Masinag

 

 

From larger-than-life play areas at Fantasyworld, freshly squeezed lemonade at Healthy Lemon, to ready-to-drink wellness at Luxe Slim, SM City Masinag has it all. And don’t miss Momoyo’s Japanese-inspired street food or the newly reopened Dunkin’s classic donuts for a quick snack fix! Get your play, pamper, and munch on at SM City Masinag.

 

 

 

Cozy Comfort at SM City San Mateo

 

 

Sumptuous spread of Filipino favorites from Kuya J SM City San Mateo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kuya J Restaurant recently reopened its doors at SM City San Mateo

 

 

 

 

Rediscover Filipino comfort food at its finest with Kuya J at SM City San Mateo. From crispy pata to hearty soups, it’s a dining experience that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious. Visit them at SM City San Mateo and experience the warmth of local flavors.

Coffee & Play at SM City Taytay

 

 

Newest kids play area, Kidslandia, at SM City Taytay

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cheers to caffeine at But First, Coffee in SM City Taytay

Grab your caffeine fix at But First, Coffee, where every cup is crafted with love. Then let the little ones run wild at Kidslandia, a play haven for kids and a breather for parents. Make it a family day at SM City Taytay.




Why Wait? Plan Your Next Visit Now!


SM Malls in the East are more than just shopping destinations—they’re vibrant hubs for dining, entertainment, and fun. Bring your friends, family, or just yourself, and discover these exciting new spots today. Let’s make every visit an East-tastic adventure!

TCL Electronics, a leading consumer electronics brand and the world’s top two TV brand, today showcases a diverse range of display technologies at CES 2025. This includes QD-Mini LED TVs, professional monitors, in-car displays, mobile phones, tablets, smart watches, smart projectors, and RayNeo AR Glasses. Additionally, TCL unveils its latest AI advancements in new product categories and a comprehensive smart home ecosystem, underscoring its commitment to providing smarter and healthier lifestyles and inspiring greatness globally.



Revolutionizing Display Technologies



TCL’s leadership in display innovation is highlighted by its flagship TCL X11K QD-Mini LED TV. This model redefines home entertainment with over 14,000 local dimming zones, delivering breathtaking clarity and visual precision. Enhanced by TCL’s All-domain Halo Control Technology, it offers a truly immersive viewing experience, bringing every frame to life with vivid detail. To complement these visuals, TCL has strategically partnered with Bang & Olufsen, a leader in luxury audio, to deliver their bespoke sound solution, Audio by Bang & Olufsen, which gives the users an experience as captivating as the visuals.



This collaboration also extends to the TCL A300 Series TV, a sleek and stylish choice with a premium audio experience. At the TCL booth, the world’s largest QD-Mini LED TV, the 115’’ QM891G, along with the Q85 Soundbar, is showcased as the perfect companion for large TVs with immersive audio performance. For gaming enthusiasts, the R83 Professional Monitor Series offers pixel-level precision, enhancing immersive gaming and creative excellence. These products highlight TCL’s dedication to catering to diverse consumer preferences, from expansive TVs to sophisticated and design-forward solutions.

TCL’s product lineup also includes the award-winning NXTPAPER 4.0 technology, an evolution of the brand’s full-color electronic paper display technology. Engineered to reduce eye strain while delivering exceptional visual quality, NXTPAPER 4.0 debuted in the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus Tablet, with plans to expand this technology to more mobile phones.

The RayNeo X3 Pro Smart Glasses mark the arrival of the true AR era. With built-in computing power, the model eliminates the need for external devices, delivering enhanced performance in a compact, streamlined design. Additionally, TCL introduces the PLAYCUBE Projector, which redefines portable projection with style and versatility. Furthermore, TCL showcases innovations in automotive electronics with intelligent Cockpit and Driving Solutions.







Pioneering AI-featured and Smart Connectivity

Among its exciting news at CES 2025, TCL introduces TCL Ai Me, the world’s first modular AI companion robot. Designed with a charming lifelike aesthetic and a detachable space capsule base, Ai Me is a concept product seamlessly blending companionship with smart living. It elevates daily life with natural interactions and personalized experiences, adapting to individual needs and enriching the user’s lifestyle with its intelligent and interactive features.

As another highlight, TCL’s flagship TV series is set to integrate Google’s Gemini model, with plans to launch an all-new Google TV with Gemini capabilities in 2025. TCL is also showcasing an interactive demo in a dedicated showroom, unveiling the immersive and intelligent features with the help of the Gemini model on its TV, promising to transform home entertainment.

In connectivity, TCL’s LINKHUB HH516 5G AI CPE Router ensures a smart network experience with higher throughput, lower latency, and lower power consumption for diverse scenarios. TCL showcased its D1 Series Smart Lock, which includes the D1 Pro with next-gen AI palm vein recognition, and the D1 Ultra, world’s first 4-in-1 smart deadbolt that integrates a smart lock, security camera, video doorbell, and an innovative 3.5-inch display.





Leading the Way in Sustainability and Design

TCL’s CES pavilion embodies its commitment to user-centric design and innovation with a natural, stylish, and eco-conscious ambiance. Highlights include eco-friendly remote controls made from recycled tea leaves and cardboard furniture that underscores TCL’s emphasis on sustainable practices. Expanding its vision of intelligent and eco-friendly living, TCL also brings innovative products with smart and sustainable home solutions.

TCL FreshIN 3.0 Air Conditioner redefines cooling with features that promote health, boost energy efficiency, and enhance convenience. Its liftable Fresh Air Inlet brings fresh outdoor air in, removes odors, and increases indoor oxygen levels. The energy-saving technology intelligently adjusts the operation frequency, while Smart Voice Control allows for hands-free operation without an internet connection.





Meanwhile, TCL FREE BUILT-IN Refrigerator transforms modern kitchens with its sleek, space-saving design and cutting-edge technologies that improve food preservation. Similarly, the P680 Washer-Dryer Set provides stackable solutions for compact spaces, featuring anti-wrinkle technology and intuitive cycles for optimal garment care.

Essential to TCL’s green efforts is its Smart Home Energy Management Solution (HEMS), integrating solar panels, energy storage, and heat pumps for efficient energy use.



Global Partnerships and Excellence

Partnering with top-tier sports and entertainment IPs worldwide, TCL demonstrates its innovative energy to younger generations. At CES 2025, TCL highlights its partnership with the NFL, the most-watched sports league in North America, with the NFL Hall-of-Famer Charles Woodson engaging with onsite fans to strengthen connections between TCL and its audience.

TCL’s deep and vibrant engagements with local communities and global partners have earned widespread consumer recognition, as reflected in its 2024 performance—ranking second globally for TV shipments and in North America for TV retail sales volume during the first three quarters of the year.

India Takes the Torch as the Next APAC Predator League Host

The stage was set, the competition fierce, and the battles legendary. After taking on the top teams from 14 regions, Team Alter Ego (VALORANT) and Myth Avenue Gaming (Dota 2) emerged as the champions of the Asia Pacific Predator League 2025. Both teams claimed the coveted Predator Shield in the sixth edition of the event, and each walked away with a substantial USD 65,000 in prize money.

As the curtains closed on this year’s epic showdown in Kuala Lumpur, Acer announced that the next edition of the Predator League will be hosted by the Acer India office, signalling its continued commitment to nurturing the esports and PC gaming ecosystem. Acer India office’s President and Managing Director, Harish Kohli, officially received the Predator League pennant from Acer Malaysia office’s Managing Director, Kon Tek Yoong, in a ceremonial handover.

Heightening the atmosphere and giving the crowd a treat, Team ZOL Esports, the first runner-up for VALORANT, mounted a dramatic comeback with six consecutive wins, to level the score at 11:11 from 5:11 after a critical mid-game reset. However, Alter Ego collected themselves and demonstrated unyielding teamwork to shut down the opposing team’s momentum and seal their victory.

The home crowd gave Myth Avenue Gaming a rapturous cheer as they overcame Team Helios in an emphatic manner with a 2-0 victory in the Dota 2 Grand Finals to lift the Predator Shield in front of their adoring fans.

Grand Final Results:

VALORANT (11 January 2025)

Dota 2 (12 January 2025)

In addition to the coveted Predator Shield, ten special awards with a total prize pool of USD20,000 were on the line in the Intel Allstar Vote for both VALORANT and Dota 2. The public voted for their favourite participating players based on their respective roles.

The Intel Allstar team for VALORANT that took home USD2,000 each:

The Dota 2 Allstar team that took home USD2,000 each:

Two Intel MVPs were also crowned based on their performances in the tournament. They each received USD10,000 as part of this special recognition.

The two-day APAC Predator League 2025 Grand Finals was a celebration of esports culture and entertainment, delivering a festival-like experience that went beyond a traditional esports tournament. The event bridged the gap between gamers and non-gamers with a spectrum of activities, from competitive gaming to engaging activities that highlighted energy, teamwork, and community.

Acer introduced new elements in this year’s Predator League, including debuting two exclusive champion avatars, Nero and Yuffy, alongside their animated video, and the Predator “It Lies Within” theme song in local languages. The community was treated to performances by Sandara Park and Minzy of the K-pop group 2NE1, as well as Malaysian stars Aina Abdul and Hael Husaini, and G22 from the Philippines. Another highlight, the Coswalk Competition, showcased Malaysia’s top cosplay talent, with standout costumes and character portrayals of Valkia the Bloody from Warhammer: Age of Sigmar by Vinca Kazuki, Thanatos from Persona 3 by Mak, and S.I.C. Amazon Alpha by Saiful SS Prop earning the top prizes from a RM 25,000 pool.

Acer continues to push the boundaries of gaming excellence across the Asia Pacific region through grassroots competitions and hosting premier events like the Predator League. This year’s tournament stood as a testament to the passion, skill, and creativity that fuels the gaming and esports communities.

For more information about the APAC Predator League 2025, visit the official website and follow the tournament’s exciting developments on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines, Inc. (CCIP) recently held its fourth General Membership Meeting (GMM), dubbed “Cocktail Night” at the Revel at the Palace in Taguig City.

Leading the event were members of CCIP’s Board of Trustees including the current board headed by president Christine Reyes of Amway Philippines who shared her annual report and emphasized CCIP’s mission to accelerate, elevate, and champion the cosmetics industry in the Philippines. She also expressed excitement about continuing to grow the Chamber’s legacy with the unwavering support of its member companies.

“In response to the dynamic and ever-changing business and regulatory landscape, CCIP is dedicated to advancing the cosmetics industry by fostering adaptability and delivering swift, strategic solutions to market shifts. By nurturing creativity, we aim to drive sustainable growth and meaningful change, reinforcing our leadership in the industry. Building on the momentum of our 50th anniversary, our next step is clear, to take CCIP to the next level as we break new ground and lead the cosmetics industry to unparalleled excellence in 2025 and beyond”

Joining Christine during the year-end festivities were fellow board members Jacqueline Lim of First Asia Manufacturing, Monina Leslie Ferrer of Snoe Beaute Produits Inc., Denice Sy of Ever Bilena Cosmetics, Inc., Dennies Ladia of Environatural Corporation, Dr. Janina Tan of Jradiance Corporation, and Shirley Cayago of Splash Corporation.

The event, co-hosted by Denice Sy, Dominic Plana, and Tin Guiao, was filled with energy, entertainment, and warm fellowship among members. Guests enjoyed great drinks, lively music, and the excellent company of colleagues from across the industry.

But the night’s highlight was the announcement of the election results for CCIP’s new Board of Trustees of 2025. The new trustees will work alongside the current board members.

The Election Committee, led by Gladys Conopio of DKSH Philippines, Inc., Lessie Galindo of Brenntag Ingredients, Inc., and Faye Muñoz of Chemrez Technologies, Inc., announced the newly appointed trustees: Aio Nery of CCT Chemicals Inc., Jellie Marie Villamor of GT Cosmetics in Cebu, Maria Roberta Estacio of Harem Inc., Ramon Claridad of Rainiers Research and Development Institute, John Robinson Uy of Unilever Philippines, Michael Zotomayor of ZLab International Corporation and Kimberly Sablayan of Lifestrong Marketing, Inc.

As the Chamber moves into 2025 with a dynamic and visionary board, CCIP reaffirms its dedication to empowering the local cosmetics industry and fostering collaboration among its diverse and vibrant membership.

Pickleball at SM Center Antipolo Downtown

Kickstart the new year with a focus on health and wellness at SM City Marikina, Masinag, San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown! These malls are your ultimate destinations for fitness finds, activewear, and energizing activities that set you up for a healthy 2025.
Step into Style with Athleisure Fits

Athleisure style inspo in working out, playing sports, or running errands from Adidas SM City Masinag





Team up the stylish fit with Hydrofresh flasks and tumblers from SM Store Marikina, Masinag, and San Mateo to keep you hydrated while working out.

Anta kicks for your sporting needs, available at SM Center Antipolo Downtown and Sports Central in SM City Marikina






Athleisure guide for guys from SM Store


Upgrade your fitness wardrobe with the latest sneakers and activewear from top brands like Adidas, Anta, and multi-brand shops in Sports Central and SM Store. Whether you’re a runner, a gym enthusiast, or simply embracing athleisure for everyday comfort, you’ll find a variety of options to match your style and fitness goals.

Energize Your Routine with Fitness Dance Classes





A Zumba instructor leads the dance sessions at SM City Masinag




Doing exercise, like Zumba in SM City San Mateo, boosts endorphins that can improve mood throughout the day.

Feel the rhythm and burn those calories with weekly fitness dance classes for all ages at the 10 o’ Clock Habit in SM City Masinag, San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown. These high-energy sessions are perfect for beginners and seasoned dancers alike, offering a fun and effective way to stay active while meeting new friends. Check the schedule at each mall and join the fitness fun!
All-in-One Sports Facilities at SM Center Antipolo Downtown




Young sports enthusiasts play basketball at the newly opened court at the 2nd level of SM Center Antipolo Downtown

Photo courtesy of ABC Shots






The SM Center Antipolo Downtown Badminton Courts double as pickleball courts.






Either a morning workout or after-school sweat session is a perfect time to play at SM Badminton Courts in SM Center Antipolo Downtown





Take your fitness game to the next level at SM Center Antipolo Downtown as it features multi-purpose courts perfect for badminton, pickleball, basketball, and volleyball clinics. Whether you’re honing your skills or just trying something new, these facilities are great for sports enthusiasts of all ages.
Fuel Your Fitness Goals




Fruit slices that are rich in fiber are readily available at SM Supermarket




Healthy Kimbap available at King Kim in SM City Marikina







Whether losing weight or wanting to feel vitality in everyday life, Luxe Slim in SM City Masinag has a wide array of products to aid your wellness goals


Stay nourished and energized with healthy dining options available. From fresh fruits, yogurts, smoothies, and salads to even dietary supplements, there’s something for every health-conscious foodie for guilt-free indulgences.
Shop Smart, Live Healthy

Start 2025 on the right track by exploring wellness essentials at these East Metro malls. From fitness gear to health supplements, SM Malls have everything you need to support an active and balanced lifestyle. Don’t miss out on seasonal promotions and discounts to make your health journey even more rewarding.

Make SM Malls in the East Metro your partner in health this 2025. Visit today and embark on a year of wellness and vitality!