The award-winning band closes 2025 with a year-end celebration of music, storytelling, and community, giving fans a front-row experience from anywhere in the world
One year after translating their award-winning 2025 concept into a sold-out spectacle at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Ben&Ben invites fans into the luminous universe of Liwanag through The Traveller Across Dimensions: The Concert Film.
The special full-length film, created in collaboration with LunchBox Productions, will premiere on YouTube on December 14, 2025, giving audiences across the globe the rare opportunity to relive the concert experience in full, free of charge. Ben&Ben explains: “We really wanted all our listeners to get to enjoy this concert that we poured our hearts and souls into, so we deliberately chose to make this as accessible as possible by putting it up on YouTube. We thought it would also be a nice way to bring families together for the holidays, sharing with each other the magic and joy of our concert from the comfort of their homes.”
Billed as a “multiverse of music and emotion,” the original TTAD concert blurred the boundaries between concert, animation, and theater. Staged late last year, the arena show received widespread acclaim for its storytelling, emotional depth, and technical execution, setting a new benchmark for multimedia concerts in the Philippines. The cinematic retelling offers both a retrospective and a revelation for fans who want to relive that night in the arena and for those who will be seeing it for the first time.
“When we first conceptualized the concert and saw all the work that had to be put into it, we knew we wanted to exert an equal amount of effort to document it all. It represented many firsts for us: our first major concert at the MOA Arena, our first time performing that many songs, and our first time attempting to record a show of that scale,” Ben&Ben shares. “With all the work we put into each second of it, we knew a well-made concert film also needed a lot of work and enough time for it to be ready for public release. So that, along with us continuing to tour The Traveller Across Dimensions throughout the year, we ultimately decided to release the film as a first anniversary special offering.”
According to the nine-piece band, the concert film was conceived as a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to their fans, fondly called Liwanag. The film’s free release emphasizes Ben&Ben’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and community.
“This year has been just so challenging for so many of us,” Ben&Ben says. “But despite these challenges, we’ve felt so much love and support from all of our Liwanag, from them constantly listening to our music to still showing up and attending our live shows. As the year ends, we wanted to give back by simply letting people enjoy this show, no strings attached, no paywall.” While the live concert captivated the crowd with its scale and immediacy, the film version provides a more intimate encounter, allowing audiences to discern subtle details, symbolisms, and emotional arcs that may have been missed in the live setting.
In the weeks leading to the release of The Traveller Across Dimensions: The Concert Film, Ben&Ben earned Album of the Year honors at the Awit Awards 2025, the country’s version of the Grammys. Soon after, fans were treated to a surprise first look at the concert trailer during The Traveller Across Dimensions: An Immersive Storytelling Experience. The trailer eventually premiered on social media channels on December 3, 2025, a day after the official announcement about the concert film was shared online.
The band brings their most personal and sonically adventurous album on vinyl, reaffirming the enduring value of physical media
Award-winning Filipino pop-rock powerhouse IV OF SPADES continues to ramp up the celebration of their highly anticipated comeback with the exclusive vinyl release of their critically acclaimed album, Andalucia.
The new record will be available in a thousand copies for its first vinyl pressing, with a few of them already available during the first and second day of IV OF SPADES’ concert, which took place at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on December 12 and 13, 2025.
For those unable to attend the concert, worry not! Andalucia will be available starting December 15, 2025, through Backspacer Records via their official website.
“Andalucia feels like a special snapshot of where we are in our lives right now,” shares the acclaimed quartet in a press statement. “This is the first vinyl of IV OF SPADES. Pangarap din namin ito.” Hailed as one of the most astounding creative rebirths in OPM for the last decade, Andalucia stands as a testament to renewed brotherhood and friendship. Shaped by years of individual growth and nearly seven years of separation, the album was forged through trust, mutual respect, and a deep appreciation for the member’s creative process. The twelve-track album also traverses a rich spectrum of sound and experiment, while remaining anchored in the band’s signature introspection, emotional honesty, and meticulous sonic craftmanship.
IV OF SPADES’ new album, Andalucia is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
In photo: Pru Life UK Chief Customer and Marketing Officer Rozanne Magararu (right) and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Atty. Romando Artes (left)
Pru Life UK and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) have renewed their long-standing partnership for the eighth consecutive year, reinforcing their shared commitment to protect, empower, and uplift thousands of the MMDA’s frontline personnel.
Since 2017, Pru Life UK has been providing free Group Personal Accident insurance to up to 8,000 MMDA employees—including traffic enforcers, street sweepers, and other permanent, casual, and job order staff. MMDA employees can count on Pru Life UK for insurance with coverage that includes accidental death and disablement benefits, as well as burial assistance, offering vital protection to workers who brave daily risks on the road, in flood control operations, and in disaster response.
This year also marks a significant milestone, with MMDA expressing openness to expand the partnership to include financial literacy and inclusion activities designed to help employees build stronger financial habits and resilience.
During the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing, MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando Artes expressed his gratitude to Pru Life UK for consistently supporting the safety and welfare of MMDA personnel over the years.
“Magbibigay ito ng karagdagang proteksyon sa mga frontliner na nagtatrabaho araw-araw sa ating mga kalsada, sa trapiko, pagbaha, at pagtugon sa kalamidad,” Chairman Artes said, emphasising the crucial role of insurance for employees who face daily hazards.
He added that the partnership stands as an important reminder that when government, and the private sector work together toward a shared goal, “masisiguro ang kapakanan at seguridad ng mga kawani at ng kanilang pamilya.”
Long-term commitment
Rozanne Magararu, Pru Life UK’s Chief Customer and Marketing Officer, highlighted the company’s dedication to supporting MMDA personnel not just through insurance, but through long-term empowerment.
“It has been our privilege to extend accidental death and disablement benefits, as well as burial assistance, to up to 8,000 MMDA personnel, including traffic enforcers and street sweepers,” Magararu said. She noted that 154 claims have already been supported under the program, proof of the partnership’s meaningful impact on the lives of frontline workers.
She further emphasised Pru Life UK’s readiness to broaden its role in supporting the agency. “We are eager to explore new ways to support your team, particularly through our upcoming financial literacy and inclusion initiatives designed to empower the MMDA employees and staff. Know that you can count on us as your partner in promoting the well-being and financial resilience of your workforce.”
Evolving partnership
What began as a shared commitment to protection has now grown into an expanded collaboration anchored on education, empowerment, and long-term resilience.
Pru Life UK will work closely with MMDA to introduce financial literacy sessions to its workforce—supporting their personal financial well-being and helping them better prepare for emergencies, long-term goals, and everyday financial decisions.
The MOA signing was also attended by several MMDA directors and representatives from Pru Life UK.
As both organisations continue this shared mission, the partnership stands as a strong example of how public–private collaboration can support the welfare, resilience, and dignity of frontline workers who keep Metro Manila moving each day.
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About Pru Life UK
Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.
Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of close to 38,000 licensed agents.
Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.
Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of Q3 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.
Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 –years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.
Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph.
The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information.
Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission.
The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2&3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information.
Notes:
*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year
Please use “Pru Life UK” when referring to the company.
Makati, Philippines— In line with its mission to enrich lives, empower businesses, and build communities sustainably, Security Bank worked tirelessly in 2025 to strengthen institutions, expand opportunities, and deliver programs that create lasting progress across the Philippines.
From providing cacao seedlings to 40 farmers in Aklan and mentoring 980 families to aiding 661 disaster-hit families, Security Bank strengthened livelihoods nationwide. Education remained a priority with a total of 901 classrooms donated to 153 schools and free eye care for 1,170 students. Cultural programs engaged more than 300 artists, while environmental efforts planted 940 mangrove seedlings toward a 10,000-seedling goal. The Bank also exceeded its sustainable finance target, disbursing ₱99.4 billion in green and social loans—benefiting 500,000 households, expanding healthcare with 544 beds, and creating opportunities for 400,000 people.
These achievements reflect Security Bank’s unwavering commitment to building a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for every Filipino. Improving livelihoods and uplifting vulnerable communities
Security Bank, together with BUSOE and Angat Pinas, provided cacao seedlings, poultry farming kits, and wilderness rescue initiatives in Aklan. Security Bank broadened its community livelihood and resilience programs through diverse partnerships. In Malinao, Aklan, the Bank worked with Beacon for the Upliftment of Status of Everyone Inc. (BUSOE) and Angat Pinas to provide cacao seedlings, poultry starter kits, and rescue equipment—benefiting 40 solo parents and smallholder farmers.
Security Bank, together with JCI Manila and the Global Peace Foundation, provided solar-powered streetlights to a remote community in Pampanga In Sitio Pisapungan, Pampanga, the Bank worked with JCI Manila and the Global Peace Foundation to install solar-powered streetlights, enhancing safety and promoting sustainable energy in remote areas. Through the Prevail program with International Care Ministries, it provided business mentorship and financial training to 980 Cebu families. The Bank also partnered with Meritxell Children’s World Foundation to fund yearlong vaccinations for 15 children.
The Bank, in partnership with Angat Buhay, likewise extended its support through disaster response efforts for 661 families affected by the earthquake and Typhoon Tino in Cebu, distributing food packs to communities in Cebu City, Liloan, and Talisay, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to aiding vulnerable communities during times of crisis.
Strengthening culture, community, and inclusive representation Security Bank celebrated Filipino creativity, heritage, and empowerment through advocacy-driven initiatives. The Bank supported the Bravo Empowered Women Awards, honoring trailblazers who are driving meaningful change in business, culture, public service, social entrepreneurship, and STEM—including Lifetime Achievement awardee Glenda Barretto and Social Services honoree Andie Estrada of social enterprise Rural Rising Philippines.
The Bravo Empowered Women 2025 awardees (L-R): Maryan Cabasag Diaros (Education), Doreen Alicia Gamboa (Culinary), Sittie Habiba Sarip (Media & Public Affairs), Dr. Emmeline Cua-De Los Santos (STEM), Glenda Barretto (Lifetime Achievement), Andie Estrada (Social Services), Larissa Palma Chavez (Arts, Culture & Heritage), Maiki Enriquez-Oreta (Business), and Jamie Berberabe Lim (Sports).
In partnership with the Art Association of the Philippines, the Bank launched its inaugural Paint for the Planet Art Competition, inspiring environmental awareness through artistic expression. More than 300 artists participated under the theme “People, Planet, Prosperity,” demonstrating the power of art in shaping sustainability dialogue.
Security Bank’s first Paint for the Planet Art Competition drew more than 300 artists from all over the Philippines. The Bank also supported key cultural fairs and heritage events such as ArteFino and National Heritage Month, championing Filipino craftsmanship and encouraging conscious community-driven consumption. Championing education and investing in the nation’s future
(Left) The Santa Cruz Elementary School, one of many school buildings donated by Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI). To date, SBFI has donated over 900 classrooms to schools nationwide. (Right) A look inside an SBFI classroom. For nearly two decades, Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI), has led one of the country’s most impactful private-sector education programs. In 2025, SBFI expanded its reach, donating 901 classrooms to 153 schools nationwide under its flagship Build a School, Build a Nation program—easing overcrowding and creating better learning spaces for thousands of Filipino students. SBFI also accelerated its capacity-building efforts through Mentoring Future Leaders for Nation-Building, supporting 79 principals and 88 teachers through training programs developed with leading academic institutions. SBFI likewise supported 302 scholars across multiple levels, bringing its total scholar count to more than 2,000 future leaders. Recognizing that clear vision is essential for learning, SBFI partnered with Ideal Vision Center and the Rotary and Rotaract Club of San Francisco del Monte to conduct free eye screenings and distribute eyeglasses to 1,170 students. Walking the talk: Advancing sustainability and climate action
Security Bank employees volunteered to plant 940 native mangrove seedlings in La Union as part of the first phase of Project MITHI Security Bank continued to scale its environmental initiatives through Project MITHI, planting 940 native mangrove seedlings in La Union as part of its first-year goal of planting 10,000 seedlings to help protect coastal ecosystems and strengthen community resilience against climate risks. The project was implemented with Oceanus Conservation, Communities for Nature, and local organizations.
Through Project MITHI, Security Bank, together with Oceanus Conservation, Communities for Nature, and local organizations planted 10,000 mangrove seedlings. The Bank also achieved significant momentum in sustainable finance. As of October, Security Bank had disbursed PHP99.4 billion in green and social loans—exceeding its 2025 target by 18%. These investments provided clean water for 500,000 households, expanded healthcare capacity with 544 beds and clinic rooms, and created opportunities for over 400,000 people, most of them women. This impact is strengthened by the Bank’s global leadership as the first Philippine bank to join IFC’s Alliance for Green Commercial Banks and the only local bank with an MSCI ESG Rating of ‘A.’ Doing good with BetterBanking Security Bank believes that serving customers goes beyond providing financial solutions—it requires building a legacy of positive impact. Through purposeful partnerships and programs grounded in its mission to enrich lives and uplift communities sustainably, the Bank continues to show that BetterBanking is not just a promise—it is a lasting commitment to creating a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Philippines. Learn more about Security Bank’s CSR and Sustainability efforts by visiting https://www.securitybank.com/sustainability/
The Bank has received numerous local and international recognitions for product innovation, market leadership, and best-in-class management practices. For more information, visit www.securitybank.com. Security Bank Corporation is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas www.bsp.gov.ph
Manila, Philippines – This Christmas season, Philips Lighting brings brighter homes within closer reach of Filipino families with a nationwide price markdown of up to 50% across selected LED lighting products. More than a seasonal offer, this initiative represents a long-term commitment to making trusted, energy-efficient lighting more affordable for households across the Philippines.
As families prepare their homes for festive gatherings, shared meals, and everyday moments, Philips Lighting aims to support Filipinos in creating spaces that feel warmer, safer, and more welcoming without compromising on quality or performance.
“Christmas is about family, comfort, and the joy of coming home,” said Paolo Royol, Commercial Leader for Consumer Business, Philips Lighting Philippines. “By lowering our prices nationwide, we want more Filipino families to enjoy brighter homes that support their daily lives, not just during the holidays, but well beyond them. This is our way of making quality lighting more accessible and meaningful for everyone.”
Nationwide Price Markdown Highlights
Filipino consumers can now enjoy reduced prices on the following Philips Lighting products nationwide:
High Lumen Bulbs – up to 54% off Essential Bulbs Mini – up to 13% off Essential LED Bulb A-Shape – up to 28% off Ecofit TLED (Single Ended) – up to 33% off Ecofit TLED (Double Ended) – up to 33% off
Designed for energy efficiency and long-lasting performance, these products help families reduce energy consumption while enjoying dependable brightness across living spaces, kitchens, work areas, and shared family zones.
Lighting Homes, Supporting Filipino Dreams
This nationwide price markdown reflects Philips Lighting’s enduring commitment to Filipino households, helping turn everyday spaces into brighter homes where memories are made and dreams grow.
As Christmas lights fill homes and communities across the country, Philips Lighting continues to deliver on its promise: to bring light that cares, inspires, and lasts, now made more affordable for Filipino families nationwide.
Security Bank executives and guests at the opening of the Bank’s 368th branch in Davao City (From left): Salvador Castro III, VP and Area Head; Russel Cai, Plant Manager/Quality Management Representative of Davao Mighty Steel Corp; Ricardo Luis Mateo Lagdameo, President and CEO of ANFLO Construction and Corp.; Decy Sarmiento, FVP and Region 7 Head; Leslie Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head; Ricardo Floirendo, Vice Chairman of ANFLO Group of Companies; Jezel Aballe, Business Manager of Davao-Damosa Branch; Benjamin Umapas, General Manager of Benbert Co.; Karl Gregor Catadman and Maria Christie Catadman, Owners of KCKS Builders Inc.; Jason Ang, SVP and Visayas and Mindanao Distribution Head
Makati, Philippines – Security Bank Corporation continues to advance its reach and make banking more accessible to Filipinos with the opening of eight new branches in November alone, bringing its nationwide branch network to 372 branches.
The latest expansion strengthens Security Bank’s commitment to deliver BetterBanking by widening access to financial services and supporting the growing needs of individuals, entrepreneurs, and communities across the country.
In Luzon, the Bank opened its Congressional Extension Branch plus three new branches in Pampanga—Mexico, Mabalacat, and Subic Town—supporting fast-growing residential areas and key economic corridors in Central and Northern Luzon.
In the Visayas, Security Bank enhanced its presence through the opening of the Cebu–Basak Branch, located in a highly urbanized district that supports a dynamic commercial environment and a growing SME sector.
In Mindanao, new branches in Midsayap, Cotabato and Davao City—including Davao–Damosa and Davao–Ecoland—further solidify the Bank’s footprint in major business districts and thriving residential hubs, extending financial access to communities, MSMEs, and local enterprises.
“These branch openings reinforce our vision to be a more customer-centric bank,” said Leslie Cham, Executive Vice President and Branch Banking Head at Security Bank. “Reaching 372 branches nationwide allows us to be closer to the communities we serve and deliver BetterBanking through more personalized service, modern facilities, and deeper local engagement.”
As Security Bank grows its nationwide presence, it remains focused on elevating the in-branch experience. New branches are designed to address evolving customer needs—from everyday transactions to long-term financial goals—supported by technology-enabled platforms that work seamlessly with the Bank’s digital channels.
“Modern banking is about balancing technology with empathy,” Cham shared. “Our branches are welcoming, inclusive spaces that integrate human connection with digital convenience. We want every customer to feel supported.”
“The branch of the future will be powered by data, enabled by technology, and brought to life by people,” he added. “Banking will continue to evolve—but its heart will always remain human.” For more information on Security Bank’s products, services, and branch locations, visit www.securitybank.com or follow Security Bank on social media.
MANILA, PH- December 2025-Sun Life Philippines has officially ushered in the festive season with its Brighter Holidays campaign, turning Boracay Island into a radiant holiday destination. The celebration began with a tree lighting ceremony that illuminated Laketown with a dazzling Christmas tree.
As part of the activation, Sun Life-branded paraws cruise alongthe Boracay coastline, while on land, Sun Life’s paro/s that symbolize hope and togetherness can be found all over the island. These activities showcase Sun Life’s dedication to sparking hope and fresh beginnings, empowering every Filipino to embrace the season as they pursue brighter financial and health goals for the future.
To make the holidays brighter for more Filipinos, Sun Life has partnered with the NVC Foundation to support its Mingo Meals Nutrition Program, with Sun Life advisors pledging their commitment to this meaningful cause. This will provide a month’s worth of nutritious meals to undernourished children from the Ati Community in Boracay.
The festivities will culminate on December 31 with Boracay’sofficial New Year’s Eve Countdown at Station 2 Beachfront, Boracay. Guests canenjoylive music, raffle prizes, and more activities starting at 10:00PM. Everyone is invited to join this unforgettable orgettable celebration celebration and welcome 2026 under the stars
Bringing more excitement to the celebration, Sun Life is inviting guests to spot its Christmas tree, paraws, and paro/s, and join the #SunLife BrighterHolidays social media promo. Just post a photo or reel on Facebook or TikTok, tag @sunlifeph, use the hashtag #SunLife BrighterHolidays, and make the post public
for a chance to win VIP tickets to BAGETS: The Musical, a Garmin smart watch, or e-gift certificates. The promo runs until January 4, 2026, and winners will be selected via raffle draw.
“Boracay is a beloved destination for Filipinos and visitors alike, and we’re excited to bring the joyous spirit of the holidays to the island,” said Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “As we celebrate Brighter Holidays in Boracay, we reaffirm Sun Life’s promise to help Filipinos build a brighter future
Brighter Holidays reflects Sun Life’s dedication to creating meaningful experiences and fostering hope for a brighter tomorrow for every Filipino.
To learn more about Sun Life Philippines, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
SM Supermalls Regional Operations Head for Bulacan and CAMANAVA, Ana Datu, an SM employee-volunteer, delivers immediate relief to a resident impacted by flooding.
In a country visited by an average of 20 typhoons a year and prone to earthquakes, communities across the Philippines often face the daunting task of having to rebuild lives overnight. During these moments, collaboration becomes a lifeline, especially for thousands of Filipinos whose lives have been upended by disasters.
For the SM Group, helping communities get back on their feet is more than just a responsibility: it is a shared commitment woven into its culture of service. At the heart of this mission is Operation Tulong Express (OPTE), SM Foundation’s disaster response initiative.
Carried out through close coordination among SM Foundation, SM Markets, and SM Supermalls, OPTE brings together dedicated volunteer teams united by a shared commitment to serve those in need. SM Markets employees assemble Kalinga Packs in warehouse hubs that double as packing centers, while SM trucks and vans transport the goods to affected areas. On the ground, employee-volunteers from across the foundation and SM Supermalls lead the relief distribution in the spirit of bayanihan, personally delivering essentials and—in harder-hit areas—supporting medical missions that offer free consultations, first aid, and medicines.
For Andrea Rodriguez, SM Supermalls Regional Operations Head for Pampanga, service is rooted in lived experiences, especially since her family was among those affected by the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991. Years later, she witnessed devastation firsthand during the 2019 earthquake that affected her province and the rest of Luzon.
“We were at the forefront during that time na tumutulong. In fact, as soon as tumigil ang pagyanig nung time na ‘yun, all hands on deck na kami,” she recalled. Her first OPTE experience came earlier when, as a new SM employee, flooding hit communities near the San Fernando mall. “Hindi ko pa nun alam kung ano yung OPTE, pero ‘yung mga kasama ko sa mall, sabi nila, may opportunity para makatulong dun sa mga nabaha nearby. Sabi nila, ‘sama tayo,’” she shared. One of her most vivid memories was when they provided support to an 80-year-old resident in a remote barangay in Angeles following widespread floods during the pandemic. “Nung inabutan namin, umiyak siya nang umiyak. Sabi niya, hindi siya makapunta dun sa barangay hall kasi binaha ang bahay niya… Sabi niya, parang akala niya, makakalimutan na siya. Pero ang saya-saya niya na pinuntahan namin siya, na may pag-asa,” Andrea shared.
According to Ana Datu, Regional Operations Head for Bulacan and CAMANAVA, the company’s strong culture of helping others has shaped the way employees live and work. Because of this, lending a hand has become second nature. “We normally conduct OPTE in basketball courts so that mas marami ‘yung mapuntahan namin. But we also take time to go to the eskinitas — na kung minsan may naiiwan na mga bata at matatanda. Kapag nakita mo sila, parang may lungkot. ‘Nakalimutan kami, naiwan kami kasi nandun sila lahat sa basketball court,’” she shared. “But when they see us there with the Kalinga Packs at inabot mo ito sa kanila, they feel ‘Wow! Hindi kami nakalimutan. These are the people who remember us.’”
“When I joined SM, I learned that community service and social responsibility are a big thing here. It has been a culture. It has been a habit. And it’s not difficult to imbibe this because you see it, and it transcends. It starts from the leaders, trickling down to the entire team. So, everybody’s moving,” she added.
Regional Operations Head Ana Datu delivers essential relief to a flood-impacted resident, embodying the spirit of SM’s volunteerism. She ensures even those in hard-to-reach areas feel: “Wow! Hindi kami nakalimutan.” Both Ana and Andrea highlighted how volunteering shaped their outlook on work and in life. “If you see the environment and the environment forges you to help and to be empathetic to the plight of everyone surrounding the community, surrounding the mall, your community; then mai-imbibe mo siya,” Ana said.
A heartfelt embrace from a CAMANAVA resident receiving essential relief. By reaching deep into communities, SM volunteers ensure those affected feels remembered and supported, embodying the commitment of OPTE. “It’s really great to be part of a team, a group that is able to support and help the community in good times and in bad times,” Andrea capped. Operation Tulong Express (OPTE), a social good collaboration of SM Foundation, SM Supermalls and SM Markets, is the group’s disaster response initiative that provides immediate relief and essential goods to communities affected by calamities. In heavily impacted areas, it also deploys medical missions that offer basic healthcare and first aid.
Finding a way to cover daily expenses is no longer a problem with the help of a solution like GCredit
Electricity, water, internet, groceries–every day, it feels like there’s always something new we need to pay for. Now that the school year is in full swing, daily allowances and baon groceries have become part of the weekly routine. And just when we think we’ve finally caught up, here comes the surprise gastos—plus with the holidays slowly creeping in, it feels like there’s always something new to budget for.
As much as we try to cover everything, there are times when our budget just isn’t enough, no matter how hard we try to save and budget our expenses. Sometimes, we just need a little help to get through the tough days, especially during Petsa de Peligro. Thankfully, with GCash, it’s now easier to manage bills even without a credit card and without needing to borrow money from friends and family.
GCredit – Your Trusted Financial Lifeline
If you’re a GCash user, you already have a solution at your fingertips. GCredit, powered by CIMB, gives you an always-ready credit line you can use to cover urgent expenses. The best part? It’s designed to be manageable, with a low daily interest rate of 0.17 percent—equivalent to just ₱1.70 for every ₱1,000 spent. You can also pay as little as 10 percent of your total due, giving you the flexibility to stay on top of expenses even while waiting for your next paycheck, bonus, or allowance.
Not sure where you can use GCredit? It comes in handy for everyday needs like:
Bills Payments: When your electricity bill spikes or your payday doesn’t align with your water bill’s due date, use GCredit to avoid late fees and disconnections.
Internet and Landline: When you need to stay connected, you can use GCredit to cover your bills and avoid disconnection, so you’re always in touch with family, work, and friends.
Groceries: When prices rise or your budget falls short at the grocery store, GCredit helps you buy what you need so you never have to cut back on meals.
Make everyday spending easier with GCredit
With so many everyday expenses now payable through GCredit, GCash makes it simple to get through tough times with less stress:
Low interest: Interest is only 0.17% per day, and the earlier you pay, the less interest you need to pay.
Flexible payments: No need to pay the full amount right away. Just pay at least 10% of your total due, and you’re set.
Borrow up to ₱50,000: Access your credit line directly from the GCash app– fast, easy, and convenient.
Before you use GCredit to manage your bills, make sure you’re an eligible user. On your GCash app’s home screen, tap on “Borrow” and look for “GCredit.” If you’re not yet eligible, the app will guide you on the steps to qualify. Users must also remember that GCredit is available to Filipino citizens aged 21–65 with a fully verified GCash account.
Once eligible, you’ll see your available credit limit. You’ll also receive an SMS to activate GCredit and be instructed to follow these steps:
Confirm your email address
Verify your personal details and other required information in the app
Review and submit your application
Once you’ve completed the steps, you’ll receive a confirmation via email that your GCredit is activated, and you’re ready to use it for your day-to-day needs! Just remember to use GCredit responsibly–read the terms and conditions and make sure you have a payment plan in place.
Whether your bills are going up, piling up, or coming in faster than expected, you no longer have to worry about how to pay. With GCredit, you have a reliable safety net for both personal needs and family expenses. From electricity and water to internet and groceries, you’ve now got a fast and flexible way to stay on top of your bills with GCredit!
With the holiday rush officially starting, here’s a tip to instantly save time and grab a little extra cash: You can now use GCash to pay for your MRT-3 trips, and for a limited time, you’ll get a PHP 5 fare discount!
Under the GCash Murang Sakay promo, you automatically get PHP 5 off your fare when you pay with GCash from December 8–22. No registration needed—the discount is deducted instantly. Note: P28 is initially deducted upon entry, and the change will be returned to your GCash wallet after you exit.
If you haven’t set it up yet, here are three ways you can use GCash to pay for your MRT-3 rides:
Tap to Pay: Use your NFC-enabled Android phone as a digital ticket after a one-time activation on the app.
GCash Visa Card: Tap the card upon entry and exit, working like the traditional ticket system, ideal for situations with a spotty signal or low battery.
Scan GCash Commute QR: Generate a Commute QR code on the GCash app, which acts as a digital ticket without needing station details.
