MANILA, Philippines – For McDonald’s, every win deserves a celebration. From waking up early, arriving on time, or even avoiding traffic – they all deserve a celebration! Starting January 15, celebrate your everyday wins at McDonald’s for as low as P59.
McSavers Snack and Match gets more snaaaks sa sarap with the new Smokey Melt Chicken Sandwich, available solo at P59, or as combo with other snacking favorites at P79 . Available for a limited time only, the Smokey Melt Chicken Sandwich is a delightful combination of smokey, meaty flavor with a tangy, spicy kick. Just perfect for those looking to try a new, flavorful snack.
“We’ve said this last year and we’ll say it again: McDonald’s is about making our customers feel that their everyday wins are special. With McSavers Snack and Match, we want to help them celebrate their wins, and celebrate them deliciously. With the Smokey Melt Chicken Sandwich, which is available for as low as PhP59 solo, or PhP79 with your favorite drink or dessert, celebrating shouldn’t be expensive. There’s always a reason to say, ‘Snaaaks!’ and celebrate with McSavers Snack and Match,” said Ada Almendras-Lazaro, McDonald’s Philippines’ Chief Marketing Officer.
Snaaaks sa Sarap Ways to Celebrate Everyday Wins
For as low as PhP59, you can treat yourself with any of the following:
• The Smokey Melt Chicken Sandwich (available for a limited time)
• Crispy Chicken Sandwich
• Cheesy Burger McDo
• McSpaghetti
• Regular Plain Fries
• Regular McShaker Fries (BBQ or Cheese)
Match your chosen main with a side under McSavers Snack and Match for only PhP79:
• Medium Coke McFloat with Hot Fudge
• Medium Royal McFloat
• Medium Coke/Coke Zero
• Medium Sprite
• Plain Sundae
McSavers Snack and Match is available via Front Counter, Take-Out, SOK, and Drive-Thru only. Meanwhile, the Smokey Melt Chicken Sandwich is also available in other meal types via Front Counter, Take-Out, Self-Ordering Kiosks, Drive-Thru, McDelivery, and 3POs.
For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X.
● Manulife is the first corporate partner to implement veritree’s Smart Forest technology in sites across the globe
● veritree’s technology will be brought to Asia for the first time in Manulife Impact Forest sites in Japan and the Philippines
● To date, Manulife Impact Forests have restored 160 hectares of land—an area roughly equivalent to 8,161 tennis courts
MANILA — Manulife recently announced the launch of Manulife Impact Forests[1] a global network of restoration sites designed to enhance biodiversity, create opportunities for local communities, and contribute to climate resilience. Working with our community planting partners[2] and veritree, the platform powering verified nature restoration, Impact Forests enhance Manulife’s efforts to contribute to a healthier planet, with benefits for people and planet alike.
Manulife Impact Forest in British Columbia, where new trees are being planted to restore burnt areas. The Nicola Watershed suffered extensive wildfire damage, affecting over 25,000 hectares of forest.
Manulife is the first corporate partner to implement veritree’s Smart Forest technology in its reforestation efforts. This collaboration also marks the debut of this technology in Asia, with deployments in Manulife Impact Forest locations in Japan and the Philippines.
Manulife Impact Forests are a global forest restoration initiative.
veritree’s technology combines satellite imagery, ground-level data, and bioacoustic monitoring to guide sustainable forest management. This innovative approach ensures accurate mapping of planting areas and selection of tree species that promote healthy forests and lasting benefits. Embedded into Manulife Impact Forest sites, veritree’s proprietary platform will deliver real-time insights and transparency throughout the lifecycle of each restoration project. The Manulife Impact Forests currently include sites in Canada, the U.S., Cambodia, Japan, and the Philippines. To date, more than 160 hectares of land, an area roughly equivalent to 8,161 tennis courts, have been restored.
Photo of equipment used in veritree’s Smart Forest design.
“Manulife is proud to announce the Manulife Impact Forests and to collaborate with veritree in deploying their groundbreaking Smart Forest Design technology around the world,” said Ariel Kangasniemi, Global Chief Sustainability Officer at Manulife. “As a business that is driven to help people live better, for longer, we believe that when nature does well, people do well. This collaboration exemplifies how innovation, accountability, and environmental stewardship can come together for the benefit of both.”
Data from Manulife’s Impact Forests will be uploaded within Manulife’s veritree impact platform, enabling real-time monitoring of Smart Forests. Trees planted within these sites across the globe will be tied to measurable outcomes: tonnes of carbon sequestered, hectares restored, biodiversity gains, and community benefits such as job creation and education. More than 185,000 trees have been planted so far.
Manulife Impact Forest in California. Following the 2013 Rim Fire, restoration efforts are underway.
“This is what scalable, verifiable restoration looks like,” said Derrick Emsley, CEO and Co-Founder of veritree. “Nature-based solutions are only as powerful as the trust people have in them. Through this partnership with Manulife, we’re proving that restoration can be both high-integrity and high-tech, connecting trees planted to real data, real people, and real results.”
In the Philippines, Manulife’s existing partnership with Haribon Foundation continues to advance reforestation and biodiversity conservation efforts through native tree planting and community engagement programs. All native trees planted by Haribon for Manulife will be monitored by veritree’s Smart Forest Technology, enabling real-time tracking of growth, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity impact to ensure transparency and measurable outcomes. As of the end of 2025, Manulife Philippines and Haribon have planted more than 31,000 plants in terrestrial and coastal areas across the country.
“As one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, the Philippines faces increasing risks from extreme weather events. This underscores the urgency of investing in initiatives that safeguard our natural ecosystems and uplift and empower local communities. The Manulife Impact Forests initiative reflects Manulife’s commitment to sustainability and longevity, ensuring that future generations inherit a healthier planet,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines.
To learn more about Manulife’s sustainability initiatives and community partnerships, visit Manulife.com/sustainability. To learn more about veritree’s technology, visit veritree.com.
Amy Gochuico, President & Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Chinabank Life Assurance Corporation
Rahul Hora, President & Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines
Paolo Borromeo, President & Chief Executive Officer, AC Health
Dr. Bev Ho, Chief Health Officer, AC Health
“At Manulife, we believe that prevention and early detection are essential to helping Filipinos live healthier and better lives,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “Our Asia Care Survey found that cancer remains one of the most feared diseases among Filipinos. This partnership with AC Health, which will provide cancer awareness, diagnosis and preventive programs, easier access to referral and care pathways, allows us to provide our customers with meaningful access to trusted cancer care.”
Through ManulifeMOVE, Manulife Philippines’ flagship holistic health program, customers will have access to cancer awareness programs and defined care pathways for cancer prevention and management offered by AC Health’s Healthway Cancer Care Hospital (HCCH). Customers can access information on ManulifeMOVE for a full spectrum of cancer care programs delivered by HCCH, from early detection and prevention services to Cancer Concierge support, case management, treatment planning, and second opinion consultations. They can also secure discounted screening packages nationwide, including FIT tests for colon cancer and screenings for cervical, lung, and breast cancer.
PHOTO CAPTION: (L-R)
Amy Gochuico, President & Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Chinabank Life Assurance Corporation
Rahul Hora, President & Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines
Paolo Borromeo, President & Chief Executive Officer, AC Health
Dr. Bev Ho, Chief Health Officer, AC Health
“AC Health is committed to making world-class cancer care accessible to more Filipinos,” said Paolo Borromeo, President and Chief Executive Officer, AC Health. “Through the Healthway Cancer Care Hospital and our nationwide network of hospitals and clinics, we continue to provide comprehensive, patient-focused support. This partnership with Manulife enables us to reach even more Filipino families, empowering them to take charge of their health through early detection and high-quality care.”
A fresh lineup of newly-opened shops has arrived at SM City San Mateo, giving mallgoers even more reasons to drop by, dine out, and enjoy their everyday gala. From comforting Filipino favorites to satisfying ramen bowls, quick coffee breaks, freshly baked treats, and wellness essentials, these new mall finds bring variety, flavor, and convenience for families, friends, and solo mall explorers alike.
SM City San Mateo welcomes a fresh mix of dining spots that satisfy both comfort cravings and quick bites. Japanese and Korean food lovers can enjoy rich, slurp-worthy bowls at Saiko Restaurant’s ramen bar, while Sisig Hooray serves its signature sizzling sisig—savory, filling, and perfect for lunch or dinner. For those needing a quick pick-me-up, Block Coffee offers quality coffee and refreshing drinks ideal for on-the-go mall breaks.
Completing the experience are everyday essentials that add convenience to every visit. Bulawan Panaderya fills the mall with the inviting aroma of freshly baked breads and classic Filipino pastries, perfect for take-home treats. Katinko rounds out the lineup with trusted wellness and pain-relief products, making self-care easy and accessible right inside the mall.
With these new shops, SM City San Mateo continues to be a one-stop destination where dining, daily needs, and comfort come together. From satisfying food trips to quick coffee stops and wellness must-haves, it’s all here—ready for you to gala to the max and enjoy truly all-out experiences every time you visit.
Good food hits different when it’s local—and Kain Lokal at SM City Baliwag is such a perfect example. This homegrown food spot lauds Filipino flavors we all know and love, cooked with heart, heritage, and a whole lot of sarap.
From comforting classics to bold, modern takes on local favorites, Kain Lokal is all about big flavors at just-right prices. The menu they serve, such as silog, pares, unli rice, and unli kape, brings back memories, and the next makes you say, “Balik us here.”
Perfect for quick lunches, food trips, or merienda breaks, Kain Lokal is more than a meal—it’s a tribute to Filipino taste and community. Supporting local never tasted this good.
Visit Kain Lokal located at SM City Baliwag Central Terminal! Come hungry. Leave happy. Eat local.
For coffee lovers, mornings are sacred, and at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan, that daily ritual now comes with an exciting reward and rewarding twist. Following the success of Morning Beats and Brews, SM brings back the spotlight on café culture with the Sip&Win Promo, a campaign created for those who see coffee not just as a beverage, but as part of their lifestyle.
From handcrafted brews to comforting everyday favorites, every coffee break now comes with the chance to win. Shoppers earn one (1) e-raffle entry for every ₱500 worth of single or accumulated purchases from participating tenants. Each sip brings you closer to winning a Suzuki S-Presso GL MT, turning ordinary coffee runs into something truly memorable.
Running until April 10, the Sip & Win Promo invites caffeine enthusiasts to slow down, discover new café favorites, and enjoy the vibrant coffee scene across SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan. Whether you prefer a bold espresso, a creamy latte, or an iced pick-me-up, your coffee moments could lead to a rewarding surprise. Because at SM, coffee is more than part of your routine. It is an experience worth savoring and celebrating. Visit SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan today!
If there’s one thing quietly taking over 2026 vision boards, it’s travel. The kind that comes with stamped passports, airport selfies, and stories you’ll retell for years. But before the dream trip comes the real challenge: packing without the panic. The fear of forgetting something important or bringing too much is real. Good news: SM just made packing feel less like a chore and more like part of the adventure.
Here is a smarter, stress-free way to pack, curated with travel essentials you can easily find at SM.
Keep Your Must-Haves Organized
Your trip does not begin without documents. Passport, visa, boarding pass, travel insurance, and accommodation details should be kept together. A water-resistant envelope from SM Stationery or National Bookstore keeps everything safe, organized, and easy to reach. Bonus points if you save digital copies on your phone too.
Comfort Is the Real Luxury
Long flights can be unforgiving. A flexible travel pillow from Miniso helps prevent stiff necks and awkward sleeping positions. Add an eye mask and suddenly economy seating feels a little more first class.
Mix, Match, Repeat
Overpacking is the fastest way to excess baggage fees. The trick is choosing clothes that work together. Think classic jeans from Levi’s paired with a white top from Uniqlo. Stick to basics, bring extra innerwear in neutral colors, and leave space for shopping finds.
One Shoe Rule
Wear your most versatile pair on travel day. Neutral sneakers from Hush Puppies work with almost any outfit. Pack lightweight slippers from Havaianas for beach days, hotel walks, or quick errands.
Downsize Your Toiletries
Everything should be travel-size. Transfer your essentials into compact containers from Beabi. Shampoo, skincare, hygiene items, and grooming tools all fit better when they are streamlined and leak-proof.
Skincare and Makeup, But Smarter
Looking good helps you feel confident on the go. Sunscreen and lip balm from Watsons are musts. Add lightweight makeup essentials like skin tint, blush, and setting spray for quick touch-ups without the heavy kit.
Always Be Weather-Ready
Rain or shine, a foldable umbrella from The SM Store belongs in your bag. It is one of those items you never regret bringing.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Pack basic medicines for headaches, motion sickness, allergies, and stomach issues. A small first-aid kit from Watsons can be a trip saver when emergencies pop up.
Power Up Anywhere
Different countries mean different sockets. A universal adapter from Ace Hardware solves that problem instantly. Add a power bank, extra cables, and a mini fan so your devices and your patience never run out.
Pack It All in Style
All these essentials deserve luggage that looks good and lasts long. Find sturdy, aesthetic options at The SM Store in SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela.
Packing does not have to feel overwhelming. With thoughtful choices and reliable essentials from SM, you can focus less on what you forgot and more on the experience waiting for you. For more travel inspiration and practical tips, follow SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan on Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram.
Food lovers in Antipolo have more reasons to linger, explore, and indulge as SM Center Antipolo Downtown welcomes three exciting new food tenants, each offering a distinct experience that turns everyday mall visits into flavorful adventures.
From artisanal coffee with a playful twist to beloved Filipino favorites hot off the grill and oven, these new dining spots invite everyone to eat, sip, and savor.
At SM Center Antipolo Downtown, foodies can explore a mix of flavors and experiences, from Block Coffee on the 2nd Level, a quirky tuktuk-inspired café serving bold espressos, creamy lattes, and refreshing iced drinks, to Bacolod Chicken Inasal on the Ground Level, offering smoky, juicy, flame-grilled chicken and Negrense cuisine that’s perfect for family meals or quick comfort food, and Bulawan Panaderya, a local-style bakery filling the mall with the aroma of freshly baked breads and pastries ideal for merienda, pasalubong, or simple everyday treats.
With the arrival of Block Coffee, Bacolod Chicken Inasal, and Bulawan Panaderya, SM Center Antipolo Downtown continues to grow as a must-visit food destination in the Antipolo City. Together, these new spots add more flavor to every mall visit.
Drop by, explore these new eats, and make your next mall visit a delicious discovery. Come hungry, take your time, and enjoy every stop at SM Center Antipolo Downtown.
(L-R) Mynt group head of new businesses Winsley Bangit, Oona Insurance Corporation founder and CEO Abhisek Bhatia, Fuse Financing Inc. president and CEO Tony Isidro, and Oona Insurance Corporation president Ninoy Rollan
Fuse Financing Inc. (Fuse), the lending arm of GCash, is now giving free insurance coverage to GLoan borrowers with GLoan Protect. Available for a limited time, this newest feature provides borrowers with free loan and health insurance for every GLoan disbursement worth a minimum of P500, underwritten by Oona Insurance Corporation. This free insurance will waive pending loan balance in case of sudden customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, and provide resources to recover from medical emergencies.
Life and health emergencies can strike unexpectedly. For many Filipinos, sudden medical expenses or unexpected urgent costs can quickly lead to financial distress. Hospitalization and medical costs often result in heavy debt, while the lack of insurance leaves families with limited options to recover financially.
“Oftentimes, Filipinos don’t think of insurance until it’s too late,” said Tony Isidro, president and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash. “With the free insurance, we’re making sure that every time someone gets a GLoan, they also get a safety net. It’s our way of helping users feel more secure and protected without them having to spend extra.”
By integrating protection into GLoan, GCash—through Fuse and GInsure, the digital insurance platform of GCash with inclusive insurance products across 11 categories including health, life, accident, travel, vehicle, and more —offers borrowers added peace of mind and a safety net against life’s uncertainties.
Under GLoan Protect, the free health insurance covers a hospitalization allowance given to all eligible users who avail of a GLoan worth a minimum amount of P500 moving forward. Users can claim a minimum of P500 or up to 10% of the total loan value when they get confined in the hospital for a minimum stay of 3 days.
The loan insurance benefit is automatically activated once a customer receives their loan proceeds from GLoan, and coverage remains constant and valid until the end of the loan term even when the customer fully pays off their loan earlier than the loan’s due date. In case of customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, beneficiaries will receive the remaining loan value, and the remaining balance will be waived and settled.
The policy will automatically appear in the GInsure dashboard, making the process simple and familiar for borrowers. Claims can be filed through the same steps used for other GInsure products.
“We see this synergy between Fuse and GInsure as part of our mission to reimagine what finance can do for every Filipino,” said Winsley Bangit, group head of new businesses at Mynt, the parent company of GCash. “By combining credit and insurance on a single service, we’re pushing the boundaries of digital innovation to give Filipinos not just access to funding, but also the protection they deserve. It’s another step toward building a more inclusive and resilient financial ecosystem.”
GCash made this initiative possible in partnership with Oona Insurance Corporation, a wholly-owned company by Oona Philippines Holdings Corporation (OPHC), actively expanding into health and digital-first solutions that meet the needs of today’s consumers. Through this partnership, GCash is bringing essential protection to more Filipinos by integrating coverage directly into its widely used digital services.
“Our mission at Oona is to make protection part of everyday life, not something out of reach. Partnering with Fuse and GCash shows how insurance can be embedded seamlessly into the financial services people already use, from borrowing to everyday transactions. By making coverage automatic and effortless, we take an important step toward closing the protection gap and ensuring more Filipinos have the security to move forward with confidence.” said Abhishek Bhatia, founder and CEO of Oona Insurance.
This added benefit strengthens GLoan’s role as more than just a lending option. It becomes a tool that provides quick access to funds and supports Filipinos in building resilience against emergencies.
“This is about giving our users peace of mind,” Isidro said. “When someone takes out a loan, they’re usually thinking about solving an immediate need. By adding free insurance, we’re also helping them prepare for the unexpected. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in protecting families from unforeseen circumstances,” Isidro concluded.
Through this enhanced offering, GCash continues to push its mission of financial inclusion — ensuring more Filipinos have access to services that can improve their financial security in both the short and long term.
GLoan Protect is now available to new GLoan transactions for a limited time starting on January 16 until March 31, 2026. Borrowers should be Filipino citizens, aged 21-65, fully-verified GCash users with a minimum loan approved and disbursed amount of PHP 500, and at least one month loan tenor.
For more information about GLoan and its free insurance benefit, please visit https://help.gcash.com.
A go-to spot for food trips and everyday gala, SM City Masinag continues to be the most-preferred food destination in lower Antipolo, now made even better with new dining additions that fit every kind of mall visit. From quick sweet treats to satisfying comfort meals, these new spots give you more reasons to stay longer and enjoy the day.
Perfect for sweet cravings on the go, Conti’s arrives at SM City Masinag, offering its well-loved cakes and pastries. Whether you’re picking up a dessert for home or rewarding yourself mid-gala, it’s an easy stop for classic Conti’s favorites—no sit-down required.
For casual dining that works for any kind of catch-up, Shakey’s serves its iconic pizzas, mojos, and comfort food staples. It’s ideal for barkada hangouts, family meals, or a relaxed break between errands while you continue exploring the mall.
Adding a fun local favorite is Taho Story, a kiosk that puts a playful spin on the Filipino classic. Enjoy soft taho paired with ice cream and other sweet toppings—perfect for a quick merienda or a light treat while strolling around the mall.
Rounding out the lineup is Kyu Kyu Ramen 99, serving warm and satisfying Japanese bowls with rich flavors. It’s a great stop when you’re craving something filling before heading back out to continue your gala.
With these new food stops, SM City Masinag reinforces its position as a vibrant dining hub in lower Antipolo—where shoppers can enjoy a mix of sit-down meals and on-the-go treats. Head to SM City Masinag and discover new food favorites on your next gala.
