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The Christmas spirit is upon us—a season of connection, gratitude, love, and joy. It is also a time for giving, but equally important, it is an opportunity to prioritize your well-being and financial future. With year-end bonuses coming in, the temptation to splurge on gifts and celebrations is strong. However, making thoughtful decisions can help nurture both your financial and personal well-being.

Here are some practical tips to help you spend your bonus wisely:

1. Save First, Spend Later

Start by setting aside a portion of your bonus for savings. Building an emergency fund or adding to your nest egg ensures you are prepared for life’s uncertainties while fostering peace of mind.

2. Prioritize Your Health and Wellness

Your health is your greatest wealth. You can also use your hard-earned money to enroll in fitness programs, try new wellness therapies, or stock up on healthy food options. Remember, investing in your physical and mental well-being is a gift that keeps giving.

3. Practice Self-Love

Amid the season’s hustle, take time to care for yourself. Pamper yourself with experiences that bring joy and relaxation, such as a spa day, a short retreat, or a new hobby. A healthy dose of self-love enhances your overall happiness and prepares you to give your best to others.

4. Pay Off Debts

Use your bonus by clearing high-interest debts such as credit card balances or loans. Reducing financial burdens now gives you a fresh, stress-free start for the new year.

5. Plan for Financial Growth

Channel your bonus into investments that can grow your wealth. Explore opportunities such as life insurance policies with investment components to achieve your financial goals.

• Stocks, a high-risk, high-reward option where you can flex your investing muscle a little more.

• Real estate where you can check if your bonus can cover downpayment for a condominium or lot.

6. Give the Gift of Financial Security to Loved Ones

This season, consider meaningful gifts that last not only for yourself but also for your loved ones. A life insurance plan or wellness coverage can provide long-term peace of mind. It’s a thoughtful way to show how much you care by ensuring your family’s future is protected.

7. Choose the Right Partner for your Own Financial Wellness Journey

Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. is here to help you maximize your bonus while prioritizing your health, wellness, and financial security. Our comprehensive insurance plans are designed to safeguard your future while enabling you to focus on what truly matters

This holiday season, let self-love, financial wellness, and thoughtful planning guide your spending. With Sun Life Grepa, you can turn your bonus into a foundation for a brighter and healthier future. To learn more about Sun Life Grepa’s life insurance and wellness programs, visit www.sunlifegrepa.com or contact a Sun Life Grepa Financial Advisor or visit any RCBC branch today.

Get up to PHP 50 in cashback when you use GCredit as your pantawid for bills payment and supermarket transactions. Subject to eligibility. Terms and conditions apply.

The ‘Ber months can be exciting yet financially challenging with unexpected expenses and looming deadlines. However, looking forward to the joy of celebrating with loved ones makes it all worthwhile. And with extra perks, the financial burden can be eased.

To help Filipinos get through gipit moments, finance super app GCash offers GCredit, powered by CIMB, an always-ready credit line of up to PHP 50,000. If you’re eligible, you can use GCredit when you need to borrow for your essentials. GCredit is subject to eligibility. Terms and conditions apply

And as an early pamasko, GCash offers up to PHP 50 in cashback for bills payments and supermarket transactions made using GCredit – not only providing a pantawid kapag gipit, but also giving you back extra! GCredit is subject to eligibility. Terms and conditions apply

GCredit Cashback

Gipit sa pambayad ng bills? You can use GCredit to pay for select billers on the GCash app. From Sept. 13 to Nov. 30, 2024, you get PHP 50 in cashback straight to your wallet when you spend at least PHP 1,500 using GCredit to pay for bills. GCredit is subject to eligibility. Terms and conditions apply

Gipit sa pang-grocery? You can also use GCredit to pay at select supermarkets. For a minimum spend of PHP 1,500 using GCredit for supermarket transactions from Oct. 19 to Nov. 30, 2024, you get a 2% cashback (capped at PHP 50) straight to your GCash wallet. GCredit is subject to eligibility. Terms and conditions apply

‘Pag gipit na tuwing petsa de peligro, GCredit can be used for bill payments, online purchases, and in-store QR transactions at select merchants. If you’re eligible, there’s no need to disclose your income and submit supporting documents and collateral.

Interest is prorated as low as 0.17% daily, which means you get charged a lower interest if you pay earlier. GCredit is subject to eligibility. Terms and conditions apply

If you find yourself in a tight spot, know that you can count on GCredit as your reliable pantawid. And with an extra cashback, ​​get a headstart on the holiday season with a much-needed financial boost. GCredit is subject to eligibility. Terms and conditions apply

For more details, see new.gcash.com/promos/gcredit-supermarket-cashback and new.gcash.com/promos/gcredit-bills-pay-promo

Bills Cashback promo runs from Sept. 13 to Nov. 30, 2024.
DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-202109 Series of 2024

Supermarket Cashback promo runs from Oct 19 to Nov. 30, 2024.

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-202568 Series of 2024

GCredit is powered by CIMB Bank Philippines, Inc

GCash is supervised by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

CIMB Bank Philippines, Inc. is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

You can access GCredit on the GCash dashboard or by tapping the “Borrow” button. GCredit is subject to eligibility. Terms and Conditions apply. No GCash yet? Download na ang GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation (Sun Life Investment Management) celebrates its outstanding performance at the Asset Benchmark Research Awards, solidifying its position as a leading force in the investment industry. 

The prestigious recognition program, hosted by The Asset, a leading financial information provider, honored Sun Life Investment Management as among the Top Investment House under the Local Currency Bond. Meanwhile, its Fixed Income Portfolio Manager, Chelsea Vanessa Lim, was awarded the top two spot as the Most Astute Investor for Local Currency Bonds and the number one for G3 Bonds. The awarding ceremony was held on November 7, 2024 at The Four Seasons Singapore.  

“We are grateful to accept these prestigious recognitions that show our strong entry into the industry,” says Michael Enriquez, President of Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation. “With the dedication and commitment of our people, we are confident that we will grow exponentially, serve even more Clients, and contribute to the dynamic Philippine investment landscape.” 

Know more about SLIMTC and its products and services by visiting www.sunlife.co/SLIMTC. 

The Christmas season is all about rewarding ourselves that we deserve and making life easier for our loved ones. From hosting a celebration to creating a cozy home, TCL Electronics offers innovative Whitelines products that will help you to enhance your holiday season.

For those seeking comfort and convenience, TCL Electronics has made your home life easier and smarter with their innovative Whitelines products to enhance your lifestyle.

TCL’s Whitelines embody the brand’s commitment to innovation and design. These appliances, including air conditioners, washing machines, and refrigerators, offer a perfect blend of style and functionality.

Now, it’s about time to make smart choices in terms of upgrading your appliances, turning your home into a sanctuary of cool comfort. TCL makes it easier for you to achieve this.

Make your trip now to the nearest appliance store and do your checklist on what you want to have.

Unwrap Cool Comfort

When looking for an aircon, you always have countless choices that offer you a whole lot on your plate. But the top consideration is going back to the main priority to bring cool air inside your home.

TCL air conditioners not only cool your home but also prioritize your family’s health and provide a pristine, bacteria-free atmosphere for a healthier, more comfortable home. When you say healthier, TCL has the CoolPro | FreshIN 2.0 Breathe+, Live Cool Inverter Air Conditioner that has a Visible Air Quality Display function that ensuring every breath is fresh and pure.

Bigger Storage for Bigger Celebrations

Almost everyone is aspiring to have bigger refrigerators. The spacious TCL Double Door Refrigerator and the flexible TCL Free Built-In Refrigerator that both adapt to all your needs, offering convenient stacking solutions and flexibility. It also ensures that all your food stays fresh longer and no holiday food leftovers will be wasted.

Effortless Laundry, More Time for Fun

Laundry doesn’t have to be a chore. TCL’s washing machines feature Smart Washing and Soft Caring technologies to tackle even the toughest stains, leaving you with stress-free laundry time and more time to enjoy the holiday season. Choose from Top Load or Front Load models to find the perfect fit for your home.

All set now to do your holiday shopping and tick off the things you need. Go ahead and experience TCL’s smart innovations this Christmas season.

For more information on TCL Whitelines appliances, visit the TCL website at https://www.tcl.com/ph/en.

• Over half (51%) of those living with diabetes in the Philippines report a ‘severe’ or significant’ financial impact on their lives, with 89% unable to consistently afford the right care. 
• 81% of non-diabetics are either ‘very concerned’ or ‘concerned’ about the financial burden that would result from a type 2 diabetes diagnosis.
• 69% of diabetics report a negative impact on their mental health.
• Yet 40% of the population have never had blood sugar screening.

Manila, Philippines (November 2024) – New research by Sun Life Asia reveals the hidden cost of living with type 2 diabetes and the condition’s financial and mental health impacts, highlighting an urgent need for education, prevention, and access to care.

Sun Life’s survey, titled Healthy Habits, Healthier Futures: Preventing Diabetes in Asia, interviewed 3,647 people across Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam, about their awareness of diabetes risk factors, treatment and prevention. The survey included 600 people currently living with type 2 diabetes, providing an insight into life with the condition.

This follows an epidemic rise in diabetes cases in recent decades, with more than 540 million people living with the condition worldwide. More than 90 million of those are in Southeast Asia where the number of adults with diabetes is projected to soar to 152 million by 2045, presenting a serious public health challenge. Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes, accounting for around 90% of global cases.

The research reveals that despite soaring case numbers, few people are actively taking steps to lower their risk of developing diabetes or learn more about the condition and for those with diabetes, the impacts are not just physical.

Hidden financial and mental health impacts of type 2 diabetes

In addition to the physical cost of diabetes, the condition has a significant financial cost, preventing many people from accessing the right healthcare. Over half (51%) of those living with diabetes in the Philippines report a ‘severe’ or significant’ financial impact on their lives, with 89% unable to consistently afford the right care. 

Financial concerns about diabetes are even more prevalent than health-related concerns. 81% of non-diabetics are either ‘very concerned’ or ‘concerned’ about the financial burden that would result from a type 2 diabetes diagnosis, highlighting the need for the protection of health insurance.

The research also uncovered the hidden mental health impact of the disease, with 69% of diabetics reporting a negative impact on their mental health post-diagnosis.  This is compounded by social impacts experienced at home and at work; 69% of people with diabetes report feeling judged by family and friends after being diagnosed and 70% of diabetics have faced judgment or bias at work related to their condition.

Few people practice preventative measures

Diabetes risk continues to grow across Asia, but only 45% of Filipinos attend annual screenings for type 2 diabetes and 40% have never been screened, resulting in unexpected diagnoses and preventable cases.

Only a small minority consistently practice prevention measures such as maintaining a healthy diet, monitoring weight and blood sugar, and exercising regularly. One in ten people do not ensure their children eat a healthy diet, and 25% don’t encourage their children to exercise. 

Many people struggle to understand nutritional information. 30% find it difficult to identify hidden sugars and fats in their diet, while 24% struggle to understand the impacts of different foods on their blood sugar levels.

Regular exercise, healthy eating and early screening has the power to reduce diabetes risks but depends on improving awareness. Since 2012, Sun Life has committed over $53 million to fight against diabetes globally through strategic partnerships supporting the most vulnerable communities.

Through local partnerships with hospitals, medical institutes and foundations across the region, Sun Life is providing access to blood glucose screenings, nutrition advice and counselling, exercise programmes, diabetes care packages and local education programs for children, which can empower people to monitor their diabetes risks.

Physical inactivity is increasing diabetes risks

A decline in physical activity, compounded by a lack of safe exercise spaces, is increasing diabetes risks across Asia.  More than a quarter (27%) of respondents in the Philippines report decreased exercise over the past five years, with younger people more likely to report a decrease. Among those reporting insufficient exercise, 54% cited a lack of access to safe, quality exercise spaces in their local areas.

Having accessible exercise spaces is vital to keep people active, healthy, and engaged. Since 2023, Sun Life has partnered with social change foundation Beyond Sport to launch Hoops + Health, a community programme that inspires activity and healthy living through basketball by improving community access to courts and coaches across Asia. To date, Hoops + Health has helped more than 14,000 people in underprivileged communities to get active and enjoy sport.

Common myths prevail, underscoring the need for diabetes education

Diabetes is one of the most serious public health issues facing Asia, yet common myths about the condition prevail, mainly related to risk factors.

Nearly one in four people in the Philippines (23%) believe that type 2 diabetes only affects overweight individuals, 58% believe it is solely caused by excessive sugar consumption, and 65% think diabetes treatment always requires insulin injections.

The survey also found diabetics had a lack of risk awareness before their diagnosis. A total of 24% report they had a poor or very poor understanding of the condition prior to their diagnosis. Just under half of diabetics (45%) believed they were low risk or did not consider their risks at all before their diagnosis, while just 2% of diabetics believed they were high risk.

The findings show that misunderstandings about the risks and causes of diabetes can hinder prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment, making education on the topic essential.

Steven Ho, AVP, Medical Director, said: “Our research shows that it’s critical to address the notable knowledge gaps around diabetes – its risk factors, and the importance of early diagnosis and prevention. By promoting awareness and dispelling common myths, we can empower individuals to make informed health choices. Implementing preventative measures such as adopting healthier diets, engaging in regular exercise, and monitoring blood sugar levels, can significantly improve health outcomes and even lead to remission.”

Lack of understanding about type 2 diabetes treatment

Although there is no cure, medical professionals say many people can reverse diabetes within a year of diagnosis through positive lifestyle changes such as healthier food choices and more exercise. Adopting these lifestyle changes can maintain normal glucose levels without the need for insulin. However, there is limited awareness about the potential to reverse diabetes. Only 35% of Filipinos believe type 2 diabetes can be managed without medication.

Few diabetes sufferers are actively trying to reverse their condition. While 96% of diabetics believe remission is possible, most do not believe it is achievable within one year despite many medical professionals advising this is possible.

Awareness and Action

Empowering people to effectively manage their condition requires access to healthcare and medical advice, education on the latest management strategies, behavioural support for lifestyle changes, and accessible and affordable food and exercise options. 

Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer at Sun Life Philippines said: “Sun Life strives to help Filipinos live healthier lives, and diabetes awareness and prevention are among our priorities. This is why we are once again collaborating with the Institute of Studies on Diabetes Foundation, Inc. to sustain efforts we have already started in the past years.

As part of the collaboration, Sun Life and ISDFI will visit various communities to hold nutrition counseling, fitness activities, and diabetes screening, engaging as many as a hundred residents per area. Meanwhile, in Sun Life Barangay Health Stations built in remote areas in partnership with Health Futures Foundation, Inc., Diabetes Corners remain active in providing residents with ample guidance about the disease.

“It is our hope that this will inspire more communities to make diabetes prevention a shared goal,” Gonzalez-Chong said. “Moreover, to help address the financial impacts of having this illness, our financial literacy advocacy continues, sharing ways to develop good financial habits, build the necessary funds, and be financially secure even while managing diabetes. This is our commitment.”

The executive summary of the Healthy Habits, Healthier Futures survey is available here: https://sunlife.co/HealthyHabitsHealthierFutures

Taguig City, 27 November 2024 – In a continued drive to bring financial protection closer to more Filipinos, Pru Life UK has once again expanded its presence with the opening of more general agency offices across key regions in the country. This expansion aims to bolster the company’s commitment to making life insurance accessible to every Filipino household.

Following the announcement of seven new offices last month, Pru Life UK is adding more branches this November, strategically positioning itself to meet the increasing demand for insurance coverage in both urban centers and provincial districts.

New general agency offices to serve key locations

Pru Life UK’s newly inaugurated offices function to complement the company’s expanded network of more than 39,000 digitally enabled financial advisors. While digital skills enable financial advisors to reach a broader range of clients, Pru Life UK’s physical offices allow the company to establish its presence in various local communities, thus offering a seamless experience that adapts to Filipino clients’ varying preferences.

The newly opened offices are located at the following addresses:

• Alpine Summit Life Insurance Agency Inc. Unit 3302A, 33rd Floor, Tektite Towers West Condominium, Exchange Rd., Ortigas Center, San Antonio, Pasig City

• First Global Summit Life Insurance Agency, Inc. Unit 2207, Jollibee Plaza Condominium, F. Ortigas Jr. Road, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

• Aspire Summit Life Insurance Agency, Inc. Unit 2504, Corporate Finance Plaza, Ruby and Topaz Road, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

• Black Orcas Summit Life Insurance Agency, Inc. Unit 2004, 20th Floor, Antel Global Corporate Center, Julia Vargas Avenue, Ortigas Center, Brgy. San Antonio, Pasig City

• CG Central Peak Ace Life Insurance Agency Corp. 3rd Floor, M.A.D.E. Building, Capistrano Street, Cagayan De Oro City

• Triumfante Insurance Agency 2/F, Grace Homes Builders Supply, Tinago, Legazpi City

Enhancing the Filipino insurance experience

Pru Life UK continues to push boundaries in delivering innovative insurance solutions to fit the evolving needs of Filipino families. The company is constantly expanding its product portfolio, including the recently launched PRUMillion Flex, a 2-year-pay investment-linked insurance with flexible payment modes.

With a firm grasp on its position as the leading life insurer in the Philippines, Pru Life UK aims to deepen its engagement with underserved communities by bridging the financial inclusion gap. Through these additional office openings, Pru Life UK hopes to provide individuals from various walks of life with greater access to insurance plans that secure their families and investments.

For more information, visit https://www.prulifeuk.com.ph/.

[November 26, 2024] Gear up for a day of maximum fun and excitement as value mobile brand TNT takes its 5G connectivity to the “max” with a FREE show headlined by Joshua Garcia, Darren Espanto, Alexa Ilacad, and more on Nov. 29, Friday at Market! Market! in Taguig City.

Open to everyone, the TNT 5G MAX Masaya! event will also feature online celebrity Mimiyuuuh and performances by “It’s Showtime” host Jackie Gonzaga, singer-songwriter and rapper KZ Tandingan, and the hitmaker OPM band Lola Amour.

Experience TNT ‘MAX 5G’ first-hand

Aside from offering world-class performances, the TNT 5G MAX Masaya! event also features exciting activities at interactive booths called ‘SAYA 5G Zones”,’ which showcase TNT 5G Max’s fast and reliable connectivity.

For example, those into mobile gaming can put their skills to the test at the Unli 5G and Turbo ML Station, while those who love creating content can head to the Saya All TikTok Station to share their own version of trending videos.

Guests can also experience futuristic tech and even play with Huawei Robot Dog and AI Avatar Station.

To make sure they can enjoy a much better mobile experience powered by TNT 5G Max, guests can head to Upgrade Station to easily switch or upgrade to a TNT 5G SIM and top up with the TNT’s value-packed data offers.

Game-Changing Announcement

Amid all the fun activities, TNT is also set to make a huge announcement in line with its push to bring TNT 5G Max and its many benefits to more ordinary Filipinos – from browsing apps and websites in seconds, streaming ultra-high-definition videos seamlessly, uploading content in real-time, or playing high-bandwidth mobile games without lag.

“At TNT, we believe 5G should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we’re bringing 5G for All, allowing our customers to enjoy 5G connectivity even with our Panalo Load offers starting at just ₱10. We’re also excited to launch TNT’s most affordable 5G phone, priced below ₱4,000, making the benefits of 5G more accessible than ever” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, FVP and TNT Group Head for TNT.

“This is also our way of showing our gratitude to our customers who continue to make TNT the Philippines’ biggest mobile brand,” Manaloto added.

Learn more about TNT’s value-packed offers and fun-filled events, by following its official accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. #

Ookla Speedtest results of Smart and other networks during the Stray Kids concert last Satuday night at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.

Smart subscribers who flocked to the Philippine Arena in Bulacan last Saturday night for the much-anticipated Stray Kids concert enjoyed quite an advantage as Smart 5G posted the fastest download and upload speeds inside the world’s largest indoor arena.

Based on Ookla Speedtest results taken at 8:50 p.m. of Nov. 23, Saturday inside the concert venue, Smart 5G led with download speeds of up to 257 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 54.7 Mbps, enabling Smart users to stay connected online, access their go-to apps, and share their favorite concert moments in real time.


It can be recalled that Smart teamed up with its technology partners Huawei and Ericsson last year to expand and permanently optimize its LTE and 5G mobile network coverage in the country’s major event venues, such as the Philippine Arena, Smart-Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, and the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City to provide Filipinos with a world-class mobile experience.

As Thanksgiving approaches, SM Malls in the East are the perfect destinations for gathering with loved ones to enjoy hearty meals that blend Filipino flavors with global inspiration.

With a range of dining options from local comfort food to international dishes, these malls offer a variety of group meals and family feasts to make your celebration special. Here’s your guide to the best places to dine this Thanksgiving season.

Filipino Comfort Food and Classic Dishes

• Café Mary Grace at SM City Marikina, Masinag, and East Ortigas offers a cozy atmosphere with heartwarming dishes like pasta, entrees, signature cakes, and their famous cheese rolls and ensaymada—ideal for take-home treats.
• The Taste of Czaczacza at SM City San Mateo and Masinag puts a Filipino twist on Thanksgiving with reimagined traditional dishes, creative desserts, and indulgent cakes and donuts.
  
  
  
  
  Crispy Tripe Kare-Kare and Sinaing na Tuna, the Antipoleño favorites at Marison’s at SM City Masinag
   

• Marison’s at SM City Masinag serves Filipino favorites like Crispy Tripe Kare Kare, perfect for sharing and rich with local flavors for a memorable holiday meal.
• Giligan’s in SM Center Antipolo Downtown and Angono delivers classic Filipino platters with grilled seafood, Bulalo, crispy pata, and traditional dishes ideal for large group celebrations.

Global Comfort Cuisine, Perfect for Sharing

King Bee Chinese Restaurant at SM City Masinag offers a delightful feast with classic Chinese dishes like dim sum and Peking duck, ideal for a shared celebration.

Authentic Japanese feast at Boteyju in SM Center Angono, SM City Marikina, and SM City San Mateo

• Botejyu in SM City Marikina, San Mateo, and Angono serves its signature okonomiyaki and comforting Japanese favorites, offering a unique Thanksgiving dining experience.

• Vikings Buffet in SM City Marikina features an international spread with roasted meats, global sides, and an array of desserts, perfect for a grand Thanksgiving feast.
• La Casetta De Britt at SM City Taytay creates a cozy Italian-inspired dining experience with wood-fired pizzas, creamy pastas, and flavorful mains like Osso Buco and Roast Chicken, ideal for intimate family moments.
• Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken and Sauce Bar in SM City East Ortigas and Marikina serves flavorful Portuguese-inspired charcoal-grilled chicken, paired with a variety of sauces to suit every taste.
• Samgyupsalamat in SM City East Ortigas brings the sizzle with Korean barbecue and samgyeopsal offerings, complemented by a wide range of sides that cater to Filipino tastes.

Familiar Favorites for All Ages

• Shakey’s in SM Center Antipolo Downtown, SM City Marikina, and East Ortigas is a classic family favorite, offering its famous pizzas and hearty chicken meals in a welcoming setting, perfect for a relaxed holiday meal.
• Bonchon in SM City Masinag and SM City Taytay adds a flavorful twist with its signature Korean fried chicken and vibrant Korean-inspired dishes.

• Starbucks completes the holiday feast with your favorite drinks—whether a refreshing frappe, iced beverage, or hot coffee—paired with cakes and desserts for a sweet ending to your meal.

Celebrate Togetherness, Filipino-Style

This Thanksgiving, SM Malls in the East is your go-to destination for family feasts filled with love, laughter, and, of course, irresistible food. Celebrate the season of gratitude with flavors that feel like home and a dining experience that brings everyone closer together.

Plan your Thanksgiving feast today and let the giving of thanks begin at SM Malls in the East!