Kathryn Bernardo Shares how She's making her Christmas more Special and 'Panalo'

Fresh from the blockbuster success of her recent movie, "Hello, Love, Again," TNT KaTropa Kathryn Bernardo is looking to make Christmas extra special by spending the holidays with her family.

“Ang importante naman ay ‘yung makakasama mo sa Pasko. We’ll keep it very simple, so you’re hopefully surrounded with love and good energy, and sana ‘yun yung makuha ko this year. This will be our first Christmas in our new house so nandito kami Christmas at New Year,” she said.

Kathryn revealed that this Christmas will be all about a simple dinner, exchange of gifts, and a family photo shot in their first Christmas in their new home.

“Hindi na kami makikipagsabay sa mga umaalis na tao this year. The past few months medyo dire-diretso ang work ko so I just want to stay home, get some rest, and then bond with my family. We’ll keep it very simple,” she said.

Kathryn’s ideal Christmas would not be complete if she couldn’t get hold of her friends and loved ones abroad, so she relies on her phone to easily stay connected through messages, impromptu catchups via video calls, and sharing of photos and videos real-time.

"We're very lucky dahil using our smartphones, it's so much easier now to get in touch with our KaTropas and loved ones to share the warmth of our love this Christmas - anytime and anywhere," Kathryn said.

"Sa simpleng pag-share ng greetings, stories, video messages, pwedeng gawing panalo ang Pasko kasama ang mga mahal natin sa buhay," she added.

Now, TNT subscribers around the country also have more reasons to connect with their  KaTropas this Christmas because the more they load up TNT SAYA ALL 99, the more entries they can earn and accumulate in the ongoing TNT Paskong Panalo Raffle Promo.

TNT subscribers have until Dec. 28 to join the exciting promo for a chance to be among the 5 lucky winners of Php1 million each in the grand raffle draw (TNT will draw one grand winner each from North and Central Luzon; NCR; South Luzon; Visayas; and Mindanao), making their Christmas extra special and memorable.  To join, TNT subscribers may simply text “RAFFLE” to 5858 and load TNT SAYA ALL 99.

Learn more about TNT Paskong Panalo at https://tntph.com/Pages/paskongpanalo2024.# 

Jollibee Group Foundation, DepEd to Expand Central Kitchen Model for School-based Feeding Program

Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara and Jollibee Group Foundation President Gisela Tiongson led the MOA signing ceremonies for the adoption of the central kitchen model for the school-based feeding program held at the Department of Education office on December 11, 2024. This partnership is expected to benefit thousands of students from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao in the next one and a half years. 

Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF), the social development arm of Jollibee Group, recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Education (DepEd) for the adoption of the central kitchen model for School-based Feeding Program (SBFP), which aims to alleviate hunger among school-aged children. DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara led the signing ceremonies with JGF President Gisela Tiongson at the DepEd office last December 11, 2024.

Under the said partnership, JGF will provide capacity building support to share its expertise on implementing the central kitchen model with partner public schools, local government units, and local partners under the JGF Busog, Lusog, Talino (BLT) Program. This partnership is expected to benefit thousands of students from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao in the next one and a half years.

The Foundation first launched the BLT Program in 2007, recognizing the need to address hunger, a key factor contributing to low school attendance and high drop-out rates among public elementary students. In 2016, with DepEd implementing the School-based Feeding Program (SBFP) nationwide, JGF transitioned its approach by focusing on the establishment of central kitchens, reinforcing its commitment to promoting better access to food. To date it has spearheaded the creation of 41 central kitchens nationwide, providing continuous support to DepEd’s SBFP. Since its inception, the program has served meals to over 270,000 students from the direct feeding approach and the shift to establishing central kitchens.  

“The BLT Kitchens centralize the preparation and distribution of meals, feeding thousands of students with less time and effort,” said JGF President Gisela Tiongson. “By working with DepEd and the support of the local government units, private institutions, and parent volunteers in utilizing the central kitchen model, we can help mitigate hunger and give students better chances of continuing their education.”    

Empowering facilitators

The Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) will also support the development of training centers for central kitchen management. Under the partnership, 15 of JGF’s existing BLT partner schools will serve as learning hubs for organizations aiming to establish their own central kitchens.

To ensure consistent and sustainable implementation, JGF will create guidebooks and learning video materials for DepEd personnel and BLT partners. These resources will help standardize processes and support the long-term success of the initiative. 

So far, twenty-nine DepEd Central and Regional personnel have participated in a four-day training led by JGF. These trained personnel will serve as coaches who will coordinate with local government units in setting up central kitchens for school and community feeding. They will also provide technical guidance on setting up and operating these central kitchens to ensure their sustainability and impact. 

PNP Shares Holiday Safety and Survival Tips

The Office of Communications and Electronics Services (CES) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) shared safety and survival tips for citizens during this hectic season of short and long trips, and merrymaking.

CES Director Police Brigadier General Warren Gaspar Tolito reminded citizens of the increased possibility of accidents and emergencies during the holidays, citing increased traffic, electrical overload, improper use of fireworks, and overindulgence in food and drinks as possible triggers for vehicular and medical emergencies.

General Tolito shared that the PNP can now better and more quickly respond to emergency calls in Metro Manila and provincial areas because of its enhanced E911 capabilities. Tolito said PNP first responders now make it to the emergency scene within five minutes, thanks to its new system powered by the same technology used in the United States and Europe.

According to General Tolito, the 911 Call Handling System from the United States lets the PNP respond to distress calls and provide emergency response in unprecedented speed with accurate pinpointing of location. PNP first responders can provide solutions and assistance within five minutes or less, depending on location. 

Citizens must remember only one number to dial – 911 -- on their cellphones or landlines, then Press 1. They will immediately be connected to the PNP who will be able to determine their exact location and deploy first responders within seconds. They will reach the scene within the prescribed 3-5 minute limit.

General Tolito advises everyone to keep calm and try to be as rational as possible. “Tell the person who answers what’s wrong, then share your name and location. The call handling technology will already be able to catch the contact details and pinpoint the exact location,” General Tolito said. 

Other information like specific areas of the building or property, the number of people affected, or access to the property will be helpful as well.

“If reporting a crime in progress, try to observe and gather as many details as possible: number of suspects involved, clothes worn, gender, hair cut or length of hair. If a vehicle is involved, make and color or license plates, if visible, will be very helpful,” he added.

“The holiday season is merry and busy but it is a challenging time for emergency call takers and responders. This is the time when accidents from drunk driving usually occur, fires break out due to neglected appliances or Christmas lights, and people suffer medical emergencies due to overindulgence or fireworks. Thefts and break-ins also happen, especially when the property is unoccupied,” Gen. Tolito said.

The most common cases that the PNP responds to are vehicular accidents, public disturbances, domestic violence, robbery, and theft.

He advises residents to lock and secure their homes and vehicles before leaving, keep lights on at night or even during the day to deter robbers, and exercise caution when answering the door.

“At the first sign of trouble, call 911, then press 1,” the General advised. “We answer almost all of our calls within 1 minute and will be ready to respond and ensure that your holidays are safe and enjoyable.”

The PNP’s quick-response operations are a direct result of the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) Revitalized Emergency 911 initiative, its CORE system powered by NGA 911 LLC, a leading 911 service provider of Next Gen Technology of the United States, General Tolito shared. 

A Creamy Discovery: Make Christmas Magically Budget-Friendly with the New Alaska All-Purpose Creamer

Christmas is the season of joy, love, and unforgettable feasts—but who says you need to splurge to make it extraordinary? This year, discover the secret to turning your family’s requested creamy dishes into budget-friendly holiday showstoppers: the all-new Alaska All-Purpose Creamer.

Loved by 9 out of 10 Filipino moms, Alaska All-Purpose Creamer is the madiskarteng nanay’s ticket to transforming everyday ingredients into rich, flavorful creations that bring warmth and excitement to any Christmas table. With its velvety creaminess and versatility, this new pantry essential is perfect for both sweet and savory recipes—making it the ultimate ingredient for a truly magical Noche Buena.

“Hindi naman kailagan na napakalaki dapat ng budget mo para maging special ang handaan sa Pasko,” says Grace Tanfelix whose lifelong passion for cooking has blossomed into a thriving career in content creation. “Kailangan mo lang maging madiskarte sa pagpili ng mga ingredients na gagamitin sa pagluluto.”

The Sipo Egg is a holiday favorite, a classic Kapampangan dish of quail eggs, shrimp, ham, and veggies in a thick, creamy sauce. “P’wede naman din na gamitin mo na lang kung anong meron ka sa bahay tulad ng leftover chicken breast or Vienna sausage,” Grace suggests. “For the sauce naman, I recommend using Alaska All-Purpose Creamer. Sakto kasi ‘yong consistency niya para sa Sipo Egg tapos masarap na siya even on its own. Siguradong taob ang rice cooker mo!”

 

No Christmas celebration is complete without a touch of something sweet, and here is Ang Cooking Ina, Hazel Cheffy, sharing the ultimate dessert hack.

“Paborito ko talaga ang creamy desserts tuwing Pasko,” Hazel shares. “As in the creamier, the better. That is why I love using Alaska All-Purpose Creamer. Ang lakas din kasi talaga niyang maka-special ng pagkain tapos mura pa. I can easily whip up a huge batch of fruit salad, buko pandan, or my famous banana cream cake para din sa mga bibisita sa amin nang hindi gumagastos ng malaki.”

 

With Alaska All-Purpose Creamer, you can serve your family and friends’ most requested and favorite holiday dishes bursting with flavor and holiday cheer—all while staying on budget. Available in leading groceries and supermarkets nationwide for only Php 45. You can also find Alaska All-Purpose Creamer online via their official Lazada and Shopee stores. 

Smart Philippine Tourist eSIM now comes with Unlimited Data for Returning OFWs, Foreign Tourists

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has announced that its Smart Philippine Tourist eSIM now comes with unlimited data, making it easier for returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and foreign tourists to enjoy fast and reliable connectivity while traveling around the country.

For only Php1,599, the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIM comes with unlimited data and unlimited local calls and texts valid for 30 days, covering all users' connectivity needs for a worry-free travel experience.

Those who prefer a fixed amount of data may still get the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIM for only P599. It comes with 24 GB of data, along with unlimited local calls and texts to all networks, and is valid for 30 days.

Designed for returning OFWs, foreign tourists

Now available on the Smart Online Store and select Smart Stores nationwide, the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIMs are explicitly designed for tourists to enjoy local rates for data, calls, and texts, eliminating the usual concerns about high roaming fees or limited Wi-Fi access.

Activating the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIM is also simple and hassle-free. Because there is no physical SIM card, you can skip the often-tedious process of swapping or changing your primary physical SIM with a local SIM.

Fast and reliable connectivity on your holiday travels

With the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIMs, you can enjoy fast and reliable connectivity while navigating through bustling cities using your go-to apps, search practical tips online while exploring remote islands, or book rides and tours on the go.

You can also effortlessly post photos of your adventures on social media, stream your favorite movies and series during your downtime, and connect with local businesses or emergency services when needed.

If Bonifacio Global City, Taguig is on your itinerary, the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIMs also enable you to enjoy Smart 5G Max, Smart’s leveled-up 5G connectivity in the area marked by faster upload and download speeds and ultra-low latency.

The Smart Philippine Tourist eSIMs are powered by Smart’s superior mobile network, which covers 97% of the Philippine population and is supported by the country’s largest integrated network.

From Boracay’s world-renowned beaches to Palawan’s picture-perfect lagoons to Manila’s heritage sites, the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIMs guarantee a worry-free and connected holiday. Order them now here.  

Unwrap Innovative Tech and Style with Exclusive Deals at the ASUS Share 2024 Christmas Sale

PASIG CITY, Philippines, December 4, 2024 – ASUS Philippines is once again kicking-off the holiday season with the ASUS Share 2024 Christmas Sale, bringing together the latest in technology and style. From December 5, 2024 to January 31, 2025, enjoy exclusive deals on the best ASUS laptops and ROG devices, and enjoy matching them with the newest kicks from Sole Academy – Philippines’ premium shoe store. 

Celebrate the season of giving with up to PHP 5,000 off shoes from Sole Academy when purchasing eligible ASUS products. Whether upgrading to an ASUS AI PC, an ASUS Lumina OLED or ROG Nebula Display-powered tech, or stepping up personal style, this holiday sale delivers the ultimate Christmas gift to begin a prosperous and stylish 2025. Complete Christmas wish lists with these incredible bundles and begin to experience the future of innovation now!

ACHIEVE EFFORTLESS PRODUCTIVITY AND STYLE WITH THE BEST ASUS LAPTOPS

The innovative ASUS Zenbook AI Laptops are ready to help get work done effortlessly. The thin and light  Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) perfectly pairs performance and style with its functional aesthetics and superior AI power. Its chassis features the new, innovative ASUS Ceraluminum™, the industry-leading Intel Core Ultra 7 processor (Series 2), and Intel Arc graphics that delivers up to 48 NPU TOPS. Its 14-inch 3K 120 Hz ASUS Lumina OLED touchscreen display delivers lifelike visuals with outstanding color and HDR performance. For everyday productivity and entertainment needs, the Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3405) is a reliable AI laptop. Delivering premium portability, this OLED laptop features the AI-powered Intel Core Ultra 7 processor and true-to-life 3K ASUS Lumina OLED display. 

For those who lead a more active lifestyle and productivity, the comprehensive ASUS Vivobook S AI lineup is the perfect partner. With a wide variety of screen sizes to choose from, it’s not hard to match these ultraportable laptops with any sneakers. For the 14-inch girls and boys, the Vivobook S 14 (S5406) carries an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor (Series 2), an Intel Evo-certified, a built-in 47 TOPS NPU, and an ultraportable profile. For those who prefer a 15-inch display, the Vivobook S 15 (S5507) is the best bet. It features up to a Snapdragon X Elite processor, incredible portability, and a longer battery lifespan and battery life of up to 18+ hours. Lastly, for power users who live large can do so with the Vivobook S 16 (M5606), powered by a lightning-fast AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 processor with a built-in NPU capable of 50 TOPS of AI performance. Plus, it features an elegant all-metal body that houses up to 24 GB of memory, and a 1 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. 

Purchases of any ASUS AI Laptop will come with PHP 5,000 Sole Academy e-vouchers, to help complete your work and style. 

Unlock next-level productivity with the ASUS Vivobook 16 (X1605, M1605) and its stunning three-sided NanoEdge 16-inch display with a 16:10 aspect-ratio, its mega-sized touchpad that gives maximum room for fingers, and its durability of MIL-STD-810H US military-grade standard. These Vivobook Classic laptops come with PHP 3,000 Sole Academy e-vouchers for new kicks in the new year. 

Users can also opt for the classic 14-inch display or the bigger 15-inch alternative of the Vivobook 14/15 (X1405, M1405, X1505) or the Vivobook Go 14/15 (E1404, E1504). These daily drivers feature thoughtful designs with the 180-degree lay-flat hinge that allows easy collaboration and sharing, a full-size ASUS ErgoSense keyboard, and US MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability. Get any of these Vivobook Classic and Go Series laptops during the Christmas Sale with PHP 2,000 Sole Academy e-vouchers! 

Some ASUS Desktops and All-in-One (AiO) PCs are joining the Christmas festivities. The highly efficient ASUS S5 Mini Tower (S501) and space-saving ASUS A3402 AiO will be available along with up to PHP 3,000 Sole Academy e-vouchers.

GAME HARD, LOOK SHARP WITH ROG AND TUF GAMING DEVICES

The ROG Zephyrus G14 (GA403) and Zephyrus G16 (GU605) redefine the holiday season by offering a combination of cutting-edge gaming performance and stylish practicality. The Zephyrus G14, a sleek and portable gaming laptop, features an AMD Ryzen 9 processor and up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, delivering high-quality 3K 120Hz ROG Nebula visuals. Meanwhile, the Zephyrus G16 combines Intel Core Ultra processors with a 16-inch 240Hz ROG Nebula Display with OLED, ensuring vibrant clarity and fluid responsiveness. These models are perfect for those seeking the best gaming laptops this Christmas and come with a PHP 5,000 Sole Academy e-voucher, making them ideal gifts for gamers looking to elevate their tech and style.

The TUF Gaming A14 (FA401) joins the lineup as a robust and reliable gaming laptop, featuring military-grade durability, an AMD Ryzen AI 9 Series processor with up to 50 TOPS AI performance, and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 GPU. Lightweight yet powerful, this 14-inch laptop adapts seamlessly between gaming and productivity, making it one of the best gaming laptops for versatile gamers who also need peak AI requirements. Each purchase includes a PHP 5,000 Sole Academy e-voucher, merging high performance with urban style for the perfect season’s package.

For those craving powerhouse capacity, the ROG Strix Series G18 (G814) and G16 (G614), along with the Strix SCAR 18 (G834), deliver high-speed gaming with Intel Core 14th Gen processors and advanced cooling systems. With refresh rates of up to 240Hz, these laptops cater to hardcore gamers seeking the best gaming laptops for competitive play. Each purchase includes a PHP 3,000 Sole Academy e-voucher, combining exceptional gaming capabilities with a stylish Christmas upgrade.

The versatile ROG Flow X13 (GV302) is a compact and adaptable gaming laptop powered by AMD Ryzen 9 processors. Its 165Hz ROG Nebula Display ensures breathtaking visuals for gaming, creative work, or entertainment. This lightweight powerhouse comes with a PHP 3,000 Sole Academy e-voucher, offering the perfect combination of innovative tech and trendy style for the season.

Finally, the ROG Ally (RC71L) and ROG Ally X (RC72LA) push the boundaries of portable gaming, delivering exceptionally with AMD Ryzen Z1 series processor. Perfect for gaming on the go, these devices are top choices for those seeking compact, high-performing alternatives to traditional laptops. Both come with PHP 2,000 Sole Academy e-vouchers, making them thoughtful Christmas gifts for gamers and style enthusiasts alike.

Select ROG desktops, including the ROG Strix GT15 and ROG G22CH, are also part of the ASUS Share 2024 Christmas Sale. Purchases of these models come with up to PHP 5,000 worth of Sole Academy e-vouchers, combining ultimate gaming performance with stylish holiday perks!

ASUS SHARE 2024 CHRISTMAS SALE

Experience these exclusive deals at the ASUS Share 2024 Christmas Sale! Visit any Official ASUS and ROG Stores, Accredited Retailers, and Online Shops nationwide to grab amazing bundles on the must-have gadgets. To learn more about the ASUS Share 2024 Christmas Sale and its participating products, visit: https://ph.asus.click/christmasshare2024.

To redeem the Sole Academy vouchers, simply follow these steps:

1. Buy any of the eligible products from ASUS and ROG Stores, Accredited Retailers, and Online Shops nationwide within December 5, 2024 – January 31, 2024.

2. Go to the official ASUS Share 2024 Website and register, be ready to provide the required information and documents.

3. Wait for verification within 5-14 business days and receive the bundle within 45 business days!

All participating laptops and handheld gaming devices come with the ASUS’ award-winning Quality and Service package, which includes a free 2-year warranty for the products – promising peace of mind for every purchase. Select gadgets are available with Home Credit, making it even easier to enjoy these premium devices with flexible installments for as low as 0% interest. For more updates on the ASUS Share 2024 sale, including the newest laptops and exclusive offers, check out the official ASUS Philippines Facebook page. 

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-208360 Series of 2024