It’s 100 Days ‘til Christmas and it’s all about caring and giving at SM Supermalls

The past years have always had us counting down to the most wonderful time of the year when the ‘ber’ months roll in; Christmas carols fill the air, dazzling tree lights dot the streets, shopping for gifts becomes a sport, and everyone else goes on a diet to make way for Christmas feasts.

This year may not be as festive as previous years, but it will most certainly be more meaningful. SM showed us the most uplifting way to best celebrate the season with “100 Days of Caring”; featuring 100 days of spreading love, thoughtfulness, and care for one another and for the communities surrounding our favorite SM malls. The virtual event showcasing the pledges happened last Thursday, Sept 16, 2021 over FB Live and WatchSM on YouTube.

“100 days of Caring”. To kickstart the Christmas countdown, SM pledged to donate to over 10,000 beneficiaries, namely communities in need, hardworking SM employees, medical frontliners and dedicated delivery partners, among others. Some of the beneficiaries and their partner malls are as follows: 

• SM North EDSA is giving 100 pairs of World Balance rubber shoes to seniors from Graces Home for the Elderly in Quezon City.
• SM Megamall, The Podium, and SM Center Pasig chose delivery partners who will be recipients of 100 raincoats and rain boots.
• From SM Mall of Asia, 100 sets of care packages like face masks, face shields, Ensure milk, vitamins, supplements, and more, will be handed over to senior citizens within the community.
• SM Southmall chose SOS Children’s Villages as to receive various story and educational books.
• Metro Manila and Rizal malls chose several orphanages, namely: Associacion De Damas Filipinas, Bahay Aruga, White Cross Orphanage, and The Little Children’s Home to receive 100 toys and essential goods each, especially prepared by SM City Manila, SM City San Lazaro, SM City Sta. Mesa, SM City Taytay and SM Center Angono.
• In North Luzon, 100 Aeta families from Zambales and Tarlac will be given grocery packs by SM City Olongapo Downtown, SM City Olongapo Central, and SM City Tarlac; fishermen in Pangasinan will be handed with fishing supplies by SM City Rosales, SM City Urdaneta Central, and SM Center Dagupan; while select tricycle and jeepney drivers in Bulacan will be given 100 pairs of shoes by SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan.
• SM City Bacoor will give 100 brail books to the Deaf & Blind Foundation Philippines.
• In the Visayas, SM City Cebu will bring smiles to kids of Kythe Foundation with 100 toys; while SM City Iloilo will give 100 25kg sacks of rice to healthcare and peace & order frontliners. SM City Puerto Princesa on the other hand, will have 100 grocery bags to displaced tourism personnel.
• SM City Davao and SM Lanang Premier will be handing out 100 farming tools to local farmers; while SM City Butuan will be giving 100 Fiesta Food Packs to Por Cristo Foundation, Inc.

‘Gift’ for your mental health. Aside from our physical health being at risk during a pandemic, our mental health is also affected due to the stress and anxiety these times bring. And since SM believes in the value of taking care of our mental health, Dr Gia Sison, MD DPCOM gave a  ‘Call to Share’ talk during the virtual launch. Dr Gia Sison is a mental health advocate and co-founder of PH Leader Livestrong Foundation. Her talk centered on how to cope during this stressful time and still find hope in a better tomorrow.

100 voices that care. If there’s one thing that binds us all Filipinos together, it’s our passion and love for music. While we may not be allowed to have big gatherings this year, SM entertained the audience with the performance of the 3 Divas – Rahda, Frenchie and Bituin Escalante; later on joined by 100 artists, singers, and SM employees and stakeholders who came together to sing during the virtual launch on Sept 16.

We may be in the middle of a pandemic, times may be tough, and many of us may be physically apart, but let’s not forget what this season truly means. To view the event, go to WatchSM on YouTube.

For more information, bookmark www.smsupermalls.com and follow @smsupermalls on all social media accounts.

Blued hosts new platform for gay talents with “Super Idol”

This September, the gay social networking and dating app Blued is launching “ Super Idol ” a talent competition to showcase LGBTQ+ talents from around the globe.

“The year 2021 is shaping up to be a promising year for LGBTQ+ talents despite limitations set by the pandemic. Recently, famous drag personalities announced the premiere of two drag shows in the Philippines,” said Liam Lu, Head of Blued International. “This time, Blued is proud to host a new platform for even more gay talents with ‘Super Idol’.”

Blued is the world’s first LGBTQ+ app to introduce a live streaming feature in 2016. It also introduced Voice Chat Rooms and Quick Chat—functions for live audio conversations and video call speed dating, respectively.

Recently, the app launched its global #LiveYourPride campaign in celebration of this year’s Pride Month. Additionally, Blued Philippines celebrated gays of all shapes and stories through “Living My Gay Life,” a local campaign which featured notable personalities such as viral content creators Sassa Gurl and Pipay Kipay, along with filmmaker and HIV advocate Wanggo Gallaga.

Set to be hosted on the Blued app, “Super Idol” is an upcoming talent competition open to all its 60 million plus users worldwide. The grand winner, as well as active audiences, both stand a chance to win cash prizes of up to $22,000.

To join, aspiring contestants must post their entries on their social media, tag the official Blued account, and have prior access to Blued Live. Auditions run from September 6 to 8, 2021.

Among all registered hopefuls, 30 will be selected to perform a series of tasks in the semifinal round. From there, the top five contestants will compete for the title of Blued’s first “Super Idol.”

Actor and comedian Awra Briguela is also set to appear as a guest judge in the final round.

“Filipinos are known to be a pageant and talent show-loving people. This is evident in their active participation in both local and international competitions,” said Lu. “With ‘Super Idol,’ we hope that the next big Filipino LGBTQ+ talent will be able to showcase their unique brand of star power and charisma on a larger, global stage.”

From the colorful gay pageants of small barrios to the anticipated “Drag Cartel” shows of popular bars, LGBTQ+ talents have long been carving their own niche in the local scene. With the boom of more competitions like this both on television and online, Blued is also out to create and redefine its own safe space for talented Filipino gays—even in the time of the pandemic.

Those interested to join “Super Idol” may see the full mechanics here.

Calling all batang 90s: Jack ‘n Jill Roller Coaster just released a new flavor!

Remember Jack ‘n Jill Roller Coaster? Yes, that delicious and iconic ring-shaped potato snack continues to capture the hearts of Filipinos. Many Pinoys who fell in love with these cheesy playful rings will be thrilled to find out about its quirky new look and exciting new flavor -- barbecue!

Roller Coaster Barbecue comes in two sizes--solo pack for snack times by yourself, and buddy pack, which is perfect for sharing. Let the balanced sweet, savory, and smokey barbecue taste tickle your taste buds. Enjoy it as is, or pair it with your fave refreshing drink.

Universal Robina Corporation, the maker of Roller Coaster and other famous Jack 'n Jill snacks, released a barbecue variant to delight snack-loving Pinoys. What better way to surprise them than with a flavor that Filipinos especially love, which is why URC chose to make this new delicious creation.

Good call, yes? 

The classic Roller Coaster Cheddar Cheese also debuted its brand-new look that screams “Keep the Fun Rolling!” If you haven’t seen it yet, perhaps now is the time to grab a bag of these yummy chips and have yourself a playfully fun snack experience!

Jack ‘n Jill Roller Coaster snacks are available in Shopee, all leading supermarkets nationwide, and in select grocery apps. To know more, you may follow @RollerCoasterPH on Facebook.

This new meaty creation from Taco Bell is calling out to your beef-loving soul

 

What’s your go-to protein when dining at Taco Bell? Maybe you prefer the Mexican-style beef options. Maybe you are more for the equally tasty chicken-based dishes. Or maybe you love to chow down on some garnishing of juicy pork from time to time. But don’t go picking your ultimate fave meat just yet, because Taco Bell has cooked up something new that will surely shake things up for you, fellow meat lover!

Get ready for Taco Bell’s new Beef Carnitas protein option! Savor the taste of slow-cooked chunks of beef made all the more delicious by a delectable blend of tangy garlic sauce and a bit of sweetness, amping up the meatiness and bringing a new world of flavor to many of your Taco Bell favorites!

You can have your pick between two fan-favorite options, Quesadillas and Burritos. Enjoy Beef Carnitas nestled between layers of gooey melted three cheese blend and all wrapped up in a deliciously toasted flour tortilla with Taco Bell’s Beef Carnitas Quesadilla. You can also have this new protein option in your Burrito, made with a hearty bedding of rice, veggies, and the new Beef Carnitas! That’s more than just chunks of beef, that’s greatness in every bite!

Satisfy your cravings for a Mexican-inspired meal with Taco Bell! Prices start at just ₱159, and you can add ₱70 for Nacho Sprinkles and a 16oz soda to go with your meal.

If you’re looking for a meal to satisfy even the biggest craving, there are also two new Big Bell Box options to choose from featuring the new Beef Carnitas!

First is the Beef Carnitas Burrito Big Bell Box, which comes with 1 Beef Carnitas Burrito, 1 Crunchy Taco, a serving each of Nacho Sprinkles and Cinnamon Twists, and 16-oz soda, starting at P299. You can also go for the Beef Carnitas Quesadilla Big Bell Box, which comes
with 1 Beef Carnitas Quesadilla, a serving each of Fiesta Potatoes, Nacho Sprinkles, and Cinnamon Twists, and 16-oz soda, starting at P369.

This promo lasts only from August 24 to October 18, 2021, so don’t miss out on your chance to try this special offer from Taco Bell.

Head to the nearest Taco Bell restaurant to discover the wonderfully meaty Taco Bell Beef Carnitas Burrito and Quesadilla today. You may also call 8911-1111 to place your order and have it delivered to your doorstep. You can also enjoy these brand-new offerings with just a few taps on your smart device, as Taco Bell is available in GrabFood, Foodpanda, and Pick.A.Roo.

For more information about the promo as well as other deals and offers, like and follow Taco Bell on Facebook and Instagram.

Three Things You Didn’t Know You Can Do With ShopeePay

 

Can’t go out? No problem! With ShopeePay, not only can you pay for your online shopping purchases, you can also buy load and pay your bills right in the comfort of your home. With more brands, sellers, and shoppers embracing digitalization, ShopeePay makes it easier and more convenient for Filipinos to embrace the cashless lifestyle and maximize the power of digital payment alternatives.

With a growing network of partners, ShopeePay lets you do more with just a few taps. In addition to safe and secure digital payments, ShopeePay also offers users coins cashback for bills payments, discounted mobile load & data, ₱1 deals from select establishments, and other promos.

• Buy Load

With discounted load and data offers every day, stay connected with loved ones while staying on a budget. Enjoy 10% off on Globe, Smart, TM, TNT, and other networks when paying through ShopeePay. To buy load and data, simply click the “Load & Bills” icon and select network. Enter the details and choose the amount of load to purchase.

• Pay Bills

Settle bills anytime and anywhere while getting up to 25% cashback with ShopeePay. Pay billers such as Meralco, Maynilad, PLDT, Globe, BPI Credit Cards, and more. For bill payments, go to the “Load and Bills” icon and tap the type of bill to pay. Select a biller and key in the necessary information before selecting ShopeePay as a mode of payment. You will receive a confirmation once payment is successful.

• Grab Exclusive ShopeePay ₱1 Deals

Get ₱1 Deals for groceries, gas, food, and many more. Just visit Deals Near Me on the Shopee app and purchase deals for as low as P1. When you’re at the store, just scan the ShopeePay QR code and the discount will be automatically applied to your transaction. With a growing number of ShopeePay partner merchants like Puregold, Puremart, Seaoil, Potato Corner, and many others, it’s now possible to make safe and cashless transactions in establishments when purchasing daily essentials.

Users can easily activate their ShopeePay wallet in one minute in the Shopee app and conveniently top-up their ShopeePay wallet through their debit card, online banking, or over-the-counter payment partners to get access to exclusive ShopeePay promotions.


Learn how to pay for your bills from this helpful guide https://shopee.ph/m/bills-payment.

For more information about ShopeePay, and its perks and benefits, visit https://shopee.ph/m/shopee-pay.

SunPlay Skin Aqua works hard because your skin deserves it

You already know that you need to use sunscreen daily because sun damage causes skin aging. But really, you should use sunscreen so you can have fun in the sun. So, whether it’s for anti-aging or to prevent painful sunburn, use a sunscreen. Your skin will thank you for it!

So, what should you look for in a sunscreen? You only have one face, and you need to protect it well, so your checklist is probably long. Broad spectrum protection and a sun protection factor of SPF 30 or higher are already given. And what else? You probably want a sunscreen that’s not greasy but lightly moisturizing. It should also be affordable because you apply sunscreen several times a day. It’s a bonus if the product is from a Japanese brand because sunscreens from Japan are lightweight, easy to apply and don’t leave a white cast. Also, Japanese skincare technology is amazing because it combines the use of ingredients that have been proven to be good for the skin with the latest techniques.

SunPlay Skin Aqua sunscreens tick off all those boxes. Aside from the broad-spectrum protection and high SPF, they’re formulated with Hyaluronic Acid so they moisturize your skin without a greasy or oily texture. They have added Collagen and other ingredients that benefit your skin. They are light in texture, non-greasy and do not contain mineral oil and any fragrance. Yes, SunPlay Skin Aqua is a Japanese brand so the formulas are light, milky, and are enhanced by technology that protects the skin and makes applying sunscreen so much more pleasurable. They will not clog your pores nor leave a white cast on your skin. Best of all, the price range is affordable.

All SunPlay Aqua sunscreens are developed with 3-in-1 UV defense systems that protect against UVA/UVB.

SunPlay Skin Aqua UV Watery Gel SPF50+ PA++++ is an ultra-light liquid formula that spreads easily with a weightless and absorbs quickly with a matte but not dry finish.

This is one of SunPlay Skin Aqua’s most popular products because it is perfect for acne-prone skin and has antioxidants, skin brightening and skin soothing ingredients like Aloe Vera. It does not contain parabens, mineral oil, and colorants.



SunPlay Skin Aqua UV Watery Essence has brightening and moisturizing ingredients, including Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Sunflower Seed Oil and Rosemary Leaf Extract to hydrate and moisturize skin, as well as to prevent moisture loss from daily sun exposure. The light formula spreads easily and absorbs quickly for a lightweight non-greasy feel. It does not contain parabens, mineral oil, and colorants.

Skin Aqua Sarafit UV Tinted Base has a natural light shade that helps to brighten skin complexion and even out skin tone. The product’s consistency is light so it’s easy to blend and is recommended for use as a makeup base. The formula leaves behind a healthy glow and blends beautifully without the dreaded white cast despite the high SPF50, PA+++, and blue light protection.

This coming 8.8 Sale, get 50% off on all Watery Cool products only at Mentholatum’s Flagship Store at Shopee (https://shopee.ph/mentholatum)

Mentholatum LipCare wants you to have healthy, hydrated lips

 

Moisture and hydration are your lips’ best friends. Keeping your lips healthy and moisturized by applying a lip balm regularly is as important as using a serum on your face and lotion on your body. Lips don’t lie. They don’t have oil glands like other parts of our skin. The skin there is also thinner, so your puckers need extra care. Lip care is part of self-care, that’s a fact.

The goal of lip care is for you to have healthy lips that say more than just words. Having healthy and kissable lips is attractive. Moist and full lips make your smile more picturesque and improve the overall appearance. Beyond appearances, a good lip balm can help make sure the lips aren’t dry and chapped, thus preventing any potential infections.

Lip care starts with a good product. Lip balms and lip crayons with moisturizing ingredients prevent your lips from cracking and drying up and also give them a shiny,
healthy, and kissable finish. Good lip balms help retain the lip’s moisture and keep them hydrated and supple.

The point of using a lip balm is to make your mouth look and feel divine so yes, it is all right to be choosy. Choose a lip balm that feels good the moment it touches your lips.

Mentholatum LipCare is a range of superior lip care products with a wide selection of lip protection options for different individuals and their needs. Asian brand Mentholatum LipCare is the lip care expert and brings years of experience to its treatment and therapeutic lip products.



Therapy Lip Balm and Therapy Lip Gel are the lip care OGs. Beyond offering immediate relief from dry, chapped and cracked lips and SPF for UV protection, they deliver a film of moisturizers onto the delicate skin of the lips and provide a fresh, cooling, menthol sensation that relieves chapped lips caused by cold, harsh weather and the sun. Like all Mentholatum LipCare products, Therapy Lip Balm and Therapy Lip Gel have a superior moisture retention formulation.

Lip Pure Fragrance-Free is a delight to use because it is formulated with 100% food grade ingredients, including Beeswax, Royal Jelly and Manuka Honey from New Zealand which help to lock-in moisture and hydrate lips. The gold standard as far as natural lip care is concerned, Lip Pure also contains fruit extracts like Brazilian Berry, Grape, Lemon, Orange, and Pomegranate to provide vitamin A, E, and other nutrients to fight free radicals, smoothen, and reduce appearance of lip fine lines to keep your lips healthy and soft. It’s also free of fragrances, colorants, and preservatives. We ingest a lot of lip balm so using one with food-grade ingredients makes a lot of sense.

The Lip Pure Botanical Oils variant contains six types of high-quality Botanical Oils like Argan Oil, Olive Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Black Rice Oil, Camelia Oil, and Avocado Oil to deeply moisturize and protect the skin of the lips. It’s also free of fragrances, colorants, and preservatives.

Show the world the real you with Mentholatum LipCare’s tinted lip balms with simple and gentle ingredients.

LipIce Magic Color is a color-changeable lip balm that applies clear and becomes tinted with a hue that magically changes to whatever your body chemistry decides it to be.

Think MLBB but very moisturizing (because LipIce Magic Color has Vitamin E).

Mentholatum LipCare Lip Crayon is a super nourishing lip crayon that glides on effortlessly, enhances lips and also moisturizes them. This Lip Crayon is infused with Argan Oil and Meadowfoam Seed Oil.

This coming 8.8 Sale, get 10% off on all Mentholatum LipCare products only at Mentholatum’s Flagship Store at Shopee (https://shopee.ph/mentholatum)