How Online Games Help Us Become Creative

Growing up in an electronics-filled, massively online and socially-networked world changed the way we think, act and learn. 

Moreover, the pandemic has greatly affected our lifestyle. I remember in the past if you feel stuck, if you are experiencing writer's block, or if you need to get your creative juices running, it is suggested that you spend time outdoors and take time to commune with nature. Nowadays, due to quarantine restrictions and the threat of the virus, you have to think twice first before going out of your house. 

Luckily, there are many other ways to stay creative. 

According to a study conducted by the Michigan State University, both boys and girls who play video games tend to be more creative, regardless of the type of video game. They found that the more that the kids played video games, the more creative they were in tasks such as drawing pictures and writing stories. 

How is it possible? It is believed that playing games help foster creative thinking because it lowers the barriers of established norms and routines by allowing new rules and realities. 

While playing, the players adapt to the new role that they have as the reality around them changes. This allows them to "think outside the box" in order the solve the challenge, mission, or objective of the game.  

The games can be as simple as it is and do not have to be complicated. There is a game called, Open Restaurant available at https://www.culinaryschools.org that had helped me come up with a creative way to optimize our processes in the restaurant. By playing the game, I was able to figure out how to properly manage time and prioritize tasks. The game was very user-friendly even kids or "non-gamers" will have no problem playing it. 

Another important highlight of online gaming is its entertainment value that which actually affects our creativity. 

A study published in the scientific journal, Nature in 1998 showed that video games raise the level of dopamine in the brain by about 100 percent. If you are not familiar, Dopamine is our achievement hormone. It spikes when we are happy or we experience something pleasant. 

Experts say that the higher the dopamine levels in your body, the higher is our alertness, focus, creativity, long-term memory, and concentration. 

Should we allow our kids to play online games? Just like anything in this world, moderation is the key. There is a thin line between the benefits of gaming and game addiction. We must teach our children how to maintain healthy gameplay and allow them to harness its potential. We have to encourage them to log off to do other things as well in order to live a balanced lifestyle. 

Alaska gives 70 days of ‘Lakas at Talas’ to Foster Kids

As we greet a new year, new challenges have inevitably arisen given the current state of the world. With these problems that we face during these uncertain times, Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk sought to uplift vulnerable communities and share the spirit of giving. Last Christmas, Alaska invited members of its Facebook community, MOMs of Alaska (MOMAs), to make the holidays a little brighter for the children from the company’s partner orphanages, Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation, Inc. and House of Refuge Foundation, Inc. Over a hundred members of the Alaska MOMAs community came together to create special Christmas cards, with creative designs and personalized messages dedicated to each of the children.

Alaska collected the Christmas cards and held a turnover with the partner institutions, donating 70 days’ worth of “Lakas at Talas” in the form of Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk products that can give the children the added nutrition to help with their brain and body development while they are growing. Gift packs with toys and educational materials were also included in the turnover, which the children welcomed with smiles and loud cheers.

 Center Head Mailyn Balairos joined by the staff Christian Compassion Ministries receive Christmas cards and 70 days’ worth of “Lakas at Talas” from Alaska

Mailyn Balairos, Center Head of Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation, Inc. (CCMFI), a church-based Christian organization that aims to provide children with educational assistance, shelter, medical aid, skills training and nourish their souls with the word of God, shared her appreciation to the moms who took their time to create Christmas cards for the children under their care. “On behalf of CCMFI and the children, I wanted to convey my deepest gratitude to the moms of Alaska and to Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk for this unforgettable event for the children,” Mailyn shared.

Riza Lepasana, OIC and Directress of House of Refuge Foundation Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting orphaned and abandoned children in Metro Manila, also expressed her gratitude for the initiative. “On behalf of House of Refuge, I sincerely thank the moms who made an effort to make this Christmas feel special for our kids, and to thank Alaska for sharing their blessings of ‘Lakas at Talas’ with our children,” Riza said.

Social Worker Jessa Mae Masalon of House of Refuge Foundation, Inc. receives Christmas cards made by Alaska MOMA members and 70 days’ worth of “Lakas at Talas” from Alaska Milk Corporation representative Miriam Maramba, Associate Manager for Marketing Services

Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk also thanks its partner orphanages for assisting and providing homes to children in need and giving them the “alaga” or care that they deserve. In these challenging times, Alaska reaches out to the children of House of Refuge and Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation and hopes to continue its mission of providing affordable quality nutrition to Filipino children and families everywhere.

For more information on Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk and its initiatives, visit www.alaskamilk.com and www.facebook.com/alaskamilkph.

Start a Digital Real Estate Selling Career with Lumina Homes

Real estate is one of the few industries that thrived during the pandemic. But as with other sectors, only brands that can quickly adopt full digitalization and drive online sales can see light in the post-pandemic world.

Lumina Homes, the ever-innovative housing brand for the middle-income Filipino, continues to be at the forefront of digital real estate selling.

Not only has the company become a go-to brand for homeowners and investors during the lockdowns, but it has also been offering a unique opportunity for candidate sellers.

Aside from providing regular training and webinars about digitization in the real estate industry, Lumina continues to provide digital tools that make home selling easier to its partner sales network.

Lumina Homes Online

The one-stop-shop online reservation portal makes it simple for accredited brokers and sales agents to hold the preferred unit on behalf of their customers. Once the seller has reserved units in the available inventories for their clients, Lumina Homes will automatically send a reservation payment link to their email addresses.

An Interactive Project Map also allows both buyers and sellers to view Lumina Homes’ available units in the subdivision map. This gives them a better idea of the unit’s exact location within the subdivision, similar to how you reserve a plane or theater seat when making an online reservation.

Lumina Online University

Gone are the days when candidate sellers and partners travel to Lumina’s physical offices to formalize their training.

Today, they can receive their certifications in the comfort of their homes by attending Lumina Online University’s two-level learning course.

The Beginner's Course includes modules about the Fundamentals of Lumina Homes and Lumina Online Training System Guide, while the Advanced Course includes modules about Recruitment and Training, Facebook Marketing, and Digital Marketing.

Sellers’ Portal

All the mentioned digital tools can be accessed through the Lumina Sellers’ Portal—everything a seller needs to know about Lumina Homes’ condo units or house and lot packages. It’s also where sellers can track upcoming events and activities, promos, and ongoing sellers’ incentives. They can also check pricing updates, view maps, see a complete directory of Lumina offices and site locations nationwide.

Lumina Homes takes pride of introducing these sellers’ portal even before the pandemic happened, a proof of its forward-thinking characteristic that it wishes to extend to its sellers.

As such, site visits or trippings are easily scheduled online, which can also be done through 3D virtual tours, to the excitement of interested homeseekers during the lockdowns.

Virtual Tours and Online Appointments

Lumina is equipped with a virtual 360-degree house tour of its best-selling homes, so sellers and homebuyers can have a walk-through of their home models online. Homeseekers, with the assistance of their brokers or agents, can easily search for their dream home through Lumina's digital solutions. They can choose from virtual home and subdivision tours, book online appointments, and pay through digital wallets and digital banking.

Lumina Homes’ official website, www.lumina.com.ph is an effective venue to explore its best-selling home models in 3D: Angelique at 35 square meters with two-bedroom and one carport provision, and Angeli at 42 square meters with three-bedroom and one carport provision.

There’s also a virtual tour of Lumina’s signature showcase area, which offers a preview of a Lumina Homes community.

Earn more at Lumina Homes

Lumina Homes has recently increased the commission rate by 6% for its partner sales network, on top of other perks and promos, such as “Complete It to Win It,” where sellers can get additional cash incentives as they guide their buyers through the homeownership journey.

Be an accredited seller of Lumina Homes today! Register at https://sellers-portal.lumina.com.ph/accreditation or contact (0917) 629-6523. 

Be BEAUTY GLAZED with the Perfect Eye Palette

Here's the perfect palette to try out trendy colorful eye looks. Check out these makeup must-haves from Beauty Glazed on Shopee Beauty for up to 69% off!

From hair care to makeup, Shopee Beauty has all your makeup and skincare needs! Enjoy the most exclusive deals up to 90% off, new launches, and exciting offers fit from various brands for every makeup & skincare haul--only from Shopee Beauty!

BEAUTY GLAZED New 60 Color Eye Shadow Palette

Features:

• 60 highly pigmented, wild, and bright colors.
• Rich, vibrant hues, and a touch of glitter, that will go with any skin tone and brighten up any look.
• Use the matte, sheen, and shimmer finishes to luxe up your face and eye looks, and then smooth on our brand-new silk slip toppers for a flashy highlight or next-level eye look.
• You'll love how these velvety shadows glide on like a gel and set like a powder.

What are they saying about the product?

• Colors pop out and have a smooth texture. No strong scent. 
• It's pigmented and decent for its price.

Click here to order

BEAUTY GLAZED Matte Long Lasting Waterproof Liquid Foundation

Features: 

• Matte finish 
• Hydrates for softer and smoother skin
• Immediately blurs lines and wrinkles.
• Provides medium to Full weightless coverage.
• Hydrates and helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots for a brighter natural glow
• Ideal for all skin types, especially normal to oily.

What are they saying about the product?

• Smells good. 
• Smooth and easy to blend

Click here to order

Disney Anti-Bruno Movement: Who is this Bruno they keep talking about?

Are you thinking about Bruno, the dog from Cinderella?  Well, we won't be talking about him. 

Instead, we'll talk about Bruno that was mentioned in two of Disney's latest movies, Luca and Encanto. 

In the animated movie, Luca, one of the famous lines was, "Silenzio Bruno" and in the movie, Encanto, they even made a song all about Bruno. 

This made me wonder who exactly is this Bruno that they keep talking about? 

To answer that question, let's watch this short video.

As you can see in this short clip, Alberto tells Luca that "You got a Bruno in your head." 

Bruno is our own self-limiting, insecure belief. It is an inner negative voice that stops us from reaching our goals and fulfilling our dreams. It tells us that we can't do it and holds us back from reaching our full potential. 

This is why Albert later asks Luca to repeat saying "Silenzio Bruno." in order to silence his inner negative voice – shutting down his doubts by giving them a name. It's Alberto's way of convincing Luca to take a step towards their dream which starts by riding their DIY Vespa off of a cliff. 

Now, if you listen to the song from Encanto, We Don't Talk About Bruno, it totally makes sense. 

It was my wedding day (it was our wedding day)

We were getting ready, and there wasn't a cloud in the sky 

(no clouds allowed in the sky)

Bruno walks in with a mischievous grin (thunder)

You telling this story or am I?

I'm sorry, mi vida, go on

At first, everything was going well. There wasn't a cloud in the sky. 

The "cloud in the sky" means that there is no doubt or second thoughts. 

However, when Bruno walks in, that's the time that things started to go south. 

Bruno says, "It looks like rain" (why did he tell us?)

In doing so, he floods my brain

Abuela, get the umbrellas

Married in a hurricane

What a joyous day! 

Bruno says "It looks like rain" which is something negative and it flooded his sister Pepa's brain which later resulted in a hurricane according to the song. 

This means that when we allow "Bruno" in our lives and let it affect us, this self-limiting and negative belief about ourselves will only bring problems just like a hurricane. 

So, whatever Disney is up to with this "Anti-Bruno" movement.

I agree with Alberto - Don't listen to stupid, Bruno!

ShopeePay Offers Users Free and Real Time Transfers for a More Convenient Cashless Payment Experience

With ShopeePay, users are able to save on additional costs from InstaPay fees, and also send money to other ShopeePay users for free.

ShopeePay, Shopee’s integrated mobile wallet, continues to make financial services more accessible and convenient for Filipinos. The e-wallet offers free and real-time transfers, on top of other free services, to enable easier and more seamless digital transactions.

ShopeePay users can now enjoy free cash-ins and bank transfers in real-time with 35+ banks and e-wallet partners, including BDO, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), RCBC, Metrobank, Chinabank, UnionBank, and more with InstaPay. InstaPay is an electronic fund transfer (EFT) service that allows customers to transfer funds almost instantly between accounts and is available 24/7, all year round. On top of the new cash-in via InstaPay option, users can also link their bank account to their ShopeePay Wallet for free and easy cash-ins.

Within the app, verified ShopeePay users can also instantly send money to any ShopeePay user for free, available 24/7. Additionally, senders can also personalize their send money transactions with themed virtual cards fit for any occasion. With ShopeePay, users can do more cashless transactions and get discounts on load products and cashback on bills payment.

As more consumers embrace and adopt digital transactions, ShopeePay aims to support the transition by providing hassle-free digital banking options. This year, the Philippines saw an exponential growth of new digital consumers, recording about 12 million since the start of the pandemic. Aside from the significant increase in digital consumers in the country, there is also a notable increase in the adoption of digital-only banking, recording 18.34 percent in 2021, and is expected to reach 36.18 percent by 2026.

Ruoshan Tao, Head of ShopeePay Online, Philippines, said, “The digital market of Southeast Asia is rapidly growing, and digital transactions such as online payments and money transfers are also becoming more prevalent. At ShopeePay, we are committed to providing our users with seamless and easy access to digital financial services through a secure and integrated ecosystem. We look forward to continue helping Filipinos embrace digitalization.”

Here’s how to cash into your ShopeePay Wallet via InstaPay, and enjoy up to P25 cashback on your InstaPay fee:

1. Tap ‘Cash in’ on your ShopeePay wallet.
2. Click the ‘InstaPay’ dropdown.
3. View the specific instructions and cash in from your preferred bank.
4. You will receive a notification if your cash in was successful.
5. If eligible, you will receive the cashback after 7-10 working days.

To transfer money for free from your ShopeePay Wallet to your selected bank account or e-wallet via InstaPay, make sure that your ShopeePay account is verified. Here’s how to transfer:

1. Tap ‘Send Money’ on your ShopeePay wallet.
2. Select either ‘To Bank Account’ or ‘To E-Wallet’
3. Choose the bank/e-wallet you want to send money to and input the required details.
4. Enter the amount to be sent.
5. Review all details to ensure accuracy and proceed with sending money.  

To send money for free to other ShopeePay users, you must have a verified ShopeePay account. Here’s how:

1. Tap ‘Send Money’ on your ShopeePay wallet.
2. Select ‘To Shopee User’.
3. Enter the phone number or Shopee username to send money to.
4. Input the amount to send. You may also personalize your transfer with a virtual card.
5. Enter your ShopeePay PIN to confirm the transaction.

To know more about ShopeePay’s InstaPay feature, visit https://shopee.ph/m/shopeepay-instapay.

To enjoy free cash-ins and transfers, and also save on additional fees, make sure to activate ShopeePay. With ShopeePay, you can also avail of exclusive deals when you Buy Load, Pay Bills, and Scan to Pay at thousands of merchants nationwide. Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

BDO Foundation Helps Communities Hit by Odette

Typhoon Odette is something that I will not forget anytime soon. I am currently based in Negros Occidental and it was my first time to experience a typhoon that strong. I can vividly recall the strong winds while our windows were banging loudly. It was around 11pm and the electricity had already gone out. No matter how tired we were, it was impossible to sleep. The anxiety and fear that your house might be destroyed or the roof will just be blown away was real. 

In the morning, there is no internet and even mobile communication lines are not available. You seem to be cut off from the world. It was late in the afternoon that that mobile internet was restored and sadly, the damage and the situation of the others were heartbreaking. 

Help was needed and it's not going to come easy as many people in different provinces are affected too. In reality, the government cannot do this alone. The damage is so vast and we need all the assistance that we can get. This is why I am so thankful and happy to read the news that even private companies are helping out. 

Just like BDO Foundation, in line with its disaster response advocacy, they are providing aid for communities devastated by Typhoon Odette. The corporate social responsibility arm of BDO Unibank is coordinating with dioceses and parishes in disaster-affected areas for the distribution of relief goods containing food, rice, and drinking water. The foundation is organizing relief operations, mobilizing volunteers to extend immediate assistance to families in typhoon-stricken provinces in the Visayas and Mindanao. The ongoing corporate citizenship initiative is made possible with the support of BDO and BDO Network Bank branches.

Thank you, BDO and BDO Foundation! 

Christmas Feast Ideas That You'll Love: Meatballs in Black Truffle Sauce and Three-Cheese Truffle Macaroni and Cheese

There are two traditional feasts that Filipino families often look forward to during Christmastime: the Christmas Eve Noche Buena and the one that follows on the 25th itself, which is often held as part of a festive family reunion. Either way, expect those in charge of preparing the dishes to pull out all the stops to serve the most delectable food on the table for everyone to enjoy.

And if that happens to be you, chances are high that you already have some recipes in mind to make each of these feasts a gastronomic delight to remember. They might even be all-time family favorites or even hand-me-downs from your great-great-grandparents. Having said that, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to learn a few more recipes just to keep things fresh and put something different on the table for Christmas. Two that are guaranteed to make you look like Master Chef are Meatballs in Black Truffle Sauce and Three-Cheese Truffle Macaroni and Cheese.

The recipes are as follows:

Meatballs in Black Truffle Sauce

Ingredients

• 2 slices white bread crusts removed, broken into pieces

• scant 2/3 cup whole milk

• 2 1/4 cups finely minced ground beef (or a mixture of meats, such as pork, chicken or turkey)

• 1/2 cup meat pâté

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Plain all-purpose flour, for dusting

• Olive oil for frying

FOR THE BLACK TRUFFLE SAUCE

• 1 tablespoon + 2 tsp butter

• A drizzle of olive oil

• 1 bunch spring onions scallions, finely chopped

• 1 carrot finely chopped

• 1 heaped cup button or oyster mushrooms finely chopped

• 3 1/2 tablespoon plain all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup white wine

• 2 cups beef chicken or vegetable stock

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon finely chopped rosemary

• 1/2 cup double heavy cream

• 1/2 teaspoon Umbria Black Truffle Sauce

Instructions

1. Place the bread in a bowl and pour over the milk. Set aside to soak.

2. In a separate bowl, mix together the meat and the pâté. Add the soaked bread and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined. Form meatballs by rolling walnut-sized pieces of the mixture between your hands. They should be about 1oz each. Dust the meatballs in flour.

3. Heat some oil in a shallow pan over medium-high heat and fry the meatballs just until they are golden. Do not overcook at this stage as we are going to finish them in the sauce. Set aside.

4. To make the sauce, heat the butter and olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat and add the finely chopped spring onions, carrots, and mushrooms. Cook for about 10 minutes, until the onion is transparent. Reduce the temperature to low and add the flour to the pan, stirring with a wooden spoon to make a roux. Cook for about 4 minutes and then add the wine, continuing to stir until you get a paste and the alcohol has evaporated, then add the stock with the salt and rosemary. Keep stirring and cooking until the sauce thickens, then add the cream, stirring so that the mixture doesn’t split or curdle. Add the meatballs to the sauce and cook for a further 5 minutes.

5. Put Umbria Black Truffle Sauce into the sauce, mix and fold and serve hot.

Three-Cheese Truffle Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon butter, divided

1 cup mushroom (75 g), sliced

1 pinch salt

1 pinch pepper

2 tablespoons flour

1 cup milk (240 mL)

1 cup shredded parmesan cheese (110 g)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (100 g)

2 cups shell pasta (400 g), cooked

TOPPINGS

½ teaspoon Umbria truffle oil

1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

Preparation

1. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, salt, and pepper and cook until the mushrooms are softened. Remove from the pot.

2. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and flour to the pot. Whisk until the flour is toasted, approximately 2 minutes.

3. Add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce is thickened.

4. Whisk in the Parmesan and cheddar cheeses and season with salt and pepper.

5. Add the cooked pasta and mushrooms. Mix until the sauce coats the pasta well.

6. Top with Umbria truffle oil, fold, and add chives.

Of course, it’s understandable that you’d stop at nothing to make this year’s Christmas celebrations as grand as possible. After all, last year’s Holidays were mostly muted due to the pandemic. Now, the scourge that is COVID-19 is still here, but the country is showing signs of recovery and the quarantine restrictions are easing as a result.

However, that doesn’t mean you and your family should be letting your guard down. Rather, continue to be vigilant even as you think of ways to gather everyone this Christmastime—ideally, sharing some sumptuous Meatballs in Umbria Black Truffle Sauce and servings of mouthwatering Three-Cheese Umbria White Truffle Macaroni and Cheese.

Merry Christmas!

Essential workers, Enjoy exclusive Vouchers and Discounts with the Shopee Bayanihan: Frontliner Holiday Package

The noche buena and gift-giving traditions are both huge parts of the Pinoy Christmas. However, let’s face it: the holidays can get costly.

Since every peso counts, we always keep an eye out for exclusive deals to get the most out of our holiday budget. If you’re a frontliner, here’s a special treat—a way of saying "thank you" for your hard work. The Shopee Bayanihan: Frontliner Holiday Package offers an exclusive digital package that includes Shopee discount and free shipping vouchers, ShopeePay bills cashback vouchers, and discounts from participating merchants such as Ultra Mega Supermarket, Shawarma Shack, Moonleaf, Tapa King, and National Book Store until January 9, 2022.

Eligible frontliners include: Health Care Workers (hospital admin and janitorial services, health and service personnel in LGU facilities); Medical Professionals (doctors, nurses, medical technicians); Policemen, Military Personnel, Coast Guards; Hospitality Sector Workers (restaurants, hotels, bars, travel Agencies); Government Agencies (LGU workers, admin staff); Delivery and Logistics Providers (food, restaurant, medicine, and logistics company drivers and riders); and Security Guards and Mortuary Services Personnel. Don’t forget to sign up here to qualify: https://shopee.ph/m/frontliner-holiday-package.

Here are some ways to make the most of your holiday celebration:

Feast like royalty because you deserve it

After a year of hard work, reward yourself with great food and good company. Treat your loved ones to Filipino comfort food at Tapa King or meet up with your colleagues and bond over delicious snacks at Shawarma Shack. Once you’ve gotten your fill, head over to Moonleaf and indulge your sweet tooth with their Okinawa or Wintermelon Milk Teas.

Surprise your family this noche buena

Elevate your dinner table by preparing traditional handaan favorites with a twist. Instead of the usual mango float, take your dessert game up a notch and impress your family with no-bake queso de bola cheesecake topped with chocolate shavings. Ultra Mega provides a selection for every budget—perfect for anyone looking for the best grocery finds without breaking the bank.

Score deals as you wrap up your holiday shopping

Still looking for holiday presents? Take your pick from National Book Store’s bestsellers list, where you’re bound to find the perfect match for every literary taste, or scout their school and office essentials.

Add to cart and enjoy discounts, cashback, and free shipping vouchers with the Bayanihan package. As an additional treat, new Shopee users will also receive a free shipping voucher and an additional discount voucher for their first Shopee purchase.

Activate and cash in ShopeePay to avail the Frontliner Package at https://shopee.ph/m/frontliner-holiday-package. With ShopeePay, you can also get daily exclusive deals on load, bills and ShopeePay P1 Deals. Enjoy free cash ins and bank transfers via InstaPay, when you get up to P25 cashback on your InstaPay fee after cashing in. Additionally, if you haven’t had the chance to go Christmas shopping for your loved ones, why not pay for their next Shopee purchase? Send money for free to any ShopeePay user with ShopeePay, and personalize your transfers with a themed virtual card. Stay updated on the latest ShopeePay promos at https://shopee.ph/m/shopee-pay.

Finding the Right Vibe: Nightlife in Whistler

If you recently moved into one of the Whistler homes for sale, bought a vacation home, or simply just visiting, and would like to experience and take advantage of the nightlife, you'll find plenty here in Whistler. With an après scene that's buzzing all year long and after a day hitting the trails or the slopes, you’ll find everything from budget-friendly bars and casual pubs with live music to upscale lounges and trendy clubs.

Bars to Meet Nearly Every Budget

If you are on a budget trip or you'd just rather not spend $20 for a drink, there are plenty of places that fit the bill. Crystal Lounge at the Crystal Lodge in Whistler Village is well-known for its affordable prices and comfortable, laid-back atmosphere. Not only does it host a wide array of events, including live music, karaoke, and stand-up comedy but it also hosts outstanding happy hours. The happy hours are from 4 to 6 pm and from 10 pm to closing. They also have 40-cent wings which are available every single day.

You can also check out happy hours at other bars in Whistler Village with ads often placed in the Whistler Question or the Whistler Pique. Many provide specials with discounts on both food and drink. Dubh Linn Gate is known for its great prices along with a menu that includes more than 25 draught beers, including B.C. brews and Irish favorites. There are over 20 different whiskeys, 20 single-malt scotches, and fabulous cocktails too. All can be enjoyed with authentic Irish fare like the Steak and Guinness Pie.

Swanky Bars and Lounges

For those looking for a sophisticated, chic atmosphere, there's no shortage of options either. Fairmont Chateau Whistler is not only one of the best places to stay in town, but it hosts the Mallard Lounge offering a cozy log fire and stunning mountain views enjoyed with a fantastic range of signature cocktails and other drinks. Live music is often hosted here too. Or, head to Fifty Two 80 at the Four Seasons Resort. Named for Blackcomb Mountain's vertical, it's considered the top spot for indulging in martinis.

For something particularly unique, the Ketel One Vodka Ice Room at Bearfoot Bistro serves some 50 vodkas from around the world, including some that are distilled from hemp seeds. But what makes it a standout is its tasting room. It's the coldest vodka tasting room on the planet with temperatures a steady 25 degrees below zero. You will get a Canada goose-down parka to ward off the chill and the vodka tasting is sure to add to the warmth as you learn all about the process of filtration and distillation as well as how it affects the flavor profiles of the finished products.

Lively Clubs

Whistler offers lots of places to drink and dance the night away with many trendy nightclubs. DJs like to come for the opportunity to play more intimate gigs while enjoying a break from the big city and big-name bands occasionally hit the stage too. Unlike clubs in major cities, there's more of a casual atmosphere with sky-high heels generally not the norm. There are plenty of themed and costume parties hosted throughout the year if you're looking to get dressed up.

Moe Joe's offers very popular Disco Nights with psychedelic décor, glow sticks, and lasers that have been taking place for more than two decades. The Sunday Glow Party, funk and soul nights, and Recovery Monday with happy hour lasting until 11 pm, all provide a fun time out. Garfinke's draws a 20s and 30s crowd with large weekly après parties. Thursday is locals' night while Friday features champagne and Saturday provides the chance to dance the night away. Or head to Tommy Africa's to dance to top 40 tunes and hip-hop until the wee hours of the morning.

BDO plans issuance of ASEAN Sustainability Bonds to be issued off its PHP365 billion Bond Programme

Are you planning to make more investments this 2022? 

If yes, you might want to consider investing in bonds. 

BDO Unibank, Inc. (the “Bank”) plans to issue Peso-denominated Fixed-Rate Sustainability Bonds with a minimum aggregate issue size of PHP5 Billion as its third issuance off its PHP365 billion Bond Programme. The net proceeds of the issue are intended to be used to diversify the Bank’s funding sources, and finance and/or refinance eligible assets as defined in the Bank’s Sustainable Finance Framework. This is the first time that the Bank will be issuing a Peso-denominated Sustainability Bond to both institutional and retail investors. The Bank had previously issued a USD150 million green bond in 2017, with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) as the sole investor. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) earlier confirmed the qualification of the issue as an ASEAN Sustainability Bond, having complied with requirements under the ASEAN Sustainability Bond Standards and the SEC ASEAN Sustainability Bond Circular.

The proposed issuance has an indicative tenor of two (2) years and a minimum investment amount of PHP500,000, with additional increments of PHP100,000 thereafter. The offer period will be from January 10 to 21, 2022, while the issue, settlement, and listing date will be on January 28, 2022.

The Bank reserves the right to update the terms and the timing of the issuance (as appropriate).

Standard Chartered Bank is the Sole Arranger of the proposed issuance, while BDO Unibank, Inc, BDO Private Bank, Inc., and Standard Chartered Bank are the Selling Agents of the proposed issuance. BDO Capital & Investment Corporation is the Financial Advisor of the proposed issuance.

THE BONDS ARE SECURITIES EXEMPT FROM REGISTRATION UNDER SECTION 9.1(e) OF THE SECURITIES REGULATION CODE (“SRC”) AND AS SUCH WILL NOT BE REGISTERED UNDER THE SRC.

THE FOREGOING IS FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS, AN OFFER OR SOLICITATION OF ANY OFFER TO INVEST IN THE BONDS NOR AN OBLIGATION ON THE PART OF BDO TO ISSUE THE BONDS OR THE ARRANGER AND SELLING AGENTS TO ACCEPT ANY OFFER. THE ABOVE INFORMATION DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE COMPLETE OR EXHAUSTIVE. PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS SHOULD READ THE OFFERING CIRCULAR FOR THE OFFER IN ITS ENTIRETY. THE BONDS WILL ONLY BE SOLD DURING THE OFFER PERIOD STATED ABOVE.

Say hello to clear, blemish-free skin with Seoul White's Anti-Acne sets available on Shopee Beauty!

2022 is just around the corner and it's time to make our new year's resolutions and set new goals! 

Since self-love has been a big word this year -- why don't see start with our skincare routine. Say hello to clear, blemish-free skin with Seoul White's Anti-Acne sets available on Shopee Beauty! 

From hair care to makeup, Shopee Beauty has all your makeup and skincare needs! Enjoy the most exclusive deals up to 90% off, new launches, and exciting offers fit from various brands for every makeup & skincare haul--only from Shopee Beauty!

Seoul White Korea AT HOME ANTI-ACNE FACIAL SET FREE 6 x Gifts worth P372

Anti-Acne Self Care At-Home, Score clear, blemish-free skin at home with this face-saving set that deeply cleans the skin, removes dirt & oil, and while leaving skin healthy and glowing.

Click here to order

What's inside?

• Seoul White Korea BYE BYE ACNE Pimple-fighting whip soap FREE 6pc Pimple Patch
• Seoul White Korea BYE BYE ACNE AHA BHA PHA serum toner
• Seoul White Korea GLOW JELLY Soothing Gel
• 5x Seoul White Korea INSTANT WHITE Tone Up Whitening MIlky Cream Sachet
• BYE BYE ACNE Black Head Extractor

What do they say about the product?

• After a few days of using it, I already saw visible changes on my face.
• The blackhead remover works well. The suction is powerful. 
• Been using it for 6 months and I like the result on my skin. No allergic reactions. 

Seoul White Korea YOUR ACNE STARTER KIT SET

Say annyeong to clear, blemish-free skin with Seoul White Korea’s breakthrough range designed to treat acne fast while keeping you protected from future breakouts. A complete skincare lineup, it features a powerhouse blend of cica extract, tea tree oil, and salicylic acid to gently soothe, nourish, and refresh oily, sensitive and acne-prone skin—for bright and clear beauty like no other. Our formulas are clinically-proven, technology-driven and designed to nurture (not strip) your skin to help you achieve your healthiest skin.

Click here to order

What's inside?

• 1 x Seoul White Korea BYE BYE ACNE AHA BHA PHA serum toner
• 1 x Seoul White Korea BYE BYE ACNE Pimple-fighting whip soap 
• FREE 6pc Pimple Patch

What do they say about the product?

• It is mild yet effective. 
• It dries my pimples but it still provides moisture on my skin

Seoul White Korea WHIP IT! Whip Soap 120g FREE 5 x INSTANT WHITE Tone Up Cream Sachet 3g

With an ultra-soft net that whips a soft and airy form, this whip soap deeply cleanses the skin and brightens and evens out the skin tone for a glowing, K-Bright skin.

Click here to order

What do they say about the product?

• No sticky feeling. 

Seoul White Korea INSTANT WHITE Tone Up Cream Sachet 3g 10 + 15 FREE

The best Korean moisturizer in the local market, Seoul White Korea’s Instant White, Tone-Up Whitening Milky Cream packs all three potent ingredients (bearberry arbutin, white strawberry, and donkey milk) in a lightweight, instant whitening/lightening cream that brightens as its moisturizes skin."

Click here to order

What do they say about the product?

• I really love the instant white effect. 

Shopee Ends the Year on a Festive Note with K-Pop Stars “Tomorrow X Together” and Over ₱12 Million Worth of Prizes at the 12.12 Big Christmas Sale TV Special

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, invites everyone to enjoy a festive night of big giveaways and exciting performances at the 12.12 Big Christmas Sale TV Special this December 12, 10:30 PM-12:30 AM on GMA-7 and Shopee Live. 

Viewers can win over ₱12 million worth of prizes, including motorcycles and a brand-new car, and enjoy special numbers from rising K-Pop act Tomorrow X Together. Meanwhile, shoppers can save on their holiday purchases with free shipping with no minimum spend, ₱1 Deals, and 10% off daily at the 12.12 Big Christmas Sale.

Here are the highlights of the 12.12 Big Christmas Sale TV Special:

Over ₱12 million worth of prizes to win

● Two Shopee Shake players get to win ₱300,000 and three Honda Click 150i motorcycles each, while two more get ₱300,000 and three Honda Supra GTR150 motorcycles each. During the fifth Shopee Shake session, several players get to share a ₱1 million coin pool, and one player also gets a brand-new MG 5 Core from Morris Garages Philippines.

● One lucky Shopee Milyonaryo winner gets to take home ₱1 million in cash.

The hottest local and international celebrities

K-Pop fans should stay tuned to enjoy performances from South Korean boyband Tomorrow X Together. Viewers can also catch local celebrities and performers such as Jessy Mendiola, Ysabel Ortega, Kate Valdez, Rayver Cruz, Julie Anne San Jose, Bianca Umali, Michael V, Ben & Ben, Ariella Arida, Max Collins, Arra San Agustin, Derrick Monasterio, Bugoy Drilon, Kris Lawrence, and Michael Pangilinan. Up-and-coming local artist geiko will also perform her new single, “Oh no I’m on Shopee again.” Shopee brand ambassadors Dingdong Dantes and Jose Mari Chan, together with TV Special host and fellow ambassador Willie Revillame, will join the fun as well.

Limited-time flash deals

During the show, shoppers can enjoy exclusive deals and discounts, available in few quantities for a limited time only, from trusted telco, electronics, and food brands such as Dito Telecommunity, Abbott, McDonald's, Enfagrow, Garnier, Huawei, Potato Corner, Bonchon, Candy Corner, Wendy's, and Gong Cha.

Shopee 12.12 Big Christmas Sale

Filipinos can end the year with the biggest discounts and promotions such as free shipping with no minimum spend, ₱1 Deals, and 10% off daily at the 12.12 Big Christmas Sale, Shopee’s biggest sale of the year.

For a chance to win ₱10,000 in cash, users can join Shopee’s #PaskongShopeeFam raffle. Until December 12, participants should save the #PaskongShopeeFam template from Shopee’s official Facebook page, add their family photo and last name, and upload their entry to this link: https://woobox.com/fq28ih. They can also post their entry on their Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Tiktok accounts with the hashtag #PaskongShopeeFam.

For more information, visit https://shopee.ph/m/christmas-sale.

BDO Network Bank, tuloy ang suporta sa MSMEs sa pagsulong ng ekonomiya

Dahil sa tulong ng BDONB Kabuhayan Loan, natuloy ang planong business expansion ni Virgilio De Guzman. 

Bukod sa chicharon, nagbebenta na rin siya ng plasticware at soap products sa kaniyang tindahan. 

Sa kabila ng matinding epekto ng pandemya, ang micro-SMEs (MSMEs) pa rin ang nanatiling taga-sulong ng ekonomiya ng bansa. Kaya patuloy lang ang suporta ng BDO Network Bank (BDONB) upang masiguro na hindi titigil ang kanilang business operation.

“Ang BDO Network Bank ay committed sa pagtulong sa mga MSME dahil importante ang kanilang pag-unlad hindi lamang sa kanilang negosyo, pati na rin sa pagbibigay ng trabaho sa nakakarami sa komunidad,” ani BDONB senior vice president at MSME Group Head Karen Cua.

Ang BDONB ay community bank ng BDO Unibank na nagbibigay serbisyo sa mga taong nasa malalayong lugar at hindi naabot o hindi sapat ang serbisyong nakukuha mula sa regular na bangko.

Ang MSMEs ang nagpapatakbo ng ekonomiya ng komunidad dahil sa kanila nagmumula ang pangkabuhayan ng lokal na mamamayan, pati na rin ang mga mahahalagang produkto at serbisyo, paliwanag ni Cua.

Ayon sa Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), ang MSMEs ay 99.5% ng mga negosyo sa buong bansa, kung saan 62.4% ng mga trabaho ang nanggaling sa kanila. Ang datos na ito ang nagpapatunay kung bakit kailangan nila ng suportang pinansyal para maipagpatuloy ang negosyo.

Katatagan sa gitna ng pagsubok

Ayon kay Cua, ang mga MSME ay kilala sa pagiging matatag lalo na ngayong pandemya at matiyaga sa pagpapatakbo ng negosyo para masuportahan ang pamilya at ang komunidad.

“Ang mga essential businesses ay nag-adapt sa new normal at sinimulan ang pagbebenta ng kanilang produkto at serbisyo sa pamamagitan ng online selling o streaming, habang ang mga non-essential businesses naman ay nag-shift sa pagbebenta ng essential goods and services,” dagdag pa nya.

Kasama sa pag-unlad

Bilang ka-partner ng mga MSME sa paglago ng kanilang negosyo, ang BDONB ay nagbibigay ng tulong sa pamamagitan ng Kabuhayan Loan. Ito ay maaaring gamitin na pandagdag puhunan para sa pagbili ng additional stocks, sa pagpapalaki ng negosyo at sa pagbili ng mga gamit tulad ng delivery trucks at iba pang mga equipment.

Paliwanag ni Cua, mabilis at simple lamang ang application process ng Kabuhayan Loan at ito ay nagpapautang ng hanggang P1 million. Bukod dito, ang Kabuhayan Loan ay may abot-kayang monthly installment options at nagbibigay ng mga karagdagang kaalaman tungkol sa financial management upang ma-maximize ang kapital ng mga negosyante.

Ilan sa mga napiling borrowers ng BDONB ngayon taon ang nabigyan ng BDONB ng free insurance coverage at Kabuhayan Package mula sa SM Appliance at SM Supermarket.

Para sa iba pang mga impormasyon tungkol sa produkto at serbisyo ng BDONB, bisitahin ang www.bdonetworkbank.com.ph o ang official facebook page https://www.facebook.com/BDONetworkBankPH.

How to avail Shopee's Frontliner Holiday Package

After launching Frontliner Package and Fully-Vaxxed Package earlier this year, Shopee launches a new digital bundle just in time to spread joy and cheer this coming holiday season with Shopee Bayanihan: Frontliner Holiday Package.

Starting today until January 9, 2022, our everyday heroes can avail of the exclusive digital package that includes Shopee discount and free shipping vouchers, ShopeePay Bills Cashback vouchers, and discounts from Ultramega Supermarket, Shawarma Shack, Moonleaf, Tapa King, and National Book Store*. Eligible beneficiaries include:

• Health Care Workers (Hospital admin and janitorial services, Health and service personnel in LGU facilities)
• Medical Professionals (Doctors, Nurses, Medical Technicians)
• Policemen and Military Personnel
• Coast Guards
• Hospitality Sector Workers (Restaurants, Hotels, Bars, Travel Agencies)
• Government Agencies (LGU workers, admin staff)
• Delivery and Logistics Providers (Food, restaurant, medicine, logistics company drivers and riders)
• Security Guards
• Mortuary Services Personnel

The brand vouchers included in the package are from ShopeePay and users can redeem these vouchers via ShopeePay’s Scan to Pay feature at the brand’s stores. Eligible individuals who are not yet on Shopee can also create an account by downloading the Shopee App from Google Play or the App Store to sign up for the package and receive an additional discount and free shipping vouchers.

Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “As we welcome this season of hope and gratitude, Shopee and its partner brands continue to support frontliners by offering exclusive vouchers they can use to enjoy the holidays. We are inspired by the number of frontliners who enjoyed the first two iterations of this package, and we added in industries like the hospitality sector, which have been integral in the country's economic recovery efforts. With the new year ahead, Shopee will push for more initiatives that will benefit not only our frontliners but the Filipinos community as well.”

Starting today, frontliners can avail of the bundle by signing up on the Shopee Bayanihan: Frontliner Holiday Package microsite in the Shopee App. Users can also check out the link here https://shp.ee/h957tu5.

1. Sign up and upload a valid PRC license or company ID through the link found on the Shopee Bayanihan: Frontliner Holiday Package microsite

2. Wait for Shopee to approve your application

3. Once verified, Shopee will notify you that your application has been accepted and will preload the package vouchers to your account (note: New Users will receive additional vouchers as part of the package)

4. Enjoy your Shopee Bayanihan: Frontliner Holiday Package vouchers