Christmas season is a time for family, celebration, the much-anticipated Noche Buena feast and a lot of get-together parties. This year, why not go beyond the usual dishes and surprise your loved ones by getting creative with some unforgettable recipes?

Mr. Hat Gulaman makes it easy to add a festive twist to your holiday table. With its wide variety of flavors and versatility, it’s a great ingredient for crafting show-stopping dishes that can bring everyone together.

With seven flavored options like mango, strawberry, buko pandan, coffee, grapes, orange and lychee, each brings unique flavors to your recipes. For additional flexibility, the six unflavored variants allow you to create customized dishes tailored to your family’s tastes, making Mr. Hat Gulaman a true all-season kitchen essential.

If you’re going to a potluck or preparing for Noche Buena, why not surprise your family and friends with a unique dessert like Banoffee Jelly Pie. This delightful twist on the classic dessert layers coffee-flavored jelly with a graham crust and slices of fresh bananas, all topped with fluffy whipped cream. It’s a harmonious blend of rich coffee notes and natural sweetness that can make the centerpiece of your dessert table interesting.

Another festive option is Christmas Holiday Jelly, a vibrant dish made with layers of red and green gulaman that captures the spirit of the season. Easy to slice and serve, this dessert adds both charm and flavor to your spread. For coffee lovers, the Snowy Coffee Jelly combines the bold taste of coffee-flavored gulaman with a creamy milk layer, creating a sophisticated treat that’s as indulgent as it is comforting.

If you’re looking for something indulgent yet refreshing, Fruit Jelly Cheesecake pairs creamy cheesecake layers with fruity gulaman. This no-bake option is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning, especially when topped with seasonal fruits like strawberries, mangoes, or kiwi. For a more playful touch, you can create Merry & Bright Ornaments Jelly using mango and strawberry-flavored gulaman molded into sphere shapes. These decorative jellies bring color and fun to your holiday table, doubling as both a treat and a conversation starter.

For more recipe ideas for your many Christmas meet-ups and noche buena, check out this link: Mr. Hat Gulaman Christmas recipes

Bonding Through Creativity

The joy of Mr. Hat Gulaman isn’t just in the dishes it creates but also in the moments it fosters. Preparing recipes with your family transforms cooking into an opportunity for bonding. Kids will love helping out with simple steps like pouring layers of gulaman or arranging fruit toppings, making them part of the festive fun. The memories made in the kitchen are just as sweet as the desserts themselves.

Why Mr. Hat Gulaman is Ideal for the season

Mr. Hat Gulaman is more than just an ingredient—it’s your secret to elevating any Christmas get-together and noche buena feast. Its affordability ensures you can create premium-looking dishes without straining your holiday budget. Its versatility inspires creativity, whether you’re recreating traditional favorites with a twist or inventing something entirely new. And its time-saving simplicity ensures you have more moments to spend with loved ones instead of being tied to the kitchen.

This Christmas, let Mr. Hat Gulaman be your partner in creating extraordinary desserts that will be remembered for years to come. From colorful gulaman to indulgent desserts, Mr. Hat Gulaman has got you covered to make this season special. So, embrace the magic of the holidays, get creative, and make your Noche Buena unforgettable. Noche Buena recipes? #NasaHatKoYan! 

Follow Mr. Hat Gulaman on Tiktok (@mrhatgulaman) and on Facebook (@mrhatgulaman).

The holidays are here once more, ushering in the joyful season of gift-giving!

Yet, all too often, when selecting gifts for our children, we restrict ourselves to the usual—toys, clothes, gadgets, or even cash. In doing so, we overlook one priceless gift that should be our priority: the gift of knowledge.

Corny? Perhaps. Cliché? Likely.

But the truth remains undeniable. As adults, we carry the important responsibility of imparting knowledge and wisdom to our children, and we must embrace this role with renewed vigor. There are many ways we can accomplish this. We can share invaluable life lessons directly with our kids and become actively engaged in their educational journeys. Alternatively, we can provide them with enriching learning materials, particularly books that will ignite their curiosity and foster a love for learning.

By gifting them with books, we are laying a solid foundation for our children’s lifelong learning at a pivotal time when their minds are most active and inquisitive. Early learning is crucial, with research showing that the scaffolding for complex learning is established during childhood and reinforced as kids grow. Remarkably, up to 90% of a child’s brain growth occurs before they turn five, making early childhood education an essential stepping stone for building knowledge in the years to come.

Educational materials, especially books, are instrumental in shaping our children into lifelong learners. It is our duty as parents, guardians, and teachers, to surround our children with captivating books that they can explore, enabling them to accumulate knowledge and ultimately embark on a lifelong appreciation for learning. Thankfully, there is a wide array of books available, featuring over a hundred exciting titles from the country's leading educational publisher, Rex Education, within its acclaimed Little Explorers series.

Launched in December 2022, the Little Explorers lineup is Rex Education’s dedicated brand of early childhood education resources tailor-made for young learners. Each title under Little Explorers is designed to be age-appropriate and aligned with the six developmental domains established by the Early Childhood Care and Development Council from its National Early Learning Framework. 

These domains are the following:

1. Physical Health, Well-being, and Motor Development: enhancing fine motor skills and hand–eye coordination
2. Social–Emotional Development: fostering empathy, self-awareness, and social interaction
3. Character and Values Development: promoting character-building and values inculcation
4. Cognitive/Intellectual Development: strengthening critical thinking and attention skills
5. Language Development: expanding vocabulary and conversation skills
6. Aesthetic Development: cultivating talent development and creative skills

“As a lifelong learning partner to every Filipino, Rex Education has always believed that investing in early childhood education (ECE) and the foundational development of our children is essential to prepare them for life,” said Don Timothy Buhain, Chief Executive Officer of Rex Education. “With the introduction of our new brand, we aim to spark discussions on the significance of early childhood care and development (ECCD) in the Philippines and empower parents and learning companions with quality, research-based, and age-appropriate learning solutions to kick-start their children’s education even before formal schooling begins.”

In essence, the titles within Rex Education’s Little Explorers series are crafted specifically for young learners, with the overarching goal of guiding them along the path to lifelong learning. Titles such as Meet My Family, World Around Me, and Me, Myself, and I nurture children’s critical thinking while engaging their cognitive and social-emotional development. They also encourage kids to articulate their feelings and enhance their self-awareness through enjoyable, interactive methods.

“We share the aspirations of our Edukampyon parents and guardians, who desire only the best for their children. Therefore, we believe that the richest learning experiences begin at home. Drawing from REX’s extensive research, experience, and partnerships in lifelong and early childhood education, we meticulously crafted Little Explorers to foster strong foundations and promote holistic development in our children as early as possible,” Buhain added regarding Little Explorers.

Ultimately, we all strive to provide our children with nothing but the very best. Yet, giving them the best does not always translate to toys, clothes, or gadgets. Often, our time with them and preparing them for the future represent an even greater gift—and gifting them books is one powerful way to achieve this.

Discover more about Rex Education’s Little Explorers series and their early childhood education initiatives by visiting rex.com.ph. 

Better yet, go to  https://estore.rex.com.ph/, https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/rex-book-store, https://shopee.ph/rexbookstore and place your orders now, so you can get them just in time for the Holidays!

Understanding the Hidden Dangers in Water

The clarity of water can often be deceptive. Transparent water does not necessarily mean clean water. Similarly, boiled water—widely regarded as a traditional solution for ensuring safety—may not be as effective as people believe. Toxic substances in water exist in two primary forms:

·         Visible Contaminants: Impurities such as dirt, bacteria, and unpleasant odors, which are relatively easier to detect with the naked eye.

·         Invisible Threats: Harmful organic substances, chemicals, heavy metals (such as arsenic, lead, and iron), and microscopic pathogens, including viruses and bacteria, that infiltrate the body and pose serious health risks.

In Line with Its Commitment to Health and Quality

Karofi remains steadfast in its mission to promote healthier lifestyles and sustainable practices. The company’s commitment is evident in the thoughtful design of its water purifiers, which prioritize safety, health benefits, and environmental sustainability. By offering this free 7-day trial, Karofi invites Filipino families to experience the tangible benefits of its cutting-edge water purification systems—empowering them to embrace a healthier, more sustainable way of living.

How to Join the Sip Sustainably with Karofi Campaign

To take part in this unique initiative, customers simply need to register at select Karofi stores in Metro Manila, including Robinsons Magnolia and GH Mall. This quick sign-up process qualifies participants for a complimentary one-week trial, allowing them to integrate sustainable hydration directly into their daily routines at home.

Visit Karofi Brand Stores for In-Person Demos

Karofi’s full product range is available for exploration—for those interested in an interactive experience, live demonstrations are offered at Karofi Brand Store Robinsons Magnolia, and Karofi Brand Store GH Mall. This allows customers to witness the technology behind Karofi’s systems firsthand.

Join the Movement Today

Running from November 18 to December 31, 2024, the ‘Sip Sustainably with Karofi’ campaign encourages everyone to discover the benefits of purified water. With Karofi’s solutions, Filipino families can embrace a lifestyle of clean, health-promoting hydration and enjoy peace of mind knowing their water is free from contaminants.

About Karofi Global

Karofi Global is a globally recognized leader in the water purification industry. With operations spanning over 50 countries, Karofi is committed to innovation, sustainability, and ensuring global access to safe drinking water. Through its dedication to research and development, Karofi produces water filtration systems that deliver both health benefits and environmental conservation, showcasing a blend of technology and eco-conscious practices.

For more details on the campaign or to sign up for the free trial, visit karofi.ph or contact Abigail Bautista at abigail.bautista@karofi.com.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karofiph

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karofiphilippines/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Karofiph

Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC), the leading provider of home and enterprise technology, is reimagining the holiday shopping experience with its three-month ConcepStore pop-up at Ayala Malls Feliz. Bringing a curated selection of gift-worthy products directly to consumers, the first ever ConcepStore pop-up offers a unique opportunity to interact with exclusive innovations from top brands like SharkNinja, Carrier, Condura, Toshiba, and Midea.

ConcepStore, CIC's comprehensive online appliance store, offers a wide variety of products tailored to the modern Filipino home. Focused on providing individuals and families with the best possible experience, ConcepStore provides personalized shopping assistance throughout the holiday season and beyond. Dedicated personal shoppers can guide customers in finding the perfect presents for loved ones, managing the entire process from order placement and gift wrapping to delivery.

The Ayala Malls Feliz pop-up enhances this unmatched customer experience, offering hands-on interaction with cutting-edge lifestyle solutions available exclusively through ConcepStore. Free product demonstrations further enrich the shopping experience.

“At ConcepStore, we share unique products that simplify daily tasks in smart, creative ways,” said Raul Joseph A. Concepcion, Chairman and President of CIC. “Our pop-up allows customers a tangible experience with highly curated technological solutions.”

SharkNinja: Innovation in Action

A highlight of the pop-up is the showcase of exclusive products from SharkNinja, the ultimate go-to brand for everyday needs, enhancing efficiency and delivering exceptional results. Gift-givers can experience the versatility of the Shark FlexStyle all-in-one styling tool and the powerful performance of the Shark EvoPower System cordless stick vacuum that’s complete with a self-cleaning feature to make tidying up a breeze. Other featured SharkNinja products include the Ninja CREAMi 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker and the Ninja Blast Portable Blender – both of which remain popular gift options.

Diverse Home Solutions

Beyond SharkNinja, the pop-up includes a special selection of presents from CIC's other top brands. Carrier, known as “The Air Authority” brand, is featuring their Portable Stainless Steel Ice Maker (with over 10,000 units sold), a simple yet practical gift option, ideal for celebrations and weekend trips, alongside their best-selling 12L Dehumidifier, perfect for keeping leather goods, artwork, and other important investments free from mold or damage. 

Condura, a local brand emphasizing durable, value for money products and the market leader in refrigerators, is showcasing various appliances. Holiday shoppers can enjoy the 3-in-1 Hand Blender, a multifunctional device for various kitchen uses; the Steam Air Fryer, which combines two healthy cooking methods to give you food that’s juicy on the inside while maintaining crisp on the outside; and the Infrared Barbecue Grill for speedy indoor grilling.

From Toshiba, a trusted name in Japanese technology, find practical gift ideas like the Bottom Load Water Dispenser with UV Light, helpful for keeping little ones safe from harmful substances that may infiltrate drinking water. Midea, a world leading brand offering stylish products anchored in technical expertise, provides useful cleaning tools such as the M7 Robot Vacuum, great for those constantly on-the-go and unable to find time to tidy their homes. Find these and more gift-worthy items online at www.concepstore.ph!

Ultimately, the ConcepStore pop-up at Ayala Malls Feliz allows shoppers to discover the latest in home and lifestyle technology from CIC's trusted brands, making it the ideal one-stop shop for meaningful, unique gifts.

In celebration of World Toilet Day, Albatross, the leading name in air care in the Philippines, is taking action to support better sanitation for Filipinos. Recognizing that proper sanitation is a human right, Albatross is committed to fostering clean, safe toilet facilities nationwide.

Since its initiation in 2013 by the United Nations, World Toilet Day has inspired leaders worldwide to advance the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of ensuring adequate and equitable sanitation for all. Yet, the numbers tell a stark story. Today, 3.6 billion people globally still lack proper sanitation, 20 million people don’t have access to basic sanitary facilities, and 8 million Filipinos practice open defecation,  with this practice of unsafe sanitation that can harm health and pollute the environment. Proper sanitation facilities are essential to protect both dignity and public health.

(from left) Rommel Taan, Supply Chain Head, Janna dela Cruz, Brand Manager, Maya Leander, Marketing Head, Neogin Evangelista, President & General Manager and Mr Tiburcio Aplacador, School Head, Parang High School

This year, Albatross addressed this critical issue in the Philippines, contributing to a cleaner, safer society. As part of its 2024 initiative, Albatross donated toilet cleaning essentials to various communities and institutions including Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) city jails in the National Capital Region, Madrasah Muslim schools in Metro Manila, family toilets in Sitio Sapang Munti Ipo Watershed (Norzagaray, Bulacan), and municipalities in Pasacao and Bombon, Camarines Sur.

Albatross provided products tailored to boost the hygiene and sustainability of toilet facilities: Albatross Toilet Bowl Cleaners, Albatross Deodorizers, and Gleam Liquid Sosa. These products help to ensure that toilets in these communities are not just accessible but hygienic, contributing to safer environments and a healthier future.

“This initiative is about more than donating products—it’s about empowering communities,” says Mr. Neogin Evangelista, President and General Manager of PHILUSA Corporation, the makers of Albatross. “Good sanitation practices begin with having the right tools, and we hope our contribution will inspire healthier hygiene habits that benefit everyone.”

Aligned with Manila Water Foundation, Albatross’s World Toilet Day efforts reinforce its commitment to making sanitation safe, peaceful and protected for every Filipino. This partnership underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to empowering individuals and supporting efforts that make sanitation accessible and reliable for everyone.

Albatross’s initiative for World Toilet Day is a call to action for all Filipinos. It’s a reminder that sanitation is more than just access to toilets; it’s about upholding dignity and promoting well-being. With this move, Albatross hopes to inspire others—individuals, communities, and organizations—to join them in advocating for better sanitation. By coming together and investing in clean facilities, all can contribute to a healthier, safer, and more equitable society, ensuring that sanitation is a privilege and a protected right for all. #WorldToiletDay #MWFWTD2024 #Albatross

Follow Albatross on social media to stay updated on their initiatives and learn more about their products:

Let’s work together to make sanitation accessible for all and to build a healthier, cleaner future.

 Nuvali Estate’s Fountain of Lights returns as an immersive and interactive festival!

Christmas comes to life in Nuvali

Instituted already in the last two years as a signature holiday event set within the popular lakeside Ayala Land’s expansive 2,400-hectare estate, it was dubbed to be the original water show in the country that has become a cherished holiday tradition, captivating both the community and visitors alike each year.

This year, it comes back even bigger. Nuvali invites all Filipinos to experience the joy and delight of its all new Fountain of Lights Festival - a larger than life, spectacular showcase that promises to fill the hearts of visitors with a festive spirit, awesome adventure, and family-friendly fun. 

The Nuvali Fountain of Lights: A Magical Tradition Anew

At the heart of this holiday season at Nuvali is the Fountain of Lights, an enchanting display of lights, music, and storytelling—a must-see nightly show for families especially kids of all ages and kids at heart. Starting this November, the show will feature two main thematic performances that will captivate audiences of all ages: “Dragons of Prosperity” and “Journey to Toy Island.” These awe-inspiring narratives are designed to spark the imagination and bring a sense of wonder to children and adults alike.

“Dragons of Prosperity” tells a magical tale of life and rebirth, where mystical dragons representing the elements of earth, water, wind, and fire come to life in a symphony of lights and movement. The dragons’ ethereal dance symbolizes the cycle of renewal and hope that mirrors the spirit of the holiday season—making it not only a visually striking experience but also one filled with meaning and value.

Their second show, “Journey to Toy Island,” takes audiences on a whimsical adventure aboard a paper boat that embarks on a journey to a distant island of magical toys. This playful story will spark joy and nostalgia in children and adults alike, reminding us of the innocence and excitement of childhood wonder. 

A Mini Theme Park and Play

This year, Nuvali’s Fountain of Lights light, sound and water show extends to a multi-sensory holiday spectacle with on-ground installations of the show highlights, featuring dragons and life-size toys,kids and adults can play with, creating a magical setting for families to explore and make unforgettable memories together.

Chrissy Roa, Ayala Land Estates and Corporate Brand Marketing Head; May Rodriguez, Ayala Land Estates Senior Project Development Head and Mark Manundo, Nuvali Project Development Head

The Gift of Kindness: Nuvali’s Toy Donation Drive

As part of its holiday celebrations, Nuvali also invites families to join in spreading the joy of Christmas through their Toy Donation Drive. In the spirit of giving, Nuvali Estate, Ayala Malls Solenad, Seda Nuvali, and The Driving Range are collaborating to bring the Gift of Kindness to life—a special toy drive dedicated to bringing smiles to children in Sitio Iraq Barangay Macabling, Sta Rosa, Laguna.  

Visitors can donate new or used toys that are still in good condition, at designated donation stations throughout the area.

All they have to do to participate would be, 

• Bring a Toy: We invite all attendees of the Fountain of Lights show to bring a toy for donation. Whether new or gently used, each toy has the power to brighten a child’s holiday.

• Drop Off at Designated Locations: Donations can be placed in the Giant Toy Box, located at the viewing deck for the Fountain of Lights.

• Share the Spirit: Capture and share a photo of your donation on social media with #GiftOfKindnessNuvali to encourage others to join in 

This toy drive serves as a meaningful way for the Nuvali to support those in need, uplift the less fortunate, and spread joy and kindness throughout the community. 

Visitors’ participation in this toy drive will make a significant impact in the lives of many children. Through this initiative, Nuvali hopes to teach generosity and selflessness while fostering a sense of community that extends beyond our estate, with the shared goal of making a positive impact to society. 

With all of these traditional and new offerings, there’s always something special to do for every member of the family that’s truly magical. Everyone is encouraged to come early for a full enjoyable experience. They can explore the beautifully decorated grounds, snap memorable photos with the holiday displays, and delight in the food stalls, toy booths, and weekly Christmas workshops that add to the joyful Nuvali experience before the shows begin.

Nuvali’s Fountain of Lights Festival can be experienced from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM every Friday to Sunday starting November 14, 2024 until January 5, 2025.

A New Holiday Tradition Not to be Missed 

From the dazzling Fountain of Lights Festival there’s more holiday cheer to experience for the first time with the family at Nuvali. 

On November 30, Nuvali, as the venue partner in collaboration with Coca-Cola, will welcome its first-ever Christmas Drone Show - a breathtaking display lighting up the skies over Nuvali East Bloc from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. With Santa making a special appearance in the sky, families can enjoy an evening filled with live entertainment, festive food merchants, and holiday activities. Enjoy the entertainment before looking up to experience the night’s magical highlight - a captivating drone show holiday spectacle you won’t want to miss.

The whimsical atmosphere, combined with the warmth of the holiday season, is an ideal setting for creating memories with loved ones. Whether you're enjoying the shows, exploring the stunning Christmas décor, or giving back through the Toy Donation Drive, Nuvali Estate offers something for everyone—making it the perfect holiday destination for the whole family.

Mark your calendars and make Nuvali your holiday destination this year! Feel the magic of the season, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Come for the one-of-a-kind show, play with your inner child in the theme park, stay to imbibe the spirit of giving, and leave with a heart full of holiday cheer!

This event is made possible with the support of Avida Land and Seda Nuvali.

For more information, visit https://www.nuvali.ph/ or via social media at https://www.facebook.com/NUVALIOfficial , https://www.instagram.com/nuvaliph/ , and https://www.tiktok.com/@nuvaliph