Golden Era

I just celebrated my birthday last Sunday and was truly grateful and happy with the outcome. Although I wish I could've invited more, it was only limited to my family members and some friends closer to my age. I always thought that people in their 50's were way too old but now that I have reached this age, I do not feel that way at all, lol. Instead of thinking the inevitable, I was grateful instead because I have reached this far and still looking forward to celebrate more birthdays. Anyway♡♡s, here's the cake I asked my baker (also a friend) to make.

I found the design on the internet, send it to her and she incorporated it with her own style and the result was great! Of course, the color of the cake is gold because you know why... 😉 The flavor was mocha, then she added whipped cream I guess. I am not a baker but all I know was that this cake tasted so good! I was so glad I found some baker friends who can make my cake even on a short notice. Yeah, I was undecided at first to have a party or not, or just to celebrate with my family. Until three days before my birthday when I finalized everything. Glad the result was flawless. Thank You, Lord, for allowing me to celebrate my special day with special people ♡

Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI) Announces Change of Company Name to Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines, Inc. (CCEAP)

Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI) has changed the company’s legal name from “Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc.” to “Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines, Inc.” (CCEAP).

 

Following the announcement on 23 February 2024 on the completed acquisition of CCEAP by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Plc (CCEP) and Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV), the company has obtained approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission for the change of its company name.

The unveiling of the new company name was held at Coca-Cola’s Canlubang Plant. From left to right: CCEAP President and CEO, Gareth McGeown; Aboitiz Group of Companies President and CEO, Sabin Aboitiz; Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Vice President and General Manager for Australia, Pacific and South East Asia, Peter West; and CCEAP Supply Chain Vice President Frank Garcia.

“Our new name signifies an exciting new phase in our journey as we reaffirm our commitment to serving our customers, supporting our people and communities, and driving long-term growth for the country. In the 113 years that Coca-Cola has called the Philippines home, we look forward to a hundred more years of refreshing our consumers and making a difference through our Great People, Great Beverages, Great Execution, and Great Partners — Done Sustainably,” says Gareth McGeown, President and CEO of CCEAP.

New Year Reflections

Hello 2025!

Hello January!

Hello Birth month!

As the new year begins, my mind is filled with countless thoughts, but I choose to focus on positive things and entrust my worries to God. This month marks a significant milestone in my life as I celebrate my golden year of existence in this world. I hope to celebrate it surrounded by family and friends who truly matter to me. My goal is to focus on things that bring me happiness, contribute to my growth as a person, and help me remain resilient. 

I have many prayers for this year. First and foremost, I pray for my health. I hope to feel better and receive the proper treatment for the liver cysts that have troubled me for years, especially in recent months. Second, I pray for the safety and well-being of my family, particularly my youngest child, who is often misunderstood and made fun of because she is on the spectrum. It pains me deeply, but I continue to trust in God’s protection and guidance. 

Third, I pray for financial blessings for our family. I lift up my husband’s work, praying that he finds the strength and grace to navigate the challenges he faces. I also pray for opportunities for myself to find a job, whether online or on-site, even at this stage in my life. Lastly, I pray for others, asking that their heartfelt prayers be answered. Above all, I remain grateful to the Lord for the blessings He has already given and for making so much possible.

Happy 1st of January everyone!

Back Where it Began: Big Bad Wolf Book Completes 2024 Tour with Return to Cagayan de Oro

Big Bad Wolf Books comes full circle as the world’s biggest book sale returns to Cagayan de Oro to wrap up the year with one last amazing book sale for the year. Big Bad Wolf Books’ grand epilogue is set to take place at the 5th floor of SM CDO Downtown beginning December 6 to 16, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

After several book extravaganzas all over the Philippines, Big Bad Wolf Books circles back to where the year’s excitement started. This is a special moment as it presents the Kagay-anons an excellent opportunity to reflect on their reading journey, reminiscing their first book sale experience and seeing how far they’ve come as readers. Big Bad Wolf Books’ return is more than just a book sale event. It’s a celebration of a year filled with awesome adventures and epic stories.

Being the first stop of the tour, Cagayan de Oro raised the bar high for Big Bad Wolf Books’ 2024 journey. As the year comes to a close, Big Bad Wolf Books promises a perfect finale by giving Kagay-anons the ultimate book lover’s paradise. 

Present at the opening day, Big Bad Wolf Books Project Director Ley Almeda expressed her excitement for the final book sale of the year. “We’re absolutely thrilled to begin and end the year with an awesome event here in Cagayan de Oro!” She shared, “When we first came here last February, we were welcomed with so much enthusiasm. It’s truly remarkable to see that not even a year after, the book sale has attracted another great crowd.” 

Big Bad Wolf Books’ Regional Head Bernard Lee was also at the event to welcome the Kagay-anon crowd. He remarked, “We’re ecstatic to see the people of Cagayan de Oro so passionate for books.” Commenting on Big Bad Wolf Books’ 1M New Reader Mission, he said, “WIth the overwhelming support we’re receiving, there’s no doubt that we’re closing the year with an incredible number of people falling in love with reading.” 

The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale offers over 2 million books at unbelievably affordable prices. From the latest releases to classic bestsellers, titles from every genre imaginable are yours to grab at the book sale. Plus, with prices up to 95% off and going as low as P20, it’s a great time to update your collection of reads and also cross off those last-minute gift shopping lists without straining your wallet. 

To further lighten up the load on your year-end book shopping, Metrobank is also back with its exclusive promo. Credit cardholders can enjoy a 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth at least P3,000. With such a fantastic deal, attendees can fill their shelves with literary treasures. 

Completing the quest to 1M New Readers, Big Bad Wolf Books continues to invite people to come discover reads that will inspire a love for reading at the final book sale of 2024. Staying true to its mission to improve literacy in the Philippines, Big Bad Wolf Books brings the Red Readerhood Program along to Cagayan de Oro. Through this initiative, Big Bad Wolf Books aims to share the gift of reading to communities which have limited access to quality reading materials. By checking out books for donation at designated counters at the book sale, attendees can be a part of this meaningful initiative. Donated books will be handed over to DSWD, which will then disseminate them to children, schools, and other communities in underprivileged areas to give them the opportunity to discover the transformative power of reading. 

Kagay-anons, don’t miss the chance to end the year with wonderful reads, amazing deals, and unbeatable discounts. Get your “happy ever after” with Big Bad Wolf Books and head over now to the book sale. Follow Big Bad Wolf Books’ social media pages to stay updated! 

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

🐺   🐺   🐺

About Big Bad Wolf Books The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of readers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone. 

One of the company’s best highlights is its book sales, which is popular among readers around the world. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them. 

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has toured 15 countries and 37 cities. Among these include different cities in Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates.

Yuletide Season 2024

Did you start decorating your Christmas tree already? Do you have a theme every year?

It has always been my tradition to put up my Christmas tree on the eve of November 30 so that by December 1st, it feels very Christmas-y at home. My kids are quite familiar with my routine and I'm glad my youngest child is there to assist me assemble the tree and even insisted on putting all the decorations. With that, I am grateful coz it lessens my workload. Her favorite part is putting the Christmas star on top of the tree as the finale, lol.

Below is a picture of me in front of a Christmas tree that is obviously not mine 😁

I always love SM's giant Christmas tree and their theme this year is Wonderland. This was taken 2 weeks after my medical procedure and I was just glad to have visited this place. 

Happy Holidays Everyone!🎄

 

Big Bad Wolf Books Brings 1M New Reader Mission to Cagayan de Oro for Its Grand Finale

Calling all Kagayanons! Big Bad Wolf Books is getting ready to make a big splash at the White Water Rafting Capital of the Philippines! Ending the year with a bang, the Big Bad Wolf Unite on a Mission to 1M New Reader campaign heads over to Cagayan de Oro. Big Bad Wolf Books is set to light up the 5th floor of SM CDO Downtown, from December 6 to 16, at 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.

After kicking off this year’s tour with its first-ever event in Cagayan de Oro last February, Big Bad Wolf Books is thrilled to go full circle to hold its final book sale of the year for the last hurrah of its 1M New Reader Mission. The mission was first launched during the first Manila stop at Parqal, Aseana City. Now, it’s the Kagayanons’ turn to join in on the reading fun!

Big Bad Wolf Books has been visiting cities across the country, bringing exciting book sales to boost this meaningful initiative. With Cagayan de Oro as its final stop for 2024, Big Bad Wolf Books hopes to inspire even more people to discover a love for reading and experience the transformative power of books.

In pursuit of its mission to onboard 1M new readers, Big Bad Wolf Books also seeks to extend its reach far beyond the book sale. As part of its commitment to improving literacy in the country, Big Bad Wolf Books opens its Red Readerhood counters for donations. Attendees can purchase books from the book sale to donate to DSWD. This partnership and the collective effort of book sale attendees have allowed Big Bad Wolf Books to deliver reading materials to children, schools, and areas that have limited access to quality books. Through this initiative, Big Bad Wolf Books is not only inspiring new readers but also nurturing the next generation of thinkers, learners, and leaders.

The holidays will be in full swing soon, and Big Bad Wolf Books is making sure that no fun or festivity is spared. Going full throttle, Big Bad Wolf Books is bringing unbelievable deals, unbeatable discounts, and an amazing collection of books so that no Kagayanon will leave empty handed. From heart-racing mysteries to wonder-filled children’s stories and soul-soothing reads, the book sale is a treasure trove of great reads. Even more good news, this extensive range of books are available for up to 95% off with prices going as low as P20. With Big Bad Wolf Books, there’s a perfect book for every age, interest, and budget. 

Just in time for the season’s festivities, Metrobank is returning with Big Bad Wolf Books with its exclusive offer of 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth at least P3,000. This special offer gives book lovers and holiday shoppers the perfect opportunity to bag even more great finds at the book sale.

Big Bad Wolf Books began its 2024 chapter with an awesome book sale in Cagayan de Oro, and as the year comes to a close, it returns to finish strong with an unforgettable book sale. Jaw-dropping deals, an ocean of books, and an extra merry time awaits, so mark your calendars for Big Bad Wolf Books’ anticipated return to Cagayan de Oro. Follow Big Bad Wolf Books’ social media pages for the latest updates!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram) 

About Big Bad Wolf Books 

The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of readers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone.

One of the company’s best highlights is its book sales, which is popular among readers around the world. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them.

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has toured 15 countries and 37 cities. Among these include different cities in Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates.

I Am a Mom First

Hello! Sorry for my long absence. I have been battling some personal concerns that I need not share it all. But, yeah, there are some that I might - depending on my mood today.

Life's been challenging lately. Most of the time I dealt it quietly. It's always been my nature not to share my personal life or interest to others. I used to confide to selected people only coz not everyone can keep their mouth shut.

I believe some, if not most, deal with life's challenges differently and we have to respect that. Some handle it by ranting on social media, some handle it quietly, some, well, we just never knew they are already torn inside but they never show it outside.

Anyways, most of my time recently evolved only on my family, especially my kids... My youngest has ASD, 14 years old now and on her 8th grade. And what an achievement that was on her part! I never shared mostly about her because I wanted to protect her in this 'perfect world' that people created... or probably I am just protecting myself so as not to get hurt from the people who created this 'perfect world'.

Yeah, it hurts to hear from others who know nothing of your struggle yet told you they understand how I felt. Even had the nerve to tell me that I should accept my daughter's case - as if I didn't do that a long time ago. But should I stop there especially when I see she is capable to go to school and learn grow and blend in? She learns the way you and I learn things in life, or what the school taught us, but just differently, or according to her pace.

In this modern era we kept fighting about acceptance, inclusivity. Others even support a lot of causes or awareness about ASD and post it in their social media pages or wherever, but have we done enough? Did we really see these people up close and personal, do we really champion them, or just use this awareness for clout? Words are easy to say, actions are not.

When my daughter was diagnosed at 2 1/2 years old, it broke my heart but I didn't stop there. I took heed of what her developmental doctor suggested by sending her to therapies (OT, language class, speech therapy). When she was accepted at school, I coordinated and complied with the school's policy, talk to teachers if needed, listened to them when there were incidents that need to be addressed. It wasn't easy but she succeeded and was able to catch up with regular kids her age.

I gave up my own dreams and ambitions in life, I lost lots of friends because I put my children first, I developed anxiety and even got sick myself but when I see my children, esp my child with ASD succeeded, then I felt like everything is probably worth it. 

But it's just sad that other people I met along the way, or in other institutions are not as welcoming or helpful. Some of them only see the negative things they see in my child. Some cannot help but compare her to regular kids. Even ironic that a school counselor told me my daughter will struggle the next school year and suggested to try another school, and some relatives told me to better transfer my child to a public school as if they're the ones paying for my child's tuition.

Sorry, I've to vent this out because they don't how what I struggled, FIRST, as a MOM and second, as the only one who took care of my child since birth 24/7. I know her strength and I know her weaknesses. I also know how to accept her limitations but I cannot accept criticisms from people who don't even know my child personally and judge them from what they only see from the outside. As long as I breathe (or even beyond that), I promised to fight for my child or children's rights.

Okay, I'll stop from here coz I'm getting too emotional to type this. I have other matters to attend to. I still have my health to take care of. I just find a lot of things unfair but I will continue to try to look at positive things... and continue to fight for my child, also for kids who have no voice. END

Barato ra ang Appliances ug Gadgets karong Summer Season kay Tsada ang Deal sa Home Credit!

Enjoy 0% interest deals on a wide range of home appliances and gadgets until June 15, 2024

Helping beat the summer heat, Home Credit Philippines, one of the country’s leading consumer finance companies, has activated limited-time deals with its 0% interest promo on a wide range of home appliances and gadgets to keep you cool this dry season.

Running until June 15, 2024, this special promo is designed to help customers stay cool and comfortable during the hot season. You can purchase essential summer items, including inverter and window-type air conditioners, air coolers, and electric fans, all at 0% interest. The promotion also includes no-frost refrigerators and chillers to keep your groceries fresh and your summer beverages cold.

Home Credit's summer offer extends to water dispensers and juice blenders, ensuring everyone stays hydrated, as well as top-load washing machines to keep your clothes fresh for summer outings. Additionally, the offer covers the latest smartphones to help you capture summer memories.

To make it easier for you to upgrade your home appliances and gadgets, flexible installment plans are available, ranging from six to 18 months. You can check the best deals for you in Home Credit’s Shoppingmall.ph and get your purchases in Home Credit’s over 15,000 partner stores across more than 75 provinces nationwide.

Take advantage of the coolest 0% interest promo now! Grab your preferred cooling appliances, remarkable gadgets, and more this hot season, and enjoy summer with comfort and savings.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in Shoppingmall.ph.

Get your appliance repaired or replaced from damages for no extra cost! It even extends your appliance's warranty for one year after the manufacturer’s warranty period has expired. Just add the Home Credit Protect Appliance Protection to your installments so you can enjoy peace of mind for up to two years for as low as P3 per day.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Walk This Way at the Boulevard

I am just too glad that Macasandig Boulevard is near our place so that I can have a long and peaceful walk early in the morning. I admit I lack exercise but I guess I will be frequenting this place since it is just near and very conducive for walking. I understand this will be opened to vehicles soon but at least there is a walkway for people who just likes to, well, walk. I am also savoring this moment while only pedestrians are allowed to stroll on the streets. Right now, my goal is to hopefully reach the other side of the road one of these days :)

Capture Unforgettable Summer Memories with the Perfect iPhone

Summer in the Philippines is a time for adventure, relaxation, and making memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re exploring the beautiful White Island beach of Camiguin, hiking in the scenic mountains of Baguio, or enjoying a vibrant fiesta in your hometown, having the right smartphone can make all the difference in capturing those special moments. Thanks to the Hottest Summer sa Pinas 0% Interest Promo, owning an iPhone is for everyone!

The Ultimate Summer Smartphones

These iPhones are designed to make your summer memories last forever. Their advanced features for photography and videography ensure you can capture every detail of your summer adventures. Here are some amazing iPhone options perfect for capturing those unforgettable moments:

• Apple iPhone 11 128GB Black: The Apple iPhone 11 is an excellent choice for summer photography. This classic phone boasts excellent cameras, perfect for capturing vibrant summer colors and spontaneous group selfies.

• Apple iPhone 12 128GB, White Phone: Don't let the white color fool you, this phone is built for adventure. Take it on hikes, dips in the pool, or capture the night sky - step up your photography game with the Apple iPhone 12!

• Apple iPhone 13 128GB, Midnight Phone: Unleash your creativity with the powerful camera system of the Apple iPhone 13. Capture stunning photos and crystal-clear videos that will have you reliving your summer fun for years to come. For those looking to capture professional-quality images, this is a fantastic option.

• Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max 128GB, Space Black Phone: For the ultimate content creators, the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max offers unparalleled camera technology. Capture breathtaking landscapes, zoom in on those special details, and create professional-looking videos that will make your summer stories stand out.

• Apple iPhone 15 128GB, Pink Cellphone Mobile: Stand out this summer with the Apple iPhone 15. This sleek and stylish phone is perfect for capturing those picture-perfect moments.

• Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max 256GB, Natural Titanium: If you need a phone with more storage, look no further than the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max. This powerhouse offers ample space for all your summer memories, photos, and videos. With a large storage capacity, you can capture and store all your summer adventures without worrying about running out of space.
  

Making iPhones Accessible for Everyone

Thanks to Home Credit's Hottest Summer sa Pinas 0% Interest Promo, these premium iPhones are now within reach for everyone. This exclusive offer allows you to purchase any of these iPhones at 0% interest, making it easier than ever to own a top-tier smartphone. Visit https://www.shoppingmall.ph/ to explore your financing options and start capturing your summer memories today. For more convenience, download the My Home Credit Loan App from the Google Play Store.

This summer, don’t miss out on capturing and preserving your best moments. With Home Credit's incredible 0% interest offer, owning an iPhone has never been more accessible. Remember, iPhones are not expensive, they are for everyone. Choose from the iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14 Pro Max, 15, or 15 Pro Max to find the perfect device for your needs. Start creating lasting memories today, because with the right smartphone, every summer moment can last a lifetime.