A Night of Broadway, Christmas, and Storytelling: Cara and Anya Gutierrez Live at U Hotel Makati

This December 18, U Hotel in Poblacion, Makati sets the stage for an enchanting evening of Broadway favorites and holiday classics as sisters Cara and Anya Gutierrez headline a special pre-Christmas concert directed by Miss Saigon alumnus Jojo Urquico.

Both Cara and Anya are Miss Saigon alumni, a shared legacy that anchors the evening with theatrical depth and international pedigree. Designed as an intimate, two-act performance, the concert blends timeless Christmas songs with iconic musical theater numbers, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience world-class talent in a close, personal setting.

Act I opens with heartwarming holiday selections and beloved Broadway standards, including “My Grown Up Christmas List,” “For the First Time in Forever,” “Journey to the Past,” “Over the Rainbow,” and “Climb Every Mountain.” The act concludes with emotionally resonant performances that highlight each sister’s distinct vocal strengths and storytelling ability.

Act II brings playful energy, powerful theatrical moments, and a festive finale. Audiences can look forward to crowd favorites such as “Do You Wanna Build a Snowman,” “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” “Home,” and “Popular,” as well as moving duets like “For Good” and a joyful holiday closer with “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”

Anya Gutierrez is an internationally trained singer, actress, and dancer who starred as Belle in Beauty and the Beast: The Broadway Musical and played Yvette in Miss Saigon with World Theater Productions in Guam (2022–2023). She recently portrayed Maria in the Ateneo dramatic play No Harm, No Foul (2024) and headlined major performances including the ISKiN 10th Anniversary Show at Solaire and Opening Night: A Broadway Concert at Ateneo’s Dulaang Sibol (2025). Anya trained in acting for film and television under renowned Hollywood coach Howard Fine and is a Soprano 1 trained in the McClosky Vocal Technique. She also continues her dance training with Douglas Nierras Power Dance and IDMM Ballet.

Cara Gutierrez is a Filipino-American actress and vocalist celebrated for her expressive authenticity and luminous vocal quality. She starred as principal Kim in Miss Saigon (World Theater Productions), earning critical praise for her raw emotional delivery and gentle strength, and is currently in callbacks for major productions including Hamilton, Les Misérables, and Aladdin. A Merit Scholar at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (New York City), Cara trained under Broadway professionals Kyle Taylor Parker, David Cady, Jim Elliott, and Jay Russell, with further international training at the Unseen Acting School in London, the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, and with West End dance instructors Jack William Parry and El Haq Latief; she also continues her hip hop and jazz training with Douglas Nierras Powerdance. Trained in the McClosky Vocal Technique, she brings emotional honesty, depth, and heart to every role, and holds a cum laude degree in Information Technology Entrepreneurship from Ateneo de Manila University.

Set against the stylish and intimate backdrop of U Hotel, Poblacion, the December 18 concert promises an evening of music, storytelling, and holiday warmth—led by two rising stars whose shared journey on international stages now comes home for a special Christmas performance.

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Holiday Gifts Made Easy at SM Malls in the East Metro

This Christmas, SM Malls in the East Metro makes holiday shopping effortless with an exciting selection of ready-to-give gifts—complete, beautifully packed, and easy to find across your favorite brands. Whether you’re looking for last-minute presents or curated sets for everyone on your list, SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown offer a seamless shopping experience that covers all your gifting needs in one place.

With gift sets thoughtfully arranged and easy to spot across stores, shoppers can enjoy the convenience of choosing presents that are already packaged, themed, and carefully bundled—saving you time without sacrificing quality or style.

This Face Shop gift pack is perfect for skin care fanatics, available at SM City Masinag.

The best gift idea to your dainty friend! This Alberto wallet set is available at SM City San Mateo and SM Center Antipolo Downtown.

Trentahin and kwarentahin friends would love this Katinko set as Christmas gift! Get a box now at SM City San Mateo and SM City Marikina.

You can never go wrong with a pretty pink box from Silk Secrets as a gift, available at SM Store.

Shoppers can enjoy breeze-free gift-giving with easy-to-spot gifts from fashion, beauty, wellness, and specialty brands across the malls. SM Store, Penshoppe, Bench, Havaianas, and Alberto offer complete apparel and lifestyle bundles that make ready-to-wrap gifting effortless. Beauty and self-care lovers will also find curated sets from Ian Darcy with its signature scents; The Face Shop and The Body Shop featuring skincare must-haves, bath essentials, and makeup picks; Unisilver with elegant silver accessories; and Zen Zest offering personal and home fragrances. For those who prefer thoughtful treats, Marks & Spencer has gift bundles filled with chocolates, biscuits, wine, and other premium goodies. Meanwhile, wellness options like Katinko provide relief-focused packs with products for muscle pain, headaches, and everyday discomfort—perfect for practical and caring gifting.

Marks & Spencer’s Sumptuous Selection for Php 3,995 ready for gifting at SM City Marikina.

Spray the scent of holidays into your home with Zen Zest Frosty and Mistletoe Room Spray available at SM City San Mateo and Masinag.

Ian Darcy Eau De Parfums ready for gifting to your fraghead friends. A wide array of luxury inspired scents are available in SM Center Antipolo Downtown and SM City Masinag.

At SM Malls in the East, finding the perfect present is as easy as strolling through your favorite halls. With complete gift sets, easy-find displays, and everything in one place, holiday shopping becomes not just stress-free but enjoyable and festive.

Discover effortless gifting with Holiday Giftables at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown today.

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Merry GCash Season Na! Here’s your Guide to Making the Holidays Merrier with GCash

With just a few weeks left until Christmas, the holiday rush is in full swing. From finding the most meaningful gifts to planning reunions and mapping out your itinerary for your much-awaited holiday trip, it’s the time of the year when moments feel fuller, brighter, and filled with anticipation. And when things sometimes feel like they’re happening all at once, having a little help goes a long way.

For a merrier, smoother holiday season, GCash is here to help! The country’s top e-wallet is bringing back the merry feeling through its Merry GCash celebration. This year, it’s bigger, better, and packed with even more deals and rewards, so all your holiday activities are merrier. Here’s everything GCash has to help you make the most of the season!

1. A new Christmas jingle from SB19 to lift your holiday mood

GCash and the Kings of P-Pop, SB19, have launched a new holiday jingle, “Make It Merry,” reminding everyone that, with a little GCash magic, you can make your favorite Christmas moments feel even more special. In the new music video featuring this collab, the SB19 boys are seen shopping gifts for their loved ones and paying seamlessly with GCash – a reminder that you don’t need to rush through the season; you can simply breeze through it, basta i-GCash mo!

2. A chance to turn your holiday spending into big prizes when you Shake It, Win It

The more you use GCash this holiday season, the more you get rewarded with amazing prizes when you play Shake It, Win It! For all your Christmas to-dos, like buying ingredients for noche buena, shopping for gifts, or picking out party outfits, just pay with GCash to earn entries.

This year, one lucky winner will bring home a brand-new BYD car, four winners will receive ₱1 million in GCash credits each, and 20,000 users will win up to ₱5,000 in GCash credits. But that’s not all! Up to 300,000 users will receive random GCash credits every day just by logging on the app.

3. The best deals of the season to help stretch your budget when you shop

And because holiday spending can pile up fast, GCash also helps you stretch your budget with exclusive deals online. When you shop on Lazada and TikTok Shop and choose GCash at checkout, you can unlock special deals and get that extra advantage when the spending gets a bit heavy this season!

If you find yourselves shopping at Robinson’s Department Store or SM Store, don’t worry! Use GCash to Scan to Pay, and you can also unlock more discounts!

4. Special promos at your favorite Christmas bazaars to make holiday shopping a breeze

GCash has also partnered with the biggest Christmas bazaars in the city this year. The best part? There will be bazaar-exclusive special hour promos that give you extra surprises and rewards when you pay with GCash. You can also earn more Shake It, Win It entries along the way!

Here’s where you can GCash this season:

- Designers Holiday Bazaar, Glorietta, Makati: November 29 to December 7

- Trendsetter’s Bazaar, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong: December 4 to 7 and December 18 to 21

- World Bazaar Festival, World Trade Center Metro Manila, Pasay: December 13 to 22

The holidays are always better when things feel lighter and joy lives in the small moments - not lost in the rush. The Merry GCash season is back to make sure to turn every payment, every purchase, and every shake into a step toward a truly merry celebration. Stay connected  by following @gcashofficial online to make sure you don’t miss out on any more exciting Merry GCash announcements.

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An ‘Al Fresco’ Concert and Film Night at MiraNila Heritage House

Experience Concert and Cinema Under the Stars

On Thursday, February 5, 2026, the historic MiraNila Heritage House will open its gates for a rare evening where time, memory, and music come together in one immersive al fresco event. As the sun sets over this beautifully preserved 1929 ancestral home, guests will first be invited to explore its storied halls through an intimate house tour before gathering on the front lawn for a unique blend of live performance and open-air cinema.

The evening will feature violinist Alessio Benvenuti, praised as an “Artist of High National and International Value,” and pianist Mariel Ilusorio, whose work has touched audiences across four continents. Together, the duo will perform selections from the timeless score of Cinema Paradiso, composed by Ennio and Andrea Morricone. The Oscar-winning and Palme d’Or–honored classic will then be screened outdoors, with a special message from celebrated director Giuseppe Tornatore delivered exclusively to the MiraNila audience after the film.

Tickets are available at special early bird rates until December 20, priced at ₱1,000 for adults and ₱800 for seniors and students with valid IDs. After the early bird period, regular tickets will be ₱1,200 for adults and ₱1,000 for seniors and students. To reserve a seat, guests may contact Bern via Viber at 0906 547 8268.

Guests may also look forward to a selection of food and beverages available throughout the evening. Pasta stations, snack tables, and cold drinks will be offered on the front lawn for purchase. Those who wish to elevate their experience can book VIP enhancements, including pre-concert cocktails and antipasti for ₱1,000 or a post-concert dinner for ₱1,750, available through the official booking link.

For event inquiries and additional information, guests may reach out to MiraNamin at +63 917 621 0062 or via email at hello@thenestbythesea.com

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12.12 Must-Haves: Gifts For the Hard-to-Shop-For Crew

With GLoan, you can get ahead of Christmas shopping, unlock great deals, stretch your budget, and pick gifts that truly count.

Shopping for someone who “already has everything” or lives that hardcore minimalist life can feel like solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded—frustrating, confusing, and slightly terrifying. But don’t panic: 12.12 is here, and it’s the perfect chance to get clever.

And with GLoan, kering-keri to manage your Christmas shopping budget early, spread out expenses, score the best deals, save more, and make sure every family member gets something special. This is your chance to surprise your loved ones with gifts that are thoughtful, practical, and just a little unexpected.

From the tech-savvy cousin to the friend who prefers experiences over things, we’ve rounded up smart, out-of-the-box ideas that will make you look like a gifting genius without breaking a sweat:

The Minimalist Tito

For the one who treats clutter like a mortal enemy, gifting isn’t about ‘more’—it’s about smart. Skip the gimmicks and go for sleek, functional winners: a wireless charger that doubles as a phone stand (because two-in-one is their love language) and a personal gadget like a smartwatch that handles fitness and payments, clean, useful, and zero regret—just how they like it.

The “I Already Have Everything” Friend

For that friend who swears they don’t need “more stuff,” the trick is to give something that feels personal, not predictable. Start with: an air humidifier and diffuser—a practical and cozy gift, especially if they’re living in apartments or small spaces. It doubles as a humidifier and diffuser, making it ideal for someone who appreciates a relaxing, homey vibe, and a name-engraved tumbler or leather pouch also hits the sweet spot: practical, customized, and impossible to misplace at the office pantry.

The Tech-Lover Cousin

Shopping for the tech fanatic who upgrades faster than you can say “latest model” is a true Olympic sport. Since you’ll never beat them to the newest gadget, go for the curveballs they won’t see coming: an innovative smart home accessory—like a smart bulb, that quietly levels up their space and open-ear earbuds in a unique colorway or design that stand out from their usual black-and-silver lineup. It’s still tech, still cool, but just different enough to impress even the upgrade-obsessed.

The Hobbyist/Collector Sibling

For the hobbyist who treats their collection like a museum and their hobby like a full-time job, ordinary gifts simply won’t cut it. They want something that speaks their language—and preferably comes with bragging rights: a limited-edition or rare find tied to their passion is an instant trophy piece, and a workshop or masterclass lets them level up their skills (and talk about it for weeks).

Thoughtful Giving Made Easy: How GLoan Helps You Plan, Gift, and Pay Smarter

With GLoan, being a thoughtful gifter doesn’t have to be stressful. You get instant access to funds of up to Php 150,000 straight to your GCash wallet and flexible payment terms that let you spread out costs without breaking the bank and interest for as low as 1.59% per month. It’s the perfect partner if you want to give thoughtfully, not impulsively, especially for those hard to gift for, and make the most of every deal.

To avail GLoan, just follow these steps:

1. In your GCash dashboard, tap the “Borrow” tab
2. Tap the GLoan icon
3. Tap “Get Started” to select your loan amount and purpose of the loan.
4. Tap "Get this Loan" and then "Continue" after reviewing the loan terms and your personal information.
5. Read the Disclosure Statement and the Terms and Conditions carefully. Tick the box to agree, then tap "Continue.”
6. Confirm the final loan amount you will receive. A 6-digit authentication code will be sent to your registered mobile number via SMS.
7. Enter the authentication code on the app and tap "Submit". You will see a confirmation message, and the loan amount will be credited to your GCash wallet within 24 hours.

At the end of the day, thoughtful gifts aren’t about buying the biggest box—they’re about picking something that feels right for that person. Whether you’re paying with your GCash Visa card or straight from your GCash wallet, kering-keri to cover all the gifts you’ve scored — quick, easy, and cashless, just how holiday shopping should be.

You can access GLoan through the GCash dashboard or click the “Borrow” button. GLoan subject to eligibility. Terms and Conditions apply. No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

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Rain-Proof Your Daily Wardrobe with LG Styler

Featuring TrueSteam™, Gentle Dry, and Pants Crease Care for Hygienic, Polished Looks Every Day

For many professionals, keeping workwear fresh and polished during unpredictable weather has become a seasonal challenge. With the LG Styler, the ultimate clothing care system, you can breeze into the rainy days and head into the next workday looking crisp, refreshed, and ready for any challenge, no matter the season.

 
Whether in transit or at work, your clothes naturally absorb trace odors and airborne allergens. The TrueSteam™ technology eliminates up to 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, with 100% water and no chemical additives. For delicate pieces like rain-soaked blazers or corporate suits, the Gentle Dry function uses the Heat-Pump Technology to dry fabrics at low temperatures, preventing shrinkage and damage while leaving them hygienically refreshed after every use.

 
When it comes to uniforms and daily wear, the Moving Hanger simulates hand-waving motions up to 200 times per minute, gently shaking off dust and wrinkles. Paired with the Refresh function, it ensures clothes are crisp and odor-free, making it easy to rewear the same set of clothing.

Sharp creases aren’t just a detail, it’s a statement of professionalism. With Pants Crease Care, slacks and trousers retain their lines while minimizing wrinkles, ensuring office-ready polish without the hassle of ironing. You can step out looking sharp, whether it’s for an early meeting, a last-minute presentation, or important client calls.

Designed to create a more comfortable environment, the Dehumidifying function keeps indoor air fresh and free from excess moisture, even on the most humid days. To make life even easier, there’s no need to visit the dry cleaners, the LG Styler brings professional care right into your home. The LG ThinQ™ app gives you the convenience of controlling and monitoring your Styler remotely, so your clothes are ready exactly when you need them.

 
In a season where rain showers and long days are unavoidable, the LG Styler eases you back into daily life, helping you look best without the extra effort, even on the dampest days. Step into each morning confident that your clothes are ready to match your schedule, no matter the forecast. After all, Life’s Good when every detail is cared for, letting you shine through the rain.

 
Life isn’t just about having the latest technology—it’s about the meaningful experiences it creates and the impact it brings to our everyday lives. Discover more at www.lg.com/ph and stay connected by following LG Philippines (@lgphilippines) on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

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SM City Marikina Wins Gold Award as Bike-Friendly Establishment

Maria Carmen Kahn, SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Transportation management, Mall Manager Francis Brian Cruz, and Regional Marketing Head Khristine Lenon, receive the gold award for SM City Marikina for Bicycle-Friendly Large Establishment category at the 2025 Mobility Awards ceremony.

SM City Marikina proudly announces its Gold Award from the Mobility Awards 2025, recognizing the mall as one of the country’s most bike-friendly large establishments. The award celebrates SM City Marikina’s strong commitment to active mobility and creating accessible spaces for cyclists in the East Metro.

This recognition highlights the mall’s cyclist amenities, led by its secure and spacious bike parking facility, strategically located for easy access. The mall also supports biking communities through regular cycling activities, partnerships with local riders, and facilities that make it convenient for cyclists to transition from their ride into the mall.

Secure racks with a total of 124 slots and ample space to maneuver make SM’s bike parking a trusted spot for daily riders and weekend bikers.

Cyclists from Marikina and nearby cities participate in the National Bike Day celebration at the mall

“Our commitment to providing secure, thoughtfully designed bike parking facilities and our regular cycling-focused activities reflect our dedication to supporting not just Marikina riders but the wider biking community who visit us from across the metro”, said Francis Brian Cruz, mall manager of SM City Marikina.

The recognition aligns with SM Supermalls and SM Cares’ efforts to promote greener mobility and encourage healthier, more sustainable travel habits. SM City Marikina, situated in a city well-known for its cycling culture, continues to complement local government initiatives by providing infrastructure that supports daily commuters, leisure riders, and biking groups.

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