National Strawberry Day: All the Berry Treats You Can Find at SM!

Strawberry lovers, rejoice! National Strawberry Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in everything sweet, fruity, and oh-so-berry delicious. Whether you're craving strawberry-flavored treats, refreshing drinks, or even strawberry-scented finds, SM Malls in the East Metro—SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown—have got you covered. Refer to these must-try picks that will make your day extra special!

Berry-licious Food & Drinks

Nothing beats the classic taste of fresh strawberries, and SM Supermarket has them ready for you to enjoy at home. If you're looking for a quick chocolatey fix, grab some Meiji Strawberry Chocolate for an instant mood booster.

Strawberry Chocolate by Meiji is available at SM Supermarket.

Craving a refreshing sip? Pickup Coffee's Strawberry Frappe and Strawberry Iced Dream are delightful blends of creamy and fruity goodness, perfect for a mid-day pick-me-up. If you're a fan of frozen yogurt, llaollao lets you customize your treat with fresh strawberry toppings for that perfect mix of tart and sweet.

Pick Up Coffee’s Strawberry Iced Dream, available at SM Center Antipolo Downtown

For those with a sweet tooth, Candy Corner offers a variety of strawberry-flavored candies, including Roll-Ups, Strips Sour, and Striking Popping Candy that will take you on a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Meanwhile, Dairy Queen serves up their creamy and indulgent Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard that’s guaranteed to satisfy your dessert cravings.

Decadent Strawberry Desserts
From brownies to bingsu, SM Malls have all the strawberry desserts you can dream of! Brownies Unlimited’s Strawberry Crème Brownie is a fudgy delight with a fruity twist, while Bonchon’s Strawberry Bingsu is the ultimate Korean-style shaved ice treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

A box of Strawberry Cream brownies from Brownies Unlimited in SM City San Mateo and SM City Marikina

If donuts are your go-to, try The Taste of Czaczacza’s Strawberry Quizas Donut or Dunkin’s Strawberry-Filled Donut for a burst of berry goodness in every bite. And for a trendy street food experience, don’t miss out on the viral Strawberry Tanghulu—candied strawberries on a stick that are as fun to eat as they are delicious!

Caramia takes strawberry desserts to the next level with their Strawberry Supreme Gelato and Strawberry Shortcake, both rich in flavor and texture. And for celebrations, Hearts and Bells offers a stunning strawberry-flavored tiered cake that’s perfect for any occasion.

Sweet Scents & Berry-Colored Finds
Strawberry goodness isn't just about food—it can also be a part of your daily essentials! Bench’s Strawberry Bratsplash Cologne gives you a fresh and fruity scent that will keep you feeling light and playful all day long.

The classic strawberry scent from Bratsplash. Available at Bench in all SM City Marikina, Masinag, and San Mateo.

Celebrate Strawberry Bliss at SM!

Whether you’re indulging in a strawberry-filled donut, cooling down with a fruity frappe, or enjoying the fresh scent of strawberries, there’s something for everyone at SM Malls in the East Metro. Celebrate National Strawberry Day with these oh-so-berry good finds and make your day extra sweet! Visit your nearest SM Mall and satisfy your strawberry cravings today!

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LG introduces latest generation of DualCool AI Air Conditioner with Smarter Cooling

The New DUALCOOL AI Air Presents Optimal Comfort and Groundbreaking Convenience with Innovative Air Conditioning Solutions

LG Electronics (LG) recently unveiled its newly upgraded residential air conditioner, the DUALCOOL™ AI Air, with advanced AI Core-Tech. The latest model enhances comfort, improves energy efficiency, and elevates air quality like never before and comes in four HP variants: 1.0 HP, 1.5 HP, 2.0 HP, and 2.5 HP.

The latest DUALCOOL™ AI Air offers an optimized air conditioning environment customized to each user’s preferences. Powered by the AI DUAL Inverter™, the system detects the ambient temperature of the space and intelligently adjusts temperature, airflow direction and speed accordingly for consistent comfort. The AI Air mode features the Human Detecting Sensor, which precisely tracks the user’s location and learns usage patterns through spatial analysis by the ThinQ app to create the most efficient airflow pathway. The function also automatically adjusts the settings to create a comfortable indoor environment, delivering direct airflow for fast cooling or heating and transitioning to Soft Air mode with indirect airflow when the room reaches the ideal temperature.

In addition, the new model features Sleep Timer+, which analyzes user preferences and sleep patterns to provide a relaxing sleep environment. To ensure a restful night, Sleep Timer+ sets the ideal temperature and operates quietly during sleep hours. The DUAL Vane™ system and Soft Air function further improve airflow control for maximized comfort.

The DUALCOOL AI Air also employs an array of energy-saving features, reducing energy consumption with unparalleled convenience. Its AI kW Manager enables users to control electricity use by setting and monitoring usage limits. The Human Detecting Sensor and Window Open Detection allows the air conditioner to swiftly sense changes in the room, activating energy-saving mode when the space is unoccupied or if the temperature suddenly fluctuates.

Moreover, the new DUALCOOL AI Air simplifies clean air management with its All Cleaning mode, which can be activated with a single tap in the ThinQ app. This mode performs a full maintenance cycle, including condensed water generation and Freeze Cleaning™ to remove contaminants from the evaporator, as well as Auto Clean+ which automatically dries the interior of the air conditioner. This cycle is complemented by a multi-step filtration process. For even fresher, cleaner air, users can activate the Plasmaster™ Ionizer++, which can eliminate up to 99.9 percent of adhering bacteria, effectively capturing dust, bacteria and debris.

“The LG DUALCOOL AI Air exemplifies our dedication to enhancing indoor temperature control with latest air conditioners,” said James Lee, president of the LG ES Company. “We are committed to advancing our state-of-the-art AI technology to shape the future of innovative air conditioning solutions.”

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PILATO - a new musical, takes stage this April at PETA

ANO BA ANG KATOTOHANAN: An all-original Filipino musical all set to unveil a new perspective on the greatest story ever told

In an era where misinformation spreads faster than light and truth seems to wear many faces, the question asked over 2,000 years ago by one of the most divisive persons in history still reverberates with haunting relevance: “Ano ba ang katotohanan?” This serves as the heartbeat of Pilato, an all-original Filipino musical set to captivate audiences this April at the PETA Theater Center.

With its daring perspective and poignant relevance, the production revisits the so-called “greatest story ever told”--the trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ--through the eyes of Pontius Pilate, a man caught at the crossroads of power, faith, and duty.

Jerome Ferguson (Pilato) and Onyl Torres (Josepo)

The musical traces Pilato’s journey from his early ambitions in Rome to his appointment as prefect of Judea, a province brimming with religious and political unrest. There, Pilato’s every decision is scrutinized by a constellation of figures: the enigmatic historiographer, Josepo; the calculating high priest, Caiaphas; his wise and foreboding wife, Procla; and Hesus, a mysterious and magnetic presence rumored to be the King of the Jews.

Jerome Ferguson (Pilato), Jeremy Manite (Caiaphas), and Noel Rayos (Hesus)

In a time when Holy Week invites reflection and as the country approaches the critical 2025 elections, Pilato emerges as a vital meditation on truth in all its complexity.

Through haunting melodies and powerful storytelling, it challenges us to confront the choices we make as individuals and as a society.

“Information comes to us in countless forms and modes. But how do we sift through the chaos to uncover the truth? Would we even recognize the truth if we meet it face-to-face?” shares writer-director Eldrin Veloso. “Essentially, that is what the play hopes to put out there--a journey that dares to unravel the mystery of truth’s many faces. With our society on the brink of a post-truth era, I believe this is a story that demands to be told, now more than ever.”

With a cast of seasoned musical theater artists and gifted newcomers, Pilato offers an emotional and intellectual journey unlike any other. It is a poignant reminder that even after two millennia, the search for truth remains both our greatest burden and our ultimate salvation.

This marks the inaugural theatrical venture of The Corner Studio, a creative agency renowned for weaving compelling narratives through its expertise in branding, production, marketing, and design. Now, it steps boldly onto the stage, bringing its storytelling vision to life in a new dimension.

Don’t miss Pilato on April 4 at 8pm for its world premiere and on April 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13 at 3pm and 8pm, at the PETA Theater Center.

Tickets are now available at pilato.helixpay.com.

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FEU Theater Guild brings Niyebe: Isang Musikal

The Far Eastern University Theater Guild (FTG) stages another Gabriel Garcia-Marquez short story as an experimental play for the opening of its 91st season.

NIYEBE: ISANG MUSIKAL is a groundbreaking production, featuring music and musical direction by Vince Lim, assisted by Jesus Singh III (IAS ‘17) for additional guidance and vocal coaching, choreography by Carlon Matobato, and choreography, adaptation, lyrics, and direction by Dudz Teraña, is set to captivate audiences from February 12 to March 27, 2025.

Against the backdrop of Europe's harsh winter, Niyebe: Isang Musikal tells the tragic story of newlyweds Billy Sanchez and Nena Deconte, whose honeymoon turns into a nightmare. A small scrape on Nena's finger leads to death! Stranded in a foreign land, Billy grapples with solitude, grief, and despair, forced to confront profound questions about existence, purpose, and identity in the aftermath of his wife’s sudden death. All this while, he battles the relentless bureaucracy that ultimately denies him the chance to see his wife one last time.

The musical production features a dynamic cast with Billy Sanchez played by RB Pascua (IAS ‘25) and Dave Bambang (IARFA ‘29), Nena Deconte by Kesiah Eunice Aritao (IAS ‘25) and Brigitta Claire Marilla (IAS ‘25), and the Narrator by Aaron Bayani (FIT‘25).

Also featured is a dynamic ensemble cast, whose collective talent and synergy will enhance the depth and vibrancy of the musical's narrative and performances.

Director and writer Dudz Teraña masterfully adapts García Márquez's story into a compelling theatrical experience that fuses music, movement, and rich storytelling. "Niyebe isn’t just a love story; it’s a reflection of how the fragility of happiness and loss can spiral into a deep existential crisis," says Teraña. "Reimagined as an experimental play, it employs a unique narrative style while delving into societal issues such as class disparity, which inspired García Márquez’s original work. Much like his other works, it speaks on existentialism, the questioning of one’s purpose after a sudden loss, and the wanting of escapism triggered by this loss."

The show's brilliance lies not only in its powerful performances but also in the dedicated work of its creative and production team. From the seamless execution by Stage Manager Maria Ysabel Delos Reyes (IAS ‘27) to the logistical coordination of Production Manager Janah Gervacio (IHSN ‘26), and House Manager Hans Fernandez, every aspect of the show is meticulously managed. The production’s aesthetic vision is brought to life by Production Design Head Kirstan Orbegoso (IAS ‘28) and Costume Designer Margarita Barrameda (IAS ‘26), and the technical team led by Technical Head Kristian Samson (IAS ‘26), with lighting design by Arvin Javier (IAS ‘28), sound by Gab Lazaro (FIT ‘27), and video projections by Shawn Tarala (IAS ‘27). Offstage, the show is supported by Marketing Relations Head Cassandra Herilla (IAS ‘27), Creative Head Julia Nicole Ramas (FIT ‘27), Multimedia Heads Davewyn Macawile (IAS ‘25) and Millicent Roxas (IAS ‘25), Media Relations Head Heleina Li (IAS ‘27), Collaborative Relations Head Irish Oliveros (IAS ‘28), and Social Media Manager Renz Dotillos (IAS ‘26), ensuring that Niyebe resonates with audiences both on and off the stage.

With a unique blend of captivating performances, evocative music, and innovative design, Niyebe is more than just a musical— it’s a deeply moving exploration of love and loss.

NIYEBE: ISANG MUSIKAL runs at the FEU Center for the Arts Studio on the following dates:

• February: 12-13, 19-22, 26-28
• March: 1, 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, 26-27

Prices are 100 PHP for the FEU Community, 300 PHP for student Guests, 500 PHP for Regulars, and 700 PHP for VIPs.

For reservations and inquiries, please contact the FTG through their social media pages:

Facebook: Far Eastern University Theater Guild
Instagram & Tiktok: @feutheaterguildofficial
Twitter: @ftg1934
Website: https://feutheaterguild.com

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The Ultimate Skincare Boost: How One Facial Transformed My Skin

Taking care of your skin isn’t just for special occasions—it’s a form of self-care that every man should prioritize. Recently, I had the chance to try the "Man of the World" facial treatment at Montesa Medical Group, located in the prestigious Manila Hotel, and let me tell you, it was an experience worth sharing.

One of the best things about this treatment is that it only takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those with busy schedules. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for self-care can be a challenge, but Montesa Medical Group offers a quick and effective solution. The "Man of the World" facial is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes Laser Genesis therapy—an innovative, technologically advanced way to promote vibrant and healthy-looking skin in both men and women. This cutting-edge laser technology safely, discretely, and effectively treats fine wrinkles, large pores, uneven skin texture, diffuse redness, and scars.

Upon stepping into Montesa Medical Group's clinic, I was immediately impressed by how clean, well-maintained, and inviting the space was. The atmosphere exuded professionalism and relaxation, setting the perfect tone for my skincare treatment. The staff was warm, welcoming, and attentive, making me feel comfortable right from the start.

One thing that truly stood out was the presence of Dr. Anna Montesa herself. She took the time to explain the entire process in simple, easy-to-understand terms, ensuring that I knew exactly what to expect. Her expertise and reassuring approach made me feel confident that I was in good hands.

The Laser Genesis therapy used in this treatment helps tighten the skin, reduce fine lines, and improve overall facial contouring—all without any downtime. As the laser worked its magic, I felt a warm, soothing sensation, which was quite relaxing. Unlike other facials that involve harsh scrubbing or uncomfortable extractions, this treatment was entirely painless and calming.

What’s even more exciting? The results were immediate. Right after the session, my skin felt tighter, smoother, and noticeably more refreshed. It was like an instant confidence boost—perfect for any man who wants to look and feel his best with minimal effort.

If you’re someone who values efficiency, convenience, and visible results, the "Man of the World" facial at Montesa Medical Group is a must-try. Whether you’re preparing for an important event or simply want to maintain a youthful, healthy appearance, this treatment is a game-changer.

Montesa Medical Group at Manila Hotel delivers not just a treatment but a premium skincare experience. With top-tier technology, a professional and friendly staff, and expert guidance from Dr. Anna Montesa, this facial is a great investment in self-care. In just 30 minutes, I walked out with rejuvenated skin and renewed confidence—a true testament to how effective this treatment is.

So, if you’re looking for a hassle-free yet highly effective skincare solution, I highly recommend booking an appointment and experiencing it for yourself. After all, self-care isn’t just for special occasions—it’s a lifestyle.

Montesa Medical Group offers its services across multiple branches in Metro Manila. Here are their locations and contact details:

1. The Manila Hotel Branch

• Address: 1 Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila, 0913 Metro Manila
• Clinic Phone: 02-8527-0011
• Mobile (Globe): +63966-7636139
• Operating Hours: 12:00 NN – 10:00 PM, Monday to Sunday

2. Ayala Mall Circuit Branch

• Address: 3rd Floor, Ayala Mall Circuit, Makati City, Metro Manila
• Clinic Phone: 02-8826-7341
• Mobile (Smart): +63-961-285-4665
• Operating Hours: 12:00 NN – 9:00 PM, Monday to Sunday

3. Tomas Morato Branch

• Address: L/G CTTM Square Building, Tomas Morato Corner Timog Ave., Quezon City, 1100
• Clinic Phone: 02-8332-7639
• Mobile (Globe): +63-916-457-4059
• Operating Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Monday to Saturday

For more information or to schedule an appointment, you can visit their official website: https://montesamedicalgroup.com/

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POTEN-CEE’S 50TH-anniversary Campaign Bags Silver at the 60th Anvil

PascualLab Clinches First Anvil  From the PR Society of the Philippines

As Pascual Laboratories, Inc.’s (PascualLab) flagship brand, Poten-Cee, celebrates over five (5) decades of serving the vitamin C needs of Filipinos, it continues to carve milestones in the health industry. At the 60th Anvil Awards at the Manila Hotel, PascualLab received a Silver Anvil from the prestigious PR Society of the Philippines (PRSP) for Poten-Cee's 50th-anniversary campaign, #FiftyFortifiedandForgingForward.

#FiftyFortifiedandForgingForward celebrates 50 years of Poten-Cee which began as pedia brand Infan-Cee. Originally launched to offer vitamin C supplementation, the brand has since evolved to meet the health requirements of various individuals and has adapted to the Filipinos' diverse health and lifestyle needs, including immunity support as brought to the fore by the recent pandemic. The campaign for internal and external audiences highlighted these innovations across various media platforms, including digital and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

For successfully capturing the milestones and meaningfully engaging stakeholders who helped shape Poten-Cee into the well-loved brand that it is today, the campaign met the award-giving body’s strict criteria.  It was then shortlisted among a record-breaking 586 entries, with only 122 or 20% making the cut, earning PascualLab its first Anvil. 
 
According to Mickey de Quiros, Anvil Committee Chairman: “While the volume of entries is impressive, we must remember that the Anvil Awards have always stood for one core principle—integrity. The true value of an Anvil lies not in the number of awards given, but in the quality of the work. So, as we honored winners, we are reminded that the recognition is a reflection of the impact they have on the communities and industries they serve. It is about creating meaningful change through well-crafted, thoughtful, and strategic campaigns.” 
 
This 2025 and forging forward, Poten-Cee affirms its commitment to Filipinos.  
 
Valerie Anne T. Sison, Group Product Head shared: “Quality and care are at the heart of PascualLab’s service. With Filipinos’ health needs front and center, Poten-Cee, will continue to move forward with health innovations tailor-fit for customers’ needs, offering benefits beyond immunity.  We always go forward, true to our 50th-anniversary mantra.” 
 
Poten-Cee is available in all leading drugstores and supermarkets nationwide and at PascualLab’s official Lazada, Shopee, and Tiktok stores.

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Shop ‘til You Win at SM City Masinag 3-Day Sale!

SM City Masinag is kicking off 2025 with the hottest shopping event of the season! Get ready to score massive discounts of up to 70% off on incredible finds at the SM City Masinag 3 Day Sale happening on February 14, 15, and 16, 2025. It’s the perfect time to shop, save, and even win big!

Shop and Drive Away in a Brand-New Car!

Every P1,000 purchase earns you an e-raffle entry for a chance to win a Suzuki S-Presso GL AGS. Want to boost your chances? Shop on Saturday and Sunday to get double entries! Plus, create an SM Malls Online Account and enjoy 5 additional raffle entries—the more you shop, the closer you get to driving home that stylish new ride!

Exclusive Perks at The SM Store!

Don’t miss out on these amazing SM Store deals during the 3-Day Sale with up to 50% off on select items:

• SM Prestige cardholders get an extra 10% off on all purchases on February 14th.
• SM Prestige and SM Advantage cardholders can also enjoy an extra 10% discount on February 15 and 16.
• Shop a minimum P3,000 single-receipt purchase and qualify for the What’s in the Bag game! Choose a mystery bag and get a chance to win up to P10,000 worth of shopping money to spend on your favorite SM Store items.

Don’t Miss Out!

Mark your calendars and get ready for three days of unbeatable deals, thrilling games, and amazing prizes at SM City Masinag! Whether you’re shopping for fashion, home essentials, gadgets, or gifts, this is your chance to shop more and win big!

See you at the SM City Masinag 3 Day Sale—where every purchase gets you closer to fantastic finds and fantastic prizes!

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