TikTok Shop reinforces its commitment to empower local MSMEs across Visayas and Mindanao as it kicks off its 12.12 celebration in Cebu 

IVANA ALAWI

As the holiday season gains momentum, TikTok Shop is lighting up the festive spirit with its highly anticipated 12.12 Paskong Panalo Sale, bringing holiday cheer and unparalleled shopping thrills to consumers nationwide. While the event kicks off in Cebu, TikTok Shop’s reach spans across Visayas and Mindanao, with a strong commitment to supporting local sellers, especially micro, small, and medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in cities such as Davao, Cagayan de Oro (CDO), and beyond. 

TikTok Shop's Growing Impact Across Visayas and Mindanao

The 12.12 Paskong Panalo Sale is more than just a shopping event—it reflects TikTok Shop’s commitment to supporting the growth of businesses and empowering sellers across the Philippines, particularly during the peak holiday season. The platform combines its massive reach, engaging content, and innovative tools to connect businesses with new customers and boost meaningful engagement.

Tiktok Philippines and  local MSMEs across Visayas and Mindanao.

Cebu Media and Bloggers

“We’re excited to bring the 12.12 Paskong Panalo Sale nationwide, showcasing the vibrant entrepreneurship and innovation that thrives in cities like Cebu, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and other areas across Visayas and Mindanao,” said Franco Aligaen, Marketing Lead of TikTok Shop Philippines. “This event is a reflection of our continued efforts to enable the growth of local businesses. We’re not just offering a platform, but actively helping brands grow beyond their local markets.”

Empowering MSMEs Through Social Commerce and Financial Solutions

TikTok Shop has become a powerful ally for businesses of all sizes, offering a platform that helps sellers maximize their success during the year’s busiest shopping months. In regions like Cebu, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro, TikTok Shop has played a significant role in enabling MSMEs to expand their audience and embrace digital transformation.

Franco Aligaen, Marketing Lead of TikTok Shop Philippines.

A key initiative is the GCities Program, a partnership between GCash and TikTok Shop that empowers MSMEs across 20 key cities in the Philippines, including Bacolod, Cebu, Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, and Tagbilaran in Visayas, and Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, and Kidapawan in Mindanao. 

By combining GCash’s seamless digital payment solutions with TikTok Shop’s expansive social commerce reach, the GCities Program equips MSMEs with the tools, training, and opportunities needed to thrive in the digital economy. The program focuses on helping businesses effectively engage with customers, facilitating smooth transactions, and offering resources like e-commerce workshops and live-selling events to boost sales.

Trust and Confidence with #TikTokShopSmart

As TikTok Shop continues to grow, its #TikTokShopSmart initiative further strengthens the platform’s reliability for both consumers and sellers. Designed to ensure a seamless shopping experience, the program fosters trust and confidence in every purchase. By leveraging innovative tools and transparent processes, TikTok Shop supports businesses in building long-term customer relationships while ensuring that buyers can shop with assurance.

Raine Calma, E-Business Lead, Nestle Philippines

“Through initiatives like #TikTokShopSmart and GCities, we are creating an ecosystem where MSMEs can succeed and thrive,” Aligaen added. “With TikTok Shop’s platform and GCash’s financial tools, we empower local businesses to tap into the growing digital commerce trend. This partnership allows MSMEs, especially those in Visayas and Mindanao, to reach new heights during events like the 12.12 Paskong Panalo Sale.”

Spreading Holiday Cheer Through Social Commerce

As the 12.12 Paskong Panalo Sale approaches, TikTok Shop is set to boost visibility and sales for local businesses across Cebu and the Philippines. With a focus on supporting sellers and delivering a joyful holiday shopping experience, TikTok Shop continues to establish itself as a partner for business growth and a hub for holiday shoppers.

Tiktok Shop 12.12 Paskong Panalo with IVANA ALAWI

Customers can also enjoy TikTok Shop Exclusives, Bagsak Presyo LIVE vouchers up to ₱ 1,212, up to 100% Free Shipping vouchers nationwide and returns, and Brand Fiesta Deals  during the 12.12 Paskong Panalo Sale from December 6 to 12, 2024. 

About TikTok Shop

TikTok Shop is a one-stop e-commerce solution for driving brand growth and sales directly on TikTok. With TikTok Shop, merchants can tap into a full commerce experience with the capability to upload products and manage everything from shipping to fulfillment and point of purchase. Products are recommended to TikTok audiences through shoppable content formats such as in-feed short videos (embedded with product links), live shopping events, as well as a marketplace through the new Shop Tab.

Ajinomoto leads forum focused on health, nutrition, and sustainability with the future champions of our nation

It was a day of Empowerment, Learning, and Commitment to Health and Sustainability for Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) when they successfully held its Eat Well, Live Well: 2024 Youth Summit at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel in Cebu City. Building on the success of last year’s event, this year’s summit gathered over 150 enthusiastic young Filipinos, educators, and advocates in a day focused on wellness, nutrition, and sustainable living.

The Eat Well, Live Well 2024 Youth Summit held at Marco Polo Cebu

The 2024 Youth Summit is part of APC’s ongoing commitment to empowering the next generation with the knowledge and tools to make a positive impact on their communities and the environment. The event was filled with interactive sessions, engaging talks, and collaborative activities aimed at fostering a culture of health and sustainability among Gen Z participants.

Youth participants at the Eat Well, Live Well 2024 Youth Summit held at Marco Polo Cebu

APC Group President Koichi Ozaki delivered a remarkable message to the youth and shared Ajinomoto’s vision for a healthier, more sustainable Philippines. “The mission of APC is to contribute to food and wellness to better lives of the future and we take it upon us to inspire the younger generations to become champions of a healthy and sustainable future,” said Mr. Ozaki. “Ajinomoto is here to make your eating experience happy, healthy and satisfying.”

L-R: Sarah Coe, Redscope CEO, Morexette Erram, CBN Sr. Multi-media Reporter, Cheryl de la Victoria, DA Chief of Regional Agricultural and Fisheries Information Section, Dr. Paulyn Jean Ubial, Redscope TWG Chairperson, Koichi Ozaki, President of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), Ma. Victoria Abrera, DENR Regional Director for Central Visayas, Atty. Salustiano Jimenez, DepEd 7 Regional Director, Mika Makino, APC Director of Sales, Marketing and Public Relations, Ernie Carlos, APC Chief Sustainability Officer, and Madelin Dofiles, PFT, APC General Manager for Corporate Planning and Public Relations

Throughout the day, participants engaged in panel discussions with experts from the Department of Agriculture (DA), represented by Ms. Cheryl de la Victoria, Chief of Regional Agricultural and Fisheries Information Section and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), represented by Ms. Maria Victoria V. Abrera, Regional Director for Central Visayas, exploring key topics such as sustainable nutrition, waste reduction, and wellness practices. Through these dialogues, APC aimed to deepen the youth’s understanding of how small daily actions can lead to significant positive changes for both health and the environment.

Interactive Activities and Youth-Led Solutions

The summit featured hands-on activities, allowing attendees to actively participate in brainstorming solutions for real-world sustainability challenges. In one of the day’s highlights, a Youth-Led Output Activity encouraged participants to develop actionable ideas for living healthier and more eco-conscious lives. Groups collaborated to present innovative approaches, from reducing food waste to promoting planet-based diets, which encourage the increase in consumption of vegetables as reflected in Ajinomoto’s “Eat Well, Live Well” philosophy.

Another successful run of Eat Well, Live Well 2024 Youth Summit by Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation!

The breakout room sessions also gave opportunities for all student attendees to gain first-hand learning experience about the science behind MSG plus witness how vegetables can be turned into a delicious dish using almost all its parts with nearly zero-waste. The best part, they all got to taste it. 

A ceremonial pledge concluded the event, with all participants vowing to implement the lessons learned and advocate for healthier, more sustainable lifestyles within their communities.

A Continued Commitment to Health and Sustainability

Ajinomoto’s Eat Well, Live Well: 2024 Youth Summit aligns with the company’s global vision of extending healthy life expectancy and reducing environmental impact by 50% by 2030. Through impactful events like this, APC Group continues to inspire young Filipinos to become proactive leaders in health and environmental stewardship.

To show force on Ajinomoto’s advocacy for a better and healthier future for all Filipino children, APC Group is also bringing the Aji-Ginisa® I Love Veggie-licious School Caravan in Cebu, at the Lahug Elementary School, to continue encouraging and educating the younger generations about the importance of nutritious eating.

The Ajinomoto Group is a global company with specialties in the business of food and amino acids, guided by our leading-edge bioscience and fine chemical technologies.

Based on the corporate message “Eat Well, Live Well.”, we have been scientifically pursuing the possibilities of amino acids in supporting the healthy lives of people all around the world. We aim for future growth and continuous contribution to greater wellness by creating value through sustainable and innovative solutions for communities and society.

The Ajinomoto Group has offices located in 36 countries and regions. They sell their products in more than 130 countries In fiscal 2021, sales were 1.1149 trillion yen (8.73 billion U.S. dollars). To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.

Megaworld, the country’s pioneer builder of townships, reports a strong nine-month and third quarter results as all key businesses achieved growth during these periods.

The property giant’s net income for the first nine months of 2024 soared 16% to P15.69-billion while in the third quarter alone, net income grew even faster by 26% year-on-year to P5.87-billion. Net income attributable to parent company in the first nine months of the year rose to P13.73-billion, registering 14% growth from the previous year. Likewise, net income attributable to parent company during the third quarter was also up by 25% compared to the same period last year.

Consolidated revenues for the nine-month period climbed to P59.78-billion, up 23%, underscoring the company’s strategic execution and its ability to drive growth across its diversified portfolio, including residential, leasing, and hotel segments. Third quarter revenues also rose to P20.69-billion, up 25% year-on-year.

Megaworld’s real estate segment remains a key driver of the strong performance, with sales rising by 30% to P37.85-billion in the first nine months and also up by 31% to P13-billion during the third quarter year-on-year. This strong growth reflects the sustained demand across Megaworld’s township developments, with residential sales reflecting the market’s continued preference for quality, integrated living experiences offered by Megaworld’s ‘LIVE-WORK-PLAY’ townships.

Leasing revenues, meanwhile, also contributed to the company’s overall growth, reaching P14.16-billion for the nine-month period, up by almost 7% year-on-year. Third quarter leasing revenues, likewise, grew by 7.4% year-on-year.

Megaworld Lifestyle Malls led this growth with a 16% increase in revenues to P4.52 billion during the first nine months of 2024, and 11% growth during the third quarter. This is mainly driven by rising operational occupancy rates and tenant sales. Megaworld Premier Offices, meanwhile, maintained a steady growth, achieving P9.63-billion in the first nine months and P3.32-billion during the third quarter, reflecting an almost 6% growth year-on-year.

Megaworld Hotels and Resorts saw a 38% increase in revenues to P3.64-billion, the fastest growth in Megaworld’s portfolio during the first nine months of the year, and 37% growth to P1.28-billion during the third quarter. This is mainly driven by its strategy focused on the global tourism market and expanding MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) capacity.

In line with its growth strategy, Megaworld launched two tourism-related townships in the first nine months of 2024: Lialto Beach and Golf Estates in Lian, Batangas, a 150-hectare development designed for premier beachside and golf lifestyle living; and San Benito Private Estate in Lipa, Batangas, a 25-hectare active wellness community in partnership with the world-renowned The Farm at San Benito.

Recently, Megaworld also expanded its township portfolio further to the north with the launch of its 34th township, Ilocandia Coastown, an 84-hectare integrated lifestyle community in Laoag, Ilocos Norte. With this latest addition, Megaworld cements its position in three of the country’s fastest-growing regions based on the latest data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority: Central Visayas, Western Visayas, and the Ilocos Region. 

“These strategic developments are integral to Megaworld’s forward-looking strategy, positioning the company for sustained, long-term growth. Our goal is to expand our portfolio in every key region in the country, generate more jobs in these localities, and help build the communities,” says Kevin L. Tan, president and CEO, Alliance Global Group, the parent company of Megaworld.

“Our performance this year highlights the value of our well-rounded approach. By expanding in areas that matter—residential, commercial, and hospitality—we’re not only building momentum but also creating meaningful communities across the country. We look forward to a strong 2024 with a clear focus on seizing new opportunities for growth that will benefit our stakeholders and the communities we serve,” says Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, president, Megaworld.

Earlier, Megaworld announced that it is ending the year with 35 townships, just as the company celebrates its 35 years in the Philippine real estate industry.

The holiday season has officially arrived at Starbucks Philippines with the unveiling of the highly anticipated 2025 Starbucks Traditions Collection, inviting customers to "Sip, Celebrate, and Repeat." Featuring five exclusive pieces, the collection can be yours with just 17 stickers—making it easier than ever for customers to join this yearly tradition.

The 2025 STARBUCKS Traditions Collection_KV

Make Planning Merrier with the 2025 Sable Planner and Pouch

Starbucks 2025 Sable Planner with Pouch

Organized elegance awaits with the 2025 Sable Planner and Pouch. This sophisticated set features a luxurious leather cover in a rich sable hue, paired with a sleek rose gold pen. A matching leather pouch offers convenient storage for the pen and other essentials, allowing you to conquer your schedule with style. Thoughtfully designed, the planner is the perfect companion for mapping out the year ahead—blending practicality with refined aesthetics for a truly elevated experience.

Starbucks 24 oz Indigo Cold Cup

Starbucks 24 oz Turquoise Cold Cup

Stay Refreshingly Cool with the Vibrant Turquoise and Indigo Cold Cups

For those who prefer their beverages chilled, Starbucks presents the Turquoise and Indigo Cold Cups. These generously sized 24 fl oz cups are designed to keep your iced coffees, teas, and other refreshing drinks perfectly cool on the go. The vibrant turquoise and deep indigo hues add a touch of personality to everyday hydration, making these cold cups the ultimate statement accessory for staying refreshed in style –in any activity you do.

Starbucks 16.5 Turquoise Tumbler

Sip in Style with the Sleek Turquoise and Indigo Tumblers

Experience on-the-go convenience without compromising on style with the Starbucks Turquoise and Indigo Tumblers. These sleek 16.5 fl oz flasks are crafted with a leak-proof design, ensuring your drinks stay securely contained while on the move. Available in vibrant turquoise and a sophisticated indigo gloss, these tumblers are the perfect blend of practicality and eye-catching design, making them an essential companion for daily adventures.

From November 2, 2024, to January 2, 2025, earn an e-sticker with each purchase of a Tall, Grande, or Venti handcrafted beverage. Simply opt in with an e-Promo Card through the Starbucks PH App to track your progress, and redeem a reward of your choice after collecting 17 stickers. For online shoppers, Starbucks Rewards members with a linked Lazada Philippines account can also redeem a Starbucks Traditions reward in the Starbucks PH App with every P7,000 single-receipt purchase.

Now in its 22nd year, this tradition embodies the spirit of Starbucks, blending our passion for coffee and art. Each piece in this collection is crafted to elevate everyday moments and inspire connections that last beyond the season.

Visit your nearest store or explore the full collection online. Download the Starbucks PH App, opt-in, then sip, celebrate, and repeat! For more information on Starbucks Philippines’ initiatives, visit starbucks.ph/stories and follow Starbucks Philippines on their social media pages: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok.

Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 32,000 stores around the globe, the Company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at stories.starbucks.com or www.starbucks.com.

Cebu Pacific, the country’s leading carrier, kicks off November with an exciting Cebu Pacific seat sale, offering over 750,000 domestic seats at affordable prices for Visayas and Mindanao travelers ready to explore more of the Philippines in 2025.

CEB travelers can book flights until November 7 to all domestic destinations for as low as PHP 99 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. The travel period is from January 1 to March 31, 2025, perfect for travelers who are looking to discover more Philippines at the start of the new year.

CEB has recently expanded Visayas and Mindanao network with direct flights to more destinations. From Davao, passengers can access 12 domestic routes, including Cagayan de Oro, Puerto Princesa, and Clark. Iloilo offers 12 domestic routes, such as Tacloban and Zamboanga, while Cebu remains a key hub with over 20 routes, including new flights to Masbate and San Vicente in Palawan.

With CEB’s extensive network and low fares, every Juan in Visayas and Mindanao can plan their ideal vacation—whether it’s diving in Palawan, island-hopping around Iloilo, or visiting General Santos, known as the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines.”

Passengers can use their Travel Fund to book flights or choose from other payment options, such as credit or debit cards and e-wallets, to secure flights and add-ons.

CEB operates in 35 domestic and 26 international destinations, covering Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, giving Visayas and Mindanao travelers a wide range of travel opportunities.

Book your flights now at bit.ly/CebuPacificSale.