Sunday, May 25, 2025

Big Bad Wolf Books Opens 2025 in Metro Manila with ₱60 deals and Booktok favorites

 

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with Andrew Yap (Co-founder of Big Bad Wolf Books), Catherine Duenas (Assistant Vice President, Head of Mall Leasing), and Ley Almeda (Big Bad Wolf Books Project Director).jpg


Bad Wolf Books is back in Metro Manila with a legendary lineup of deals, steals, and thrills at V-Mall, Greenhills from May 23 to June 2, 2025. Opening hours are 10AM to 9PM from Monday to Thursday and 10AM to 10PM on Friday to Sunday. With over 2 million books up for grabs at up to 95% off, the world’s biggest book sale is serving up the perfect opportunity to score your dream book haul and more!





This year’s Metro Manila stop is bigger, bolder, and packed with surprises. Whether you're hunting for bestsellers, chasing down BookTok must-reads, or building the ultimate library for the kids, Big Bad Wolf Books makes it easier than ever to bring home your next great read.





With books starting at just ₱60, readers can dig into epic stories, mind-blowing facts, and inspiring lessons without breaking the bank. Snag limited-edition merch, unlock tiered discounts (₱200 off for every ₱2,000 spent, ₱500 off for every ₱5,000), and explore more with every turn of the page.





This year’s sale also welcomes Filipina romance and fantasy author Mica de Leon. Catch her on May 25 at 1:30 PM as she shares her top tips on writing and publishing, and reveals how she landed a 7-book deal in just one year! Don’t miss this exclusive Q&A session and the chance to meet a rising local author.





Books that Broke the Internet, Now at Unbelievable Prices!

From viral BookTok titles that range from bingeworthy romance to thrilling fantasy reads, this year’s sale is overflowing with crowd-favorite books you’ve seen all over your feed. 


Your ultimate bookhaul starts right here! Whether you're hunting for the next big series, a comfort read to get lost in, or the book that finally got you into reading, this is your chance to grab it for less.


Shadow and Bone: A Netflix Original Series


Author: Leigh Bardugo


Original Price: Php 750


BBW Price: Php 340



The School for Good and Evil: Movie Tie-In Edition


Author: Soman Chainani


Original Price: Php 950


BBW Price: Php 340


The Last Letter 


Author: Rebecca Yarros 


Original Price: Php 800


BBW Price: Php 400


Flesh & False Gods #1: Immortal Longings


Author: Dustin Thao 


Original Price: Php 1,300


BBW Price: Php 620



Flesh & False Gods #1: Immortal Longings


Author: Chloe Gong 


Original Price: Php 1,600


BBW Price: Php 440


Ace of Spades


Author: Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé


Original Price: Php 1,327


BBW Price: Php 400



Promos, Prizes, and Pages Galore


Looking for even more reasons to join the fun? Show off your inner creator with the #BBWGreenhills2025 Reels Challenge for a shot at the ₱5,000 grand prize or be one of ten lucky runners-up who will take home ₱1,000 worth of vouchers. All it takes is one creative video to bring home the win!







Beyond massive discounts and thrilling finds, Big Bad Wolf Books continues its mission to ignite the love of reading across the Philippines. Through the Red Readerhood Program, customers can donate books to underprivileged children, giving them the tools and inspiration they need for a brighter future. Every book donated by customers helps Big Bad Wolf Books continue to share the joy of reading to underserved communities.





The Big Bad Wolf Metro Manila Book Sale will run from May 23 to June 2, 2025, at V-Mall, Greenhills, open 10AM to 9PM from Monday to Thursday and 10AM to 10PM from Friday to Sunday. Admission is absolutely free. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your special merch, rally your book buddies, and come by the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale!





Stay updated on Big Bad Wolf Books social media pages to keep up with the latest! 


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).



Thursday, May 22, 2025

Petron Introduces Super Coolant for Smarter Engine Protection in Tropical Conditions

 


Petron Corporation, the country’s leading oil refining and marketing company, has officially launched PETRON SUPER COOLANT, a high-performance ready-to-use engine coolant developed specifically for the demanding conditions of Philippine roads. With advanced heat protection, anti-rust technology, and deposit-prevention features, Petron Super Coolant delivers superior engine care for both cars and motorcycles.

In a tropical country where extreme heat, humidity, and stop-and-go traffic are part of everyday driving, engines are constantly at risk of overheating and internal damage.

Many motorists still use tap water in their radiators, not realizing that tap water alone can boil, evaporate, cause rust, and leave behind mineral deposits that harm the engine over time. Petron Super Coolant goes beyond just cooling.

Core Benefits for Everyday Driving


Petron Super Coolant is formulated with three core benefits for everyday driving. Whether you’re stuck in urban traffic or taking long drives in high temperatures, this coolant provides peace of mind on the road.

Advanced Heat Dissipation. Engines generate extreme heat, especially in traffic- heavy areas or during long drives. Petron Super Coolant maintains optimal operating temperatures, helping prevent overheating in summer or engine stress in high-performance use. This stable thermal control ensures consistent engine performance even in tough conditions.

Anti-Rust and Corrosion Shield. Over time, tap water in the radiator can lead to corrosion, which destroys engine components and leads to costly repairs. Petron Super Coolant is formulated with corrosion inhibitors that coat internal metal surfaces, preventing corrosion. This extends the life of your radiator, water pump, and other cooling system parts.

Prevents Deposit and Scale Build-Up. Minerals in tap water can form scales and residue inside the engine’s cooling channels, clogging passages and reducing the cooling efficiency. Petron Super Coolant keeps your cooling system clean by preventing these deposits from forming. The result is better heat transfer and smoother engine operation.

Versatile One-Product Solution Regardless of Color

Designed for versatility, Petron Super Coolant is suitable for both automotive and motorcycle engines, providing a one-solution coolant for Filipino motorists with multiple vehicle types. Unlike some coolants that differ by color, Petron Super Coolant offers a single, consistent, high-quality formula. Whether it’s green or red, users are guaranteed the same premium protection with every bottle—simplifying purchases and preventing compatibility confusion.

Tips for Proper Use


To maximize performance and protection, Petron recommends the following:
 Regularly check coolant levels and top up when low.

 Flush and replace coolant every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers for best results.
 Avoid mixing different coolant brands or types to maintain chemical stability
and effectiveness.

Built on Petron’s Proven Expertise

Backed by decades of technical expertise, extensive product testing, and a reputation built on fuel and lubricant innovation, Petron Super Coolant has been formulated to meet the needs of Filipino motorists as well as match global standards.

The launch of Petron Super Coolant reflects the company’s Tapat Sa’yo promise to remain true, dependable, and responsive to Filipino drivers’ needs. More than just a slogan, Tapat Sa’yo is a brand philosophy centered on honest value, consistent quality, and a deep understanding of local driving conditions.

Petron Super Coolant is more than just engine protection—it’s an expression of our commitment to empower every Filipino motorist with smart, reliable solutions that keep them safe and confident on the road.

Availability

Petron Super Coolant is ready-to-use and is now available at Petron Car Care Centers, service stations and retail outlets nationwide.

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

How Care Homes Bring Joy to Residents

 


Care homes these days are more than just places where older adults receive medical attention—they are vibrant communities designed to enrich the lives of residents. With a growing emphasis on emotional well-being, modern care homes strive to create environments where joy, connection, and purpose flourish daily. Keep reading to find out more about how these places bring joy to people’s lives. 

Building Social Connections

One of the most impactful ways care homes bring joy to residents is by fostering social interaction. Loneliness is a major concern for many older adults, especially those who previously lived alone. Some older people can go for days or even weeks at a time without seeing another human. Residents can enjoy daily companionship in care homes through shared meals, group activities, and casual conversations. These opportunities for connection help reduce feelings of isolation and encourage lasting friendships.

Engaging Activities and Hobbies

A full and varied schedule of activities plays a central role in boosting morale. From gardening and arts and crafts to music therapy and games, residents are encouraged to participate in hobbies that spark interest and joy. These activities promote physical and cognitive well-being and provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Personalised Care and Independence

True joy comes from feeling understood and respected by those around you. Care homes that focus on personalised care plans—tailored to each resident’s needs, preferences, and history—allow individuals to maintain a sense of identity and autonomy. Whether it is choosing meals, decorating their living space, or observing cultural traditions, personalised touches make residents feel valued and at home.

Compassionate, Supportive Staff

The dedication and empathy of care home staff are vital to creating a joyful atmosphere. When carers approach their work with kindness and attentiveness, it fosters trust and emotional security. Learning each resident’s story helps create meaningful connections and enhances the overall care experience.

Involving the Wider Community

Many care homes enrich residents’ lives by welcoming community engagement. Schoolchildren, volunteers, and local performers' visits add variety and excitement to daily routines. Intergenerational programs, in particular, have been shown to bring immense joy and energy to care home environments, helping residents feel more connected to the world beyond their walls.

A Real-Life Example: Verulam House

A shining example of this approach is Verulam House care home in St Albans. Known for its professional nursing care and warm, inclusive environment, Verulam House offers residents a holistic living experience. With a wide range of engaging activities, home-cooked meals, and a focus on individual well-being, it demonstrates how care homes can successfully blend support and joy.

A Joyful Chapter of Life

Care homes have the power to transform later life into a vibrant and fulfilling chapter. Residents can thrive emotionally, physically, and socially through meaningful social connections, personalised care, and a joyful living environment. As more care providers embrace this person-centred approach, the standard of elder care continues to rise, promising a brighter and more joyful future for our ageing population.

Preparing Your Family Emotionally for a Transition to Assisted Living

 


Moving into assisted living is more than just a change of address—it’s a major life transition that affects the whole family. Whether prompted by declining health, increased care needs, or a desire for more social engagement, the emotional journey into assisted living can be challenging for everyone involved. Preparing your family emotionally is just as important as sorting out the logistics. Here's how to approach it with compassion and clarity.

Start the Conversation Early

One of the most effective ways to ease emotional tension is by initiating open discussions well before the move becomes urgent. If possible, involve your loved one in the decision-making process. Talk about what they want and what they’re worried about. Likewise, encourage other family members to share their thoughts. This collaborative approach helps everyone feel heard and valued, making the transition smoother and less distressing.

Acknowledge the Emotional Impact

It’s normal for everyone to experience a range of emotions—fear, guilt, relief, sadness, or even resentment. Your loved one may fear losing independence or feel abandoned. Family members may feel torn between their own limitations and a sense of duty. These emotions are valid and shouldn’t be dismissed. Talking openly, perhaps even with a counselor, can help your family process and navigate these feelings in a healthy way.

Visit the New Community Together

Fear of the unknown can amplify emotional stress. Visiting the assisted living facility together helps break down that fear. Explore the community, meet the staff, observe the activities, and take time to get familiar with the surroundings. This can transform the abstract idea of “moving to a care home” into something more concrete and positive. For example, if you’re considering a care home in Mansfield in the UK, seeing the facility firsthand and meeting the team can reassure your loved one that they’ll be in a safe, warm, and engaging environment.

Maintain Family Routines and Relationships

One of the biggest concerns people have about moving into assisted living is feeling isolated or forgotten about. Reassure your loved one that they’ll still be part of family traditions, birthdays, holidays, and regular visits. Consistency helps maintain emotional connection and eases the fear of being left behind. You can also involve younger family members to help build intergenerational bonds that bring joy and stability.

Encourage Independence and Personalization

Let your loved one take ownership of their new space. Bring along personal items—photos, artwork, favorite blankets, or books—that help create a familiar, comforting atmosphere. This not only eases the emotional strain of leaving home but also helps the new space feel truly theirs. Encourage them to continue with hobbies and make new connections, which can offer a sense of purpose and routine.

 Be Patient With the Adjustment Period

Transitions take time. There will be moments of doubt or homesickness, but that doesn’t mean the decision was wrong. Regular communication, patience, and emotional support go a long way in helping everyone adjust. Check in frequently, ask how things are going, and celebrate small wins—like joining an activity or making a new friend. By preparing emotionally, not just practically, families can move toward this new chapter with empathy, resilience, and peace of mind.

 

 


Small Ways to Turn Your Home Into a Personal Sanctuary

 


Your home should be more than just a place to eat and sleep—it should be your retreat, a space that brings calm, comfort, and a sense of peace. You don’t need a full-scale renovation or a big budget to create a sanctuary-like environment. With a few small, intentional changes, you can transform your home into a restful haven where you can truly relax and recharge.

1. Declutter Your Space

One of the most immediate ways to create a more serene home is to clear out the clutter. Physical clutter often leads to mental clutter, making it harder to feel relaxed. Start by identifying items you no longer use or need, and donate or store them out of sight. Keeping surfaces clean and open helps the space feel more spacious and less chaotic.

Minimalism doesn’t mean removing all personality; instead, focus on keeping what you love and use. Organized spaces are visually soothing and can even boost productivity and sleep quality.

2. Embrace Soft Lighting

Harsh, overhead lighting can make even the coziest room feel sterile. Instead, aim for layers of soft lighting using lamps, dimmable lights, fairy lights, or candles. Natural light is also essential—maximize it by keeping windows clean and using sheer curtains to diffuse sunlight during the day.

Consider warm-toned bulbs for a more inviting glow in the evenings. Lighting affects your circadian rhythm, mood, and energy levels, so this simple shift can make a major difference in how your home feels.

3. Create a Spa-Like Bathroom Experience

Your bathroom can easily become a place of retreat and rejuvenation. Start by adding calming elements like soft towels, a bath tray, scented candles, and essential oils. Incorporate natural materials like bamboo or stone to bring in a sense of grounding.

For those looking to upgrade, consider bespoke bathrooms from woodstonebathrooms.com, where you can find luxurious design solutions that blend style and serenity. A well-designed bathroom that suits your personal aesthetic makes daily routines feel like self-care rituals.

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4. Incorporate Nature Indoors

Bringing elements of nature into your home helps foster a sense of calm and balance. Houseplants, flowers, and natural materials like wood, jute, or stone can ground the space and make it feel more alive.

Not blessed with a green thumb? Start with low-maintenance plants like pothos, snake plant, or succulents. Even artwork or textiles with nature-inspired designs can have a soothing effect.

5. Designate a Mindfulness Corner

A small corner dedicated to mindfulness, reading, or meditation can work wonders for your mental well-being. All you need is a comfortable chair or cushion, a soft throw, and a small table or shelf for items like a journal, incense, or a speaker for calming music.

This space doesn’t need to be big—just intentional. Make it a screen-free zone where you can unplug and be present.

6. Use Scent to Set the Mood

Our sense of smell is deeply connected to memory and emotion. Use it to your advantage by choosing scents that help you unwind. Essential oil diffusers, soy candles, or incense can fill your space with calming aromas like lavender, eucalyptus, sandalwood, or chamomile.

Make scent part of your evening wind-down routine. Consistency helps signal to your brain that it’s time to relax.

7. Choose Calming Colors

Color impacts mood. Soft, muted tones like sage green, pale blue, warm beige, or creamy whites can promote relaxation and clarity. If repainting walls isn’t an option, bring in these colors through cushions, rugs, throws, or artwork.

Even small pops of calming color can shift the mood of a space significantly.

Final Thoughts

You can turn your home into a peaceful sanctuary that nurtures your body and mind by making a few thoughtful changes. Whether it’s upgrading your bathroom, introducing a favorite scent, or simply decluttering a surface, these small steps can help you create a space that feels like your own personal retreat.

House Creatives PH: Shaping the Next Generation of Impactful Creators

 




In a world where digital noise often drowns out authenticity, one movement is cutting through with purpose: House Creatives PH. Founded on the belief that content is more than just a form of expression—it is a catalyst for transformation—House Creatives PH is on a mission to equip individuals with the skills, mindset, and confidence to tell stories that change lives.

At the core of this movement is a powerful Massive Transformative Purpose (MTP): “Creating Creators That Influence Transformation.”

Through immersive bootcamps, high-impact workshops, and deeply purposeful mentorship programs, House Creatives empowers entrepreneurs, professionals, and aspiring content creators to go beyond trends and build legacies. Whether you're a business owner looking to elevate your brand through storytelling or a creator wanting to inspire action, House Creatives offers the tools and support to make that leap.

Their flagship program, the Content Mastery Bootcamp (CMB), has become a proving ground for personal and professional breakthroughs. More than just technical training, it is a transformative experience that nurtures self-mastery, strategic communication, and authentic branding. Attendees don’t just learn how to create content—they know how to lead movements.



At the heart of this thriving community is a culture of collaboration, alignment, and shared growth. Participants leave not only with refined skills but also with a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and connection.

From Real Talk to Real Impact

The spark behind House Creatives PH comes from Darbie Kim Estrebilla, widely known as Real Talk Darbs (RTD). A self-made entrepreneur and internationally recognized content creator, Darbs transformed his personal story of struggle, growth, and resilience into a platform that now uplifts thousands.

His motto, “One changed soul is worth more than a billion views,” has become the heartbeat of the community he built. Through House Creatives PH, he continues to turn passion into purpose, proving that with the right guidance, every story has the power to influence, inspire, and transform.

Monday, May 19, 2025

GCash, Cebuana Lhuillier Bank enable access to savings for more Filipinos

 

GCash x Cebuana

Only 1 out of 3 Filipinos can save, with half of them opting to save their money at home, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. However, this traditional way of saving exposes their hard-earned money to risks of fire and theft, with BSP even noting its potential impact on currency circulation.

“Trusted financial institutions provide fundamental security for funds. On top of this, they also offer an opportunity for Filipinos to get the most out of their hard work: the availability of high-yield savings accounts that offer competitive interest rates,” said Winsley Royce Bangit, Group Head of New Businesses, GCash.

In a move to democratize access to high-yield savings accounts among Filipinos, GCash, through GSave, has partnered with microfinancial services provider Cebuana Lhuillier Bank to offer a savings account designed to provide higher interest rates, accessible through an e-wallet they already trust for everyday transactions.

“GCash and Cebuana are driven by the same mission of making financial services accessible to Filipinos nationwide, especially the underserved communities,” said Bangit. “Through this collaboration, we hope to empower Filipinos to cultivate their financial well-being by transforming saving from being a burden to being an actionable step.”

With over 3,500 branches nationwide, Cebuana is bringing its expertise in financial inclusion to the cashless ecosystem, enabled by finance super app GCash, with millions registered users in the country. Under the partnership, GCash users can now open an eC-Savings by Cebuana Lhuillier Bank account through GSave, a savings marketplace where users can grow and secure their funds within the GCash app. Account holders of eC-Savings by Cebuana Lhuillier Bank on GSave will get 3.5% p.a. interest, regardless of their deposit amount, enabling them to earn higher interest income compared with traditional savings accounts.

Perks for Savvy Savers: Cashback and Insurance

To help jumpstart their savings journey, users who open eC-Savings by Cebuana on GCash will get PHP 100 cashback on their initial deposit. Moreover, eC-Savings account holders will get up to PHP 33,000 in free accident coverage.

“While most hardworking Filipinos understand the value of having insurance, cost still prevents them from prioritizing it,” noted Bangit. “We introduced this benefit so they no longer have to face a trade-off between building their savings and having peace of mind during their daily hustle.”

Savings Made More Accessible

A key deterrent for Filipinos to save money in traditional banks is the perceived complexity of opening a bank account, typically requiring in-person visits and submission of supporting documents. The availability of Cebuana Lhuillier Bank on GSave eliminates this hurdle, as GCash users can open an account on GSave on the app, without having to submit additional IDs.

The BSP study also noted that among the mass market, the amount of savings they have tends to be small and often earmarked for immediate expenses, with most preferring to keep funds readily accessible at home. Given this need for accessible savings, GSave enables users to deposit as low as PHP 1 directly from their GCash wallet. Users no longer have to worry about their accounts being closed, as the eC-Savings account does not have a minimum maintaining balance.

“Filipinos’ hardworking spirit deserves to be matched by financial services that work just as hard as they do, actively supporting their financial goals. By building upon the trust of millions of Filipinos in GCash and Cebuana, we hope to empower their aspirations for a secure future by making saving truly accessible and rewarding for all,” concluded Bangit.

To open an eC-Savings by Cebuana account on GSave, you must be a Filipino Citizen, at least 18 years old, and a fully verified GCash user. Ready to grow your money? You may access GSave through the GCash dashboard or find it under “Grow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!


World Kitchens Offers AI-Powered Experience at Gateway Mall 2

 


Inspired by the comfort food of the world, WORLD KITCHENS is a one-of-a-kind, first-of-its-kind 5- tar dining destination created by Singapore’s food and beverage guru Andrew Tan Hock Lai. With 15 show kitchens and international chefs specializing in unique cuisines, this giant full-table-service restaurant offers a variety of international dishes at affordable prices. Serving great food at a single table, and using AI technology for seamless ordering, World Kitchens redefines dining as a global culinary experience.

Located on the 4th level of Gateway Mall 2 in Araneta City, World Kitchens is setting a new benchmark for tech-enabled dining in the Philippines. With a simple scan of a QR code, guests can browse menus from 15 distinct show kitchens, order a variety of dishes from different cuisines, and settle their bill—all without leaving their seat. This makes World Kitchens the first F&B concept in the country to introduce this kind of ordering setup. This AI-powered ordering system removes the usual friction from group dining, letting guests focus on what truly matters: enjoying great food together. 


In any other dining setting, this would mean hopping from one restaurant to another, scanning multiple menus, juggling separate bills. But at World Kitchens, it’s as simple as scanning a QR code.

Each table is given a unique QR code that connects to a digital menu of the entire culinary spectrum of World Kitchens: Japan’s Kuro Maguro, Unagi Yukimitsu, and The You No Men; Spain’s Asador de Manila; Hong Kong’s HK Ma’s Bistro; India’s Prana; Singapore’s Chef Fung Private Kitchen; Italy’s Dario Pizza & More; and Pinoy favorites by Chef Jessie. Rounding out the experience are Lepak, which serves innovative cocktails, and Sticky Sweet for desserts and handcrafted wagashi. Whether someone craves sushi, biryani, pizza, ramen, or lechon, they can have it all—together and at once.




What truly sets this ordering system apart is how it learns and adapts to each diner. Upon placing an order, the system recommends curated pairings and sides that best complement the selected dish.

On a guest’s next visit, the digital menu—if accessed through a logged-in account—remembers previous orders and offers personalized suggestions based on their dining history, creating a smarter, more customized experience every time.

This effortless blend of technology and taste results in a frictionless experience from start to finish, making World Kitchens more than just a dining destination. It’s a venue for connection, celebration, and culinary discovery.

Learn more about World Kitchens and all the delightful offerings it has by visiting www.worldkitchens.com.ph.

To know more about the latest promos, activities, and happenings at Araneta City, please visit www.aranetacity.com. You may also like and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok.


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