Araneta City makes summer easy with citywide seasonal offerings

 Araneta City is making the most out of summer with a lineup of citywide offers aimed at families, friends, and individuals looking to enjoy leisure time without leaving Metro Manila. From shopping and dining deals to wellness experiences and staycations, the summer campaign brings together experiences across the City of Firsts.

“Summer is a season when people naturally seek time to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy simple moments. Through our summer lineup, we wanted to make everyday leisure more accessible—whether that means spending time with family, enjoying a good meal, or discovering a new way to relax, all within the city,” said Marjorie Go, Vice President for Marketing of Araneta City.

Get lucky and win cool gadgets

Araneta City kicks off its summer festivities with the Win Your Snaps raffle promo. Lucky participants may win cool gadgets such as iPhone 17, DJI OSMO 360 Standard, DJI OSMO Pocket 3 Creator Combo, and DJI Action 5 Pro Standard. A single-receipt purchase worth P1,500 from any Araneta City establishment is equivalent to one raffle ticket. Promo period runs until June 30.

Enjoy refreshments at World Kitchens

Lepak bar at World Kitchens will keep you energized amid the summer heat with its Tiki Tropics Splash — a line of refreshing cocktails and mocktails in cool island-themed tall cups. The best part is that you get to enjoy two drinks for the price of one. Head on to Gateway Mall 2, Level 4, and cool down with vibrant island flavors.

Family fun at Novotel Manila

Novotel Manila’s Summer Splash and Learn gives kids an opportunity to learn the fundamentals of swimming through the renowned Bert Lozada Swimming Program. Not only do these sessions teach water safety skills, but they also give the little ones a major boost in self- confidence. The lessons are instructive, safe, and engaging, starting at just P8,000 per student. The promo runs until June 24.

Sweet snapshots at Dairy Queen

Dessert takes on a playful, picture‑ready twist at Dairy Queen this summer with the arrival of Say Cheese(Cake), a cheesecake‑inspired lineup that’s as pleasing to look at as it is to enjoy. Blizzard favorites such as Mango Cheesecake Bliss, Blueberry Cheesecake Fluff, and Berry KitKat Cheesecake bring together familiar flavors with a fun summer feel.

For those in the mood to switch things up, Dairy Queen also offers the Mixed Berries Cheesecake Parfait, Berry KitKat Cheesecake Blizzard Cake, and Mango Cheesecake Tin Cake.

Make it a movie summer at Wolfgang’s Premiere Lounge

With theaters offering a cool retreat from the heat, moviegoing gets an added touch of indulgence at the premier cinemas of Gateway Cineplex. Exclusive Wolfgang’s Premiere Lounge gift certificates are available for those looking to treat themselves or surprise someone else, with a cinema experience that combines comfort, dining, and entertainment.

Beyond these amazing offers, other stores and restaurants in Gateway Mall 1 and 2, Ali Mall, and Farmers Plaza are also welcoming summer with their own lineup of seasonal treats. From shopping finds to casual bites, there’s plenty to discover across the district, inviting visitors to spend time, explore at their own pace, and enjoy summer the Araneta City way.

Make the Most of the Last Few Weeks of Summer with These Smart Finds and Deals from GCash

 

Summer may be winding down, but there’s still time to squeeze in a few more moments of fun with your barkada. Whether you’re finally booking that long- overdue barkada staycation, finally pushing through with your workout plans, or organizing a potluck at home, the key to making the most of summer is spending smart.

One way to do that is by using GCash to unlock exclusive deals and perks, so you can still check off your summer bucket list while getting the most out of every purchase! Just in case you need that extra nudge to finally make those plans happen, here are a few ideas on how you can spend smarter and bring the whole barkada together for the last few weeks of summer.

1. Host one last barkada feast before everyone gets busy again

What truly makes summer memorable isn’t who you’re spending it with - and one of the best ways to enjoy the company of your favorite people is when you share a meal! So why not organize one final food trip, merienda run, or potluck before summer ends?

Jamba Juice is offering a summer exclusive worth sharing – just buy 2 12oz smoothies for only PHP 245 and pay with GCash. This saves you as PHP 145 on selected flavors. For pizza lovers, Angel’s Pizza is giving one way free Saba Con Yelo for every minimum single- receipt purchase of PHP 800 for dine-in and takeout orders. And if your group loves trying out new spots, Tien Ma’s is offering a free dessert with a minimum spend of PHP 500 - because no shared meal is complete without something sweet at the end.

2. Refresh your summer essentials while sales are still on

Before the season wraps up, now is the perfect time to stock up on the essentials you’re still missing. Whether that’s a new pair of sandals, travel organizers, or last-minute beauty finds, you may want to check out your cart while sales are still on. Here’s why: when you check out your Lazada carts on May 4-7 and June 5-8, you instantly get PHP 100 off when you pay with GCash – just make sure you reach a minimum spend of PHP 2,500.

On TikTok Shop, you can also enjoy an additional PHP 50 off on purchases worth at least PHP 1,500 when selecting GCash as your payment method from May 18-24.

3. Turn your fitness plans into a barkada activity

Summer is also prime time for movement. If you’ve been trying to lure your friends out for more active weekends – like running together or trying a new studio class – maybe a few deals along the way could help make your invitation more enticing.

You and your friends can upgrade your activewear at Nike and get 10% off for a minimum purchase of PHP 12,000 when you use GCash to pay in-store. For everyday active basics, Bench is offering PHP 150 off with a minimum spend of PHP 2,000.

And if your workout era is about to get even more serious with better playlists and fitness tracking, you can head on over to Power Mac Center and receive a free limited-edition PMC x Laut Wrist Strap with Puffer Pouch when you spend at least PHP 30,000 (with at least Php10,000 paid via GCash). Purchases worth Php20,000 at The Loop with the same GCash minimum spend also unlock free Belkin earphones.

4. Plan a quick city escape

Not every barkada summer hangout needs a plane ticket abroad. Sometimes, all you need is a staycation in the city to make it feel like an escape.

If you love checking for hotels out on Klook, you can score 10% off on hotel bookings with a minimum spend of PHP 8,000 when you pay with GCash. Meanwhile, new users on Trip.com can also get up to PHP 400 off on eligible outlet bookings for a minimum spend of PHP 5,000 when using GCash.These savings make barkada plans a whole lot easier to lock in, because everybody is guaranteed to save more!

Make summer spending feel lighter with GCash

The summer season always seems to pass faster than expected, but there’s still time to squeeze in a few more memorable moments with your barkada. With these exclusive deals, making your plans happen just becomes even more worth it. Download the GCash app today and say YES to making the most out of the season!

A Rising Partnership: URC Flour and Sariaya LGU Ignite Local Baking Innovation for Agawan Festival 2026

 

L-R: Mr. Dario ‘Jun’ Arive - URC Flour Sariaya Plant Manager, Dr. Ruben De Gracia - Head, Sariaya Tourism Culture, and the Arts Office, Ma. Lilia “Chinkee” Andres -URC Flour, Marketing Manager, Ms. Ritchel Sulit - URC Flour Sariaya Plant HR Associate

The Municipality of Sariaya and URC Flour have officially formalized a partnership for the upcoming Sariaya Agawan Festival through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing. This collaboration introduces the SUGOD BAKERY campaign to the festivities, highlighted by the arrival of the SUGOD BAKERY VAN, which aims to promote local entrepreneurship and celebrate the town's culinary traditions.

The partnership marks a powerful commitment to boosting local livelihoods while celebrating Sariaya’s rich cultural heritage. The Sugod Bakery Van will serve as a high-energy hub of innovation on the festival grounds, offering professional development and community engagement for local artisans and bakeshop owners.

URC Flour expressed deep appreciation for the partnership, emphasizing a mission that extends beyond product supply to holistic business growth for the community.

"We are sincerely grateful to the Municipality of Sariaya for their incredible support and for welcoming us into the heart of the Agawan Festival. Our commitment goes beyond providing high-quality flour; we are dedicated to equipping the province's bakers with the products and guidance they need to succeed.

Through the Sugod Bakery campaign, we are helping them with practical business tips to improve their bakery businesses and stay competitive,” stated Naida Ebora, URC Flour Commercial Director.

L-R: Dr. Ruben De Gracia - Head, Sariaya Tourism, Culture, and the Arts Office with Ma. Lilia “Chinkee” Andres - URC Flour, Marketing Manager

Dr. Ruben V. De Gracia Jr., Executive Assistant III and Chief Tourism Operations Officer-Designate for the Municipality of Sariaya, highlighted the significant history of this alliance and its impact on the local tourism and trade sectors. "We thank URC Flour for their continued support of our annual Agawan Festival. This is actually the second time we are partnering with the Sariaya LGU, a journey that began two years ago with our historic Pinagong eating activity--which remains one of the most memorable highlights of our festival, " said De Gracia. "Having URC Flour with the Sugod Bakery campaign ensures that our local traditions are matched with innovative opportunities for our constituents," shared De Gracia Jr.

Beyond the excitement of the festival, the initiative offers lasting value through professional upskilling. Local bakers will benefit from technical workshops on updated baking essentials, along with business mentorship focused on marketing strategies and operational efficiency. By blending the festive energy of the Agawan Festival with technical expertise, URC Flour and the Sariaya LGU are ensuring that the town’s unique bread culture continues to thrive and reach new heights.

URC Flour Partners with Lucban to Empower Local Bakers at Pahiyas

 

L-R: Aiza Andaya - OIC, Budget Officer, Ma. Jennifer Babad - Tourism Officer, Atty. Socorro Jade De Averia - Municipal Administrator, Mayor Agustin “Tenten” Villaverde - Lucban, Ma. Lilia “Chinkee” Andres - URC Flour, Marketing Manager, Mr. Dario ‘Jun’ Arive - URC Flour Sariaya Plant Manager, Ms. Ritchel Sulit - URC Flour Sariaya Plant HR Associate

The Philippines' most vibrant harvest festival is set to become even more flavorful as the Lucban Local Government Unit (LGU) and URC Flour officially sign a Memorandum of Agreement to bring the SUGOD BAKERY campaign to this year’s Pahiyas. Led by Mayor Augustin “Tenten” Villaverde and URC Flour the partnership marks a powerful commitment to boosting local livelihoods while celebrating the town's rich cultural heritage.

Aligned with the theme "Keeping the Color, Keeping the Vibes, Keeping the Tradition, KIPING PAHIYAS," the Sugod Bakery movement transforms the festival grounds into a high-energy hub of innovation. On May 11 and 12 at Patio Rizal, renowned “Chef Jac [JB1] Laudico” will lead exclusive baking demonstrations, giving local artisans and visitors a front-row seat to professional techniques and premium pastry sessions.

Mayor Villaverde expressed deep appreciation for the collaboration, emphasizing its impact on the grassroots economy.

"Our commitment goes beyond providing high-quality flour; we are here to support every local baker in their journey toward success,” said Naida Ebora, URC Flour Commercial Director. “Through Sugod Bakery, we aim to equip them with up-to-date knowledge and practical techniques to help grow their businesses and remain competitive. We are honored to be part of the Pahiyas tradition and to support Lucban’s baking community in reaching new heights,” shared URC Flour .

By blending the festive energy of Pahiyas with technical expertise, URC Flour and the Lucban LGU are ensuring that the town’s unique bread culture continues to thrive.

How to keep sunburn, acne, and fungal infections at bay

 

Common sun-related skin conditions include sunburn, acne, and fungal infection.

With over 7,600 islands teeming with breathtaking beaches and dive sites that rival the best in the world, the Philippines is truly a summer lover’s paradise. When they’re not swimming, snorkeling, or building sandcastles on the shore, local and foreign tourists are most likely tanning, soaking in the sun’s rays for hours to get that perfectly bronzed shade.

Achieving that sun-kissed glow comes with a price to your health, says Ma. Margarita Isabel Carlos- Tanchiong, MD, at top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), “That tan on your skin is a sunburn. It may look nice, but it also damages your skin. The intense heat and humidity can also lead to frustrating skin issues like acne and fungal infections.”

Do not let the sun spoil your summer days. MakatiMed cites common sun-related skin conditions and what to do about them.

A bad sunburn. Too much sun exposure doesn’t just tan your skin; it can cause it to flake and peel or develop painful blisters.

“If this happens, get out of the sun immediately and stay in a cool room, or bathe in cool water,” reminds Dr. Carlos-Tanchiong. “Gently apply aloe vera or a ceramide-containing lotion or moisturizer, and do not pop the blisters. Take a pain reliever to ease the sting of the burn. You may also need topical and oral medications to treat the sunburn.”

Next time you go out into the sun, prepare by slathering a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. “Re-apply to your face and exposed skin every two hours, especially if you’ve been swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to include your ears and the back of your neck. Wearing sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and choosing clothing made with Ultraviolet Protection are helpful tips to keep your skin protected from further ultraviolet damage. It is also best to stay out of the sun between 10 am and 4 pm. That’s when the UV rays are strongest, causing the most skin damage.”

Acne. The heat and humidity of the Philippine summers make us sweat more than usual. This causes an overproduction of sebum (oil) on the face, which clogs our skin’s pores. The result? Unsightly pimples.

“Wash your face regularly with a soap-free cleanser or one that contains salicylic acid to help unclog pores,” shares Dr. Carlos-Tanchiong. “Use a sunscreen that is non-comedogenic—meaning it doesn’t cause blackheads or whiteheads—and choose gel-based and oil-free moisturizers over their creamy counterparts during the hot summer months. If the pimples are on your back or neck, wear loose, cotton clothing to stay cool.”

Fungal infection. Fungus thrives in heat and humidity, so do not be surprised if you find yourself scratching an unbearable itch from red or discolored rashes.

“Athlete’s foot develops between your toes. The rash usually presents as scaly, red patches with accompanying itch,” explains Dr. Carlos-Tanchiong. “Ringworm gets its name from its appearance as a circular rash with raised edges that spread outward. Jock itch’s rashes are found in warm, sweaty parts of the body like the groin, inner thighs, or buttocks. Areas of the body where skin folds and moisture tend to form, like under the breasts or in between layers in the tummy, are where yeast infections usually start. You’ll note the appearance of red scaly patches with satellite bumps that are usually itchy.”

Aside from keeping your skin cool and lessening friction on skin, over-the-counter and prescription anti- fungal creams are best at addressing these conditions. See your doctor, who will be able to identify them during a consultation. “To prevent infections from developing or worsening, keep those areas in your body clean and dry, wash your towels and clothing regularly, and resist the urge to scratch, or you may spread the infection,” says Dr. Carlos-Tanchiong.

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632 88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow MakatiMed’s social media pages for more health-related content and for the latest updates: https://www.makatimed.net.ph/social-media- pages/