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FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers in Doha cancelled

The FIBA Asia Cup qualifying matches scheduled to begin next week in Doha, Qatar, are not pushing through after world basketball governing body FIBA was forced to cancel the proceedings because of rising cases of the coronavirus there.

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) confirmed on Friday early reports in the day that FIBA assessed the situation and deemed it fit to postpone the third window of the qualifiers as cases of the coronavirus in Doha were on the rise and that Qatar has raised restrictions on those coming into the country.

Gilas Pilipinas was set to compete in the window in Group A and to play three matches – two against Korea and one versus Indonesia – from Feb. 18 to 22. Also part of the group is Thailand.

Also affected were scheduled matches in Group B, which features China, Japan, Chinese Taipei, and Malaysia; and Group E, which has Iran, Syria, Saudi Arabia, and host Qatar. 

“The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas regrets to inform everyone that the final window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, as scheduled to start on February 17 in Doha, Qatar, will not be pushing through. The SBP received a letter from FIBA Executive Director-Asia Hagop Khajirian informing all teams from Groups A, B, and E that the Ministry of Public Health in Qatar has ordered to cancel all events hosted there due to the increasing rates of COVID-19 in the country,” read the statement of SBP President Al Panlilio on the cancellation of the window.

“The SBP is saddened by the development especially because we know the kind of work that our Gilas Pilipinas Men’s pool has done in Calamba,” it added, referring to the pool of cadet and Philippine Basketball Association players training in a “bubble” setup at the INSPIRE Sports Academy in Laguna in preparation for the competition in Doha.

The team was supposed to leave for Doha this weekend.

The cancellation marked the second time that Group A matches in the third window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers had been shelved. 

The Philippines was supposed to host the teams in the group and those in Group C (New Zealand, Australia, Guam and Hong Kong) at Clark City in Pampanga this month until SBP was forced to cancel it because of the new strains of the coronavirus and the heightened restrictions that the government put up because of them.

Group A matches were relocated to Doha after.

While saddened by the news, the SBP fully understands the situation. 

“Although we are saddened by the situation, we also understand the predicament faced by the Qatar Basketball Federation as they had no choice but to follow the mandate of their government,” said Mr. Panlilio. 

Adding, “These are extraordinary times and we can only do our best given the hand we are dealt. We thank our Qatari friends for their willingness to host our group given the short notice and we are hoping that the rise of COVID-19 cases in their country ceases soon.” 

FIBA is currently studying all the available alternatives for having the games in the near future.

Stay connected and win a Honda Brio

Honda Cars Philippines to give away brand new Brio and other exciting prizes

Honda’s automobile business unit in the Philippines, will be giving away exciting raffle prizes for Honda car owners who will update their contact information by March 18, 2021.

As part of its efforts to stay connected with its customers, the company encourages all Honda car owners, both new and existing, to register and provide their contact information (with OTP and email verification) through the microsite link of HCPI at https://hondaphil.com/raffle. In order to fully enjoy their ownership of a Honda vehicle, once connected, customers will get regular and relevant updates from Honda. Moreover, customers who will successfully update their contact information through the link will get one (1) e-raffle entry for a chance to win exciting items.

In addition, Honda car owners who have successfully updated and registered their contact information online will get one (1) additional e-raffle entry, should they bring in their vehicle for preventive maintenance during the e-raffle duration until March 18, 2021. The additional e-raffle coupon will be sent via email.

For added convenience, Honda owners may also update their information by scanning the QR code link below.

Forty (40) winners may win any of the following exciting prizes:

List of E-Raffle Prizes

  • 1 winner of Honda Brio 1.2 S MT
  • 25 winners of Free Gas worth PHP 8,000 each
  • 1 winner of iPhone 11 (64gb)
  • 1 winner of Nintendo Switch
  • 1 winner of iPad Air (3rd Gen.) (64gb)
  • 5 winners of Blaupunkt Air Purifier
  • 3 winners of Rustan’s Gift Certificate worth PHP 5,000 each
  • 3 winners of Sodexo Gift Certificate worth PHP 2,500 each

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-106076 Series of 2020

 

The electronic raffle draw is scheduled for March 23, 2021, with the presence of a DTI representative.

Winning customers will be notified by HCPI through their registered email or by a phone call and will be announced through HCPI’s official website and Facebook page.

To know more about the mechanics of the raffle, and the latest HCPI news and promos, visit the nearest Honda Cars dealership, or access Honda Cars Philippines, Inc.’s VIRTUAL SHOWROOM through HCPI’s official website at www.hondaphil.com

Forecast for the Year of the Metal Ox

This year’s celebration of Chinese New Year ushers in the Year of the Metal Ox. Coming from a very disruptive year that even turned forecasts around, many who continue to embrace ancient Chinese traditions still look forward to what this new lunar year projects for themselves, from their relationships to their wealth.

This year’s zodiac animal, the ox or buffalo, comes second in the Chinese calendar. According to chinesenewyear.net, a myth narrates that the order of the animals would be decided by the order in which they arrived at the Jade Emperor’s party. Ox was about to arrive first, but the Rat tricked the Ox into giving him a ride. Upon their arrival, the Rat jumped down and landed ahead of the Ox, making the latter second in order.

Furthermore, the Ox is linked with hard work, discipline, loyalty, a fair appreciation of tangible reality, honesty, earnestness.

For such characteristics, the Year of the Metal Ox apparently gives a brink of optimism, which American Professional astrologer and feng shui consultant Susan Levitt shares.

“The Ox is a powerful animal who has the ability to transform the negative challenges of Rat year 2020 into positive outcomes in 2021. Ox can save us from disaster, and help reconstruct because Ox is a builder,” Ms. Levitt explained on her website.

However, Filipino feng shui expert Hanz Cua somehow differs from this view. In a report from One News on New Year’s Eve, Mr. Cua said that the Year of the Metal Ox might be a tough year since the fire element — which supposedly attracts prosperity — is missing in the new lunar year.

“Based on my predictions, the charts, and the guides, I see 2021 will possibly be more difficult in terms of financial, in terms of opportunities, [and] in terms of money,” Mr. Cua explained in Filipino.

On the other hand, Marites Allen, often called “The Queen of Feng Shui,” considers 2021 to be a favorable year for economic recovery and long-term investments, as well as emotional and spiritual reconstruction.

“We’re not yet out of the woods, but the fourth quarter of the year may be better as the economy starts to work again. The world has changed and everyone has to change. And it takes us, as a person, to really make a change,” Ms. Allen was quoted as saying in a story from PhilSTAR Life.

Rewards for hard work

For businesses, a positive outlook is painted for those who work hard. “Those who conduct their business with seriousness and commitment will be able to receive appreciation for their respective environments,” astrology website KarmaWeather wrote.

Recognizing, however, that the energetic nature of the Ox makes it more difficult for new products to emerge, the website advised companies to capitalize on their intrinsic qualities in order to guarantee the efficiency of their production and communication.

Moreover, medium and large businesses are advised to be particularly honest and transparent when interacting with colleagues, particularly with managers.

“The qualities of initiative circumscribed to the values of loyalty and perfectionism, themselves nourished by an exacerbated realism, are likely to be the most coveted professional assets in 2021,” the website added.

In terms of what businesses are expected to prosper this year, Mr. Cua sees transportation, food, and essential businesses to continuously grow. He also sees technology-related businesses as good prospects.

“Businesses that have to do with computers, the Internet, and cellphones are still very popular in 2021,” Mr. Cua said in another televised interview, adding that businesses related to visuals are also recommended.

Ms. Allen also expects anything related to the Internet, connectivity, e-commerce, computers, and technology to thrive. She added that the Year of the Metal Ox gives a healthy prospect on anything pharmaceutical, health, and wellness.

Forecasts

Rats are expected to experience better luck as well as a serene year. Ms. Allen warns of health concerns “owing to the illness energies of the year.”

Aligned to the present lunar year, the Oxen are projected by KarmaWeather to have “a prosperous period focused on construction, material stability, and the strengthening of emotional unions.” Ms. Allen expects for them “lots of happy events especially in the areas of business.”

Amid a somewhat difficult year announced to them, tigers are told Allen to expect change, but not be overwhelmed with responsibilities that come their way.

Rabbits are called to let things come to them at first and take the time to analyze the opportunities presented to them. They may need to take a breather and step back whenever they feel overwhelmed.

With a moderate year presaged for Dragons, carefulness is advised, using fast thinking skills and paying more attention to things.

Opportunities are on the way of Snakes for this year, albeit they are warned not to trust too much on their intuition and continue to capitalize on pre-existing achievements.

Horses can finally breathe a sigh of relief this year, according to Ms. Allen, and so they can start rebuilding and putting things in place.

Goats or Sheeps are advised to safeguard their finances and prove themselves to the industry they are in as the year is expected to give them a “bumpy ride.”

Amid “a hectic and sometimes annoying year” for them, Monkeys are expected to find new markets to invest in; yet they are advised to improve on their negotiation skills.

Roosters are predicted to excel in their career and wealth as long as they trust in their abilities and carry their team along at the same time.

Dogs are called to be patient, even hesitant in starting new important projects. The elements of the year are expected to give them the desire to grow and they will be able to think outside the box.

While it may not be a smooth journey for them this year, with good professional prospects offsetting a relative slowdown in love, Pigs or Boars are encouraged to seek opportunities to help them grow and avoid succumbing to excesses. — Adrian Paul B. Conoza

Celebrating the spectacle of tradition

It is no small wonder how billions of people in the world celebrate Lunar New Year every year. After all, we are talking about centuries-old traditions, steeped in mythology and folklore, not only surviving but thriving in the age of space exploration and artificial intelligence.

Legend once spoke of the great beast Nian, which terrorized Chinese villages long ago at the end of each year, destroying homes and taking the lives of innocent villagers. Yet, after it was discovered that loud noises and bright lights could scare the beast away, a yearly tradition was born.

Nowadays, such traditions persist in the brilliant fireworks and lively annual celebrations. Though being in winter for most of China, the Chinese New Year is popularly known as the Spring Festival in China, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The 15-day New Year festivities kick off with a week-long holiday in China, and much like the Western New Year (Jan. 1), the biggest celebration is on New Year’s Eve.

During this time, every street, building, and home is decorated with red, the main color of the festival, which many believe represents luck. As 2021 will be a year of the Ox, many of the decorations will be related to the ox, the second animal in the Chinese zodiac, a 12-year periodic sequence of animals which appear in the Chinese calendar.

In many Chinese cities from New Year’s Day, traditional performances can be seen: dragon dances, lion dances, and imperial performances. Such performances are long-lived traditions in their own right. Chinese dragons are believed to be a symbol of China’s culture, and they represent power, dignity, fertility, wisdom and auspiciousness. In many legends, the dragon is both a fearsome creature, and a benevolent one, and it was an emblem to represent imperial authority. In the dragon dance, the movements traditionally symbolize historical roles of dragons demonstrating power and dignity.

For many Chinese families, New Year’s Eve is the most important time of the year. Everyone is expected to be home to celebrate the festival with their families by partaking in the New Year’s Eve dinner called ‘reunion dinner’, believed to be the most important meal of the year. Typically, families gather at a designated relative’s house for dinner, but increasingly, many families are spending their New Year’s Eve dinner at restaurants. Many of which, due to the occasion, require reservations months in advance.

There are also some wealthy families that hire a professional chef to come cook at their house. Chefs are often busy running from one home to another cooking dinners for different families on New Year’s Eve.

Afterwards, families typically watch the Spring Festival Gala together, one of the most watched TV shows in China.

During this time, people also exchange gifts, the most common of which are the customary red envelopes with money inside. Called “hong bao” in Mandarin, these envelopes are often only given to children or unmarried adults with no job. If you are single, working adult, you are expected to give these to your younger relatives.

Of course, at the strike of midnight come the dazzling display of fireworks. Anywhere you are on the globe, fireworks and firecrackers are launched on the first minute of the Chinese new year. From public displays in major cities to millions of private celebrations in China’s rural areas, setting off firecrackers and fireworks is part of the celebration.

Other celebrations to look forward to

Aside from New Year’s Eve, there are other important days of the 15-day Chinese New Year Festival. On the fifth day of New Year’s for instance, it is believed that the gods of prosperity come down from the heavens. People do their best to celebrate the occasion, which is called Jie Cai Ceng, or Welcoming the Gods of Wealth and Prosperity. This is a time for businesses to participate in setting off firecrackers, as they believe it will bring them prosperity and good fortune for their business.

The 15th day of the New Year is known as Yuan Xiao Jie or the Festival of Lanterns. and marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations. All types of lanterns are lit throughout the streets and often poems and riddles are often written for entertainment.

There are also paper lanterns on wheels created in the form of either a rabbit or the zodiac animal of the year. The rabbit lantern symbolizes an ancient Chinese myth about a goddess named Chang’E who jumped to the moon. Anxious to travel alone, the goddess brought a rabbit with her to keep her company. It is said that if your heart is pure enough, you can see the goddess Chang’E and her rabbit on the moon on this day.

Each and every element of the Lunar New Year is imbued with traditional folklore such as this, owing to the centuries of history the tradition brings with it. As time goes on, more of these traditions will evolve and change, and only time will tell what such spectacles they will bring in the future. — Bjorn Biel M. Beltran

Foods for good fortune

Chinese New Year is a time for family reunions and hopeful beginnings. Hence, there is a “reunion dinner” that takes place on the eve of this holiday. But it is believed that to achieve one’s goals for the year ahead, certain “lucky” foods must be served for the occasion.

Similar wordings and/or appearances are the reasons why some dishes are considered to be magnets of good luck. These foods have essential rules of preparation and consumption to preserve the promise of a triumphant, prosperous, and harmonious year.

Successful ‘year cake’

The traditional food to be eaten on Chinese New Year is the nian gao, which is also known as the sweet glutinous rice cake or a “year cake.” Generally, its ingredients are only glutinous rice flour and liquid slab sugar. But being served for over a thousand years in different regions of China, nian gao already has varieties in sweetness, savory, and texture. Though it is usually dished up in bite-size pieces, it implies a big fortune for the new year.

In Cantonese, the words “nian” and “gao” are akin to the sounds of “year” and “higher” respectively. Thus, the food is more suitable to be eaten at the beginning of the year because of the signification that one can reach success in his/her endeavors, particularly in career matters.

Wealthy foods

For those who desire abundance for this year, a lot of meal options must be served.

Among the traditional Chinese New Year foods are dumplings. It is popularly eaten year-round but its symbolic presentation makes it appropriate for the new year. Chinese people consider that dumplings can induce wealth because of its shape’s resemblance to gold ingot.

Commonly, dumplings are made of chopped vegetables and minced meat that are wrapped in dough skin. Its fillings contain different meanings as well. For example, Chinese sauerkraut dumplings are avoided in the new year because they can indicate difficult prospects. But to make dumplings “lucky”, they must be formed with a good number of pleats. Some people also insert a copper coin in the dumpling, and then whoever eats it can have a chance of becoming wealthy.

It is also believed that the number of dumplings you eat on the Chinese New Year can foretell the worth you will earn for the year.

Aside from dumplings, spring rolls are also significant during this holiday. These deep-fried rolls of vegetable and meat contents have an appearance comparable to gold bars. Hence, this food is associated with bearing wealth.

For a non-savory dish that can still bring abundance, one can also have a tray of togetherness. It is usually comprised of eight snacks like candies, nuts, or fruits. To gain prosperity, opt for chestnuts, peach seeds, almonds, apricots, hazelnuts, pomelos, prunes, oranges, and sweet treats.

‘Whole’ meats

Fish and chicken are undeniably common in cuisines. But for Chinese New Year, these meats are crucial to be served as a whole.

Both the cooking and consumption of fish meat need to be in full. Its head and tail mean that there is a start and a finish that must be completed. Additionally, in Mandarin, the pronunciation of “fish” is similar to the word “surplus.” Thus, Chinese people also relate this meal as a symbol of more wealth to come.

Meanwhile, preparing a whole chicken dish is important if one hopes for unity. Serving every chicken part uncut therefore suggests a coming together of the whole family.

For those who do not prefer meats, sweet rice balls or tangyuan can also invoke family reunions. Tangyuan is made with glutinous rice flour and is cooked either in a thin broth or deep-fried. Regarding its belief origin, tangyuan is linked to a Cantonese phrase that indicates completeness, which can also signify contentment with one’s life. Moreover, a small change of the word’s tone can also modify its meaning to “family reunion.”

Longevity noodles

Noodles as a symbol of long life are well-known throughout Asia. It is served not only for Chinese New Year but also during birthdays and weddings. When cooking and eating the noodles, one must also be mindful not to cut them to sustain the idea of a long and healthy life. The usual length of longevity noodles is two feet long but it is also believed that the longer the noodles one eats, the luckier he or she can become.

Fortune fruits

Fruits like oranges and pomelos can elicit prosperity. Citrus fruits are believed to produce good fortune and happiness as well. Tangerine, which has a homonym in Cantonese that means luck, is the most traditional fruit to be served and to be given to the visitors.

Aside from citrus fruits, gold-colored grapes are also valuable for Chinese New Year. It is said to bring good fortune and can also represent success, abundance, and fertility. — Chelsey Keith P. Ignacio

New normal ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day

The quarantine has changed the way people show love due to limited physical connections and disruptions in various areas of life. Although the pandemic has forced to halt some activities, expressing love should not be part of that.

Valentine’s Day of 2021 will be celebrated differently compared to the prior years because certain regulations and precautions will hinder conventional date ideas. Even if the protocols are getting loose, people must remain vigilant in rejoicing love. The occasion can still be delightfully marked even in lesser contact yet with more sincere effort fueled by the same passionate purpose.

If there is certainty, families, friends, and couples may still see each other on Valentine’s Day. Nevertheless, they must be careful about celebrating it together. Instead of joining a probable crowd outside, try modifying the environment of the house.

Couples can still execute a romantic date night at their dinner table. They can imitate how most restaurants set the mood for Valentine’s like a Victorian romantic dinner — using a glass of champagne, serving a smoked salmon, or adding strawberries covered with chocolate on the side. If couples do not want a luxurious setting, they can simply order foods, watch movies, or make meaningful conversations.

Meanwhile, friends can celebrate this occasion by going back to an after-school-like hangout. Families, especially those with kids, can still celebrate love more at home through sharing activities that young children will enjoy the most. Whatever the home arrangement on Valentine’s Day for different loved ones, the most important is that the event will be done as a safe and blissful escape from the difficulties caused by the pandemic.

But if the preference is outdoor celebrations, malls, restaurants, and parks may not be the most favorable options. Instead, if available, a small Valentine’s gathering can happen in a car or by driving to a location away from crowds.

Even before the quarantine, there are already love expressed in a long distance. Some people may have experienced this and already know how to celebrate Valentine’s Day in this situation. Whether a partner, friend, or family lives far away, technology gives chance to interact with them, especially with Zoom becoming more popular nowadays.

Sending gifts can also be done online. For those who are in a budget, they can convey their love in digitally or through letter writing or sending stuff with sentimental value. Materialism is not a core principle of Valentine’s Day anyway. People just need to make sure that their loved ones will not feel alone on this occasion.

Finding love, not just celebrating it, is also commonly done on Valentine’s Day. Since having physical contact with strangers and acquaintances is strictly not advised, people can try to search for love and have dates in the digital space. Others may have a complicated outlook towards online dating but the current pandemic can change their perspective.

Using dating apps for the first time may be intimidating and frightening but if a person sincerely wants to find love in this way, he/she should attempt to be buoyant, curious, and acknowledge that a lot of people are also really desiring to meet someone in this setup.

Meanwhile, some people will merely let Valentine’s Day pass by like regular dates. But regardless if a person is single or not, he/she can still make this a memorable event. People can look more at St. Valentine, the patron saint commemorated on this day, and ponder over the reason why February 14 became momentous.

There are many narrative versions of St. Valentine. But the famous tale recounts that he was a priest who recognized and did something about the injustice shown by Emperor Claudius II’s law that prohibited young men to marry because of the judgment that single men make good soldiers.

With St. Valentine’s martyrdom story, people can spend this special day by fostering love and justice within the community, especially in dealing with the issues exposed by COVID-19 and recent natural disasters. With this action, people are celebrating a kind of love that is not only directed to close relationships but for the country as well.

Meanwhile, anyone can still feel loved by practicing self-care. They can celebrate Valentine’s day similar to how couples will do, except that foods, gifts, and quality time will be devoted for oneself. This can be the day when an individual can put him/herself first above all.

Since these celebrations are recommended to be cherished at home, the planning does not need to be grand. Treat this Valentine’s Day as a moment to simply remember love amidst the turbulent times. — Chelsey Keith P. Ignacio

Carrying charms for 2021

The previous year saw unprecedented difficulties in several aspects of living. Questions may arise now if this year will turn better. So to deepen one’s faith in security, success, and happiness, one can use Chinese lucky charms.

Generally, lucky charms used in Feng Shui promise optimistic energy. Some people may attract it through bracelets or adding charms as decorations at home and office. However, choosing the charm to own does not completely rely on the keeper’s preference. Certain beliefs are subject to a person’s Chinese zodiac sign. The location and treatment of the charms can also affect the energy and fortune.

Since 2021 is the Year of the Metal Ox, it is recommended to add images of a metal ox to invite luck towards the house. Still, the energies to be felt may vary depending on one’s zodiac sign compatibility with the ox.

Another animal image believed to attract good luck are turtles. In Feng Shui, a black tortoise represents north and is one of the celestial animals along with the green dragon (east), red phoenix (south), and a white tiger (west). These animals can flow in positive energies but their positioning should correspond with their compass directions.

Furthermore, a metal turtle can also elicit triumph in one’s career when place in the north of the office; and then displaying a dragon turtle on the southeast side can increase one’s profit. Whereas, for health and longevity, the east side of a house or room should be decorated with eight turtles made from stone. Nevertheless, even if turtles have a lot of good significance, they should be correctly selected and handled with respect.

Meanwhile, there are lucky charms that can be accessories. The traditional lucky charm is made of jade. But it is significant to use the birthstone assigned to one’s Chinese zodiac sign. The birthstone of the Ox sign, for example, is aquamarine. Birthstones may be worn or kept as necklaces, bracelets, and keychains.

In terms of color, red is quite a popular symbol to welcome good luck basing on Chinese tradition. Since it represents life energy, passion, protection, and luck, red can be seen frequently in objects from Chinese culture such as envelopes or “ampaw”, double happiness symbol, eternal knot, lanterns, and the Coins of the Ten Emperors.

Red may also be the ideal color of pot for plants. As for trees and plants, crassula ovata is considered lucky. It is also known as the “money plant” because of the positive energies it may bring for the family’s welfare according to traditional Feng Shui.

These lucky charms are specific and may have further significations. Hence, asking experts is highly recommended so the charm fits the keeper and his/her desires. There also charms that need to have a ritual performed.

Indeed, these lucky charms do not possess absolute evidence to lead a happy or healthy life. Furthermore, it is vital to note that there are lucky charms that may contain toxic chemicals.

EcoWaste Coalition recently released a warning that dangerous concentrations of cadmium can be found in some products. Cadmium is determined to cause an unreasonable risk to the public according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau. It is also listed by World Health Organization as among the “10 chemicals of major public health concern”.

“We caution consumers from buying and wearing lucky bracelets with ox components that are often made of cadmium alloy,” said Thony Dizon, a chemical safety campaigner from EcoWaste Coalition.

Owning lucky charms, therefore, does not only require mindfulness of their meanings and rituals but also their actual contents. Be sure that the charms to be carried and decorated will not evoke potential risks that can overturn their traditional values. — Chelsey Keith P. Ignacio

Prudential Guarantee Acci-Shield+ offers insurance coverage for Dengue

Prudential Guarantee is offering Acci-Shield+, a program that provides insurance coverage to clients who may contract dengue—cases of this disease can now be all year round.  The coverage fee for one year costs only P300.

For this amount, Acci-Shield+, part of Prudential Guarantee’s Personal Accident Plan, issues one-time cash assistance of P20,000 to a client diagnosed with dengue. The full amount is given even if the client is not confined or admitted to a hospital, and comes on top of the client’s HMO and PhilHealth benefits.

The diagnosis must be certified by the client’s attending physician, is supported by relevant tests, and validated by Prudential Guarantee’s authorized medical consultant.

Members of the client’s immediate family, other relatives, and colleagues with ages ranging from 1 to 70 years old are also eligible to get Acci-Shield+ insurance coverage.

For more information, call (02) 8651 9500 or 8878-3000 or visit www.prudentialguarantee.com.

What to give on the love day

Valentine’s Day, and even the entire “love month,” is not only marked by spending moments with a special someone or with friends or family, but also with giving gifts or tokens of appreciation.

It might be quite difficult, however, to figure what present to give on this special day — especially for those who have just started dating. Even for those who have been together for long, or between family members and relatives, choosing an item to give is somehow an arduous task.

Maralee McKee, an etiquette expert and founder of the Etiquette School of America, recognizes how tricky buying gifts can be. On her website, Ms. McKee shared a few recommendations on what to give, based on the level of relationship.

For those who had a few dates and do not yet have a mutual commitment to date only each other, Ms. McKee suggests a book or two, a couple of best films of the favorite actor of one’s date, something representing a favorite sports team, a gadget, a pen or portfolio for work, or a new gym bag (at least for the active).

If these suggestions don’t fit, however, couples can start coming up with a list of what each partner likes, as comparison website Finder suggests. “Think of his or her interests and then search around for a present that reflects those things,” Finder wrote on its website.

For those in a boyfriend-girlfriend level, Ms. McKee suggests giving tickets to an upcoming concert or sporting event (many of which are likely virtual and some are free), as “this shows you hope to be in the picture in a few months when the event’s date rolls around”.

A nice addition to a collection (if the partner is a collector) is also suggested, as well as something one-of-a-kind like a piece of art, an antique store item, or a piece of jewelry (as long as it is not a ring).

Finder, meanwhile, advises long-time couples to put more of a personal touch on their gifts since they “probably know their other half like the back of their hand”.

“To pick that perfect gift, think of special moments you’ve shared, items you’ve promised them (even jokingly) or a quirk you adore about them and buy a gift that represents that,” the platform’s article read.

For married couples, especially those with kids, Ms. McKee leaves it to husbands and wives to decide how they would spend Valentine’s Day, either by giving extravagant gifts or without the cards and gifts and enjoying a dinner with their children instead.

“The carefree long weekends away you enjoyed before the kids came might disappear for the next two decades,” Ms. McKee wrote. “Every year have a quick conversation about what you want Valentine’s Day to be. It’s okay to change it up or keep it the same year-to-year, as long as it’s a mutual decision.”

In addition, Finder recommends partners to have shared gifts, considering what the couple likes doing together or thinking of something that they have constantly talked about doing.

Ms. McKee added that one should not go to what they know their partner always like or something they will buy for themselves, like a gift certificate from where she buys most of her clothes.

“It’s a nice thought, and she certainly won’t mind the gift, but the best gifts make memories. Instead, buy her a gift certificate for something she normally wouldn’t treat herself to, like a spa treatment,” she said.

Kids must not be forgotten, Ms. McKee continued. “It’s important to give a card, a small gift, and a huge hug, and to talk about what this day is about, the history of it, and how your child(ren)’s words and actions make others feel about themselves,” she wrote.

Giving bouquets

As a traditional and worthwhile Valentine’s gift, flowers will always be a nice gift, even to individuals other than your significant other. It is just a matter of picking the appropriate bunch and avoiding the monotony.

“Consider buying a big bouquet of carnations or other flowers, and tie a bow around each stem. Hand them out to friends, coworkers, and total strangers,” Ms. McKee said. “It’s a sweet and inexpensive way to be someone’s Valentine.”

Picking the fitting flower matters. Roses are typically associated with romantic love, so using a different flower or mixing roses with other flowers is much better for friends or other recipients. Sending flowers to work is also recommended so that recipients can enjoy seeing them all day.

To make the bouquet more different, why not replace the flowers with something else, as some stores have done recently? Chocolates, another usual treat on Valentine’s, can be a good replacement, as well as a bunch of snacks like chips and sodas, or a selection of fast-food favorites. One can also try arranging vegetables, fruits, cookies, or essential items like face masks, alcohol, inhaler, balms, and ointments. — Adrian Paul B. Conoza

#MakeUpForLostTime with your loved ones with Toblerone Valentine’s Day packs

By this Valentine’s Day, it’s been almost a year since some Filipinos have seen and spent time with their loved ones. People have been staying at home as much as possible and have avoided congregating in big groups to help flatten the curve. Due to the pandemic, everyone has missed out on many opportunities to bond and show thoughtfulness to those they care about. Hence, this upcoming season filled with love, Toblerone is giving people the chance to #MakeUpForLostTime through their limited edition Toblerone Valentine’s Day Packs.

For a limited time only, Toblerone is offering a special Valentine’s Day gift for your loved ones through its special vouchers that promise to make up for the lost time we all missed last year. Each voucher represents a coupon that gives your loved ones a pass for bonding moments like having a movie night, preparing homemade dinner, or outdoor vacation. Through these special packs, you can send a unique touch through personalized messages in the notecard section – all while giving the people you love their favorite Toblerone chocolate.

“This year’s Valentine’s Day may be different, but it’s still important we show the people we love how much we value them. With the new limited edition Toblerone Valentine’s Day packs, we offer them the chance to make up for lost time with ‘vouchers’ that offer people their time/presence. After all, there’s nothing more valuable you can give someone than the gift of time,” Stefano Andrei Soriano, Mondelez Philippines Chocolates Category Lead said.

For those looking to deliver their promise to #MakeUpForLostTime extra special, Toblerone partnered with Designer Blooms for gorgeous flower arrangements that your loved ones will surely appreciate. These special bundles include fresh flowers and even adorable plush toys.

This season of love, #MakeValentinesThoughtful! Put a smile on the faces of the people you love, and share some love through special vouchers, available in four favorite flavors, namely milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, and crunchy almond chocolate.

 

 

Sumptuous CNY deals around the Metro

Chinese New Year (CNY) is another great time for celebration and feasting. Aside from the traditions, the festivities are also marked with a vast array of meals that usually have intricate meanings. Amid the ongoing pandemic, anyone can still enjoy CNY treats as hotels and restaurants make it easier through their latest deals.

The Peninsula Manila

This year, The Peninsula Manila offers its limited-edition edible chocolate trees, which come in Mandarin Orange Tree and Golden Fortune Money Tree variants. These intricately molded chocolate trees are available at The Peninsula Boutique for P3,999 until Feb. 15. The Peninsula Boutique also offers Lychee-Strawberry Macarons, Chocolate Pralines, and Cakeaway Afternoon Tea Set; while The Lobby will be serving a CNY-themed Afternoon Tea Set.

New World Makati Hotel

New World’s Chinese restaurant, Jasmine, brings out three auspicious set menus with authentic CNY dishes like Imperial Peking duck; fried garoupa fillet with chili, garlic, and coconut sauce; deep-fried spareribs with mayonnaise and vinegar sauce; fried rice and assorted meat in lotus lea; and braised abalone mushroom with assorted fungus and vegetables. Jasmine also offers its signature handcrafted nian gao (tikoy) that comes in koi fish and round shapes and is encased in an elegant round box with woodgrain detail and gold accents.

Fairmont Makati

From Feb. 8 to 12, Fairmont Makati’s Spectrum includes a choice of Chinese celebratory fare in its daily “Buffet a la Minute” for lunch from 11:30 a.m to 2:30 p.m. In their menu are Szechuan chicken, steamed fish with light soy broth, beef with broccoli and peppers, Chow Mien noodles with Bokchoy, Shiitake mushrooms, pork-stuffed glutinous rice wrapped in banana leaves, and pork and vegetable spring rolls, among others.

Shangri-La at the Fort

The hotel’s Canton Road presents this lunar year a sumptuous spread of regional Chinese specialties with signature menus good for five persons. The Spring, Longevity, and Prosperity menus lead with Huaiyang and Cantonese appetizer combination and the flamed trio barbecue sampler. Stuffed suckling pig with black truffle and dried scallops fried rice are also among the specialty dishes.

Grand Hyatt

Tea, coffee, and desserts grace the CNY celebrations at Grand Hyatt Manila’s The Lounge. Their Lunar Afternoon Tea Set offers free-flowing tea, coffee, and sweet delicacies such as traditional Hong King egg tarts for only P1,800 until Feb. 14.

Marco Polo Ortigas Manila

From Feb. 11 to 20, Lung Hin restaurant at Marco Polo offers special set menus that feature favorites such as Baked Slipper Lobster in Supreme Stock, Deep-fried Crispy Hong Kong Pigeon, and Braised South African Abalone with Black Mushroom and Vegetables.

EDSA Shangri-La

The hotel’s Summer Place dishes out traditional Cantonese cuisine with CNY set menus that start at P21,188++ for a table of 10 persons.

Novotel Manila

Buffet restaurant Food Exchange Manila at Novotel Manila offers a P2,021 nett buffet deal for two persons on Feb. 11 and 12. The feast includes favorites like dim sum, roasted specialties, noodles, and desserts, coupled with aromatic Jasmine tea.

The Manila Hotel

The capital’s premier hotel offers families a sumptuous CNY Dinner at its Roma Salon on Feb. 11 and 12, with three sets featuring dishes like Suckling Pig, Roast Duckand Prawns, and Steamed Shrimp and Pork Siomai, among others. Prestige Members can avail 23% discount on the set menu.

Century Park Hotel

On Feb. 11 and 12, Century Park Hotel’s Café in the Park offers its Chinese New Year Eat-All-You-Can Lunch and Dinner featuring classic Chinese dishes, seafood specials, and Chinese roast carving for only P1,995 net per head.

Sofitel Manila

Sofitel Manila’s Spiral prepares a lavish Chinese feast featuring braised ox tongue with lotus and dried chili, braised abalone with superior sauce, foie gras siew mai, xiao long bao truffle oil. From Feb. 11 to 12, Spiral’s feast is set at P2,850 nett for lunch, and P3,800 net for dinner.

Conrad Manila

At Conrad Manila, China Blue by Jereme Leung offers a diverse selection of dishes, highlighted by Golden roast US duck with BBQ sauce; Braised abalone, sea cucumber, and dried oyster in a superior shredded mushroom and dried scallop sauce; Simmered pork belly, money bag, and fried fish maw with whole garlic; among others. The restaurant also offers its own Nian Gao Treasures, available in Traditional Brown Sugar, Coconut, Orange, and Red Date with Ginger flavors, as well as koi fish and mini gold bar shapes.

City of Dreams

From Feb. 4 to 26, Crystal Dragon restaurant offers fine Cantonese cuisine and regional Chinese specialties, and it also sets up the ubiquitous CNY traditional table fare, the Yu Sheng. Nobu Manila, meanwhile, offers a la carte dishes infused with Japanese-Peruvian flavors, which can be enjoyed in an al fresco dining experience. — Adrian Paul B. Conoza

Send money to your bank account through M Lhuillier Kwarta Padala

As part of its commitment to be the Tulay ng PaMLyang Pilipino, M Lhuillier continues to innovate and introduce new financial services to make life easier for every Filipino.

With ML KwartaPadala, you can do more than just send and receive money to your loved ones anywhere in the Philippines. Now, you can also send money directly to your bank account through the ML KwartaPadala to Account service.

Skip the long lines and prolonged waiting times. Just visit any of M Lhuillier’s more than 2,600 branches nationwide and finish your transactions in a jiffy.

ML KwartaPadala to Account, or KP2A, is currently available for Metrobank, Chinabank, and BPI accounts yet, but other banks will soon follow.

While you’re at it, you can also avail of M Lhuillier’s wide range of financial services including Domestic and International KwartaPadala, Quick Cash Loans, Bills Payment, Jewelry, and Foreign Exchange.

Watch out for updates by following M Lhuillier Financial Services, Inc. on Facebook. For more information, you may visit www.mlhuillier.com or contact Customer Care through their toll-free number 1-800-1-0572-3252.

 

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