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MANILA, Philippines — It’s the gift-giving season once again as Christmas is just right around the corner.
For last-minute Christmas shopping, Philstar.com lists some gift ideas for you and your loved ones.
Shoes
Sperry leads the charge with three new preppy propositions ranging from clubhouse to 60s retro with its latest collections including chunky casual loafers, sneakers and of course, the boat shoes. The iconic shoemaker showcased Modern Prep in new exciting ways in a fashion presentation which featured the house’s newest brand ambassador, actor Joshua Garcia.
Preppy dressing has always been tied to country clubs and the tennis courts that feature prominently in their manicured grounds. Think knit cardigans, crisp polos, khakis, visors, and lots of leg-baring pieces.These days, rugby stripes, rich jewel tones, berets, and oversized sleeveless sweater-vests are the norm.
To complement this bold new proposition, Sperry puts forward its reinvented classics like the Halyard and the Bahama in neutral shades of bone and ivory to provide much-needed contrast. Athletic stripes, chunky outsoles, and pops of tennis court green add a touch of playfulness to the shoes. Available in men’s and women’s styles, there’s bound to be a pair to get you looking your sporty clubhouse best.
Vape
RELX contributed to reshaping the perception of vaping, highlighting its potential as a healthier alternative to smoking and inspiring positive lifestyle changes among users. Never one to stop innovating, RELX made waves with the Infinity Plus, with a longer battery life that enhances the capabilities of previous devices.
The RELX Infinity series has definitely made significant waves in championing consumers’ vaping experience with technological upgrades to further elevate user experience. If you thought vaping couldn’t get any better than this, RELX introduces the new Infinity 2.0, which is their best device yet.
The growing demand for alternatives to traditional cigarette smoking has propelled the consistent evolution in the landscape of vaping. In turn, the people’s desire for a more satisfying vaping experience has now been greater than ever.
The Infinity 2.0 is all about upgrades and being in full control. In this dynamic landscape of vaping, innovation has gone from being a luxury to a necessity in keeping up with the diverse preferences of vapers. In an industry as diverse as vaping, having the freedom to #TuneItYourWay is your best route to a tailored perfect fit in a world where we’re used to one size fits all.
Perfume
Watsons Philippines brings in the newest addition to their growing roster. Make way for STR8’s GAME Collection dubbed as the perfect fragrance companion for gamers seeking new adventures and boosting self-confidence.
Established in 1998 in Greece, STR8 emerged as a fragrance brand with a unique vision. Rooted in the belief that scent has the power to redefine masculinity, STR8 has been on a relentless journey to help men discover and embrace their genuine selves, and to exude confidence and authenticity. Over the years, the brand has become a symbol of modern masculinity, offering a range of grooming essentials to help men feel confident and be their authentic selves.
STR8 acknowledges the importance of adapting and evolving within the dynamic landscape of today’s ever-changing male identity. Much like the gaming industry, the notion of masculinity has undergone a significant transformation. In alignment with these shifting paradigms, STR8 is thrilled to introduce its latest creation: GAME.
This collection encapsulates the boundless energy and vibrant spirit that typify the contemporary man. In an era where the video gaming industry is not just on the rise but has seamlessly become an integral part of our daily lives, the STR8 Game Collection is a testament to our commitment to keeping pace with the trends of the time.
With a selection of refreshing scents and grooming products, GAME is designed to cater a new generation of men, particularly the Gen Z audience. These individuals are the trailblazers, the gamers who find themselves conquering both virtual and real-life adventures. It’s not just grooming but a declaration of strength, a celebration of life’s challenges, and an ode to the thrill of competition.
Instant massage
These days, one can hardly take a break to relax amid busy schedules. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, are having a hard time catching up with the demands of work and side hustles. Some get overwhelmed by juggling multiple responsibilities and an active lifestyle, which can take a toll on one’s physical and mental well-being.
Efficascent Boost is specifically created for the convenience of individuals on the move. This roll-on allows for quick and hassle-free application. Whether you’re at work, in the gym, or on a weekend adventure, Efficascent Boost can leave you rejuvenated with just a few swipes. Simply roll it onto your shoulders, back, and arms, and you’ll feel the cooling sensation and refreshing scent.
The product goes beyond just a roll-on applicator. It also features a cap massager that helps relax tired and sore muscles. Make the most of your break time by using the cap to gently massage your shoulders, back, and arms. Now you’re ready to take on the world even after a long day at work or an intense workout session.
The Efficascent Boost formula ensures that you experience a long-lasting invigorating effect when you are feeling hot and sweaty, or simply need a quick pick- me-up. The science behind cooling sensation has shown that it can help reduce pain and inflammation, making Efficascent Boost not only a relaxation tool, but also a potential aid for muscle recovery and relief from minor aches and pains.
In addition to its revitalizing properties, Efficascent Boost also boasts a refreshing scent that can awaken your senses. The pleasant aroma is carefully crafted to provide a calming effect to help you unwind. Whether you’re in a crowded subway or a stressful meeting, a quick application of Efficascent Boost will transport you to a state of tranquility. It harnesses the power of scent to enhance your relaxation experience.
Healthcare set
The World Health Organization (WHO) has observed a surge in respiratory illnesses among children in northern China since mid-October 2023. Chinese authorities attribute this increase to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the onset of the cold season, leading to the circulation of known pathogens such as influenza, mycoplasma pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Mycoplasma pneumonia and RSV are known to affect children more than adults.
The CDC's recommendation for ultraviolet (UV-C) germicidal irradiation refers to ASHRAE's (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) position on airborne infectious diseases.
As stated in their position statement, "ASHRAE will continue to support research that advances the state of knowledge in the specific techniques that control airborne infectious disease transmission through HVAC systems, including ventilation rates, airflow regimes, filtration, and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI)."
In fact, trusted brands have been relying on this technology. Germ-protection innovators such as UV Care have been employing this into different devices to help eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air and on surfaces to help us be more proactive in keeping ourselves and loved ones protected.
Adding a UV Care air purifier can eliminate episodes of asthma and allergic rhinitis as it gets rid of these triggers in the air. It also has been tested to instantly kills SARS-CoV-2 & viruses and eliminates 99.9% of airborne pathogens, odors and molds at home, in the office. You can also travel safely with the portable UV Care Pure Air Portable Air Purifier.
Experts from UV Care have led innovations in germ-protection technology, and they emphasize on studying the product and make sure the air purifier comes with Highest Medical Grade HEPA filters combined with Activated Carbon filters and UV-C for disinfection providing the total air care protection. You can check out how these filtration systems help protect your home on the UV Care website.
According to the International WELL Building Institute, keeping surfaces germ-free is crucial. Surfaces can be made antimicrobial with UV-C light. For high-touch spots like countertops and handles, they should either be made germ-resistant or regularly cleaned with a UV-C device, ensuring a safer environment for everyone.
UV Care’s Room sterilizers are designed to prevent the spread of the virus or 'hawa-hawa,' ensuring faster recovery and preventing further contamination. Using Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) light, these sterilizers target and eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air and on surfaces, reaching hard-to-reach crevices and ceilings. Perfect for just about any personal and commercial space such as schools, offices, hospitals, hotels, restaurants, salons, movie theaters, hotels, and restrooms, among others.
Give your eyes a break with something cool
Did you know that eye care brand Rohto Eye Drops is from Japan and has been formulating and producing eye drops for over a century? That’s how much the Japanese take their eye health seriously. And one of the things they swear by is getting those cooling eye drops from Rohto – which, good news for us, is now available in the Philippines.
Rohto Cool Eye Drops, touted as the first and only cooling eye drops in the country, aims to deliver instant and effective moisturizing and cooling relief from minor eye discomforts like dryness and irritation. A favorite among leading beauty and fashion insiders and celebrities, Rohto Cool Eye Drops are a must if you constantly experience dry or strained eyes from all that screen time, or if you need relief from redness or itchiness caused by smog, dust, wind, sun glare, and chlorinated water.
This fun and unique Level 5 cooling sensation also gives the eyes a refreshing feeling, making it handy for waking up sleepy eyes. Rohto ensures their eye drops are safe and easy to use, as they’re formulated by Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Japan that has 100 years of unwavering commitment to eye care. The eye drops help retain natural tears and moisture to prevent eye surface dryness, deliver oxygen and nutrients to the cornea, wash out dust and debris, and prevent bacteria and other germs from entering.
They’re also safe to use even if you’re wearing contact lenses and offer a moisturizing protective veil that makes removing the lenses easier even after a long day. Plus, Rohto’s eye drops feature an innovative free-angle nozzle, allowing effortless application from any angle, so convenient if you’re on the go. Experience the cool difference today and get Rohto Cool Eye Drops or the gentle moisturizing option Rohto Aqua Eye Drops at a Watsons store near you or through Watsons Online Shop. Rohto Eye Drops are also available at the official Mentholatum stores on Lazada and Shopee.
TV
TCL together with Abensons join forces to herald the coming of the C755 “Ultra Game Master” QD-Mini LED TV through a formal launch.
The event, which was held at the Abenson flagship store at Quezon Avenue, was highlighted with gaming activations to spotlight on this supreme TV main features.
“We are very happy to be doing this launch with Abenson. We know that everyone is very excited with this event and with the newest C755 ‘Ultra Game Master’ TV. Get ready to elevate your gaming experience with it. It is loaded with a whole lot of features to break the barriers in QD Mini LED technology,” says Mr. Joseph Cernitchez, TCL Philippines Brand Manager.
TCL and Abenson also announced their special promotion just in time for the launch of the C755 ‘Ultra Game Master’ QD-Mini LED TV. The biggest promo this season is here. Get the newest C755 with the biggest savings. If you buy it in cash or straight payment on your credit card. You get to have a huge discount.
For 98 inch C755 TV, get it for only P249,995 with P100,000 savings plus freebies. For 75 inch C755 TV, get it for only P99,995 with P40,000 savings plus freebies. For 65 inch C755 TV, get it for only P67,995 with P26,000 savings plus freebies. For 55inch C755 TV, get it for only P53,995 with P20,000 savings plus freebies.
Smart watch
If you are looking for a wearable device to help you achieve your health and fitness goals, look no further than the Xiaomi Smart Band 8. This elegant device is more than just a fitness tracker; it’s a personal health companion. It can monitor your heart rate, sleep quality, stress level, and more. It can also provide personalized insights and suggestions to improve your well-being.
The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 is also versatile and can connect with your smartphone and other smart devices. It can notify you of calls and messages, control your music playback, and even act as a remote camera shutter for your smartphone. It also has a long-lasting battery life of up to 16 days on a single charge. The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 has a sleek design and a customizable watch face that can match any outfit and mood.
The Xiaomi Smart Kids Watch is a great device for parents who want to keep in touch with their kids while letting them have fun and explore. This device helps parents keep their kids safe and teach them new things. It has a feature that lets parents see where their kids are on a map and set boundaries for them. The watch has a slot for a Nano SIM card that lets it make phone calls and video calls without needing a smartphone. The watch can connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing parents and kids to talk and text each other.
In addition to its safety features, the Kids Watch boasts a child-friendly design and educational elements, making it a valuable tool for learning and entertainment. It has educational apps and games to help children hone their skills and interests. It is made with durable materials that can withstand wear and tear.
Family feast
City of Dreams Manila unwraps yuletide and seasonal offerings at its premium restaurants Crystal Dragon, Nobu Manila, Haliya and Season 88. At Café Society,
whimsical holiday-themed confections conjure awe and wonder.
To heighten the holiday dining, the season’s festive drinks are also available across the property from Cafe Society, Hidemasa, Rossi Pizza, Haliya to Wave poolside restaurant and bar. Adding fun and excitement for families, DreamPlay holds an all-star holiday parade of well-loved characters from DreamWorks Animations at 5:30 p.m., every Saturday and Sunday of December, including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day at The Shops at the Boulevard. Characters from the films Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Puss in Boots, Madagascar, and Trolls will be on parade to delight the kids and kids at heart.
Setting the mood for joyful gatherings, a garden-themed Christmas tree display at the resort’s main casino entrance welcomes guests. Adorned with lush, colorful floral accents and glistening lights, the sprawling display is the resort’s centerpiece this holiday season. Christmas trees are also on display at the lobbies of Nuwa Manila, Nobu Hotel and Hyatt Regency Manila. A Christmas bazaar at The Shops at the Boulevard comprised of well-curated kiosks offering luxe jewelry, home, fashion and other trendy selections adds to the holiday shopping until December 24.
The integrated resort’s acclaimed restaurant known for its Cantonese and regional Chinese specialties, Crystal Dragon, highlights premium ala carte choices from December 18 to January 1, from lunch onwards: Braised Sea Treasure Broth with Alaskan king crab, fish maw and Chinese ham; Oven-baked Chicken filled with black truffle paste and foie gras; Wok-fried Prawns in homemade cheese sauce and crispy enoki mushrooms; Flaming Wagyu Beef – Sichuan Style with king oyster mushrooms; and Chilled Sweetened Honeydew with soymilk jelly, homemade vanilla ice cream and pearl sago.
Nobu Manila f?tes guests with a “Nobu Experience” at its Holiday Sunday Brunch on December 24 for P4,388 net per person. Unlimited helpings of popular Nobu-style dishes laid out on the buffet and a la carte service include the Nobu Signature Sashimi Trio of Tuna Matsuhisa, Yellowtail Jalapeño and Salmon Karashi su Miso; Black Cod Butter Lettuce; Nobu Pork Sisig; and an array of maki rolls unique to Nobu, to name a few. The featured Carving of the Day – the Whole Rib Roast and Wagyu Chuck Roll served with a choice of mushroom wasabi pepper sauce or creamy wasabi — complemented by Salmon Wellington with Nobu-style tartar sauce, different choices of kushiyaki prepared ala minute, a ramen bar and seafood bar take diners to a one-of-a-kind celebratory dining experience.
An elaborate Christmas dinner also beckons at the restaurant, where a seven-course omakase tasting menu reflecting Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s new-style Japanese cuisine will be offered for dinner on December 24 and 25. At P5,600++ per person, the menu consists of a complimentary chef’s choice of appetizer; Crispy Whitefish with kumomo puree, jalapeño dressing, crispy quinoa, caviar; Assorted Sushi; Inaniwa Noodles with shrimp in tomato clear soup; Tuna Pastrami Salad with amazu, grapeseed oil, vegetable salad roll and crispy onions; and Chilean Seabass Inasal with sweet potato korokke and yuzu atchara caviar. The menu’s piece de resistance is the Nobu-style Wagyu Beef Wellington with roasted tomato jus, braised roots and crispy nasu, preceding a dessert of Strawberry Vanilla Bavarois with meringue and sponge cake.
For a Filipino noche buena that evokes the flavors of the season, Haliya has customized a modern Filipino Christmas menu with ala carte choices. Available on December 24 from lunch onwards and for dinner on December 25, the special dishes are comprised of: Duck Jamonado Ensalada, a medley of mesclun greens, marble potato, baby beans, cherry tomato, green olives, pearl onion, baby beetroot, soft-boiled egg in cranberry vinegar dressing; Molo Krema, a comforting concoction of crispy molo noodles with water chestnut, celery, carrot, spring onion, corn and leek oil; Chicken Pastel with mushroom, queso de bola sarsa, asparagus, water chestnut, potato, herb jus, and black salt; and Persimmon Panna Cotta with butter cream, calamansi honey sauce, candied pinipig, chestnut crumble and a trio of macaron.
A selection of Chinese and Korean specialties from December 15 to January 14 makes up an Asian feast shared among family and friends at Season 88. Situated at the vibrant main gaming floor, the 24-hour chic dining room and lounge offers special Chinese dishes: Hakka Braised Pork Belly with rice vinegar and peanuts and Wok-fried Butter Prawn with oats; and Korean favorites: Honghap Tang (Korean mussel soup with red and green chili, leeks and savory soy sauce) and Bossam (Korean pork belly wrap with radish kimchi). Diverse international cuisines complemented by a wide array of premium beverages and spirits are also on the menu.
Christmas wafts in the air at Café Society, with various holiday-themed confections transforming the cafe into a yuletide wonderland. Playful chocolate sculptures, gingerbread houses alongside a spread of confections and pastries are offered until the end of December. Christmas Chocolate Houses (P2,000 net each), Santa Bear in milk and white chocolate in varying sizes (starts at P400 net), and other Christmas staples like Panettone (Italian Christmas bread); Stollen (cake-like bread with its origin in Germany), fruit mince pies, and yule log cakes complete Café Society’s fancy holiday spread. For inquiries and reservations, call 8800-8080 or e-mail [email protected]. For more information, visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com. Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android.
Skincare
The holidays are officially here! With our jampacked schedules filled with parties and reunions, there is a need for us to look and feel our best. And when we do, a noticeable "glow-deep-within" look naturally shines through—which makes it the best time for us to take it up a notch by embracing the beauty of healthy-looking glass skin.
The key to having plump, glowing skin is making sure your skin is hydrated at all times. Neutrogena's latest hydrating duo, the Hydro Boost Serum and Water Gel, ensures your skin receives the moisturization it craves, resulting in a radiant glow throughout the day. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and other dermatologist-recommended ingredients, the Hydro Boost Water Gel which gives the skin 5x hydration (vs. no moisturizer) for a healthy-looking glow! Moreover, when used with the Hydro Boost Serum which is clinically proven to boost weightless hydration to the skin, this duo delivers up to 2.9x more hydrating ingredients; promoting supple, glowing, and healthy-looking skin with regular use. Hydro Boost Serum and Hydro Boost Water Gel are available in Shopee, Lazada, and Watsons.
Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance joined forces with The Beauty Edit for an unforgettable Thanksgiving event that brought together skincare experts, beauty influencers, and enthusiasts for a day of education, inspiration, and celebration. The morning session commenced with a thought-provoking brand talk by Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Country Brand Manager, Tammy Au, highlighting the importance of safe and effective brightening practices. Tammy expressed gratitude for the support of partner dermatologists, acknowledging their crucial role in raising awareness in a saturated industry.
"Brightening is a saturated industry, but consumers are not always aware of the safe and effective ways to achieve it. Thanks to your support for Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance, people are becoming more aware," Au explained at her presentation.
Following Au's talk, The Beauty Edit hosted a segment featuring Marj Maroket, where they discussed the significance of a good base in makeup application, shared valuable tips, and created a timeless holiday makeup look. Marj emphasized the synergy between skincare and makeup, "Skincare and makeup go hand in hand. As dermatologists promote skin health, beauty enthusiasts enhance it. The skin is the canvas of your face, and beauty is not just about looking good but also expressing your confidence."
The event's highlight was the presence of Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray, who brought an element of excitement with "Pass the Crown with Catriona." Guests participated in an interactive game where they could ask questions or win prizes from Cetaphil's Bright Healthy Radiance line by wearing a crown when the music stopped.
Gray shared, "It's always nice to have a routine that works for you. Our mornings are so busy sometimes, so you need a routine that works for you. To embody radiance, it's about energy. I have to be very aware of myself and my mental health. I have to find ways to fill my cup. Having a positive outlook is essential to exuding energy that speaks volumes."
Catriona also spoke about practicing gratitude through nightly prayers and the transformative impact of acknowledging blessings, overcoming negativity, and embracing self-love.
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