How Digital Libraries Bring Books to Your Fingertips.

Digital libraries are changing how we access books. With just a few clicks readers can explore countless titles without leaving their homes. Begin your reading journey with Zlibrary — your portal to literary discovery and experience the convenience of having thousands of books ready at your fingertips. These platforms offer a vast world of literature where users can dive into a variety of genres and subjects easily.

Photo credit: Cottonbro Studio on Pexels.

The Convenience of Digital Libraries

Digital libraries offer unmatched convenience. You no longer need to search through physical shelves or wait for orders to arrive. Instead you can find and download books instantly. Whether you're on a mobile device or desktop you have access to a wide range of reading material at any moment. This level of access empowers readers to discover new books quickly and begin reading right away.

Features That Make Reading Easier

One of the great benefits of digital libraries is how easy it is to use them. Readers can enjoy customizable text sizes which allow for a more personalized reading experience. Built-in dictionaries make it convenient to look up unfamiliar words without leaving the page. Additionally users can easily bookmark their favorite pages or take notes while reading, enhancing their engagement with the material. For those who prefer reading at night many digital libraries offer a night mode feature which reduces glare and is easier on the eyes. The ability to carry hundreds of books in one device means your entire collection is always with you whether you are commuting, traveling, or simply relaxing at home. This portability encourages reading more often and exploring new genres or authors at your leisure making digital libraries a fantastic resource for every book lover.

Photo credit: Perfecto Capucine on Pexels.

Accessibility for All

Digital libraries make books accessible to everyone. People in remote areas can read the same books as those in big cities. There’s no need to visit a physical location or worry about store hours. This also benefits students who can access academic resources from anywhere at any time. With a simple search readers can find the specific content they need for education or entertainment.

Variety of Content

Digital libraries cater to all types of readers. Whether you're looking for classic literature, contemporary fiction, or academic texts there’s something for everyone. Platforms like Z-library are home to millions of titles ranging from rare editions to popular bestsellers. This diversity of content ensures that readers can find books that match their interests and needs.

Photo credit: Lil Chun on Pexels.

The Challenges of Digital Libraries

Despite their many advantages, digital libraries do have some drawbacks. For one, reading on screens can cause eye strain for some users. In addition, not all books may be available in digital format especially older or rare ones. For those who prefer the feel of physical books, a digital collection might feel less satisfying. Nonetheless the ease of access and variety offered by digital libraries make them a compelling choice.

Future of Reading

Digital libraries continue to grow in popularity bringing new readers into the fold. As technology advances even more people will turn to digital formats for their reading needs. The convenience and accessibility of these platforms mean that more books will be just a click away allowing readers to explore stories from around the world without boundaries.

La Mesa Ecopark receives #GreenLove as Taiwan Excellence partners with Manila Water Foundation.

Taiwan Excellence is showing #GreenLove by partnering with Manila Water Foundation (MWF) to boost the promotion of La Mesa Ecopark (LME), the ‘last ecological frontier’ of Metro Manila.

As part of its efforts on environmental sustainability, Taiwan Excellence will engage in information, education, and communication support to Manila Water Foundation for the promotion of the 33 -hectare LME Park in Greater Lagro, Quezon City, which combines conservation and tourism.

Taiwan Excellence noted that LME is part of the La Mesa Watershed which is an important water source for Metro Manila and the Greater Manila Area.

"The vital aspect of our #GreenLove campaign is our sincere love for the environment by preserving and protecting our natural resources. This is our action in support of a healthier environment. We are giving future generations a greener and healthier Earth," says Dir. Alex Lai of Taiwan Trade Center, Manila.

Dir. Lai also said that their #GreenLove campaign with MWF underscores their appreciation for LME's rich biodiversity. The LME is where flora, fauna, and communities interact in ecological harmony.

"La Mesa Ecopark is considered one of the last lungs of Metro Manila because of its lush green forest that helps produce oxygen and aid in improving the city’s air quality, as well as preserve our water source. We are happy to work with Taiwan Excellence through their #GreenLove campaign. We hope that this will inspire others to do their part to help the environment," the MWF said.

For the #GreenLove campaign, Taiwan Excellence will be collaborating with actress, singer, and social media influencer Kim Molina. Kim will feature the LME in her upcoming vlog.

Taiwan Excellence has been committed to promoting green sustainability. Recently they held the "Go Green with Taiwan" project resulting in 17 semifinalists from 12 countries, including the Philippines. This global project encourages individuals, social institutions, and non-profit governmental organizations to submit ideas for a better world using Taiwanese green products and solutions.

The top three winners will be awarded a total of USD 20,000, with the results being announced on December 11, 2024.

To know more about #GreenLove campaign follow the Taiwan Excellence's social media accounts. Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph/ and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taiwanexcellence_ph/

SM City San Pablo Celebrates the Return of the Grand Magical Christmas Parade!

The holidays just got brighter with the return of the SM Supermalls' Grand Magical Christmas Parade! After five-long years, the most anticipated holiday event has made a comeback to SM City San Pablo bringing festive cheer to children and families, shoppers and mall-goers, and the community in general. This beloved holiday happening showcases a vibrant and whimsical celebration filled with colorful characters, enchanting music, and the heartwarming magic of Christmas. 

The SM City San Pablo Mall Atrium is all dolled up for the holidays!

The Grand Magical Christmas Parade has returned to SM City San Pablo!

The kick-off parade was held last November 16, 2024 at SM City Bacoor with the grand launch graced by the presence of Zeinab Harake and her kids, as well as her fiance', basketball star Ray Parks. Zeinab was once a Grand Magical Parade Princess before she shot to social media fame. 

Zeinab Harake and kids, together with Ray Parks, during the kick-off parade at SM City Bacoor.
Photo credit: When in Manila.

The celebration continued the following weekend, November 23, with the parade moving to SM Supermalls across South Luzon. First stop down south was our very own SM City San Pablo, where the mall hosted its own Grand Magical Christmas Parade. Shoppers and their families were treated to a lively display as the whimsical characters marched through the mall, spreading joy and good cheer and the true spirit of the holiday season.

The highlight of the parade, of course, was the appearance of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, who greeted everyone with huge smiles and big waves, and even posing for photos with the children.

The magic of the SM Supermalls will continue across various SM Supermalls in South Luzon, bringing joy to families all over the region and giving everyone a chance to experience the warmth and wonder of Christmas. Mark your calendars and bring your loved ones for a celebration that’s sure to be unforgettable!

Catch the Grand Magical Christmas Parade at an SM Supermall near you!

The Grand Magical Christmas Parade is more than just an event—it’s a joyful experience filled with magic, laughter, and the warmth of holiday togetherness. Don’t miss out on this magical holiday celebration—it’s Christmas, the SM Supermalls way! 

Snack Your Way to South Korea: Mister Potato and Squid Game 2 Present the Ultimate “Crunch to Win” Challenge.

Mister Potato Philippines is taking your love for snacks to a thrilling new level. In collaboration with Netflix’s global hit Squid Game, Mister Potato has launched an interactive contest that could turn your next canister of crisps into a passport to incredible prizes—including a dream trip to South Korea!

Dubbed the Crunch to Win: Mister Potato x Squid Game 2 contest, this high-stakes campaign combines the excitement of Netflix’s breakout series with the irresistible crunch of Mister Potato snacks. Whether you're a Squid Game superfan or a dedicated snacker, this campaign promises something for everyone.

The Crunch That Could Take You to Korea

Running from November 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025, the Crunch to Wincontest invites snack lovers to uncover hidden Squid Game-inspired symbols inside the metal lids of specially marked Mister Potato canisters. These symbols could be your ticket to an unforgettable journey filled with exclusive prizes.

Here’s what’s at stake:

● Weekly Prizes:

○ Squid Game Funko Pop collectibles.

○ P1,000 worth of vouchers for select partners.

○ Bundles of Mister Potato products to keep your snack stash stocked.

● Grand Prize:

○ A dream getaway to South Korea, including airfare, accommodations, and a curated itinerary designed to immerse you in the magic of Korean culture.

● Consolation Prizes:

○ Additional bundles of Mister Potato products.

○ Exclusive Squid Game merchandise and vouchers worth up to P1,500.

Each canister brings a new opportunity to win, making snack time an even more exciting adventure!

How It Works

Participating in the contest is as easy as crunching open your favorite Mister Potato flavor. Follow these steps to join:

1. Purchase limited-edition Mister Potato x Squid Game 2 canisters, available at leading retailers nationwide.

2. Look for the hidden Squid Game symbols inside the metal lid of the canister.

3. Submit your entries online at www.misterpotatoph.com.

4. Follow Mister Potato on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok to get updates on contest announcements, symbol collection tips, and winner reveals.

Each unique symbol you find serves as a ticket to the weekly draws and the grand prize. The more symbols you collect, the better your chances of winning!

Pop Culture Meets Snack Innovation

This collaboration between Mister Potato and Squid Game 2 is a testament to the power of blending entertainment and consumer engagement. With Squid Game returning for a much-anticipated second season, Mister Potato aims to capture fans’ excitement and turn it into an unforgettable brand experience.

“Collaborating with Squid Game 2 felt like a natural fit for Mister Potato. Both our brand and the series have legions of loyal fans, and this contest allows us to bring something truly exciting and unique to both audiences,” said How Yuan Yi, Chief Marketing Officer of Mister Potato. “We’ve combined the thrill of watching Squid Game with the fun of enjoying a snack, offering fans a chance to win fantastic rewards along the way.”

By linking its signature snack with one of Netflix’s one of the most successful series, Mister Potato taps into the growing trend of experiential marketing, where brands create memorable, interactive moments for their consumers.

Beyond Snacking: A Gateway to Adventure

The Crunch to Win campaign isn’t just about munching on crisps; it’s about being part of a global phenomenon. The collaboration celebrates the best of both worlds—Mister Potato’s bold flavors and Squid Game’s gripping storytelling. Together, they’ve created a contest that takes consumer engagement to the next level.

“This collaboration with Netflix is about more than just cross-promotion,” the spokesperson added. “It’s about offering a new kind of experience, where our product becomes part of the fun and excitement of a global entertainment event. It’s not just a snack anymore; it’s a gateway to an adventure.”

Exclusive Canister Designs

The specially marked canisters are just as exciting as the prizes. Each flavor—Original, Sour Cream & Onion, Honey Cheese, Hot & Spicy, and Barbecue—features limited-edition Squid Game designs, making them collectible items for fans of the series. Whether you're a fan of the iconic Red Light, Green Light doll or the mysterious masked guards, these canisters add a touch of Squid Game to your snack shelf.

Your Chance to Be a Winner

Ready to crunch your way to South Korea? The Crunch to Win contest is your ticket to rewards that go beyond the snack aisle. With prizes designed for fans of both Mister Potato and Squid Game, this campaign offers a unique way to connect with your favorite snack brand while celebrating the cultural phenomenon that is Squid Game.

The contest is live from November 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to collect those symbols, rack up entries, and snag one of the amazing prizes.

For more information and contest mechanics, visit www.misterpotatoph.com. Be sure to follow Mister Potato on social media to stay updated on the latest announcements, winner highlights, and special promotions.

DMark Beauty Hosts Teoxane Excellence Awards Night, Celebrating Innovation in Aesthetic.

DMark Beauty, a leader in the Philippine medical solutions and aesthetics industry, celebrated a night of brilliance and achievement at the Teoxane Excellence Awards Night held at Marriott Manila. This prestigious event gathered the country's top aesthetic practitioners, clinic owners, and industry pioneers to recognize their contributions to elevating the standards of beauty and wellness through innovation and dedication.

The evening highlighted the achievements of over 30 distinguished awardees, including the first-ever recipients of the Teoxane X DMark Beauty Champion Award. This award honors the individuals and clinics who have consistently excelled in medical aesthetics, notably through the use of Teosyal fillers, showcasing a commitment to transforming beauty standards and delivering transformative results.

Teoxane country experts Dr. Cyril Agan, Dr. Sangkeerth Reddy, Dr. Sella Adasa, Nikki Tang,
Tessa Prieto, Dr. Neil Oropeza, Dr. Arnel Quiambao, and Junn Jalla.

Among the accolades given were the Most Dynamic Award, presented to the doctor or clinic who registered the highest sales of Teoxane fillers or cosmeceutical range, and the Most Resilient Award, recognizing the doctor or clinic with the highest sales growth. These prestigious awards underscore the dedication and success of medical professionals who continue to elevate the field of aesthetic medicine.

“Tonight is a celebration of the incredible expertise and dedication in our community, a gathering of the finest minds shaping the future of aesthetic medicine in the Philippines. It’s our privilege to honor the passion and skill that each of our awardees bring to their work,” said Nikki Tang, CEO of DMark Beauty, during her opening remarks.

Nikki Tang and Junn Jalla of DMark Beauty present the Most Dynamic Award to Mr. Jan Conadera, Dr. Cyril Agan, and Dr. Mikki Tenazas of Lift Aesthetic Clinic.

The evening kicked off with an insightful presentation by Dr. Sangkeerth Reddy, an esteemed expert in medical aesthetics, who flew in from Singapore to share the latest advancements in the Teoxane Glowing Lift. His session delved into the science and results behind this innovative treatment, giving the audience valuable insights into how Teoxane is pushing the boundaries of aesthetic medicine worldwide.

Following Dr. Reddy's informative presentation, the spotlight turned to the Philippine medical experts who have been integral to Teoxane's success in the local market. The event featured a forum led by Teoxane country experts including Dr. Neil Oropeza, Dr. Sella Adasa, Dr. Cyril Agan, and Dr. Arnel Quiambao. The discussion was facilitated by Tessa Prieto, who, together with Dr. Arnel, guided the audience through an insightful dialogue on the latest trends and innovations in the field.

Tessa Prieto-Valdes hosted the Teoxane Glowing Awards Night, adding her signature charm and energy to the celebration of excellence in aesthetic medicine held at Marriott Manila.

To further celebrate the remarkable achievements of the night’s honorees, David Young, a rising star in the local music scene, took to the stage to perform a selection of beloved classics, adding a soulful touch to the event.

DMark Beauty extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the Teoxane Glowing Awards Night, especially the awardees whose commitment to aesthetic excellence continues to elevate the industry. The night underscored the collective dedication to beauty, science, and the transformative power of innovative medical aesthetics.

Dr. Divina Viola, awardee, Teoxane x DMark Beauty Champion Award.

Teoxane’s latest campaign, Glowing Lift, offers a non-surgical solution for facelift and contour enhancement, restoring youthful radiance and lifting facial contours with cutting-edge hyaluronic acid technology. DMark Beauty is the authorized distributor of Teoxane in the Philippines.

To learn more about the treatment, consult your doctor. To know more about Teoxane, follow DMark Beauty @dmarkbeauty on Instagram and https://www.facebook.com/dmarkbeauty/

NIVEA’s 10 Out of 10 Care Celebration Continues, Empowering You to Embrace Your Glow.

NIVEA, your trusted skin care partner, recently marked a significant milestone in its commitment to skin health and well-being by hosting a nationwide raffle. This initiative went beyond simply offering prizes; it was a celebration of care, connection, and the expert solutions NIVEA provides to help you feel your best.

As a global leader in skincare, NIVEA is dedicated to delivering advanced skin solutions that empower individuals to embrace their own glow. With a focus on fostering community and well-being, NIVEA encourages you to connect with others and enjoy life to the fullest.

The much-anticipated nationwide raffle is still ongoing, providing you with the opportunity to win exciting prizes! As NIVEA continues its mission to reward and celebrate loyal customers, each winner exemplifies the confidence that comes from caring for one’s skin.

Join in for your chance to be one of the lucky winners! From October 10 to December 10, 2024, spend ₱500 on NIVEA products for your chance to win a dream trip to South Korea for two (2)!

Unlock More Opportunities to Win with NIVEA

NIVEA has even more thrilling opportunities for you to showcase your skincare passion and potentially score exclusive goodies—just share your NIVEA love on social media and you could be the next lucky winner.

To enter, visit NIVEA’s official Instagram @nivea_ph and find the "Add Yours" template in the 10/10 IG story highlight. Click the "Add Yours" button to create a 30-second video showcasing your favorite NIVEA product and why it deserves a 10 out of 10. Tag NIVEA in your post and include the hashtag #10outof10fromNIVEA

By participating, you'll have a chance to win exclusive NIVEA goodies like the NIVEA Intensive Moisture Body Milk, NIVEA Body Extra Bright Radiant & Smooth Lotion, NIVEA Extra Bright Super 10 Body Serum, and more. The NIVEA Pop-up Booth NIVEA recently brought its expert skincare advice with its exciting pop-up booths! Visitors enjoyed personalized skin consultations, product demonstrations, and exclusive offers. If you missed the event at SM Mall of Asia and SM North Edsa, you can still experience NIVEA’s 10 out of 10 care through online exclusive offers. A perfect chance to pamper your skin and discover your new favorite products!

Join the NIVEA Squad

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the NIVEA family, this is your chance to experience 10 out of 10 care and win amazing prizes. Follow NIVEA on social media and visit their website to learn more about upcoming promos and the latest in skincare innovations. Let NIVEA’s expert care continue to be a part of your daily routine and your special moments. Together, let’s celebrate the power of feeling cared for!

Vista Land, Pioneering the Future of Real Estate in Mega Manila.

Mega Manila continues its rapid expansion with the emergence of new metropolitan centers, offering promising real estate opportunities for both local buyers and international investors. Cities such as San Jose del Monte in Bulacan, Caloocan in Metro Manila, and Antipolo, Rizal are at the forefront of this transformation, driven by infrastructure projects, appreciating property values, and visionary master planned developments. Leading the charge in shaping this emerging urban landscape is Vista Land, the Philippines’ leading integrated property developer, whose portfolio is redefining modern lifescapes and poised to become premier destinations.

Mega Manila, a hotbed for real estate investment

Mega Manila, a region that extends beyond the core of the National Capital Region, has become a focal point for real estate development. This headway is primarily fueled by ongoing improvements in regional transportation, including the construction of MRT Line 7, the extension of LRT Line 1, and the completion of new highways and bypass roads. These advancements have facilitated easier access to and from Metro Manila and surrounding areas and transformed peripheral cities into megacity hotspots, positioning them as attractive hubs for residential and commercial growth across Luzon.

For buyers and investors in San Jose del Monte, Caloocan, and Antipolo, these real estate options present compelling opportunities as they provide accessible points into the real estate market coupled with the potential for capital appreciation over time.

San Jose del Monte, Bulacan: Gateway to the North

Aspen in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, is a 38-hectare mountain-town inspired community
that brings the elegance of alpine living in the city.

Situated just north of Quezon City, San Jose del Monte is a vital point in the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 7, which links the city to North Avenue and North Luzon East Expressway (NLEE), connecting Commonwealth Avenue to Norzagaray. Additionally, the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) and the Southeast Metro Manila Expressway (C-6) will further enhance connectivity by linking Bulacan, Rizal, Manila, and Cavite, reducing traffic congestion in Metro Manila and offering more efficient routes.

One of the notable master planned developments in the city is Aspen, a 38-hectare mountain-town-inspired community that brings the elegance of alpine living to Bulacan. It features Colorado-themed architecture, and a host of lifestyle facilities, making it an ideal choice for professionals and growing families.

Aspen will have its own village brimming with energizing endeavors to choose from.
Aspen is a five-hectare haven of retail, reverie, and relaxation - whether it be
for culinary delights, athletic hobbies, or restorative pursuits.

Within the estate is Aspen Residences, a multi-tower complex that features a clubhouse, swimming pool, a play area, outdoor spaces for yoga and gym, as well as walking and jogging paths, encouraging residents to stay active and healthy.

Caloocan: Emerging Urban Center in Northern Metro Manila

Caloocan is stepping up from a capital outpost to becoming one of the most favorable locations for real estate investment in Metro Manila, driven by its connectivity to the rest of the metro. As a result, the city is becoming desirable for enterprises and residents seeking modern conveniences with premium real estate options.

The Suites in North Commons is a series of mid-rise residential towers,
offering amenities catering to young professionals and families.

Strategically situated in the growing northern corridor of Metro Manila, North Commons is designed as a master planned development featuring condominium properties, retail establishments, co-working spaces, and resort-style amenities. It also features CoLab, a state-of-the-art workspace that fosters productivity and collaboration.

The Suites in North Commons, a series of mid-rise residential towers, offers amenities catering to young professionals and families. One of its key highlights is Skyscapes, a rooftop space with 360-degree city views, giving residents a place to unwind and socialize.

One of The Suites key highlights is Skyscapes, a rooftop space
with 360-degree city views, giving residents a place to unwind and socialize.

Antipolo, Rizal: A Lifestyle and Cultural Hub in the East

Antipolo, the capital of Rizal, has evolved from a quaint hillside community into one of the fastest-growing cities in the Philippines. Major thoroughfares and upcoming infrastructure developments like the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 2 extension aim to enhance connectivity, positioning Antipolo as a key gateway between Metro Manila and the provinces.

The Italian-inspired 152-hectare Vidarte features thoughtfully-designed,
low density floor layouts that intersperses art pieces between studio and two-bedroom units,
creating an environment that constantly inspires.

Vista Land is crafting a master planned development intricately weaving art with everyday life. A portmanteau of the Spanish vida, which means life, and Italian arte, which means arts, the 152-hectare Vidarte combines Italian-inspired architecture with the artistic flair of the locale. Vidarte Residences is the ideal home for those seeking a life that sparks creativity and nurtures artistry. With its thoughtfully designed, low-density floor layouts, the development intersperses art pieces between studio and two-bedroom units, creating an environment that constantly inspires.

A Look at the Future of Master Planned Developments in Mega Manila

Vista Land’s shift towards large-scale master planned developments reflects its commitment to unique, premium, and sustainable lifescapes that align with the diverse needs of modern-day Filipinos, all while promoting limitless growth opportunities.

For more information on Vista Land master planned developments in Mega Manila, visit www.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaEstatesOfficial for news and offerings.

After Tree Dessert Cafe Opens at SM City San Pablo.

A good cuppa, some flatlay-friendly food, and an Instagrammable ambience to boot - these are just some of the qualities that I look out for whenever I go cafe hopping or visit a coffee place. After Tree Dessert Cafe, with its newly opened branch at SM City San Pablo, has all these bases covered. 

After Tree Dessert Cafe is now open at SM City San Pablo!

Located at the mall's ground floor - you can't miss it!

Coffee? Meet me at After Tree. :)

Originating from Malaysia, After Tree has found its roots in the Philippines when they opened their first branch last year at SM City Santa Rosa. With the opening of their sixth branch in SM City San Pablo, After Tree continues to gain popularity with their eye-catching desserts, exceptional service, and excellent coffee.

A wide selection of cakes and pastries.

The Strawberry Basque Cheesecake is a must-try!

After Tree's menu includes a wide selection of cakes and pastries, frappes, and tea, even toast and kakigori (Japanese shaved ice). 

Milo Dinosaur Kakigori.

The highlight, of course, is the Signature Egg Tart made with 128 layers of preservative-free homemade crust. This beloved egg tart is also available in two new flavors Ube Taro and Salted Egg. (Best served chilled, take my word for it!)  

Taro and Signature Egg Tart plus my all-time favorite Spanish Latte.

Cappuccino paired with Tiramisu and Chocolate Macadamia Indulgence.

If you're in San Pablo City, don't forget to swing by After Tree located at the Ground Floor of SM City San Pablo. It's smack dab in the middle of the mall, you can't miss it! Don't forget to follow After Tree on Facebook and Instagram for promos and updates.