San Miguel Foods Kicks Off the Holidays with the Home Foodie Madalicious Christmas Celebration: A Festive Gathering of Flavor, Fun, and Inspiration

Do you have a secret dish that’s healthy, easy to prepare, affordable, and—most importantly—delicious? San Miguel Foods kicked off the holiday season on October 29, 2024, with the Home Foodie Madalicious Christmas Kickoff, an exclusive gathering held at the San Miguel Foods Culinary Center in Pasig City. 

This highly anticipated, event brought together over 40 digital creators for an afternoon filled with festive cheer, culinary inspiration, and engaging activities. The event also reinforced Home Foodie’s status as a top recipe hub for quick and delicious meals.

The Culinary Center was transformed into a holiday wonderland, with every corner reflecting the season’s warmth and joy. The event featured a dynamic three-hour program that celebrated San Miguel Foods’ iconic brands and encouraged attendees to actively engage on their social media platforms.

Highlights of the Event

1. Exciting Games and Challenges
   Guests participated in interactive games, including 4Pics & Words, which tested their knowledge of San Miguel Foods products. Another highlight was the Home Foodie Passport activity, where influencers completed promotional tasks, such as posting on their social media accounts and encouraging their followers to download the new Home Foodie e-cookbook. These activities not only amplified Home Foodie’s online presence but also gave participants a chance to win premium prizes, including a smart digital oven, digital slow cooker, deep fryer, griddle pan, and Masflex cookware.
2. Launch of the Home Foodie Madalicious Celebrations E-Cookbook
   The event unveiled the Flavors for the Holidays e-cookbook, a collection of 17 easy-to-make holiday recipes. Featuring appetizers, main courses, and desserts, all crafted with San Miguel Foods products, the cookbook aims to make holiday cooking a breeze. Guests were treated to dishes from the cookbook, giving them a taste of the delicious recipes that will inspire their holiday menus.
3. Cooking Demo and Holiday Hacks by Happy Ongpauco-Tiu
   Renowned restaurateur Happy Ongpauco-Tiu added excitement to the event with a live cooking demonstration. She shared tips on how to elevate holiday favorites, such as the Purefoods Fiesta Ham, and prepared a unique twist on a classic Filipino treat: Pandesal Ensaymada with Christmas Ham. This dish, featuring sweet, cheesy pandesal with a savory ham filling, perfectly captured the holiday spirit and delighted the audience.
4. Culmination of the Home Foodie Madalicious Cookoff Influencer Edition
   The event also celebrated the winners of the Home Foodie Madalicious Cookoff, an influencer cooking challenge held earlier in October. Using a mystery San Miguel Foods ingredient, participants had one hour to create a dish. The cookoff showcased their culinary creativity, aided by equipment sponsored by Reyna Gas and Masflex Cookware.
   The winners were:
5. 
   
   
   
• Grand Prize: Roanne Tadina with Lime Oriental Wings (Magnolia Chicken Timplados Oriental Wings), taking home a 20-L microwave oven.
• 1st Place: Charisse Espinosa with Beef Tapa Shepherd’s Pie (Purefoods Beef Tapa), awarded a 6-liter digital air fryer.
• 2nd Place: Karina Ramos with Ginataang Manok Inasal (Magnolia Chicken Timplados Inasal), winning an electric hotpot barbecue griller.
  Non-winning participants received Masflex dinnerware sets as a token of appreciation.
• 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Special Guests and Awarding Ceremonies
San Miguel Foods Culinary Services Manager Llena Tan Arcenas and AVP Sales & Marketing Manager Leah Golez were joined by special guests, including celebrity chef Gene Gonzalez and Masflex executives, in presenting the awards to the winners.

A #Madalicious Holiday Celebration
The Home Foodie Madalicious Christmas Kickoff successfully strengthened San Miguel Foods’ bond with its influencer community, highlighting the joy and ease of preparing #Madalicious meals. Everyone is invited to continue the celebration by joining the Home Foodie community on Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and the official website for more recipes and holiday inspiration.

Upgrade Your Shopping Experience: Why Adding Insurance to Your Cart is a Smart Move This Season

 The holiday season is all about finding that perfect gift, whether for yourself or someone else. With holiday online sales on the horizon, it’s the ideal time to score great deals on high-value items. Electronics like smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles are in high demand, along with bags, watches, beauty products, and high-quality appliances. While these items bring excitement and joy, they also come with some risks—accidental damage, theft, and unexpected malfunctions can turn a valuable purchase into a stressful situation.

Regional insurtech Igloo understands these concerns and–together with its partners–have provided ways to protect valuable purchases with accessible, comprehensive insurance solutions. By offering instant coverage for everything from tech gadgets to beauty products, Igloo works with leading e-commerce platforms and insurance underwriters to empower holiday shoppers to add a layer of care to each gift, covering accidental damage, theft, and breakdowns so buyers and their recipients can enjoy their gifts with full peace of mind.

Whether you're gifting tech or timeless accessories, adding insurance to these items could be the ultimate extra that makes your gift even more meaningful. Here are some reasons you should consider adding an extra layer of protection to your gifts this season.

Protection Against Everyday Mishaps

Holiday gifts, especially high-value items, are often at risk of accidental damage or loss. New smartphones, laptops and other electronics are stunning but also delicate. Accidents can happen anytime—a smartphone might slip from someone’s hand, a tablet might suffer water damage, or a high-end appliance might experience an unexpected breakdown.

For instance, Gadget Protection provides comprehensive device coverage, including accidental and liquid damage, with access to professional repairs at authorized centers, available via GInsure and Lazada. Additionally, Cracked Screen Protection offers up to 12 months of coverage for screen damage from accidental impacts for phones and accessories purchased on Shopee, giving recipients peace of mind with their new devices.

Products that fall under these plans and are sold on Lazada and Shopee are available at checkout, making it seamless for shoppers to add insurance coverage to their purchases.

Financial Security for Pricier Gifts

Many premium items come with a high price tag. High-tech electronics, luxury fashion, and specialized gadgets are significant investments, and without insurance, repairs or replacements can be costly.

For non-electronic products, Igloo and Etiqa offer Merchandise Protection, a plan that protects Lazada orders from accidental damage and theft, ensuring peace of mind for a wide range of valuable purchases.

Beyond Standard Warranties

Standard manufacturer warranties typically cover only specific defects or malfunctions and often have significant limitations. They usually do not address the risks associated with adverse reactions to beauty products, which can be particularly concerning. While we want our loved ones to enjoy their gifts, the reality is that there is always a risk that the product may not work for them, and in rare cases, they can have reactions to cosmetics and lotions which can lead to discomfort or even serious health issues.

Product Liability Protection is available for beauty products purchased on Lazada to address these concerns. Underwritten by Liberty Insurance, this coverage protects consumers from chemical burns and severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, resulting from product use. By opting for this insurance, consumers safeguard their well-being and gain access to valuable resources such as teleconsultations, medical reimbursements, and emergency hospitalization, providing peace of mind while indulging in their beauty routines.

As you shop this season, remember that the value of each purchase can be elevated with the added assurance of insurance. By protecting your items, you bring peace of mind and ensure enjoyment without the worry of unexpected mishaps. With accessible and comprehensive insurance solutions from Igloo and its partners, you can make each purchase even more meaningful, safeguarding your investment and enhancing the shopping experience.

This holiday season, invest in the peace of mind that comes with knowing your gifts are protected, allowing everyone to celebrate with joy and confidence.

HONOR Experience Store officially opens in SM City Davao

Leading global smart devices provider HONOR Philippines just splashed its new All-Angle Water-Resistant phone HONOR X7c as HONOR Experience Store officially opens in SM City Davao. The latest viral HONOR smartphone is priced at Php 8,999 only and is now available nationwide. 

"Simultaneous with our store opening in SM J Mall Cebu, we also opened our third store in Davao at SM City Davao. These celebrations are mainly because of our HONOR Fans who supported us ever since. With the launch of our HONOR X7c, we really feel that we are getting closer and closer to them," shared Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. 

HONOR X7c is now officially available nationwide! 

The HONOR X7c sets a new standard in smartphone durability with its innovative cushioning and tempered glass protection, achieving a 5-star Drop Resistance rating and earning the SGS Premium Performance Certification for Drop & Crush Resistance. Its IP64 rating ensures protection from dust and water splashes, making it a resilient companion for daily adventures. 

Equipped with a 6000mAh Super Durable Battery, the HONOR X7c supports up to 28.5 hours of streaming or 21.5 hours of YouTube playback. The HONOR Ultra Power-Saving Mode maximizes usage, allowing 55 minutes of talk time even with only 2% battery left. Charging is quick and efficient with 35W HONOR SuperCharge via Type-C. 

Generous Storage and Enhanced Performance 

With 256GB of internal storage and HONOR’s RAM Turbo Technology (8GB physical + 8GB virtual), the HONOR X7c offers smooth multitasking experience and ample space for years of memories. 

 

 

(L-R] HONOR Philippines Brand Marketing Manager Joepy Libo-on, WilTelcom General Manager Hector Lau, SM City Davao Asst. Mall Manager Jezer Gutierrez, HONOR Philippines Country Manager Sean Yuan, and PR Supervisor Denis Santos 

 
So, what are you waiting for? Run to the nearest HONOR Experience and Partner Stores or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X7c_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X7c_PR), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X7c_PR). 

 

The All-Angle Water-Resistant smartphone will also be FREE via Globe Postpaid Plans starting at GPlan 999 with 5GB Data and Unli All Net Call and Texts! Don't miss this out! Visit any Globe Store near you. 

 

For more updates, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok  (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

Racks and Tenya are out to make it a sparkling Christmas with these treats

 It’s nearly Christmas, which means it's time to bring out the cheer! Gather some friends and family and settle in for a feast because Racks and Tenya are out to make it a sparkling Christmas with these new treats! 

 

On November 6, 2024, RACKS and Tenya held their Christmas Product Launch, revealing several new exciting products–a perfect spread for families and friends this holiday season.

 

Holiday Baby Back Ribs and Holiday Steak & Truffle are sure to be your new favorites along with other brand-new offerings in store! Sensational sides and dessert reign supreme this Christmas with delectable Potato Gratin, Truffle Fries and Homemade Tiramisu. Celebrate the festive season with twists on classic dishes and more! Racks will have you and your loved ones unwrapping a perfect balance of flavors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If Racks is all about comfort food done right, then Tenya, Japan’s No.1 Tempura Tendon, is taking your taste buds on a ride through snowcapped mountains and ice palaces! Take a taste trip to Japan with authentic winter flavors as Tenya brings the sparkling season to the Philippines. With snowflake dishes and sparkling plates inspired by Christmas, this seasonal special is sure to delight.

 

Snowflake Tendon and Snowflake Teishoku are an explosion of richness with a sparkling finish like flurries on your tastebuds. Pacific white shrimp tempura and pan-seared steak are melded together to excite you with every bite. 

 

Also new is the matcha selection of drinks and dessert such as Yoghurt Matcha, Cold Matcha Brew and Matcha Tiramisu. These twists on the traditional are a taste sensation. Balancing delicate flavors with modern tastes, they are sure to take you away from the heat and into a winter wonderland.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As a kick-off to the Christmas event premiering these treats, Managing Director Leopoldo “Chukri” Prieto III shared a warm welcome to all the guests. “Thank you all for attending and celebrating this special occasion with us. We sincerely hope you’ll love the exciting dishes we’ve prepared for all of you.” 

 

 

Lively performances followed his words, a band played all the Christmas classics and dancers energizing the crowd with their moves. After, Director of Operations Adele Susana “Denise” Ramos shared a quick message. “Our goal has always been about serving Filipinos with good food. No nonsense, just real, good food that people can enjoy with family and friends.” 

 

 

After, the crew lined up carrying the new Christmas products offered by RACKS and Tenya, served to each table and met with excited faces all-around. Said by Cavallino, Inc. General Manager Edmundo “Iggy” Ramos, “We’re thrilled to serve you this unique experience only found at RACKS and Tenya—whether it’s the tender, smoky goodness that RACKS specializes in, or the crispy crunch of Japan that Tenya has perfected. We can’t wait for people all around the country to try these new dishes, and we are honored to be the meal people share with family and friends this holiday season.”

 

Tenya then invited the crowd and customers to spark hope; to spark a light bright enough to be a light in the dark for a child in need. By partnering with ChildHope Philippines Foundation, a portion of the proceeds from these special meals will be donated towards a child’s education and food security for the holidays. What’s better than trying a little taste of Japan while being a beacon of hope for someone else? 

 

 

 

With all these new holiday offerings, and the proceeds funding Christmas joy, there is a lot to be excited about with Tenya and RACKS. Whether you spend the season at home with friends or dreaming of your next destination, these new bundles are perfect to gather around loved ones, savoring good food, conversation, and company. Feast with your family and friends at Tenya and RACKS this holiday season!

 

Visit www.racks.ph and www.tenya.com.ph for more details on their store locations and offerings.

The New Samsung Galaxy A16 features enhanced designs for an exceptional user experience

The latest additions to the Galaxy A series smartphone family feature larger screens, enhanced designs, and improved reliability for an exceptional user experience.

Samsung Electronics announced in the Philippines the launch of the latest Galaxy A smartphones — the new Galaxy A16 5G and LTE. These new, affordable smartphones bring stunning improvements to the A series lineup, combining immersive visuals, sleek designs, and secure, reliable experiences; elevating everyday experiences for its users.

Galaxy A16 5G and LTE adopt Samsung's signature Galaxy design language, featuring refined, rounded corners and a linear camera lens layout. Available in a range of premium colors, the Galaxy A16 5G offers Blue Black and Gold. The Galaxy A16 LTE on the other hand comes in Black, Grey, and an online exclusive color -- Light Green, giving users plenty of stylish options.

Immersive experience with FHD+ Super AMOLED display

Galaxy A16 5G and LTE feature a 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display, a notable upgrade from last year’s 6.5-inch screen on the A15 series. The Super AMOLED display provides scenes with true-to-life colors and sharp clarity, making the display ideal for watching videos, gaming, or browsing content.

The Galaxy A16 series also introduces an improved, sleeker design, with a thinner body measuring just 7.9mm—down from 8.4mm in last year’s A15 series. The streamlined bezels further emphasize the 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display, helping users better immerse in content and gameplay while enhancing the overall screen size and visual experience. 

In addition, the key island design provides a sleek look and feel, which contributes to an easy and intuitive grip on the Galaxy A16, making the device more comfortable to hold for daily use.

Reliability and enhanced security

Samsung’s commitment to reliability and security is at the core of the Galaxy A16 series. Both the A16 5G and LTE are IP54-rated for dust and water resistance.

The Galaxy A16 series will also receive 6 generations of One UI and Android OS updates, as well as 6 years of Samsung Security Maintenance Releases (SMR), keeping the device secure and up to date. Samsung Knox Vault is also integrated into the Galaxy A16 series, providing high-level security to protect private, personal data such as user passwords and secrets from hardware-based attacks including voltage glitches, temperature tampering, and laser interference.

High-resolution triple camera

For photography lovers, the Galaxy A16 5G and LTE variants come equipped with a versatile triple lens, headlined by a 50MP main sensor that captures stunning photos in any conditions. Accompanied by a 5MP ultra-wide and 2MP macro lens, the A16 series ensures every shot is detailed and vibrant. Selfie enthusiasts can enjoy sharper, more joyful selfies with the 13MP front camera, which can focus on details, sharpness, and color rendition if any.

Enhanced performance and long-lasting battery life

Under the hood, the Galaxy A16 5G boasts a performance boost thanks to its advanced octa-core processor, ensuring smooth and flawless performance for high-quality videos, games, and multitasking. The Galaxy A16 series’ robust 5000mAh battery with 25W Super-Fast Charging capability enables users to stay connected throughout the day.

Pricing and availability

The new Galaxy A16 5G and LTE will be available at 9,990 (LTE) and 13,990 (5G), and at selected retailers from Nov 13 (5G) and Dec 4 (LTE). For more information on the new Galaxy A devices, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-a/galaxy-a16-5g-gold-256gb-sm-a166pzdiphl/buy/. 

Create Unforgettable Family Moments with the Ultimate Playtime Collection from Jolly Kiddie Meal

 Play and get creative with Jollibee and friends’ Ultimate Playtime Collection, the newest Jollibee Kids Meal set that gives kids and parents a new set of fun family activities and challenges. Bonding and learning are best when the entire family is involved, and these educational aids aim to give parents and kids new ways to bring joy!

Each Jollibee Ultimate Playtime Collection playset offers activities kids can enjoy with their parents, giving them a set of activities and challenges that make family moments more fun! 

The Clay Shapes Challenge helps kids use their creativity to make different kinds of wonderful shapes and objects. They can also discover their artistic side with Doodle Dash, where you can draw Jollibee and friends!

Strengthen your kids’ memory with the Memory Match Cards, where you try to match pairs of cards featuring Jollibee, his friends, and your favorite Jollibee meals. Play with the Domino Puzzle Kit and reinforce association skills by matching the right puzzle pieces on one side with the right domino numbers on the other. Lastly, the Silly Star Cards give you a colorful set of collectibles featuring Jollibee and friends.

The Ultimate Playtime Collection is available with every purchase of a Yumburger with Drink (PHP 120.00), Yumburger Solo (PHP 95.00), Jolly Spaghetti with Drink (PHP 140.00), Jolly Spaghetti Solo (PHP 115.00), 1-pc. Burger Steak with Drink (PHP 140.00), 1-pc. Burger Steak (PHP 115.00), 1-pc. Chickenjoy with Drink (PHP 162.00), 1-pc. Chickenjoy Solo (PHP 137.00), 4-pc. Chicken Nuggets with Drink (PHP 140.00), and 4-pc. Chicken Nuggets Solo (PHP 115.00).

The promo is available on November 1, 2024, so don’t miss a chance to play, learn, and collect all Ultimate Playtime Collection playset!

Get your Jollibee Kids Meals in your nearest Jollibee branch or have them delivered through the Jollibee App, calling the #8700 hotline, foodpanda, or Grab.

For more info on Jollibee Kids Meals and other products, follow Jollibee on Facebook, and @jollibee on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.

RLC Residences Partners with LOUIS XIII Cognac for Le Pont Residences

Le Pont Residences proudly unveils its collaboration with Louis XIII Cognac introduced through an exclusive and sophisticated event –Noir Indulgence - A Drink and Dine Affair.

Held at Sky 51 of The Residences at The Westin Manila, guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening pairing exquisite cuisine with the luxury of Louis XIII Cognac. The innovative dining experience featured a blindfolded meal, encouraging attendees to fully savor the intricate flavors and aromas of each curated course.

Each dish was expertly paired with Louis XIII Cognac, renowned for its rich heritage and complexity. This pairing elevated the dining experience, showcasing the craftsmanship behind both the food and the cognac.

"We are proud to collaborate with Louis XIII Cognac for Le Pont Residences," said Karen Cesario, Marketing Head and Chief Integration Officer of RLC Residences. "Noir Indulgence is more than just a dinner; it’s a sensory journey that reflects our commitment to offering premium and memorable experiences. We’re excited to extend this offer to our buyers, allowing them to enjoy the luxury Louis XIII Cognac offers."

To celebrate the partnership, Le Pont Residences is offering a limited-time promotion: buyers will receive a complimentary bottle of Louis XIII Cognac with their unit purchase, enhancing the premium lifestyle that Le Pont Residences embodies.

Klein Ong, Louis XIII Brand Ambassador, expressed the brand’s excitement about the collaboration, stating, “Crafted from the finest grapes and aged over a century, Louis XIII represents the life achievement of the generation of our cellar masters. We are honored to partner with Le Pont Residences, where premium experience and elegance meet to create unforgettable experiences for connoisseurs.”

Le Pont Residences looks forward to continuing its partnership with Louis XIII Cognac and exploring more opportunities to offer premium experiences for its discerning clientele.

Learn more about Le Pont Residences by visiting rlcresidences.com.

Celebrating 80 Years of Connection: M&M'S Brings 'Fun For All' to Life with an Exciting Three-Day Fair in Manila

 M&M’S® raises the bar of its year-long "Fun for All" campaign, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to making everyone feel like they belong. Building on its 80-year legacy of creating moments of connection through the power of fun, M&M’S® remains dedicated to bringing people together.

The M&M’S® “Fun for All” campaign which launched in January this year, has been actively engaging consumers across seven markets in Asia through a series of activities across its online and offline channels, ensuring that everyone can partake in the fun it brings, keeping it inclusive for all.

M&M'S also introduces Purple in the Philippines – a new addition to the M&M'S crew, showcasing diversity and inclusion. Purple’s vulnerable, imperfect yet lovable self. Her role is to inspire connection among her friends and crew, as a true instigator of fun.

This holiday season, M&M'S® brings festive cheer to the Philippines with a vibrant on-ground activation from November 8 to 10 at the SM North EDSA Annex Atrium (Cyberzone). Fans of M&M'S® can expect an interactive experience designed to celebrate the brand’s vision of promoting a fun-filled atmosphere this Christmas

Designed to engage Filipinos in an interactive environment, the brand is set to inspire fun with a series of activities that can challenge their strength, outwit their opponents, and create lasting memories together with friends or families! Some exciting games in store are “Candy Flip”, designed for thrill seekers who wish to engage in a ‘friendly duel’ with their friends or families in a one-on-one or two-by-two player team. Winners stand to redeem prize vouchers worth up to PHP 166,500 from top brands such as GCash, Grab, Starbucks, Uniqlo, The Moment Group, Sodexo, and more. 

And that's not all – those who complete all three mini-games in the free-to-play zone by M&M’S® will get to enjoy a delicious limited edition M&M’S sorbetes treat or chocolate from M&M’S® while stocks last!

Visit M&M’S® on Facebook for the latest updates on the exclusive on-ground experience. Fans can also shop on Mars Philippines’ official Lazada or Shopee store to discover and share moments of everyday happiness with loved ones!

Grab Philippines Aims to Exceed Last Year's Holiday Performance with Enhanced Service Strategy

 Let me share my Grab story.  Grab Philippines has truly made daily commutes more convenient and secure. Personally, I rely on Grab for my ride home because I feel safer with a trusted driver. Unlike traditional taxis, where I often feel uneasy and prefer to keep to myself, Grab allows me to travel comfortably without the pressure of making small talk. With Grab’s professional drivers, I can enjoy a peaceful, uninterrupted ride, which helps me unwind after a long day. It’s comforting to know that Grab prioritizes rider security and respects individual preferences, making every trip feel reliable and stress-free. 

Grab Philippines  is gearing up to surpass its holiday performance from last year, according to Country Head Ronald Roda. The leading superapp has been developing a comprehensive strategy to enhance reliability, accessibility, and safety as demand skyrockets in the final two months of the year.

 

Historical data shows that Grab Philippines experiences at least a 19% increase in daily transacting users for its ride-hailing services every last quarter of the year, with the number of ride bookings growing by up to 45% in the second and third weeks of December. For its deliveries business, demand rises by 20% on key holiday dates, with a recent survey by the brand revealing that 44% of Grab Philippines users rely on the app for their festive meal deliveries. 

Grab Philippines Country Head Ronald Roda, together with Director for Mobility EJ Dela Vega and Director for Deliveries Greg Camacho, shares the strategy of the leading superapp to offer a better experience for app users amid the holiday demand growth

 

Grab Philippines Country Head Ronald Roda shares, “Our data and studies all lead to a singular insight: Filipinos just wish to be present this Christmas – fully engaged with families and friends as they celebrate the most beloved holiday. Grab aims to bring our kababayans much closer to their loved ones, and help them create special moments this holiday season.”  The yearning to be together every holiday is underpinned in Grab’s Holiday Trends study, indicating that Filipinos attend an average of four gatherings in celebration of Christmas and New Year. 

 

The brand emphasizes that being a reliable and accessible platform is no easy task. "For some, the holiday season lasts two or three months. For Grab, it is a journey that spans over 10 months when you consider all the preparations done leading up to the season. We have been preparing since January of this year — working with our regulators towards a more balanced demand and supply, and launching a series of technologies to provide our consumers with a better holiday experience," Roda adds. 

Strengthening partnerships to meet demand

While demand during peak times may inevitably outstrip current supply, the leading superapp remains optimistic that its service reliability this year will be much improved in comparison to the previous holidays.

 

Roda expresses the platform’s gratitude to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) for its continued openness and supportive efforts. With the release of new TNVS slots in August, Grab has been onboarding new driver-partners – a process that can take up to three to five months. 

 

Besides the challenge of demand and supply imbalance, Grab is also looking after the potential impact of holiday-induced traffic congestion on the earnings and productivity of driver-partners. Historical data of the platform show that drivers, on the average, will need to spend 14% more time for the same trip distance for most of the December holiday rush. 

 

"While we continue to prioritize the accessibility of our services, we are also closely monitoring the fairness of our fares to ensure that our driver-partners can earn sustainably and viably this holiday season. By ensuring this, we hope to encourage more drivers to continue serving our passengers in spite of the traffic situation, helping maintain service reliability on our platform,” Roda notes. “The holidays are also crucial for our driver-partners, and we are committed to helping them capitalize on the increased demand to attain sufficient, if not above-par earnings, for themselves and their families.”

 

Grab assures users that fares will stay fair, in line with the regulatory matrix implemented by the LTFRB. To aid in maintaining the accessibility of its ride-hailing services, Grab has also expanded the coverage of its GrabUnlimitedsubscription service, which now includes an everyday 8% discount on GrabCar rides. Furthermore, as part of its affordability commitment, Grab has launched GrabCar Saver – an affordable mobility solution that is cheaper than a standard GrabCar ride. 

 

The leading superapp has also recently launched its Group Rides feature, which not only maximizes the utilization of its fleet through the carpooling model, but also efficiently lowers down fares by allowing groups of four to share their ride’s base fare. 

 

Harnessing Technology for an Elevated Holiday Grab Experience

Leading to the holidays, Grab has also introduced several new features that improve access to rides and food deliveries for Filipino consumers.

 

This lineup of new technologies includes Advance Booking, which guarantees on-time rides to the airport that can be booked up to seven days in advance—a perfect solution for holiday travelers.

 

In line with its commitment to affordability, Grab has also introduced a number of new features. The GrabFood Group Order feature facilitates collective meal orders for families and friends, offering escalating discounts that can go as high as 15% as the number of participants increases. 

 

GrabFood Saver helps users save on delivery fees, while the Large Orders option allows for ordering larger quantities of food and essentials for group celebrations, complete with special deals. These features are designed to effectively manage the expected growth in delivery demand during the Christmas season.

 

“Many of our kababayans are looking forward to spending the Holidays with their loved ones, and we are aware of their expectations of us during this season. With that, we have devoted our time, effort, and expertise to elevate their Grab experience - allowing every Filipino to be more present this yuletide season,”  Roda said.