5 Cozy Home Upgrades to Brighten Up Gloomy Days

 As the weather gets cooler after summer, our home naturally transforms into our personal sanctuary–it’s safe, dry, and simply everything we need it to be. Because of that, it’s the perfect time to hit pause, refresh our living spaces, and establish warm, comforting routines that make the gloomy weather feel a little brighter.

If you’re looking to make your indoor days even more comfortable, here are five cloudy-day must-haves for your ultimate home retreat.

1. The Ultimate Comfort Food Feast

 

Nothing warms the soul quite like a hot bowl of soup, your favorite comforting drink, or freshly baked treats on a chilly afternoon. 

 

When it gets a little colder, make your kitchen warm and inviting by stocking up on some comfort food. Whether you are whipping up some comforting champorado, brewing a cup of hot chocolate, or boiling a hearty stew, a quick trip to SM Markets will give you everything you need to keep your pantry stocked.

 

2. Cozy Bedding and Plush Layers

 

True comfort starts with what you sink into at the end of the day. It is time to swap your lightweight summer linens for plush beddings and heavy blankets that can keep you warm.

 

Adding textured layers to your bed or living room sofa instantly makes your space feel much more comfy and relaxing. You can easily find these aesthetic bedroom refreshes and soft linens at SM Home inside SM Store, where the wide selections fit every ambience and preference. 

 

3. Immersive, Indoor Gaming Fun

 

When going outside isn't an option, bringing the fun indoors is essential. 

 

Create a dedicated entertainment corner where you can lose yourself in virtual worlds. If you are a gaming enthusiast, a day spent indoors at home is the perfect excuse to dive into immersive new adventures. You can even check out the new Nintendo Store located at SM Makati to pick up the latest co-op games or the so-called “cozy games” (like decorating or farming rather than combat) to enjoy with the whole family on a lazy afternoon.

 

4. Dedicated Self-Care and Wellness Rituals

 

Days when you just stay at home because the weather is hitting perfectly are gentle invitations to slow down and pamper yourself. They’re the best time to turn your bathroom into a mini-spa with must-have self-care essentials.

 

Think soothing lavender body washes, hydrating face masks, and deeply moisturizing lotions to keep your skin nourished during the cooler weather all waiting for you at SM Beauty. Setting aside just 30 minutes for a warm bath and a mindful skincare routine is the perfect antidote to the gloom and the blues.

 

5. Warm Ambient Lighting and Home Accents

 

Bright overhead lights can sometimes feel harsh when the sky is gray outside. Instead, lean into warm, soft lighting that makes your home feel even more of a safe space. 

 

Placing amber-hued lamps, fairy lights, or beautifully scented candles in the corners of your room instantly shifts the mood. To really make your home feel like a sanctuary, keep an eye out for SM Home’s new collections designed to bring touchable warmth and modern style straight to your living room.

 

Upgrading your home for the season can both feel really good and incredibly rewarding. As you gather your chilly-season essentials, don't forget to bring along your SMAC. SMAC turns your everyday lifestyle purchases into points that you can use for future shopping sprees. Your points are as good as cash, as 1 SMAC Point = ₱1.

 

Even better, staying indoors this August comes with extra perks. When you use the SMAC&SHOP app, you can enjoy app-exclusive offers and even play fun in-app games for a chance to win exciting prizes! From August 20 to 31, 2026, play every day for a chance to win up to 1,000 SMAC Points or ₱500 OFF ACE vouchers. Plus, earn up to EXTRA 100 SMAC Points when you play every day (25 points every 3-day streak).

Not a member yet? You can easily start your rewarding lifestyle journey by getting your very own SMAC for only ₱200, which gives you a five-year membership. Once you have your card, make sure to link it to the SMAC&SHOP app so you can enjoy your full benefits.

 

Download and sign up on the SMAC&SHOP app today to seamlessly earn and pay with points using your SMAC QR, enjoy app-exclusive vouchers, check your points balance in real time, shop your favorite brands online, and track your Road to SMAC Prestige. And there’s more–stay tuned for exciting new things coming your way in the coming months from SMAC!

 

To discover all the partner stores where you can earn and use your points, visit the official SMAC Partners Page athttps://digiweb.smac.ph/partners. Stay updated with the latest offers, lifestyle tips, and member promos by following SMAC on their official social media channels at bit.ly/SMACSocials.

Your P1-Million might just be under the Ginebra cap!

Ginebra San Miguel Inc. (GSMI) is giving consumers more reasons to celebrate as it launches the nationwide "Ginuman Na! Ginebra Na! Ginstanalo Under-the-Seal/ Under-the-Cap Promo!" offering millions of pesos worth of cash prizes, including five grand prizes of ₱1 million each.

Running from July 16 to November 15, 2026, the under-the-seal and under-the-cap consumer promo covers three GSMI brands: Ginebra San Miguel, Primera Light Brandy, and Freedom Island Light Rum.

For Ginebra San Miguel consumers, the excitement is clear with major cash prizes of ₱100,000 and the much-awaited five ₱1 million grand prize by simply looking under the seal or cap of the participating GSMI products they buy.

Participants can also win semi-major cash prizes, with ₱20,000 from Primera Light Brandy, ₱10,000 from Ginebra San Miguel, and ₱5,000 from Freedom Island Light Rum. Over P100M cash prizes are up for grabs in this year’s Ginstanalo promo, which will be the biggest in GSMI’s history.

Consumers also have the chance to instantly win cash prizes by checking the promo seal or cap of participating products. Lucky buyers of Ginebra San Miguel can instantly win ₱10, while Primera Light Brandy and Freedom Island Light Rum offer instant cash prizes of ₱20.

The promo covers Ginebra San Miguel Round, Frasquito and Frasco bottles, with winning codes found under the promo seals. Participating Primera Light Brandy (750 mL and 1 L) and Freedom Island Light Rum (750 mL) bottles carry winning codes under their promo caps.

Through the "Ginuman Na! Ginebra Na! Ginstanalo Promo!" GSMI continues its tradition of bringing excitement and rewarding loyal consumers across the country. .

Complete promo mechanics, participating products, and prize redemption details are available on Ginebra San Miguel's official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/BarangayGinebra), Ginebra San Miguel website (https://www.ginebrasanmiguel.com) and at participating outlets nationwide.

Netflix’s ‘Ganito, Ganyan, Ganoon’ Is a New Filipino Family Dramedy

The table is set for a family reunion like no other! Netflix Philippines’ GANITO, GANYAN, GANOON held its much-anticipated media launch at Casa Buenas, Newport Mall, bringing together leads Jodi Sta. Maria and Agot Isidro, and the film’s director and screenwriter, Cholo H. Laurel, for an afternoon of good food, heartfelt conversations, and the journey of finding one’s way back home.

Photo credit: Netflix

Leading the official launch were the leads and two of the biggest actresses in Philippine entertainment – Sta. Maria and Isidro – who described their characters and walked the audience through what it felt like to prepare for the drama-heavy film. Isidro, who plays Paz, shared: “I made a grand homecoming to a family I did something to in the past. I was an absentee mother. I was the one who really opened the wounds of the family.”

Alongside her is Sta. Maria as Jo, a hyper-independent writer with big dreams: “Just when she thought she had it all together, biglang dumating ang isang ‘storm’ sa buhay niya sa katauhan ni Paz. Umuwi para manggulo. Paano siya ngayon mabubuhay sa presensya ng babaeng kilala niya bilang ‘ina’, pero hindi naman nagpaka-ina?” (“A ‘storm’ suddenly enters her life in the form of Paz, who comes home to turn everything upside down. How can she live with the woman she knows to be her ‘mother’, but who never truly acted like one?”)

Director Cholo H. Laurel, who makes his return to filmmaking with the movie after a 10-year hiatus, also talked about the value Netflix brought into the film and his creative process: “It was in 2018 when I felt that there was a chance to jump into the arena again. With Netflix — they had the proper budget, they had the proper organization. Inantay lang namin ‘yung tamang opportunity, kasi may requirement kami dito sa pelikula.” (“We waited for the right opportunity because we had a requirement for this film.”) That requirement meant bringing together the cast to play their respective characters in their location at Marinduque, with the majority of the scenes shot at Laurel’s home, Balai La-hi.

While packaged as a family drama, the creative team knew that it also had to highlight humor and show how moments of peace, no matter how rare, punctuate and coexist with the heavier ones—a true mark of a typical Filipino family. Laurel expands: “For drama to be effective as a tool, it has to be funny.”

UNIQLO Launches its 2026 Fall/Winter Collection

Keeping pace with modern city living means navigating days that are always in motion, rain or shine. From rush-hour commutes to  marathon meetings to late-night socials, the dynamic tempo calls for refined, versatile, and functional everyday wear for seamless shifting, which is exactly what UNIQLO  delivers with its 2026 Fall/Winter Collection. 

The latest LifeWear lineup was recently introduced at an exclusive press event, featuring an assortment of colors, textures and silhouettes inspired by modern city living. Combining thoughtful craftsmanship with everyday practicality, the collection reimagines wardrobe essentials to meet the evolving demands of today’s lifestyles. 

This Season, City Classics Take Over the Streets 
The new collection showcases reimagined everyday essentials that deliver comfort, functionality, and timeless style, whatever the forecast, wherever the day takes you.

The collection’s Bottoms come in a variety of styles and cuts that complement different body types and personal styles. There’s the Baggy Barrel Leg Jeans, a popular option for its relaxed barrel cut silhouette, and the EZY Wide Straight Jeans, prized for their versatility and comfort by offering the look of denim and feel of putting on sweats. Meanwhile, the Culotte lineup proves to be the cut of the season as a genderless selection for both girls and guys to style.

With the season all about layers, the UNIQLO Fall/Winter collection also presents lots of stylish casual outerwear. In the Philippines, the key is keeping it simple with pieces such as the Harrington Jacket, the Denim Trucker Jacket, and Coverall, which are all great for everyday layering without too much weight.

Then, there’s the coveted Fleece line that’s available in a variety of colors and styles for men and women. Each design feels comfortable and lightweight, while providing maximum warmth that’s perfect for travel to colder regions. 

For those on the move, Sport Utility Wear (SUW) brings comfort and functionality to everyday movement, with versatile pieces designed to support everything from light activities and errands to more active pursuits.

Other featured categories include Knits, which are also great for everyday wear in the country. The Souffle Yarn Knits, for one, present cozy warmth as it’s made from 100% extra fine merino wool. For those who prefer cotton, there’s the Smooth Cotton Knits that can elevate any fit. Meanwhile, the season’s versatile Loungewear and Innerwear present the comfort of the perfect stay-in clothes, along with the functionality and style to be worn outside.

Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the road, the UNIQLO 2026 Fall/Winter Collection offers LifeWear designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life.

Serving this Season’s Looks 

Adding to the excitement was the introduction of UNIQLO’s newest local celebrity partner, award-winning actress and host Anne Curtis. Bringing her own playful take on modern city style, Anne showcased the collection’s versatility through two distinct looks. 

First, she layered the Zip Up Short Jacket with the JW Anderson Boxy Oxford Long Sleeve Shirt and Ribbed Henley Neck Long Sleeve T-Shirt, paired with Baggy Barrel Leg Jeans for a relaxed, comfortable look. Next, she embraced a cozy yet polished style with the Fluffy Yarn Fleece Full-Zip Jacket, UNIQLO : C Milano Ribbed Full-Zip Cardigan, and Baggy Barrel Leg Jeans. The mix of relaxed silhouettes and refined details highlights the collection’s effortless versatility, showing how classic pieces can be reimagined with a fresh, modern attitude.

“What I’m wearing is the Fluffy Yarn Fleece Full-Zip Jacket and underneath is the UNIQLO : C Milano Ribbed Full-Zip Cardigan, and then I have my Baggy Barrel Jeans. It’s pretty chill, relaxed, and for someone like me who gets cold easily, even in Manila, it’s perfect for me. As you can see, I’m not even sweating. It’s comfy, it’s perfect, and it’s fluffy” said Anne Curtis.

Also bringing the collection’s modern city living inspirations to life was UNIQLO Philippines’ roster of local celebrity partners, each showcasing their own take on the latest LifeWear pieces.

Alexa Ilacad highlighted the timeless appeal and functionality of the AIRism Bra Sleeveless Top, layering it with the JW Anderson Oxford Boxy Long Sleeve Shirt and Windproof Stand Blouson, paired with a Pleated Skort for a versatile, polished finish. Anthony Constantino elevated everyday dressing with UNIQLO Sweats, showcasing how the category can go beyond loungewear. He layered the Oxford Oversized Long Sleeve Shirt over the UNIQLO : C Oversized Sweatshirt, paired with Sweat Wide Pants for a sleek yet comfortable look.

Meanwhile, Emilio Daez looked effortlessly polished in his AIRism Cotton Oversized Crew Neck T-Shirt, layered under the Waffle Henley Neck Long Sleeve T-Shirt, highlighting the versatility of UNIQLO’s everyday Core T essentials. He completed the look with Baggy Jeans and a Fleece Full-Zip Jacket, adding a relaxed yet functional touch. Kianna Dy showcased Lounge & Underwear through the Ribbed V-neck Cardigan, layered over the Henley Neck Sleeveless Top and Ribbed Sleeveless Top, paired with Cotton Easy Boxer Shorts for a comfortable, easygoing finish.

Matteo Guidicelli rocked the Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater as his practical and reliable go-to this season, pairing it with the JW Anderson Denim Long Sleeve Shirt and Slim Chino Pants. Rounding out the lineup, Solenn Heussaff showcased her signature individuality through layered outerwear, pairing the Coated Relaxed Shirt Jacket with the HEATTECH Extra Warm Cashmere Blend Turtleneck T-Shirt and Smart Culottes for a confident, contemporary take on city dressing.

More Reasons to Celebrate the Collection
The season also marks the 10th anniversary of UNIQLO U, celebrating a decade of evolving LifeWear essentials, alongside the upcoming launch of the UNIQLO : C  collection for Fall/Winter. Moreover, fans of UNIQLO Core T and the UT collection can look forward to new designs inspired by Japan, iconic characters, and pop art,  including Manga 100th, YOASOBI, Pokemon, Ukiyo-e, Peanuts and NY POP ART.

Beyond product innovation, UNIQLO continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and initiatives that create positive impact in communities.

UNIQLO Philippines is spotlighting the first local implementation of the global  PEACE FOR ALL initiative to support underserved Filipino youth, particularly young women.  In partnership with Plan International Pilipinas, the project aims to provide access to skills development, employability support, and entrepreneurship opportunities that can help strengthen future livelihoods. Proceeds from every purchase of the new PEACE FOR ALL collection will support the initiative, including the local program in Valenzuela City and PEACE FOR ALL’s broader efforts worldwide. The initiative will continue to support underserved communities over the next three years.

UNIQLO also recently launched the Re.UNIQLO Special Artisan Patches in celebration of the 70th Friendship Year between the Philippines and Japan. Made in collaboration with local artisans nationwide, the designs include historical landmarks of both countries, as well as elements inspired by seasons, food, and more. The initiative also aims to support schools of living traditions nationwide by collaborating with local artisans to create the patch designs, which are available for customers to add to their favorite UNIQLO items through the Re.UNIQLO Studio Embroidery Service.

Discover pieces inspired by Modern City Living with UNIQLO’s 2026 Fall/Winter Collection. Visit www.uniqlo.com/ph/en and follow @UNIQLO.PH on Facebook, @uniqlophofficial on Instagram and TikTok to explore the collection and find out more.

Jollibee Heats Things Up with a Spicy New Experience

For Filipinos who believe fried chicken tastes even better with a little kick, Jollibee is turning up the heat with Spicy Chickenjoy, putting the spotlight on a familiar favorite with a flavor profile designed to deliver more than just the sting of spice.

Jollibee Spicy Chickenjoy combines its signature crispy, juicy chicken with a blend of spices, bringing a noticeable kick to every bite. Rather than treating spiciness as a test of endurance, the brand is framing it as another layer of flavor to enjoy.

“Spiciness should not simply be about tolerating the heat. It should be about enjoying what the spice brings to the overall flavor experience. With Spicy Chickenjoy, we want Filipinos to discover that spicy can be exciting, flavorful and, most importantly, delicious,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines.

The move also comes as spicy flavors continue to gain a place among Filipino food preferences. According to research, 13 percent of surveyed adult Filipinos, or roughly one in eight, identified spicy as a taste preference. While the findings do not suggest that spicy food appeals to everyone, they point to a notable group of consumers who enjoy the added flavor and heat that spicy food brings.

Jollibee is bringing that flavor story to life with Alexa Ilacad, an actress, singer and performer known for her energetic personality and strong connection with younger Filipino audiences. Her naturally lively and expressive persona makes her a fitting face for Spicy Chickenjoy, particularly for a campaign that seeks to portray spice not as something intimidating, but as something fun, exciting and full of character.

For Ilacad, whose public persona often combines confidence, playfulness and youthful energy, the partnership gives Jollibee a way to personify the product's fiery personality while keeping the focus on the enjoyment that comes with every bite.

With Spicy Chickenjoy, Jollibee is ultimately asking consumers to look at spicy food beyond the question of how much heat they can handle. The bigger question, it suggests, is how much flavor they can enjoy.

 

Anker eufy Marks Breastfeeding Awareness Month with Up to ₱4,000 Off

 As the world celebrates Breastfeeding Awareness Month this August, Anker eufy continues its commitment to empowering mothers with smart parenting innovations that make breastfeeding and infant care easier. 

From pumping and cleaning bottles to monitoring every moment, today’s parents are constantly balancing multiple tasks while ensuring their little one receives the very best care.

Designed to support parents from the very first pump to every feed, the Anker eufy Smart Parenting Ecosystem brings together thoughtfully connected solutions that simplify everyday routines. By helping moms breastfeed more comfortably, reducing time spent on bottle cleaning, and giving parents greater peace of mind through smart monitoring, Anker eufy enables families to spend less time managing daily tasks and more time creating meaningful moments with their little ones.

From the First Pump to Every Feed

At the heart of the ecosystem is the eufy Wearable Breast Pump S1 Pro, designed to

help moms continue their breastfeeding journey with greater comfort and flexibility.

Featuring innovative HeatFlow™ technology, hospital-grade suction, and a discreet

wearable design, it enables mothers to pump confidently whether they’re at home, at

work or on-the-go, making it easier to stay present for every important moment.

After every pumping session comes another daily routine, cleaning bottles. The eufy

Bottle Washer S1 Pro helps simplify this task with its all-in-one washing, sterilizing,

drying and storage functions. By automating one of the most time-consuming parts of

feeding, parents can spend less time at the sink and more time caring for their growing

family.

Completing the ecosystem is the eufy Baby Monitor C10, providing parents with reliable,

crystal-clear monitoring that lets them stay connected to every nap, movement, and

milestone. Whether they’re preparing bottles, finishing household chores, or simply takin

a well-deserved break, parents can enjoy greater peace of mind knowing they can

always keep an eye on their little one.

Together, these smart parenting solutions create a seamless ecosystem that supports

families through one of life’s most meaningful journeys, from the first pump to every

feed to every precious moment that follows.

Shop the 8.8 Deals Across Major E-Commerce Platforms

Every feeding journey is different, but every parent deserves products that make it

easier. Rather than relying on separate solutions that don’t work together, Anker eufy’s

Smart Parenting Ecosystem is thoughtfully designed to support moms from pumping to

bottle preparation and baby monitoring.

Whether you’re exclusively pumping, returning to work, or navigating the early months

of parenthood, Anker eufy offers an ecosystem that helps simplify everyday routines

while giving parents more time to focus on what matters most, their baby.

This 8.8, shoppers can enjoy exclusive offers and freebies on Anker eufy’s most

innovative parenting products. 

Product SRP 8.8 Price Freebie

eufy Wearable Breast

Pump S1 Pro

PHP19,995 PHP15,995 FREE Mom Bag

eufy Bottle Washer S1

Pro

PHP27,995 PHP25,495 FREE Mom Bag, Detergent

Tablets & Water Softener

eufy Baby Monitor

C10

PHP7,995 PHP6,995

These exclusive 8.8 Mega Sale offers available on August 8, 2026 only via the eufy

Philippines Authorized Stores on Shopee, Lazada and TikTok Shop, as well as the

Anker Global Stores on Shopee, Lazada and TikTok Shop.

This Breastfeeding Awareness Month, there’s no better time to invest in smarter

parenting solutions that support both moms and babies. Whether you’re preparing for

your first child, building your feeding essentials, or upgrading your current setup, Anker

eufy’s Smart Parenting Ecosystem offers thoughtfully designed innovations that simplify

the feeding journey while making everyday parenting easier.

For more information on Anker eufy’s latest products, promotions, and updates, follow

eufy Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

About eufy

eufy smart home products and technologies - including home and property security devices 

HONOR PH Teases Its Next Foldable Smartphone

Global AI devices provider HONOR Philippines has officially begun teasing what could be its most ambitious flagship device yet, signaling the arrival of a breakthrough that promises to challenge expectations in the premium foldable smartphone category.

Designed for those who demand both style and substance, HONOR's upcoming foldable phone was set to combine sophisticated craftsmanship, exceptional durability, and next-generation AI experiences into an ultra-premium device. More than just another foldable, it represents HONOR's continued commitment to delivering cutting-edge innovation without compromise.

"This is more than the launch of a new device—it marks another milestone in our journey to bring meaningful innovation to consumers," said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. "We're excited to share what we've been working on and show everyone why this upcoming flagship deserves the spotlight."

Stay updated on everything HONOR by visiting www.honor.com/ph and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines),Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.