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Looking Back at KathNiel’s Journey

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Looking Back at KathNiel’s Journey

As a lot of you may already know, Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla, fondly known as KathNiel, announced their heartbreaking decision to part ways on November 30. The Filipino entertainment industry along with their fans mourns the departure of this iconic celebrity couple who was integral in prime time television. Despite the breakup and the rumors circulating around the internet regarding the reasons why, a lot still hold their tandem close to their hearts, either because they truly adore the former couple, or are just nostalgic as both of them were a big part of a generation growing up. 

Photo from @bernardokath on Instagram

This is the history of projects they have worked on together, as well as their personal endeavors as individuals cementing their careers.

2011-2012: ‘Growing Up’ and ‘Princess and I’

Photo from ABS-CBN Entertainment

KathNiel’s on-screen journey commenced with the afternoon series “Growing Up” in 2011, where Kathryn portrayed volleyball player Elle, and Daniel played her teammate Patrick. This laid the foundation for a partnership that would blossom into something beyond the screens. They already had individual projects prior to the love team being spearheaded, and even during the early stages – with Kathryn in “Goin’ Bulilit” and “Mara Clara,” and Daniel in “Gimik: The Series.”

Photo from ABS-CBN Entertainment
Photo from ABS-CBN Star Cinema

The chemistry resonated, leading to their first primetime TV series, “Princess and I,” in April 2012. The show became a hit, captivating audiences over its success. This was followed by their first movie collaboration, “24/7 in Love,” where Daniel played the role of celebrity Billy, and Kathryn played the character Jane.

2013-2015: ‘Must Be… Love’ and ‘She’s Dating the Gangster’

Photo from IMDb

In 2013, “Must Be… Love” was released wherein the love team portrayed best friends Patchot and Ivan who discover deeper feelings for each other. The same year, their MMFF debut in “Pagpag: Siyam na Buhay” showcased their versatility in the horror genre.

Photo from IMDb

The turning point came in 2014 with “She’s Dating the Gangster.” Directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina, this rom-com, adapted from a Wattpad book, not only grossed P296 million but also solidified KathNiel as a powerhouse couple, with fans speculating about their real-life romance.

Photo from Amazon.com
Photo from Amazon.com

Dramatic roles followed in 2015 with “Crazy Beautiful You” and the teleserye remake of “Pangako Sa ‘Yo,” where they took on roles displaying emotional depth and intensity.

2016-2018: ‘Barcelona: A Love Untold’ and ‘The Hows of Us’

Single Cover from Jona on Spotify

As eagle-eyed fans noticed the pet name “Bal” on Kathryn’s 20th birthday in 2016, the couple confirmed they were exclusively dating. The years that followed saw the release of “Barcelona: A Love Untold” in 2016, featuring their much-anticipated first onscreen kiss. 

Photo from ABS-CBN News

In 2018, during the press conference for “The Hows of Us,” they confirmed their more than five-year relationship. The film itself made history, becoming the first Filipino film to gross over P600 million.

2019-2020: ‘Hello, Love, Goodbye’ and #WeBlockAsOne Movement

Photo from Good News Pilipinas

In 2019, KathNiel decided to take a hiatus from joint projects to focus on individual growth. This didn’t deter their loyal fanbase. Kathryn’s collaboration with Alden Richards in “Hello, Love, Goodbye” in 2019 became the highest-grossing Filipino film, showcasing her versatility and ability to succeed outside the KathNiel tandem.

Photo from ABS-CBN News

Amidst the ABS-CBN shutdown in May 2020, the couple faced challenges as fans launched the #WeBlockAsOne movement.

2020-2023: Reunion, Vlogs, and Individual Ventures – ‘The House Arrest of Us,’ Joint Vlog, and Solo Projects

Photo from Click the City

The promise of a reunion in February 2020 materialized with “The House Arrest of Us,” a mini-series running from October 2020 to February 2021. Their chemistry also continued to shine in Ben&Ben’s music video “Sa Susunod Na Habang Buhay” in December 2020.

Photo from PEP.ph

KathNiel’s first joint vlog in February 2021, “Questions I’ve Never Asked My Boyfriend,” provided insights into their relationship dynamics, accumulating over 9 million views, to the joy of their millions of supporters across the country. It was much appreciated by the fandom to be able to take a peek into their romantic relationship in detail.

Photo from IMDb

In May 2022, KathNiel celebrated their 10-year anniversary with the TV series “2 Good 2 Be True,” highlighting their enduring on-screen romance. However, this joyous occasion also hinted at challenges ahead.

2023: Celebrations, Travel, and Heartbreak – Kathryn’s Birthday, Switzerland Trip, and the Breakup

Photo from @kathniel.ford26 on Instagram

March 2023 marked Kathryn’s 27th birthday, celebrated intimately with family and Daniel. The couple embarked on a trip to Switzerland, combining travel with the viewing of the Omega European Masters golf tournament.

Photo from Inquirer Entertainment

However, the euphoria was short-lived as November 2023 brought the announcement of their breakup. Despite the pain of loss, KathNiel encouraged their fans to preserve the precious memories and join 

Christmas Gifts Under P100 Online

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Christmas Gifts Under P100 Online

With the amount of loved ones we have as well as responsibilities, expensive gifts are a luxury most of us just can’t afford. But thankfully, we live in a time where a lot of things are very accessible, especially with the rise of online shopping.

Photo from Unsplash

Booming especially during the pandemic, both Shopee and Lazada have become staples in the world of shopping. Here, options are wider and definitely much cheaper, drawing more and more people to rely on them for personal use. 

Strategically using this to our advantage, here is a list of Christmas gifts under P100 that you can get for your friends and family:

1. Christmas Scented Candle

For just P45 to P55, you can choose from blue wind chime, ocean, jasmine flower, and a lot more for this gift.

https://shp.ee/fexczj4

Photo from Shopee PH

2. Suede Cap 

Accessories sometimes complete an entire simple outfit. Suede caps have always been in style, and it goes with a lot of fashion choices regardless which era of trends you are more inclined to. Caps go with 90’s-inspired outfits, grunge aesthetic, and basic modern clothing.

For P62, you can get your friends such a gift that’ll keep that James Dean daydream look. If you’re a Swiftie, then you’ll most likely be into this item because of its print. Go see for yourself.

https://shp.ee/35nfd9t

Photo from Shopee PH

3. Planner 

Every Christmas season, a lot of your friends or maybe even you yourself are probably anticipating to get a Starbucks planner which is a) hard to attain because of the number of stickers you have to collect to be able to avail one, and b) costly.

With the same utility and a much lesser price, you can get a planner for P79. Hardbound and complete with the necessary details that make up a planner, this is the perfect gift for all the organized girlies (and boys) in your circle of friends.

https://shp.ee/tn7b2ny

Photo from Shopee PH

4. Coffee Press

With no doubt do we all have coffee-obsessed loved ones, and this is definitely a gift that will make them feel deeply thought of. For P81, you can get this item which can hold up to two medium cups, and has a pretty minimalistic design as well.

It can’t get better and cheaper than this, so go and make someone’s Christmas!

https://shp.ee/h9siedh

Photo from Shopee PH

5. Mug 

Of course you’ll meet the infamous ever-present gift during the exchanging gifts segment in a Christmas party here. The edge that we have in an online shopping era is that these simple treats wouldn’t be met with an eye roll or a scoff the moment the receiver opens it. There are so many options online that give you a wide array of design choices which you can perfectly match with your friend’s personality.

Getting a design that caters to someone’s specific interests changes all preconceived feelings towards getting a mug as a gift. So, maybe give this gift a try.

https://shp.ee/itg6nf4

Photo from Shopee PH

6. Moon Lamp

A gift you can never go wrong with is one that makes a place a lot prettier and cozier. With a moon lamp, you’re able to make your friend’s nightstand look like it’s from a Pinterest board, and the warm light undoubtedly makes the feeling of being in that room ambient.

Powered with a USB and illuminated by a LED light, this 3D projection of a moon would either catch someone’s eyes, or help them sleep better. It’s a win-win either way.

https://shp.ee/qrd9yhu

Photo from Shopee PH

7.  Glass Coffee Cup with Lid

Now don’t be mad yet for seeing the mugs’ cousin on this list, hear me out. If you want to give that coffee press a friend since perhaps you want to be more giving and creative this holiday season, imagine how much pairing it with a glass coffee cup completes the set?

For P45, you can buy this item in multiple colors. It comes with a lid, a straw, and a protective cover in the upper half of the cup for hot drinks.

https://shp.ee/37pwibs

Photo from Shopee PH

8. 3D Lamp Crystal Ball

Similar to the moon lamp, these 3D crystal balls will also surely complete someone’s room. You have lots of options to choose from regarding what kind of lamp you want to have, may it be a 3D projection of a galaxy, a whale swimming in a sea of stars, and some Christmas designs as well. The prices range from P95 to P99.

https://shp.ee/uixvcpm

Photo from Shopee PH

9. MilkTea Plushie

With everyone’s love for boba (and most probably your friend’s), it’s a good idea to give it to them in plushie form. For only P69, you can get this item with four different colors to choose from. It comes in the size of 8 inches, but is definitely wide enough to cuddle with all that cotton stuffing.

Get your milktea-loving friends this gift now!

https://shp.ee/c8qhfus

Photo from Shopee PH

10. Lovito Charm Bracelet

A bracelet is such a dainty idea for a gift and one that will always be appreciated. Since childhood, it has always been a symbol of connection and bond and has infiltrated our lives in many ways including the lettered friendship bracelets we’ve exchanged with the kids we’ve played with, loom bands, and even during our recollection in sixth grade.

Well, the sentimentality of bracelets doesn’t quite end there. Like mother said in You’re On Your Own, Kid, make (buy, haha) the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it.

https://shp.ee/cusr83u

Photo from Shopee PH

11. Minimalist T-shirt

I remember the rise of basic tees in 2014-2015 and how everyone was getting a minimalist print of anything they can think of. Such a fashion choice goes well with current trends since basic clothes are still on trend, and especially the neutral tones coupled with the versatility of black and white.

For P69, you can take a friend back to 2014-2015, all while fitting in the fashion standards of 2023.

https://shopee.ph/Tshirt-Minimalist-Design-for-Men-Women-Round-Neck-Shirt-Black-Tshirt-White-Tshirt-Women-shirt-i.110835795.23520545296?sp_atk=baf6a490-0816-47d3-8cae-a294dc9291aa&xptdk=baf6a490-0816-47d3-8cae-a294dc9291aa

Photo from Shopee PH

12. Water Tumbler

Okay, at this point, you might want to throw hands for seeing another liquid holder variant the third time in the list, but hear me out again! 

Since the pandemic, we’ve seen how current needs ultimately transcend into fashion statements the more we have to use it, e.g. masks which later on became a necessity to match with our outfits or generally just our vibe. Now I’m not saying it’s a necessity to buy a cute water bottle, but if you or your friends are someone who cares about what water holder is hanging by your hands, then this might be a good option for you to have as a gift.

Almost everyone is carrying an Aquaflask, and man, is that expensive. A nice water bottle that wouldn’t hurt the pocket too much is definitely a nice idea to give someone, considering that we all do in fact drink water regardless of the appeal of what they come in. Get your affordable water tumblers now!

https://shp.ee/cpkkts4

Photo from Shopee PH

The value of giving someone something truly doesn’t lie on the monetary value of that something. Keeping track of someone’s interests, thinking of someone the moment you see a certain item, and dedicating the time and money (no matter how cheap) to get it for them definitely are the definitions of thoughtfulness. So go explore your options, and may you all have a happy holiday season!

TikTok Ban For Government Employees in the Philippines: Here’s What We Know

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TikTok Ban For Government Employees in the Philippines: Here’s What We Know

The National Security Council of the Philippines has debated whether TikTok should be banned for government employees. The reason for wanting to ban the video-sharing app is a matter of national security. 

Photo from RMN Networks
Photo from Unsplash

However, the effectiveness of the ban is being questioned. Banning TikTok does not ensure that employees will stop using the app, considering that some people know how to use different hacks, such as virtual private networks (VPNs), to battle the restrictions.

Other countries, such as Australia, Canada, Denmark, the European Union, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, Taiwan, The UK, and the US, have banned TikTok from government-issued devices. 

Photo from Unsplash

Moreover, TikTok said they do not share user data with the Chinese Government. However, the countries mentioned above are still concerned about China’s National Intelligence Law. The abovementioned law states that the government can demand the cooperation of citizens and companies regarding Chinese National Intelligence. 

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is TikTok-Ban-For-Government-Employees-in-the-Philippines-1-1024x683.jpg
Photo from Unsplash

However, the idea remains that if TikTok will be banned from the Philippines, other Chinese-made applications should be, too. But, this could disrupt the freedom of expression and economic opportunities. TikTok and other platforms are not only for entertainment purposes but have also been helping business owners. 

Photo from Unsplash

What do you think? Should TikTok be banned for government employees?

Vicki Belo Makes A Fan’s Beauty Wish Come True

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Vicki Belo Makes A Fan’s Beauty Wish Come True

The best gift a beauty fan can ask for is to get a beauty treatment from Dr. Vicki Belo herself. A lucky fan’s Christmas is definitely getting merrier as Belo grants him a wish. 

Photo from Preview.ph
Photo from @90skabaklaan on Instagram
A post snippet from @90skabaklaan on Instagram

The fan (90skabaklaan on IG) posted a photo of Vicki Belo on Instagram from 30 years ago. Belo took notice of the photo and replied to the post. 

Photo from Inquirer.net

“Grabe ang galing mo. Where did you find this picture bullying tuloy ako. What’s your beauty wish this Christmas? Come to belo bgc (where I mostly go) so I can make your wish come true. #fairygodmother.” 

Moreover, the celebrity doctor shared the photo on her official Instagram page with the caption, “ I grew up really conscious about a lot of things about myself, which led me to become a *dermatologist and putting up my own clinic.” 

A post snippet from @victoria_belo on Instagram

A fairy godmother indeed. We all wish we could get a free beauty treatment from Belo to slay the Christmas season and, of course, the new year!

Best laptop deals for your loved ones this Yuletide season

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Best laptop deals for your loved ones this Yuletide season

Shop now to get the chance to avail of the 0% interest with Home Credit

The holiday season is not just about parols and endless gatherings, it’s also the perfect time to give something special to yourself and loved ones. And one of the many things you can wrap and place under the Christmas tree is a shiny new laptop!

Thanks to Home Credit, the country’s leading consumer finance company, you can cop best-selling laptops with its incredible 0% interest offer on various installment options for up to 18 months. Surely, you can make your holiday dreams come true without breaking the bank through a laptop loan!

Check out these top laptop models that can match your lifestyle: 

Apple Macbook Air 13.3 inch

The Apple Macbook Air 13.3 inch sets a new standard for mobility and power, redefining the on-the-go computing experience. Packed with remarkable features, this ultra-portable laptop boasts an impressive battery life of up to 18 hours of Apple TV app movie playback and 15 hours of wireless web browsing, thanks to its 52.6W lithium-polymer battery.

The inclusion of the M2 with 8-core GPU enhances its capabilities, accompanied by a 30W USB-C power adapter for convenient and speedy recharging. With the added convenience of a USB-C to MagSafe 3 cable and fast-charge capabilities using a 70W USB-C power adapter, the 13-inch model stands out as a beacon for on-the-go efficiency. Driven by the M2 chip, the Macbook Air delivers supercharged performance, ensuring blazing-fast operations within its sleek and compact design.

ASUS VivoBook 14

For those who want a perfect blend of performance and affordability, the ASUS VivoBook 14 is a stellar choice. The ASUS VivoBook 14, inspired by innovation and designed for versatility, is a remarkable addition to ASUS’s lineup of cutting-edge laptops.

Crafted with precision and powered by the 12th gen Intel processors, this laptop embodies the perfect blend of style and performance. Its 14-inch NanoEdge display with slim bezels provides an immersive viewing experience, making work and play more captivating than ever. The VivoBook 14’s compact and lightweight design ensures that you can carry your creativity wherever you go. The ErgoLift hinge not only adds a touch of elegance but also tilts the keyboard for a comfortable typing experience. 

Acer Aspire 3 A315-510P-38RD

For those who value affordability without compromising on performance, the Acer Aspire 3 is a reliable companion as it brings computing excellence within reach. Boasting a 15.6-inch display, this laptop is perfect for a range of activities—from work presentations to holiday movie marathons.

The Acer Aspire 3 also features Acer Bluelight Shield™ technology that helps reduce eye strain during extended screen time, a thoughtful touch for those long holiday work sessions or cozy movie nights. To add, the Aspire 3 is designed with practicality in mind, featuring a Precision Touchpad for accurate navigation and a full range of connectivity options, including USB and HDMI ports. The inclusion of Acer TrueHarmony™ also ensures clear audio for an immersive multimedia experience. 

HP 15S-EQ3067AU Natural Silver

The HP 15S-EQ3067AU Natural Silver laptop combines power and elegance, making it the perfect companion for the holiday season. Whether you’re tackling work tasks or editing your holiday photos, this laptop delivers a performance that matches its sophisticated design. Under its silver hood is the AMD Ryzen 5 5625U processor that ensures robust performance for multitasking, content creation and more. 

Paired with 8GB of RAM, this laptop provides a smooth and responsive user experience. The generous 512GB SSD storage further enhances speed, allowing you to store your holiday memories, projects and multimedia files with ease.

Got work to do? Experience the convenience of Windows 11, which comes pre-installed on this laptop. Windows 11 offers a modern and intuitive interface, enhancing your productivity and providing a seamless user experience. 

Realize your holiday goals with Home Credit’s 0% interest offer

Now, here’s the real magic: Home Credit’s 0% interest offer on these fantastic laptops. Imagine being able to choose the laptop that suits your needs and budget and then enjoying flexible installment options with 0% interest for up to 18 months. This means you can make your holiday goals for your loved ones come true while saving more!

Whether you’re upgrading your current laptop or surprising a special someone with the gift of technology, Home Credit’s 0% interest rate offer this holiday season is your ticket to a tech-filled celebration.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in Shopping Mall Philippines.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). 

Cyber Sports, or Esports: Computer Game-Based Competitions

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Cyber Sports, or Esports: Computer Game-Based Competitions

Cyber sports have become increasingly popular and a multimillion-dollar industry like traditional sports. It can comprise single-player and multiplayer games, requiring a lot of planning and dedication.

Well-liked Online Sports Games

Cyber athletes are skilled professionals who follow rigorous schedules and have teams, sponsors, and coaches. They are always improving their strategic skills to win competitions and matches. Like traditional sports, cyber sports have gained official recognition and have support from sizable gaming facilities, qualified analysts, and broadcasters.

Cybergamers dedicate eight to twelve hours daily or more to their computers, matching traditional athletes’ work. A large selection of casino slot machines, cybersports wagers, and sports wagers are available at GGBET. The platform fills legal gaps by operating under a gambling license. Additionally guaranteed are user confidentiality and data security. 

Photo from TAIWAN EXCELLENCE

These are some of the most well-liked cybersports titles:

  • Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
  • Dota 2
  • League of Legends is a video game.
  • Fortnite
  • Overwatch
Photo from Counter Strike.net
Photo from ESPORTS.GG
Photo from Polygon

Among the genres covered are sports, fighting games, tank simulators, shooters, strategies, and MOBAs (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena). Players must be fast to respond, focused, and cooperative. These games have gained popularity, with millions of enthusiasts and casual viewers tuning in to watch broadcasts of competitive matches. 

Photo from SportsPro Media

The growth of cyber sports has led to the construction of enormous gaming arenas and the hiring of expert analysts and commentators, making it a lucrative industry.

Which Video Games Are Popular?

  • Apex Legends
  • Counter-Strike: Global Offensive 
  • Dota 2
  • Fortnite
  • League of Legends 
  • Overwatch
  • PUBG for Mobile
  • Valorant

Among the genres covered are sports, fighting games, tank simulators, shooters, strategies, and MOBAs (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena). Players must be fast to respond, focused, and cooperative. Large gaming arenas, expert analysts, and commentators have all arisen due to these games’ success, making this a noteworthy and profitable sector.

Photo from Unsplash

Describing Esports Betting

Esports betting is regarded as the most difficult challenge to conquer. Some might find it strange that anything done passively is a sport. The most obvious parallel between traditional sports and Esports is their fierce competition. Our working definition of Esports includes this competition but does not include single-player video games.

The Harvard International Review (HIR) defines “Esports” as highly organized competitive video game performance. This definition is precise but simple.

It is how Esports are characterized, although there are four basic categories under which Esports betting falls:

  • Real money bets on the outcomes of games involving other teams, similar to how football fans wager on the outcome of a game
  • Bets well-placed on video games that use in-game skins, typically through unlicensed gaming sites
  • Esports tournaments happen on daily fantasy sports websites like DraftKings
  • Bets on a player’s performance in an Esports competition. Paying to enter an in-person Esports tournament and earning a prize for first place is similar to competing in a heads-up competition; however, this can also happen virtually.
Photo by Legal Sports Report

The way that people categorize Esports has moved beyond dinner-table conversation and is currently being discussed in legislative circles worldwide. The success of Esports betting companies sparked these disputes, and the outcome of these regulatory conversations might influence the future of Esports wagering.

When discussing Esports betting, it is crucial to remember that each category has a different legal system in place. 

Is There a Win-Win Sports Betting Strategy Online?

  • Banking: You should keep your bets to a maximum of 10% of your whole money. These fundamental guidelines can help players manage their bet money skillfully and lower their chances of suffering large losses. It’s best to focus on particular bets, such as determining which squad will win the pistol round or get first blood. Keeping an eye on and evaluating the team’s performance during pivotal points in the game may improve the accuracy of betting evaluations.
  • Put wagering plans into action: Establish a systematic approach to betting by defining and following exact stake amounts. It can help you control your bets and avoid rash or excessive bets.
  • Keep up knowledge and perform statistical analysis: Keep up with the latest game developments, the arrival of strong new players to the team, and other important details.
  • Examine Odds and Wagers: Look for cybersports events with favorable odds, and think about putting bets with different bookies on different results of the same game.
Photo from Lifestyle Beauty

When it comes to live matches where teams are given a map and given the task of choosing characters, analyzing the game dynamics and calculating the winning probabilities for each team based on this information can be a useful tactic for making profitable bets.

Once your results align with the predictions made on blogs and forums, you can rate the participants. To confirm your betting decisions, obtain expert advice and estimates.

While these tactics might be helpful, there is no way to create a surefire strategy that guarantees success. It is essential always to follow moral guidelines when placing bets.

Photo from Unsplash

Conclusion

Like any sport, cybersports require a lot of training. The common misconception about cybersports is that they are played by kids playing computer games; however, these athletes are skilled professionals with teams, sponsors, coaches, and strict schedules who use cutting-edge tactics. 

Since its inception, cybersports have developed into a booming sector with a growing fan base and appeal. The user experience has been significantly enhanced by virtual reality and artificial intelligence. The company’s future is bright, as evidenced by the growth in sponsorship over the years.

Photo from Unsplash

Christmas Around the World

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Christmas Around the World

Living where we do, we might have a very standardized view of Christmas. We don’t have ourselves to blame at the end of the day since we grew up where we grew up, and perhaps traveling during the holidays has never been an option either because of financial constraints, or the fact that Filipinos require family members to go home during the season.

However, it is nice and interesting to actually have a peek into other cultures’ practices of Christmas. Due to different religions, backgrounds, and traditions, different countries may have Christmas practices that can be relatively shocking to us, but the best part is always finding out why they do what they do, and ultimately respecting their chosen way of celebration.

Photo from Unsplash

Here is how Christmas is celebrated around the world, particularly in the countries Italy, Austria, and the Philippines!

Italy

In the enchanting realm of Italian Christmas traditions, there’s a peculiar visitor who swaps the classic milk and cookies (apparent in Western culture on Christmas Eve for Santa Claus) for a more sophisticated pairing: wine and sausages. Meet La Befana, the wine-drinking witch who graces Italian households on the eve of the Epiphany, January 5th, twelve days after Santa Claus has made his rounds.

Photo from Amazing World Reality

Unlike the stereotype of a drunk relative in a party, La Befana is a mythical figure in Italian folklore. The story goes that, centuries ago, when the Three Wise Men invited her to witness the birth of Christ, she declined the offer. Regretful and devastated for having missed the divine spectacle, she embarked on a quest to find the baby Jesus. And so, every Christmas season, she glides across the Italian landscape on her broomstick, carrying a sack of presents for the good children and, perhaps less appealingly, lumps of coal for the naughty ones.

Photo from Italian Cultural Society

The act of leaving out a glass of wine and a plate of sausages for La Befana is a charming tradition that reflects the warmth of Italian hospitality. It’s a way for families to extend gratitude to this mythical visitor, who, despite her initial refusal to witness the birth of Christ, has become a beloved figure in the Christmas narrative. The choice of wine and sausages adds a touch of authenticity to the tradition, aligning with the rich culinary tapestry that is characteristic of Italy. 

Photo from Unsplash

While the legend of La Befana might seem whimsical, it serves as a reminder of the diverse and intricate nature of Christmas folklore across the globe. Each country weaves its own tales and traditions into the festive season, creating a mosaic of customs that reflects the unique identity of its people.

Austria

In Austria, the Christmas season brings not only the anticipation of presents from St. Nicholas but also the fear of Krampus, a horned, hairy creature that haunts the nightmares of mischievous children. While the threat of receiving a lump of coal from La Befana might seem ominous to some, Austrian kids must contend with the terrifying prospect of Krampus, who serves as the eerie enforcer of Saint Nicholas.

Photo from Paul Mansfield

This unique Christmas tradition takes center stage on Krampusnacht, observed on December 5th in many Austrian towns, particularly in the alpine villages surrounding Salzburg and Tyrol. On this night, the streets come alive with the unsettling presence of dozens of men donned in frightening Krampus costumes. The half-goat, half-demon figures brandish sticks and parade through the streets, striking fear into the hearts of misbehaving children.

Photo from Discovertheburgh.com
Photo from TRIBLIVE

This practice is both a spectacle and a warning, as the Krampus symbolizes the consequences awaiting those who find themselves on Santa’s naughty list. Much more terrifying than simply not receiving a gift from Santa in exchange for bad behavior, if you ask me. It is a stark contrast to the more benevolent figure of St. Nicholas, emphasizing the dual nature of the Christmas season.

Philippines

There’s not much explaining to do here considering how you can already tell just by looking around you. But of course, our beautiful and beloved traditions are very much noteworthy. With our Spanish and Western influences, we can see the manifestation of these through our Christmas celebrations.

Photo from Cranraz by Virtual Paper Clip

The religious aspect of Christmas is the most important in the Philippines due its close ties to Catholicism. This importance translates into a Philippine Christmas tradition called simbang gabi, wherein people gather into a devotional 9-day mass which occurs at dawn. It is said in Philippine folklore that if you complete nine full days in mass, you are granted one Christmas wish and it will come true.

Design-wise, the Spanish-Western fusion is also apparent, given the Santa Claus booths in malls and prints all over the place, as well as the belen which is a depiction of Christ’s birth in the manger with Mary and the Three Kings. 

Photo from America Magazine

Due to the lack of chimneys in Filipino houses, the tradition of leaving cookies and milk for Santa Claus isn’t really practiced, but a lot of Filipino children still do believe in the legend, and best believe, any household already is bejeweled as early as September in the Philippines.

Photo from Unsplash

So, as families set out their glasses of wine and sausages, put on half-goat half-demon costumes, or wake up at 4 am to prepare for a mass, they all not only participate in a charming ritual but also contribute to the rich narrative of Christmas celebrations at large. Each culture in locations all around the world has their own distinctive flair to the season’s festivities, blending folklore, tradition, and just plain celebration of the highly-anticipated holiday. Wherever you are, have a merry, merry Christmas!

Manila Zoo’s Mali, the World’s Loneliest Elephant, dies at 47

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Manila Zoo’s Mali, the World’s Loneliest Elephant, dies at 47

Mali, Manila Zoo’s only elephant standing, bids farewell after passing away yesterday, November 28, 2023. 

Photo from Tatler Asia
Photo from Inquirer.net

Her death was confirmed and announced by Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna. Mali’s death is reportedly caused by congestive heart failure. After almost 42 years, Mali is now running free, as she deserved in the first place, but it’s a sadder freedom than anyone imagined.

Mali Arrives in the Philippines

Vishwa Ma’ali, or Mali, arrived in Manila in May 1981 and has been inhabiting the Manila Zoo before her death in 2023. She was three years old when she came to the Philippines from Sri Lanka. 

Photo from ABC News

Mali is dubbed by the members of the Ethical Treatment of Animals as one of the saddest and loneliest elephants in the world. This is because Mali has been the only elephant captive at Manila Zoo. 

Photo from Peta Asia
Photo from the dodo

Despite efforts to free her, none of the Manila Mayors permitted the poor gentle creature’s release.

Rest in Peace, Mali. You are now free.

YouTube Now Offers Exclusive Gaming Feature: ‘Playables’

Sugbo.ph Contributor
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YouTube Now Offers Exclusive Gaming Feature: ‘Playables’

YouTube Premium is giving people more reasons to switch with their exciting new addition to their subscription perks – ‘Playables,’ which is an exclusive gaming feature for Premium members. With over 30 arcade games seamlessly integrated into the YouTube app on Android, iOS, and Web, this innovation eliminates the need for downloads, offering a gaming experience that gives you the overall YouTube experience.

Photo from ISP.PAGE

Premium subscribers can go into the world of gaming by simply launching the YouTube app on their devices or by visiting the YouTube website. Navigating through the homepage or the explore menu reveals a dedicated ‘Playables’ shelf. Users then have to activate the ‘Play games on YouTube’ option, found on the experimental features page.

Photo from Yugatech

To access the ‘Playables’ feature, users need to tap the profile icon at the bottom right of the mobile app, scroll down to ‘Your Premium benefits,’ and select ‘Try experimental new features.’ It’s important to note that this feature is exclusively available to Premium members until March 28, sparking speculation about potential expansions and the introduction of more premium games, reminiscent of the Netflix Games service.

Photo from Unsplash
Photo from Unsplash

This announcement follows YouTube’s recent development of enhanced bitrate offerings on 1080p videos to Premium users. The feature, initially available on iOS, has now been extended to Android devices and smart TVs, ensuring that Premium members enjoy an enhanced video streaming experience.

YouTube Premium continues to elevate its subscription offering with the introduction of ‘Playables,’ providing a new dimension to the YouTube experience for gaming enthusiasts. As YouTube continues to experiment and expand its premium offerings, subscribers can look forward to an even more enriched and personalized platform.

Photo from Unsplash
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