Big Bad Wolf 2026 Opens in Park Triangle Mall, BGC with Signed Collectibles, International Bestsellers and Book Deals

 

The renowned book sale, Big Bad Wolf began with a childhood encounter that grew into a million book mission. Sometimes, the most meaningful journeys begin with the simplest encounters. For Ms. Jacqueline Ng, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Big Bad Wolf Books, it all started with a fellow student, a book, and a childhood moment that would eventually inspire a mission to make reading more accessible to people around the world.

Jacquelyn Ng, Co-founder of Big Bad Wolf

During a recent conversation, Ms. Ng shared the story behind the beginnings of Big Bad Wolf, recalling how, as a young student, her access to books was largely limited to the usual textbooks required in school. Like many children, she had little opportunity to explore books simply for the pleasure of reading. That changed one day during a school lunch break when she noticed a fellow student who seemed more interested in reading a book than eating her lunch.

Curious, Ng approached the girl and asked why she was not eating during their break. Instead of giving her the answer she expected, the student encouraged her to try reading, too, and handed her the book she had been enjoying. That seemingly ordinary gesture opened an entirely new world for Ng. For the first time, she discovered the joy of leisurely reading and the wonderful experience of getting lost in a story beyond the pages of her school textbooks.

Ribbon Cutting (L-R) Enrique B. Manuel, Jr., FBDC COO; Atty. Teodoro C. Pascua, Director General of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines; Charmaine Palermo, Big Bad Wolf Books Local Partner

The encounter left a lasting impression on her. From that moment, she made a promise to herself: when she grew up, she would find a way to help young people gain better access to books, giving them the opportunity to discover the same joy and possibilities that reading had introduced into her life. What began as a personal childhood experience eventually grew into a much bigger vision, one that would bring millions of books closer to readers through Big Bad Wolf.

Listening to Ms. Ng recount her story made me appreciate how a simple act of sharing a book can make such a difference. It also reminded me why reading remains one of the most valuable habits we can develop, especially among children and the younger generation. Books have a unique way of taking us to places we have never visited, introducing us to people and cultures we might otherwise never encounter, and allowing us to experience different perspectives without ever leaving our seats. Through reading, we learn more about the world around us, gain knowledge, stimulate our imagination, develop critical thinking, and continuously expand our vocabulary. More importantly, books encourage curiosity and remind us that there is always something new to discover, no matter how much we already know.

That very same mission of making books accessible continues to come alive through Big Bad Wolf, which recently brought its much-awaited book sale back to the Philippines. I was delighted to be invited to its 2026 opening at the fifth level of Park Triangle Mall, where book lovers, families, students, and curious readers can explore an impressive collection of one million books from 40 different publishers around the globe.

"It reminds me that sometimes, all it takes is one book to spark a lifelong love of reading. That is what Big Bad Wolf Books has always been about: making books more affordable and accessible, regardless of age, background, or budget,” said Jacqueline Ng, Co-Founder of Big Bad Wolf Books.

Running from November 5 to 18, 2026, the book sale welcomes visitors daily from 10:00 AM until 12 midnight. Walking into the venue, one is immediately greeted by an extensive selection of titles across different genres and interests. Whether you enjoy fiction, romance, mystery, fantasy, biographies, cookbooks, children's stories, educational materials, or books that inspire personal growth, there is plenty to browse and discover. It is an opportunity to find something that suits every reader, from the little ones just beginning their reading journey to adults who have always loved collecting books.

What makes the experience even more exciting are the incredible bargains. The lowest book price I came across was only Php 60, while some titles offered discounts of up to 95 percent. With prices this affordable, there is little reason to walk away empty-handed. You can finally purchase the titles on your reading wish list, discover authors you have never read before, pick up books for your children, or even stock up on gifts for family and friends. With one million books available, the possibilities are almost endless.

Returning to Metro Manila with its campaign message, "There’s a Book For Every Kind of You," Big Bad Wolf Books brings together contemporary fiction, children's literature, educational titles, and collectible editions in one location, making it easier for Filipino readers to discover books for their personal libraries or their Christmas gift lists. 

According to organizers, approximately 75% of the selection consists of new titles.

His Excellency Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino

“Having welcomed Big Bad Wolf Books to the Philippines on previous occasions, I am pleased to see this Malaysian initiative return with its commitment to making reading more accessible. The friendship between Malaysia and the Philippines grows through meaningful connections between our people, including the stories and ideas we share. I hope this sale encourages more people to discover a book that sparks their curiosity, supports their learning, or inspires them to see new possibilities,” said His Excellency Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino.

Harry Potter aficionados or Potterheads can look for selected signed copies of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. These form part of the wider Harry Potter selection, with featured copies subject to availability.

A signed copy of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is among the collectible releases from Goldsboro Books available at the sale.

Beyond the discounts and the sheer number of titles, what makes Big Bad Wolf special is the purpose behind it. It is not simply about selling books at affordable prices; it is about encouraging a reading culture and giving more people the opportunity to experience the transformative power of reading. Every book purchased could be the beginning of someone's next great adventure, a child's newfound love for stories, a student's discovery of a fascinating subject, or an adult's renewed appreciation for learning. Ms. Jacqueline Ng's childhood story is a beautiful reminder that we never really know how far a simple act of kindness can go. One student sharing one book during a lunch break helped plant the seed for a mission that would eventually reach readers across the globe. Perhaps, somewhere inside the Big Bad Wolf sale, another child will pick up a book that will change the way they see the world, just as that one book changed Ms. Ng's.

So, whether you are a lifelong bookworm, an occasional reader, a parent looking for wonderful stories for your children, or someone hoping to develop a reading habit, make time to visit Big Bad Wolf at the fifth level of Park Triangle Mall from November 5 to 18, 2026, between 10:00 AM and 12 midnight. Take advantage of the fantastic discounts, explore the million books from 40 international publishers, and bring home a few titles—or perhaps a whole stack!

Big Bad Wolf Mascot and Purple Plum Fairy

After all, the best thing about buying a book is that you are not merely taking home a collection of printed pages. You are bringing home new ideas, knowledge, adventures, and possibilities. And who knows? The next book you pick up might just take you somewhere you have never imagined.

Come and visit Big Bad Wolf at the 5th level of Park Triangle Mall, BGC, Taguig from November 5 to 18, 2026 from 10AM until 12 Midnight. 

Are you getting the 'Asian Flush' or rash after drinking?

 

MakatiMed underlines the difference between alcohol allergy and alcohol intolerance. The former is related to the immune system, involving our bodies reacting to ingredients in alcoholic drinks like barley and grapes. While properly metabolizing alcohol, which may lead to long-term effects like heart disease, liver problems, and cancer in the mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach. 

 

Does a sip of wine make you blush, or a bottle of beer give you a rash? If so, you might want to put the glass down to check whether you have an alcohol allergy or alcohol intolerance—two completely different conditions that are usually confused.

According to the top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), knowing the distinction can help you better recognize symptoms and make informed decisions to avoid complications in the long run.

“Many people interchange alcohol allergy and alcohol intolerance, but these actually involve different processes in the body,” explains Maria Socorro L. Agcaoili-De Jesus, MD, FPCP, FPSAAI, FPSRI, an Internal Medicine Specialist with a Subspecialty on Child and Adult Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and Reproductive Immunology. “An alcohol allergy is related to the immune system, while alcohol intolerance is the body’s inability to properly metabolize alcohol.”

Spotting the difference between the two may be difficult, as a true alcohol allergy is rare. A person with the condition has an immune system that mistakenly identifies alcohol as a threat and triggers an allergic reaction. More commonly, bodies react to the presence of wheat, barley, rye, hops, yeast, grapes, preservatives, or sulfites in an alcoholic beverage.

Symptoms to look for include itchy skin rashes; itchy mouth, eyes, or nose; swelling of the face or throat; coughing; and difficulty breathing. Severe cases can trigger anaphylaxis, wherein the immune system overreacts to an allergen that causes one’s blood pressure to drop and airways to narrow—a life- threatening emergency that requires immediate attention.

“Even a small amount of alcohol can induce symptoms in a person with alcohol allergy,” says Dr. Agcaoili- De Jesus. “Allergic reactions have the tendency to escalate quickly; therefore, it is important to seek immediate professional assistance, especially when breathing is affected or swelling is present.”

In contrast, alcohol intolerance is an inherited metabolic disorder wherein the body lacks the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) that is needed to break down alcohol.

The most known symptom of alcohol intolerance is the “Asian flush.” Immediately after drinking, the person’s face, neck, and chest become red and warm. In addition, people experience nausea, headaches, vomiting, low blood pressure, heart palpitations, and difficulty breathing.

It is called Asian flush since alcohol intolerance is common among people of East Asian descent, including the Chinese, Japanese, and Koreans. Nevertheless, it can be present in people of any race or ethnicity.

While alcohol intolerance is often misunderstood as merely turning red from drinking, MakatiMed warns that it may cause long-term effects.

“The flushing reaction indicates that acetaldehyde is building up in the body. Research suggests that continued alcohol consumption by those with alcohol intolerance increases the risk of cancer in the mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, and liver,” Dr. Agcaoili-De Jesus points out. To add, studies also linked alcohol intolerance with higher risks of heart disease, stroke, liver problems, and even late-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

To properly determine the root cause of those alcohol-induced symptoms, MakatiMed suggests seeking consult for evaluation.

“The most important thing is not to self-diagnose,” reminds Dr. Agcaoili-De Jesus. “If you notice symptoms consistently every time you drink alcohol, it is best to seek medical attention to identify the cause and receive proper care.”

Persons with diagnosed severe alcohol allergies may be advised to carry an epinephrine auto-injector for emergency use. However, for those with alcohol intolerance, “there is no treatment that corrects the underlying enzyme deficiency.”

“Antihistamines or antacids cannot eliminate the health risks of alcohol intolerance. The safest way to avoid symptoms and long-term effects is to avoid consuming alcohol as much as possible,” Dr. Agcaoili- De Jesus advises. “Avoiding alcohol won’t only prevent alcohol allergy or intolerance, but it’s also a healthy habit that can help prevent alcohol-related health issues like liver and heart disease.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter

Transcendent myths and romance in PPO Concert III: Bolero

 

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) continues its magical 42nd concert season, Modulatio, with CONCERT III: BOLERO on November 6, 2026, at 7:30 pm, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City.

Under the baton of internationally acclaimed Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, the PPO will enchant audiences with a lush repertoire featuring French composer Claude Debussy’s Prélude à l’après- midi d’un faune, French composer Maurice Ravel’s Alborada del gracioso and Bolero, and French composer Camille Saint-Saëns’ Violin Concerto No. 3, op. 61, B minor.

In this third installment of the concert series, Filipino violinist Kaycee Galano performs with the PPO, showcasing her musicality and dexterity as well as the incomparable uniqueness of Filipino artistry.

Varied inspirations in a heartfelt repertoire

For its Concert III, PPO begins the musical evening with Debussy’s Prélude à l’après-midi d’un

faune. Inspired by Stéphane Mallarmé’s poem “The Afternoon of a Faun,” Debussy begins with the dreamy tune of a flute to narrate the story of the mythological half-human, half-goat creature enchanted by nymphs and naiads. The composition eases into almost improvisatory passages that refuse to settle in any key or tonal center. Debussy’s avant-garde decision later inspired his fellow composers to experiment beyond the traditional tones.

Following Debussy, Ravel’s Alborada del gracioso beautifully evokes mystery and romance. Derived from the lyric poetry of the Middle Ages that parting lovers sing, also known as “dawn songs,” this orchestral showpiece celebrates the next romantic meeting, built up with a typical Iberian rhythm. It remains one of Ravel’s career highlights with its colorful virtuosic solo interjections.

Ravel’s Spanish-flavored ballet score Boléro serves as the centerpiece of PPO Concert III. Russian dancer and actress Ida Rubinstein had encouraged the composer to create an orchestral transcription of Spanish composer Isaac Albéniz’ Iberia in 1928. However, the rights were granted to the Spanish conductor Enrique Arbós. Already enamored by the idea of composing an original from a harmonic and instrumental theme, Ravel set out to holiday in Saint-Jean-de- Luz, and Boléro was born.

A one-movement orchestral piece with snare drum rhythm designed around repeating Spanish

melodies, Ravel’s Boléro sports a gigantic crescendo and a surprise modulation that hammers into its spectators’ brains. Despite only having two repeating tunes, the composition is among Ravel’s most celebrated works from the experimental decade of the 1920s.

Capping the third concert of the season is Saint-Saëns’ Violin Concerto No. 3, op. 61, B minor.

This composition was inspired by Saint-Saëns’ lifelong bond with Spanish violinist Pablo

Sarasate, much like his first two violin concertos.

In 1859, a 15-year-old Sarasate casually requested a violin concerto from Saint-Saëns. This

encounter sparked an artistic relationship between the two, motivating the latter to blend his

adoration for the violinist’s technique into the composition’s exotic harmonies.

Together with the PPO, the dramatic bravura theme and staccato rhythm of Saint-Saëns’ Violin

Concerto No. 3, op. 61, B minor will be reimagined by Filipino violinist Kaycee Galano. Established as one of the leading young violinists of her generation, Galano has performed concertos with orchestras in Europe, China, North America, and the Philippines.

Guided by Maestro Yoshikazu Fukumura in 2018, Galano once shared the stage with the PPO at 17 years old and interpreted Hector Berlioz’s Le Corsaire Overture and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Symphony no. 4, Op. 36, F minor. Still carrying her signature wonder and style, she returns for PPO Concert III: Bolero this November.

In 2021, Galano won first prize at the Mary Lane Memorial Violin Competition, and participated

in the 2021 Shanghai Isaac Stern International Violin Competition and the 2022 International

Violin Competition of Indianapolis. Before making her Carnegie Hall debut in October 2019,

she participated in the 1st International Viktor Tretyakov Violin Competition in 2018.

Myths, daydreams, and little romance in PPO Concert III: Bolero

Boasting a luxurious repertoire that showcases varied narratives about mythological creatures, romance, and real-life bonds, PPO Concert III: Bolero promises an unforgettable evening. The nation’s premier orchestra, together with its featured soloist Galano and principal conductor Maestro Nowak, continues to display the musical prowess it has rightfully earned after 42 concert seasons.

Following the success of the second concert of the 42nd series, PPO Concert III: Bolero is a clear testament to music’s transcendent ability to bring stories, emotions, and reflections from the past into the future.

Witness the artistry of PPO Concert III: Bolero live by purchasing tickets at TicketWorld. For

exclusive deals and discounts, be a PPO subscriber by contacting salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph or calling the CCP Box Office at +63 931-033-0880. Be the first in line for PPO’s 42nd concert season at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph. To get the latest updates on CCP and PPO events and performances, check the official Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube social media accounts.

Mindful Shopping is Here: Australia’s Scoop Wholefoods Lands in the Philippines

 

(L-R) Christian Tan (President, Healthy Options Group), Paul McEachern (First Secretary for Economic Investment, Australian Embassy), Christine Coqueiro (Vice President – Retail Development, Rockwell Land), Romy Sia (Managing Director, Healthy Options Group), Jeremy Kirk (Founder & Managing Director, Scoop Wholefoods), Bettina Kirk (Founder & CEO, Scoop Wholefoods), Daisy Clasper (Founder, Scoop Whole Beauty)

A new approach to eco-friendly living meets Filipinos as Australian cult-favorite Scoop Wholefoods and Scoop Whole Beauty opens in the Philippines—introducing a refill-led retail experience where shoppers buy exactly what they need, when they need it.

Located at Power Plant Mall, Scoop Wholefoods — along with its personal care counterpart, Scoop Whole Beauty— offers a modern, eco-friendly way to shop. Instead of single-use plastic sachets, Scoop elevates this practice into a zero-waste routine, allowing shoppers to buy exact quantities using reusable containers or paper bags without compromising quality while supporting sustainability.

"Shopping by weight gives people the freedom to make healthier choices that respect both their budget and the planet & share founders Jeremy and Bettina Kirk. “By choosing only the quantities they need, shoppers take full control of their spending, avoid waste and presumption, and reduce single-use plastics."

"Filipinos have long understood the practicality of buying in custom portions. Bringing Scoop to the Philippines allows us to elevate that familiar habit into a modern, zero-waste lifestyle,” say Romy Sia, Managing Director of Healthy Options Group.

Redefining the Eco-Friendly Shopping Experience

Founded in Sydney in 2013 and inspired by the vibrant traditional markets of Malta, Scoop

Wholefoods began as a simple family idea built on a shared purpose. Today, with over 20 locations worldwide, that Australian family spirit connects high-quality wholefoods, healthier living, and care for the planet.

Scoop introduces a fresh retail model built on choice, discovery, and sustainability across its food and personal care offerings. No longer limited to fixed pack sizes, customers have the flexibility to purchase in bulk and in exact quantities through a pay-by-weight approach. On top of enabling them to purchase according to their budget, doing so also encourages pantry freshness by ensuring ingredients are constantly replenished rather than left forgotten.

"Conscious living is best integrated into daily routines when it is made intuitive and practical for shoppers," Sia added, "Whether you need a single pinch of a specialty spice for a new recipe or a full week’s supply of household staples, you buy only what serves your home, eliminating both wasted food and wasted money."

Beyond encouraging conscious pantry management, Scoop transforms routine errands into an engaging, interactive lifestyle. Shoppers can bring their own containers to eliminate single-use packaging, turning standard grocery runs into a deliberate ritual of discovery as they choose, scoop, and sample across organic whole foods, natural treats, and pantry staples.

Scoop works closely with artisanal producers in Australia to develop products tailored to customer preferences, highlighted by crowd favorites like Byron Bay chocolate-coated fruits and nuts, alongside freshly prepared granolas and mueslis.

While Scoop brings its signature international selection to Manila, the Philippine store proudly

integrates local sourcing into the retail experience. Customers can look forward to homegrown staples, including locally harvested rice from Family Farms and fresh, probiotic kombucha on tap from Brye and Brew. These initial partnerships bring Filipino producers directly into Scoop’s zero- waste ecosystem, with plans to expand its network of local farmers, artisans, and makers to offer shoppers even more sustainable local discoveries.

Scoop Whole Beauty

Championing Circular Beauty

The refill philosophy extends straight into self-care through Scoop Whole Beauty, bringing zero- waste principles to personal care routines. The dedicated beauty arm offers 100% vegan, palm-oil- free, and toxin-free cosmetics and skincare crafted from ethically sourced, earth-based ingredients.

Shoppers can purchase liquid soaps, face masks, and body oils by weight, or explore plastic-free alternatives like solid shampoo bars and compostable beauty tools. To further eliminate single-use plastic, Scoop collaborates with Australian artisans on body care housed in fully compostable packaging, including natural deodorants, face washes, and lip balms.

Scoop’s lightweight, breathable mineral makeup line is especially suited for the warm, humid climate —absorbing oil and moisture while providing buildable, long-wearing coverage in tones crafted for Filipino skin. Customers can curate makeup palettes using plastic-free, refillable pans, allowing them to replace individual shades as needed without discarding an entire compact.

Scoop Wholefood

The Scoop Experience: Refill, Reuse, Repeat

Customers can bring their own clean containers from home or grab recyclable paper bags provided throughout the store. Empty containers are weighed at the counter first to ensure shoppers pay strictly for the contents brought home. From there, customers can explore the aisles at their own pace, gathering their selections before heading to the register to complete payment by weight.

"We designed Scoop as a welcoming space for everyone, whether you are taking your first zero- waste step or are a seasoned refiller," share Jeremy and Bettina Kirk. “Scoop aims to be a place that enables people to take home high-quality ingredients with complete confidence that they are nourishing their families while caring for the planet.”

Visit Scoop Wholefoods at Power Plant Mall, Rockwell, Makati City, and experience a fresh, zero- waste approach to daily shopping.

To learn more about Scoop’s wholefoods selection, refillable beauty lines, and ongoing local

partnerships, follow Scoop Wholefoods Philippines and Scoop Whole Beauty Philippines on social media.

Mang Inasal Tsoko N' Nut Yema Halo-Halo: A New Holiday Dessert You Must Try

 

Mang Inasal Tsoko N' Nut Yema Halo-Halo

Chocolate lovers have a new, exciting reason to celebrate the Holidays as Mang Inasal introduces its latest limited-time dessert, the Tsoko n' Nut Yema Halo-Halo, available nationwide from November 1 to December 31 only.

The new limited-time dessert brings together chocolate, peanut, and salted caramel yema flavors in an indulgent twist on the well-loved Filipino dessert. Available in 12-oz and 16-oz sizes starting at ₱99, it offers a new option for those looking to satisfy their sweet cravings this holiday season.

The Tsoko n' Nut Yema Halo-Halo combines Mang Inasal' s signature extra- creamy milk with Rocky Road ice cream, choco-peanut bars, powdered chocolate, crunchy chocolate coating, and a drizzle of salted caramel yema. The result is a mix of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and slightly salty elements in every spoonful.

The new offering follows Mang Inasal's previous limited-time halo-halo variants, including the Four-Cheese Halo-Halo in 2025 and the Strawberry Cheesecake Halo-Halo introduced earlier this year.

"Given the strong reception of its previous innovations, Mang Inasal wanted to create another dessert or merienda experience that would excite its customers," said Mang Inasal President Mike V. Castro. "Chocolate remains a well-loved flavor among Filipinos, and we believe that the Tsoko n' Nut Yema Halo-Halo offers an extra creamy and indulgent way to celebrate the Christmas season."

Mang Inasal Tsoko N' Nut Yema Halo-Halo Limited Time Offer

Among those who got an early taste of Mang Inasal's newest halo-halo flavor was food content creator Chewy's Mukbangs, who initially expected the chocolate flavors to dominate but was pleasantly surprised by the balance of ingredients. "This will be my go-to Mang Inasal dessert this holiday season," she shared on social media.

Japanese ‘foreignoy’ content creator Shotaro Kumano enjoyed what he described as a ‘tsoko overload,’ particularly the combination of the crunchy chocolate coating, Rocky Road ice cream, and choco-peanut bars. "This is another reason for me to visit Mang Inasal more often," Kumano said.

For his part, foodie content creator Kent Xyrel Espiritu appreciated how the different ingredients complemented one another. "As a chocolate lover, I like how the chocolate coating gives extra texture in every bite. What I liked was how the salted caramel yema balanced all the chocolate flavors. I rate it 10/10!"  Espiritu shared.

With its combination of chocolatey goodness, crunchy toppings, and extra- creamy milk, the Mang Inasal Tsoko N' Nut Yema Halo-Halo offers a fresh take on the traditional Filipino dessert. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon merienda, a sweet treat after a meal, or a dessert shared with family and friends, this limited-time offering makes the holiday season even sweeter.

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit https://manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!