If you have spent the past few days trapped in Metro Manila traffic, staring at brake lights and questioning your life choices, you may have noticed something unexpectedly charming slipping through the carmaggedon.

It’s not your imagination. That really is a foodpanda partner rider with reindeer antlers peeking out of a glowing pink delivery box, wrapped in fairy lights like it wandered out of Santa’s workshop and into EDSA.

You will be seeing more of these festive riders around Metro Manila until the end of the year, and honestly, the timing feels ideal.

The holidays have a way of piling everything on at once, especially when work deadlines stretch longer. Commutes also feel heavier, and the city moves at a pace that tests even the most patient among us. In moments like that, a small spark of cheer lands differently.

There is something soothing about that soft pink glow cutting through traffic. It interrupts the noise, even for a second, and reminds you that joy does not always arrive loudly. Sometimes it shows up quietly, on two wheels, while you are stuck at a red light.

For those ordering from foodpanda, the delivery does not feel purely transactional during this season. It arrives carrying comfort and a little emotional exhale after a long day.

When everything feels rushed and overwhelming, having food or groceries show up with a touch of holiday cheer feels strangely reassuring.

What makes it hit closer to home is the people behind it. These partner riders already do so much, navigating traffic, weather, and time pressures so others can slow down, even briefly.

Seeing them bring extra effort and warmth into their work feels deeply Filipino. It reflects that instinct to look out for one another and to find lightness even when the surroundings are messy.

In its own understated way, it is a reminder that someone out there understands how exhausting the season can be. So when a glowing foodpanda delivery bike pulls up beside you in traffic, take it as a small holiday signal. You are not alone in the rush.

TNT has been recognized for having the Best Mobile Latency, according to network intelligence and connectivity insights company Ookla, which is known for its internet speed tests.

Based on Ookla analysis for Q1 to Q2 2025, TNT’s network, powered by Smart, led with a median latency of 45.89 milliseconds (ms) for all network technologies.

(NOTE: Mobile latency measures how quickly data travels over a network; the lower the latency, the faster the response)

This enables users to tap, click, and swipe on their favorite apps in real-time. For streaming and mobile gaming, it also means a smoother experience.

Be it MOBA titles like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang or FPS games like Call of Duty Mobile, which both need real-time responsiveness, TNT allows gamers to make their best moves without worrying about lag.

Binge-watchers, meanwhile, can enjoy their favorite series, vlogs, and micro-dramas without buffering. On the other hand, students and professionals can attend online meetings or quick calls using just mobile data.

Furthermore, online live sellers and shoppers can also enjoy real-time transactions, ensuring their favorite items make it to the cart without delay.

Such low latency is also crucial for those who love scoring flash deals or vouchers where those who are among the first to click win discounts.

Users who want to level up their experience can switch to TNT by getting a TNT SIM or eSIM at accredited retailers and convenience stores. They may also do so via the Smart Online Store.

Subscribers from other networks can also easily switch to TNT without changing their number through Mobile Number Portability (MNP).

Every month, your favorite shopping app holds their monthly sale. Each with their unique discount and bundle offers.

To save you time, GadgetMatch has compiled some top picks and steals for your convenience.

The final double-double monthly sale of the year on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop is once again upon us. And 12.12 stretches up to payday, giving online shoppers the perfect window to browse gifts if they haven’t had their last-minute Christmas shopping yet.

Here are a few picks.

(This list is being updated regularly throughout the sale period)

OPPO 12.12 Sale

Until December 14, OPPO is offering all-day vouchers on their best-selling smartphones and devices.

Score discounts of up to PhP 2,000 off on select devices, like the OPPO Find X9, OPPO A5 Pro, and OPPO Reno14 Series 5G, among others.

On top of these discounts, customers can get up to a PhP 3,000 off exclusive discount, depending on the platform they will use to shop.

There are also freebies for purchases until December 14 across all three ecommerce apps, including the OPPO Enco Buds3 Pro, OPPO Pad SE Case, and DJI Osmo Mobile SE.

Xiaomi 12.12: Smarter tech, bigger savings

Next, Xiaomi’s 12.12 Christmas Sale starts from December 11 and lasts until December 14 on Lazada and Shopee. Customers can get up to 65% off on select products and up to 40% off on POCO offerings.

The list includes the newly-released POCO F8 series, as well as the Xiaomi 15T, among other phones and accessories.

Here’s a quick breakdown of discounted prices:

• POCO F8 Ultra (16+512): PhP 42,999 (2,000 off)
• POCO F8 Pro (12+512): PhP 29,999 (2,000 off)
• Xiaomi 15T (12+256): PhP 24,999 (2,000 off)
• POCO Pad X1 (8+512): PhP 21,999 (3,000 off)
• POCO X7 Pro (12+512): PhP 16,599 (3,400 off)
• Redmi Pad Pro 5G (8+256): PhP 15,999 (3,000 off)
• Xiaomi Pad 7 (8+128): PhP 14,599 (5,400 off)
• POCO Pad M1 (8+256): PhP 13,999 (2,000 off)
• Redmi Note 14 (6+128): PhP 7,499 (500 off)
• Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro: PhP 3,599 (200 off)
• Redmi Watch 5 Lite: PhP 2,299 (400 off)

Home AIoT products also get discounts:

• TV A Pro 2026 43″: PhP 16,490 (1,500 off)
• Curved Gaming Monitor G34WQi: PhP 15,199 (800 off)
• Smart Air Purifier 4 Lite: PhP 5,299 (2,700 off)
• Robot Vacuum S40C: PhP 7,699 (1,100 off)
• Outdoor Camera CW300: PhP 1,799 (400 off)

Infinix: NOTE 50, GT 30, HOT 60, more get deals

Infinix fans, meanwhile, can take advantage of several deals on some of Infinix’s best releases this year.

There’s the NOTE 50 Pro, GT 30, and HOT 60 Pro+, to name a few already budget-friendly devices.

For their 12.12 Bigger Pamasko Sale, Infinix is offering deals at up to 40% off until December 12. Plus, there is a chance to join the XPAD 20 Pro giveaway so head over to Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop as soon as you can.

SKG: Wellness and massage devices for less

Meanwhile, those looking to elevate their Christmas gifts this season can turn to SKG Philippines for their wellness and massage devices.

There’s the SKG G7 Pro-Fold Neck Massager with Heat (PhP 10,999). A major upgrade from traditional neck pillows, this product is engineered for a smarter, deeper, and truly customizable relaxation experience.

It utilizes dual-mode technology, combining TENS and Vibration-Powered Massage to soothe tension and promote active strengthening of neck muscles.

Then, there’s the SKG F1 Pro Massage Gun (PhP 2,999) with six adjustable intensity levels. It has a 3200 RPM motor and a 7mm amplitude to help loosen tight muscles and ease soreness. This product also comes with interchangeable heads.

Last is the SKG ES300 Eye Massager (PhP 6,499) that is lightweight and foldable up to 180 degrees. It is perfect for commuters, students, and frequent travelers as it helps sooth tired eyes, reduce puffiness, and melt away stress.

SKG’s products are available via Shopee and TikTok. In addition, a five-star review on Shopee until December 30 lets users take home a free TechLife Smart Watch Neo.

Laifen: Salon-quality styling made possible at home

Furthermore, there’s also Laifen for salon-quality styling made possible right at home, helping users save both time and money especially at a time where squeezing a salon appointment can be difficult.

For its 12.12 holiday deals, Laifen has offers for a handful of hair dryers. There are several color options to choose from, and a free TechLife Handheld Fan Turbo for purchases on December 12.

First, the Laifen Mini (PhP 5,799) offers impressive performance in a compact and lightweight frame.

Its next-gen motor spins at 110,000 RPM for fast and efficient drying while Noise Reduction Technology ensures a peaceful operation. Parents will also appreciate its Child Mode for a gentler airflow and heat.

There’s also the Laifen SE 2 (PhP 7,499) for improved power and precision. It produces a swift 21.5 m/s airflow and supports 10 styling combinations, two airspeed settings, and five temperature options.

Last is the Laifen SE Lite for a budget-friendly option. It has powerful high-speed drying at releases 150 million negative ions to leave hair soft, smooth, and party-ready. It likewise has a six-layer noise reduction system.

TechLife: Exclusive holiday promos

TechLife, an already budget-friendly everyday tech essentials brand, is offering its products for less this 12.12 sale. Headlining the lineup are the TechLife Pad Pro 12″ and TechLife Smart Watch L2.

The tablet features a 12.2-inch 2.4K FHD+ display, 90Hz refresh rate, and 480 nits of brightness. It also supports PC Mode and split-screen functionality.

This 12.12, it is priced at PhP 13,999 and comes with a free Smart Watch Neo. This offer is available both on Shopee and TikTok.

On the other hand, the wearable features a 2.02-inch display, IP68 dust and water protection. It retails for PhP 2,022 while the magnetic strap is an add-on for PhP 499.

Other options for shoppers are:

• TechLife Pad Lite 8″: PhP 4,999
• Smart Watch L1 Lite: PhP 2,699
• Power Bank R212 10000mAh: PhP 1,199
• Power Bank S202 10000mAh: PhP 799

Dyson Holiday Sale

Lastly, Dyson has an exclusive 12.12 Holiday Sale happening via their website and Dyson stores nationwide.

Customers can get up to PhP 14,770 off on select Dyson machines. Plus, as an extra offer, they can also get an extra PhP 5,000 off with a minimum spend of PhP 55,000.

Among the participating products are:

• Dyson Airwrap multi-styler and dryer
• Dyson WashG1 wet cleaner
• Dyson Purifier Cool PC2 De-Nox

The promo is available from December 11 to 14 only.