Gateway Mall 2 wins Mall Innovation Award at 2024 Outstanding Filipino Retailers Awards

Philippine Retailers Association recognizes innovations in Araneta City’s newest mall

Araneta City's Gateway Mall 2 was honored with the Mall Innovation Award at the recently concluded 2024 Outstanding Filipino Retailers (OFR) Awards, organized by the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), held on September 25 at the Solaire Resort North.

This latest recognition for Gateway Mall 2 from the OFR Awards, often regarded as the “Oscars” of the Philippine retail industry, serves as a testament to the mall’s groundbreaking approach to blending cutting-edge technology with a unique and engaging shopping experience. 

“The award is the culmination of the vision, dedication, and collaborative effort of everyone who pulled together to make Gateway Mall 2 a trailblazer in the retail landscape,” Rowell Recinto, Senior Management Consultant of Araneta City said. “By reimagining the entire customer journey and enhancing the overall experience, we were able to address the evolving needs of the times—transforming Araneta into a thriving, future-forward hub while honoring its rich and storied history.”

Exploring Manila’s Storied Past Through the Walled City

Take a journey back in time and immerse yourself in the Philippines’ rich history and culture when you visit Intramuros. Conveniently located in the heart of Manila, this popular attraction was once again hailed as Asia’s Leading Tourist Destination last September 3 at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia and Oceania Gala Ceremony held at City of Dreams Manila.

“We are delighted that Intramuros continues to spark the interest of both local and foreign travelers as the Walled City is our gateway to our past. Its storied walls and timeless streets remind us of our resilience as a people. We are grateful for its recent win as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards as it validates our efforts to create the best experiences for our guests,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. 

Frasco returns to Sulu, leads groundbreaking of Tourist Rest Area

A promise fulfilled, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the groundbreaking of a Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Patikul, Province of Sulu on Wednesday (Sept. 18).

“I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to return, to fulfill a promise, the promise that under the Administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.—under the vision of a Bagong Pilipinas—no one will be left behind in the development of our country,” the Tourism Chief said.

Stay Connected, Stay Relaxed: Turn Your Weekdays into a Staycation at Citadines Roces Quezon City

Citadines Roces Quezon City, a distinguished property under the Ascott Limited portfolio, stands as a testament to modern living in the heart of Quezon City. Strategically located in one of the metro’s most dynamic areas, the property offers a harmonious blend of urban comfort and contemporary convenience, making it the ideal destination for digital nomads, corporate guests, business owners, traveling consultants, and local staycationers alike.

Known for its vibrant urban landscape, Quezon City is a hub of connectivity and convenience. Boasting a well-developed transport infrastructure, the city provides easy access to numerous corporate offices, shopping centers, and entertainment hubs. Its close proximity to government institutions, schools, hospitals, and sports facilities further enhances its appeal as a prime location for both business and leisure visits.

HUGO unzips a first-of-its kind denim livery at Singapore GP with Visa Cash App RB

HUGO, with Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team, has designed F1’s first fashion-inspired livery in over 30 years, which is set to debut on track this weekend at the Singapore Grand Prix.

The sartorial-themed livery features a dynamic denim design that pays homage to HUGO’s iconic style. Since Italian fashion label and F1 team, Benetton, donned a historic “united colors” livery back in the 90’s, no fashion collaboration has graced a car’s outfit, despite fashion being at the forefront of Formula One partnerships in recent years. 

The Manila Hotel Unveils Early Holiday Cheer with Discounted Christmas Hampers

The Manila Hotel is ushering in the holiday season early with its Christmas Hamper early bird offer. From September 16 to October 31, 2024, guests can enjoy a 20% discount on thoughtfully assembled gift baskets brimming with festive treats and signature goodies. 

This year’s hampers are inspired by Filipino salakot, a traditional headgear, adding a cultural touch to the holiday celebrations. This limited-time offer gives patrons a head start on their holiday shopping, ensuring they can share the joy of the season with beautifully presented gifts.

The Standard Hamper is priced at Php 2,304 (regularly Php 2,880) that includes Bahay Kubo Gingerbread, Christmas Cookies, Fruitcake, Harana Pralines, Cashew Raisin Cluster, The Manila Hotel Facade Chocolate Bar, and a Santa with Bag Chocolate.

Of course, Hong Kong: Pinoys Share their Favorite Hidden Gems in the City

Discover Hidden Gems in Hong Kong: Filipino Locals Share Their Top Picks

Alternative title: Of course, Hong Kong: Pinoys Share their Favorite Hidden Gems in the City

There are plenty of recommendations online about where to go in Hong Kong, but nothing compares to insights from those who’ve truly embraced the city. We’ve talked with four Filipinos who’ve called Hong Kong home for nearly a decade. Discover why they swear by their favorite spots and get inspired to explore the city like a local:

Celebrate the best of Filipino artistry at the Gateway Art Fair

One of the largest art events this year happens from September 26 to 29 

Philippine art’s titans and up-and-coming artists are coming together for one of the most anticipated art events of the year—the Gateway Art Fair!

The event, which is set for a spectacular return this September 26 to 29 at the Quantum Skyview of the New Gateway Mall 2 in Araneta City, promises to be the largest iteration of the Gateway Art Fair yet! 

The Manila Hotel Awarded as Philippines’ Leading Hotel at the 31st World Travel Awards

The Manila Hotel is honored to be recognized as the Philippines’ Leading Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2024. This esteemed accolade reaffirms the Grand Dame’s unwavering commitment to providing world-class Filipino hospitality to guests from around the globe. Often regarded as the “Oscars of the travel industry,” the World Travel Awards celebrate excellence in tourism and hospitality. 

“We are thankful to the World Travel Awards for this recognition,” said The Manila Hotel president Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr. “To our cherished guests and patrons, this victory is yours as much as it is ours. Your continued support and loyalty inspire us to keep delivering the exceptional service you’ve come to love. We also extend our congratulations to the Department of Tourism for their achievement in winning Asia’s Leading Marketing Campaign award for the ‘Love the Philippines’ campaign. We also commend DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco for being recognized with the Transformational Leadership in Tourism Governance award, underscoring her outstanding contributions to Philippine tourism. Mabuhay ang industriya ng turismo ng Pilipinas!”

The Manila Hotel’s vice president for sales and marketing Marvin Kim Tan also stated, “We are delighted to receive this recognition from the World Travel Awards. This award reflects the dedication and passion of our team, whose commitment to excellence ensures that every guest experience the heart of the Filipino hospitality. It celebrates not just our rich heritage but the legacy we continue to build.” 

As an iconic national heritage institution, The Manila Hotel offers guests a blend of historical significance and modern amenities, while providing world-class accommodations, dining, wellness, and recreational services.

Philippines successfully hosts World Travel Awards 2024, bags eight awards

The Philippines has once again demonstrated its status as one of Asia’s premier tourism destinations by clinching a total of eight recognitions at the 31st World Travel Awards (WTA). This is the first time the country hosted the prestigious travel and tourism awards gala ceremony through the combined efforts of the Department of Tourism and its attached agency, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.

During the Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony 2024 at the City of Dreams held on Tuesday (Sep. 3), the Philippines was honored as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination for the sixth consecutive year since 2019, as it bagged the titles of Asia’s Leading Beach Destination and Asia’s Leading Island Destination.

Some of the country’s top destinations also took center stage at this year’s WTA, with the historic Walled City of Intramuros recognized as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction, while Boracay nailed the title of Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, and Cebu as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination.

Anya Resort Tagaytay Triumphs as Philippines’ Leading Boutique Resort at the 31st World Travel Awards

Mikel Arriet, Anya Resort Tagaytay General Manager (second from left); David Cooke, Founder of World Travel Awards (center); Eunice Lodripas (second from right), AHG Director of Corporate Communications and Marketing

Anya Resort Tagaytay has once again set the benchmark for luxury and excellence in the hospitality industry, securing the prestigious title of Philippines’ Leading Boutique Resort at the 31st Annual World Travel Awards. This marks the second consecutive year that Anya Resort Tagaytay has earned this distinguished recognition, having won the same award last year. The event, held at City of Dreams, was a star-studded affair celebrating the finest in the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors across the region.

Get into cool classic groove this Grandparents’ Day at Araneta City

Celebrate your grandparents with a shindig at the City of Firsts

The City of Firsts is once again pulling out all the stops to make Grandparents’ Day more fun for lolo, lola, and everyone in the family! This weekend, Araneta City turns back the clock to bring back the memorable ‘70s vibe and get everyone feelin’ groovy and happy. 

For this year’s celebration of Grandparents’ Day on September 8, Araneta City unveils a series of exciting activities that aim to celebrate some of the most important figures in our family while promoting the joy of spending time with the people we value most. 

Avail fab healthy treats at Farmers Plaza

Farmers Plaza is the perfect destination to give our grandparents a day focused on pampering them and improving their health. On September 8, Araneta City will hold a Grand Health Day with free medical services like blood pressure checks and consultations to ensure our beloved grandparents are healthy and in great shape.

A special treat is also in store for granny on this day! With just a minimum purchase of P500 at any Araneta City store, our grannies can take part in the Granny Makeover and avail free services from our participating outlets.

The Manila Hotel and Montesa Medical Group Forge Partnership

The Manila Hotel and Montesa Medical Group (MMG) officially sealed their partnership through a contract signing ceremony held at The Manila Hotel on August 8, 2024. The ceremony was led by The Manila Hotel president, Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., and vice president for administration, Elaine Santos. Representing Montesa Medical Group were president and medical director, Dr. Anna Marie Montesa, and managing director, Dr. Christine Marie Montesa, alongside key figures Lovely Rose Sherani and Christine Shea.

This agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Montesa Medical Group, as they are set to open a state-of-the-art aesthetic clinic within the health and recreational facilities of The Manila Hotel in November 2024. The clinic will offer a comprehensive range ofdermatological and wellness services. These premium services will be available to both in-house and non-in-house hotel guests.

Iloilo's first Tourist Rest Area to further boost Western Visayas tourism

Tubungan, Iloilo–The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Friday (Aug. 23), led the groundbreaking ceremony and memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing of the Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in the Municipality of Tubungan, Iloilo.

Situated in Brgy. Igpaho, the TRA in Tubungan is the first to be constructed in the province of Iloilo and the Western Visayas region.

In her address during the MOA signing program, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco underscored the importance of basic infrastructure in the development of towns and the nation, as she had seen first hand as a former Mayor.