Experience Wonder, Whimsy, and the Spirit of Renewal in the Christmas Capital of the Philippines
This holiday season, John Hay Hotels invites everyone to a celebration like no other as the iconic mountain retreat transforms into a world of wonder with A Magical Cirque Christmas, ongoing until January 15, 2026. This spectacular festivity brings joy, enchantment, and renewed hope to Baguio City’s beloved highlands.
Discovery Samal welcomes guests to a signature long-weekend experience by the sea
Discovery Samal invites guests to celebrate the upcoming long weekend from December 6 to December 8 with an itinerary designed to refresh the spirit, energize the body, and immerse guests in the signature warmth and hospitality of Samal Island. Blending adventure, wellness, family experiences, and indulgent dining, the resort offers a long-weekend escape filled with memorable moments across its beach, pool, activity hubs, and expansive grounds.
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This month marks a new chapter for Davao as SM Supermalls welcomes a bold new era with evolving finds just for you.
SM City Davao, the first and largest SM mall in Mindanao, opens its Expansion Building bringing fresh urban experiences for every Davaoeño. From Insta-worthy dining scenes to stylish hangouts, every spot is designed to be pure feed goals.
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This month, Metro Cebu welcomes you with feel-good flavors, playful finds, and cozy new spots to enjoy. With the long weekends giving more time to unwind, it’s the perfect chance to explore something new—whether you’re craving a quick bite, refreshing your routine, or simply slowing down.
In this bold new era of SM Supermalls, evolving finds are waiting for you–where everything is thoughtfully chosen to match the way you live from hanging out with friends to relaxing solo. From dining to lifestyle, these new experiences are here to make everyday moments in the spaces you already love even more special, because we truly got it all for you here at SM Supermalls.
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A new vibrant energy is buzzing through the city as more stores open at SM Lanang, making Davao even more truly madayaw. Here, every new discovery is made for you—from trendy, crave-worthy dishes to fashion and entertainment experiences worth showcasing on your grid. In this new era of SM Supermalls, exciting finds await, each reflecting how we continue to grow and evolve with you.
With thoughtfully chosen flavors and styles that can match any Davaoeño’s discerning taste, every visit is sure to turn into a story worth sharing.
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San Fernando, La Union, Philippines — With climate change driving heavier rains and more frequent floods, proactive flood prevention has become a key part of building resilient communities.
SM City La Union, now the 30th mall of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) that features a rainwater catchment facility, expands its network of climate-resilient infrastructure nationwide. For SM Supermalls, catchment facilities are designed to collect and store large volumes of stormwater, preventing runoff that could otherwise overwhelm drainage networks.
During heavy rainfall, the catchment temporarily holds stormwater, allowing gradual discharge through proper channels. Collectively, SM City La Union’s underground rainwater catchment system can provide a total capacity of 760 cubic meters
The 35-foot Christmas tree lights up the Parqal, marking the start of Aseana City’s magical holiday season.
You know that it’s already the season of Christmas when the streets are all gleaming with colorful lights, kids are caroling with Christmas songs we all know from the heart. But the heartwarming part of it all is when we see a giant Christmas tree, shining with lots of hanging displays on its branches. Aseana City brings this festive and nostalgic feeling to Parqal as they light up their giant Christmas tree as a mark of the start of holiday festivities in Parqal, transforming Aseana City into a hub of seasonal magic and community spirit.
New cafés, dining spots, shopping finds, lifestyle corners, and a simple route via the CV Bridge make CV an easy stop for December plans.
If you’re looking for an easy holiday hangout, CV Strip in Quezon City is a good bet. Relaxed cafés, good food, a few new places worth checking out, and just enough happening around the strip to make a short visit feel worth it — whether you’re dropping in for a quick coffee, an early dinner, last-minute gifts, or simply a small break from the usual holiday buzz.
PHINMA Properties’ newest Bacolod township brings travelers, dreamers, and families together in one vibrant community
In Bacolod, life has always moved to a rhythm of joy. From the warmth of its people to the color of its festivals, every moment in the City of Smiles carries a kind of optimism that feels both deeply rooted and forward-looking. Now, that same spirit is finding a new home in Saludad, PHINMA Properties’ first masterplanned township in the region; a place where Bacolod’s culture, creativity, and progress come together.
Flavors that Light Up Christmas
At Discovery Samal, the holidays are best spent around the table where families and friends gather to laugh, reminisce, and savor the season’s most comforting dishes.
A purposeful weekend awaits champions of healthy lifestyles, pet lovers, and environmental warriors at Celebrity Wellness Weekend (CWW) 2025, happening on Dec. 5-7 at the Food Truck Fest in Greenfield District, Mandaluyong City.
Around 30 celebrities, online personalities, and athletes who represent different aspects of wellness will join the event. These include Alice Dixson, who stays in shape by regular exercise and healthy eating, Danica Sotto-Pingris, a celebrity mom who is also a furmom to at least seven dogs, Rufa Mae Quinto, who has always shown that laughter is the best medicine, and Antoinette Taus, who has found fulfillment in advocating for the environment. Sports enthusiasts and athletes Lance de Castro, Bang Nita, and Marc Pingris will also grace the event.
Silver City: A strategic hub for growth in Ortigas East
As companies align their 2025 expansion strategies with workforce accessibility, Ortigas Offices is positioning Silver City, a multi-building office district within Ortigas East, Pasig, as a high-performance suburban business address designed to support the evolving needs of BPOs and corporate occupiers.
Located at the crossroads of Pasig, Marikina, and Rizal, Silver City connects businesses to one of Metro Manila’s richest talent corridors, while offering employees improved commute times and access to a vibrant, campus-style estate. The district’s combination of scalable PEZA-certified spaces, robust infrastructure, and people-first design positions it as a compelling choice for firms seeking to expand or relocate operations outside traditional CBDs.
Robinsons Ilocos serves as the official venue partner of the inaugural Philippine Handloom Weaving Festival (PHWF) — the country’s first nationwide celebration dedicated to advancing and preserving Filipino handloom weaving traditions. The partnership provides a vibrant and accessible setting for more than 120 weavers from over 40 weaving communities, together with designers, researchers, and textile advocates to exchange ideas and showcase the richness of Philippine textiles.
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Discovery Samal is kicking off the holiday season in style at The Bistro with a night designed to ignite the spirit of celebration. The Bistro: A Taste of the Holidays invites guests on a delicious journey through a playful tasting menu inspired by the nostalgia of a classic Christmas carol where each dish tells its own tale, blending creativity and festive flair to set the tone for a season of warmth, wonder, and culinary delight.
Guests start with A Partridge in a Pear Tree, tender and succulent quail nestled on caramelized leeks, rounded out by pear purée and sage-chestnut glaze. A whisper of prosciutto crisp and a rose-hued tuile give it a soft sparkle on the plate. Two Turtle Doves follows with smoked duck roulade resting against a lemon blini, brightened by cherry reduction and a delicate tuile that seems almost too fragile to touch.
An exciting new menu celebrates Filipino mid-day favorites with global flavors and comforting twists
Merienda is an important part of Filipino food culture. Whether it’s a steaming bowl of sopas, a glass of refreshing halo-halo, or a stick of delectable fishballs, Pinoys have a fond memory of this quick in-between meal.
World Kitchens understands the country's love for this gastronomic tradition, that’s why it is now offering beloved merienda favorites and a bit more. Its merienda menu redefines the Filipino ritual by giving familiar food comforts a touch of international flair.
Discovery Samal is casting a spell of fun and excitement for the whole family with a Halloween celebration like no other. This October 31, the island transforms into a magical playground for kids and adults alike with “Black Magic”, a festive day filled with enchanting thrills, delightful treats, and unforgettable memories.
Guests are invited to kick off their Halloween adventure with a bountiful lunch at Morning Catch where they can indulge in a feast of flavors and be entertained with a special Halloween program. As the afternoon unfolds, the magic continues with the much awaited Halloween Trick or Treat where guests can explore the resort and collect sweet surprises at every corner. Rate is Php 2,800 net for one child under seven and one guardian, Php 1,400 net for kids 7 to 11 years old, and extra charges for each additional kid or guardian. Guests 12 and up are charged adult rates.
Araneta City invites you to experience Oktoberfest like never before—a celebration where cold mugs of beer, hearty food, and the joy of togetherness come alive in one unforgettable event. What began as a festive tradition in Munich has blossomed into a global phenomenon, uniting people across cultures with good food, great drinks, and cheerful toasts—an experience that resonates deeply with Filipinos.
This October, the City of Firsts gives you even more reasons to raise a glass with a vibrant lineup of Oktoberfest-inspired feasts and festivities. Blending international flavors with the Filipino love for a tall, ice-cold pint, Araneta City brings you the perfect fusion of merriment and taste. Here’s where you can drink, dine, and celebrate all October long at Araneta City:
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Artist and educator Roberto Martin Sing will launch his official career as an artist with his first solo exhibition “Cool Waters.” The Cool Waters series is rooted in the philosophy that art can and should function as a source of Contemplative Solace. For Sing, whose professional life as an educator took place amidst the demanding environment of Metro Manila, the recurring subject of the freshwater stream represents a magical and necessary Escapism.
This series by Sing consciously rejects artistic provocation, dedicating itself instead to the singular mission of invoking peace, healing, and positive emotional refuge from the pressures of modern life through art.
This mission of emotional nourishment aligns with the core of Aestheticism—the value of "art for art's sake"—but shifts its focus from pure sensation to pure tranquility. The goal is an experience of deep repose, a concept that echoes the contemplative value of art described by figures like Arthur Schopenhauer, who saw aesthetic experience as a temporary escape from the constant striving and suffering of the will.
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Beyond its restorative purpose, the series is a ten-year journal of artistic discipline and growth. The paintings serve as a living record of the artist’s academic philosophy: a practice built upon the rigorous, sustained study of the Old Masters' methods. With each painting, the artist actively integrates new knowledge, harnessing different mediums and techniques to demonstrate a commitment to the continuous evolution and mastery of craft.
The Cool Waters series ultimately reflects a deep-seated, threefold purpose: First, to pay reverence to the history of painting by diligently building upon the foundational techniques of admired masters and mentors; second, to deliver a clear message of positive emotional solace to every viewer; and third, to fulfill a personal commitment to the cultivation of ability akin to the Parable of the Talents.
Cool Waters will have its Artist’s Reception on October 18, 2025, at 5 pm. The exhibit will run until October 25, 2025 at the Studio of Gateway Gallery.
The Manila Hotel once again earns international recognition as it is named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel 2025 at the 32nd World Travel Awards Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony, held on October 13, 2025, at the InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong.
Following its 2024 win, this consecutive victory reaffirms The Manila Hotel’s enduring excellence and its stature as the country’s premier luxury landmark. The World Travel Awards—often regarded as the “Oscars of the travel industry”—honor organizations that set new standards of excellence in travel, tourism, and hospitality worldwide.
Love is in the air and on the clock! tvN Asia, in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, proudly presents Love on the Clock, a brand-new dating reality series filmed entirely in Hong Kong, designed to showcase the city’s most vibrant attractions while bringing together six singles in search of romance. The first ever Pinoy reality dating show set in Hong Kong premiers on tvN and TV5 Philippines this October.
Hosted by Filipino stars Juancho Triviño and Dawn Chang, the eight-episode series premiered October 11 on TV5 and airs on tvN Asia beginning October 17 (Fridays, 4:00 PM).
“We’re thrilled to partner with tvN Asia on Love on the Clock, a series that beautifully captures the essence of Hong Kong as a city of love, energy, and vibrant experiences,” said Ms Liew Chian Jia, Regional Director of Southeast Asia, Hong Kong Tourism Board. “From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the show offers audiences a fresh perspective on Hong Kong's captivating appeal — whether you're visiting for the first time or rediscovering it with someone special.”
Greenhills welcomes a new sanctuary for modern self-care with the relaunch of Sheena Clinic and the grand opening of Lindra Spa, now open at 2F O-Square 2, Greenhills, San Juan. This milestone by the Sheena Group of Companies marks the first integrated destination that brings together science-based aesthetics and Nordic-inspired wellness in one luxurious space.
Guests experienced the unveiling of the Sheena Beauty Bar, a first-of-its-kind innovation where visitors can “Build Your Own Skin Ritual,” alongside Lindra Spa’s signature Nordic treatments such as the Lindra Signature, Aurora Prestige, and the Varm & Kall contrast therapy. Designed as a haven of balance and renewal, Lindra Spa offers holistic relaxation paired with Scandinavian-inspired dining through its wellness lounge, Fika.
The Manila Hotel, the Grand Dame of the Philippines, is setting the stage for a festive season of giving with the unveiling of its Christmas Hampers. Thoughtfully prepared with gourmet delights and signature treats, these hampers make for elegant, memorable gifts, perfect for holiday gatherings and corporate giving.
To make gifting even more rewarding, The Manila Hotel is offering an Early Bird Offer of up to 30% off on its hampers until November 15, 2025.
The Deluxe Hamper, a charming choice for spreading holiday cheer, is available at Php 3,104 nett from the regular Php 3,880 nett. Inside are festive favorites such as Food for the Gods, Fruitcake, Christmas Cookies, Dark Chocolate Postcard, Christmas Chocolate Balls, and a bottle of red wine.
Wellness centers around Aseana City give workers and visitors a dedicated space to work on their goals.
Wellness is no longer a trend for Filipinos; it has become a way of life. Whether going for a run, finding balance through yoga, or taking up a sport like badminton, more and more individuals are incorporating fitness activities into their daily routines as a commitment to healthier and more mindful living.
A study by AIA Philippines shows that 44% of Filipinos now run or jog multiple times a week, while 15% regularly join in activities like team sports or strength training. These figures point to a nationwide movement towards greater physical activity.
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Alino Hotel, the first hospitality project of property developer Keyland Corporation, has announced the appointment of its senior leadership team as the company prepares to open the 20-story, 128-room boutique hotel along E. Rodriguez Avenue in Quezon City.
Heading operations is General Manager Lady May Elegado, a hotelier with more than two decades of experience in both the Philippines and Malaysia. Her background includes senior roles at The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort, Berjaya Makati Hotel, and City Garden Grand Hotel. Over the course of her career, Elegado has overseen hotel functions ranging from pre-opening to day-to-day operations in both luxury and standard-class properties, giving her broad exposure to multiple areas of management.
On the culinary side, Executive Chef Rexsan Abarquez will direct the hotel’s food and beverage program, including its all-day dining outlet, Kutchara. Abarquez has also logged more than 20 years in the industry, most recently as Executive Sous Chef and Acting Executive Chef at Marco Polo Ortigas. His resume includes time with Conrad Manila’s pre-opening team, as well as kitchen posts at Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Mandarin Oriental Manila, and Makati Shangri-La. His experience in international kitchens and high-end hotels allows him to blend global techniques with Filipino flavors.
The Manila Hotel has been honored with the Tourism Pillar Excellence Award at the first-ever Philippine Tourism Awards, organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) under the leadership of Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. The recognition highlights outstanding contributions to the tourism industry, with a focus on excellence, sustainability, and innovation.
A landmark in Philippine history, The Manila Hotel was cited for its enduring legacy and its pivotal role in shaping the country’s tourism landscape. The accolade underscores the hotel’s commitment to preserving its storied heritage while evolving to meet the needs of the modern traveler.
“It is with immense pride and gratitude that we accept this award from the Department of Tourism,” said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel. “This recognition reaffirms our belief that true hospitality lies in creating unforgettable experiences, from a warm welcome at the door, to impeccable service at every touchpoint, to the genuine attention extended to every guest. This award belongs not only to The Manila Hotel, but to the legacy of Filipino hospitality we strive to share with the world.”
VIYLine CEO Viy Cortez–Velasquez joins merchants and influencers at the caravan, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to uplifting MSMEs.
The VIYLine MSME Caravan is bringing its vibrant showcase of local entrepreneurship and proudly Filipino products to the east as it lands at SM City Masinag this September 17–23. Organized by VIYLine Group of Companies together with SM Supermalls, the caravan has become a well-loved platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to shine in some of the country’s busiest malls. From beauty and wellness essentials to fashion finds, home must-haves, and foodie favorites, shoppers can look forward to discovering the creati vity, resilience, and grit of Filipino entrepreneurs.
Culinary Creations by Rising Negrense Chefs - Two Negrense talents wowed the crowd and stole the spotlight during the media launch of Himbon: The 39th Negros Trade Fair last Aug 26, 2025—and their names are worth remembering. Their gastronomic menu was just a taste of what’s possible: innovative, world-class, and proudly Negrense!
Chef Cara Davis (Halong, Makati) – trained in Michelin-starred kitchens
from New York to San Sebastián, she now fuses bold Asian flavors with her
Free Coffee, Light Exercise, and Relaxation
Start the day with fresh air, gentle movement, and good company at aRUNeta Run Club: A Grand Meditative Morning on September 14, from 5 AM to 9 AM. Grandparents can join Qi Gong sessions, then enjoy free coffee and mixed pastries while catching up with loved ones and fellow participants. It’s a refreshing way to energize the body and soul while bonding with family and the community.
The Manila Hotel has once again affirmed its stature as the Grand Dame of the Philippines, taking top honors at the Trip.Best awards by Trip.com. The iconic landmark was named No. 1 Cultural Hotel 2025 and No. 1 Gourmet Hotel 2024 in Metro Manila, while also earning a spot among the Top 20 Premium Hotels for 2025.
The No. 1 Cultural Hotel award is given to historic properties that preserve their architectural style and heritage, offering guests an immersive experience of history. Established in 1912, The Manila Hotel has welcomed world leaders, dignitaries, and celebrities, with storied spaces such as the MacArthur Suite serving witnesses to pivotal moments in Philippine history.
Beyond heritage, The Manila Hotel shines in the culinary spotlight as its signature Chinese restaurant, Red Jade, secured the No. 1 Gourmet Hotel distinction. Known for its refined take on traditional Chinese cuisine, Red Jade has become a dining destination in its own right.
With tourism contributing 8.9 percent to the nation’s GDP, and domestic and international arrivals projected to reach record highs, the MOPC Grand Tourism Awards celebrate “the doers and shakers” who champion world-class destinations and Filipino hospitality. Since their launch in 2023, the awards have honored some of the most influential names in Philippine tourism and business, including the Sy, Ayala, and Gokongwei families; Ramon Ang; and industry leaders such as Cebu Pacific, Newport World Resorts, and El Nido Resorts, cementing their reputation as one of the most prestigious recognitions in the field.
In today’s fast-paced retail environment, customer expectations are higher than ever—and frontline staff are at the heart of meeting them.
This was the central theme of the latest free seminar hosted by Araneta City in partnership with the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on August 8 at The Hub in Cyberpark Tower 1.
Leading the discussion was entrepreneur and sales coach Ruben Lanot, who shared practical insights on how retail teams can elevate the in-store experience and build lasting customer relationships.
He highlighted the important role that frontline retail staff play in a business, directly influencing customer experience, sales, and loyalty through service and product knowledge. “More than just employees, frontline retail staff are the living, breathing representation of a business, and its success greatly depends on their ability to connect with customers,” Lanot said.
The Manila Hotel has entered into a landmark partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The partnership designates the historic hotel as an official training ground for aspiring hoteliers and hospitality professionals, marking a significant step in advancing enterprise-based education in the country.
The agreement was formalized during Kapihan sa Manila Hotel on August 13, 2025, with TESDA Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Benitez as guest of honor. During the forum, TESDA awarded The Manila Hotel Certificates of TVET Program Registration—its first in partnership with the hotel—recognizing its comprehensive training programs under the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) scheme.
The sessions will take place on August 27, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the University of the Philippines – Diliman, and on August 28, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at Instituto Cervantes de Manila (Makati branch).
Aimed at students and young writers, the workshop is designed to help participants hone their skills in Spanish creative writing. Through practical exercises, Escudero will guide them in exploring the expressive power of brevity and the techniques for crafting compelling microrrelatos (very short stories).
This August, Ortigas Malls invites you to immerse yourself in the richness of Filipino language, arts, and culture with a vibrant lineup of events at GH Mall and Estancia Mall. Get ready to celebrate "Buwan ng Wika" with month-long activities that promise fun for the whole family while paying homage to our heritage.
GH Mall: The Language of Local Entrepreneurship
Over at GH Mall, the Buwan ng Wika celebrations give a nod to the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels our local economy. From August 15 to 17 at the South Wing Atrium, the Nakakalocal Bazaar returns for its fourth year, celebrating homegrown brands and vendors. It's the perfect opportunity to support local businesses and discover unique, proudly Filipino products. Right alongside it, the Kiddopreneur event from August 16 to 17 at the East Wing Atrium will empower the next generation of Filipino innovators, teaching them the language of business and commerce in a fun and engaging way.
This concert marks the grand finale of Zarzuela Viva, a month-long celebration of the shared cultural heritage between Spain and the Philippines, featuring weekly zarzuela screenings, an immersive workshop, and this closing recital.
The zarzuela, one of the most treasured art forms in the Spanish-speaking world, was also among the most popular cultural expressions in the Philippines for decades. As Alexandra Chua, Dean of the UST Conservatory of Music, observes: “In the Philippine context, the sarswela is not merely a borrowed tradition, but a powerful symbol of Filipino transcultural identity and creativity. Embedded within it are distinctly Filipino stories and narratives that reflect local experiences, struggles, and aspirations. Through the reimagining of inherited forms, the sarswela becomes a dynamic expression of Filipino agency and cultural voice.”
A Celebration of Travel, Culture, and Lifestyle from August 29 to 31, 2025
Manila, Philippines – Get ready to Travel, Explore, Discover, and Roam! The much anticipated Travel & Lifestyle Expo 2025 is back, happening on August 29 to 31, 2025, at the Activity Center, Upper Ground Floor, Ayala Malls Circuit, Makati.
Organized by JJ Events Management, in partnership with STEP UP Travel + Events, the 3-day event will once again bring together top travel destinations, lifestyle brands, tourism agencies, and media partners to offer exciting deals, immersive experiences, and fresh travel inspiration for all wanderlusts and adventurers.
Filmmaker and visual artist Ray Defante Gibraltar is marking an important period in his life with a pair of milestone projects — his first solo art exhibit and first book. Both deal with themes of mental health and are direct expressions of his former struggles with addiction.
Titled “Kuris-kuris At Ang Pagpapaamo sa Aking mga Dragon,” the art exhibit features striking abstract mixed media pieces that portray a tapestry of mental, psychological, and emotional turmoil. Kuris is a Bisayan (Cebuano) word for doodles or scribbles
The exhibit runs from August 16 to 22, 2025, at Gateway Gallery, 5th floor, Gateway Tower in Araneta City. It’s the same venue where Gibraltar held his previous exhibit, Under Construction, a two-man show with colleague Jom Vega in August 2024.
Folded into the “Kuris-kuris” opening event is the debut of Gibraltar as a published author. Titled “Nag Dyo-dyornal Din ang Adik (Mga Pinta at Kuwento Tungong Kahinahunan),” the book is a companion piece to the exhibit, containing a catalogue of all artworks in the exhibit and essays on select pieces that feature the autobiographical stories and inspirations behind them.
The Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. (BAFI) and URATEX are proud to renew their partnership for another 10 years. URATEX is one of the founding partners of The Mind Museum, marking a new chapter in their shared mission to champion the arts and sciences for learners of all ages. This renewed collaboration builds on a relationship rooted in shared purpose, innovation, and a deep understanding of the power of widespread inspired learning in science, math and the arts to shape futures.
Uratex President and CEO Mrs. Natividad Cheng affirmed the new strong potential of this partnership saying “We, in Uratex, want to be able to reach as many Filipino communities as possible through the innovations that we do to improve Filipino lives. Since BAFI has music, math and science programs and projects that are so engaging, and reaching out across our country as well, this made us really think it was a natural alliance.”
John Hay Hotels and chocolatier Angeleah Montilde present an artisanal experience celebrating Cordillera’s cacao legacy through craft, culture, and purposeful luxury.
Amidst the cool mountain breeze and towering pine trees of the Cordilleras, a unique experience unfolds at John Hay Hotels, one that blends heritage, artistry, and conscious craftsmanship into a celebration of cacao’s rich legacy.
Through an exclusive partnership with Angeleah Montilde, Baguio-based founder and chocolatier of Kokomo Chocolate, John Hay Hotels presents artisan chocolate-making workshops that immerse guests in purposeful luxury, featuring the ancestral rhythms of Cordillera cacao, from its origins in the highland soil to the delicately crafted bars that tell stories of community and culture.
Batangas youth empowered to become future leaders in hospitality
Landco Pacific Corporation, a pioneer in premium leisure and sustainable seaside developments for over 30 years, deepens its commitment to community development through its Adopt-a-Scholar Program. This is an initiative that provides long-term support to underprivileged yet deserving youth from the surrounding communities of Landco BeachTowns Club Laiya and CaSoBe (Calatagan South Beach) in Batangas.
This development comes after an intimate dinner hosted at the Champagne Salon, where members of the media were served an elegant vegetarian set menu. The experience was met with glowing feedback, proving that meat-free dining can be both refined and indulgent.
“Our menus are rooted in freshness and balance,” said executive chef Konrad Walter. “We focus on seasonal produce and non-processed ingredients to create dishes that are not only nutritious, but also full of flavor. We’ve seen guests try them out of curiosity, and walk away surprised at how satisfying and complex vegan cuisine can be.”
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Hot pot season is officially in full swing at Dragon Court, the signature Chinese restaurant of Manila Prince Hotel. Beginning August 1, 2025, guests are invited to gather around the table for a feast of simmering flavors with its new hot pot sets, now made even more enticing with the addition of individual hot pot stations, offering a fully customizable dining experience.
Elevated Indulgence: Premium Hot Pot
For those with a refined palate, the Premium Hot Pot set is now available at a special rate of Php 1,088 nett person, regularly Php 1,288. This set includes premium ingredients such as beef tenderloin, sausage, shrimp, oyster mushrooms, and squid balls, among others. All served alongside an abundant serving of vegetables and noodles to complement the broth of choice and dipping sauces.
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There’s nothing like going to the movies. As the lights dim and as the screen comes alive, you are instantly transported to new worlds. There you experience a plethora of stories and experience different lives. It is escape, exploration, and discovery all at the same time. It allows us to delve into our shared human condition—deepening our understanding and broadening our horizon. It is nothing short of magical.
And that transformative power of cinema is exactly what’s celebrated at Gateway Cineplex 18.
“Movies are a way to escape, but they also bring us together and connect us with one another,” Irene Jose, COO of Uniprom Inc. said. “We know our moviegoers want to be immersed in the story, which is why we’ve made it a point to deliver an exceptional cinema experience. And now, we’re taking it even further by introducing unique, first-of-its-kind concepts here in the country.”
The Manila Hotel reopens Heritage Museum following extensive enhancements aimed at delivering a more engaging historical experience. Located at the lobby level of the iconic hotel, the revamped museum presents a newly curated collection of artifacts, documents, and interactive displays that highlight the hotel’s role in Philippine history, culture, and hospitality since 1912.
The Heritage Museum showcases the hotel’s architectural and cultural legacy, notable guests, world leaders, and contributions to society over the past century. Previously unseen photographs and antique décor pieces are now on display, giving visitors a closer look at the milestones that shaped The Manila Hotel’s legacy. New additions include digital installations, the hotel’s oldest surviving menu, and a curated display of antique furniture, among others.
Pedestrian walkway in Parqal– a mixed-use development block in the Bay Area, overlooking Aseana 3
In the hustle and bustle of a big city like Metro Manila, getting around on foot has become a daily challenge for many commuters. According to data from local civil society group Move As One Coalition, 94% of Filipinos walk or rely on public transportation while the remaining 6% use their own cars.
Further data from the said organization shows Filipinos spend around 77.5% of their travel time walking, yet only 5% of the roads are considered safe for pedestrians. Additionally, a survey conducted by Social Weather Stations (SWS) found that 44% of non-home-based Filipino workers walk to work, making it the most common way to commute.
Discovery Samal continues to define the art of indulgence with The Bistro, a refined dining concept nestled beside its tranquil villa pool. Surrounded by the lush greenery of the island and kissed by the gentle sea breeze, The Bistro offers a serene yet sumptuous escape for discerning palates seeking both scenery and flavor with every bite.
Whether you're lounging by the water or prefer to have a leisure lunch, every visit to The Bistro promises a luxurious culinary experience with a view paired with amazing food - from succulent tender steaks to perfectly cooked pasta, freshly caught seafood, decadent desserts and more.
Elevated Comfort, Artfully Served
The Bistro’s menu celebrates a harmony of globally inspired cuisine and island freshness, offering expertly crafted selections such as Taste of Italy for its pasta selections, Gourmet Plates for the mains, Curated Meats for the steaks selection, and Sweet Endings for the desserts. Designed to satisfy a variety of cravings, each dish is crafted with premium ingredients and a nod to the rich bounty of Davao.
Landco Pacific’s Iconic Beachfront Condotel Earns Green Recognition as It Redefines Sustainable Leisure Living in Club Laiya, Batangas
Landco Pacific Corporation, a trailblazer in premium landscapes and eco-luxury for over three decades, continues to push the boundaries of sustainable development with The Spinnaker, its iconic beachfront condotel at Club Laiya in San Juan, Batangas, now recognized with a Preliminary EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Certification from the Philippine Green Building Initiative (PGBI).
This distinction places The Spinnaker at the forefront of green resort living in the country and affirms Landco’s unwavering commitment to purposeful, future-ready real estate development. In line with this commitment, The Spinnaker is also actively pursuing LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, the globally recognized standard for sustainable buildings developed by the U.S. Green Building Council.
In the pine-cloaked highlands of Baguio, where time slows and mist curls like memory, a new kind of luxury awaits, one that awakens the senses, honors Cordillera heritage, and tells stories by firelight.
At the John Hay Hotels, managed by Landco Lifestyle Ventures, guests are invited to experience a culinary ritual unlike any other: the Baguio Mountain Man Fire Dinner. Set under a canopy of trees and starlight, this isn’t simply a meal, it’s a journey into ancestral memory and soulful living.
This is purposeful luxury: raw yet refined, and unforgettable.
