Araneta City ushers in the holiday season with the return of Parolan bazaar

The start of the Christmas season in the Philippines is marked by the appearance of colorful lanterns that brighten homes and communities across the country. In Araneta City, where generations of Filipinos have celebrated Christmas through the years, the season begins to unfold once again with the opening of this year's Parolan bazaar on October 1.

For years, Parolan has signaled the start of the Christmas season for many shoppers in Araneta City, becoming one of the holiday traditions that generations of families have come to associate with the City of Firsts. This seasonal marketplace brings together vendors offering a wide selection of handmade lanterns, festive decorations, gift items, and holiday essentials in one convenient location. 

Visitors can choose from an array of parols, from grand Pampanga-style lanterns with intricate designs and vibrant light displays, to traditional bamboo and capiz lanterns that evoke the warmth and nostalgia of a Filipino Christmas. There are also other holiday décor items such as Christmas tree ornaments, garlands, fairy lights, and nativity sets.

How Gateway Cineplex 18 sets a new standard for effortless cinema experiences

If you went out to watch a movie during the recent National Cinema Day, you probably saw just how packed the theaters can be, which really showed how much everyone still loves going to the movies. But while we all love the silver screen, we do not love the hassle that often comes with getting to our seats. Fortunately, Gateway Cineplex 18 in Araneta City has quietly perfected the art of the effortless movie experience, turning what can be a logistics puzzle into a seamless, fun escape! 

At Gateway Cineplex 18, everything is designed to cut out the friction, starting right at the box office. For instance, the cineplex recently introduced Apple Pay for over-the-counter transactions, allowing you to just tap your iPhone or Apple Watch when paying for your ticket. If you prefer to secure your seats before you even arrive at Gateway Mall 1 or 2, you can easily use the TicketNet website. 

Champagne Room Introduces New Additions to its À La Carte Menu

At Champagne Room, dining has always been as much about the experience as what arrives at the table. Set within the elegant surroundings of The Manila Hotel, the restaurant invites guests to savor the new additions to its a la carte menu, available for lunch and dinner.

Complementing its well-loved culinary repertoire, the latest additions span starters and seafood, hearty main courses, grilled specialties, and desserts with a touch of tableside theater.

“The new dishes are designed to stay true to the distinct Champagne Room experience while giving our guests something new to discover. We wanted to bring together familiar favorites and a few dishes with a sense of occasion, so every course feels special from the first bite to the last,” says The Manila Hotel’s executive chef Konrad Walter.

Hold on to win a BMW Motorbike: The Motovated Hawak Motor Challenge hits GH Mall this October

Think you’ve got the grip to go all the way? The Motovated Hawak Motor Challenge is coming to the GH Mall South Wing Atrium on October 24, 2026.

The Challenge: Keep one hand on the panel and be the last participant standing to win and drive home with a brand-new BMW F450 GS!

Raffle Prizes: Beyond the grand prize, participants can also get a chance to win a Honda BeAT, KYT helmets, Motul products, and other sponsor freebies.

How to Enter: Visit Pawchester at 5F GH Mall and avail of their pet grooming and daycare services until October 20, 2026 to qualify for the Motovated Hawak Motor Challenge.

Check out all the details on the GH Mall official Facebook page.

See you at the South Wing Atrium on October 24. Hawak. Hold on. Win big!

Negros Trade Fair marks 40 years of championing MSMEs with SM Supermalls

Unveiled during the media launch, the official BÚTLAK video sweeps across Negros—its landscapes, landmarks, fashion, and artistry—bringing the island’s creative spirit to life.

One afternoon at SM Aura was enough to show why generations of shoppers have made the Negros Trade Fair a much-awaited celebration. The Association of Negros Producers (ANP), together with SM Supermalls, officially launched BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair with a preview that brought together the flavors, fashion, craftsmanship, stories, and creative spirit of Negros. From September 22 to 27, 2026, the landmark anniversary edition will bring 178 brands from the Negros Island Region to the SMX Convention Center Aura.

7 Reasons You Can’t Miss BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair

Forty years. Generations of makers. One landmark celebration of everything Negros—back at SM

Forty years of Negrense creativity, craftsmanship, and enterprise—all coming together under one roof. Food, fashion, home, and craftsmanship at BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair, in partnership with SM for MSMEs, brings homegrown businesses closer to more customers and opportunities at SMX Convention Center Aura, September 22–27.

Discover, Dine, and Play: Cebu’s Growing Collection of Destination Attractions Captivates Travelers

Discover fun and adventure at Cebu Fun Park, one of the featured attractions within the SM Seaside Complex that brings recreation and leisure together in one destination. 

Cebu continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the country's most dynamic travel destinations, offering visitors a diverse mix of attractions, experiences, and activities that go beyond its renowned beaches and heritage sites. As part of its SM for Cebu commitment, the most-loved SM malls in Cebu continue to bring together shopping, dining, entertainment, recreation, and leisure experiences, giving both locals and visitors a maxed-out experience and more ways to discover, dine, play, and make the most of their time in the province.

New Tables to Try, New Corners to Discover at SM Supermalls in Mindanao

Your saved list is about to get longer! 🙈

This month, SM Supermalls is bringing even more reasons to plan that next mall trip across Mindanao. Think new cafés, fresh dining spots, and exciting brands making their debut! Here's a quick roundup of the latest openings you won't want to miss.

Let's get into the newest arrivals, shall we?

Your Guide to New Stores and Food Spots at SM Supermalls in Mindanao

No two mall visits are exactly the same. Some days call for a café stop, others for a shopping trip or a meal you've been craving!

This July, SM Supermalls is adding more experiences across Mindanao with a fresh mix of dining spots and lifestyle brands. From first-in-SM concepts to exciting new openings, there's even more to enjoy, whatever brings you to the mall.

Here's what's new at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls!

OPM Icon Radha Helms Nights of Filipino Talent at Quezon Club

Amplify evening excitement with ’90s OPM icon Radha Cuadrado showing off a new side to nightlife entertainment at Solaire Resort Quezon City

Passion and artistry behind culinary creations have long been shaping people’s dining experiences. Today, a delicious meal can feel even more enjoyable alongside a melodic tune or a thrilling dance sequence. At Solaire Resort Quezon City, a new face of dinnertime entertainment unveils with ’90s OPM icon Radha Cuadrado elevating evenings at Quezon Club leading an eclectic array of local talents.

Discovery Samal is Davao’s Exclusive Nominee for Best Resort in the Philippines at DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2027

Three years after opening, Discovery Samal marks a new milestone shaped by Filipino hospitality, meaningful celebrations, and the stories of those who have made it their home away from home

Discovery Samal is proudly stepping onto the national stage as a nominee for Best Resort in the Philippines at the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2027 which marks an exciting milestone for the resort and a proud moment for the destination it calls home.

The nomination celebrates the experiences and connections Discovery Samal has created over the past three years. From family getaways and romantic escapes to corporate retreats and trips with friends, the resort has welcomed guests from different backgrounds to come together, celebrate, and create lasting memories on the island.

The New ‘My SM’: How the Filipino Consumer Is Redefining the Mall Experience

Customers continue to be the transformation driver for SM Supermalls.

Following undisrupted foot traffic and positive business performance in the first half of 2026, the mall operating arm of SM Prime Holdings Inc. has noted three key factors that maintained market interest despite scaled consumption patterns earlier in the year.

"Filipinos kept showing up for family, passions, and the moments that matter," said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. "SM remained a trusted constant, creating more ways to celebrate, connect, play, and discover, while evolving alongside how Filipinos now live. That is the heart of 'My SM' - evolving alongside our customers so every mall feels personal, inclusive, and built around what they love most."

Save This For Your Next SM Supermalls Run in the Metro!

If you're always on the lookout for what's new, you're in the right place! And yes, we’re sure you saw the photo above…the most-awaited tumbler brand now officially made its way to the Philippines! 🫶🏼

From brands opening their very first stores to exciting new dining concepts and lifestyle favorites arriving at SM, brings plenty of fresh reasons to stop by. Here's a look at the latest openings across Metro Manila.

VFS Global enhances UK visa submission experience for Filipinos with 4 Premium and Mobile Visa Application Centres in the Philippines

With demand for travel from the Philippines to the UK continuing to grow, VFS Global now offers Premium Application Centres (PACs) in Metro Manila, Davao City, and Cagayan de Oro City, and a Mobile Visa Application Centre (MVAC) in Bataan, providing UK visa customers with greater flexibility, convenience and accessibility when submitting their visa applications.

The Premium Application Centres in Metro Manila, Davao City, and Cagayan de Oro City are designed for customers who value convenience, privacy and efficiency, including business travellers, families, senior citizens and professionals with demanding schedules. The Mobile Visa Application Centre in Balanga City, Bataan brings visa submission services closer to customers in the city, offering an accessible and convenient alternative location. Both centres operate in accordance with the processes and guidelines established by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

To book an appointment at our Premium Application Centres or Mobile Visa Application Centre, customers need to select their preferred location while applying for their UK visa online.

Young descendant explores the legacy of Marcelo H. Del Pilar in Ayala Museum pop-up exhibit

LOLO MARCELO: THE MAN BEHIND THE HERO, curated by Pax Pineda, offers a personal look at the sacrifices and humanity behind one of the Philippines’ foremost propagandists

At 17, Pax Pineda turns his personal connection to Philippine history into a public exploration of one of the country’s most influential propagandists.

Running from September 4 to October 17, 2026 at the 2F Lobby of Ayala Museum's Diorama Experience Gallery, LOLO MARCELO: THE MAN BEHIND THE HERO (Reflections on the Legacy of Marcelo H. Del Pilar) bridges the gap bridge the gap between history and personal heritage, transforming Del Pilar from a mere historical icon into a relatable figure whose spirit continues to inspire.

Warm Each Soul and Home with Artisanal Pastries from Solaire Resort Quezon City

Take a piece of crowd-favorite breads and more made fresh daily by Solaire Resort Quezon City’s own Chief Baker, Chef Edwin Himson.

Whether it be for a quick break or an intentional moment of respite, the light ambiance and welcoming atmosphere at Solaire Resort Quezon City beckons guests to stay a while. Warmth courses throughout the halls of Solaire in many ways, but settles comfortably in the delectable artisanal breads and pastries prepared by the resort’s Chief Baker, Chef Edwin Himson.

Regular guests may be familiar with Chef Edwin and his team’s creations through the classic pandesal trio platter at Manyaman, or the complimentary bread basket at Finestra featuring fluffy bites of focaccia and ciabatta before each meal. With decades of expertise he’s built as a pâtissier in both international and local luxury hotels, Chef Edwin infuses his baked goods with care and love that breathe life into each diner’s palate. 

Aznar Shipping backs free cadetship training, helping ease Visayas maritime crew shortage

Free onboard training for over 200 aspiring seafarers amid estimated 55% officer-level gap in Central Visayas

Maritime cadets receive practical onboard training and guidance from Aznar Shipping crew members through the company’s free cadetship program.

Cebu-based shipping operator Aznar Shipping Corporation (“Aznar Shipping” or the “Company”) is supporting cadetship programs for the upcoming academic year by providing onboard training opportunities to more than 200 aspiring seafarers, helping address the maritime crew shortage in Central Visayas.

Discovery Samal Brings the Spirit of Kadayawan to the Island with Festive Dining and Local Flavors

As Kadayawan Festival fills the streets of Davao City with color, culture, and celebration, Discovery Samal marks the season with a collection of dining experiences inspired by Davao’s flavors, harvest, and festive spirit.

Guests can make an island escape part of their Kadayawan plans, whether that’s lingering over a regional feast, settling in for a barbecue dinner by the beach, or raising a glass to one of Davao’s most recognizable fruits. 

Araneta City Seafood Festival makes waves this August

This August, Araneta City is bringing together its diverse dining, entertainment, hospitality, and retail destinations for the first-ever Araneta City Seafood Festival, a month-long celebration that puts a spotlight on the country's rich seafood heritage while promoting conversations around food sustainability, food security, and culinary culture.

The Araneta City Seafood Festival serves as a fitting showcase for the City of Firsts, which boasts more than 350 food outlets, as one of Metro Manila's premier destinations for seafood lovers. The festival brings together various Araneta Group companies and Araneta City tenants, including the iconic Farmers Market, one of the cleanest and most popular wet markets in the metro; the newly opened Seafood 8 by Olio's at Gateway Mall 2; and participating restaurants known for their seafood specialties. Together, these offerings strengthen Araneta City's position as a go-to destination for seafood dining and experiences.

7 Reasons Aseana City Reflects the Future of Retirement Living in the Bay Area

Retirement today is no longer defined by slowing down. More people are choosing to stay active, travel, pursue new interests, and spend meaningful time with family. As lifestyles evolve, so do expectations for where retirement should happen.

A recent Colliers Philippines review highlights the Bay Area as one of Metro Manila's emerging retirement destinations, pointing to its accessibility, mixed-use developments, healthcare ecosystem, and improving infrastructure as key factors driving its appeal.

More importantly, the report reflects a broader shift in priorities. Today's retirees aren't simply looking for a home – they're looking for communities that support the way they want to live.