Ali Mall: Celebrating 50 years of firsts in Araneta City

Araneta City has always been a place where history and progress meet. Known as the ultimate hub for commerce, entertainment, and transit in Metro Manila, it has grown into a cornerstone that reflects nostalgia while embracing modern urban culture. And among the many landmarks that have defined The City of Firsts, Ali Mall has stood for decades as one of its most recognizable icons. 

This year, Ali Mall is celebrating its 50th anniversary, a milestone that further highlights its enduring role in Araneta City’s story of evolution.  

Ali Mall was named after American professional boxer Muhammad Ali, who fought in the legendary “Thrilla in Manila” in 1975 at the Araneta Coliseum. It was opened to the public in June 30, 1976, with Ali personally leading its inauguration. 

Have a Grand Prix Celebration for Father’s Day at Araneta City

This Father's Day, Araneta City puts dads in the winner's circle with The Dad Grand Prix, a racing-themed celebration packed with family activities, exciting competitions, rewarding treats, and memorable experiences designed to honor the everyday heroes of the household.

“Fathers play a vital role in all our lives, guiding us through life’s challenges by offering guidance and support. Araneta City pays tribute to all the fathers out there who consistently show unwavering love to their families. We hope the activities we’ve prepared will create more unforgettable moments with Dad,” said Marjorie Go, Vice President for Marketing of Araneta City. 

Exclusive pit stop perks for dads

Araneta City offers a rewarding twist to this year’s celebration with Dad’s Pit Stop Father’s Day promo, designed to make the day even more memorable. Fathers who make a minimum purchase of P3,000 at participating stores and restaurants within Araneta City can redeem an exclusive Dad’s Pit Stop Gift Card. From a complimentary movie pass at Gateway Cineplex 18 to free food and beverage perks from popular dining partners, there’s a treat for every dad. 

Free To Be HUE: Araneta City celebrates the freedom to shine in every color this Pride Month

This June, Araneta City transforms into a vibrant hub of expression and solidarity as it launches “Free To Be HUE,” a month-long campaign that highlights the many stories, identities, and experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community. Through art, movement, and community-driven activities, the City of Firsts reaffirms its commitment to ensuring its spaces remain inclusive environments where everyone feels seen, respected, and truly free to be themselves.

Beyond knowing who we love, we also celebrate those who have come to fully understand who they are and how they choose to express themselves. This is the heart of “Free To Be HUE,” honoring individuality, no matter the colors of your identity, while celebrating the beauty of a community that comes together in diversity. Symbolized by a colorful pinwheel, the campaign reflects every color represented in a community that moves together as one. 

Joel Reglos Revisits the Architecture of Faith and Form in 5th Solo Exhibition, "Reminiscence”

Filipino visual artist Joel Reglos is set to unveil his highly anticipated fifth solo exhibition, "Reminiscence," a profound visual homecoming that explores the intersection of artistic evolution and spiritual endurance. In partnership with Altro Mondo Creative Space, the exhibit will be opening this May at the Gateway Gallery. The collection serves as both a retrospective of Reglos’s foundational aesthetics and a deeply personal testimony of the faith that sustained his rise in the Philippine contemporary art scene.

​In "Reminiscence," Reglos deliberately steps back from the present to re-engage with the raw energy of his formative years. Known for his mastery of the impasto technique and his signature use of heavy, sculptural textures, Reglos utilizes this exhibition to honor the specific palettes and vertical color compositions that first defined his voice. The works are not merely recreations of the past, but rather a sophisticated dialogue between the artist he was and the master technician he has become.

Araneta City makes summer easy with citywide seasonal offerings

Araneta City is making the most out of summer with a lineup of citywide offers aimed at families, friends, and individuals looking to enjoy leisure time without leaving Metro Manila. From shopping and dining deals to wellness experiences and staycations, the summer campaign brings together experiences across the City of Firsts.

“Summer is a season when people naturally seek time to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy simple moments. Through our summer lineup, we wanted to make everyday leisure more accessible—whether that means spending time with family, enjoying a good meal, or discovering a new way to relax, all within the city,” said Marjorie Go, Vice President for Marketing of Araneta City.

Get lucky and win cool gadgets

Araneta City kicks off its summer festivities with the Win Your Snaps raffle promo. Lucky participants may win cool gadgets such as iPhone 17, DJI OSMO 360 Standard, DJI OSMO Pocket 3 Creator Combo, and DJI Action 5 Pro Standard. A single-receipt purchase worth P1,500 from any Araneta City establishment is equivalent to one raffle ticket. Promo period runs until June 30.

The Philosophical Tales of Nestor Perez Ong at Gateway Gallery

”The Philosophical Tales Of The Ancient Raconteur: The Steampunk Surrealism Of Nestor Perez Ong:” This one-man exhibit by Nestor Perez Ong, leader of the Steampunk Indio Collective, turns one of the exhibit halls of Gateway Gallery into a brass-bound archive of dreams. Each piece in “The Philosophical Tales Of The Ancient Raconteur” began in Nestor’s sleep, in fragments of memory and myth that refuse to stay buried. 

He then rebuilds those visions through the steampunk lens: Clockwork maidens harvest fields of copper. Gas-masked Malakas and Maganda are awakened by an automaton raven coming out of a copper bamboo stem. Baroque churches sprout smokestacks and rivets. The result is not nostalgia, but a collision: precolonial spirit, colonial trauma, and industrial futurism all welded onto the same canvas. 

Araneta City nurtures stray cat welfare through “CoMEOWnity”

Araneta City deepens its commitment to kindness and shared responsibility through launching of “CoMEOWnity”, a citywide initiative aimed to protect, care, and uplift the lives of stray cats. Introduced under Araneta City’s Pet Pals program, the campaign recognizes stray cats not as passersby, but as cherished City-zens of the City of Firsts’ vibrant community.

“CoMEOWnity brings together our valued partners, patrons, cat lovers, and everyone who shares a deep compassion for stray cats,” said Marjorie Go, VP for Marketing of Araneta City, Inc. “Through this initiative, we hope to create a city where every stray cat feels safe, respected, and cared for.”

Araneta City, JAAF expand support for Filipino weavers through HIBLA

Araneta City and its corporate social responsibility arm, the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF), are launching HIBLA: Tradition Woven Forward, a reimagined cultural initiative that expands its annual trade fair into a broader, future‑forward program supporting Filipino weavers and preserving indigenous textile traditions.

“Hibla, meaning ‘fiber’ or ‘strand,’ perfectly encapsulates the essence of what we aim to achieve,” said Diane Romero, Executive Director of JAAF. “Each thread tells a story—of our history, our communities, and our future.”

HIBLA builds on the legacy of Habi Fiesta!, which was held in 2024 and 2025 as a stand‑alone trade fair at Gateway Mall 1, Araneta City. For 2026, Araneta City and JAAF are expanding the initiative into a program that supports weavers beyond the marketplace.

Araneta City brings a video game-inspired Easter adventure to life

The City of Firsts brings a video game–inspired Easter adventure to life on April 5 as Araneta City transforms into a playful, interactive world filled with egg-citing surprises and egg-stra special activities for the "Level Hop in Araneta City" celebration. Families can explore game-themed play areas and larger-than-life attractions, where kids become the heroes of their own Easter quests.

“Araneta City is celebrating Easter by putting kids and their families at the heart of our city-wide celebration," said Marjorie Go, VP for Marketing of Araneta City. “The City of Firsts is embracing the spirit of renewal and togetherness through activities that bring people together, which we aim to create joyful moments and strengthen family bonds.”

Araneta City joins the world for Earth Hour 2026

A symbolic lights-off moment and engaging activities aim to inspire a greener future for the community

Araneta City, the City of Firsts, joins cities and communities around the world in observing Earth Hour 2026 on March 28, marking the global movement with a full day of sustainability-focused initiatives designed to turn awareness into action.

With its "Time to do hOUR ACTION” message this year, Araneta City’s Earth Hour observance underscores a broader commitment to environmental responsibility: one that encourages individuals and communities to take meaningful, everyday steps toward a more sustainable future.

Retailers urged to rethink experience, adapt to AI-driven consumer trends

Seminar for Araneta City tenants highlights experience-led retail, “treatonomics,” Gen Z influence, and AI-powered discovery

As consumer behavior shifts toward experience-driven spending and artificial intelligence reshapes how people discover and purchase products, retailers are being urged to rethink not only what they sell, but how they sell. From the rise of “treatonomics” and values-led shopping among Generation Z to the growing influence of generative AI platforms on buying decisions, businesses face increasing pressure to differentiate and modernize their operations.

Araneta City spotlights women this March with ‘EmpowHER’

The City of Firsts celebrates National Women’s Month through a range of curated programs, events, and offerings

Over the course of history, women have embraced diverse roles at home, in the workplace, and within their communities. From nurturing families to leading teams and igniting social change, women remain at the forefront of progress. They continue to inspire future generations by redefining possibilities and shaping a more inclusive future for all.

In line with the celebration of the National Women’s Month, Araneta City marks this occasion under the theme EmpowHER, aligned with this year’s global call to “Give to Gain,” which highlights women empowerment as an investment in collective progress. From runway spectacles and interactive art exhibits to curated bazaars and community gatherings, Araneta City-zens can look forward to meaningful activities and offers that spotlight women’s talent, creativity, and value.

Beyond Tradition Exhibits Chinese-Filipino Artists In Time for the Chinese Lunar New Year

In time for the Chinese Lunar New Year, Gateway Gallery presents an exhibition from its art collection of artworks created by Chinese-Filipino artists. “Beyond Tradition: Evolving Chinese-Filipino Artists” focuses on the traditional Chinese art and how it evolved in form and philosophy in modern and contemporary times. 

Beyond Tradition, which opened on February 12 and will run until March 14, 2026, features 8 Chinese-Filipino artists and 2 Filipino artists. The collection is complemented by three works from guest artist and scholar Arnulfo Esguerra. The exhibition is headlined by senior Chinese art master Lupicinio “Peter” Ng, who currently serves as Head of the Ateneo Confucius Institute.

Gallop Into Prosperity in Araneta City

Join Araneta City’s Chinese New Year celebrations and ride the momentum toward success

Araneta City celebrates Chinese New Year with exciting offerings and lucky strides to usher in an auspicious year on February 17.

With the theme, Gallop in Prosperity, Araneta City presents a fiery tradition filled with festivities and celebration of Chinese culture to welcome a prosperous year ahead. Immerse yourself in a visual spectacle of luminous lanterns, Chinese Zodiac Horoscopes, energetic dances, and a bounty of the finest and most authentic oriental cuisines.

These curated offerings will bring the spirit of the Chinese New Year to life across Araneta City. Experience it as the City of Firsts transforms into a vibrant space where cultural traditions are displayed and shared, making the Lunar New Year memorable and prosperous. 

Bloom in Love at Araneta City

Fall head over heels this Valentine’s with romantic sights, sweet moments, and unforgettable experiences at Araneta City

This February, Araneta City is turning up the romance to celebrate the season of love. The City of Firsts ensures that love is felt, seen, and heard—whether you’re a couple, a soon-to-be lover, or enjoying the season solo. 

To mark the month of hearts, Gateway 1 and 2, Ali Mall, and Farmers Plaza will bloom with floral installations, arches, and garland wraps, transforming the complex into the ultimate romantic destination. These stunning displays will be paired with engaging activities to keep hearts happy and full. 

46 entries to clash in 2026 WSC-1 grand finals

A total of forty-six entries are slated to battle in today's grand finals of this year's first edition of World Slasher Cup 9-Cock Invitational Derby at the historic Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Top three entries competing in the 4-cock grand finals are RUEDA 5 GALLERA DE LIGASPE-1, SF JCAR EBROS D' JOBAC-1, and THUDERBIRD-5 - all with 5 wins and no loss at the end of the semi-final round.

Other top entries on the grand finals list are YNARES COLISEUM FEB 17 6-COCK SA NCA TRADITIONAL, TOKWING KAWIT ARENA JSL/DGL, and 419 DAYANG DAYANG JANJAN 2; all with 4 wins and 1 draw.

25 more entries to clash in 2026 WSC-1 grand finals

A total of twenty-five entries will also advance to the 4-cock grand finals of the first edition of the 2026 World Slasher Cup 9-Cock Invitational Derby on Sunday, February 1, at the historic Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The top cockfighters who advanced to the finals are led by JLA with 5 points, followed by Ito Ynares and Tokwing, who scored 4 wins and 1 draw. Other cockfighters competing in the grand finals with 4-1 scores are Al Estudillo, CPB/Jerry Limsiaco, Joe Alimbuyugin/Dominic Camu/Jonnel Cruz, Bryan Paulo Cruz, Ronnie Pastor, Atty. Art De Castro, Bobby Cabana/Rudy Cabana/Jojo A., Ryan/Jhonas/Butchoy, Honey Yu, Jason Cuevas, Elmer De Leon, Presly, Roy Minoza/Farley Minoza/Raylen Bendijo, Biboy Enriquez, Manny Jidaria/Manny Pua, BM Bentot Panganiban, Jeff Dumalaog/Ricky Vera, Tim Yapjoco/Cecilio Villarosa, Dicky Lim/Darryl Lim, and Paolo Caymo/Boody Buenaventura.

Make 2026 more exciting with a brand-new hybrid car from Araneta City

The holiday glow isn’t fading just yet at the City of Firsts! Araneta City's Dashing Through the Glow car raffle promo continues until February 1 to give shoppers and diners a chance to start the year with a big win.

The Dashing Through the Glow car raffle promo gives one lucky Araneta City-zen the chance to bring home a brand-new Jetour T2 Lightning iDM Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle. A single-receipt purchase worth ₱1,500 from participating establishments qualifies for an e-raffle entry. This includes receipts from Gateway Mall 1, Gateway Mall 2, Ali Mall, Farmers Plaza, Farmers Market Arcade, Farmers Garden, and other commercial establishments across the City of Firsts. 

Asia’s biggest dog show is back at the Smart Araneta Coliseum

Canines are set to take center stage at the biggest dog show in Asia — the Philippine Circuit 2026 — from January 21 to 26, 2026, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Now in its 12th year, the Philippine Circuit is organized by the Philippine Canine Club, Inc. (PCCI), a non-stock and non-profit organization dedicated to promoting love and compassion for purebred dogs. The event demonstrates PCCI’s commitment to propelling the canine experience onto the global stage. 

This year’s spectacle will be headlined by the 2026 Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) World Grooming Competition, which will highlight the skill and artistry in dog grooming. Dogs and dog handlers from across the globe will showcase creative styling, breed-specific cuts, and technical ability.

Rediscover the joy of merienda at Araneta City's World Kitchens

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.