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Experience Galentine’s Afternoon Tea at Oasis Garden Café this Valentine Season

The Galentine’s Afternoon Tea is a stylish ode to friendship, love, and togetherness, perfect for lingering afternoons filled with joy, indulgence, and a touch of luxury.

I recently had the most wonderful and exclusive experience attending Galentine’s Afternoon Tea at Oasis Garden Café, Solaire Resort Entertainment City. As we sipped on fragrant teas and indulged in an array of decadent pastries and finger sandwiches, it became clear that this was more than just an afternoon gathering—it was a celebration of friendship and connection.

This Valentine’s season, Oasis Garden Cafe reimagines love through the lens of friendship with a luxurious Galentine’s Afternoon Tea that celebrates laughter, connection, and beautiful moments shared. Designed for girlfriends, barkadas, chic tita dates, and couples alike, the experience offers an elegant pause from the everyday, where the occasion is meant to be savored.

Set within Oasis Garden Cafe’s serene, light-filled space, guests are welcomed into an afternoon of unhurried conversations over an afternoon tea indulgence. A thoughtfully curated selection of sweet and savory creations unfolds, featuring French delicacy foie gras on toasted brioche, smoked salmon tartare nestled in a beetroot cone with clotted cream, and refined confections such as hazelnut choux with chocolate ganache and cherry chocolate tarts each crafted to delight, share, and savor.

To complement the afternoon tea’s sweet and savory treats, guests can choose from a premium selection of beverages. Loose-leaf teas range from herbal infusions like Rosehip and Hibiscus—a citric hibiscus blend “Vitamin C bomb”—to vibrant green teas, innovative new blends, and flavored black teas such as Muscat from Provence, with its juicy, sweet-and-sour notes.

Coffee lovers may opt for freshly brewed Arabica coffee, while sparkling refreshments offer a light, effervescent alternative. For those seeking a romantic twist, the Valentine’s special rose-flavored tea mocktail adds a bold and playful touch, completing the afternoon tea experience.

With its artful presentations and effortless elegance, the Galentine’s Afternoon Tea is a stylish ode to friendship, love, and togetherness, perfect for lingering afternoons filled with joy, indulgence, and a touch of luxury. Available exclusively at Oasis Garden Cafe, Solaire Resort Entertainment City, from February 3 to 28, 2026.

Posterity shot: With Alike Team, Ms. Lianne, and Ms. Marga of Solaire Resort Entertainment City.
The in-house chef is delighted to walk us through the menu, crafted with delicious flavors in mind.
The author is enjoying the relaxing atmosphere at Oasis Garden Cafe.

 

Sharing stories, laughter, and heartfelt conversations with the Alike Team, Ms. Lianne, and Ms. Marga made me realize how important it is to cherish these moments together. Galentine’s Afternoon Tea was not just a special gathering, but a beautiful reminder of the strength and beauty of our bonds. I left with a full heart, grateful for the memories made and the relationships that continue to enrich my life.

For reservations or more information, please contact +632-8888-8888 or visit https://sec.solaireresort.com/offers/dining/oasis-happy-galentines.

#GalentinesAfternoonTea #OasisGardenCafe #SolaireResortEntertainmentCity #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Holiday Inn and Suites Makati Grand Relaunch: Refreshed, Redefined, Reimagined – Illuminating the Future of Sustainable Hospitality

Holiday Inn and Suites Makati proudly announce its grand relaunch, unveiling a newly renovated hotel designed to offer a more modern, engaging, and sustainable guest experience. Guided by the theme “Refreshed. Redefined. Reimagined,” the transformation reflects the brand’s commitment to innovation, connection, and responsible hospitality

Over the past months, the hotel has thoughtfully reimagined, redefined, and refreshed its spaces to reflect a more modern, welcoming, and connected Holiday Inn experience. At the heart of this transformation is the open lobby concept—designed to create seamless interaction, flexibility, and comfort. It is a space where guests can work, relax, meet, dine, or simply connect, all within one vibrant and open environment.

Standard Twin Beds.

The hotel is proud to introduce enhanced features that give it a fresh and contemporary feel. These include e-working spaces and a media lounge, designed for today’s modern traveler, as well as a day-to-night bar that encourages effortless transitions from productivity to relaxation. These open and fluid spaces are thoughtfully designed to foster genuine connections and meaningful experiences.

Beyond the lobby, new spaces further enrich the overall guest experience. Families can now enjoy the Kids’ Play Area, while guests looking to unwind can relax at the Oz Pool Bar, offering a refreshing and laid-back atmosphere. For dining, Flavors Restaurant’s Al Fresco area provides an enhanced and relaxed experience, allowing guests to enjoy modern comfort cuisine in an open and inviting setting. In the coming months, the hotel is also set to introduce pet-friendly rooms, extending its hospitality to guests who travel with their furry companions.

Management Team of HISM.

Sustainability remains a key pillar of the hotel’s transformation. Holiday Inn & Suites Makati is proud to share that it has received both the EDGE Advanced Certification and the prestigious EDGE Zero Carbon Certification, the highest level of green building recognition under the EDGE program.

Behind the refreshed design and modern comfort is a deeper commitment—one that goes beyond aesthetics.

At Holiday Inn & Suites Makati, the transformation was guided not only by style and functionality, but by purpose. Through IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow, the hotel has implemented LED lighting, renewable energy solutions, solar panels, and efficient water systems, among other initiatives. These efforts significantly reduce energy use, conserve water, and lower carbon footprint—because caring for guests also means caring for the environment and the community.

“More than just a renovation, this relaunch is a reflection of who we are and what we believe in,” said Andy Belmonte, General Manager of Holiday Inn and Suites Makati. “We wanted to create a space that feels welcoming, inspiring, and responsible—where guests can feel good about their stay, not just because of the comfort, but because they know they are part of something that cares for people and the planet. This is our way of delivering True Hospitality for Good.”

With its revitalized spaces, enhanced amenities, and strong sustainability commitment, Holiday Inn & Suites Makati enters a new year and a new chapter with a fresh and modern perspective—ready to create memorable experiences, meaningful connections, and moments that truly make guests smile.

To book your stay, call +63 2 7909 0888 or email hism.reservations@ihg.com.
For more information, visit www.ihg.com/holidayinn/makati.com or follow @holidayinnmakati on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

#HolidayInnandSuitesMakati  #grandrelaunch #RefreshedRedefinedReimagined #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Josh Groban Announces Very Special Guests Regine Velasquez and Martin Nievera for His ‘Gems World Tour’ in Manila

Tony, EMMY and five-time GRAMMY Award-nominated singer-songwriter Josh Groban brings his newest tour ‘Gems World Tour’ to Manila and announces his very special guests Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez and Concert King  Martin Nievera for a must-see Valentine’s week concert on February 18, 2026 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by Wilbros Live.

With over 35 million albums sold worldwide, Josh Groban’s career is defined by sweeping anthems such as “You Raise Me Up,” “To Where You Are,” “February Song” and “The Prayer.”. This tour celebrates his legacy of blending classical power with pop accessibility, featuring cinematic hits like “Believe” and “Evermore”, alongside an orchestra and choir for a truly immersive sonic experience. Groban possesses one of the most outstanding and instantly recognizable voices in music. Moreover, he continues to captivate fans everywhere as both a powerhouse vocalist and dynamic renaissance man with sold out concerts around the world.

Regine Velasquez, one of the best-selling Filipino artists of all time, whose legendary vocal range and hits like “Dadalhin,” “Pangako” and “On The Wings of Love” have earned her unprecedented accolades. Martin Nievera, the prolific singer-songwriter and TV host behind iconic hits like “Be My Lady,” “Say That You Love Me” and “You Are My Song” previously interviewed Groban and expressed immense excitement to transition from interviewer to stage partner for this historic reunion. Together, these multi-award-winning legends promise to make the evening an unforgettable showcase of world-class talent.

Reflecting on his return to the Philippines after seven years, Groban expressed a profound emotional connection to his Filipino audience, noting that the country holds “a very special place in my heart.” He credited the local fan base for their unwavering support, stating “Outside of America, the Philippines is one that got to truly accept my music. Filipinos have understood me and my music for the entirety of my career.”

For Groban, the upcoming Manila concert is a celebration of a relationship that spans decades. “Every time I have the opportunity to perform for my fans in the Philippines, it is a night of many things – most of which is gratitude – gratitude that I feel from my fans there since album one, day one,” he shared. “So whenever I come to the Philippines, whenever I get to play a concert there, I celebrate your country’s love of music.”

Don’t miss this unforgettable night of vocal excellence and musical history! Tickets are on-sale and available at SMTickets.com and SM Ticket outlets nationwide. Limited VIP Soundcheck Experience and VIP Superfun Package with Josh Groban are also available.

#JoshGroban #GemsWorldTour #RegineVelasquez #MartinNievera #WilbrosLive #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Meet the Floral Expert Transforming Solaire Resort North

Walk through the grand lobby of Solaire Resort North and you’ll notice it immediately—an unmistakable sense of calm, elegance, and vibrance. Every petal, every stem, every flourish of greenery feels intentional, composed, and artfully placed. These landscapes and floral signatures don’t appear by chance. They are living expressions of the woman who envisioned them: Anna Fay Rosal, Florist Manager of Solaire Resort North.

With over 20 years of experience in floral event styling, seasonal décor, and luxury hospitality, Anna Fay brings a cultivated eye and deeply personal touch to every corner of the resort. Her philosophy is simple yet profound. Flowers are not merely decorations; they are stories of place, memory, and emotion.

“There is always a way to make people feel something through flowers,” she often says. And at Solaire Resort North, she does just that, every single day.

An Architect of Beauty, Literally

Before entering the world of luxury florals, Anna Fay studied Architecture at the University of Santo Tomas, one of the country’s most esteemed design institutions. That foundation shaped her approach to floral design with a profound understanding of space, structure, proportion, and flow. To her, arrangements must not only look stunning—they must belong.

Before coming to Solaire Resort North, she spent two decades honing her craft in the luxury hotel industry. She refined her skills, successfully designing, executing, and managing décor for grand seasonal installations, hotel promotions, intimate celebrations, and major social events while leading a team of florists, gardeners, and decorators.

From sourcing exquisite florals to collaborating with engineers and contractors on large-scale installations, she mastered the unique balance of imagination, budget, quality, and execution that the hospitality industry requires.

Cultivating Experiences at Solaire Resort North

Today, Anna Fay lends her expertise to Solaire Resort North, creating a visual language that reflects the resort’s spirit. Warm yet modern, opulent but never intimidating. In her craft, she builds upon the belief that flowers are what breathe life into each space. Each decision she makes for her floral arrangements aims to enhance and blend with the art pieces they accompany.

“I consider the interior and its palette to enhance them with the flowers,” she says. From colors to artistic detail, she brings unity to the property through the balance and harmony her flowers introduce.

Anna Fay Rosal, Florist Manager.

Together with her talented team, she transforms spaces through floral arrangements, indoor landscapes, seasonal décor, and event styling, ensuring that every guest, from the lobby to the restaurants to the different floors, feels welcomed and inspired.

Step into the property on any given day and you’ll find thoughtfully curated vignettes. Fresh roses that change with the week’s palette, orchids suspended like jewelry, tropical greens celebrating Filipino heritage, or whimsical installations that mark upcoming holidays.

Her team works quietly and diligently, often before dawn, refreshing arrangements, so guests encounter beauty at its peak. It is hospitality expressed through nature, alive, breathing, and ever-changing.

Crafting Florals Worth Taking Home

For guests who want a piece of her artistry beyond the resort, Anna Fay and the Floral Team at Solaire Resort North now offer personalized floral arrangements, available exclusively at Solaire Boutique inside the property. Whether for a celebration, a thoughtful gift, a corporate gesture, or simply a beautiful addition to the home, each bouquet is designed with the same intention and refinement as seen throughout the resort.

For reservations and inquiries, visit https://sn.solaireresort.com/, call +632 8888 8888 or email sn.retail@solaireresort.com to reserve your next personalized floral arrangement.

#SolaireResortNorth # AnnaFayRosal #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Mercure Mactan Cebu Welcomes International Delegates to ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026

Mactan Newtown, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu – Strategically located directly across the Mactan Expo, the official venue of the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, Mercure Mactan Cebu welcomes international delegates with a stay that seamlessly connects global meetings, local culture, and island living. Set within the vibrant Mactan Newtown township, the hotel offers both proximity and perspective—placing guests at the center of the forum while immersing them in Cebu’s distinct sense of place.

As Cebu hosts regional and global tourism leaders from January 28 to 30, 2026, the hotel forms part of the destination-wide showcase mounted by The Mactan Newtown community, reinforcing Cebu’s growing role as a premier MICE and tourism destination in Southeast Asia.

Mactan Expo.

A Warm Welcome and Thoughtful Design

From the moment guests arrive, warm Filipino hospitality defines the experience. Thoughtfully curated interiors draw inspiration from Mactan’s natural elements—waves, coral reefs, and coastal textures—anchored by a striking metal art installation honoring national hero Datu Lapu-Lapu, a symbol of courage, heritage, and local pride.

Rooms with a Sense of Place

Guest rooms extend the storytelling through curated artworks and design details that reflect everyday Cebuano life. Subtle motifs inspired by puso (hanging rice) and beloved local delicacies such as otap, rosquillos, and dried mangoes add character and familiarity, balancing cultural depth with the comfort expected by international business and leisure travelers.

Island-Inspired Dining at Pulô

Dining at Pulô, the hotel’s all-day restaurant named after the Cebuano word for “island,” introduces guests to the destination through flavor. The menu highlights heirloom-inspired dishes such as SuTuKil, Balbacua, Sizzling Kansi, and Tinola sa Itom, complemented by international selections—offering a culinary experience that reflects Cebu’s diversity and identity.

Supporting Local Communities Through the Likha Corner

The hotel deepens its connection to the community through the Likha Corner, a curated space in the lobby that supports local entrepreneurs. Featuring homegrown coffee, sustainably sourced snacks, handcrafted fashion pieces, and artworks, the initiative allows guests to take home meaningful expressions of Cebu’s creative culture.

Wellness Rooted in Filipino Traditions

For rest and renewal, guests may retreat to the hotel’s spa on the 20th floor and enjoy traditional Hilot treatments. These time-honored Filipino wellness practices provide balance and calm, offering a restorative pause after full days of ASEAN Tourism Forum engagements.

A Gateway to Cebu’s History and Modern Life

Conveniently located just 15 minutes from Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the hotel is also close to cultural landmarks such as the Mactan Shrine—the historic site of the Battle of Mactan—while remaining embedded within a modern township of dining, retail, and lifestyle offerings.

Hotel facade.

Backed by Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, the Philippines’ largest hotel operator, and in partnership with Accor, Mercure Mactan Cebu delivers internationally trusted standards enriched by authentic local character, supported by the Accor Live Limitless.

As Cebu takes the regional spotlight for ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, Mercure Mactan Cebu stands where global dialogue meets island culture—welcoming international delegates to experience the destination not just through meetings, but through its people, stories, and way of life.

#MercureMactanCebu #ASEANTourismForum2026 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SM Hotels opens the Philippines’ biggest SMX Convention Center in Cebu

Cebu City, Philippines — The Philippines’ biggest SMX Convention Center is set to open in Cebu in Q3 2026.

Located at the Cebu South Coastal Road, the Php3.3 billion landmark project of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) will offer over 21,000 square meters of leasable event space setting a new benchmark for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities in the country.

With scalable halls, professional support services, and world-class amenities, the venue will provide organizers the capacity, flexibility, and convenience needed to mount world-class events up to 18,000 delegates.

“Cebu has always been one of the most in-demand destinations for events, and we are proud to finally bring SMX’s trusted brand of service to this dynamic market. It’s the culmination of more than two decades of experience in delivering professional and high-impact events,” said Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President – Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC).

Internationally recognized as the premier convention center in the Philippines, SMX has earned a reputation for delivering professionally managed spaces tailored to the diverse needs of large-scale exhibitions, conferences, corporate events, and celebrations.

The SMX Convention Center will rise beside the SM Seaside City Cebu offering direct connectivity to major lifestyle, retail, and hospitality hubs as well as convenient access to key infrastructure such as the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

It will form part of a carefully master-planned development that includes a 300-room Park Inn Hotel, a 200-room Radisson Hotel and the 16,000-seating capacity SM Seaside Arena, reinforcing Cebu as a complete, integrated MICE and entertainment destination.

“This is our response to the long-standing demand for a convention venue of this scale in Cebu.  Soon, Cebuanos and visiting delegates alike will no longer need to fly to Manila for major exhibitions, summits, or concerts—the experience will be right here,” adds Mr. Wafik. 

For more information, please visit www.smxconventioncenter.com, https://smhotels.com.ph/

#SMXConventionCenterCebu #SMHCC #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Rhodesian Sales Corporation Appoints Digital Influencers Kister Morata and Sharmaine Rodriguez as Newest Brand Ambassadors

Rhodesian Sales Corporation, a premier wholesale leader in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and nondurable goods, is proud to announce the addition of young talents and Filipino digital creators Kister Morata and Sharmaine Rodriguez to its elite roster of brand ambassadors.

Through this strategic partnership, Kister and Sharmaine will serve as the new faces for Rhodesian’s diverse product portfolio, including Tai Chi Rub&VCO Liniments, Kuchi Pearl, Foamee, Kuchi Kuchi, Doggie’s Choice, Moringa Vita, Guyasteen, Oilganics, and Hailey’s Underarm and Foot Powder. These trusted brands are widely available at major retailers such as Watsons and Mercury Drug, as well as leading online platforms.

From Digital Pioneers to Lifestyle Icons 

Since they began their content creation journey in 2020, Kister and Sharmaine have evolved from skincare enthusiasts into influential lifestyle figures. Their compelling storytelling has not only taken them to international destinations—including Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and Hong Kong—but has also made them synonymous with premium local staycations and high-end lifestyle experiences.

The “Team Orange” Edge 

As key contributors to Orange Magazine, an established entertainment and lifestyle publication, and prominent members of Team Orange, the two passionate content creators bring a sophisticated media pedigree to the Rhodesian brand. Their collective expertise spans tech, food, travel, beauty and lifestyle, backed by a proven track record of successful collaborations with local and global giants such as HONOR Philippines, Huawei, McDonalds, foodpanda, OREO, The Bistro Group, Racks, Tenya, Timezone, Mikana, Zenith, CLEAR, Marie France, Luminisce, ROMA Wellness & Beauty, and Cebu Pacific.

A Multi-Channel Campaign 

This ambassadorship will launch a comprehensive nationwide campaign. Consumers can expect to see Kister and Sharmaine featured across:

  • Print & Digital: National newspapers, magazines, and official brand websites.
  • Broadcast: Radio and television advertisements.
  • Outdoor & Transit: High-visibility billboards, transit ads, and Duratrans displays.
  • In-Store & Direct: Retail packaging, in-store video displays, brochures, and catalogs.

“We are thrilled to represent Rhodesian Sales Corporation,” says Kister Morata. Sharmaine added, “Promoting brands that prioritize Filipino wellness and everyday essentials aligns perfectly with our mission to share authentic, high-quality lifestyle recommendations with our community.” 

About Rhodesian Sales Corporation

Rhodesian Sales Corporation is a leading wholesale trade entity in the Philippines, specializing in the distribution of high-quality pharmaceuticals, drugs, and consumer goods.

About Kister Morata and Sharmaine Rodriguez

Kister and Sharmaine are prominent content creators, brand ambassadors, and editorial contributors for Orange Magazine. They are represented as key members of Team Orange, specializing in lifestyle, travel, and aesthetic brand storytelling.

#RhodesianSalesCorporation #OrangeMagazine #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Dagyang Kita Sa Richmonde: Celebrate Dinagyang with Richmonde Hotel Iloilo’s Signature Festival Experiences

Iloilo’s grandest and most-awaited festival is back—and it’s set to be more vibrant, flavorful, and unforgettable than ever!

 

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo invites travelers, families, and festivalgoers to fully experience the energy and excitement of Dinagyang 2026 through a thoughtfully curated selection of room packages and festive food and beverage offerings, perfectly positioned at the center of Iloilo City’s most iconic celebration.

From now until January 25, 2026, guests can enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay that places them close to the city’s colorful parades, cultural performances, and street revelry. Peak festival dates from January 23 to 25 are offered at PHP 14,500 nett for room-only stays and PHP 15,000 nett with buffet breakfast for two. Each package includes accommodations for up to two adults and two children aged 12 years old and below, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and use of the hotel’s swimming pool and fitness center—ensuring both comfort and convenience throughout the festivities.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo_Dinagyang Richie Bear.

Complementing each Dinagyang stay is the hotel’s dynamic lineup of food and beverage events, celebrating both local heritage and modern indulgence. From January 20 to 25, guests can unwind at BizBar with Beers, Grills & Cocktails, featuring a bucket of six beers with a platter of assorted grilled meats for PHP 999 nett, along with a buy one, get one offer of Zabana cocktails priced as low as PHP 225 nett per glass.

Different tribes from all over the country will paint the Iloilo skyline with bursts of color as they illuminate it with their lighted costumes!

The culinary celebrations come alive on January 23 with Ilomination Night: Heritage Flavors Aglow, a multi-venue dining experience inspired by the colors, energy, and traditions of Dinagyang. Perfectly timed with the much-anticipated ILOmination Parade at Iloilo Business Park, the evening offers guests a chance to enjoy great food while witnessing illuminated performances, vibrant street spectacles, and a dazzling fireworks display just moments away.

Guests may dine at The Granary for Digamo: Flavors of the Archipelago, a LuzViMinda classics dinner buffet served from 6PM to 10PM for PHP 1,450 nett. For a more casual, festive setup closer to the parade action, Fiesta Parilya: Sugba at Iba Pa offers an all-you-can grill experience with 1 round each of Heineken draft beer and house blend iced tea at the porte cochere from 5PM onwards, priced at PHP 1,000 nett. As the night winds down, celebrations continue at Zabana Bar with Radiance at Dusk, a cocktail party from 7PM to 10PM featuring an open bar and panoramic views of the parade and fireworks, available at PHP 1,500 nett, with 50% off for diners of Digamo and Fiesta Parilya.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo_Fiesta Parilya_Sugba atbp.

On January 24, guests can further savor the festival spirit with Dagyang Kag Sinadya!, an interactive festival buffet at The Granary from 5PM to 10PM, showcasing live action stations and Ilonggo specialties for PHP 1,850 nett.

Celebrate Dinagyang 2026 with Richmonde Hotel Iloilo—where festive stays, heritage flavors, and unforgettable moments come together in one remarkable destination at the heart of the city.

For inquiries, room bookings, and table reservations, contact Richmonde Hotel Iloilo at trunk line +63 33 328 7888 or email stay@richmondeiloilo.com for room accommodations; or call or message +63 917 563 3558 (mobile/Viber) for dining reservations. You may also visit www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph for more details and follow @RichmondeHotelIloilo on social media to explore more of the hotel’s offerings.

#RichmondeHotelIloilo #Dinagyang2026 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Usher in the Year of the Horse with ‘Of Art and Wine’ Series: Conrad Manila Unveils ‘Spectrum of Abundance’ by Lizanne Uychaco

The iconic hotel by the bay presents a captivating art exhibition at the Gallery C, featuring artworks that embody good fortune and prosperity.

 

Conrad Manila opens its 2026 Of Art and Wine series at Gallery C with Spectrum of Abundance, a solo showcase byLizanne Uychaco, celebrated as the country’s first and only Feng Shui artist. Curated by esteemed art connoisseur Nestor Jardin, this 24-piece art collection will be open for viewing from January 21 to March 21, 2026, offering an artistic tribute to the Year of the Horse through themes of success, harmony, and abundance.

“Conrad Manila remains steadfast in its commitment to champion Filipino artistry that resonates with meaning and cultural depth,” said Akshat Sinha, hotel manager of Conrad Manila. “Through this year-opening showcase, we aim to share the promise of prosperity and positive energy that 2026 brings, as reflected in Ms. Uychaco’s exceptional artistry rooted in her Chinese-Filipino heritage.”

Spectrum of Abundance presents a series of auspicious works inspired by ancient symbols of luck, strength, harmony, success, wealth, happiness, and abundance – to celebrate and honor the Year of the Horse. Executed in richly textured mixed media, Lizanne’s works reflect her mastery across diverse disciplines – sculpture, pottery, jewelry, calligraphy, and painting. Each piece radiates positive energy, a harmony of culture, heritage, and artistic spirit.

Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation leads the ceremonial wine toasting.

The ribbon cutting ceremony, was graced by distinguished guests, including Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Rico Hizon, Consultant of SM Investments Corporation and Guest of Honor; Akshat Sinha, Conrad Manila’s Hotel Manager, and Lizanne Uychaco.

Lizanne Uychaco’s distinctive art works

Lizanne Uychaco is widely recognized as the country’s first and only Feng Shui artist. Her works stand out for their authenticity—rooted in her Chinese-Filipino heritage and brought to life through a masterful use of mixed media. A lifelong practitioner of the arts, Lizanne’s training spans sculpture, pottery, jewelry-making, silvercraft, Chinese painting and calligraphy, watercolor, oils, and acrylics. This breadth of expertise makes her pieces instantly recognizable and richly textured.

Her art is a compelling paradox of antiquity and modernity—a distinctive fusion of East and West. Each piece offers a contemporary interpretation of ancient cultural symbols, beliefs, and energies associated with protection, good fortune, wealth, success, and prosperity.

A recurring motif in her work is the Chinese coin with a square hole—a traditional charm symbolizing heaven (circle) and earth (square), in line with ancient Chinese cosmology. These coins, historically used as currency from the Qin Dynasty (221 BCE) to the end of the Qing Dynasty, embody both cultural heritage and metaphysical significance in her compositions.

Lizanne was first introduced to the public art scene by the Ayala Museum in 1993, through its Discovery Series curated by the late Museum Director Sonia Ner. This debut solo exhibition marked the beginning of a series of successful shows that followed.

All artworks are available for acquisition. For inquiries and more information, guests and art collectors may contact +632 8833 9999 or email Conrad.Manila.info@conradhotels.com.

 

#ConradManila #LizanneUychaco #OfArtandWineseries #GalleryC #SpectrumofAbundance #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Chinatown Gallops into the Year of the Horse with Dazzling Multicultural Festivities

Chinatown will usher in the Year of the Horse with the highly anticipated Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations from 18 January to 18 March 2026. The precinct will be transformed by a vibrant festive light-up inspired by the Year of the Horse, complemented by a rich lineup of cultural performances, engaging weekend workshops and the much-anticipated return of the Lion Dance Competition

Beyond the iconic Official Street Light-Up & Opening Ceremony, this year’s programme also features the annual Countdown Party (新春倒数派对) from 16 to 17 February 2026 at Kreta Ayer Square, bringing communities of all ages together in celebration. This year’s festivities include a refreshed collaboration with the Temenggong Artists-in-Residence, the festive art partners behind the street light designs, whose creative interpretations add depth and cultural resonance to the celebrations.

Street Light-Up: Galloping into the Prosperous Year

The 2026 Street Light-Up (新春亮灯) themed “Galloping into the Prosperous Year” (万马奔腾, 喜迎新春), draws inspiration from traditional Chinese paper-cutting, reimagined through a contemporary lens.

The installation is anchored by a magnificent 8.8-metre golden horse centrepiece, symbolizing momentum, aspiration, and collective progress. Its dynamic form and intricate detailing showcase both artistic craftsmanship and a sense of forward motion, reflecting shared hopes and determination for the year ahead. Accented with orchids and peonies in woven baskets, this installation weaves together symbols of prosperity, harmony, and abundance, creating a festive landscape that speaks to unity and renewal across Singapore’s diverse communities. Radiating outward from the golden horse, three surrounding sections unfold as a visual narrative, featuring a total of 60 horses and 48 fruits. The galloping horses surge dynamically toward the centrepiece, symbolizing unity, aspiration, and collective progress to welcome all communities into the new year.

Official Street Light-Up & Opening Ceremony

The Official Street Light-Up & Opening Ceremony (新春亮灯仪式与开幕典礼) will take place on 30 January 2026 at 6.00 PM at Kreta Ayer Square (牛车水广场), marking the formal launch of the Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations. The event will be broadcast live on Facebook and YouTube.

Chinatown will be illuminated with vibrant horse-inspired lanterns and auspicious motifs, creating an enchanting atmosphere for the festivities. The light-up will span key entrances across the precinct, including South Bridge Road, Upper Cross Street, New Bridge Road, and Eu Tong Seng Street. Decorative elements such as eight lanterns adorned with the sacred treasures of the Eight Immortals, and six auspicious fruit motifs symbolizing abundance, will be complemented by accents of Singapore orchids, paper-cut-inspired designs, and layered red drapes. This cohesive streetscape conveys wishes of unity, prosperity, and renewal for the Chinese New Year.

Cultural performances at the opening ceremony will celebrate Singapore’s multicultural identity, bringing together Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western artistic traditions. Key performances include a horse-inspired dance that blends Chinese dance with Malay Kuda Kepang, Indian Rajasthani horse dance, and Western styles. Additional highlights include Melodies of Spring, which pairs Chinese vocals with dances from Malay, Indian, and Western traditions, and Galloping into Spring, an erhu performance inspired by the imagery of galloping horses and the arrival of spring.

The ceremony will be officiated by Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister for Digital Development and Information, Minister-in-Charge of Cybersecurity and Smart Nation Group and Adviser to Jalan Besar GRC Grassroots Organisations (GROs) (Kreta Ayer—Kim Seng), alongside Mr David Neo, Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Senior Minister of State for Education.

Mrs Josephine Teo shared: “Chinese New Year is a time to renew and strengthen the bonds that unite our families and communities. As Singapore celebrates its 61st year of nationhood, the imagery of 61 horses galloping forward in unison symbolizes our collective spirit, shared purpose, and resilience as one people striving towards a common future. As we welcome the Year of the Horse, the horse’s qualities of strength, endurance, and determination remind us that our greatest strength lies in drawing support from one another and standing together to build a stronger and more caring Singapore.”

Ms Guo Teyi, Director, Leisure Events Division, Singapore Tourism Board, added: “The Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations exemplify Singapore’s position as a vibrant multicultural destination, bringing together locals and visitors in joyful celebration. These festivities are part of Singapore’s rich tapestry of cultural celebrations throughout the year, representing our nation’s unique multicultural identity and the harmonious spirit that defines us. We invite everyone to experience the festive spirit of Chinese New Year at Chinatown – a time of renewal, prosperity, and shared celebrations as we welcome the Year of the Horse.”

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