Ruby is a true-blooded media practitioner and a journalist by profession.
She served her early years as a lifestyle writer for a leading magazine and a couple of corporate engagements to which she learned the ropes of editorial work – and dealing with almost the brightest personalities and celebrities in tinsel town.
She had a very productive stint at the now-defunct AMPR Publicity and Communications, Inc. It was also during this period that she honed her skills in Marketing when she had the opportunity to serve as Committee Member at the prestigious Philippine Marketing Association.
For inquiries, invites, or to send relevant press content, email the author at rubyasoy@yahoo.com.
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The Life ‘n Arts Festival 2025 is set to take place on October 24–26, 2025 at Town Plaza, Alabang Town Center. This three-day festival stands as a premier celebration of creativity, culture, and community — uniting artists, musicians, and creatives of all kinds in a vibrant showcase of talent.
With thousands of attendees expected from Metro Manila and beyond, the festival aims to amplify artistry and innovation through a series of engaging programs and activities. This advocacy to inspire audiences, entertain communities, and promote talent.
The festival features a diverse lineup of events designed to engage, educate, and inspire:
Art Auction – The largest art sale of the festival, offering exclusive pieces for collectors and enthusiasts, providing opportunities to connect directly with artists and acquire remarkable works of art.
Art Talks – Insightful discussions with established artists as they share their journeys, experiences, and perspectives on contemporary art and creative practice.
On-the-Spot Painting – A live showcase where artists bring their visions to life, demonstrating creativity and mastery in real time.
Performances – A vibrant program featuring live music, dance, cultural showcases, and special presentations such as the Fashion Show and Cosplay Parade.
Workshops – Hands-on learning experiences in pottery, crochet, and other creative crafts, open to both beginners and enthusiasts.
Fashion Show – A presentation of artistry and style, featuring the works of designers who embody innovation and Filipino craftsmanship.
Competitions – Opportunities for emerging and established talents to shine through events such as Battle of the Canvas, Photography Contest, Short Film Contest, Cosplay Competition, and the Pet PAWshion Show.
The Life ‘n Arts Festival 2025 invites the public to be part of this inspiring celebration that highlights talent and the power of artistic collaboration.
Kawaii meets creepy at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel’s “Anime After Dark: Halloween Kiddie Party” happening on October 25, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the hotel’s 3/F Ballroom and 2/F Amberley-Belmont Rooms. Inspired by the exciting and colorful universe of Japanese animation, this year’s celebration invites guests to enter a whimsical and spirited dimension where they can channel their inner ninjas and mecha pilot, or favorite Pokemon and Studio Ghibli characters as the hotel’s resident cosplayers roam the venue, bringing the world of anime to life.
ERH Anime After Dark.
With tickets priced at PhP 1,799nett per adult or child, the entire family is sure to enjoy an afternoon of fun and fantasy with interactive games and activities any aspiring demon slayer in training will love. From the delectably filling snack buffet, amazing magic show, and energetic live entertainment, to the scary Infinity Maze Adventure, mask painting booth, and loot bags filled with sweet treats, the event promises to be an action-packed Halloween bash. Boys and girls who come in their best anime getup will get the chance to be crowned best little cosplayers of Richmonde and will win hotel gift certificates.
ERH Anime After Dark Halloween Party.
For an extra thrilling holiday, families can book a spook-cation at Eastwood Richmonde’s best value rates and inclusive of special perks like room upgrade, late check-out, discounts on food & beverage orders, and 20% off on tickets to Anime After Dark. Simply contact Room Reservations at (632) 8570 7777 or (63) 917 531 6867, or email stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com.
So get your capes, wands, and katana swords ready and transform into the Super Saiyan, Sailor Guardian, or Pokemon Master of your dreams and party anime-style this Halloween at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel. For inquiries and ticket purchases, call (632) 8570 7777 or (63) 917 821 0333, or email fb@eastwoodrichmonde.com.
The United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP) and the United Network of Global Citizens (UNGC), in partnership with SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC), led the conferment under the theme “Building the Future Together.”
In celebration of the United Nations’ 80th anniversary, Taal Vista Hotel, a renowned Philippine heritage landmark, has been officially designated as a UN Peace Center and Global Citizens Hub. This recognition affirms its commitment to culture, sustainability, and community-driven peace initiatives.
The United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP) and the United Network of Global Citizens (UNGC), in partnership with SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC), led the conferment under the theme “Building the Future Together.”
“By anchoring a Peace Center in a Filipino heritage landmark like Taal Vista Hotel, we declare that peace is not built in conference halls alone—it begins where history, culture, and community meet. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are not just policies; they are a living promise to humanity,” says Direk JP Ninalga, UNGC President.
The ceremonial turnover of the UN Flag to SMHCC and Taal Vista officers at the ballroom.
Elizabeth T. Sy, president and chairman of SMHCC, was honored with the UNA Presidential Medal and World Changers Award for her leadership in heritage preservation, sustainable tourism, and community empowerment through SMHCC.
The conferment was attended by SMHCC officers and the Taal Vista Hotel. They include: Cathy Nepomuceno, Senior Vice President – Operations, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Agnes Pacis, Vice President – Commercial, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Leah Magallanes, Vice President – Quality and Sustainability, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Nian Rigor, Assistant Vice President – Public Relations, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Brenda Cabuyao – Director of Operations, Taal Vista Hotel; Mary Rose Lomibao – Director of Sales and Marketing, Taal Vista Hotel; and Ariesha Faith Dimaano, Cluster Marketing Communications Manager, Taal Vista Hotel and Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club and Pico Sands Hotel.
Women in media and UN pose for posterity.
Dr. Ethel Agnes Valenzuela, UNESCO Governing Board Member and Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) representative, as well as a representative of the UNESCO Institute of Statistics, delivered the keynote address on the topic “Building our Future Together.”
Meanwhile, the closing keynote, titled “Legacy of Peace: Honoring Leaders, Empowering Learners, Inspiring Change,” was delivered by Dr. Margarita Ballesteros, Director of the Department of Education and a Carlos P. Romulo Awardee.
A recitation of the UN80 theme at the hotel grounds.
The milestone gathering featured several symbolic activities: the ceremonial turnover of the UN Flag to SMHCC and Taal Vista officers at the ballroom; a circle of unity with UNA Philippines, UNGC, Taal Vista, SMHCC, and event delegates; a UN flag raising ceremony accompanied by a peace pledge; and a recitation of the UN80 theme at the hotel grounds.
About the Path to the Future
The Path to the Future is a philosophy and movement anchored on the Philippine Agenda 21 (PA21) and supporting the UN SDGs. Co-developed by Direk JP Ninalga and the late Filipino visionary Nicanor “Nick” Perlas, it calls for regeneration through the Four Capitals: societal, economic, human, and spiritual.
In Memory of Nicanor “Nick” Perlas
This movement is lovingly dedicated to the legacy of Filipino visionary Nicanor “Nick” Perlas — whose work in peace, governance, and human awakening continues through all who dare to build the future.
About SMHCC
SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) integrates sustainability, culture, and community stewardship across its hospitality properties, including Taal Vista Hotel.
The author during the UN flag raising ceremony at Taal Vista Hotel.
(Ruby’s Precious Moments served as a valued media partner for this landmark event, helping to amplify its message and reach a wider audience.
Set within the Pearl Lobby, the Lobby Lounge has become one of Okada Manila’s most inviting all-day destinations. Open from 8 AM to 12 AM daily, it welcomes guests to unwind over comforting Filipino breakfasts, indulge in authentic French pastries, and linger late into the night with hearty international dishes, wines, and cocktails. It’s a place where every visit feels less like a stopover and more like a moment to relax and reconnect.
“Every dish and pastry we serve is rooted in authenticity and made with heart,” said Chef de Cuisine Roy Juarez. “Our goal is to make every dining experience extraordinary—a gastronomical journey that celebrates flavors from morning to night.”
Okada Manila’s Lobby Lounge welcomes guests to unwind over Filipino breakfasts, French pastries, hearty international dishes, wines, and cocktail.
Crafted Flavors for Every Moment
Each visit to the Lobby Lounge is a journey through taste and time.
Mornings bring the comfort of Filipino classics—smoky longganisa, tender daing na bangus, and tapa seared to perfection—served with garlic rice, eggs, and tangy house-made pickles.
Afternoons highlight freshly baked French pastries and international comfort food—from pasta and sandwiches to light vegan dishes and grilled favorites—all plated with finesse and served with care.
All day long, there are refined pairings to enjoy—artisan coffee with a pastry or loose-leaf tea with a delicate entremet.
Evenings invite guests to unwind with hearty mains, fine plating, and a thoughtful selection of wines and cocktails—perfect for after-work relaxation or casual conversations with friends and colleagues.
All day long, there are refined pairings to enjoy—artisan coffee with a pastry, loose-leaf tea with a delicate entremet, or a fresh fruit smoothie with a slice of cake. Each combination transforms simple indulgences into memorable moments.
A Relaxed Space for Every Occasion
With plush seating, warm lighting, and an easygoing atmosphere, the Lobby Lounge offers the perfect setting for both quiet downtime and informal gatherings. Business travelers often find it a comfortable spot for small meetings over coffee or light meals, while groups of friends come to enjoy its cozy ambience and diverse menu.
Part of a World-Class Destination
As one of over 40 dining and lounge venues at Okada Manila, the Lobby Lounge embodies the resort’s vision of blending global flavors, Filipino hospitality, and premium experiences under one roof. Together, these offerings make Okada Manila a true destination for meaningful experiences—where comfort, flavor, and Filipino warmth come together in every moment.
Unforgettable moments await at Okada Manila. Visit www.okadamanila.com to explore.
Looking for a unique way to celebrate Halloween? Book your weekend getaway now and head to Pico de Loro Cove at Hamilo Coast, where the season’s festivities come alive with a full slate of family-friendly fun, seaside adventures, and relaxing indulgences. This November 1, transform your holiday into an unforgettable coastal retreat filled with play, pampering, and plenty of sweet surprises.
From the moment you arrive, immerse yourself in a weekend escape designed for both thrills and relaxation. Stay in the comfort of Pico Sands Hotel and explore everything the property has to offer — from leisurely walks along the scenic coast, to dips in the pool, and indulging in signature treatments at Rain, The Spa. Savor delicious bites and refreshing drinks at various on-site dining outlets, or wind down with a cup of coffee by the beach. Active guests can enjoy sports and recreation facilities at the Country Club — including indoor courts, billiards, bowling lanes, and the vibrant Club Pico for kids.
The Country Club transforms into a festive playground for this seasons Halloween festivities.
But the highlight of the Halloween weekend? A magical celebration by the sea that brings festive charm and family bonding to the fore.
Kicking off at 3:00 PM, kids (and kids-at-heart!) can dive into Mystic Magic: Picoy, Tiny, and Friends’ Treat Quest — a lively, imagination-fueled trick-or-treat experience set inside a whimsically decorated ballroom. Thoughtfully crafted for children and their families, the activity transforms the ballroom into a Halloween haven filled with vibrant decorations, sweet surprises, and interactive games. Kids are encouraged to come in their most imaginative costumes as they explore the space, enjoy playful booths like claw machines, and capture memories at the themed photobooth.
Mystic Magic Picoy Tiny and Friends Treat Quest.
Tickets for the event are priced at ₱1,000 nett for members and ₱1,400 nett for guests. Each ticket includes admission for one child (12 years old and below) and one accompanying adult. Attendees can also look forward to exciting giveaways and goodies from generous sponsors including: SM Supermalls, Oishi, Gardenia Bakeries, Tom’s World, Toy Kingdom, Cherifer, Ritz Food Product Corp., Leslie Food Corp., Super Candy Corp., Nestlé Philippines (KitKat), Broadway Gems, and Franville PrintShop Corporation.
As the sun begins to set, the excitement continues with the Fangtastic Fun Run at 5:15 PM. Open to all ages and free of charge, this Halloween-themed run is a fun, energetic way for families to stay active together while enjoying spooky surprises along the scenic route. It’s the perfect way to end a day filled with laughter, movement, and connection.
This Halloween, don’t just celebrate for a day — make a weekend of it. With its signature blend of scenic beauty, family-friendly experiences, and warm hospitality, Pico de Loro Cove is the ultimate setting for a coastal holiday like no other. Be sure to book your room early and get ready for a memorable, magical, and truly spooktacular season by the sea.
The 21st Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival concluded with a powerful statement on the strength of documentary storytelling, awarding a documentary film on the plight of land rights activists in Cagayan Valley the prestigious Balanghai trophy for Best Film.
Directed by Noni Abao, BLOOM WHERE YOU ARE PLANTED was cited for “its powerful and deeply humane portrayal of political activists uprooted by violence yet steadfast in their pursuit of justice and belonging; for transforming the struggle for land, peace, and dignity in Cagayan Valley into a meditation on home, hope, and resilience.”
Meanwhile, Carl Joseph Papa’s THE NEXT 24 HOURS won Best Film in the Short Film Category for “its hauntingly tender portrayal of trauma and survival; for rendering silence, fear, and resilience through rotoscope animation with profound sensitivity and compassion; for using art as advocacy to give voice to those still struggling to speak.”
Cinemalaya officials and jury. Photo by: Kiko Cabuena.
Best Director Balanghai trophies go to filmmakers Sari Dalena and Elian Idioma. For her film CINEMARTYRS, director Dalena has shown “her bold and visionary authorship that fuses cinema, history, and haunting memory into a singular act of resistance; for reclaiming women’s voices within the nation’s buried traumas through guerrilla filmmaking that is both mystical and political.”
Director Idioma, on the other hand, takes home his first Balanghai trophy for I’M BEST LEFT INSIDE MY HEADfor “its deft control of tone, emotional precision, and psychological depth; for transforming a young man’s haunting homecoming to his former orphanage into a meditation on guilt, privilege, and belonging rendered with remarkable sensitivity and vision, the award.”
CHILD NO. 82 won Best Screenplay in the Full-Length Category. Writers Tim Rone Villanueva and Herlyn Alegre were commended for their “witty and poignant writing that turns a son’s desperate longing to meet his legendary father into a journey of truth and self-discovery; for peeling away the myth of a larger-than-life movie idol to reveal the fragile heart of fatherhood.”
Handiong Kapuno’s FIGAT received the Best Screenplay award in the Short Film Category for “its sheer authenticity, lyrical storytelling, and cultural depth, for its powerful affirmation of indigenous identity amid modern distractions, and for its heartfelt portrayal of a young Kalinga girl preserving her heritage through music.”
The NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asia Pacific Cinema) Award for Best Film in the Full-Length Category went to REPUBLIKA NG PIPOLIPINAS by Renei Dimla, for “its powerful story about resistance, citizenship, and the search for belonging. The film stands out for its courage, creativity, and heart.”
For the Short Film Category, HASANG by Daniel De La Cruz takes home the NETPAC Award for “its tender, poetic work that blurs the line between myth and memory, and between the real and the spiritual with remarkable restraint. The film stands out for its delicate storytelling, stunning visual simplicity, and deep spiritual resonance.”
HABANG NILALAMON NG HYDRA ANG KASAYSAYAN took home three major acting awards.
Actor Jojit Lorenzo won Best Performance of An Actor for “his restrained yet piercing portrayal of a political strategist confronting disillusionment and moral exhaustion in a nation consumed by lies; for embodying the quiet despair and stubborn hope of a man searching for meaning amid history’s erasure.”
While Tanghalang Pilipino artistic director Nanding Josef was recognized as Best Performance of a Supporting Actor for “his chilling yet deeply human portrayal of a once-feared Martial Law general now fading into the fog of dementia; for embodying both the terror of tyranny and the fragility of remorse.”
Actress Mylene Dizon won the award for Best Performance of An Actress. Dizon was praised for “her searing and compassionate portrayal of a daughter haunted by the sins of her father—a onetime enforcer of a brutal regime—yet bound to protect him in his frailty; for embodying a conscience torn between love, guilt, and moral reckoning.”
Rochelle Pangilinan for CHILD NO. 82 was recognized as Best Performance of a Supporting Actress for “her restrained yet searing portrayal of a mother holding her dignity amid abandonment and illusion; for embodying both the ache of loss and the quiet strength of survival as she watches her son chase the myth of a father who was never there.”
Technical awards include:
BEST EDITING – Che Tagyamon and Arnex Nicolas (BLOOM WHERE YOU ARE PLANTED), for “its seamless weaving of testimonies, memories, and silences into a resonant tapestry of truth; for transforming the stories of the detained, the disappeared, and the fallen into a cohesive and deeply affecting chronicle of courage.”
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY – Theo Lozada (RAGING), for “its evocative interplay of light and shadow that mirrors a young man’s silence and awakening; for capturing the humid stillness of Romblon’s seas and forests as landscapes of both trauma and truth.”
BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN – Jeric Delos Angeles (PADAMLÁGAN), for “transforming archival fragments, survivor testimonies, and lived spaces into a seamless visual world where fiction and history converge; for reconstructing 1972 Naga City with both authenticity and reverence — from the fluvial devotion of Peñafrancia to the ruins of the Colgante Bridge — and for crafting a setting that honors memory as much as it reveals loss.”
BEST MUSICAL SCORING – Teresa Barrozo (CINEMARTYRS), for “its inspired fusion of ethnic Mindanao rhythms and cinematic nostalgia; for weaving ancestral memory with the lyricism of old Tagalog screen romances to deepen a film on colonial violence and female artistry.”
BEST SOUND – Lamberto Casas, Jr. (RAGING), for “its immersive soundscape that transforms silence, sea, and sorrow into an echo of buried trauma; for amplifying the unspoken anguish of a young man whose cry for help is met with indifference, deepening his isolation and pain.”
BEST ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE – The cast of OPEN ENDINGS by Nigel Santos and Keavy Eunice Vicente, for “the seamless chemistry, emotional depth, and playful vitality of four performances that breathe life into a rare story of chosen family and intimacy; and for capturing with honesty, humor, and grace the enduring bonds between queer women navigating love, loss, and friendship.” The ensemble was composed of actresses Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Janella Salvador, Klea Pineda, and Leanne Mamonong.
The Special Jury Prize winners were CINEMARTYRS by Sari Dalena, cited for “transforming the act of filmmaking itself into a gesture of remembrance and revolt, for fusing guerrilla filmmaking, mysticism, and archival memory to confront the ghosts of violence—both historical and cinematic—with conviction, and for her luminous homage to the first women filmmakers of Philippine cinema who turned art into testimony.”; and KAY BASTA ANGKARABO YAY BAGAY IBAT HA LANGIT (OBJECTS DO NOT RANDOMLY FALL FROM THE SKY) by Maria Estela Paiso, cited for “its fearless vision, poetic fury, and striking fusion of myth and memory; for transforming the West Philippine Sea’s wounds into a powerful cinematic allegory of sovereignty and rage.”
CHILD NO. 82 by Tim Rone Villanueva and ASCENSION FROM THE OFFICE CUBICLE by Hannah Silvestre won the hearts of the Cinemalaya theater goers and audiences, receiving the Audience Choice Award for Full-Length and Short Film categories, respectively.
Cagayan province is home to over 3.66 million people, with youth aged 15 to 24 accounting for nearly one-fifth of its population. Internet use is widespread, with three out of four residents aged 10 and above already online. Yet, many continue to face barriers in accessing and maximizing digital tools in ways that are safe, responsible, and creative.
To help bridge these gaps, Globe launched a series of engagements that gathered more than 750 students across the region, providing lessons on digital citizenship, leadership, and creative expression.
Building on this effort, Globe organized a three-day program in partnership with three institutions. The sessions combined digital literacy modules, leadership workshops, and creative platforms designed to nurture future-ready communities in Cagayan province.
Investing in the Next Generation
Globe’s programs in Cagayan province reaffirm its commitment to prepare young Filipinos for the future by strengthening their digital skills, leadership abilities, and creative platforms for self-expression.
“As we saw in Cagayan province, young Filipinos are already shaping their own futures with technology, leadership, and creativity. At Globe, we see the youth not just as future leaders but as leaders of today. Our role is to stand beside them as they build a better tomorrow for their communities and the nation,” said Raymond Mancilla, Territory Business Head.
A Generation of Innovation, Leadership, and Community
In Cagayan, Globe’s Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) is empowering students to be not just digital natives but active changemakers. At Peñablanca National High School, 250 students joined DTP sessions on responsible digital citizenship. Instead of passively waiting to learn, they shared the advanced AI tools they already use in their studies, such as Nomunity, Study Talk, Perplexity, Blackbox AI, and Scholar.ai — proof of their openness to innovation and their ability to find new ways to learn.
At Cagayan State University, more than 350 student leaders gathered to explore how leadership can be rooted in everyday actions that shape their peers and communities. Through DTP and complementary workshops on inclusivity, responsibility, and student voice, participants were encouraged to see themselves as active drivers of change.
The program culminated in the TM Fun Music concert, which brought together over 2,500 students from the CSU Andrews and Carig campuses. Performances by Amiel Sol, student artists, and local talents transformed the event into a celebration of creativity and community spirit.
“We sincerely thank our partners at Globe for sharing their time, efforts, and resources with the students of Cagayan State University Andrews Campus. Through the Digital Thumbprint Program, we were reminded of the importance of using technology responsibly, while the concert gave us a chance to celebrate and come together as one community. These activities brought both learning and joy, leaving a lasting impact on us as more informed, connected, and inspired individuals,” said Kyle Aron Tan, CSU Student Regent and Andrews Campus Student Council President.
Beyond the Skills
For the 150 medical student leaders at the Medical Colleges of Northern Philippines, DTP offered more than lessons on digital responsibility. It became a reminder that in healthcare, leadership is not measured only by knowledge but also by empathy, ethics, and accountability. “The seminar was an eye-opening experience for all the student leaders, making them realize the importance of being responsible digital citizens in today’s fast-changing online world. I believe that each of us gained practical knowledge on how to protect our identity online, secure our personal information, and be more critical when encountering content on social media especially with the rise of fake news and misinformation,” said MSNP-ISAP Student Activities Coordinator, James Vidad.
From classrooms to concert stages and from leadership workshops to personal journeys, Globe’s work in Cagayan province highlights one truth. The brilliance of Filipino youth is the country’s greatest harvest. By nurturing their potential, Globe is helping shape a generation of leaders, creators, and changemakers who will carry the promise of a brighter future.
Today, the Cuartel de Santo Domingo stands as a living reminder of Santa Rosa’s rich history, showcasing what communities can accomplish when they actively honor their heritage.
Santa Rosa, Laguna, has recently become a hub of history, heritage, and community pride, as dignitaries, stakeholders, and heritage advocates gathered at the historic Cuartel de Santo Domingo for a milestone celebration. The event underscored the city’s vibrant cultural legacy and brought together leaders and advocates in a shared commitment to preserve and honor Santa Rosa’s rich past.
The event marked two anniversaries: the 20th year since the Cuartel was declared a National Historical Landmark, and the 25th founding anniversary of Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo, Inc. (KCSD), the nonprofit organization championing its preservation.
Among the guests were Laguna Governor Marisol Castillo Aragones-Sampelo, Representative Roy Gonzales, Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas, Councilor Joey Catindig, Councilor Carmela Rosa Gonzales-Colmenar, Councilor Petronio Factoriza, and Councilor Eusebio Batitis Jr. Also present were former Ambassador to the Vatican Grace Relucio Princesa, Dr. Hereberto Jose Miranda of DepEd Santa Rosa Laguna, as guest speakers. SAF PNP Director PMGen Mark D. Pespes, former Representative for 1-Rider Partylist Col. Bonifacio Bosita, Father Gabriel Delfino, the PNP, BJMP, and cultural institutions also graced the occasion.
From left: BOD KCSD Inc. Eldo Medina, Councilor Carmela Rosa Gonzales-Colmenar, Councilor Luisito B. Algabre, Councilor Petronio C. Factoriza, Councilor Eusebio C. Batitis Jr., Councilor Mary Janine Cydney R. Aala, Antonia T. Laserna, KCSD Inc. Chairperson Gemalin Batino-Diaz, DepEd Superintendent Dr. Hereberto Jose D. Miranda, and Councilor Jose B. Catindig Jr.
The three-day event held from September 24 to 26 opened with a Heritage Conference and several ceremonial launches at the Cuartel Admin Building, including the Santa Rosa Heritage Magazine, the KCSD official website, and an exhibit titled First of First, dedicated to Mayor Arcillas.
“Heritage preservation is more than protecting structures,” said Gemalin Batino, chairperson of KCSD. “It’s about keeping the stories alive and making sure younger generations understand why places like the Cuartel matter.”
Gemalin Batino-Diaz, Chairperson of KCSD Inc.
Day two featured dramatized portrayals at the Cuartel grounds, where cultural performances showcased local history such as sugar milling traditions, heirloom products, and agricultural practices influenced by friars. These performances offered audiences an immersive look into Santa Rosa’s cultural roots.
The celebration concluded with a Gala Night: Baile & Concierto at Paseo Premier Hotel. Attended by officials, civil society leaders, and guests from across Laguna, the program featured cultural numbers, recognitions, and a community dance.
Women of Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo, Inc.
“This celebration is not only about looking back at our history,” Batino said. “It’s also about reaffirming our mission to continue protecting Santa Rosa’s heritage.”
From left: KCSD Inc. member Nancy Milo, BOD Evelyn Wise, and KCSD Inc. Chairperson Gemalin Batino-Diaz.
Founded in 2000 and officially registered with the SEC, KCSD has long advocated for the Cuartel’s preservation through education, partnerships, and cultural programming.
Engineer John Bosco Batino-Diaz, President of Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo, Inc.
The Cuartel itself, built in the late 1800s as Spanish military barracks, is one of the country’s few surviving examples of colonial military architecture. It later served as a police station, detention facility, and heritage site. It was recognized as a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines on July 21, 2005.
Today, the Cuartel stands as a living reminder of Santa Rosa’s rich history, showcasing what communities can accomplish when they actively honor their heritage.
SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation’s (SMHCC) conventions and accommodation portfolio garnered multiple accolades during the recent 2025 TTG Travel Awards held at Centara Grand at CentralWorld, Bangkok. Voted by travel agents and industry professionals across the Asia-Pacific region, the TTG Travel Awards celebrate hospitality leaders who set the benchmark in their respective categories. Since 1989, the organization has honored the best of Asia-Pacific’s travel industry.
For one, SM Hotels’ luxury brand Conrad Manila has been named Best Business Hotel – Philippines. This marks the third time the hotel has received this distinguished award, recognizing its outstanding meeting facilities, world-class venues, heartfelt service, and unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry. Joanne Gomez, commercial director of Conrad Manila, represented the hotel at the awards ceremony. “We are deeply grateful to the travel agents who recognized Conrad Manila as the Best Business Hotel in the Philippines. Your continued trust and partnership inspire us to continually raise the bar in delivering intuitive service and seamless experiences,” Gomez shared.
Joanne Gomez, Conrad Manila’s Commercial Director receives the “Best Business Hotel-Philippines” award at the TTG Travel Awards night in Bangkok, Thailand.
Notably, known as the leading convention center in the country, SM Hotels’ SMX Convention Center proudly celebrates its victory as the Best Convention & Exhibition Center – Philippines. This back-to-back recognition follows its 2024 triumph, solidifying SMX’s standing as the country’s premier MICE venue. As the largest private convention center operator in the Philippines, SMX Convention Center manages a dynamic and growing portfolio of venues nationwide: SMX Manila, SMX Aura, SMX Olongapo, SMX Clark, SMX Davao, SMX Bacolod, Megatrade Hall, Sky Hall Seaside Cebu, and and soon, new developments in Cebu, Cabanatuan, Sta. Rosa, and Sto. Tomas. “This back-to-back recognition from TTG validates the passion of our teams, the trust of our partners, and the enduring influence of SMX Convention Center in advancing the MICE industry in the Philippines,” said Mike Albaña, Vice President – General Manager of SMX Convention Center.
SMX Convention Center Vice President – General Manager Mike Albaña (center) receives the award for Best Convention & Exhibition Center – Philippines at the 34th TTG Travel Awards 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand. Presenting the award are representatives of TTG Asia, organizer of the TTG Travel Awards Gala Dinner & Ceremony held on September 25, 2025, at Centara Grand at CentralWorld.
This haul of awards cements SMHCC’s position as one of the leading players in the hospitality industry that offers a myriad of accommodation options and convention spaces, set in sprawling integrated property developments complemented by a uniquely differentiated brand of care and service.
Immerse in a Halloween experience as Solaire Resort Entertainment City’s Grand Ballroom transforms into a spellbinding maze perfect for kids and adults. On October 31 at 2PM, families and children can wander through Solaire Street inside the Grand Ballroom for trick-or-treat, carnival games, arts and crafts, and meet enchanting characters from their favorite shows. Starting 9PM, the ballroom turns wicked where adults can enjoy cocktail lounges, themed bar experiences, and electrifying DJ performances by Mars Miranda, Patrick Oliver, Jimmy Nocon, and more.
Catch electrifying performances by DJ Patrick Oliver (above), DJ Jimmy Nocon (below), and more, at the “Halloween at Solaire Street” event inside the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort Entertainment City on October 31 at 9PM.DJ Jimmy Nocon.
This year’s celebration lets you explore eight spectacular houses. Families can complete all activities, get their passports stamped, and win special prizes! At the Velvet Manor, kids can strike a pose with spooky characters from the Addams Family and take their printed photos after. This transforms into a Macabre Lounge Bar at night, where adults can sip on classic cocktails, served in a candlelit jazz setting. At the Wand & Whimsy Hall, families can participate in a wand making and sorting game, inspired by the movie Harry Potter. They can craft their own wands and discover which magical house they belong to. At night, adults can visit the Butterbeer bar and indulge in the Wizarding World’s frothy signature brew—Solaire style.
Little ghouls and goblins can visit Castle Dracula for frightfully fun face painting, as they become the scariest (and best-dressed!) trick-or-treaters. Then, it becomes a Blood Bar for the adults, as they choose their favorite wines, sangrias, and sultry vampire-inspired drinks. Step into House Four, the Blood Moon Den, for an intense Werewolf Dodgeball Challenge! Kids and teens must dodge three silver balls to claim a special, spooky treat. This lair transforms into the Crimson Bar, inviting adults to sip deep, red cocktails that are perfect for a night on the prowl.
Visit Tomb of the Curse for a treasure trail, where families can uncover hidden gems and trinkets buried in the sand. After the sun sets, the tomb transforms into a secret bar bathed in hieroglyphic projections, inviting adults to unearth spiced cocktails for a truly mysterious night out. The Abandoned Lab features a toy repair shop where kids can unleash their creativity and build their own quirky Franken-toy. Adults can indulge in absinthe-style drinks and shadowy performances at the Veil Bar.
House of Gwi-Ma allows kids to decorate their own Soul Shield bracelets while at night, it turns into a Light Stick Bar. Grab a glow stick with your favorite K-pop inspired drink and dance the night away! Head on to the last house of the night– the Wicked Hollow! Decorate spooky slime and play fun games in this interactive, magical zone. Later in the night, adults can sample the house’s mysterious, “Wicked” potions.
