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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.
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Independent Filipino brand sets sights on Coron and Siargao as it builds a multi-island portfolio.
The Lind Hotels is expanding beyond Boracay, with Coron set to open next year and Siargao to follow.
The move marks a clear next phase for the independent Filipino brand, as it evolves from a single standout property into a carefully curated, multi-island portfolio shaped by a guest-first and adaptive approach.
The Lind Boracay, set on the prime stretch of Station 1 White Beach on the Philippines’ most famous paradise island, has long been the foundation of the brand. The reputation of the property, which was the first MICHELIN Guide-listed hotel on Boracay, has been built not only on location, but on a way of thinking that places the guest at the centre of every decision.
The Lind Boracay occupies a prime location on Boracay’s world famous White Sand beach.
Indeed, the MICHELIN Guide recognition remains a meaningful milestone that continues to shape its positioning today.
Rather than following the rigid frameworks of international operators, the hotel was conceived as a place its founders would want to stay in themselves—personal, considered, and constantly evolving.
That mindset has translated into strong guest loyalty and steady growth, with repeat visitors forming a core part of the property’s success. Over the years, the hotel has continued to evolve in response to guest feedback, from introducing new dining concepts such as authentic Thai venue Yim to refining wellness and leisure offerings across the property.
“The question we always ask ourselves is simple: if we were the guest, what would we enjoy?” says Pierre Henrichs, COO of The Lind Hotels. “That mindset has guided everything we’ve built, and it continues to shape how we grow.”
The Lind Coron marks the first step in this next chapter. Slated to open next year, the new property will introduce a more personalized, villa-led experience, set on a peninsula that offers a sense of seclusion while remaining connected to the mainland. Designed to feel distinct from Boracay’s lifestyle-driven energy, the development will feature multiple restaurants, a dive centre, and a broader mix of recreational and wellness facilities.
Views from the Coron resort showcase a pristine natural environment that has made the island a world-class destination for scuba diving.
The Lind Siargao, meanwhile, reflects a similar strategic approach: identifying destinations with strong appeal but limited high-quality supply. Often referred to as the surf capital of The Philippines, the teardrop-shaped island in Mindanao Province is one of the nation’s most idyllic hideaways. With few comparable properties currently operating on the island, the project represents an opportunity for The Lind Hotels to establish an early foothold in a fast-evolving market.
Often referred to as the surf capital of The Philippines, Siargao is one of the nation’s most idyllic hideaways.
For the brand, expansion is not about scale for its own sake. Each location is selected for its long-term potential and its ability to support a distinct interpretation of the Lind experience.
“We chose to remain independent because it allows us to move quickly, adapt, and build something that truly reflects who we are,” says Henrichs. “We are not trying to grow everywhere at once. We want to do it properly, step by step.”
That independence has become a defining strength. Without the constraints of a global management structure, The Lind has been able to respond to changing guest expectations, refine its offering in real time, and maintain a clear sense of identity across its operations.
Looking ahead, the brand’s ambitions extend beyond its current pipeline. “We’ve built something in Boracay that people connect with,” says Henrichs. “As we expand into Coron and Siargao, the priority is to keep that same spirit—independent, adaptable, and always shaped around the guest.”
Stay in styles, experience Subic in full color. The campaign brings together some of the most popular attractions to create a seamless and exciting getaway experience.
Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines –ibis Styles Subic announces the launch of its destination campaign, iStay in Styles Series, a bold initiative designed to position Subic as a dynamic hub for leisure, family adventures, and lifestyle travel. The campaign brings together some of the most popular attractions to create a seamless and exciting getaway experience.
At the heart of the campaign is a strategic collaboration with leading destinations including Ocean Adventure, Beach Adventure Waterpark, Subic International Golf Club, and Zoobic Safari. These partnerships are designed to showcase Subic’s diverse offerings from fun-filled marine encounters and exciting water activities to scenic golfing experiences and immersive wildlife encounters.
Mr. Darwin Labayandoy, Cluster General Manager of Mercure Hotel and ibis Styles Subic, said: “Subic has always been a destination rich in natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Through iStay in Styles Series, we aim to bring these experiences together under one cohesive narrative — making it easier and more exciting for travelers to discover everything Subic has to offer.”
By aligning with key tourism players, ibis Styles Subic is helping redefine the travel experience in Subic — transforming it into a vibrant, all-in-one destination for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.
In the coming phases, the iStay in Styles Series will expand further, inviting everyone to discover more of Subic’s finest attractions, experiences, and hidden gems.
Standard Room
Standard Twin Room.
Superior Room.
By integrating accommodation with destination experiences, ibis Styles Subic reinforces its role as a gateway to Subic’s vibrant tourism landscape, allowing guests to explore, enjoy, and stay in style.
The Retreat Spa at Okada Manila has secured two major titles at the Asia Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC) Awards 2026, held on April 24 in Siem Reap, Cambodia: Sustainability Champion of the Year and Wellness Menu of the Year, the latter marking a third consecutive win since 2024, while also representing the spa’s fourth consecutive year of recognition at the APSWC Awards.
These latest wins place The Retreat Spa among a select group of repeat category winners in the region, underscoring its sustained leadership in both wellness innovation and responsible practices.
These latest wins place The Retreat Spa among a select group of repeat category winners in the region.
Launched in 2023, the APSWC Awards have quickly emerged as a benchmark for excellence in the Asia-Pacific spa and wellness industry. Winners are determined through a rigorous process combining expert panel evaluation and regional public voting, with this year’s judging panel comprising 27 industry professionals from 22 countries.
The Wellness Menu of the Year category recognizes innovative treatment programs that integrate traditional and modern approaches to holistic well-being, while Sustainability Champion of the Year honors initiatives that demonstrate measurable impact in environmental stewardship, resource efficiency, and community engagement.
The Retreat Spa’s Executive Director for Wellness & Leisure, Ms. Vikki Aquino (middle left) with team members.
This recognition highlights The Retreat Spa’s ability to deliver elevated guest experiences while embedding sustainability into its operations, an approach aligned with Okada Manila’s broader commitment to responsible and meaningful hospitality. It also builds on the spa’s Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star rating for the fourth consecutive year, reinforcing its position as a leading wellness destination in the region.
At the core of its offering is a thoughtfully curated menu of treatments designed to support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Signature experiences such as Dance of Waves and Indayog ng Duyan, alongside the Wave Dream relaxation chamber, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, continue to distinguish the spa’s wellness approach.
Sustainability remains a key focus under Okada Manila’s Okada Green Heart program. The Retreat Spa has implemented initiatives such as hydro-efficient treatment protocols, the elimination of single-use plastics, the use of Nordaq water systems, and upcycling efforts that repurpose materials into functional spa accessories. It also supports sustainable sourcing through its Spa x Culinary Herb Garden Project.
Beyond operations, the spa contributes to the growth of wellness tourism in the Philippines through community engagement, skills development, and local partnerships.
“This recognition reflects the heart of what our team does every day,” said Vikki Aquino, Executive Director, Wellness and Leisure at Okada Manila. “We’ve always believed that wellness should feel meaningful, not just for our guests, but for the community and the environment as well.”
Located within Okada Manila, The Retreat Spa spans over 3,000 square meters of wellness space, offering private treatment suites, relaxation lounges, aqua therapy facilities, and an outdoor pool area complemented by the Co-Ed Spa. The spa experience is further enhanced by dedicated personal care facilities, including a Nail Art Studio, Beauty Salon, and Barbershop, creating a well-rounded environment for both wellness and grooming. With its continued recognition at the APSWC Awards, The Retreat Spa further strengthens its position as one of the region’s leading wellness destinations.
Whether you are looking for a weekend of culinary indulgence or a quiet corner to bond with your loved ones, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas is ready to welcome you.
In the heart of Ortigas Center’s frantic commercial hub, finding a space that radiates genuine warmth is a rare find. However, a recent weekend staycation led us to a hotel that didn’t just provide a room, but offered a genuine sense of belonging. For those seeking to swap the urban clamor for a tranquil, family-oriented haven,Richmonde Hotel Ortigasstands as the sanctuary you’ve been looking for.
The lobby of the Richmonde Hotel Ortigas is an inviting, warm, and classic-styled space designed as a quiet, cozy sanctuary from the busy Ortigas Central Business District.
Relax with Richie at the hotel lobby.
The Lobby Cafe is described as a convenient, quiet “work-from-café” spot and a cozy venue for casual meetings or quick, light dining.
The Warmth of Genuine Hospitality
The hospitality was immediate. From the very first greeting at the entrance, the stiff air of “service protocol” vanished, replaced by the effortless warmth of being welcomed home.
Family selfie!
Richmonde Hotel Ortigas perfectly blends modern efficiency with heartfelt warmth. Whether it’s their prompt service or the surprise delivery of sweets, the staff’s effortless kindness creates a stay that feels truly like home.
A “Homey” Design for Real Living
What truly sets this stay apart is the layout of the space. So many city hotels feel like temporary stopovers, but here, the “homey” atmosphere was built into the architecture.
The spacious room on the 15th floor.
Stepping into our 15th-floor sanctuary, we were greeted by premium amenities and a panoramic cityscape that felt more like an invitation than a backdrop. The balance of plush furnishings and soft lighting transformed the spacious living area into a genuine home, where the city’s distant hum only deepened our sense of connection.
Excellence on the Menu
A stay is only as good as its flavors, and the culinary offerings were a definitive highlight. Excellence was the standard for breakfast. We enjoyed a breakfast spread that featured a hearty local favorites that felt like a warm hug in a plate.
The author at Richmonde Cafe.
Every meal felt like a celebration of local ingredients and expert technique, proving that you don’t need to leave the building to find the best food in the district.
Plated breakfast meals.
Yummy dessert!
The Heart of the Stay: Family Bonding
The weekend was really about the moments in between—where the heart of our stay was simply being together.
Family breakfast at Richmonde Cafe.
We spent hours together at Richmonde Cafe, and even more time just lounging in the room, sharing stories and enjoying the rare luxury of unscheduled time. The hotel provided the perfect backdrop for these small, significant memories. It gave us the physical and mental space to just be a family.
Your Invitation to Stay
If the pace of life has been feeling a little too frantic lately, consider this your invitation. You don’t need to travel far to find a place that feels worlds away. Whether you are looking for a weekend of culinary indulgence or a quiet corner to bond with your loved ones, this Ortigas gem is ready to welcome you.
Come for the convenience of the city, but stay for the hospitality that makes you feel like you never left home. Book your stay and rediscover the joy of a perfect city retreat.
This Mother’s Day, Okada Manila invites guests to honor the women who deserve it all through “Love Like Mom,” a celebration filled with dining experiences, wellness retreats, family activities, and rewarding promotions at a Forbes 5-star integrated resort.
Experience Moments of Fortune
Guests can add excitement to the celebration through Okada Manila’s Reward Circle promotions.
Happening until May 3, 2026, Ride the Bike, Win the Drive gives guests weekly chances to win a Vespa Scooter or a BYD Seagull, tax free. Reward Circle members receive a complimentary raffle entry daily, with final draws fast approaching.
Members can also explore exclusive redemptions at Reward Circle Collections, including premium OSIM massage chairs, with delivery available within Metro Manila.
Discover Blooming Moments
Les Fleurs brings Mother’s Day to life through artfully arranged floral installations at key spaces across Okada Manila, transforming the resort into a vibrant celebration of the women being honored. Special bouquets are also available for purchase, giving guests a beautiful and personal way to mark the occasion.
Enjoy a Well-Deserved Getaway
Okada Manila offers stays designed for rest and meaningful time together.
Guests can book Family Getaway 2026, which includes dining and leisure privileges, or choose Bespoke Celebrations by the Bay, where private suites and tailored arrangements overlooking Manila Bay create an intimate setting for families to slow down and reconnect.
Relax and Unwind Together
A selection of wellness experiences offers the perfect way to return the care Mom provides every day.
At The Retreat Spa, guests can enjoy a full-body spa journey designed for relaxation and renewal. The Sole Retreat offers shared treatments for two, while the Nail Art Studio and Beauty Salon provide grooming and self-care services to complete the experience.
Make Every Moment Unforgettable
Across Okada Manila, shared meals, joyful experiences, and thoughtful finds come together to celebrate her.
At Medley Buffet, guests can enjoy a wide selection of international and local dishes, complemented by desserts and special surprises for Mom. For more intimate gatherings, a family of four can enjoy Japanese flavors at Enbu or a Chinese feast at Red Spice, each offered as a set menu designed for sharing. At the Pastry Shop, thoughtfully prepared sweets provide a fitting finish to the celebration.
Families can also take part in experiences designed to bring everyone closer. At PLAY Kids’ Club, Mother’s Day-themed activities encourage creativity and bonding, while Thrillscape offers interactive challenges where families can team up and share in moments of fun.
Across The Promenade, guests can discover thoughtful gifts for Mom, from fine jewelry and fashionable finds to specialty items that make every gesture more meaningful.
From exciting rewards and shared dining experiences to relaxing retreats and family activities, Okada Manila brings together exceptional experiences for a memorable Mother’s Day at a world-class destination.
This Mother’s Day, create meaningful moments and give back to Mom in every way — only at Okada Manila.
Mother’s Day gifts may come in many forms, but the ones moms treasure most are often the simplest: time to relax, and moments made more meaningful by the presence of family.
This Mother’s Day, Richmonde Hotels invites families to give mom exactly that—a day, or even a weekend, filled with comfort, good food, and the joy of being surrounded by her favorite people. Instead of spending hours on the road or settling for the usual celebrations at home, families can enjoy a thoughtfully prepared staycation experience where every detail is designed to make mom feel cherished.
Richmonde Hotel Ortigas: A Gathering Place for the Whole Family
At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Mother’s Day is made for families who want to slow down and reconnect. From grandparents to grandchildren, everyone can settle into a relaxing weekend with the hotel’s special Richmonde Exclusives room offer available from May 8 to 10, 2026 at room only rates starting at PhP 3,900nett, complete with perks for mom that include a welcome amenity, discounts on in-room massage and food & beverage orders, and coupons for discounts on beauty treatments and complimentary Photo Activated Light Therapy service from Vine Aesthetics at Rockwell Ortigas.
Richmonde Hotel Ortigas Mother’s Day Lunch Buffet.
The celebration continues at Richmonde Café’s Flavors of Asia Mother’s Day Lunch Buffet on May 10, where a vibrant spread of well-loved dishes and live cooking stations creates the perfect setting for a leisurely family feast. It is a table where lolos and lolas, parents, and little ones can all find something to love, making the meal itself a shared experience across generations. Reasonably priced at PhP 1,388nettwith discounts applicable for seniors and kids, the buffet is an indulgent treat for everyone that won’t break the bank.
“As a mother myself, I truly believe that what moms cherish most are the moments when the whole family is together—no distractions, no rush, just genuine time shared with the people we love,” says Tina Lazaro, Director of Sales and Marketing for Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel. “At Richmonde, we wanted to create an experience where families can simply enjoy being with one another and turn Mother’s Day into a memory that stays with them.”
For families who want a celebration that is both effortless and memorable, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel offers the perfect setting. With direct access to the mall, the hotel makes it easy to turn Mother’s Day into a full day of bonding—whether it’s a relaxed lunch, a little shopping for mom, or a cinema date with the kids.
Its Richmonde Exclusives for Mom room package, also available from May 8 to 10, 2026, starts at PhP 4,500 nett and comes with thoughtful inclusions such as a meaningful token from Project Payatas, hotel dining & massage discounts, marked-down spa services from Lumiere Skin & Spa, plus the welcome bonus of a late check-out so the family can linger a little longer.
Eastwood Richmonde Hotel Mother’s Day Lunch Buffet.
At Eastwood Café+Bar, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, a Filipino Fiesta is served in honor of mom on May 10th, bringing families together over a lunch buffet spread of well-loved local dishes priced at a budget-friendly rate of PhP 1,200 nett, with special group offers of 20% off also available for families of 4 or more.
“Sometimes the best celebrations are the simplest ones—the kind where everyone is together and no one has to worry about the logistics,” Lazaro adds. “That’s what we hope to give families here: the gift of a day that flows naturally from one beautiful moment to the next.”
Richmonde Hotel Iloilo: Spacious Stays and Memories Made with Love
At Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, Mother’s Day unfolds at a more leisurely pace. Spacious rooms, the refreshing pool, and the hotel’s prime location within Iloilo Business Park make it an ideal escape for families looking to spend uninterrupted quality time together. Just for the weekend of May 8 to 10, 2026, a room package “Made for Moms” includes a sumptuous breakfast buffet for two, complimentary massage and token for mom and priced starting at PhP 6,300 nett.
Richmonde Hotel Iloilo Mother’s Day Room Package.
At The Granary, the Daha: From Mom’s Recipes to Your Table buffet pays tribute to mothers through food and family tradition. Inspired by heirloom recipes from the chefs’ own nanays, each dish tells a story of love passed down through generations. Interactive stations—from freshly prepared ukoy to hands-on pancit molo and a delightful DIY cupcake corner—bring an element of storytelling and shared experience to the table.
“There is something deeply special about memories made around the table,” shares Czarina Galano, Director of Sales and Marketing of Richmonde Hotel Iloilo. “As mothers, we hold close the moments when our families are complete—sharing stories, enjoying a meal, and simply being together. This Mother’s Day, we want to give families a space where those moments can happen beautifully and effortlessly.”
Richmonde Iloilo’s unique yet familiar spread of comforting dishes at The Granary’s Mother’s Day buffet is available for lunch and dinner service and is priced at PhP 1,650 nett with discounts for seniors and children applicable.
This year, give mom something she will truly treasure: a day filled with laughter, warmth, and family togetherness. At Richmonde Hotels, the most meaningful celebration is not about going far or spending more—it’s about making every moment count with the people who matter most.
For reservations and inquiries, guests may contact Richmonde Hotel Ortigas at (632) 8638 7777, email stay@richmondehotelortigas.com, or visit www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph. Eastwood Richmonde Hotel may be reached at (632) 8570 7777, stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com, or www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph. For celebrations and staycations in the City of Love, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is available at (6333) 328 7888, stay@richmondeiloilo.com, or www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph.
There’s a different kind of summer waiting in the city one that invites you to linger a little longer, savour a little more, and rediscover the joy of unhurried moments. At Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila, the season unfolds with a refreshing perspective on modern stays and dining where comfort feels intuitive, and every experience is designed to be effortlessly yours.
48 Hours at Lanson Place: Stay on impulse or plan ahead.
A last-minute decision turns into a seamless check-in made even sweeter with the Same Day Deal, offering 25% off when you book and stay on the same day. No overplanning, no overthinking, just the promise of a stay that feels easy from the very start
If not today, guests enjoy 15% off the Best Available Rate, along with 25% off dining, complimentary Wi-Fi, and full access to the hotel’s thoughtfully designed spaces for a later stay.
(Rates are non-refundable. An incidental deposit of PHP 2,000 per night is required upon check-in and is refundable upon check-out. Children aged 0–5 dine free for breakfast, while those aged 6–12 enjoy 50% savings. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-248461 Series of 2026.)
Where Every Meal Feels Like a Moment
Dining remains at the heart of the experience at Cyan Modern Kitchen, the return of à la carte dining sets the tone for a meal that feels personal. Each dish is crafted for both comfort and curiosity. From pan-seared mahi mahi and twice-cooked octopus, to braised lamb shank, seared U.S. Sirloin, an indulgent crispy pork pata, or the seafood laksa, the menu balances familiarity with discovery. For those who prefer variety, the buffet continues daily for lunch, and from Friday to Sunday for dinner, offering a vibrant mix of local and international flavours. It’s dining that fits your mood, whatever it may be.
Cyan Modern Kitchen’s Seafood Laksa.
At Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila, summer isn’t defined by where you go but how you feel while you’re there. And sometimes, that’s all it takes to turn a simple stay into a story worth sharing.
Lanson Place Mall of Asia is located at Block 12, Palm Coast Avenue corner Seaside Boulevard, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.
Follow its official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram) to find out more.
What is the most essential building block for the future of the Cultural Center of the Philippines in the visual arts?
This question set the tone for the recent Philippine Arts Roundtable organized by the country’s premier cultural institution, bringing together a diverse group of experts to examine the current landscape and explore the future directions of Philippine contemporary art.
The recent roundtable discussion brought together Alfredo and Isabel Aquilizan, contemporary visual artists and cultural practitioners; Isa Lorenzo, founder and co-director of Silverlens Galleries; Carlos Quijon Jr., art historian, critic, and curator currently serving as the C-MAP Fellow for Southeast and East Asia at the Museum of Modern Art in New York; Clarissa Chikiamco, curator at National Gallery Singapore and a PhD candidate at King’s College London; Dindin Araneta, co-founder of Art Fair Philippines and Director of the Benilde Center for Campus Exhibitions (CCE) at De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde; Tina Colayco, President of the Metropolitan Museum of Manila; Sheila Ramos, business executive and art collector; and Ana Maria Ortega, business executive and arts management educator.
Together, they unpacked pressing questions and concerns on institutional support, artistic practice, and cultural direction, offering critical insights that point to emerging possibilities for the CCP’s role in shaping the visual arts ecosystem in the years ahead.
Arts education as a foundation for the future
For the Aquilizans, education is an essential foundation for the future of Philippine visual arts. They emphasized the need for government institutions to maximize their capacity to develop and expand arts curricula, particularly at the high school level.
“We have the Philippine High School for the Arts as the educational arm of the CCP, and I believe this model should be replicated across the country, perhaps through the development of accessible educational modules and similar programs,” said Alfredo Aquilizan.
They also highlighted their experience in Australia, where they conduct art workshops in remote communities, an approach they believe could be effectively adapted in the Philippines to expand access to arts education.
“We conduct workshops in remote communities, which play an important role in expanding access to knowledge, and it raises the question of how the CCP can further extend its reach and share its resources more effectively with underserved communities,” noted Alfredo.
The Aquilizans also pointed out the importance of sustainable support systems for artists, including government-funded travel grants and mentorship programs.
Preservation and accessibility as pillars of the future
Chikiamco emphasized that CCP initiatives play a vital role in supporting the visual arts ecosystem in the Philippines. Programs such as the Thirteen Artists Award recognize and nurture emerging artistic practices, while the 21AM serves as an important venue for exhibiting and preserving the CCP’s visual arts collection.
At the same time, she underscored the importance of accessibility and conservation in the arts. She cited the works of Roberto Chabet as an example, that these should be made more accessible through institutions, like the CCP, for the public to engage with.
“I think sometimes that this legacy is in danger of being lost because this history is not really visible. I’m aware of it, and many curators who have conducted research have seen the archives of those early exhibitions at the CCP. But it can be difficult to access,” said Chikiamco, who also suggested the need for CCP to actively acquire and safeguard significant art collections.
“It is very important for CCP, and I guess Philippine institutions in general, to collect contemporary arts. A lot of this is in danger of disappearing if it’s not collected, because you need to work with the artist in developing guidelines, like what is essential to the work, for its display,” enthused Chikiamco.
Strategic promotion elevates Philippine visual arts
For Lorenzo, CCP, being a national institution with many existing assets, must position itself as the gold standard for exhibition-making, not only in the Philippines, but across the region.
“Your collection is amazing. But how do you get people to see it? And how do you broadcast this information to the world? The CCP cannot afford to remain insular. It needs to be more outward-looking,” emphasized Lorenzo.
This outward approach should include a stronger presence on social media and the cultivation of diverse voices that can engage multiple generations. “Whether it’s through TikTok, Instagram, or other platforms, there should be a significant investment in communicating who the CCP is, what it does, and what it holds. The only way to build an audience is to bring people in,” added Lorenzo.
They also highlighted the importance of expanding the reach of CCP’s collections through nationwide exhibitions, increased publications, and visibility in international events as key strategies for advancing Philippine visual arts.
“Another priority is the CCP collection itself. Lean into your existing assets. Consider touring exhibitions across the Philippines. Another is publications. There are already publications, but perhaps there could be more. Set a goal, maybe three to five publications a year, or at least one annually, and be present in international art events. Support regional artists in global exhibitions, and build on efforts that already exist.”
Institutional support for curators advances Philippine visual arts
As a Filipino curator working with international artists and large-scale exhibitions, Quijon Jr. noted that while many curators already operate on a global level, most begin their careers in the Philippines but eventually move abroad due to limited local opportunities. For him, this underscores a key concern: the need to strengthen institutional support not only for artists, but also for curators within the Philippine visual arts sector.
“That is what is at stake for me in this conversation. We have the talent, but how do we support that talent so they can stay here? So that we are the ones who “makikinabang” from the efforts of these curators, myself included. One of the first things I thought of is ensuring that the local ecology is in place, that it works. It means local institutions function well and support one another. If that happens, we can begin to address these anxieties about participating in international and global conversations,” said Quijon Jr.
He also clarified the roles of the curator. “I’m not an artist, and I’m not a gallerist. But we, as curators, position artists for galleries. I position artists for art historians, so that we can be part of regional and international conversations around art.”
Furthering the discussion
In the latter part of the discussion, discussants Dindin Araneta, Tina Colayco, Sheila Ramos, and Ana Maria Ortega provided further insights, responding to and building upon the perspectives shared by the first set of speakers.
Present during the roundtable discussion were the CCP Board of Trustees, led by Chairman Jaime C. Laya, co-chairs Ma. Carissa O. Coscolluela and Maria Margarita Moran-Floirendo, with Trustees Junie S. Del Mundo, Felix Monino S. Duque, Atty. Gizela Gonzalez, and Jonathan M. Velasco
CCP President Kaye C. Tinga; Vice President for Administration and Finance Jose Victor M. Gaite and Vice President and Artistic Director Dennis Marasigan, who served as moderator, also attended the event.
For details on CCP programs and events, follow the CCP on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. To learn more about the Cultural Center of the Philippines and its programs, visit www.culturalcenter.gov.ph.
The seaside destination unveils its F&B campaign celebrating storytelling, craft, and place.
Pico de Loro Cove, long committed to supporting local communities, further strengthens this advocacy with the launch of Lasang Lokal, Proudly Pico, a culinary travelogues series that brings Filipino flavors to life through story.
Framed by the natural beauty of the cove, the series goes beyond the plate—exploring the stories, inspirations, and local connections behind each dish. From thoughtfully sourced ingredients to the creative process of Pico’s culinary team, each episode offers a deeper look into how tradition and innovation come together in every dining experience.
Lasang Lokal hosts with the fishermen of Wawa Port.
Designed as a journey, it highlights the richness of Filipino cuisine while reinterpreting it through a distinct lens—elevated, intentional, and rooted in community. It reflects the property’s commitment to creating experiences that are not only memorable, but meaningful.
Fresh catch from the port.
Exploring the province of Batangas, the first episode features one of the property’s sought-after offerings, Fresh Catch—a showcase of seafood sourced from the day’s haul at Wawa Port in Nasugbu. Hosted by Pico de Loro Cove’s own Chef Marlon Granados and Jerick Cahayon, both Batangas natives, the episode follows their visit to local fishermen, offering a glimpse into their daily rhythm and livelihood.
Lasang Lokal Hosts cooking fresh catch from Wawa Port.
The journey continues back at the cove, where these fresh ingredients are transformed into dishes guests can experience on their next visit.
Sinigang na Matambaka, Kilawing Matambaka, Pritong Hiwas.
“At Pico de Loro Cove, food is an experience that connects people to place and to story,” says Leah Magallanes, Vice President – Quality and Sustainability for SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation. “This series allows us to share the heart behind what we do, while honoring the flavors that define us.”
Lasang Lokal, Proudly Pico will roll out across Pico de Loro Cove’s official platforms, inviting audiences to discover, savor, and reconnect with Filipino flavors—one story at a time.
This summer, the skies at Boracay Newcoast will be filled with a spectacular burst of colors as it hosts the first-ever Boracay Newcoast Kite Festival 2026, happening on April 27 to 29 at Cove 2. Designed to usher in the season with creativity, family-friendly fun, and outdoor excitement, the three-day festival promises a vibrant celebration set against the coastal scenery of the island.
As one of the newest summer highlights in Boracay, everyone is invited to join the exciting kite flying competition or witness the artistry of expert kite flyers. Guests and visitors may also participate in kite-making and kite flying workshops.
The festival grounds located at Cove 2 will feature immersive art, photo-worthy displays, and interactive kite-themed installations. Experience the Boracay Newcoast Kite Festival with summer packages at Belmont Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast, or Chancellor Hotel Boracay for as low as Php 3,700 per night with buffet breakfast for two, plus exclusive discounts, complimentary shuttle transfers to D’Mall, and a 15-minute non-motorized water activity. Book directly on the hotel’s website to enjoy the offer until May 31, 2026.
“The Boracay Newcoast Kite Festival is an opportunity to introduce a fresh attraction that adds vibrancy to the island’s tourism landscape. Unique events like this that families and travelers can look forward to every year help sustain visitor interest, support local businesses, and contribute to the continued growth of Boracay as a world-class destination,” Sonny Alvaro, Cluster General Manager – Boracay of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, said.
Stay in any of Boracay Newcoast properties – Belmont Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast, or Chancellor Hotel Boracay – to join the festivities.
High Above: The Grand Kite Competition
Taking center stage is the “High Above: The Grand Kite Competition,” where participants will compete in categories such as flat kites, 3D figure kites, and 3D geometric kites and get a chance to win up to Php8,000 in cash prize. Spectators can expect a thrilling showcase of precision flying and imaginative designs as kite enthusiasts demonstrate their creativity and technical mastery of the craft. The competition is set to deliver unforgettable moments for families, tourists, and locals alike, making it a must-see highlight of the summer calendar.
Kite Master Exhibition
From April 28 to 29, visitors will have the rare opportunity to witness the artistry of the Kite Association of the Philippines, led by renowned Kite Master Cris Rosales. Together with fellow members, Rosales will present a stunning kite exhibition featuring intricately designed kites that demonstrate the craftsmanship and cultural significance of the sport.
Kite-Making Workshop and Kite Flying 101
Beyond the competitions and exhibitions, the Boracay Newcoast Kite Festival 2026 offers hands-on experiences. Guests can participate in an engaging kite-making workshop, where attendees can design and decorate their own kites under the guidance of experienced kite makers. The festival will also host “Kite Flying 101,” an introductory session perfect for beginners and families eager to learn the basics of launching and maneuvering a kite with confidence.
To cap off the celebration, photography enthusiasts can relive the festival’s most memorable moments through a kite photography competition and photo museum, featuring a curated collection of the most captivating shots captured throughout the event.
Just present a Proof of Purchase from any Boracay Newcoast establishment or show a hotel keycard from any property within the township to join the activities, making it easy for visitors to take part in the fun while exploring the destination’s diverse dining, retail, and leisure offerings.
