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Supercharged by AI: Acer Debuts the Swift 14 AI

Acer launches its first Copilot+ PC with the Swift 14 AI laptop, in collaboration with Microsoft and Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., ushering in a new AI era with brand new user experiences and AI capabilities on Windows 11. The Swift 14 AI has multiple device models, powered by Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus platforms[1], and both feature one of the world’s fastest NPUs for laptops to enable on-device AI processing. Users can streamline everyday tasks with smarter PC functions and tackle complex workloads more effectively.

“Engineered for AI from the inside out, the Swift 14 AI is the first among many Acer Copilot+ PCs to come,” said Jerry Kao, COO, Acer Inc. “These next-generation AI PCs see significant leaps in AI processing power, unlocking brand new experiences that we know users will love.”

“It’s exciting to collaborate with Acer to bring AI technology to its Windows PC range of devices from sleek ultrabooks to powerful gaming rigs. Our collaboration has been crucial in delivering productive and secure PCs that cater to a broad spectrum of customers while also balancing style and performance with affordability, making technology accessible to a wider audience while also focusing on sustainability,” states Mark Linton, VP Device Partner Sales, Microsoft Corp.

“The Swift 14 AI is a remarkable device that demonstrates the power, performance and intelligence capabilities of the Snapdragon X Elite platform,” said Kedar Kondap, Senior Vice President & General Manager of Compute & Gaming, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

A New AI Era Begins with Copilot+ PCs

The new Swift 14 AI has been optimized with powerful AI, unlocking new productivity, creativity, and communication experiences.

With Recall[], users can easily find anything they have seen on their PC by simply describing the clues they remember. With an explorable timeline, users can easily scroll across time to get back to apps, documents, or messages they previously used. Live Captions[2,] with live translations provides automatic speech captions and conducts translations in real-time of any live or pre-recorded video from 44 languages into English.

To spark imagination and creative abilities, visual or written prompts can now be used to co-create AI images and texts on the device with Cocreator[2,3]. Auto Super Resolution[2] automatically upscales graphics resolution and frame refresh rates of games in real-time to deliver the visuals players crave without taking a hit on performance. For those who always want to look and sound their best while better engaging their audience in video calls, Windows Studio Effects[2,3] helps to automatically improve lighting conditions and cancel out unwanted noise.

Premium Design and Features

As a reflection of its modern capabilities and usability, the Swift 14 AI sports a refined Copilot+ PC-exclusive design, highlighted by a unique AI icon stamped on the cover of the thin-and-light chassis and an Activity Indicator on the touchpad that illuminates when the device or Copilot is activated. The laptop features a 14.5-inch WQXGA (2560×1600) IPS display with a 120 Hz refresh rate and support for 100% sRGB color gamut. It is available with edge-to-edge touchscreen options and comes with TÜV Rheinland Eyesafe® Certification 2.0[1] to help minimize the effects of harmful blue light without sacrificing color accuracy. A 180-degree hinge design provides the flexibility of a different user mode and enables easy opening of the aluminum cover with one hand.

A 1440p QHD IR webcam with a triple microphone array[1] and privacy shutter supports Acer’s suite of AI-boosted conferencing tools in Acer PurifiedView™ 2.0 and Acer PurifiedVoice™ 2.0 to ensure users always look and sound their best. These can be swiftly calibrated thanks to Acer QuickPanel which intuitively appears when the device’s webcam or microphone has been switched on. A dedicated key directs users to the Red Dot Design Award-winning AcerSense™ app for device management and a library of AI features available on the device through the Experience Zone.

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.

Visit Acer’s Media Center for product images and specifications, or visit the Acer Press Room to see all announcements.

 

#AcerSwift14AI #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Elegant Delights Await: Discover Madeleine High Tea and Bytes at Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila

The newly opened Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila, a lavish retreat designed to blend the charm of wholesome delights with modern elegance, has been an exciting addition to the hospitality landscape in Manila. Inaugurated last April, the premier destination is set to redefine the standards of comfort and convenience for both business travellers and leisure seekers alike.

Nestled in the heart of Manila, Lanson Place Mall of Asia offers an array of amenities including spaces that are perfect for co-working or relaxation, Bytes and Madeleine High Tea. Both are poised to become the go-to spots for those seeking a unique blend of casual comfort and sophisticated indulgence.

Elegance and Tradition Reimagined

For those looking to indulge in a bit of timeless elegance, the Madeleine High Tea at Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila offers an exquisite experience. The serene and sophisticated ambience, enhanced plush seating, creates the perfect backdrop for intimate gatherings, business meetings, or simply unwinding in style.

Guests can enjoy a meticulously crafted selection of premium tea from Agusan Del Norte, accompanied by cakes and pastries that blend classic and modern high tea flavours. The venue’s contemporary elegance and delectable treats create the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon or a special social event. Madeleine High Tea offers an indulgent experience, ensuring guests savour every sip and bite in style.

“Nature’s Apothecary has carefully crafted teas with to create an experience that brings out all of its natural flavours and aromas while perfectly blending with traditional and contemporary high tea elements. “Our goal is to provide a space where guests can relax and connect, whether they’re here for business or leisure,” said Deczle Enriquez, Lanson Place’s Director of Food and Beverage.

A Burst of Flavour in Every Byte

Guests on the go can elevate their work and leisure experience with Bytes at Lanson Place. Found on the 3rd level alongside Focus, the dedicated co-working space at the hotel establishment, Bytes is designed to cater to the different needs of today’s travellers.

Bytes provides a variety of hearty and delicious options that guests can snack on to fuel their productivity while working or to enhance leisure while spending time with friends, colleagues, or future business partners. Each item is crafted with the finest ingredients to ensure every bite is packed with nutrition. Bytes is a place where work meets relaxation, making every moment a revitalizing experience.

“The concept behind the Bytes is to offer our guests a wholesome and satisfying option that does not compromise on taste or quality,” said Deczle Enriquez, Director of Food and Beverage. “Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between meetings or enjoying a leisurely snack with friends, we want every visit to be a delightful experience.”

Guests are welcome to relish contemporary delights, whether they are looking for a quick healthy bite or spending a relaxing afternoon of indulgence, Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila has something to offer. Discover a haven where wholesome delights meet modern style. Visit Madeleine High Tea and Bytes at Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila today.

For more information about Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila’s upcoming events, and other offerings, visit the official website at www.lansonplace.com/mallofasia or follow the official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram).

 

About Lanson Place Personal Hotels & Residences

Lanson Place is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wing Tai Properties Limited (Wing Tai), a publicly listed company in Hong Kong (HKEx stock code: 369). Wing Tai currently manages 6 properties (in which Wing Tai has equity in two) under the Lanson Place brand, comprising luxury Personal Hotels and Residences in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore, as well as two new properties in Manila (opened in the third quarter of 2023) and Melbourne in (to be opened in 2024).

 

#LansonPlaceMallofAsia #MadeleineHighTea #Bytes #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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A Taste of Summer at Park Inn by Radisson Davao

Plunge into a refreshing, vibrant and feel good stay at Park Inn by Radisson Davao, one of the city’s premier accommodations, which was recently honored the Certificate of Excellence from Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards 2024.

Escape to a weekend staycation with the Summer Vibes package at Php4,588 in one of the hotel’s contemporary standard rooms, complete with a buffet breakfast for two at the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, VANDA. Additionally, the booking provides guests with the privilege to access the pool deck which houses an adult and children’s pool, complemented by a pool bar. Best time to dip in the pool? Between 4 to 6 PM where you can witness the stunning transition from day to night, while taking in the mesmerizing city skyline of Davao. This package is available until 08 July 2024.

Summer Desserts – Macapuno Leche Flan, Buko Halo-halo, Banana Split Trio, Wasabi Ice-Cream Cake and Malagos Chocolate Brownie topped with Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream.

Elevate the ultimate summer staycation with a selection of Summer Coolers, priced at Php150 each – quench your thirst with the refreshing watermelon-based Watermelon Fizz; Havana, a delightful mix of pineapple and coconut; a strawberry and mangosteen concoction Daba-daba; along with the Samarefic, a refreshing mix of cucumber and lemon with a kick of ginger; and cool off with the lychee-based cooler, Dabaw Breeze.

Who can say no to desserts? Indulge in Summer Desserts that will definitely satisfy your sweet-tooth and cool you off at the same time. The selection of desserts starts from Php300, kicking off with the good-for-sharing Banana Split Trio, the Malagos Chocolate Brownie topped with Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream, and the classic summer favorite – Buko Halo-halo. A surprising yet delightful aftertaste waits you with the Wasabi Ice Cream Cake – it will make you crave for it! And if you want a non-ice cream based dessert, the custardy and milky Macapuno Leche Flan is ideal for you. Enjoy these summer coolers and desserts until 31 July 2024.

Enjoy the Summer Season with loved ones.

After checking-out, enjoy a mini shopping spree at the adjacent SM Lanang Mall, an indoor four-story shopping mall that houses over 250 shops, restaurants and recreational hubs.

Park Inn by Radisson Davao features an inventory of 202 rooms and is strategically located right beside SM Lanang Mall & SMX Convention Center Davao. The property is the first Park Inn by Radisson property in Asia Pacific that opened doors in March of 2013. Amenities includes VANDA restaurant, the 24/7 self-service counter DASH, Pool Deck that houses an adult and children’s pool along with the pool bar, more than 90 parking slots and a covered foot bridge to the mall among others.

Relax, enjoy, and soak up the summer before the rainy season begins!

 All prices are in Philippine Peso and inclusive of applicable taxes.

For bookings & inquiries: reservations.davao@parkinn.com | fb.supervisor@parkinn.com | 082 272 7600 |  +63 917 859 1766 |  +63 917 859 1743

For more information: www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/park-inn-davao

Or connect with them on:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/parkinndavao 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/parkinndavao

 

#ParkInnbyRadissonDavao #summervibespackage #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Businesswoman-Philanthropist Kaye Tinga is the New CCP President

The Cultural Center of the Philippines welcomes its new president, businesswoman and philanthropist Kaye Tinga.

She will assume the duties of the presidency on June 1, 2024, allowing her time to fully acclimate in her new role. Tinga will take responsibility for the operations of the CCP, working closely with the management.

New CCP President Kaye Tinga.

Her presidency was approved by the CCP Board of Trustees, following the election during the board meeting on May 15, 2024. She became part of the Board after her appointment from Malacañang Palace in April 2024.

She replaced early childhood educator Michelle Nikki Junia, who acted as president ad interim from September 2023 to March 2024.

Championing Filipino design talents, Tinga is the co-founder and co-chairperson of the Red Charity Gala, a prestigious annual event that aims to celebrate local fashion through the works of renowned Filipino designers including Dennis Lustico, Furne One, Michael Cinco, Cary Santiago, Ezra Santos, Jojie Lloren, Lesley Mobo, Chito Vijandre, Joey Samson, Rajo Laurel, and Ivarluski Aseron. The gala also raises substantial funds for charitable causes, including for the Philippine Red Cross.

A business economics graduate from the University of the Philippines-Diliman, with MBA from Fordham University, she is the co-founder and managing director of W/17, a home furnishing and accessories brand that collaborated with with craftsmen from various regions across the Philippines, including from Cebu, Cavite, Pampanga, and Dumaguete. Through her leadership, her brand has been promoting local artisans, cultural skills preservation, and economic development.

Nurturing the next generation of creative talents, Tinga serves as a board member of MINT College, a business and creative arts college and senior high school that provides an innovative learning experience and empowers young people through its pioneering programs such as music business management, multimedia arts, and film and video.

Married to former Taguig Mayor and Congressman Freddie Tinga, and mother to four children, Tinga balances her professional and philanthropic activities with her family life, and interests in design and travel.

The CCP Board of Trustees is headed by Dr. Jaime C. Laya, with Margie Moran Floirendo and Carissa Oledan Coscolluela as Vice Chairs.

Completing the Board are real estate magnate Isidro A. Consunji, award-winning conductor Jonathan Velasco, PR maven Junie del Mundo, master light designer Felix “Monino” Duque, Atty. Gizela M. Gonzalez, and entrepreneur Marivic del Pilar.

#KayeTinga #CCPNewPresident #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Philippine Marketing Association Strengthens Its Thrust on Sustainability Marketing with PMA RAMP Fashion Show and Charity Auction Ball

The Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) reaffirmed its dedication to sustainable marketing by hosting the PMA RAMP Fashion Show and Charity Auction Ball at Sheraton Collab, Newport World Resorts Manila, marking its 70th anniversary milestone fundraiser event.

The event spotlighted eco-friendly fashion, echoing PMA’s year-long focus on “SustAInability Marketing.” This theme advocates for green marketing campaigns rooted in circular economy principles and integrated with artificial intelligence.

PMA President Kathy Mercado with Ucycle President Tati Fortuna.

In collaboration with sustainability advocate Ms. Tati Fortuna, President of Ucycle, the fashion show showcased designs by esteemed PMA members, including past presidents and community leaders. These designs emphasized the organization’s focus on maximizing resource utilization, reducing waste, and prolonging product lifespans.

The evening also featured a Charity Auction Ball, presenting donated luxury items, artworks, and collectibles. Notable highlights included exquisite gowns by renowned fashion designers such as Michael Cinco, featuring Pia Wurtzbach’s iconic dress, among others from Hollywood celebrities. Artworks by BenCab were also up for auction, all in support of the association’s initiatives aimed at bolstering PMA’s community outreach, educational programs, and industry events.

Percentage of the proceeds from the auction will benefit the Upskills+ Foundation, Inc., aiding communities in severe poverty through employment and income generation via community-managed microenterprises that promote circular and sustainability practices, as well as the Betis Symphonic Band 46, offering musical training and international competition opportunities to youth.

Betis Symphonic Band 46.

“As we celebrate 70 years of advancing marketing excellence, the PMA is proud to spearhead a move towards a more sustainable future,” stated PMA President Kathy Mercado. “This year’s PMA RAMP Fashion Show and Charity Auction Ball not only exemplify our commitment to responsible marketing but also strengthen our efforts to support the community and foster meaningful causes. With a focus on educating and inspiring our members and stakeholders to embrace sustainable practices, this event also serves as a celebration of sustainability, innovation, and camaraderie as we look forward to another decade of making a difference.”

Sitti Navarro

The PMA RAMP Fashion Show and Charity Auction Ball was supported by Aseana Holdings, Newport World Resorts, Sheraton Manila Hotel, Grandhope Travel, with event partners, Tati Fortuna of Ucycle, Emperador Distillers as bar host,Forex Cargo Guam for Sitti Navarro’s Performance, Betis Symphonic Band 46, Reyes Haircutters, hosted by RJ Ledesma. Creative and agency partners include, AQAdvertising, Shoppertainment Live, Globaltronics LEDs, Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, Pool Party Creatives, United Neon, along with Uniquecorn Strategies as its official PR partner. This collaboration highlighted their commitment to sustainability and community support.

ABOUT PHILIPPINE MARKETING ASSOCIATION

Founded in 1954, the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) is the premier marketing association in the Philippines, dedicated to promoting excellence and ethics among marketing professionals.

PMA stands as a strong pillar of support and source of direction for marketers in the Philippines and across the region, pushing for excellence and unparalleled service to the marketing and business community.

Engaged in various educational programs and networking events, PMA continues to be the cornerstone of innovation and leadership in the marketing field.

For more information visit:

Website:
https://philippinemarketing.org/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/thePhilippinemarketing

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/philippine-marketing-association/

 

#PMARAMP #PMAat70 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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SMX Academix Debuts with Francis Kong and Raymund Sanchez as Speakers

SMX Convention Center, the nation’s premier venue for meetings and events, proudly unveils SMX Academix, a signature event series set to debut at select SMX branches. This initiative is designed to deliver immersive seminars, inspiring talks, and training sessions that empower individuals with the knowledge and skills essential for thriving in today’s dynamic business landscape.

At the heart of SMX Academix’s success lies its collaboration with industry experts possessing decades of experience and invaluable insights. During a recent media briefing, SMX Academix announced its partnership with the Practical Leadership Institute for a series of talks featuring their network of professional speakers, including renowned figures like Francis Kong and Raymund Sanchez, who are the keynote speakers of the day. They will delve into the critical topic of sustainable business practices, exploring the theme “WHY BUILD SOMETHING THAT WILL NOT LAST? The Role of Your Company In The Great Commission.” This engaging discourse offers a sneak peek into the transformative content awaiting participants.

“We are excited to introduce SMX Academix in collaboration with our esteemed speakers as a signature event within the SMX Convention Center portfolio,” remarked Michael Albana, Vice President and General Manager of SMX Convention Center. “Our goal is to transform our venues into active platforms that foster growth, inspire, and drive personal and professional development through these seminars, facilitating the exchange of actionable insights and strategies for success and innovation.”

SMX Academix will soon announce its line-up of distinguished speakers and scheduled seminars covering topics ranging from leadership essentials to industry-specific trends. Participants can anticipate a holistic learning experience tailored to unlock their full potential.

About SMX Convention Center

SMX Convention Center is the premier venue for meetings and events in the country with over 42,000 sq.m. of leasable space. Under the flagship of SMX Manila are SMX Aura, SMX Bacolod, SMX Clark, SMX Davao, Olongapo City Convention Center, and two Trade Halls namely, Megatrade Hall and Sky Hall Seaside Cebu. For more information, please visit www.smxconventioncenter.com

#SMXAcademix #FrancisKong #RaymundSanchez #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Okada Manila Hosts Barbie’s 65th Anniversary Celebration: A Tribute to Empowerment and Dreams

Okada Manila is thrilled to announce an exceptional event celebrating the 65th Anniversary of Barbie, the quintessential icon of inspiration and empowerment across generations. Dubbed “Barbie 65th Anniversary – Inspiring Stories, Shaping the Future,” this grand celebration will unfold at Cove Manila from April 27 to June 2, 2024, commemorating Barbie’s profound influence on encouraging dreams and aspirations since her inception in 1959. This celebration is designed to bring together Barbie fans of all ages, highlighting her significant impact on culture and society.

Event Highlights

The Barbie 65th Anniversary celebration will see Cove Manila transformed into a colorful journey through Barbie’s storied history. Highlights include:

Barbie Interactive Tunnel (Crystal Pavilion): A spotlight feature where attendees can traverse Barbie’s iconic moments. It includes a beautifully lit Barbie acrylic logo with spaces for visitors to engage in activities such as sharing inspirational stories on a post-it note wall and expressing how Barbie has inspired their futures.

Barbie Dream Camper: For the first time ever, a life-sized Barbie open camper will be presented, divided into three play areas for an immersive experience into Barbie’s world.

Barbie Diorama: An extensive exhibition featuring over 130 Barbie Career Dolls from 1959 to the present day, showcasing the evolution of Barbie’s roles and professions.

Barbie Ice Cream Cart and Food Truck: Offering toys-inspired treats and actual food, creating a delightful experience for kids and families.

“You Can Be Anything” Pop-Up Booth: Lighted booths depicting various Barbie careers to inspire visitors about the endless possibilities they can achieve.

Barbie Activity Area and 65th Photo Op Box: An area dedicated to interactive activities including a diorama display, a free play table, and a TV for webisode playback. It also features a mini-mirror for kids’ selfies and an interactive wall where visitors can post their dreams.

Year-Round Family Getaway at Cove Manila

The Beach Club of the iconic Cove Manila.

In addition to the Barbie celebration, Cove Manila continues to be a premier family destination throughout the year. Its 9,000-square-meter dome, equipped with temperature control and UV protection, offers a unique beach club experience right in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect year-round getaway for families seeking fun and relaxation.

Empowering the Next Generation

This event transcends mere nostalgia, aiming to inspire the next generation with interactive and engaging exhibits that encourage children to dream without limits.

“We are honored to host the 65th Anniversary of Barbie at Cove Manila, showcasing her lasting impact in empowering young minds to break traditional boundaries,” said Vikki Aquino, Director of Spas, Recreation, and Kids’ Club at Okada Manila. “We invite everyone to join us in this inspirational celebration.”

Moreover, the celebration includes a “Daycation” package, allowing guests to experience Barbie’s world firsthand, exploring her house and the myriad of careers she has represented over the years.

Mark your calendars for this memorable event at Cove Manila, Okada Manila, from April 27 to June 2, 2024. It’s an opportunity to honor Barbie’s enduring legacy and the unlimited possibilities she symbolizes. The ticket price for this once-in-a-lifetime event is PHP1,988, inclusive of a set meal, promising a celebration that will be both inspiring and fun.

About Okada Manila

Okada Manila, a Forbes 5-star luxury destination in the Philippines, showcases unparalleled hospitality, gaming, and entertainment across 30 hectares. Home to the world-renowned The Fountain, a $30 million water choreography marvel, and Cove Manila, the world’s largest indoor beach club and nightclub, it leads in leisure and nightlife. Offering the Philippines’ largest gaming floor with a vast array of table games and electronic gaming machines, Okada Manila is a hub for luxury and innovation in gaming, with exclusive clubs like Perlas, Maharlika, and the VIP Club providing elite experiences. Family entertainment options include PLAY and Thrillscape, catering to developmental and recreational needs. The Forbes 5-star-rated The Retreat Spa and The Sole Retreat promote wellness, complemented by 17 dining venues and luxury shopping at Retail Boulevard. With 993 luxurious accommodations and state-of-the-art event spaces, alongside digital innovations like the Okada Online Casino and Okada Manila App, Okada Manila is the ultimate destination for thrill, relaxation, and luxury. Visit https://www.okadamanila.com/ to explore.

#OkadaManila #Barbie65thAnniversary #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. Properties Excel at Radisson Hotel Group’s SEAP GM’s Conference

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) properties reap multiple awards during the recently concluded 2024 Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) South East Asia Pacific GM’s Conference held at Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu last March 25-28.

Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA was voted 2023 Hotel of the Year beating other properties in the Philippines and Fiji. To be bestowed such an accolade means that the hotel has achieved all its KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and is a clear testament of the hotel’s steadfast dedication to unaparalleled service excellence, exceptional guest experience, and continuous innovation.

Façade of Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA, the 2023 Hotel of the Year.

Furthermore, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA General Manager Ms. Ann Olalo was awarded Talent Developer of the Year. This is a category that has just been introduced this year in recognition of General Managers who significantly invest in their team’s growth. As such, the company takes pride in saying that Ms. Olalo is the first recipient of such an award. She was chosen over other nominated GMs in Medan and Batam, Indonesia. The award acknowledges Ms. Olalo’s outstanding leadership in determining, cultivating, and empowering talent within the organization. Inspired by her unwavering commitment to drive the professional growth and development of the hotel’s team members, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA has established a standard for talent management in the region, showcasing a commitment to the fulfillment of the hotel’s goals and promoting a culture of excellence.

Last but not the least, Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu won the Operational Excellence Award for two years in a row. The award is accorded to the hotel whose exemplary performance across the region exhibits an impressive delivery of all its KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), together with a meticulous assessment of the hotel’s overall portfolio optimisation, brand management, sales and revenue management, conduct of responsible business practices, and the like with an overall compliance to Radisson Hotel Group’s stringent quality standards.

Gracing the occasion are no less than SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. President Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. Executive Vice President Ms. Peggy E. Angeles, and Radisson Hotel Group Area Senior Vice President for South East Asia & Pacific Mr. Andre de Jong. Not to mention, Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu GM Marko Janssen, who hosted the three-day conference, as well as Park Inn by Radisson GMs of SM Hotel’s other properties, and all other RHG GM’s from the region were also present.

As one of the country’s major hotel developers, SMHCC is poised to embark succeeding years of innovation, expansion, and multiplication of more hotel properties, giving Filipinos and foreigners alike additional quality accommodation options that suit every occasion and celebation.

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

#SMHotelsandConventionsCorp #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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‘Mebuyan’s Colony’ in CCP: Function Beyond the Fantastical

Whether physical, social, or personal, art always serves a purpose and goes beyond aesthetics and well into the needs of the artist and the community. Such is the case for multidisciplinary artist Leeroy New’s Mebuyan’s Colony, the featured Earth Day art installation of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). The unveiling will take place on April 25 at 6 p.m. at the CCP Front Lawn.

Raising environmental awareness and championing green initiatives, Mebuyan’s Colony is a large-scale immersive environment that combines New’s fascination with science fiction and Philippine mythology, reflected in the giant spheres on bamboo stilts.

Based on Bagobo mythology, Mebuyan is the goddess residing in the underworld whose body is engulfed with seemingly infinite breasts. Pods akin to wombs allude to Mebuyan’s dual role as the goddess of death and fertility, sustaining the spirits of children who have passed and transforming and nourishing them into adults capable of continuing the journey through the afterlife.

New’s use of natural materials, found objects, and assorted discards transformed into representations of a specific speculative future intersects Filipino contemporary life, pre-colonial mythology, and environmentalism.

“Our references to local stories and pre-colonial mythology can determine our approach to creative production. I referenced Mebuyan and other pre-colonial stories because most of us only get to hear the same stories, paulit-ulit,” he explains. “We don’t hear about Mebuyan, the goddess of death and fertility, who nurtures the spirits of dead babies. So there are a lot of principles and elements that we miss out on.”

Leeroy New

For the fifth iteration of the Mebuyan series, New incorporated this year’s Earth Day celebration theme, “Planet vs. Plastics,” as he utilized additional materials to protect plants against the hotter weather.

“I’m really drawn to pieces that explore practicality and functionality. When we built Mebuyan’s Colony, I wondered how we could build something more. How can we move away from practical structures, like cube forms, versus more creative and fantastical forms, like these clusters of spheres?” shared New.

The Mebuyan installation at the CCP will utilize blue gallons instead of the usual clear plastic bottles. New explores a more semi-architectural and sculpture-like way of grouping that can mitigate the heat to ensure that the plants will thrive.

“It’s all experimental, but the goal is for the plants to survive inside and under the structure,” said New.

Born in General Santos City, New made up for the lack of art galleries and museums in the area with horror and sci-fi films, magic shows, card games, and illustrated books as his early art references. The artist-designer draws motivation from the continuous element of play and exploration in artmaking.

“The concept of world-building became an important principle and determining idea in how I implemented my art practice. I had dreams of participating in building worlds physically and, in a practical way, through architecture. Also, building worlds, imagined or representational, through film,” shared New.

With Mebuyan’s Colony, New shared how the installation went against the rock and metallic forms that try to go into outer space to colonize other planets. Instead, it represented more regenerative and inward-looking principles, showing how human beings redefine their relationship with Mother Earth.

On his way of manifesting his vision in his art, New elaborated:  “It’s not just the idea of the themes of sci-fi in my work, but slowly moving towards the functional side. It’s not enough to represent something in art, so it’s time to explore how to make it practical and useful.”

To get the latest updates on Mebuyan’s Colony, follow the official CCP and CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division (CCP VAMD) social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

#MebuyansColony #CCP #LeeroyNew #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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This Boracay Italian Restaurant is 21 years old and counting

Imagine sinking your teeth into the cheesy goodness of a crispy yet moist prosciutto pizza slice that’s baked fresh inside a wood-fired brick oven, prepared by an Italian Chef, no less. As you take the bite, strings of melty cheese are pulled away, and you savor the flavors of Italy bursting on your palate. You look at the view of sparkling blue seas from a comfortable second-floor dining balcony and feel the fine, powdery sand between your toes as you head out. No need to imagine for long, this is a reality at ARIA Cucina Italiana.

 Established in 2003 on world-renowned Boracay island, the 21-year-old beachfront restaurant stands the test of time with its authentic cuisine, owned by entrepreneurs Juan Elizalde and Paolo Occhionero, under the leadership of Italian Executive Chef, Salvatore Vincentis. Vincentis’ delectable and authentic creations continue to wow people from all over the globe. No wonder, his standards in the kitchen are strict, especially when it comes to the freshness and quality of ingredients, as some are even flown in straight from Italy so as not to compromise their delicious Italian fare. ARIA’s curated menu is the most comprehensive one on the island, with dishes catering to various tastes and preferences.

ARIA has been providing the best Italian fare in Boracay for 21 years and counting.

Other than their high-quality ingredients, it’s the wood-fired brick oven that makes their pizzas truly delicious. It packs on the flavor, thanks to the intense heat it generates that cooks the pizza quickly, resulting in a crisp crust while locking in moisture and flavor. The wood imparts a distinctive smoky flavor to the pizza you can’t achieve with other cooking methods. It also tends to keep authenticity alive as they have been used for centuries in Italy and other parts of the world for baking bread and cooking pizza. The tradition and craftsmanship associated with these ovens add an element of authenticity to the pizza-making process, which ARIA guests surely love.

Their extensive selection of 26 pizza varieties inspired by various regions in Italy is sure to impress you. For other menu items, you can also indulge in their Fritto di Calamari con Maionese Elle Erbe and Prosciutto e Mango, both considered some of the best appetizers on the island. As for salads, it’s the Cocomero Salad that people quite regularly enjoy.

Pizza large

For pasta lovers, there are the special black fettuccine pasta dishes with the Fettuccine Nere and Al Nero. The Chicken Parmigiana, baked to perfection in their brick oven, is also a crowd favorite. To try something new, our Gnocchi alla Sorrentina AKA potato dumplings are an underrated delight. To quench your thirst, they also offer Italian cocktails with an extensive list of wines that are sure to complement your mouth-watering dishes. To end your meal on a sweet note, treat yourself to ARIA Tris di Dolci or their perfectly creamy ARIA Gelato with a wide selection of 18 flavors, made fresh daily with imported ingredients. With all gelato flavors crafted daily, it’s undeniably the finest ice cream dessert experience in Boracay.

ARIA Cucina Italiana continues to thrive as a top-of-mind Italian beachfront restaurant, despite all the challenges it faced during Boracay’s closures for the island rehabilitation in 2018, and then followed by the pandemic in 2020. Choosing to stay open to keep staff employed, they continued operations and adapted a digital system for online orders and delivery.

With 21 years of authentic Italian food that never compromises on taste and quality, and best-rated reviews on TripAdvisor and Google, be sure to expect many more to come.

 Visit ARIA Cucina Italiana at D’Mall, Station 2, Boracay Island.
Follow them on Instagram @ariacucinaitaliana.
See the menu here.  Order via Viber: +63 998 482 8490

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