Uratex’s CSR Initiative: Delivering Comfort Beyond the Guinness World Record

Uratex Philippines, a leading foam company, recently marked its 55th anniversary with a notable feat – breaking the Guinness World Record for the largest Human Mattress Domino. However, the celebration goes beyond setting records, as Uratex reaffirms its commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) by donating 2,355 mattresses to various charity foundations across the Philippines.

In an interview during the event, Mrs. Naty Cheng, CEO and president of Uratex, emphasized the company’s dedication to giving back to the community. “Noong 40th anniversary, nagbigay na kami to forty charities. Noong 50th year, nagbigay ulit kami. Maraming nabigyan namin, buo pa yung kutson nila kaya bibigyan namin yung mga iba naman” (During our 40th anniversary, we donated to forty charities. On our 50th year, we did it again. Since many already received mattresses, we decided to help others).

Charity Foundations and Beneficiaries

The recipients of Uratex’s mattress donations include orphanages, homes for the elderly, and various other organizations providing sanctuary for those in need. Notable beneficiaries include CORA Non-Profit Organization, Gawad Kalinga, Philippine Red Cross, and Bethany House Sto. Niño Orphanage. These charities were carefully chosen based on their alignment with Uratex’s vision and their urgent need for mattresses.

New mattresses arrive in Tahanan na Walang Hagdan.

The decision-making process was guided by the company’s founder, Mr. Robert Cheng’s vision: “We will not stop until we give every Filipino with a comfortable and affordable mattress to lie on.” Uratex collaborated with external partners to identify charities supporting shelters for the aged, women, children, and adults with special needs, as well as community hospitals in need of proper bedding.

The 2,355 mattresses found their way to diverse communities, including the Muslim community, orphanages, homes for the aged, hospitals with outdated mattresses, and troubled teens in need of a fresh start. Some recipients were living in poor housing conditions, relying on uncomfortable bedding or, in some cases, had never experienced the comfort of a mattress.

Uratex and National Childrens Hospital representatives poses in front of the mattresses.

Locations of the charities spanned across Cebu, Agusan del Norte, Cagayan de Oro City, Isla Verde in Batangas, Metro Manila, and nearby provinces.

Isla Verde, a secluded and simple community within Verde Island in Batangas, was one of the recipients. In an interview, recipients expressed their gratitude. One recipient stated, “Maraming salamat Uratex dahil natulungan nyo kaming mabigyan ng foam dahil sa sahig lamang kami natutulog. Ngayon ay komportable na kaming matulog dahil sa foam ng Uratex” (Thank you very much, Uratex, for helping us receive a foam. Before, we only slept on the floor. Now, we can sleep comfortably because of Uratex’s foam). Another recipient also conveyed appreciation, “Akoy nagpapasalamat at kami’y inyong nabigyang pansin… Maraming salamat sa Uratex. Kami ay makakahiga sa malambot” (I am thankful that you noticed us… Thank you, Uratex. We can now sleep on something soft).

The Mattresses: A Symbol of Quality and Generosity

Uratex donated 2,355 pieces of its best-selling Classic Uratex Single (36 x 75) mattresses, the same mattresses used in the Guinness World Record attempt for the Largest Human Mattress Domino. The record-setting attempt, which lasted 14 minutes and 25 seconds, not only showcased Uratex’s commitment to quality but also became the platform for a broader CSR initiative.

By combining the excitement of breaking a world record with a substantial charitable donation, Uratex is exemplifying how corporate success can be leveraged for the betterment of communities, aligning with its enduring vision of providing comfort to every Filipino. This unique initiative demonstrates that, for Uratex, giving back is not just an event; it’s a commitment woven into the fabric of its 55-year journey.

#Uratex #givingback #charitabledonation #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

All-Male Group Wins Top Prizes in Choral Contest in Tolosa, Spain

THE Male Ensemble Philippines (MEn) clinched top prizes in the recently concluded 54th Tolosa Choral Contest held from October 31 to November 5, 2023, in the town of Tolosa in the Basque Region of Spain.

Led by their musical director Ily Matthew Maniano, the group secured the First Prize in the Secular Music Category and the Second Prize in the Sacred Music Category under the Vocal Groups Category of the competition, surpassing competitors from the United Kingdom, Italy, Iceland, and Sweden.

The Male Ensemble Philippines is a 6-member vocal ensemble under the Philippine Madrigal Singers Company of Artists, composed of singers from different world-class and award-winning choral groups, united by passion and love for ensemble singing. The group consists of Ily Matthew Maniano (countertenor), Amiel Job Liwanagan (countertenor), Tomas Umberto Virtucio, Jr. (tenor), John Philip Bautista (tenor), Dwight Benedict Chavez (baritone), and Nil’s Emerson Flores (bass).

Regarded as “one of the most important choral events in the world,” the Tolosa Choral Contest brings together top choirs from around the globe. It aims to bring together the best choirs in the world, in order to enable an exchange of styles, interpretation, choral literature, vocal education, and customs of each country, as well as raise awareness of the musical and cultural tradition of the Basque Country.

Established in 1969, the competition has become one of the most important choral events in the world through the years.  To date, almost 1,200 different choirs from all over the world have come to Tolosa to make their music.

“The Cultural Center of the Philippines is proud of the success that the Male Ensemble Philippines achieved in the Tolosa Choral Contest.  We laud them for epitomizing solid musicianship as well as championing artistic discipline and respect. Our Filipino artists have been making their mark on both local and international stages, and the CCP supports them in their artistic journey,” said CCP president Michelle Nikki Junia.

The Male Ensemble Philippines is currently on its 2023 European Concert Tour from October 20 to December 19, conducting concerts, performances, and workshops in France, Spain, Sweden, Denmark, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria.

Since 2018, the group has dedicated itself to promoting Philippine culture and arts through music.  They have participated in numerous concerts and events across the Philippines and abroad, collaborating with esteemed musical artists and cultural, government, and private institutions. Recently, MEn performed at the prestigious Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory, following the invitation of the Philippine Embassy in Russia.

The Male Ensemble Philippines had performances at the Cultural Center of the Philippines as well, among them, TERNOCON in 2018, “Tanghalan Naming Tahanan” production of the Madz in 2019, as featured artists for BINURDA event in December 2022, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra’s concert “Messiah” in December 2022, and as part of the performance of the Philippine Madrigal Singers’ SIXTY OF PLENTY anniversary concert in October 2023.

For more information, contact the group via email at male.ensemble.ph@gmail.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram (@maleensembleph).

#MaleEnsemblePhilippines #CCP #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

HKTB and Acclaimed Asian Directors Jointly Present Micro-films Showcasing Hong Kong’s Tourism Appeals

Broadcasting Hong Kong’s charm as a travel destination with captivating films and TV entertainment programs has long been one of the promotional strategies of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB).

Teaming up with CJ ENM, a top-tier entertainment company in Asia, HKTB presents the micro-film series Hong Kong in the Lens by Asian Directors with acclaimed directors from  Thailand, the Philippines, and South Korea, who have created three micro-films showcasing Hong Kong’s vibrant bar scene, authentic local lifestyle, and arts and cultural attractions to inspire visitors from around the world to come and experience Hong Kong’s new offerings.

The micro-film series has become an official selection in the Hong Kong Asian Film Festival 2023. After two screenings in Hong Kong today, the micro-films will be premiered in Seoul, Bangkok, and Manila, and will be broadcast on TV and online streaming platforms throughout Asia.

The participating directors include Thai director of Bad Genius Nattawut Poonpiriya, Filipino director of Hello, Love, Goodbye Cathy Garcia-Sampana and South Korean director of The Outlaws Kang Yunsung. The production teams visited various locations across Hong Kong at different periods to capture the city’s unique cityscape in their micro-films, presenting the city’s touristic charm in their own styles.

Group photo of Mr. Kang Yunsung, Director of micro-film Hong Kong, Within Me (third from left), Mrs. Cathy Garcia-Sampana, Director of micro-film Toss Coin (third from right), Ms. Vivian Sum, Commissioner for Tourism (second from left), Mr. Dane Cheng, Executive Director of Hong Kong Tourism Board (second from right), Ms. Becky Ip, Deputy Executive Director of Hong Kong Tourism Board (leftmost) and Mr. Michael Jung, Managing Director of CJ ENM Hong Kong (rightmost).

 

Dane Cheng, HKTB Executive Director, said, “The power of movies extends far beyond mere entertainment, as they can impress viewers with the allure of a destination and entice travellers to explore in person the places they have seen on screen. Through the lens of the acclaimed directors and popular actors in the three key source markets in Asia for Hong Kong, this microfilm series presents Hong Kong’s diverse tourism appeals and broaden the exposure of Hong Kong. On top of the screening, we will roll out promotions centred around the featured filming locations to inspire visitors to come and explore Hong Kong in person.”

Follow the movies and immerse yourselves in Hong Kong’s charm!

  • Exploring Hong Kong at night  follow Thai sisters for bar hopping in Hong Kong –Zi Mui (Thailand)

Synopsis

In hopes to wake their father up, the sisters, Abb and May, set off on a journey in search of their father’s past love. With such a drastic difference in personality, the sisters each take matters into their own hands to find her. Will they succeed?

Famous Thai director Nattawut Poonpiriya, who is known for his high-grossing box office hit Bad Genius, and actresses Cris and Ploi Horwang, who are real-life sisters, presented a story of a search for a lost connection.

 Mostly set at night, the movie shows the two protagonists roaming around Hong Kong, including Ping Pong Gintoneria in Western District, and bars and clubs in Central, including Foxglove, Dragonfly, Tai Kwun, as well as Duddell Street and Pottinger Street, to display of the city’s glamourous night scene.

 The director deliberately reduced close-up shots to capture a wider background, maximising the span of Hong Kong’s night scenes, “Hong Kong itself is already very cinematic, thanks to its distinctive city lights, details and textures.”

  • Richnessin art & culture —walk in Filipino screen couple’s footsteps across cultural hotspots 

Toss Coin (The Philippines)

Synopsis

All it takes is one coin flip and one lie, and it leads Riah down a memory lane of her ex-boyfriend. She revisits all their special places, hoping to bump into him again and to rekindle their love. But will this lead her back to him or the beginning of a new journey?

After her award-winning blockbuster Hello, Love, Goodbye, Filipino director Cathy Garcia-Sampana returned to Hong Kong for another rom-com set in Hong Kong, starring Alexa Ilacad, whose Instagram account is followed by 3.8 million fans, and new-generation actor KD Estrada.

 The film voyages through many local cultural points of interest including M+ in West Kowloon Cultural District, murals in Sai Kung, Hong Kong Museum of Art, PMQ in Central, exhibiting the city’s unique cultural aura.

 Toss Coin is Garcia-Sampana’s first micro-film. The director commented, “While I personally like the city’s human touch and culture, this time, I had the opportunity to show the other side of Hong Kong, highlighting the beautiful architecture of the buildings and the intersection between artistic galleries and vibrant murals.”

  • Local delicacies  savor Hong Kong-style restaurant with k-pop icons

Hong Kong, Within Me (South Korea)

Synopsis

Hye-rim finds herself trapped in a never- ending dream – meeting an old friend, discovering new places and creating fond memories, and the day repeats. But how can she return to reality? Or does she actually want to stay here forever?

Korean director of The Outlaws Kang Yunsung challenges himself with romantic fantasy for the first time, with casts Woo Hye-rim from Wonder Girls and Hwang Chan-sung from 2PM.

 Besides capturing the spectacular Victoria Harbour from tourists’ favourites such as 1881, Ocean Terminal Deck, the Chinese junk Aqua Luna, the film also features Tai On Coffee & Tea Shop, revamped Hong Kong-style cha chaan teng for a taste of Hong Kong. The male protagonist even learns to make a local fried noodles in the authentic way and showcases his Hong Kong-style cooking skills in the movie!

 Kang said, “The dishes in Hong Kong’s cha chaan teng are very unique and totally different from what we can find in a Korean café. I hope viewers from my country can learn more about Hong Kong’s local culinary culture through the film.”

#HKTB #HongKong #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Love the Holidays at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo

The most-awaited season of the year is here! There’s so much to love about the holidays—the cooler weather, the decorations, the parties, the food, the gifts, the get-togethers, and so much more. As magic and love fill the air this Christmas, plan your celebrations with a fabulous stay at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo.

 

  • Love Holiday stays. From homecomings to staycations to explorations, Iloilo is a must-visit destination this holiday break. Delight in its cultural attractions, natural wonders, and most especially, its mouthwatering delicacies that earned the city its UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy recognition. Book your stay at Richmonde and enjoy its premier location within the modern and vibrant township of Iloilo Business Park.

Room rates start at only PhP 6,200 nett from December 15, 2023, to January 15, 2024 (except December 24 & 31) and include a breakfast buffet for two. For a hassle-free extended vacation, the 3-night package with rates starting at PhP 23,400 nett.

Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve stays are even lovelier with special packages on December 24 and 31, 2023 that include the lavish Holiday Luxe Dinner Buffet and hearty breakfast buffet for two priced from PhP 9,150 nett.

RHI_Love Festive Feasts_Chef Ariel Castaneda.

 

  • Love Festive Feasts. Iloilo is a foodie’s paradise and Richmonde is an unmistakable hotspot for gourmets looking for unique fusions of the region’s heritage cuisine and contemporary culinary trends. At The Granary, Richmonde’s all-day dining restaurant, expect a splendid spread of holiday fare ranging from traditional comfort food to an array of global cuisine at the Holiday Luxe Dinner Buffets served on December 24, 25, and 31, 2023 from 6 pm to 10 pm. Each buffet is priced at only PhP 1,650 nett per person.

 

  • Love Yuletide Gatherings. The season of revelries calls for glitz, glamour, and some serious party planning for a fun and memorable event. Let the Richmonde Hotel Iloilo team handle the meticulous planning and execution of your parties and reunions when you book this year’s party packages at rates starting at PhP 1,800 nett per person which includes a holiday-themed lunch or dinner buffet.
RHI_Love Local Baked Goodies

 

  • Love Local Baked Goodies. Richmonde pays homage to childhood panaderia favorites with classic bakery staples given an interestingly yummy twist for a taste of both novelty and nostalgia. Check out new bread creations like Spanish Croissant (PhP 225), Hopia Turnover (PhP 175), Pan de Pancho (PhP 235), Cheese Roll Croissant (PhP 295), Coco Bun (PhP 150), and Ube Bar (PhP 220) available for dine-in and takeaway at The Granary. These freshly baked treats make the perfect gift for family, friends, and colleagues. Bulk orders are accepted with a lead time of 2 days.

For inquiries, reservations, bookings, and orders, call +63 33 328 7888 or contact stay@richmondeiloilo.com for room accommodations; +63 917 563 3973 / sales@richmondeiloilo.com for banquet bookings; and +63 917 563 3558 to order baked goodies. Bookings may also be made online at Richmonde’s official website, www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph.

 

#RichmondeHotelIloilo #holidays2023 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

   

Global Dominion’s Trailblazing Journey: Patricia Poco-Palacios Inspires Innovation and Resilience During a Recent Forum

Patricia Poco-Palacios, the President and COO of Global Dominion, shared her insights on Artificial Intelligence (AI) during the recent BusinessWorld Forecast 2024, aptly titled “PH Rising: Keeping the Momentum.”

Poco-Palacios shared her insights as a panelist in the discussion on “Points of Convergence: Meeting Consumers Where They Currently Are.”

“The shift to AI is accelerated. There are risks such as fraud and identity theft, but we see a lot of advantages in terms of compliance and reviewing financials,” Poco-Palacios.

Acknowledging that technology is a driving force in the global economy, Poco-Palacios stressed the need for businesses to embrace disruption with courage and determination.

“I think the biggest challenge for businesses like us is having the courage and wherewithal to (experiment with) and pilot (disruptive) technologies. It’s difficult, but it has to be done to challenge the status quo.”

This call to action emphasizes the necessity of breaking free from conventional practices and daring to explore innovative avenues.

Global Dominion Financing, Inc., under Poco-Palacios’ leadership, sees a future where challenges are not obstacles but opportunities for growth and innovation. The company is navigating uncharted territories with the courage to experiment and pilot disruptive technologies, challenging existing norms to usher a new era of progress.

As Global Dominion Financing, Inc. moves forward into the future, inspired by Poco-Palacios’ insights at the BusinessWorld Forecast 2024, it does so with a clear vision. The challenges posed by AI adoption and disruptive technologies are not roadblocks but catalysts for positive change. The call to challenge the status quo echoes as a mantra for businesses to not only keep pace with change but to actively lead it, ensuring a future where innovation and resilience are the cornerstones of success.

Global Dominion offers car and truck refinancing (Sangla OR/CR), brand new and used car and truck financing, medical loans, and real estate loans for SMEs to empower families to achieve their goals and dreams.

For more information about Global Dominion Financing, Inc. or to inquire about loans, simply go to https://gdfi.com.ph/apply-now/ or visit any of Global Dominion’s branches nationwide.

#GlobalDominionFinancing #Patricia PocoPalacios #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Have Cool Moments With Beko’s Air Conditioners This Holiday Season

Beko, a European appliance brand, offers you a lifestyle upgrade with their line of Air Conditioners designed to redefine the way you experience cool comfort at home.

This holiday season, you can also stay cool and make the most out of the savings of up to 60% offered by the Beko Sends Love promo from October 1-December 31, 2023. Your wallet will thank you as you’ll get lots of savings in your wallet and in your energy consumption bills since Beko air conditioners have an energy saving feature that lets you enjoy maximum coolness with minimal costs.

Get a restful sleep, say goodbye to uncomfortable nights and experience a cool atmosphere at your home as this has a low energy consumption rate. Save Php15,999 on the BSEOG 180/181 split type air conditioner 2.0HP SplitType AC HomeWhiz ProSmart Inverter Compressor, which has a cash price of Php 38,991.

Escape the heat or feel warm with the BSEOG 120/121, 1.5 HP SplitType AC HomeWhiz Prosmart Inverter Compressor, has a cash price of Php29,891 for savings of Php16,099 while the BSEOG 090/091, a HomeWhiz 1.0 HP SplitType AC ProSmart Inverter Compressor, has a cash price of Php25,791 for savings of Php11,199.

Beko’s appliances are also efficient for all kinds of spaces, especially Beko’s window type inverter air conditioners! The BPV0W 120, a 1.5HP Window Type AC Full DC Motors ProSmart Inverter Compressor, has a cash price of Php24,391) with savings of Php6,599 and the BPV0W 090, a 1.0HP Window Type AC Full DC Motors ProSmart Inverter Compressor, has a cash price of Php21,791 with savings of Php5,199.

Beko appliances are available at Abenson, AC Marketing, All Home, Anson’s Asian Home, Automatic Centre, BHF, Echo Appliance, Fair N Square, Fiesta Appliance, Fonts Home, GB Prime, Great World, J Marketing, JVValeroso Marketing, K-Alwin’z, Lazada, Lucky 4 City Appliance, Magic Appliance, Manhattan, Mike’s Department Store, NB Marketing, Ocampo’s, Our Builders Warehouse, Plusign, POS Marketing, Pricewise, RJ Homes, Robinson’s ,Tiongsan, Trinity Appliance, Triple NM, United Motoliance, VPR Marketing, Western Appliances, Savers Appliances, SaveYour Home, Shopee, Solidmark, SM Appliance Center, SVCAppliance, and 1st Megasaver.

This year, Beko will be made available soon in other appliance stores nationwide as it continues to expand its distribution to other retail channels.

For more information about Beko in the Philippines, go to http://beko.ph or visit https://www.facebook.com/bekoph and https://www.instagram.com/bekoph/.

#Beko #LiveLikeAPro #BekoSendsLove #AirConditioners

Experience luxury skin care the French way at Le Meur Aesthetics

With the holiday season in full swing, social calendars are as active as ever. In the midst of all the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to treat yourself to an elegantly luxurious pampering experience at Le Meur Aesthetic Clinic. With Le Meur’s expertise in French beauty standards and skin care, you will surely be fresh and glowing at every holiday occasion.

Located in the heart of Quezon City, Le Meur Aesthetics Clinic’s European-style interiors showcase elegance and style, reflective of the luxury treatments that the clinic offers. From their lavish waiting areas and treatment rooms, to their state-of-the-art machines and latest innovations in skin care, Le Meur boasts of services that are designed to give the best results possible to their clients.

Le Meur’s best-selling treatments are the Le Meur Signature Facial and Hydra Skin Master Facial, designed to give patients optimum skin care at competitive prices. The clinic also has offerings that target very specific needs for skin and body care and rejuventation. Some of their popular procedures include rhinoplasty, liposuction, buccal fat removal, and the painless BTL Ultra Femme 360, a popular intimate treatment for ladies.

For an indulgent bonding experience, Le Meur Aesthetics offers a couple room for besties or couples. Clients may choose to enjoy a full French-inspired skin care experience and a wide array of other Le Meur services. These include facials, drips, scrubs, injectables, and other advanced treatments for the face and body.

Le Meur also provides online clinic consultations with their in-house skin care specialists. These reliable and efficient consultations help clients plan out a personalized program to address their concerns and goals. The clinic offers a wide variety of options to suit the client’s wishes.

And because skin care is a commitment, Le Meur also has its own line of skin care products so clients can continue the Le Meur approach to skin care even when clients are not in the clinic. Their divine assortment of luxe acne treatment gels, anti-aging sunscreens, face serums, and facial cleansers are available in regular and travel sizes.

Ready for your French luxury beauty experience? Visit Le Meur Aesthetics at Steelworld Tower, NS Amoranto corner Biak Na Bato, Quezon City. For more information visit their Facebook page Le Meur Aesthetics. For inquiries and bookings, call 0917-639-6963 or 0917-160-5523.

#LeMeur #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

DOOGEE supports Gawad Kalinga Foundation’s education initiative with tablet donation

Recently launched technology brand  DOOGEE has made a donation of tablets to the Gawad Kalinga Foundation in support of the organization’s ARAL program, which covers reading and comprehension tutorials. At DOOGEE, “It’s The Season To Give,” and what better way to support Gawad Kalinga’s ARAL program to encourage the love of reading and learning than with the donation of U10 Kid Android tablets.

“These tablets have a special app called Kids World, which has 300+ learning activities installed that can help accelerate literacy programs like ARAL. We are very honored to be a part of this noble program of Gawad Kalinga, which will benefit children and, in the long term, help alleviate poverty in the Philippines. We didn’t hesitate to say yes when they approached us,” said Igue Bonifacio, Integrated Marketing Head of DOOGEE Philippines.

DOOGEE will continue to find ways to support NGOs like Gawad Kalinga and bring appropriate technology for learning and recreation.

From L-R: Mr. Zandro dela Cruz, Marketing Officer – DOOGEE, Ms. Vangie Sesma, Head of Key Accounts – Gawad Kalinga, Mr. Kent Buaya, Creative Officer – DOOGEE

“Gratitude is the melody of generosity. Thank you DOOGEE for your heartfelt donation. You’ve orchestrated a brighter future for children who dream of learning. Your gift of a tablet is not just a device; it’s a key that unlocks doors of knowledge and opportunities for those who cannot afford their own. Your kindness resonates in the eager minds of these kids, empowering them to reach new heights. Thank you for composing a symphony of hope and education,” said Vangie Sesma, Gawad Kalinga Foundation’s Head of Key Accounts.

For more information, follow DOOGEE Philippines on their Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts (@doogeeph). You may also check them out at  Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok shop (@doogeeph).

 

#DoogeePhilippines #GawadKalinga #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Intramuros Evenings Presents CCP Out-of-the-Box Series: Ang Kasal ni Figaro

The Tagalized production of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro,” originally produced as part of the CCP Out-Of-The-Box Series, returns to the stage through Intramuros Evenings on December 9, 6pm, at the Baluarte de San Diego inside the Intramuros, Manila.

“After its successful comeback with Isang Gabi ng Sarsuwela, Intramuros Evenings continues to delight with another CCP production, ‘Ang Kasal ni Figaro.’ We are grateful for this partnership with CCP as we relaunched our program. You can look forward to good programming that showcases the best of the Philippine arts and culture while promoting historical landmarks inside the Walled City,” said Intramuros Administration head Atty. Joan M. Padilla.

Intramuros Evenings, which was first held in 1996, used to feature performances from CCP resident companies such as the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO), Ballet Philippines, and Tanghalang Pilipino. Its recent revival paved the way for the CCP to once again feature the best of Philippine artists and performing groups through their long standing partnership.

“Ang Kasal ni Figaro” follows the resourceful servant Figaro as he and his betrothed Suzanne prepare for their wedding. In a comedic journey to happy-ever-after, the couple faces several attempts of Count Almaviva to prevent the marriage. Amid various hurdles, suspicions, and intrigues, will the couple finally find their happy ending?

The libretto of “The Marriage of Figaro” was written by Lorenzo da Ponte, based on The Figaro Trilogy by French playwright Pierre Beaumarchais.

“Ang Kasal ni Figaro” features stellar performances by Bianca Camille Aguila, Roxy Aldiosa, Diego Aranda, Angeli Benipayo, Ruzzel Clemeno, Nerissa de Juan, Roby Malubay, Nomher Nival, Noel Rayos, Jonathan Tadioan, and Floyd Tena, with stage direction by Jaime del Mundo.

Farley Asuncion takes charge of the music direction, with Ohm David for set design, Raqs Regalado for costumes, Rards Corpus for sound, Rommel Serrano for hair & make-up styling, and D Cortezano for lighting.

Nomher Nival and Angeli Benipayo.

CCP Vice President/Artistic Director Dennis N. Marasigan did the translation for this production, aiming to make opera more accessible to Filipino audiences.

“True to the concept of the CCP Out-Of-The-Box Series, which aims to present performances that audiences normally wouldn’t see in conventional programming, this re-staging of Ang Kasal ni Figaro would give a unique twist to what the opera we know. With its minimal set design and technical requirement, we are able to produce opera to create new awareness and further appreciation to this art form,” said Marasigan.

With a shared goal to promote the Philippine brand and strengthen national identity while helping in national development, the CCP and IA continue to collaborate to preserve what is inherently Filipino and celebrate the best of the best in performing arts through Intramuros Evenings.

Catch the second installment of Intramuros Evenings, featuring the CCP Out-Of-The-Box Series: “Ang Kasal ni Figaro,” on December 9, 2023, 6pm, at Baluarte de San Diego, Intramuros. The show is free to the public. Entrance fee to Baluarte de San Diego is priced at Php 75, with discounted price of Php 50 for students, senior citizens, and PWDs.

For latest updates, follow the CCP official social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram and Tiktok, and visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) for tickets and other inquiries.

#AngKasalniFigaro #CCPOutoftheBox #Intramuros #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Celebrate the Festive Season at F1 Hotel Manila

Get ready to embrace the joy of the season with our Holiday Bliss promotions! As the holiday season approaches, F1 Hotel Manila is inviting guests to experience the epitome of comfort and luxury with our Home for the Holidays at the Fort Suite for Php 7,800 net per night with complimentary in-room massage for two (2) persons. This limited-time offer is available from December 1 to 30, 2023, providing a perfect retreat for those seeking a memorable holiday getaway.

Partake in an exquisite culinary celebration with our exclusive Festive Flavors Dinner Buffet priced at Php 2,899 net per person. Available only on December 24, 25, 31, 2023, and January 1, 2024, this sumptuous dining experience promises to elevate your festivities and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Satisfy your sweet cravings with our Holiday Christmas Cake in the classic Red Velvet flavor for Php 2,200 net. This delectable masterpiece, available for redemption daily from December 8, 2023, to January 5, 2024, is a delightful addition to your festive celebrations.

Prepare to bid farewell to the year gone by and embrace the dawn of a new beginning at The Canary’s exclusive New Year Countdown Soiree on December 31, 2023, from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM, offering an enchanting experience at Php 3,088 net per person. The highlights of the soiree include unlimited drinks, a grazing table, and live acoustic music!

Experience the utmost relaxation and extravagance with our New Year Treat package. For Php 9,900 net per night, enjoy a relaxing overnight stay in our Fort Suite, inclusive of breakfast for two (2) persons. Additionally, avail a 30% discount on the ‘New Year Countdown Soiree’ ticket, late check-out until 4 PM (subject to availability), access to our facilities including the swimming pool and gym, and unlimited in-room Wi-Fi usage.

For reservations, ticket purchases, or inquiries, please contact 8928-9888 or visit our website at www.f1hotelmanila.com. F1 Hotel Manila is dedicated to providing exceptional hospitality experiences, ensuring comfort, luxury, and personalized service. Located at the heart of Bonifacio Global City, our establishment aims to create memorable stays for every guest, ensuring unparalleled satisfaction and relaxation.

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