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Heritage and Legacy: Cuartel de Santo Domingo Marks 20th and 25th Year Milestones

From September 24 to 26, 2025, a series of events will honor both the 20th anniversary of the Cuartel’s declaration as a National Historical Landmark, and the 25th founding anniversary of the KCSD as a nonprofit organization.

Heritage, history, and community spirit will take center stage this September as the Cuartel de Santo Domingo and the Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo Inc. (KCSD) commemorate two major milestones with a three-day cultural celebration.

From September 24 to 26, 2025, a series of events will honor both the 20th anniversary of the Cuartel’s declaration as a National Historical Landmark, and the 25th founding anniversary of the KCSD as a nonprofit organization.

Batino with Mayor Arlene Arcillas of Santa Rosa, Laguna. Courtesy: Gemalin Batino FB Page

“This dual celebration reflects not just the passage of time, but our shared commitment to preserve the rich heritage of Santo Domingo,” said Gemalin Batino, Chairperson of KCSD. “Cultural heritage gives us a sense of community and identity, pride and dignity anchored on a shared past.”

Honoring the Past, Envisioning the Future

The festivities will kick off on Day 1 at the Cuartel’s Admin Building with a Heritage Conference and Launching Ceremonies, featuring keynote messages, performances, and the unveiling of the new Santa Rosa Heritage Magazine. An exhibit titled ‘First of First’—a tribute to Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas—will also be launched alongside KCSD Inc.’s new official website.

BODs and cultural workers of KCSD.

“It’s about more than preserving a structure,” Batino noted. “It’s about keeping the stories alive, and making sure that younger generations know why this place matters.”

Day 2: History in Action

On the second day, September 25, the Cuartel grounds will host ‘Acts and Portrayals’ — dramatized vignettes showcasing the Cuartel’s rich legacy. Highlights include:
– The history of Cuartel de Santo Domingo
– Sugar milling and trapiche production in the area
– Agricultural life through heirloom products and friar-led initiatives

These acts aim to educate the public and rekindle appreciation for local traditions and the rural economy that shaped Santa Rosa’s past.

 Day 3: A Night of Culture and Community

The final day will conclude with a grand Gala Night: Baile & Concierto at Paseo Premier Hotel. Guests will enjoy dance performances, acknowledgments, and an open floor for community dancing, all while enjoying cocktail snacks.

“This is a celebration not only of where we have been, but where we are going,” Batino said. “We want to highlight our legacy and renew our mission for the future.”

Board of Directors, supporters, and cultural workers of Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo Inc. (KCSD).

By blending historical commemoration with cultural outreach, the event reminds attendees of the Cuartel’s enduring value. The multi-day program invites local residents and visiting dignitaries alike to reflect on Laguna’s past—and inspire commitment to its future.

KCSD’s dual milestone is a testament to years of advocacy, preservation, and community-building. Through exhibitions, living performances, and celebrations, Cuartel de Santo Domingo is not just remembered—it is renewed.

Please direct inquiries to KCSD Inc. or their email at kilusancuarteldesantodomingo@gmail.com.

A Site of Historic Importance

The Cuartel de Santo Domingo is a 19th-century Spanish military barracks, originally built to house the Guardia Civil. Over time, it served multiple roles—from a colonial outpost to a police academy, and even as a detention facility under the PNP. In 2005, it was officially declared a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

Today, the Cuartel stands as one of the few remaining examples of Spanish colonial military architecture in the country. Its thick adobe walls and strategic location continue to inspire historical awareness and preservation efforts.

KCSD, established in 2000, has since grown into a cornerstone of local heritage advocacy. Through educational programs, cultural exhibits, and ongoing restoration projects, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to promote shared patrimony.

“The responsibility to preserve and conserve our heritage for posterity is ours,” Batino emphasized.

With this triple-day affair, the community of Santa Rosa reaffirms its commitment to honor the past, engage the present, and preserve the legacy for future generations.

#CuarteldeSantoDomingo #anniversary #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Seeing Colors of Hope: Ioni Mendoza’s First Solo Exhibit Opens to a Heartfelt Welcome

The walls of Life N’ Arts Gallery came alive with vibrant hues, heartfelt stories, and a shared mission. “Seeing Colors of Hope” is the much-anticipated first solo exhibition of artist and entrepreneur Ioni Mendoza.

More than just an artistic milestone, the event was a celebration of resilience, gratitude, and giving back. Surrounded by family, friends, fellow artists, art enthusiasts, and the team from the Eye Bank Foundation of the Philippines led by their President Dr. Ivo John Dualan, Ioni welcomed guests into a deeply personal journey. The exhibit was shaped by her own experience of vision loss, treatment, and ultimately, the gift of sight through a corneal transplant.

“I was born with a condition that impaired my vision and came with many insecurities,” Ioni shared. “After years of treatments, I was blessed to receive a corneal transplant from a generous donor through the Eye Bank Foundation of the Philippines, under the care of the late Dr. Cosme Naval.”

Through her exhibit and every masterpiece, Ioni willingly dedicates part of the proceeds to the Eye Bank Foundation of the Philippines — an organization that works tirelessly to educate, process donations, advance research, and ensure the best outcomes for both donors and recipients.

An Immersive and Interactive Experience

One of the exhibit’s installations was the interactive canvas, where visitors were invited to share messages of encouragement, hope, and strength. Colorful sticky notes, paper flowers, and origami cranes quickly filled the board. Each one gives a colorful echo of the exhibit’s theme.

Seeing Colors of Hope Exhibit 2025.

Some wrote words like faith, strength, and keep going, while others left heartfelt congratulations and personal reflections. This collective display became an art piece in itself, a living testament to how creativity and community can intertwine.

Colors that Give Back

The exhibit draws inspiration from beauty close to home, much like Monet’s garden in Giverny. Each piece radiates warmth and movement, offering a visual reminder that hope can be found in the everyday.

Through this exhibit, hope extends beyond the canvas. Ioni’s commitment ensures that art lovers can also be part of a cause that restores the gift of sight to others.

Almost anyone can be a corneal donor — young or old, with or without glasses, even those who are blind — as long as the cornea is healthy and free from disease or injury. By pledging to donate your cornea and eye tissue after death, you could one day help restore the vision of someone living with corneal blindness.

Exhibit Extended

For those who missed opening day, “Seeing Colors of Hope” will continue to run at Life N’ Arts Gallery until September 9, 2025. Don’t miss the opportunities to experience the work, leave your message on the interactive wall, and support a cause that changes lives.

Follow the artist on Instagram @artbyio_18 and explore more works through linktr.ee/artbyio

#IoniMendoza #SeeingColorsofHope #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SMHCC Tela Tales Initiative Goes Nationwide with a Davao Launch

Following the thread of its Luzon and Visayas legs, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation’s Tela Tales continues to weave sustainability in its properties one region at a time. Coinciding with the Kadayawan Festival, Tela Tales was officially launched in Davao City, in partnership with its hotel property, Park Inn by Radisson Davao.

Commemorating the occasion were SMHCC Vice President for Quality and Sustainability Ms. Leah Magallanes, Davao City Councilors Hon. Tek Ocampo and Hon. Myrna Ortiz; Department of Trade and Industry Regional Director Romeo L. Castañaga; and Department of Tourism Region XI Assistant Regional Director Judy Colaljo.

REPAMANA designer Dars Juson, featuring his creations for SMHCC and Park Inn by Radisson Davao’s joint sustainability project, Tela Tales.

“As a fashionably meaningful and purposeful sustainability project, Tela Tales transforms condemned hotel linens into meaningful fashion, functional pieces, creating a circular economy that bridges hospitality and local communities,” said Ms. Magallanes. Given that hotel linens are one of the top wastes produced by hotels and resorts, this initiative aims to create products that are highly marketable that resonate with target audiences.

Tela Tales has already made waves in other SMHCC properties such as Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, Bacolod, and North Edsa; Pico Sands Hotel; Taal Vista Hotel; and SMX Manila. Now, it finds a home in Davao. To bring this vision to life, SMHCC and the hotel partnered with Davao-born designer Dars Juson, who studied in the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. He is making his name in the capital City of the Philippines as the co-founder of Manila-based label REPAMANA. Known for transforming discarded textiles into striking fashion, Dars’ philosophy perfectly aligns with the Tela Tales mission.

Kadayawan grazing table featuring ingredients from partners – Malagos Farmhouse and Hijo Farms, along with Davao’s abundant fruits – mangosteen, pineapple, rambutan, jackfruit.

The beneficiary of this effort is Think Outside the Trash, a women-led community group supported by Councilor Tek Ocampo. Under Dars’ mentorship, the women underwent training to create the debut Tela Tales collection—each piece a symbol of empowerment, sustainability, and craftsmanship.

For the first collection, Dars designed a vanity kit, tote bag, and bucket hats, which will be available for purchase at the hotel lobby. The items feature both plain and dyed designs, using the traditional Japanese shibori technique. This method involves binding, folding, twisting, and clamping fabric before dyeing—a process that Dars also taught to the women of Think Outside the Trash.

During the launch, Ms. Magallanes gave a brief presentation on the concept behind Tela Tales, along with other sustainable initiatives implemented by SMHCC as part of its goal to reach Net Zero by 2040. A panel discussion featuring Ms. Magallanes, designer Dars Juson, Councilor Tek Ocampo, and General Manager Sven Toune followed, fostering an open and engaging conversation.

Featured photo: SMHCC VP for Quality and Sustainability – Ms. Leah Magallanes, Park Inn by Radisson Davao GM – Sven Toune, REPAMANA Co-founder and designer – Dars Juson, Hon. Councilor Tek Ocampo, and Park Inn by Radisson Davao Director of HR – Natasha Mendoza

#SMHCC #TelaTales #ParkInnbyRadissonDavao #rubyasoyph #rubyspreciousmoments

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ACC Philippines and National Museum Partner for ‘Layers and Shadows’ by Demi Padua

The Asian Cultural Council Philippines (ACCP) has partnered with the National Museum to host “Layers and Shadows,” an exhibition showcasing the works of multifaceted artist Demi Padua.

As part of ACCP’s series of special events this year to celebrate its 25th anniversary, this event not only highlights Demi’s exceptional skill but also supports ACCP’s mission to foster cultural exchange and development through the ACC Philippine Fellowship Program.

The donation and assistance from DF Art Agency, Demi Padua, and benefactor The Good Hope Future Foundation will directly support the ACC Philippines Fellowship Program, which aims to advance the careers of Filipino artists, scholars, and cultural practitioners. The program provides opportunities for growth and international collaboration, promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage.

The collaboration between ACC Philippines Foundation and the National Museum along with ACCP supporters in the arts and business sectors underscore the importance of cultural exchange and development in the arts. By supporting Filipino artists and promoting their work on a global stage, ACCP continues to make a positive impact on the country’s cultural landscape.

Demi Padua is a renowned Filipino artist known for his striking portraits and trompe l’oeil technique. His works often feature intricate details and layers, inviting viewers to explore the depths of his art. Padua’s artistic journey has been marked by numerous solo and group exhibitions here and abroad, showcasing his talent and creativity. He has been awarded with the Grand Prize in the 2013 Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Tanaw Art Competition, the AAP, GSIS Museum and the Metrobank awards.

“Layers and Shadows” by Demi Padua will be open to the public from August 13 to 26, 2025, at the Sergio Osmeña Hall, National Museum of Fine Arts.

#DemiPadua #ACCP #LayersandShadows #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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CCP partners with JRU and PLM to nurture art appreciation among Filipino students

CCP President Kaye Tinga with Jose Rizal University Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Miguel M. Carpio Kiko Cabuena.

True to its promise of bringing the nation’s arts and culture closer to Filipino youth, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with José Rizal University (JRU) and the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) on June 25 and July 8, respectively.

The new partnerships mark a significant collaborative effort by the CCP to facilitate the exchange of resources and provide students with greater exposure to world-class artistic works, performances, and programs. The initiatives also aim to enhance knowledge, skills training, and cultural appreciation among JRU and PLM students, especially those in the liberal arts, humanities, literature, and social science courses.

“Exposing the Filipino youth to our rich heritage is something that we take to heart seriously. Collaborating with universities is crucial in propagating not only our mandate of conserving and promoting Philippine arts and culture, but also in instilling art appreciation within this generation. We want to ensure that they will carry over and contribute to our cultural tapestry,” said  CCP President Kaye C. Tinga.

Cultivating art appreciation among Rizalinos

Established as the Far Eastern College School of Accounts, Commerce, and Finance, JRU was founded by Vicente Fabella, the first Filipino certified public accountant. In 1922, it was renamed in honor of the Philippine National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. After World War II, JRU reopened in 1945 and later transferred to its current location in Mandaluyong City in 1950.

Since its foundation, JRU has consistently molded the character of its students and has produced a remarkable number of successful graduates flourishing in various fields of industry, commerce, agriculture and trade, and the military.

“The CCP sits on the frontlines of education. Under its supportive wings, we will make sure that not only the students will benefit from our partnership, but our faculty members as well,” said JRU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Miguel M. Carpio.

Boosting artistic events and programs for PLMayers

Located in Intramuros, Manila, PLM is the first and only chartered and autonomous university funded by a city government.  It takes pride in being one of the country’s leading institutions for higher education, consistently achieving high passing rates in board examinations and producing competent professionals across various fields.

PLM offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs in medicine, engineering, business, arts and sciences, education, and other disciplines, all while maintaining its commitment to providing quality yet accessible education to deserving students.

“We are grateful for this collaboration with PLM. It will enable arts and culture to have a huge impact on their curriculum. The relationship that we build allows us to transfer our knowledge and resources and create new opportunities for artistic expression and cultural exchange among their deserving students,” expressed CCP Vice President for Administration Jose Victor M. Gaite.

Meanwhile, PLM President Atty. Domingo Y. Reyes Jr. believes that art and culture should always be part of the education system. “We always make it a point that arts and culture are embedded in many of our activities. It is a way of diverting not only the academic skills but also the other subskills that the students need. We thank the CCP and look forward to a very fruitful and memorable partnership,” he said.

For more information about CCP programs, workshops, and productions, visit its official website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph). Follow CCP’s official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for the latest updates.

#CCP #JRU #PLM #partnerships #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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CCP’s National Theatre Live explores mortality and morality in tragic drama classics Hamlet and A Streetcar Named Desire

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), through its groundbreaking program CCP National Theatre Live, traverses the complex human mind in classics “Hamlet” and “A Streetcar Named Desire” this July.

Shot live from the National Theatres in London, Hamlet returns to the Philippine shore this July 29, 6:00 p.m., at Glorietta 4 Cinema 4 in Makati City, while A Streetcar Named Desire will premiere at the Ayala Malls Vertis North & Ayala Malls Central Bloc, Cebu on the same date and time.

The downward spiral of a vengeful son

Watch Prince Hamlet’s slow descent to madness after his father’s ghosts reveal the truth about his own death. Academy Award-winning actor Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock) plays the titular character in William Shakespeare’s most famous play.

Directed by Lyndsey Turner and produced by Sonia Friedman Productions, this version of Hamlet seems to dissect the Prince of Denmark and his darkening world with political precision and psychological insight. The staging of the Shakespearean tragedy has been hailed for its acting and visual modern setting, emphasizing the continuing relevance of the classic play in today’s generation.

This world-renowned Elizabethan classic explores the complexity of the human psyche and the consequences of love, revenge and grief. For its broadcast debut in 2015, Hamlet broke all records and became the fastest-selling event in London theater history. Tickets were sold out before rehearsals at the theater even began.

What desire does to the mind

 Gillian Anderson (Sex Education), Vanessa Kirby (The Crown), and Ben Foster (Lone Survivor) lead the cast in Tennessee Williams’ timeless masterpiece: A Streetcar Named Desire.

A Streetcar Named Desire

In this play, as Blanche’s fragile world crumbles, she turns to her sister Stella for solace. But her downward spiral brings her face to face with the brutal, unforgiving Stanley Kowalski.

From visionary director Benedict Andrews, this acclaimed production was filmed live during a sold-out run at the Young Vic Theatre in 2014.

Published in 1947, during the aftermath of the Second World War, this masterpiece revolves around the taboo themes of class tensions, female sexuality, homosexuality, and male domination – all of which simultaneously coexisted with the social dilemmas of the time.

A Streetcar Named Desire had its first staging on December 3, 1947, with the performance ending with a short, surprised silence before a thunder of applause that lasted 30 minutes.

Bringing London’s bests to the Philippine screens

Committed to the preservation and promotion of the arts, CCP’s National Theatre Live, in partnership with National Theatre Live London and Ayala Malls Cinemas, aims to make world-class theatre performances more accessible to Filipinos and ingrain a deeper appreciation for the performing arts.

Since its launch in June 2009, National Theatre Live broadcasts the best of British theater live from the London stage to cinemas around the world. NTL films their plays in front of live theater audiences, but optimized for the big screen and made accessible to theater fans outside of the United Kingdom.

Regular ticket prices are PHP300 in Makati and Cebu, and PHP350 in Vertis North, with special ticket price for students at PHP150 upon presentation of valid ID. Visit the cinema ticket booth or book online via www.sureseats.com.

To get the latest updates on CCP’s National Theatre Live and other events, follow the official CCP social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) for more news.

#CCPNationalTheatreLive #Hamlet #AStreetcarNamedDesire #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Art, Advocacy, and a Vision Reborn: Unveiling Ioni Mendoza’s First Solo Exhibit

Ioni Mendoza is preparing to debut her first solo show, “Seeing Colors of Hope,” on August 9 at Life ‘n Arts Gallery in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. But this exhibit is more than a personal achievement — it’s a tribute to second chances, and a powerful reminder of how art can give voice to purpose.

 

As she approaches her 50th birthday, artist and entrepreneur Ioni Mendoza is stepping into a long-awaited milestone with heart, hope, and bold brushstrokes.

After more than a decade of painting and years of joining group exhibitions, Ioni is preparing to debut her first solo show, “Seeing Colors of Hope,” on August 9 at Life ‘n Arts Gallery in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. But this exhibit is more than a personal achievement — it’s a tribute to second chances, and a powerful reminder of how art can give voice to purpose.

“I’ve been looking forward to this moment for so long,” Ioni shares. “It’s a personal milestone, and I wanted it to be more than just a showcase. I wanted it to mean something.”

That meaning comes from a deeply personal experience: Ioni is a corneal transplant recipient. For years, she lived with poor eyesight, quietly navigating a world blurred by physical limits. Until one person’s selfless act—the gift of corneal donation—allowed her to see clearly again. That moment changed everything. And now, through her first solo exhibit, she’s telling that story with color, compassion, and courage.

With “Seeing Colors of Hope,” Ioni is using her platform to raise awareness about corneal donation, an issue that often goes unnoticed but has the power to change lives. A portion of the exhibit’s proceeds will be donated to a foundation supporting patients who need financial assistance for transplants. The exhibit is free and open to the public.

“It’s a cause close to my heart because I’ve lived through it,” she says. “I want people to see what’s possible when someone chooses to give the gift of sight.”

Her collection features works created across the span of her artistic journey. Many of them painted this year specifically for this exhibit. A blend of Eastern and Western influences defines her style, with techniques drawn from impressionism and traditional Chinese Shui Mo painting. She works with watercolor, acrylic, and ink on rice paper and canvas, combining vibrant colors and fluid textures that reflect movement, emotion, and life’s transience.

Having started painting seriously in 2010, Ioni took time off from art for several years before returning with renewed purpose. The pieces in this exhibit, she says, are a testament to that creative comeback.

“You just do your work,” she says. “Even if you stop for a while, you come back to it. One piece at a time, until you find you have something worth sharing.”

Her dual life as an artist and the owner of a consulting firm speaks to her belief in the “portfolio life” that you can pursue creativity and business, passion and practicality, all at once. The same discipline and courage she applies in business, she brings to her art.

But what ties it all together is Ioni’s desire to inspire — not just visually, but meaningfully.

“As a woman in the art world, I want to show others, especially those with limitations or fears, that you can still pursue your dreams. You can leave something beautiful behind,” she says.

That’s why “Seeing Colors of Hope” isn’t just an exhibit. It’s also an invitation to reflect.

As Ioni prepares to welcome guests to this milestone event, she is filled with gratitude for her supportive family, the friends and mentors who helped bring her vision to life, and the challenges that made her stronger.

“Pursuing your passion has no age limit,” she says. “If your heart is in it, and you believe in what you’re doing, just go for it.”

Through the exhibit, Ioni also hopes to inspire a deeper commitment to organ donation.

She encourages guests and readers alike to help restore the vision of someone living with corneal blindness by pledging to donate their cornea and eye tissue after death. “Almost anyone can be a donor—young or old, with or without glasses, even those who are blind—as long as the cornea is healthy and free from disease or injury,” she says. It’s a quiet but powerful way to give hope, long after we’re gone.

Ioni Mendoza’s first solo exhibit, “Seeing Colors of Hope,” opens on Saturday, August 9, 3:00 PM at Life ‘n Arts Gallery, Solenad 3, Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Entrance is free.

#IoniMendoza #soloexhibit #LifenArtsGallery #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Reflect and Reconnect with the ‘Of Art and Wine’ Series: ‘The Light That Never Goes Out’ Exhibit at Conrad Manila

The hotel opens its latest art collection that explores spiritual journeys through color, texture and light.

 

Conrad Manila unveils the 36th edition of its highly acclaimed ‘Of Art and Wine’ Series titled “The Light That Never Goes Out”, featuring the works of abstract expressionist Coeli Manese. Presented in collaboration with Space Alt, the exhibit runs from July 15 to September 13, 2025, and invites guests to pause, reflect, and reconnect through a vibrant display of color, texture, and emotion.

“Coeli’s abstract works align beautifully with Conrad Manila’s design philosophy – bold, intuitive, and layered with meaning. Her ability to translate inner emotion into visual form invites thoughtful connection, something we believe our guests deeply value,” shares Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila. “Through The Light That Never Goes Out, we continue our mission to showcase contemporary Filipino talent in a setting that inspires both introspection and conversation.”

This solo exhibition unfolds across three themes: Eternal Light, symbolizing an enduring presence beyond what is visible; Inner Illumination, reflecting the quiet force of insight and personal transformation; and Resilient Hope, portraying faith’s quiet triumph over adversity. Coeli Manese’s nuanced use of mixed media and color deepens this narrative, with each hue emotional and symbolic resonance – Payne’s grey for wisdom and growth, turquoise for healing and renewal, and burnt sienna for humility and devotion. Through this palette, her works become more than visual expressions, they are contemplative spaces for grace, reflection, and renewal.

“The artworks in this collection are a deeply personal reflection of my journey through faith, resilience, and creative awakening,” says Coeli Manese. “Each piece is born from moments of quiet introspection, guided by the enduring presence of divine love and light. Through symbolic colors and layered textures, I hope to evoke a sense of peace and spiritual connection. May this collection illuminate your own path and stir within you the same hope and wonder that inspired its creation.”

Coeli Manese at Gallery C with her “I Choose You” painting.

The ceremonial ribbon cutting which marked the official opening of the exhibit was led by Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Brigido Simon Jr., Guest of honor; Lucky Ou, Conrad Manila’s Director of Operations, and featured artist Coeli Manese.

“The Light That Never Goes Out” will take its viewers to a contemplative journey starting July 15 to September 13, 2025, at Gallery C, located on the third level of Conrad Manila. Through a series of mixed media works, Coeli Manese invites viewers to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the spiritual currents that guide us.

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

 Art & Indulgence: “The Light That Never Goes Out” Inspired Afternoon Tea Experience

 In celebration of the new exhibit, Conrad Manila invites guests to indulge in an inspired symphony of art and flavor. From July 15 to September 13, 2025, C Lounge becomes home to a delightfully contemplative journey, with its meticulously curated afternoon tea of geometric savory and sweet creations, echoing the architectural spirit of Coeli Manese’s abstract compositions. Highlights include smoked duck on rye with truffle cream, taro & edamame purée on sesame crisp, seared tuna on toasted milk bread with yuzu aioli, grilled eggplant terrine with miso glaze, ashen sesame financier with black tea glaze, tan coconut mousse on almond sablé, coffee cream pyramid with cocoa dust, burnt vanilla panna cotta – all thoughtfully plated to reflect the exhibit’s introspective textures and hues.

Coeli Manese and the themed afternoon tea at C Lounge.

Guests may enjoy the inspired afternoon tea experience at C Lounge, with welcome drinks and a pot of tea or coffee, good for two persons. For reservations and inquiries, contact Conrad Manila at +632 8833 9999 or email MNLMB.FB@ConradHotels.com.

#ConradManila #CLounge #OfArtandWineSeries #CoeliManese #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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LGBTQIA+ stories and bold direction at CCP’s Virgin Labfest XX: Hinog

Queer representation has always had a home in Filipino theater. Over the years, it evolved from subtle innuendos and comic relief to a more nuanced, empowering portrayal that challenges societal norms and celebrates diverse identities. These plays assert the importance of inclusive human narratives and provide an opportunity for self-discovery – both for LGBTQIA+ individuals and audiences.

For years, the Virgin Labfest puts the spotlight on queer characters, particularly their struggles, joys, and triumphs. Their stories are brought to full bloom in the 20th edition of the country’s theater festival of untried, untested, and unstaged plays.

Mga Magindara sa Siyudad

In the play written by CJ Junio, two friends Maureen and Maylene are known as the magindara (mermaids) of the local carnival. Together with their makeshift stage, each month they travel across towns, singing nightly as a form of crowd entertainment. Mga Magindara sa Siyudad tackles themes of systematic oppression and social confinement, with engaging characters that struggle to rally against their fate.

“Noong binubuo ko na siya, malinaw sa akin na hindi siya magiging another gay play. Masyado na kasing maraming escapist at pa-emotional na characters – what we are missing is a character na nagde-decide at nag-a-acknowledge ng present,” says director Riki Benedicto who directed Mga Magindara sa Siyudad, one of the featured plays in VLF XX: Hinog.

Benedicto emphasized the main character’s (Maureen) stand in life as representative of their core as a person, regardless of gender or identity: “The goal is to evoke empathy, provoke thought, and  inspire a deeper understanding of the human struggle and the imperative for active engagement in shaping our own destinies.”

Polar Coordinates

On the other hand, Polar Coordinates director Paolo O’ Hara aims to blend math, art, and the beautiful chaos of humanity.

Playwright Ade Valenzona’s one-act play spotlights Igo, a grade 10 student who failed his summative assessment in Math. His friend Bobbie offers to tutor him, providing him much-needed assistance amid the turmoil of his family falling apart. Like polar coordinates, Igo must figure out who he is, where he is going, and how to connect people and occurrences along the way.

VLFXX Hinog – Sa Babaeng Lahat. Photo by Kiko Cabuena.

Sa Babaeng Lahat

Akin to Maureen and Igo’s characters, the protagonists of Sa Babaeng Lahat also go through their journeys towards figuring out their relationship with religion, sexuality, friends, and ultimately, themselves.

Playwright Elise Santos tells the story of 14-year-old Marie who believes she has been chosen by God to be the next Immaculate Conception and her best friend Regina who struggles with her feelings for Gab—the school’s resident tibo—as they practice for the Bible Week singing competition at an all-girls Catholic school.

“I hope that this play makes young girls feel seen and validated. It’s hard being a teenage girl. It’s messy and complicated yet so pivotal in our lives,” shared Sa Babaeng Lahat director Caisa Borromeo.

Minating ni Mariah ang Manto ng Mommy ni Mama Mary

Religion also plays a significant part in Minating ni Mariah ang Manto ng Mommy ni Mama Mary by Eljay Castro Deldoc. Directed by Dexter Santos, the play examines pageantry, principles, and the politics of flamboyant traditions in the industry of pagsasanto. Through the character of Mariah, a retired scammer returning to religion, audiences are given a glimpse of the lengths people would go through in the name of faith and redemption.

Since its inception in 2005, the Virgin Labfest continues to push boundaries and provide space to stories—raw, challenging, and sometimes uncomfortable—that often go unheard. With queer narratives, the VLF champions the LGBTQIA+ community’s lived experiences and brings people closer through truthful and compelling storytelling.

For more information on the festival schedule and ticket prices, visit the official social media accounts of VLF, CCP, Tanghalang Pilipino, and Writer’s Bloc on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. For group discounts and ticket inquiries, email salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph.

#CCP #VLF #LGBTQIA+ #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Crimson Hotel marks Pride Month

Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila officially launched its 2025 Pride Month celebration with a vibrant event held at Alibi Lounge•Bar.

Centered on the theme #HappyToBe, the campaign honors self-expression, individuality, and community through inclusive programming that blends hospitality, art, and advocacy.

The launch event held on 11th June introduced Stay with Pride, a special room package that supports LoveYourself Inc, an organization committed to HIV awareness and LGBTQIA+ support services. Guests can book using promo codes HAPPYTOBE and STAYWITHPRIDE, with inclusions like breakfast or dining credits.

Stay with Pride

Crimson Hotel’s Pride campaign runs throughout June, inviting guests to participate in its ongoing promotions while fostering a space that is safe, welcoming, and joyful for all.

A taste of Pride

Complementing the stay experience are Pride-themed culinary offerings across Crimson Hotel’s dining outlets.

These include the Blush & Bloom cocktail, a hibiscus and raspberry drink available in all restaurants; a Boutique Dinner Buffet with Pride Delights at Café Eight every Friday and Saturday; and a colourful range of pastries and drinks at Baker J such as the Pride Croissant, Pride Macarons, and Pride Spritzer.

Boutique with Pride

On top of its food and beverage offerings, the hotel also unveiled the Color Parade: Pride Art Exhibit at the lobby on the eighth floor, in partnership with the South Arts Festival.

The exhibition features works from a diverse lineup of artists: Ruth Cancio, Kate Tinamisan, Yvonne Harmony, Jeanette Kamphuis, Criselda De Leon, Celina Villaruel, and Anne Labesores. It’s a showcase that highlights identity, resilience, and personal storytelling through art. A live painting session by JJ Duque marked the exhibit’s opening night.

From left: Ronie Reyes, JJ Duque, Anne Labesores, Ruth Cancio, Olivier Ramos, Jeanette Kamphuis, Yvonne Harmony, Criselda de Leon, Celina Villaruel, Jel Ong.

Meet the new man at the helm

The evening also served to formally introduce Crimson’s new hotel manager Olivier Ramos. Ramos brings over two decades of global experience in luxury hospitality. In his welcome remarks, he emphasized Crimson’s commitment to inclusion by saying, “At Crimson, everyone deserves to feel ‘Happy To Be’ exactly who they are. Whether you’re a guest, an artist, a colleague, or a friend of the brand, your story matters here.”

The celebration continued with “Unfiltered: A Bar Takeover” featuring guest mixologist Jam Nhela, serving bold, Pride-inspired cocktails in collaboration with Absolut and Monin.

Setting the evening’s rhythm was guest DJ Rae Viloria, headlining the first of the month-long “Glow: Pride Nights” happening every Friday at Alibi Lounge • Bar together with DJ Mike Lavet.

For bookings and more details, visit www.crimsonhotel.com/manila or follow @crimsonhotelfilinvestcity on social media.

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