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SM Hotels opens the Philippines’ biggest SMX Convention Center in Cebu

Cebu City, Philippines — The Philippines’ biggest SMX Convention Center is set to open in Cebu in Q3 2026.

Located at the Cebu South Coastal Road, the Php3.3 billion landmark project of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) will offer over 21,000 square meters of leasable event space setting a new benchmark for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities in the country.

With scalable halls, professional support services, and world-class amenities, the venue will provide organizers the capacity, flexibility, and convenience needed to mount world-class events up to 18,000 delegates.

“Cebu has always been one of the most in-demand destinations for events, and we are proud to finally bring SMX’s trusted brand of service to this dynamic market. It’s the culmination of more than two decades of experience in delivering professional and high-impact events,” said Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President – Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC).

Internationally recognized as the premier convention center in the Philippines, SMX has earned a reputation for delivering professionally managed spaces tailored to the diverse needs of large-scale exhibitions, conferences, corporate events, and celebrations.

The SMX Convention Center will rise beside the SM Seaside City Cebu offering direct connectivity to major lifestyle, retail, and hospitality hubs as well as convenient access to key infrastructure such as the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

It will form part of a carefully master-planned development that includes a 300-room Park Inn Hotel, a 200-room Radisson Hotel and the 16,000-seating capacity SM Seaside Arena, reinforcing Cebu as a complete, integrated MICE and entertainment destination.

“This is our response to the long-standing demand for a convention venue of this scale in Cebu.  Soon, Cebuanos and visiting delegates alike will no longer need to fly to Manila for major exhibitions, summits, or concerts—the experience will be right here,” adds Mr. Wafik. 

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

#SMXConventionCenterCebu #SMHCC #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Rhodesian Sales Corporation Appoints Digital Influencers Kister Morata and Sharmaine Rodriguez as Newest Brand Ambassadors

Rhodesian Sales Corporation, a premier wholesale leader in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and nondurable goods, is proud to announce the addition of young talents and Filipino digital creators Kister Morata and Sharmaine Rodriguez to its elite roster of brand ambassadors.

Through this strategic partnership, Kister and Sharmaine will serve as the new faces for Rhodesian’s diverse product portfolio, including Tai Chi Rub&VCO Liniments, Kuchi Pearl, Foamee, Kuchi Kuchi, Doggie’s Choice, Moringa Vita, Guyasteen, Oilganics, and Hailey’s Underarm and Foot Powder. These trusted brands are widely available at major retailers such as Watsons and Mercury Drug, as well as leading online platforms.

From Digital Pioneers to Lifestyle Icons 

Since they began their content creation journey in 2020, Kister and Sharmaine have evolved from skincare enthusiasts into influential lifestyle figures. Their compelling storytelling has not only taken them to international destinations—including Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and Hong Kong—but has also made them synonymous with premium local staycations and high-end lifestyle experiences.

The “Team Orange” Edge 

As key contributors to Orange Magazine, an established entertainment and lifestyle publication, and prominent members of Team Orange, the two passionate content creators bring a sophisticated media pedigree to the Rhodesian brand. Their collective expertise spans tech, food, travel, beauty and lifestyle, backed by a proven track record of successful collaborations with local and global giants such as HONOR Philippines, Huawei, McDonalds, foodpanda, OREO, The Bistro Group, Racks, Tenya, Timezone, Mikana, Zenith, CLEAR, Marie France, Luminisce, ROMA Wellness & Beauty, and Cebu Pacific.

A Multi-Channel Campaign 

This ambassadorship will launch a comprehensive nationwide campaign. Consumers can expect to see Kister and Sharmaine featured across:

  • Print & Digital: National newspapers, magazines, and official brand websites.
  • Broadcast: Radio and television advertisements.
  • Outdoor & Transit: High-visibility billboards, transit ads, and Duratrans displays.
  • In-Store & Direct: Retail packaging, in-store video displays, brochures, and catalogs.

“We are thrilled to represent Rhodesian Sales Corporation,” says Kister Morata. Sharmaine added, “Promoting brands that prioritize Filipino wellness and everyday essentials aligns perfectly with our mission to share authentic, high-quality lifestyle recommendations with our community.” 

About Rhodesian Sales Corporation

Rhodesian Sales Corporation is a leading wholesale trade entity in the Philippines, specializing in the distribution of high-quality pharmaceuticals, drugs, and consumer goods.

About Kister Morata and Sharmaine Rodriguez

Kister and Sharmaine are prominent content creators, brand ambassadors, and editorial contributors for Orange Magazine. They are represented as key members of Team Orange, specializing in lifestyle, travel, and aesthetic brand storytelling.

#RhodesianSalesCorporation #OrangeMagazine #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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2GO Travel Wins Two Awards from International Body

2GO Travel, the country’s premier sea travel operator, received two major recognitions at the 2025 TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards – Asia. The company was awarded with the Community Engagement Programme of the Year – Philippines and Cruise Ship Entertainment of the Year – Philippines honors.

The Community Engagement award recognizes 2GO’s Enrolment to Employment (E2E) and Apprenticeship Programme, which provides practical, industry-based training onboard 2GO vessels. The program equips young Filipinos with hands-on experience in hospitality and maritime services. Participants live, learn, and work onboard, interacting with passengers, managing services, and applying their coursework in authentic vessel environments. Through this initiative, 2GO transforms its ships into floating classrooms that develop confidence, competence, and character.

Students in the E2E Program gain exposure to both hospitality and ship management operations and receive mentorship from experienced professionals. They also benefit from career coaching, resume-building sessions, and soft-skills training aligned with global hiring standards. These support services ensure that graduates enter the workforce with stronger qualifications and a competitive edge.

“These awards affirm the value of integrating programs like E2E into our operations. We take pride in helping aspiring hospitality, tourism and maritime professionals prepare for meaningful careers. While we have always seen our trainees leave the program more confident and capable, this recognition simply is the cherry on top.“ said George Narag, 2GO Travel Head of Product Development.

2GO also received the Cruise Ship Entertainment award for Travel Fun, its signature onboard entertainment program. Travel Fun features cultural performances, games, music, and themed activities both onboard and at terminals. The initiative consistently receives high passenger satisfaction scores and reinforces 2GO’s commitment to making sea travel enjoyable for Filipino travelers.

“This recognition validates our commitment to enhancing the passenger journey. Travel Fun creates an environment where passengers can relax, enjoy, and make memories during long-haul sea travel. It motivates us to keep raising the standard for domestic sea travel,” said Roland Sunga, 2GO Travel AVP for F&B, Ancillary, and Hotel Operations.

These awards underscore 2GO’s dedication to developing Filipino talent and enriching the passenger experience across its fleet.

For more information on 2GO Travel’s programs and services, visit travel.2go.com.ph.

#2GoTravel #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Passion, Purpose, and Progress Shine at Globe’s G Fair 2025 Awards

As part of the 917 GDay 2025 celebrations, Globe Business turned the spotlight on Filipino entrepreneurs whose businesses prove that passion and purpose can go hand in hand. The first-ever G Fair Awards honored local SME partners not only for what they sell, but for the values they stand for: innovation, community, and sustainability.

“Through G Fair, we see how small businesses bring innovation, heart, and resilience to every challenge,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer. “The winners remind us that success is not just about growth, but about the impact you create for people and the planet.”

KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business, added: “These entrepreneurs embody the courage to innovate and the commitment to do better. Their success inspires others to scale their business and amplify their positive impact in the communities they serve.”

For two days, G Fair served as a dynamic platform for local businesses. It transformed into a stage where stories of grit and creativity came to life, offering inspiration to entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners alike.

Brewing Passion Into Progress

The Breakthrough Award went to H Proper Coffee Roasters, a specialty coffee roastery born from one man’s search for the perfect cup. What started as a personal passion project is now a growing business where every detail, from sourcing green beans at origin to perfecting roast profiles, carries the founder’s uncompromising standards. Judges recognized H Proper not only for its craft, but also for demonstrating that when entrepreneurs pour themselves fully into their work, they can carve out a distinct place in a competitive industry.

Winning Hearts Through Authentic Craft

The People’s Choice Award was given to The Good Poison, a premium iced tea brand that has captured the public’s imagination in less than a year since launch. Crafted with real brewed tea and fresh fruit, every bottle speaks of mindful sourcing and a dedication to quality. Consumers’ votes showed that when a product is rooted in authenticity, customers respond with loyalty and trust.

Lighting the Way for Sustainable Practice

The Sustainability Champion Award was awarded to Lumi Candles PH, a homegrown brand that has turned a small hobby into a movement. Known for its soy candles and refillable home essentials, Lumi doesn’t just sell décor, it advocates for responsible consumption. Its booth at G Fair demonstrated waste-reduction practices, while its ongoing support for non-profit organizations shows that businesses of any scale can spark social change. Globe recognized Lumi for championing sustainability across both their digital presence and on-ground activation, based on their reduced environmental impact, ethical and responsible business practices, and long-term commitment to sustainability.

By celebrating these awardees, Globe underscores its commitment to nurturing SMEs as catalysts of inclusive and sustainable growth. G Fair is an invitation for entrepreneurs to share their stories, for customers to support local businesses, and for communities to thrive together.

As Globe looks ahead, the call is clear: the next wave of Filipino SMEs is ready to step forward, and Globe Business is here to support them in their digital transformation journey.

#GFairAwards #Globe #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SM Hotels Properties Take Center Stage at the Prestigious 2025 World Travel Awards

Two hotel brands under SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation’s (SMHCC) impressive roster earn global distinctions at the recently concluded 2025 World Travel Awards Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony in Hong Kong. The event underscored the growing influence of Asia’s hospitality landscape in setting global benchmarks for excellence. Determined through an online survey completed by corporate travelers and industry professionals across Asia, the World Travel Awards honor hospitality brands that consistently set the benchmark in their respective categories. Since its establishment in 1993, the awards have celebrated excellence across all key sectors of tourism.

On one hand, Conrad Manila proudly announces its latest accolade as the “Philippines Leading Conference Hotel.” This seventh consecutive win reinforces Conrad Manila’s reputation for delivering exceptional corporate services, sophisticated meeting facilities, and a consistently elevated business travel experience. Conrad Manila remains a premier destination for corporate events and executive stays, offering a refined portfolio of modern meeting venues, stylish accommodations, and a strategic location in the heart of the city. Each venue is thoughtfully designed to accommodate a range of business gatherings, equipped with advanced audiovisual technology, high-speed connectivity, and flexible configurations tailored to the dynamic needs of today’s corporate traveler. Personalized business concierge services ensure seamless event execution, while the hotel’s sophisticated design and elevated amenities inspire both productivity and comfort.

On the other hand, Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila proudly celebrates its first-ever World Travel Award after being named “Philippines’ Leading Hotel Residences 2025.” The recognition marks a milestone for Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila, which has quickly emerged as one of the country’s most distinguished addresses for both short and extended stays. The property exemplifies the essence of residential sophistication and heartfelt hospitality, blending the comforts of home with the refined amenities of a world-class hotel. Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila offers 247 well-appointed hotel rooms and 140 serviced residences designed for discerning travellers seeking seamless stays, from business trips to long-term living. Guests enjoy modern comforts such as a rooftop infinity pool, fitness centre, and a range of culinary experiences including Cyan Modern Kitchen, EDGE Pool Bar, BLK12 Café|Bar, and Bytes, the property’s signature Filipino comfort food nook.

This notable sweep of awards solidifies SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation’s position at the forefront of the hospitality sector, known for its diverse portfolio of hotels and serviced residences, complemented by top-tier meeting and conference facilities, housed within expansive integrated developments and infused with its hallmark brand of service and care.

#ConradManila #LansonPlaceMallofAsia #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Globe Brings Learning, Music and Inspiration to Students in Cagayan Province

Cagayan province is home to over 3.66 million people, with youth aged 15 to 24 accounting for nearly one-fifth of its population. Internet use is widespread, with three out of four residents aged 10 and above already online. Yet, many continue to face barriers in accessing and maximizing digital tools in ways that are safe, responsible, and creative.

To help bridge these gaps, Globe launched a series of engagements that gathered more than 750 students across the region, providing lessons on digital citizenship, leadership, and creative expression.

Building on this effort, Globe organized a three-day program in partnership with three institutions. The sessions combined digital literacy modules, leadership workshops, and creative platforms designed to nurture future-ready communities in Cagayan province.

Investing in the Next Generation

Globe’s programs in Cagayan province reaffirm its commitment to prepare young Filipinos for the future by strengthening their digital skills, leadership abilities, and creative platforms for self-expression.

“As we saw in Cagayan province, young Filipinos are already shaping their own futures with technology, leadership, and creativity. At Globe, we see the youth not just as future leaders but as leaders of today. Our role is to stand beside them as they build a better tomorrow for their communities and the nation,” said Raymond Mancilla, Territory Business Head.

A Generation of Innovation, Leadership, and Community

In Cagayan, Globe’s Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) is empowering students to be not just digital natives but active changemakers. At Peñablanca National High School, 250 students joined DTP sessions on responsible digital citizenship. Instead of passively waiting to learn, they shared the advanced AI tools they already use in their studies, such as Nomunity, Study Talk, Perplexity, Blackbox AI, and Scholar.ai — proof of their openness to innovation and their ability to find new ways to learn.

At Cagayan State University, more than 350 student leaders gathered to explore how leadership can be rooted in everyday actions that shape their peers and communities. Through DTP and complementary workshops on inclusivity, responsibility, and student voice, participants were encouraged to see themselves as active drivers of change.

The program culminated in the TM Fun Music concert, which brought together over 2,500 students from the CSU Andrews and Carig campuses. Performances by Amiel Sol, student artists, and local talents transformed the event into a celebration of creativity and community spirit.

“We sincerely thank our partners at Globe for sharing their time, efforts, and resources with the students of Cagayan State University Andrews Campus. Through the Digital Thumbprint Program, we were reminded of the importance of using technology responsibly, while the concert gave us a chance to celebrate and come together as one community. These activities brought both learning and joy, leaving a lasting impact on us as more informed, connected, and inspired individuals,” said Kyle Aron Tan, CSU Student Regent and Andrews Campus Student Council President.

Beyond the Skills

For the 150 medical student leaders at the Medical Colleges of Northern Philippines, DTP offered more than lessons on digital responsibility. It became a reminder that in healthcare, leadership is not measured only by knowledge but also by empathy, ethics, and accountability. “The seminar was an eye-opening experience for all the student leaders, making them realize the importance of being responsible digital citizens in today’s fast-changing online world. I believe that each of us gained practical knowledge on how to protect our identity online, secure our personal information, and be more critical when encountering content on social media especially with the rise of fake news and misinformation,” said MSNP-ISAP Student Activities Coordinator, James Vidad.

From classrooms to concert stages and from leadership workshops to personal journeys, Globe’s work in Cagayan province highlights one truth. The brilliance of Filipino youth is the country’s greatest harvest. By nurturing their potential, Globe is helping shape a generation of leaders, creators, and changemakers who will carry the promise of a brighter future.

For more information about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

#Globe #Cagayan #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SM Hotels properties bag multiple recognitions at 2025 Travel Trade Gazette Awards

SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation’s (SMHCC) conventions and accommodation portfolio garnered multiple accolades during the recent 2025 TTG Travel Awards held at Centara Grand at CentralWorld, Bangkok. Voted by travel agents and industry professionals across the Asia-Pacific region, the TTG Travel Awards celebrate hospitality leaders who set the benchmark in their respective categories. Since 1989, the organization has honored the best of Asia-Pacific’s travel industry.

For one, SM Hotels’ luxury brand Conrad Manila has been named Best Business Hotel – Philippines. This marks the third time the hotel has received this distinguished award, recognizing its outstanding meeting facilities, world-class venues, heartfelt service, and unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry. Joanne Gomez, commercial director of Conrad Manila, represented the hotel at the awards ceremony. “We are deeply grateful to the travel agents who recognized Conrad Manila as the Best Business Hotel in the Philippines. Your continued trust and partnership inspire us to continually raise the bar in delivering intuitive service and seamless experiences,” Gomez shared.

Joanne Gomez, Conrad Manila’s Commercial Director receives the “Best Business Hotel-Philippines” award at the TTG Travel Awards night in Bangkok, Thailand.

Notably, known as the leading convention center in the country, SM Hotels’ SMX Convention Center proudly celebrates its victory as the Best Convention & Exhibition Center – Philippines. This back-to-back recognition follows its 2024 triumph, solidifying SMX’s standing as the country’s premier MICE venue. As the largest private convention center operator in the Philippines, SMX Convention Center manages a dynamic and growing portfolio of venues nationwide: SMX Manila, SMX Aura, SMX Olongapo, SMX Clark, SMX Davao, SMX Bacolod, Megatrade Hall, Sky Hall Seaside Cebu, and and soon, new developments in Cebu, Cabanatuan, Sta. Rosa, and Sto. Tomas. “This back-to-back recognition from TTG validates the passion of our teams, the trust of our partners, and the enduring influence of SMX Convention Center in advancing the MICE industry in the Philippines,” said Mike Albaña, Vice President – General Manager of SMX Convention Center.

SMX Convention Center Vice President – General Manager Mike Albaña (center) receives the award for Best Convention & Exhibition Center – Philippines at the 34th TTG Travel Awards 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand. Presenting the award are representatives of TTG Asia, organizer of the TTG Travel Awards Gala Dinner & Ceremony held on September 25, 2025, at Centara Grand at CentralWorld.

This haul of awards cements SMHCC’s position as one of the leading players in the hospitality industry that offers a myriad of accommodation options and convention spaces, set in sprawling integrated property developments complemented by a uniquely differentiated brand of care and service.

#TTGTravelAwards #SMHCC #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Enter if you dare and spend Halloween at Solaire Street

Immerse in a Halloween experience as Solaire Resort Entertainment City’s Grand Ballroom transforms into a spellbinding maze perfect for kids and adults. On October 31 at 2PM, families and children can wander through Solaire Street inside the Grand Ballroom for trick-or-treat, carnival games, arts and crafts, and meet enchanting characters from their favorite shows. Starting 9PM, the ballroom turns wicked where adults can enjoy cocktail lounges, themed bar experiences, and electrifying DJ performances by Mars Miranda, Patrick Oliver, Jimmy Nocon, and more.

Catch electrifying performances by DJ Patrick Oliver (above), DJ Jimmy Nocon (below), and more, at the “Halloween at Solaire Street” event inside the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort Entertainment City on October 31 at 9PM.
DJ Jimmy Nocon.

This year’s celebration lets you explore eight spectacular houses. Families can complete all activities, get their passports stamped, and win special prizes! At the Velvet Manor, kids can strike a pose with spooky characters from the Addams Family and take their printed photos after. This transforms into a Macabre Lounge Bar at night, where adults can sip on classic cocktails, served in a candlelit jazz setting.  At the Wand & Whimsy Hall, families can participate in a wand making and sorting game, inspired by the movie Harry Potter. They can craft their own wands and discover which magical house they belong to. At night, adults can visit the Butterbeer bar and indulge in the Wizarding World’s frothy signature brew—Solaire style.

Little ghouls and goblins can visit Castle Dracula for frightfully fun face painting, as they become the scariest (and best-dressed!) trick-or-treaters. Then, it becomes a Blood Bar for the adults, as they choose their favorite wines, sangrias, and sultry vampire-inspired drinks. Step into House Four, the Blood Moon Den, for an intense Werewolf Dodgeball Challenge! Kids and teens must dodge three silver balls to claim a special, spooky treat. This lair transforms into the Crimson Bar, inviting adults to sip deep, red cocktails that are perfect for a night on the prowl.

Visit Tomb of the Curse for a treasure trail, where families can uncover hidden gems and trinkets buried in the sand. After the sun sets, the tomb transforms into a secret bar bathed in hieroglyphic projections, inviting adults to unearth spiced cocktails for a truly mysterious night out. The Abandoned Lab features a toy repair shop where kids can unleash their creativity and build their own quirky Franken-toy. Adults can indulge in absinthe-style drinks and shadowy performances at the Veil Bar.

House of Gwi-Ma allows kids to decorate their own Soul Shield bracelets while at night, it turns into a Light Stick Bar. Grab a glow stick with your favorite K-pop inspired drink and dance the night away! Head on to the last house of the night– the Wicked Hollow! Decorate spooky slime and play fun games in this interactive, magical zone. Later in the night, adults can sample the house’s mysterious, “Wicked” potions.

Spend an enchanting day with the whole family or party the night away in your best costumes at Solaire Resort Entertainment City. Secure your tickets now at https://sec.solaireresort.com/offers/entertainment/halloween-at-solaire-street#night.

#HalloweenatSolaireStreet #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Halo-Halo Ecologies Online Book Launch with Mama Sita’s Foundation

On October 4, 2025, editors Alyssa Paredes and Marvin Joseph F. Montefrio held their virtual book launch of Halo Halo Ecologies: The Emergent Environments behind Filipino Food, with Mama Sita’s Foundation and University of Hawaii Press. 

Alyssa and Marvin were joined by their co-authors Ma. Katrina Beatrice David Jacinto, Orven Mallari, Anthony D. Medrano, Dana Collins, Adrian De Leon, Nicolo Paolo P. Ludovice, Inigo Acosta, Jose Kervin Cesar B. Calabias, Jessie Varquez, Maria Carinnes Alejandria, Anacorita O. Abasolo, Ezekiel Sales, Cla D. Ruzol, Thea Kersti C. Tandog, Mary Jill Ira A. Banta, and Tami Alvarez. Also in attendance as their panel were Ms. Felice Sta. Maria, Chef Giney Villar, and Mr. Paolo Paculan to share their comments and insights on Halo Halo Ecologies, with Dr. Pia Arboleda moderating the entire session.

Halo Halo Ecologies is a multi-layered gastro-ecological discourse book on Filipino food. The editors used halo-halo, the beloved Filipino dessert, as a metaphor to contextualize cultural identity, complex foodscapes, and Philippine ecosystems. As such, paving way for timely efforts to set a new, but foundational standard in Philippine, Filipino/Filipinx, and food studies. 

The contributors attempt to reframe readers’ perspectives—challenging one to “reimagine what, how, and why we eat.” The book underscores the adverse impacts of food that touch upon livelihoods, environments, public works, technoscience, culture, socio-politics, and more. These tackle how typical fast food meals and sari-sari stores relate to scavenging practices of Manila informal settlers and agroecological practices of Indigenous Lumad schools; how fruit and vegetable farmers suffer the repercussion from agrochemical effects; how communities wage efforts against increasing threats to landscapes and coastal areas; how Filipinos are entrapped in cycles of debt and poverty; and how the diaspora has continually faced the invisibilized ecologies.

Ms. Felice Sta. Maria commended the contributors’ efforts in emphasizing food’s inextricably link to culture, politics, and ecologies. She highlights the need for more critical and nuanced approaches to culinary writing—stating that “literary terms and political terms together along with ecological terms can add clarity to today’s food writers’ opinions.” As such, the anthology urges readers to rethink food systems as tools not only for nourishment but also liberation.

Alyssa & Marvin with Halo Halo Ecologies Book.

Chef Giney Villar highlighted that “society instills their resistance to social disposability…no one is disposable,” demonstrating Filipinos’ spirit of bayanihan. She applauds the book’s reimagined formats and languages that can inspire diverse people to explore the anthology in different forms for widespread awareness whether comics, podcasts, curricula, etc. Ultimately, she asks that while “food is a conveyor of culture, what kind of culture are we fostering?”

Mr. Paolo Paculan drew parallels between Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere and Halo-Halo Ecologies, describing Noli as a “time capsule” that reveals life at the margins. Alike, Halo-Halo Ecologies empowers marginalized communities—representing the unheard voices, restoring their stories and emphasizing the Philippines’ ongoing social and ecological challenges.

Halo-Halo Ecologies: The Emergent Environments behind Filipino Food sheds light on the complex cultural, ecological, and social issues of Filipino food. It hopes to inspire readers to contribute, in their own way, to food systems that are more sustainable and just. To support this mission, the anthology is available in print edition through Amazon and the University of Hawaii Press.

#HaloHaloEcologies #MamaSitaFoundation #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Solaire Resort Shines Bright at the 2025 IAG Academy IR Awards

Solaire Resort is proud to announce its remarkable triumph at the prestigious 2025 IAG Academy IR Awards, held on September 9, 2025. During the gala night organized by Inside Asian Gaming (IAG) Magazine, Bloomberry Resorts Corporation’s Solaire Resort Entertainment City was honored with the esteemed “Best Regional Asia-Pacific IR” and “Best IR Gaming Floor” award, recognizing its commitment to excellence, innovation, and outstanding service in the gaming and resort industry.

The IAG Academy IR Awards have become a hallmark of distinction in the sector, gathering industry leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate remarkable achievements and advocate for innovation and excellence. This year’s event underscored the dedication and hard work of all nominees and winners, highlighting the best in the industry.

“We are truly honored to be recognized “Best Regional Asia-Pacific IR” and “Best IR Gaming Floor” during the 2025 IAG Academy IR Awards night. This achievement reflects the hard work and passion of our incredible team. We remain committed to excellence and growth, grateful for the opportunity to make our mark on the global stage while continuously learning and improving.” said, Gregory Hawkins, President and Chief Operating Officer, Bloomberry Resorts Corporation.

The Best Regional Asia-Pacific Integrated Resort award recognizes Solaire Resort’s exceptional facilities, including luxurious accommodations, diverse dining options, and world-class entertainment experiences. The casino’s innovative design and customer-centric approach have played a pivotal role in transforming the gaming landscape in the region, making it a premier destination for both domestic and international visitors.

Moreover, receiving the Best IR Gaming Floor award highlights Solaire’s continuous efforts in enhancing its gaming offerings, ensuring a safe, exciting, and welcoming environment for guests. The state-of-the-art gaming floor features a wide array of options, including a variety of table games, the latest slot machines, complemented by premium customer service.

Solaire’s recognition at the IAG Academy IR Awards is a testament to its ongoing commitment to excellence and leadership in the gaming and hospitality sectors. The resort remains dedicated to fostering innovation and providing an exceptional experience for all guests.

Photo shows: Bloomberry Resorts Corporation’s Solaire Resort Entertainment City was honored with the esteemed “Best Regional Asia-Pacific IR” and “Best IR Gaming Floor” award at the prestigious 2025 IAG Academy IR Awards

#SolaireResortEntertainmentCity #IAGAcademyIRAwards #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph