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SMX Convention Center Clark Sustains Winning Streak at the DOT Region 3 TRES Awards

Clark, Pampanga — SMX Convention Center Clark, a premiere convention center under the SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) portfolio, emerged as a top awardee at the Tourism Recognition for Enterprises and Stakeholders (TRES) Awards 2025 organized by the Department of Tourism Region 3.

SMX Clark was recognized as the Grand Winner of the Tourism Quality Awards for MICE Event Venue and MICE Meeting Room, strengthening its role as a standard for quality in the MICE industry. In addition, it received a Special Citation for MICE Exhibition Venue, further enhancing its reputation as a preferred venue for large-scale gatherings in the region.

The SMX Convention Center Clark team proudly holds their trophies in the property’s lobby, celebrating a defining moment for the venue.

The TRES Awards celebrate outstanding enterprises and stakeholders that elevate the standards of tourism and hospitality in Central Luzon. This latest recognition marks the third consecutive year that SMX Convention Center Clark has been honored by the Department of Tourism Region 3, highlighting its sustained excellence and consistent delivery of high-quality event experiences. Over the years since its opening in 2022, the venue has continued to set benchmarks in service, facilities, and event execution, earning the trust of both local and international organizers.

“As Central Luzon strengthens its position as a key hub for business events, SMX Convention Center Clark stands at the forefront, committed to providing world-class spaces and curated experiences that fuel progress and foster purposeful connections,” said Walid Wafik, SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation Senior Vice President for Operations. “Further developing its regional presence, SMX is gearing up to launch SMX Trade Hall Cabanatuan in the fourth quarter of 2026, introducing a new venue to its expanding Central Luzon network alongside its established sites in Clark and Olongapo, while increasing its capability to stage more high-impact, large-scale events across the region,” Mr. Wafik added.

#SMXConventionCenterClark #SMHCC #rubyspreciousmoments

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Setting a New Standard: SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu Brings World-class MICE to Cebu

SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) is poised to redefine the country’s MICE landscape as it prepares to open the biggest convention center in the Philippines, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu. Strategically designed to attract international organizers, it is seen to compete with leading venues across Southeast Asia, including those in Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia.

Prime Location in Cebu’s South Road Properties

Located within Cebu’s fast-rising South Road Properties (SRP), the region’s most ambitious development corridor, the venue offers seamless connectivity to SM Seaside City Cebu via a link bridge, with direct access to SM Hotels’ uprising hotel properties: a dual-branded development that showcases both the Radisson and Park Inn by Radisson brands. It also stands adjacent to SM Arena Seaside Cebu. This enables event organizers to create a fully integrated event ecosystem in a single destination, where delegates can conveniently access convention facilities, large-scale entertainment venues, as well as a wide range of dining, retail, and leisure experiences within a compact and well-connected district.

A New Benchmark: The Philippines’ Largest Convention Center

Spanning a gross floor area of more than 40,000 square meters and offering 21,000 square meters of leasable space, the convention center is built for scale and flexibility. Its four expansive, column-free exhibition halls feature an impressive 10-meter vertical clearance and industry-grade floor loading capacity of 250 lbs per square foot, ideal for large-scale trade shows, international exhibitions, and high-impact events. Complementing these are eight function rooms and nineteen meeting rooms, designed to accommodate a wide range of corporate and social gatherings.

The venue is equipped with advanced technical infrastructure, including robust rigging load capacities, multiple freight and car lifts for efficient ingress and egress, and large roll-up doors for seamless event setup. A 10-meter-high pre-function lobby, executive VIP lounge, and fourteen strategically located kitchens further enhance its ability to host simultaneous, large-scale events with premium service delivery.

Built with global standards in mind, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu offers full connectivity through Wi-Fi, LAN, and telecommunication systems, alongside comprehensive safety features such as CCTV monitoring, automated fire alarm systems, emergency power backup, and an on-site medical clinic. With 1,815 parking slots and a wide network of accredited caterers, contractors, and technical providers, the venue ensures a seamless end-to-end event experience.

Designed for Everyone: Inclusive Amenities

Beyond its scale and facilities, the center is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with provisions for persons with disabilities, all-gender restrooms, and convenient access to retail, dining, and commercial establishments within its perimeter.

Positioning the Philippines as a Global MICE Destination

SM Hotels Senior Vice President for Operations Walid Wafik said, “With its contemporary architecture, expansive capabilities, and prime location, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu is set to elevate the Philippines’ position in the global MICE industry. It also offers international organizers a compelling alternative to established convention destinations across Southeast Asia while providing the unique opportunity to complement business events with leisure experiences, allowing delegates to enjoy Cebu’s vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and local attractions alongside their professional engagements.”

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

#SMXConventionCenterSeasideCebu #SMHCC #rubyspreciousmoments

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SM Hotels Boosts Events Portfolio with Three New SMX Trade Halls in Luzon

SMX Convention Center continues to reinforce its leadership in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry with the fourth-quarter 2026 openings of three new SMX Trade Halls in Luzon. Owned and managed by SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC), these event spaces will strategically be located in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; Santo Tomas, Batangas; and Santa Rosa, Laguna.

Collectively, these new developments contribute more than 13,000 square meters of total leasable exhibition space, significantly increasing SMX’s capacity to host trade shows, corporate events, and large-scale community gatherings across key growth corridors in Luzon. The new trade halls are strategically positioned within thriving commercial hubs to serve regional demand while supporting national event expansion beyond Metro Manila.

SMX Trade Hall Lobby.

The openings complement SMX’s broader portfolio growth, which includes landmark projects such as the SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu, which is poised to be the largest convention center in the Philippines, as well as SMXCITE (Center for International Trade and Exhibitions), envisioned as the largest exhibition and trade hall venue in the country. Together, these developments reinforce SMHCC’s commitment to building a nationwide ecosystem of world-class venues that enable economic activity, tourism, and industry collaboration.

“With the addition of these three trade halls, we are not only expanding our geographic reach but also creating more opportunities for businesses and communities to connect,” said SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Senior Vice President Mr. Walid Wafik. “Our continued investments reflect our confidence in the Philippines’ growing MICE potential and our mission to deliver accessible, high-quality event spaces across the country,” Mr. Wafik added.

The new SMX Trade Halls are designed with flexible layouts, modern infrastructure, and seamless integration with adjacent retail and hospitality developments, providing clients with convenience and scalability for events of varying sizes. As SMX continues to expand with flagship venues in Cebu and Manila alongside regional trade halls nationwide, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation demonstrates its position as a leading force in shaping the future of the Philippine MICE industry.

For more information, please visit www.smxconventioncenter.com

#SMHCC #SMXConventionCenter #rubyspreciousmoments

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Word of Mouth: Ige Ramos Launches new book, ‘Bukambibig’

Guillermo “Ige” Ramos, author, book designer, and advocate of Filipino food, recently launched Bukambibig (“Word of Mouth”) at the Ortigas Foundation Library. The book is a collection of 14 essays chronicling Ramos’ culinary discoveries through research, personal experiences, and cultural exploration.

Bukambibig is the second installment in his Lasa at Republika series, following Dila at Bandila. In the book and during the launch, Ramos challenges the idea of “authenticity” in Filipino cuisine, emphasizing that food traditions are constantly evolving.

“Eat Filipino food not for the history, because we’re not sure what is authentic. Eat Filipino food not for the culture, because we are not exotic enough. Eat Filipino food because everything you know about it is wrong,” – Ige Ramos

He encouraged audiences to rethink preconceived notions and to support local food and produce.

Mama Sita’s supports Ramos’ efforts to deepen appreciation for Filipino cuisine, in line with the mission of Teresita “Mama Sita” Reyes to preserve and promote the country’s culinary heritage through storytelling initiatives like Mga Kuwentong Pagkain.

Published by Anvil Publishing, Bukambibig is available in select branches of National Bookstore.

Photos by Allan Bella, Courtesy of Ige Ramos

#MamaSita #IgeRamos #Bukambibig #rubyspreciousmoments

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SM Hotels’ SMX Convention Center Hauls Multiple Awards at the ASEAN Tourism Forum

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.’s (SMHCC) SMX Convention Center cements its position as a top-of-mind brand in the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry after earning two major regional distinctions at the recently concluded ASEAN Tourism Forum in Cebu, recognizing excellence in venue management and service standards.

ASEANTA Excellence Awards: Best ASEAN Convention Centre Award 2026 awarded to SMX Convention Center. ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards: ASEAN MICE Venue – Exhibition Venue Category awarded to SMX Manila and SMX Clark.

 

SMX Convention Center was named Best ASEAN Convention Centre at the ASEANTA Excellence Awards 2026, one of the region’s most respected platforms celebrating outstanding tourism and events destinations. This milestone marks the first time SMX Convention Center has received this prestigious honor, reinforcing its role as a premier MICE venue that drives business events, attracts international delegates, and contributes significantly to the growth and sustainability of the country’s tourism ecosystem.

Mr. Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President – Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation receives the Best ASEAN Convention Centre Award 2026 on stage with the rest of the SMX team at the 35th ASEANTA Excellence Awards.

 

Further solidifying its leadership in the exhibition sector, SMX Convention Center Manila and SMX Convention Center Clark were both recognized at the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards, winning the ASEAN MICE Venue in the Exhibition Venue Category. In 2024, SMX Convention Center Manila stood out as the sole property to receive recognition, marking a significant achievement for the convention center brand. Building on this momentum, the 2026 awards further reaffirm SMX’s growing leadership in the industry, with both SMX Convention Center Manila and SMX Convention Center Clark earning accolades—reflecting the continued expansion of hospitality distinction across SMX venues and highlighting their collective impact on the country’s MICE and tourism landscape.

“Being recognized by ASEAN bodies not only validates the hard work of our teams, but also strengthens the SMX brand as a preferred venue for regional and international events. With the opening of new SMX properties in 2026, we continue to expand our reach and offer world-class venues driving the continued development and global competitiveness of the country’s MICE sector.” said Mr. Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President – Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.

SMX Convention Center Manila and SMX Convention Center Clark were both recognized at the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards, winning the ASEAN MICE Venue in the Exhibition Venue Category.

 

As SMX Convention Center expands its footprint with new branches set to open within the year in Cebu, Cabanatuan, Sta. Rosa (Laguna), Sto. Tomas (Batangas), and Pasay, this strategic growth supports SMX’s long-term vision of bringing MICE infrastructure to more destinations, while continuing to elevate industry standards across the Philippines and the ASEAN region. With multiple award-winning venues, an expanding portfolio, and a strong commitment to service excellence, SMX Convention Center remains at the forefront of the MICE industry—driving business tourism growth and positioning the Philippines as a premier events destination in Southeast Asia.

For more information, please visit www.smxconventioncenter.com

#SMHCC #SMXConventionCenter #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Here’s How You Can Win a Trip to Cebu and Meet Kim Chiu

Julie’s kicks off 45th year with a fun surprise for loyal fans.

 

In line with its 45th anniversary celebration, Julie’s, the country’s largest neighborhood bakeshop, recently launched its Scratch Saya promo, offering loyal fans the chance to join Kim Chiu in a Super Saya Fan Meet in Cebu.

Simply purchase any Julie’s Sliced Breads to receive a scratch card. One lucky winner each from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao will win an all-expenses-paid trip with a companion to Cebu and have the opportunity to meet Chiu during the Super Saya Fan Meet event in February. The three winners will also receive a pocket money of P15,000 each for the trip.

Julie’s Scratch Saya promo runs until February 18. Visit its website, Facebook and Instagram pages to know more about Julie’s exciting promos for its 45th anniversary.

About Julie’s

Julie’s is the Philippines’ largest neighborhood bakeshop, serving every Filipino with everyday fresh, everyday sulit breads for more than 40 years. Fresh, steaming hot bread baked in full view of the customers and served with courteous greetings and warm smiles became the benchmark of Julie’s phenomenal success. With over 600 stores nationwide, Julie’s is committed to its mission of feeding Filipinos by having a Julie’s bakeshop in every barangay.

#Julies #45thanniversary #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Cebu Launches MICE Guidebook at ASEAN Tourism Forum Showcasing Readiness for Purpose-Driven Global Events

Cebu, Philippines — Cebu reinforced its growing stature as a leading meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) destination in Southeast Asia with the official launch of the Cebu MICE Guidebook during the ASEAN Tourism Forum’s Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), held at the Mactan Expo in Mactan Newtown.

The guidebook was unveiled at a pivotal moment, coinciding with one of the region’s most influential tourism gatherings, attended by delegates from different ASEAN countries, senior government leaders, and industry decision-makers.

Designed as a strategic resource for international event planners, associations, and corporate organizers, the Cebu MICE Guidebook presents a comprehensive overview of the destination’s ability to host meetings that bring together diverse communities, ideas, and shared purpose.

The guidebook is the product of a collaborative effort motivated by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry and its industry leaders, who have long championed initiatives positioning the province as both a tourism and business hub. Developed through close coordination between private-sector stakeholders and public agencies, the project was conceived for Cebu Business Month 2025 and further refined for its official release at the ASEAN Tourism Forum. It features close to 300 establishments and service providers across key MICE service pillars, including hotels, venues, transportation providers, professional conference organizers, and event suppliers.

Tourism stakeholders and officers of the Cebu M.I.C.E. Alliance (CMA) with Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary Sharlene Batin; Art Boncato Jr., Group General Manager of MHR; Cleofe Albiso, President of the Cebu MICE Alliance and Managing Director of MHR; Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco of the Department of Tourism; Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Promotions Board; Avinash Menon, Cluster General Manager for Cebu, Iloilo, and Bacolod of MHR; and Josef Chiongbian, General Manager of Savoy Hotel Mactan.

 

Cebu’s fundamentals further support this momentum. With over 20,000 guest rooms and accommodation options available daily, a growing portfolio of venues, and an established mix of dining, retail, and lifestyle experiences, the destination is equipped to host events of varying scale and complexity while delivering memorable delegate experiences beyond the meeting room.

For Cleofe Albiso, President of the Cebu MICE Alliance and Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, the guidebook reflects Cebu’s broader aspiration to host events with meaning and long-term value.

“As an alliance, our goal is to bridge the world with what Cebu has to offer—efficient event solutions, creative talent, and trusted local partnerships,” Albiso said. “More than a destination, Cebu invites the global community to engage with its people, culture, and purpose, creating opportunities for inclusive and sustainable growth.”

The launch of the Cebu MICE Guidebook signals Cebu’s steady evolution into a future-ready MICE destination, anchored on collaboration, service excellence, and community engagement. As the global meetings industry increasingly prioritizes intentional, values-driven gatherings, Cebu positions itself as a destination prepared to host events that create impact—both for delegates and for the communities that welcome them.

#CebuMICEGuidebook #MegaworldHotels&Resorts #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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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