Solaire Resort North proudly announces the grand opening of its integrated resort, a premier destination designed for family fun and luxury. Located at the heart of Quezon City, Solaire Resort North aims to redefine family-friendly getaways with its state-of-the-art Kids Club, set to open soon.
The Kids Club is an innovative haven for children who prefer indoor play, featuring a 6-level play structure that includes a vibrant play village and a soft play area. Additionally, the Kids Club houses a purpose-built children bowling alley, promoting key cognitive abilities through engaging activities that spark creativity and teamwork.
Parents can enjoy peace of mind knowing their children are in a safe, stimulating environment. The Kids Club also includes two versatile rooms perfect for hosting birthday parties and gatherings. Equipped with cutting-edge audio and visual technology, these spaces ensure an immersive sensory experience for all attendees.
Solaire Resort North Kids Club.
“Our mission at Solaire North is to create memorable experiences for families,” said Gianpietro Iseppi, SVP Resort Operations. “With the introduction of our Kids Club, we’re excited to provide a space where children can explore and have fun while parents enjoy all the amenities our integrated resort has to offer.”
Pricing for the Kids Club is designed to be accessible for families: 5 to 17 years can take part in all the exciting activities. Admission rate is Php750+++ for the first two hours of play, succeeding hour Php300+++. Adult Guardian pass, available at Php300+++ flat rate per entry to ensure every child has a safe and enjoyable experience.
Solaire Resort North invites families to book their stay and discover the unmatched hospitality and entertainment that awaits them. With the promise of an unforgettable vacation, children can enjoy a delightful time at the Kids Club, leaving parents free to indulge in the resort’s luxurious offerings.
Family time is even more exciting and memorable with every experience at Solaire Resort North. Enjoy exclusive rebates and savings with the “Book Early, Stay Longer and Save” offer. Book your stay now by visiting www.solaireresort.com. For more information, you may also call +63 8888 8888.
Get ready for a Halloween experience at F1 Hotel Manila BGC as it presents two thrilling events designed to delight both the young and the young at heart. Mark your calendars for our spooky adventure filled with fun, frights, and delights!
Calling all little villains for F1 Hotel Manila BGC’s Wicked Wonderland Trick or Treat Kids Party, where children can embark on a magical adventure filled with Halloween-themed games, activities, and delicious treats on October 26, 2024, Saturday, from 11 AM to 3 PM. Tickets for the Wicked Wonderland are available at PHP 2,088 net, including lunch buffet for one (1) person, face painting, giveaway, access to balloon twisting, face painting, game station, photo booth, and bubble show. Kids are encouraged to wear their most creative costumes to win special prizes! It’s the perfect opportunity for families to enjoy a day of spooky fun and make unforgettable Halloween memories.
When the sun goes down, the party for adults begins! F1 Hotel Manila BGC welcomes all partygoers to the ultimate Halloween bash—Monster Mayhem: Creeps or Cheers Halloween Party. Prepare for a spine-chilling night filled with eerie entertainment and electrifying music of DJ Siangyoo and DJ Yuki on Thursday, October 31, 2024, from 10 PM to 2 AM. Unlimited beer courtesy of our official partner, Corona, and unlimited shots of Chivas and Jameson courtesy of Pernod Ricard will be available throughout the Halloween party. Tickets for Monster Mayhem are available at PHP 2,998. Dress up in your most show-stopping Halloween costumes and get ready to dance the night away with fellow creatures of the night!
Trick or treat yourself to a Spooky Staycation! Experience the thrill of the City Suite, all for just Php 5,800 net per night. This exclusive offer includes a sumptuous breakfast buffet for two (2) persons and an enticing 30% discount on Monster Mayhem Creeps or Cheers Halloween Party. The promotion is valid from October 29 to November 3, 2024.
For inquiries, ticket prices, and reservations, please contact F1 Hotel Manila BGC at 8928-9888 or visit our website at www.f1hotelmanila.com. Slots are limited; book early to secure your spot at these unforgettable Halloween events!
Conrad Manila invites families to a Spooktacular Halloween event with Reese’s, featuring exciting activities, delicious treats, and more.
Conrad Manila is set to celebrate the spookiest time of the year with a thrilling Halloween party featuring the special participation of Reese’s, the iconic American chocolate brand known for its delectable peanut butter cups. Alongside themed events, guests can expect eerily delightful culinary offerings at the hotel’s award-winning dining outlets.
“We always strive to curate inspiring experiences for our guests. This Halloween, we invite families and friends to get into the spooky season and create fun and lasting memories with our delightful culinary offerings and exciting family-oriented activities,” says Conrad Manila General Manager Fabio Berto.
The highlight of this year’s Halloween festivities at Conrad Manila is the “Spooky Mansion: A Monstrously Sweet Celebration,” promising unforgettable moments for families. On October 27, 2024, the hotel’s Forbes Ballrooms 1 and 2 will transform into a majestic mansion, featuring kiddie entertainment, a play area, Reese’s spooky mansion, trick-or-treat activities, face painting, arts and crafts, and more. Kids are encouraged to wear their cutest Halloween costumes for delightful rewards and surprises from generous event sponsors, including Wildbrain, Enchanted Kingdom, City Jump and Slide, Kiddie Salon by Nail Brat, Pose and Print Photobooth, Gootopia, Toy Kingdom, Ceelin, and Robby Rabbit. The spook-tacular event setup is made possible by Claudine Sycip (stylist), The Nest Play and Pad (play area sponsor), Metrotech (LED wall provider), and Vibrations (Lights & Sounds). Registration opens at 1:00 pm.
Guests can choose from generous deals. Indulge in premium culinary items and international cuisine at Brasserie on 3’s Halloween-themed buffet and gain access to the event for PHP 5,450 nett per adult and PHP 4,450 nett per child. Families or friends can also enjoy inspiring stays until October 31, 2024, in a Deluxe Room City View for PHP 20,500 nett per night, inclusive of two event tickets and breakfast for two persons, creating unforgettable moments filled with joy and warmth. (Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-204064 Series of 2024)
For a more intimate celebration, guests can reserve a table for lunch at Brasserie on 3 on October 31, 2024. Enjoy sumptuous carvings, classic Indian favorites, Japanese staples, local and international dishes, and more at the award-winning restaurant’s “Spooktacular Spread,” priced at PHP 3,400 nett per adult and PHP 1,700 nett per child. The Halloween-themed lunch buffet, open from 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm, includes pocket activities such as face painting, balloon sculpting, and trick-or-treating, which kids will love.
Bru Coffee Bar – Wickedly Sweet Treats.
At C Lounge, patrons can delight in the “Treats of Horror” Halloween-inspired afternoon tea for PHP 2,888++ from October 28 to November 3, 2024. These delectable bites with an indulgent twist, paired with coffee or tea, will offer a bewitching experience as guests savor the stunning views of Manila Bay. To further sweeten the Halloween celebrations by the bay, flavorsome milkshake selections, including Conrad milkshake, Crazy Oreo milkshake, Rainbow milkshake, and Reese’s Peanut Butter milkshake, can be enjoyed as add-ons for PHP 399++.
Families who wish to bring the Halloween celebrations home can grab Bru Coffee Bar’s “Wickedly Sweet Treats,” featuring a selection of adorably spooky pastries and cakes from October 28 to November 3, 2024. With prices starting at PHP 200++, guests can choose from a variety of hauntingly delicious confections such as Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Cake, Red Velvet Spider Cake, Halloween-themed Lollipops, Mini Macarons, Chocolate Buns, and more.
For more information about Conrad Manila’s Halloween offers and promotions, contact us at +632 8833 9999 or email conradmanila@conradhotels.com.
Landco Pacific Corporation, known for pioneering premium landscapes for more than three decades, inked an agreement with Metro Stonerich Corporation for the construction of The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego, the luxury beachfront residential condominium acclaimed as the final call to be part of the renowned elite leisure community in Batangas.
“To bring our vision of the most prestigious residential condominium in Punta Fuego to life, we’ve strategically tapped Metro Stonerich Corporation. Their mastery in high-quality construction and commitment to sustainability perfectly align with our ethos at Landco Pacific. Together, we’re not just building a development; we’re setting a new benchmark for luxury beachfront living,” shared Erickson Y. Manzano, President and CEO of Landco Pacific Corporation.
“We share Landco Pacific’s dedication to innovation, quality and creating a positive impact on the environment with the construction of The Residences. We are excited to work closely with Landco Pacific team from blueprint to build,” said Metro Stonerich Corporation President Maximillian G. Quintos.
Landco Pacific continues its trailblazing developments for high-end clientele and the creation of homes in master-planned communities that serve as lasting legacies for future generations. Metro Stonerich has two decades of experience in engineering, construction, and project management of premium and upscale high-rise and mid-rise residential properties, as well as commercial spaces, with exceptional quality and craftsmanship. The firm is also ISO 9001:2015 certified.
The Residences Luxury Beachfront Condominium at Terrazas de Punta Fuego.
The Residences, with its distinctive design, has a target turnover for unit owners in December 2027.
Investor’s Choice for a Marquee Beachfront Address
The Residences is set to rise as a pinnacle of luxury, offering exclusive one to three-bedroom apartments within its beachfront condominiumThese residences boast low-density living, panoramic views of Nasugbu Bay, and a seamless blend of Spanish Mediterranean and Asian Tropical architecture.
The luxurious beachfront condominium is situated at Punta Fuego, which is developed by Landco Pacific Corp.and Roxaco Land Corp. in the 1990s. The new project stands out among Nasugbu’s developments for its prestigious marina, golf course, and distinguished community, commanding a fourfold price premium over adjacent areas.
The property is anticipated as a high-value investment, given the track record of Punta Fuego which exceeded 1,000 percent value appreciation since it was developed in the 90s, and offers a legacy to be passed to future generations.
Award-Winning Property
The Residences is named Winner of Best Waterfront Condo Development and Highly-Commended Best Lifestyle Condo Development at the 12th Annual PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards.
The property’s multiple awards are a testament to its blend of luxury and natural elements. Residents can enjoy close proximity to the beach, 800 meters of fine white sand, and lush landscapes. Each unit has a guaranteed sea view and features expansive living spaces with generous ceiling heights, large windows, and private balconies, ensuring privacy and a serene environment. The property is also designed with modern amenities like a Lobby Lounge, Garden Courtyards, a conference room, a pool with a function room, and a spa and sauna, offering a balanced blend of business and leisure facilities.
Dedication to sustainability
Emphasizing sustainable development, The Residences is pursuing EDGE Certification with a commitment to energy and water efficiency, tree preservation, and support for electric vehicles. The incorporation of a double-pipe water system, rainwater harvesting, and environmental initiatives further demonstrates Landco’s dedication to sustainability.
“Sustainability is part of Landco’s DNA. We do it not because we have to, but because it’s the right thing to do,” cited Manzano.
An exclusive, idyllic community
Unit owners will enjoy the privileges of Club Association Membership, granting access to the exclusive amenities of Club Punta Fuego and the Landco Privilege Club Program. With the commitment to maintain its high environmental and community standards, The Residences represents not just a home but a legacy within an idyllic seaside sanctuary.
For more information about Landco Pacific Corporation, renowned for pioneering premium landscapes for more than 30 years and its last call for the most prestigious beachfront condominium – The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego, visit
From left: Landco Pacific Corporation CFO Marycris L. Panganiban; Landco Pacific Corporation President and CEO Erickson Y. Manzano; Metro Stonerich Corporation President Maximillian G. Quintos; and Metro Stonerich Corporation Vice Chairman and COO Eliseo A. Aurellado.
Taal Vista Hotel eagerly presents its upcoming event, Pumpkin-Tastic Wonderland, set to take place on October 26, 2024, from 2 PM to 5 PM. This captivating Halloween celebration guarantees an enjoyable and festive afternoon for families and children, encompassing a wide range of exciting activities.
Children aged 0-2 years can attend free of charge with a paying adult, while children aged 3-12 years will enjoy the festivities for PHP 1,100 nett. Adults can join the celebration for PHP 1,650 nett.
Event Highlights Include:
Snack Buffet: A delightful selection of snacks and treats to keep everyone energized throughout the event.
Magic Show: Guests will be captivated by a talented magician showcasing dazzling tricks that will leave them spellbound.
Mascots: Favorite characters will be on-site for meet-and-greet opportunities, bringing joy and laughter to all.
Raffles and Loot Bags: Exciting prizes and goodies await every little guest, making this Halloween truly memorable.
This event is made possible with the generous support of the following event partners: Ritz Food Corporation, Tom’s World, Iced Gem Biscuits, Snackeroo, Skyranch Tagaytay, Broadway Gems, Kultura Butik, Oishi O Wow, Leslie Food Corporation, Artuz 101 Sounds and Lights, Toy Kingdom, SM Supermalls, and Gardenia to ensure a memorable experience for all attendees.
This is a wonderful opportunity for families to create unforgettable memories at Taal Vista Hotel’s Pumpkin-Tastic Wonderland.
Tickets can be reserved by contacting veranda@taalvistahotel or foodandbeverage@taalvistahotel.com. For inquiries and reservations, please call +63 2 7917 8225 or +639459766841.
Join Taal Vista Hotel for an afternoon filled with magic, fun, and festive treats this Halloween!
About Taal Vista Hotel
As a cultural landmark in the heart of Tagaytay, Taal Vista Hotel remains committed to elevating its service and adapt to the changing needs of guests, all while preserving the warmth and friendliness of its staff.
Taal Vista Hotel is located along Kilometer 60, Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City 4120, Philippines. For inquiries and reservations, please call +63 (2) 7917 8225, +63 (46) 413 1000 or +63 917 809 1254. Stay connected with Taal Vista Hotel by visiting our website www.taalvistahotel.com and join us on Facebook (facebook.com/taalvistahotel), and Twitter/Instagram (@taalvistahotel).
This coming Halloween weekend, Richmonde Hotels has thrilling deals on room accommodation plus chilling scares and fun frights for the whole family and friend squad to enjoy!
Eastwood Richmonde Hotel
Make your Halloween celebration a kid-friendly affair and make a beeline for Eastwood Richmonde Hotel’s Ballroom at the 3rd floor where the hotel will hold its annual kiddie Halloween party on October 27, 2024 from 1pm to 5pm. This year’s party entitled “Halloween Fright Fest” assembles iconic Halloween characters for an afternoon of delightful horrors to make you scream with glee as the hotel pulls out all the stops to create a memorable event filled with exciting entertainment, gripping games, and spinetingling surprises. For only PhP 1,599nett, children and adults alike can take part of this spirited shindig. An assortment of souvenirs like photos, cookies, and loot bags await the attendees, plus exhilarating activities and prizes.
The’s no better spot than Eastwood City for those looking for a staycation place with a myriad of options to shop, play, pamper, and dine. And with Eastwood Mall directly adjacent to the hotel plus low, low rates available from October 25 to November 3, 2024, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel should be the top choice for a mini holiday! There’s also no need to go trick-or-treating because a snack bucket filled with kiddie treats will be given to the kids upon check-in. Families staying on October 26 & 27, also get a big discount on the Halloween Fright Fest tickets.
If bigger is better, then gigantic would be the best! With Richmonde Hotel Ortigas’ Monstrous Deals from October 27 to November 10, 2024, experience a hassle-free and relaxing break in your own sanctuary in the heart of the city, at rates starting at only PhP 3,300nett (room only) and PhP 4,300nett (room with breakfast buffet for two). Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and use of the Health Club’s gym, steam/sauna rooms, and heated indoor pool during your stay.
RHO Takipsilim Halloween Party.
On October 30, 2024, The Exchange is kicking off the long weekend with “Takipsilim,” inspired by Filipino folklore that make up our childhood nightmares. But not to fret, because the music, food, drinks, and fun promises to be legendary! Tickets are priced at PhP 1,380nett per person. Hotel guests checking-in on October 30 get 20% off on the party rate. Doors open at 6pm and offers are available until 12mn.
For inquiries and room reservations, call (632) 8638 7777 or (63) 917 859 7914 or email stay@richmondeortigas.com. For online bookings, log on to www. richmondehotelortigas.com.ph. For table reservations at The Exchange, call (63) 917 534 4352.
Richmonde Hotel Iloilo
On All Hallow’s Eve, paint the town a fiery red as Richmonde Hotel Iloilo’s BizBar transforms into a disco inferno complete with groovy retro beats spun by Fatboi DJs’ DJ Enze and MC Yubz. Be sure to show off your killer moves on the dance floor in between bites of the mouthwatering fare and sips of beer. At a very tempting rate of just PhP 950nett, you can delight in tapas, pizza, and two (2) bottles of San Miguiel Light Beer. The Halloween Disco Party starts at 8pm on October 31, 2024. For table reservations, call (6333) 328 7888 or (63) 917 563 3558.
If the City of Love is on your list as your next travel destination for its rich cultural heritage, delectable gastronomy, and unique visitor experiences, then take advantage of Richmonde Hotel Iloilo’s premier address inside the modern and colorful Iloilo Business Park beside Festive Walk Mall and Iloilo Convention Center, and its ongoing Richmonde Stay Deals which runs until December 15, 2025. Book Richmonde’s ultra spacious rooms for as low as PhP 5,000nett for an overnight stay and PhP 5,500nett for accommodations with breakfast buffet for two. For inquiries and room reservations, call (6333) 328 7888 or (63) 917 580 9058 or email stay@richmondeiloilo.com or log on to www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph.
Experience the epitome of luxury glamping at Cupola in Landco Pacific BeachTowns Calatagan South Beach (CaSoBe) and elevate your beach vacation to unparalleled heights.
The experential stay at Cupola, the geodesic and dome-like suite by the beach, was truly unforgettable. Located at the exquisite Landco Pacific BeachTowns CaSoBe – Calatagan South Beach, Batangas, this 15-hectare property offers a year-round summer atmosphere. With its elegant interior, breathtaking outdoor jacuzzi, and beautiful garden, this luxurious glamping experience is the perfect sun-soaked getaway.
Breathtaking outdoor jacuzzi.The author at Cupola during a recent stay.
Millennial Resorts Corporation, the hospitality arm of Landco Pacific Corporation, manages the five Cupola suites along with the unique accommodations and leisure amenities at Landco Pacific’s latest developments CaSoBe and Club Laiya in Batangas and Costa Azalea in Samal Island Davao.
Whether you’re enjoying the comforts of the suite, appreciating the breathtaking Calatagan sunset by the seashore, lounging under the stars or soaking in the soothing waters of the private jacuzzi, Cupola is your perfect couple’s, family or friends retreat for relaxation and adventure, no matter the season. Each of the 50-sqm Cupola comes with a king-sized bed, a bunk bed, common living area, ensuite bathroom, a mini-bar, a 75″ smart TV, air condition and modern amenities.
Cupola is within a short two to three-hour drive from Metro Manila. Being situated at CaSoBe, guests at this unique suite have access to a strong WI-FI connection, modern facilities and thriving tourist and leisure community.
Explore Other Distinctive Accommodations at CaSoBe
“Our teams have worked hard for the past few months to complete these new and unique hospitality facilities at CaSoBe. We are truly proud of the Chairman’s Cabin for its exceptional features curated and customized for our Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan. We are also excited to open its doors, limited to its shared and common areas like the living room, kitchen, and adjacent rooms from Monday to Thursday only. With respect to Mr. Pangilinan, this does not include his personal and private space. We’d like our guests to have a glimpse of what it’s like to have an upscale beachfront residence at CaSoBe,” stated Landco Pacific Corporation and Millennial Resorts Corporation President and CEO Erickson Y. Manzano.
Chairman’s Cabin
The beachfront Chairman’s Cabin is launched as the crowning jewel of the leisure and hospitality attractions at CaSoBe, a haven for leisure seekers in a tourist community. This well-appointed 300-sqm villa is custom-designed for Mr. Pangilinan, Chairman, Landco Pacific and its parent company Metro Pacific Investments Corporation. With four bedrooms and modern amenities, the villa is versatile for relaxation, social gatherings, and business meetings. It also serves as the weekend beachfront home of Mr. Pangilinan.
Chairman’s Cabin.
At this villa, a restful and productive weekend break for Mr. Pangilinan means an exclusive use of his private suite, access to fresh sea breeze, breathtaking sunset views, and enjoyment of Millennial Resorts amenities, balanced with work from the beach set-up.
For guest bookings, only the three bedrooms along with common area facilities of the Chairman’s Cabin are offered from Monday to Thursday. The private suite is reserved exclusively for Mr. Pangilinan.
CaSoBe Lighthouse
Standing at 15.5 meters with a panoramic 360 degrees viewing deck, the CaSoBe Lighthouse was presented as the sprawling property’s newest landmark. It serves as a beacon to guide residents, tourists, and visitors to CaSoBe as the place they can call home.
Lighthouse.The author’s enjoyable moment at the Lighthouse.
Millennial Resorts Attractions and Amenities
These new facilities complement the distinctive resort amenities already operational and managed by Millennial Resorts: Crusoe Cabins, the refitted container vans turned into accommodations with modern amenities and recognized as the first EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies)-certified resort in the country, and the pod-like Cocoons; Aquaria Water Park with three-story slides; the 300-capacity the Canopy events space; and Captain Barbozza restaurant.
Aquaria
CaSoBe
CaSoBe, is a master-planned development offering mixed-use residential and commercial lots situated in the rising business hub and beach tourist destination of Batangas. Setting it apart from other beach properties, CaSoBe elevates the resort lifestyle with inviting details such as blue roads, street art, and creative lamp posts.
The premium beach development is strategically located near golf courses, polo fields, and tourist attractions, earning Calatagan the moniker of being the playground of the affluent. Local facilities such as a hospital, public market, pharmacy, school, and chapel are likewise easily accessible.
All the lots at CaSoBe are literally within steps to the long stretch of powdery white sand beach. The property’s blue pavements are pleasing to the eye and in harmony with the environment of expansive clear skies and azure waters. There are tree-lined bike lanes and pathways parallel and leading to the shores.
Harbour Estates are mixed-use lots offered within CaSoBe. Entrepreneurs can live a healthy lifestyle and build their dream homes amid Calatagan’s rich history and famed sunset by the beach.
Transforming the landscape of Calatagan, entrepreneurs can invest in a property along the retail row and wear the hat of aspiring hoteliers or restaurateurs when they establish their bed and breakfast or cozy little café or restaurant to cater to the tourism market. They can also put up a shop for art workshops and yoga retreats, or a business for water sports enthusiasts.
CaSoBe is also poised to be a thriving creative, business, and tech community. Startup companies can engage in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.
Investors in the residential or mixed-use lots of CaSoBe have the benefit of enjoying the anticipated increase of their investment’s market value as proven by Landco’s track record of property value appreciation in Punta Fuego, Batangas.
Landco Pacific and CaSoBe Awards
As a testament to its enduring commitment to providing high standards of leisure and resort developments for more than 30 years, Landco Pacific was awarded in the prestigious 2024 PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards – Southeast Asia’s leading property technology company, as a Highly-Commended Best Lifestyle Developer for its latest premium developments of Leisure Tourism Estates: CaSoBe and 23-hectare Club Laiya and in Batangas; and four-hectare Costa Azalea in Samal Island, Davao. These seaside properties with pristine white beaches are master-planned developments offering mixed-use residential and commercial lots situated in tourist destinations.
Landco Pacific is also a recipient of the Best Leisure Real Estate (Resort Estate) Developer of The Year in the 2023 Global Economic Awards, and 2023 Real Estate Asia Award; Best Luxury Leisure Projects Developer in the 2023 Global Business Outlook Awards; and Most Sustainable Developer and Best Real Estate Developer in the 2023 International Investment Awards for the development of the BeachTowns.
PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards recognized CaSoBe with a Highly-Commended honor as a Best Mixed-Use Development. This award came after the Silver Award of CaSoBe for Outstanding Development in Luzon – Masterplan in the 2023 Property and Real Estate Excellence Awards by the Philippine chapter of the International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI), dubbed as the “Oscars of Real Estate,” which recognizes properties that best embody excellence in all real estate disciplines.
For more information about Landco Pacific Corporation and Millennial Resorts Corporation, visit their website or Facebook page.
SMX Convention Center, the largest operator of convention centers in the Philippines, has secured three additional major awards this year, reaffirming its position as a leader in the country’s Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. SMX was named Best Local Convention Centre 2024 – Philippines by APAC Insider’s South East Asia Business Review, Best Convention Center – Philippines at the World MICE Awards, and earned the highly regarded Best Convention & Exhibition Center – Philippines title at the 33rd TTG Travel Awards.
These accolades are proof of SMX’s commitment to excellence and its reputation for delivering first-rate event experiences. The 33rd Annual TTG Travel Awards, in particular, highlights the center’s recognition among travel consultants, tour operators and destination management companies only, underscoring SMX’s leadership in the region. As the only convention center in the country to receive such honors, SMX continues to set the standard for its industry.
With eight branches across key locations in the Philippines—including Clark, Olongapo, Bacolod, Cebu, Davao, Megatrade Hall in Ortigas, and SMX Aura at SM Aura Premier—SMX consistently delivers unmatched versatility and convenience. The center actively supports the government’s efforts to boost tourism, particularly through the development of the MICE sector, which is vital to enhancing the Philippines’ global presence in business tourism. Future growth plans include new venues, notably a larger facility in Cebu that will surpass the size of SMX Manila. This expansion underscores SMX’s long-term commitment to strengthening the Philippines’ standing in the global MICE arena.
Michael Albaña, Vice President – General Manager of SMX Convention Center accepts the prestigious TTG Award on behalf of SMX Convention Center last 26 September 2024, at the 33rd TTG Travel Awards in Bangkok, Thailand.
“These awards reflect our focus on service excellence and our efforts to continuously push industry boundaries,”said Michael Albaña, Vice President – General Manager at SMX Convention Center. “As the largest convention center operator in the country, we’re proud to help drive the MICE sector forward while delivering exceptional experiences for our clients. We remain committed to innovation, growth, and maintaining our leadership in the market.”
Looking ahead, SMX Convention Center continues to innovate and evolve, ensuring that it remains the premier destination for both large-scale conventions and intimate events, while contributing to the Philippines’ efforts to establish a stronger presence in the global MICE industry.
The Department of Tourism (DOT), in collaboration with Slow Food Communities and various stakeholders, proudly showcased the Philippines’ rich culinary heritage on the global stage by leading the country’s delegation to the world-renowned Terra Madre Salone del Gusto 2024 in Turin, Piedmont, Italy, from September 26 to 30, 2024.
This biennial international event, the largest of its kind, attracts over 600 exhibitors from around the globe and features workshops, conferences, and food tastings that promote good, clean, and fair food practices. The 2024 edition served as a platform to highlight unique food cultures with a focus on sustainability and the preservation of culinary traditions.
“The Philippines’ participation in Terra Madre Salone del Gusto 2024 is a significant moment as we present the richness of our food traditions to an international audience. Our delegation reflects the strength and passion of our local communities, with each member working to promote the use of native ingredients and sustainable agricultural methods. Our involvement underscores the nation’s commitment to integrating sustainable agricultural practices into the tourism experience, aligning with the global movement toward food sovereignty,” said DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.
A Showcase of Regional Cuisines and Heritage Dishes
The Philippine Pavilion featured signature dishes and heritage cuisine from various regions, including Cavite, Bacolod, Negros, Capiz, Aklan, Panay, the Cordilleras, and other areas in Luzon and the Visayas. Guests savored heirloom recipes such as Inasal, Adobo, Sinigang, Kinalabasa, and Kinilaw, along with the distinctive flavors of artisanal products like heirloom rice, native vinegar, and Philippine artisanal salts. Philippine coffee also took center stage, highlighting the country’s coffee trails and slow food community experiences.
For five days, the Philippine delegation engaged audiences through interactive workshops, panel discussions, and immersive food tastings, while top-tier chefs and culinary experts prepared special menus that blended traditional and modern techniques. The featured resource persons shared insights on sustainable food practices, heritage recipes, and the role of indigenous ingredients in promoting biodiversity.
Philippine Pavilion: A Crowd Favorite
The Philippine booth was among the most popular in the international pavilion, consistently drawing large crowds of event-goers eager to learn about the Philippines’ food culture and sample its diverse offerings. The booth became a hub for food enthusiasts to experience the best of Filipino cuisine, sample artisanal salts, sip on innovative Philippine cocktails, and enjoy the country’s world-renowned coffee. The delegation also took the opportunity to promote the Philippines’ leading tourist destinations directly to consumers and fair attendees, presenting a holistic view of the country’s vibrant culture and sustainable tourism offerings.
Salone del Gusto 2024 food.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
A delegation of 90 farmers, chefs, restaurateurs, and advocates for good, clean, and fair food represented the Philippines at Terra Madre Salone del Gusto 2024. These individuals embody the heart of the country’s agricultural and culinary sectors, each dedicated to showcasing the richness and diversity of Filipino food traditions while promoting sustainable practices.
Bacolod Launched as Slow Food International Hub for Asia and the Pacific
A key highlight of the Philippine participation was the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) designating Bacolod City, Negros Occidental as the official hub of Slow Food in Asia. This milestone solidifies the Philippines’ role as a leader in the Slow Food movement within the region, championing biodiversity, food sovereignty, and fair food systems.
“The Philippines has one of the most organized Slow Food networks in Asia, and our delegation underscores our commitment to championing our unique food heritage and sustainability. We are excited to foster global partnerships not only in promoting good, clean, and fair food, but also in developing and promoting Slow Food Travel. With Bacolod recognized as a Slow Food International hub for Asia and the Pacific, we aim to further elevate the country’s status as a key player in sustainable food systems and place the Philippines at the forefront of the global movement toward Slow Food Travel and sustainable agriculture, providing a platform for regional collaboration and innovation,” Secretary Frasco added.
The DOT also announced its bid to host Terra Madre Asia Pacific in the Philippines in 2025, making it a convergence venue for the Asia Pacific region.
Vietnam is a land rich with captivating tales, inviting explorers to delve into its enigmas and revel in its marvels at every turn.
Vietnam, with its rich tapestry of history and culture, is a land of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities. From the bustling streets of Hanoi, where the echoes of ancient traditions blend seamlessly with the hum of modern life, to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, dotted with towering limestone islands, Vietnam offers a feast for the senses.
Photo by: Benedict Trongco
Photo by: Athena Trongco
The cuisine, renowned worldwide, tempts with its delicate balance of flavors—pho, a comforting noodle soup, and banh mi, a delectable sandwich, are just the beginning of a culinary adventure.
Vietnamese cuisine. Photo by: Athena Trongco
Vietnam, located in Southeast Asia, is steeped in tradition, and its people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Their enduring spirit and resilience, add to the charm of this captivating nation. It offers a wide array of experiences for visitors to explore.
Journeying through Vietnam, one can enjoy the ancient town of Hoi An, with its lantern-lit streets and preserved architecture, or trek through the terraced rice fields of Sapa, where the mountains kiss the sky. Whether it’s the historical significance of the Cu Chi Tunnels or the spectacular beauty of the Mekong Delta, every corner of Vietnam tells a story, beckoning travelers to uncover its secrets and embrace its wonders.
Photo by: Athena Trongco
Discover the top five popular tourist landmarks in Vietnam:
1. Ha Long Bay: Marvel at the emerald waters and towering limestone pillars on a cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Cruising at Halong Bay. Photo by Athena Trongco
2. Hoi An Ancient Town: Stroll through the beautifully preserved old town, with its charming streets, colorful lanterns, and historic architecture.
3. Cu Chi Tunnels: Explore the intricate network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
4. Imperial City, Hue: Step back in time as you wander through the ancient citadel and royal palaces of the former imperial capital.
5. Sa Pa Terraces: Trek through the breathtaking terraced rice fields of Sa Pa, nestled in the misty mountains of northern Vietnam.
Sapa, Vietnam. Photos by: Athena Trongco
Consider adding Vietnam to your list of travel destinations for your upcoming trip. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the delicious local cuisine and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people. It’s a wonderful place to create meaningful memories with your family and friends.
