Indulge in a World of Flavors at Okada Manila’s Medley Buffet

From succulent roasts to delicate sashimi, Okada Manila’s Medley Buffet invites diners to embark on a global culinary voyage. The resort’s signature buffet restaurant is redefining the dining experience with an unrivaled spread of international favorites, immersive live stations, and one-of-a-kind features that make every visit unforgettable.

As part of Okada Manila’s “The World’s Best Flavors in One Destination” campaign, Medley Buffet takes guests on a flavorful journey across the globe every time they dine.

Medley’s goal is to surprise and delight guests at every turn, as affirmed by Chef de Cuisine Guillermo Aspera.

“Our goal is to surprise and delight guests at every turn,” said Medley Buffet’s Chef de Cuisine Guillermo Aspera. “Whether it’s savoring the day’s freshest catch at our seafood station or discovering unique flavors inside the Cheese Room, Medley Buffet is designed to create moments worth remembering.”

A Global Culinary Showcase

Guests can enjoy flavors from Asia and beyond across its 7 stations—authentic Japanese sushi and tempura, aromatic Indian curries, Italian pastas and pizzas, and Filipino classics crafted with premium local ingredients. Signature live stations bring the experience to life: chefs carving prime rib fresh from the oven, steaming bowls of laksa and tom yum prepared to order, and a dessert spread featuring decadent cakes, native delicacies, artisanal ice cream, and seasonal fruits.

Savor the world’s best flavors at Medley Buffet—where fresh specialties, handmade pastas, and bold classics come together.

Complementing the lavish spread are free-flowing beverages, including fruit juices, sodas, wine, local beers, coffee, and tea.

The Only Cheese Room in the Metro

Medley Buffet sets itself apart as the only Cheese Room in Metro Manila—a dedicated haven for cheese lovers. Stocked with a well-curated selection of international and local cheeses, the room also offers premium cold cuts such as Jamon Ibérico, alongside nuts, fruits, honey, and jams. It is a must-visit highlight that elevates the buffet beyond the ordinary.

Medley Buffet sets itself apart as the only Cheese Room in the Metro—a dedicated haven for cheese lovers.

Perfect for Every Occasion

With four private dining rooms accommodating intimate groups to large family gatherings, Medley Buffet is an ideal venue for celebrations, reunions, or corporate get-togethers.

Special Offers

BPI cardholders can enjoy an exclusive treat of 20% off at Medley Buffet with selected cards until November 30. Meanwhile, Reward Circle members enjoy up to 25% off when they present their membership card.

Savor the world’s best flavors at Medley Buffet—where fresh Japanese specialties, handmade Italian pastas, and bold Indian classics come together for an unforgettable feast. For inquiries and reservations, please send an email to RestaurantReservation@okadamanila.com or call +632 8555 5799.

#MedleyBuffet #OkadaManila #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Italian Flavors Meet French Flair at Okada Manila in a World-Class Culinary Collaboration

Okada Manila, in partnership with evian, is set to host a highly anticipated gastronomic event that brings together two masters of flavor. The exclusive 4-hands dinner, “Italy Meets France,” will feature the culinary prowess of Mattia Stroppa, Executive Chef at Okada Manila’s signature Italian restaurant La Piazza, and Arnaud Dunand, a renowned 1-star Michelin Chef and Owner of Maison Dunand, a French fine dining restaurant in Bangkok.

Happening on September 25 and 26, from 5 PM to 11 PM at La Piazza, this exclusive collaboration unites the authentic flavors of Italy with the refined artistry of French cuisine. Guests can look forward to a multi-course menu that showcases the distinct culinary philosophies of both chefs.

Okada Manila’s La Piazza is set to host a highly anticipated gastronomic event that brings together two masters of flavor.

The chefs expressed their excitement about the upcoming collaboration, highlighting how the partnership goes beyond food to celebrate culture and creativity.

“Collaborating with Chef Arnaud allows us to showcase the depth and diversity of Italian cuisine in harmony with French culinary excellence,” said La Piazza’s Executive Chef Mattia Stroppa.

Italian Flavors Meet French Flair at Okada Manila in a World-Class Culinary Collaboration.

Echoing this, Chef Arnaud Dunand added, “I am delighted to bring the essence of Maison Dunand to Okada Manila, and to join Chef Mattia in crafting a menu that celebrates tradition, creativity, and passion.”

Among the highlights of the 4-hands dinner is Chef Arnaud’s Beef Tenderloin, paired with cassis satay, porcini mushrooms from Italy, and figs from France—a dish that brings together premium ingredients from across continents, balanced with his signature French finesse.

Complementing this is Chef Mattia’s Agnolotti al Salmì di Cervo, a classic handmade pasta filled with venison. Rich and rustic yet refined, it captures the soulful essence of traditional Northern Italian cuisine elevated with artistry.

Priced at PHP 6,000 per guest, this exclusive 4-hands dinner presents a meticulously crafted 9-course menu, thoughtfully paired with premium selections from Philippine Wine Merchants. From inventive canapés to indulgent mains like beef tenderloin with cassis satay and porcini, and a refreshing finale of panna cotta with tropical accents, the evening promises a truly world-class gastronomic journey.

Limited seats are available. For reservations and inquiries, email RestaurantReservation@okadamanila.com or call +632 8555 5799.

#OkadaManila #ItalyMeetsFrance #culinarycollaboration #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Globe Business G Fair 2025: Accelerating Growth of a New Generation of Filipino Entrepreneurs

As part of Globe’s 10th year of 917 GDay celebrations, Globe Business hosted G Fair 2025, a two-day event that celebrated Filipino craftsmanship while elevating its commitment to local entrepreneurs. Held at the BGC Amphitheater in Taguig from September 19 to 20, the fair drew thousands of attendees and served as a dynamic platform where commerce and learning seamlessly intertwined.

Now in its third year, G Fair has evolved into a comprehensive program that goes beyond a traditional pop-up market. This year, the event was enhanced with a strong focus on empowering entrepreneurs for the future, providing valuable resources for digital transformation and sustainable growth through a dedicated SME Consultation Booth and a series of upskilling talks and learning sessions.

“This year’s G Fair was built on the momentum of past years by creating an ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs with tools, knowledge, and networks to thrive,” said KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business. “It’s a space to celebrate homegrown talent while equipping them to succeed in the digital economy.”

(Photo from L-R): KD Dizon, VP and Head of Globe Business; Grace F. Baluyan, Assistant Secretary, Regional Operations Group, Department of Trade and Industry.

This two-pronged mission was evident across the fairgrounds, from the bustling retail space to the dedicated learning hub. A vibrant mix of 30 proudly local brands showcased the best of Filipino craftsmanship, with each vendor a testament to the power of Filipino creativity. Visitors explored featured brands like the artisanal Baybayin Bags and Sewn Sandals stood alongside delicious offerings from H Proper and W Bakehouse. Attendees enjoyed interactive activities and exclusive raffle prizes, all while directly supporting local talent.

Meanwhile, the G Fair Business Hub served as the central point for entrepreneurial empowerment. Business owners had the invaluable opportunity to consult with and learn from a diverse group of experts. This included  partners from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Go Negosyo, as well as tech industry leaders GCash, Lazada, and TikTok. Discussions centered on how SMEs can scale through fintech, e-commerce, and social media, while merchant panels offered insights on balancing heritage with innovation and turning passions into sustainable livelihoods.

The fair’s lively atmosphere was further enhanced by other highlights that celebrated the entrepreneurial spirit. The G Fair Awards recognized standout SMEs for their breakthrough innovations and commitment to championing sustainability in their business. The event also featured electrifying performances by rising artists FINIX and SYNC and concluded with exciting raffle prizes from Philippine Airlines, GCash, and Lazada.

Following last year’s strong turnout, G Fair 2025 further cemented its role as a catalyst for Filipino SMEs to grow and connect with wider audiences. The event successfully combined the celebration of creativity and craftsmanship with the critical digital resources needed for entrepreneurs to further their digital transformation journey. It stands as a testament to the power of supporting homegrown talent and ensuring they are equipped to succeed in the digital economy.

#GlobeBusiness #GDay #GFair #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Immerse in a Rich Cultural Tapestry with the ‘Of Art and Wine’ Series: ‘Her Hands: A Loom of Stories’ Exhibit at Conrad Manila

The hotel unveils a group exhibit at the Gallery C that highlights the artistry of weaving.

Conrad Manila presents the 37th edition of its esteemed ‘Of Art and Wine’ Series with a compelling group exhibition titled “Her Hands: A Loom of Stories”, running from September 16 to November 15, 2025, in collaboration with Space_Alt Contemporary. Showcasing 34 works of seven female contemporary artists, namely: Kristine de Jesus, Anita del Rosario, Jane Ebarle, Mia Go, Katrina Raimann, Anina Rubio, and Maria Salvador, this new collection at the hotel’s Gallery C celebrates the artistry of weaving, through textile art, sculpture, and mixed media.

Her Hands: A Loom of Stories” emphasizes weaving, not only as a craft, but also as a vessel of memory, identity, and connection. Historically, this form of art is a profound expression of creativity and cultural identity, intricately linked to the role of women. Women have long been the custodians of this tradition, passing down techniques and stories through generations, preserving heritage and fostering community bonds.

Each thread woven into fabric carries not just color and texture but also the weight of history, emotion, and purpose. These threads transcend aesthetics, symbolizing resilience, unity, and the intricate connections between individuals and their cultures. By honoring the artistry of weaving and the pivotal role women play in this tradition, guests are invited to explore the deeper narratives embedded in each piece—celebrating both craftsmanship and enduring cultural legacies.

Hans Sy (Chairman of the Executive Committee of SM Prime) & Elizabeth Sy (President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation).

The exhibit opening at Gallery C, located on the hotel’s third level, was led by Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Cathy Nepomuceno, Senior Vice President for Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Mia Villanueva, President of the Philippine Textile Council; Adelaida Lim, President Emeritus of the Philippine Textile Council; Kaye Tinga, President of the Cultural Center of the Philippines; Lucky Ou, Conrad Manila’s General Manager, and four featured artists, including Kristine de Jesus, Anita del Rosario, Jane Ebarle, and Maria Salvador.

“Her Hands: A Loom of Stories” invites guests to immerse themselves in an enriching cultural experience starting September 16 to November 15, 2025. Through these intricate works, the artists share personal narratives and celebrate the Philippines’ thriving tradition of weaving.

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

Art & Indulgence: “Her Hands: A Loom of Stories” Inspired Afternoon Tea Experience

Conrad Manila invites guests to indulge in a new afternoon tea experience at C Lounge, inspired by the featured art collection. Available from September 17 to November 15, 2025, this delightful culinary journey that celebrates both art and culture celebrates both art and culture through a selection of exquisite bites and sips. The artfully curated set includes baked gillardeau oysters, pan-seared lamb chops, U.S. choice beef tenderloin, pan-seared lapu-lapu, signature C Lounge burger, eton mess – signature, raspberry cheesecake, vanilla panna cotta with passion fruit and coconut sorbet, roasted coconut semifreddo with mango popsicle, and moreeach dish echoing the intricacy and cultural richness of the artworks on exhibit at Gallery C.

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

#ConradManila #OfArtandWineSeries #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

SMHCC’s Iconic Property in Tagaytay Honored as Tourism Pillar Awardee at DOT’s 1st Philippine Tourism Awards

Taal Vista Hotel has officially been recognized as a Tourism Pillar Awardee at the inaugural Philippine Tourism Awards, one of the highest honors in the country’s tourism sector. The awarding ceremony was held on 8 September 2025 at Okada Manila, where the hotel’s delegation—General Manager Ramon Makilan, Director of Sales & Marketing Mary Rose Lomibao, and Cluster MarComm Manager Faith Dimaano—accepted the accolade with pride.

From left: Ms. Faith Dimaano, Cluster Marketing Communications Manager; Mr. Ramon Makilan, General Manager; and Ms. Mary Rose Lomibao, Director of Sales and Marketing of Taal Vista Hotel.

The Tourism Pillar Award was introduced by the Department of Tourism (DOT) as part of its 50th founding anniversary celebration. This one-time recognition program honors the pioneers and trailblazers whose contributions have helped shape the Philippine tourism industry. It pays tribute to individuals, enterprises, destinations, and organizations that have stood the test of time and set the foundation for growth.

For the enterprise category, honorees must be primary tourism establishments operating continuously for at least 50 years, while the individual category recognizes professionals with a tourism career spanning no less than 35 years. These stringent criteria ensure that recipients embody both longevity and impact.

A milestone honor with a timeless view.

Receiving this award further cements Taal Vista Hotel’s enduring legacy as a pillar of Filipino hospitality. Established in 1939, the hotel has remained a trusted destination for generations of travelers, seamlessly blending heritage and modern comforts. As noted by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, the awardees have “raised the standards” and “showcased Filipino hospitality on the world stage.”

“We are deeply grateful to be recognized as a Pillar Awardee at the 1st Philippine Tourism Awards. This honor affirms our nearly nine decades of dedication to guest experience, cultural heritage, and service excellence,” said General Manager Ramon Makilan, underscoring the team’s continued commitment to tradition and innovation.

With this recognition, Taal Vista Hotel looks ahead to its 86th anniversary in 2025, carrying its legacy of excellence into a new era of hospitality.

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 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). 

About SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) 

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) is the hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings Inc. Currently, the SMHCC portfolio is comprised of ten (10) hotel properties with a combined inventory of more than 2,600 rooms and over 42,000 sqm. of leasable convention space. The list of properties under SMHCC includes Taal Vista Hotel, Pico Sands Hotel, Conrad Manila, Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Radisson Blu Cebu, Park Inn by Radisson Clark, Park Inn by Radisson Davao, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod, and the SMX Convention Centers and trade halls.

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

#TaalVista #SMHCC #TourismPillarAwardee #PhilippineTourismAwards #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Driving Philippine Tourism Forward Through Culture and Inclusivity

The Philippines’ largest homegrown hospitality chain, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR), was recognized as a Tourism Industry Excellence Awardee at Department of Tourism’s (DOT) first Philippine Tourism Awards held in Parañaque City on September 8, 2025. The group was honored for its Muslim-friendly initiatives and Sampaguita brand of service, reaffirming its role as a leader in shaping Philippine hospitality.

“Each of us has a role to play in moving the tourism industry forward. We are truly humbled that the Department of Tourism has recognized our efforts. This award reflects the close collaboration we had with the DOT, from championing inclusivity through our Muslim-friendly initiatives and in our vision to creating the Sampaguita as an iconic representation of Filipino hospitality that sets us apart from the rest of the world,” Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, said.

“This award is not just for Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, but for every member of our team who continues to serve with heart. This recognition inspires us to create meaningful experiences for every guest who walks through our doors,” she added.

The Philippine Tourism Awards is envisioned as the highest and most prestigious citation in Philippine tourism, recognizing creativity, professionalism, and service that strengthen the country’s position as a top global destination.

Inclusive Tourism Efforts

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts proudly partners with the Department of Tourism in advancing Muslim tourism in the Philippines. Within just seven months of signing the Memorandum of Understanding, MHR successfully transformed all 13 of its properties into Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments—a pioneering move that reinforces its commitment to inclusivity and global competitiveness. This achievement follows its earlier recognition at the 2025 Halal in Travel Awards in Singapore, where CrescentRating, the world’s leading authority on halal-friendly travel, named MHR as the Philippines’ first-ever Muslim-Friendly Hotel Chain. Strengthening this commitment, MHR continues to train its associates with in-depth market knowledge, enhancing their understanding of Muslim cultures and practices to better serve a diverse and growing market.

Cultural Preservation and Representation

In support of the Department of Tourism’s Filipinization efforts, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) has pioneered the Sampaguita brand of service across its properties—an initiative that embraces Filipino culture, upholds core Filipino values, and celebrates the nation’s unique identity. This distinct brand experience engages all five senses, creating meaningful and memorable guest interactions at every touchpoint.

More than just a service philosophy, the Sampaguita brand has become MHR’s dedicated advocacy. To date, MHR has planted over 6,000 seedlings across four Megaworld townships and partner communities, diffused more than 18,000 liters of its signature Cool Sampaguita scent across its 13 properties, and incorporated over 30,000 grams of food-grade sampaguita buds into its curated menu offerings. Through its collaboration with Dwellbeing and Project PEARLS, over 8,200 families have received nourishing meals as part of its community outreach efforts.

Anchored in Megaworld’s MEGreen program, the Sampaguita brand of service has evolved into a powerful advocacy for nation-building, sustainability, and cultural preservation. This meaningful work has earned industry acclaim, winning Most Outstanding Marketing Campaign at the 10th Virtus Awards and securing a Silver Anvil Award in 2024 for the Sampaguita Project.

More recently, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, Megaworld’s Estate Management and Development team, and collaborators from the Rotary Clubs of Biñan, San Pedro Laguna, and Marikina, along with local farmers, planted 2,500 Sampaguita seedlings at the 4,300-square-meter Sampaguita Park. This landscaped space is being developed by MHR in partnership with Global-Estate Resorts, Inc. (GERI) and the Rotary Club of Biñan, with full support from the National Parks Development Committee.

Accepting the award were Cleofe Albiso and Art Boncato, MHR’s Group General Manager in a ceremony attended by tourism leaders, private stakeholders, and media.

The Philippine Tourism Awards, organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT), honor the outstanding efforts of industry players and local government units (LGUs) in advancing the country’s tourism. Reinventing the former KALAKBAY Awards and Tourism Star Philippines.

Through these awards, the DOT also seeks to instill a culture of Filipino hospitality and excellence, foster innovation and competitiveness, and pay tribute to the individuals and organizations whose contributions drive the growth of Philippine tourism.

#MegaworldHotels&Resorts #MHR #TourismIndustryExcellenceAwardee #DOT #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Curiosity and Connection: Derek Tumala and his artistic journey

As a child, visual artist Derek Tumala, one of the 2024 CCP Thirteen Artists Award recipients, has always been curious about the world around him. This innate curiosity eventually led him to pursue art as a career.

During his formative years, the artist often found himself reading through his family’s encyclopedia collection, a habit that sparked his interest in the connections between the natural world, geography, and world history.

He eventually entered art school, where he learned the fundamental principles of art-making and began to merge these with his interest for science and nature. After graduating, Tumala discovered a much broader spectrum of creative expression beyond traditional media.

This exploration became the foundation of his artistic practice. Among the many art movements available to contemporary artists, Tumala gravitates toward media art practices that focus on research and the interplay between art and ecology. He engages in art that is experimental, queer, and challenges materiality.

“I taught myself about emerging technologies and familiarized myself with contemporary possibilities. I expanded my art practice by traveling to different places, researching and working in different kinds of art spaces – from independent, artist-initiated to art institutions, museums, and commercial galleries,” shared Tumala.

Derek Tumala (photo: Geric Cruz)

Throughout his creative journey, Tumala has drawn consistent inspiration from everyday life. He finds meaning in both the ordinary and the extraordinary, whether it is reading a book, watching a film, traveling, visiting museums, or simply observing the world around him.

Even in moments others might consider dull, Tumala uncovers sources of inspiration – from the surreal such as falling in love or kissing a stranger, to the abstract like doing nothing or or just being alone. For artists like him, anything can be a muse.

His unwavering commitment to the artist’s path stems from a firm belief in the role of art as a vehicle for truth.

“Our practice serves as a model on how to live and articulate what life or living is all about,” related Tumala.

Contributing to society’s psyche

As an artist, Tumala aspires to be seen and heard through his work. His goal is to create art and share it with others. If it is able to contribute to society’s collective psyche, he considers it a personal success.

For the upcoming Thirteen Artists Awards exhibition at the National Museum of the Philippines this October, Tumala is preparing a piece centered on the theme of “loss and damage.” The work stems from his recent research on the climate crisis and its slow but steady impact. He also hopes to create a dialogue with the museum’s collection.

“I want to account for these scenarios in the form of a two-channel video. I hope to make use of the data of endangered animals in the Philippines at the National Museum of Natural History, and then juxtapose it with my sentiments and realizations on the vanishing practices of artmaking. What we, artists, experience today is a slow decline of the artistic practice due to inevitable consequences of capitalism, socio-political and technological degradation,” shared Tumala.

He thought about calling the piece – the “Vanishing Tribes,” featuring the two elements – the animals and the artists, which he categorizes as “endangered.”

Tumala is no stranger to criticism, which he describes as a double-edged sword. “Criticism can either be a stab or a prick. In the end, you fight for what you believe in with a nudge. Don’t kill, persevere,” he enthused.

Despite the challenges of a career in the arts, Tumala encourages young artists to embrace uncertainty and keep the faith. “Enjoy life, work hard, be persistent, focus, and believe in yourself.”

Now on its 55th year, the CCP TAA honors visual artists under the age of 40 who seek to “restructure, restrengthen, and renew artmaking and art thinking that lend viability to Philippine art.”

The CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division (CCP VAMD) received 82 nomination forms from various art groups, museum and gallery directors and curators, art critics, art educators, and previous TAA recipients around the country.

After careful and thorough deliberations of the 108 nominated artists, the committee named Catalina Africa, Denver Garza, Russ Ligtas, Ella Mendoza, Henrielle Baltazar Pagkaliwangan, Issay Rodriguez, Luis Antonio Santos, Joshua Serafin, Jel Suarez, Tekla Tamoria, Derek Tumala, Vien Valencia, and Liv Vinluan as recipients of this prestigious award.

For more information about the CCP Thirteen Artists Awards, you can visit www.thirteenartists.culturalcenter.gov.phand the CCP official website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph). You may also follow the official CCP and CCP VAMD social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for updates on future events and public programs.

#DerekTumala #CCPThirteenArtists #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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

The Travel Club’s Trade-In Sale Is Back: Here’s Your Second Chance to Donate and Upgrade

The Travel Club’s “Donate Your Old Case for a Cause” Trade-In Sale is back, giving travelers another chance to upgrade their travel essentials while passing on their pre-loved bags for a meaningful purpose.

As the holiday season is fast approaching and with our travel plans filling up calendars, now is the perfect moment to upgrade in a reliable travel gear. Continuing an initiative that blends practicality with purpose, The Travel Club brings back its ‘Donate Your Old Case for a Cause’ Trade-In Sale. Think of it as a second chance: if you missed out on the first run earlier this year, this is your opportunity to finally take part

Beyond being a shopping event, the Trade-In Sale has become a growing tradition that blends practicality with purpose. In its run earlier this year, donated luggage helped empower first-time Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and seafarers as they embarked on life-changing journeys abroad. With this new edition, the call continues—this time also offering fresh perks for cardholders through partnerships with Metrobank Travel Visa Signature  Card and Maya Black Card, making the experience even more rewarding.

The Travel Club Trade-In Sale 1st Leg.

Shoppers can get up to 40% off when they trade in their pre-loved luggage or bags by simply bringing a usable pre-loved item and exchanging it for discounts on featured luggage—40% off with every luggage traded in, or 30% off with every bag traded in. Discounts cannot be combined with other promotions or markdowns, and all transactions worth ₱3,000 and above are eligible for a 3-month, 0% interest installment plan using major credit cards

The Trade-In Sale kicks off from September 11 to 14, 2025 at The Travel Club branches in Estancia Mall, Alabang Town Center, Megaworld Lucky Chinatown, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay.

Want in on the next legs? Keep an eye on The Travel Club’s social media pages for updates on where the Trade-In Sale is heading next.

For more details, visit The Travel Club website, and to stay updated on the latest happenings, follow The Travel Club on social media.

About The Travel Club:

The Travel Club is the Philippines’ leading lifestyle travel concept store, developed by the Primer Group of Companies. It offers a curated selection of premium travel gear, luggage, and accessories from globally trusted brands. Committed to inspiring and enabling journeys, The Travel Club provides high-quality, functional, and stylish travel essentials designed for modern explorers. Beyond retail, the brand actively engages in initiatives that promote sustainability and community support—ensuring that travel is not just about destinations, but also about making a positive impact.

#TravelClub #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Pokémon Legends: Z-A introduces Mega Victreebel, the Flycatcher Pokémon Victreebel’s mega evolution

The Pokémon Company is pleased to announce the latest news about the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 software title Pokémon Legends: Z-A and the Nintendo Switch 2 software title Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.

The Mega Evolution of the Flycatcher Pokémon Victreebel—Mega Victreebel—appears in Pokémon Legends: Z-A! Please forward to Victreebel’s Mega-Evolved Form; its body gets swollen and full of acid that looks ready to burst out at any moment!

To know more about the Mega Victreebel from Pokémon Legends: Z-A, please go to the official Pokémon YouTube channel and check the video, “Mega Victreebel Raises a Stink! | Pokémon Legends: Z-A” at https://youtu.be/ala25Wsplak

Its body has swollen as a result of Mega Evolution. Even the leaves on top of its head have grown bigger.

It flaps the leaves on its sides and moves its large body by bouncing around.

It opens its large mouth to let loose a Sludge Bomb. It looks more like a Victreebel when it has deflated.

To move around, it flaps the leaves on its sides and bounces its large body. It has so much acid that even closing its mouth tight isn’t enough to hold it in, so it contains the acid by wrapping its own vines around its throat. (pic4)

Mega Victreebel’s Unique Features

A large amount of acid is stockpiled inside its body, which has grown larger as a result of Mega Evolution.

Mega Victreebel

Category: Flycatcher Pokémon

Type: Grass/Poison

Height: 14’9″ (4.5 m)

Weight: 276.7 lbs. (125.5 kg)

  • It’s got so much acid that it’s on the verge of spitting it up!
  • It wraps its own vines around its throat to keep the acid from spilling out.

The energy of Mega Evolution has produced such a large amount of acid within its body that it always has to wrap up its own throat! As a result, it doesn’t keep its mouth open while waiting for prey like Victreebel does. Instead, it actively goes after prey to take it down in a distinctively aggressive style. Its massive body can deliver tackles that are packed with destructive force!

  • It’s not just the volume that’s overwhelming—its acid gives off a powerfully sweet scent and can even melt through steel!

When all that acid has matured, it smells sweet enough to make others dizzy. Mega Victreebel waves the leaves on top of its head to waft the scent toward opponents, immobilizing them and giving it an edge in battle. The acid’s melting capabilities are also powered up! It can even melt through concrete or steel, so Trainers who use Mega Victreebel in battle will need to keep that in mind.

Mega Victreebel’s Special Video

There have been rumors about a mysteriously sweet scent coming from a certain building. Check out this found footage exploring the building’s darkened halls—parts of which seem to have been melted. What truths about Mega Victreebel and its Trainer will spill out by the end?

Find out more by checking out this special video “The Case of the Sweet Scent Incident | Pokémon Legends: Z-A” at https://youtu.be/xT_bk0BBp2Y

For more information, please visit the official Website: https://legends.pokemon.com/en-us

#PokemonLegends #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph