SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) continues to strengthen its role in shaping the Philippine MICE industry as its convention center arm, SMX Convention Center, was named Philippines’ Best Convention & Exhibition Center at the 35th TTG Travel Awards, its third consecutive win in the category.
The recognition, presented during the 35th TTG Travel Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner on September 24, 2026 at Centara Grand at CentralWorld in Bangkok, Thailand, underscores the growing presence of SMHCC’s MICE portfolio and its contribution to the Philippines’ business events landscape. The award is determined through voting by TTG’s readership, composed of travel and tourism professionals across the Asia-Pacific region.
TTG Travel Awards 2026 trophy presented to SMX Convention Center.
For SMHCC, the successive distinction comes as the company continues to invest in venues and destinations that support the growth of trade and corporate events in the Philippines. Through SMX Convention Center, SMHCC is expanding its MICE influence beyond commercial centers and into emerging locations, creating more opportunities for conventions, exhibitions, and professional gatherings across the country.
“SMX’s third repeat win at the TTG Travel Awards reflects the strength of our MICE operations and our continued commitment to investing in key markets where commerce, tourism, and economic activity can grow together,” said SMHCC Senior Vice President for Operations Walid Wafik. “As SMHCC expands its portfolio, we are not simply increasing our footprint. We are creating platforms that connect people and organizations, bring events closer to regional markets, and contribute to the growth of the local economies and communities.”
Set to become the largest convention center in the SMX portfolio, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu will bring a major MICE venue to Cebu’s South Road Properties, further supporting the city’s position as a key business and tourism destination. Meanwhile, SMXCITE Center for International Trade and Exhibitions will add a large-scale exhibition within the SM Mall of Asia complex, complementing the existing SMX Convention Center Manila and providing a larger, more integrated destination for major events.
SMX Convention Center team showcasing their TTG Awards to celebrate its third consecutive win.
Beyond the major facilities, SMX is also bringing its convention and exhibition offering closer to regional markets through the development of SMX Trade Halls in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; Sto. Tomas, Batangas; and Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna. The said halls are designed to support exhibitions, corporate gatherings, and other professional activities in emerging growth centers, making MICE opportunities more accessible beyond the country’s traditional commercial hubs.
This growing network reflects SMHCC’s broader approach to MICE development, bringing significant happenings closer to more regional markets and creating opportunities across the wider tourism and hospitality ecosystem, from hotels and restaurants to transport providers, attractions, and local enterprises. As SMX expands its presence across key markets, SMHCC is also able to serve a broader spectrum of events, from international conventions and exhibitions to regional trade fairs and corporate gatherings.
As the Philippines strengthens its position as a competitive MICE hub in Asia, SMHCC remains committed to developing venues, facilities, and experiences that support the growth of the country’s MICE industry. Through its expanding portfolio, SMHCC aims to bring more events and visitors to different parts of the country while creating greater opportunities for local communities and businesses.
As Belmont marks its 11th anniversary, discover ways to make your time between flights and meetings more worthwhile.
A few hours between flights. A meeting before heading to the airport. An overnight stay before an early departure. For business travelers passing through Manila, time is often the one thing in short supply.
Located across NAIA Terminal 3, with access to Newport City via Runway Manila, Belmont offers a convenient base for travelers who want to stay close to the airport without missing out on the comforts and experiences that make a trip more enjoyable.
And a room isn’t always necessary to enjoy what the hotel has to offer.
Have a few hours before your flight?
If you have time to spare before departure, Recharge & Fly offers a way to step away from the airport and take a proper break.
For PHP 1,300 per person, the four-hour package includes a special menu at Café Belmont, a traveller’s kit, free Wi-Fi, access to the gym, steam room, sauna, changing rooms, swimming pool and Rooftop 11, plus luggage storage. It’s an option for travelers who want to enjoy a meal, freshen up, or simply unwind before their next flight.
Recharge before your next journey with four-hour access to Belmont Hotel Manila’s amenities, complemented by a delightful dining experience at Café Belmont.
For those driving to the airport, the hotel also has an EV Charging Hub and offers a special parking rate of PHP 500 per night.
A little Filipino hospitality goes a long way
Travel can be tiring, particularly when a packed itinerary leaves little room to slow down. Through the Sampaguita brand of service, guests experience the warmth and thoughtfulness of Filipino hospitality, whether they’re staying for a few hours or several nights.
It’s the kind of welcome that makes a difference when you’re away from home.
Good food, even on a busy schedule
Between meetings and flights, finding time for a proper meal isn’t always easy. Café Belmont offers a convenient dining option, while 24-hour in-room dining gives in-house guests more flexibility.
Discover The Grove, Belmont Hotel Manila’s new function space designed for memorable gatherings, and take in the atmosphere at the hotel’s rooftop bar.
There’s also an opportunity to discover Filipino food through Pamana, the hotel’s culinary initiative celebrating regional flavors and heirloom recipes. This October to December. 2026, a collaboration with Chefs Grant Zuñiga and Aaron Veloroso brings a contemporary take on Batangueño cuisine to Café Belmont.
When work calls for a different setting
Not every conversation needs a boardroom. For smaller gatherings, The Grove is an intimate outdoor function space for up to 20 guests, offering a more personal setting for meetings and private occasions.
When the workday is done, Rooftop 11 is another place to take a break, with food, drinks, entertainment and views of the surrounding city.
A glimpse of local art and culture
A business trip can also leave room for discovery. Through Hiraya, the hotel showcases the work of Filipino artists and creatives, bringing local art into the spaces guests pass through during their stay.
It’s a simple way to encounter a little more of the Philippines, even when the itinerary doesn’t allow much time for sightseeing.
Small steps toward more mindful travel
Travelers can also find sustainability initiatives woven into the guest experience, from the EV Charging Hub to the Mindful Stay Package, a two-night eco-conscious stay designed for a more considered getaway.
These efforts reflect a continuing commitment to responsible hospitality without losing sight of what guests value most: comfort and convenience.
Eleven years, with more moments to savor
As Belmont celebrates 11 years under the theme Savor the Moment, the focus remains on making each visit count, whether it’s a short stop before takeoff, a business meeting, or a longer stay in Manila.
Because even between flights and meetings, there’s room for a good meal, a warm welcome, and a moment to recharge.
This Halloween, Twin Lakes Hotel invites families to step into a world of wonder, mystery, and cultural discovery at “Hiwaga: An Enchanted Folklore Adventure,” happening from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the hotel’s Grand Ballroom. The event combines festive fun with an immersive journey into Philippine mythology—perfect for children, parents, and the young at heart.
“Hiwaga” means something magical and mysterious, which is an apt theme for an afternoon where the familiar creatures of Philippine folklore step out of old stories and into an enchanting world made for the whole family. For parents, the event offers a nostalgic trip back to the stories they may have heard as children. Meanwhile, it is an opportunity for today’s children to meet these fascinating characters for the first time and discover a side of Filipino culture that goes beyond the pages of a book.
The event promises a lively mix of activities designed for the whole family to enjoy.
At the heart of the celebration is a guided tour in Hiwaga ng Kagubatan, where families can encounter eight iconic figures from Philippine folklore such as the mischievous Nuno sa Punso, the towering Kapre, the mysterious Engkanto, and the legendary Tikbalang. Children will also receive a Hiwaga ng Kagubatan Story and Coloring Book, allowing them to bring these tales to life through art and storytelling.
The event promises a lively mix of activities designed for the whole family to enjoy. Kids can bounce around giant inflatables, have their faces painted, and be amazed by a dazzling light artist and an exciting magic show. Families can also dress up for the costume contest, with winners taking home an overnight stay with breakfast at Twin Lakes Hotel.
Adding to the festive experience is a sumptuous Halloween buffet, along with loot bags filled with surprises and beloved treats from popcorn and cotton candy stations.
Tickets are priced at ₱1,300 for children ages 2 to 12 and ₱1,850 for adults. Families who want to make a full weekend out of the celebration can also enjoy room packages, with overnight stays starting at ₱10,800 and two-night stays starting at ₱19,600, inclusive of two event tickets for Mountain View, Lake View, and Pet-Friendly Rooms, and four tickets for the two-bedroom suite.
This Halloween, gather the family, step into the enchanted forest, and let a new generation of Filipino children meet the legends of old
About Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts
Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts (MGHR) is a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation under the Alliance Global Group Inc. Recognized with a Tourism Excellence Award by the Department of Tourism in 2025, MGHR is the country’s largest homegrown hotel operator, offering Muslim-friendly accommodations and mindful stays across its growing portfolio of 16 hotels, 8 brands, and 12,000 room keys, including those in the pipeline. Experience Filipino hospitality through its signature brand of service, The Sampaguita, across its brands, including Savoy, Belmont, Richmonde, Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Twin Lakes, Kingsford, Grand Westside and Chancellor. Its properties are located in key tourism and business destinations across Metro Manila, Batangas, Boracay, Cebu, and Iloilo. MGHR also manages international brands, including Mercure Mactan Cebu and Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo.
The premier hotel along Manila Bay unveils a compelling 22-piece collection at Gallery C, inviting guests into a contemplative journey through gesture, texture, and light.
Conrad Manila presents the 43rd edition of its acclaimed Of Art and Wine series with Between Layers of Stillness, a new exhibition by seasoned abstract artist Benjie Cabangis, thoughtfully curated by resident curator Nestor Jardin. On view at Gallery C until 28 November 2026, the exhibition features 22 evocative works that explore the subtle interplay of gesture, texture, and light, offering viewers a contemplative visual experience.
“As 2026 nears its conclusion, Between Layers of Stillness invites us to step back from the pace of the year, reflect on all that has unfolded, and appreciate the present moment,” said Rupert Hallam, general manager of Conrad Manila. “Through this exhibition, we continue our commitment to creating meaningful and enriching experiences that inspire reflection and foster deeper connections through art.”
Ribbon cutting Ceremony [From Left]: Akshat Sinha, Hotel Manager of Conrad Manila; Mary Lou Hilado, art collector and guest of honor; Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Benjie Cabangis, featured artist; Tina Colayco, President of the Metropolitan Museum of Manila and guest of honor; and Cathy Nepomuceno, Senior Vice President for Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation.
In Between Layers of Stillness, Cabangis continues his exploration of texture, light, and layered forms, creating works that encourage quiet reflection. Built through layers of pigment that are applied, scraped, and subtly revealed, each painting unfolds gradually, allowing traces of earlier marks and colors to emerge beneath the surface. Through these compositions, the artist invites viewers to slow down, be present, and discover moments of calm amid the pace of everyday life.
This collection, presented in my solo exhibition at Conrad Manila, reflects my ongoing concerns with painting as an act of presence and perception,” shared Cabangis. “Across these works, muted tones, layered surfaces, texture, and light come together gradually, allowing each painting to find its own balance between control and spontaneity. The process of layering and erasure becomes a way of slowing down and paying attention, of allowing the materials to speak and the image to emerge between what is seen and what is sensed. In their quietness and luminosity, these paintings invite viewers to pause, dwell in the present moment, and become more attentive to the subtle shifts of perception.”
Ceremonial Toast [From Left]: Akshat Sinha, Hotel Manager of Conrad Manila; Mary Lou Hilado, art collector and guest of honor; Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Benjie Cabangis, featured artist; and Tina Colayco, President of the Metropolitan Museum of Manila and guest of honor.
The exhibition was formally launched in the presence of distinguished guests, including Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Cathy Nepomuceno, Senior Vice President for Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Akshat Sinha, Hotel Manager of Conrad Manila; Mary Lou Hilado, art collector and guest of honor; Tina Colayco, President of the Metropolitan Museum of Manila and guest of honor; and featured artist Benjie Cabangis.
All artworks exhibited at Gallery C are available for acquisition. For inquiries and more information, guests and collectors may call +632 8833 9999 or email Conrad.Manila.info@conradhotels.com.
About The Artist
Benjie Cabangis
Benjie Cabangis is a Filipino abstract painter whose career spans more than four decades of artistic practice, education, and cultural engagement. Through abstraction, he explores the expressive potential of texture, gesture, color, and layered surfaces, creating works that evoke memory, atmosphere, and the natural landscape. A graduate of the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts, he later served as Chair of the Department of Studio Arts and was conferred the title of Professor Emeritus.
A recipient of the Cultural Center of The Philippines (CCP) Thirteen Artists Award, Cabangis has mounted 31 solo exhibitions and participated in numerous international exhibitions across Asia and the United States. His works are held in major public, institutional, and corporate collections in the Philippines and abroad. His recent paintings continue to investigate the transformative possibilities of abstraction through accumulated layers of marks, textures, and subtle color shifts, inviting contemplation and a heightened awareness of place and time.
SM Hotels partners with Shangri-La Group to bring a new sustainable upscale resort to Hamilo Coast.
SM Hotels & Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), the hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is expanding into the premium island tourism segment with Shangri-La Santelmo Cove, a new coastal resort to be developed in Hamilo Coast, south of Manila, in partnership with the Shangri-La Group.
Set to open in 2031, Shangri-La Santelmo Cove will offer an elevated resort experience within one of the Philippines’ ecologically rich marine environments. The resort will feature approximately 40 villas and 50 rooms and suites, thoughtfully designed to complement the natural terrain and ocean views.
Nestled within a protected cove known for its vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and thriving marine biodiversity, the resort is envisioned as an immersive coastal destination that brings together world-class hospitality, thoughtful design, and environmental stewardship.
With the addition of Shangri-La Santelmo Cove, SMHCC continues to broaden its hospitality portfolio across distinct segments and destinations in the Philippines, from city hotels and convention facilities to leisure properties and now, premium island destinations.
“Shangri-La Santelmo Cove marks an important milestone in SM Hotels’ portfolio as we venture further into the island and leisure tourism landscape,” said SMHCC Executive Vice President Ms. Peggy E. Angeles. “Our partnership with Shangri-La Group brings together two organizations with extensive experience in creating distinctive hospitality experiences in the Philippines. Together, we look forward to developing a destination that not only showcases the extraordinary beauty of Hamilo Coast, but also demonstrates how luxury and responsible tourism can thrive alongside one another.”
The partnership brings together SMHCC’s experience in developing and growing hospitality destinations across the Philippines and Shangri-La Group’s global expertise in operating acclaimed resorts and hotels.
“Shangri-La Santelmo Cove presents a unique opportunity to celebrate the Philippines’ natural and cultural treasures,” said Mr. Sunny Paw, Group Chief Operating Officer of Shangri-La Group. “For more than two decades, Shangri-La has built a strong legacy in the country through our hotels and resorts in Manila, Boracay, and Cebu. The Santelmo Cove project is a natural and exciting extension of this journey across the archipelago, allowing us to introduce a new chapter of sustainable, nature-led luxury that reflects both the spirit of the destination and the values of our brand.”
For SMHCC, Shangri-La Santelmo Cove reinforces its commitment to developing hospitality destinations that create long-term tourism value while respecting the environments and communities in which they operate. The resort will also strengthen Hamilo Coast’s positioning as a destination where hospitality, nature, and responsible development come together.
“This project represents more than the addition of a new property to our portfolio. It is an opportunity for SM Hotels to help shape the next generation of Philippine leisure destinations,” Ms. Angeles added. “We are proud to partner with Shangri-La in creating a resort that allows guests to experience the beauty of the Philippines in a way that is both exceptional and mindful of its surroundings.”
Landco Lifestyle Ventures announced that its iconic beachfront condotel The Nautilus at CaSoBe (Calatagan South Beach), Batangas, became a pilot participant of the WELL for residential program offered by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), the global authority for driving market transformation through healthy buildings, organizations and communities. The first-of-its-kind, WELL for residential is an evidence-based, third-party verified certification program designed to transform the way homes are designed, built and maintained to support human health and well-being.
This adoption of the WELL for residential program will allow Landco Lifestyle Ventures to build The Nautilus using WELL strategies designed to positively impact resident health.
Grounded in the science-backed principles of the WELL Building Standard (WELL) and its 10 WELL concepts, the WELL for residential program consists of more than 100 health strategies that support new and existing residences and are applicable to both single-family homes and units in multifamily buildings. During the pilot phase of the program, IWBI is partnering with participating architects, builders, developers, operators and owners to transform the global residential market to make healthier and more resilient homes more accessible to people.
The Nautilus at CaSoBe.
Leading organizations across the globe—including the US, UK, Canada, China, and Saudi Arabia—are piloting the new WELL for residential framework in both single-family homes and multifamily units.
“The Nautilus’s participation in WELL’s residential pilot is a natural extension of our “Life on Vacation” philosophy, that where you live should give life back to you, not just shelter you. Health and well-being have always been part of that promise; WELL just gives us the evidence-based framework to build it in from day one instead of bolting it on after the fact. We’re proud to help lead this shift in Philippine coastal development, where buying property should mean investing in how well you actually live,” said Erickson Y. Manzano, President and CEO of Landco Lifestyle Ventures.
What WELL Means for Residents:
For Nautilus owners, WELL for residential translates into specific, physical decisions in the building rather than marketing language:
Air and water quality monitoring built into MEP design – filtration and testing protocols that go beyond PH building code minimums, relevant given Batangas’s coastal humidity and salt air exposure.
Circadian-responsive lighting and glazing in unit design, tied to WELL’s Light concept. This reduces reliance on artificial lighting and supports better sleep cycles, a genuine differentiator in a beachfront condotel.
Movement-promoting site design – WELL’s Movement concept score rewards walkable circulation, active common areas, and stair accessibility, which lines up naturally with a resort master plan already built around outdoor amenities.
Material and mold-resistance standards for a marine environment – WELL’s Materials concept flags off-gassing and moisture-related building material choices.
Precertification before completion. Our buyers get third-party-verified assurance during construction, not just a plaque after handover.”
The WELL for Residential program was developed using two years of expert insight from over 100 global industry leaders. Homes can earn the WELL Residence seal through third-party verification of designated strategies, requiring a minimum of 40 points for certification. Developers can also secure precertified status after a preliminary design review to highlight their achievement prior to completing construction.
The WELL for residential program adds to the WELL ecosystem and provides a new pathway for creating people-first residences. This program builds upon the work IWBI has already done within the multifamily sector through its WELL Certification and WELL ratings. IWBI applauds the leadership demonstrated by the multifamily residential developers and owners who have pursued WELL Certification. Their experiences have helped inform and inspire the development of the new WELL for residential program.
While numerous studies show healthy homes are increasingly in demand, regulations and standards focused on resident health in homes are largely lacking. The WELL for residential program seeks to provide a solution that helps transform the global residential market and ensure that everyone, no matter their backgrounds, has access to a home that enhances their health and enables them to make healthier decisions.
The WELL ecosystem comprises WELL Certification under the WELL Building Standard, a library of building and organizational strategies focused on health, the WELL Health-Safety Rating, WELL Performance Rating, WELL Equity Rating, WELL for residential and certification under the WELL Community Standard. WELL’s holistic, evidence-based approach has provided a roadmap for organizations to promote human and social capital performance and enhance their ESG strategy. As a result, thousands of organizations including nearly 30% of Global and Fortune 500 companies across nearly 130 countries have adopted WELL strategies in more than 74,000 commercial and residential locations totaling 5.5 billion square feet of space.
From its hotels and resorts to its convention centers, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) connects guests and communities with the places, stories, and flavors that make the Philippines unique. This approach came to life through Culinaire 2026 – Flavors of Possibility, an annual culinary showcase presented by SMX Convention Center Manila, where SMX’s accredited caterers and partners came together to showcase the diverse flavors of the Philippine archipelago.
As SMHCC’s convention center business, SMX Convention Center serves as a platform where people, businesses, and diverse groups come together through meaningful events and experiences. Culinaire 2026 expanded on this role by using food to showcase the unique character and cultural flavors represented across SMX’s growing network of venues.
Warm welcome to VIP, Guests, and Caterers headed by our respected partners, L-R: SMX Bacolod Senior Manager, Ms. Myla Venegas; SMX Seaside Cebu General Manager, Ms. Janytte Y. Siega; SMX Davao Senior Sales Manager, Ms. Lady Anne Magabo; SM Hotels and Conventions Vice President – Operations, Mr. Walid Wafik; SMX Manila General Manager, Mr. Sherwin Lucas; SMX Aura and Megatrade Hall General Manager, Ms. Maite Quiogue; SMX Clark and SMX Olongapo General Manager, Mr. Miguel Morato.
With the Philippines’ identity as an archipelago as its inspiration, the event brought together culinary influences from Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao. Each participating caterer was assigned a city represented within the SMX network and challenged to reinterpret its local flavors and culinary heritage through an original creation.
Bizu Catering Studio presented Higupin – Poached Duck Egg Penoy for Mandaluyong City, while Hizon’s Restaurant and Catering showcased Davao through Sinuglaw. Juan Carlo The Caterer represented Pasay City with Ginto: Gateway to the Islands (Halo-Halo), while Kitchen City highlighted Clark, Pampanga with Kapampangan Sisig Crisp.
From Taguig, M Catering and Fine Foods prepared Coconut Inutak Brûlée, while Richgold Weddings brought Cebu to the table with its own version of Cebu Lechon. Bacolod was represented by The Creamery Catering through Chicken Inasal Pani Puri, while Tjioe The Caterer Inc. showcased Sta. Rosa, Laguna with Laguna Angus Kulawo. Via Mare Corporation represented Sto. Tomas, Batangas with Tawilis Fish and Chips with Calamansi Aioli. Complementing the culinary showcase, Event Shaker Mobile Bar and GQ Mobile Bar created beverage experiences inspired by the various cities where SMX operates.
For SMHCC, initiatives such as Culinaire demonstrate how its properties can serve as platforms for connection, collaboration, and destination storytelling. Beyond accommodating meetings and events, SMX Convention Center provides an avenue for local culture and hospitality to find their way into the guest experience, thus linking the purpose of the event with the character of the destination.
“Over the years, Culinaire has become a channel for SMX, its caterer partners, and sponsors to showcase creativity and culinary craftsmanship. Year after year, participating partners transform familiar ingredients, regional influences, and Filipino traditions into distinctive culinary creations that guests can enjoy and remember. We deeply value the partnerships forged through the years and the many ways our partners continue to infuse creativity and flavor into the offerings at SMX,” said Walid Wafik, SMHCC Senior Vice President for Operations.
Culinaire 2026 closes on a celebratory note, bringing together our esteemed executives, caterer partners, and sponsors for a toast to the experience shared.
As SMHCC continues to expand its hospitality and MICE portfolio across the country, its properties serve as platforms that showcase the diverse character of the Philippines through events, dining, and other offerings. SMX’s network spans established venues across Metro Manila, Central Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao, alongside upcoming properties including SMX Seaside Cebu, SMXCITE in Pasay, and the SMX Trade Halls in Cabanatuan, Sta. Rosa, Laguna, and Sto. Tomas, Batangas.
Culinaire 2026 brought regional influences, local ingredients, and Filipino culinary traditions to the table, drawing inspiration from the destinations represented across the SMX network. In doing so, the showcase offered a closer look at the distinct character of Philippine communities through the lens of food.
At Cosma Institute, multi-awarded aesthetic physician Dr. James Co, the Architect of Aesthetic Confidence, advocates for a more individualized approach to aging that focuses on understanding how the face changes, preserving facial harmony, and helping people continue to look like themselves.
“Anti-aging” has long been part of the beauty and aesthetics conversation, helping people address visible signs of aging. Today, a broader idea of healthy aging is emerging, one that looks beyond individual signs of age to understand how the face changes as a whole.
Facial aging is not simply about wrinkles. Changes occur across the skin, fat, muscles, supporting structures, and underlying facial skeleton, with different parts of the face changing at different rates.
For multi-awarded aesthetic physician Dr. James Co, founder of Cosma Institute and Architect of Aesthetic Confidence, understanding these changes is central to making responsible and individualized decisions about aesthetic care.
Cosma Institute Facade.
“Aging is not a disease we need to cure,” Co said. “It is a biological process. As physicians, our role is to understand what is changing beneath the surface, how those changes differ from person to person, and whether intervention is appropriate in the first place.”
Facial Aging Is More Than Wrinkles
A review published in Facial Plastic Surgery, The Anatomy of the Aging Face: A Review, describes facial aging as a process involving changes across bone, ligaments, muscles, fat, and skin.
Another review in Aesthetic Surgery Journal, The Facial Aging Process From the “Inside Out”, further examines how changes beneath the skin contribute to what eventually becomes visible on the surface.
Even facial fat is organized into distinct anatomical compartments, according to research published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. These compartments can change in volume and position over time, contributing to changes in facial shape and balance.
These findings highlight why facial aging cannot be understood by looking at a single wrinkle or isolated feature.
“When you only look at the wrinkle, you are looking at the surface of a much bigger anatomical process,” Co said. “The face ages as a system. Good assessment means understanding what is happening underneath before deciding what should be done on the surface.”
There Is No Standard Face for Any Age
Two people can be the same age and experience aging very differently.
Genetics, facial anatomy, skeletal structure, fat distribution, skin characteristics, sun exposure, lifestyle, and environmental factors can all influence how facial aging presents. This means that a treatment appropriate for one person may not necessarily be appropriate for another with a similar concern.
“Two patients can be the same age and come to me with completely different anatomy, lifestyles, concerns, and goals,” Co said. “Why would we expect their treatment plans to look exactly the same?”
This is where Co sees healthy aging as an opportunity to broaden the conversation, looking beyond individual signs of age to consider the face as a whole and the goals of the individual.
“Someone can want to look refreshed without wanting to look 20 years younger,” he said. “Those are completely different goals.”
Rather than attempting to erase every line or preserve one fixed version of the face, healthy aging recognizes that the face will continue to change. The goal is to understand those changes and make informed decisions that respect a person’s natural proportions, identity, and sense of confidence.
What Healthy Aging Looks Like
As different structures of the face change at different rates, the relationship between facial features also evolves over time. Facial harmony is therefore not fixed.
For Co, this makes whole-face assessment particularly important. Instead of treating isolated signs of aging, physicians should consider how different areas relate to one another and whether an intervention would support overall balance.
“You cannot freeze one version of your face forever,” Co said. “But you can understand how the face is changing and make decisions that respect its natural proportions and your identity.”
Social media has also made individual aesthetic treatments more visible and accessible, but exposure to a treatment is different from knowing whether it is appropriate for an individual face.
“Patients should not have to diagnose themselves from social media,” Co said. “You might recognize a concern, but deciding why it is happening and what should be done about it requires proper assessment.”
Looking Like Yourself, Not Someone Younger
The conversation around facial aging is also moving beyond physical appearance to include how people feel about themselves.
A 2022 review examining minimally invasive facial aesthetic procedures and patient-reported outcomes found that studies have looked beyond physical changes to measures including satisfaction with appearance and aspects of psychological and social well-being. The review also noted limitations in the existing evidence, underscoring the importance of interpreting these outcomes carefully.
For Co, this reinforces the importance of understanding what a patient actually hopes to achieve.
“We need to ask whether the result makes sense for the patient, whether expectations were met, and whether we preserved the things that make that person recognizable,” he said.
Ultimately, success does not always mean looking dramatically younger.
“I would rather someone tell my patient, ‘You look well,’ than immediately ask, ‘What did you have done?’”
At Cosma Institute, Co applies this consultation-led philosophy through individualized assessment, facial harmony, medical judgment, and patient education. Having trained aesthetic practitioners across Southeast Asia and Europe, he advocates natural-looking outcomes that respect the characteristics already present in each face.
His approach has also earned industry recognition, most recently receiving two awards at the Merz Aesthetics Tala Awards.
For Co, the evolution of aesthetic medicine is not simply about having more tools or treatments. It is about understanding when those tools should be used, and when they may not be necessary at all.
“Aging cannot be stopped, and I don’t think that should be the promise,” Co said. “What we can do is understand it better. We can look at the science, understand the anatomy, listen to the patient, and make decisions that allow them to age while still looking recognizably like themselves.”
For Co, healthy aging begins not with fighting age, but with understanding it.
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About Dr. James Co
Dr. James Co is the founder of Cosma Aesthetics and Lifestyle Institute (Cosma Institute), a multi-awarded aesthetic physician, and the Architect of Aesthetic Confidence. Most recently, he received two awards at the Merz Aesthetics Tala Awards. Co has trained aesthetic practitioners across Southeast Asia and Europe and advocates consultation-led aesthetic medicine that prioritizes facial harmony, ethical practice, and patient-centered care.
About Cosma Aesthetics and Lifestyle Institute
Located in BGC, Taguig, Cosma Aesthetics and Lifestyle Institute is a doctor-led aesthetics and wellness clinic guided by the philosophy “Where Beauty is Personal.” Cosma specializes in personalized treatments rooted in facial harmony, medical precision, and individualized care.
Through consultation-led treatment planning and aesthetic technologies, Cosma helps patients achieve refreshed, balanced, and confidence-enhancing results tailored to their individual needs.
Hoffman, L., & Fabi, S. G. (2022). Look Better, Feel Better, Live Better?. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 15(5), 47–58 #CosmaAestheticsandLifestyleInstitute #WhereBeautyisPersonal #rubyspreciousmoments
Lanson Place Mall of Asia encourages business and leisure travellers to make more of their weekdays with a stay designed for work, dining and meaningful downtime.
The weekday stay is evolving. As business travel becomes more flexible and the lines between work and leisure continue to blur, travellers are looking for more. A business trip can now include time to recharge, a proper meal between meetings or an extra day to enjoy the destination.
Responding to this changing rhythm of travel, Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila introduces its Midweek Stay and Dine offer, inviting guests to make more of the weekday with a stay that brings together accommodation and dining in one thoughtfully bundled experience.
Available for stays every Monday to Wednesday until 15 October 2026, the offer combines overnight accommodation and buffet lunch at Cyan Modern Kitchen in one package, with 50% off the total selling price of the package. The lunch inclusion is based on room occupancy, while guests booking suites also enjoy Club Lanson access.
Making More of the Midweek
For business travellers, the weekday no longer needs to be defined solely by meetings and a hotel room at the end of the day. With greater flexibility in how people work and travel, there is an opportunity to make better use of the time around a business commitment. A weekday stay can mean arriving ahead of a busy schedule, extending a work trip to enjoy the city, taking a quieter morning to focus or simply having a comfortable space to pause before the next engagement.
“At Lanson Place, we believe a stay should work around the traveller, not the other way around,” says Nils Rothbarth, General Manager of Lanson Place Mall of Asia. “Whether our guests are here for business, an event or simply a change of pace, we want them to feel comfortable making the most of their time with us. The Midweek Stay and Dine offer is a simple way to add more ease and value to the weekday.”
Located in the heart of the Mall of Asia Complex, Lanson Place Mall of Asia provides convenient access to key business, retail, entertainment and events destinations. Its proximity to the SMX Convention Center, MOA Arena and Ninoy Aquino International Airport makes it a practical base for business travellers, conference delegates, event attendees and professionals with engagements in the area.
From Business to Downtime
The Midweek Stay and Dine offer reflects the property’s approach to combining the service of a hotel with the flexibility and comfort associated with serviced residence living. Guests can settle into a well-appointed room or suite, enjoy buffet lunch at Cyan Modern Kitchen and use the stay as they choose, whether that means catching up on work, meeting a colleague over a meal, exploring the surrounding district or taking time to unwind.
Cyan Modern Kitchen buffet view.
The buffet lunch inclusion can be availed between Tuesday to Thursday for stays booked with this package. For suite stays, guests receive additional benefits to access to Club Lanson for an additional space to work, relax or take a break during the day.
The offer is designed not only for travellers coming into Manila for business, but also for local professionals seeking a weekday change of environment. With the Mall of Asia Complex at its doorstep, guests can move easily between work, dining, entertainment and personal time without needing to travel far.
Dining Lifestyle Business Traveler Drink at Cyan Kitchen.
A More Considered Way to Stay
The changing nature of business travel is creating new opportunities for hotels to become more than an overnight base. Spaces to work, dine, meet and recharge are increasingly part of the overall stay experience, particularly for travellers who value convenience and flexibility. For Lanson Place Mall of Asia, this approach is grounded in its “Make Yourself At Home” philosophy, giving guests the freedom to shape their stay around what matters to them.
For reservations and enquiries, contact Lanson Place Mall of Asia at +63 2 7777 0000 or reservations.lpmn@lansonplace.com.
Lanson Place Mall of Asia is located at Block 12, Palm Coast Avenue corner Seaside Boulevard, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. Follow its official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram) to find out more.
Global and industry honors spotlight the company’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, employee engagement, and people development.
SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) has earned consecutive recognition from two distinguished award-giving bodies, affirming the company’s continued dedication in creating a workplace where people are empowered to grow, connect, and go beyond.
SMHCC was named Diversity & Inclusion Champion at the 2026 Altaris Business Awards – Human Resources Awards, a global awards program recognizing business innovation and success across industries. The company also emerged as a finalist for Learning & Development Excellence and Talent Acquisition Excellence, making SMHCC the only company to appear three times among the seven organizations named to the finalists and winners list.
The recognition highlights SMHCC’s approach to fostering an inclusive workplace where employees across generations, abilities, backgrounds, and identities are given equitable opportunities to contribute and advance. Its entry showcased initiatives developing and celebrating women in traditionally male-dominated roles, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and forging partnerships with organizations that advocate for persons with disabilities and senior citizens, as well as community-based programs, which extend the principles of inclusion beyond the workplace.
SMHCC’s Learning & Development Excellence finalist recognition further underscores its structured learning culture, with programs such as We Go Beyond, leadership and capability-building initiatives like R.I.S.E. and L.E.A.D. Beyond, and specialized training that support employees across technical, service, leadership, and personal competencies. Meanwhile, its Talent Acquisition Excellence finalist recognition reflects a talent strategy that goes beyond filling vacancies by building sustainable talent pipelines through strategic sourcing, school and institutional partnerships, internships, inclusive recruitment, and employer branding.
Adding to this momentum, SMHCC was also named a winner of the Best Employee Engagement Program at the TalentView People Insights Awards 2026, which recognizes organizations transforming the future of work through meaningful workplace and people initiatives.
From left: TalentView Founder & CEO Anj Vera, SMHCC Vice President for Human Resources and Organizational Development Charmagne Adonis, and SMHCC Assistant Vice President for Public Relations Nian Rigor.
The award recognizes SMHCC’s deliberate efforts to strengthen employee connection, belonging, and engagement through a culture of listening, meaningful experiences, growth, recognition, and open communication. Programs such as We Go Beyond Pocket Sessions, HR Hour, Wednesday Wisdom, Kapihan, Stay Interviews, HAY Sessions, and the President’s Go Beyond Awards create regular opportunities for employees to engage with leaders, share their voices, learn, receive recognition, and build stronger relationships across the organization.
“These recognitions affirm that our people strategies are not simply programs on paper. They are reflected in the experiences of our employees every day,” said Charmagne Adonis, SMHCC Vice President for Human Resources and Organizational Development. “For us, going beyond means creating an environment where every person feels heard, valued, connected, and empowered to contribute. Whether through inclusion, learning, talent development, or engagement, we remain committed to building a culture where our people can grow with the organization and, in turn, help us go beyond what is expected.”
The back-to-back recognitions reinforce SMHCC’s belief that organizational excellence begins with investing in people. By bringing together inclusive opportunities, continuous learning, strategic talent development, and meaningful employee engagement, SMHCC continues to strengthen a people culture that supports both individual potential and the organization’s goals in the hospitality and conventions industry.
For SMHCC, these awards are more than external validation. They are a reflection of a workplace culture built with its people, sustained by its people, and driven by their collective commitment to go beyond.
