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May Magic: Celebrations, Surprises, and Seriously Good Vibes at Winford Manila

This May, Winford Resort & Casino Manila is turning up the heat—and the happiness.

From soulful music to sizzling grills, sweet surprises to slot thrills, WRCM is celebrating the sunniest month of the year with a jam-packed calendar designed to delight every kind of guest—moms, music lovers, metro staycationers, and gamers alike.

For the Game-Changers

Gaming kicks into high gear with the Mother’s Day Mystery Envelope promo on May 10—think suspense, smiles, and the chance to win a reward made just for mom. Then there’s the big one: the Monthly Major Raffle on May 17 and May 31, with over ₱1.8 million in free play giveaways. Want more action? The Slot Tournament rolls on until May 15, keeping things lively for loyal players and first-timers alike.

For the Culture Crew

WRCM continues to own the stage with its spotlight on OPM. This month, the Hippodrome Bar & Lounge welcomes EastSide Band on May 9 for a one-night-only acoustic show. Known for their viral online covers and chill harmonies, they’re bringing their soul to Sta. Cruz for a night of heartfelt music and good vibes.

For the Cravers and Cocktail Sippers

Over at Zabana Bar, weekends are now all about BBQ and Acoustic Nights, happening every Friday and Saturday. Think grilled bites, cool tunes, and poolside fun. Add unlimited margaritas daily from 4 PM to 8 PM, and you’ve got golden hour done right.

And the dining deals don’t stop there:
On May 5, the International Buffet is priced at just ₱555—but only for one day. Then on May 12, civic pride meets culinary indulgence with the Voters’ Edition Buffet: show your inked finger and enjoy 50% off.

Capping off the love fest is a Mother’s Day Lunch Buffet on May 11, where every mom dines like a queen. Spend at least ₱600 at Winford Café and receive a free mini cake—because the sweetest woman in your life deserves the sweetest surprise.

For the Metro Staycationers

Looking for a luxe escape without leaving Manila? The “Your Moment: Mom’s Day” staycation package is the answer. For just ₱6,999, enjoy a deluxe overnight stay with breakfast for two, ₱1,500 dining credits or a spa treatment for two, plus a celebration cake and an adorable Win-Win plush horse gift. Bookings run from May 2–8, valid for stays on May 10–11 only.

Whether you’re dropping by for the beats, the buffets, or the bonus rounds, May at Winford Resort & Casino Manila isn’t just a moment—it’s a month full of them.

Ready to make yours a winning one?

#CelebrateAtWinford #MothersDay2025 #OPMFridays #BuffetLovers #StaycationManila

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Shower Mom with Love and Indulgence this Mother’s Day at Conrad Manila

This Mothers’ Day, Conrad Manila invites families to celebrate the most important woman in their lives with memorable dining experiences, heartfelt gifts and refined indulgences designed to pamper and delight. With a trio of elevated culinary offerings and thoughtful touches, the hotel sets the stage for a celebration steeped in love, gratitude, and sophistication.

“Our mothers do so much for the family behind the scenes, often without recognition,” shared Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila. “As a son myself, I know how deeply meaningful it is to carve out time to honor their love and devotion. At Conrad Manila, we have thoughtfully curated experiences that help families celebrate their mothers in ways that feel truly special.”

Brasserie on 3: For the Love of Mom

Treat mom to a vibrant dining experience at Brasserie on 3, where a premium buffet pays tribute to her unwavering love. Highlights include herb-crusted leg of lamb, smoked brisket, garlic butter seafood and fresh oysters. Mothers dine for free with every four full-paying adults.

For the Love of Mom l Lunch & Dinner Buffet

11 May 2025 l PHP 3,800 nett per person

As a special touch, dining moms will receive a complimentary three-piece fragrance set from KAYALI, a brand renowned for its luxurious, long-lasting scents inspired by the Middle East. Families can also capture the moment against the stunning floral installation.

China Blue by Jereme Leung: Honoring Her Majesty

Celebrate the queen of the family with an opulent set menu crafted for gatherings of five persons or more. The menu features lobster, abalone, roasted pigeon, and a signature Mothers’ Day mocktail – each dish is artfully crafted to pay tribute to her grace and strength.

Mother’s Day set menu at China Blue by Jereme Leung.

Honoring Her Majesty l Set Menu

11 to 12 May 2025 | Lunch and Dinner

PHP 4,998 nett per person

Bru Coffee Bar: Mom’s Day Decadence

Sweeten the occasion with a collection of exquisitely crafted cakes and pastries, perfect for gifting or indulging together. Choices include strawberry tiramisu, Nutella moist chocolate cake, and mango cheesecake with flower jelly, along with a variety of themed pastries and confections.

Mom’s Day Decadence l Themed Cakes & Pastries

Available daily | 1 – 11 May 2025 | 8:00am – 7:00pm

Whole Cakes | Start at PHP 2,200 nett

Strawberry tiramisu, Nutella moist chocolate cake, Mango cheesecake with flower jelly

Goodies and Pastries | Start at PHP 120 nett

Chocolate red rose flower macaroons, Cherry blossom pralines, Chocolate cherry blossom flower croissant, Mother’s Day chocolate picture frame, and more

Conrad Spa:  A Haven for Rejuvenation

Busy moms deserve a moment of calm. Gift her with a restorative escape at Conrad Spa Manila, where relaxation meets refinement. Using the pure essence of Isun’s wildcrafted ingredients, these bespoke treatments are meticulously designed to enhance health and well-being, leaving mothers feeling rejuvenated and cherished.

This May, create memories that matter with a stay at Conrad Manila where world-class amenities, culinary artistry and meaningful gestures come together in honor of the most extraordinary women in our lives.

For reservations and inquiries, call +632 8833 9999 or email conradmanila@conradhotels.com.

#MothersDay  #ConradManila #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Experience PAW Patrol Live! ‘The Great Pirate Adventure’ at The Theatre at Solaire

Nickelodeon and VStar Entertainment Group present PAW PatrolTM Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure.” This action-packed, music-filled production is based on the top-rated animated preschool series PAW Patrol, produced by Spin Master Entertainment and airing on Nickelodeon. Guests will see Ryder and his team of pups embark on a pirate-themed adventure to uncover hidden treasure. Do not miss this PAWsome opportunity to see the whole pack in this live touring stage performance. Tickets for all ten performances at The Theatre at Solaire may be purchased at ticketworld.com.ph.

In PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure,” Mayor Goodway is getting everything shipshape for a big Pirate Day celebration in Adventure Bay. When Cap’n Turbot falls into a dark and mysterious cavern, it’s PAW Patrol to the rescue! Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky and Zuma save Cap’n Turbot and discover a secret pirate treasure map that leads them on an epic adventure. Things get ruff when Mayor Humdinger wants to find the treasure first for Foggy Bottom. The pups need all paws on deck for this pirate adventure, including help from the newest pup who’s all ears…Tracker! Using their heroic rescue skills, problem solving and teamwork, the pups set sail to save the day. No job is too big, no pirate pup is too small!

Gather the whole family for a fun and luxurious weekend at Solaire Resort Entertainment City and book a Sky Studio inclusive of breakfast at Fresh for two adults and two kids (below 12 years old), plus (2) SVIP tickets to the 3:00PM show of PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure.” Watch out as more exciting experiences await you!

Exclusive ticket holders can also sign up for a Solaire Rewards Lifestyle card and present their ticket to avail of special offers in some outlets including Patisserie, Oasis Garden Café, Kkanbu Chicken, and more!

PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure is the perfect way for families to create lifelong memories and provides kids the opportunity to experience in-person theater. Since its debut in 2016, PAW Patrol Live! shows have been seen by 7 million people, providing families in over 50+ countries with lifelong memories and spectacular theatre experiences. The performance is an interactive live stage show, encouraging audiences to learn pirate catchphrases, dance the pirate boogie and help the pups follow the treasure map and solve picture puzzles throughout their mission!

PAW Patrol™ Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure is happening at The Theatre at Solaire from May 8-11, 2025.

#TheTheatreatSolaire #SolaireEntertainmentCity #PAWPatrolLive #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Art Couture: Lamina 2025 Bridges Fashion, Heritage and Sustainability

This May, the Grand Ballroom of City of Dreams Manila will be transformed into a living gallery—where textile meets technique, sculpture walks the runway, and Filipino creativity takes center stage. Lamina 2025 is an immersive cultural experience. In a three-day celebration of artistry, innovation and collaboration, Lamina brings together over 30 of the country’s top visual artists and designers in a groundbreaking lifestyle and advocacy fair designed for the conscious generation.

A New Vision of Luxury

At its core, Lamina 2025 is a circular economy showcase—redefining luxury through collaboration, sustainability, and meaning. It’s where community-based production meets couture, and where fine art translates into functional, wearable, and immersive design. From gallery walls to catwalks, the event weaves together purpose and process into something entirely new.

 

From Glass to Garment: Heritage Design and Contemporary Vision Take the Runway at the Invitational Gala

A highlight of Lamina 2025, Luminous Threads, touted as an art couture show, will present new collections where traditional techniques meet futuristic vision in a celebration of co-creation and circular design.

Headlining the show is Patis Tesoro, the grand dame of Filipiniana fashion, whose collaboration with French textile artist Francis Dravigny reimagines heritage fabrics into striking contemporary couture. Their work—crafted with Philippine fibers and interpreted by Bayo Atelier—elegantly redefines the line between cultural preservation and modern luxury.

Another highly-anticipated collaboration with Bayo Atelier is the interpretation of artist Anna Orlina’s sculptures, where her glass art serves as the blueprint for sculptural fashion pieces.

Featured Artist Anna Orlina.

Think gradient silhouettes, luminous forms, and runway looks that capture the interplay of transparency, light, and structure. It’s a fusion of disciplines that embodies Lamina’s spirit: art that’s wearable, and fashion that speaks.

The runway also makes space for inclusive expression through a collaboration between contemporary visual artist Bea Policarpio and Best Buddies Philippines, a nonprofit supporting creatives with developmental disabilities. Guided by Bea’s mentorship, these emerging artists co-create vibrant wearable art pieces—each one telling a story of individuality, artistry, and belonging.

Together, these collaborations form the heart of Luminous Threads—a fashion show that doesn’t just spotlight beauty, but purpose, inclusivity, and the possibilities born from creative synergy.

Beyond the Runway: A World of Creative Crossovers

Throughout the weekend, Lamina’s pavilions come alive with immersive art and design co-presented with ManilART, the National Art Fair.

The Orlina Art Car Pavilion, in partnership with Museo Orlina, debuts a new glass-and-paint collaboration between Ramon Orlina and Dominic Rubio—including a one-of-a-kind art car and hand-painted Vespas.

The Sculpture & Functional Art Pavilion features standout works from Jik Villanueva, Richard Buxani, Jinggoy Salcedo, Agi Pagkatipunan and others, showcasing the intersection of design, utility, and storytelling.

The Wearable Art Jewelry Collection shines with handcrafted pieces by Ramon Orlina, Helena Alegre, Maria Magdamit, Marge Organo, Arnel Papa, and Hoseki Manila featuring the designs of Knoi Esmane and Faico.

The synergy continues in the Paintings Pavilion, where artists including Nikulas Lebajo, Bullet Dematera and Kara Pangilinan interpret the visual language of Patis Tesoro through original works—extending the feedback loop of creativity that defines Lamina’s ethos.

Patis Tesoro fabrics interpreted by Nikulas Lebajo.

Conversations, Causes & Community

Day 2, Art in Conversation, opens the floor to a broader public. In partnership with the European Chamber of Commerce and the United Nations-supported Race to Zero campaign, panels and talks will explore circular practices in art and fashion. A benefit auction will support Mangrove Restoration via UP Marine Sciences and the Weave for Peace initiative by HARVEST Creative Hubs.

Day 3, The Final Experience, brings the creative community together with live sketching and painting by master artists and Best Buddies participants. 100% of auction proceeds on this final day go toward supporting inclusivity programs by Best Buddies Philippines.

A Vision with Impact

More than just a showcase, Lamina 2025 positions the Philippines as a future-forward leader in sustainable luxury. It’s a declaration that art, fashion, and community can—and should—coexist meaningfully. With its fusion of culture, innovation, and purpose, Lamina invites us all to reconsider how we create, what we value, and how we celebrate.

  • Lamina 2025
  • May 2–4, 2025
  • City of Dreams Grand Ballroom, Manila
  • Pre-registration and ticket details available via official channels.

#Lamina2025 #ManilART #Patis Tesoro #AnnaOrlina #NikulasLebajo #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation Announces the Launch of SMXCITE (SMX Center for International Trade and Exhibitions)

Set to become the Philippines’ largest international exhibition venue under SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation’s (SMHCC) brand portfolio, SMXCITE officially breaks ground in Pasay City. SMX Convention Center, the flagship convention center brand under SMHCC, is redefining the landscape of Philippine events with the launch of SMXCITE, a world-class venue now under development by SM Prime Holdings, Inc. It is strategically located right across SM MOA Arena, within the SM Mall of Asia Complex, which is dubbed as one of the country’s most connected business and lifestyle districts.

The official groundbreaking ceremony marked a bold step forward for SMX Convention Center, strengthening its leadership in the country’s fast-growing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector. The event was led by SMHCC President Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy; SM Engineering Design and Development Corp. President Mr. Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr.; SMHCC Executive Vice President Ms. Peggy Angeles; and SMHCC Senior Vice President for Operations Mr. Walid Wafik, — underscoring the strategic vision behind this landmark development.

From left: Mr. Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr. – President, SM Engineering Design and Development Corp.; Ms. Peggy Angeles – Executive Vice President, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy – President, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; and Mr. Walid Wafik – Senior Vice President for Operations, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., during the groundbreaking ceremony of SMXCITE, held onsite earlier this month.

 

Upon its completion in early 2027, SMXCITE will introduce over 18,000 square meters of leasable trade hall space to the SMX portfolio, effectively doubling the capacity of SMX Convention Center Manila. Together, both venues will offer over 35,000 square meters of flexible exhibition and event space within a single destination, further positioning the SM Mall of Asia Complex as the country’s premier hub for international exhibitions, trade fairs, and large-scale business events.

Purpose-built to meet international standards, SMXCITE will feature five expansive exhibition halls, designed to accommodate up to 803 standard 3×3-meter booths. Complementing these are four fully equipped meeting rooms, ideal for breakout sessions, closed-door discussions, and strategic planning engagements. Two dedicated VIP lounges will provide an elevated experience for top-level executives, dignitaries, and private delegations that reflect SMX’s commitment to corporate hospitality and seamless service.

The venue can host a little over 18,000 guests and engineered to support large-format events for both local and global audiences. Sustainability is also central to the development, such that SMXCITE will incorporate natural lighting, energy-efficient infrastructure, and environmentally responsible design principles aligned with SMX Manila’s eco-conscious benchmarks.

With this expansion, SMX Convention Center’s total leasable footprint across its national network will grow to nearly 60,000 square meters, spanning key cities including Manila, Taguig, Mandaluyong, Clark, Olongapo, Bacolod, Cebu, and Davao.

“SMXCITE marks a pivotal step in our continued efforts to build future-ready venues that meet global standards,” said Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President for Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation. “With this new exhibition center, along with exciting projects on the horizon in Cebu and in Cabanatuan, we’re expanding our reach and reinforcing our commitment to elevate the Philippine MICE experience across the country.”

As the global events industry continues to evolve, SMXCITE is poised to position Metro Manila as a notable player in Southeast Asia’s MICE arena, making it ready to host future-forward gatherings that connect, inspire, and elevate industries.

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

Featured photo: With golden shovels in hand, this ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter for SMX Convention Center.

#SMXCITE #SMX #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Get a taste of Rhône Valley wines at Finestra’s exclusive pairing dinner

Finestra at Solaire Resort Entertainment City presents an evening filled with the finest French wines from Chapoutier Winery, thoughtfully paired with an exclusive 6-course menu by Finestra’s Executive Chef Andrea Spagoni. Discover a sophisticated culinary experience on April 24 at 6PM and explore the elegance and depth of Rhône Valley wines, known for its distinctive grape varieties, aromas and flavors. Lavish on a selection of rich and delicate dishes, perfectly paired with each wine, and savor a night filled with laughter and great company.

Located in the Rhône Valley of France, Chapoutier Winery dedicates itself to organic and biodynamic farming practices. Each wine was thoughtfully selected by Sommelier and Solaire Resort Entertainment City Director of Beverage Daniel Blais. Connect with other industry professionals and savor canapés like beef tartare with egg yolk, cod flakes with dill salad, and cauliflower croquettes.

Chef Spagoni’s menu is inspired by ingredients found within the Rhône Valley region, making it a perfect pairing to the wines for the night. The course starts with a delicate Lapu-lapu quenelles with roasted onion gelée and sour cream. This is complemented by the Hermitage White ‘Chante Alouette’ 2020, known for its complex but subtle nose of quince, walnut, honey, ginger, acacia, and a hint of linden-tree, making it an elevated introduction to the meal. Savor a hearty chicken leg terrine with rustic flavors, complemented by a grenache reduction and glazed baby carrots, paired with the Saint-Joseph ‘Les Granilites’ 2022. This wine offers a soft and well-balanced profile with dark fruit notes and a hint of spice. Next, enjoy a rich mushroom gratin featuring camembert, morels, and green olives, paired with the Cornas Les Arènes 2021, which delivers flavors of blackberry, spice, and morello cherry.

Lapu-lapu quenelles with roasted onion gelée and sour cream.

The decadent and creamy chestnut risotto with duck liver sauce and cherry jus comes next paired with the Hermitage ‘Monier de la Sizeranne’, 2018, a round and elegant wine with concentrated and gentle tannins. Revel on a classic roasted pork tenderloin with herb mashed potato and white asparagus, complemented by the Châteauneuf-du-Pape ‘Barbe Rac’, 2012, a wine that delivers pure fruit, with silky layers of raspberry, boysenberry, and blackberry coulis, bringing out the richness of the pork and complementing the creamy texture of the potatoes.

For dessert, devour the luscious red wine pear with dark chocolate baulois and vanilla ice cream. The Châteauneuf-du-Pape ‘La Bernardine’, 2021 and its deep, bold flavors is the perfect pair to the dark chocolate and enhances the taste of the pear. This makes it a sweet and memorable finish to a luxurious meal.

Discover France and the exceptional wines of Chapoutier and feel the elegance of Finestra in Solaire Resort Entertainment City. For inquires and reservations, please call 8888-8888 or email restaurantevents@solaireresort.com. Visit https://sec.solaireresort.com/offers/dining/finestra-vineyard-escape for more information.

#Finestra #SolaireResortEntertainmentCity #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Business Meets Bliss at Boracay Newcoast

Sun, sea, and powdery white sand may be the first things that grab a traveler’s attention, but Boracay also has the essentials to be the  prime location for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in the Philippines.

Hotels in the National Capital Region (NCR) are still the preferred choice for hosting events. However, recent surveys indicate a promising trend for Megaworld Hotels and Resorts (MHR), with their Boracay properties ranking as the third most popular option. Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director for MHR, says, “Our Savoy Hotel Boracay and Belmont Hotel Boracay have hosted several MICE groups starting 2023, which is a very encouraging sign for the recovery of the island.”

With the Boracay MICE business landscape gaining momentum, the tourism sector is now beyond the recovery phase and optimistic about continued growth in travel. Meetings such as pharmaceutical conventions, the ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting, and the Prosecutors League of the Philippines Convention have all been recently held in Boracay. “After the pandemic, we are glad the domestic market patronized our island, but we are also hoping that our MICE organizers will consider Boracay as their new option for a MICE destination,” she said.

Boracay Newcoast is a perfect example of why Boracay should be the first choice when planning MICE. Aside from having a beautiful private beach, Megaworld’s integrated tourism destination on the northeast side of the island has the modern Boracay Newcoast Convention Center (BNCC) nestled within it. It has versatile function spaces that can be customized to meet an event’s needs, and with a maximum capacity of 1,000 persons for theater-type seating and 750 persons for banquet set-up, it meets the average seating requirements of medium and large-scale conventions and conferences. Fully air-conditioned, with an all-important 100% backup power supply, BNCC has reliable internet connectivity and state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. Albiso said that in fitting out the convention center, MHR took into consideration the major requirements of events, including social banquets and large weddings— thus, BNCC’s 9-meter-high ceiling allows organizers to have more room to be creative with their designs and layouts.

The convention center is also walkable from Boracay Newcoast’s hotels— Savoy Hotel Boracay and Belmont Hotel Boracay. This also means that guests are just steps away from the township’s private white beach. Just imagine, drinks on the beach after the afternoon plenary or perhaps an early morning walk on its fine, white sand before the convention day begins.

Savoy Hotel Boracay Function Room Classroom Set up.

These BNC properties, once its soon-to-launch new hotel officially opens its doors, will collectively have more than 1,500 room keys, an array of dining options to please the palates of local and international guests, and plenty of recreational activities to enjoy with family and friends.  “The versatile event spaces – both indoor and outdoor – at Savoy Hotel Boracay, Belmont Hotel Boracay, and BNCC are designed to meet the needs of every occasion,” says Maia Israel, Area General Manager for Boracay Newcoast properties and president for Boracay MICE Alliance.

MHR hotels handle the banquet requirements for BNCC. Their culinary teams are fully equipped to ensure that clients’ dietary requirements, with BNC taking pride in having a Halal-certification, and food preferences are met by delivering tasty meals inspired by a variety of local and international cuisines. Both hotels also excel in creating themed banquet packages fit for any type of event. Aside from the classic Luau and Filipino fiesta, their teams have planned and executed themes that run the gamut from Bohemian to Karaoke, dinners under the stars, and street eats, with package inclusions such as an exhilarating fire dance, soothing acoustic performances, or a live DJ performance.

While Boracay is primarily known for leisure travels, corporate agenda also thrives because when bliss and business come together, only the best MICE events can come from that synergy.

For Meetings, Incentives, Corporate, and Events inquiries at Savoy Hotel Boracay and Belmont Hotel Boracay, interested parties may contact reserve@savoyboracay.com or stay@belmontboracay.com.ph, respectively.

#BoracayNewCoast #SavoyHotel #BelmontHotelBoracay #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Jessa Zaragoza: ‘Sentimental Song Queen’

Jessa Zaragoza’s hit song “Bakit Pa?” made her music’s unexpected “Queen of Broken Hearts.” The three-stanza sad song with a simple, memorable melody has indeed struck the right chord among the women of the ‘90s (and even up to this day).

 

Actress-singer Jessa Zaragoza remains the reigning sentimental song queen of the airwaves. She hit it on her very first album with the song “Bakit Pa?” The song is heard in the metropolis as well as provincial areas up to this day. She is music’s unexpected “Queen of Broken Hearts.”

In her hit song, “Bakit Pa?” a girl is weeping over lost love. Another girl has replaced her in her lover’s arms. But she is not destined to die of a broken heart. I’m sad and confused, she sings, but I will survive (Ito’y aking kakayanin).

Jessa related that when she read the lyrics, they felt so right for her and she deeply felt the heart of the song. “So I recorded the song with my whole heart in it. But I never thought it would be such a big hit,” she said.

“Filipinos are very simple and sentimental,” rationalized “Bakit Pa?” lyricist Vehnee Saturno, who was also surprised at his hit song. As they say: Aside from a new love, music is the best salve for a broken heart. “At first, no one believes that she had promise as a singer because she had a sexy image. But when I heard her voice, I knew that she had what it takes. Mukhang matagal-tagal pa ang pagsikat nya,” said Vehnee.

The three-stanza sad song with a simple, memorable melody has indeed struck the right chord among the women of the ‘90s (and even up to this day). For lyricists, composers and singers this means big revenues and more recording opportunities.

Jessa said that it has always been her dream to be a singer and to wax an album she could call her own. Her very first movie outfit did not fulfill the promise of giving her a debut album but instead built her up as a budding sex siren. “Before, it was just my dream to have an album,” quipped the lady with Bette Davis’s eyes. “Even if it wasn’t a big hit, I would be happy. I just wanted to sing.”

Sentimental Song Queen

Jessa has earned for herself the title, “Sentimental Song Queen,” joining the ranks of former hit singers, the late Claire Dela Fuente, Imelda Papin, Didith Reyes, and Eva Eugenio.

During the ‘80s, the celebrated Jukebox Queen title was a tossup between Claire Dela Fuente, famous for her songs “Sayang,” “Minsa-minsan,” and “Nakaw Na Pag-ibig,” and Imelda Papin (who eventually got the coveted title). Now, it is Jessa’s turn. She has put her embarrassing sexy starlet days behind her.

Jessa was a BS Psychology student in San Juan de Letran when she was lured into the showbiz whirl. If she has been given the chance, she said, she still wants to be a psychiatrist someday. Away from the klieg lights, Jessa is a homebody. The second in a brood of seven, she likes staying with her family at home.

These days, Jessa is blooming. She is happily married to singer Dingdong Avanzado, and a doting mom to her only daughter, Jayda, who is also making a name as a singer.

Featured photo courtesy of OfficialJessaZaragoza FB account

(Based on the published article in the now-defunct Mirror Weekly magazine written by the same author)

#jessazaragoza #singeractress #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Embark on Relaxation and Escape in Lio Beach El Nido, Palawan

When you venture out of town what do you usually look for? What kind of escape do you need? After a few busy months of life in the city, seeking the right amount of serenity and stimulation is almost next to impossible. Where do you go?

Fly from Manila and land directly at Lio Airport through local flights via AirSWIFT and get to enjoy the beach faster than if you drove out of the city. With El Nido just an hour’s flight away and Lio Beach barely a 5-minute drive from the Lio Airport there’s no better way to spend your long weekends and holidays.

 

Casa Kalaw – Swimming Pool

 

Here you can find three boutique hotels to choose from – Hotel Covo, Balai Adlao, and Casa Kalaw; each of these hotels with its own distinct design and culture catering to those traveling with friends, a partner, or family members. You’ll not only be greeted by excellent service and world-class amenities but you’ll get to explore the entire estate through carved pathways and beautiful bridges.

The writer at Hotel Covo
Indulge in a wide range of restaurants and bars, and experience a number of relaxing land and water activities like standup paddleboarding or beach volleyball. With the estate’s newly opened hotels, Casa Kalaw has already been recognized and awarded by the Travel and Hospitality Awards with the Sea View Guest House of the Year 2018 of Mimaropa.
Casa Kalaw – Veranda
AHRC and TKDC continue to work together to create not just resorts and hotels but thriving communities in the Philippines.

(Special thanks to Sir Joey Bernardino, the TKDC team, and the Lio Resort staff for making our stay unforgettable. The writer went on a trip to Lio Beach with the Experience Travel and Living magazine team.)

#LioBeach #ElNido #Palawan #TKDC #beach #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Honoring the life and legacy of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Aunor with a necrological service

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) join the nation in commemorating the life and remarkable contributions of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Cabaltera Villamayor, belovedly known as Nora Aunor, in a necrological service on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila.

Arrival honors will begin at 8:30 AM, followed by a tribute program at 9:00 AM. The state funeral rites will continue at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City.

The National Artist, who passed away on April 16, 2025 at 71, was a distinguished film, television, and theater actor, a renowned singer, and a film producer. Her career began in amateur singing competitions, eventually gaining attention when she won the television talent show Tawag ng Tanghalan in 1967. Her successful stint in the popular television show along with her appearance in Darigold Jamboree, led to her phenomenal rise earning the iconic title of the Philippine film industry’s “Superstar.”

Among her acclaimed films are Bona (1980), which was the closing film of Cinemalaya 2024, as well as Himala (1982), Bulaklak sa City Jail (1984), and The Flor Contemplacion Story (1995) – all were featured at the CCP Cine Icons program.

She was conferred the Order of National Artist (Orden ng Pambansang Alagad ng Sining) by the Office of the President in 2022. The Order of National Artist is the highest national recognition given to Filipino individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts.

The public is invited to attend the necrological service. Limited seats are available. The registration link will be released on Monday through the official social media pages of the CCP and NCCA.

For those unable to attend in person but who wish to pay their respects, the necrological service will be livestreamed on both the CCP and NCCA Facebook pages.

For inquiries, please call NCCA at 09209480385 or CCP at 09617466602.

#NoraAunor #necrologicalservice #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph