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Enchanting Holidays Ahead: Okada Manila Rings in the Festive Season with a Dazzling Grand Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration

Okada Manila officially welcomed the most magical holiday season with the grand lighting of its iconic Christmas Tree, marking the official start of the holiday season.

The Forbes 5-star integrated resort has transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland for the holidays. At the heart of the celebration is a towering, 34-foot Christmas tree adorned in elegant blue and white ornaments, revolving amidst a glow of shimmering lights and delicate details that embody this year’s “Enchanting Crystal Winter” theme.

The tree lighting ceremony was led by key Okada Manila executives, setting the festive spirit in motion.

Mesmerizing Performances

To add to the fanfare, the celebration included spectacular performances. Stell of SB19 captivated the crowd with his golden voice and festive classics repertoire, while Acapellago and Manila String Machine gave their own whimsical take on well-loved holiday carols. The Okada Manila Entertainment Group (OMEG) also delighted guests with a spectacular performance of their new show called “Enchant.” Adding to the magical holiday spectacle, the ceremony introduced a new show at The Fountain, Okada Manila’s iconic dancing water display, with a new song “Let It Go.”

Stell of SB19 captivated the crowd with his golden voice and festive classics repertoire.
Okada Manila officially welcomed the most magical holiday season with the grand lighting of its iconic 34-foot Christmas Tree.
The Okada Manila Entertainment Group (OMEG) wows the crowd with their synchronized performance with the new Fountain Show song, Let It Go.

The Enchanting Christmas Village

Following the tree lighting, Okada Manila unveiled its “Enchanting Christmas Village.” The Crystal Pavilion was turned into a stretch of a dreamy showcase of holiday-inspired immersive booths accentuated with vibrant holiday decors and colorful lights. The Christmas Village will also have dazzling nightly light shows.

The Enchanting Christmas Village is open to the public. This holiday shopping haven is highlighted by the Noel Bazaar from November 15 to 17. The bazaar is known for its vast array of unique finds—a perfect place to buy gifts for friends and loved ones. This year’s festivities are hosted by Kapuso star Sanya Lopez. After the Noel Bazaar, the Enchanting Christmas Market will be open from November 19 to January 5.

The Enchanting Christmas Village is a shopping haven, a perfect place to buy holiday gifts.

Another highlight of the Christmas Village is the Okada Green Heart (OGH) booth, which showcases the property’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. The booth also features local makers and sustainable businesses. The project will have its first run on November 15 to December 1, and will be back in the latter part of December.

For families and holiday enthusiasts, Santa Claus awaits at Okada Manila. Meet and Greet sessions with Santa will take place on select dates, giving kids a chance to share their holiday wishes in person.

Festive Offers for All

Okada Manila’s holiday season promises unforgettable experiences with an array of special offers designed to bring the magic of the season to life.

The Enchanting Winter Escape Package transforms family getaways into cozy holiday adventures with premium accommodations, exclusive Executive Lounge access, and complimentary experiences for each family member.

For a tropical twist, guests can enjoy the Beach Club Daycation at Cove Manila. This daycation includes a sumptuous menu, live entertainment, and a breezy holiday ambiance—perfect for a unique escape.

Kids and families can also enjoy PLAY’s Enchanting Holiday Adventures, featuring seasonal activities and wonderful surprises to create joyful memories together.

Guests can indulge in culinary delights across Okada Manila’s dining venues. From appetizing bites at The Lobby Lounge and Pastry Shop to traditional Italian holiday flavors at La Piazza, the resort’s Merry Feasts, Enchanting Flavors menu offerings are designed to satisfy every palate.

For more details on Okada Manila’s holiday experiences, visit okdmnl.ph/EnchantingCrystalWinter.

Featured photo: At the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony are Okada Manila’s top executives joined by special guests (from  left): Alvaro Ramos, Assistant Vice President – Retail; Wendy Ni – Vice President, Strategic Marketing & Business Planning, Analytics; Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary Sharlene Batin; Robert Scott , Vice President – Hotel Operations; Mayose Gozon-Bautista, Chief Executive Officer – Cut Unlimited, Inc. ; Reddy Leong, Vice President – Corporate Marketing & Communications; and Andreas Balla, Vice President – Food and Beverage Division.

#OkadaManila #festiveoffers #enchantingcrystalwinter #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Conrad Manila Unwraps Delightful Surprises for the Holiday Season

Families can indulge in exquisite culinary delights and create cherished memories this holiday season, with the hotel’s stellar lineup of culinary and indulgent offers.

 

Conrad Manila marked the start of its yuletide celebrations, as it unveils its exclusive lineup of holiday offerings to make the season unforgettable. Embracing the theme “Home for Christmas,” this year’s festivities at Conrad Manila are designed to evoke warmth and togetherness, offering guests an inviting atmosphere where families can enjoy luxurious culinary feasts and festive experiences.

Reflecting on the holiday theme, General Manager Fabio Berto expressed, “Families are always at the heart of the yuletide celebrations at Conrad Manila. This year, we have curated magical holiday experiences that inspire meaningful, heartwarming moments with loved ones, creating a true sense of home.”

Brasserie on 3

Celebrate the yuletide season with a sumptuous buffet at Brasserie on 3, highlighting Filipino holiday traditions and featuring an array of international cuisines, seasonal favorites, premium roasts, and delectable desserts.

Brasserie on 3 Festive Feasts.

Bru Coffee Bar

This season, Bru Coffee Bar offers curated hampers and festive treats. The specially crafted hampers feature a range of sustainably sourced delights, including Christmas goodies perfect for holiday gatherings.

Bru Coffee Bar Crafted Hampers.

China Blue by Jereme Leung

For the coming reunions, families can indulge in hearty set menus at China Blue by Jereme Leung. Savor luscious and delicate flavors of classic and innovative Chinese cuisines, while enjoying meaningful conversations and joyous times together.

C Lounge

Enjoy an elegant afternoon tea or ring in the New Year at the C Lounge with a Rock N’ -Roll-themed countdown party, featuring live performances inspired by iconic rock bands.

C Lounge Festive Afternoon Tea.

Conrad Spa

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a rejuvenating experience at Conrad Spa, with exclusive holiday packages that include complimentary vouchers.

Festive Room Package

For a cozy holiday staycation, Conrad Manila offers a special accommodation package that includes festive dinner and breakfast for two.

Festive Carey

Guests can also bring home Conrad Manila’s limited edition Christmas Carey the Carabao, an emblem of love and kindness in this season of giving. Priced at PHP 558 nett, you can share happiness and the light of hope with every purchase, since a portion of the proceeds are donated to Conrad Manila’s partner charity organizations.

Conrad Manila ushered in the holiday spirit through a heartwarming Christmas Tree Lighting Program at the hotel’s Main Lobby. The Christmas concert featured the extraordinary talents of some of the country’s finest musicians, including renowned soprano Myramae Meneses, violinist Cedric Rafael Yuson, and the award-winning Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra, led by Maestro Jeffrey Solares.

[L-R] Mr. Fabio Berto, Conrad Manila’s General Manager; Ms. Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President, SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation; Hon. Antonino Calixto, Congressman, Pasay City; Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy, President, SMHCC.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion. Among them are Hon. Antonino Calixto, Congressman of Pasay City; Chief Peter Pardo, Chief of Staff – Pasay City Mayor’s Office; Mr. Hans Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee, SM Prime Holdings; Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC); Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SMHCC; Conrad Manila’s General Manager Fabio Berto; and members of the diplomatic community.

Throughout the hotel, guests are greeted with Filipino Christmas-inspired décor, including the impressive 16-foot-tall crystal Christmas tree in the Main Lobby, flanked by two elegantly adorned smaller trees. A giant Gingerbread House at Bru Coffee Bar on the Ground Floor adds a delightful touch for children and families alike. Together, these festive embellishments set the scene for cherished family memories in a magical setting.

For more information on Conrad Manila’s holiday offers and festive experiences, visit www.conradmanila.com or call +63 2 8833 9999.

#ConradManila #holidayoffers #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Experience ‘Pinoy’ Holiday Magic at Ayala Malls

This holiday season, Ayala Malls is once again solidifying its place as the ultimate holiday destination with the return of the much-anticipated Holiday Trail for its second edition by hosting a memorable Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Glorietta Activity Center.

Simultaneously, giant Christmas trees across 30 Ayala Malls nationwide illuminated the night sky, amplifying the festive mood and spreading Christmas cheer across the country.

A Christmas Celebration Close to Home: Filipino Traditions and Nostalgia

Four iconic Ayala Malls led the charge in celebrating the holidays. With the theme Christmas in My Home, this year’s festivities honor Filipino traditions and evoke nostalgia, beautifully captured in vibrant holiday illustrations by renowned artist Robert Labayen. At Ayala Malls Circuit, Labayen’s artwork brings the spirit of Filipino Christmas to life, while One Ayala adds a heartwarming touch with the Nostalgia Train. Greenbelt delights guests with a contemporary Filipino Christmas Salu-Salo, accompanied by the soulful Filipino carols performed by Jed Madela

CIRCUIT BRAND REPS: L-R: Mr. Nico Bunuan, Ayala Malls Circuit General Manager; Ms. Catherine de Leon Ayala Malls Special Projects – Operations; Mr. Robert Labayen.

The Holiday Trail reached its grand finale at Glorietta, marked by the launch of Ayala Malls’ holiday anthem, “Christmas in my Home,” beautifully performed by the talented Mix Fenix. The evening’s celebrations soared to new heights with a breathtaking performance by popstar royalty Sarah Geronimo, leaving the audience in awe and capping off the night with unforgettable joy.

Glorietta Holiday Trail with a breathtaking performance by popstar royalty Sarah Geronimo.
Greenbelt Holiday Trail with Jed Madela.

Lights, Fireworks, and Spectacular Shows

The Holiday Trail is only the beginning of a month-long celebration of lights, music, and holiday cheer. From November through the early days of 2025, Ayala Malls will present a series of dazzling light shows and breathtaking fireworks displays (please check the schedules).

Exclusive Holiday Shopping and Promotions

This year, Ayala Malls makes holiday shopping even more special with exclusive Christmas markets, sales, and raffle promotions. Complete your Christmas shopping list during the mall-wide sale (please check the dates).

Christmas shopping and get-togethers at Ayala Malls are also extra rewarding with special Christmas promotions in various Ayala Malls.

In addition, customers can enjoy convenient gift services at Ayala Malls, featuring exclusive Christmas in My Home greeting cards, gift tags, and gift wrappers, along with convenient gift-wrapping stations to make holiday preparations easier and more relaxing.

Flavors of Christmas: A Culinary Celebration

Ayala Malls will be serving up festive favorites such as puto bumbong and bibingka at popular restaurants like Manam, Fely J’s, and Crisostomo. Ayala Malls MarQuee Mall will also host the Big Bite: Northern Food Festival from November 15 to 17, a culinary showcase featuring the best of Northern Philippine flavors. At Ayala Malls Manila Bay, the Holiday Food Truck offers a delightful foodie experience under the stars, providing the perfect break after a full day of Christmas shopping. Down at the South, Ayala Malls Abreeza holds the Urban Eats Holiday Fair from Dec. 19 to 23.

Feel the Holiday Spirit at Ayala Malls

Complete the 9 Days of Simbang Gabi at various mall locations, participate in interactive Christmas workshops, and capture unforgettable memories with a photo with Santa. The malls will also come alive with the sounds of the season, featuring choral performances, dance shows, Santa Meet and Greets, and holiday buskers, ensuring a festive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

“We invite you to come and experience the magic of Christmas with us,” says Ayala Malls COO Paul Birkett. “Our goal is to lift the burden of holiday hustle and bustle, allowing you to truly enjoy the season.”

This Christmas, let the magic of the season fill your heart with joy and wonder at Ayala Malls. Visit facebook.com/AyalaMalls360, @iloveayalamalls in Instagram and Tiktok, and  www.ayalamalls.com and prepare for a holiday experience like no other.

#AyalaMalls #christmasinmyhome #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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New Predator League Champs Crowned at the Predator League 2025 Philippines Finals

Predator Gaming assembled the best local Dota 2 and VALORANT teams in Cebu, lighting up the Queen City of the South with explosive, world-class esports action. The crowds were packed at Robinsons Galleria Cebu where the Predator League 2025 Philippine Finals took place, as fans and passers-by alike witnessed esports greatness.

Grassroots Endeavor from the Start

Predator League always seeks to discover new talent in the local esports scene. Four regional qualifying bouts around the archipelago were held to give more chances for players to showcase their skills and be exposed to high-level plays.

The Predator League 2025 Philippine Finals set the stage for the best local Dota 2 and VALORANT teams to fight for the lion’s share of the coveted PHP 1,000,000 total prize pool. The Dota 2 and VALORANT champions took home PHP 250,000 each and a slot in the Asia Pacific Predator League 2025 Grand Finals.

Dota 2 Highlights

The Dota 2 Grand Finals pitted long-standing squad Execration against newer team Ivory. With in-form mid laners Execration’s Charles “Lewis” Santos and Ivory’s Argle “Ken” Llesis duking it out, it was an exciting match-up from the get-go. While Ivory brought their A-game, Execration’s tried and tested experience prevailed. Lewis was his usual dominant self, but carry player Denz “Denzsanity” Anedez also stepped up to the plate with an impressive 7.5 kill and 10.5 assist average throughout the series.

VALORANT Highlights

It was a moment to remember for the collegiate esports scene in the Philippines as DLSU VALORANT Esports, UAAP’s VALORANT champions, took their place in the tournament via direct invite. The team showed everyone they have what it takes to compete with the best as they made it all the way to the finals in this pro player-laden tournament despite having less competitive LAN experience.

ZOL Esports

DLSU showed they could stand with VALORANT team staple ZOL Esports in the Grand Finals. Unfortunately, it was not meant to be for the Xavier “Xavi8k” Juan-led squad from Taft as ZOL Esports took an easy 2-0 sweep behind the constant heroics and clutch prowess of ZOL Esports controller Patrick “PatMen” Mendoza. Xavi8k played for Oasis Gaming when they bested ZOL Esports in the Predator League 2024 Philippine Finals. It came around full circle for ZOL and made this year’s victory all the more sweet.

Execration

Tickets Booked for Kuala Lumpur

Execration, Ivory, and ZOL Esports have claimed their spot in the Asia Pacific Predator League 2025 Grand Finals in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Team Secret will join them in flying the Philippine flag against the best teams in the region early next year.

For more information and updates about Predator League, follow Predator Gaming on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, or visit the official website www.predator-league.com.

#PredatorLeague #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Stage, Screen, & Everything in Between: A Magnificent Performance by Lea Salonga

 Lea’s remarkable talent continues to illuminate the stage and captivate audiences.

Lea Salonga’s concert, “Stage, Screen, & Everything in Between,” recently took place at The Theatre at Solaire in the Solaire Resort Entertainment City, showcasing magnificent and powerful performances in front of a full audience.

Fans and concertgoers enjoyed an unforgettable evening featuring a thoughtfully curated musical repertoire prepared by Lea herself. The event also included a special appearance by Clay Aiken, who gained recognition as the first runner-up in the second season of American Idol.

Lea Salonga and Nyoy Volante.

The concert highlighted classic songs from some of Salonga’s most iconic roles in “Miss Saigon,” “Les Misérables,” Disney’s “Aladdin,” and “Mulan.” Additionally, she introduced new favorites from the critically acclaimed West End hit show, Stephen Sondheim’s “Old Friends,” alongside many beloved songs from other musical genres. Musical direction was conducted by her brother, Gerard Salonga.

Lea Salonga and Clay Aiken.

Lea also performed holiday songs from her album, “Sounding Joy.” Other songs included in the album are “Christmas Time Is Here/The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Christmas on Broadway,” “All I Want for Christmas,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” and “Angels We Have Heard (Glory Be),” the latter being a duet with Clay Aiken, among others.

“This album allowed me to tackle some well-loved holiday classics and collaborate with extremely talented musicians and songwriters on a couple of brand-new songs that we hope will find a special place in your hearts for Christmases to come,” Lea shared in her album dedication. “I hope you enjoy ‘Sounding Joy’ as much as we loved making it for you.”

For Lea, the Christmas season unfolds as a cherished moment filled with the warmth of family gatherings, the joy of friendships rekindled, and the enchanting melodies that weave through the air. This harmonious blend captures the true spirit of the season and is beautifully reflected in the essence of this album.

With more than 45 years of experience in the industry, Lea’s remarkable talent continues to illuminate the stage and captivate audiences.

She’s an exceptional star having appeared and performed in a number of notable performances. Lea is most well-known for her portrayal of Kim in the West End and Broadway hit musical, Miss Saigon, for which she received the Laurence Olivier, Drama Desk, Outer Critics’ Circle and Tony Awards.

Witnessing her perform once again was a truly unforgettable experience; her presence and artistry are nothing short of inspiring.

#LeaSalonga #SolaireEntertainmentCity #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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A Fusion of Tropical Flavors: Featuring Waterside’s Chef Alfred Santiago and Kasa Palma’s Chef Aaron Isip

Experience an extraordinary evening at Waterside in Solaire Resort Entertainment City, where Michelin-trained Chef Alfred Santiago and multi-awarded French trained Chef Aaron Isip come together to create tropical dishes prepared by the firewood grill. This one-night only 4-course dinner will be happening on November 24 at 6:30PM.

This dynamic collaboration showcases each chef’s distinct styles, the amuse-bouche creation of Chef Aaron’s yellowtail scad with ube tapioca, dragonfruit, and aguachile. Chef Alfred features his alamang (shrimp paste) seaweed meringue topped with tuna and taba ng talangka (small crab roe). The raw bar on kansi ice is first served which includes oyster with green mango relish and torched bone marrow, charcoal seared scallops brushed with tamarind brown butter kosho, prawns with red bell pepper sauce, and poached razor clams on sigarilyas with lambanog (winged bean with coconut wine) calamansi jelly and candied guanciale. The kansi ice itself also serves as a refreshing palate cleanser before Chef Aaron’s famous tupig with tinapa mascarpone and smoked caviar is served.

Grilled favorites come next like Kasa Palma’s signature pulpo with cherry tomatoes and smoked yoghurt along with Chef Alfred’s new creation— the crab pinangat with smoked gata and cilantro. The main courses include Chef Aaron’s red snapper with crispy scales and burnt shishito, 36-hours confit beef short ribs, lechon de lobster—a fusion of kurobuta suckling pig belly with glutinous rice, and a sauce trifecta: cilantro green sauce, smoked tomato pork jus, and tartare sauce. Chef Alfred adds to the line-up with his char-grilled mantis with “spiced-champorado like” buro and curry leaves.

To top the gastronomic journey, Chef Aaron serves Kasa Palma’s corn madeleine with sweet corn ice cream and corn puffs while Chef Alfred unveils the Waterside bombe—a deconstructed baked alaska featuring espasol crumble and toasted rice.

Get a taste of these unique flavors and reserve your seats at Waterside in Solaire Resort Entertainment City. Call 8888-8888 or email restaurantevents@solaireresort.com.

#Waterside #SolaireResortEntertainmentCity #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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PetPal launches home vaccination service for fur babies

PetPal, the first pet care super app in the Philippines, is introducing home vaccinations as their newest service available on their petcare app!

This new service was launched for National Pet Wellness Month last October, reminding pet parents about the importance of prioritizing routine veterinary check-ups and preventive care to keep pets healthy and thriving all year round.

In the Philippines, many pet owners go to veterinarians only during emergencies. A Royal Canin survey revealed that an estimated 80% of Filipino pet parents delay appointments until their pets are already ill or require urgent care. PetPal aims to change this reactive approach.

“Our services in PetPal were developed with our customers in mind–allowing them to have more control and flexibility in caring for their pets. Our home vaccinations are no different,” said Martin Luchangco, General Manager of PetPal.

Luchangco highlighted that every home vaccination service ensures pets’ records are instantly updated in the PetPal app, simplifying the process for pet parents to monitor and stay on schedule for their pets’ next vaccinations.

He added, “We want to build that habit of proactive care with our customers, with the PetPal App serving as their digital petcare companion and connecting them to the resources and services they need through our platform.”

Currently, PetPal’s home vaccinations are available within Metro Manila, including cities like Taguig, Makati, Pateros, Pasig, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Marikina, Quezon City, Navotas, Caloocan, Valenzuela, Manila, Pasay, Paranaque, Las Pinas. Service areas also extend to parts of Rizal, Laguna, Cavite, and Bulacan.

Available vaccines include Anti-Rabies and Kennel Cough, as well as combination vaccines like the 5-in-1, 6-in-1, and 8-in-1 for dogs, and the 4-in-1 for cats, with more to come.

Vaccinations start at just P300, excluding professional fees and add-ons.

To ensure availability, it is recommended to book at least one week in advance.

Holistic pet care in just one app!

PetPal continues to lead innovation in pet healthcare, empowering Filipino owners with holistic solutions to keep their companions healthy and happy.

The home vaccination service enhances the platform’s existing lineup, catering to all types of pets. This includes:

  • Quick Assist– an AI-powered chatbot that answers pet parents’ immediate questions and guides them in their next steps;
  • Teleconsultations– available as via on-demand or scheduled video or chat consultation, pet owners can directly consult with a professional about their pet’s condition.
  • Home vet visits – be it for vaccinations or a physical assessment, pet owners can schedule an in-person consultation with our registered vets
  • Home grooming– now available on the app and covering Metro Manila.
    • Home service for condominium owners are still in the works.

To learn more about the home vaccination service and other offerings, pet owners can download the PetPal app on Android and iOS.

#PetPal #petcare #Globe #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Solaire Resort Welcomes the Holiday Season with Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies

Both Solaire Resort Entertainment City and Solaire Resort North are offering a great deal of experiences guests of all ages can enjoy this festive season – from amazing room packages, fun activities and entertainment, to indulgent gourmet delights.

 

Solaire Resort recently kicked off its holiday festivities with a bang as it hosted tree lighting ceremonies at Solaire Resort Entertainment City and Solaire Resort North which both boast dazzling 20-foot Christmas trees placed around the property.

Solaire Resort Entertainment City in Paranaque City hosted its tree lighting event which featured a performance by Lea Salonga and Clay Aiken. Meanwhile, Solaire Resort North welcomed the holiday season with its first tree lighting ceremony with an enchanting performance by Ballet Philippines along with a serenade by Martin Nievera, creating an unforgettable night of music and celebration.

Both Solaire Resort Entertainment City and Solaire Resort North are offering a slew of experiences guests of all ages can enjoy this festive season – from amazing room packages, fun activities and entertainment, to indulgent gourmet delights.

Guests at the Solaire Resort North Tree Lighting event  (left) included Gregory Hawkins, Chief Operating Officer of Solaire Resort North; Donato Almeda, Vice Chairman for Construction & Regulatory Affairs of Bloomberry Resort Corporation; Hon. Joy Belmonte, Mayor of Quezon City; Cong. Arjo Atayde; AVP Vina Oca, PAGCOR-GLDD.

Attendees at the Solaire Resort Entertainment Tree Lighting ceremony (right) included Thomas Arasi, President and Chief Operating Officer of Bloomberry Resorts Corporation; Enrique K. Razon Jr, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Bloomberry Resorts Corporation; Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer; Lizzy Razon; Donato Almeda, Vice Chairman for Construction and Regulatory Affairs at Bloomberry Resorts Corporation, and former Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta.

#SolaireResort #christmastreelighting #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

 

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Alice Reyes Dance Philippines Unveils “Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad”: A New Dance Adventure for Young Audiences

Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad is the latest addition to Alice Reyes Dance Philippines’ expansive repertoire of Filipino works, this time designed specifically for Children’s Dance Theater.

This new offering marks a significant milestone for one of ARDP’s talented choreographers, Erl Sorilla, who has crafted both the book and his first full-length choreography.

The production is brought to life with a captivating musical score by award-winning singer-songwriter Toto Sorioso, and magical sets and costumes designed by the renowned Filipino Director and Broadway Designer, Loy Arcenas.

Under the mentorship of National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, and ARDP Artistic Director, Ronelson Yadao, this production promises to be a magical experience for young audiences.

The story follows the adventures of Juan Tamad, the misunderstood boy in town, and his loyal monkey companion, Matsing. Aided by Juan’s unique ability to converse with animals and his innate love for nature,  they set out to find the village’s most prized treasure, the fruit of all their hard-work and labor stolen by the greedy ‘Buwaya,’ the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ A challenge he must complete to win the hand of Maria Masipag.

Along his journey, Juan encounters a variety of animals, including those from the stories of ‘Pagong at Kuneho,’ ‘Ang Gamu-gamu at ang Lampara,’ and ‘Buwaya at ang Paboreal.’ Through these encounters, Juan learns valuable moral lessons that guide him on his path. With the help of the animals, Juan grows in character, and ultimately finds the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ Inspired by the classic Filipino children’s stories of ‘Juan Tamad,’ this production brings a new twist to the beloved tales.

The new work will feature ARDP company dancers Renzen Arboleda as the titular Juan Tamad, with Karla Santos as Maria Masipag. Dan Dayo will take on the role of Juan’s trusted sidekick, Matsing, with John Ababon as Pagong, Monica Gana as Kuneho, Earl John Arisola as Buwaya, Krislynne Buri as Paboreal, and Francia Alejandro as Lampara,. Also featured are ARDP trainees Gianna Hervas and Crizza Urmeneta as the Gamu–gamu.

This production is specifically created for students, as it aligns with Grade 1-10 and High School subjects, including Filipino, Arts, Music, Humanities, Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao, Personal Development, Araling Panlipunan, Physical Education. Through dance and storytelling, Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad offers an enriching, multidisciplinary educational experience.

Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad premieres on November 10, 2024, 10:00 AM, and 4:00 PM at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater as part of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Children’s Biennale. Admission is on a Pay-What-You-Can basis. Please stay tuned on Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Social Media Pages for registration links.

#MgaKuwentoNiJuanTamad #CCP #AliceReyes #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Banwa Private Island is the Perfect Setting for Intimate Celebrations

Banwa Private Island, a premier luxury destination and two-time recipient of Robb Report’s The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth accolade, invites couples and businesses to celebrate their special occasions in a truly unforgettable setting.

As a major sponsor of the German Club of the Philippines’ 2024 Oktoberfest, Banwa Private Island participated in the ceremonial opening of the tap, a traditional Oktoberfest ritual. Catherine Villanueva, Head of Sales at Banwa Private Island, joined other VIP guests to toast to the start of the celebration.

“Banwa Private Island is more than just a destination; it’s a blank canvas for creating extraordinary experiences,” said Catherine Villanueva, Head of Sales at Banwa Private Island. “Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a luxurious getaway, we’re committed to providing the highest level of service and hospitality.”

Raising a glass to good times and great company! Catherine Villanueva, Head of Sales at Banwa Private Island, (4th from left) joins the festivities at the German Club of the Philippines’ Oktoberfest 2024.

Banwa Private Island is an experience, perfect for couples, proposals, honeymooners, and families. The island can also be booked exclusively for weddings, family celebrations, and corporate events, accommodating up to 40 guests.

With its private beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical surroundings, Banwa Private Island provides a truly immersive experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing. The island’s luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining options ensure that every guest is treated to the highest level of comfort and indulgence.

Banwa Private Island creates menus and dining experiences using local ingredients in international and Filipino dishes. Whatever your preferred cuisine, our chef team will be sure to provide just the type and style of food you want, when you want it. Fresh fish is locally available in abundance, and the majority of our fresh fruit and vegetables come from Banwa Private Island’s organic farm. Halal, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Mediterranean, Vegetarian, and Vegan options can all be catered for.

Located just a few kilometers away in Palawan mainland, the organic farm is part of Banwa Private Island’s sustainability efforts and aims to provide the majority of the island’s fresh fruit and vegetables, delivered daily. The farm is a community project and an educational and learning site for the community, our staff, and our guests.

By choosing Banwa Private Island for your celebration, you’re not just participating in a traditional event; you’re creating a lasting memory that will be cherished for years to come.

To explore  your wedding options or book your event at Banwa Private Island, please contact the Reservations team through mobile/WhatsApp: +639178882864, send an email to reservations@banwaprivateisland.com or visit  website www.banwaprivateisland.com.

#BanwaPrivateIsland #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph