For many office workers in the city, the hours after work are less about grand plans and more about finding the perfect place that will let them shift from deadlines to downtime with ease. Conveniently located at the center of the metro’s business hubs, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel’s bars present reliable after-hours spaces where familiar flavors, fun entertainment, and reasonable prices help guests leave the stress of the day behind.
The Exchange at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas: Trade Meetings to Music for Stress-free Weeknights
Offering a cozy setting that feels instantly welcoming, The Exchange is an inviting refuge for those looking to shake off the workday without the intensity of a frenzied nightlife. Soft lighting, the low hum of conversation, and the occasional bursts of laughter create an atmosphere that is lively without being overwhelming. Open from 4:00 p.m. Wednesdays to Fridays with no door charge or minimum spend required, guests can switch from office form to relaxation mode without missing a beat.
Richmonde Ortigas_The Exchange Bar.
Each night brings its own rhythm. Open Mic Wednesdays transform the bar into an impromptu stage where guests trade the day’s tension for favorite karaoke anthems. Chill & Jam Thursdays introduce a more relaxed tempo, with pianist Bobbet Bernadas accompanying singers in a way that feels spontaneous yet intimate. By Retro Fridays, the mood lifts with the familiar beats of ’80s classics performed live by the Big Bash Band, drawing smiles, nostalgic sing-alongs, and sometimes even dance floor showdowns.
Richmonde Ortigas_The Exchange_Bar Chow.
Happy Hour is served from 6:00pm to 9:00pm at PhP 725 nett with a choice of unlimited local beer or bottomless featured cocktail paired with a comforting bar chow. “We see a lot of guests coming straight from work, still in their office attire,” shares the F&B Manager Ria Rosal. “They don’t want anything complicated—they just want something easy and genuine.”
“It’s my go-to spot after work because it’s accessible, safe, and the vibe is just right—not too loud, not too formal,” says a regular patron. “You can drop by alone or with colleagues, and the vibe always helps you reset.”
Eastwood Café+Bar at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel: Clock Out then Chill Out, Alfresco Style
Tucked in the heart of Eastwood City, Eastwood Café+Bar offers a different kind of after-work mood—one that leans into open-air comfort. This restobar’s alfresco area invites guests to settle into the evening breeze, with the gentle clink of glasses and easy conversation creating a laid-back backdrop for relaxation.
From Thursdays to Saturdays, the Double Delight Happy Hour, available from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., taps into the natural rhythm of the workweek, when teams begin winding down from deadlines and colleagues look forward to transitioning into the weekend. With Buy 1, Get 1 offers on local beers and well-loved cocktails such as margaritas, mango daiquiris, lychee blanco, and creamy brandy for only PhP 285 nett, the promotion keeps things simple and inexpensive—perfect for spontaneous catch-ups or last-minute plans. Complimentary snacks like kropek and spicy peanuts add to the easygoing atmosphere, encouraging guests to settle in and stay. “We wanted to give guests their own hangout spot,” relays the F&B Manager Dave Bañez. “A place where conversations flow naturally as the evening unfolds without pressure.”
To help organize large, hassle-free gatherings, the bar can serve up an alfresco pica-pica buffet for those customary team dinners, milestone celebrations, or casual bonding nights with officemates during the week. It highlights Filipino pub grub favorites with flavors that feel familiar yet are thoroughly satisfying. A minimum reservation for 30 persons is required for the buffet at rates as low as PhP 1,000 per person.
A Comfortable Pause Between Work and Home
In neighborhoods defined by movement and productivity, both bars offer something increasingly valuable: a convenient pause. With accessible locations, relaxed ambiance, and approachable pricing, Richmonde Hotels continue to create after-work experiences that feel less like an occasion—and more like a pleasant habit.
For inquiries and table reservations, contact The Exchange at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas at (632) 8638 7777 or (63) 917 534 4352, and Eastwood Café+Bar at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel at (632) 8570 7777 or (63) 917 821 0333. For more information, log on to www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph and www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph.
Conrad Manila invites enthusiasts of the International Pyromusical Competition to a refined viewing experience that seamlessly blends excitement, indulgence, and comfort. Taking place every Saturday from March 7 to 28 and April 11 at the Mall of Asia Complex, the celebrated fireworks spectacle can be enjoyed from the hotel’s prime bayside vantage points, including Brasserie on 3, C Lounge, and Bru on Wheels, as well as from its sophisticated rooms overlooking Manila Bay.
Conrad Manila’s Room with Bay View.
“At Conrad Manila, we are delighted to offer a truly exceptional setting within the heart of Manila Bay, where the highly anticipated International Pyromusical Show unfolds,” said Rupert Hallam, general manager of Conrad Manila. “Guests and families are welcome to experience the magnificent evenings from a premium and convenient location, complemented by exquisite dining and inspired stays.”
Brasserie on 3
With veranda dining and bay view seating, Brasserie on 3 offers an elevated vantage point to witness the dazzling fireworks display, paired with an indulgent buffet showcasing premium seafood selections such as prawns, crabs, shellfish, and lobsters. The experience is further enhanced with unlimited house beverages for two hours.
Flavors & Fireworks
Every Saturday l 7 to 28 March, 11 April 2026
Veranda: PHP 6,588 nett per person
Bayview seats: PHP 5,588 nett per person
Regular: PHP 4,588 nett per person
C Lounge
At C Lounge, guests are treated to a coveted front-row view of the pyrotechnic spectacle, best enjoyed from the outdoor terrace and window-side seating. As the evening sky comes alive with color and light, handcrafted cocktails and tapas-style dishes set the tone for relaxed yet vibrant moments with loved ones. Live band performances during intervals further enriches the atmosphere, ensuring a seamless blend of energy and elegance throughout the evening.
C Lounge Pyromusical Wonders.
Pyromusical Wonders
Every Saturday l 7 to 28 March, 11 April 2026
Veranda: minimum spend of PHP 30,888++ per table (good for 6 persons)
Bay View: minimum spend of PHP 15,888++ per table (good for 4 persons)
Regular: minimum spend of PHP 8,888++ per table (good for 4 persons)
Bru on Wheels
For a more casual yet equally delightful experience, Bru on Wheels, located at the hotel’s Seaside Boulevard entrance, offers a relaxed setting to watch the Pyromusical show. Guests can revel in well-loved favorites such as savory pancit, gourmet sandwiches, and signature cheese bread, perfectly paired with refreshing beverages for an evening of flavors, fireworks, and seaside ambiance.
For more information on Conrad Manila’s exclusive Pyromusical offerings and latest updates, please contact +632 8833 9999 or email ConradManila@ConradHotels.com.
Okada Manila, the Philippines’ Forbes 5-Star integrated resort, welcomed leading members of the media and digital creator community for its annual Media and Influencers’ Appreciation Night at Sinag, Coral Wing. The gathering recognized the continued partnership between the resort and the storytellers who help spotlight Manila as a vibrant destination for world-class hospitality and entertainment.
More than a festive gathering, the appreciation night reaffirmed Okada Manila’s commitment to working closely with media and key opinion leaders to promote Manila as a dynamic tourism and lifestyle destination.
Held under the theme “Auspicious Fortune,” the evening coincided with Okada Manila’s seventh consecutive year as a Forbes 5-Star Integrated Resort and The Retreat Spa’s fourth consecutive year as a Forbes 5-Star Spa. The celebration also welcomed the Lunar New Year, bringing together media partners and executives to mark shared milestones and look ahead to new opportunities for tourism and storytelling in the year ahead.
President and COO Nobuki Sato opened the program by thanking media and influencers for their continued support in sharing Okada Manila’s story with a wider audience. He noted that the resort’s sustained Forbes recognition reflects a culture of consistency, discipline, and service excellence that continues to define the brand.
President and COO Nobuki Sato opened the program by thanking media and influencers for their continued support in sharing Okada Manila’s story with a wider audience.
Joining the celebration were key members of Okada Manila’s leadership team, including Ms. Shirley Tam, Executive Vice President of Casino Marketing; Ms. Reddy Leong, Vice President of Corporate Marketing and Communications; Mr. Andreas Balla, Vice President of Food and Beverage; Mr. Robert Scott, Vice President of Hotel Operations; and Mr. Alvaro Ramos, Assistant Vice President of Retail Operations.
During the evening, Mr. Robert Scott, Vice President of Hotel Operations, shared an update on Okada Manila’s ongoing room enhancement program, a strategic initiative aimed at further elevating the guest experience while sustaining the standards behind its Forbes 5-Star recognition. Several floors have already been refreshed with refined interiors, warmer tones, upgraded lighting, and enhanced in-room features designed to create a more comfortable and contemporary stay. The improvements also introduce intuitive technology and operational upgrades that support efficiency and sustainability, reinforcing Okada Manila’s commitment to continually refining the guest journey.
The celebration continued with a traditional Lo Hei prosperity toss led by the resort’s executives, symbolizing abundance and shared success for the year ahead. Guests also enjoyed dinner, live entertainment, and interactive activities throughout the evening, along with raffle draws featuring dining experiences, spa treatments, and overnight stays at the resort.
A traditional Lo Hei prosperity toss was led by the resort’s executives, symbolizing abundance and shared success for the year ahead.
More than a festive gathering, the appreciation night reaffirmed Okada Manila’s commitment to working closely with media and key opinion leaders to promote Manila as a dynamic tourism and lifestyle destination. By sharing milestones, experiences, and new developments with its partners, the integrated resort continues to contribute to the city’s growing profile as a hub for hospitality, entertainment, and world-class experiences.
Stay updated on Okada Manila’s latest events, milestones, and offerings. Visit https://okadamanila.com/ or follow Okada Manila on social media.
SMX Convention Center continues to reinforce its leadership in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry with the fourth-quarter 2026 openings of three new SMX Trade Halls in Luzon. Owned and managed by SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC), these event spaces will strategically be located in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; Santo Tomas, Batangas; and Santa Rosa, Laguna.
Collectively, these new developments contribute more than 13,000 square meters of total leasable exhibition space, significantly increasing SMX’s capacity to host trade shows, corporate events, and large-scale community gatherings across key growth corridors in Luzon. The new trade halls are strategically positioned within thriving commercial hubs to serve regional demand while supporting national event expansion beyond Metro Manila.
SMX Trade Hall Lobby.
The openings complement SMX’s broader portfolio growth, which includes landmark projects such as the SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu, which is poised to be the largest convention center in the Philippines, as well as SMXCITE (Center for International Trade and Exhibitions), envisioned as the largest exhibition and trade hall venue in the country. Together, these developments reinforce SMHCC’s commitment to building a nationwide ecosystem of world-class venues that enable economic activity, tourism, and industry collaboration.
“With the addition of these three trade halls, we are not only expanding our geographic reach but also creating more opportunities for businesses and communities to connect,” said SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Senior Vice President Mr. Walid Wafik. “Our continued investments reflect our confidence in the Philippines’ growing MICE potential and our mission to deliver accessible, high-quality event spaces across the country,” Mr. Wafik added.
The new SMX Trade Halls are designed with flexible layouts, modern infrastructure, and seamless integration with adjacent retail and hospitality developments, providing clients with convenience and scalability for events of varying sizes. As SMX continues to expand with flagship venues in Cebu and Manila alongside regional trade halls nationwide, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation demonstrates its position as a leading force in shaping the future of the Philippine MICE industry.
For 33 years, ORAS NG HIMALA has remained steadfast in proclaiming a message centered on living like Christ—loving boldly, serving selflessly, and believing without wavering. This anniversary celebrates a legacy of miracles and ministry while reaffirming its expanding global mission for the years ahead.
Oras ng Himala will celebrate its 33rd Living Like Jesus Anniversary this March with the theme “Christ’s Power in Action.”
The celebration is presented by Jesus Is Our Shield Worldwide Ministries, where thousands of believers, pastors, and church leaders from various fellowships and denominations are expected to attend.
The crowd during the ORAS NG HIMALA 31st Anniversary.Apostle Renato D. Carillo: “Only God has the highest power to resolve any chaos in the world.”
According to Apostle Renato D. Carillo, the theme “Christ’s Power in Action” emphasizes the truth that the true power experienced by individuals comes solely from God through the Lord Jesus.
All power comes from God. This power surpasses any authority of religion, politics, education, money, ideology, or even occult practices.
“The reason there are miracles is simple—because they are the work of God,” stated Apostle Carillo.
Therefore, he encourages everyone attending the gathering to come with faith and hope for a miracle. No payment or special status in life is required to experience the power of God.
“Regardless of a person’s appearance, color, education, or life situation, all that is needed is to approach the Lord with faith,” said Carillo. “When a person comes to Christ with faith, His power is activated.”
Oras ng Himala 33rd Living Like Jesus Anniversary press conference, (from center): Apostle Renato D. Carillo, Prophetess Elena Ga Carillo, and Prophetess Dra. Rechell Carillo-Bacsafra.
He also explained that faith can be compared to a light switch. The electricity is already there; it just needs to be turned on to shine. In the same way, the Lord Jesus is always ready to help; all a person needs to do is to come to Him.
He also warned about the rise of false powers and occult practices in society. According to him, many so-called powers do not come from God and can deceive people.
However, he believes that God will not abandon those who have gone astray. In a time when false powers are increasing, God is demonstrating His true power even more to guide and liberate people.
Apostle Carillo also pointed out that from the beginning of the Bible to the New Testament, God clearly demonstrated His power so that humanity would not be deceived by false influences but would instead come directly to Christ.
According to him, despite the crises and conflicts in the world—including tensions and wars between nations—no institution or superpower can truly resolve these problems. “Only God has the highest power to resolve any chaos in the world,” he said.
Anniversary Celebration Schedule
The celebration will unfold across two major venues:
March 11-12, 2026, at 1 PM, at the JIOSWM Worship Center
located at #1069 EDSA, Brgy. Katipunan, Quezon City, behind the Shell Station Muñoz and in front of DMCI Homes Zinnia Towers.
Meanwhile, the largest Mass Healing Celebration of the year will take place on March 15, 2026 (Sunday) at 4:00 PM, at the Marikina Sports Center.
It is expected that many will experience healing, life transformation, and restoration of faith during these gatherings.
Apostle Carillo also referenced the message of the Lord Jesus in Luke 18:27: “What is impossible with man is possible with God.”
For him, this is the reason why the theme “Christ’s Power in Action” was chosen. Because there is only one power that can truly meet the needs of people—whether an individual, a city, a nation, or the entire world. And that power is none other than the power of Christ.
Megaworld Hotels & Resorts celebrates Women Leaders shaping the future of Philippine Hospitality.
Walk into any Megaworld Hotels & Resorts property and you’ll notice something quietly powerful. Wherever a guest turns, at the front desk, in a boardroom, by the pool, inside a bustling café, or even in meeting rooms, there is someone you can relate to. Someone who understands your story. Someone who may have lived it.
As the Philippines’ largest homegrown hotel management company, with 15 properties, 9 brands, and nearly 9,000 room keys nationwide, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) operates in a business built on human touch. Human touch only works when the people behind it reflect the many lives, cultures, identities, ambitions, and journeys of the guests they serve.
In celebration of this year’s International Women’s Month, MHR shines a light on the women leaders helping shape its future. Within the organization, about 51 percent of executive leadership roles are held by women, including its top decision-making role, Managing Director. Across its regular associates, 42 percent are women, strengthening an ecosystem where representation is not a headline but daily reality. Reinforcing this culture, 92 percent of employees shared in the 2025 Great Place to Work survey that they feel fairly treated regardless of gender.
At MHR, diversity is not a side initiative. It is operational reality.
For Managing Director Cleofe Albiso, empowerment is about momentum, not spotlight.
“Empowerment isn’t about putting one group above another. It’s about building systems where everyone moves forward. When women rise, when the LGBTQIA+ community feels seen, when persons with disabilities are supported, the whole organization becomes stronger.”
Cleofe adds, “Our Circle of Happiness reminds us of that joy fuels performance. When people feel valued, they serve with heart. And when we grow together, we build something bigger than hotels. We build a Philippines that the world can trust to lead.”
It is within this forward motion that Leading Ladies Living Legacies takes shape, celebrating women who are stepping into new executive roles and shaping the next chapter of Philippine hospitality.
Global Vision Homecoming
Patria “Pat” Puyat-Palanca
Group Director of Business Development
After decades of hospitality leadership across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Indochina, including becoming the first Asian and Filipina General Manager in Dubai, Pat Puyat made a deliberate decision to come home and invest her global expertise into Philippine growth.
Patria “Pat” Puyat – Group Director of Business Development, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts.
Now leading business development for MHR’s expanding network of 15 properties, she focuses on disciplined expansion, long-term asset value, and strategic partnerships that strengthen the country’s hospitality footprint. Her work reinforces a powerful message. Filipino leaders are not only capable of managing global brands. They can elevate and strategically grow them.
“The woman of today isn’t just asking for space. She’s building ecosystems. For me, returning to the Philippines was about proving that Filipino leadership belongs at the helm of international brands. We are not only known for taking care of guests. We know how to steward global brands, run complex operations, and position businesses for sustained growth. Through MHR, I want the world to recognize that Philippine hospitality is not only heartfelt. It is strategic, disciplined, and globally competitive.”
For Pat, growth is not simply expansion. It is national positioning.
Precision Meets Purpose
Joy Alonte
General Manager, Belmont Hotel Iloilo
Joy Alonte’s leadership is defined by operational clarity and belief in people. With over two decades of experience across internationally branded hotels, she has built high-performing teams and delivered consistent commercial success while nurturing strong workplace cultures.
She now steps into her new role as General Manager of Belmont Hotel Iloilo, located at the heart of Iloilo Business Park in the celebrated City of Love. One of three MHR-operated properties within the township, the hotel has 399 rooms, making it the largest hotel in terms of inventory in Iloilo City, the heart of Western Visayas.
Joy Alonte – General Manager, Belmont Hotel Iloilo.
Managing a property of this scale demands mastery in revenue optimization, inventory strategy, and people leadership, expertise Joy brings with confidence and steadiness.
“I stand on the belief of mentors who saw my potential long before I fully recognized it myself. Leadership means creating environments where people feel safe to contribute ideas, respectfully challenge norms, and grow into roles they may not have imagined. One of my biggest responsibilities is bridging generational differences and breaking down stereotypes that divide the workforce.”
Since 2019, 74 female associates within MHR have been promoted into managerial and executive roles, representing 19 percent of the total regular female employee base. Joy’s appointment reflects an organization where opportunity expands alongside growth.
For her, scale is not pressure. It is possibility.
Stewardship with Strength
Emelyn “Ems” Rosales
General Manager, Savoy Hotel Boracay
With nearly three decades of hospitality leadership across local and international markets, Emelyn Rosales brings depth, composure, and operational discipline to every role she assumes. Her experience spans full hotel operations, financial stewardship, and commercial strategy, always grounded in strong team culture.
She now leads Savoy Hotel Boracay, one of three properties within Boracay Newcoast, located on the island’s eastern side within a 150-hectare master-planned township. With its own front beach and powdery white sand, the property sits inside a secure and inclusive enclave designed for global travelers.
Emelyn “Ems” Rosales – General Manager, Savoy Hotel Boracay.
Boracay demands agility. It requires balancing dynamic occupancy cycles, diverse guest segments, and a young, creative workforce. Emelyn ensures that performance and people development move in sync.
“We are leading one of the youngest, most dynamic, and creative generations the industry has ever seen. The question is not whether they are ready. It’s whether we are ready to give them space. If we want them to believe in the future of Philippine hospitality, we must invite them into decision-making, innovation, and new ways of thinking. The future belongs to those who feel they are part of building it.”
For Emelyn, stewardship is about sustaining both place and potential.
Reinvention and Relevance
Gwendolyn Lanceta De La Cruz
General Manager, Mercure Mactan Cebu
With over three decades of leadership experience across Asia, including the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, the Maldives, and Hong Kong, Gwendolyn Lanceta Dela Cruz has built her career in some of the region’s most demanding hospitality environments. She has held senior executive roles spanning rooms leadership, resident management, and corporate-level oversight, working closely with top executives while managing large hotel operations.
Gwendolyn Lanceta De La Cruz – General Manager, Mercure Mactan Cebu.
Her exposure to global business leaders, international delegations, high-net-worth leisure travelers, and large-scale convention groups has sharpened her ability to lead with cultural intelligence and strategic foresight.
She now leads Mercure Mactan Cebu, formerly Belmont Hotel Mactan, MHR’s first property to transition into an international brand venture. Located within the 30-hectare Mactan Newtown township and directly across the Mactan Expo, the 550-room hotel plays a pivotal role in Mactan Cebu’s growing MICE and leisure market. With expansive meeting facilities, multiple dining concepts, and direct access to Mactan Newtown Beach, the property reflects scale and global ambition.
“Resilience carried us through uncertainty, but reinvention keeps us relevant. The transition from Belmont to Mercure proves that our work ethic and craftsmanship deserve a global audience. As women leaders, we build for longevity. We create markets that are healthy and sustainable, where teams grow stronger, partners succeed, and success is shared across the entire ecosystem.”
For Gwen, reinvention is not recovery. It is readiness.
Shared Legacy
As Megaworld Hotels & Resorts continues to grow, so does its presence across Megaworld’s 37 townships nationwide. The group looks ahead to upcoming properties such as The Kingsford Hotel Bacolod in The Upper East township, Savoy Hotel Capital Town Pampanga in San Fernando, and developments in Palawan including Savoy Hotel Palawan and Paragua Sands in San Vicente. In Metro Manila, projects like ArcoVia Hotel in Pasig further strengthen MHR’s urban footprint.
Guided by the Sampaguita, anchored on love, honor, dignity, and healing, MHR’s expansion reflects more than portfolio growth. It represents a commitment to Filipinization, championing Filipino-led management and service excellence as the group strengthens its presence locally and globally.
Through Leading Ladies Living Legacies, MHR affirms that true growth is measured not only in new properties, but in the wellbeing of its people, creating environments where individuals feel valued, supported, and inspired to thrive. When people flourish, hospitality becomes more than service. It becomes purpose.
Vine Aesthetics Rockwell Ortigas—where modern medicine, holistic wellness, and thoughtful living converge.
Vine Aesthetics marks a new chapter in integrated healthcare with the opening of its newest clinic at Rockwell Ortigas, a location strategically positioned at the crossroads of business, lifestyle, and wellness. Designed to serve discerning clients who seek both medical excellence and a refined environment, the new space reflects Vine Aesthetic’s commitment to personalized, evidence-based care delivered with discretion and precision.
At the helm is Dra. Emehly Sevilla, who now serves as Medical Director. Known for her hands-on leadership and progressive approach, Dra. Sevilla oversees clinical operations while continuously training both locally and abroad. Her global exposure allows Vine Aesthetics to introduce new innovations, advanced protocols, and carefully selected products that align with international standards while remaining deeply rooted in patient safety and outcomes. This ongoing exchange of knowledge ensures that clients receive treatments informed by the latest developments in holistic and medical wellness.
The Rockwell Ortigas clinic was purposefully designed to be exclusive and client-centered, offering a calm, elegant atmosphere that supports healing and restoration. With in-house doctors and a highly trained medical team, Vine Aesthetics provides seamless care—from consultation to treatment—under one roof. Every service is thoughtfully curated, allowing patients to experience continuity, comfort, and confidence throughout their wellness journey.
What further elevates the Vine Aesthetics experience is its proximity to premium hotels within the area. Clients can conveniently book nearby accommodations and enjoy time to rest and recover after their treatments, transforming a clinic visit into a complete wellness escape. This thoughtful location choice underscores Vine Aesthetic’s understanding of modern lifestyles, where health, time, and convenience are equally valued.
More than a clinic, Vine Aesthetics Rockwell Ortigas represents a meeting point of global expertise and local care—where medical leadership, innovation, and environment work together to serve clients better. As Vine Aesthetics continues to grow, its Rockwell Ortigas location stands as a testament to its vision: delivering elevated, trusted wellness care that fits seamlessly into today’s professional and lifestyle-driven lives.
Vine Aesthetics Rockwell Ortigas—where modern medicine, holistic wellness, and thoughtful living converge. For more information, visit their website: https://vineaesthetics.com.
Thoughtfully crafted to celebrate women and their enduring grace and strength, the hotel presents elevated dining, curated cocktails, and restorative spa journeys across its signature venues this March.
In celebration of International Women’s Month, Conrad Manila presents a curated collection of dining and wellness experiences across its award-winning restaurants and spa. Throughout March, guests are invited to mark the occasion with meaningful moments — from an exclusive set menu and spa journey at Michelin-selected China Blue by Jereme Leung, to celebratory cocktails at C Lounge, indulgent feasts at Brasserie on 3, and restorative treatments at Conrad Spa.
“Conrad Manila has always been guided by Hilton’s culture of providing opportunity, leadership, and inclusion for women,” shared Rupert Hallam, General Manager of Conrad Manila. “Throughout March, we invite our guests to celebrate the women who inspire them through experiences designed to reflect grace, strength, and quiet luxury.”
A Culinary and Wellness Journey at China Blue by Jereme Leung
Michelin-selected China Blue by Jereme Leung, unveils “The Queen’s Indulgence,” an exclusive dining and spa pairing available from 7 to 21 March 2026. Priced at PHP 5,888 nett per person, the experience brings together refined Chinese cuisine and restorative wellness.
The menu highlights meticulously crafted dishes that embody elegance and sophistication, including savory starters of crispy cone filled with gong cai, century eggs, and vegetarian XO sauce, and steamed snow bird’s nest seafood dumpling with marinated pumpkin and sour plum jelly; a luscious soup of braised peach gum, sea cucumber, and tofu in long-simmered chicken broth; delectable mains of braised chicken hotpot with black garlic, scallions, and sturgeon, and wok-fried healthy orzo rice with Chinese sausage and vegetables; and a refined dessert of almond cream with sago and mini crystal dumpling.
Completing the experience is a 60-minute full-body massage at Conrad Spa, offering a seamless transition from culinary indulgence to complete relaxation.
THE QUEEN’S INDULGENCE l Regal Dining & Spa Retreat
7 – 21 March 2026
PHP 5,888 nett per person
Conscious Beauty at Conrad Spa.
Brasserie on 3 presents ‘Crafted in her Honor’ collection
At Brasserie on 3, guests can revel in a lavish weekend feast featuring a wide selection of succulent mains, healthy favorites, and decadent desserts in a refined setting that overlooks Manila Bay. Women diners will be served a complimentary mocktail specially crafted for the occasion. The refreshing blend balances tart citrus and earthy notes of butterfly pea flower with freshly squeezed lemon, sparkling soda, and a delicate sugar rim.
CRAFTED IN HER HONOR
7 – 8 March 2026
Lunch: Starts at PHP 2,900 nett per person
Dinner: PHP 3,600 nett person
A Month of Celebration at C Lounge
Throughout March, C Lounge offers “A Blend of Grace and Power,” a selection of artfully mixed cocktails inspired by the nurturing spirit and enduring strength of women. Best enjoyed with sunset views over Manila Bay, the featured libations are available daily at PHP 450++. Guests who draw the lucky card from the bowl may enjoy a complimentary next round, adding a playful touch to the celebration.
A BLEND OF GRACE AND POWER
1 to 31 March 2026 l 11:00am to 12:00mn
PHP 450 ++
All guests can also enjoy “Sunset Cheers”, offering unlimited cocktails from Monday to Thursday, between 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Best complemented with glorious sunset views along the iconic Manila Bay, the delightful sips are sure to inspire vibrant conversations with friends.
SUNSET CHEERS
Available until 31 December 2026
PHP 1,499 +++
In honor of Mother Earth, C Lounge presents “A Toast for the Earth”, a tea-infused cocktail exclusively available during Earth Hour. This tea-infused cocktail, priced at PHP 450++, honors Mother Earth with comforting, earthy notes and invites guests to pause for a shared moment of reflection and sustainability.
Sunset Cheers at C Lounge.
A TOAST FOR THE EARTH
28 March 2026 l 8:30pm to 9:30pm
PHP 450 ++
Conrad Spa
The International Women’s Month is also an ideal opportunity to embrace conscious beauty at Conrad Spa, through treatments and facials enhanced with ISUN, a holistic skincare brand.
Restorative Wellness ft. ISUN at Conrad Spa.
Designed to rejuvenate the body and illuminate the complexion, these therapeutic and restorative rituals offer a thoughtful tribute to her overall well-being.
This March, Conrad Manila continues to craft experiences rooted in moments that matter for the guests. For more information on the hotel’s latest dining exclusives and other offerings, please contact +632 8833 9999 or email MNLMB.FB@ConradHotels.com
Mactan, Cebu, Philippines — The Philippines is set to host MarketHub Asia 2027, an exclusive by-invitation-only global TravelTech and tourism marketplace. This marks the first time the prestigious international business-to-business conference will be held in the Philippines.
Slated for the first quarter of 2027, the 6th edition of MarketHub Asia will convene approximately 400 global client-partners, thought leaders, senior decision makers, and digital travel innovators from 16 international source markets, including the Middle East, China, Japan, South Korea, India, Southeast Asia, and Australia, among others.
“With the majority of global tourism transactions now taking place online, it is timely for the Philippines to take a more strategic and proactive approach in strengthening our digital visibility,” said Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.
“By engaging the world’s leading digital distribution partners, we expand our global reach, improve ease of access, and create stronger pathways for inbound travel to the Philippines.”
HBX Group officially announces Mactan, Cebu, Philippines as the host destination of MarketHub Asia 2027. In photo (from left): David Amsellem, Chief Distribution Officer, HBX Group; Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR); Sharlene Batin, Assistant Secretary, Department of Tourism; Loleth So, Group Commercial Director, MHR; Asha Sumputh, CEO and Founder, Waterlily Project Ltd.; and Xabi Zabala, Chief Sourcing and Operations Officer, HBX Group.
“This milestone is significant for the Philippine hotel and tourism industry because its impact extends far beyond a single sector,” the Tourism Chief added. “Global events such as MarketHub create a ripple effect across the entire tourism value chain—from airlines and airports, to hotels, transport providers, food and beverage enterprises, tour operators, technology partners, and local communities. Hosting MarketHub 2027 reinforces the importance of working together as one tourism ecosystem to deliver inclusive and sustainable growth.”
Representing HBX Group, Xabi Zabala, Chief Sourcing and Operations Officer, and David Amsellem, Chief Distribution Officer, underscored the organization’s core strengths and mission. “At HBX Group, our focus has always been on building the digital foundations that allow travel to move efficiently across borders,” Xabi Zabala said. “Our strength lies in our global network, our advanced e-commerce infrastructure, and our ability to connect thousands of travel products and distributors through trusted, scalable platforms.”
“As we continue creating opportunities that connect markets and destinations at scale, the Philippines stands out as a market with so much for the world to discover,” David Amsellem added. “There is real depth and diversity here, supported by an ecosystem that is increasingly ready to engage globally. MarketHub Asia 2027 allows us to connect that potential to our worldwide network in a meaningful, structured, and sustainable way.”
The selection of the Philippines as host also affirms its steady advancement as a competitive Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) destination in Asia. Continued investments in convention infrastructure and event-ready facilities have strengthened the country’s capacity to stage high-level global events. At the same time, the Filipino culture of hospitality—characterized by warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail—adds a distinct human dimension that elevates every gathering into a meaningful and memorable experience.
Instrumental in bringing MarketHub Asia 2027 to the Philippines is Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, the country’s largest homegrown hotel operator, which will host the event within Megaworld’s Mactan Newtown, a master-planned township designed to support integrated business and leisure travel.
Delegates will be accommodated at Savoy Hotel Mactan and Mercure Mactan, with conference sessions to be held at Mactan Expo, Cebu’s newest large-scale convention and exhibition venue.
Mactan Expo has already demonstrated its capability to host world-class events, having recently served as a key venue for the ASEAN Tourism Forum held in January 2026—providing added assurance of the Philippines’ readiness to host high-level international gatherings.
As one of the more tangible outcomes of the ATF 2026, the three-day TRAVEX 2026 generated PHP 1.43 billion in sales at the Mactan Expo. The ATF meetings among Southeast Asian NTOs and dialogue partners also took place in Cebu City at the NUSTAR Convention Center, the largest venue outside Metro Manila, reinforcing Cebu’s growing reputation in the MICE sector.
Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts and President of the Cebu MICE Alliance, expressed pride in supporting the initiative.
“More than a responsibility, hosting MarketHub Asia 2027 is a privilege and an opportunity to give global industry leaders a compelling reason to rediscover the Philippines,” Albiso said. “Our role is to help create an environment where meaningful conversations take place, partnerships are formed, and global leaders are inspired by the depth of experiences the country can offer.”
She noted that MarketHub has traditionally been staged in globally celebrated destinations. “MarketHub has been hosted in destinations known for setting benchmarks in travel and tourism. With the most recent edition successfully concluded in Bali, expectations are understandably high,” Albiso added. “The Philippines is prepared to deliver an experience that is both professionally executed and distinctly memorable.”
In the first quarter of 2027, Mactan Island in Cebu, Philippines will welcome approximately 400 global client-partners, senior decision-makers, and digital travel leaders from 16 international source markets for MarketHub Asia 2027.
As the Philippines prepares to host MarketHub Asia 2027, the event underscores the country’s strategic push to strengthen its position within an increasingly digital and interconnected global tourism marketplace.
The TravelTech and tourism conference is expected to expand livelihood opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by attracting both domestic and international tourism investments through business-to-business meeting opportunities, further increasing tourist spending on activities, experiences, food, and services.
Through this platform—anchored on data-driven connectivity, digital distribution, and business-to-business collaboration—the Philippines deepens engagement with international partners, expands its global reach, and advances its competitiveness in the evolving travel landscape.
MarketHub is HBX Group’s premier platform for advancing dialogue, collaboration, and innovation—bringing together the global players that power travel bookings through digital distribution, data-driven connectivity, and business-to-business e-commerce.
The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra continues its landmark 41st season with its seventh concert on March 13, 2026, 7:30 pm, at the Metropolitan Theater. Led by music director and principal conductor Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, the evening features British soprano Katerina Mina in a program that showcases the orchestra’s remarkable versatility and artistic excellence.
With the concert season featuring masterworks, world premieres and collaborations with top local and international artists, this upcoming concert, billed as CONCERT VII: OPERA blends classical repertoire with pieces that highlight the power and beauty of the vocal prowess.
Versatility in Italian, Swiss, German, and Filipino Notes
Featured works are Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi’s La forza del destino: Overture, and La forza del destino: Pace, pace mio Dio; Italian composer Umberto Giordano’s Andrea Chénier – La Mamma Morta; Italian composer Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca: Vissi d’arte; Swiss composer Stephan Hodel’s Angel of Fire; and German composer Richard Wagner/Filipino composer Jeffrey Ching’s Ring Symphony.
A four-act opera, La forza del destino (translated as The Force of Destiny), premiered in 1862 in St. Petersburg. Based on a Spanish drama, it follows Leonora and Alvaro, whose forbidden love is destroyed by fate, resulting in accidental deaths, family revenge, and a tragic, dramatic climax.
La mamma morta is a famous soprano aria from Act 3 of Giordano’s 1896 verismo opera Andrea Chénier. Sung by the character Maddalena di Coigny to Gérard, the aria recounts how the lead character’s mother sacrificed her life to protect her child during the turmoils of the French Revolution.
Vissi d’arte is a famous soprano aria in Act II of Puccini’s Tosca. Blending dramatic, often tragic storylines with lush, melodic, and emotional music, the aria is sung by the titular character as she laments and questions why God has abandoned her despite her piety.
Ring Symphony is a large-scale orchestral work of Jeffrey Ching based on Richard Wagner’s The Ring of the Nibelung cycle.
Arias from Verdi, Giordano, Puccini, and Hodel
Soprano Katerina Mina will grace the stage for PPO Concert VII this March, performing masterpieces by Verdi, Giordano, Puccini, and Hodel. Among the highlights is Hodel’s “Angel of Fire,” a piece originally featured on Mina’s 2018 debut album. The work was composed specifically for Mina after she shared some of her poems with Hodel, which he then set to music. Notably, her 2018 album was recorded under the baton of Maestro Grzegorz Nowak and was even presented to King Charles of Britain.
Born in Cyprus and based in London, Mina is a prizewinning artist renowned for her powerful stage presence and wide-ranging repertoire, from Verdi and Puccini to Wagner and contemporary works. She recently starred in the world premiere of Three Women and has performed leading roles in classic operas, including Turandot, Tosca, Brünnhilde, and Isolde.
Mina’s vocal performances through the years drew raves from various critics, citing her “deeply passionate vocal sound,” having “added layers of depth and visualisation to the work that any singer coming after her will be hard put to replicate…”, with a “mature voice that has a given place in any Music Hall. Critics praise her as “one of those clear-as-a-bell soprano voices, displayed with great charm to the top of the register, and with generous volume.”
A versatile concert performer, Mina has performed with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the Cyprus Symphony, and other orchestras across Europe, Japan, and Mexico. Mentored by British dramatic soprano Susan Bullock, Mina has received the Stockholm Culture Award in recognition of her contributions to opera.
The PPO concert tickets are priced at ₱3,000, ₱2,500, ₱2,000, and ₱1,500 and can be purchased at TicketWorld, with discounts for Senior Citizens, PWD, Government & Military Personnel, and Athletes. Be a PPO season subscriber to get an exclusive 20 percent discount. Email salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph or call the CCP Box Office (+63931-033-0880).
For more updates on the PPO’s performances, visit the CCP’s website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph. Check out the CCP and PPO’s official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for more information on future events.
