People and Events

L-R: Ms. Sushi Lorenzana, Senior Vice President for Commercial Business Group, Century Properties; Mr. Royston A. Cabunag, Assistant Vice President, SM Supermalls and Program Director, SM Cares Children & Youth; Mr. Jay A. Acar, Acting Regional Director, DTI-NCRO; Mr. Jorge Wieneke, Founder of KalyeNegosyo; and Ms. Jenny Wieneke, Board Trustee/Administrator of KalyeNegosyo, lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the opening of the first-ever KalyeNegosyo BizFest, a three-da

Travel industry vote recognizes the service, facilities and range of experiences that give guests more from every stay. MANILA, PHILIPPINES — September 28, 2026 — Okada Manila, the Philippines’ largest Forbes 5-Star integrated resort, has been named Best Hotel – Manila at the 35th Annual TTG Travel Awards 2026. The recognition highlights the resort’s distinctive combination of hospitality, facilities and experiences designed to give guests more ways to make the most of thei

Serta and SM Home at SM Makati spotlight the importance of better sleep, comfort, and creating a more restful home. (L-R) Kristine Velasco, Sales Manager of Serta Philippines Inc., shares Serta’s commitment to elevating the sleep experience by combining exceptional support and comfort with a touch of luxury, alongside sleep medicine expert Dra. Abbey Zaraspe, M.D., and celebrity guests Ruffa Gutierrez, Ariella Arida, and Jameson Blake. MANILA, PHILIPPINES — In a world that

October 14-18, 2026 | SMX Aura Convention Center, Taguig City Before form, color, texture, and volume, there is the line. For its 18th edition, ManilART presents Where the Line Begins, a celebration of the line as the fundamental language of visual art. This year celebrates the line as the first gesture that transforms thought into image, imagination into form, and ideas into visual reality. ManilART’26 runs from October 14 to 18, 2026, at the SMX Aura Convention Center in Ta

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, September 23, 2026 — San Miguel Oktoberfest runs it back, bigger and better. As San Miguel Beer celebrates its 135th year of serving great beers around the world, the most-anticipated alcoholic beer beverage event in the calendar is again set to kick off the season anew at Okada Manila. San Miguel Oktoberfest is ready to make another run as it marks its 43rd year this 2026. Tracing its roots back to a humble radio station-led street party in 1982, the eve

Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, brought lolos and lolas together with their loved ones for a weekend filled with shared entertainment, exclusive treats, and quality family bonding at Fiesta ng Pagmamahal: A Grandparents Celebration on September 12 and 13. The two-day festivities were part of the theme park’s Love Saribuhay campaign this quarter, which highlights the beauty of the biodiversity of the Philippines, through its p

Savoy Hotel Manila Leaders with Gerry San Miguel of DudeforFood There is something about Puto Bumbong and Bibingka that makes Christmas feel a little closer. Their familiar aromas, comforting flavors, and unmistakable place in Filipino holiday traditions bring back memories of home, family, and celebrations shared around the table. At Savoy Hotel Manila, these beloved Christmas favorites took center stage on September 15 as vloggers, media friends, and hotel Guests gathered f

Featuring refined Chinese classics, new chef-recommended dishes, and locally sourced ingredients. Jasmine Restaurant at New World Makati Hotel - New A La Carte Menu Dishes Makati City, Philippines | August 2026 – Jasmine, the signature Chinese restaurant of New World Makati Hotel, proudly introduces its refreshed À La Carte Menu, presenting traditional Chinese cuisine through contemporary technique, refined presentation, and thoughtfully selected ingredients. Masterfully cura

As Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts (MGHR) builds toward a larger hospitality portfolio by 2032, the focus is not simply on adding more hotels and rooms, but on strengthening the capabilities needed to grow well. At the 9th Hospitality Philippines Conference held September 9–10, 2026, in Manila, three MGHR leaders shared perspectives on what that growth will increasingly require: stronger partnerships, smarter operating structures, and a deeper understanding of what guests v

Families are invited to create new memories with Lolo and Lola through special activities, prizes, and appliance offers from September 11–13, 2026. CAVITE, Philippines — September 2026 — Robinsons Appliances, together with Panasonic, celebrates the special place grandparents hold in every Filipino family with Grandparents’ Grand Day, happening on September 11–13, 2026 at Robinsons Appliances Vermosa. Robinsons Appliances and Panasonic join forces to make Grandparents’ Gr

Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, is set to mark its 31st Anniversary with Fiesta ng Saribuhay, a month-long celebration that puts the country’s rich biodiversity at the heart of its enchanting lineup of exciting shows, world-class entertainment, and other anniversary experiences this October. With this year’s theme, EK continues its mission to enrich every guest’s visit as it highlights the beauty of the Philippines through a gr

Sealing a Meaningful Partnership: (L-R): Mark Anthony Carpio, Executive Vice President of Grand Monaco Land; Cory Quirino, President of Mutya ng Pilipinas and Engr. Reynaldo A. Carpio, Ph.D., Founder, President and CEO of Grand Monaco Land, united in a meaningful partnership for Mutya ng Pilipinas, celebrating beauty, purpose, and excellence. Grand Monaco Land continues to strengthen its commitment to building vibrant and connected communities through its partnership with Mut

HONOR Philippines is bringing the HONOR Magic V6 into the world of Philippine tennis as the official presenter of the Gentry Open 2026, creating a partnership that brings together premium technology, sport and lifestyle. The partnership began with a conversation between HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng and Gentry Open founder and organizer Hayb Anzures. According to Cheng, the two sides quickly recognized that their campaigns and audiences were closely aligned,

Kherk Roldan, Whitelabel SEO When Kherk Roldan first explored search engine optimization 16 years ago, he wasn't chasing titles or industry recognition. He was driven by a simple question: How could businesses use Google to reach more customers without relying entirely on traditional advertising? That curiosity became the foundation of what is now one of the Philippines' recognized SEO companies, serving businesses across industries while employing more than 100+ office-based

Luxent Hotel officially opened Pamumukadkad: An August Blossom Hallway Art Exhibit, a month-long celebration of Filipino artistry presented in partnership with Daloy Likha Art Gallery, reaffirming the hotel's commitment to supporting local artists and creating meaningful cultural experiences for its guests. Held at the hotel's Blossom Hallway, the exhibit transforms the space into a vibrant gallery featuring the inspiring works of four talented Filipino artists—Rebie Abas, No

CEBU CITY, Philippines — The New Channel (TNC) proudly announces the renewal of its partnership with Zeus 808 Productions and Marketing Services, Inc. for the staging of the Karaoke World Championships (KWC) Philippines Visayas Region for the 2026 - 2027 seasons. Following the success of previous collaborations, this renewed partnership marks an exciting expansion of KWC Philippines' presence across the Visayas. Together, TNC and Zeus 808 Productions are set to bring the KWC

Pepsi Philippines launches the NEW Pepsi Extra Fizz, a new take on the iconic cola with a stronger fizz, and an EXTRA sarap mealtime experience inspired by Gen Z. Pasay City, Philippines — In true Gen Z spirit, Pepsi® unleashes Pepsi Extra Fizz, an exciting glow-up of everyone’s favorite soda at the #GoEXTRA event in Mall of Asia’s Music Hall. Attended by Mimiyuuuh, as the official Pepsi Brand Ambassador, as well as a slew of other celebs and influencers, this launch featured

Somerset Alabang Manila concludes its 10th Anniversary celebration with the exclusive preview of Soluna, marking a new chapter for Your Home in the South For the past decade, Somerset Alabang Manila has been more than a place to stay, it has been a home in the South, where heartfelt hospitality, meaningful experiences, and genuine care have welcomed travelers, families, business guests, and the local community alike. As the property concludes its month-long 10th Anniversary c

16 hotels. One MHR Food Festival. Megaworld Hotels & Resorts’ Executive Committee: (from left) Loleth So, Group Commercial Director; Arturo Boncato Jr., Group General Manager; Avinash Menon, Cluster General Manager – Visayas; Jun Justo, Cluster General Manager – NCR+; Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director; Eden Decano, Chief Financial Officer; Divine delos Reyes, Head of People Management and Development; and Sonny Alvaro, Cluster General Manager – Boracay. Armed with the goal of

THE WYNDHAM GARDEN MANILA BAY TEAM (L-R): Redem Bartolome - Security Manager; Jesson Cuizon - HR/Admin Head; Dannica Lleanado - Front Office Manager; Christian Sanchez- Head of Sales; James Lau – Owner’s Representative/Property Consultant; Charmaine Sy - Resident Manager; Executive Chef Andrew Ko - Director of Food & Beverage; Jessie Hamor - Finance Manager; Joefry Catapan - Engineering Manager; Jobeth Buela - Housekeeping Manager; Ariel Dacuma - Purchasing Manager and Mathe

Beyond the Glow: Inside Quezon City's Premier VIP Sanctuary for Cellular Longevity Step off the bustling pavement of Timog Avenue in Quezon City—just opposite the GMA Network complex—and the high-stress hum of urban life melts into a calm, hospitality-driven sanctuary. This is the home of Inoue Health and Wellness Clinic, a new aesthetic and regenerative wellness center designed to bridge the gap between sterile medical procedures and luxury spa comfort. Celebrating its offi

TAYTAY, Rizal — Monaco Hotel marked its second anniversary with a meaningful celebration that honored the people behind its success while introducing Grimmy, the Rockin' Gorilla, the hotel's first official mascot. The milestone event reflected Monaco Hotel's continued commitment to exceptional hospitality, employee empowerment, creativity, and memorable family-centered experiences. The celebration opened with a blessing ceremony, bringing together employees, management, busin

OLONGAPO CITY, Philippines – July 30, 2026 — The Western Philippines International Tourism Showcase (WPITS) 2026 officially opened at the SMX Convention Center Olongapo, bringing together tourism leaders, government officials, hospitality stakeholders, exhibitors, and industry partners to celebrate and promote the rich tourism offerings of Western Philippines. Leading the opening ceremonies were Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino, Jr.; Ronnie De Rosario, Owner of La Jolla Hote

Olongapo City, Philippines – The Western Philippines International Tourism Showcase (WPIT) 2026 is set to bring together tourism stakeholders, government agencies, travel professionals, investors, exhibitors, and the public for a three-day tourism and trade event from July 30 to August 1, 2026, under the theme “Time to Visit Us Now.” Designed to promote the diverse tourism offerings of Western Philippines, the event aims to strengthen industry collaboration, encourage tourism

MANILA, Philippines — BingoPlus officially unveiled the enhanced BingoPlus VIP Club in a spectacular launch event held on July 19, 2026, at the Marriott Grand Ballroom, marking the beginning of a new chapter in premium gaming and lifestyle experiences. The exclusive gathering brought together VIP members, partners, celebrities, and distinguished guests for an unforgettable evening that celebrated loyalty, luxury, and the promise of elevated rewards. Inspired by the unveiling

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT ZONE, Philippines – Darwin Labayandoy has been appointed as General Manager of ibis Styles Subic and Mercure Hotel Subic, bringing with him extensive hospitality experience and a commitment to strengthening service excellence and delivering memorable guest experiences at the two internationally branded hotels. Owned by Subic International Hotel Corporation, under the leadership of Chairman Gil Miguel T. Puyat and President Lino A. Barte, together with Subic

The global surfing community turned its eyes toward the Philippines this week as Siargao’s iconic Cloud 9 was officially named a host for the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. Announced on July 17, 2026, this inclusion marks a historic milestone for Philippine sports tourism, elevating the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines" to the same elite status as legendary breaks in Hawaii, Australia, and Brazil. For the local industry, this is mo

MANILA, Philippines – BingoPlus VIP Club officially unveiled its bold new brand philosophy, The New Code of Nobility, redefining what it means to be a VIP member through elevated lifestyle experiences, meaningful recognition, and a premium community built around its members' achievements. During an exclusive media press conference ahead of the grand launch, BingoPlus executives and VIP members shared the vision behind the transformation and what lies ahead for the Club. Jaspe

This July, the stakes are higher than ever as the BingoPlus VIP Club prepares to unveil its most exciting chapter yet. Set against the luxurious backdrop of the Marriott Grand Ballroom, the highly anticipated launch of the reimagined BingoPlus VIP Club promises an evening where prestige, entertainment, and extraordinary rewards come together in spectacular fashion. The biggest highlight of the night? Three lucky VIP members will drive home in brand-new BMWs. Exclusively reser

From left to right: Kenji Sugiyama (Board of Directors, Okada Manila), James Gordon Lorenzana (Board of Directors, Okada Manila & President, Okada Foundation), Edwin Olivarez (Mayor of Paranaque), Mrs. Olivarez (Wife of Parañaque City Mayor), Corinne Castaneda (House of Wagyu Founder), His Excellency Endo Kazuya (Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines), Madame Endo Akiko (Wife of His Excellency Ambassador Endo), Yasunobu Kusu (President, Saga Prefectural Union of Agricultural

From young players and seasoned competitors to families and fans, the event is creating a shared space where Philippine tennis can grow Gentry Open 2026 Organizing Team (From L-R): Sarah Ofracio, Project Manager/Tournament Head – Gentry Timepieces & Gentry Open; Gela Villanueva, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager - Palawan Group of Companies; Miguel Mangabat, Marketing Manager - Palawan Pay; Chollo Pantera also known as Pareng Chollo – Gentry Timepieces; Patrick Rodrigue

BINI with Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay (photo courtesy: Department of Toursim) The Department of Tourism (DOT) has officially tapped the nation's premier P-pop girl group, BINI, as its newest tourism ambassadors. In a formal ceremony held on July 3, 2026, at the DOT central office in Makati City, Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay introduced the eight-member group as the fresh faces of the "Love the Philippines" campaign. This strategic partnership aims to leverage

MANILA, Philippines — July 7, 2026 — The Pokémon Company officially announced an exciting lineup of activities in the Philippines as part of the global celebration of Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary. Under the campaign "PokéXciting!", Filipino fans can look forward to immersive events, interactive experiences, and exclusive merchandise beginning this October 2026 and continuing into January 2027. Leading the celebration is Pokémon RUN 30: Run into the Future with Pokémon, schedule

The Travel Madness Expo (TME) makes its highly anticipated return this July 10 to 12 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, signaling a significant shift in how Filipinos approach international and domestic travel. Moving beyond the frantic "revenge travel" phase that characterized the post-pandemic years, this year’s event focuses on "intentional globetrotting," where journeys are curated for deeper cultural connection and year-round exploration rather than just seasonal escap

"Tara!" is a familiar Filipino colloquial expression meaning "Come on!", "Let's go!", or "Join me!", it embodies the warmth, spontaneity, and shared spirit of exploration that define Filipino travel. Drawing inspiration from this simple yet powerful phrase, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) named its newest campaign TARA! as a heartfelt call for Filipinos to travel more often, explore deeper, and reconnect with the destinations through affordable stays and value-driven travel

The luxury hotel’s signature bridal showcase elevates the wedding fair experience with spectacular runway showcases, visionary styling concepts, and curated industry partnerships. MANILA, Philippines, June 2026 – Marking a milestone moment in its 10th anniversary celebration, Conrad Manila concluded an extraordinary edition of Inspired Beginnings 2026, its bespoke bridal showcase, held in collaboration with Getting Married Wedding Coordinators and Event Planners by Kutchie Za

(Mandaluyong City, June 29, 2026) HABI: The Philippine Textile Council is now accepting applications from new vendors for the 16th Likhang HABI Market Fair, happening on October 9–11, 2026 at SPACE One Ayala, Makati City. The annual fair continues its commitment to promoting Philippine handwoven textiles and handcrafted products while providing artisans, designers, social enterprises, and creative entrepreneurs with a platform to reach a wider market. For over a decade, the L

MANILA, Philippines — Alibaba Global Initiatives and GENCYS Group recently hosted two exclusive gatherings in Manila, bringing together members of the media, corporate executives, and industry partners ahead of the upcoming E-VOLVE Leadership, AI & E-Commerce Innovation Series. GENCYS Group Team with Media Partners The first event, a Media Briefing at China Blue by Jereme Leung, introduced journalists, editors, broadcasters, and content creators to the vision behind E-VOLVE.

Makati City Mayor Nancy Binay expressed her heartfelt gratitude to First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos for spearheading the “Lab For All: Laboratoryo, Konsulta, at Gamot Para sa Lahat” program, a nationwide community-based health initiative that brings free and accessible medical services closer to Filipinos. Mayor Binay emphasized that the program reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the country’s healthcare system and ensuring that every Filipino has equitable access

L-R: Mr. Vincent Ieung-Yu Lin, Director of Labor Division of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines & Cross-Border Workforce Recruitment Center; Mr. Yang, Tsung-Ming Ph.D, Commissioner of Tourism and Travel Department, New Taipei City Government; Ms. Cindy Chen, Director of Taiwan Tourism Information Center in Manila, Taiwan Tourism Administration, Bangkok Office; Mr. Wallace Minn-Gan Chow, Representative of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippin

This Father’s Day, go beyond the usual gifts and give Dad something he rarely asks for, but truly deserves: quality time, meaningful moments, and a chance to simply unwind. At Pico de Loro Cove, families are invited to honor the man of the house with a thoughtfully curated lineup of experiences designed to bring everyone closer together. Celebrate Dad over good food and great company with Harana Night: A Father’s Day Special event with a buffet selection and live music on J

Taiwan Travel Fair Opening Ceremony Group Photos with Minister Dustin Yang, the Deputy Representative of Taipei Economic & Cultural Office in the Philippines; Ms. Cindy Chen, the Director of Taiwan Tourism Information Center in Manila and Taiwan Tourism Administration, Bangkok Office; Dr. Zeny Pallugna, the Director of the Office of Market Development, Department of Tourism along with the other VIPs, Taiwan Delegations & event tourism partners. Makati City, Philippines — June

Renowned industry leader transitions from makeup masterclasses to hosting masterclasses, showcasing deep celebrity friendships, unmatched eloquence, and raw storytelling in an exclusive face-to-face Mediacon on Friday, June 5, 2026 at Locavore Greenhills. MANILA, PHILIPPINES — He has spent decades listening to the industry’s biggest icons while perfecting their glam—and now, beauty titan Albert Kurniawan is stepping up to the microphone to lead the conversation. Partnering

For dads who deserve a well-earned break, Okada Manila offers a selection of wellness experiences focused on relaxation and self-care. The Retreat Spa presents Dad's Wellness Treat from June 1 to 15, 2026. Guests who book the Masculine Vigour treatment will receive a complimentary pampering kit. At The Sole Retreat, Dad's Sole Retreat runs from June 8 to 21, 2026 and includes a complimentary 30-minute extension with every 60-minute Asian or Ingham Foot Reflexology treatment p

In its first major sustainability drive, Eurotel upcycles old hotel blankets into eco-friendly totes — with 100% of proceeds supporting children with disabilities and their families. QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Eurotel Hotel has given a simple idea a powerful purpose: turning retired hotel linens into eco-friendly tote bags, with every peso of proceeds going to children with disabilities and their families. The hotel formally launched the Eurotel x KPAO Upcycled Tote Bag Proje

Guided by the values of love, honor, dignity, and healing, the Spirit of Sampaguita, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts’ signature brand of service, came to life at the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, further elevating the city’s stature as a rising ASEAN MICE destination. Megaworld Hotels & Resorts brings the spirit of Sampaguita in ASEAN 2026 in Mactan, Cebu. Cebu strengthened its place as a rising MICE hub in Southeast Asia as the Summit returned in 2026, marked by a meaningful display

BAUAN, BATANGAS — Elegance, excitement, and appreciation took center stage as SotoGrande Hotel and Convention Center hosted a memorable Casino Royale-themed Appreciation Night for its valued clients, partners, corporate accounts, and stakeholders. Inspired by the sophistication of the iconic Casino Royale concept, the evening transformed the hotel into a glamour, entertainment, and meaningful connections. Guests enjoyed an evening filled with networking, entertainments and

MANILA, Philippines – Go Hotels Ermita Marks 9th Anniversary with Thanksgiving Mass and Special Room Offer. The celebration reflected the hotel’s gratitude for the unwavering support of its guests, employees, and stakeholders who have been part of its journey since opening its doors in 2017. The Thanksgiving Mass served as a meaningful moment of reflection and appreciation, bringing together the Go Hotels Ermita community to recognize the milestones achieved over the past nin

Cebu City, Philippines — NUSTAR Resort Cebu presents “MALAYA, Flavors of Freedom,” an exclusive six-hands tasting menu happening on June 12, 2026, 7pm at Fina, NUSTAR Resort Cebu’s Filipino dining concept, bringing together some of the country’s most exciting culinary talents in celebration of Philippine Independence Day. The one-night-only six-course dining experience highlights regional heritage and contemporary Filipino gastronomy through a collaborative menu led by Chef

(MANILA, Philippines, June 1, 2026) — The Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) announces the staging of the 37th Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) on September 4 to 6, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City, Halls A–D. Photo 2 Domestic tourists are encouraged to discover and experience the many wonders of the Cordillera's at the PH Travel Mart For this year’s edition, the country's longest-running travel fair carries the theme "Nurturing the Ne