A Closer Look at The Manila Hotel Guest Experience

The Manila Hotel, the Grand Dame of the Philippines, continues to set the standard for luxury by blending its storied past with thoughtful, modern comforts—offering guests an experience that is memorable, welcoming, and distinctly special.

A New Layer of Elegance

In its commitment to preserving timeless elegance, The Manila Hotel has unveiled new carpeting throughout the Main Building. The refreshed look complements the hotel’s classic aesthetic while creating plush, revitalized ambiance. The result is a softer, more inviting atmosphere, one that makes every walk through the halls and into the guest rooms feel relaxed and unhurried.

A Stay That Comes Fully Stocked

Luxury at The Manila Hotel is felt in the little details. Guests booking the best available rate (BAR) directly in the website or via hotel reservations officers will find a fully stocked complimentary mini bar in their room, replenished daily. This simple yet indulgent touch turns every stay into a personal retreat, setting the tone for a visit that feels like home.

Special Discount for In-House Guests

True to its legacy of hospitality, all checked-in guests enjoy 20% off across most of the hotel’s celebrated dining outlets and The Manila Hotel Spa. From the refined elegance of the Champagne Room and the traditional Chinese flavors of Red Jade, to the renowned buffet at Café Ilang-Ilang, as well as relaxed moments at the Lobby Lounge, Tap Room, and Pool Bar, guests can savor every dining experience at added value. The same discount extends to the Spa, where guests can escape the city’s hustle and unwind in tranquility.

Stress-Free Daily Transfers

Understanding that Metro Manila’s vibrancy also lies beyond its grand doors, the hotel offers complimentary daily scheduled transfers to SM Mall of Asia and Robinson’s Place Manila, providing access for those seeking retail, entertainment, or a leisurely day out.

Culinary Fun for Junior Guests

For families, the hotel continues to be a haven for shared experiences. Every Sunday, Café Ilang-Ilang comes alive as a playful kitchen for little chefs. Children aged 5 to 12 can join the complimentary Kiddie Culinary classes, where they can try their hand at pizza making or cupcake decorating guided by the hotel’s skilled chefs. This delightful experience is available to junior guests who avail the Sunday lunch buffet at Café Ilang-Ilang, ensuring fun for the kids while parents savor the feast.

“At The Manila Hotel, we aim to provide more than just a room, we offer a legacy of service and a gateway to the best of Filipino hospitality. We invite our guests to fully immerse themselves in the luxury, comfort, and thoughtful touches that make their stay with us unforgettable,” shares Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 8527 0011 or +632 85301 5500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

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FEU Theater Guild presents "BANGAW" beginning March 5

An adventurous reimagination of William Golding’s Lord of the Flies set amidst the isolation of an island of freedom and fear.

In its 92nd season, the Far Eastern University Theater Guild (FTG) presents BANGAW, a Filipino play with music adapted from William Golding’s classic story, Lord of the Flies. Written by Gold Villar-Lim, with music by Vince Lim, and directed by PETA Senior Artist-Teacher and FTG Artistic Director Dudz Teraña, the production explores the meaning of survival through a distinctly Filipino lens.

Bangaw is a bold theatrical experience that follows a group of students forced into isolation as they navigate authority and belonging within a fragile, self-made community. Rooted in contemporary cultural and political realities, the production interrogates leadership and identity in a society shaped by the consequences of the present. Through an ensemble-driven performance, the play becomes a reflection on what it means to inherit a fractured world—and the responsibility that comes with shaping what follows.

Layered with original music by Gold Villar-Lim, with two additional songs by Dudz Teraña, Bangaw blends symbolic movement and raw emotional expression with rhythmic, realistic storytelling. Traditional and modern Filipino soundscapes pulse throughout the production, serving as both atmosphere and metaphor for a nation caught between collapse and renewal. Beyond performance, the work confronts pressing societal concerns—division, abuse of power, systemic failure, moral decay, and patriarchy—while foregrounding enduring Filipino values such as bayanihan, resilience, and strategic intelligence, resulting in a multi-layered theatrical experience that challenges perspectives, provokes dialogue, and invites audiences to reflect on the kind of future being shaped today.

What’s Bugging Us?
Set on a remote island in Visayas, Bangaw follows a group of high school students from different schools who end up stranded after a plane crash. With no adults, no government, and no rules, their attempt to reconstruct order quickly unravels. What begins as a mission of survival is disrupted by a growing fascination with hunting and the belief that a monster lurks in the forest. The group fractures further after a boar is killed and its head transformed into an idol—the Lord of the Flies. A hallucination is mistaken as proof of the monster’s existence, sparking a killing frenzy that claims two lives and brings their fragile civilization to brutal collapse.

At the center of Bangaw is Raf (Sam Siasoyco IAS ‘29), whose attempt to uphold order becomes a fragile anchor amid growing unrest. Opposing him is Jack (Aldin Covarrubias ITHM ‘28, Dave Bambang IARFA ‘29), whose descent into dominance and violence drives the group apart.

Caught between reason and survival are the twins Sam (Dianne Andallo ITHM ‘26, Trisha Nilayan IAS ‘29) and Erich (Maria Ysabel delos Reyes IAS ‘27, Althea Sibulo FIT ‘27), while Simone (Heleina Li IAS ‘26, Julia Nicole Ramas FIT ‘26) emerges as a quiet moral compass. Adding complexity is Tabeks (Jharelle Villalobos IAS ‘27, Edrud Madalan FIT ‘27), who challenges rigid hierarchies, while the younger children—Tiny (Marjorie Uson IAS ‘27, Francine Galvez IAS ‘28), Matty (Melenne Hokase IAS ‘28, Margarita Barrameda IAS ‘26), and Caleb (Julian Rafael Anabo IAS ‘27, Lorenze Moral IAS ‘26)—align with Raf, embodying innocence and vulnerability amid chaos.

Supporting Jack are Apple (Janae Dionisio IAS ‘28, Ayessa Raymundo IAS ‘28), Pat (Bjorn Pestaño IAS ‘26, Charlene Libo-on IAS ‘28), Phil (Zoe Sisam IAS ‘29, Shekinah Resurreccion FIT ‘27), Robert (Justin Abalos IAS ‘28, Renz Dotillos IAS ‘26), Morris (Kevin Ricaforte IAS ‘28, Miguel Galpo IAS ‘28), and Roger (Shawn Tarala IAS ‘27, Kirstan Orbegoso IAS ‘27), forming a choir-like faction that amplifies tension.

 
The ensemble is rounded out by Marc Ducut IAS ‘27, Kristian Samson IAS ‘26, Johann Umali IAS ‘29, John Andrei Cruz IAS ‘29, and Cris Jay Cabides IAS ‘29. Hovering over the narrative is the haunting Panginoong Bangaw, while the Piloto will be alternately portrayed by Aldin Covarrubias and Dave Bambang. Parachutists serve as distant echoes of the adult world left behind.

Bangaw promises a gripping theatrical experience that merges powerful storytelling, music, and movement to challenge perspectives, provoke dialogue, and immerse audiences in a uniquely Filipino exploration of survival, morality, and the consequences of human choices.

BANGAW will run at the FEU Center for the Arts Studio on the following dates:
March: 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28
April: 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25

The house will open at 6 PM and the show will start at 6:30 PM.

Ticket Prices:
₱100 – Students from FEU (all branches)
₱200 – Students from outside FEU Manila
₱500 – Regular Guests
₱700 – VIP

Connect via: Facebook: Far Eastern University Theater Guild
Instagram & TikTok: @feutheaterguildofficial
Twitter/X: @ftg1934

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Tickets for PETA’s Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 4 Goes Live Starting Feb 27

Metrobank Credit Cardholders get first access to tickets for PETA’s most anticipated show of 2026

Ticket selling officially begins on February 27 for the Philippine Educational Theater Association’s (PETA) biggest theatrical event of 2026, Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sh*t! It’s Live Sa Cheter! —with Metrobank credit cardholders enjoying exclusive first access to the highly anticipated production.

Excitement is already building as fans eagerly await their chance to see Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank come alive on stage. After two blockbuster films and a hit series, the beloved satire makes its long-awaited return—this time with sharper humor, bolder commentary, and all the chaos that can only happen in a live theater setting.

Widely regarded as one of the most iconic performers of her generation, Eugene Domingo reprises her role, bringing her sharp comedic brilliance and fearless energy back to live theater. Her comeback has been eagerly awaited by fans and theater lovers alike, making this production not just a new chapter in the franchise but a landmark event celebrating her enduring impact on Filipino storytelling.

As the Official Bank Partner of PETA’s 58th Theater Season, Metrobank marks its third year of partnership by continuing to champion original Filipino works that push creative boundaries, spark national conversations, and support local artists and homegrown storytelling.

 

Metrobank credit cardholders can enjoy exclusive presale access from February 27 at 10:00 AM to March 3 at 11:59 PM via TicketWorld.

A Waitlist Sale follows from March 4 at 10:00 AM to March 5 at 11:59 PM, open to patrons who signed up last December 2025, while the General Public Sale begins on March 6 at 10:00 AM.

 

Written by Chris Martinez and to be directed by Maribel Legarda, Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sh*t! It’s Live Sa Cheter! will run for 50 shows from June 19 to August 16, 2026, at the PETA Theater Center.

Ticket prices:

• P3,500 (VIP)
• P2,800 (Orchestra and Balcony Center)
• P2,500 (Orchestra Side)
• P1,800 (Balcony Side).

Audiences are encouraged to create their TicketWorld accounts in advance, as tickets are expected to sell out fast.

For more updates, follow @petatheater on social media.

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The Worth-It Way to Celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong and Macau

Sneaker Street

When you think of traveling to Hong Kong, it’s easy to see why Macau is often visited too—they’re just so close! With its endless shopping spots, iconic attractions, and mouthwatering delicacies, these places have become popular holiday destinations for many Filipinos - especially during Chinese New Year.

Trips to these cities can feel pricey, especially if you’re traveling with family. But it doesn’t always have to be that way! There are plenty of cool spots and tasty eats in both cities where you can score great value without sacrificing the experience.

With your GCash Visa Card and e-wallet, every swipe, scan, or tap helps your money go further—thanks to lower forex rates, more deals, easy payments, real-time spend tracking, and no more counting change.

And if you want great value, you can get that for sure when you use the ultimate shopping hack from GCash. All you need is your GCash Visa Card and e-wallet so you can Swipe-Scan-Tap. When you do, you can stretch every peso, thanks to lower forex rates, more deals, easy payments, real-time spend tracking, and no more counting change.

If you’re heading to Hong Kong and Macau for the Lunar New Year, check out these stops that are perfect for families and guaranteed to give a worth it experience.

Macau Tower

Shop sulit and smart hauls at wholesale stores and markets
Hong Kong is admittedly a shopping haven - but if you want to shop smart, you need to know where to go. Lung Fung Mall offers beauty, skincare, and health products at friendlier prices than malls. You can find fragrances, skincare, and other beauty products at reduced prices at their many locations across Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, if you’re finally ready to buy that brand new item you’ve been saving up for, like new running shoes, a bag, or workout gear, Citygate Outlets is your best option. They carry many brands, such as Lululemon, Evisu, Marimekko, and many more.

For seasoned travellers who frequent Hong Kong, going to Mong Kok to buy clothes, snacks, and a wide variety of anik-anik is also a no-brainer. If you’ve ever heard of Sneaker Street and Ladies Market, you can find things for you and for your pasalubong back home. The best part is that you can still haggle the prices in certain stores, making shopping in the area even more budget-friendly—so get your tawad skills ready!

And when carrying multiple bags after your pasalubong spree becomes a hassle, you can tap your way to easy, convenient payments with GCash Tap to Pay. Available for all NFC-enabled Android smartphones, it lets you pay with just one tap—making it much easier to get around the often-crowded streets.

Lung Fung Mall

Discover hidden gems and family fun in Macau
Macau isn’t just about its famous landmarks and beautiful architecture – though it is worth going just to see them for yourself. But there are also many fun experiences that the family can enjoy, and it’s all just a convenient ferry ticket away! These boat trips take about an hour from the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal, and you can secure your tickets by paying with GCash Scan to Pay for a hassle-free experience. Simply generate your QR code and select Pay Abroad with GCash, and look for merchants with a QR code bearing the A+ logo to scan. If you’re looking for local delicacies, head over to Taipa Village, where you can stock up on crowd favorites like beef jerky and almond cookies. These treats are delicious, affordable, and loved by locals!

You can also book tickets to team Lab SuperNature Macau, an incredible interactive art space with 8-meter-tall, colorful exhibitions that kids and adults will enjoy.

Team Lab Macau

Here’s a secret hack when paying with GCash abroad: some merchants also offer special promos and discounts up to PHP 1,500 off, just tap Travel and go into Travel Treats to browse what’s available.

Eat without the splurge at Yung’s Tangerine Peel Roast Goose and Cheung Hing Kee
One of the best parts of traveling to Hong Kong and Macao is the food. You can’t leave Hong Kong without trying their roast goose, and a great spot to try is Yung's Tangerine Peel Roast Goose. Yung’s is rich and flavorful, and best of all, budget friendly.

Yung's Tangerine Peel Roast Goose

When you hear that a restaurant has been recognized by Michelin, would you believe that you don’t have to pay a fortune for high-quality food? Because that’s what you can expect from MICHELIN Bib Gourmand Cheung Hing Kee Shanghai Pan-fried Buns at Lock Road. Other than their pan-fried buns, their scallion noodles and wontons are a must-try—perfect bites to snack on when you want to refuel while exploring the city.

 

Scan, Swipe, and Tap for a sulit and enjoyable trip
Traveling on a budget doesn’t have to mean limiting yourself. When you pay with GCash abroad, you get real-time control over your spending, low forex rates updated instantly in-app, and fast, convenient transactions throughout your trip — all while enjoying to the fullest.

Card, Tap to Pay, Scan to Pay

Remember to scan, swipe, and tap for an experience you’ll definitely say is worth it! Download the GCash app today to get started.

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Smart, Scalable, and Connected: Daikin’s Blueprint for Modern Buildings

The seminar highlighted VRV systems, MARUTTO, and the future of integrated HVAC.

Daikin Airconditioning Philippines, Inc. brought the spotlight to the future of township cooling and connected building design during the Daikin Solutions Seminar 2026, held last January 23 at Solaire North in Quezon City. Designed for developers, consultants, and industry partners, the seminar focused on how smart, integrated HVAC systems can support the growing complexity of mixed-use developments while delivering long-term energy efficiency, centralized control, and operational reliability.

With over 100 years of global expertise, Daikin continues to host solutions-driven seminars to share technical knowledge, promote sustainable cooling practices, and demonstrate the value of end-to-end HVAC systems that respond to real-world development needs. This year’s seminar highlighted two key themes shaping today’s built environment: Smart Township Cooling Solutions for Modern Mixed-Use Developments and Connected Comfort through Limitless Accessibility in Modern Building Design.

Daikin Philippines President, Mr. Hirohide Kinugawa

Daikin Philippines President Mr. Hirohide Kinugawa emphasized that HVAC has evolved beyond a standalone system to become a strategic driver of overall building performance. He explained, “Air conditioning is no longer just an equipment; it is a foundation that protects building quality and future value,” highlighting how energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability must work together to safeguard the long-term value of modern developments. Kinugawa added that today’s systems play a far greater role than providing comfort alone. “In large, mixed-use developments, HVAC must support energy efficiency, operational stability, and long-term building value. At Daikin, we design systems that help townships perform efficiently today while remaining adaptable for the future. Together, let’s create comfortable, energy-saving spaces across the Philippines.”

Smart Township Cooling for Mixed-Use Developments
As townships continue to expand beyond Metro Manila, cooling requirements have become more complex, spanning residential, office, hotel, and retail environments within a single development. According to Mr. Wesley Andre Chu, Deputy Division Manager for Project Sales, Daikin sees townships as integrated ecosystems that require cohesive HVAC strategies rather than isolated systems. “Townships bring together multiple asset types with different usage patterns,” Chu shared. “Our goal is to provide developers and consultants with practical, integrated solutions that deliver efficiency, comfort, and long-term value across the entire development.”

Daikin PH Deputy Division Manager - Project Sales, Mr. Wesley Andre Chu

Daikin’s approach to township cooling centers on scalable VRV (Variable Refrigerant Volume) systems, chillers for large commercial spaces, and intelligent ventilation solutions that allow different building types to operate efficiently under one coordinated system. By designing HVAC from the master-planning stage, developers gain better energy performance, simplified operations, and future-ready infrastructure.

Connected Comfort and Limitless Accessibility

Beyond cooling capacity, connectivity has become a defining requirement of modern building design. Daikin emphasized that connected HVAC systems allow building owners and operators to monitor, manage, and optimize performance across multiple buildings in real time. This vision was highlighted by Mr. Andrew Hobbs, Head of Business Development – Solutions at Daikin Holdings Singapore, who presented case studies on hybrid and mixed-use developments across the region. He explained how centralized systems and predictive analytics enable operators to balance comfort and efficiency while reducing operational risks. “In large, mixed-use developments, visibility and control are critical,” Hobbs said. “Connected HVAC systems allow operators to anticipate issues, manage energy use more effectively, and maintain consistent comfort across different building types.”

Daikin Holdings Singapore Head of Business Development Solutions, Mr. Andrew Hobbs

MARUTTO: Preventive Maintenance at Scale

A central focus of the event was MARUTTO, Daikin’s cloud-based HVAC control and monitoring platform, positioned as a best solution for preventive maintenance in large-scale developments. MARUTTO provides a comprehensive, centralized building solution that enables monitoring and control across extensive portfolios while improving equipment reliability and extending lifecycle performance. The platform integrates advanced energy optimization and performance management with simplified dashboards tailored to different user types, enhancing engagement and usability for end users. Workflow management for maintenance, service, and lifecycle activities, combined with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning capabilities, allows building operators to predict energy demand, detect inefficiencies early, and shift from reactive maintenance to proactive system management.

By identifying potential issues before they escalate, MARUTTO helps reduce downtime, lower operating costs, and extend equipment lifespan. For township-scale developments, this level of preventive maintenance supports stable operations, preserves long-term asset value, and ensures consistent comfort for all occupants.

Building Long-Term Value Through Integrated Solutions
The event also highlighted the need for stronger collaboration as developments become larger and more complex. Emphasizing the role of integrated systems in shaping modern townships, Mr. Tomohiro Kure, Vice President of Daikin Philippines, shared a vision of working closely with partners to deliver lasting value. “Together, we can raise the value of homes, offices, retail, and hotels across entire townships as we build better spaces and stronger communities,” he said.

Daikin Philippines Vice President, Mr. Tomohiro Kure

Sharing Expertise for Future-Ready Developments
Through the Daikin Solutions Seminar 2026, the company strengthened its commitment to sharing expertise, supporting industry partners, and advancing smart, sustainable cooling solutions tailored for modern Philippine developments. By combining township-scale planning, connected HVAC systems, and preventive maintenance platforms like MARUTTO, Daikin continues to help developers and consultants design environments that are efficient, resilient, and built for the long term.

For product inquiries, service assistance, or more information, you may contact the Daikin Cool Line at #324546 or visit the official Daikin Philippines website at www.daikin.com.ph. Updates are also available on its official social media channels: Facebook, Instagram , X, formerly Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

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Say “I Love You” with Gifts That Speak from the Heart at SM Malls in the East Metro

Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love in all its forms: romantic, playful, thoughtful, and sweet. This year, make your “I love you” extra meaningful with gifts that reflect your partner’s personality and the moments you share, all conveniently found at SM Supermalls in the East Metro. Whether you’re shopping for your significant other, your bestie, or even yourself, because self-love counts, these gift ideas turn simple gestures into heartfelt surprises.

Valentine’s Day gifts can speak volumes about the kind of love you share. For couples on the go, practical and thoughtful items that keep up with shared routines, like matching running shoes, remind partners that love is a journey best taken side by side. For those who lean into classic romance, timeless gestures such as fresh flowers and sweet treats create warm, comforting moments that linger in memory.

Matchy Adizeros for a running date or a long day of gala at the mall
📍Sports Central, SM City Marikina 📍Adidas, SM City Masinag

Give a bouquet of flowers and get a smile as sweet as your love in return.
📍SM Supermarket Marikina, Masinag, San Mateo and Antipolo Downtown

Sweet indulgences like Belgian chocolates or beautifully packaged confections are perfect for sharing or savoring one piece at a time, making every bite a celebration of love. For those who love a touch of luxury, lingering perfumes from SM Store adds bold, romantic flair, leaving a lasting impression long after Valentine’s Day. Modern romantics and those embracing their self-love era can enjoy stylish everyday items like a handy flask for spontaneous outdoor dates, while playful slip-on comfort shoes with quirky accents bring personality and fun, proving that love doesn’t always have to be serious to be special.

Say it with a box of chocolates—the sweetest way to express your love, literally.
📍SM Supermarket Masinag

Smell romantic and luxurious at the same time on a date night with YSL Black Opium Eau De Parfum
📍SM Store Marikina

Build your sweetie's Sunnies Flask to match their personal flair.
📍Sunnies Flask, SM City Marikina

This Valentine’s Day, let your gifts say what words sometimes can’t. Shop, surprise, and celebrate Valentine’s Day at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown. Make it a date, make it memorable—only at SM, your most-loved Valentine’s shopping destination in the East Metro.

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Max Out Your Shopping at SM City Masinag’s 3-Day Sale

Get ready to max out your shopping gala at the most-preferred shopping destination in lower Antipolo! SM City Masinag is turning up the excitement with its much-anticipated 3-Day Sale happening on February 13, 14, and 15—three full days of unbeatable deals, exciting promos, and chances to win big.

From fashion must-haves and home essentials to gadgets, gift ideas, and the perfect Valentine’s Day gifts, this is your sign to gala to the max and enjoy discounts of up to 70% off from your favorite stores. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, finding that special gift, or ticking items off your list, this is the perfect time to shop more, save more, and truly max out the experience.

Shop ‘Til You Win—Literally
Every ₱1,000 single or accumulated purchase earns you an e-raffle entry for a chance to win a brand-new Suzuki DZire GL CVT Hybrid. You can boost your chances even more by shopping on Saturday and Sunday, when you earn double e-raffle entries.

You can also earn additional entries while you dine or watch a movie—get one (1) e-raffle entry for every ₱250 single-receipt purchase at the SM Foodcourt, and one (1) e-raffle entry with every single receipt purchase of four (4) cinema tickets at SM Cinema.

Extra Wins at SM Store
Make your sale finds even sweeter with exclusive perks at SM Store:

• Up to 50% off on select items
• Exclusive early access to extra 10% off for SM Prestige Cardholders on February 12
• SMAC Weekend with extra 10% off for SMAC Cardholders on February 13, 14, and 15

This February, max out the deals, the fun, and the wins at SM City Masinag—your go-to and most-preferred shopping destination in lower Antipolo. With three days of irresistible discounts, exciting games, and major prizes, this is one shopping event you won’t want to miss.

Head to SM City Masinag and max out your shopping experience this 3-Day Sale.

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