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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FEU Center for the Arts presents WALANG SUGAT in a free admission performance on February 4

In celebration of Far Eastern University’s 98th founding anniversary, the FEU Center for the Arts (FCA) proudly presents WALANG SUGAT, a historic and more than century old sarswela written by Severino Reyes with music by Fulgencio Tolentino.

This special production features arrangements and additional music by Josefino Toledo, an FEU Outstanding Alumnus. Under the direction of Alegria O. Ferrer from the University of the Philippines College of Music, the production brings to life one of the most beloved works in Philippine theater. The musical direction will be led by Roijin Suarez, Artistic Director of the FEU Chorale.

The cast is composed of both current students and alumni from the FEU Chorale, FEU Theater Guild, and FEU Guides, highlighting the University’s diverse artistic community.

The production will also feature special performances from the FEU Bamboo Band, FEU Dance Company, FEU Theater Guild, FEU Drum and Bugle Corps, and FEU Drummers.

This landmark staging not only celebrates FEU’s 98th year of excellence in education and culture but also commemorates the anniversary of the shot that started the Filipino American War on February 4, 1898.

Walang Sugat revolves around the love story of Tenyong and Julia during the time of revolution. While Tenyong takes up arms in the fight for the nation’s freedom, Julia is confronted with pressure and opposition from her family and the church because of her love for him. Through their story, the sarswela depicts the sacrifices demanded by the struggle for independence and the deep wounds left by war and colonization.

Watch the staging of Walang Sugat on February 4 at 5:30 PM at the FEU Auditorium. Admission is free. Register through the QR code or via the link below. https://forms.office.com/r/TLQwAUQYBF

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Hotel101-Manila Welcomes the Official Candidates of the Mr. & Ms. Chinatown Global 2026

(L-R: Liu Chunyan, Macau SAR; Khaokom Seearamroongruang, Thailand; Tang Keyuan, China; Monica Geronimo, Philippines; Sasha Viola, Myanmar; Rochelle Kirsten Canlas, USA; Haurani Elodie Jiying Chan, French Polynesia; Estelinna Ah-Hon, Mauri4us; Kolianne Emilie Mailfait, Cambodia; Charlo5e Yeung, United Kingdom; Tyra Rosnuk, Canada; Belle Nanphasorn, Malaysia; Chris4na Cai, Singapore; Oliver Liu Xu, Switzerland; Adrien Sin On, Mauri4us; Ang Wei Yang, Malaysia; Adriel Kam-Shung Yuan, Australia; Na5akhun Thi4thanon, Thailand; Zhang Ziwen, Hong Kong SAR; Aldrich Chen Kenneth Perez, Philippines; Htoo Aung Wai, Myanmar; Yi Fang Gao, Canada; and Karl Chung-Tan, French Polynesia)

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Love is in the Air: the legendary Hot Air Balloon Fiesta returns to New Clark City on February 13–15, 2026!

Experience riding hot air balloons this Valentine’s weekend—no need to fly abroad—while enjoying drones, paragliders, live music, and more at the Philippines’ longest-running, sky-high adventure!

Love is truly in the air! This Valentine’s weekend, couples and adventure seekers alike can soar above New Clark City, Tarlac, aboard colorful hot air balloons. From February 13–15, 2026, the skies come alive with breathtaking views, magical balloon rides, and unforgettable moments that will make your Valentine’s weekend truly one to remember.

Three Days of Sky-High Adventure
The 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) is back and bigger than ever! For three full days, New Clark City transforms into a playground for lovers of flight and fun. Hot air balloons, drones, paragliders, tech marvels, cars, delicious food, and live music all come together for an adventure you have to see to believe.

  

Set your alarms early for a magical weekend. Balloons take to the skies as early as 6:30 AM, offering a breathtaking morning spectacle as they lift off one by one against the rising sun. Arrive early, look up, and witness one of the most beautiful sights of the Fiesta unfold right before your eyes.

Love Takes Flight: A Valentine’s Dinner Under the Balloons
Celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14 with an unforgettable romantic dinner for ₱1,800 per person, set against the magical sight of hot air balloons burning and glowing to the beat of the live band’s music. Share an intimate evening of great food, enchanting melodies, and a sky illuminated by color, an experience you and your loved one will never forget.

Learn, Fly, and Be Inspired
Step into a world where adventure meets discovery! The Aviation Seminar returns, giving students, aviation enthusiasts, and industry pros a front-row seat to the latest in flying, safety, and aviation innovations. It’s the perfect chance to see the skies come alive, learn from the experts, and be inspired by the magic above New Clark City.

Action in the Air!
From paramotor stunts to paragliding displays, the skies above New Clark City will be packed with jaw-dropping aerial performances. Don’t miss the Kyxz Hoverbike demo—a futuristic look at next-generation flying vehicles that will leave you in awe.

Meet the Stars of the Sky!
This year’s Fiesta features brand-new and whimsical hot air balloons soaring above the Philippines for the first time. Spot Finley the Turtle (UK), Tuca the Toucan (Brazil), Red Macaw (Brazil), Blue Macaw (Brazil), and Walrus (Brazil)—adding playful color to the skies.

 

Festivalgoers can also catch Master Zaba (UK), Gnome (North Macedonia), Winnie (UK), Iggy the Purple Baby Dragon (Netherlands), Te Amo (USA), Frank Boy (Brazil), Babbe the Witch (Belgium), Saxon (USA), Boo (USA), and Cupid’s Heart (Switzerland)—promising magical mornings, unforgettable photo moments, and smiles for all ages.

 

  

Fiesta Favorites Return!
Beloved hot air balloon icons are back to thrill festivalgoers once again. Soar with Yoda, flown by Benoit Lambert (Belgium); join Princess Nelly, piloted by Peter Van Overwalle (Belgium); take to the skies with the Busby, piloted by Paul Burrows (UK); party overhead with Party, flown by Sheryl Reichert (USA); lift off with Bagger, flown by Thomas Grubbstorm (Switzerland); and marvel at La Cartuja, piloted by Fred Kool (Netherlands). These fan favorites promise sky-high thrills, unforgettable smiles, and memories that will last a lifetime for audiences of all ages.

  

Adrenaline and Innovation!
The excitement doesn’t stop with the balloons—thrill-seekers can catch high-octane competitions that push the skies to the limit. Watch precision landings at the Paragliding Accuracy Competition, speed and skill at the FPV Drone Races, and fast-flying drones battle it out in Drone Soccer, a unique mix of sport, strategy, and cutting-edge technology.

 

 

 

Fun on the Ground!
The action isn’t just above the clouds. On the ground, festivalgoers can enjoy car shows and drifting exhibitions, colorful kite-flying demonstrations for the whole family, and the bustling Fly Market, featuring food stalls, local products, and unique finds. As the sun sets, live musical performances light up New Clark City, turning the festival into a vibrant celebration of music, food, and adventure.

Tickets and Details
Be part of the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, happening February 13–15, 2026, at New Clark City, Tarlac. Tickets are available on-site or in advance via HelixPay, SM Tickets, and Klook, with options for every type of visitor:

₱750 – General Admission

₱1,000 – General Admission + Aviation Seminar
₱8,500 – VIP Pass

This event is made possible with the support of valued partners: Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and New Clark City; FedEx as the Official Logistics Provider; Hann Resorts and Casino (Widus, Marriott and Swissotel) as Official Hotel Partner; NuStar Online as Lifestyle Gaming Partner; with Festival Friends - McDonald’s Philippines, Converge and Prulife UK; and Official Media Partners - BusinessMirror (Print Media Partner), PTV4, and Asian Air Safari.

Stay updated with schedules, announcements, and festival news at www.philballoonfest.net. Follow the Fiesta on social media for sneak peeks and live updates: Facebook (www.facebook.com/pihabf),Instagram (https://instagram.com/philballoonfest), and TikTok (www.tiktok.com/@philballoonfiesta).

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