The Next Door Opens: Smart Yale Home Pop-up Booth Brings Special Perks, Gifts, and Savings to Wilcon Depot Balintawak

A new star joins the second leg of the Smart Yale Home Pop-up Booth Roadshow this June at Wilcon Depot Balintawak as Yale Zuri makes its debut, featuring its sleek silver finish designed for modern living

Fresh from a successful kickoff last May, Yale Home Philippines continues its Smart Yale Home Pop-up Booth Roadshow with its second stop at Wilcon Depot Balintawak, running from June 15 to 30, 2026. Bringing to life the experience “Unlock Real Life Security. Upgrade to a Smart Yale Home,” the immersive “Y”-shaped booth remains on display, giving visitors an up-close look at Yale’s latest innovations, including the flagship Yale Luna Elite+, Yale Uno, Yale YDL325 Series, and the Yale Solis Safe Series, with a first-hand preview of the Yale Zuri also part of the experience.

As one of the country’s key destinations for homeowners, builders, designers, and renovators, Wilcon Depot Balintawak serves as the venue for this stop, celebrating progress toward future-ready living. With over 100 branches nationwide, Wilcon continues to champion “Building Big Ideas” by bringing together home improvement and smart security to meet the growing demand for homes that are not only well-designed and functional but also safe, convenient, and ready for modern lifestyles.

To celebrate the roadshow's arrival at Wilcon Depot Balintawak, Yale is offering exclusive promotions* available only from June 15 to 30, 2026:

The Complete Smart Elite Bundle

The Yale Luna Elite+, Yale Home’s flagship smart lock, will be available at 35% off, bringing its price down to ₱55,243 from ₱84,990. Customers will also receive a free Yale Smart Video Doorbell and Chime, limited to the first 20 purchases each, along with free installation within Metro Manila.

Premium Safety, Extraordinary Savings

The Yale Uno smart lock offers everyday safety at a more accessible price, now available at 25% off, now at ₱12,743 from ₱16,990, with free installation within Metro Manila.

The Perfect Shape of Smart Security

Designed for modern indoor spaces, the Yale YDL325 Series combines style and safety in one seamless solution, available at 20% off, now at ₱7,992 from ₱9,990, also with free installation within Metro Manila.

Smart Defense for Your Peace of Mind

Customers looking for a secure storage can also enjoy special prices on the Yale Solis Safe Series, all offered at 20% off:

• Yale Solis 230L – ₱11,192 (from ₱13,990)
• Yale Solis 250 – ₱11,592 (from ₱14,490)
• Yale Solis 400 – ₱13,192 (from ₱16,490)
• Yale Solis 560 – ₱15,992 (from ₱19,990)

Sophisticated Silver, Exceptional Value

Making its way into the spotlight, the Yale Zuri introduces a fresh take on smart home protection with a sleek design and intuitive functionality. It is available at 30% off, now priced at ₱19,500 from ₱27,990, and is available in all Limson Marketing stores nationwide.

In addition to these special offers, customers can also enjoy exclusive rewards available only at Wilcon Depot Balintawak:

An Elite Gift for Our Very First Customer

Be the very first customer in line to purchase a Yale Luna Elite+ and make your way to owning a Yale Uno smart lock as compliment, available on June 16–17, 2026.

A Grand Reward for Our Ultimate Customer

Make the highest single-receipt purchase of Yale Smart Locks and take home a Yale Luna Pro+ as an exclusive reward, running from June 16–30, 2026.

With the growing demand for connected living and smarter home solutions, the Smart Yale Home Pop-up Booth offers consumers a chance to explore the future of home security firsthand. Whether building a new home, upgrading existing security systems, or starting a smart home journey, visitors can discover practical solutions that combine trusted everyday protection with modern convenience.

Trusted Every Day: Unlock Real Life Security. Upgrade to a Smart Yale Home
This June, take the next step toward smarter living with Yale’s latest innovations. Designed to fit effortlessly into everyday routines, Yale’s smart security solutions combine convenience, reliability, and effortless confidence. Visit Wilcon Depot Balintawak and discover a brand that has been Trusted Every Day for over 180 years.

For more information, visit and follow Yale Home Philippines on social media:
Facebook (www.facebook.com/yalehomephilippines),
Instagram (https://instagram.com/yalehomephilippines), and
TikTok (tiktok.com/@yalehomephilippines).

You can also follow Wilcon Depot on:
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WilconDepot.PH),
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/wilcondepot.ph/), and
TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@wilcondepot.ph).

Join the conversation using #YaleHomePhilippines #TrustedEveryDay #MySmartYaleHome #ASSAABLOYPH #WilconDepot

* DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-258986 Series of 2026

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Faith, Love, and Mysticism Come Alive in Ang Pagbuo ng Baliana

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with MINT College and Kids Acts Philippines Inc., proudly presents Ang Pagbuo ng Baliana, the Grand Winner of the Playwriting Category of the Season 1 Young Creative Challenge. Written by Esmeralda Cado Albis, the musical play will be staged on June 10, 2026 (Wednesday), 7:00 PM at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, 4/F RCBC Plaza, Ayala Avenue, Makati City. Admission is FREE to the public.

Rooted in the rich traditions of Camarines Sur in the Bicol Region, Ang Pagbuo ng Baliana explores a century-old religious rite that continues to thrive in Sitio Baras, Malitbog, Minalabac. Through music, poetry, and drama, the production brings to life a deeply spiritual practice that celebrates faith, devotion, and the enduring connection between the living and those who have passed on.

The musical weaves together the worlds of humanity, the ethereal realm, and the Heavens, portraying a mystical journey where compassion, memory, and love transcend death. At its heart is a powerful message of eternal union and the belief that love remains unbroken even beyond earthly life.

Audiences will be captivated by the lyrical beauty of Bicolano texts, enriched by beloved Filipino folk melodies and original compositions based on the playwright’s written lyrics. Leading the cast is rising P-pop star Joshua Ryan Nubla as Arnold, alongside Danielle Delica as Esmeralda, with a talented ensemble of seasoned and emerging performers, Ces Dela Cruz-Guevara, Terence Guillermo, Rowel Robles, Zee Rizon, Rhoger Escorial, Josh Almeda, Ariz Pangilinan, Nina Ty, Ji Corpuz, Maxinne Lopez, Paulo Javier, Jesu Miguel Tan, Marcus Santos, Audrey Flores, Yassi Tan, Cheska Sangco, Bien Juni, and Chelsea Sangco.

 

Bringing the production to life are award-winning creative talents, with original music by Eugene Belbis and stage direction by Luigi Nacario and Meldrig Costuna.

For updates on the Young Creative Challenge and other post-competition activities, follow DTI Malikhaing Pinoy and Young Creatives Challenge. Continue supporting Filipino creativity and innovation through the growing community of local artists and storytellers.

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Acclaimed Soprano Tinette Serafin de Ocampo returns home for Manila Concert Series

After years of building an acclaimed career across Europe, Milan-based Filipino spinto soprano Christiana “Tinette” Serafin de Ocampo returns to Manila for a special two-month homecoming concert series.

 

More than a return visit, Tinette's homecoming marks a new chapter as she establishes an Asian base while continuing her international engagements throughout Europe and expanding her artistic work across the Asia-Pacific region. Through a series of concerts, lectures, and collaborations, she hopes to share her extensive experience with local audiences and emerging Filipino artists.

Fresh from the success of her recent performances Ritoma Vincitor! Arias Unleashed and Curtains Up: Opera Meets Broadway, Tinette is set to headline the following events:

ENCORE!
June 13, 6 PM
Manila Pianos Showroom, Ronac Lifestyle Center, Makati
Featuring opera arias by Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, Strauss, and Massenet, with pianist Dr. Peter Porticos.
Tickets: 0917-4158876

CELLI SENTIMENTAL
June 14, 7 PM
Centro de Turismo, Intramuros
A collaboration with cellist Damodar Das Castillo and the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra under guest conductor Dr. Renato Lucas.
Tickets: Ticket2Me.com

OPERA UP CLOSE: A Concert Lecture Series
July 11, 6 PM
Sunshine Place, Makati
An intimate exploration of opera featuring pianist Mariel Ilusorio.
Tickets: sandy.hontiveros@gmail.com

CANCIONES VON GUITARRA
August 8, 6 PM
Varlez Pianos, Ortigas Avenue
A special recital highlighting voice and guitar-inspired repertoire.
Tickets: Richard Sy Facunda 0917-415-8876 rsyfacunda@gmail.com

Born in Manila, Tinette's musical journey has taken her from New York's New England Conservatory to Vienna, Paris, and Milan, where she refined her artistry under renowned vocal mentors and built a reputation for her interpretations of dramatic and spinto soprano roles. Her career has included performances across the United States and Europe, alongside a growing commitment to vocal pedagogy and artist development.

Now back in the Philippines, Tinette brings decades of international experience to local audiences, continuing a remarkable artistic journey that bridges cultures, continents, and generations through music.

For updates, follow Christiana Serafin de Ocampo on Facebook, YouTube (@christianaserafindeocampo), and Instagram (@serafinvocalacademy).

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Gold Is the New “It Girl” of Investments for Younger Generations

The new investment obsession? Digital gold, but make it accessible with GCrypto

What do Sabrina Carpenter, matcha, and ballet flats have in common? They all had their undeniable “It Girl” moment—dominating conversations, shaping trends, and suddenly becoming everyone’s latest obsession. But what if investments had an “It Girl” too? Surprisingly, gold seems to be stepping into the spotlight.

Traditionally associated with family heirlooms, safety deposit boxes, or something your tita’s forever- reliable financial advice, gold has long been seen as a safe but somewhat old-school investment. However, a report by Reuters shows that, as early as 2024, younger generations are already looking to gold to make smarter financial decisions in an economy that feels anything but predictable. Younger investors are increasingly drawn to gold for its perceived stability and long-term value.

And honestly, it tracks. Between rising costs, market swings, and the pressure to make money grow, high-barrier investments are starting to lose their shine. Instead, many younger investors are gravitating toward options that feel more stable, tangible, and easier to understand. Yahoo Finance reports that younger investors are increasingly prioritizing lower-risk, long-term assets, and part of that consideration is an investment in gold, now seen as a time-tested store of value that feels a lot less “for someday” and a lot more for right now.

Why Gold Is Having a Comeback: The Economy Made Her Do It

Gold’s growing appeal didn’t happen by accident. According to a 2025 article by EBC Financial Group, rising geopolitical tensions, inflation worries, recession fears, and ongoing market volatility have pushed investors back toward safer assets like gold, reinforcing its long-standing role as a “safe haven” during uncertain times. The result: stronger demand and record-high prices as investors look for something that doesn’t flinch every time markets do.

Younger Filipinos, in particular, are becoming more intentional about how they grow their money—not justcfor short-term gains, but for building a more secure future. In fact, younger consumers increasingly prefer low-effort, practical ways to manage and grow their finances, according to recent findings covered by the Q4 2025 TransUnion Consumer Pulse Study.

The mindset shift is clear: investing is no longer about guessing—it’s about planning for long-term stability and future goals.

This is where gold quietly reclaims the narrative—not as an intimidating, high-ticket asset, but as something far more accessible than its reputation suggests. What was once seen as expensive or physically out of reach is now being reinterpreted by younger investors as a practical way to build wealth over time through low-barrier, flexible options that actually fit their lifestyle.

Enter Digital Gold: The Easier Way In

Enter digital gold—no vault visits, no jewelry store negotiations, and definitely no need for large upfront commitments. Just a simpler way to start small and build steadily in a format that actually fits how people manage money today.

This is where Gold on GCrypto comes in—your easy access point to digital gold, seamlessly available within the GCash ecosystem and designed as a first step into exploring digital assets.

Entry starts as low as PHP 500, making it easy to begin investing and grow your holdings through small, consistent contributions at your own pace. It’s also built with trust in mind: offered through GCash as a vetted partner, with digital gold fully insured, certified, and backed by 100% physical gold stored in high-security vaults in Switzerland.

And because modern investors don’t want to “set and forget,” visibility and control are built in. Users can monitor their gold anytime, anywhere, and buy or sell 24/7—no waiting, no guesswork, just real-time access to their investment. In short: it’s gold, but upgraded for how people actually live today.

Younger generations are no longer waiting for a “perfect time” or a big bankroll to start investing—they’re starting where they are, with what they have. Digital gold reflects that shift: practical, accessible, and far less intimidating than traditional entry points.

Every era has its obsession, and for younger investors navigating an unpredictable economy, gold may just be having its moment—not as an untouchable luxury, but as an investment that finally meets people where they are.

Ready to start investing in digital Gold? Open the GCash app, go to the Invest tab, then choose GCrypto > Gold to begin building your digital gold portfolio. Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

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16th Gawad Buhay! Awards Nominations

The 16th Gawad Buhay! Awards nominations were announced on May 26, with Tanghalang Pilipino’s (TP) “Kisapmata” and The Sandbox Collective’s “Side Show” leading the tally with 14 nods apiece.

“Kisapmata,” a new adaptation of the eponymous 1981 film directed by Mike de Leon, was nominated for every category it was eligible for: all five performance categories, six design categories, direction and production of a play, and original script (penned by Guelan Varela-Luarca with the TP Actors Company).

“Side Show,” the 1997 Broadway musical about a pair of conjoined twins in vaudeville-era America, scored nominations for its four alternating actresses who played the twins, and was the only production recognized in all seven design categories.

Full House Theater Company’s “Shrek the Musical,” the 2008 Broadway adaptation of the acclaimed animated film from 2001, landed 12 nominations, while Barefoot Theatre Collaborative’s “We Aren’t Kids Anymore,” a song cycle by Drew Gasparini, followed with nine.

All 18 eligible Philstage productions that opened between January 1 to December 31, 2025 garnered a nomination. These nominations were drawn from a pool of 155 citations determined through four separate meetings by a 13-person independent jury of theater practitioners, academics, reviewers, and journalists. For the first time since 2015, every competitive category had a recipient for a citation. Among the 78 nominated individuals, 25 (or 32%) are first-time nominees.

The following productions were co-produced with non-Philstage member companies: “Come From Away” (Stages Production Specialists, Inc. with GMG Productions), “Kaliwaan” (Stages Production Specialists, Inc. with MusicArtes, Inc.), “Nobody Is Home” (Philippine Educational Theater Association with Mecklenburgisches Staatstheater), and “Via Dolorosa” (The Necessary Theatre with WHYNot Manila).

The 16th Gawad Buhay! Awards ceremonies will be held on July 28, 2026 at Aliw Theater, Pasay City. 

See below for the complete list of nominations:

Outstanding Original Script

1. Chesie Galvez-Cariño (‘The Foxtrot’)
2. Liza Magtoto, J-mee Katanyag, Nina Gühlstorff, and the cast of ‘Nobody Is Home’ (‘Nobody Is Home’)

Outstanding Translation or Adaptation

1. Guelan Varela-Luarca and the Tanghalang Pilipino Actors Company (‘Kisapmata’)

Outstanding Book of a Musical

1. Nicanor Tiongson and Eljay Castro Deldoc (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)

Outstanding Original Score

1. Nica del Rosario, Matthew Chang, Nicanor Tiongson, and Eljay Castro Deldoc (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)
2. Gabriel Ramos and Dexter Lansang (‘Via Dolorosa’)

Outstanding Musical Direction

1. Farley Asuncion and Myke Salomon (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
2. Nica del Rosario and Matthew Chang (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)
3. Rony Fortich (‘Come From Away’)
4. Ejay Yatco (‘Shrek the Musical’)
5. Ejay Yatco (‘Side Show’)

Outstanding Choreography

1. JM Cabling (‘Kisapmata’)
2. JM Cabling (‘Side Show’)
3. Jomelle Era (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
4. Paul Alexander Morales (‘The Foxtrot’)
5. Stephen Viñas (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
6. Stephen Viñas (‘Shrek the Musical’)

Outstanding Costume Design

1. Bonsai Cielo (‘Kisapmata’)
2. Mitoy Sta. Ana (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
3. Carlos Siongco (‘Side Show’)
4. Hershee Tantiado and Phillip Domingo (‘Alice in Wonderland’)
5. Marco Viaña (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)

Outstanding Lighting Design

1. John Batalla (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
2. D Cortezano (‘Kisapmata’)
3. D Cortezano (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
4. Meliton Roxas Jr. (‘Shrek the Musical’)
5. Gabo Tolentino (‘Side Show’)

Outstanding Sound Design

1. Arvy Dimaculangan (‘Kisapmata’)
2. Aji Manalo (‘Side Show’)
3. Fabian Obispo (‘Art’)
4. Aron Roca (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
5. Luke Swaffield (‘Come From Away’)

Outstanding Set Design

1. Lawyn Cruz (‘Shrek the Musical’)
2. Mark Dalacat (‘Side Show’)
3. Joey Mendoza (‘Kisapmata’)
4. Joey Mendoza (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
5. Mikayla Teodoro (‘Come From Away’)

Outstanding Projection and Video Design

1. GA Fallarme (‘Liwanag sa Dilim’)
2. GA Fallarme and Joyce Garcia (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
3. GA Fallarme, Justin Santiago, and JM Jimenez (‘Shrek the Musical’)
4. Joey Mendoza, D Cortezano, Justin Santiago, and JM Jimenez (‘Kisapmata’)

Female Lead Performance in a Play

1. Jackie Lou Blanco (‘The Foxtrot’)
2. Meann Espinosa (‘Nobody Is Home’)
3. Lhorvie Nuevo-Tadioan (‘Kisapmata’)

Male Lead Performance in a Play

1. Ron Capinding (‘Kaliwaan’)
2. Bart Guingona (‘Via Dolorosa’)
3. JC Santos (‘The Foxtrot’)
4. Brian Sy (‘Art’)
5. Jonathan Tadioan (‘Kisapmata’)

Female Featured Performance in a Play

1. Ute Baggeröhr (‘Nobody Is Home’)
2. Toni Go-Yadao (‘Kisapmata’)
3. Ash Nicanor (‘Let’s Do Lunch’)
4. Susi Wirth (‘Nobody Is Home’)

Male Featured Performance in a Play

1. Marco Viaña (‘Kisapmata’)

Female Lead Performance in a Musical

1. Krystal Kane (‘Side Show’)
2. Molly Langley (‘Side Show’)
3. Marynor Madamesila (‘Side Show’)
4. Tanya Manalang (‘Side Show’)
5. Nikki Valdez (‘Next to Normal’)

Male Lead Performance in a Musical

1. Arnel Carrion (‘A Christmas Carol’)
2. Phi Palmos (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
3. Jamie Wilson (‘Shrek the Musical’)

Female Featured Performance in a Musical

1. Cathy Azanza-Dy (‘Come From Away’)
2. Maronne Cruz (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
3. Sheila Francisco (‘Come From Away’)
4. Sheena Lee Palad (‘The Bodyguard The Musical’)
5. Heart Puyong (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)

Male Featured Performance in a Musical

1. Topper Fabregas (‘Shrek the Musical’)
2. John Lapus (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
3. Vino Mabalot (‘Next to Normal’)
4. Marvin Ong (‘Side Show’)
5. Benedix Ramos (‘Next to Normal’)
6. Alfredo Reyes (‘Shrek the Musical’)

Outstanding Ensemble Performance for a Play

1. ’Kisapmata’ (Tanghalang Pilipino)
2. ‘Nobody Is Home’ (Philippine Educational Theater Association)

Outstanding Ensemble Performance for a Musical

1. ’Come From Away’ (Stages Production Specialists, Inc.)
2. ‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’ (Tanghalang Pilipino)
3. ‘Shrek The Musical’ (Full House Theater Company)
4. ‘Side Show’ (The Sandbox Collective)
5. ‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’ (Barefoot Theatre Collaborative)

Outstanding Stage Direction for a Play

1. Bart Guingona (‘Via Dolorosa’)
2. Nina Gühlstorff and J-mee Katanyag (‘Nobody Is Home’)
3. Guelan Varela-Luarca (‘Kisapmata’)
4. Paul Alexander Morales (‘The Foxtrot’)

Outstanding Stage Direction for a Musical

1. Delphine Buencamino (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)
2. Toff de Venecia (‘Side Show’)
3. Dexter Santos (‘Shrek the Musical’)
4. Michael Williams (‘Come From Away’)
5. Rem Zamora (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)

Outstanding Play – Original or Translation/Adaptation

1. ’The Foxtrot’ (Theatre Titas)
2. ‘Kisapmata’ (Tanghalang Pilipino)
3. ‘Nobody Is Home’ (Philippine Educational Theater Association)

Outstanding Production of Existing Material for a Play

1. ’Via Dolorosa’ (The Necessary Theatre)

Outstanding Production of Existing Material for a Musical

1. ’Come From Away’ (Stages Production Specialists, Inc.)
2. ‘Shrek the Musical’ (Full House Theater Company)
3. ‘Side Show’ (The Sandbox Collective) -
4. ‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’ (Barefoot Theatre Collaborative)

Outstanding Musical – Original or Translation/Adaptation

1. ’Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’) (Tanghalang Pilipino)

Outstanding Production for Children

1. ’A Christmas Carol’ (9 Works Theatrical)
2. ‘Shrek the Musical’ (Full House Theater Company)

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Discover the Latest Must-Visit Shops at SM Malls in the East Metro

Max out your mall visit at the newly opened shops in your most loved malls in the East Metro

Fresh finds, bold flavors, and new lifestyle spots are powering up every East Metro mall day as SM Supermalls rolls out a fresh wave of new openings for every kind of shopper. Whether you’re craving comfort food, searching for stylish new finds, or planning an all-out shopping and dining spree, there’s always something new to discover at your most loved SM malls in the East Metro.

Dainty accessories for your little princess at Clarisse SM Center Antipolo Downtown

Branded finds at 7 Luxe on the 2nd level of SM Center Antipolo Downtown

At SM Center Antipolo Downtown, shoppers can discover Clarisse, a boutique filled with trendy accessories perfect for young girls who love expressing their style through fun and fashionable pieces. Travelers and fashion lovers can also visit 7 Luxe for branded luggage, bags, and shoes that combine style and functionality for every adventure.

Classic Filipino dishes with a twist at Mesa SM City San Mateo located at the Ground Level

Premium cakes and pastries on the go at Conti's located on the 2nd Level of SM City San Mateo

Foodies can head to SM City San Mateo for comforting and flavorful dining experiences. Mesa serves elevated Filipino dishes perfect for family gatherings and celebrations, while Conti’s Bakeshop delights guests with its well-loved cakes, pastries that make every stop extra special.

Bulawan Panaderya serves freshly baked breads daily at SM City Masinag

Everyday wearable jewelry at Everglowi SM City Masinag located on the ground level

At SM City Masinag, Everglowi adds sparkle to every shopping trip with elegant gold and silver jewelry pieces perfect for gifting or everyday wear. Meanwhile, Bulawan Panaderya offers freshly baked breads, pastries, and beverages that make snack breaks and café moments even more satisfying.

Hearty Ramen bowls at Ramen Nagi located on the New Hallway of SM City Marikina

Coffee and me time at Pedal Café SM City Marikina

Marikina's pride Mylene's Bakeshop now brings its bestsellers to SM City Marikina

Meanwhile, the new hallway at SM City Marikina is a must-visit dining destination for every food lover ready to max out their food trip. Guests can enjoy cozy café moments at Pedal Cafe and classic baked favorites from Marikina’s pride Mylene’s Bakeshop.

Wangfu brings Singaporean cuisine to its new location at the newly opened hallway of SM City Marikina

Real and modern Italian Cuisine at Cibo SM City Marikina

Cravings for global flavors are well-covered with a strong lineup of dining options in the East Metro. For Japanese comfort food, Ramen Nagi continues to draw diners with its rich, customizable bowls of ramen that have become a go-to for quick yet satisfying meals. Wangfu brings bold classic Singaporean-inspired dishes, perfect for hearty lunches and shared meals. Meanwhile, Cibo completes the mix with signature Italian favorites, ideal for relaxed family dinners or post-shopping indulgence.

From shopping hauls and café dates to family feasts and spontaneous gala moments, SM Supermalls in the East Metro continues to bring fresh experiences closer to shoppers. Visit your nearest SM mall in the East Metro today and discover new ways to dine, shop, and celebrate every day to the max.

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SM Malls in the East goes Purple again for BorahaEast 2.0

BTS is back -- and BorahaEast 2.0 returns in full purple celebration across SM Malls in the East

Attention, Filo ARMY! A purple-filled celebration is making its way across SM Supermalls in the East as BorahaEast 2.0 returns for an even bigger and more exciting season.

Fueled by the excitement surrounding BTS’ new album Arirang and their ongoing sold-out world tour, BorahaEast 2.0 brings together ARMY from across the country for a celebration of music, friendship, creativity, and unforgettable fandom moments.

SM Malls in the East celebrate BorahaEast 2.0 ARMY Fan Festival on June 13 to July 9

In partnership with ARMYs of the East PH, the campaign transforms seven SM malls into purple-filled destinations where fans can connect, celebrate, and create memories together:

• SM Center Angono
• SM Center Antipolo Downtown
• SM City East Ortigas
• SM City Marikina
• SM City Masinag
• SM City San Mateo
• SM City Taytay

From June 13 to July 9, ARMYs can look forward to a lineup of maxed-out experiences happening throughout the campaign. Watch participating malls glow during the much-awaited purple illumination, join cup sleeve events with fellow fans, and discover exciting finds at the pop-up market featuring BTS merch and other fan-made collectibles.

Energetic fan chants are always fun with hundreds of co-ARMYs cheering together

Groove with co-ARMYs to BTS hits at ARMY fan gatherings

Running while fangirling to BTS is always a good idea

From BTS bias discussions and concert stories to handing out freebies, the ARMY fan gatherings create the perfect space for fans to connect and celebrate together. Meanwhile, energetic fans can dance their hearts out during Random Play Dance sessions and cap off the BorahaEast 2.0 celebration at the Neon Purple Run this July — a vibrant finale where running enthusiasts and ARMY alike can hit the ground in purple and create unforgettable memories with fellow fans in every stride.

Tag along your ARMY bestie and create lasting fangirl moments

Join ARMY games and win fun prizes at fan gatherings

Beyond the activities, BorahaEast 2.0 is all about creating meaningful moments together. Whether you’re attending with your ARMY besties, meeting new fandom friends, or simply celebrating your love for BTS, every stop promises surprises, prizes, photo-worthy moments, and experiences that make the Festa season even more memorable.

Join ARMY games and win fun prizes at fan gatherings

BTS merch -- official or fanmade in all forms -- available for collection at the Pop-up Market in select SM malls and dates

So wear your favorite purple fits, bring your light sticks, and prepare to celebrate the Festa season the maxed-out way at BorahaEast 2.0.

Don’t miss a single purple moment — follow the official social media pages of all seven participating SM Malls in the East for BorahaEast 2.0 schedules, surprises, and event announcements, then gala to the max by visiting your most loved malls throughout the celebration and making memories with fellow ARMY along the way.

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The Manila Hotel Blooms with “Flores de Primavera Y Filipiniana” Exhibit

In celebration of National Heritage Month and Flores de Mayo, The Manila Hotel, in partnership with Designers Circle Philippines, unveils “Flores de Primavera Y Filipiniana,” a captivating fashion exhibit at the Grand Dame of the Philippines.

Inspired by the idyllic beauty of the Filipiniana, the exhibit highlights the vibrant intersection of culture and creativity. The collection presents an exquisite blend of Terno and Maria Clara designs, influenced by the radiant hues and festive spirit of Flores de Mayo, rightly regarded as the “Queen of Philippine Festivals.”

Selected members of Designers Circle Philippines have transformed the storied Grand Lobby and Art Gallery into what the organization describes as an “effervescent Eden of floral Filipiniana,” where heritage fashion takes center stage amid the grandeur of the historic hotel.

The participating designers are Edwin Uy, Rafael Gonzalez, Alfonso Emmanuel, Jasper Adorador, Precious Jewel, Rhael Garcia, Alistair Balane, Gus Villa, Adonis Ara Samson, Ganda Anore, Bepz Torres, Joy Aaliwin, Gian Abrigo, Maila Alog, Jayme Yap Bravo, Medel Batingal, Will Salvador, Brad Shilver Agarano, Pencil Diestra, and Jennica Castro, with special pieces from the late founding chairman Johnny Abad.

Edwin Uy, Chairman of Designers Circle Philippines

Alistair Balane

Johnny Abad, Founding Chairman of Designers Circle Philippines

Pencil Diestra and Bepz Torres

Brad Shilver Agarano

Jasper Adorador

Joy Aaliwin

Madel Batingal

Rafael Gonzales, President of Designers Circle Philippines

“Flores de Primavera y Filipiniana is more than a fashion exhibit. Showcases like this serve as a bridge between our country’s past and present. We are committed to ensuring that Filipino traditions are not only honored today but preserved for generations to come,” said Edwin Uy, chairman of Designers Circle Philippines.

“Through initiatives such as this, we are pleased to partner with Designers Circle Philippines as The Manila Hotel continues to champion Filipino culture and craftsmanship by providing a platform where tradition and contemporary creativity flourish together,” says Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Hotel’s vice president for sales and marketing.

Flores de Primavera y Filipiniana is on display at the Grand Lobby and Art Gallery of The Manila Hotel until June 11, 2026. Admission is free.

For more information, call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

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