A Cultural Homecoming: A Review of Tales of the Manuvu

Running from March 28 and 29, 2026 at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati, Tales of the Manuvu by Alice Reyes is more than a ballet. It’s a heartfelt return to Filipino roots, told through dance and music.

The production retells the myths and legends of the Manuvu, an ethnolinguistic group from Mindanao. Its traditional prologue beautifully establishes a distinct cultural profile that constitutes Filipino identity.

The staging is simple but colorful—just like the Manuvu culture it represents. Even if the story already feels familiar, it’s still a joy to experience these stories again in this kind of performance. It brings a sense of nostalgia while making the stories feel alive.

One of the most memorable moments is hearing “Noong Unang Panahon.” Many of us know this song from our elementary days, so it’s exciting to realize that it comes from this production. It adds a personal and emotional touch to the experience.

The performers also deserve praise. Both the dancers and singers fully commit to their roles. The dancers bring the characters to life with strong and expressive movements, while the singers add depth to the story. Together, they make the storytelling clearer and more powerful.

 
 
 

 

This is not just a traditional ballet. It also includes modern movements, which makes it easier for today’s audience to connect with the performance. The mix of styles keeps it engaging while still respecting its cultural roots.

It’s also worth noting that this staging supports a bigger purpose. The March 28 show opens with a fundraising gala, where ticket sales help support the work of Alice Reyes Dance Philippines—from sustaining its dancers and artists to preserving important Filipino works.

While there are paid gala and ticketed shows, the production continues its mission of making the arts accessible by offering free admission (with registration) for select audiences.

In the end, Tales of the Manuvu is a beautiful reminder of who we are as Filipinos. It celebrates our stories and traditions in a way that feels both familiar and fresh.

With free registration available and a meaningful cause behind it, this is more than just a show—it’s an experience worth showing up for.

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SM Supermalls in the East Metro Goes Maxed Out for BTS Comeback

The wait is finally over—global pop supergroup BTS has made their most-awaited return with their powerful new album, Arirang. Marking a new era for the icons who have redefined music and fandom culture worldwide, this comeback has sparked excitement across the globe—and at SM Supermalls, the celebration went all out for all ARMYs.

BTS Fanbase ARMYs of the East PH gather at Shakey's SM Center Antipolo Downtown to watch the live concert streaming

Bringing together through SM Fandom, ARMYs across the East Metro gathered for a series of immersive, music-filled events designed all for you—a true Gala to the Max experience that turned every moment into a shared memory.

Fan-made prizes are given away to lucky ARMYs

ARMYs put out their lightsticks while singing to BTS' new songs from their new album during their comeback concert viewing

ARMYs across the East Metro came together in full force as SM Supermalls delivered back-to-back comeback celebrations. At SM Center Antipolo Downtown, the BTS The Comeback Live Viewing Party turned Shakey’s into a concert-like experience, with cheers, lightsticks, and fan chants filling the space as fans witnessed BTS’ much-anticipated return. Meanwhile, SM City Masinag mall facade was washed in red during the ARIRANG | ARMYRang Cupsleeve Event, where themed setups, fan-made merchandise, and exclusive freebies created a vibrant tribute to BTS’ new era. The excitement continues with another cupsleeve event on April 9 at SM City San Mateo, promising more fan activities and shared moments as the SM Fandom celebrates the Arirang era together.

Your favorite drink with fan-made cupsleeves featuring the K-Pop icons at the ARIRANG | ARMYRang Cupsleeve Event at SM City Masinag

ARMY events at SM can be a mother-daughter bonding moment too.

ARMY's lounge that is ARIRANG-coded at the mall atrium of SM City Masinag for the cupsleeve event

An eventful weekend for SM Supermalls in the East Metro to welcome back BTS

From live viewing parties to fan-led gatherings, SM Supermalls continues to be the home of unforgettable fandom experiences—bringing communities together in ways that are truly all for you.

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Golden Easter Celebrations and Holy Week Traditions Await at The Manila Hotel

Families and travelers can look forward to a meaningful and festive Holy Week at The Manila Hotel as the Grand Dame of the Philippines unveils a lineup of seasonal experiences that blend Easter fun with cherished Filipino traditions.

A Golden Easter Celebration for Families

On April 5, 2026, The Manila Hotel will host the Golden Easter Egg Hunters at Fiesta Pavilion from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The event promises an exciting afternoon for children and families, highlighted by a lively Easter egg hunt. The celebration also features musical performances, magic show, arts and crafts, face painting, inflatable play areas, balloon twisting, games, and more. Designed as a vibrant family gathering, the event offers children a fun and safe way to celebrate Easter.

Tickets are priced at Php 1,999 nett, inclusive of entry for one child (12 years old and below) and one adult (13 years old and above). For ticket inquiries and purchase, email banquetsales@themanilahotel.com, or call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500.

Stay and Celebrate with the Golden Easter Room Promo

Guests who wish to extend the celebration can book the Golden Easter Room Promo, a limited-time offer priced at Php 10,000 nett. The package includes an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room, breakfast buffet for two at Café Ilang-Ilang, and one complimentary ticket to the Golden Easter Egg Hunters event. Booking is open until April 4, 2026, with the stay date on April 5, 2026. For reservations, email resvn@themanilahotel.com, or call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500.

A Meaningful Holy Week Through Visita Iglesia

In the spirit of Lenten reflection, The Manila Hotel invites guests to join a meaningful Visita Iglesia on Maundy Thursday, April 2, 2026. Following the success of last year’s tour, the hotel once again partners with John Paul Hernandez, also known as The Traveling Salakot, a social science educator known for his engaging heritage walks that highlight Filipino history and culture. The tour includes visits to Manila Cathedral, Santa Rita Chapel, San Agustin Church, Saint Vincent de Paul Parish Church, Pope Pius XII, Our Lady of Remedies Church, and Archdiocesan Shrine of Nuestra Senora de Guia.

The tour is priced at Php 1,800 nett per adult and Php 900 nett per child (12 years old and below), inclusive of roundtrip shuttle service from the hotel and snacks. Two schedules are available: 7:00 am to 12:00 noon and 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Reservations are recommended through concierge@themanilahotel.com, +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500.

Visita Iglesia Room Package

To complement the tour, the hotel offers a Visita Iglesia Room Package for guests who wish to spend Holy Week in comfort at the historic hotel. The package is priced at Php 10,500 nett for an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room, while Php 12,500 nett for a Suite.

Both packages include breakfast buffet for two at Café Ilang-Ilang and slots to the Visita Iglesia tour for two adults and two kids. Booking is available until April 1, 2026, with stay dates from April 1 to 2, 2026 inclusive.

For reservations, email resvn@themanilahotel.com, or call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500.

Celebrating Faith, Family, and Tradition

Through these offerings, The Manila Hotel continues its tradition of creating experiences that honor faith, family, and meaningful moments during the Holy Week.

Terms and conditions apply.

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit Nos. FTEB-251800, 251992, 251993, 251994 Series of 2026.

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The Manila Hotel Celebrates Women with Beauty and Wellness Offers this March

This March, The Manila Hotel joins the global celebration of National Women’s Month with a thoughtful tribute to the modern woman. The Grand Dame offers a selection of beauty and wellness privileges designed to encourage moments of rest, renewal, and self-celebration.

20% OFF on beauty and wellness services at The Manila Hotel

Until March 31, 2026, female guests are invited to indulge in a well-deserved retreat with 20% savings on premier services across the hotel’s beauty and wellness concessionaires. Whether seeking a restorative escape or a confidence-boosting refresh, women can enjoy a range of services and treatments within the elegant surroundings of the historic hotel.

The Manila Hotel Spa

Salon de Matt

Ladies may unwind with a 20% off non-packaged massages at The Manila Hotel Spa. At Salon de Matt, women can refresh their looks with 20% off haircuts, makeup, hair color, and hair treatments.

Meanwhile, Montesa Dermatology and Age Management Aesthetic Center offers 20% off select facial and slimming treatments, delivered by expert practitioners using advance aesthetic technologies.

Montesa Aesthetic Center

“This Women’s Month, we invite women to take a moment for themselves,” says Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel. “Women play so many important roles in our lives and communities, often balancing responsibilities while continuing to inspire those around them. At The Manila Hotel, we believe they deserve spaces where they can relax, feel cared for, and celebrate their own well-being. Through these offerings, we hope to create moments of rest and renewal in a setting known for its timeless hospitality.”

For more information, guests may call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500.

Terms and conditions apply, and prior reservations are highly encouraged.

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-250643 Series of 2026.

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Seeing the Lunar Eclipse upclose at Amiya Raya

Rare, beautiful, and red, attendees were able to see it, surrounded by the beauty and stillness of nature

Perched high above the city in the cool highlands of San Mateo, Rizal, Amiya Raya is a 46-hectare master-planned, resort-style community designed for those who seek more than just a home. Here, each day begins with panoramic views of mountain ranges and shimmering waters—and ends with city lights twinkling like stars beneath you. This is a life above the chaos, but close to everything that matters. Only 15 minutes from Quezon City, Amiya Raya offers the rare balance of serenity and accessibility, nature and modernity.

One of the highlights of living in Amiya Raya are the stunning 270-degree views of Laguna de Bay, La Mesa Dam, and Manila Bay, as well as an uninterrupted view of the majestic sky above. It is a breathtaking view that was strategically picked and integrated into the development, giving its residents the privilege of a front seat to nature’s beauty. Last March 3, around 66 residents of Amiya Raya were able to experience one of the privileges of living amidst this grand scenery.

It was the night of a red moon or a total lunar eclipse when the earth passes directly between the sun and noon, casting a shadow. Rare, beautiful, and red, attendees were able to see it, surrounded by the stillness of nature. Apart from the viewing, the guests also had a chance to bond and interact as a community. It was a great time to unplug and just be. Picnic mats were unrolled against the night sky, while soft music played. Organized by Community Creators, Inc., it was a unique and memorable community gathering that ran from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. The event was open to the public through registration, attracting a mix of residents, prospective homeowners, real estate sellers, and visitors eager to witness the celestial phenomenon from one of the highest points near Metro Manila.

One of the highlights of living in Amiya Raya are the stunning 270-degree views of Laguna de Bay, La Mesa Dam, and Manila Bay, as well as an uninterrupted view of the majestic sky above.

Apart from the viewing, the guests also had a chance to bond and interact as a community. It was a great time to unplug and just be.

Seeing Life at the Peak
For some attendees, the evening served as an experience of what everyday life in the community could feel like: peaceful surroundings, breathtaking views, and camaraderie. For others, it was a core memory, signifying one of the firsts milestone views as a resident of the Amiya Raya.

The event was a celebration of nature, moments, and the grandeur of life as it unfolds.

Amiya Raya is very excited about bringing more events like this to its residents.

CCI or Community Creators Inc, the developer of Amiya Raya has established itself as a top real estate player in the Philippines, developing luxurious, resort style residential communities that blend seamlessly with nature. Among its top Developments is Amiya Raya. Located in San Mateo Rizal, it is close to places of interest such as schools, churches,malls and government offices. For more information contact 09560659610 visit the website www.amiyaraya.com.ph or email at sales@amiyaraya.com.ph

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All-Kundiman Night: Arthur Espiritu leads fundraising concert at MiraNila

A rare evening of Filipino music is set to take place this May as internationally acclaimed tenor Arthur Espiritu headlines his first-ever all-kundiman concert, Mga Awit ng Pag-ibig at Kundiman. Happening on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at Gallery MiraNila in Quezon City, the one-night-only performance also serves as a fundraising initiative for heritage conservation.

Presented by MiraNila Heritage House & Library in partnership with The Blue Leaf, the concert brings together a distinguished lineup of artists who share a deep connection to Filipino musical traditions. Espiritu is joined by award-winning soprano Stefanie Quintin-Avila and celebrated pianist Najib Ismail, creating a program that highlights both vocal and instrumental excellence. The evening also pays tribute to Ambassador Tomas C. Benitez, whose passion for kundiman helped preserve its place in Filipino cultural life.

Arthur Espiritu

 

Stephanie Quintin-Avila and Najib Ismail

At the heart of the concert is a curated selection drawn from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ newly recorded 13-track archive. This project, developed in collaboration with the Manila Chamber Orchestra Foundation, marks a significant step in digitally preserving Filipino classics performed by some of the country’s finest voices. The repertoire traces the evolution of kundiman, from its roots in patriotic expression to its transformation into zarzuela, love songs, and modern art music. Works by composers such as Nicanor Abelardo, Francisco Santiago, Constancio de Guzman, Ernani Cuenco, Levi Celerio, and Augusto Espino will be featured, offering a rich look at the musical figures who shaped the nation’s sound.

Espiritu, known for his performances on major international stages, arrives fresh from his title role in Prince Igor at the Munich Opera House. A recipient of the George London Award and the Scala Award at the Belvedere Competition in Vienna, he has built a global reputation for his powerful tone and commanding presence. His return to a repertoire rooted in Filipino tradition gives this concert a distinct sense of homecoming. Quintin-Avila, recognized for her clarity and range, reunites with Espiritu following their acclaimed collaboration in 2024. She continues to gain international attention, with an upcoming appearance at the Gleam International Early Music Festival in Belgium. Completing the trio is Ismail, whose career across Europe, Asia, and Australia has been marked by a strong commitment to promoting Filipino composers, making him a fitting musical anchor for the evening.

Beyond the performance, the concert carries a deeper purpose. All proceeds will support the MiraNila Conservation Program, which has been instrumental in restoring vulnerable artworks and is now focused on urgent structural repairs after severe flooding in 2025 affected the 94-year-old heritage house. The event offers audiences not only a chance to experience world-class music but also an opportunity to contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage.

Guests can expect an immersive evening that begins with registration and access to the gallery, accompanied by refreshments. Heritage house tours will be available in the early part of the program, offering a closer look at the site’s history and architecture. The concert itself runs from 6:30 PM to 8:10 PM with an intermission, followed by a meet and greet with the artists. Food and refreshments will continue to be available until the evening concludes.

Tickets are offered under a free seating arrangement, with early bird rates available until March 29 at ₱2,000 for adults and ₱1,500 for seniors, PWDs, and students with valid IDs. Regular rates are set at ₱2,500 for adults and ₱2,000 for discounted groups. Special items tied to the NCCA recordings will also be available for purchase, including a vinyl LP and a secure digital card edition.

For inquiries and ticket reservations, guests may contact the event organizer via Viber at 09458530963, preferably between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM for faster response.

With its combination of music, history, and purpose, Mga Awit ng Pag-ibig at Kundiman positions itself as more than just a concert. It is a gathering that brings together artists, audiences, and advocates in support of preserving Filipino identity through both sound and space.

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Theater Review: Dulaang UP's "Ang Kaliitan ng Kasalukuyan"

Dulaang UP’s Ang Kaliitan ng Kasalukuyan takes on the familiar yet still urgent story of the overseas Filipino worker, using an intimate staging and a mix of theatrical forms to bring the experience closer to its audience. While the production succeeds in creating emotional access, it also shows some unevenness in how its ideas are carried through.

At the center is Sandino Martin as Bulan, who delivers a steady and sincere performance. He keeps the character grounded, especially in quieter moments where the weight of isolation is more felt than spoken. His portrayal becomes the anchor of the play, particularly when the material shifts between tones.

The staging works in the production’s favor. The intimate setup allows the audience to feel involved rather than just observing from a distance. Projections are used throughout and are generally well integrated, helping set the mood and context without taking attention away from the actors. These choices support the storytelling and give the play a strong visual identity.

The show also attempts to combine several disciplines, including musical elements, drama, puppetry, and advocacy. At its best, this mix adds variety and keeps the performance engaging. However, not all transitions feel smooth. Some segments stand out more than others, making the overall flow feel uneven at times. The versatility of the set helps bridge these shifts, but the structure can still feel fragmented.

The first part of the play is one of its stronger sections. It presents a relatable picture of an OFW returning home, from the frustration of traffic to the sudden closeness of family members. These moments are handled with warmth and familiarity, capturing the mix of comfort and tension that comes with going back to one’s roots. The sense of nostalgia is clear and effective, giving the audience an easy point of connection.

A key highlight is the exchange between Bulan and his older sister. Their dialogue is direct and emotionally charged, offering some of the most honest moments in the play. The sister’s lines carry insight and lived experience, and the tension between them feels real. This scene stands out because it is clear, focused, and grounded.

Ang Kaliitan ng Kasalukuyan raises important points about distance, family, and survival, but does not always sustain the same level of clarity across its runtime. It is at its strongest when it leans into simple, truthful moments rather than layered concepts.

The production runs until March 29 at the IBG-KAL Theater in UP Diliman.

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