Rainwater Treatment Facility at SM City Masinag reinforces water sustainability for SM

SM’s second Rainwater Treatment Facility in Luzon to reduce reliance on local water tables

Almost forty years since SM Supermalls pledged to uphold water stewardship in its properties across the Philippines, the mall operator continues to innovate its sustainability approach to reduce its reliance on freshwater resources.

The installation of its latest Rainwater Treatment Facility (RTF) in SM City Masinag comes as the country prepares for El Niño, which is expected to bring drought and dry spells until 2027.

Engr. Alford Ronduen, Operations Head of SM Engineering Design and Development Corp. (SM EDD) walks VIP guests through a tour of the facility; A facility operator shows one of the treatment tanks

“As a historically rainfall rich area, SM City Masinag was strategically chosen for SM’s second RTF,” said Engr. Liza B. Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance, SM Supermalls. “This facility transforms water runoff into more valuable use, innovating our approach in supporting the community and national water conservation efforts not just during El Niño, but for the future.”

The new RTF at SM City Masinag is the second of its kind in Luzon, converting rainwater into safe and potable water for SM Supermalls’ operations and tenant use. This reduces overall demand on municipal water systems, giving nearby communities more access to freshwater for daily needs and essential community services.

Transforming rainwater into an alternative source of potable water, the SM City Masinag Rainwater Treatment Facility reinforces SM’s dedication to innovative sustainable operations going beyond industry standards for the benefit of its surrounding communities.

With an impressive capacity to treat up to 200 cubic meters or 200,000 liters of rainwater per day, the facility can provide one-third of the mall's annual water consumption, equivalent to 23,000 cubic meters, or an estimated 9 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

It uses a multi-stage water treatment process that integrates disinfection, filtration, and reverse osmosis. The process includes stringent monitoring and testing to ensure the water is safe and meets required standards.

Beyond these benefits, the facility advances SM Prime’s 2040 net-zero ambition by lowering indirect emissions from water extraction, pumping, treatment, and distribution, supporting the company’s broader decarbonization strategy.

Proven Technology
The RTF at SM City Masinag builds on the success of the SM City Baguio facility in Benguet, a province that is also rainfall-rich yet water-scarce. The facility has processed more than 65,000 cubic meters of rainwater, equivalent to the water consumption of 6,500 households, since it began operations in 2022. It has reduced pressure on local water systems and provided the community with a reliable, sustainable water supply.

“From the 1990s up until today and toward the future, SM Supermalls’ commitment to water conservation has remained firm. Access to water is a fundamental human right. We believe that protecting this resource is a shared responsibility. As such, we must continually champion responsible water stewardship to ensure it remains accessible to all,” said Silerio.

From L-R: Antipolo Councilor Hon. Irvin Paulo “Paui” Tapales; Mr. Randolf P. Alba, SM City Masinag Assistant Mall Manager; Dr. Marianne Joy Balanay and Nurse Julienne Christine Aurellado, DOH Calabarzon - Center for Health Development; Mr. Don Vijandre, SM Supermalls Regional Operations Manager; Engr. Alford Ronduen, Operations Head, SM EDD; Hon. Roberto Andres “Randy” Puno Jr., Antipolo City Vice Mayor; Dir. Joe Amil Salino, DENR EMB Calabarzon Regional Director; Engr. Liza B. Silerio, VP for Corporate Compliance, SM Supermalls; Hon. Rico Paolo Estanislao, Mayamot Brgy. Captain; Engr. Randy Dugay, SAVP, SM EDD; Engr. John Francis Pajulas, LLDA Agricultural Engineer; Mr. Merlin Te, Pure03 General Manager; Mr. Juan Carlo Buenaventura, LLDA Special Agent 1 Civil Engineer

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2TinCans Philippines presents I AM NORMAL on November 7 - 8

Every family has one. The one who fills the silence, laughs the loudest, and finds a reason to celebrate an ordinary Tuesday. The one who insists that everything is fine, and almost makes everyone believe it.
But what happens when keeping up appearances becomes a way of avoiding the truth?

This November, I Am Normal, a new play written and directed by emerging Cebuano theatre artist Ciara Baricuatro, takes audiences into the lives of the Dimaano family, where grief manifests in different ways and the things left unsaid may be the hardest to confront.

The play follows a family struggling to grieve, each in their own way. Ian performs, Fern rages, Helen organizes, and Lolo watches. Beneath their individual responses lies a shared loss, and somewhere in the spaces between them, something remains waiting to be said.

Dimaano Family

At the center of the story is Ian, a boy who turns to sitcoms as a coping mechanism. Through humor, performance, and the familiar comfort of fictional worlds, he attempts to navigate emotions he does not quite know how to face. His struggle reflects a larger question: what happens when the pressure to remain positive, independent, and seemingly okay becomes another burden to carry?

Alexus Libarnes as Ian

For Baricuatro, I Am Normal is more than a theatrical story. It is also a deeply personal undertaking.

Written nine months before its staging, the play began with a simple premise: a boy using sitcoms to cope with what he cannot confront directly. Over the following months, the script underwent multiple revisions, gradually developing into a more fully realized story about grief, mental health, and the complicated ways people protect themselves from painful emotions.

Baricuatro describes Ian as a character written for people who struggle to acknowledge their own feelings, often hiding behind something else to avoid confronting what is happening inside. The character also reflects the pressure many experience to appear positive and self-sufficient even while struggling in silence.

That personal connection has made this production particularly meaningful for the young playwright-director. I Am Normal marks her first play as both writer and director, bringing together two creative responsibilities in a project shaped by months of writing, preparation, and learning. Developed independently with guidance from her directing mentor, 2TinCans Managing Director, Charlene Virlouvet, the work represents a significant step in her theatre journey.

The result is a family drama that invites audiences to look beyond the familiar phrase “I'm fine” and consider the emotions, vulnerabilities, and unspoken truths that may lie beneath it.

Featuring Alexus Libarnes, Ernest Aleonar, Isabella Villarojo, and Vince Lopez, with stage management by Kjaran Dalay, I Am Normal will be staged on November 7 at 7:00 PM, and November 8 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM at The Kabilin Center.

Ernest Aleonar as Fern

Isabella Villarojo as Tita Helen

Vince Lopez as Lolo Keith

The production is part of Kulukabildo II: Stories in Direct Light, a monthly theatre series presented by 2TinCans Philippines Inc. and The Kabilin Center. Rooted in the Bisaya concept of kulukabildo, or informal exchange, the series serves as a dedicated platform for the organization's directors' training program, showcasing the distinct artistic visions of eight emerging Cebuano directors.

Through this initiative, Kulukabildo creates space for new voices to develop their work, engage with audiences, and contribute to the continuing growth of Cebu's theatre community.

Tickets: https://2tincans-philippines.yapsody.com/

Content Advisory: Contains mature themes, including mental health and grief. Suitable for audiences aged 13 and above. Younger audiences must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

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Theatre Group Asia announces eight actresses joining Lea Salonga in ‘Ang Tahanan ni Bernarda Alba’

Theatre Group Asia (TGA) has announced the eight actresses who will join Tony Award winner Lea Salonga in Ang Tahanan ni Bernarda Alba, its upcoming adaptation of Federico García Lorca’s classic drama. Adapted by Chay Yew and translated by Guenlan Varela-Luarca, the production is set to open in February 2027 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater in Circuit Makati.

Joining Salonga in the production are some of the Philippines’ respected theater and film performers, bringing together a cast with diverse artistic backgrounds and experience.

Veteran actress Sheila Francisco takes on the role of María Josefa, Bernarda’s elderly mother, whose words reveal truths that the other women in the household struggle to express. Francisco is a Gawad Buhay Award winner for her performance in Bar Boys: A New Musical and is also known for Ang Huling El Bimbo and the film Leonor Will Never Die. She made history as the first Filipina to perform at London's National Theatre in South Pacific, later joining its UK tour as Bloody Mary.

Maita Ponce plays Angustias, Bernarda’s eldest daughter. Her theater credits include Orosman at Zafira, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Avenue Q in California. She received the 2025 Manila Society of Theater Reviewers Award for Best Performance of a Lead Actor in a Musical for Si Faust! After Goethe. She also spent six years performing in Cirque du Soleil’s X: The Land of Fantasy in Hangzhou.

As Magdalena, the second daughter, Toni Go-Yadao brings her experience as a senior member of Tanghalang Pilipino’s Actors Company. She is also the co-festival director of Virgin Labfest XXI. Her performances in Balete and Kisapmata have earned recognition, while her work in theater directing and devising was supported by a 2024 Asian Cultural Council Fellowship.

Maronne Cruz takes on the role of Amelia, whose quiet and reserved personality offers a contrast to the more assertive characters Cruz has portrayed onstage. Her theater credits include Hair, Waitress, The Band’s Visit, Ang Huling El Bimbo, and Ako si Josephine. She has also lent her voice to the Filipino versions of KPop Demon Hunters, Work Later, Drink Now, and Blind.

Meanwhile, Mikaela Regis plays Martirio, approaching the character with empathy rather than judgment. Regis has appeared in productions such as A Chorus Line, Shrek The Musical, Delia D, Mula sa Buwan, and Bar Boys. A graduate of Creative Writing and English Literature from Ateneo de Manila University, she also received a Gawad Buhay nomination for Best Original Script for Unica Hijas.

Taking on the role of Adela, Bernarda’s youngest daughter, is Gabby Padilla. Known for her performances in independent films such as Gitling, Billie and Emma, and Kono Basho, Padilla won Best Actress at the 2024 Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival for the latter. Her theater credits include I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change and Tiny Beautiful Things. Adela’s desire for freedom places her at the center of the conflict against her mother's authority.

Rounding out the cast are Frances Makil-Ignacio as Poncia, Bernarda’s longtime housekeeper, and Jam Binay as Blanca, another servant in the household.

One of the Philippines’ most recognized theater actresses, Makil-Ignacio has built an extensive career across stage and screen. She is known for her portrayal of Mama Josie in GMA’s Mundo Mo’y Akin and has worked on various productions for ABS-CBN and TV5. She also brings previous experience with Bernarda Alba, having portrayed Poncia in an earlier staging of the play.

Jam Binay, meanwhile, has appeared in Spring Awakening, Next to Normal, and Bar Boys: A New Musical. A graduate of Ateneo de Manila University with degrees in Theatre Arts and Communication, she considers the play’s examination of patriarchy particularly relevant today.

Through this ensemble, Ang Tahanan ni Bernarda Alba brings together performers from different generations and disciplines to revisit a powerful story about women, power, repression, and the desire for freedom. With Salonga leading the cast, the upcoming production offers audiences a new opportunity to experience Lorca’s enduring drama through a Filipino theatrical lens.

Don't miss the chance to witness this powerful theatrical production led by Lea Salonga and an outstanding ensemble of Filipino actresses. Ang Tahanan ni Bernarda Alba opens in February 2027 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater in Circuit Makati. For ticket prices and booking details, visit TicketWorld and follow Theatre Group Asia on Facebook and Instagram (@theatregroupasia) for the latest production updates.

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LAST DANCE: HUBO'T HUBAD adds four more shows this November at Halxyon Club

The dance is not over just yet!

Following its previous performances, JAPS Collectives and World Theater Productions Guam / Manila announce four additional shows of LAST DANCE: HUBO'T HUBAD on November 8, 12, 21, and 28, 2026, at 7:30 PM at Halxyon Club in Poblacion, Makati City.

Written and directed by Jojo Urquico, the queer ensemble play takes audiences inside the dressing room of a struggling male revue bar on what could be its final night. As the performers prepare for one last show, they confront their personal struggles, abandoned dreams, hidden identities, and the sacrifices they have made to survive.

Blending humor, music, intimate confessions, and sensual performances, LAST DANCE looks beyond the glitter and physical allure of the performers to reveal the vulnerabilities of five men searching for acceptance, love, and a place to belong.

The extended run features Gerald Magallanes and Lance Cabradilla alternating as Ace, the fearless performer, alongside Paolo Domingo as Jay, John Segui as Dodong, Kriszan Manipon as Mark, and Robbie Padilla as Rafa.

Ysmael Suarez also joins the production as Josh, with Jem-Jem Ria Lopez as Mama Lou and Fewsha Umber and Lexie Eera as the Halxyon Queens.

The production is led by Urquico, whose international theater credits include Miss Saigon, Rent, Romeo & Juliet, and Die Zauberflöte. LAST DANCE marks his first original play as a writer, with the artist taking on the roles of playwright and director.

The creative team also includes Alex Garcia as Production Manager, Prince Beating as Co-writer and Stage Manager, Christian Magallanes as Assistant Stage Manager, and Martin Del Rosario for Sound and Lighting Design and Graphic Design.

Beyond its theatrical presentation, LAST DANCE also supports LGBTQIA+ advocacy. LoveYourself serves as the production's advocacy partner and will receive a portion of the ticket sales from the November 8 performance to support its community initiatives.

The production is made possible with the support of iSKin Aesthetic Lifestyle, U Hotels, Studio QZ, STAG, Duality, Manjam, and Halxyon Club.

LAST DANCE: HUBO'T HUBAD will have its extended performances on Sunday, November 8; Thursday, November 12; Saturday, November 21, and 28, 2026, at 7:30 PM at Halxyon Club, Poblacion, Makati City.

Tickets are priced at ₱700, ₱800, and ₱1,000, available through Ticket2Me.

Content Advisory: Strictly for adult audiences aged 18 and above. The production contains mature themes, sensual performances, and partial and full nudity presented within a theatrical context.

Five men. One stage. Stories that go beyond what meets the eye.

For those who have yet to experience LAST DANCE: HUBO'T HUBAD, the November performances offer another opportunity to witness this intimate theatrical production. Because sometimes, the stories behind the performance are worth staying for long after the music stops.

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Echoes of San Diego: Dulaang UP’s Fiestas y Muertos makes Rizal’s Masterpiece feel Alive

Dulaang UP opens its 49th theatre season with Fiestas y Muertos, a bold production staged in remembrance of the upcoming 130th death anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal. Directed by José Estrella, this adaptation revives Rizal’s iconic novel, Noli Me Tangere, and turns it into an immersive reflection on Philippine society, power, and freedom.

Watching the show felt like taking a trip down memory lane. It brought back every scene, character, and chapter studied during high school. Seeing the characters walk and speak right in front of the audience made the classic literary scenes feel clear, urgent, and deeply human again.

There is a place in Pililla, Rizal area called the San Diego de Alcala Parish, that sparked my imagination during the show. It made me reflect on how Rizal himself traveled across Laguna de Bay heading toward Antipolo and Manila during his time, bridging the physical geography of his youth directly to the world of the play.

One of the most memorable parts of the production happens before the story even begins because you enter the venue directly through the stage. Walking across the performance space to reach your seat sets a unique tone for the entire evening. It immediately breaks the wall between the actors and the audience, making you feel as though you are stepping straight into the world of San Diego.

Without a doubt, this stands out as the best and most compelling production of Noli Me Tangere I have experienced, largely driven by its brilliant ensemble cast. Jerom Canlas gives Crisostomo Ibarra a grounded, deeply human energy. Rather than portraying him as a passive hero, Canlas highlights Ibarra's internal struggle between his love for his homeland and the crushing weight of systemic oppression. Justine Peña reclaims Maria Clara from the tired stereotype of a fragile heroine, bringing a delicate strength and quiet resistance to the role while anchoring the tragic heart of the story alongside Canlas.

The antagonists are portrayed with chilling nuance. Jojo Cayabyab captures Padre Damaso’s overbearing arrogance and blustering authority, making him an imposing presence every time he steps into view. In contrast, Joseph Pe’s Padre Salvi is quietly unsettling, playing the friar with a restrained, creeping malice that emphasizes the corrupt power of the clergy. Meanwhile, the tragedy of Sisa’s family serves as the emotional anchor of the play. Iris Montesclaros delivers a heartbreaking performance as Sisa, charting her descent into grief with painful authenticity, while Quiel Campo as Basilio and Daphne Galang as Crispin bring a raw, vulnerable purity that makes their suffering feel deeply personal.

The visual design complements these performances through wonderfully inventive choices, using a creative set, dynamic lighting, and clever movement to transform simple props into vivid scenes of grand feasts and dark, quiet moments. Based on the Filipino translation by National Artist for Literature Virgilio S. Almario, the script breathes fresh energy into Rizal’s words. Instead of feeling like a dry textbook lesson, the language feels sharp, clear, and relevant to modern viewers. I truly believe students will take Noli Me Tangere much more seriously after seeing this version, as it shows how deeply Rizal's message still connects to our lives today.

The production runs from October 23 to November 15, 2026, at the IBG-KAL Theatre, UP Diliman, Quezon City. Friday shows are at 7:00 PM, while Saturday and Sunday shows run at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Regular ticket prices are PHP 1,200, with discounted rates of PHP 960 for PWD, Senior Citizens, UP Alumni, and non-UP Students, and PHP 690 for the UP Community on Friday performances.

Don't miss the chance to experience Philippine literature come alive on stage! Whether you are a student rediscovering Rizal's work or a theater lover looking for an unforgettable show, Fiestas y Muertos is a must-watch. Book your tickets now by visiting Dulaang UP's official social media pages or emailing the Dulaang UP Marketing Team at dulaangup.marketing.upd@up.edu.ph. Grab your seats before the run ends on November 15!

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Klook celebrates Champions of Philippine Tourism

Klook Partner Awards recognizes stakeholders who have boosted domestic tourism across the Philippines this 2026

Klook Philippines celebrated the standout champions of local tourism at the annual Klook Partner Awards on October 6, honoring its top-performing partners. The awards recognized excellence across Klook’s three primary travel pillars—Play, Stay, and Move—with specialized categories highlighting each partner’s unique contributions to driving Philippine tourism.

“We wanted to honor our partners who have raised the bar for Philippine tourism and consistently ensure exceptional experiences to travelers across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao,” said Michelle Ho, General Manager of Klook Philippines. “Klook remains deeply committed to investing in the Philippines. Over the past 12 months, we have achieved remarkable growth despite industry challenges which is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our partners.”

To celebrate their success, the Klook Partner Awards highlighted three distinct categories across Play, Stay, and Move. The User’s Choice Award was presented to partners with consistently top-rated guest reviews, while the Rising Star Award honored operators with the highest year-on-year growth. Finally, the Best of the Philippines title recognized the top sales contributors in each travel pillar.

As the travel pillar dedicated to curated experiences, Play is composed of partners who help travelers discover everything from iconic attractions to hidden local gems. The winners for each category under Play are:

• SM Prime Holdings (User’s Choice)
• Island Trek Tours (Rising Star)
• Star Parks Corporation (Rising Star)
• Viaje Philippines (Best of the Philippines)
• Las Islas Travel and Tours (Best of the Philippines)
• Manila Ocean Park (Best of the Philippines)
• Enchanted Kingdom (Best of the Philippines)

The Stay pillar highlights hospitality partners who deliver exceptional accommodations, offering comfortable and memorable stays for travelers across every budget. The winners for each category under Stay are:

• Mandarin Nest Boracay (User’s Choice)
• Bayfront Hotel Cebu (Rising Star)
• The Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila (Rising Star)
• Bai Hotel Cebu (Best of the Philippines)
• Canyon Hotels and Resorts (Best of the Philippines)
• Hotel 101 Group (Best of the Philippines)
• Hennan Group of Resorts (Best of the Philippines)

Covering ground and sea transit, the Move pillar includes partners who power traveler mobility through reliable airport transfers, rental vehicles, ferry routes, and regional transport options. The winners for each category under Move are:

• ATR Travel and Rent a Car Corporation (User’s Choice)
• Biyaheroes(Rising Star)
• 2GO Travel(Rising Star)
• Hertz (Best of the Philippines)
• Islandstar Express (Best of the Philippines)
• Southwest Tours (Best of the Philippines)

Klook continues to transform domestic travel by partnering with industry-leading operators across the Philippines. By collaborating with dedicated merchants nationwide, the platform continues to empower travelers to discover the best of the Philippines through seamless, meaningful, and memorable journeys.

Check out the amazing offers of the award-winning Klook partners for your next trip.

Download the Klook app through the Google Play Store or the Apple Store to discover unforgettable experiences. For more information, follow Klook on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

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Getting the Barkada together isn’t easy anymore – so here’s how to make the most of it

A throwback playlist, a proper drink, and a few more things that make the night feel like you’re back in your 20s

There was a time when getting the whole barkada together barely needed a plan. Someone would send a message, pick the place, and before you knew it, everyone was on the dance floor singing along to their favorite songs, taking photos, and enjoying their drinks.

Then, somewhere along the way, we all grew up. Schedules got busier and nights out became fewer.

But maybe that’s what makes the ones that do happen a little more special, because when the right people, and these 4 things, finally come together, it doesn’t take much to bring back the feeling.

1. The place that sets the mood

First things first: a place that gets everyone in the mood. Think about the places you used to go to when you were younger, and if they aren’t open anymore, think about the same vibe and go on an exciting discovery of a new place. Somewhere with good music, enough space to settle in, and a dance floor – because the best nights leave room for some spontaneous dancing.

 

2. The ultimate throwback playlist

Nothing gets the barkada going than hearing the songs from the past that everyone has every lyric etched into their brands. It may be ‘90s R&B, 2000s pop divas, or 2010s EDM. Whatever the mix, when the right song starts to play, you’ll know because everyone’s back singing every word at the top of their lungs.

DJ Ace Ramos

3. The drink that marks the moment

And of course, a celebration reminiscent of the best nights of our lives wouldn’t be complete without a whisky in hand. For more than 200 years, Johnnie Walker has been part of celebrations – from major life milestones to nights spent simply enjoying time with friends.

And for a night like this, Johnnie Walker Black Ruby brings something a little different to the table. The brand’s newest whisky introduces a sweeter, more fruit-forward side to Johnnie Walker whisky, pairing perfectly with cocktails.

 

4. The photos worth keeping

Everyone’s going back analog these days, and there’s something about not being able to immediately check every photo that makes looking back at the night a feel more special. All the blurry dance floor shots, everyone laughing and having fun, and all the random photos you probably wouldn’t have taken if you were trying to get the perfect shot. Because those are the moments you’ll likely want to look back on as you look forward to the next night out.

Khalil Ramos, Icoy Rapadas and Miggy Cruz

These days, the nights out may be harder to organize, and the barkada group chat may now contain more rescheduled plans; when everyone finally does make it, the feeling is still familiar. Growing up may have changed the way we go out, but give us the right people, the right music, and a Johnnie Walker in hand, and some nights can still feel just like old times.

Find an event near you with Johnnie Walker by following @johnniewalkerph.

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Taste the World’s Best at the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival and Hong Kong Gourmet Month

The Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival and Hong Kong Gourmet Month is here to entice Filipino travelers to fly for the feast

Hong Kong has long been a foodie paradise for Filipinos, but this year’s Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival and Hong Kong Gourmet Month have significantly raised the stakes. With the theme of “Taste the World’s Best,” the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival will be running for four days from Thursday, October 29, to Sunday, November 1. Organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and co-organized by Conseil Interprofessionnel du Vin de Bordeaux (CIVB), the event will be held at Central Harbourfront Event Space and Tamar Park.

Wine & Dine your way through Hong Kong

This year’s Wine & Dine Festival returns on an even grander scale, with more than 340 participating booths and a bigger venue that includes Tamar Park. Gourmets and vinophiles can look forward to a curated selection of fine wines and gastronomic delicacies from around 31 countries and regions.

Some highlights include the Grand Wine Pavilion, featuring prestigious wines from the world’s foremost wine-producing regions, like France, Italy, Spain, Chile and more, the “Amex Gourmet Club,” with a star- studded lineup of Michelin-starred establishments offering their signature dishes at the festival, and the “Tasting Room,” a 10-hand collaborative feast featuring five leading chefs from Hong Kong and Mainland China.

The debut of “Only in Hong Kong” flavors

Beyond the signature festival experiences, Filipino gourmands can’t miss the series of distinctively local “Only in Hong Kong” flavours, reinventing classic Hong Kong tastes through unexpected combinations. 

One example pairs traditional soy milk with creative contemporary dessert techniques to craft a rich, aromatic Black Sesame Soy Milk Pudding Tart. Infusing traditional local flavours with new-generation creativity, this creation showcases the vibrant fusion of old and new in Hong Kong’s culinary culture.

These offerings weave familiar, beloved Hong Kong flavours into contemporary culinary and mixology concepts. As tradition and modern trends spark fresh inspiration, they create flavors that can truly be savored “Only in Hong Kong”.

A month of fine fare

The feast of celebrations doesn't stop at the end of Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival. Immediately following the Festival, HKTB will be launching “Hong Kong Gourmet Month,” joining hands with restaurants and bars across the city to present limited-edition gourmet dishes, unique experiences and dining discounts throughout November.

In addition, HKTB will be coming out with a “Hong Kong Late-Night Dining Guide”, highlighting the city’s vibrant after-dark dining hotspots. The guide allows Filipino visitors to immerse themselves in Hong Kong’s dynamic food and drink scene round the clock.

For more ticketing information and additional details, visit Discover Hong Kong.

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Theater Review: LAST DANCE: Hubo't Hubad Strips Down More than Just Clothes

LAST DANCE: Hubo't Hubad at Halxyon Club in Poblacion, Makati City brings raw energy to the stage, featuring a main cast with Kriszan Manipon as Marky, Robbie Padilla as Rafa, Paolo Domingo as Jay, John Segui as Dodong, and Lance Cabradilla as Ace, along with Jem-Jem Ria Lopez as Mama Lu, Ysmael Suarez as Joshua, Fewsha Umber, and Lexie Eerra.

Holding the performance inside Halxyon Club turns out to be a great choice for the venue. Watching a drag show presented as a true art form for the first time is surprisingly captivating, and the opening acts do a wonderful job of pulling the audience into the experience. But the mood shifts quickly when the main cast enters. The dancers start walking right up to the crowd to grind and interact closely with people. For a first-time viewer, it can be quite a shock, and anyone sitting a few rows back will probably feel relieved to watch the action from a safe distance.

The actual story kicks off after a "raid," which brings out the personal struggles and drama of the five main characters. While the cast gives it their all, the plotlines feel very familiar, using tropes that many viewers have already seen in similar local LGBTQ+ indie films. Money problems and personal identity serve as the common thread connecting everyone. Marky works as a police officer but takes on dancing to bring home a better income for his family. Ace has grown to enjoy the work because he has built up a steady crowd of regular customers. Dodong is in a similar boat, though he secretly hopes to find a job that matches the degree he finished. Rafa dances purely out of survival, since the club is the only place willing to hire him at his age. Meanwhile, Jay uses his natural talent for dance to escape a dark past, having run away from home at a young age after dealing with childhood trauma.

The play also touches on other familiar issues like abuse, health struggles, and jealousy between coworkers, such as a heated argument where Dodong and Ace nearly fight over a shared client. The show makes a good point that despite their fit bodies and the tough image they put on for clients, these dancers are still fragile and vulnerable people. However, the story itself feels like it lacks depth. Across the hour-long runtime of talking and backstories, the plot turns out to be pretty predictable and standard.

For people who aren't used to seeing full nudity and intense adult themes up close on stage, the show leaves you with a mix of different emotions. Even if the storyline could have been a bit deeper, the brave performances and the unique venue make for an interesting night out. The show runs until October 29 at Halxyon Club in Poblacion, Makati City.

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A Super Magical Christmas Begins at SM Malls in the East Metro

This year, celebrate a Super Magical Christmas at your most loved SM Mall in the East Metro!

SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo are set to welcome the Christmas season this October with the unveiling of their new holiday centerpieces, bringing three festive worlds to life for families and friends to explore.

Part of this year’s Super Magical Christmas at SM, each mall will feature its own Christmas theme, complete with lovable characters and festive displays, along with exciting activities and heartwarming initiatives that make the season more meaningful for everyone.

At SM City Marikina, Holiday Twinklewoods welcomes mallgoers to a whimsical woodland filled with glowing Christmas trees, storybook-style mushrooms, and enchanting forest details. Leading the way is Mika, the official character of the mall, ready to take everyone on a delightful adventure.

At SM City Masinag, Macy’s Holiday Candyland brings sweet dreams to life with candy-inspired decorations, pastel-colored Christmas trees and ornaments, and giant lollipops. Led by Macy, this colorful wonderland is a picture-perfect spot for families and friends to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.

Meanwhile, SM City San Mateo invites everyone to Matt’s Christmas Camp, an outdoor-inspired setting featuring a festive tree, a cozy campfire, and cheerful companions. With Matt leading the way, families and friends can look forward to a fun-filled adventure.

Adding to the Christmas cheer, Santa Claus will make special appearances at the malls on select dates, giving kids and families more opportunities to share in the holiday excitement. The malls will also showcase the newest Besties of Joy, spreading the spirit of giving by sharing joy with children in need this Christmas.

Catch Santa Claus at your most-loved mall and have your photos taken with him and the entire family!

Be among the first to explore these exciting new Christmas destinations and discover the festive displays, activities, and maxed-out experiences waiting for you at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo this October.

Meet Maki, Matty, Sera, and Sasha, the adorable new Besties of Joy collectibles this 2026.

This season, make time for the people who matter most and create more memories together at your most loved malls. Whether it’s taking photos with the festive displays, meeting Santa Claus, or simply sharing special moments with family and friends, SM has something to make every visit more meaningful, with experiences made all for you.

Gather your loved ones, plan your next gala, and get ready to Gala To The Max as SM brings more joy, wonder, and togetherness to the season. Make every moment count with a Super Magical Christmas at SM!

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