Manuel Baldemor’s Kuwaresma Opens at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery

The Manila Hotel held the opening reception for Kuwaresma, a solo exhibit by acclaimed Filipino painter, sculptor, writer, and book illustrator Manuel Baldemor, on 13 April 2025, Palm Sunday, at the hotel’s Art Gallery. Kuwaresma presents a contemplative visual journey through the sacred season of Lent.

Manuel Baldemor, known for his signature distinctive fusion of folk art, religious imagery, and cultural narratives, explores the solemnity and symbolism of Holy Week in this 38-piece collection. Kuwaresma, which means Lent in Spanish, captures the spirit of the 40-day period of prayer, fasting, abstinence, and reflection—echoing Christ’s retreat in the desert.

The exhibit highlights Baldemor’s vibrant palette, intricate detailing, and deeply symbolic compositions that bring Filipino religious rituals and traditions vividly to life.

“As a painter and sculptor, I want to capture the essence of Filipino life and traditions, especially Holy Week,” shared Baldemor. “Kuwaresma is a culmination of my fascination with Lenten folk rituals, particularly the Nazareno procession, whose devotion continues to humble and inspire me.”

Manuel Baldemor

Among the distinguished guests who attended the exhibit opening were Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., president of The Manila Hotel; Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel; Dr. Elba S. Cruz, exhibit curator; Virgilio Almario, also known as Rio Alma, national artist of the Philippines; and Cecile Guidote-Alvarez, founder of the Philippine Educational Theatre Association (PETA).

Atty. Joey Lina, President of The Manila Hotel

Kuwaresma is on display at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery until April 30, 2025. Admission is free. For interested buyers, email r.lo@themanilahotel.com.

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Liwanag Sa Dilim announces additional shows, must close May 4, 2025

Due to overwhelming demand, 9 Works Theatrical adds the final extension of Liwanag Sa Dilim Musical.

The new schedule includes Saturday, May 3, 8 PM, while the final show will be on Sunday, May 4, 3 PM.

Liwanag sa Dilim Musical is a new original Filipino musical featuring the songs of Rico Blanco. With book and direction by Robbie Guevara, the show deconstructs Filipino literature for the modern stage.

The story follows Elesi, an orphan on his quest to uncover the secrets of his past. He meets Cris, who becomes his ally. Together, they fight for justice and ignite a revolution that redefines their worlds.

The cast of Liwanag Sa Dilim Musical is headlined by Khalil Ramos, Anthony Rosaldo, CJ Navato, Vien King, Alexa Ilacad, Nicole Omillo, Rita Daniela, Neomi Gonzales, and more.

Liwanag Sa Dilim Musical is down to its last 6 shows: April 26 & May 3 (Saturday, 3 PM & 8 PM) | April 27 & May 4 (Sunday, 3 PM).

The show runs at the CPR Auditorium, RCBC Plaza in Makati City. Tickets are available on Ticket2Me via www.ticket2me.net/LiwanagSaDilimMusical, or contact 9 Works Theatrical at 0917 554 5560/7586 7105.

For updates, follow us on FB, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok (@9WorksTheatrical) and Twitter (@9WorksOfficial).

Liwanag Sa Dilim is presented to you by 9 Works Theatrical, together with MAC Cosmetics as office makeup partner, Panasonic as official visual effects partner, PitchWorks Inc. as official billboard partner, Yupangco as official music partner, and PilotTV Philippines as Media Partner.

Special thanks to The People Diary PH by Myra Ho.

Liwanag Sa Dilim is presented through special arrangement with VIVA Music Publishing and MRU Publishing Incorporated.

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Pilgrim Commute Guide: Jubilee 2025 Churches in the Diocese of Antipolo

The Ordinary Jubilee Year of Hope began this January, and the Catholic Church has invited everyone to visit the designated Jubilee churches within their respective dioceses. Here in the Diocese of Antipolo, there are 14 Jubilee churches spread across the province of Rizal.

International Shrine and Diocese of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage (Antipolo Cathedral)

It’s highly encouraged to make these visits as a group—whether with family, friends, or fellow parishioners. In fact, many groups began their pilgrimages as early as January, and several have already completed theirs by March.

As for me, I chose to do my pilgrimage alone, commuting to each of the 14 churches—and I’d love to share how you can do the same in a spiritually enriching and budget-friendly way.

Before you go, pack wisely: bring an extra shirt, a refillable water bottle, and some spare cash for food or snacks along the way. Don't forget your Pilgrim's Passport so you can have it stamped in every church. Your Google maps-enabled phone is your best friend in your journey along with prayers that you won't get lost. (wink) It is also convenient that you ask the locals on how to get to the different destinations.

Let’s start our journey from LRT-2 Marikina or Antipolo Station, and I’ll guide you through each of the 14 Jubilee churches at your own pace.

MARIKINA-SAN MATEO-RODRIGUEZ (MONTALBAN)

National Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Aranzazu (San Mateo, Rizal), Our Lady of the Abandoned Parish (Marikina), Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish (Rodriguez, Rizal)

1. Our Lady of the Abandoned Parish (Marikina City)

• Easiest route: Exit at the westbound side of the LRT-2 station and take a tricycle to OLA Parish.

• Commuter-friendly walk: Cross the footbridge to Gil Fernando Avenue, ride a jeepney to Marikina Public Market (Palengke), then walk along Shoe Avenue and turn left at V. Gomez Street, passing Sta. Elena High School and Marikina Elementary School.

2. Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish (Rodriguez, Rizal)

• Route: From the eastbound exit of the LRT-2 station, ride a minibus bound for Montalban. Get off at the Rodriguez Municipal Hall—the church is right across the street.

3. National Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Aranzazu (San Mateo, Rizal)

• Note: You’ll actually pass this church before reaching #2.

• Route (if returning): From Rodriguez, ride a minibus back toward Cubao or Sta. Lucia and ask the driver to drop you off at Aranzazu Church.

ANTIPOLO CITY

St. Therese of the Child Jesus, Antipolo Cathedral, Nuestra Señora dela Annunciata (Boso-boso)

4. St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus Diocesan Shrine and Parish (Antipolo City)

• Route: Continue riding the LRT-2 up to Antipolo Station. The church is conveniently located right beside the station, directly across from SM City Masinag.

5. Nuestra Señora de la Annunciata Parish (Boso-Boso Church)

• Route: From LRT Antipolo Station, ride an e-trike or minibus heading toward the Marikina-Infanta Highway. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Old Boso-Boso Arch. From there, you’ll find tricycles waiting that can take you directly to the Boso-Boso Church.

6. International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage (Antipolo Cathedral)

• Route: From LRT Antipolo Station, take a jeepney or minibus bound for Shopwise or Antipolo Cathedral as the final stop. From the drop-off point, it’s just a short 5-minute walk along P. Oliveros Street to reach the cathedral.

CAINTA-TAYTAY-ANGONO

Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Light (Cainta, Rizal), Minor Basilica and Parish of St. John the Baptist (Taytay, Rizal), Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Clement (Angono, Rizal)

7. Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Light (Cainta, Rizal)

• Route: From LRT-2 Marikina Station, ride a jeepney bound for Cainta (Parola). The church is on your right side, right next to a McDonald’s.

8. Minor Basilica and Parish of St. John the Baptist (Taytay, Rizal)

• Route: From Our Lady of Light Parish, ride another jeepney heading to Taytay or Angono via Bonifacio–Rizal Avenue. Ask the driver to drop you off when you see Mang Inasal and Jollibee side by side. From there, walk up Kadalagahan Street to reach the church.

9. Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Clement (Angono, Rizal)

• Route: From Taytay, take a jeepney to Angono. Be prepared for a longer ride, especially on weekends, as Taytay can get quite busy with its popular tiangge. Once you pass Velasquez Street, the traffic usually eases up.
  
  Get off at Doña Aurora Street, right after the Angono Stadium. Walk along the Angono Street Gallery where you can enjoy murals and art by National Artist Carlos "Botong" Francisco and other local talents. The church will be on your left.

JALAJALA-TANAY-MORONG-BINANGONAN

I suggest that you start as early as 6AM so you can visit all these churches. Crossing to Talim Island may take half a day and boats are only available until 5PM as I heard. I am also not aware if any accommodation in the island but there are communities out there.

St. Michael the Archangel Parish (Jalajala), San Ildefonso de Toledo Parish (Tanay), St. Jerome Parish (Morong), Sta. Ursula Parish (Binangonan), Sto. Domingo Parish (Talim Island, Binangonan)

10. St. Michael the Archangel Parish (Jalajala, Rizal)

• Route: From LRT-2 Antipolo Station, head toward the side of SM City Masinag, where a transport shed services buses bound for Pililla. Get off at Pililla Municipal Hall, then take a jeepney or tricycle to Jalajala and ask to be dropped off at St. Michael the Archangel Parish on P. Torres Street.

11. San Ildefonso de Toledo Parish (Tanay, Rizal)

• Route: From Jalajala, ride a jeepney going back toward Tanay. The San Ildefonso Church will be along the way. Alternatively, if you're coming from SM City Masinag, you’ll also pass by this church before reaching Pililla.

12. St. Jerome Parish (Morong, Rizal)

• Route: From Tanay, take a jeepney bound for Binangonan. Along the way, you’ll pass Baras, which also features a beautiful old church. Before you cross the Morong River, turn right onto Turentigue Street, pass the Morong Gym, and head uphill to reach St. Jerome Parish.

13. Sta. Ursula Parish (Binangonan, Rizal)

• Route: From Morong, take another Binangonan-bound jeepney along Manila East Road. Get off at the Batingan–Binangonan Triangle, then ride a tricycle to Sta. Ursula Parish.
  Tip: Have Google Maps ready for this leg—landmarks can get tricky!

14. Sto. Domingo Parish (Talim Island, Binangonan, Rizal)

• Route: From Sta. Ursula Parish, walk straight along Sta. Ursula Street to the Binangonan Fish Port. This is also a passenger terminal for boats heading to Talim Island.
  Boats depart hourly, so the wait isn’t long. Ask for those bound for Janosa, specifically ones that dock directly in front of Sto. Domingo Parish. You’ll need to register and have your belongings checked by the coast guard before the 45-minute ride across Laguna de Bay.

Going home: From Talim Island, you can easily take a return boat to Binangonan Fish Port. Once there, buses are available to Crossing United (Mandaluyong City) or, if you prefer, ask to be dropped off at Junction (Cainta). From there, ride a jeepney to Tropical (Q Plaza/Sta. Lucia East Mall), and make your way back to LRT-2 Marikina Station.

Pilgrimage is not just about reaching destinations—it’s about deepening your faith, encountering God in everyday moments, and rediscovering the beauty of our local churches and communities. Whether you choose to go solo like I did or journey with others, may this path across the 14 Jubilee Churches of the Diocese of Antipolo bring you peace, perspective, and spiritual renewal.

Take your time, pray deeply, and travel safely. May this Jubilee Year of Hope truly rekindle joy in your heart and strengthen your connection to the Church and its people.

Happy and holy pilgrimage!

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A Soulful Encounter at Morong’s Pabasang Bayan – A Tourist’s Reflection

Today, I experienced something truly special—something that felt less like a tourist stop and more like being lovingly welcomed into the soul of a community. I found myself in Morong, Rizal, attending the 25th Pabasang Bayan, a profound celebration of faith, tradition, and artistry held at the Ynares Gymnasium in Brgy. San Juan.

I arrived not fully knowing what to expect. But from the moment I stepped into the venue, I was captivated by the sight of life-sized images depicting various biblical scenes displayed throughout the gymnasium. Each image is lovingly cared for by local camareros, families who treat these saintly figures not just as religious icons, but as treasured heirlooms passed down through generations.

The event is presented by the St. Jerome Parish and organized by the local group Recamadero, who clearly poured heart and soul into every detail—especially the scenes depicting the Passion of Christ.

As a traveler, I often seek experiences that are “off the beaten path,” and today, I found a true gem. Not just because of its spiritual and cultural richness, but because of the way it reminded me of the power of community, heritage, and shared belief.

If you ever find yourself in the Philippines during Holy Week or the Easter season, make time for Morong, Rizal. Witness the Pabasang Bayan—not just with your eyes, but with your heart. The exhibit runs until tomorrow, April 13, and many of these sacred images will also join the Holy Week processions, especially on Good Friday.

Tips for Fellow Travelers:

• Respect the solemnity of the event – Dress modestly and keep conversations soft; this is a deeply spiritual occasion for many.

• Engage with the locals – They're incredibly warm and always eager to share the stories and meaning behind the traditions.

• Follow their official page – Check out Recamadero.MorongRizal on Facebook for updates, event details, and a deeper dive into its history.

Until next time, Morong. Salamat sa isang makabuluhang karanasan. 💛

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HATCH 2025: Filipino Street Art Debuts at The Manila Hotel

HATCH Emergence: A Fusion of Filipino Street Art, a one-of-a-kind exhibit celebrating the dynamic fusion of art and innovation officially unveiled on April 8, 2025 at the iconic Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel.

The much-anticipated opening reception was a resounding success. Distinguished guests, including Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., president of The Manila Hotel; Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel; Sharlene Zabala Batin, Assistant Secretary for Tourism Digitalization and Resource Generation and concurrent Regional Director of the Department of Tourism NCR; members of the media; and notable content creators, gathered to witness this spectacular celebration of creativity.

This edition of HATCH debuts its first-ever thematic showcase dedicated to Filipino street artists, continuing its tradition of championing Filipino artistry and elevating urban and collectible art with an impressive roster of established and emerging talents who are redefining the boundaries of their craft.

This year’s art exhibit was combined with The Manila Hotel’s 2025 Easter Party theme, Easter at the EGGmerald City. At the heart of the installation are intricately designed acrylic eggs, transformed into unique works of art that merge street art, pop culture, urban narratives, and toy-inspired aesthetics. The exhibit is a vivid celebration of imagination, paying homage to the evolution of Filipino art and its growing influence on the global stage.

The opening reception drew an eclectic audience of art enthusiasts, collectors, and media, eager to witness the rebirth of new artistic generation. The Grand Lobby was transformed into a vibrant and whimsical gallery space, showcasing the creativity of stellar lineup of artists, including Jade Suayan, Trip63, Creon Chkn, Blic, Exld Manila, Distort Monsters, Gerilya (Jano and Mar Gonzales), Wesley Valenzuela, Isobel Francisco, Lianne Steffi Lim, Reen Barrera, Egg Fiasco, and Quiccs. Each piece reflected the distinct techniques and diverse styles that define contemporary Filipino artistry.

“We are honored to continue providing a space that not only showcases the dynamic talent of Filipino artists but also fosters a deeper appreciation for urban and collectible art within our historic walls,” said Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Hotel’s vice president for sales and marketing.

More than just an exhibition, HATCH serves as a platform for artists to push creative boundaries and explore new forms of expression. This exhibit has reaffirmed its role as a pivotal platform in the local art scene, demonstrating its ever-evolving dynamism.

HATCH is on display at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel until May 02, 2025. Admission is free. Limited HATCH postcards and stickers are available for purchase at M Gift Shop. For inquiries, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or email info@themanilahotel.com. 

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Empowered Women, Empowering Generations: ‘Ladies for a Cause’ Launches to Champion Maternal and Child Health

A powerful movement dedicated to improving the health and well-being of mothers and children took center stage at The Manila Hotel with the official launch of Ladies for a Cause. Composed of strong, passionate, and driven women from various sectors, the initiative aims to make a lasting impact on maternal and child health, particularly during the critical first 1,000 days of life—from pregnancy to a child’s second birthday.

Dr. Gwen Pang, Convenor of Ladies for a Cause, who is also the Secretary General of the Philippine Red Cross, emphasized the significance of collective action, stating:

“When women come together, we don’t just spark change—we build movements that transform lives. ‘Ladies for a Cause’ is more than just a group; it is a force for good, ensuring that no mother or child is left behind in the fight for health, dignity, and a better future.”

Why Women? Why This Movement?

Women are the heart of every home and the backbone of every community. They are natural caregivers, nurturers, and decision-makers who intimately understand the needs of families. Their ability to empathize, multitask, and find solutions uniquely positions them to address the challenges of maternal and child health.

“Women don’t just witness the struggles of mothers and children—they live them, understand them, and know how to solve them. When women take action, they don’t work alone; they mobilize, they inspire, and they create lasting change. This is why ‘Ladies for a Cause’ is a movement led by women—because when women lead with purpose, entire generations benefit,” Dr. Pang added.

The launch was further strengthened by the support of Attorney Joey Lina, President of The Manila Hotel and Convenor of the Children’s First 1,000 Days Coalition, who underscored the importance of this advocacy:

“A nation’s future is shaped in the womb. By prioritizing maternal and child health, we are investing in stronger families, healthier communities, and a more resilient Philippines. This movement is a beacon of hope, proving that when women lead with purpose, the impact is boundless.”

The event gathered influential women leaders from government, business, media, and civil society, all committed to driving change and championing the health and well-being of mothers and children. The initiative will focus on advocacy, education, and direct community interventions to ensure that every child gets the healthiest possible start in life.

As Ladies for a Cause takes its first step, it calls on more women to stand together, take action, and be part of a movement that will leave an indelible mark on future generations.

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Kite-Flying Takes Center Stage at Amiya Raya’s Event

Amiya Raya’s skies came alive on recently to usher the summer season, as colorful kites of all shapes and sizes soared high during the much-anticipated Kite at the Top event. Organized by Amiya Raya and Club Vihara in partnership with the Kite Association of the Philippines, this spectacular gathering brought together kite enthusiasts, families, and adventure seekers for a day of fun, creativity, and community spirit.

The event showcased a breathtaking display of kites, ranging from traditional Filipino designs to modern, high-performance stunt kites. Participants competed in various categories, including Colorful Kite, Highest Flight, and Longest Tail Kite. Spectators were treated to an exhilarating kite-flying exhibition by professionals, demonstrating impressive aerial stunts and synchronized kite performances.

Beyond the competition, the event featured hands-on workshops where attendees, especially children, learned how to build and fly their own kites. Expert kite flyers from the Kite Association of the Philippines shared valuable tips on aerodynamics, wind conditions, and the art of kite maneuvering.

For those looking to relax and take in the stunning scenery of Amiya Raya, picnic spots and food stalls offered a variety of refreshments, creating a perfect weekend getaway atmosphere.

The Kite at the Top event was not only a visual delight but also a testament to the growing interest in kite-flying as a recreational and competitive activity. Organizers from Club Vihara expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support and enthusiasm from participants and spectators alike.

The “Kite Show At The Top” is part of Amiya Raya’s ongoing commitment to offering family-friendly activities that celebrate Filipino culture and traditions. Events like these not only provide entertainment but also strengthen the sense of community among residents and visitors.

As the kites soared against the backdrop of Amiya Raya’s scenic landscapes, participants were reminded of the simple joys of outdoor play and the importance of preserving cultural traditions for future generations.

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