Hop into Fun: An Egg-cellent Easter Celebration Awaits at SM Supermalls in the East!

Hey fam! If you're still figuring out where to take the kiddos (or yourself—no shame in loving Easter eggs) this Easter Sunday, April 20, let me help you out: SM Supermalls in the East are going all out this year and it’s looking like a full-on festive wonderland. 🎉

Imagine this—egg hunts, costume contests, parades, and fun little pocket activities to keep everyone busy (and off their gadgets for a while 😅). Whether you're in Marikina, Taytay, Antipolo, or anywhere near the East side, there’s a cute celebration waiting just around the corner.

Here’s the lowdown on where the magic’s happening:

🥚 SM City East Ortigas
A classic egg hunt kicks off at 3:00 PM at the Main Atrium. Kiddos, grab your baskets and let the hunt begin!

🎭 SM City Marikina
They’re not holding back—Easter Parade, Costume Contest, AND an Egg Hunt happening at the Ground Level Mall Atrium. It's a whole production and you’re invited!

🌈 SM City Taytay
Another 3:00 PM egg hunt awaits, this time at Bldg A Ground Level. Perfect if you're looking for a mid-afternoon family moment.

🌟 SM City Masinag
Get ready for a colorful celebration with an Easter Parade, Costume Contest, and Egg Hunt—plus a cute coloring activity for the artsy little ones at the Mall Atrium.

🐰 SM City San Mateo
Up on the 4th Level, it’s all about the Easter Parade vibes, a charming Costume Contest, and—you guessed it—an exciting Egg Hunt. Bonus: another fun pocket activity to check out!

✨ SM Center Angono
Calling all mini fashionistas: their Easter Costume Contest kicks off at 2:00 PM (Upper Ground Level in front of BDO). Time to show off those DIY bunny ears and sparkly pastels!

🎨 SM Antipolo Downtown
Over at the 2nd Level, it’s egg painting time! There's also an Easter Parade and Egg Hunt, so you get the best of everything in one trip.

So if you're looking for a wholesome, joy-filled, and (let’s be real) super Instagrammable way to celebrate Easter—this is it. Grab your bunny ears, prep those baskets, and don’t forget to tag your moments with #ExtraExcitingEast so we can all enjoy the cuteness overload together.

See you at the hunt! 🐣✨💛

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Stations of Grace: A Personal Visita Iglesia Itinerary

This year, I'm doing the Visita Iglesia—the traditional Holy Week practice of visiting seven churches, typically accompanied by praying the Stations of the Cross. While this devotion is often done in groups, I'm setting out on a solo pilgrimage, following an itinerary I’ve carefully planned to finish before lunchtime.

To make things more meaningful, I’ve chosen to also visit some Jubilee Churches—starting from the farthest one and gradually making my way back home to Cainta. At each church, I’ll be praying two Stations, completing all fourteen by the end of the journey.

Here’s the route I took:

1. Immaculate Conception Cathedral (Cubao, Quezon City)
A Jubilee Church under the Diocese of Cubao.
From LRT-2 Marikina Station, transfer to Araneta Center-Cubao. Exit north and ride a jeep bound for Quiapo or España. Get off at New York Avenue, then cross to Vancouver Street—the cathedral is just there.
Fun fact: This is where celebrity couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera tied the knot in 2014.

2. Diocesan Shrine of St. Joseph the Worker (Project 2, Quezon City)
Another Jubilee Church within the Diocese of Cubao.
It’s conveniently located right beside LRT-2 Anonas Station, making it one of the easiest stops on this route.

3. Real Monasterio de Sta. Clara de Manila (Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City)

A peaceful monastery known for its tradition of offering eggs in prayer petitions.
You can get here by riding a jeep from Cubao bound for Marikina, or take the LRT-2 to Katipunan Station.

4. St. Therese of the Child Jesus Parish (Mayamot, Antipolo City)
Back within the Diocese of Antipolo, this is one of the Jubilee churches nearest to me.
A quiet and reflective stop before heading further into the heart of Antipolo.

5. Diocesan Shrine of Padre Pio of Pietrelcina (Antipolo City)

From LRT-2 Antipolo Station, ride a jeep or minibus toward Antipolo Cathedral. You’ll find this church on the right side, just past College of San Benildo and before Fatima University.

The shrine holds a blood relic of Padre Pio, which is exposed for veneration in the basement chapel. It’s a quiet, sacred space where you can spend a few moments in prayer and reflection. There's also a unique honesty store in the same area—no cashier, just a selection of religious items and designated boxes where you can drop your payment. It’s a beautiful reminder that trust and faith go hand in hand.

6. St. John Mary Vianney Parish (Antipolo City)

Located along the Marikina-Infanta Highway heading toward Cogeo, this parish is just across from SM City Antipolo Downtown. A good spot to rest and refresh, too.

7. Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of the Abandoned (Marikina City)
The final stop—a Jubilee Church in Marikina. A fitting end to the journey, as I reflect on the Passion of Christ and wrap up my Visita Iglesia.

This quiet solo pilgrimage reminded me that faith journeys don't always have to be grand or crowded—they can be intimate, personal, and just as spiritually fulfilling. Walking from one church to another, praying the Stations along the way, offered me not just a chance to reflect on Christ’s passion, but also to encounter moments of peace amid the city’s bustle.

If you're planning your own Visita Iglesia, consider choosing churches that are meaningful to you, and don’t rush the journey. Let every stop be a pause to pray, breathe, and reconnect with the reason behind the season.

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From Roots to Heights: FEU Bamboo Band Elevates Tradition in ASCEND

One stage. One night. A journey of sound shaped by heritage and lifted by innovation.

The Far Eastern University Center for the Arts (FCA) presents the Far Eastern University Bamboo Band (FBB) in “ASCEND: Reaching New Heights in Music”, a special concert on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the historic FEU Auditorium.

This year’s performance helps celebrate FEU’s 97th founding anniversary and the 76th year of the FEU Auditorium—a dual celebration of legacy and artistic excellence. In honor of these milestones, the FEU Bamboo Band returns to the historic stage with ASCEND, a concert that highlights the limitless potential of bamboo music through a captivating blend of sound, culture, and creativity.

Following the emotional depth of last year’s kundiman-themed concert Ang Tangi Kong Ikaw, the FBB now invites audiences on an expansive musical journey. ASCEND features a richly curated repertoire combining cherished Filipino classics with powerful international pieces—demonstrating how bamboo instruments and Filipino musicality can transcend genres and cultures.

Leading this project is Mr. Norberto Cads, Jr., an accomplished bamboo musician, key member of Banda Kawayan Pilipinas and artistic director of the FBB. Under his guidance, the FBB continues to blend tradition and modernity.

Mr. Norberto Cads

The FEU Bamboo Band is composed of dedicated student artists from across a wide range of disciplines including Nursing, Medical Technology, Psychology, HRM, Tourism, Architecture, Marketing, Business, and Accountancy. Despite not being music majors, these students devote over 12 hours each week to practice, fueled by passion and a shared love for music.

The evening will also feature special performances by the FEU Chorale, the FEU Drum and Bugle Corps (DBC), and guest artists: Mr. Marlexis Del Mundo on the Saxophone and Mr. John Erin Gonzaga on the flute, both former FBB members; and Mr. Jhon Mark Isla on trumpet – a proud FEU alumnus from the Institute of Arts & Sciences Class of 2018, former member of the FEU DBC, and the current Section Head at the FEU Center for the Arts. Each artist brings a distinctive voice to the stage, promising a night of rich musical tapestry.

The concert is free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Far Eastern University Bamboo Band or Far Eastern University Center for the Arts on Facebook. You may also drop by the FCA office from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Friday, or call (02) 8849-4145 ext. 310.

Come and ASCEND —a celebration of music without borders.

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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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