Young Marikeño Speller wins at SM Super Spelling Bee in SM City Marikina

The written spelling round at the SM City Marikina leg of the SM Super Spelling Bee

The air was buzzing with excitement last September 6, 2025, as SM City Marikina’s hallway at the Ground Level near Ace Hardware transformed into a live stage for word wizards. More than 180 students from both public and private schools in Marikina gathered for the SM Super Spelling Bee Elimination Round, showcasing not just their spelling skills but also their confidence and love for learning.

Open to Grades 5 and 6 students aged 10 to 12 years old, the competition brought together young learners eager to put their knowledge to the test in front of an enthusiastic crowd of parents, teachers, and mallgoers. After several intense rounds, one young speller stood out among the rest—Zarex Celis of Sta. Elena Elementary School, who emerged as the champion of SM City Marikina’s leg of the competition.

Now on its second year, the SM Super Spelling Bee has grown even bigger with 40 participating SM Supermalls nationwide, serving as a platform where classroom champs and young word enthusiasts can shine and celebrate the joy of words. This year’s edition is made even more meaningful as it coincides with SM Supermalls’ 40th anniversary, a milestone that underscores its commitment to creating spaces where families can shop, dine, learn, and connect through meaningful experiences.

More than 180 students from Marikina City battled it out as the best speller during the SM Super Spelling Bee at SM City Marikina.

The event was made possible through the support of National Book Store, National University, Power Mac Center, and Jollibee—partners who share in SM’s mission to nurture learning, creativity, and confidence among the youth.

Congratulations once again to Zarex Celis for this well-deserved win! We wish you the best of luck as you advance to the next round of the SM Super Spelling Bee.

Zarex Celis of Sta. Elena Elementary School orally spells out the word "euphonious" during the SM Super Spelling Bee elims at SM City Marikina.

Zarex Celis of Sta. Elena Elementary School emerged as the winner of the SM Super Spelling Bee elimination round in SM City Marikina. He will represent his school and the mall in the grand finals at SM Mall of Asia.

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Dancing with Tchaikovsky: An Evening of Russian Romanticism with the MSO

 The Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation Inc., together with Standard Insurance and in partnership with EastWest Bank, proudly presents Dancing with Tchaikovsky on September 27, 2025 (Saturday), 7:30 PM at the Aliw Theater, Pasay City. This special concert highlights the timeless brilliance of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, performed under the baton of Russian guest conductor Alexander Vikulov with cello prodigy Damodar Das Castillo, scholar of the MSJO–Standard Insurance International Scholarship Program.

The evening’s repertoire opens with Tchaikovsky’s Festival Coronation March (1883), a work of ceremonial grandeur originally composed for Tsar Alexander III’s coronation. The program continues with the Variations on a Rococo Theme (1877), a cornerstone of the cello repertoire that combines classical elegance with virtuosic brilliance, to be performed by Castillo. The concert concludes with the beloved Sleeping Beauty Suite (1889), capturing the grace of courtly dances and the enchantment of fairy-tale fantasy.

Guest conductor Alexander Vikulov brings a distinguished international career spanning opera, ballet, and symphonic music, with appearances at the Vienna State Opera, Finnish National Opera, Seoul Arts Center, Teatro Regio di Torino, and the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Currently musical director of Manila’s Star and Aliw Theaters, he continues to build cultural bridges through the universal language of music.

Alexander Vikulov, Russian conductor

Eighteen-year-old Damodar Das Castillo, hailed as one of the most promising young cellists of his generation, has garnered top prizes in international competitions across Europe, including Tallinn, Düsseldorf, Berlin, Vienna, and Italy. He studied at the Pre-College of Mozarteum University Salzburg under Prof. Barbara Lübke-Herzl and now performs on a George Gerl cello as part of his scholarship program.

Damodar Das Castillo, cellist

Founded in 1926, the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is one of Asia’s oldest orchestras and the Philippines’ longest surviving artistic institution. Approaching its centennial in 2026, the MSO remains committed to presenting world-class performances while nurturing Filipino musical talent under Music Director Marlon Chen and Associate Conductor Jeffrey Solares.

Manila Symphony Orchestra

Tickets are now available via TicketWorld. Prices range from ₱650 to ₱3,500, with discounts offered: 50% off for students (Code: TCHAIKOVSKYSTUDENT50), 20% off for seniors and PWDs (Code: TCHAIKOVSKYMSO20), and a 20% early bird discount until September 15, 2025 (Code: TCHAIKOVSKYEB20). Valid IDs must be presented upon entry.

Follow the Manila Symphony Orchestra on:
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Website – www.manilasymphony.com

For one night only, experience the grandeur of Russian Romanticism as the Manila Symphony Orchestra brings Tchaikovsky’s music to life at the Aliw Theater.

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Super September Sale at SM Malls in the East!

Shop at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo on September 19-21, 2025, to get discounts of up to 50% off on select items.

September just got more exciting at the East Metro as SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo bring you the much-awaited Super September Sale happening on September 19, 20, and 21! Shoppers can enjoy up to 50% off on select items from mall tenants, making it the perfect time to shop for early Christmas gifts, home upgrades, or even well-deserved treats for yourself.

With the holiday season just around the corner, this sale is your chance to start filling up those Christmas gift bags early. Imagine scoring the latest sneakers for your teens, toys for the kids, and stylish bags and accessories for your besties—all at half the price. You can even find deals on kitchenware and home décor that will spruce up your space just in time for holiday gatherings.

September just got sweeter with big savings when you shop at Super September Sale!

There are also big savings on beauty must-haves and gadgets, so you can stock up on skincare, perfumes, and tech essentials while enjoying the discounts. Shopping early means you skip the holiday rush and still surprise your loved ones with the best gifts without overspending.

The Super September Sale is the perfect chance to shop smart and save big. Don’t miss it—mark your calendars for September 19, 20, and 21 and head to SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo for the best deals of the season. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-235743, Series of 2025.

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TBA Studios' “Quezon” Announces Special Ticket Price for Students and Teachers

Students and teachers can watch the much-awaited historical biopic "Quezon" at a special price when the film begins its Philippine theatrical run on October 15.

TBA Studios has officially announced that “Quezon” movie tickets will be available to students and teachers for only Php 250. To avail of the special rate, students and teachers simply need to present a valid school ID at ticket counters in participating cinemas nationwide.

According to TBA President and COO Daphne O. Chiu-Soon, the special ticket price aims to encourage students and educators to see “Quezon” specifically on the big screen.

“The best way to watch 'Quezon' is on the big screen. We are encouraging Filipinos to watch and experience ‘Quezon’ in the cinema, where it is meant to be seen,” Chiu-Soon said.

She added, “TBA Studios designed ‘Quezon’ to be a true cinematic experience. This is evident from the film’s star-studded ensemble cast—including Jericho Rosales playing the role of Manuel L. Quezon and our ‘import’ Iain Glen of the hit fantasy television series “Game of Thrones” playing Leonard Wood—to its entirely world-class technical and artistic execution.”

Chiu-Soon, who is also credited as one of the film’s producers, shared that the studio is open to making “Quezon” available on streaming platforms, though not in the immediate future.

Directed by Jerrold Tarog, ‘Quezon’ is the much-awaited conclusion to TBA Studios’ cinematic “Bayaniverse” trilogy, a series of films based on Philippine history. The “Bayaniverse” includes 2015’s “Heneral Luna,” the Philippines’ highest-grossing historical movie of all time, and 2018’s critically acclaimed “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral.”

The film will focus on the titular Manuel L. Quezon during the American occupation. The full synopsis goes: “When his fight for Philippine independence from the United States is put to the test, Manuel L. Quezon finds himself playing the brutal game of politics to outmaneuver his rivals—including Leonard Wood, Sergio Osmeña, and Joven Hernando. In his relentless quest for power, he eventually faces off with Emilio Aguinaldo in the 1935 Philippine presidential elections, using charm and favoritism as both weapons and currency, in a campaign that ultimately changes the face of Philippine politics and history.”

Joining Rosales and Glen as part of the cast of are Benjamin Alves as Young Manuel L. Quezon and Mon Confiado as Emilio Aguinaldo, reprising their roles from “Heneral Luna” and “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral.” Arron Villaflor also returns to the “Bayaniverse” as Joven Hernando, with Cris Villanueva playing the role of the older Joven Hernando. The ensemble cast also includes Romnick Sarmenta, JC Santos, and Karylle. Completing the cast are Jake Macapagal, Bodjie Pascua, Angeli Bayani, Jojit Lorenzo, Joross Gamboa, Therese Malvar, Ana Abad Santos, Ketchup Eusebio, and Nico Locco.

Chiu-Soon emphasized that while the film is the conclusion to the film studios’ acclaimed “Bayaniverse” trilogy, “Quezon” is a stand-alone film.

“Quezon” opens exclusively in theaters in the Philippines on October 15. Following its Philippine theatrical premiere, "Quezon" will be released internationally at a later date.

For complete guidelines on the special ticket price for students and teachers, contact the cinema of your choice.

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The Manila Hotel is Named No. 1 Cultural Hotel, No.1 Gourmet Hotel, and among the Top 20 Premium Hotels at Trip.Best Awards

The Manila Hotel has once again affirmed its stature as the Grand Dame of the Philippines, taking top honors at the Trip.Best awards by Trip.com. The iconic landmark was named No. 1 Cultural Hotel 2025 and No. 1 Gourmet Hotel 2024 in Metro Manila, while also earning a spot among the Top 20 Premium Hotels for 2025.

The No. 1 Cultural Hotel award is given to historic properties that preserve their architectural style and heritage, offering guests an immersive experience of history. Established in 1912, The Manila Hotel has welcomed world leaders, dignitaries, and celebrities, with storied spaces such as the MacArthur Suite serving witnesses to pivotal moments in Philippine history.

Beyond heritage, The Manila Hotel shines in the culinary spotlight as its signature Chinese restaurant, Red Jade, secured the No. 1 Gourmet Hotel distinction. Known for its refined take on traditional Chinese cuisine, Red Jade has become a dining destination in its own right.

The Manila Hotel’s recognition as one of the Top 20 Premium Hotels confirms its standing as one of Metro Manila’s leading luxury destinations, blending heritage with modern amenities and world-class service. This distinction also highlights the hotel’s unwavering commitment to upholding Filipino hospitality at its finest.

Rose Angelie Quilicol, market manager for High Star and Local Chains of Trip.com extended her congratulations, “Warmest congratulations to The Manila Hotel for being honored with the prestigious Trip.Gourmet and Trip.Best awards. Long celebrated as the Grand Dame of Philippine hospitality, The Manila Hotel continues to stand as a timeless icon—where history, elegance, and exceptional service come together to create unforgettable experiences.”

“We are honored to receive these recognitions, which affirm our commitment to preserving the rich heritage of The Manila Hotel while continuously enhancing our service and culinary offerings. We remain grateful to our guests, whose support inspires us to keep the True Heart of the Philippines alive for generations to come,” said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

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TBA Studios celebrates "Heneral Luna" 10th anniversary with star-studded Bayaniverse photo shoot

In a momentous celebration of Filipino cinema, TBA Studios brought together the iconic cast members of the Bayaniverse cinematic trilogy for a historic class photo to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the groundbreaking biopic “Heneral Luna."

Shot by acclaimed photographer Artu Nepomuceno at the Gateway Cineplex 18 in Quezon City, the Bayaniverse class photo imagines the lead stars from 2015’s “Heneral Luna,” 2018’s “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral,” and the upcoming historical biopic “Quezon” as moviegoers enjoying a film on the big screen, a fitting tribute to a film series that has helped shape cultural and cinematic conversation in the country for the last ten years.

The photo shoot also commemorates the theatrical release of “Heneral Luna” ten years ago. The historical war epic opened in theaters on September 9, 2015. It has since become the highest-grossing Philippine historical film of all time and jump-started the Bayaniverse cinematic trilogy.

More than just a historic photo shoot with the stars of TBA Studios’ historical film series, the Bayaniverse class photo is part of a larger call to action to remind the public of the beauty of watching movies in theaters and the immense hard work and creative labor that goes into making quality films, said Daphne O. Chiu-Soon, President and COO of TBA Studios.

“We assembled the stars of our historical films ‘Heneral Luna,’ ‘Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral,’ and ‘Quezon’ to celebrate the shared experience of cinema and the electricity of a live audience.”

Chiu-Soon added: “This photo shoot fittingly encapsulates TBA Studios’ love for and commitment to Philippine cinema as we celebrate "Heneral Luna" and the 10 years since it came out in theaters. It also signals our excitement as we await the release of "Quezon" in Philippine cinemas on October 15.”

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Poten-Cee's 50th Anniversary Campaign wins double at Quill and Anvil Awards

Fifty, Fortified, and Forging Forward Recognized as One of The Professional Top Awards at Quill

A year after its 50th anniversary celebration, Ascorbic Acid (Poten-Cee) continues to forge forward as its campaign #FiftyFortifiedandForging Forward scores a win at the Philippine IABC’s Quill Awards held last week at the historical Manila Hotel. This recent feat marks the brand’s second successive win at two major communications awards, following the PR Society of the Philippines’ Anvil’s Silver in January.

For effectively conveying its 50th anniversary via #FiftyFortifiedandForgingForward to targeted audiences through a variety of channels and vehicles and then scoring higher than 5.75 based on IABC’s Global Scale of Excellence, Poten-Cee Vitamin C scored an Excellence Award.

In 2024, Poten-Cee communicated its campaign initially to internal stakeholders, believing that employees are the best brand ambassadors and thereafter to external stakeholders that included customers as well as members of media who attested as customers themselves.

The campaign that was conceptualized late 2023 and that ran from January to December 2024, reached audiences through internal platforms and largely ATL, BTL and especially digital platforms. Despite challenges, Poten-Cee achieved remarkable sales, collective digital performances, PR, and stakeholder engagements (including CSR) that pushed its score further.

Notably, among 918 total entries, 163 won an Excellence Award (58 from the same category) where amongst these, Poten-Cee at 50 qualified to be part of the Professional Top 5 Awards. This means the campaign scored one of the highest on a scale of 1 to 7 with 7 being the highest.

According to IABC President Belle Tiongco, “Scoring a Professional Top Awards means you submitted a well-written entry, with clear strategy, creativity, and results accompanied with an impressive Work Plan, showing a sample of the campaign which allowed the evaluator to “experience” the output in a very effective manner. This is how you win the Quills! She adds: “Landing in the final five is a big feat in this very competitive category.”

The #FiftyFortifiedandForgingForward is PascualLab’s 2nd Quill, winning its first Excellence for its 75th anniversary campaign #PascualLove in 2021. This second award inspires the brand and the company to continue forging forward in delivering various Vitamin C needs across markets.

Poten-Cee’s current portfolio includes: Poten-Cee Sugar-coated, Sugar-free, Forte (1000 mg), and Chewable. It also offers more advanced immunity protection (against other variants) with Poten-Cee Zn and Zn Advance. It also offers variants that help boost collagen production and that improve skin and hair health: Poten-Cee + C (with Bovine and Marine). Poten-Cee also addresses the vitamin C needs of children with its Poten-Cee Plus, and its newest variant Poten-Cee Gummies variants. For more information, visit pascuallab.com and our official stores at Lazada, Shopee, and Tiktok.

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