Author: Press Release

  • Gusto: A Celebration of Mediterranean Food and Culture with Doña Elena

    When it comes to Mediterranean food and culture, a new level of experience awaits. As one of the highly influential types of cuisine primarily for its abundant use of plant-based ingredients, it’s also widely celebrated for using the century-old olive oil in its various recipes. From fresh salads, flavorful dips, and sauces, to made-from-scratch stews and soups, olive oil is a staple ingredient that makes the Mediterranean one of the healthiest in the world.

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    As a market leader of olive oil and Mediterranean products in the Philippines, Doña Elena proudly celebrates its rich heritage of flavor and passion in a one-night exclusive event attended by VIP guests from Fly Ace Corporation‘s national trade partners and media. The sensational evening celebrates the rich heritage of Mediterranean flavors and Spain’s old-world culinary history, with Gusto as the main theme to highlight Doña Elena’s success in the country.

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    THE THRILL OF TAPAS AND A LUXURIOUS SPANISH FEAST

    A true feast for the senses, the journey begins with a buffet featuring famous tapas specialties. A culinary tradition in Spain celebrated in different parts of the world, the section is a grand display of assorted meats, cheeses, nuts, crackers, and a voluptuous whole Iberico Ham as the iconic centerpiece.

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    The sit-down buffet dinner is a gastronomic journey that begins with an appetizer trio, which is a rendition of bite-sized tuna tartare in pani puri, eggplant caviar, and grilled pulpo. Laden in chimichurri and bonito aioli sauces, these dishes are generously infused with Doña Elena olive oil to enliven their Mediterranean flavor.

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    Nothing beats a comforting Tomato Soup with simple and quality ingredients to bring to life its heartwarming flavor. Smooth and creamy, it’s a welcoming treat made from a puree with Doña Elena diced tomatoes and Doña Elena olive oil.

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    Collaborating for the restaurateur and Terraza Martinez Executive Chef Luis Martinez. The Presa Iberica de Cerdo is a buttery soft premium pork tenderloin and an epic favorite for its next-level marbling. Followed by the show-stopping duck confit, foie gras, and Spanish Bomba Rice dish, reflecting Chef Luis’ Valencian roots. “The main course elegantly combines the flavorful tradition of passionate Spanish cuisine and commitment to quality ingredients,” says Chef Luis.

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    What better way to end the feast than a classic favorite Basque Cheesecake with added apricot and pistachio for a balance of fruity and nutty taste? Its rich caramel crust and creamy texture are a crowd favorite and captivate the sweet spot of dessert lovers.

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    AN EVENING OF GASTRONOMIC AND CULTURAL DELIGHT

    As a tribute to Spain’s art, culture, and music, guests were treated to an exclusive Flamenco show from an ensemble flown directly from Spain.

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    “Flamenco is considered one of the icons of Spanish culture, which evokes so much passion and energy.

    Every stomp, strum of the guitar, and clap of the singer’s hands is a testament to Spain’s rich history and complex roots. We just knew that our special dinner is best enjoyed with one of Spain’s most exhilarating art forms to give a full experience,” says Marketing Director Zen Prudentino.

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    The thrilling flamenco entertainment showcased different styles of flamenco, transporting the audience to the land of Andalusia. A true feast for the senses, the entertainment brought energy and delight to the guests, the ideal setting for a show-stopping celebration.

    BRINGING THE BEST OF THE MEDITERRANEAN

    Fly Ace Corporation’s vision of bringing the best of the world with healthy Mediterranean flavors at its core, Doña Elena’s humble beginnings is one of the company milestones that proved to be pivotal in Filipino cooking.

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    A trusted name in the Philippines, Doña Elena is a household staple with a wide selection of Mediterranean products. Doña Elena Olive Oil was first introduced in the Philippines with its 3 variants – extra virgin, pure, and pomace. Since then, the brand has continuously expanded its product range with Mediterranean staples, sourced from Spain and all over the world, and brought to the Filipino household. To this day, Doña Elena Olive Oil continuously reigns supreme as the no. 1 olive oil brand in the country, trusted by both chefs and home cooks.

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    For Fly Ace Corporation President Jun Cochanco, the brand is a symbol of passion and innovation, with its partners and stakeholders as a big part of their success. “Over the years, we’ve cultivated and grown the brand into what it is today, the number 1 Mediterranean brand in the country. As a consistent no.1 brand in the country for over 12 years, I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our great partners and stakeholders. We couldn’t have done this without you. We are proud to say that Doña Elena is a brand that stands for authentic Mediterranean quality and I can promise that we will continue to invest in the brand and create value in your categories.”

  • The Manila Hotel Welcomes the Year of the Dragon

    The Manila Hotel is set to usher in the Year of the Dragon with a series of festive offerings and celebrations, adding a touch of opulence to the festivities, enhanced by the grandeur of the hotel’s iconic Grand Lobby adorned with rich Chinese New Year decors.

    Dragon and Lion Dance Spectacle

    On February 10, guests are invited to witness a lively dance performance with a dragon, lion, funny monk and God of Fortune, a centuries-old tradition symbolizing good fortune and prosperity. The Grand Lobby will transform into a vibrant canvas as the performers captivate onlookers, setting the stage for a year filled with positive energy and success.

    Tikoy Early Bird Offer

    Tikoy Bulk Orders

    For those looking to indulge in traditional Chinese New Year delicacies, The Manila Hotel presents its early bird offer on nian gao or tikoy. From January 20 to 31, guests can enjoy 30% discount on orders of 5 boxes or more. From February 1 to 11, guests can avail 10% discount on purchases of 5 to 9 boxes, 15% discount on purchases of 10 to 19 boxes, and 20% discount on purchases of 20 boxes and more. Regularly priced at Php 1,288 per box, these delectable treats can also be purchased at the Delicatessen from February 1 to 11.

    Chinese New Year Set Menu at Red Jade

    Red Jade Interior

    A culinary delight awaits guests with the exclusive set menu at Red Jade, available for lunch and dinner from February 9 to 11. Priced at Php 3,800++ per person with a minimum of 4 persons, the menu boasts traditional flavors symbolizing good luck and prosperity, featuring an array of dishes that include Suckling Pig Combination, Seafood Sharksfin Soup, Stir-Fried Scallop with XO Sauce, Braised Pata Time with Chinese Bun, Roast Goose Hong Kong Style, Braised Dried Oyster and Seamoss with Lechon Macau, Pan-Fried Lapu Lapu with Thai Sweet Chili and Mango Sauce, Cha Misua, Sweetened Papaya with Red Dates and White Fungus, and Pan-Fried Tikoy.

    M Takeout’s Chinese New Year Hotbox

    CNY Hotbox

    Crafted to enhance the joy of home celebrations, the Chinese New Year Hotbox from M Takeout features a delightful combination of succulent Pork Knuckles paired with freshly steamed buns. The hotbox is designed for convenience and is prepared as ready-to-heat takeaway, ensuring that guests can savor the exquisite flavors of The Manila Hotel’s signature dishes in the comfort of their homes. Priced at Php 3,688 nett, M Takeout’s Chinese New Year Hotbox is available from February 1 to 15, 2024.

    Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Chinese New Year at The Manila Hotel, where tradition meets luxury. For inquiries and reservations, call (63 2) 8527-0011 or (63 2) 5301-5500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

  • ‘Wake Up With Jim and Saab’ joins ANIMA Podcasts, enters new season

    • Wake Up with Jim and Saab’ is joining ANIMA Podcasts beginning February 2024 
    • Real-life couple and podparents Jim Bacarro and Saab Magalona started one of the country’s first local podcasts in 2018

    Wake Up With Jim and Saab, one of the country’ first local podcasts that started in 2018, enters 2024 with a new season and new home. 

    Wake Up With Jim Saab

    Hosted by real-life couple and podparents Jim Bacarro and Saab Magalona, the long-running podcast is officially joining ANIMA Podcasts’ slate starting February. 

    “This new year, our podcast found a new home under ANIMA Podcasts, and we’re super excited about it! The best part about this new partnership is getting the ANIMA Podcast team’s full support in keeping our episodes as authentic as possible,” Jim and Saab shared in a statement.

    Wake Up With Jim and Saab’s engaged community of Podkids need not worry about this change as the podcast will deliver the same well-loved content that it has for years. “Thanks for being part of this awesome journey with us, and we hope you’re ready for more fun episodes ahead,” the couple said. 

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    Through the years, the podcast has delivered a wide range of content that hits the spot— whether it’s a retelling of an entire day spent eating froyo and consulting with a chiropractor to practical tips on how to deal when you’re having a panic attack. This ability to create conversations around the momentous and the mundane, coupled with the hosts’ genuine connection and gift of gab, make up the podcast’s charm.

    Mel Lozano-Alcaraz, Head of ANIMA Podcasts, shared: “We are happy to welcome Wake Up With Jim and Saab to ANIMA Podcasts. The show, its hosts, and their engaging kwentuhan resonate with our goal of creating meaningful and insightful conversations on parenting, family, pop culture and everyday life. This partnership marks an exciting chapter for us, as we eagerly anticipate the synergies and creative possibilities that will unfold.”

    Follow Wake Up With Jim and Saab on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts and on Instagram, too.  

  • Art Fair Philippines 2024 tickets now available online

    Happening on February 16 to 18 at The Link in Makati City, this year’s edition of Art Fair Philippines features 55 gallery exhibitions, a multi-level show of the best in Filipino modern and contemporary art, and a comprehensive, timely, and vibrant program that provides fair visitors opportunities to deepen their exposure and enhance their engagement with art.

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    Tickets to the fair are now available online at www.artfairphilippines.com.

    Regular tickets, available for Php 750.00, will provide visitors access to exhibitions by participating galleries from the Philippines and overseas and all ArtFairPH sections including ArtFairPH/Projects, ArtFairPH/Photo, ArtFairPH/Digital, ArtFairPH/Residencies Exhibit, and the ArtFairPH/Talks Program.

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    Tickets will also be available at the 4th Floor Reception of Art Fair Philippines at The Link, Makati City from February 16 to 18. Concession and discounted tickets for students, PWD, and senior citizens are also available on-site.

    The participating exhibitors from the Philippines are Altro Mondo, Art Cube Gallery, Art Elaan, Art for Space, Art Lounge Manila, Art Underground, Art Verité Gallery, Avellana Art Gallery, Boston Art Gallery, CANVAS, Cartellino, Galeria Paloma, Galerie Stephanie, Gravity Art Space, J STUDIO, Kaida Contemporary, León Gallery, METRO Gallery, Modeka Art, MONO8, Orange Project, Paseo Art Gallery, Pintô Art Museum and Arboretum, Qube Gallery, Richard Koh Fine Art, Secret Fresh Gallery, SILVERLENS, Superduper Art Gallery, TARZEER PICTURES, THE CRUCIBLE GALLERY, TRIANGULUM, Vantage Contemporary, Village Art Gallery, White Walls Gallery, and Ysobel Art Gallery.

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    The Philippines’ leading galleries will be joined by a wider roster of foreign galleries including Art Agenda (Singapore and Indonesia), Artemis Art (Malaysia), Gajah Gallery (Singapore and Jakarta), Galería Cayón (Spain), GALLERY KOGURE,  (Japan), Kobayashi Gallery (Japan), Mind Set Art Center (Taiwan),  Nunu Fine Art (Taiwan), Yiri Arts (Taiwan), The Columns Gallery (South Korea), SHUKADO+GALLERY SCENA (Japan), Vin Gallery (Vietnam), Yavuz Gallery (Singapore and Australia), and YOD Gallery (Japan).

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    Art Fair Philippines 2024 also welcomes the participation of incubator spaces, ArtFairPH/Incubators, creative spaces outside the mainstream gallery format including exhibitors Authenticity Zero, isTorya Studios, Manila Illustration Fair, Pangasinan Group, Talyer 15, and The Empty Scholar.

    Art Fair Philippines also invites all ticket holders to check the 10 Days of Art calendar of events at www.10daysofart.com. 10 Days of Art is a program that runs from February 10 to 19, highlighting a series of events around the Makati Central Business District with participation by galleries, museums, bars, restaurants, and retail establishments celebrates art beyond the venue of the fair.

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    For more information, please visit the Art Fair Philippines website and follow Art Fair Philippines on

    Instagram (@artfairph) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/artfairph).

    Art Fair Philippines 2024 is co-presented by AyalaLand, Bank of the Philippine Islands, and

    Globe, with a special project partner Don Papa Rum. Education Partner is the Ateneo Art Gallery. Exhibition Partners include LG Electronics,  The Embassy of Spain in Manila, The British Council Philippines, Rizome, and  Its official hotel partners are Fairmont Raffles Makati, and Holiday Inn and Suites.

  • Circuit Makati and FDCP Cinematheques Join CCP Pasinaya 2024

    Supporting Filipino artists and cultural groups since 2005, Pasinaya: The CCP Open House Festival gets bigger and better for its 20th year with additional venues in Tagum, Davao Del Norte, Iloilo City, Circuit Makati and the Film Development Council of the Philippines’ (FDCP) Cinematheque Centre in Iloilo joining this year’s edition. 

    CCP Facade lights up with Pasinaya photo by Rodel Valiente

    “This new development just came in. After the Pasinaya in 2023, Tagum City offered to host a version of our multi-arts festival. We thought it was a good way to expand our reach and engage our kababayan from Davao del Norte and neighboring MIndanaoan provinces and towns,” shared CCP president Michelle Nikki Junia. 

    Thanks to the Cultural Outreach Department, through its Kaisa sa Sining program, the partnership pushed through. 

    In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Iloilo City joined the festival This was the fruit of the partnership with the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Arts (ILOMOCA), which hosted one of CCP touring exhibits featuring the 21AM Collection.

    And while the CCP has been busy organizing the whole festival in January 2024, Circuit Makati and FDCP Iloilo got on board and shared their interest to be part of the country’s largest multi-arts festival this year.  

    “This is definitely a welcome development. We welcome all partnerships so that we can engage as many artists as we can, and reach more and more audiences. We hope this will eventually develop progressively where we can have Pasinaya in different regions, in various performing spaces throughout the country,” said CCP artistic director Dennis Marasigan. 

    Pasinaya 2024 official poster

    This year, Pasinaya will be simultaneously held at the CCP Complex, 14 museum and gallery partners around Metro Manila, FDCP Cinematheque in Manila and Iloilo, the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Arts in Iloilo City, and Tagum City, Davao del Norte on February 3 and 4, 2024. Pasinaya activities in Circuit Makati (Power Mac Spotlight Blackbox Theater and Activity Center) will be held on February 4.

    Since 2005, the Pasinaya has become a safe space for artists and cultural groups to showcase their talents while being a nurturing platform for art education and appreciation for the audiences through hundreds of free shows, workshops, and other activities in music, theater, dance, visual arts, film, and literature to choose from. 

    With its experience-all-you-can, pay-what-you-can scheme, participants may go in and out of the different CCP venues to join 30-minute workshops in various art disciplines conducted by leading artists, resource persons, and teachers, or watch as many shows, screenings, and activities as they can.

    In 2023, audience counts reached 37,888 – 12,055 participated in 43 Palihan workshops, 24,482 watched 101 Palabas shows (58 at the CCP Complex, and 43 in partner museums/galleries), and 1,236 enjoyed the Paseo Museo tours in 13 museums and galleries. Total donations amounted to Php 253,514. 

    With the added venues inside and outside the capital city, the CCP foresees increasing its last year’s audience count of 37,888 significantly. Following the theme “Sulong,” Pasinaya has certainly been making big moves, and it will keep on moving forward  in the next 20 years and beyond. 

    Follow the official CCP social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok for the latest updates on CCP Pasinaya: Sulong.

  • Quezon City Film Commission and EAVE Join Forces for EAVE Marketing Masterclasses in Quezon City

    The Quezon City Film Commission (QCFC), a local government agency dedicated to supporting the growth of the local film industry, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with European Audiovisual Entrepreneurs (EAVE). Together, they are set to launch the inaugural EAVE Marketing Masterclasses in Quezon City, Philippines, from March 16-17, 2024.

    The QCFC, through its flagship program, the QC Screen Academy, is committed to providing training and educational programs for aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals. The aim is to develop local talent, discover creative storytellers, and upskill the local workforce to be more globally competitive.

    EAVE, founded in 1988 and based in Luxembourg, is a professional training, project development, and networking organization for audiovisual producers. It brings producers from different regions of the world together, facilitating co-production relationships and fostering international collaboration. The EAVE Marketing Masterclasses in Quezon City will be structured under the banner of EAVE On Demand, a tailor-made masterclass designed to meet the specific needs and situation of the film production landscape in the partner country. This two-day masterclass will cater to Asian film industry professionals seeking to enhance their skills in international co-production, marketing, and international sales.

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    Liza Diño, Executive Director of the Quezon City Film Commission, shared during an interview, “I am very pleased with the partnership with EAVE as the inaugural offering of the QC Screen Academy to provide training opportunities for industry professionals not only in Quezon City but also for film professionals in Asia. While Filipino and Southeast Asian filmmakers are renowned for their compelling and daring narratives, there remains a gap in understanding when it comes to identifying the right audiences and platforms for our films. A well-crafted film marketing campaign can be the deciding factor between success and failure. In this day and age, with the need for filmmaking to be more sustainable and profitable, emphasizing the importance of the business side of film has never been more crucial.”

    The collaboration between QCFC and EAVE aims to bolster the region’s burgeoning film industry and actively participate in the global market. This initiative aligns with QCFC’s commitment to developing local talent, upskilling the creative industry workforce, and highlighting Quezon City’s commitment as a creative hub for film in the country and in the region.

    This year’s EAVE Marketing Masterclasses in Quezon City will select 30 Filipino and Asian producers and film industry professionals eager to advance their careers and enhance their professional experiences. Interested applicants must be willing to cover all related flight travel requirements and accommodations for their visit to the Philippines.

    The call for applications is open until 11:59 P.M. on February 2, 2024.

    Visit https://qcinema.ph/submissions/eave/ for more details and to submit your application.

    About Quezon City Film Commission

    The Quezon City Film Commission is a local government agency tasked with promoting the City as a destination for film production, supporting the growth of the local film industry, and contributing to the cultural and economic development of Quezon City.

    About EAVE

    EAVE (European Audiovisual Entrepreneurs) is a professional training, project development, and networking organization for audiovisual producers based in Luxembourg. Since 1988, EAVE has been fostering collaboration and co-productions among producers globally.

  • Glorietta Welcomes the Year of the Wood Dragon with a Grand Chinese New Year Celebration

    Glorietta, the premier shopping destination in the heart of Metro Manila, is gearing up to usher in the auspicious Year of the Wood Dragon with a spectacular Lunar New Year celebration. This year, the festivities are inspired by the vibrant Chinatown and feature immersive installations, offering mallgoers an opportunity to embrace the traditions and gain a deeper understanding and respect for the cultural opulence inherent in the Chinese New Year.

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    Running from February 5 to 11, 2024 at the Glorietta Activity Center, the Lucky Lake invites everyone to wish upon a virtual lake and let good fortune flow. To participate, shoppers can present a minimum single-purchase receipt of P500 from any Glorietta merchant. By scanning a QR code, shoppers are directed to a website where they can choose a category (fortune, career, health, or love), make a wish, and toss a virtual coin into the pond. And if you’re lucky, you could win a prize!

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    From February 9 to 11, 2024, Glorietta will host the Temple of Festivities where you can explore the mysteries of fortune telling and zodiac horoscopes. Offering tarot and palm readings along with personalized zodiac sign insights, this experience provides a glimpse of what the Year of the Wood Dragon holds for each individual.

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    The Food and Fortune Fair invites shoppers to embark on a culinary journey from February 5 to 11, 2024. Featuring a diverse selection of lucky charms and oriental treats, this fair showcases the richness of Chinese culture through its delectable offerings.

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    On February 10, 2024, 6 PM at the Dolphin Park, Glorietta presents Fire in the Sky, a breathtaking fireworks display to culminate the Chinese New Year celebration. Truly, a visual spectacle!

    The grand celebration at Glorietta extends beyond its main events, with a series of culturally enriched activities scheduled throughout the week. At the Glorietta Activity Center, you can immerse yourself in the artistry of a Chinese Calligrapher from February 9 to 11. Additionally, Glorietta has partnered with the Museum, Cultural, and the Arts Office (MCAO) – City Government of Makati for cooking demonstrations from 1 PM to 2PM on February 10 with Chef Laudico and on February 11 with Chef Tatung. As you explore the mall, expect to see the Lion and Dragon Dance, as well as the Chinese Drumbeaters.

    CNY carousel 1

    Glorietta extends heartfelt wishes of abundance and prosperity to all its patrons, aiming to bring these vivid aspirations to life through the diverse range of engaging activities. The Year of the Wood Dragon promises not only new beginnings but also an abundance of opportunities for growth and prosperity. Don’t miss out!

  • UMI’s Buzzworthy ‘Talking To The Wind’ Tour Hits Manila on April 11

    In a much-anticipated return, the rising soulful R&B sensation, UMI, is set to captivate Manila once more. As part of the Insignia Concert Series’ second year, UMI will be gracing the stage of Samsung Hall, SM Aura, in the heart of BGC, Taguig, on a breezy Thursday evening, April 11, 2024. Fans are in for a treat as UMI brings her “Talking To The Wind” tour to the Philippines, promising a night filled with heartfelt melodies and soul-stirring performances.

    UMI

    After leaving a lasting impression with her performance last year, UMI is back, armed with a fresh EP and a massive new single. Her latest EP, “Talking To The Wind,” showcases UMI’s evocative storytelling and velvety vocals, featuring hits like “happy im” and “why dont we go.” Adding to the excitement, fans will also get to experience her recent collaboration “wherever u r (feat. V of BTS)” live.

    Tickets for this soulful rendezvous are priced at PHP 3,800 and are set to go on sale starting Wednesday, February 7, 2024. As the seats fill, anticipation grows – ensure your place by purchasing tickets online at www.InsigniaPresents.com or at any SM Tickets outlets nationwide.

    In a unique twist, concert-goers have the exclusive opportunity to partake in a VIP Meditation Experience before the show. Imagine the tranquility of centering your mind and energizing your spirit under the guidance of UMI herself. This serene session promises to be a rejuvenating prelude to an evening of soulful music, providing attendees with a moment of calm before the euphoric storm of melodies.

    Tickets for the VIP Meditation Experience are priced at PHP 4,000 and available as a ticket upgrade separate from the live concert ticket. Fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets early on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, as availability is limited. Tickets can be purchased online at www.InsigniaPresents.com.

    For more information about UMI and her upcoming concert in Manila, please visit www.InsigniaPresents.com.

  • Embrace Good Fortune and Prosperity with Conrad Manila’s Lunar New Year Offerings

    Conrad Manila welcomes the Year of the Wood Dragon with festive culinary delights, including the auspicious Yee Sang Prosperity Toss, Barbecue Whole Roasted Suckling Pig, Nian Gao Treasures, and a specially curated Chinese set menu.

    “This Chinese New Year marks the beginning of another journey to a roaring success and we are thrilled to spend this joyous tradition with our loyal patrons, like in the previous years. We wish everyone happiness, good health, and overflowing blessings this 2024“, shares Fabio Berto, Conrad Manila’s General Manager.

    CBJL Soaring Prosperity Set Menu

    As part of the Lunar New Year festivities, families may gather and celebrate over a curated set menu at China Blue by Jereme Leung, available now in two tiers until February 10, 2024. With price starting at PHP 49,888 nett for a table of 10 persons, the menu features a selection of traditional favorites such as Roasted Duck, Steamed Live Sea Garoupa, Braised Ten-head Abalone, Yee Sang And Money Bag, among others.

    CBJL Nian Gao

    Bring home or share the good fortune that the season may bring with a traditional Nian Gao set, which comes with one big Koi Fish filled with white almond and six small Koi Fish brimming with the classic flavors of traditional brown coconut caramel and refreshing citrus. Priced at PHP 2,388 nett, this box of artisanal rice cake delights is packed in an elegantly crafted box that is ideal for gifting and is available until February 10, 2024. The celebrations will get even more festive with the Lunar New Year-inspired cakes and pastries that are up for grabs at Bru Coffee Bar, starting February 1 until February 29. In addition to that, Conrad Manila will welcome the Year of the Dragon with a lion dance performance on February 10 at 11:08 am.

    Bru Chinese New Year Cakes Pastries

    To learn more about Conrad Manila’s Chinese New Year offerings, please call (63 2) 8833-9999 or email conradmanila@conradhotels.com

  • Fresh Flicks coming to Lionsgate Play this February

    Mark your calendars as Lionsgate Play unveils must-watch titles hitting their platform this month – from suspenseful thrillers and gripping true crime docu-series to heartwarming comedies and everything in between. It’s an entertainment-packed February, perfect for planning that barkada binge or organizing an indoor date night with that special someone. Check out what’s new on Lionsgate Play this month.

    FEB Watchlist

    Top picks for the month

    The Rental (Film) – Release Date: February 2

    Dave Franco’s directorial debut is a slow-burn edge-of-your-seat thriller meant to scratch at the viewer’s paranoia. It follows two couples who retreat to an oceanside getaway which quickly turns into a nightmare vacation when they discover that their Airbnb host might be spying on them. Tensions also rise as hidden resentments and secrets begin to surface among the four old friends. The Rental stars Jeremy Allen White, Dan Steves, Alison Brie, and Shiela Vand.

    Midsommar (Film) – Release date: February 9

    Ari Aster’s Midsommar has cemented itself as one of the most iconic films in its genre. The horror-thriller features a young American couple traveling to Northern Europe to visit a rural hometown’s fabled Swedish mid-summer festival. What starts as an idyllic escape descends into a nightmare as they get tangled in the community’s violent and sinister pagan rituals. Midsommar stars Florence Pugh, Jack Reynor, Will Poulter, and William Jackson Harper. 

    Deadbeat Seasons 1-3 (Series) – Release date: February 9

    Those in the mood for a comedy binge will find what they need in Deadbeat, a hilarious supernatural series following the misadventures of Kevin, a medium for hire. Across Deadbeat’s seasons, Kevin juggles attempts to solve various ghosts’ unresolved problems while dealing with his messy personal life. Occasionally, he gets help from his best friend-slash-drug dealer, Roofie. Deadbeat stars Tyler Labine, Kal Penn, Brandon T. Jackson, and Cat Deeley. 

    Wrong Man Seasons 1-2 (Series) – Release date: February 16

    Wrong Man is a docu-series that sheds light on the devastating consequences of wrongful convictions. It investigates the criminal convictions of people who claim their innocence: A Black man sentenced to death for the alleged brutal murder of a babysitter in 1984, a woman convicted of the kidnapping and murder of her ex-boyfriend’s wife and infant son, another woman accused of beating someone to death, and more. More than being an interesting watch for true crime enthusiasts, Wrong Man teaches viewers about the importance of due process and the fight for human rights within the legal system. 

    More exciting content this month

    Insomnia (Series) – Release date: February 2

    Norwegian thriller Insomnia follows a group of strangers who wake up and find themselves trapped in a building, forced to play a game called “Insomnia.” As it turns out, the illegal game is a costly form of entertainment held once a year in an exclusive casino for the rich who place bets on the players. 

    Knowing (Movie) – Release date: February 9

    In Knowing, Nicholas Cage plays MIT professor John Koestler who discovers a mysterious list of numbers that somehow correspond to past and future world disasters. Convinced the sequence predicts future tragedies, John sets out to decipher the list and prevent the ultimate catastrophe. 

    Pulse (Movie) – Release date: February 16

    Pulse, the American remake of Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s Japanese horror film, Kairo, delves into a world of digital horror. It centers around a computer hacker who accidentally channels a mysterious wireless signal and awakens a terrifying evil that starts to take over the world. 

    Bite Me Seasons 1-2 (Series) – Release date: February 16

    Three die-hard gamers discover their town is overrun by zombies in American comedy-horror Bite Me. Threatened with a zombie apocalypse, the trio realizes they must use their gaming skills to survive, rescue their friends, and ultimately save the world.

    Soul Survivors (Movie) – Release date: February 16

    After surviving a fatal car accident that killed her boyfriend, college student Cassie is haunted by guilt and terrifying supernatural visions. Cassie spends time in limbo, torn between the land of the living and the afterlife, where she believes her lover is trapped. Her friends Annabel and Matt attempt to help her cope with her grief, but somewhere along the way, Cassie begins to doubt their intentions.

    Aside from these exciting titles, Lionsgate Play is also set to release Fear the Nighton February 2 and Power Book III: Raising Kanan on February 23.

    Catch these must-watch movies and series plus more only on Lionsgate Play on PLDT Home!