Author: Press Release

WATCH: Prime Video Announces Premiere Date and Debuts Official Trailer for Cattleya Killer

Prime Video today announced the premiere date of Cattleya Killer, an Amazon Exclusive crime-thriller series, and debuted the official trailer. The six-episode series, produced by ABS-CBN International Production and Nathan Studios, is based on a classic ‘90s Filipino film, Sa Aking Mga Kamay (In My Own Hands), and will be available on Prime Video on June 1 in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and other selected territories. The series marks the first series collaboration between Prime Video and ABS-CBN, further promoting Filipino talents and stories to the world.

Cattleya Killer stars Arjo Atayde, the winner of Best Actor at the 2020 Asian Academy Creative Awards, along with Jake Cuenca, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Jane Oineza, Ria Atayde, Ricky Davao, Nonie Buencamino, and Christopher de Leon.

In this new series, many years after the infamous Cattleya Killer case, the man who cracked the case, Joven de la Rosa (Christopher de Leon, reprising his role from the film), is now an NBI deputy director. His youngest son Anton (Arjo Atayde) is one of his top agents, while his eldest son Benjie (Jake Cuenca) runs a foundation for traumatized women. It seems as if everybody has moved on from the tragic events of the past, but when a body is found bearing the telltale markings of the long-dead Cattleya Killer, the lives of the three men and everyone around them are thrown into turmoil. Dark secrets are brought to the fore, as the line between the real world and the unreal blurs. No one and nothing is what they seem—least of all Anton, who becomes more and more of a suspect as more victims surface and the investigation tightens.

“We’re excited to continue pushing the boundaries and to deliver world-class entertainment made by the best Filipino talents,” said David Simonsen, director of Prime Video Southeast Asia. “We believe with its gripping storyline, dynamic characters, and stunning performances, Cattleya Killer will keep our audiences at the edge of their seats.”

“Crime stories have always been fan favorites, proven by the success of different true-crime series across different formats and territories,” said Ruel S. Bayani, head of ABS-CBN International Production. “And for us, the Philippines’ Cattleya Killer is another must-watch, as it tackles the dark human psyche. It also showcases issues rooted in family, government, and society.”

Dan Villegas (Exes Baggage, English Only, Please) directs the series from a script by Dodo Dayao. The series is based on a classic ‘90s film, Sa Aking Mga Kamay (In My Own Hands), available on Prime Video, directed by Rory B. Quintos and starring Aga Muhlach, Chin Chin Gutierrez, and Christopher de Leon.

Cattleya Killer joins hundreds of other Filipino shows and films available on the Prime Video catalog, such as 10 Little Mistresses, Deleter, Family Matters, and Walang KaParis. Korean titles such as Island and Jinny’s Kitchen, anime hits such as Demon Slayer, on top of award-winning and critically acclaimed Amazon Originals like Citadel, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, The Boys, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, and Emmy and Golden Globe winners Fleabag and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Prime Video members are able to watchfilms and shows anywhere and anytime on hundreds of compatible devices. In the Prime Video app, members can also download episodes on their mobile devices and tablets and watch anywhere offline at no additional cost. Prime Video is available in the Philippines for just PHP149 per month.

For more updates on Cattleya Killer, follow Prime Video on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube. Stream anywhere, anytime at primevideo.com or download the Prime Video app on Google Play, Apple Store, and Microsoft.

May 12, 2023
Grand Hyatt Manila Invites Guests to a Mother’s Day Celebration

It is a celebration as grand as a mother’s love as Grand Hyatt Manila invites guests to honor the main woman in their lives. A slew of staycation, dining, and recreational offers await families this month of May.

Grand Stay for Mom

It is a quick stay getaway for moms in the heart of Bonifacio Global City. Families who will stay throughout the Mother’s Day weekend can book three nights and get the third night complimentary, with rates starting at PHP 9,667+ per night for the Grand King and PHP 14,334+ per night for the Grand Suite.

Enjoy stunning views of the city, a complimentary breakfast buffet at The Grand Kitchen, and state-of-the-art amenities. Guests who will book the Grand Suite can enjoy access to the Grand Club Lounge on the 57^th floor.

Grand gastronomic adventures to indulge in

From decadent cakes to an indulgent buffet spread, guests are sure to enjoy the treats that await Mom on Mother’s Day.

The Grand Kitchen

An array of exquisite food choices await the family as the restaurant prepares a sumptuous spread to celebrate this day in the best way. Guests can take their pick of signature specialties from around the world, prepared a la minute and in their presence, including a Lamb Shoulder Biryani, Stir-Fried Premium Black Angus Beef, Goan Fish Curry, and chargrilled beef tri-tip.

Take a trip down this buffet at PHP 3,200 net per person (free-flow non-alcohol) and PHP 3,800 net (with free-flow alcohol). The Mother’s Day buffet is available for lunch and dinner on May 14 only.

The Lounge

Spill the tea and unwind with Mom amidst the resplendent lobby background. Revel in the Merienda Cena, a grand Filipino afternoon tea celebration where guests can enjoy delicate drinks and delicacies inspired by the country’s native offerings. Dig into intricately prepared bites like the chicken coronation, smoked milkfish rillettes, pancit palabok, and a turon (banana and jackfruit spring roll) sundae.

Sip on this experience for PHP 2,200 net per person from May 12 to 14, inclusive of free-flow rosé and a cocktail from the Coffee Cocktail Collection.

No.8 China House

Knock on the door to unlock signature Chinese specialties set for this special occasion. Take Mom and the family on a curated culinary journey of well-loved classics and unique memory makers, including the restaurant’s beloved traditional Peking Duck. Have the dish in two ways to enjoy the best parts, including the sliced duck skin, breast meat, and leg meat for the first course and deep-fried duck bone in salt and pepper for the second course. Explore the rest of the menu, with highlights such as the stir-fried Angus beef in enoki mushroom and black pepper, and the seafood fried rice generously topped with dried scallops, garlic, and tobiko.

Experience this special set menu for PHP 36,880 net per table of 10 persons for lunch and dinner, inclusive of one magnum bottle of Chateau Cap De Fer.

The Cellar

This fresh catch sets the stage (and the table!) for Mother’s Day as it takes the spotlight for this celebration. Relish in the flavors of the Mediterranean Sea Bass en Papillote, peppered with capers, kalamanta olives, cherry tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, lemon, and cacio e pepe pasta. Pair that with the restaurant’s diverse selections of tapas and tipples, including a collection of Old and New World Wines.

This signature dish is good for sharing and is available for dinner, with prices starting at PHP 4,600 per order.

The Peak

Share some thrills with Mom from Peak Grill on her special day. Guests can level up their celebration by taking it to the sky, dining al fresco or indoors with breathtaking views of the city. Commemorate this event in the best way possible by treating her and the family to a John Stone Tomahawk, with prices starting at PHP 11,900 per order. Bring land and sea together with a Surf and Turf, inclusive of a hearty pair of lobster and a tomahawk, with prices starting at PHP 20,480 per order.

Both dishes are good for 3-4 persons and include side dishes like creamed spinach, mashed potato, and mac and cheese. Get a taste of these signatures at the restaurant for dinner from May 12 to 14.

Florentine

Take home and surprise Mom with treats to delight and decadent cakes to mark this big day. Start with pralines, whether it be a box of 9 at PHP 990 net or a box of 25 at PHP 1,990 net. Mix and match the desserts to share with a customized hamper starting at PHP 7,590 net. Say “I love you, Mom” with the Strawberry Sweetheart cake, a Madeline sponge biscuit dream with strawberry basil jam, vanilla cream, and light white chocolate mousse, to seal the deal at PHP 1,950 net.

Adorn the woman of the hour with a stunning array of blooms at the Flower Shop. Choose from a selection of freshly cut flora like the Ecuadorian rose, peonies, and tulips, to name a few.

Drop by the shop from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM from May 8 to 14 to purchase these decadent delights and gift Mom with flowers from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM from May 12 to 14.

Spoil Mom at the Spa

Give Mom the chance to take some time off for herself with a package fit for a queen. Indulge in the Prim and Pamp-Her package, a 120-minute experience that includes a hydrating facial, a scalp massage, and a hand and arm massage.

Priced at PHP 5,000, book in advance for Mom at Illume Spa, available for the whole month of May. For inquiries and reservations, call (63 2) 8838 1234 or email manila.grand@hyatt.com. For updates on its latest promotions, follow Grand Hyatt Manila on Instagram @grandhyattmanilaph and Facebook, www.facebook.com/GrandHyattManilaPh.

May 12, 2023
Savor Cebu’s finest flavors at Marco Polo Ortigas Manila

Cebu, known as the Queen City of the South, is a thriving metropolis and tourist destination brimming with a colorful culture and delicious and diverse dishes. Apart from the staple lechon, it is home to popular fare like Dinuldog, a coconut milk-based squash dish, and Balbacua, a flavorful collagen-rich meat stew cooked for several hours until tender.

Manila-based diners can soon get a taste of the prosperous Cebu at Cucina, the refined, contemporary all-day dining restaurant located at the 24th floor of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila. From May 11-14, 2023, the renowned chefs of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu will take over the kitchen and serve an extensive menu of authentic Cebu-based appetizers like Sinudlan (Cebuano sausage) and Lansiao (soup number 5), main courses like Inasal na Manok Bisaya (chicken inasal of Visayas) and Bakasi sa Cordova (eel stew), and desserts like Torta sa Argao and Binignit.

Entitled “Culinarya: A Filipino Heritage Cuisine Series”, this highly anticipated event will kick off a series of regional culinary exchanges, letting the diners of Cucina experience a breadth of local cuisines.

Running the kitchen for this round is Chef Riz Degamo, who fills the role of Chef de Cuisine of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, having been with the hotel since 2006 and helping establish it as a top culinary destination in the region. Joining Chef Riz is Chef Jonathan Cabuncal, who is known to harness his passion for local ingredients to innovate dishes which best represent Cebuano cuisine.

Back in Cebu, both chefs work with their culinary team to deliver exceptional dining experiences to their guests. They are all set to bring the same skill, dedication, and delicious creations to Marco Polo Ortigas Manila!

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, this might be the unique experience you’ve been looking for to treat the special women in your lives. Early birds who reserve from May 2-10, 2023 via (63 2) 7720-7777 can enjoy 15% off.

May 11, 2023
Treat MOM to a Spanish Culinary Feast on Mother’s Day

From tapas to paella and cochinillo, there’s a veritable feast that these Spanish restaurants have laid out for the star of May 14, Moms! The dishes are soulful and flavorful, two characteristics of a good meal moms can’t say no to. Here are their Mother’s Day Speciales:

At Rumba, choose from the following sets: Chorizo Criollo, Gulas Al Ajillo and Hummus at P1,495; Croquetas Pollo Y Jamon, Lasagna, Calamari Andaluza at P1,995 Huevos Rotos, Gambas and Cochinillo Segoviano, quarter at P6,495

Over at Las Flores, guests may choose from: croquetas de Jamon Iberico, Emapandillas de Atun, Bombas de la Barcelona, Spaghetti con Setas at P1,495; Croquetas de Chorizo, Gambas Al Ajillo, Suquet de Mariscos at P1,995 and almon & Salmon, Paella Negra, Cochinillo Segoviano, quarter at P5,995.

The Mother’s Day Speciales at BCN by Las Flores, meanwhile, consist of Croquetas de Gambas, Chicken Liver Pate, Berenjenas Fritas, Almejas Salsa Verde at P1,495; Ensalada de Tomate, Beef Salpicao, Linguine Vongole at P1,995 and Gambas Al Ajillo, Paella Negra, Cochinillo Segoviano, quarter at P5,995.

Sexy tapas and more are the Mother’s Day offerings at Tomatito. Here they are: Croquetas Jamon, Empanadas de Carne, Chorizo and Manchego Air Baguettes at P1,495); Bombas de Chorizo, Gambas al Ajillo, Paella Valenciana at P1,995) and Salmon TNT, Paella Negra, Cochinillo Segoviano, quarter at P5,995.

Finally, at Rambla: Croquetas Jamon, Chipirones Andaluza, Pork Belly with Sweet Potato Purees at P1,495); Chorizo al Vino, Gambas al Ajiliio, Linguine Vongole at P1,995) and Conos de Atun, Paella Negra, Cochinillo Segoviano, quarter at P5,995.

All sets are good for 3 to 4 persons, all the more to make dining a happy family affair.

Enjoy these offers until May 20 at Las Flores, Rambla, Rumba, BCN by Las Flores and Tomatito.

May 11, 2023
Project Hulmahan Exhibit at The Manila Hotel

From May 8 to 20, Project Hulmahan is setting foot at The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby and Art Gallery. The art exhibit features a diverse range of artworks such as sculptures, paintings, and mixed media pieces—all using shoe molds—created by both established and emerging artists who share a passion for helping others through their art.

Walang Pares by Susan Fetalvero Roces

The First Step of Unlimited Journey by Japat Guevarra

“We looked for volunteer artists by posting publicly on Facebook who were willing to paint or make any kind of art out of hulmahan [shoe molds] that are no longer being used because the pandemic hit the struggling shoe industry in Marikina, the Shoe Capital of the Philippines,” relates Bernardo. The call for volunteers had a positive response that hundreds of artists all over the Philippines expressed interest. The Manila Hotel’s creative consultant Rachy Cuna, National Artists Maestro Ryan Cayabyab and Kidlat Tahimik, sculptors Pete Jimenez, Jonathan Dangue, Julie Lluch-Dalena, and thespian Dolly De Leon are some of the participating artists whose works are featured in Project Hulmahan.

Palakpaak by Toym Imao

Pag-aalay by Rachy Cuna

Project Hulmahan is a brainchild of Zena Bernardo, one of the members of Ladies Who Launch (LWL) and one of the co-founders of Bayanihang Marikenyo at Marikenya. Ms. Bernardo met with shut down shoe manufacturers in her hometown, Marikina, and their group purchased almost 500 pairs of shoe molds with the intention of transforming them into artworks to earn funds for community- based activities.

“It is fitting that The Manila Hotel collaborates with inspiring ladies, as the Grand Dame celebrates ladies, especially mothers, in the month of May”, says Marvin Kim Tan, Director of Sales and Marketing of The Manila Hotel. Ladies Who Launch is a four-woman team made up of Zena Bernardo (mother of Ana Patricia ‘Patreng’ of the famed Maginhawa community pantry), Dolly De Leon, internationally-acclaimed actress, Judith Albano, and Jasmine Ong. They were the founders of the community kitchen, which assisted many people during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Epitome of Time by Nico Osma

Colorful Journey by Roen Capule

The proceeds from the artworks will benefit the advocacy efforts of these three organizations: Bayanihang Marikenyo at Marikenya for community kitchen and livelihood programs, The Community Kitchen Project for nationwide disaster response, and a community-based art school for kids.

“Sa akin napaka-deep ng story ng [Project] Hulmahan. We want to give dignity back to the community; we consider them as partners in our community-based projects and not beggars. We may not be popular, but we want to be transparent and accountable. [Project] Hulmahan is about molding a person and molding a society. The success of this project will depend on working together and pooling resources so we can ensure that those in need have access to necessities during these challenging times,” says Bernardo.

Arcanum Artificium XB23-J1 and XB23-J1 by Buds Convocar

A Pixie’s Right Foot Forward & A Dreamer’s Right Foot Forward by Imelda Cajipe-Endaya

Project Hulmahan is on display at The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby and Art Gallery until May 20, 2023. Admission is free.

To culminate the fundraising endeavor, a grand auction will be held at Centennial Hall of The Manila Hotel on May 21 from 6PM to 11PM. This is by invitation only.

May 11, 2023
Take part in “Mom’s Viu-tiful Day” on May 14 for a day filled with K-Dramas, K-Beauty, and more.

Viu, a leading pan-regional video streaming service, will host “Mom’s Viu-tiful Day,” an all-day event catered to mothers in the Metro. This all-day celebration will be held at The Block Activity Center, SM North EDSA, and will feature engaging activity booths by event partners Nido, Virginia Foods, Silka, and Ensure Gold. Moms can look forward to complimentary massages at the Eomma Massage Corner and even demonstrate their singing abilities at Nido’s #1 Mom Recording Booth. A 6-month Viu Premium Subscription is also up for grabs for the most inventive Best MOMent post on social media using the chic photo wall mounted at the venue.

All mothers are welcome to the K-Beauty bar for a complimentary makeover and to try out the newest K-makeup products from Ever Bilena. At Viu’s Chill Spot, we’ve got fun activities for the whole family. Mommy influencer Abby Tabladillo will demonstrate “K-Quick” and easy Korean inspired meals on stage using Virginia Food products, while beauty influencer Romsy Dineros will host a workshop to show attendees how to achieve the perfect K-beauty look. The “Mom’s Viu-tiful Day” event will also feature a performance by OPM singer Aia de Leon, who will add an extra touch of magic to the celebration.

In addition to Viu goodie bags and other treats from Viu’s event partners, moms who participate in the activity booths will have the chance to win Viu Premium Subscriptions, which offers early access to the latest Asian content, unlimited downloads, uninterrupted viewing and high-definition streaming.

“Mom’s Viu-tiful Day” is one of Viu’s initiatives to honor mothers and provide exceptional experiences to its users, whether online or in person. Enjoy streaming on Viu by signing up via the Apple App Store, Google Playstore, or Viu.com. Subscribe to their latest promo of P29 for your first month instead of P149!

May 11, 2023
GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV and GMA News TV available on Jungo Pinoy

Global Pinoys will never miss a Kapuso show ever again as the Philippines’ leading broadcasting company GMA Network, through its overseas arm GMA International, teams up with Jungo Pinoy, the fastest-growing entertainment mobile app specifically created and curated for Filipinos by Los Angeles-based media company Jungo TV, to bring Filipinos around the world closer to home.

Jungo Pinoy users abroad can now enjoy GMA’s international channels: GMA Pinoy TV for streaming hit Kapuso shows like Abot Kamay Na Pangarap, Family Feud, Eat Bulaga, and more, GMA Life TV for lifestyle, travel, and infotainment programs, and GMA News TV for the latest, most comprehensive, and most credible news from home—with no TV, cable, or satellite required.

And until May 31, Jungo Pinoy is offering free mobile streaming of these premium channels as a special limited-time offer! They can simply download the app and turn to their phones anytime, anywhere to watch their favorite Kapuso programs.

Following the free preview, viewers can catch up on the beloved and acclaimed historical fantasy series Maria Clara at Ibarra and other popular Kapuso shows.

GMA’s top-rated lineup of comedy, game, reality, variety, and talk shows will be available on demand via Jungo Pinoy to the many Filipinos living and working in Hong Kong, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Canada.

The app is also now available in Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan, Macau, Vietnam, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Turkey, Lebanon, Mexico, the UK, and other European countries like Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

“Jungo’s mission is to provide world-class entertainment at an affordable price. We believe everyone deserves the best quality entertainment without overpaying. Through our advanced technology, we are able to offer a reimagined digital TV experience for Filipinos abroad, at a fraction of the traditional cost of cable and satellite,” Jungo TV CEO George Chung.

“We’re excited to be showcasing our highly rated Kapuso programs on the Jungo Pinoy app that lets them ‘watch TV’ on their phones wherever they may be. With this partnership, GMA Network hopes to give Global Pinoys the opportunity to stream and watch the shows that their loved ones back in the Philippines enjoy,” adds GMA International FVP and Head of Operations, Joseph Francia.

Enjoy Jungo Pinoy’s tryout treat of GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, GMA News TV and more during the entire month of May and dive into a streaming world that’s especially made for Pinoys. Download the Jungo Pinoy app on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Don’t miss out on exciting news and releases, follow @jungopinoy on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter.

Follow GMA Pinoy TV on Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and Viber channel.

May 11, 2023
Cebu Pacific Transitions to Electric Vehicle to Service Employees

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading airline, transitions its Juander Shuttle service to 100% electric, zero-emission minibuses for the commuting needs of its employees.

CEB provides the Juander Shuttle service for free to transport its employees to and from its main office in Pasay City to various pick-up and drop-off locations along selected routes within Greater Metro Manila.

“CEB is excited to roll out a more sustainable commuting service for our employees with the 100% electric COMET vehicles. This program is part of the Company’s efforts to decarbonize our operations, which in this case is the shift from the use of diesel-powered vehicles to a more sustainable electric alternative,” said Felix Dan Lopez, CEB’s Chief Human Resources Officer.

“At the same time, the bigger COMET will accommodate more riders due to its larger seating capacity. It also offers safety and connectivity features that will serve our commuting employees better,” he added.

The electric powered minibuses, called the Community Optimized Managed Electric Transport, or COMET, are provided by GET Philippines, Inc. COMET vehicles are fully air-conditioned and equipped with retractable ramps for persons with disabilities. They are installed with a media system, display monitors, and internet connection for the use of the passengers.

“GET Philippines is very pleased to partner with Cebu Pacific in providing a safe and sustainable transport solution to its employees. We are glad to support the Company’s drive to create a positive impact to the environment,” Frankie T. Endriga, GET COO, said.

Cebu Pacific is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its operations. This includes minimizing its flight emissions through its aircraft modernization program, as well as addressing emissions from its ground operations.

“CEB recognizes the need to mitigate the emissions from our ground operations, in addition to the decarbonization efforts for our aircraft fleet. We have initiated a multi-year program to transform our ground transportation network to electric, zero-emission alternatives. This also supports the government’s thrust to promote electric vehicles in the country’s transportation sector,” said Alex Reyes, Chief Strategy Officer, who also leads sustainability in CEB.

May 11, 2023
MOM Rocks at Hard Rock Cafe!

Moms will surely rock & rule at Hard Rock Cafe in celebration of Mother’s Day on May 14!

Treat her to a total Hard Rock experience with energetic live music, great food featuring delicious American dishes plus trendy Rock Shop pieces. They also get a complimentary Bahama Mama or Cucumber Slush on May 14 with a minimum purchase of P1,000.

It’s going be one rockin’ day with moms at Hard Rock Manila in S Maison and Hard Rock Makati in Glorietta 3.

Follow @hardrockcafemanila and @hardrockcafemakati on Facebook & Instagram or contact the Manila store at (63 2) 8990-9809 or Makati at (63 2) 7900-3353.

May 11, 2023
Cheers to Mom from TGIFridays and Watami

Celebrate moms on May 14! Treat her to lunch, dinner or snacks at TGIFridays. She can enjoy the healthy and delicious Caesar Salad for free with a purchase of any Fridays Signature Whiskey Glazed dish.

Meanwhile at Watami, Bistro Group’s Japanese concept, moms will get a free order of the super crunchy and yummy Nori Nachos with purchase of any Teishoku dish.

Give mom extra love and attention on her special day. Bring her to TGIFRidays and Watami for special treats.

May 11, 2023