Author: Press Release

Ben&Ben Kicks-off Global Album Tour with Cebu Show

The Philippines’ biggest folk-pop band Ben&Ben will be bringing their music to Cebu, Bacolod, and Davao for the Philippine leg of their The Traveller Across Dimensions World Tour. Overseas performances will also take place in Singapore and different parts of the United States later in the year.

Tickets are already available for the May 24 show at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino, with announcements for the June 8show at the University of St. La Salle in Bacolod and the June 22 performance at the SMX Convention Center in Davao to come in the next few weeks.

Meanwhile, tickets for the Singapore show at the Arena@Expo on December 14, as well as those for the performance at theThunder Valley Casino in Lincoln, California on July 12 are also available for purchase. Additional show dates and venues will be announced as they become final.

For the tour, the nine-piece band will perform tracks from their third studio album, mixed with some of their past hits. The Traveller Across Dimensions album was released on November 29, 2024, and has produced hits like Could Be Something and Tomorrow with You.

The concept album follows the story of Liwanag, the Traveller, as she journeys through three Dimensions: Light, depicting innocence; Energy, depicting struggle; and Feel, depicting maturity. She writes 12 songs along the way, which relate her experiences in each of the Dimensions.

The songs reflect the various experiences of the band members over the past several years and showcase their growth as people, as songwriters, and as musicians. While their signature indie folk sound remains, the group dishes out city pop and electric beats not present in their previous songs. As the group evolves, so do their stories and their music.

“We are excited to bring the songs from The Traveller Across Dimensions to various stages all over the Philippines and the world. It is a privilege to be able to perform for our Liwanag community in different parts of the country, as well as in Singapore and the US,” Ben&Ben said. “We are also grateful for the support of our tour promotions team for paving the way for us to spread light and love to music lovers beyond Philippine shores through our songs. We look forward to seeing all of you in our shows.”

Leading tour and concert promotions companies AEG Presents Asia (Singapore leg), NY Entourage Productions (US leg), and Ovation Productions (Philippines and Singapore legs) have teamed up to bring to life The Traveller Across Dimensions on stage.

AEG Presents has promoted global tours for big-name artists such as Katy Perry, Celine Dion, Justin Bieber, Elton John, The Rolling Stones, and Taylor Swift. NY Entourage, through exclusive partnerships with major resort casinos in North America, has brought local artists such as Sarah Geronimo, Bamboo, Piolo Pascual, Jim Paredes, Boboy Garrovillo, Nonoy Zuñiga, Marco Sison, and Rey Valera to stages across the US and Canada. Ovation Productions is one of the Philippines’ most respected concert producers, having staged successful events for a diverse group of artists including Ed Sheeran, Toto, Air Supply, The Jonas Brothers, Taylor Swift, Tears for Fears, Sting, Celine Dion, Paul Anka, Alanis Morissette, Boyz II Men, and hallyu stars NCT DoJaeJung, Choi Minho, Hwang In Youp, and Park Bo Gum as well as Japanese artists XG, Fujii Kaze, and Ado.

Bogie de Guia, Director at Ovation Productions, said: “It is truly a joy and an honor to again work with the band for their world tour. Having worked with them in their past events, we can truly say that their world-class talent deserves to be heard by more people outside the Philippines. We promise to stage a great show for their fans in Cebu, Bacolod, Davao, and Singapore.”

For his part, Bryan Mosko, Director at AEG Presents Asia, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Ben&Ben! They have such a huge following, and we are glad to be able to help bring their music to people outside their home country.”

NYE President and CEO Nancy Yang added: “Ben&Ben is one of the hottest Philippine bands today. We are happy to be their partner in bringing their music to the US. We believe they are wonderful representatives of Filipino music and their generation.”

Ticket Information

Date	24 May, (Saturday)	12 July (Saturday)	14 December (Sunday)
Venue	Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino, Cebu	Thunder Valley Casino Resort, Lincoln, California	Arena@EXPO, Singapore
Ticket Prices	PHP6,500 / 5,500 / 4,500 / 3,200 / 2,000	USD129.95 / 99.95 / 79.95 / 59.95 / 39.95 (plus applicable taxes and fees)	SGD168 / 148 / 128 / 108 / 88 (plus applicable fees)
Link	smtickets.com	https://thundervalleyresort.com/entertainment/events/ben-ben	https://ticketmaster.sg/activity/detail/25sg_benandben

About Ben&Ben

Ben&Ben is a multi-awarded Filipino band known for their anthemic sound and electrifying live performances. With critically acclaimed albums that set records in streaming and sales, the nine-piece collective explores personal, emotional, and socio-political themes with underlying messages of human connection, courage, hope, and vulnerability. In less than a decade, they’ve managed to shape an entire generation’s cultural awakening through music that uplifts, inspires, and invites introspection. The band’s songs also serve as both a mirror and a compass, which guide listeners on a journey of self-discovery.

About AEG Presents Asia

Combining the power of the live event with a focus on true artist development, AEG Presents is a world leader in the music and entertainment industries. Operating across four continents, the company has an unparalleled commitment to artistry, creativity, and community. Its tentpole festivals and multi-day music events — which include the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival alongside American Express Presents BST Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Hangout Festival, Electric Forest, and Firefly — continue to set the bar for the live music experience. AEG Presents promotes global tours for artists such as The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Taylor Swift, Celine Dion, Justin Bieber, Kenny Chesney, Paul McCartney, and Katy Perry, in addition to — through its network of clubs, theaters, arenas, stadiums and renowned partner brands such as Goldenvoice, Messina Touring Group, Concerts West, The Bowery Presents, PromoWest Productions, Marshall Arts, Madison House Presents, and Zero Mile Presents — creating and developing an unmatched infrastructure for artist development and audience reach. More information can be found at www.aegpresents.com.

About Ovation Productions

A leading concert promotions company in the Philippines, Ovation Productions has been operating since the 1970s and has promoted some of the biggest names in live entertainment. Awarded for its trailblazing work, the company expanded the concert market for international artists in the Philippines by breaking into and developing provincial markets outside Metro Manila. In 2017, Ovation Productions established a presence in Singapore to expand the reach of OPM talents to a global audience. The company also recently established Tap Digital Media Ventures, a media and entertainment company which oversees the operations of eight linear television channels and an over-the-top (OTT) media streaming service, Blast TV. For more information, visit www.ovation.ph

About NY Entourage Productions

NYE is a premier concert tour promotions company based in the Philippines. Since 2007, its dedicated team has been committed to delivering top-tier entertainment and concert productions to audiences at home and abroad. NYE has proudly collaborated with some of the most prestigious corporate clients in the Philippines, providing entertainment for a wide range of business events. It also brings world-class performances to provincial areas, offering communities outside urban centers the rare opportunity to experience live shows by top artists.

Pioneering the international expansion of Filipino entertainment, NYE is the first Filipino promotions company to successfully bring Manila-based acts to the United States and Canadian casino circuits. It has secured exclusive partnerships with major resort casinos across North America. In 2024, NYE was honored with the Concert of the Year award from the PMPC Star Awards, in recognition of its outstanding production of Dear Heart, featuring Sharon Cuneta and Gabby Concepcion. For more information, follow NY Entourage Productions @nsyshows on all social media platforms.

May 5, 2025

Come From Away to Mark GMG Productions’ First Filipino-Led Production

The remarkable true story that has touched the hearts of audiences worldwide is finally opening in Manila. GMG Productions and Stages have confirmed today that they will be staging their own fresh take on the multi-award-winning hit musical, Come From Away. Showcasing a new creative vision for the production and the talents of a Filipino-led cast and creatives, this production is a milestone in GMG Production’s dedication to celebrating and elevating the Philippine theatre industry. Come From Away will be staged at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater (S-PAT) for a strictly limited season from June 6 to 29, 2025.

“With Come From Away, GMG Productions is proud to embark on this exciting new chapter, working with a Filipino-led cast and crew for the first time,” shares Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG Productions. “This production is a celebration of the incredible talent in the Philippines, and we cannot wait to share this powerful story with audiences.”

Audie Gemora founder of Stages Productions adds “I along with Butch Jimenez and Jaeger Tanco have had the privilege to work with GMG in the past. We’re thrilled to reveal that Stages will be co-producing Come From Away with GMG. Our collective desire has always been to produce a show championing Filipino talent with them. We all believe this is the perfect show to do just that!”

A Musical That Inspires in Challenging Times

Set in the aftermath of September 11, 2001, Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 7,000 airline passengers unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland. The extraordinary generosity of the town’s residents highlights the power of kindness and unity in times of crisis. Premiering on Broadway in 2013, the musical garnered widespread acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling, powerful music, and its portrayal of the human spirit. The Chicago Tribune called it “a show you should see right now, for the benefit of your own spirit,” while Time Out described it as “a totally, soul-feedingly wonderful musical.” The Daily Beast hailed the show as “a celebration of the best of humankind and an uplifting piece of art for our times.”

Come From Away has received well-deserved recognition in the industry, including winning the Tony Award for Best Direction and being nominated for Best Musical. It has also won multiple Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical, Best Theatre Choreography, Best Sound Design, Outstanding Achievement in Music, and the Drama Desk Awards for Outstanding Musical and Outstanding Book of a Musical.

“This show offers more than just a night at the theatre; it’s an inspiring celebration of humanity and people coming together,” says Candal. “It’s a story that Manila audiences will not only relate to but will also find profoundly uplifting, especially in today’s unpredictable times.”

A Legendary Ensemble and Visionary Creatives

Come From Away brings together an all-star cast of Philippine theatre legends, whose collective achievements have left a mark on the local and international stages. The cast of 15 performers includes Cathy Azanza-Dy, Caisa Borromeo, Garrett Bolden, Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante, Becca Coates, Steven Cadd, Mayen Cadd, Rycharde Everly, Topper Fabregas, Sheila Francisco, Carla Guevara-Laforteza, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Gian Magdangal, George Schulze, and Chino Veguillas.

“Come From Away is the perfect vehicle to showcase home-grown talent as the musical requires versatile actors to play different characters,” says Gemora. “Let me tell you, we have assembled the best of the best Philippine theater has to offer. The energy surrounding this production is through the roof! This is going to be epic.”

Michael Williams is set to direct Come From Away, with Rony Fortich as musical director. “This show is a testament to the power of community—how kindness, resilience, and human connection bring hope even in the darkest times. I’m thrilled to work with some of the most talented artists in Philippine theater to bring our passion and storytelling to this incredible production,” says Williams.

They are joined by Delphine Buencamino (Choreography), Harry Tabner (Lighting Designer), Luke Swaffield (Sound Designer), Kayla Teodoro (Production Designer), Myrene Santos (Hair and Makeup Designer), Hershee Tatiado (Costume Designer), and Joel Goldes the dialect coach from the original Broadway production of Come From Away. Together, this world-class creative team blends Filipino and West End talents, staying true to the show’s spirit while highlighting Filipino artistry.

Be Part of the Journey

Come From Away will run from June 6 to 29 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater (S-PAT), with tickets officially available on February 22 through TicketWorld, starting at PHP900. Theatre fans can also enjoy early access through UnionBank of the Philippines, GMG Productions’ official 2025 season bank sponsor and pre-sale partner, or join the GMG Come From Away waitlist at www.gmg-productions.com. The pre-sale period runs from February 18 to 21.

Stay updated on upcoming productions by visiting www.gmg-productions.com or following @gmg.productions on social media.

*Come From Away is presented through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), New York, NU, USA. All authorized performance materials are supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

May 1, 2025
Prime Video Revealed Premiere Date, Tease Art, and Video for the Final Season of ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’

Prime Video announced the premiere date and debuted new tease art and video for Season Three of its global hit series, The Summer I Turned Pretty. The teaser features ‘Daylight’ from the album Lover and ‘Red (Taylor’s Version)’ from the album Red (Taylor’s Version) by Taylor Swift. The third and final season of the beloved coming-of-age drama will launch on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, and feature 11 episodes, streaming exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

Led by showrunners Jenny Han and Sarah Kucserka, the new season continues to follow Belly as she navigates first love, growing up, and the bonds that shape us. The series is executive produced by Han, Kucserka, and Karen Rosenfelt, alongside Paul Lee, Hope Hartman, and Mads Hansen for wiip. The Summer I Turned Pretty is a co-production between Amazon Studios and wiip.

Based on the best-selling book trilogy from Jenny Han, the Prime Video drama has become a cultural sensation and captured the hearts of fans around the globe. Season One debuted in summer 2022 and become the #1 show on Prime Video premiere weekend. Season Two debuted in summer 2023 and more than doubled Season One’s viewership within three days of launch.

The Summer I Turned Pretty is a multigenerational drama that hinges on a love triangle between one girl and two brothers, the ever-evolving relationship between mothers and their children, and the enduring power of strong female friendship. It is a coming-of-age story about first love, first heartbreak, and the magic of that one perfect summer.

Jenny Han is the No. 1 New York Times best-selling author of the To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before andThe Summer I Turned Pretty series. Her books have been published in more than 30 languages. For television, she created two new series based on her books—Prime Video’s The Summer I Turned Pretty, which she executive produces and co-showruns, and the Netflix series XO, Kitty, a spinoff of the To All the Boys universe, which she also executive produces. For film, she executive produced all three films in Netflix’s global hit To All the Boys trilogy. Han lives in Brooklyn, New York.

April 29, 2025
It’s Confirmed: Get FREE Chicken McDo on April 28
McDonald’s Philippines is celebrating the launch of its Much Malaki, Much Pinasarap Chicken McDo with a special treat for customers nationwide: a FREE Chicken McDo basta naka-apron ka sa McDonald’s!

Happening on April 28, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the giveaway is McDonald’s way of letting more people taste the juicier, tastier Chicken McDo for themselves. Each customer wearing an apron can only avail of the FREE Chicken McDo once — no repeat transactions allowed.

How to get your FREE Chicken McDo?
1. Just wear ANY apron—printed or plain!
2. Go to any McDonald’s store nationwide from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
3. Claim your free Chicken McDo and enjoy the much pinasarap experience!
This one-day-only promo is McDonald’s way of letting everyone taste the difference and see why the leveled up Chicken McDo is winning hearts (and taste buds) all over the country.

To know more, visit: https://tinyurl.com/FREEChickenMcDoPromo

Don’t miss out—get your apron ready and taste the Much Malaki, Much Pinasarap Chicken McDo for FREE!

Promo runs on April 28, 2025 from 2:00–4:00 PM only.
Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-222320, Series of 2025

For more information, visit McDonalds.com.ph, or follow @McDo.ph on Facebook, and @McDo_ph on Instagram.
April 26, 2025
Savor A Grand April: Easter Experiences, Offers and Delights at Grand Hyatt Manila

Grand Hyatt Manila invites guests to celebrate Easter with joy, flavor, and togetherness. From festive feasts and delightful surprises to restful stays, the hotel presents a curated selection of experiences designed to bring everyone together in celebration.

Florentine Presents: The Grand Easter Egg Hunt

From April 16 to 20, Florentine offers handcrafted chocolate eggs priced at PHP 1,800 net each. Each egg contains a surprise gift, ranging from gourmet experiences to an overnight stay for two.

25% off on Stays with Breakfast

Guests checked-in between April 19 and 20, 2025 can avail 25% off on stays with breakfast for two and get up to two complimentary passes to the Easter Activity Area for both Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 6 pm, with an Egg Hunt on April 20 at 10am.

Easter Florentine Specials

Florentine debuts a special Easter collection, ideal for gifting, sharing, or savoring. The highlight of the collection is the Easter cake—a pineapple-infused masterpiece that promises to steal the show.

Seasonal Merienda Cena at The Lounge

The Lounge offers a seasonal afternoon tea experience priced at PHP 2,600 net, featuring free-flow coffee, tea, and rosé wine or tea mocktails. Guests can elevate their experience with a mango bingsu for an additional PHP 1,700 net. This special offering is available throughout the season.

Basque Seafood Stew at The Cellar

Until April 30, The Cellar highlights the Basque Seafood Stew, crafted with sustainably caught tuna and a medley of flavors. Priced at PHP 1,600 net, the dish pairs excellently with a bottle of red wine, creating a delightful shared dining experience.

Soft Shell Crab Specials at Pool House

Pool House showcases soft shell crab specials, ranging from crispy tacos to a refreshing salad. Dishes start at PHP 990+, offering bold flavors inspired by the sea. These specials are available until April 30.

Salmon Coulibiac at The Peak

The Peak presents the Salmon Coulibiac, featuring succulent salmon wrapped in flaky pastry alongside sautéed mushrooms, spinach, potato, and cream sauce. This dish, perfect for sharing between 2-3 people, is priced at PHP 5,850+ per order.

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-219674 Series of 2025.

For inquiries and reservations, guests can reserve online via TableCheck Reservation, message on Instagram @grandhyattmanilaph and on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/GrandHyattManila or call (63 2) 8838-1234 / email manila.grand@hyatt.com.

April 16, 2025
Jump into A Hop-py Easter Picnic at Diamond Hotel Philippines

Hop into a colorful and egg-stra special Easter holiday at A Hop-py Easter Picnic at Diamond Hotel Philippines in Manila. Frolic with the whole family at the Diamond Ballroom on April 20, 2025 from 10am-2pm, where every bunny is welcome to eggs-perience a springtime picnic-themed party full of fun and surprises.

Kids of all ages are in for a hip and hop-pening show featuring live musical performances, games, and a magic show. Don’t miss out on the many egg-citing activities in store, including face painting, glitter tattoo, a costume contest for kids dressed in their most eggs-traordinary outfits, a photo booth, and more!

Tickets are priced at Php 2,800 net per person, inclusive of a bento lunch box, access to the show and all activities, and a chance to win a Nintendo Switch OLED at the Grand Raffle Draw!

Make it a bun-tastic and memorable Easter holiday for the whole family with our Hop-py Easter Getaway room package. Plop your feet up with this exclusive room rate starting at Php 8,800 net per night in a Deluxe Room, inclusive of buffet breakfast for two at Corniche, access to the Health Club & Spa, outdoor swimming pool, and whirlpool, plus two (2) tickets to A Hop-py Easter Picnic event on April 20, 2025 at the Diamond Ballroom. Valid for stays dated April 13-20, 2025.

To book the “A Hop-py Easter Getaway” room package, visit www.diamondhotel.com or contact the Room Reservations team at (63 2) 8528-3000 or email reservations@diamondhotel.com. See website for details. Promo period is on March 12- April 19, 2025. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-217416 Series of 2025.

For tickets to the “A Hop-py Easter Picnic” event on April 20, 2025, visit onlineshopping.diamondhotel.com. For inquiries and reservations, contact our Events Team at (63 2) 8528-3000 or visit the Events Lounge at Diamond Hotel Philippines. See website for details. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-217278 Series of 2025.

April 16, 2025
Your guide to Ortigas Malls’ Holy Week hours, Easter activities
Holy Week is coming once again. This blessed commemoration of Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection is a much-awaited event for devout Filipinos.

In light of this, Ortigas Malls officially released its mall hours across its malls during Holy Week. If you’re planning to go out alone or with family, take note of the following:

GH Mall, Estancia Mall, Tiendesitas, and The Strip at Circulo Verde Holy Week mall hours
- April 17 (Maundy Thursday) – Closed
- April 18 (Good Friday) – Closed
- April 19 (Black Saturday) – 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- April 20 (Easter Sunday) – 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Regular mall operating hours will resume on April 21, 2025.

Easter activities for the whole family

Ortigas Malls has prepared fun and enriching activities for the whole family this Easter Sunday (April 20). From egg hunts to meeting their favorite cartoon characters, there’s no better way to cap off the Holy Week celebration.

At GH Mall, experience the Doraemon Happy Easter Meet and Greet event at 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm. There will be singing, dancing, games, and, of course, a fun Easter egg hunt for the whole family. You and your kids can also take cute snaps with Doraemon himself!

Estancia Mall is celebrating Easter Sunday with the Masha and the Bear Easter Meet & Greet event from 1PM to 5PM. It will be an afternoon filled with games, laughs, and cuteness while kids hunt for Easter eggs and make memories with Masha and the Bear.

Tiendesitas is holding an adorable Bunny Hop Adventure with an epic egg hunt and a joyful song and dance activity for the whole family. Have an egg-citing day at Level 2, Food Village from 4PM to 6PM at this free event.

The Eggsploring Egg Hunt at The Strip at Circulo Verde will be a vibrant experience for kids and adults alike. From 4PM to 6PM, there will be egg painting, mini rides, and a meet and greet with the fluffy Easter bunny.

All these Easter Sunday events are exclusive to Ortigas Community Card holders. Get yours now for free via the OrtigasMalls+ app or approach a concierge to register.

For more information and updates on open stores, follow GH Mall on Facebook and Instagram, and Estancia Mall on Facebook and Instagram, Tiendesitas on Facebook and Instagram, and The Strip at Circulo Verde on Facebook and Instagram.
April 16, 2025
Easter Family Breaks at The Peninsula Manila

Easter is an egg-stra special time of the year to escape with the family so why not take advantage of the Holy Week break and enjoy a quick family getaway at The Peninsula Manila. With egg hunts, art tours, Visita Iglesia on Maundy Thursday, halo-halo classes, yoga and Muay Thai sessions, families, will be spoiled for choices on how to entertain both the children and the adults!

“Egglandia” Easter Egg Hunt Fun for Kids

On Easter Sunday, April 20, The Peninsula’s youngest guests can delight in egg-cellent Easter activities in the Rigodon Ballroom, from face painting and trace n’ color classes, to pin the bunny ear games, magic shows, and balloon domes. Of course, Easter would not be complete without a visit from the Easter Bunny who’ll help children fill their Easter baskets with eggs hidden in the colorfully vivid and fantastical Egglandia Maze.

Children from one to 10 can join The Peninsula Egglandia Egg Hunt and Merienda Buffet that takes place on Easter Sunday, April 20, from 2:00 pm. to 5:00 pm. A lavish afternoon merienda buffet will be served in the Garcia Villa room. Prizes for best costumes will also be given.

Easter Enchantment with the Peninsula Easter Bunny Bash

This Easter break, mom and dad can spend some quality time with their little bunnies and enjoy a delightful family escape to The Peninsula Manila where everyone can revel in the fun of in-room bubble baths, enjoy lavish breakfast buffets each morning in Escolta restaurant, indulge on surprise Easter nibbles from The Peninsula Boutique, play in the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool, and go egg hunting while reveling in other fun activities at the Egglandia Easter Egg Hunt and Merienda Buffet on Easter Sunday when booking the Peninsula Easter Bunny Bash room package.

Rates start at P 18,530 for a Deluxe Room and are subject to VAT, 10% service charge, and 12.6 local taxes.

Only one complimentary ticket per room booking to The Peninsula “Egglandia Easter Egg Hunt and Merienda Buffet” on Easter Sunday. Only one accompanying adult per one child 10 years old and below. Every additional child or adult companion will be charged an additional P 3,000 (inclusive of taxes).

The Peninsula Boutique

Head Pastry Chef Annalyn Solano invites guests to hop into The Peninsula Boutique this Easter and take home her latest creation – a gorgeous four kilo (eight pound) limited-edition Peninsula Chocolate Golden Easter Egg that they’ll quickly want to crack open and dive inside to see what major prizes lie within. Lucky winners will receive an overnight stay in a Grand Deluxe room, a bottle of Peninsula Champagne, a P5,000 gift certificate from Spices, and many more.

Only 30 limited-edition Peninsula Chocolate Golden Easter Egg are available for P 6,500.

*Price is in Philippine Pesos which exclude VAT, 10% service charge, and applicable local taxes

Peninsula Easter Afternoon Tea

Afternoon Tea at The Lobby has been reimagined for Easter with spring- and Easter-inspired sweet items created by Head Pastry Chef Annalyn Solano. Delight in an array of delectable treats, with highlights including a White Chocolate Mousse with Strawberry Confit, which has been made to look like adorable bunny ears; and a lovely Mango and Coconut Opera whose refreshing mango flavor complements the exquisite almond aroma.

Equally enticing is the selection of savory items. Featuring an array of premium ingredients, not-to-be-missed items include Chorizon in a Piquillo Pesto Cream Ciabatta, Egg Salad and Cucumber Tartlet, and Roast Beef Salad and Fig Jam in a Crispy Onion-Mustard Baguette.

Escolta Easter Sunday Brunch

Enjoy a delightful Easter Sunday brunch buffet with all the family in Escolta where the freshest seasonal ingredients to traditional favorites and deliciously sweet treats will please even the most discriminating palate.

Easter Sunday Brunch Buffet

April 15, 2025
Belmont Hotel Manila Presents Pamana: A Weekend Buffet of Kapampangan Heritage Curated by Chef Felix Asuncion
In celebration of Filipino Food Month, Belmont Hotel Manila proudly presents Pamana. A special Weekend Dinner Buffet that showcases the bold, vibrant, and deeply rooted flavors of Kapampangan cuisine, brought to life by acclaimed chef and entrepreneur Felix Niño Asuncion, CEO of Asuncion Family Ventures, Inc.

Held every Friday and Saturday from 6:30pm to 9:30pm at Café Belmont, Pamana—which translates to “heritage”—invites diners to explore one of the Philippines’ most revered culinary traditions. Pampanga is celebrated for its unique ingredients, time-honored cooking techniques, and richly layered flavors. Through Pamana, guests are offered a meaningful experience that honors these traditions while presenting them in a fresh, inspired way.

“Pamana is more than just a meal—it is the story of who we are as Filipinos. Each dish we serve honors the hands that came before us, the land that has nourished us, and the memories that continue to shape us. With this buffet, I hope our guests not only savor the depth and richness of Kapampangan cuisine, but also feel the warmth of our heritage and the soul of our people.” – Chef Felix Niño Asuncion.

At the heart of Pamana is a feast of signature Kapampangan dishes carefully curated by Chef Felix, recently recognized as Asia’s Visionary Leader in Empowered Entrepreneurship. This special buffet features beloved Pampanga classics reimagined with elegance and authenticity, including:
- Asadong Matwa – a sweet and savory pork stew, slow-cooked the traditional way, inspired by heirloom recipes from Pampanga’s kitchens
- Begukan Babi – a robust, umami-packed pork dish simmered in bagoong, showcasing the bold flavor profile that defines Kapampangan cuisine
These standout dishes, among others, embody the essence of Pamana—a celebration of heritage passed down through generations, enriched by Chef Felix’s personal flair and culinary creativity. Each plate tells a story of Kapampangan identity, resilience, and innovation.

More than a culinary showcase, Pamana also reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. All ingredients are selected from Filipino farmers and producers, dishes are prepared with mindful practices to reduce waste, and the experience supports the communities that preserve our culinary traditions.

Chef Felix, the visionary behind Asuncion Private Dining, is known for championing Filipino food heritage, mentoring young culinary talent, and integrating eco-conscious practices into his work. His award-winning journey and his inspirational book, “Always Forward: The Story of Perseverance,” continue to empower the next generation of Filipino chefs and entrepreneurs.

Guests are invited to take part in this flavorful journey through Kapampangan culinary heritage—a perfect way to honor Filipino Food Month and indulge in the richness of one of the country’s finest regional cuisines.

The Pamana Weekend Dinner Buffet is available every Friday and Saturday throughout April at Café Belmont from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. Come and celebrate Kapampangan flavors with a feast that honors the past and inspires the future.
April 15, 2025
Get Ready to Sip Some Tea! “Vanderpump Villa” Season 2 Premieres April 24 on Disney+

Lisa Vanderpump is back, along with Stassi Schroeder and a mix of familiar faces and new staff for Season Two of “Vanderpump Villa,” this time at ‘Castello Rosato’ in the countryside of Italy. The Original series returns with all ten episodes on Thursday, April 24, 2025, exclusively on Disney+.

Following a successful run in the South of France, “Vanderpump Villa” debuts ‘Castello Rosato,’ a breathtaking 12th-century castle set amidst an enchanting Italian backdrop. Renowned for her timeless elegance and flair, Lisa Vanderpump raises the bar with bespoke luxury and unforgettable celebrations. New and returning staff face soaring stakes, as one standout earns a $30,000 bonus. With fiery romances, rivalries, and surprises—including former employee Stassi Schroeder’s watchful eye—“Vanderpump Villa” promises another summer of pure decadence and drama.

The Season Two villa staff includes Stassi Schroeder (Special VIP), Anthony (Executive Chef), Marciano (Server), Grace (Housekeeper), Hannah (Server), Andre (Bartender), Gabriella (Events Coordinator), Tyler (Activities Coordinator), Ashley (Cook), Hagen (Housekeeper), Lexee (Bartender), Dominic (Cook), Tyler (Server), Alyssa (Server), Bridget (Sous Chef), Aidan (Server), Sianna (Events Coordinator), Siadi (Guest Services), Sheribel (Server) and Sam (Bartender).

Lisa Vanderpump serves as executive producer under her Villa Rosa production banner, and the series is produced by Bunim/Murray Productions.

Robust parental controls ensure that Disney+ remains a suitable viewing experience for everyone in the family. Subscribers can set access limits on mature content and create PIN-protected profiles alongside the already existing Junior Mode profiles to give parents and guardians peace of mind.

Stream “Vanderpump Villa” beginning April 24, exclusively on Disney+.

April 15, 2025