Chinese New Year is a time to manifest good luck and prosperity into our lives. With 2025 being the Year of the Wooden Snake, there’s great focus on growth and transformation in different aspects of our lives, from relationships to career to personal goals.
If you’re looking to bring in good fortune in fun ways, Robinsons Department Store Galleria has set up eye-catching installations at the Atrium to get you in the Chinese New Year mood. There are also exciting activities and surprises that you and your loved ones can enjoy until January 31, 2025.
Robinsons Department Store is giving shoppers the chance to check their 2025 Horoscope forecast at the Atrium area. You can also score limited items on sale during the Lunar Lucky Fair, so be sure to grab clothes in auspicious colors and home decor to ward off bad luck and welcome more good fortune.
The festivities don’t stop there. You can get the chance to win amazing prizes with Robinsons Department Store’s plethora of Chinese New Year activities. First, visit the iconic Robinsons Department Store Galleria fitting room to find out if the myth of the snake is real or not. Snap a selfie in the Mystery Fitting Room and share your photo on social media to get a chance to win gift certificates.
Check out the free photo booth where you can Pose & Get Lucky from January 29 to 31. This trendy photo booth is the perfect souvenir for you and your shopping buddies. You can also get the chance to take home some cool surprises from Robinsons Department Store.
Lastly, get ready to scream for your luck when you play the Snake Machine happening from January 24 to 26. More prizes await you at this thrilling game, which will surely bring out your competitive side.
Plan out your Chinese New Year hangouts now at Robinsons Department Store Galleria until January 31, 2025. May good fortune come to you during this festive season.
Diamond Hotel Philippines in Manila is inspired to celebrate deep-rooted traditions and bonding this Year of the Wood Snake. Reconnect with loved ones and let kinships bloom over exclusive dining offers tailored for the family this Chinese New Year.
General Manager Gino Mariñas looks forward to welcoming the new year with guests on January 29, 2025: “At 11:00 am, we’ll be kicking off the Year of the Wood Snake with a grand, time-honored spectacle: the Dragon and Lion Dance at the hotel lobby. Everyone is invited to join us to mark the occasion and share the joy, as we do every year.”
Strike up an appetite for good fortune with a special lunch or dinner buffet at Corniche at Php 3,880 net per person with one round of standard drinks, available on January 28-30, 2025. With an expansive, international selection and the spotlight on flavorful Chinese dishes prepared by Chef Yang Yong, this special buffet spread will turn a long-awaited reunion into a truly festive feast. Diners will also get a chance to pick a prize at our prosperity tree with a minimum spend worth Php 5,000 at the Corniche buffet.
Embrace the year’s promise of joy and success with appetizing Festive Goodies best shared among loved ones. From the symbolic New Year Prosperity Yu Sheng with Eel, Salmon, and Crispy Salmon Skin and richly seasoned New Year Wealth Seafood Poon Choi, to the delightful XO Preserved Meat Taro Cake and popular Gold Foil Osmanthus Brown Sugar RiceCake, each dish renders a bounty for the taste buds. For diners looking for an expanded dining experience, the 6-Course Chinese New Year Set Menu is the quintessential choice for a minimum of 2 persons.
Finely crafted Lucky Cakes are exclusively offered for the new year, featuring handcrafted details that elevate them into works of art. Perfect for gifting, these impressive desserts will express well-wishes of abundance beyond words. Browse the different designs and flavors at the Lobby Lounge or at the Diamond Hotel online shop: Raspberry Coconut, Mandarin Chocolate, Mini Orange Yoghurt, Mini Exotic Matcha Entremet, and Chinese New Year Pralines in Yuzu Truffle, Green Tea, Coconut Lime, and Miso.
For an afternoon rendezvous with a festive flair, Prosperi-Tea for Two at the Lobby Lounge offers an exotic medley of flavors to accompany your favorite pot of tea, such as rose and lychee panna cotta, sliced roast duck roll, and other bite-sized sweets and savory treats.
Beyond the new year celebrations, special Chinese offers are available year-round to make meaningful moments memorable. For your once-in-a-lifetime milestones, our experienced Events Team is ready to help you plan and curate your social events at Diamond Hotel, including Chinese Lauriat, Tinghun, and Chinese Weddings. For casual get-togethers, the Weekend Dimsum All-You-Can Eat at the Lobby Lounge is an indulgent option, great for Sunday afternoons with the family or brunch with friends.
This February, catch the highly anticipated third season of HBO’s Emmy®-winning original series The White Lotus, alongside A Quiet Place: Day One and Suits LA onMax. Kids can look forward to all-new episodes of Bugs Bunny Builders and Batwheels.
An exciting lineup of reality series awaits viewers, featuring new seasons of Guy’s All-American Road Trip, Building Roots,and many more all available to stream on Max.
Featured Movies on MAX
Monkey Man, premiering February 1 and will also be available on HBO at 10pm
A Quiet Place: Day One, premiering February 8 and will also be available on HBO at 9pm
Cuckoo, premiering February 15 and will also be available on HBO at 9pm
Despicable Me 4, premiering February 22 and will also be available on HBO at 9pm
Featured Series on MAX
Batwheels Season two, new episodes premiering February 7
Bugs Bunny Builders Season two, new episodes premiering February 13
HBO Original The White Lotus Season three, premiering February 17 and will also be available on HBO at 9pm
Suits LA, premiering February 24
Catch the series finale ofHBO Original C.B. Strike: The Ink Black Heart on February 14.
Featured Reality Series on MAX
FNA’s Guy’s All-American Road Trip Season three, premiering February 6
Discovery’s Streets of Gold: Mumbai, premiering February 9
ID’s Fatal Affairs, premiering February 13
HGTV’s Renovation Wild premiering February 23
TLC’s Building Roots Season two premiering February 23
Follow @StreamOnMaxPH and #MaxAsia for more updates on Max.
Subscribe to Max at www.max.com or via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store from only ₱149/month & ₱1,040/12 months and stream on Max via your preferred device. Max is also available via Cignal, Smart and PLDT Home.
The power of music has always been considered as an effective instrument that can drive social change, aid in magnifying advocacies and echo calls for support. Leveraging on its potentials to positively impact lives, Best Buddies Philippines (BBP) in collaboration with The Bistro Group will hold a benefit show on February 6, 2025 (6 pm) at Hard Rock Café Manila Conrad S’Maison.
Billed “Sounds of Change,” this one-night-only event will feature BBP artists and musicians Angela Batallones, Anouck Weber, Clarence Cruz, Ian Borleo, Kyle Ebora, Luis Gatchalian Mark Daza, Sky Jacoba, and Luis Gatchalian along with Joe and Mike Chan.
Each ‘buddy’ artist will collaborate and perform with partner musicians who are just too happy to lend their support, talent, and time. By getting together talents with and without Intellectual and Development Disabilities (IDDs), this concerted effort promises to create a heartwarming vibe about the power of friendship and social inclusion.
“Music is something that the buddies identify with; it brings people together all the time. It is meant to create change in the community. Sounds of Change will feature buddies with IDDs who have incredible talents as we believe that the best way to amplify these talents is to put the spotlight on them, even just for one night, and showcase their abilities, ” says Michelle Aventajado, BBP Executive Director.
Tickets are now available at https://ticket2me.net/ and is priced at P1,500 (inclusive of one drink). Proceeds will benefit BBP’s programs such as employment and pre-employment initiatives, expansion, and friendship programs across the country. Hinged on the mission of uplifting the quality of life of persons with intellectual and development diversities in the Philippines, BBP supports individuals with IDD secure rewarding jobs and eventually empowers them to become leaders and advocates. BBP’s Pre-Employment Program, for instance, is part of its mission in implementing Integrated Employment. With this multi-session program conducted to equip participants with skills and confidence needed for job seeking, BBP offers training aimed on upskilling and improving job readiness for individuals with IDD. In fact, BBP will also conduct an orientation and training for the staff of Hard Rock Café Manila’s, to remind them on how to work and build a connection with employees with IDD, underscoring that their differences should not be regarded as disadvantages, but as unique talents, an important mindset in leadership and employment.
Best Buddies International is a worldwide volunteer-based organization that changes the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental diversities. In the Philippines, BBP launched its first friendship chapter in February 2014 with its only two ambassadors. To date, it has already established 24 friendship chapters, created over 400 friendship matches and touched the lives of almost 40,000 Filipinos regardless of ability. With a mission for inclusion, BBP encourages usgb to be a friend, a buddy and create opportunities for lasting friendships through volunteerism.
Through “Sounds for Change,” BBP and The Bistro Group acknowledge that music is a compelling medium for connecting and educating people, storytelling, healing, and bridging differences. It is also part of The Bistro Group’s 30thYear program and initiatives.
Be the first to secure tickets at https://ticket2me.net/ and help spread the good word about persons with IDD while fostering understanding, awareness and inclusion.
Announcement – You are invited to a night of stars, where the red carpet meets the spotlight at RuPaul’s Drag Race WERQ THE WORLD 2025 World Tour coming to MANILA and CEBU! Manila will be on April 30 at the Araneta Coliseum and Cebu will be on April 29 at the Waterfront Hotel Cebu. Presented by Voss Events and Wilbros Live, in collaboration with World of Wonder and MTV.
The 2025 show will be an all-new stage production with more glitz and glamour than you have ever seen before! Sasha Velour will host; Derrick Barry, Jaida Essence Hall, Jorgeous, Roxxxy Andrews and Vanessa Vanjie willstar, plus an all-star line-up featuring iconic Drag Race PH queens to be announced soon!
“WERQ THE WORLD, the largest drag show on earth, is celebrated for its elaborate themes and stunning production quality. This year, audiences are invited to relive iconic moments from award show history in an intimate setting. This fresh production honors classic drag and the art of impersonation, delivering an experience that rivals a front-row seat at the Grammys.” says Brandon Voss, the show’s producer.
The official RuPaul’s Drag Race WERQ THE WORLD 2025 World Tour begins March 22nd in Cardiff, making stops in Paris, Berlin, Milan, and more; with the final shows in Manila (April 30) and Cebu (April 29). Tickets to MANILA will be available at TicketNet.com.ph and CEBU will be available at SMTickets.com on Friday, January 31.
“We’re thrilled to bring all of the elements our audiences have come to know and love with WERQ THE WORLD…” says Jon Norris of Voss Events. “We look forward to entertaining the fans while celebrating the queens we love, presenting this year’s tour as an homage to one of our favorite seasons, Awards Season!”
Follow @WilbrosLive on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.
What happens when four powerhouse actresses team up in an action-packed spy movie? You get The 355– a star-studded thriller that delivers high-stakes suspense and heart-pounding action. The film follows a group of international agents who must put aside their rivalries to keep a top-secret weapon from falling into the wrong hands and triggering World War III.
CIA operative Mace (Jessica Chastain) is tasked to retrieve a top-secret weapon – a flash drive that can hack into any computer with a few keystrokes – and recruits the help of her colleague, retired British MI6 operative Khadijah Adiyeme (Lupita Nyong’o). The mission gets messier when DNI agent and psychologist Graciela Rivera (Penelope Cruz) and rival German BND agent Marie Schmidt (Diane Kruger) join the hunt, each wanting to claim the program drive for their respective agencies. But a group of four head-strong heroines clashing heads isn’t the end of their problems, they must work together to make sure the weapon doesn’t fall into the hands of international crime entrepreneurs.
The 355 is an original action thriller conceptualized by Jessica Chastain herself and written by Simon Kinberg and Theresa Rebeck. Featuring some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, The 355 is sure to be an exhilarating ride for fans of high-octane espionage. In an interview with Screenrant, Jessica Chastain, who plays Mace and is also one of the film’s producers, talks about what excited her most in creating the movie, “Well, I like the idea that the actresses are all the bosses of the film. They’re the owners of the film. We raised the money on our own. We developed the script together, the characters together, we are the owners. It was made outside of a studio system, independently. We made it for a fraction of the cost of what a normal movie like this is made for. So, it’s exciting to me that the artists are now the owners of the work, and especially women. It’s exciting to me that the actresses are the ones in charge of the film.”
Director Simon Kinberg shared with CBR what drew him into directing the film,“I’m a huge James Bond fan and I love the spy genre in general. The first script I ever wrote was Mr. & Mrs. Smith. The 355 is a different kind of spy movie, but it is a love letter to spy movies. So, I was intrigued by the fact that it was a spy movie. I loved the idea of a female-ensemble spy movie. There are two things in there that are novel. One, there’s not a lot of female spy movies. But two, there are even fewer ensemble spy movies.”
Buckle up for a thrilling ride when The 355 comes to Lionsgate Play on January 31, 2025.
City of Dreams Manila commences its Year of the Wood Snake festivities with auspicious and vibrant Lunar New Year rituals; and dining offers that symbolize prosperity and good fortune at premium restaurants Crystal Dragon, Nobu Manila, and contemporary dining outlet Red Ginger.
Spectacular Chinese New Year Ceremony
To augur good fortune for the community and to highlight an eye-dotting ceremony on January 29, revelers will witness a spectacular lion and 70-ft long dragon dance performances in majestic Chinese New Year tradition performed by skilled artists from Ling Nam Athletic Association in front of the main casino entrance at 5 pm. At the main casino lobby, an imposing installation of this year’s intriguing Chinese zodiac, resplendent in sapphire hues in celebration also of the luxury resort’s tenth year anniversary, is on display.
Crystal Dragon
City of Dreams Manila’s award-winning Cantonese restaurant presents its auspicious and curated specialties that reflect the significant culinary traditions of the Lunar New Year.
Comprised of premium ingredients, the festive a la carte menu, available on January 27 to February 12, is headlined by Crystal Dragon’s indulgent rendition of the traditional prosperity toss salad, levelling it up with Prosperity Abalone Yee Sang (P2,388++, good for three to four persons per serving), To beget luck, the colorful and auspicious salad ritual consists of sliced abalone (for abundance),colorful julienned papaya (evoking youthfulness), pomelo and carrots (for good luck), radish (or swift progress), onion leeks (for wisdom), chopped peanuts, and deep-fried flour crisps(for prosperity) drizzled with oil (for a smooth sailing year), and sweet plum dressing (for sweet and harmonious family relationship).
The Yee Sang is an integral celebratory fare shared by a group, gathered around the table, to mix and toss the ingredients high up with chopsticks while reciting auspicious phrases to bless all present with well-wishes, creating a joyful and lively atmosphere. The ritual is believed to augur good fortune: the higher the toss, the better the prospects and greater wealth for the coming year. This meaningful Lunar New Year tradition is popular in Chinese communities in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Singapore where heritage Chinese restaurants introduced it in the 1960s.
Completing Crystal Dragon’s Chinese New Year symbolic specialties to usher in good fortune are: Buddha Jumps Over the Wall in Rich Golden Broth; Poached Yellow Skin Chicken with Chinese spices and Szechuan pepper oil, Steamed Live Sea Grouper in homemade spicy “Choi Hiong” sauce; Live Green Lobster in duo flavor: Wok-fried Green Lobster Meat in fragrant golden garlic and Crispy Salted Egg Lobster Ball; Braised Eight Treasures with Lo Han Vegetables in Golden Nest; Wok-fried Yam Rice with braised pork trotter, roasted duck and crispy pork; Deep-fried Three Layered Salted Egg Yolk Nian Gao, and Chilled Peach Jelly, Snow Swallow & Wolfberries with citrusy Osmanthus honey.
Crystal Dragon is open daily from 12 noon to 11 pm.
Nobu Manila
The season’s flavors and traditions can likewise be savored at the Manila outpost of the globally renowned Nobu Restaurant. From January 27 to February 2, Nobu Manila highlights luxe Chinese New Year ala carte dinner specials featuring premium turbot and rock lobster platters that are a rare feast for up to four persons. The Whole Turbot Fish Sashimi and Sushi Platter consists of sashimi enhanced with matcha soy salt and dry miso in yuzu lemon juice; sushi, which comes with konbu in yuzu lemon juice and turbot liver; and a cut roll of turbot tempura with eel sauce.
The Whole Rock Lobster Sashimi and Sushi Platter consists of sashimi of new-style lobster in yuzu soy sauce and dry miso in capsicum yuzu; and cut roll of lobster tempura, avocado, masago, (fish roe) and chives; primed with steamed lobster roe.
To further tempt the palate, the prime dishes are also offered as indulgent hot entrees — the Whole Turbot Fish in black bean sauce and tempura with amazu ponzu; and the Whole Rock Lobster Tempura in sweet chili cilantro sauce.
Alternatively, the season’s Nobu’s seven-course Omakase menu is also offered.
Nobu Manila is open for dinner from 5 pm to 10 pm, Sunday to Thursday and until 11 pm every Friday and Saturday.
Red Ginger
The contemporary Asian bar and bistro infuses Southeast Asian flavors to its Lunar Festival menu available daily from January 15 to 31, 11 am to 1 am. The special ala carte menu includes a “Prosperity” salmon Curry Puff, a savory dish of salmon and vegetable curry, and hard-boiled egg enclosed in a homemade puff pastry; “Longevity” Crispy Noodles with seafood and gravy, a delicious medley of crispy egg noodles topped with shrimp, squid, lapu-lapu, lobster balls, and assorted vegetables; “Wealthy” Braised Pork Belly with Asia spices, which features a melt-in-your mouth slow-cooked pork belly, bok choy, quail eggs, and braised tofu; “Lucky” Golden Crispy Chicken that comes with sweet chili sauce and chips; and “Fortune” Nian Gao, which features assorted rice cake rolls served with vanilla ice cream and a fortune cookie.
For inquiries and reservations, call 8800-8080 for the or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com, or visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com. Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android.
South Korean actor Kim Ji Soo is making waves in the Philippines, and his recent appearances are turning heads! Known for his roles in GMA 7’s hit shows like Black Rider and Abot-Kamay na Pangarap, as well as the movie Mujigae, Ji Soo has become a beloved figure in the local entertainment scene.
He recently graced the Pasasalamat event, a vibrant thanksgiving celebration hosted by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines. This gathering was a star-studded affair, bringing together influential figures from government, media, and the entertainment industry, all united in their mission to showcase the Philippines as a premier global tourism destination.
The TBP recorded P11.3 billion in sales leads in 2024, and also had collaborations with various influential personalities — American actor and model Timothy Granaderos, Filipino-American Nico Santos, American actor Josh Dela Cruz, American pop-rock act LANY, and Kim Ji Soo, of course — which resulted in over P1.44 billion in media values, further amplifying the presence of the Philippines worldwide.
Dressed to impress, Ji Soo stole the spotlight in a stunning ensemble by renowned Filipino designer Randy Ortiz. He sported a sleek black organic-dyed piña barong tagalog, paired with modern striped tuxedo pants, and stylish footwear from Marikina’s Godfather Shoes. This look not only showcased Ji Soo’s impeccable fashion sense but also his deep appreciation for Filipino culture.
From left to right: President of PR firm Visions and Expressions Susan Joven, Actor Kim Ji Soo, TPB Chief Operating Officer Marga Nograles, Managing Director of Universal Records and President & Founder of GLXY Talent Management Kathleen Dy-Go and, Editor in Chief of Philippine Tatler. Anton San Diego.
From left to right is Chief Operating Officer of Live Nation; Isabella Pascua, Managing Director of Universal Records President & Founder of GLXY Talent Management; Kathleen Dy-Go, Managing Director of Live Nation; Rhiza Pascua, Stanley Ng of Philippine Airlines Stanley Ng is the first active pilot to serve as the top executive of the flag carrier. The president and chief operating office of the Philippine Airlines since 2022 is a die-hard customer in the free market of ideas. Stanley Ng embraces ideas no matter where it comes from.and Actor; Kim Ji Soo.
Looking for your next binge-worthy obsession? Viu brings you three new captivating Chinese dramas that blend thrilling plots, heartfelt romance, and immersive storytelling. Dive into these incredible tales that promise to transport you to extraordinary worlds and leave you wanting more.
When modern office worker Yang Ling finds himself transported to the fantastical Da Feng Dynasty, he becomes Xu Qi An, a night watchman tasked with solving crimes and protecting the people. Armed with his modern-day knowledge, scientific reasoning, and sharp wit, Xu Qi An cracks one puzzling case after another, quickly earning the title of Da Feng’s top investigator.
This gripping drama is a blend of thrilling detective work and fantastical intrigue, offering a fresh take on the historical-fantasy genre. Guardians of the Dafeng is perfect for fans of smart, fast-paced storytelling with a touch of magic.
Emperor Zhao Ming’s ultimate sacrifice left behind an eternal love that defies the boundaries of time. Thousands of years later, his devoted Hun Dun Zhu’s reincarnation cycle reunites them as Xie Xue Chen and Mu Xuan Ling—former enemies from opposing factions. As fate intertwines their lives, the two must navigate betrayal, heartbreak, and self-discovery on their journey to love.
With its breathtaking visuals, poignant romance, and rich mythology, The Blossoming Love is an emotional rollercoaster you won’t want to miss.
A love story that begins with a smile – Smile Code
Stand-up comedian Gu Yi juggles her life as an office worker by day and a performer by night, determined to make her audiences laugh. But her resolve is tested when she notices a man in her audience who never smiles. Liang Dai Wen, who struggles with alexithymia, has tried everything to feel and express emotions but remains unmoved. Despite their differences, Gu Yi and Liang Dai Wen’s journey evolves into an unexpected love story full of humor, heart, and discovery.
With its unique premise and heartfelt storytelling, Smile Code is a touching drama that explores the power of connection and the healing magic of love.
These dramas aren’t just stories—they’re an experience. Whether you’re in the mood for gripping mysteries, sweeping romances, or uplifting stories, Viu has you covered. Viu’s Chinese drama category offers something for everyone!
Experience the diverse world of Chinese Dramas and other entertainment offerings on Viu.
Hello, 2025! The new year is off to an electrifying start, and Lionsgate Play is here to keep you entertained like never before. Whether you’re craving high-stakes action or gripping drama, this month’s second half lineup has it all – promising an unforgettable January. So, grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and get ready to binge watch with Lionsgate Play!
When a top-secret weapon falls into the wrong hands, CIA wild card Mason “Mace” Brown (Jessica Chastain) teams up with three unlikely allies to save the world from chaos. Alongside the relentless German agent Marie (Diane Kruger), tech-savvy MI6 specialist Khadijah (Lupita Nyong’o), and the level-headed Colombian psychologist Graciela (Penélope Cruz), she engages in a pulse-pounding race across the globe — from the elegant streets of Paris to the bustling markets of Morocco and the high-stakes auction houses of Shanghai. But there’s a twist at every turn as a shadowy figure, Lin Mi Sheng (Fan Bingbing), seems always one step ahead, forcing the team to build a shaky trust that might secure the weapon or destroy them all.
After a shocking rise to power, Lenny Belardo (Jude Law) becomes the first American pope, adopting the name Pius XIII. His unexpected election is seen as a calculated gamble by the College of Cardinals, but Lenny quickly proves to be anything but predictable. Aloof and enigmatic, he defies Vatican traditions, relying solely on Sister Mary (Diane Keaton), as his trusted confidante. While Sister Mary encourages him to connect with his billion-strong flock, the young pope remains distant, stirring tension and intrigue within the Holy See.
Looking for a follow-up? “The New Pope” picks up where “The Young Pope” left off, blending biting satire with gripping drama to peel back the gilded facade of the Vatican. When Sir John Brannox (John Malkovich), a refined and charismatic English aristocrat, rises to the papal throne as John Paul III, the Vatican is thrust into a new chapter of leadership.
When Mack Leigh (Rachel Griffiths) discovers her husband’s infidelity and is drowning in debt, she takes an unexpected and bold step to secure her family’s future — launching an ethical brothel. Madam follows Mack’s daring attempt to challenge societal norms, redefine the meaning of sex work, and tackle the stigma surrounding her unconventional business.
With Lionsgate Play’s stellar January lineup, your screen time is about to skyrocket (in the best way possible). Don’t miss out on these fresh releases and subscribe today!
