Love takes center stage this Valentine’s season at Diamond Hotel Philippines with “All for Love,” dining experiences designed for everyone — from couples and close friends to families celebrating together. From February 13 to 15, 2026, guests are invited to create meaningful moments over exceptional cuisine across the hotel’s signature restaurants.
At Corniche, families and friends can come together over heartwarming Valentine’s buffets featuring a lavish spread of international favorites. The buffet is available at Php 3,988 net per person for February 13 lunch, February 14 lunch and first seating dinner, and February 15 lunch or dinner. For those who prefer a more intimate evening affair, a special second seating dinner buffet on February 14 is offered at Php 4,288 net per person, inclusive of a glass of red or white wine.
For lovers of Japanese cuisine, Yurakuen blends a harmony of tradition and flavors for the occasion. Couples may savor an elegant 8-course Valentine’s set menu served with a glass of plum wine at Php 8,500 net for two persons. Guests may also opt for the interactive Teppanyaki Eat-All-You-Can at Php 4,280 net per person or the flavorful Yakiniku Eat-All-You-Can at Php 3,780 net per person, both complemented with a glass of red or white wine.
Meanwhile, the Lobby Lounge and Bar 27 offer a relaxed yet romantic setting with a specially prepared 4-course Valentine’s set menu for two at Php 5,800 net, paired with a glass of standard drink — ideal for lingering conversations and cozy evenings.
No celebration of love is complete without something sweet. Delight loved ones with charming confections including the Frosting Flowers Cupcake Bouquet, the Amour Doré Macaron collection, and cakes such as Caramel Kisses and Strawberry Caress. These wonderful creations are available for purchase at onlineshopping.diamondhotel.com until February 15, 2026.
Whether honoring a lasting partnership, sharing quality time with family, or simply celebrating the people closest to your heart, Diamond Hotel Philippines sets the stage for a Valentine’s celebration filled with sublime feasts, warm ambiance, and moments that matter most.
For reservations call (63 2) 8528-3000 or email restaurant_rsvn@diamondhotel.com. Guests may also purchase vouchers at onlineshopping.diamondhotel.com. All promotions are not valid in conjunction with other promotional offers. Prior reservations are encouraged.
This Valentine’s Day, The Peninsula Manila invites you to celebrate love in its most elegant expressions. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered, from MICHELIN Guide “Selected” dining and breathtaking helicopter journeys to indulgent stays, restorative spa moments, and carefully curated gifts.
Mark the occasion with exquisite cakes and artisanal confections or let romance bloom with bespoke floral arrangements that speak without words. However you choose to celebrate, each experience is designed to feel personal, unhurried, and quietly unforgettable.
A Valentine’s Dining Celebration
A Feast of Love at Escolta
February 13 to 15
Celebrate Valentine’s weekend with an indulgent lunch and dinner buffet at Escolta. A generous spread of international favorites and seasonal specialties awaits, enjoyed in a warm, elegant setting that invites lingering conversations and shared moments.
Lunch and Dinner Buffet 4,100 per adult 2,050 per child aged 11 years and below
Valentine’s Celebration at The Lobby February 13 and 14
A Valentine’s evening at The Lobby unfolds with a private helicopter journey just before sunset, when the Makati skyline is at its most luminous. Upon return, the celebration continues with a specially curated four-course dinner.
February 14 Four-course set dinner with a 15-minute helicopter city aerial tour Maximum of six persons per flight 43,000 for two persons
February 13 Four-course set dinner 5,490 per person
A French Love Affair at Old Manila February 14
Romance takes center stage at Old Manila, where MICHELIN-“Selected” chefs craft an evening of refined French gastronomy. Begin with a romantic 15-minute helicopter flight over the iconic sights of Metro Manila, then settle in for an exquisite six-course dinner conceived as a love letter to French culinary tradition.
Six-course set dinner with a 15-minute helicopter city aerial tour Maximum of six persons per flight 48,000 for two persons
Six-course set dinner 8,200 per person
Peninsula Boutique and Flower Shop February 9 to 14 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Discover Valentine’s gifts, handcrafted sweets, and floral arrangements designed to delight and surprise.
Prices are in Philippine Pesos, inclusive of VAT and subject to a 10 % service charge and applicable government taxes.
A Valentine’s Staycation Experience
L’Amour at The Peninsula Manila.
Arrive to a room set for romance, complete with a special Valentine’s amenity. The evening unfolds with an intimate four-course dinner for two in The Lobby’s refined and inviting atmosphere.
The following morning, enjoy breakfast at Escolta, linger by the pool, and savor the gift of time with a late check-out courtesy of Peninsula Time.
Room rates start at 19,200 for a Deluxe Room and 24,000 for a Premier Suite.
Prices are in Philippine Pesos and subject to 12 % VAT, 10 % service charge, and applicable government taxes.
A Valentine’s Spa Ritual for Two
Radiance of Romance February 1 to 28
Share a moment of calm and connection at The Peninsula Spa with a thoughtfully curated 90-minute experience for two. The ritual begins with a gentle milk foot bath, followed by an antioxidant-rich strawberry hand and foot exfoliation, and concludes with a deeply restorative 60-minute massage. Designed to renew the body, ease the senses, and create space for unhurried time together.
90-minute treatment 9,500 per couple 5,000 per person
Prices are in Philippine Pesos, inclusive of VAT and subject to a 10 % service charge and applicable government taxes.
Bila Boutique Hotel is a locally owned hotel that celebrates the heritage and tradition of our ancestors. Nestled in the heart of General Santos City, its goal is to offer guests and travelers a warm and personalized stay that echoes the stories of our culture. The hotel’s interior is inspired by the local designs and patterns of the T’boli culture. While T’boli culture is a primary influence, Bila Boutique Hotel is proudly committed to celebrating and promoting the diverse heritage of Southern Mindanao, honoring the region’s shared tradition, artistry and stories.
With 28 thoughtfully designed rooms, the hotel provides a genuine-home like stay allowing both local and international travellers to feel connected to the heritage and culture of this part of the Philippines.
At Bila Boutique Hotel, guests can enjoy modern comfort amenities including 24h high speed WiFi, in-room amenities, and dining options from Tribu Kefi – the hotel’s in house cafe that showcases farm to table indigenously inspired dishes and specialty coffees.
If you’re planning to include General Santos City in your 2026 travel plans, Bila Boutique Hotel is the place to be. Discover a stay that connects you to culture, comfort, and community.
The hotel is now open for reservations via email, phone bookings, and walk-ins. Special opening rates are available.
The hotel is now open for reservations at reservations.bila@gmail.com or contact +639209771214. Special opening rates are available.
Giant lanterns once again lit up the City of San Fernando as thousands gathered at Robinsons Starmills to witness the 117th Giant Lantern Festival (GLF), a historic and world-renowned annual tradition that celebrates Filipino creativity, craftsmanship, and the true spirit of Christmas.
Known as the Ligligan Parul, this year’s competition featured 10 barangays showcasing intricately designed giant lanterns measuring approximately 20 feet in diameter; each brought to life through synchronized lights, music, and movement. The competition was held at Robinsons Starmills Pampanga, home of the Giant Lantern Festival for 17 years, with Barangay Bulaon emerging as this year’s Grand Champion.
Following the competition night, the City of San Fernando Tourism Office announced a series of Giant Lantern Festival exhibitions running from December 14, 2025 to January 1, 2026, bringing the iconic lanterns closer to the public through displays across key locations in Pampanga. These exhibitions allow more visitors to experience the artistry and symbolism of the lanterns, which represent hope, joy, love, and the enduring Filipino sense of community.
The exhibition series opens at Robinsons Starmills from December 14 to 23, with the lanterns lighting up the mall daily starting 6:00 PM. The mall transforms into a festive holiday destination, perfect for families, shoppers, and tourists to enjoy alongside shopping, dining, and leisure experiences.
On Christmas Eve, December 24, the lanterns will illuminate the area between San Fernando City Hall and the Metropolitan Cathedral at 9:00 PM, creating a memorable backdrop for the holiday celebration.
From December 25 to 30, the giant lanterns return to Robinsons Starmills Pampanga from 6:00 PM onwards, extending the festive celebrations beyond Christmas. The season concludes with a grand finale on January 1, 2026 at 6:00 PM, marking the final chance to experience the Giant Lantern Festival.
“For 17 years, our partnership with the City of San Fernando and the Giant Lantern Festival Foundation has honored Pampanga’s proud heritage as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines. This year, we warmly invite Pampangueños and visitors alike to create lasting holiday memories with their loved ones here at Robinsons Starmills,” said Joel Lumanlan, Vice President for Marketing and Operations of Robinsons Malls.
A true expression of Pampanga’s creativity and heritage, the Giant Lantern Festival continues to captivate audiences through its sparkling and colorful exhibitions across the province. Don’t miss one of the country’s most cherished Christmas Traditions at Robinsons Starmills.
The Peninsula Manila has been named to Condé Nast Traveler’sThe Best Hotels and Resorts in the World: The Gold List 2026, one of the most prestigious editorial honors in global luxury travel. This is the first time The Peninsula Manila has received this international accolade. The hotel is one of only two properties in the Philippines to receive this recognition and the only hotel in the national capital included on the list.
“It is a tremendous honor for The Peninsula Manila to be named to Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 Gold List as we approach our 50th anniversary next year,” said Kevin Tsang, Managing Director of The Peninsula Manila. “This recognition reflects the timeless elegance, history, and hospitality that has made our hotel a cherished part of life in Manila for almost 50 years.”
The Condé Nast TravelerGold List is a highly selective annual compilation of the world’s top hotels and resorts personally curated by the magazine’s editors. Hotels and resorts included on the Gold List are distinguished by exceptional service and staff dedication, a strong sense of character and history, memorable experiences across dining, wellness, and family hospitality, and an enduring emotional resonance.
“The Gold List represents places the editors genuinely love and confidently recommend,” Mr. Tsang added. “To be included is deeply meaningful, as it affirms the kind of experiences we strive to create every day. Experiences that are authentic, gracious, thoughtful, and grounded in a genuine sense of belonging.”
In his review of The Peninsula Manila, Condé Nast Traveler Associate Editor Matt Ortile highlights the personal connection that many Filipinos have with the property: “Almost every Manileño I know has a story to tell about Manila Pen, as we call it. The Peninsula Manila belongs to everyone, I know that. Perhaps what I feel is that I belong only to Manila Pen.”
Mr. Tsang noted, “That sense of belonging speaks to the heart of who we are. It reflects the powerful emotional connection The Peninsula has forged with generations of guests and with the city itself.
This recognition belongs entirely to our hotel team. It is a direct reflection of the professionalism, warmth, and unwavering commitment to excellence demonstrated by every member of our Manila team. I could not be prouder of what they have achieved together.”
The full list of winners will be published in the January/February 2026 print issue of Condé Nast Traveler and is live online as of Monday, December 15, on the of Condé Nast Traveler website: The Best Hotels and Resorts in Asia: The Gold List 2026.
Novotel Manila Araneta City transforms the holiday season into a tapestry of cherished moments, building on a decade of shared stories, joyful gatherings, and time-honored festive traditions. This year, the hotel invites families, friends, and loved ones to experience a thoughtfully curated holiday escape, where warmth, comfort, and togetherness define every stay. With inviting accommodations, seasonal culinary offerings, and relaxing wellness experiences, Novotel Manila offers a festive setting where joyful moments unfold and lasting holiday memories are made.
Guests seeking a holiday getaway can enjoy the Cozy Stays, Merry Nights Holiday Staycation Package, available for booking until January 10, 2026. Stays are available from December 1 to 23, 2025, December 25 to 30, 2025, and January 1 to 11, 2026, with rates starting at PHP 5,988 nett per night and peak dates, December 24 & 31, 2025 with rates start at PHP 6,688 nett per night. The package includes a breakfast buffet for two adults and two children aged 15 years and below at Food Exchange Manila, complimentary one-time access to Kids Club for two children per day, early check-in at 10AM and late check-out at 2PM, and Premier Lounge access for Executive Room and Suite bookings.
For a truly special night, the Stay The Night, Feel The Cheer, Christmas Eve Staycation Package is available until December 24, 2025, with rates starting at PHP 12,888 nett per night. The package includes breakfast for two adults and two children, Christmas Eve dinner for two adults, Premier Lounge access for Executive Room and Suite guests, a 10 percent discount on all F&B outlets excluding In-Room Dining, a complimentary extra bed, one-hour daily play at Kids Club, and a welcome gift.
Countdown Comfort, a New Year’s Eve Staycation Package offers a spectacular start to 2026, available for booking until December 31, 2025, with rates starting at PHP 15,888 nett per night. Guests can enjoy breakfast and New Year’s Eve dinner for two adults, Premier Lounge access for Executive Room and Suite bookings, a 10 percent discount on all F&B outlets excluding In-Room Dining, a complimentary extra bed, Kids Club access, a welcome gift, and access to the New Year’s Eve Countdown Party at the Monet Grand Ballroom.
For longer celebrations, the Two-Night Holiday Cheer Package offers stays from December 22, 2025, to January 2, 2026, with rates starting at PHP 5,688 nett per night. This package requires a minimum two-night stay and includes breakfast for two adults and two children as well as Premier Lounge access for Executive Room and Suite bookings. (Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-241333, Series of 2025.)
Festive culinary experiences are at the heart of Novotel Manila this season. Food Exchange Manila presents the Holiday Exchange featuring Sunday lunch buffets, Christmas Eve and Day lunch and dinner, and New Year’s Eve and Day meals. Rates start at PHP 1,388 nett per adult. Guests may visit My Novotel Manila Boutique to avail of special holiday exclusives, available from per-person offers to group rates. Children aged eight years and below eat free when accompanied by a full-paying adult. (Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-243698, Series of 2025.)
Guests can also savor well-loved Filipino holiday favorites at Gourmet Bar by Novotel, available until January 15, 2026, with each item priced at PHP 399 nett. The festive selection includes Bibingka (6 pieces), featuring soft, golden rice cakes baked to perfection and topped with salted egg, cheese, butter, and tender strips of young coconut; Puto Bumbong (4 pieces), the iconic purple rice delicacy steamed in bamboo tubes and finished with butter, brown sugar, and coconut; and comforting cups of Tsokolate Batirol, from the indulgent Choc Nut Batirol, blending rich chocolate and peanuts, to the classic Tsokolate Batirol, made from traditional tablea for a thick, velvety hot chocolate experience.
For gifting and festive treats, Indulge Gelato & Boulangerie presents a thoughtfully curated selection of Season’s Timeless Treats featuring holiday hampers, artisan chocolates, limited-edition wines, and seasonal dessert creations, perfect for sharing or celebrating at home. Hamper A (PHP 3,499 nett) offers a generous assortment featuring Auro Chocolates set of 3; a bottle of Solandia Wine (Montepulciano red or Chardonnay white); festive cookies, assorted cookies, Kevin Ong’s Panettone & Macarons. Hamper B (PHP 1,999 nett) includes Auro Chocolates in the same signature flavors, Solandia Wine (red or white) and festive cookies, ideal for elegant yet simple gifting.
Guests may also enjoy Auro Chocolate Special Edition Set with signature flavors in Ube Coconut, Calamansi Cheesecake (Vegan), and Dark Chocolate with Mango Bits (PHP 599 nett) and Solandia Wines (PHP 999 nett). Completing the festive spread, Indulge Gelato & Boulangerie also offers a delightful selection of seasonal desserts ideal for home celebrations. Highlights include the Yema Brûlée Cake(PHP 980), featuring rich custard flavors with a caramelized finish, and the indulgent Red Velvet Ensaymada. Mini Cakes (PHP 380 each) are available in Mango Cheesecake, Red Velvet Cake, Ube Macapuno Cake, and Carrot Cake. Guests can also enjoy bite-sized Profiteroles(PHP 120 each) in Chocolate, Mixed Berry, and Mochaflavors, along with festive Cookies (PHP 70 each), including Red Velvet Snowflake Cookie, Christmas Tree Sugar Cookie, and Pinwheel Cookies. (Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-243257, Series of 2025.)
For festive parties, The 6th Manila offers Christmas Party Packages starting at PHP 1,999 nett per person up to PHP 2,399 nett per person. Packages include 4-hours use of indoor or al fresco dining spaces, lighting and sound setup, and optional three-hour drink-all-you-can packages start at PHP 1,000 nett per person.
Novotel Manila sets the tone for celebration with Yuletide Libations, a festive cocktail collection designed to turn every gathering into a moment worth toasting. Available at The 6th Manila until January 15, 2026, the menu brings seasonal flavors to life, from the nostalgic warmth of Ube-Coco Rum Bumbong, blending rum, coconut juice, and airy ube foam, to the elegant indulgence of White Tanqueray Magic, where gin meets citrus, rose water, and velvety cream, and the vibrant Bombay Sapphire Parol, a bright mix of gin, Campari, and green grapes inspired by holiday lights. Priced at PHP 420 nett per cocktail, each creation is thoughtfully crafted to bring warmth, brightness, and festive flair perfect for lingering sips and holiday toasts at Novotel Manila.
Make this holiday season truly restorative with In Balance Wellness Holiday Offers, offering a festive escape for the body, mind, and soul. Guests may enjoy 12-day access to the fitness center, swimming pool, and Kids Club, along with 50 percent savings on selected spa treatments and a limited-edition wellness gift bundle for PHP 3,999 nett. For deeper indulgence, the 10+2 In Balance Spa Offer includes selected 60-minute treatments, with two complimentary sessions, priced at PHP 24,600 nett.
Extending the season of self-care into the new year, In Balance Wellness introduces two exclusive 2026 wellness offers, available from January 1 to 30, 2026, perfect for melting away the stress of the past year and starting fresh. The Wellness Jumpstart (PHP 2,026 nett) includes 26-day gym and pool access, three personal training sessions, one recovery massage, two fitness session passes, and an exclusive 50 percent discount on gym membership upon completion. Meanwhile, Radiance Reset (PHP 2,499 nett per person) offers a soothing escape with a 30-minute steam session, a 60-minute radiance massage, and a cup of herbal glow tea to complete the experience.
The festive season reaches its peak with New Year Disco Grooves, Novotel Manila’s New Year’s Eve Countdown Party, happening on December 31, 2025, from 10PM to 2AM at the Monet Grand Ballroom. Guests can ring in 2026 surrounded by vibrant music, dazzling entertainment, and a lively atmosphere, complete with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and exciting surprises. Tickets are priced at PHP 2,488 nett per person, with an optional PHP 1,000 nett add-on for three curated drinks, perfect for toasting to new beginnings and creating unforgettable memories with family and friends. (Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-243698, Series of 2025.)
This year, as Novotel Manila marks its 10th anniversary, we reflect on a decade of shared stories, cherished moments, and joyful celebrations with families, friends, and loved ones,” says Joy De Mesa, Hotel Manager. “Our holiday offerings from festive staycations and gourmet feasts to wellness experiences and family activities, are thoughtfully crafted to honor this milestone, creating new memories that continue our tradition of warmth, connection, and celebration. From the laughter of children to cozy family gatherings through stays and dining, every experience this season is designed to make the holidays unforgettable.”
Experience the holidays at Novotel Manila, where comfort meets celebration in every corner. Indulge in festive flavors, share laughter-filled activities, and enjoy special seasonal experiences. Let this season be filled with joy, warmth, and moments to cherish. Explore all our holiday offerings at bit.ly/NMACHolidayGuide2025 or http://www.novotelmanilaaranetacity.com. Reserve your table or inquire today at (63 2) 8248 8444 or HB133@accor.com.
Araneta Hotels Inc. proudly announces a new era of empowered leadership as ten out of fifteen executive committee roles across Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City are now held by women. This milestone reflects the strength of the organization’s internal talent, with these leaders rising through dedication, expertise, and consistent performance. Their
presence in key positions highlights the company’s commitment to recognizing capability and cultivating an environment where individuals advance based on merit, passion, and proven excellence. This achievement also supports the organization’s ongoing efforts to promote equitable opportunities and inclusive growth, aligning with Accor’s global mission to foster a workplace where diverse leadership can thrive.
Accor has deeply embedded DEI into its corporate culture, recognizing that diversity and inclusion are essential in creating meaningful human connections and driving innovation across its global network. The group’s commitment is centered on fostering a workplace where every individual feels valued, respected, and supported, regardless of background, orientation, or identity. This includes ensuring equal opportunities for personal and professional development, strengthening awareness on inclusive practices, and building environments where teams thrive through shared respect and collaboration. According to Accor’s culture of inclusion framework, embracing diversity strengthens organizational performance and fuels creativity by bringing together varied perspectives and lived experiences. This approach enhances the guest experience and empowers employees to bring their authentic selves to work every day.
Unified Leadership Built on Diversity, Strength, and Heart
The leadership culture at Araneta Hotels Inc. reflects the strength that comes from men and women working together and contributing their unique perspectives. Together, they create a balanced team that blends care with strategy and consistency with creativity. This harmony allows the organization to approach challenges with a wider perspective and deliver guest experiences shaped by both compassion and excellence. It is this complementing partnership that continues to strengthen the culture of Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, fostering unity, resilience, and shared purpose across both hotels.
Women Leading With Purpose
At the center of this evolution is Cluster General Manager Maria Manlulu-Garcia, who oversees both hotels with a leadership philosophy rooted in purpose, empathy, and operational discipline. She is supported by two strong female leaders who play pivotal roles in shaping each property’s direction and guest experience.
At Novotel Manila Araneta City, Hotel Manager Joy De Mesa drives commercial performance and elevates service quality through her extensive background in operations and sales. Her leadership emphasizes consistency, guest connection, and the continual strengthening of operational excellence.
At ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, Resident Manager Felicia Aye Chan Mon brings global brand expertise and a creative, guest centered mindset. Her energetic approach fosters a service culture that is dynamic, expressive, and true to the ibis Styles personality, ensuring memorable and meaningful experiences for every guest.
Women Rising Through the Ranks
Araneta Hotels Inc. proudly highlights the inspiring journeys of the women who rose through the organization and now hold key executive roles. Their achievements reflect the company’s dedication to nurturing internal talent and providing equal opportunities for long term professional growth. Marife Tolentino began as Accounting Manager in 2015 and now serves as Cluster Director of Finance, where she plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the financial health of both properties. She oversees strategic financial planning, drives fiscal discipline, strengthens internal controls, and ensures that financial operations align with the organization’s growth objectives. Her leadership has been instrumental in maintaining operational efficiency, supporting commercial performance, and guiding both hotels through evolving market demands.
Kristine Alba, who joined Novotel Manila in February 2018 as Talent and Culture Manager, now serves as Cluster Director of People and Culture for both hotels. She leads initiatives that strengthen employee engagement, foster talent development, and build a workplace anchored in empathy, inclusivity, and meaningful connection. Her people first approach has been vital in nurturing a motivated, high performing workforce.
Therese Galindo, who started as Guest Relations Manager in 2015, now heads Guest Experience, Sustainability, and Safety for both hotels. She has played a key role in elevating service standards and championing sustainability efforts, including leading the successful achievement of Green Key certification for both Novotel and ibis Styles Manila. This accomplishment reinforces the hotels’ commitment to environmental responsibility, operational efficiency, and sustainable tourism.
Emerging leaders include Janelle Crisostomo, who began her Novotel journey in 2023 as Rooms Division Manager and now serves as Director of Rooms. She attributes her growth to mastering the complexities of guest operations and leading with adaptability. Under her leadership, Novotel Manila achieved a significant milestone as it celebrates its 10th anniversary, with its Presidential Suite named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Suite 2025 at the World Travel Awards. This recognition reflects her dedication to elevating product standards, refining guest touchpoints, and strengthening the overall rooms experience. “The rooms division is the heart of hotel operations, and thriving here means embracing challenges as opportunities to innovate,” she says. “Leadership is about consistency, understanding your people, and elevating the guest experience through collective effort.”
May Malagamba, who joined Novotel Manila in 2018 as Director of Events Management and now leads Food & Beverage, highlights the importance of passion and persistence. Under her leadership, the F&B division has earned multiple distinctions, including Novotel Manila Araneta City being named Best F&B Performer at the Accor Asia Awards 2023 and winning Accor’s Best Breakfast Satisfaction 2024. “Food and beverage is fast paced and ever evolving. You cannot succeed here without heart,” she says. “Events taught me precision, creativity, and the value of anticipating needs. I carried these lessons with me when I transitioned to Director of F&B, and I continue to grow by adapting and learning every day.”
Kim Escaler also exemplifies dedication and upward progression. She began her career as Reservations Supervisor in 2015 and now serves as Cluster Director of Revenue Management, overseeing strategy and commercial performance for both hotels. Her analytical mindset and strong commercial insight support revenue initiatives that balance guest value with business sustainability.
At ibis Styles Manila, Izza Mojica leads as Director of Rooms after beginning her career as Duty Manager at Novotel in 2017. She credits resilience and a service driven mindset for her development. “Frontline operations shape you,” she says. “You learn to stay calm in pressure filled situations and find solutions with a smile. These challenges prepared me to lead and to understand both guest behavior and team dynamics.”
The growing prominence of women in leadership roles reflects an important shift in the hospitality industry, where emotional intelligence, resilience, adaptability, and a people focused approach have become essential qualities for long term success. Araneta Hotels Inc. believes that empowering women at all levels strengthens the organization by fostering innovation, enhancing team culture, and encouraging inclusive decision making. These leaders serve as powerful role models, demonstrating that leadership opportunities are attainable with determination, capability, and the right support system.
With these women at the forefront of hotel operations, Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City continue to set the standard for progressive hospitality in the Philippines. Their collective leadership signals a new chapter defined by purpose driven management, cultural transformation, and a commitment to uplifting both people and communities. Araneta Hotels Inc. remains dedicated to championing diversity, nurturing talent, and celebrating the profound impact women bring to the hospitality landscape.
A new era of intimate luxury experiences arrives in Manila as The Amenity Studio partners with Conrad Manila to unveil “The Suite Experience,” an exclusive holiday showcase set inside the hotel’s prestigious Presidential Suite.
Designed for tastemakers, and discerning guests, The Suite Experience marks the official introduction of the Hermès Hôtelier Collection in the Philippines, curated and distributed by The Amenity Studio.
A New Luxury Venture Rooted in Hotel Expertise
The Amenity Studio, led by entrepreneur Michelle Garcia-Arce, brings to the country an exceptional portfolio of Hermès hotel amenities and fine fragrances.
Beyond her leadership of Storytellers PR & Marketing, Michelle’s career foundation includes a notable stint as a hotelier at a five-star Marriott property — a background that shaped her deep understanding of hospitality standards, guest experience, and luxury service.
“It feels like coming full circle,” Michelle shares. “Having worked in a five-star hotel early in my career, it’s meaningful to re-enter the hospitality space by bringing the Hermès Hôtelier Collection to the Philippines through The Amenity Studio. Our goal is to make refined indulgence more accessible — whether through personal rituals, gifting, or premium hotel partnerships.”
The collection includes iconic scents such as Eau d’Orange Verte, Un Jardin Sur Le Nil, and Eau de Citron Noir, as well as hotel-exclusive bath and body essentials crafted with the signature Hermès elegance.
A Conrad Manila Collaboration: Where Luxury and Hospitality Meet
The partnership is equally meaningful for Conrad Manila, whose Presidential Suite is being positioned as a preferred venue for intimate lifestyle experiences, private gatherings, and curated events.
“Conrad Manila is delighted to collaborate with The Amenity Studio in creating an elevated suite-side showcase,” Joanne Golong-Gomez, Conrad Manila Commercial Director shares. “The event aligns with our vision of offering bespoke spaces where refined hospitality and meaningful moments come together.”
The Conrad Manila Presidential Suite provides the quintessential setting for The Suite Experience, offering an expansive 1,100 sq. m. of refined living space that balances elegance with comfort. The suite features a master bedroom with walk-in closet and makeup area, a guest bedroom, private study, three luxurious bathrooms, a dining area, and a sculptural bar, and an expansive outdoor patio with a private infinity pool. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping views of Manila Bay, while intelligent technology allows seamless control of lighting, temperature, sound, and curtains. Curated Filipino artworks, including metal sculptures by Sam Penaso and paintings by Nestor Vinluan, Jonathan Olazo, and Alain
Hablo, enhance the suite’s elegant aesthetic. Every detail is thoughtfully designed, creating an intimate environment ideal for exclusive private events, curated moments of luxury, and refined holiday experiences.
To know more about The Amenity Studio, follow @amenitystudioph on Instagram.
Global apparel retailer UNIQLO announces the launch of K-POP Group BABYMONSTER UT, its first UT (UNIQLO T-shirt) collaboration collection with the popular K-pop idol group BABYMONSTER. The T-shirt designs capture the feel of“BATTER UP,”one of BABYMONSTER’s quintessential songs. A slightly wide boxy silhouette and shear body material were specially developed for this collection. Crew neck and V-neck types allow wearers to enjoy a variety of stylings. This engaging collection is inspired by the cool and powerful presence that the girls continue to express on the world stage.
New exclusive visuals for K-POP Group BABYMONSTER UT collection to be released
UNIQLO plans to release a series of new visuals with group members wearing the UT collection and showing a range of expressions, including group shots and solo cuts. Special visuals such as behind-the-scenes videos of the photoshoot and message videos for customers will be successively released. Through these visual the K-POP Group BABYMONSTER UT collection will provide a unique look into the world of BABYMONSTER.
About BABYMONSTER
BABYMONSTER is multi-national K-POP girl group with members from South Korea, Thailand, and Japan that was formed in South Korea by YG Entertainment and debuted on April 1, 2024. The group emphasizes their “all-rounder” status with world-class vocals, dance, rap, and visuals.
Global apparel retailer UNIQLO announces the launch of KAWS WINTER, a special knitwear collection by UNIQLO and KAWS, the brand’s newly appointed Artist in Residence. All items feature KAWS’ signature XX motif or his iconic COMPANION character, expressing the fusion of art and fashion. The colorful and warm lineup allows everyone to enjoy the holiday season in their own individual style. The collection will be available in Japan from November 21, but global launch dates vary by region.
The sophistication and comfort of UNIQLO with the playfulness of KAWS
Collaborations between KAWS and UNIQLO, which until now have focused mainly on more casual cut-and-sew items, are expanding to encompass a more diverse range of LifeWear. KAWS WINTER incorporates color-block motifs of red, green, and yellow, perfect for the holiday season. The COMPANION and XX embroidery accents add a special touch to UNIQLO core knits and accessories that bring warmth and as regularly gifted items represent connection with loved ones.
Selection of knit materials and a wide range of accessories
The knit selection includes items in cashmere, renowned for its rich texture, and lambswool with its soft warmth. The Kids lineup features items in soft Souffle Yarn™.
The collection also includes six types of accessory items. The knitted beanie and gloves with HEATTECH functionality are accented with the XX motif, while scarves with bicolor contrast are perfect as a styling accent. The Kids lineup includes knitted caps, mittens, and neck warmers in colors to coordinate with the Souffle Yarn™ sweaters for easy styling.
Commenting on the collection, KAWS said: “For my first collection as UNIQLO‘s Artist in Residence, I‘m pleased to be expanding our partnership into working with their knitwear. I love the sweaters they make and wanted to make a collection of everyday basics to get you through the winter months.”
About KAWS KAWS engages audiences beyond the museums and galleries in which he regularly exhibits. Over the last three decades, KAWS has built a successful career with work that consistently shows his formal agility as an artist, as well as his underlying wit, irreverence, and affection for our times. He has collaborated extensively with UNIQLO since 2016.
About Artist in Residence UNIQLO has a long history of collaborating with various artists, designers, and other creatives at the forefront of culture. The Artist in Residence role will be a comprehensive position that serves to introduce new collaborators, propose new creative concepts and join events alongside UNIQLO Global Brand Ambassadors. As the first Artist in Residence, KAWS will work to enhance the LifeWear philosophy of Art for All alongside UNIQLO museum partners and through events at UNIQLO Global Flagship Stores around the world.
