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Experience The Best Of British Theater A Second Time Around with New CCP NTL Season

A bigger, brighter, and bolder second season of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ National Theatre Live (CCP NTL) is set to delight its devoted Filipino audiences with a new lineup of world-class stage plays filmed live from Britain’s most exciting stages.

After a successful first season boasting waves of support from theater enthusiasts, playwrights, artists, and the broader public, the CCP National Theatre Live forges on to provide yet another exceptional ‘live’ performance experience with the best of what British theatre has to offer in more cinemas near you.

Through the partnership of the CCP with National Theatre Live and Ayala Malls, the second season of CCP NTL will premiere at Ayala Malls Cinemas in Greenbelt, Makati, Vertis North in Quezon City, and at the Ayala Center in Cebu from June 25, 2024 to May 27, 2025.

Award-winning plays Vanya, Dear England, The Motive and Cue, and Nye will grace the big screens in the Philippines.

Crowd favorites Fleabag, King Lear, Frankenstein, and Hamlet from the past season will make their comeback.

Hopes, dreams, and regrets are thrust into sharp focus in Vanya, a one-man adaptation premiering on June 25 at the Ayala Malls Cinemas in Greenbelt, Makati. Exploring the complexities of human emotion, Andrew Scott brings multiple characters to life in Chekhov’s Uncle masterpiece, filmed live in West End, London.

Returning on June 25 at Ayala Vertis North and Ayala Center Cebu is Fleabag, a rip-roaring look at some sort of woman living her sort of life. Written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge and directed by Vicky Jones, Fleabag may seem oversexed, emotionally unfiltered and self-obsessed, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. With family and friendships under strain and a guinea pig café struggling to keep afloat, Fleabag suddenly finds herself with nothing to lose. The hilarious, award-winning play that inspired the BBC’s hit TV series with the same title was filmed live on stage in London’s West End in 2019.

On July 30, James Graham’s Dear England arrives at the Ayala Malls Cinemas in Greenbelt, Makati. With the worst track record for penalties in the world, Gareth Southgate knows he needs to open his mind and face up to the years of hurt, to take the team and country back to the promised land.

The contemporary retelling of Shakespeare’s tender, violent, moving and shocking play King Lear will be re-screened on July 30 at Ayala Vertis North and Ayala Center Cebu. Considered by many to be the greatest tragedy ever written, King Lear sees two aging fathers – one a King and another, his courtier – reject the children who truly love them. Their blindness unleashes a tornado of pitiless ambition and treachery, as family and state are plunged into a violent power struggle with bitter ends. The play is directed by Jonathan Munby and stars Sir Ian McKellen.

In Jack Thorne’s The Motive and Cue, audiences are offered a glimpse into the politics of a rehearsal room and the relationship between art and celebrity. Coming to Ayala Malls Cinemas in Greenbelt, Makati on August 27, Richard Burton, newly married to Elizabeth Taylor, will play the title role in an experimental new Broadway production of Hamlet under John Gielgud’s exacting direction. But as rehearsals progress, two ages of theater collide and the collaboration between actor and director soon threatens to unravel.

Theater lovers and moviegoers at Ayala Vertis North and Ayala Center Cebu will have the chance to see Vanya on August 27.

Directed by Academy Award-winner Danny Boyle, with adaptation by Nick Dear, Frankenstein will return to the Ayala Malls Cinemas in Greenbelt, Makati on September 24. The thrilling, deeply disturbing Mary Shelley classic combines scientific responsibility, parental neglect, cognitive development and the nature of good and evil. Child-like in his innocence but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s bewildered creature is cast out into a hostile universe by his horror-struck maker. Meeting with cruelty wherever he goes, the increasingly desperate and vengeful Creature determines to track down his creator and strike a terrifying deal.

Captured live on stage in 2011, the sold-out production stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller, alternating between the roles of Victor Frankenstein and his creation. For September 24, Miller will be playing as the Creature.

The Motive and Cue will be shown at Ayala Vertis North and Ayala Center Cebu on September 24.

Come October 30, Fleabag will return to the Ayala Malls Cinemas in Greenbelt, Makati for the third time. Frankenstein, this time with Benedict Cumberbatch as the Creature, will premiere at Ayala Vertis North and Ayala Center Cebu on same day.

Witness Nye’s mind-bending life journey on November 26 at the Ayala Malls Cinemas in Greenbelt, Makati.

In Tim Price’s opus, Aneurin “Nye” Bevan confronted death in the eye, as he recollects his deepest memories from his childhood to mining underground, and his fights with Churchill.

Benedict Cumberbatch plays the title role of yet another great Shakespearean tragedy, Hamlet, premiering on November 26, at Ayala Vertis North and Ayala Center Cebu. As the country arms itself for war, a family tears itself apart. Forced to avenge his father’s death but paralyzed by the task ahead, Hamlet rages against the impossibility of his predicament, threatening both his sanity and the security of the state. The play is directed by Lyndsey Turner.

Closing the 2024 CCP NTL’s lineup, Hamlet will return to the Ayala Malls Cinemas in Greenbelt, Makati on December 17. Dear England will premiere on the same day at Ayala Vertis North and Ayala Center Cebu.

Witness the magic of London National Theatre through CCP National Theatre Live. First launched in June 2009, the National Theater Live is a groundbreaking project to broadcast the best of British theatre live from the London stage to cinemas across the United Kingdom, around the world, and now in the Philippine shore.

Digitally filmed in high-definition quality, the NTL films their plays in front of live theater audiences, but optimized for the big screen and made accessible to theater fans across the globe.

All screenings will be at 6:00pm, exclusively at Ayala Malls cinemas in Greenbelt, Makati, Vertis North in Quezon City, and at the Ayala Center in Cebu. Regular ticket price is at ₱300.00 in Makati and Cebu, and ₱350 in Vertis North, while special ticket price for students is at ₱150.00.

This new season also brings exciting bundles and subscriptions for dedicated NTL fans. Audiences in groups can avail the Barkada Pass for ₱1200 which includes five tickets at the price of four, while students can avail the Barkada Pass Student bundle at ₱600. Subscriptions for the full season cost ₱2500 and ₱1500 for the half season, allowing audiences 30% and 20% discounts respectively.

Tickets can be purchased at sureseats.com.

To get the latest updates on CCP National Theatre Live, follow the official CCP social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

June 10, 2024
Independence Day at Ortigas Malls celebrates Filipino heroes, culture, & music

Independence Day (Araw ng Kalayaan) is a celebration of historical and modern heroes who have fought for Filipinos’ freedom. As we welcome the annual holiday, Ortigas Malls has prepared a series of events and activities that highlight our history and colorful culture.

On June 12, GH Mall, Tiendesitas, and Estancia will kick off their Independence Day celebrations in exciting ways, and shoppers shouldn’t miss them:

Greenhills

Starting at 10am, GH Mall will hold a Pagtaas ng Watawat (flag-raising ceremony) at the East Wing Atrium of GH Mall. A Marching Band will also energize shoppers at 12pm.

From 3pm to 6pm, there will be an entertaining and educational Likhang Sining at Kalayaan presentation by the Tanghalang Tula, Kundiman at Katutubong Sayaw. This wonderful display of talent will highlight our beloved Filipino culture through different facets of art.

Shoppers can also marvel at the extraordinary Philippine flag display at GH Mall made out of 1,400 origami flowers courtesy of Origami Philippines. The origami flowers symbolize the enduring bonds and deep-rooted friendships that define Filipino culture. Feel free to take photos in front of the display and share it on social media!

Tiendesitas

Known for being a home of local goods and handicrafts, Tiendesitas is celebrating Independence Day with a whole day of musical performances. Start the day off with a heart-thumping Marching Band performance at Level 1, Food Village from 10am to 11:30am. Musika’t Kalayaan at Level 2, Food Village will delight shoppers with Filipino tunes from 3pm to 9pm.

Estancia

Estancia Mall will also showcase local music for its Independence Day celebration. From 10am to 7pm, shoppers can sing and dance to their favorite P-pop songs at the P-Pop Music Fest:

Hiraya at 2/F East Wing. They can also catch the Independence Day Marching Band performance on the ground floor of the East Wing from 11am to 12pm.

If you’re looking to spend your Independence Day at Ortigas Malls, be sure to catch these fun and patriotic celebrations. Be sure to sign up for the Ortigas Community Card via the Ortigas Malls app to get first dibs on amazing deals, discounts, and perks.

For more information and updates on Ortigas Malls’ events be sure to like and visit their official Facebook pages: Greenhills Mall, Estancia Mall, and Tiendesitas.

June 10, 2024
MOVIE REVIEW: A vibrant city is uncovered by the films in Set B of The Manila Film Festival

Ongoing at Robinsons Manila and Robinson Magnolia, The Manila Film Festival is a showcase of student short films side-by-side by the short films of young, established filmmakers all working around the theme “Manila in Me.” These 12 short films create a tapestry that highlights the dynamic energy of the city of Manila and is a promise of the kind of movies that we will be seeing in the future as these are the filmmakers of the future.

The films of Set B

Set B opens with the short film ‘May at Nila’ by Sigrid Bernardo. This two-hander is heavily reliant on dialogue, and luckily for Bernardo, Elora Jaducana Espano and Veronica Reyes are up to par in being arresting throughout the film’s short run time. But it has a tendency to dawdle and extend. Bernardo’s ‘May at Nila’ explores the hiddenness of same sex relationships in the oppressive era of World War II. The two women discuss their past and present and try to reconcile their revolutionary activities with their own forbidden love. A lot of the film’s narrative potential is delivered in dialogue and this concept feels more suited to a full-length. It deserves breadth and for Bernardo to make use of her cinematic eye to truly situate the oppression of these women in the larger world rather than the tiny space of film’s singular location where the meat of the story happens.

What follows is ‘threefor100,’ which is an irreverent film of different kinds of unusual love stories all set in an ukay-ukay. Written and directed by Cedrick Labadia, the film is gutsy and bold and has a wonderful concept, but it doesn’t quite gather all of its dispirited elements together to tell a whole cohesive story. There’s Nida (Thea Marabut), who works at the ukay-ukay but seems distracted. Dino (Jayson Alcazar) is in love with her as is the fish that can only speak through a radio but she’s in love with a mannequin. Her boss, Aling Chichay (Carla Zarcal) is always at her case, but she’s stuck in love with the ghost of her husband. It’s a crazy bag of stories that should paint a world of irreverent love but fails to justify these love stories or even highlight what is so wonderful about them. The concept is there but as individual pieces, they all have to comment on each other which Labadia isn’t able to accomplish just yet. It’s almost there but not there yet.

Neither does the ‘The Ballad of a Blind Man’ by Charlie Vitug quite land its story about a young woman who is oppressed and held back by her almost blind father. There’s a scripted feel to the way the narrative unfolds, including some rather sentimental cinematic choices that keeps ‘The Ballad of a Blind Man’ from elevating itself from its tired genre. The film is more keen on trying to establish its tone that it forgets to establish the emotional weight of the story: the oppression and the protagonists conflict with her relationship with her father.

Adrian Renz Espino, the writer and director of ‘Ditas Pinamalas,’ on the other hand, goes way too far into whimsy that it never feels grounded enough to land its joke. Ditas (Gillian Vicencio) is an unlucky woman who finds her luck turning when she starts to wear the underwear of her late grandmother. Espino seems more focused towards his off-beat humor rather than making any real strong exploration about fortune and destiny. It could have been forgivable if it landed its jokes but there’s a self-consciousness in the delivery of the scenes that gives away the humor. It tries to hard that it doesn’t quite stick.

My favourite among all the student films, though, is ‘Bahay, Baboy, Bagyo’ by Miko Biong. A wonderful film that juxtaposes the innocence of youth versus the looming destruction of capitalism. It tells the story of Kulas and Gabo (played excellently by Don Rishmond Cerbito and Arkin Torres), who live on the outskirts of the city and their land is about to be taken and developed for gentrification. It’s taken from their perspective and how a simple children’s game can be a metaphor about the ways by which the systems of the world has taken from ordinary people. Biong, with Director of Photography Kinno Toogue do an amazing job at establishing this community. With editors Renjiro Bayani and Janelle Basalo, the camera not only shows us the world that needs to be preserved but the innocence that makes this world so ideal. It’s a simple film but with larger ramification just outside the screen, just outside what these kids are able to comprehend. It’s wonderfully directed and shows incredible restraint.

Capping off Set B is Pepe Diokno’s ‘Lumang Tugtugin’ with screenplay by Guelan Varela-Luarca. This incredibly directed piece is about Angela (Therese Malvar), who returns home to take care of her grandmother (Lui Manansala) while dealing with her family’s past horrors that finds itself ingrained within the walls of the house. It’s a genre piece that bends style and form. It’s a psychological thriller but it is also a domestic drama. But Diokno, along with director of photography Tristan Salas and editor Ike Veneracion, create a dazzling tapestry using techniques of horror to help build the film’s growing tension until its reaches its climax that involves a terrific play of the mise-en-scene that made the whole audience (and myself) applaud with admiration. The film alludes to the past horrors of the house and manages to execute its revelation in such an amazing cinematic way that leaves you breathless. It’s a show stopping ending that reminds you that Pepe Diokno is one of the most exciting young directors working today.

Disclaimer: Please note that movie showtimes are subject to change without prior notice. We recommend checking the latest schedules before planning your visit.

My Rating:

The Manila Film Fest 2024 is happening now at Robinson’s Movieworld – Manila and Robinson’s Movieworld – Magnolia (Limited Screening) until June 11! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.

June 10, 2024
MOVIE REVIEW: Over-reliant on dialogue, ‘The Watchers’ offers tepid scares and a flat story

Despite the lush Irish forests as its backdrop and a rather cinematic bunker in the middle of the woods as the setting of this horror film, ‘The Watchers‘ quickly loses any of its mystery and appeal because of first-time feature film director and screenwriter Ishana Night Shyamalan’s inability to wrestle with the film’s massive lore. Based on the book by A. M. Shine, ‘The Watchers’ prefers to keep things hidden; allowing the dread to stem from what we don’t know. This only last for as long as the fear is constant, the characters we’re following are engaging, and the film points out to something bigger.

But that’s not what happens here in the film.

‘The Watchers’ is about an American, Mina (played by Dakota Fanning), who is living in Ireland and running from her past. When her boss at the pet store she works in asks her to drive to another city to deliver an expensive bird to the zoo, then she finds herself lost in an enchanted forest where she cannot find her way out. There she discovers what is called “The Coop.” It is a bunker in the middle of the forest where she is taken in by its current inhabitants – Madeline (Olwen Fouere), Ciara (Georgina Campbell), and Daniel (Oliver Finnegan) – and they tell her the rules to survive because out in the woods, when the sun goes down, the Watchers come and they will kill her if she’s not in the bunker by sundown.

All the elements are there to create an engaging story. Who are the watchers and what are they? There are rules to stay alive and, of course, Mina tries to break them because she refuses to be stuck there like everybody else. As some rules are broken, the four are put into danger. How will they get out? What do the watchers want? The list goes on.

But the moment the initial curiosity has set in, the film takes on a very by-the-numbers pace that slows everything down. While the rules are explained and while Mina tries to break them to find her way out, there’s no real sense of danger that sticks. Mina’s backstory is kept hidden from us until halfway through the movie, so we don’t feel that connected to her. It doesn’t help that Fanning, as good an actress as she is, is asked to be guarded and reserved. She’s put a distance between her and everybody in the film so she’s not the kind of lead character an audience can easily warm up to.

Madeline plays out as the older, wise woman character-trope, whose backstory I figured out quite quickly as the answers to the questions start pouring out by the third quarter of the film. Ciara and Daniel are functional but don’t have much to do to make you feel for them in any real way.

What makes the film even less scary is that all the important answers to the questions the film inevitably sets up by its premise is answered through a huge info dump in the third quarter of the movie. They learn the lore of the watchers in one big go that the already languid, tepid pace of the film is even stunted further. And regardless of how you feel about the revelation, without the mystery, the narrative starts to fall flat. What else is there to do now?

I can imagine what this narrative might be like in the form of a book. When you’re reading this story in the comfort of your home and taking the pace that you want, the story can work. The prose can cover up the variety of new information that happens near the end of the story. But for a film, as you near the end, you want the film to go faster to start moving towards its climax but instead ‘The Watchers’ ends up slowing down further to explain.

This has always been the problem of what some people call ‘the mystery box’ narrative. This is the trouble Ishana Night Shyamalan is struggling with in this film.

Once the big struggle is done, the film enters its resolution and then another twist is revealed (like father like daughter, because, yes, she is the daughter of M. Night Shyamalan). It is a twist I saw coming the moment the big info dump has occurred and the sad part is, at the film’s final conflict, it is once again done via dialogue. ‘The Watchers’ starts well with an interesting premise, but it does not keep up with all its elements as the film unfolds. If anything, this is a streaming movie for a dead weekend.

My Rating:

The Watchers is now showing! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.

June 10, 2024
MOVIE REVIEW: A vibrant city is uncovered by the films in Set A of The Manila Film Festival

Screening at Robinsons Manila and Robinson Magnolia until June 11, The Manila Film Festival offers two sets of short films, which explores the theme “Manila in Me,” and each set is opened and closed by a young but established filmmaker and in-between are four short films by student filmmakers. The six films in each of the two sets create an interesting tapestry that speaks about the variety and range of stories that are found at the heart of Manila, the seat of our country’s history.

For Set A, the films are prefaced by Dwein Baltazar’s ‘Nananahan,’ a gorgeous meditation on longing and waiting. Shot in black and white, the film is practically a silent film with the most minimal dialogue, if there’s even any. What keeps it from being silent is the exquisite music by Emerzon Tecson and the incredible sound design by Narra studios. The film is shot entirely in a furniture store at the heart of downtown Manila. It’s old and it feels abandoned and the people that hang around here are just waiting while the sounds of the city erupt all around.

It’s still and nothing happens yet a pervasive mood hangs upon the air and it tells the story of a city that is just waiting to be discovered all over again like the furniture in the store and the people that watch over it. Baltazar’s exquisite touch knows exactly how long to hold a scene and when to break it and when the finale comes and the realisation of what it is you’re really seeing hits you, it’s a magical moment that only film can truly capture.

Writer and director Vhan Marco Molacruz follows up after Dwein Baltazar with the road movie ‘Una’t Huling Sakay.’ While the story can be a little contrived, the pacing a little abrupt, what Molacruz does excellently is tell a vivid story about a life on hold. His main character (played by an arresting Gold Aceron) is a habal rider who had to stop his schooling to earn money for his pregnant girlfriend. Molacruz takes beautiful travel shots of Aceron on his bike while using the scenic backdrop of Manila as a means to symbolize the struggles and hopes and disappointment of his protagonist.

Following that is ‘An Kuan’ by writer and director Joyce Ramos. ‘An Kuan’ is tonally exquisite. It’s an absolutely charming film that manages to hit the right comedic tones as it details the struggles of a non-Tagalog speaking mom who is looking for a job in Manila. The film makes use of its rough edges to add a layer of grit that grounds the relationship of the mother (Louielyn Jabien) and her lesbian daughter (Zar Donato) that makes it both endearing and funny. It never takes itself too seriously and by doing so manages to tackles some really interesting themes while taking some very lovely shots of Manila’s coastal areas.

Phi Palmos and Precious Paula Nicole shine with a very nuanced, very powerful performance in Ronnie Ramos’ ‘Happy (M)other’s Day!’. It’s a simple film about a young girl who is navigating the difficulty of finding which parent can come to her school’s Mother’s Day event when she has no mom but two dads. It’s a small, intimate film with a lot of heart and propelled by excellent performances that includes Palmos, Nicole, and Amber Jeshley Gomez, who delivers an excellently matured performance. Unfortunately, Ramos needs to tighten his editing, allowing moments to linger when it should be snappy and manages to downplay the urgency of the story. This would be a stronger film if it had a tighter edit and some more dynamic cinematography that really helps bring you closer into the story.

Finishing off the student films in set A is ‘Pinalakang Tabingi’ by John Pistol Carmen. A lovely little love letter to cinema, Carmen’s short is about two kids who get caught up in a pirated DVD raid in their hometown in the province. The film manages to highlight the issues about accessibility to films while showing the effect a film can have on its young audience. It’s best when it’s playing at the fantasy, with Carmen also doing a really cute interplay between a fictional fantasy movie and the way the kids reenact the scene from this movie. By the latter half, the film dips into a public service announcement tone that can kill the energy built by the film’s first act but it’s charming all throughout.

Rounding up the first set is JP Habac’s ‘Shortest Day Longest Night.’ The film feels very now, very trendy. It has a pulse that belongs to the hip kids and their love for deep conversations and art and pop culture. The film is about safe spaces and how even the safe spaces that are inhabited by the queer community can be violated by members of its own community. Adrian Lindayag and Vaughn Piczon are excellent at embodying two lost souls finding safety in each other’s brokenness. It’s pretty to look at but I’m not a fan of the very didactic and verbose way that Habac approaches this story. So many of the film’s story points are articulated rather than dramatized and I really, really feel that this film is better as a full-length. There’s a world here that should be mined and sifted through and Piczon and Lindayag are excellent vessels for a story like this to unfold. As a short, I felt the story was hemmed in too much by its time constraints and I feel like it would just bloom if it had a full-length feature running time.

Disclaimer: Please note that movie showtimes are subject to change without prior notice. We recommend checking the latest schedules before planning your visit.

My Rating:

The Manila Film Fest 2024 is happening now at Robinson’s Movieworld – Manila and Robinson’s Movieworld – Magnolia (Limited Screening) until June 11! Check showtimes and buy tickets here.

June 9, 2024
Best Buddies Philippines and Banana Peel’s “Slide Together, Embrace Inclusion” … A Huge Success!

Best Buddies Philippines (BBP) and Banana Peel showcased a special celebration of fashion, friendship and inclusion when it mounted the highly-successful “Slide Together Embrace Inclusion” at Robinsons Magnolia on May 18.

The event generated a huge crowd as it unveiled a unique collection of unisex slides designed by Best Buddies British School Manila (BSM) chapter member, Navine Gabriella Kuo Gatchalian. Gatchalian is a 17-year old talented artist who was inspired by happy beach adventures with her family.

These slides are vibrant and eye-catching, a creative addition to anyone’s summer vacation. More importantly, they embody the spirit of inclusion, the core mission of Best Buddies Philippines (BBP) programs. The design was created during a social activity mounted by the BB BSM chapter where students with and without IDD form meaningful relationships.

Best Buddies is a worldwide non-profit organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement to create opportunities for friendships, leadership development, integrated employment, and inclusive living for people with intellectual and development disabilities (IDD). BBP was established in 2014 and has since then touched the lives of over 30,000 Filipinos of all abilities.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with a beloved Filipino brand, Banana Peel. It gave us the opportunity to highlight the talents of our members and help in empowering individuals with IDD,” says Michelle Aventajado, BBP’s Executive Director.

“We are delighted to be part of this initiative and I want to express my gratitude to Best Buddies Philippines for partnering with us. This collaboration demonstrates that opportunities can be made accessible to all,” says Paul Ng, President of Banana Peel.

The outpour of support from those who attended the event raised awareness about the importance of inclusion and also provided opportunities for growth and self-expression, fostering a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive. A portion of the proceeds from the event was directed to BBP.

More than footwear, “Slide Together, Embrace Inclusion” was a testament to the power of friendship and a commitment to embracing a world of inclusivity.

To know more about Best Buddies Philippines and how you can help further its mission, like, follow and check out the following:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BestBuddiesPhilippines

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestbuddies_ph/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCanfmI2hgq0-NyQGY_yIgwA

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bestbuddies_ph/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bestbuddiesphilippines

Website: https://bestbuddiesph.org/

June 8, 2024
The Philippines’ First World Cat Show this June 14-15 and many meow-rrrr to come by World Cat Federation (SFEPI) co-presented by Hard Rock Cafe Manila

Cat Moms and Dads are in for a flurry of fun feline activities as the Society of Feline Enthusiasts of the Philippines, Inc. (SFEPI) and the World Cat Federation (WCF) present The Philippines’ First World Cat Show on June 14 to 15 (2-day event) at the 5th Floor of One Ayala Mall. This event is free to the public and is co-presented by Hard Rock Cafe Manila.

The WCF World Cat Show is a prestigious competition that celebrates the ‘best’ and most beautiful cats from various breeds, representing the pinnacle of feline breeding and care. They will be judged on their physical attributes, grooming, and overall presence. With sleek coats, striking eyes, and elegant postures, these cats are a testament to the dedication and passion of their owners and breeders.

This landmark of an event is set to gather cat enthusiasts from around the globe to witness a spectacular showcase of feline beauty, talent, and excellence and is expected to attract around 150 to 200 cats from over 15 countries, showcasing a diverse array of feline breeds and fostering international camaraderie among cat enthusiasts. This global representation underscores the event’s prestige and the Philippines’ growing prominence in the international cat community.

During the event, the cats will participate in a series of competitions within the WCF Ring, where they will be judged on various criteria including beauty, temperament, and adherence to breed standards. The WCF Ring is a specialized judging area where the most outstanding cats compete for top honors. These competitions not only highlight the physical beauty of the cats but also showcase their unique talents and behaviors, making for an engaging and entertaining spectacle.

Key features of the event are the “Best of Best” (top cat in each category) and “Best General” (overall champion) awards. These coveted titles represent the highest accolades a cat can receive in the competition, signifying their exemplary qualities and superior standards.

Winners will receive trophies, certificate titles, cat supplies from generous donors and brand sponsors, and special prizes for various categories such as Best Kitten, Best Junior, Best Adult, and Best Neuter Category. These awards not only honor the cats but also recognize the hard work and dedication of their owners and breeders.

Hard Rock Cafe Manila- a staunch supporter and advocate

The event is co-presented by Hard Rock Cafe Manila, which was also a sponsor for the Cebu leg of International Cat Show held in Mandaue City. Hard Rock Cafe is a strong advocate for the welfare of stray animals in the country. Its dynamic partnership with SFEPI has a “purr-pose” as a portion of event proceeds are donated to the animals under the care of Island Rescue Organization (IRO) in Mandaue City, which is committed to re-homing animals into loving families and to finding innovative ways to promote long-term solutions to lessen the population of stray dogs and cats. Recently, Hard Rock Cafe Manila and Hard Rock Cafe Makati also donated P40,000 to IRO in line with the cafe’s Hearts and Tails Campaign.

Hard Rock Cafe Philippines Director of Operations Mr. Brian Peck says, “We are very supportive of organizations that keep these animals safe and protected. This is one of our programs under our company values that are incorporated into our Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. Social purpose is at the core of Hard Rock Cafe’s values that are guided by the four founding mottos: Love All Serve All, All Is One, Save The Planet and Take Time To Be Kind. We hope to see more cat lovers come together at the WCF World Show event.”

For more information about the World Cat Federation World Show Event on June 14 to 15, 2024, visit WCF by SFEPI on Facebook.

June 8, 2024
Dads deserve a feast at Mang Inasal this Father’s Day

Mang Inasal, the Philippines’ Grill Expert, celebrates Father’s Day with discounted group meals and an exclusive online promo, making it a perfect celebration for dads.

“Mang Inasal values the roles of fathers as models of hard work, fun, love, and resilience,” said Mang Inasal President Mike V. Castro. “That’s why we’re extending our Father’s Day celebration until the end of June, so all fathers and their families can feast on their Ihaw-Sarap favorites together, wherever they are.”

Enjoy the ‘Feast for Daddy’ promo with IHAWtastic combos at Mang Inasal. For families of two to three, enjoy the Buddy Fiesta Combo at Mang Inasal for only ₱499! This delicious deal includes two pieces of Chicken Inasal Paa or Pecho, two sticks of Pork BBQ with Java Rice, two Extra Creamy Halo-Halo or Crema de Leche Halo-Halo 8oz add-ons, and three small-sized drinks.

For larger families of four to six, the Family Fiesta Combo is perfect at just ₱949! It features three pieces of Chicken Inasal Paa or Pecho, six sticks of Pork BBQ with Java Rice, four Extra Creamy Halo-Halo or Crema de Leche Halo-Halo 8oz add-ons, and six small-sized drinks.

The ‘Feast for Daddy’ promo is available nationwide for dine in, takeout, and delivery from June 10 to 30. For an even bigger feast, order other Mang Inasal Fiesta Favorites via delivery, including the Buddy Fiesta, Family Fiesta, and Palabok Party Size.

Netizens are also in for a special Father’s Day treat. Simply join the Mang Inasal Nation Facebook Group to join an exclusive digital contest dedicated for dads.

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit www.manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!

June 8, 2024
Celebrate One Rad Dad at Edsa Shangri-La, Manila

Give mad props to pops this Father’s Day and celebrate One Rad Dad at Your Urban Oasis! From first edition hero, coach, family provider, and protector, dad is truly the man of the house. Celebrate dad in a weekend of fun as you create heartwarming new memories with shared dining experiences, suite treats, and thoughtful eats at Edsa Shangri-La, Manila.

DAD Jokes Loading at Your Urban Oasis

Book your Father’s Day weekend staycation and spend quality time for pun, fun, and sun to show pops how much you care and appreciate your family’s very own one rad dad. We’re spelling out how much we love dad with a little turndown treat for a fun and comfortable family staycation, for this one and the next. With rates starting at Php12,500++,

book Family Adventures Premium: Energise, Create, and Discover and enjoy exclusive privileges featuring:

• Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)
• Breakfast for two (2) adults and two (2) kids below 6 years old and below
• Splash Squad Activity Pass for cool ‘tweens age 6 to 12 years old. Choose from our selection of activities mapped out for a fun, interactive and engaging stay at Your Urban Oasis.
• Cubs and Cubbies Activity Pass for young VIPs 0 to 5 years old. Get the kiddies on their feet with dynamic off-the-couch activities around the hotel in a series of fun edutainment to unleash their creative imagination.
• Access to The Nook for family fun for the young and young at heart
• Kids’ welcome amenities, robes, slippers, toiletry, and activity kit
• High-speed, unrestricted Wi-Fi and broadband internet access
• Use of recreational facilities featuring the iconic lagoon-shaped swimming pool and Aqua Play
• One complimentary parking per stay with multiple entries
• Special Father’s Day treat with option for room upgrade on the next family staycation

Advanced bookings are highly encouraged. For inquiries and room reservations, please email reservations.esl@shangri-la.com.

Dining Delights for Dad
Treat pops to feasts fit for a king with sumptuous buffet spreads, set menu offers for the family, or hearty bites set in a cosy afternoon tea for a little one-on-one with dad.

It’s time to give dad the ultimate treat at HEAT! Lose the tie and bring your appetite as you embark on a culinary adventure of fun and flavour. Whether dad’s ready to dive into a seafood haven, goes on all about that BBQ life of juicy steaks and tender roasts, or simply wants to satisfy his sweet tooth, he’ll definitely be coming back for seconds (and thirds!) with HEAT’s Dad treats. Make this family gathering a day he’ll never forget! Father’s Day lunch and dinner is available on June 16, 2024 at Php3,500 net per person.

Here’s to sharing a cuppa with poppa with an unbeatable city view! Get Sippin’ with Pops at the Lobby Lounge and spend quality time as you share a spread of savoury bites, freshly baked scones, and an array of sweets that’ll tickle his taste buds. The Father’s Day Afternoon Tea is available from June 3 – June 30, 2024 at Php1,750 net for two on Monday to Friday and Php1,900 net per person on Saturday and Sunday.

Transport dad to a culinary journey at Summer Palace with our specially curated set menu that celebrates flavour, tradition, and all things dad-approved! Whether Dad is a fan of classic regional favourites or eager to explore new culinary delights, our set menu has something to please every palate. Available on June 16, 2024 at Php29,800 net for a table of 10 persons.

Dive into a feast of authentic Japanese flavours in an artful epicurean experience with the Senju Matsuri lunch buffet. With an irresistible spread of sushi, sashimi, and favourite Japanese delights, every bite is a flavour explosion of the freshest ingredients delicately prepared by our masterful chefs. Experience that enviable feast of a thousand pleasures available on June 16, 2024 at Php4,000 net per person.

Let’s raise the bar(becue) for dad with a sizzling celebration at Pool Bar: Oven, Fire Pit, Grill. Join dad for some special platters inclusive of five brewskis. Enjoy amidst laid-back poolside vibes that’s sure to make him feel like the master of the grill. Turn up the heat (and the beat) this Father’s Day, available all day on June 16, 2024 at Php2,500 net per platter.

For inquiries, email restaurantrsvns.esl@shangri-la.com.

Armed and Dadly
It’s time to spoil dad this round! Make Father’s Day memorable with fun treats from our rich gifting selection with a quick tap and swipe at Shangri-La Boutique.

Shop now and visit https://bit.ly/esl-oneraddad.

June 8, 2024
One million cash prize up for grabs with PLDT Home’s OMG promo

New subscribers of PLDT Home have the opportunity to win as much as P1 million cash and other big prizes through its One Million Giveaway(OMG) promo.

The promo is open to new subscribers of PLDT Home Fiber Plan 1699 (or higher) who apply for and have their connections installed from May 15 to July 31, 2024. The grand prize of P1 million will be awarded to one (1) lucky winner, with ten (10) subscribers receiving P100,000 each, and 50 others winning free PLDT Home Fiber plan for a year.

For households where fast and reliable internet is essential, PLDT Home’s Fiber plans provide the connectivity needed for work, school, business, and social activities. The available plans and their maximum speeds are as follows:

With the speed and reliability of PLDT Home Fiber, they can enjoy a seamless digital experience to do remote work or virtual classes, or even manage a home-based business. Customers can simultaneously attend a video conference while downloading large files, with a reliable fiber connection that enables them to efficiently accomplish their daily tasks.

Customers can also enjoy a lag-free digital experience whether in online gaming or content streaming as PLDT Home’s reliable fiber connection enables them to binge-watch K-dramas, TV series, movies, music, and play the latest online games with ease.

PLDT Home also offers various add-ons that enhance their digital lifestyle, including entertainment services such as HBO GO, Lionsgate Play, NBA League Pass, and Viu, as well as a range of smart home security devices.

For home connectivity that’s both reliable and rewarding, now is the best time to subscribe to a PLDT Home Fiber plan and get a chance to win the One Million Giveaway (OMG).For more details about the promo and subscription information, visit this link

June 8, 2024