Google ends the year once again by releasing the Year In Search 2023, its annual compilation of the top trending keywords and terms that Filipinos search for.
These top 10 lists serve as a record of the many events and issues that people have gotten caught up in over the year. For example, SIM registration topped the News list because of the new law that mandated everyone to register their phone numbers, and because Filipinos wanted to know more about the process. Major international events are also high on Filipinos’ awareness, as the Israel-Hamas war is ranked fifth in the top News trends.
The pop culture lists are also full of names that are bound to trigger specific memories from months past. Among many other keywords, there’s Japanese actor Mackenyu who ranked #2 in Male Personalities because of the reception to his One Piece role, Jenna Ortega (#8 in Female Personalities) who’s enjoying her career highs from Wednesday and Scream 7, and local TV drama Maria Clara at Ibarrathat gripped Filipinos during its TV run.
TV shows and movies available on streaming platforms earned more places on this year’s lists, which lines up with the steady growth of online media consumption as projected in this year’s eConomy SEA Report.
Below is the full list of the top search trends in the Philippines:
News
SIM registration
precinct finder
persona non grata
Nipah virus
War in Israel and Gaza
lato-lato
Typhoon Egay update
Taal Volcano update
Turkey earthquake
MoCa Farm
Sports
Lakers vs Warriors
Lakers vs Nuggets
FIBA World Cup
Miami vs Denver
Lakers vs Grizzlies
Suns vs Nuggets
Celtics vs 76ers
Heat vs Knicks
Golden State Warriors vs Kings
Ginebra vs Bay Area
Shows or Series
Duty After School
Maria Clara at Ibarra
Moving
The Glory
Twinkling Watermelon
King the Land
XO, Kitty
The Last of Us
My Lovely Liar
Strong Girl Nam-soon
Songs or Lyrics
Say You Won’t Let Go
ERE
Pasilyo
Uhaw
Lupang Hinirang English
Angels Like You
California King Bed
Rapstar
Raining In Manila
Jopay
Games
Blade Ball codes
Delta Executor
Soldier, Poet, or King quiz
Cosmic Values
Anime Adventures codes
Farlight
Choox Sega
Honkai: Star Rail
Minecraft 1.20
Project Slayers codes
Male Personalities
Ahn Bo-hyun
Mackenyu
Marco Gumabao
Taylor Lautner
Travis Kelce
Liam Hemsworth
David Licauco
Kyle Kuzma
Juan Karlos
Chen Zhe Yuan
Female Personalities
Katy Louise Saunders
Cristine Reyes
Millie Bobby Brown
Lee Da-in
Issa Pressman
Janna Dominguez
Bada Lee
Jenna Ortega
Emily Rudd
Isabel Santos
Movies
Oppenheimer
John Wick: Chapter 4
Barbie
Insidious: The Red Door
The Menu
Extraction 2
I Love Lizzy
Evil Dead Rise
Nowhere
Kill Boksoon
Farewells
Mike Enriquez
Joey Paras
Matthew Perry
Andrei Sison
Patrick Guzman
Mario Dumaual
John Regala
Michael Gambon
Park Soo Ryun
Tina Turner
Korean Series
Duty After School
Moving
The Glory
Twinkling Watermelon
King the Land
My Lovely Liar
Strong Girl Nam-soon
Alchemy of Souls
Island
A Time Called You
To see the full Year in Search 2023 list, click here.
Ayala Land and Make It Makati, in collaboration with the local Government of Makati, are delighted to present “Nostalgia Meets the Future: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2024.” Happening on December 31, 2023, witness the biggest, brightest, and most iconic celebration of NYE in the country, together with the community. This exciting show will unfold right at Ayala Avenue, commencing at 7:00 PM and continuing into the night.
Marking 24 years since the epic turn-of-the-millennium NYE celebration, Ayala Avenue is set to host a spectacular event to welcome 2024. The tradition of the New Year’s Eve countdown street party in Makati originates from the turn of the millennium, when the city hosted a grand celebration to ring in the year 2000. This event was the first of its kind in the Philippines, setting a precedent for large-scale public New Year’s Eve festivities. It was not just a party but also a community gathering, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate a significant milestone.
As we step into 2024, Makati eagerly brings back this cherished tradition. The aim is not just to throw a grand party, but to give back to the community that has made Makati the thriving city it is today. This year’s celebration is designed to be inclusive, inviting everyone to partake in the festivities and enjoy the night. This event is all about the power of shared experiences and the joy they bring, and all are invited, regardless of age or interest, to join in the celebration.
By rekindling this tradition, Makati hopes to create a sense of unity and belonging, to remind everyone that we’re all part of this vibrant community. The New Year’s Eve countdown street party on Ayala Avenue is a gift to the people of Makati, a thank you for their contribution to the city’s success throughout the years.
Under the theme “Nostalgia Meets the Future,” all are invited on a journey that is both a nod to the past and a toast to the future. Rewinding to 1999, the event recalls the Philippines’ very first grand-scale New Year’s Eve countdown, featuring the country’s most beloved performers headlined by Asia’s Songbird, Regine Velasquez. Families marveled in excitement as they partied and waited for the turn of the millennium at midnight.
The magic returns with the comeback of Ayala Avenue’s New Year’s Eve countdown to 2024. This celebration is all about Filipino pride – an event that spotlights the country’s top talents who have made waves on the global stage.
Prepare for a night of unparalleled entertainment as Makati welcomes to the stage some of the Philippines’ biggest names in the music scene. Regine Velasquez will once again be headlining the event together with the phenomenal P-Pop sensation, SB19. Joining them on the stage are other major performers such as Sponge Cola, Al James, and a team of talented musical theatre artists led by Gab Pangilinan and Myke Salomon. The event will be hosted by the dynamic duo Baus Rufo and Ai Dela Cruz, with direction from the acclaimed Paolo Valenciano.
The highlight of the event, a countdown to 2024, will feature a breathtaking lights and fireworks show that will illuminate the Makati skyline. As the clock strikes midnight, DJ Brian Cua and DJ Mike Lavet will lead the crowd into an all-night dance party.The main stage, located at the intersection of Makati Avenue and Ayala Avenue, will feature an impressive 3D-stage setup, complete with 7-meter tall LED screens on either side, bringing an immersive experience for all attendees. This New Year’s Eve party promises a visual and auditory feast like never before.
The celebration extends beyond the stage to a gastronomic adventure, with various Makati establishments collaborating to offer a delectable selection of food choices. Merchants will open starting at lunchtime, allowing guests to embark on a culinary journey before the evening festivities commence.
Witness the biggest New Year’s Eve Countdown in the Metro! From iconic performances to state-of-the-art technology, “Nostalgia Meets the Future: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2024″ underscores Makati’s unwavering commitment to excellence and community.
“Nostalgia Meets the Future: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2024” is open to everyone, free of charge, and requires no registration. Stay tuned for updates and announcements including road closures at Make It Makati’s official Facebook page. For more information, stay connected via social media – follow Make It Makati on Facebook, Instagram and X at @makeitmakati. #MakeItMakati
“BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star“ has arrived on Disney+, offering an unprecedented look into the remarkable ten-year journey of BTS. From their humble beginnings to becoming global superstars, this docuseries promises to deliver an intimate, raw, and honest portrayal of the septet’s rise to fame.
Here are some things ARMY can’t wait to see in BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star.
Why ARMY Can’t Wait: Top 7 Moments to Anticipate
1. Behind-the-Scenes Dance Practices: Witness BTS in their element with extensive practice footage, potentially including rare pre-debut clips. With a decade in the industry, BTS naturally have tons of footage hidden in their vault. Based on the teasers released for BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star, we’re definitely getting more practice videos — maybe even some pre-debut content!
2. Cherished Graduations: Get a glimpse into the members’ graduation ceremonies, with special focus on RM, and possibly others. Most ARMYs are familiar with Jung Kook’s graduation ceremony Bangtan Bomb where all the members of BTS were present.
3. Early Showcases: Relive BTS’ roots through clips from their early, more intimate performances. Before BTS sold out huge stadiums and flew to different countries worldwide, the members used to perform at small shows and meet a handful of fans. Often, they had to catch quick naps in a tiny car while hopping from event to event around South Korea. Thanks to BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star, ARMY will get to see more clips from those simple days.
4. Life in the Old Dorm: Explore BTS’ shared experiences in their first dorm, with exclusive footage offering a peek into their early days. In their early years, all 7 members of BTS shared one tiny room measuring 17 tsubo or pyeong (which is merely around 56 square meters). It’s all too familiar and nostalgic for ARMY — it’s where BTS celebrated their 1st debut anniversary. There aren’t a lot of videos from that era, but it seems they’ll be releasing never-before-seen footage based on a trailer clip of RM and V playing with a game console at their old dorm
5. The Stories Behind Selfies: Delve into the anecdotes behind iconic BTS selfies, including a special feature on a viral selfie by Jimin. BTS members love sharing group photos and selfies with their fans, as proven by the overabundance of content on their social media accounts. As a way to connect with ARMY, BTS often tell the story behind the photos they upload. This time, fans might get actual footage from behind the scenes of some photos! In one scene from the trailer, Jimin explains to the camera how he ended up taking a viral selfie he posted in 2013.
6. Exclusive 2013 Fan Meeting: Anticipate potentially unseen footage from a unique fan meeting held in 2013, a much-awaited treat for fans. BTS held a small fan meeting for a joint celebration of Christmas and the birthdays of Jin and V. Fans couldn’t bring cameras to the event, but BigHit did film the event, yet footage remains elusive. While the trailers released so far didn’t show a hint of this event, many ARMYs (including us!) are hoping HYBE and BigHit will finally show the world actual clips from this event.
[Thread Rebuild] 8yrs ago today BTS held an x-mas, Jin & Tae bday party fanmeet (131223) Debut ARMY brought this to the TL during ARMYpedia since mostly no one remembered (or even knew of) it as cameras were banned because BH filmed—but then BH never released *any* pics or vid! + pic.twitter.com/vAuxfxcPY2
7. Lockdown Reflections: Experience the emotional struggles and triumphs of BTS during the COVID-19 lockdown, a period that challenged but also showcased their resilience. To the rest of the world, BTS provided a much-needed light and life during the COVID-19 pandemic with their inspiring and upbeat songs “Dynamite”, “Life Goes On”, “Butter”, and “Permission to Dance”. But ARMYs would know how difficult that time was for the members due to the cancellation of the “Map of the Soul Tour” and the difficulty of performing in front of their fans, especially at the height of their careers. The footage from that era might make fans cry, but ARMY will surely tune in even with tears blurring their vision.
A Must-Watch for Every ARMY
Catch this stirring docuseries on Disney+ and embark on a journey with BTS, experiencing their growth, challenges, and triumphs. “BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star” is more than a series; it’s a celebration of an era, a testament to BTS’ enduring legacy, and a heartfelt tribute to the unwavering support of the ARMY.
As the festive season sweeps through the city, movie enthusiasts are in for a delightful treat! This week marks a special occasion in the Philippine movie industry with the grand opening of the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) on December 25. But before we delve into the heart of Filipino cinema, let’s not forget the international blockbuster hitting the screens today, December 20 – “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.” This week is set to be a spectacular mix of genres and narratives, ranging from the underwater heroics of Aquaman to the diverse and rich storytelling of the MMFF entries including “Becky and Badette,” “Broken Hearts Trip,” “Family of Two,” “Firefly,” “GOMBURZA,” “Kampon,” “Mallari,” “Penduko,” “Rewind,” and “When I Met You in Tokyo.” Each movie, distinct in its essence and storytelling, is set to captivate moviegoers of all tastes. Join us as we explore the vibrant and captivating lineup of this week’s new movie releases, highlighting the unique stories they bring to the silver screen.
2023 • PG • 2 hrs 4 mins ACTION, ADVENTURE, FANTASY BUY TICKETS
Prepare to be submerged in the depths of the ocean with “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.” Jason Momoa returns as the titular hero, facing off against his nemesis, Black Manta. This time, Aquaman must forge an unlikely alliance with his brother Orm to save the world from destruction. Expect a tidal wave of stunning visuals, heart-pumping action, and an exploration of the intricate world of Atlantis. It’s an undersea epic that promises to thrill and captivate audiences.
For those who crave a spine-tingling experience, “Nightmare Resort” is your destination. Follow Sakura’s journey from social outcast to an eerie resort where relaxation turns to terror. This horror flick, blending psychological thrills with supernatural chills, will keep you guessing and gasping till the very end.
Metro Manila Film Festival 2023: A Cornucopia of Filipino Talent (Opening December 25)
The much-awaited MMFF opens with ten diverse films, each offering a unique flavor of Filipino cinema. From laughter to tears, from spine-chilling horror to heartwarming drama, this year’s lineup promises something for everyone.
Start your MMFF experience with laughter! “Becky and Badette” follows two best friends whose humorous tales about a classmate inadvertently go viral. A comedy of errors ensues as their stories take a life of their own, making this film a delightful addition to the festival.
Join five brokenhearted LGBTQ individuals on a journey to heal amidst breathtaking landscapes. As they vie for a million-peso prize, the question arises: Can they resist the allure of love, or will their hearts find solace in unexpected places? Get ready for a heartwarming and hilarious ride.
“Famly of Two” explores the profound love between a mother and son. Maricar’s world revolves around her son, Mateo, who is moving to Singapore. As he plans for her care, emotions run high. This drama is a touching exploration of sacrifice, intentions, and the unbreakable bonds of family.
In “Firefly,” a young boy embarks on a magical quest inspired by his mother’s bedtime stories. With clues from an old notebook, he journeys to a mythical island to bring his mother back to life. Expect enchanting visuals and a tale of love, hope, and the extraordinary.
2023 • PG • 1 hr 52 mins DRAMA, HISTORY BUY TICKETS
“GOMBURZA” unravels the courageous story of three Filipino Catholic priests during a pivotal period in history. Mariano Gomez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora’s struggles and sacrifices are vividly portrayed in this moving historical drama.
“Kampon” weaves a tale of the unexpected as a childless couple encounters a mysterious girl who claims to be their child. Dark secrets unfold, and eerie relations develop in this horror-thriller that promises suspense and spine-tingling moments.
Inspired by true events, “Mallari” delves into the horrifying story of Fr. Severino Mallari, a priest in the 19th century. His descent into madness and alleged acts of violence form the chilling narrative of this historical horror film.
2023 • G • 1 hr 49 mins ACTION, ADVENTURE, FANTASY BUY TICKETS
https://youtu.be/RNlhIuBdeoo?si=yaE1II9fvmU4kfWX
Join the adventure in “Penduko” as a young man, raised in the U.S., discovers a curse and evil forces threatening his Philippine town. This action-packed fantasy promises thrilling battles and supernatural encounters.
“Rewind” presents a poignant drama as a man, burdened by guilt, gets a chance to rewrite his life. The catch? He must trade his life for his wife’s, leading to a journey of redemption, love, and the complexities of choices.
Wrap up the festival with “When I Met You in Tokyo,” a touching romance-family drama. Azon and Joey navigate the challenges of aging and unconditional love, portraying the winter of their lives as overseas Filipino workers.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas until December 24:
2023 • G • 1 hr 44 mins ACTION, ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION BUY TICKETS
Get ready for a cinematic extravaganza this Christmas as the Metro Manila Film Festival 2023 takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions. From laughter-inducing comedies to spine-chilling horrors and heartwarming dramas, there’s something for every movie lover. Grab your tickets, gather your loved ones, and immerse yourself in the magic of MMFF. Happy watching!
A new chapter unfolds for Davaoeño Metrobank card holders as the much-anticipated Big Bad Wolf (BBW) Book Sale returns to Davao for the third time – marking the last leg of Big Bad Wolf’s 2023 run in the Philippines.
The Book Sale that promises an exciting experience for avid readers and casual book enthusiasts alike will take place at SMX Convention Center Davao, SM Lanang Premier from December 15 to 23, 2023.
With its return this holiday season, Metrobank is ringing in the sale with exclusive treats when book shoppers pay using their Metrobank credit and debit card. This is on top of the up to 95% discount they will enjoy on books!
Early VIP Access
Snag the best reads ahead of the crowd. As a Metrobank credit or debit cardholder, enjoy exclusive early access to Big Bad Wolf Davao on December 14, 2023, from 12NN to 10PM. You can bring one (1) guest for free and dive into a treasure trove of over 2.5 million books one day before the Sale opens its doors to the public.
0% installment for 3 months
Enjoy payment flexibility while you expand your personal library with a 0% installment payment option for a three month term with a minimum spend of PHP3,000 using your Metrobank credit card.
Exclusive payment lanes
Metrobank card holders are entitled to dedicated payment lanes for an easier checkout experience. Just look for the Metrobank logo as you approach the counters.
Get a chance to win PHP20,000 cashback and earn up to PHP1,000 eGCs for your straight transaction spend
Giving you more bang for your buck, you can get a chance to be one of the 20 winners of PHP20,000 cash back with your Metrobank credit card. Earn raffle entries for every qualified spend. What’s more, you can get instant eGCs or GCash credits of up to PHP1,000 for a minimum single-receipt straight spend of PHP3,000. To qualify for this promo, don’t forget to register at mbcpc.co/holidaycashback. For more details, visit https://www.metrobank.com.ph/promos/holiday-cashback-2023
Earn up to PHP4,000 eGCs or GCash credits on any 0% installment spend
Enjoy perks with lighter payments when you register at mbcpc.co/morewithzeroq4 before you swipe at Big Bad Wolf Davao, or any of our partner merchants! Get PHP500, PHP1,000, or PHP4,000 eGCs or GCash credits for a minimum single-receipt 0% installment spend of PHP15,000, PHP40,000, and PHP90,000, respectively. Learn more at metrobank.com.ph/promos/more-with-zero-2023.
Don’t have a Metrobank card yet? No worries! Metrobank has you covered. Swing by the Metrobank booth at the venue and apply for a Metrobank credit card.
Get a FREE trip to Australia (awarded as 300K rewards points) + waived annual fees for life when you get approved for a Metrobank World Mastercard, for a minimum required spend. Exclusive to first-time Metrobank principal cardholders with credit card/s from other bank/s. Visit www.metrobank.com.ph/promos/switch2023 to know more. Terms and conditions apply.
Rally your family and friends, and embark on a literary journey at the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale in Davao. Follow Metrobank and Metrobank Card PH on Instagram and Facebook for more details.
The Kiwami exclusive media event at Alabang Town Center was a feast for the senses, showcasing the best in Japanese cuisine. Guests enjoyed an omakase style meal with new dishes soon to hit Kiwami’s menus, explored behind the scenes in the Master kitchens, and conversations with John Concepcion, founder of The Standard Hospitality Group. The highlight was a gathering of esteemed Japanese Master Chefs and Founders, who flew in from Japan to grace this momentous occasion.
Kiwami brings the best of Japan to Manila, uniting Yabu: House of Katsu, Ippudo Ramen, Hannosuke Tempura, Yakitori Hachibei and Hokkaido Soft Cream in one space. More than a place to dine, it is where every kitchen is a masterclass in authenticity and culinary excellence. What makes Kiwami truly exceptional is that there is a dedicated master kitchen for each brand. The kitchens have their own unique set of ingredients, specialty equipment and dedicated chefs who are focused solely on perfecting their dish and refining their craft with individual brand training. At Kiwami, it is about delivering an experience that is genuinely Japanese, every time you dine.
Meet the Masters:
Yabu: Kazuya Takeda – Michelin Bib Gourmand Katsu Chef
Founded in 2011, Yabu was born with a clear mission. Partnering with Michelin Bib Gourmand Chef Kazuya Takeda, we are dedicated to perfecting the art of Tonkatsu. Yabu, celebrated for its consistency, stands as a market leader with over 19 locations. Mastering the preparation of this one dish, beginning with the finest meats, sourced exclusively from trusted partners, ensuring the authenticity and excellence at the heart of our tonkatsu. Complementing this are our farm-to-table cabbage and in-house made panko, contributing to the genuine, homemade taste in every bite. Our promise is clear-cut: if our meal doesn’t meet your expectations, it will be replaced free of charge. This pledge underscores our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction at every table, every time. Rooted in quality and consistency, our journey continues to embrace and uphold the principles that have defined our brand from the beginning.
Ippudo: Shigemi Kawahara- 3 time Ramen Master Chef Hall of Famer
Represented by Chikaranamoto CEO, Tomo Yamane Global LC Partners Division General Manager, Yota Shiiba
Ippudo with Ramen King Shigemi Kawahara (3-time Ramen Master Chef Hall of Famer) has been celebrated for its World Famous Tonkotsu Ramen since 1985. Ippudo has been a pioneer in Hakata-style ramen made with imported 15-hour Tonkotsu broth, freshly made noodles and 30 hour slow-cooked torched Chashu. The ramen is served in custom “aritayaki” porcelain bowls originating from pottery stone mined in Mount Izumi Japan which are made to withstand piping hot ramen, reflecting the brand’s commitment to tradition and quality.
Hachibei: Katsunori Yashima – Global Yakitori Chef
Since its inception in 1983, Hachibei, under the expert guidance of Chef Katsunori Yashima, has set the standard in bringing Hakata-style yakitori to a global audience. Their distinctive use of Binchotan charcoal, a hallmark of traditional Japanese grilling, plays a pivotal role in enhancing the flavor and aroma of their dishes, showcasing their unwavering commitment to the art of yakitori. Beyond just a cooking method, Hachibei’s approach represents a dedication to authenticity and a celebration of Japanese culinary traditions. Each dish served is a testament to their meticulous attention to detail, from the selection of premium ingredients to the precision of preparation, embodying the essence of Japanese culinary craftsmanship.
Hannosuke: Shinya Kaneko – Tokyo’s Leader in Tempura
Represented by General Manager for Overseas Brand Development, Kazuhito Sato
Founded in the 1950’s, Hannosuke is renowned for its iconic tempura recipes. The use of sesame oil, specialty flour, and generational heirloom tendon sauce have made Hannosuke a symbol of culinary heritage, beloved for its light, crispy texture and timeless recipes. Hannosuke boasts of long lines at their Tokyo restaurant, a testament to its timeless culinary excellence and cherished family recipes passed down through generations.
As Kiwami wraps up its memorable media event, we look forward to the future with great excitement. This gathering of culinary mastery, uniting the best of Japan under one roof in Manila, has set a new standard in authentic Japanese dining. From the masterful art of Tonkatsu at Yabu, the celebrated Tonkotsu Ramen of Ippudo, to the traditional flavors of Hachibei’s Yakitori and Hannosuke’s iconic Tempura, Kiwami has proven to be more than a dining destination.
Looking ahead, Kiwami is committed to bringing even more of Japan’s culinary excellence to Manila. We eagerly anticipate the launch of new master kitchens, including an exciting Rice and Sushi concept by an international Top Chef, further expanding our roster. These new additions, along with plans for more Kiwami locations, underscore our dedication to offering a diverse and authentic Japanese culinary experience.
City of Dreams Manila unwraps yuletide and seasonal offerings at its premium restaurants Crystal Dragon, Nobu Manila, Haliya and Season 88. At Café Society, whimsical holiday-themed confections conjure awe and wonder.
To heighten the holiday dining, the season’s festive drinks are also available across the property from Cafe Society, Hidemasa, Rossi Pizza, Haliya to Wave poolside restaurant and bar.
Adding fun and excitement for families, DreamPlay holds an all-star holiday parade of well-loved characters from DreamWorks Animations at 5:30 PM, every Saturday and Sunday of December, including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day at The Shops at the Boulevard. Characters from the films Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Puss in Boots, Madagascar, and Trolls will be on parade to delight the kids and kids at heart.
Setting the mood for joyful gatherings, a garden-themed Christmas tree display at the resort’s main casino entrance welcomes guests. Adorned with lush, colorful floral accents and glistening lights, the sprawling display is the resort’s centerpiece this holiday season. Christmas trees are also on display at the lobbies of Nuwa Manila, Nobu Hotel and Hyatt Regency Manila. A Christmas bazaar at The Shops at the Boulevard comprised of well-curated kiosks offering luxe jewelry, home, fashion and other trendy selections adds to the holiday shopping until December 24.
Crystal Dragon’s Festive Season Menu
The integrated resort’s acclaimed restaurant known for its Cantonese and regional Chinese specialties highlights premium ala carte choices from December 18 to January 1, 2024, from lunch onwards: Braised Sea Treasure Broth with Alaskan king crab, fish maw and Chinese ham; Oven-baked Chicken filled with black truffle paste and foie gras; Wok-fried Prawns in homemade cheese sauce and crispy enoki mushrooms; Flaming Wagyu Beef – Sichuan Style with king oyster mushrooms; and Chilled Sweetened Honeydew with soymilk jelly, homemade vanilla ice cream and pearl sago.
Nobu Manila’s Christmas Sunday Brunch and Omakase
Nobu Manila fȇtes guests with a “Nobu Experience” at its Holiday Sunday Brunch on December 24 for P4,388 net per person. Unlimited helpings of popular Nobu-style dishes laid out on the buffet and a la carte service include the Nobu Signature Sashimi Trio of Tuna Matsuhisa, Yellowtail Jalapeño and Salmon Karashi su Miso; Black Cod Butter Lettuce; Nobu Pork Sisig; and an array of maki rolls unique to Nobu, to name a few. The featured Carving of the Day – the Whole Rib Roast and Wagyu Chuck Roll served with a choice of mushroom wasabi pepper sauce or creamy wasabi — complemented by Salmon Wellington with Nobu-style tartar sauce, different choices of kushiyaki prepared ala minute, a ramen bar and seafood bar take diners to a one-of-a-kind celebratory dining experience.
An elaborate Christmas dinner also beckons at the restaurant, where a seven-course omakase tasting menu reflecting Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s new-style Japanese cuisine will be offered for dinner on December 24 and 25. At P5,600++ per person, the menu consists of a complimentary chef’s choice of appetizer; Crispy Whitefish with kumomo puree, jalapeño dressing, crispy quinoa, caviar; Assorted Sushi; Inaniwa Noodles with shrimp in tomato clear soup; Tuna Pastrami Salad with amazu, grapeseed oil, vegetable salad roll and crispy onions; and Chilean Seabass Inasal with sweet potato korokke and yuzu atchara caviar. The menu’s piece de resistance is the Nobu-style Wagyu Beef Wellington with roasted tomato jus, braised roots and crispy nasu, preceding a dessert of Strawberry Vanilla Bavarois with meringue and sponge cake.
Haliya’s Christmas Menu
For a Filipino noche buena that evokes the flavors of the season, Haliya has customized a modern Filipino Christmas menu with ala carte choices. Available on December 24 from lunch onwards and for dinner on December 25, the special dishes are comprised of: Duck JamonadoEnsalada, a medley of mesclun greens, marble potato, baby beans, cherry tomato, green olives, pearl onion, baby beetroot, soft-boiled egg in cranberry vinegar dressing; Molo Krema, a comforting concoction of crispy molo noodles with water chestnut, celery, carrot, spring onion, corn and leek oil; Chicken Pastel with mushroom, queso de bola sarsa, asparagus, water chestnut, potato, herb jus, and black salt; and Persimmon Panna Cotta with butter cream, calamansi honey sauce, candied pinipig, chestnut crumble and a trio of macaron.
A Celebration of Asian Flavors at Season 88
A selection of Chinese and Korean specialties from December 15 to January 14 makes up an Asian feast shared among family and friends at Season 88. Situated at the vibrant main gaming floor, the 24-hour chic dining room and lounge offers special Chinese dishes: Hakka Braised Pork Belly with rice vinegar and peanuts and Wok-fried Butter Prawn with oats; and Korean favorites: Honghap Tang (Korean mussel soup with red and green chili, leeks and savory soy sauce) and Bossam (Korean pork belly wrap with radish kimchi). Diverse international cuisines complemented by a wide array of premium beverages and spirits are also on the menu.
Café Society’s Yuletide Confections
Christmas wafts in the air at Café Society, with various holiday-themed confections transforming the cafe into a yuletide wonderland. Playful chocolate sculptures, gingerbread houses alongside a spread of confections and pastries are offered until the end of December.
Christmas Chocolate Houses (P2,000 net each), Santa Bear in milk and white chocolate in varying sizes (starts at P400 net), and other Christmas staples like Panettone (Italian Christmas bread); Stollen (cake-like bread with its origin in Germany), fruit mince pies, and yule log cakes complete Café Society’s fancy holiday spread.
For inquiries and reservations, call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com. For more information, 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.
For the first time in forever, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) teamed up with Make-A-Wish® to grant life-changing wishes at the all-new themed land World of Frozen.
Eleven children living with critical illnesses and their families from around the world traveled to Hong Kong to visit World of Frozen and have their wishes granted. They are among approximately 130 guests traveling from local Make-A-Wish affiliates including the Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore and Taiwan to join the Summer Snow Day Wishes Celebration.
“Making wishes come true is some of the most important work that we do at Disney,” said Jill Estorino, President and Managing Director of Disney Parks International. “In fact, Disney is the largest wish-granter in the world for Make-A-Wish. Hong Kong Disneyland joined that journey when it opened in 2005, and has been bringing Disney magic to the local community and beyond ever since.”
The entire event was inspired by one child’s wish to meet the Imagineers involved with the all-new World of Frozen.
Dominic, a wish child from Singapore, was diagnosed with hemophilia seven days after birth. Despite facing an incurable condition that requires a lifetime of treatment, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of knowledge, fueled by a passion for mathematics, science, engineering, and space.
After watching the documentary “The Imagineering Story” on Disney+ during the pandemic, Dominic was deeply inspired by the Imagineers’ creativity and innovative use of technology to build Disney parks and attractions.
“While many Disneyland guests may only see what is presented, I am drawn to explore the rationale behind the scenes,” he said. “The work of Imagineers combines robotic techniques, architecture, engineering and other disciplines, turning imagination into reality through numerous trials and experiments. I am thrilled to meet them to learn more about their work.”
Jo Phoa, Director of Creative Development of Walt Disney Imagineering Hong Kong, and Angus Chan, Principal Ride Control System Engineer of Walt Disney Imagineering Hong Kong, were touched by Dominic’s thirst for knowledge and excitement about Imagineering. They designed a special exploratory tour for Dominic, guiding him through the new attraction Frozen Ever After, which utilizes state-of-the-art Audio-Animatronics technology.
Additionally, Dominic learned about the electric motion simulator system of Iron Man Experience – the first at any Disney park, and had the unique opportunity to witness the design process.
Dominic, who visited a Disney park for the first time, expressed his thrill at exploring the new World of Frozen and learning about its technology and operations. His conversations with Phoa and Chan reaffirmed his passion for science, inspiring him to become an Imagineer.
Rhianne, a wish child from the Philippines, had her wish captured by the end of 2019. She was ready to travel during early 2020 but then the pandemic hit. During the wait for travel to be safe, Make-A-Wish Philippines continued to engage with her over three years through Disney-themed care packages, a surprise birthday party, and a special invitation to the first Wish Ball to give a testimonial. Throughout the last three years, Rhianne has been bravely going through her medical treatment while patiently waiting for her wish to come true.
“This is my first visit to Hong Kong Disneyland and also my first trip abroad, which is so exciting. I can’t wait to visit World of Frozen and experience Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs,” Rhianne said.
“This is a remarkable day for Make-A-Wish. For the first time ever, we are granting wishes from the Southeast Asia region at Hong Kong Disneyland,” said Dr Kevin Lau, Board Director of Make-A-Wish International. “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Hong Kong Disneyland for inviting us to this special event celebrating the power of wishes at the kingdom of Arendelle and joining hands with Make-A-Wish in bringing hope to children from all around the world.”
To commemorate the opening of World of Frozen and the 25th anniversary of Make-A-Wish Hong Kong, the resort will donate HK$10 for every transaction made at Tick Tock Toys & Collectibles in the kingdom of Arendelle to Make-A-Wish Hong Kong from today until Jan 10, 2024. Combined with the proceeds from the recent “Wish Upon A Chocolate Cake” charity sales at the resort, HKDL plans to contribute a total of HK$600,000 to support the development of Make-A-Wish Hong Kong.
For over 40 years, Disney and Make-A-Wish have together fulfilled more than 150,000 Disney-inspired wishes around the world. The bravery, tenacity, and optimism displayed by the wish children are an inspiration for all cast members at HKDL, and the resort will continue to work with Make-A-Wish Hong Kong and other Make-A-Wish International affiliates to support the wishes of wish children living with critical illnesses and their families, creating magical memories that last a lifetime.
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While ‘Firefly’ plays out like a quintessential MMFF movie – it is family-friendly, idealistic, optimistic, and full of heart and tenderness – it never leans too hard into its sentimentality and grounds itself with strong performances, especially by Alessandra De Rossi, Epy Quizon, and Dingdong Dantes. The film showcases impressive CGI animation and a touching story about the powerful bond between a mother and her child and how this relationship seeps into the people around them and creates something beautiful out of something dark and tragic.
The movie begins with a journalist, played by Max Collins, who is interviewing a children’s book author and artist, Anthony “Tonton” Alvaro, played by Dingdong Dantes. The journalist is suspicious, even unnecessarily accusatory, about the origins and the authenticity of Anthony Alvaro’s authorship of his bestselling book. Dantes plays it cool, unaffected. There’s a story here that he seems interested to tell. This opening exchange is the only misfire in the whole movie – the journalist’s aggressive approach feels out of place, under-developed (why is she so sure he stole the work from someone else) while Alvaro feels secure and sure about the ownership, he is neither threatened nor offended – but what it does is it leads us into the story of Alvaro and his mother and a beautiful little modern fairy tale that takes us from Manila to Bicol.
The bulk of the story revolves around the past, as told to the journalist by Anthony Alvaro. The younger Tonton (with a strong performance by Euwenn Mikaell) lives in Tondo with his single mother, Elay (a fantastic Alessandra De Rossi) and while he is bullied by his classmates, his world is also filled with a lot of love from his mom and his aunt, Tita Linda (Cherry Pie Picache). Much of their bond is expressed by the stories that Elay narrates to her child that comes to life in vivid CGI animated moments that depict a magical world parallel to our own.
What is wonderful about director Zig Dulay’s approach to this film is that it puts the focus on the magic and the wonder of this story. He captures the beauty of the seaside landscape of Tondo and while we know this family unit belongs to the underprivileged, he never presents it as dramatic poverty. There is dignity in these characters, in all the characters of this film, regardless of their individual backstory or dark history. Screenwriter Angeli Atienza infuses so much heart in the screenplay that it never veers towards the maudlin or the dramatic.
The push and the momentum of the story is based on that of tragedy but the film revels in the beauty of hope and dreams and wishes. The foundation of the film is loss but what propels the story forward is love. As the younger Tonton takes a trip to his mother’s hometown to fulfill a promise, he meets three people on the way to help him in his journey – Epy Quizon’s Mang Louie, a man with a dark past who understands the ways of the world; Billy, played by Miguel Tanfelix, who is a young man who is suspicious about everything; and the street-smart and clever Erika, played by Ysabel Ortega – and the four create an unlikely group who help perpetuate the film’s presentation of the importance of a community.
‘Firefly’ is not without its dangers and its dark side. The group is not instantaneously formed – there are collisions amongst the personalities within – and the same mystical wolf that threatens the stories Elay shares with Tonton has managed to manifest itself in the journey as it chases after Tonton but this creates a space for the characters to grow and for revelations to spring forth from.
While Mikaell has the unenviable task of carrying this movie on his little shoulders, which he does effectively, what creates the most powerful emotional punches are those from Epy Quizon’s very naturalistic portrayal of a man who just wants to go home but is also duty-bound to do the right thing and he plays that tension with great precision and Dingdong Dantes, who has to narrate this whole story with conviction and authenticity. There’s a sparkle in his eyes as he serves as a chapter break for the narrative and it is filled with longing and experience and even joy. The world and the narrative are made real by his performance. It’s quite revelatory.
But the actor who really makes the film fly is Alessandra De Rossi. She fills the screen with this beating, tender heart that really pushes this story forward. Even when she’s not on screen, her presence is felt, and it permeates throughout the entire narrative. She is the push and the pull of the film and it’s an amazing quality of an actress who can do this.
Full of heart and hope and love, ‘Firefly’ is the perfect MMFF movie for the family.
My Rating:
Firefly is showing in cinemas on December 25. Check screening times and buy tickets here.
