Blog

  • Born in Manila : A Tribute to Aute

    Instituto Cervantes de Manila, in collaboration with the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines, presents the concert “Born in Manila (A Tribute to Aute)”, on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the birth of the Manila-born singer-composer and painter Luis Eduardo Aute. This event will be held on Tuesday, November 7, at 7:00 PM in the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium at the RCBC Plaza in Makati.

    Born in Manila Aute Concert

    The screening of “Con tu latido”, a video documentary produced in 2021 by Instituto Cervantes de Manila will open the event. Filmed in distinct locations in Intramuros, this video features Filipino singers, such as Bituin Escalante and Mark Anthony Carpio, performing some of the songs of Luis Eduardo Aute. This will be followed by live performances of some of the singers including Sheila Ferrer and Toma Cayabyab, who also participated in the recording of  “Con tu latido”.  Toma, son of National artist Ryan Cayabyab, has arranged the new renderings and versions of Autes’s songs, both those recorded in the documentary and those that will be part of the repertoire to be performed live at the RCBC.

    The concert will also include the special participation of Spanish singer Rosa León, who will be arriving from Spain for this occasion. The early years of her career as a singer, in the 70’s, was closely linked to Aute, as she had popularized some of his greatest songs, such as “Las cuatro y diez” and “Al alba”.

    Luis Eduardo Aute was born in Manila on September 1943 during the Japanese occupation. His father worked at the Tabacalera.  His grandmother, born in Valencia, was brought to the Philippines during the Spanish era at the age of three. They had a house along Roxas Boulevard (which back then was Dewey Boulevard) that also served as the headquarters of the Japanese troops and later on the Americans. He studied at De La Salle, but the family moved to Spain in 1954 where, years later, Aute would become one of the icons of Spanish music in the second half of the 20th century.

    Free entrance on a first come, first served basis. 

    For further information, please contact : Philip Paraan at 0945-1339920, cenmni@cervantes.es, reyphilip.paraan@gmail.com.

  • New World Makati Hotel Hosts an Array of Spooktacular Experiences this Halloween

    The Halloween season is fast approaching, and New World Makati is brewing up a cauldron of spooky delights to thrill guests of all ages. From ghoulish room packages to hauntingly delightful dining experiences, the hotel invites everyone to a bewitching celebration on the spookiest time of the year.

    New World Makati Hotels Spooktacular Stay

    A Spooktacular Stay

    Spooktacular Stay Halloween Smash Cake 1

    Indulge in a frightfully cozy Halloween experience with the Spooktacular Stay room package. Valid for stays between 27th October to 5th November 2023, guests have the choice among a Superior, Deluxe, or a Residence Club Deluxe room. Rates start at PHP6,500. The package includes buffet breakfast for two adults and two children aged 11 and below and a Halloween-themed smash cake. Guests who book the Residence Club Deluxe Room get exclusive access to the Residence Club Living Room for up to two adults and two children, where evening cocktails and light bites are served daily amid captivating city views. For room reservations, guests can book online via https://bit.ly/NWSpooktacularStay3.

    Cafe 1228 Halloween Desserts 2 1

    A Hearty Halloween Buffet at Café 1228

    Cafe 1228 will take part in the Halloween celebration on October 31 (dinner) at PHP3,500++ and November 1 (lunch) at PHP3,100++ for a spooktacular dining experience featuring upgraded buffet selections complemented with chilled juices and sodas. Kids are invited to trick or treat in their best Halloween costumes with loot bags provided to all kids. Those who come in their best costume get a chance to win a special prize as the “Best Halloween Costume” awardee. Kids’ rate is PHP1,400++. To reserve, guests can book via https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/cafe1228/offers-dir or call/message (63 917) 888-4194.

    Cafe 1228 Halloween Desserts 1 1

    Boo Rouge: The Hallowen Party at Bar Rouge

    Boo Rouge Halloween Party at Bar Rouge

    Step into a night of fright at Bar Rouge for Boo Rouge, an exclusive Halloween party. For only PHP1,200, indulge in 2 drinks of choice among the bar’s crafted cocktails, basic spirits, local beer, sodas, and chilled juices, including a special Halloween cocktail and mocktail. Attendees are encouraged to flaunt their spookiest costumes for a chance to win the “Best in Costume” award, with the winner receiving a special prize. For inquiries and bookings, guests can call or message (63 917) 888-4194, e-mail fbreservations.manila@newworldhotels.com, or send a direct message to the hotel’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts.

  • Xiaomi 13T Series captures the beauty of Bacolod’s Masskara Festival

    Bacolod’s Masskara Festival is a celebration that Filipinos should experience at least once in their lifetime. The annual fiesta is known locally and internationally for its showcase of vibrant smiling masks, which gave Bacolod the moniker “City of Smiles.” 

    Photo 1 Aeson Baldevia
    Photo by Aeson Baldevia

    For this year’s Masskara Festival, Xiaomi gave fans and media guests an awesome experience to rediscover the vibrancy of Bacolod during its recent Xiaomi 13T Series Photowalk from October 20 to 22, 2023. Guests were encouraged to capture Masterpieces in Sight using the Xiaomi 13T Series.

    Kyle Sevilla
    Photo by Kyle Sevilla

    They were able to explore popular sites in Bacolod and got to watch the lively Street Dance Competition and Street Party happening during the festival. These were the ideal locations to take artistic shots and vlogs in full vibrance using the Xiaomi 13T, equipped with a 50MP rear camera that can shoot photos and videos for up to 2160p resolution. Its 20MP front camera is equally impressive as it captures high-definition photos and 1080p resolution videos.

    Photo 2 Hersely casero
    Photo by Hersley Casero

    Powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 8200 Ultra chipset and a 5000mAh battery, users can maximize the Xiaomi 13T’s pro-level camera features and browse apps smoothly wherever they go.

    Bacolod’s Masskara Festival left fond memories for everyone who experienced it over the weekend. Xiaomi fans and guests also have a lot of photos and videos to look back at from the immersive Xiaomi 13T Series photowalk.

    Shop for the Xiaomi 13T starting at Php 26,999 and Xiaomi 13T Pro starting at P37,999 via Xiaomi’s online stores on Lazada, Shopee, and Tiktok Store and authorized Xiaomi stores.

    For more information, visit Xiaomi’s official Facebook page and Xiaomi’s official website.

  • UNIQLO Is Bringing LifeWear to More Batangueños with the Opening of its SM City Sto. Tomas Store

    Japanese global apparel retailer UNIQLO is opening its second store in Batangas at the ground floor of SM City Sto. Tomas, making LifeWear accessible to more Batangueños starting October 27. With over 1,064 square meters of shopping space, the newest store will provide timeless pieces that suit the different lifestyles of the locals and visitors. 

    Uniqlo Image Large

    EXPLORE BATANGAS WITH YOUR PERFECT UNIQLO ‘FIT

    Day trips can be packed with activities so it’s important to wear clothes that can keep you fresh and looking smart the whole day. The Men’s U Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirt has a compact cotton fabric that brings comfort on long trips. This is perfect for a road trip to Verde Island, which has beaches, a cave, and a lighthouse. From PHP 590 to PHP 390

    IMG 2528
    Men’s Dry Pique Short Sleeve Polo Shirt

    Batangas is known for its good coffee and UNIQLO has got you covered for your coffee dates. The Men’s Dry Pique Short Sleeve Polo Shirt has DRY technology to wick away moisture from sweat. Its pique fabric is made from a blend of pilling-resistant cotton and polyester for a smooth, light texture.From PHP 990 to PHP 790

    IMG 2535
    Flannel Long Sleeve Shirt

    The weather can be unpredictable and a sunny forecast can turn windy in an instant. UNIQLO’s Flannel Long Sleeve Shirt is the perfect outer layer for the shifting weather. Its double-ply thick count yarn has a pleasant thickness, and it is brushed on both sides for softness and warmth. This is best worn at the pilgrimage center Montemaria. Its highlight is the Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace, a monument with a sprawling view of the Verde Island Passage. From PHP 1490 to PHP 990

    IMG 2536
    Men’s Ultra Stretch Color Jeans

    A pop of color can brighten any look and add a little personality to an outfit. The Men’s Ultra Stretch Color Jeans offer a wide range of muted options that are both trendy and sophisticated. This collection is complemented by its ultra-stretch satin fabric for a comfortable and skinny fit. Show this off in selfies at Fantasy World, an unfinished theme park that is now a photo paradise with its medieval castles. From PHP 1990 to PHP 1490

    An out-of-town adventure needs clothes that are easy to move around in and the Women’s Cropped Relaxed Short Sleeve Polo Shirt delivers. The cotton jersey fabric is comfortable, and the cropped-length boxy silhouette is airy. This is great for adventures at Fortune Island. Aside from the picturesque Grecian ruins, the island has spots for scuba diving and camping.  From PHP 990 to PHP 790

    IMG 2530
    Women’s Linen Blend Open Collar Short Sleeve Shirt 

    Linen is the perfect fabric to bring to the beach because it’s breathable and looks effortlessly cool. The Women’s Linen Blend Open Collar Short Sleeve Shirt is the ideal outer layer after diving in Anilao, known worldwide for its coral reefs and diverse marine life. Its soft fabric is a fusion of linen and rayon for a natural yet sophisticated texture. The loose-fitting silhouette gives a laidback look while covering the skin from the sun.From PHP 1290 to PHP 990

    IMG 2531
    Women’s Ultra Stretch High Rise Cropped Leggings Pants

    Batangas is also rich in heritage destinations. An example is the Taal Heritage Town, which is filled with preserved ancestral houses and the centuries-old Basilica of St Martin de Tours. It holds the distinction of being the largest Catholic church in Asia. The Women’s Ultra Stretch High Rise Cropped Leggings Pants bring comfort as it promotes easy movement and gives a leg-flattering effect with its high-rise design and cropped length. From PHP 1290 to PHP 990

    IMG 2532
    Mercerized Cotton Short Sleeve Mini Dress

    A dress is not just a stylish outfit for traveling, it’s practical, too. It can be worn on its own for hot days, or layered with a jean jacket for late afternoons overlooking a view. The Mercerized Cotton Short Sleeve Mini Dress has a short length and flowing hem for a breezy feel. This is complemented by the comfortable feel of mercerized cotton, which has an elegant glossy sheen. Wear this while exploring Casa de Segunda, an ancestral house built in 1880 that shows how Filipinos in the past lived. From PHP 990 to PHP 790

    IMG 2533

    Kids can enjoy the marine wonders of Batangas through snorkeling on Sombrero Island. They can cool off in the Kids’ U AIRism Cotton Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirt after their water activities. The cotton fabric has AIRism properties that absorb sweat and dry it instantly. Its roomy and relaxed fit is ideal for laidback days at the beach. From PHP 590 to PHP 390

    IMG 2534
    Kids’ Stretch Easy Shorts

    Adventurous kids need clothing that allows for easy movement. The Kids’ Stretch Easy Shorts are flexible and can keep up with even the most energetic child. Its twill fabric, slightly roomy cut, and sleek knee length have a soft and comfortable feel—perfect for island hopping in Nasugbu.From PHP 690 to PHP 590

    EXCLUSIVE STORE OPENING PROMOS AND ACTIVITIES

    From October 27 to 29, UNIQLO will hold a series of opening promos and activities to celebrate the opening of its new store in SM Sto. Tomas.

    • Shoppers can also get a free limited edition tumbler with strap with a Php 3,000 minimum single-purchase receipt in UNIQLO SM City Sto. Tomas.
    • The first 100 customers with a UNIQLO flier will get free brownies and revel bar bites from Gusto Bakeshop, a local bakery serving the Sto Tomas community since 1989.
    • Customers who will aso purchase any LifeWear item can play Spin & Win to get prizes from partner brands CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice and Botejyu. 

    For more updates on the latest collection, please visit UNIQLO Philippines’ website at uniqlo.com/ph. You can also download the UNIQLO APP via Google Play Store or Apple Store to experience the benefits of UNIQLO shopping anytime and anywhere, including the click and collect and self checking of inventory features.

  • Get ready for a Heartfelt Roller Coaster – Prime Video Presents “Congrats My Ex!” on November 16

    Prime Video is set to sprinkle some love, laughter, and, of course, the quirkiest of twists with Congrats My Ex! being released on November 16. Exclusively for Prime Video members across the globe, including the Philippines and 240+ other territories.

    Meet the Star: Ranee Campen

    Step into the world of Risa, portrayed by the fabulous Ranee Campen. Fans might recognize her from mega-hits like Love Destiny and its cinematic counterpart. Risa’s story? She’s a wedding planner teetering on bankruptcy, grappling with the mother of all challenges: planning an extravagant Indian wedding. And guess what? The groom, Arun (Mahir Pandhi), is her unresolved ex! Oh, and did we mention she’s roped in another ex, Tim (Vachirawit Chivaaree), to help her out? Talk about an ex-travaganza!

    AW my ex KA 1 Ensemble CMYK Vertical lores

    The Ensemble

    Joining this tumultuous ride are Risa’s pals, Jan and Aoffy, played by the dynamic duo, Passakorn Ponlaboon and Thongchai Thongkuntom. They’re the squad everyone needs when the chips are down. And, to stir the pot a bit more, enter Monika (Anahita Bhooshan), Arun’s bride-to-be. Let the sparks fly!

    “We are excited to officially announce that Congrats My Ex!, featuring two of Thailand’s top actors in  Bella (Campen) and Bright (Chivaaree), will soon be available on Prime Video to a global audience,” said David Simonsen, director of Prime Video, Southeast Asia. “It has always been our mission to unearth unique local stories that have the potential to span geographies, and with Bella and Bright’s reach across the region, we are confident in delivering a film that will truly resonate with audiences in South East Asia and beyond.”

    A Global Fusion

    But what makes this movie truly unique? “Congrats My Ex! is a product of a truly international collaboration between the Thai and Indian entertainment industries,” said Kulthep Narula, chief operating officer at Benetone Films. “As the producers of this film, we’re thrilled to bring you a heartwarming and hilarious story that centers around a wedding planner’s unexpected encounters with her two former flames—the groom-to-be, who she can’t forget, and the photographer, who can’t forget her. Our inspiration came from the rich tapestry of Indian culture and the curiosity surrounding the length of Indian weddings. The second inspiration behind this film is the universal experience we all share—having had ex-boyfriends or girlfriends. By weaving this cultural beauty and shared human experiences into a story of love and weddings, Congrats My Ex! is a Thai movie that is uniquely infused with a splash of Bollywood, transcending boundaries and speaking to audiences worldwide. As a Thai company with deep Indian roots, Benetone Films is well positioned to tell this enchanting Thai story with a beautiful Indian backdrop, and we can’t wait for you to join us on this unforgettable cinematic journey.”

    Produced by a stellar lineup including Benetone Films, T&B Medial Global, GMMTV, Slap Monster, W Empire, and PTG Entertainment, this heartwarming rom-com promises a myriad of emotions, all neatly packaged for a delightful viewing experience.

  • Frighteningly Delicious Delights: Randy’s “Booo-tastic” Halloween Donuts

    Ready for a wickedly delightful Halloween treat? Randy’s has you covered with its hauntingly fun Halloween-themed donuts. And the best part? They’re not only eye-catching, but they’re also fluffier, airier, larger, and stay fresh longer.

    The Spooky Lineup

    Randy’s Donuts presents a lineup of ghoulishly good donuts that will send shivers of delight down your spine. Let’s take a sneak peek at these sinisterly delicious options:

    Randys Trick or Treat

    Frankie
    This matcha raised donut comes adorned with chocolate sprinkles, creating a fiendishly fantastic combination of flavors. It’s a nod to the classic monster, Frankenstein, and it’s here to add a touch of green to your Halloween.

    Monster Eye
    Get ready to be mesmerized by the Monster Eye donut, bathed in an orange glaze and playfully sprinkled. It’s a treat that’s as delicious as it is spooky. This donut is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

    Oreo Spider
    Sink your teeth into the Oreo Spider, dressed in a white chocolate glaze and topped with real Oreo cookies. It’s a creepy-crawly sensation for your taste buds.

    Vanilla Web
    The Vanilla Web donut, draped in white chocolate glaze with a mesmerizing chocolate icing web, is a visual delight that tastes as good as it looks. The perfect blend of vanilla and chocolate will keep you entangled in its sweet embrace.

    Choco Web
    For chocolate lovers, the Choco Web donut is a must-try. It’s a chocolate raised donut adorned with an intricate white chocolate web that’s pure indulgence.

    Randys Halloween

    Ordering Options for Your Spooky Delights

    These “Booo-tastic” Halloween donuts are available in two convenient ways. Whether you’re planning a monstrous gathering or just want a personal taste of horror, Randy’s Donuts has got you covered.

    1. Dozen or More: Are you hosting a haunted Halloween party? Planning to treat the entire neighborhood with these delightful donuts? You can place an order for a dozen or more, ensuring there’s enough to keep everyone’s sweet tooth satisfied.
    2. Per Piece: If you’re just looking for a personal thrill or perhaps a sinister snack on the go, you can grab these Halloween donuts per piece. It’s a wickedly good option for indulging in your own creepy cravings.

    A Spooky Treat Awaits

    Whether you’re looking for a dozen or just a single devilishly good donut, Randy’s Donuts has got your Halloween cravings sorted. Order your batch of “Booo-tastic” Halloween donuts from Randy’s Donuts and treat yourself to a spooktacular Halloween!

    Want to keep tabs on Randy’s Donuts and be the first to know about their spooktacular offerings? Follow @randysdonutsph on social media and stay tuned for more creepy creations and sweet surprises.

  • Meet The Cast of Disney Princess – The Concert

    Meet the cast of Disney Princess – The Concert as a quartet of Broadway and television stars celebrate the music from every Disney Princess in an unforgettable show, alongside their magical Music Director and enchanting Prince. Catch the shows in MANILA on November 18 & 19, 3PM & 8PM at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, CEBU on November 22, 8PM at the Waterfront Hotel Cebu City and DAVAO on November 21, 8PM at the SMX Convention Center Davao. Presented by Disney Concerts and Wilbros Live.

    1 Meet The Cast

    Anneliese van der Pol is a TV icon of the millennial generation, known for portraying ‘Chelsea Daniels,’ Raven-Symoné’s best friend, on Disney Channel’s record-breaking series, That’s So Raven and Raven’s Home. On Broadway, Anneliese was the final actress to play ‘Belle’ in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast alongside Donny Osmond, when it closed at The Lunt-Fontanne Theatre in 2007. Most recently, she’s been having a blast touring the US (and world!) with Disney Princess – The Concert!

    2 Anneliese

    Aisha Jackson was last seen on Broadway as ‘Snow White’ in the Britney Spears musical Once Upon a One More Time. Previously, during her run in Disney’s Frozen on Broadway, she made history as the first Black woman to portray the role of ‘Anna.’ Additional Broadway credits include Paradise Square, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and Waitress. Aisha is a true advocate for change, equity, and inclusion on Broadway, and hopes to continue creating roles for Black women to shine and lead, because representation matters.

    3 Aisha

    Krysta Rodriguez has proven herself to be a versatile actress of both stage and screen. A veteran of nine Broadway shows, Rodriguez most recently starred as ‘Cinderella’ in Into the Woods (on Broadway and in Los Angeles) and originated the role of ‘Wednesday’ in The Addams Family. Her past roles include originating ‘Ilse’ in the critically acclaimed revival of Spring Awakening, ‘Casey’ in First Date opposite Zachary Levi, and Disney heroine ‘Megara’ in the world premiere stage adaptation of the beloved animated film Hercules. Additional Broadway credits include the original companies of In the Heights, Spring Awakening, A Chorus Line (revival) and Good Vibrations.

    4 Krysta

    Steffanie Leigh made her Broadway debut as the title role in Disney’s Mary Poppins. She went on to originate the roles of Liane d’Exelmans in Gigi and the iconic supermodel Dorian Leigh in War Paint, starring Patti LuPone and Christine Ebersole. Her international and regional credits include Venus in Fur at Singapore Repertory Theatre, Gods of Comedy at The Old Globe and McCarter Theatre, and Passion at Signature Theatre for which she received a Helen Hayes Award nomination for her portrayal of ‘Clara.’

    5 Steffanie

    Adam J. Levy is currently in Broadway’s Moulin Rouge and was last seen in the first national tour of Waitress. His New York and regional credits include Fiddler on the Roof, The Light in the Piazza, A Chorus Line, Hairspray, Lysistrata Jones, and Merrily We Roll Along. He has sung with symphony orchestras across the US, including the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center, the LA Phil at the Hollywood Bowl, and the New York Philharmonic at Lincoln Center.

    6 Adam

    Benjamin Rauhala is one of the Broadway community’s most trusted music directors and collaborators. He is the music supervisor, co-creator, and on-stage host of Disney Princess – The Concert, which has been thrilling audiences internationally since October of 2021. He worked as an arranger on the opening numbers of the 2022 and 2023 Tony Awards as well as the 2023 BAFTA Film Awards for Academy Award winner Ariana DeBose, with whom he has collaborated closely since 2012. Rauhala has toured the world since 2014 as the music director for Jeremy Jordan, the Tony-nominated star of Broadway’s Newsies, and in 2020, he was named ‘Best Musical Director’ at the Broadway World Cabaret Awards.

    7 Benjamin

    Disney Princess – The Concert will include songs like “How Far I’ll Go,” “A Whole New World,” “Just Around the Riverbend,” “Part of Your World,” “Almost There,” “Let It Go” and more! 

    Tickets are available at TicketWorld.com.ph and TicketWorld outlets for MANILA shows, and SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets for CEBU and DAVAO shows. For more information, follow @WilbrosLive on social media.

  • Cebu Pacific’s First Narita-Manila SAF-Powered Flight Takes Off

    Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB) operated Flight 5J 5055 from Narita to Manila powered by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), making it the first Philippine carrier to use SAF in a commercial flight from Japan. 

    SAF Narita 1

    The leading Philippine carrier’s SAF flight was operated with an Airbus 321neo, using 40% blended SAF produced by Neste Corporation and supplied by Itochu Corporation. This combination resulted in a 44 percent reduction in carbon emissions per passenger, setting a new record for CEB’s SAF-powered flights.

    “As we await sufficient SAF supply to meet the demand of the entire aviation industry, this inaugural Narita to Manila SAF flight represents Cebu Pacific’s ongoing efforts toward making air travel more sustainable. Other decarbonization programs that we have put in place include investing in fuel-efficient NEOs, optimization of flight plans, and adoption of fuel efficiency best practices to minimize fuel consumption. All these are concrete sustainability initiatives that bolster our commitment and support for the aviation industry’s goal of flying net-zero by 2050,” said Alexander Lao, President and Chief Commercial Officer at Cebu Pacific.

    Itochu, which acts as the branded distributor of SAF in Japan, lauded the collaboration.

    “We look forward to partnering with Cebu Pacific as we strive towards sustainable aviation. Our collaboration underscores the growing demand for SAF in the Asia-Pacific region and we are ready to meet that need,” said Atsushi Onishi, Senior Officer of Itochu’s Energy Division.

    Passengers on the inaugural flight were part of the celebration, receiving commemorative tokens and engaging in in-flight activities. The initiative was also warmly welcomed by Narita International Airport. 

    “We are honored that Cebu Pacific has chosen Narita International Airport for this initiative. Being one of the select airlines to mount SAF flights in Japan, Cebu Pacific’s commitment to sustainability is commendable,” said Toshio Tashiro, Executive Officer of Narita International Airport. 

    Prior to the commercial flight, CEB signed a strategic partnership with Neste to work towards establishing a long-term supply of SAF across the Asia-Pacific. This initiative aligns with the airline’s sustainability goal to gradually integrate SAF into its operations, thereby reducing its carbon emissions footprint and promoting environmental consciousness. 

    CEB operated its first passenger flight powered by SAF in September 2022 from Singapore to Manila, making it the first low-cost carrier in Southeast Asia to incorporate SAF in its commercial operation. The airline aims to integrate blended SAF for its entire commercial network by 2030. 

    For more information about CEB’s sustainability initiatives, visit: www.cebupacificair.com. 

  • Raising the Scoop: Carmen’s Best Elevates the Joy of Quality Ice Cream

    Carmen’s Best, the pioneer of uncompromised quality in locally-produced gourmet ice cream, recently unleashed a wave of joy and high expectations during its Day of Joy celebration at the Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City, held on earlier this month.

    WBV09649
    In photo (left to right): Carmen’s Best Director Felipe Bince, Metro Pacific Agro Ventures President & CEO Jovy Hernandez, Metro Pacific Agro Ventures Chief Commercial Officer Toby Gatchalian, Metro Pacific Investment Corp. Executive Vice President, Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer Chaye Cabal-Revilla, Carmen’s Best Director Ricky Vargas, Host of Carmen’s Best Day of Joy event Gretchen Ho

    Uncompromising Quality: The #NoShortCuts Philosophy

    Carmen’s Best Gourmet Ice Cream is known for its unwavering commitment to quality. It’s all about the #NoShortCuts philosophy, where there’s no room for substitutions or shortcuts when selecting premium ingredients. They firmly believe in using 100% fresh, 100% local milk, sourced from their own joyful cows in Laguna. This dedication to quality ensures that every spoonful of Carmen’s Best ice cream is packed with the unadulterated joy that only fresh milk can bring.

    Classic Pints Group Shot

    A Flurry of Flavors

    This meticulous process has garnered a devoted following over the years. With beloved flavors like Strawberry, Salted Caramel, Malted Milk, Dark Chocolate, and Brazilian Coffee, Carmen’s Best continues to prove that there’s no better way to experience true indulgence than with a scoop of their ice cream.

    Ice Cream Group Shot

    The Day of Joy: A Glimpse into Carmen’s Best

    During the Day of Joy event, Carmen’s Best put their central belief into action: “There’s no better joy than giving your best.” They shared the best of themselves with their cherished customers and partners. The event featured ice cream tasting, frozen dessert demonstrations, and even a chance for guests to create their own joy filters, encapsulating the spirit of the day.

    An Elevated Look: Carmen’s Best’s New Brand Identity

    One of the event’s highlights was the grand reveal of Carmen’s Best’s fresh and joyful brand identity. Each element of the design narrates a crucial part of the brand’s story. It showcases the freshness and preciousness of milk, along with the unwavering commitment to quality and the generosity of real ingredients packed into every pint and cup. The change in packaging also aligns with sustainability efforts, as the brand transitions to an all-paper packaging system.

    Digital Films: Capturing the #NoShortCuts Philosophy

    At the event, Carmen’s Best premiered their first two digital films. These films illustrate their resolute commitment to the #NoShortCuts philosophy, showcasing how the brand’s tagline comes to life in moments best celebrated with nothing less than the best ice cream.

    Expansion Plans: SM Mall of Asia, Rockwell, and E-Commerce

    The brand also unveiled plans for its new store in SM Mall of Asia and the refreshed look of their Rockwell store. Additionally, their revamped e-commerce platform was introduced, offering the ease of ordering your favorite ice cream online. As a delightful surprise, the brand unveiled its limited-edition Christmas flavors, bringing extra joy to the holiday season.

    Before the event ended, guests were delighted with a performance from the Ryan Cayabyab Chorale as the brand unveiled its limited-edition Christmas flavors for the holiday season.

    A Bigger Mission: Carmen’s Best and Filipino Dairy

    Carmen’s Best, now under the majority ownership of Metro Pacific Agro Ventures (MPAV), unveiled its grander mission in the realm of Filipino dairy. According to Jovy Hernandez, President and CEO of Metro Pacific Agro Ventures, “Our Best goes beyond just offering proudly local, world-class quality Ice Cream made from 100% Fresh milk, guided by our no shortcuts philosophy. Our Best also means investing in the future to fulfill our vision of being present as a full dairy line offering ice cream, milk, yogurt, cheese, butter, and other milk derivatives that are 100% local and 100% fresh. Our Best also extends to supporting local farmers, partnering with the academe for research, and collaborating with the government. We believe that this is the Best inclusive dairy model to pursue as it presents a win-win-win situation for all stakeholders in the Philippine Local Dairy Industry.”

    Carmens Best WBV09511
    In photo: Jovy Hernandez, President and CEO of Metro Pacific Agro Ventures

    Expanding Horizons: Metro Pacific Investments Corporation

    Carmens Best MVP
    In photo: Manuel “Manny” V. Pangilinan in video greeting during the event

    Manuel V. Pangilinan, Chairman, President, and CEO of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, shared his vision for the future: “Our investment in agriculture is to ultimately help uplift our farmers and grow the Philippine Dairy Industry. Dairy is just the first, and we are looking forward to making the same impact in other agricultural sectors.”

    A Sweet Ending

    The program concluded on a sweet and celebratory note as everyone participated in a joyous Ice Cream Toast.

    For the latest information and updates, visit www.carmensbest.com, and don’t forget to follow them on Instagram at @carmensbest.

  • Three Filipina Artists Conquer the Asean Art Scene in “Infinite Horizons”

    Filipina Artists Mylene Quito, Raeche Dacanay and Valerie Teng have been invited to be part of a prestigious international art exhibition dubbed as “Infinite Horizons” which will be held from October 28 to November 20 in Palm Artspace, 188A Thao Nguyen Ecopark, Van Giang-Hung Yen, Vietnam. They will be joined by Trang Thanh Hien, Nguyen Thu Thuy, Nguyen My Nhoc, Ly Tran, Phan Thi Hong Sam.  Quito and Teng both debuted their first solo art shows in ArtAblado, Robinsons Galleria. 

    Mylene Thumb
    Valerie Thumb

     “Infinite Horizons” is a collaborative art exhibit that celebrates the boundless potential of women from two countries, Philippines and Vietnam, to create a powerful narrative of empowerment through art.

    Rache Thumb

     A joint collaborative art show, “Infinite Horizons” will showcase the unique blends of colors, strokes and artistry of 8 female artists whose individual talents show the diverse and dynamic perspectives of women, uniting their voices to break barriers and redefine the limits of creativity, self-expression and strength.  This Philippine-Vietnam Art Program also transcends cultural differences, illustrating the idea that the pursuit of dreams knows no bounds and the power of women, universal.