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Laufey Drops New Single ‘From The Start’, Asian Tour Dates Sell Out Fast

Breakout jazz artist and versatile instrumentalist, Laufey, has revealed her latest masterpiece, “From The Start,” courtesy of AWAL Recordings. “‘From The Start’ is a bossa nova inspired song about being in love with your best friend…who is in love with someone else. I wrote the song to create a playful mix of old sounds with modern lyrics,” shares Laufey. You can tune into this melodious narrative here: laufey.ffm.to/fromthestart.

Laufey – From The Start | Photo Credit Gemma Warren

“From The Start” offers a sneak peek of more original music to come from Laufey later this year. The song follows the release of A Night At The Symphony—a curated collection of tracks she performed live with the Iceland Symphony Orchestra during a sold-out two-night run at Reykjavík’s Harpa Concert Hall. This collection includes selections from her debut album, ‘Everything I Know About Love,’ and her 2021 EP, ‘Typical of Me’.

Laufey recently announced her upcoming headlining gig with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra this fall, as well as her summer tour in Australia and Asia, sold out in a blink! Festival goers can also look forward to her performances at the Java Jazz Festival in Jakarta, the Ottawa Jazz Festival, and the THING Festival. Below is a glimpse of her electrifying tour in Southeast Asia.

LAUFEY TOUR DATES
May 30, 2023—Manila—The Filinvest Tent [SOLD OUT]
May 31, 2023—Taipei—Clapper Studio [SOLD OUT]
June 2, 2023—Jakarta—Java Jazz Festival
June 3, 2023—Singapore—Alex Blake Charlie Sessions [SOLD OUT]
June 5, 2023—Tokyo—Blue Note Tokyo (Two shows) [SOLD OUT]
June 8, 2023—Sydney, NSW—Oxford Art Factory [SOLD OUT]
June 9, 2023—Melbourne, VIC—Howler [SOLD OUT]
June 10, 2023—Melbourne, VIC—Howler [SOLD OUT]
June 26, 2023—Ottawa, CA—Ottawa Jazz Festival
July 8, 2023—Ghent, BE—Gent Jazz Festival
July 9, 2023—Rotterdam, NL—North Sea Jazz Festival
July 13, 2023—Elstree, UK—Home Farm Glamping
July 15, 2023—Pori, FI—Pori Jazz
August 2, 2023—Caroga Lake, NY—Caroga Lake Music Festival
August 26, 2023—Port Townsend, WA—THING
September 16, 2023—Los Angeles, CA—The Ford [SOLD OUT]

Laufey (pronounced lāy-vāy), a 24-year-old singer, composer, producer and multi-instrumentalis from Los Angeles, weaves jazz tales of young love and self-discovery. Her multicultural upbringing between Reykjavík and Washington, D.C., with annual visits to Beijing, influenced her musical journey. This Icelandic-Chinese artist is a self-professed Ella Fitzgerald fan, who discovered her passion for jazz through her father’s record collection.

In 2020, Laufey’s debut single “Street by Street” topped the Icelandic radio charts while she was still studying at Berklee College of Music. Following her ‘Typical of Me’ EP, she was named Best New Artist in Jazz and Blues at the Icelandic Music Awards and hosted her own show on BBC Radio 3/BBC Sounds. Her album ‘Everything I Know About Love’ debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Alternative New Artist Album chart, and the lead single “Valentine” reached the top of the Spotify Jazz Chart. In 2022, Laufey was the most streamed jazz artist on Spotify, with a whopping 425 million streams across all platforms.

Laufey acknowledges her journey has been nothing short of a whirlwind. Yet, she remains grounded, driven by her love for music and an unwavering commitment to her craft. As she continues to create music that resonates with fans across the globe, Laufey proves that she’s not just a rising star, but a new force to be reckoned with in the world of jazz. With her unique blend of old-school charm and contemporary lyrical wit, Laufey is poised to keep making waves in the music industry. For those who’ve been swept up in the tide, it’s an exhilarating ride, and the best part is – it’s only the beginning. So, stay tuned for more from Laufey, because this musical journey is far from over!

May 12, 2023
Manulife empowers Filipinos to guard their health and protect their loved ones

International financial services provider Manulife has recently launched its new campaign to empower Filipinos to become mighty guardians and defenders of their health, enabling them to protect and secure their loved ones’ future.

As part of its goal to promote the importance of health and life protection in the country, Manulife Philippines continuously encourages more Filipinos to take charge of their health, so they are equipped with the right mindset, plans and resources to protect themselves from the unexpected. Recently, Manulife rolled out an online health assessment quiz on its website (www.manulife.com.ph) so customers can self-check on their health and well-being, and Manulife can make recommendations on what they need to better guard their health. As part of this campaign, Manulife recently teamed up with Marvel Studios for the theatrical release of the highly anticipated Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, dubbed as the “best Marvel movie in years” by top critics and various media publications. A digital film about the collaboration is also available for viewing on Manulife’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.

Manulife’s recent Asia Care Study has found that, among the Filipinos surveyed, many are concerned about health longevity, or the length of a time people think they will remain in good health. They consider financial costs of critical illnesses as their top health-related cause of anxiety (49%), followed by loss of income or job (37%) and not knowing who will take care of them (26%) in the event of an illness. Furthermore, Filipinos have the lowest ownership of insurance (59%) among other Asian markets surveyed in the study, well below the regional average of 70%.

“Filipinos are highly concerned about their health and how long they will remain healthy, but many do not have adequate health and life insurance protection. Without financial safeguards in place, the onset of illness or advanced age can turn medical expenses into a villain, with their loved ones in danger of facing financial struggles,” shares Melissa Henson, Chief Marketing Officer, Manulife Philippines. “By equipping more Filipinos with comprehensive and affordable insurance solutions that can help protect themselves and their families from the financial impact of critical illness, we can help transform them into guardians of both physical and financial health.”

To help address the health protection gap, Manulife offers its health insurance solutions — HealthFlex, an award-winning and highly customizable health and life insurance plan that lets customers pay only for the cost and coverage they need, and health protection riders such as critical illness benefit and hospital income benefit. To learn more about the campaign and Manulife’s range of health protection products, visit manulife.com.ph.

May 12, 2023
WATCH: The Autobots come face to face with the Maximals in new clip for “Rise of the Beasts”

STAND DOWN. Watch the Autobots meet the Maximals for the first time in the new clip “Prime Meets Primal.” Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, the latest from the Transformers franchise from Paramount Pictures, arrives in cinemas across the Philippines June 7.

Check out the new character posters below:

Returning to the action and spectacle that have captured moviegoers around the world, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts will take audiences on a ’90s globetrotting adventure with the Autobots and introduce a whole new breed of Transformer – the Maximals – to join them as allies in the existing battle for earth. Directed by Steven Caple Jr. and starring Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback, the film arrives in theaters June 7.

The screenplay is by Joby Harold and Darnell Metayer & Josh Peters and Erich Hoeber & Jon Hoeber, story by Joby Harold, based on Hasbro’s Transformers™ Action Figures.

Produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Tom DeSanto & Don Murphy, Michael Bay, Mark Vahradian, Duncan Henderson.

The film stars Anthony Ramos, Dominique Fishback, Tobe Nwigwe, Peter Cullen, Ron Perlman, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, Liza Koshy, John DiMaggio, David Sobolov, Michaela Jae Rodriguez, Pete Davidson, Cristo Fernández.

Transformers: Rise of the Beasts is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Connect with #Transformers #RiseOfTheBeasts and tag @paramountpicsph

May 12, 2023
WATCH: Prime Video Announces Premiere Date and Debuts Official Trailer for Cattleya Killer

Prime Video today announced the premiere date of Cattleya Killer, an Amazon Exclusive crime-thriller series, and debuted the official trailer. The six-episode series, produced by ABS-CBN International Production and Nathan Studios, is based on a classic ‘90s Filipino film, Sa Aking Mga Kamay (In My Own Hands), and will be available on Prime Video on June 1 in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and other selected territories. The series marks the first series collaboration between Prime Video and ABS-CBN, further promoting Filipino talents and stories to the world.

Cattleya Killer stars Arjo Atayde, the winner of Best Actor at the 2020 Asian Academy Creative Awards, along with Jake Cuenca, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Jane Oineza, Ria Atayde, Ricky Davao, Nonie Buencamino, and Christopher de Leon.

In this new series, many years after the infamous Cattleya Killer case, the man who cracked the case, Joven de la Rosa (Christopher de Leon, reprising his role from the film), is now an NBI deputy director. His youngest son Anton (Arjo Atayde) is one of his top agents, while his eldest son Benjie (Jake Cuenca) runs a foundation for traumatized women. It seems as if everybody has moved on from the tragic events of the past, but when a body is found bearing the telltale markings of the long-dead Cattleya Killer, the lives of the three men and everyone around them are thrown into turmoil. Dark secrets are brought to the fore, as the line between the real world and the unreal blurs. No one and nothing is what they seem—least of all Anton, who becomes more and more of a suspect as more victims surface and the investigation tightens.

“We’re excited to continue pushing the boundaries and to deliver world-class entertainment made by the best Filipino talents,” said David Simonsen, director of Prime Video Southeast Asia. “We believe with its gripping storyline, dynamic characters, and stunning performances, Cattleya Killer will keep our audiences at the edge of their seats.”

“Crime stories have always been fan favorites, proven by the success of different true-crime series across different formats and territories,” said Ruel S. Bayani, head of ABS-CBN International Production. “And for us, the Philippines’ Cattleya Killer is another must-watch, as it tackles the dark human psyche. It also showcases issues rooted in family, government, and society.”

Dan Villegas (Exes Baggage, English Only, Please) directs the series from a script by Dodo Dayao. The series is based on a classic ‘90s film, Sa Aking Mga Kamay (In My Own Hands), available on Prime Video, directed by Rory B. Quintos and starring Aga Muhlach, Chin Chin Gutierrez, and Christopher de Leon.

Cattleya Killer joins hundreds of other Filipino shows and films available on the Prime Video catalog, such as 10 Little Mistresses, Deleter, Family Matters, and Walang KaParis. Korean titles such as Island and Jinny’s Kitchen, anime hits such as Demon Slayer, on top of award-winning and critically acclaimed Amazon Originals like Citadel, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, The Boys, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, and Emmy and Golden Globe winners Fleabag and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Prime Video members are able to watchfilms and shows anywhere and anytime on hundreds of compatible devices. In the Prime Video app, members can also download episodes on their mobile devices and tablets and watch anywhere offline at no additional cost. Prime Video is available in the Philippines for just PHP149 per month.

For more updates on Cattleya Killer, follow Prime Video on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube. Stream anywhere, anytime at primevideo.com or download the Prime Video app on Google Play, Apple Store, and Microsoft.

May 12, 2023
Grand Hyatt Manila Invites Guests to a Mother’s Day Celebration

It is a celebration as grand as a mother’s love as Grand Hyatt Manila invites guests to honor the main woman in their lives. A slew of staycation, dining, and recreational offers await families this month of May.

Grand Stay for Mom

It is a quick stay getaway for moms in the heart of Bonifacio Global City. Families who will stay throughout the Mother’s Day weekend can book three nights and get the third night complimentary, with rates starting at PHP 9,667+ per night for the Grand King and PHP 14,334+ per night for the Grand Suite.

Enjoy stunning views of the city, a complimentary breakfast buffet at The Grand Kitchen, and state-of-the-art amenities. Guests who will book the Grand Suite can enjoy access to the Grand Club Lounge on the 57^th floor.

Grand gastronomic adventures to indulge in

From decadent cakes to an indulgent buffet spread, guests are sure to enjoy the treats that await Mom on Mother’s Day.

The Grand Kitchen

An array of exquisite food choices await the family as the restaurant prepares a sumptuous spread to celebrate this day in the best way. Guests can take their pick of signature specialties from around the world, prepared a la minute and in their presence, including a Lamb Shoulder Biryani, Stir-Fried Premium Black Angus Beef, Goan Fish Curry, and chargrilled beef tri-tip.

Take a trip down this buffet at PHP 3,200 net per person (free-flow non-alcohol) and PHP 3,800 net (with free-flow alcohol). The Mother’s Day buffet is available for lunch and dinner on May 14 only.

The Lounge

Spill the tea and unwind with Mom amidst the resplendent lobby background. Revel in the Merienda Cena, a grand Filipino afternoon tea celebration where guests can enjoy delicate drinks and delicacies inspired by the country’s native offerings. Dig into intricately prepared bites like the chicken coronation, smoked milkfish rillettes, pancit palabok, and a turon (banana and jackfruit spring roll) sundae.

Sip on this experience for PHP 2,200 net per person from May 12 to 14, inclusive of free-flow rosé and a cocktail from the Coffee Cocktail Collection.

No.8 China House

Knock on the door to unlock signature Chinese specialties set for this special occasion. Take Mom and the family on a curated culinary journey of well-loved classics and unique memory makers, including the restaurant’s beloved traditional Peking Duck. Have the dish in two ways to enjoy the best parts, including the sliced duck skin, breast meat, and leg meat for the first course and deep-fried duck bone in salt and pepper for the second course. Explore the rest of the menu, with highlights such as the stir-fried Angus beef in enoki mushroom and black pepper, and the seafood fried rice generously topped with dried scallops, garlic, and tobiko.

Experience this special set menu for PHP 36,880 net per table of 10 persons for lunch and dinner, inclusive of one magnum bottle of Chateau Cap De Fer.

The Cellar

This fresh catch sets the stage (and the table!) for Mother’s Day as it takes the spotlight for this celebration. Relish in the flavors of the Mediterranean Sea Bass en Papillote, peppered with capers, kalamanta olives, cherry tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, lemon, and cacio e pepe pasta. Pair that with the restaurant’s diverse selections of tapas and tipples, including a collection of Old and New World Wines.

This signature dish is good for sharing and is available for dinner, with prices starting at PHP 4,600 per order.

The Peak

Share some thrills with Mom from Peak Grill on her special day. Guests can level up their celebration by taking it to the sky, dining al fresco or indoors with breathtaking views of the city. Commemorate this event in the best way possible by treating her and the family to a John Stone Tomahawk, with prices starting at PHP 11,900 per order. Bring land and sea together with a Surf and Turf, inclusive of a hearty pair of lobster and a tomahawk, with prices starting at PHP 20,480 per order.

Both dishes are good for 3-4 persons and include side dishes like creamed spinach, mashed potato, and mac and cheese. Get a taste of these signatures at the restaurant for dinner from May 12 to 14.

Florentine

Take home and surprise Mom with treats to delight and decadent cakes to mark this big day. Start with pralines, whether it be a box of 9 at PHP 990 net or a box of 25 at PHP 1,990 net. Mix and match the desserts to share with a customized hamper starting at PHP 7,590 net. Say “I love you, Mom” with the Strawberry Sweetheart cake, a Madeline sponge biscuit dream with strawberry basil jam, vanilla cream, and light white chocolate mousse, to seal the deal at PHP 1,950 net.

Adorn the woman of the hour with a stunning array of blooms at the Flower Shop. Choose from a selection of freshly cut flora like the Ecuadorian rose, peonies, and tulips, to name a few.

Drop by the shop from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM from May 8 to 14 to purchase these decadent delights and gift Mom with flowers from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM from May 12 to 14.

Spoil Mom at the Spa

Give Mom the chance to take some time off for herself with a package fit for a queen. Indulge in the Prim and Pamp-Her package, a 120-minute experience that includes a hydrating facial, a scalp massage, and a hand and arm massage.

Priced at PHP 5,000, book in advance for Mom at Illume Spa, available for the whole month of May. For inquiries and reservations, call (63 2) 8838 1234 or email manila.grand@hyatt.com. For updates on its latest promotions, follow Grand Hyatt Manila on Instagram @grandhyattmanilaph and Facebook, www.facebook.com/GrandHyattManilaPh.

May 12, 2023
Now Open: Robinsons Magnolia welcomes Breakfast at Antonio’s

Chef Tonyboy Escalante, the mastermind behind the illustrious Antonio’s Group of Restaurants, has always held a torch for breakfast. “I’ve always considered breakfast as the most important meal of the day,” he calls it. For nearly two decades, dedicated food enthusiasts have journeyed to Tagaytay, drawn by the cozy, casual allure of Breakfast at Antonio’s.

While calls for a city-based outlet were loud and clear, Chef Tonyboy had yet to find the perfect spot. “Sure, there have been urgings and discussions to have another outlet closer to the city, but somehow, I couldn’t really pin down where,” shares Chef Tonyboy. That is, until Robinsons Magnolia – one of Metro Manila’s premier shopping destinations – presented him with an offer he simply couldn’t resist.

This May, Chef Tonyboy and his team are happily answering the call to bring the experience to Manila, as the launch of Breakfast at Antonio’s in Robinsons Magnolia is really happening. “We are eternally grateful to Robinsons Mall’s management for giving us this once in a lifetime partnership that allows us to bring the ‘Antonio’s Experience’ to Metro Manila.”

For those who have been craving to savor Breakfast at Antonio’s signature dishes – such as Twice-Cooked Adobo, Housemade Longganisa, Classic Pancakes, Grilled Ensaymada, Roast Beef and Monte Cristo sandwiches, and more – the new Robinsons Magnolia outlet provides a delectable alternative to the beloved Tagaytay location.

The new restaurant, nestled within the serene Central Garden of Robinsons Magnolia, will be housed in a standalone bungalow-type structure with Filipino-Spanish design elements that encapsulates the essence of Antonio’s brand. Along with the acclaimed service that the restaurants, including the flagship Antonio’s, Breakfast at Antonio’s, and Balay Dako, are known for, guests can expect the same elevated sensory experience at the Tagaytay location.

The doors of Breakfast at Antonio’s at Robinsons Magnolia will swing open seven days a week from as early as 7 a.m., offering both indoor and al fresco seating. While the classic favorites from the Tagaytay menu will be available, the culinary team is also stirring up some comforting new additions. The menu will feature Arroz Caldo with an array of condiments, and servings of nourishing Taho from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Plus, global breakfast dishes like Eggs Royale, Turkish Eggs, Shakshuka, Chorizo Scrambled Eggs, soft Boiled Eggs with brioche fingers and Egg Cocotte,and more will make their appearance.

A journey to Breakfast at Antonio’s wouldn’t be complete without a little takeaway. Pedro the Grocer, a venture started by Chef Tonyboy and his eldest son, Basti Escalante, will offer a corner of deli meats, sourdough breads, croissants, baguettes, artisan pastries and more baked goods, fruit jams, and other delightful treats, encapsulating the Tagaytay experience in the heart of Manila.

A warm welcome awaits you at Breakfast at Antonio’s in Robinsons Magnolia. Hop on this gastronomic voyage, where the essence of Tagaytay meets the heart of Manila.

Robinsons Magnolia’s newest addition, Breakfast at Antonio’s, is finally open to satisfy your gastronomic cravings. Whether you’re a long-time fan of their signature dishes or a curious foodie eager to try something new, this restaurant is the perfect destination to experience the exquisite taste of Tagaytay right in the heart of Manila. Don’t miss out on this exciting culinary adventure!

Breakfast at Antonio’s opens today at 7am and is located at the Central Garden of Robinson’s Magnolia.

May 12, 2023
Savor Cebu’s finest flavors at Marco Polo Ortigas Manila

Cebu, known as the Queen City of the South, is a thriving metropolis and tourist destination brimming with a colorful culture and delicious and diverse dishes. Apart from the staple lechon, it is home to popular fare like Dinuldog, a coconut milk-based squash dish, and Balbacua, a flavorful collagen-rich meat stew cooked for several hours until tender.

Manila-based diners can soon get a taste of the prosperous Cebu at Cucina, the refined, contemporary all-day dining restaurant located at the 24th floor of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila. From May 11-14, 2023, the renowned chefs of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu will take over the kitchen and serve an extensive menu of authentic Cebu-based appetizers like Sinudlan (Cebuano sausage) and Lansiao (soup number 5), main courses like Inasal na Manok Bisaya (chicken inasal of Visayas) and Bakasi sa Cordova (eel stew), and desserts like Torta sa Argao and Binignit.

Entitled “Culinarya: A Filipino Heritage Cuisine Series”, this highly anticipated event will kick off a series of regional culinary exchanges, letting the diners of Cucina experience a breadth of local cuisines.

Running the kitchen for this round is Chef Riz Degamo, who fills the role of Chef de Cuisine of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, having been with the hotel since 2006 and helping establish it as a top culinary destination in the region. Joining Chef Riz is Chef Jonathan Cabuncal, who is known to harness his passion for local ingredients to innovate dishes which best represent Cebuano cuisine.

Back in Cebu, both chefs work with their culinary team to deliver exceptional dining experiences to their guests. They are all set to bring the same skill, dedication, and delicious creations to Marco Polo Ortigas Manila!

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, this might be the unique experience you’ve been looking for to treat the special women in your lives. Early birds who reserve from May 2-10, 2023 via (63 2) 7720-7777 can enjoy 15% off.

May 11, 2023
Treat MOM to a Spanish Culinary Feast on Mother’s Day

From tapas to paella and cochinillo, there’s a veritable feast that these Spanish restaurants have laid out for the star of May 14, Moms! The dishes are soulful and flavorful, two characteristics of a good meal moms can’t say no to. Here are their Mother’s Day Speciales:

At Rumba, choose from the following sets: Chorizo Criollo, Gulas Al Ajillo and Hummus at P1,495; Croquetas Pollo Y Jamon, Lasagna, Calamari Andaluza at P1,995 Huevos Rotos, Gambas and Cochinillo Segoviano, quarter at P6,495

Over at Las Flores, guests may choose from: croquetas de Jamon Iberico, Emapandillas de Atun, Bombas de la Barcelona, Spaghetti con Setas at P1,495; Croquetas de Chorizo, Gambas Al Ajillo, Suquet de Mariscos at P1,995 and almon & Salmon, Paella Negra, Cochinillo Segoviano, quarter at P5,995.

The Mother’s Day Speciales at BCN by Las Flores, meanwhile, consist of Croquetas de Gambas, Chicken Liver Pate, Berenjenas Fritas, Almejas Salsa Verde at P1,495; Ensalada de Tomate, Beef Salpicao, Linguine Vongole at P1,995 and Gambas Al Ajillo, Paella Negra, Cochinillo Segoviano, quarter at P5,995.

Sexy tapas and more are the Mother’s Day offerings at Tomatito. Here they are: Croquetas Jamon, Empanadas de Carne, Chorizo and Manchego Air Baguettes at P1,495); Bombas de Chorizo, Gambas al Ajillo, Paella Valenciana at P1,995) and Salmon TNT, Paella Negra, Cochinillo Segoviano, quarter at P5,995.

Finally, at Rambla: Croquetas Jamon, Chipirones Andaluza, Pork Belly with Sweet Potato Purees at P1,495); Chorizo al Vino, Gambas al Ajiliio, Linguine Vongole at P1,995) and Conos de Atun, Paella Negra, Cochinillo Segoviano, quarter at P5,995.

All sets are good for 3 to 4 persons, all the more to make dining a happy family affair.

Enjoy these offers until May 20 at Las Flores, Rambla, Rumba, BCN by Las Flores and Tomatito.

May 11, 2023
Project Hulmahan Exhibit at The Manila Hotel

From May 8 to 20, Project Hulmahan is setting foot at The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby and Art Gallery. The art exhibit features a diverse range of artworks such as sculptures, paintings, and mixed media pieces—all using shoe molds—created by both established and emerging artists who share a passion for helping others through their art.

Walang Pares by Susan Fetalvero Roces

The First Step of Unlimited Journey by Japat Guevarra

“We looked for volunteer artists by posting publicly on Facebook who were willing to paint or make any kind of art out of hulmahan [shoe molds] that are no longer being used because the pandemic hit the struggling shoe industry in Marikina, the Shoe Capital of the Philippines,” relates Bernardo. The call for volunteers had a positive response that hundreds of artists all over the Philippines expressed interest. The Manila Hotel’s creative consultant Rachy Cuna, National Artists Maestro Ryan Cayabyab and Kidlat Tahimik, sculptors Pete Jimenez, Jonathan Dangue, Julie Lluch-Dalena, and thespian Dolly De Leon are some of the participating artists whose works are featured in Project Hulmahan.

Palakpaak by Toym Imao

Pag-aalay by Rachy Cuna

Project Hulmahan is a brainchild of Zena Bernardo, one of the members of Ladies Who Launch (LWL) and one of the co-founders of Bayanihang Marikenyo at Marikenya. Ms. Bernardo met with shut down shoe manufacturers in her hometown, Marikina, and their group purchased almost 500 pairs of shoe molds with the intention of transforming them into artworks to earn funds for community- based activities.

“It is fitting that The Manila Hotel collaborates with inspiring ladies, as the Grand Dame celebrates ladies, especially mothers, in the month of May”, says Marvin Kim Tan, Director of Sales and Marketing of The Manila Hotel. Ladies Who Launch is a four-woman team made up of Zena Bernardo (mother of Ana Patricia ‘Patreng’ of the famed Maginhawa community pantry), Dolly De Leon, internationally-acclaimed actress, Judith Albano, and Jasmine Ong. They were the founders of the community kitchen, which assisted many people during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Epitome of Time by Nico Osma

Colorful Journey by Roen Capule

The proceeds from the artworks will benefit the advocacy efforts of these three organizations: Bayanihang Marikenyo at Marikenya for community kitchen and livelihood programs, The Community Kitchen Project for nationwide disaster response, and a community-based art school for kids.

“Sa akin napaka-deep ng story ng [Project] Hulmahan. We want to give dignity back to the community; we consider them as partners in our community-based projects and not beggars. We may not be popular, but we want to be transparent and accountable. [Project] Hulmahan is about molding a person and molding a society. The success of this project will depend on working together and pooling resources so we can ensure that those in need have access to necessities during these challenging times,” says Bernardo.

Arcanum Artificium XB23-J1 and XB23-J1 by Buds Convocar

A Pixie’s Right Foot Forward & A Dreamer’s Right Foot Forward by Imelda Cajipe-Endaya

Project Hulmahan is on display at The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby and Art Gallery until May 20, 2023. Admission is free.

To culminate the fundraising endeavor, a grand auction will be held at Centennial Hall of The Manila Hotel on May 21 from 6PM to 11PM. This is by invitation only.

May 11, 2023
Take part in “Mom’s Viu-tiful Day” on May 14 for a day filled with K-Dramas, K-Beauty, and more.

Viu, a leading pan-regional video streaming service, will host “Mom’s Viu-tiful Day,” an all-day event catered to mothers in the Metro. This all-day celebration will be held at The Block Activity Center, SM North EDSA, and will feature engaging activity booths by event partners Nido, Virginia Foods, Silka, and Ensure Gold. Moms can look forward to complimentary massages at the Eomma Massage Corner and even demonstrate their singing abilities at Nido’s #1 Mom Recording Booth. A 6-month Viu Premium Subscription is also up for grabs for the most inventive Best MOMent post on social media using the chic photo wall mounted at the venue.

All mothers are welcome to the K-Beauty bar for a complimentary makeover and to try out the newest K-makeup products from Ever Bilena. At Viu’s Chill Spot, we’ve got fun activities for the whole family. Mommy influencer Abby Tabladillo will demonstrate “K-Quick” and easy Korean inspired meals on stage using Virginia Food products, while beauty influencer Romsy Dineros will host a workshop to show attendees how to achieve the perfect K-beauty look. The “Mom’s Viu-tiful Day” event will also feature a performance by OPM singer Aia de Leon, who will add an extra touch of magic to the celebration.

In addition to Viu goodie bags and other treats from Viu’s event partners, moms who participate in the activity booths will have the chance to win Viu Premium Subscriptions, which offers early access to the latest Asian content, unlimited downloads, uninterrupted viewing and high-definition streaming.

“Mom’s Viu-tiful Day” is one of Viu’s initiatives to honor mothers and provide exceptional experiences to its users, whether online or in person. Enjoy streaming on Viu by signing up via the Apple App Store, Google Playstore, or Viu.com. Subscribe to their latest promo of P29 for your first month instead of P149!

May 11, 2023