Get ready for another thrilling addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Disney+ releases the trailer and key art for Marvel Studios’ upcoming espionage thriller, “Secret Invasion.” The live-action, original series is set to premiere exclusively on Disney+ on June 21.
In “Secret Invasion,” Nick Fury, played by Samuel L. Jackson, discovers a covert invasion of Earth by shapeshifting Skrulls, leading him to team up with allies such as Maria Hill (Cobie Smulders), Everett Ross (Martin Freeman), and Skrull Talos (Ben Mendelsohn), who has made a life on Earth. The group races against time to prevent the Skrull invasion and save humanity.
Aside from the lead actors, “Secret Invasion” also features a star-studded cast, including Kingsley Ben-Adir, Charlayne Woodard, Killian Scott, Samuel Adewunmi, Dermot Mulroney, Christopher McDonald, Katie Finneran, Emilia Clarke, Olivia Colman, and Don Cheadle.
Ali Selim serves as the director and executive producer, alongside Kevin Feige, Jonathan Schwartz, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum, Samuel L. Jackson, Kyle Bradstreet, and Brian Tucker. Bradstreet is also the head writer, while Jennifer L. Booth, Allana Williams, and Brant Englestein are the co-executive producers.
Fans of the MCU can now look forward to the premiere of “Secret Invasion” on June 21, only on Disney+. Stay updated by following Disney+ on their social media pages.
Whether you’re staying in Metro Manila or just passing through, it’s important to know the operating hours of your favorite restaurants during this time. If you’re planning to dine out during Holy Week, worry not! We’ve got you covered with a list of restaurants in Metro Manila and their operating hours.
1) BCN BY LAS FLORES (BGC) Indulge in Barcelona-inspired cuisine at BCN by Las Flores. They will be open during the following hours for Holy Week: • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM To 11 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM to 12 MN • Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM to 12 MN • Easter Sunday (April 9): 11 AM To 11 PM
2) DIN TAI FUNG Experience world-renowned Taiwanese cuisine at Din Tai Fung. Their branches will be open during the following hours for Holy Week: DIN TAI FUNG (SM MOA)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): 10 AM to 10 PM
Good Friday (April 7): 10 AM to 10 PM
Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM to 12 AM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 12 AM
DIN TAI FUNG (BGC)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM to 11 PM
Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM to 11 PM
Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM to 11 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 10 PM
DIN TAI FUNG (Power Plant)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED
Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED
Black Saturday (April 8): 12 NN to 10 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 9 PM
DIN TAI FUNG (Greenbelt)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED
Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED
Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM to 10 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 9 PM
DIN TAI FUNG (SM Megamall)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED
Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED
Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM to 10 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 9 PM
3) ITALIANNIS Craving Italian food during Holy Week? Italiannis will have the following operating hours: ITALIANNIS (Greenbelt) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 8 AM To 9 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM To 12 MN • Black Saturday (April 8): 8 AM To 12 MN
ITALIANNIS (Glorietta) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 10 PM
ITALIANNIS (Eastwood) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 10 AM To 10 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 10 AM To 10 PM • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 10 PM
ITALIANNIS (Bonifacio High Street) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM To 10 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM To 10 PM • Black Saturday (April 8): 8 AM To 11 PM
ITALIANNIS (Trinoma) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 9 PM
ITALIANNIS (Shangri-La) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 9 PM
ITALIANNIS (Vista Mall) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM To 10 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM To 11 PM • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 10 PM
ITALIANNIS (EVIA) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 10 AM To 10 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 10 AM To 9 PM • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 10 PM
ITALIANNIS (Ayala North Exchange) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED • Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM To 9 PM
ITALIANNIS (UP Town Center) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 10 AM To 9 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 10 AM To 9 PM • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 10 PM
4) LAS FLORES Experience modern Spanish cuisine at Las Flores. Their operating hours during Holy Week are as follows:
LAS FLORES (Greenbelt 3) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): 4 PM to 10 PM • Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM To 11 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 12 MN
LAS FLORES (BGC) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM To11 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 11 PM to 12 MN • Black Saturday (April 8): 11 PM to 12 MN • Easter Sunday (April 9): 11 AM to 11 PM
LAS FLORES (Uptown Ritz, BGC) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM To 12 MN • Good Friday (April 7): 11 PM to 1 AM • Black Saturday (April 8): 11 PM to 1 AM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 12 MN
LAS FLORES (Robinsons Magnolia) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM to 10 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 10 PM
LAS FLORES (Okada Manila) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM To 11 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM To 11 PM • Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM To 11 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 11 AM To 11 PM
LAS FLORES (Alabang) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 11 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM To 10 PM
LAS FLORES (Podium) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM to 10 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 10 PM
LAS FLORES (Salcedo) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM To 10 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM To 10 PM • Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM To 10 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 11 AM To 10 PM
LAS FLORES (Conrad) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM to 10 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 10 PM
5) MANAM COMFORT FILIPINO For a taste of Filipino comfort food, head to Manam. Their branches will observe the following hours during Holy Week: MANAM (Uptown BGC)
6) NORTH PARK Satisfy your cravings for Chinese cuisine at North Park. Their branches will have the following operating hours during Holy Week: NORTH PARK (Alabang Town Center)
7) OOMA JAPANESE RICE BAR For a taste of modern Japanese cuisine, Ooma is the place to be. They will be open during the following hours for Holy Week:
OOMA (BGC)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM to 10 PM
Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM to 10 PM
Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM to 10 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 11 AM to 10 PM
OOMA (Greenbelt)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED
Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED
Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM to 10 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 11 AM to 9 PM
OOMA (Molito)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): 10 AM to 10 PM
Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED
Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM to 10 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 10 PM
OOMA (Power Plant)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED
Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED
Black Saturday (April 8): 12 NN to 10 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM to 9 PM
OOMA (Salcedo)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM to 11 PM
Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM to 11 PM
Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM to 11 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 11 AM to 11 PM
8) RAMBLA (ROCKWELL) Savor contemporary Spanish dishes at Rambla. Here are their operating hours during Holy Week: • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM To 10 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM To 12 MN • Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM To 12 MN • Easter Sunday (April 9): 11 AM To 10 PM
9) RUMBA (SHOPS AT AYALA TRIANGLE) Get a taste of Spanish-Mediterranean cuisine at Rumba. Their Holy Week operating hours are as follows: • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED • Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM To 11 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 11 AM To 10 PM
10) TGI FRIDAYS Get your fill of American comfort food at TGIFridays. The branches will have the following operating hours during Holy Week: TGI FRIDAYS (Glorietta, Pedro Gil, Galleria, Trinoma) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 10 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM To 10 PM
TGI FRIDAYS (Alabang Town Center) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED • Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 9 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM To 9 PM
TGI FRIDAYS (High Street) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM To 10 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM To 10 PM • Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM To 10 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM To 10 PM
TGI FRIDAYS (Eastwood) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 10 AM To 10 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 10 AM To 10 PM • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 10 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM To 10 PM
TGI FRIDAYS (Evia) • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 10 AM To 10 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 10 AM To 9 PM • Black Saturday (April 8): 10 AM To 10 PM • Easter Sunday (April 9): 10 AM To 10 PM
11) TOMATITO (BGC) Enjoy Spanish tapas with a modern twist at Tomatito. Their Holy Week operating hours are as follows: • Maundy Thursday (April 6): 11 AM To 11 PM • Good Friday (April 7): 11 AM To 12 MN • Black Saturday (April 8): 11 AM To 12 MN • Easter Sunday (April 9): 11 AM To 11 PM
12) TIM HO WAN Known for their mouth-watering dim sum offerings, Tim Ho Wan will remain open throughout Holy Week. Their operating hours are as follows: TIM HO WAN (SM Megamall, SM MOA, Robinsons Ermita, SM North EDSA)
13) WILDFLOUR CAFE + BAKERY This popular café and bakery, famous for its delicious pastries and cozy ambiance, will have the following operating hours during Holy Week:
WILDFLOUR CAFE + BAKERY (BGC)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): 7 AM to 10 PM
Good Friday (April 7): 7 AM to 11 PM
Black Saturday (April 8): 7 AM to 11 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 7 AM to 10 PM
WILDFLOUR CAFE + BAKERY (Uptown)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): 7 AM to 10 PM
Good Friday (April 7): 7 AM to 12 AM
Black Saturday (April 8): 7 AM to 11 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 7 AM to 10 PM
WILDFLOUR CAFE + BAKERY (Rockwell)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): 7 AM to 10 PM
Good Friday (April 7): 7 AM to 11 PM
Black Saturday (April 8): 7 AM to 11 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 7 AM to 10 PM
WILDFLOUR CAFE + BAKERY (Salcedo)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): 12 PM to 10 PM
Good Friday (April 7): 7 AM to 11 PM
Black Saturday (April 8): 7 AM to 11 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 7 AM to 10 PM
WILDFLOUR CAFE + BAKERY (Rada)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): 7 AM to 10 PM
Good Friday (April 7): 7 AM to 11 PM
Black Saturday (April 8): 7 AM to 11 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 7 AM to 10 PM
WILDFLOUR CAFE + BAKERY (Greenbelt)
Maundy Thursday (April 6): CLOSED
Good Friday (April 7): CLOSED
Black Saturday (April 8): 7 AM to 11 PM
Easter Sunday (April 9): 7 AM to 11 PM
Navigating Holy Week Dining in Metro Manila
Planning your dining options during Holy Week doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With this guide to restaurant operating hours in Metro Manila, you can enjoy a variety of delicious cuisines even during this sacred season. Be sure to call ahead and confirm with the specific restaurant branch, as hours may vary, and always remember to observe proper health and safety protocols while dining out.
As part of its recovery efforts for the travel and tourism industry, the Hotel Sales and Marketing (HSMA) of the Philippines sealed its partnership with the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) to kick off preparations for the upcoming Travel Exchange 2023, which is designed to be this year’s largest platform for hotels, resorts, theme parks, tour operators, and agencies to create innovative travel experiences for both Filipinos and visitors from other countries. The inaugural B2B fair is slated on March 28-29, 2023 at the MGBx of the Manila Marriott Hotel.
“Our membership is basically nationwide; be it a business hotel or a leisure resort, we have that in our portfolio. In PHILTOA, they have all sorts of travel agents that cater to different markets, and I think it’s such an opportune time for this partnership because the global market is starting to breathe again,” said Loleth So, HSMA president and area director of Sales & Marketing, Belmont & Savoy Hotel Manila (Megaworld Hotels & Resorts).
The partnership is a first for both HSMA and PHILTOA, which saw fit to merge their organizations together to also further help industry players affected by the pandemic recover and restart their businesses.
“Tour operators and hotels are a perfect click,” said So. “As far as the hotels are concerned, we will encourage them [to offer special packages] because this is the market that we want to already talk to; we won’t have to go out anymore on sales calls!”
So added that the event will also help them come up with offers that will truly give their guests the local flavor that they want during their stay since many of PHILTOA’s members are small tour operators who are experts at creating these kinds of experiences.
“As an association, we really want to help our tour operators, especially those who are just starting and don’t know whom to talk to in the hotel side of things,” said Fe Abling-Yu, PHILTOA President. “During the pandemic, these operators really grew the local market–everybody learned to sell domestically.”
The PHILTOA partnership and the Travel Exchange are new additions to HSMA’s annual roster of exciting activities, the most famous of which is the group’s flagship September Online Sale (S-O-S)—also established as a response to the impact of the pandemic on travel and tourism. Also coming up this year is the 9th HSMA Virtus Awards, the most prestigious recognition given to outstanding sales and marketers of the group’s member hotels and resorts.
About HSMA Philippines
The Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) is the premier organization of hotel sales and marketing leaders in the Philippines. Its members were heads of sales and marketing executives of accredited hospitality properties located in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Currently, HSMA has over 130 members nationwide.
About PHILTOA
The Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), Inc. is an organization of tour operators and allied members actively involved in the advocacy of responsible tourism. Founded on 12 June 1986, non-stock and non-profit organization. The membership includes travel agencies, hotels, resorts, transportation companies, handicraft stores, and other tourism-oriented establishments and associations.
Get ready for more high-stakes action and nail-biting suspense as Netflix renews The Night Agent for a second season, consisting of 10 episodes. The series, produced by Sony Pictures Television Studios, premiered on March 23, 2023, and quickly climbed to Netflix’s Top 10. Debuting at the #1 spot on the English TV List with 168.71M hours viewed, it became the most viewed title for the week. The action-thriller ranks #3 for premiere week of viewing across all Season 1 TV and appeared in the Top 10 in 93 countries.
Shawn Ryan, known for his work on The Shield and S.W.A.T., serves as creator, showrunner, and executive producer for The Night Agent under MiddKid Productions. Other returning executive producers from the first season include Marney Hochman with MiddKid Productions; Seth Gordon and Julia Gunn with Exhibit A; Jamie Vanderbilt, William Sherak, Paul Neinstein, and Nicole Tossou with Project X; and David Beaubaire with Sunset Lane Media.
Season 1 of The Night Agent is based on the novel by Matthew Quirk. The sophisticated, character-driven action-thriller centers around a low-level FBI agent working in the White House basement. He’s responsible for a phone that never rings—until it does one fateful night, launching him into a fast-moving and dangerous conspiracy that reaches all the way to the Oval Office.
Excitement Builds for Season 2
Shawn Ryan, the show’s creator, showrunner, and executive producer, expressed his excitement about the series’ success and the upcoming season, saying, “The last week has been a whirlwind as we’ve finally been able to share The Night Agent with the world. To see the tremendous reaction to the show has been a great joy and is a credit to our cast, our writers, our directors, our crew, and our partners at Sony Pictures Television and Netflix. We couldn’t be any prouder or more excited to get cracking on Season 2 to share the further adventures of Night Action with our newfound fans.”
Jinny Howe, Vice President of Drama Series at Netflix, also shared her enthusiasm, saying, “We’re proud to see The Night Agent deliver a breakout performance and become instantly embraced around the world. Shawn Ryan has created a spy thriller sensation that viewers cannot get enough of, with a stellar cast featuring Gabriel Basso, Luciane Buchanan, and Hong Chau, and we’re here to bring them more of the action and suspense they love.”
Katherine Pope, President of Sony Pictures Television, added, “We are thrilled to see The Night Agent become an instant global sensation and can’t wait to continue telling this story with our remarkable cast, creative leader, Shawn Ryan, and our wonderful partners at Netflix.”
With its captivating storylines and outstanding performances, The Night Agent has garnered a loyal fan base eager for more. Stay tuned for Season 2, as the thrilling saga continues to unfold.
BRAVO! Filipino, a festival that celebrates local heritage and culture in the fields of arts, food, fashion, and style, was conceived by Ayala Chairman Emeritus Jaime Zobel de Ayala back in 2008. Believing that Filipinos have a wealth of untapped world-class talent, Bravo Filipino was formed to discover and honor emerging and seasoned artists within the country, garnering national support that will eventually aid their rise to international recognition.
This year, Ayala Malls is once again putting Pinoy talent at the forefront as BRAVO! Filipino makes a more resplendent and impactful comeback kickstarting with two must-see events: the Ternocon III Exhibit and a series of ballet shows featuring Cecile Licad with the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company.
“Filipinos are passionate, creative, innovative, resourceful. There are so many ways to describe local talent, and that’s why we initiated BRAVO! Filipino. It is an avenue to display our heritage and culture. It shows and communicates our history and our hopes, our present, and our future,” shares Ayala Malls President Christopher Maglanoc.
Rediscover what makes the country’s homegrown talents so exceptional. With the campaign launching in April, witness a truly BRAVO! Filipino moment at the country’s leading lifestyle mall.
An exhibit of the country’s national dress
View the winning and most iconic looks from Ternocon III on April 12 to 16 at Glorietta Activity Center, Glorietta Palm Drive Activity Center, Greenbelt Gallery, and the Ayala Museum Lobby. The event, which aims to showcase the Philippine national dress in contemporary society, headlines the works of all 13 contestants and the established designers that guided the finalists during the competition.
Find the works of all 13 contestants at Glorietta Activity Center, featuring Cheetah Rivera (Quezon City), Yssa Inumerable (Paranaque), Geom Hernandez (Batangas), and Dee Javier (Manila) from NCR; Amor Albano (Ilocos Norte), Glyn Alley Magtibay (Oriental Mindoro), Bon Hansen Reyes (Rizal), and Gabbie Sarenas (Rizal) from the larger region of Luzon; Bree Esplanada (Cebu), Karl Nadales (Iloilo), Al Rey Rosano (Negros Oriental), and Marc Carcillar (Iloilo) from Visayas; and Glady Rose Pantua (Zamboanga) from Mindanao.
Meanwhile, the works of designers Joey Samson and Hannah Adrias will be exhibited at the Glorietta Palm Drive Activity Center; while designer Dennis Lustico’s works will be at Greenbelt Gallery; and style-duo Chito Vijandre and Ricky Toledo’s works can be viewed at the Ayala Museum Lobby.
Showcasing world-class Pinoy talent
Internationally renowned institution American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Studio Company is once again taking the Philippine stage through a series of enthralling performances as part of a fundraising effort hosted by the Ayala Foundation, STEPS Dance Studio, and Ayala Malls. Considered one of the greatest dance companies in the world, ABT Studio Company strives to cultivate the growth of talented and enthusiastic individuals while expanding the reach of ballet to a broader audience. STEPS Dance Studio Founder Sofia Zobel Elizalde shared “We’re beyond grateful for ABT’s unwavering support in this noble cause. Art transcends beyond language and culture, and there are countless talented young individuals who deserve to refine their gifts. This show is a testament to our shared mission of nurturing and developing the next generation of artists.”
Returning to the Philippines to join the show is award-winning Filipina classical pianist, Cecile Licad. This will be her first live performance since the pandemic, making it a memorable experience not only for the audience but for the renowned artist as well, whom The New Yorker termed as “a pianist’s pianist”—a truly honorable title for the Filipino native. Also raising the Philippine flag are Filipino-American Prima Ballerina, ABT Jackie Onassis School Artistic Director, and ABT repetiteur Stella Abrera; and STEPS Dance Studio’s pride and one of ABT Studio Company dancers – Vince Pelegrin. “I’m ecstatic and proud to see one of my former students, Vince, up on the big stage as a performer of one of the most prestigious dance companies globally. He is a living manifestation of our company’s mission, and we’re excited to see where the future will take him.” mused Sofia Zobel Elizalde.
The gala show will commence at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati on April 20th. To foster a wider and more diverse community of art enthusiasts, this will be followed by public shows and first performance outside of Metro Manila at Ayala Center Cebu and Ayala Malls Abreeza on April 22nd and 23rd respectively. Select students from Cebu and Davao will also have the opportunity to participate in a Masterclass led by Stella Abrera and the Artistic Director of American Ballet Theatre Studio Company Sascha Radetsky.
This is just the beginning of Ayala Malls’ celebration of local talent. Expect more amazing experiences in collaboration with a new generation of Filipino innovators.
Garmin is commemorating 20 years of Forerunner, the world’s first GPS smartwatch designed to help runners adopt accurate and sophisticated data to train safely, achieve personal bests and reach new heights.
Garmin first set foot in the aviation industry with cutting-edge GPS navigation products in 1989 and expanded into automotive, marine, outdoor products and subsequently fitness wearables in 2003, with the launch of the world’s first running smartwatch – the Forerunner 201.
Every Run Starts Here – Forerunner for Runners
For the past 20 years, the Forerunner series has been providing runners with precise data analysis – the running smartwatch tracks a runner’s precise positioning while analyzing data including distance, speed, elevation gain as well as heart rate, blood oxygen and more.
In 2022 alone, there were over 320,000 new Forerunner users across Asia. Despite the global pandemic, running activities clocked by Garmin users in Asia grew by 24 percent from 2020 to 2022, with Vietnam, Indonesia and India in the lead with the most growth, demonstrating the unstoppable love for running in Asia.
“From the first time a Garmin engineer awkwardly strapped a GPS device to a wrist, the Forerunner series has evolved into a trusty companion for all runners around the world. We remain committed to achieving our personal best by delivering innovative technological breakthroughs to push users to their personal bests,” said Mr. Scoppen Lin, Assistant General Manager, Garmin Asia.
Likening runners to planets tracing their own orbit, revolving around their common passion for running, every runner is in pursuit of their individual fitness goals and to take on bigger challenges.
Empowering Runners with Running Science
Committed to expanding on Garmin’s expertise in GPS navigation technology and combining it with industry leading smart technology, Garmin has utilized Firstbeat Analytics for more than a decade before acquiring the industry-leading physiological analytics companies in the world.
Developments through the years include Heart Rate Variability (HRV) sensor data to provide the most advanced analysis and metrics in the areas of stress, sleep, maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 Max), training status/load, training effectiveness, and respiration rate.
This allowed Garmin to empower users with the most advanced and accurate health and performance data to make more efficient and data-driven decisions during training and recovery.
In conjunction with this momentous celebration, Garmin has released their most powerful Forerunner smartwatches yet, the Forerunner 265 and 965 today.
Forerunner 965 Series
The Forerunner 965 is equipped with a titanium bezel, a 1.4-inch AMOLED display and an amazing battery life of up to 23 days on smartwatch mode. It currently holds the record for having the world’s longest battery life for a running watch with an AMOLED display.
Unique to the Forerunner 965, the watch comes equipped with the Stamina and Acute Chronic Workload Ration features to track and help users manage their physical exertion throughout a run, to prevent “bonking” by overexerting too early in a run and to determine overall training load metrics for proper training scheduling respectively.
This smartwatch is designed for marathon and triathlon enthusiasts who will benefit from features like Wrist-Based Running Dynamics, where users can access detailed metric through on-wrist running dynamics including stride length, vertical oscillation directly from the watch in real-time.
The forerunner 965 series will be available in the Philippines starting April 2023.
Forerunner 265 Series
On the other hand, the Forerunner 265 comes with a Ground Gorilla Glass 4 lens, with an option of 1.3-inch AMOLED display, featuring a battery life of up to 13 days or 1.1-inch AMOLED display (on the Forerunner 265S) featuring a battery life of up to 15 days. Forerunner 265 includes performance monitoring tools from Garmin Firstbeat Analytics like VO2 max, performance condition, training effect and more.
Rigorous and Comprehensive Testing Procedures for Quality Assurance
Designed for runners, by runners, Forerunner 965 and Forerunner 265 series are purpose-built in both form and function to help athletes better plan, prepare, perform and connect.
To ensure that Garmin’s products can keep up with users’ vigorous training regimens, the products are put through diverse extreme tests to simulate real-life usage scenarios, including but not limited to low and high temperature tests, 10-bar stress tests, acceleration detection tests, altimeter tests, repeated drop tests, watch band wear cycle tests. The variety of tests would ensure that customers would experience superior product quality and build.
Getting Runners from Zero to Hero
Garmin places great importance on community – building run communities throughout key Asian cities through Garmin Run Club activities to bring people who love running together.
The Season 3 of the Garmin Run club’s Manila leg started last February and will run until May 2023. Garmin welcomes everyone to join the run club every every Monday and Thursday at 7pm held at Toby’s Sports Bonifacio Global City.
The program is led by three Garmin-accredited Coaches: Precious Que, Jules Aquino, and Jasper Tanhueco. Discover new friends, experience a well-planned running program and run with the Garmin running community!
Run with Garmin and experience their most powerful smarwatches out in the market. The Forerunner 965 retails for Php 37,660.00 while Forerunner 265 is at Php 28,250.00. For more information about Garmin Philippines, visit their website or Facebook page.
Just a day after Lin-Manuel Miranda greeted us with “Kamusta Philippines!” and “What’s up, dude pare?”, Miranda confirmed that the award-winning musical will kick off its first-ever Asian tour in the Philippines.
From its multilayered historical backdrop to the cast’s high-energy dances and the showcase of a wide variety of musical styles, including hip-hop, pop, and jazz — this theatrical sensation is definitely not one to be missed.
If you’re already hyped up like us or a Hamilton first-timer wanting to study up ahead of the experience, Spotify has got you covered. Check out Spotify‘s 72-track ‘Best of Hamilton playlist ‘, which features all of the Hamilton music coexisting in one place, including songs performed by the original Broadway cast. Plus, you can also listen to Playlist Stories featuring Miranda and music supervisor Alex Lacamoire as they share the inspirations behind some of the fan favorites like My Shot, Wait For It, Satisfied, and One Last Time..
Get ready to experience the Hamilton revolution in Manila and feel even luckier to be alive right now!
Have you and your family made any plans for Holy Week? Looking for a way to get away from the city yet still apprehensive to travel? For many Filipinos, Holy Week is an important time for introspection, prayer, and spiritual rejuvenation. It also offers a chance to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This year, treat yourself to a staycation in Metro Manila and enjoy a peaceful staycation during Holy Week and Easter holiday.
We have listed down hotel staycation deals and Easter specials around the metro that are perfect if you plan on relaxing and unwinding for the entire weekend. From discounted rates to exclusive packages, these hotels offer all you need for a memorable holiday weekend. No passport or long drives are required.
The Splendors of Easter at City of Dreams Manila Families can relish the joyous occasion with a fun-filled Easter event at DreamPlay or a splendid Sunday brunch at Nobu Manila and complement their revelry with Eastertime chocolates and delicate pastries and cakes at Café Society. A staycation also beckons with a special welcome Easter amenity. To amp up the season’s celebration, DreamPlay, the world’s first DreamWorks inspired family entertainment center, presents the annual Ultimate Easter Eggstravaganza. This exclusive Easter event for passholders will be held on April 9, 10 AM to 3 PM, and registration starts at 9:30 AM. The facilities will be open to the public from 3 to 8 PM.
Guests availing of a luxurious staycation experience at the three Forbes Travel Guide-rated hotels Nüwa Manila, Nobu Hotel and Hyatt Regency Manila, from Maundy Thursday (April 6) to Easter Sunday (April 9), will be treated to a special welcome gift of Easter meringue lollipops. The Easter welcome amenity is available for bookings made via direct channels and applicable Best Available rates or Rack rates should be booked to avail of the amenity. Terms and conditions apply.
It’s an Easter Funland at Diamond Hotel Book the Easter Staycation Package from April 1-9, 2023 and get ready to have an amazing family staycation. Rate starts at Php7,500 nett for an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room inclusive of one (1) FREE ticket (per room, per stay) to the Easter event on April 9. Stay also includes buffet breakfast for two at Corniche, wifi access, use of the Health Club and Spa, access to the swimming pool, 20% discount at Corniche and 20% discount on massage.
Room packages are applicable to local residents only. Prior reservation is required. Offers may not be availed in conjunction with any other promotions or discounts. For room reservations, call (632) 8528-3000 ext. 1141.
These include a special welcome amenity, daily breakfast for two (2) adults and two (2) kids, Php 2,000 food and beverage credits at Yamazato Restaurant, and access to the fitness center and outdoor swimming pool. The Haru room package price starts at Php 15,000 nett per night. Booking dates are from March 20 to April 10 for the stay period beginning April 1 to 15.
On Easter Sunday, Yawaragi will be serving up delectable delights and special surprises for their bountiful Japanese-inspired Easter celebration. The Easter brunch offerings include robatayaki-grilled yakitori, assorted fresh sashimi, Japanese hot dishes, and signature roast carving. To top off the springtime celebration, children can delight in festive fun with egg painting activities and entertainment. The Easter brunch is available on April 9 from 12 NN to 3 PM for Php 3,700++ per person.
Stay and Play at New World Makati’s Easter Carnival Fun Fair Easter Carnival Fun Fair is set to take place on April 9, 2023, from 9 AM to 12 NN. This exciting event promises to be a highlight of the Easter weekend, featuring a range of activities and attractions that are sure to delight both children and adults alike.
Those who wish to join the egg-citing fair may avail of the hotel’s Stay and Play Package, available for stays from April 1 to 9, 2023. The package, with rates starting from PHP8,500++, comes with a hearty buffet breakfast for 2 adults and 2 kids aged 11 years and below, as well as two tickets to the Easter Carnival Fun Fair.
Egg-chanting Easter Holiday at Novotel Manila Araneta City With the Egg-Chanting Easter Staycation package available from April 7-9, 2023, Novotel Manila will be offering a special Easter experience. With superior room rates starting at PHP7,888 nett, guests can play, unwind, and reap the benefits of the hotel’s special amenities, including breakfast buffet at Food Exchange Manila, a 15% discount at all food and beverage outlets (except in-room dining), and complimentary access to Novotel’s Egg-Chanting Easter Novo-Land event (for 2 people per stay), which will take place on April 9, 2023 at the Monet Grand Ballroom from 1 PM to 5 PM.
Hop on the Easter fun at Novotel Manila Araneta City. For inquiries or table reservations, please call (632) 8990-7888 or email H7090-FB1@accor.com. For more exclusive offers, visit Novotel Boutique or Novotel Website.
It’s a Fun Easter at Rizal Park Hotel Prepare for a fun-filled easter as Rizal Park Hotel once again opens its ballroom doors on April 09 to celebrate a Feaster: A Fun Easter at Rizal Park Hotel. For only P800, kids and kids at heart can enjoy a day of exciting activities other than the usual easter egg hunt.
In addition to the Feaster event, Rizal Park Hotel is also offering a hard to resist room promo. From April 06 to 10 and for only PHP 8,000, enjoy an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room (Queen, King, or Twin) with buffet breakfast for (2) two and a choice of buffet lunch or dinner for (2) two at Café Rizal plus one (1) pass to the Feaster event.
For Feaster tickets, text or call (63 927) 668-7839 / (63 909) 143-1591. For hotel inquiries and reservations, text or call (63 917) 701-3817 / (63 917) 657-1334 or email at reservations@rizalparkhotel.com.
Hop on to the Easter Fun in the City at Shangri-La The Fort Make the most of the Easter holiday and Enjoy panoramic views of the metro with its Hoppy Staycation promotion at PHP 21,000++ or our Egg-citing Luxurious R&R offer at PHP 20,045++. Both offerings include a well-deserved off-the-grid celebration, hearty breakfast at High Street Café the morning after, and complimentary access to Kerry Sports Manila.
Easter Traditions Await at The Peninsula Manila The Peninsula Manila invites guests to celebrate Holy Week, April 5 to 8 and Easter Sunday and Monday on April 9 and 10 with a variety of activities and experiences for the whole family.
Children from one to 12 can join The Peninsula “It’s a Small World” Easter Adventure and Egg Hunt that takes place on Easter Sunday, April 9, from 2:30 pm. to 5:00 pm. A lavish afternoon merienda buffet will be served in Rigodon Ballroom.
This Easter holiday, The Peninsula is turning its hotel rooms into a fun-filled kid’s paradise where they can revel in the fun of a bubble bath, indulge on sweet nibbles, play in the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool, and dine to their little heart’s content on Escolta’s lavish breakfast buffet delectables when their parents book the “It’s Hip to Hop to The Peninsula this Easter” room package.
Rates start at P 14,200 for a Deluxe Room (exclusive of taxes) and includes a breakfast buffet in Escolta for two adults and two children (12 years old and below) and one passport for one child and one adult to The Peninsula “It’s a Small World” Easter Adventure and Egg Hunt on April 9, Easter Sunday. Stay dates are April 6, 7, 8, and 9, 2023
For inquiries or more information on The Peninsula Manila’s Easter Offers, please call The Peninsula Manila at (63 2) 8887-2888 ext. 6630 (Rooms Reservations) or email reservationPMN@peninsula.com
Celebrate the Season with a Holy Week Staycation There is no better time than during Holy Week to unwind, revive, and reaffirm your faith. Take advantage of these fantastic staycation offers in Metro Manila to enjoy the ideal balance of unhurried relaxation and spiritual meditation. Make your reservation right away to enjoy special moments with your loved ones.
Note: This list is subject to change. More Metro Manila hotel promotions will be added when they are announced, so check back often for updates.
Families can relish the joyous occasion with a fun-filled Easter event at DreamPlay or a splendid Sunday brunch at Nobu Manila and complement their revelry with Eastertime chocolates and delicate pastries and cakes at Café Society. A staycation also beckons with a special welcome Easter amenity.
DreamPlay’s Ultimate Easter Eggstravaganza 2023
To amp up the season’s celebration, DreamPlay, the world’s first DreamWorks inspired family entertainment center, presents the annual Ultimate Easter Eggstravaganza. This exclusive Easter event for passholders will be held on April 9, 10 AM to 3 PM, and registration starts at 9:30 AM. The facilities will be open to the public from 3 to 8 PM.
Especially curated for children, the VIP pass (P3,999.) allows participants access to egg-citing activities and 12 attractions, a brunch buffet, and a meet and greet with well-loved DreamWorks characters –Shrek, Princess Fiona, Puss in Boots, Master Ping Xiao Po, Mei Mei, Tigress, King Julien, Alex the Lion and Trolls Poppy and Branch. The activities include chocolate egg hunt at 11 AM; a separate hunt for DreamPlay special eggs to win prizes; magic show with balloon twisting; egg mold coloring; and parade at The Shoppes at the Boulevard.
For parents and guardians accompanying their children, non-participating pass (P1,999.) comes with access to the Easter event, a brunch buffet and meet and greet with DreamWorks characters.
The brunch buffet at Chez Gingy will be open from 11 AM to 2 PM. The kid-friendly Easter event at DreamPlay is open to only 150 VIP and 100 non-participating passholders, for an engaging and immersive experience for. Activities are for ages five years old and above. Children below five years old with a VIP pass must be accompanied by an adult with a VIP pass to participate in the activities. Reservation is ongoing. Terms and conditions apply.
Easter Sunday Brunch at Nobu Manila
Over at Nobu Manila, the restaurant hosts an Easter edition of its popular Sunday brunch that indulges diners into the “Nobu experience” featuring the innovative new-style Japanese cuisine globally popularized by the famed Chef Nobu Matsuhisa and some dishes with local flavors.
The Nobu brunch concept combines an all-you-can-eat dishes in an a la carte menu with a buffet spread of: freshly prepared Nobu sushi, sashimi and maki rolls; a selection of salads; hot dishes; chilled seafood bar; live carving and action station for kushiyaki (grilled skewered meats and vegetables); and a dessert corner with a chocolate fountain, cakes and an ice cream section.
Taking the Nobu Easter dining experience up a notch, the seafood bar offers fresh oysters, blue crabs, shrimps and slipper lobster; The carving station will feature two specialties, roasted whole wagyu beef leg with choice of wasabi mushroom or creamy wasabi sauce, and smoked wagyu beef brisket.
The indulgent Nobu Easter brunch is open from 11:30 AM to 3 PM and price starts at P4, 303. net per person for the Regular package, inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails.
Whimsical Easter treats at Café Society
Until April 9, Café Society will delight chocoholics and the sweet-toothed with a selection of Easter treats and showpieces that are almost too cute to eat. Handcrafted chocolates masterfully prepared by chocolatiers showcase Easter bunny and duck chocolates, oversized chocolate eggs containing eight praline eggs, whimsical egg chocolates with bunnies, and chocolate chicks.
The visually appealing Easter cakes consist of: Carrot Flower; Chocolate Basket with Easter chocolate eggs as toppings; Mango Egg Hunt decorated with fresh slices of mangoes and Easter chocolate eggs; and Chocolate Basket with Easter chocolate eggs and a fanciful bunny with its head burrowed in the cake.
Other equally delightful Easter goodies are comprised of chocolate fudge loaf, white chocolate cranberry loaf, Easter egg sugar cookies, rabbit sugar chocolate cookies and meringue lollipop; and an assortment of pastries: bunny cinnamon twist, chocolate hot cross buns, egg bread, Nutella danish bread and ube bun rolls
A Lenten Staycation at Nuwa Manila, Nobu Hotel, and Hyatt Regency Manila
Guests availing of a luxurious staycation experience at the three Forbes Travel Guide-rated hotels Nüwa Manila, Nobu Hotel and Hyatt Regency Manila, from Maundy Thursday (April 6) to Easter Sunday (April 9), will be treated to a special welcome gift of Easter meringue lollipops. The Easter welcome amenity is available for bookings made via direct channels and applicable Best Available rates or Rack rates should be booked to avail of the amenity. Terms and conditions apply.
Celebrate Easter in style at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, where the city comes alive with a vibrant and bountiful celebration.
Easter Flavours and Treats Get ready to indulge in the egg-citing seasonal menus specially prepared by the culinary team:
– Enjoy your afternoon with High Street Lounge’s Tea o’ Clock offer. The afternoon high tea set includes savoury and sweets good for two and comes with Alexander Easter special cocktail.
– Expore the egg-stra special international buffet at High Street Café from April 7 to April 9, 2023. Your favourite neigbourhood café will be open from breakfast to dinner.
– The flavours of Peru come alive at Samba on April 3 with Semana Santa Easter Specials ala carte menu. – It’s a show of grit and grace in special ala carte menu offers at Raging Bull Chophouse and Bar starting April 3 to April 9, 2023.
– Celebrate with Spring at Canton Road’s special set menu for 5 persons for only PHP 16,888 starting April 3. On top of that Canton Road offers special Catch for the Week ala carte menu.
Don’t forget to visit Bake House booth at the hotel lobby to purchase Shangri-La The Fort’s exclusive Easter treats.
Easter Holiday in the City
Make the most of the Easter holiday and Enjoy panoramic views of the metro with its Hoppy Staycation promotion at PHP 21,000++ or our Egg-citing Luxurious R&R offer at PHP 20,045++. Both offerings include a well-deserved off-the-grid celebration, hearty breakfast at High Street Café the morning after, and complimentary access to Kerry Sports Manila.
