Conrad Manila is delighted to present “Wonderland Reverie”, an indulgent and whimsical dessert buffet at Brasserie on 3, featuring seven curated stations inspired by the timeless Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, reimagined through delectable sweets and savory bites. Running from April 25 to July 31, 2026, this weekend-only dining experience invites guests to journey through fantasy and flavor, crafted for both children and adults to enjoy.
“At Conrad Manila, we always strive to innovate and provide new experiences for our guests,” said Rupert Hallam, general manager of Conrad Manila. “Thoughtfully curated by our award-winning culinary team, we invite everyone to explore the imaginative installations and delight in expertly crafted flavors at the “Wonderland Reverie” in Brasserie on 3.”
Each station at Wonderland Reverie offers a distinct chapter of the experience, brought to life through decadent flavors and enchanting visuals. The dessert buffet is available every Saturday and Sunday from 3:00pm to 5:00pm for PHP 2,500 nett per person, promising an afternoon of indulgence and playful discovery.
Victorian Garden Party
The journey begins on a calm and elegant note at the Victorian Garden Party. Guests are treated to delicate creations such as lemon madeleines with a gentle citrus finish, smooth and delicately balanced vanilla mousse domes, and pocket watch cookies, a charming nod to the White Rabbit and his ever-present sense of time.
Mad Tea Party
At the Mad Tea Party, flavors take an unexpected turn. This station plays with contrast and creativity, featuring dulce pot de crème offering a smooth contrast of sweetness and depth, mango honey cake that seamlessly blends bright fruitiness with a soft, lingering richness in a way that feels delightfully unexpected yet thoughtfully composed, and pistachio sphere, a fitting emblem of the Mad Tea Party itself.
Down the Rabbit Hole
Adventurers can savor a surprising balance of flavors Down the Rabbit Hole. The spread includes miso caramel brownies, an out-of-ordinary mix of sweet and savory, rich and smoky maple bacon cupcakes. At the heart of it all stands a white rabbit-inspired chocolate confection, as guests descend together into Wonderland with every bite.
The Red Queen’s Court
Chocolate takes center stage at The Red Queen’s Court. Highlights include handcrafted pralines, a flowing chocolate fountain, and rose-inspired chocolate creations designed to delight both the palate and the senses. The crowning centerpiece is a striking chocolate creation of the Red Queen’s head.
Frabjous (Savory Interlude)
Before returning to sweeter notes, guests can pause at Frabjous, a savory and tea-inspired interlude with hot and cold selections. Offerings include warm and velvety smoked tomato cappuccino, golden and hearty Frabjous sausage roll, decadent Earl Grey tea cake, fresh and vibrant caterpillar garden roll, and delicate yet rich Red Queen salmon blinis, providing warmth, balance, and a gentle reset for the palate.
Pool of Tears
For those seeking lighter options, the Pool of Tears presents thoughtfully composed desserts such as sugar-free mango cheesecake and mixed berry chia pudding. At this chapter, guests can also try “Drink Me”flavored shooters and “Eat Me” chiffon cakes.
White Queen’s Coronation and The Escape
The experience concludes with The Escape, where warm and familiar flavors await. Guests can enjoy chocolate babka, cromboloni, and a striking doughnut wall, both visually impressive and deeply satisfying.Wonderland Reverie at Brasserie on 3 offers a harmonious blend of whimsy and indulgence, ideal for solo visits or shared moments with loved ones. For more information on Conrad Manila’s latest offerings, please contact (63 2) 8833 9999 or email MNLMB.FB@ConradHotels.com.
National Geographic has unveiled the first-look trailer for the highly anticipated return of its Emmy®-nominated series, Tucci in Italy. Premiering May 12 on Disney+, the new season invites viewers into a more personal and immersive exploration of Italy—where food, history, and identity come together in unforgettable ways.
This time around, Stanley Tucci brings a deeper perspective, blending his signature charm with heartfelt storytelling as he journeys across five remarkable regions: Naples and Campania, Sicily, Le Marche, Sardinia, and Veneto. Each destination reveals a distinct culinary voice, shaped by generations of tradition and cultural influence.
Where Every Dish Tells a Story
“In Italy, food is never just food. It’s memory, identity and, sometimes, a full-blown argument,” said Tucci. “This season, we explore how the past continues to shape the present, one region and one extraordinary meal at a time. I’m so pleased to share these captivating stories and these wonderful people with you.” His words set the tone for a season that goes beyond taste, offering insight into how deeply cuisine is woven into everyday life.
Among the highlights is Le Marche, a coastal region along the Adriatic that remains largely undiscovered by international tourists. Here, Tucci uncovers authentic dishes and time-honored practices that feel both intimate and eye-opening.
In Naples and Campania, he celebrates the revival of a once-forgotten vine grape, while in Veneto, he encounters a spirited debate surrounding the origins of the beloved tiramisu—adding a playful edge to the journey.
Island Stories Rich in Culture and Flavor
The exploration continues with two contrasting island experiences. In Sardinia, Tucci examines the connection between food and longevity, uncovering how simple, nourishing ingredients play a role in the island’s remarkable lifestyle.
Meanwhile, Sicily offers a vibrant culinary mosaic shaped by centuries of cultural exchange. From bold flavors to layered history, every dish reflects the island’s diverse influences.
With each stop, the series delivers striking visuals and meaningful encounters, capturing the essence of Italy in a way that feels both authentic and inspiring.
A Collaborative Production Effort
Tucci in Italy is produced by SALT Productions in partnership with BBC Studios. Stanley Tucci and Lottie Birmingham serve as executive producers for SALT Productions, while Amanda Lyon, Ben Jessop, and Alan Holland represent BBC Studios. For National Geographic, executive production is led by Yari Lorenzo, alongside Bengt Anderson, Charlie Parsons, and Tom McDonald.
Together, this team continues to shape a series that celebrates culture through cuisine, offering viewers a compelling and enriching experience.
Streaming Soon
Blending travel, history, and gastronomy, Tucci in Italy Season 2 promises a compelling return filled with meaningful stories and remarkable flavors.
All episodes will be available to stream starting May 12, exclusively on Disney+.
ASUS today announced the return of the ASUS ProArt laptop series to the Philippines with the launch of the flagship ProArt P16 (H7606), the limited ProArt GoPro Edition (PX13), and the groundbreaking ProArt PX13 (HN7306) convertible. All three ProArt laptops are engineered to redefine the creative workflow through advanced assistive artificial intelligence and professional-grade hardware, designed specifically for the growing community of professional content creators and digital pioneers in the country.
As the Philippines continues to emerge as a global hub for digital arts, filmmaking, and social media content production, creators are increasingly seeking hardware that can keep pace with their ambitious visions. Guided by its “Power Up Your Imagination” philosophy, the ProArt brand bridges the gap between raw inspiration and final production. By integrating cutting-edge AI capabilities into both the hardware and software layers of these devices, ASUS reaffirms its commitment to uncompromising performance, precision, and portability, empowering Filipino creators to focus more on their artistry and less on technical limitations.
PROART P16 (H7606): STUDIO POWER FOR VIDEO, 3D, AND AI CREATION
ProArt P16 (H7606WW) is the ultimate creator laptop designed to empower video professionals both in the studio and on the go. Purpose-built for pro-grade video editing, it supports the 10-bit 4:2:2 color format for fluid multi-track 4K/8K playback, faster exports, and enhanced stability for complex, high-resolution projects. The ASUS Lumina Pro OLED display is tailored for professional creators, delivering stunning color accuracy, vibrant colors, deep contrast, and advanced eye care.
Groundbreaking performance
ProArt P16 makes light work of even the most demanding and resource-intensive professional tasks. Powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX370 processor with 50 TOPS NPU and an advanced vapor chamber thermal design, it guarantees peak sustained performance for demanding 4K/8K footage.
The NPU also handles AI tasks such as transcribing, auto-sequence framing, and scene detection with enhanced efficiency, letting creators focus on storytelling. Meanwhile, 64GB of lightning-fast LPDDR5X memory and 2TB PCIe 4.0 upgradeable SSD slash loading times and rapidly turn projects into masterpieces, whenever and wherever.
Additionally, thanks to the powerful NPU, the ProArt P16 is also a Copilot+ PC. Ready for Window 11 AI integrations that further streamline workflow for creators.
ASUS Lumina Pro OLED display
The ASUS Lumina Pro OLED display on the ProArt P16 delivers sharp, color-accurate visuals with smoother motion and built-in eye care, ideal for creating, editing, and everyday use. It covers 100% DCI-P3 and supports 1.07 billion colors, with Pantone Validated certification and factory-calibrated Delta E < 1 accuracy.
With up to 1,600 nits HDR peak brightness, a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, and VESA DisplayHDR 1000 True Black 1000 and Dolby Vision certifications, it delivers clear HDR detail in varied lighting. A 120Hz refresh rate with VRR and 0.2ms response time keeps playback fluid, while an anti-reflection coating (65% less glare, 3.5x better ambient contrast) plus adaptive adjustments and TÜV Rheinland-certified 70% blue-light reduction support longer creative sessions without compromising visual fidelity.
The ProArt P16 also features the following I/O ports: 2 USB 3.2 Type-C, 2 USB 3.2 Type-A, 1 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack, 1 HDMI 2.1, and 1 SD Express 7.0 card reader.
PROART GOPRO EDITION (PX13): 360° CREATIVITY. BUILT FOR ADVENTURE
Born from a groundbreaking partnership with GoPro, the limited-edition ProArt GoPro Edition (PX13 | HN7306EAC)is a convertible laptop built for creators who shoot and edit in any environment. It features StoryCube with GoPro Player integration and 360° video support, a sleek Black Metal finish, and a matching protective sleeve. Together, these details deliver a portable, smart setup designed to keep fast-moving workflows on track.
GoPro-inspired design and packaging
ProArt GoPro Edition blends GoPro-inspired rugged styling with ProArt refinement, finished in an exclusive Black Metal design with distinctive detailing. A matching protective sleeve completes the kit, keeping it ready for demanding days in the field.
The chassis and sleeve are designed to balance durability with everyday portability, protecting gear in transit without adding bulk. Inspired by GoPro’s design insights, the packaging uses cube-cut cushioning foam that can be customized for cameras, mounts, and accessories. Remove the cubes you don’t need, and the box becomes a reusable storage case that supports the GoPro workflow from day one.
Seamless GoPro workflow with 360 video integration
ProArt GoPro Edition’s 360° hinge adapts to any workspace – with four versatile modes that help creators capture, review, and edit in any setting. The Laptop Mode allows creators to have a classic setup for editing on a proper surface. Tent Mode allows users to present and showcase works in confined spaces while improving airflow. Stand Mode is another option for a friendlier touch-based editing experience. Lastly, with the Tablet Mode,the ProArtGoPro edition becomes a more portable device for on-the-go creativity.
This 2-in-1 laptop also streamlines the capture-to-edit path with StoryCube – the first Windows app with integrated GoPro 360° video support. An exclusive GoPro Hotkey[i] launches GoPro Player in one tap, while StoryCube uses AI recognition to automate cloud sync, sorting, and tagging. It also applies searchable tags and groups footage by content type, reducing the manual steps of importing, renaming, and organizing files. This tight ASUS-and-GoPro integration keeps creators focused on turning the laptop into an efficient creative hub for fast-moving shoots and edits.
The ProArt GoPro Edition PX13 also features the following I/O ports: 2 USB 4.0 Type-C, 1 USB 3.2 Type-A, 1 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack, 1 HDMI 2.1, and 1 Micro SD 3.0 card reader.
PROART PX13 (HN7306): 360° FREEDOM FOR CREATORS ON THE MOVE
ProArt PX13 (HN7306EA) is a versatile 13.3-inch AI-powered convertible, purpose-built to elevate creation wherever ideas take you. Powered by the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor with a 50 TOPS NPU and up to 32GB of unified memory, it makes light work of AI-assisted workflows with fast, responsive performance. Built to push on-device creativity further, it can run optimized 120B-parameter large language models (LLMs) locally.
With ProArt Creator Hub and the AI-powered StoryCube media hub, plus a dedicated Copilot key, military-grade toughness, and a long-lasting battery, ProArt PX13 turns almost any space into a fully equipped creative studio, keeping the focus on imagination and momentum, not hardware limits.
Uncompromised power for creators
ProArt PX13 makes light work of demanding creative and AI-assisted workflows in a compact 13.3-inch convertible. Powered by the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor (16 cores) with pro-grade graphics and 32GB of unified memory, it delivers fast, responsive performance from ideation to final export. A 1TB high-speed SSD, dedicated AI acceleration, and Ambient Cooling that stays under 25 dB keep creation moving smoothly, wherever inspiration strikes.
Versatile convertible for limitless creativity
Weighing just 1.39 kg, the ProArt PX13 is crafted for seamless portability, durability, and adaptability. Its convertible form factor and 360° hinge allow it to be seamlessly flipped between Laptop Mode, Tent Mode, Stand Mode, and Tablet Mode to cope with any scenario. The touchscreen supports the use of a stylus for intuitive, natural input when sketching or taking notes.
The 13.3-inch 3K ASUS Lumina OLED touchscreen delivers a high-fidelity workspace for creators, with a 16:10 aspect ratio that adds vertical space for timelines, grading, and layout. Deep contrast, true blacks, and fine-tuned factory calibration help maintain consistent, accurate visuals across different lighting conditions – so edits look as intended from first pass to final export.
The ProArt PX13 also features the following I/O ports: 2 USB 4.0 Type-C, 1 USB 3.2 Type-A, 1 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack, 1 HDMI 2.1, and 1 Micro SD 3.0 card reader.
STORYCUBE AND MUSETREE: EXCLUSIVE ASUS AI APPS FOR CONTENT CREATORS
ASUS AI apps help streamline the path from inspiration to output, with tools built into the ProArt experience. StoryCube is an AI-powered media hub that brings photos and videos into one place, then automatically sorts, tags, and surfaces key moments so you can find the right clip fast. With smarter organization and quick search, it reduces the busy work that can slow down editing.
MuseTree complements this workflow by helping creators capture ideas, explore directions, and develop concepts visually. Using AI to generate and refine variations from prompts and references, it simplifies iteration across styles, compositions, and storyboards before production begins. Together, StoryCube and MuseTree support an end-to-end workflow that keeps projects organized and creativity flowing.
ASUS DIALPAD: ONE-TOUCH CONTROL FOR FASTER CREATION
Available across ProArt P16, ProArt GoPro Edition (PX13), and ProArt PX13, ASUS DialPad puts key creative controls at your fingertips. With a quick turn, tap, or swipe, you can make precise adjustments without breaking focus, keeping the workflow fluid from rough cut to final polish.
DialPad can be customized to actions such as zooming the canvas, scrubbing timelines, changing brush size, or fine-tuning exposure and audio levels, helping reduce repetitive menu clicks. It’s a simple addition that speeds up editing, grading, and design, especially on tight deadlines or when creating on the move.
AVAILABILITY
The ProArt P16 (H7606), the limited ProArt GoPro Edition (PX13), and the ProArt PX13 (HN7306) will be available at authorized ASUS Concept Stores across the Philippines in the coming weeks. All three ProArt laptops include 3 months of Adobe Creative Cloud Subscription, 6 months access to Capcut,Office 2024 Lifetime License, 1-year access to Microsoft 365 Basic with free 100 GB cloud storage, and the ASUS Quality and Service package, with a 2-year International Warranty and a 1-year Accidental Damage Protection.
For more information on the 2026 ProArt laptop series and other incredible products, visit the official ASUS website and follow ASUS Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
After years of anticipation—finally, the magic returns. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman reprise their beloved roles as the Owens sisters in Practical Magic 2, rekindling the charm and mystery that made the 1998 original a fan favorite. This long-awaited continuation promises a fresh yet nostalgic journey into a world where love, family, and magic intertwine.
At the helm is acclaimed director Susanne Bier (The Night Manager, In a Better World), bringing her signature storytelling style to this whimsical universe. The screenplay, crafted by Georgia Pritchett (Succession, Veep) and Akiva Goldsman (A Beautiful Mind), blends sharp wit with emotional depth, setting the stage for an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Together, this ensemble creates a rich and dynamic story, where generations collide and new secrets begin to unfold.
A Story Cloaked in Mystery and Legacy
Inspired by Alice Hoffman’s novel The Book of Magic, the sequel reopens the door to the Owens family’s enchanted world—one filled with moonlit rituals, hidden truths, and powerful ancestry. This time, however, a darker force emerges. As an ominous curse threatens to tear their family apart, the sisters must confront their past and harness their magic like never before.
Suspense lingers, emotions run high, and just when it seems all hope is lost—magic finds a way.
Catch the Trailer Now
Curiosity sparked? The official trailer offers a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come—mystery, emotion, and a touch of mischief woven into every frame.
Coming Soon to Cinemas
Mark the date—Practical Magic 2 arrives in Philippine cinemas on September 9. Whether revisiting the Owens sisters or discovering their story for the first time, audiences can expect a mesmerizing and heartwarming return to a truly magical world. Distributed locally by Warner Bros. Pictures.
Gliding across the floor with effortless style, Niana Guerrero brings her love for dance into the spotlight once more—this time, in celebration of Michael, the much-anticipated film about one of music’s most iconic figures.
For Niana, the connection runs deep. “Michael has always inspired me to move,” she shares, reflecting on her early years spent practicing routines to his unforgettable hits. From quick spins to smooth moonwalks, her tribute feels both personal and electric—like a full-circle moment unfolding in real time.
From YouTube Beginnings to TikTok Stardom
Long before becoming a household name, Niana was already making waves online. Teaming up with her brother Ranz Kyle, she captured audiences on YouTube with energetic dance videos and fun-filled family content. Fast forward to today, she stands as the most-followed TikTok creator in the Philippines—an impressive milestone that highlights her global appeal.
With millions watching her every move, Niana continues to inspire a new generation of dancers, all while honoring the artist who first sparked her passion.
Want a glimpse of her tribute? Catch Niana’s moves on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok—and feel the rhythm come alive.
“Michael”: A Story That Moves Generations
Shifting from viral screens to the big screen, Michael promises a captivating portrayal of an extraordinary life. At the heart of the film is Jaafar Jackson, the King of Pop’s real-life nephew, stepping into the role with authenticity and intensity.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua—known for acclaimed films like Training Day and The Equalizer series—the movie blends storytelling with spectacle. Audiences can expect never-before-seen moments, breathtaking performances, and a closer look at the creative process behind some of the world’s most beloved music.
Brimming with rhythm, emotion, and legacy, Michael is set to deliver an unforgettable cinematic event. With Niana Guerrero amplifying the excitement through her heartfelt tribute, anticipation continues to build.
Mark the date—Michael arrives in Philippine cinemas on April 22. Get ready to feel every beat.
Internet dance star Niana Guerrero moonwalks and shows off her moves as she celebrates the upcoming film Michael, which tells the story of one of the biggest names in music history. “Michael has always inspired me to move,” Niana says, growing up training and dancing to the performer’s hit songs.
Niana has the highest following of any creator in Tiktok in the Philippines, with fans tuning in to her incredible dance videos. She’s had an early start, rising to fame in YouTube dancing with her sibling Ranz Kyle, and vlogging with her other family members.
Michael Jackson’s incredible life unfolds as his nephew Jaafar Jackson steps into his shoes in Michael. The film will feature moments of Michael’s life as never seen before, as well as his most iconic shows and the making of his hit music videos. Michael is directed by Antoine Fuqua, the award-winning director of Training Day and The Equalizer franchise. The also stars Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Juliano Krue Valdi, Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo.
Following the announcement of Morissette as Middle Allie in its upcoming international premiere of The Notebook: The Musical, TGA now unveils two exciting additions to the cast: rising theatre and screen talents Benedix Ramos as Young Noah and Sheena Belarmino as Young Allie.
Joining a production that reimagines Nicholas Sparks’ beloved story across different stages of life, Ramos and Belarmino will bring to life the formative years of Noah and Allie, the chapter of first love marked by intensity, innocence, and defiance.
Ramos is an actor, singer-songwriter, and host whose growing body of work across television, film, and theatre has established him as one of the most promising young performers of his generation. He first gained national recognition through Pinoy Big Brother Kumunity Season 10: Celebrity Edition and has since built a diverse portfolio spanning screen and stage. His theatre credits include Tabing Ilog: The Musical, Next to Normal, and Bar Boys: The Musical, where his performance earned him a Gawad Buhay nomination for Best Male Lead in a Musical. He was also recognized with the Emerging Talent Award by the Manila Society of Theater Reviewers, further cementing his reputation as a dynamic and versatile performer. As Young Noah, Ramos brings both emotional depth and a contemporary sensibility to the role, shaping the character’s early journey with nuance and sincerity.
Meanwhile, Sheena Belarmino brings a compelling blend of vocal power and stage presence to the role of Young Allie. A singer, dancer, actress, and host, Belarmino began her career in major reality competitions before becoming a regular performer on ASAP. She has steadily built her theatre credentials with roles in One More Chance: The Musical, Tabing Ilog: The Musical, Next to Normal, and Bar Boys: The Musical, most recently taking on Wendla Bergmann in Spring Awakening. Her performance in One More Chance earned her a Gawad Buhay nomination for Outstanding Female Featured Performance in a Musical. With her strong emotional instincts and musicality, Belarmino is set to embody Young Allie’s spirited nature with authenticity and depth.
Together with Morissette Amon as Middle Allie, the casting reflects TGA’s commitment to assembling a multi-generational ensemble capable of capturing the sweeping emotional scope of The Notebook: The Musical. Featuring music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson and a Tony Award winning book by Bekah Brunstetter, the musical is celebrated for its intimate storytelling and its portrayal of love as it evolves through youth, adulthood, and old age.
In just a matter of days, Perfect Crown has proven it’s more than just another romantic comedy—it’s a global phenomenon.
Disney+ recently confirmed that the series has become the most-watched Korean series premiere worldwide, based on its first five days of streaming. The achievement highlights the growing international appetite for Korean content and solidifies the show’s status as a standout hit.
Where Strategy Meets Unexpected Love
Premiering on April 10, Perfect Crown introduces viewers to a world of royal expectations, corporate ambition, and unpredictable romance.
The story centers on Grand Prince I-AN, a well-loved royal who suddenly finds himself entangled in an intense family power struggle. With mounting pressure to settle down, he enters a calculated marriage arrangement with Huiju, a sharp and composed heiress to a powerful Korean conglomerate.
What starts as a mutually beneficial plan soon becomes complicated. Emotions surface, intentions blur, and their carefully structured agreement begins to shift in surprising—and often entertaining—ways.
Top-Tier Cast and Creative Team
Fueling the series’ success is a dynamic cast paired with an accomplished creative team.
IU (When Life Gives You Tangerines, My Mister) delivers a compelling performance as Huiju, blending strength and vulnerability with ease. Opposite her, Byeon Wooseok (Lovely Runner, Strong Girl Nam-soon) brings depth and charm to the role of Grand Prince I-AN.
The series is directed by Park Joonhwa (Alchemy of Souls, What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim), while Yoo Jiwon crafts the screenplay, resulting in a polished and emotionally engaging narrative.
Streaming Schedule You Shouldn’t Miss
Fans can already watch the first two episodes of Perfect Crown on Disney+, with new episodes released every Friday and Saturday at 10:20 PM (Philippine Time).
The series will continue its run until the finale airs on May 16, giving viewers plenty to anticipate each week.
More Korean Content to Watch Out For
Perfect Crown is just one of many exciting Korean titles lined up on Disney+.
Viewers can also look forward to:
A Shop For Killers Season 2
Made In Korea Season 2
Portraits of Delusion (working title), starring Suzy and Kim Seonho
The Remarried Empress, featuring Shin Mina, Ju Jihoon, Lee Jongsuk, and Lee Seyoung
Alongside these upcoming releases, a rich library of binge-worthy APAC content is already available on the platform.
Join the Global Craze
With its mix of romance, humor, and palace intrigue, Perfect Crown continues to win over audiences across the globe.
Stream Perfect Crown now on Disney+ and see why everyone’s talking about this captivating series.
The 18th Philippine Food Expo (PFE) 2026 officially opens from 17–19 April 2026 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, running daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, bringing together the country’s leading food, beverage, agriculture, and export industry stakeholders in one landmark trade event.
Organized by PHILFOODEX Inc., PFE 2026 continues its legacy as the Philippines’ premier all-Filipino food trade exhibition—now expanding further with a stronger international presence and broader industry participation.
The Opening Ceremonies began with the Department of Agriculture Ribbon Cutting Ceremony leading up to the official opening program of the 18th edition of The Philippine Food Expo led by distinguished government and industry leaders, namely:
Hon. Ma. Cristina A. Roque, Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry;
Usec. Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero, Undersecretary of the Department of Agriculture – High Value Crops Development Program;
Usec. Verna C. Buensuceso, Officer-in-Charge of the Department of Tourism;
Ms. Angelica Roa-Yu, Executive Assistant for Social Services, representative of Hon. Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, City Mayor of Pasay;
Mr. Junibert E. De Sagun, Director of Department of Agriculture, Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Services
Rev. Fr. Ferdinand L. Bautista, Regent of the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management, University of Santo Tomas
Dr. William S. Co, Chairman of PHILEXPORT;
Mr. Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis, Jr., President of PHILEXPORT;
Mr. Ruben L. See, President of PHILFOODEX;
Mr. William Tiu Lim, Chairman of PHILFOODEX;
Mr. Fernando R. Esguerra, Mr. Anton L. Sayo, Ms. Mayose Gozon-Bautista, and Mr. Roberto Angelo O. Amores II, Directors of PHILFOODEX.
The ceremony was further supported by foreign ambassadors, consuls, PHILEXPORT trustees, and industry association partners, reflecting the event’s growing international and institutional significance.
Following the formal program, PFE 2026 featured remarks from PHILFOODEX officials and keynote messages emphasizing the continued growth of the Philippine food industry and its expanding role in global trade.
A key highlight of this year’s expo is the Culinary Challenge, where aspiring chefs and culinary students compete in a dynamic showcase of skill, creativity, and innovation. The competition celebrates Filipino culinary excellence while highlighting regional flavors and emerging talent within the industry.
PFE 2026 also introduces a broadened exhibition floor, featuring the traditional strengths of Philippine food manufacturing alongside a newly expanded International Pavilion with partners from Malaysia and India, strengthening cross-border trade opportunities and export development.
The event further features dedicated Exporter, Retailer, and Equipment Zones, designed to enhance sourcing opportunities, facilitate trade discussions, and support business expansion across multiple sectors.
Adding to the experience are live culinary demonstrations and stage showcases led by renowned chefs including Chef Gerick Manalo, Chef Emily Peralta, Chef JM Sunglao, Chef Chris Carangian, and other respected culinary figures who will present innovation and craftsmanship throughout the three-day event.
More than an exhibition, PFE 2026 serves as a strategic platform for business growth, international collaboration, and culinary excellence—continuing its mission of elevating Filipino flavors to the global stage under the theme “Feast of Philippine Flavors to the World.”
For more updates and event details, find them on the official social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok @philfoodexpo.
Tanghalang Ateneo’s Emilia would have been a perfect fit for Women’s Month. The play is a translation of Morgan Lloyd Malcolm’s work of the same title, telling the story of the poet Emilia Bassano Lanier, who is suspected to be William Shakespeare’s “Dark Lady” in his sonnets. In 17th-century England, women were expected to serve their husband or the men in their lives, but Emilia was a writer and a poet who wanted her voice to be heard. Consequently, the patriarchy erased her story from history.
Translated by the TA Dramatist Collective’s Gab Mactal, Keith Bernas, and Meeka Sayaboc—with dramaturgy by Regina Manalo, Petes Castillo, Joyce Ann San Buenaventura, Thandie Alino, and PM Oliveros—the text is a vital adaptation. By utilizing deep Tagalog for the English aristocracy and modern Filipino slang for the common folk, the translation brilliantly bridges the social class divide and connects it to the Filipino lived experience. Through the impeccable direction of Sarah Facuri, the play manages to retain Emilia Bassano Lanier’s historical narrative while grounding it in real-world, modern Filipino class struggle. The effect is electric.
EMILIA | PHOTO CREDIT: MAY CELESTE
The story follows Emilia as she narrates her own life and the erasure of her legacy from the history books. As a young woman of the courts, she refuses to play the game in search of a husband, preferring instead to write poetry much to the displeasure of those around her. She eventually finds a suitor in Lord Henry Carey, who takes her in as his mistress. Through his support, she is able to be free of the shackles of society’s low measure of a woman and allows her to engage in her literary proclivities.
EMILIA | PHOTO CREDIT: MAY CELESTE
It is during this time that she captures the eye of William Shakespeare, her intellectual and literary arts match. They fall in love, but Shakespeare begins to use her in his works and writing about her. She also becomes a subversive, writing for women to empower them but is eventually betrayed. Stripped of her patron and her status, she finds refuge among a community of common folk women. She dedicated herself to teaching and empowering them until the weight of the patriarchy once again intervenes to silence her.
EMILIA | PHOTO CREDIT: MAY CELESTE
Facuri, who also designed the movement and the set, keeps the pace running quickly, there is never a dull moment in the play’s two-and-a-half-hour runtime (which includes a fifteen-minute intermission). Her blocking is superb, utilizing the full power of the ensemble to amplify every scene when needed and then empties it out for a dramatic duet to find its intimacy.
EMILIA | PHOTO CREDIT: MAY CELESTE
Like a conductor leading a symphony, Facuri orchestrates her performers to shift from drama to comedy effortlessly. This tonal shifts never break the play’s rhythm, instead, they surprise the audience without ever feeling jarring. In one standout scene, the play transitions into a musical number and it happens at just the right time that it doesn’t feel like it doesn’t belong, particularly as the song’s arrangement has a touch of the modern edge in its arrangement.
EMILIA | PHOTO CREDIT: MAY CELESTE
And what a cast she has assembled. Much like how, in Shakespeare’s time, where all the roles were originally performed by men – even the women parts – this production of Emilia features an all-female cast, including the male characters. Since the play serves as a direct attack on the patriarchy, the actors playing the male parts perform their roles as parodies of various types of toxic masculinity. The effect is both breathtaking and oftentimes funny. The intent feels as if to ridicule, and it reads right with the audience.
EMILIA | PHOTO CREDIT: MAY CELESTE
While the entire ensemble is great, I have to commend the three actresses playing Emilia: Chloe Abella, Francesca Dela Cruz, and Maliana Beran – who play Emilia at the courts, Emilia as a young woman, and Emilia as an older woman, respectively. The trope of the child, the mother, and the crone in full view. As one Emilia plays the scene, the other two watch, sometimes commenting. They are witness to their own rise and fall. Each actress commands the stage and filled it with their presence.
The other standout in this extremely powerhouse cast is Joy Delos Santos, who doubles as Lord Henry Carey and Thomas Howard. As Carey, she is respectful, warm, and nurturing. He’d be the only decent man in the play if he wasn’t cheating on his wife. On the other side of the spectrum, Delos Santos’s Thomas Howard, the man who eventually persecutes Emilia for immorality, is the perfect English fop – effete, cowardly, and full of hot air. Through the Filipino translation, this character takes the form of either the evil Spanish friars in our colonial history or the soft aristocrat, almost feminine, hiding his weakness with his power and his gender.
EMILIA | PHOTO CREDIT: MAY CELESTE
The costumes by Hershee Tantiado are exquisite, a deconstruction of 17th-century style that allows the translation to harken back to that era while remaining “broken” enough to operate on a figurative level, like the modern Filipino sensibilities that seep into the play. The lighting design of Jethro Nibaten allows for the play to shift from the dramatic to the comic seamlessly while highlighting what needs to be seen and amplifying the emotions that are already there.
EMILIA | PHOTO CREDIT: MAY CELESTE
I cannot talk enough about how this production moved me; I haven’t stopped thinking about it since I watched it on its opening night. It is brash, daring, and bold, without sacrificing craft and nuance. Emilia is an incendiary piece of play that is a call to action for all women to reclaim their voices, the one that has been taken away – and continuously so – by the patriarchy. The final chant, with the ensemble speaking as one voice, sent shivers down my spine. Tanghalang Ateneo’s production of Emilia is one of the best shows I have ever seen.
My Rating: 5 Stars
Don’t let this story be erased again. Experience the raw, electric power of Tanghalang Ateneo’s Emilia before it closes. The production runs until April 26 at the Rizal Mini Theater, Ateneo de Manila University. Secure your seats now and witness what is easily one of the most vital shows of the season.
