Whether it’s for special occasion or just a normal evening at home, you can never go wrong with grazing boxes. What’s great about this spread is there’s an assortment of cheese and charcuterie that will tickle your taste buds. Sure, you can make a platter at home to customize everything to your liking but if you don’t have the time and energy to do so, there are a handful of shops in Manila that will gladly take this off your back!
They use a variety of good quality ingredients that are beautifully prepared in boxes or trays, and you can even give them special requests. So, if you’re planning to stay in by yourself, celebrate something special with your S.O, or looking to have a great time with your amigas, check out these shops that offer a great pair for your favorite bottle of wine:
Max’s Restaurant, the iconic Filipino restaurant chain famous for its Sarap-to-the-Bones® Fried Chicken is celebrating the month of love with sweet deals for all loved ones. Whether to show appreciation to friends, co-workers, family, or a romantic partner, these treats can make anyone’s day.
Leading up to the upcoming Valentine’s Day, Max’s is offering a special Bound for Love bundle composed of various Max’s favorites plus a special cake to match the occasion. For each set, customers get a Red Velvet Mini Cake from Max’s Corner Bakery. The brand brings back this sumptuous cake with an alluring new design for a limited time only. Indulge in this moist red velvet cake slathered with a rich cream cheese frosting and topped with a hand-crafted heart garnish sculpted out of premium dark chocolate. Capping off Max’s meals with this decadent dessert will surely be a delight.
With every set order perfect for two, guests can enjoy the following:
Bound for Love Bundle 1 (Price starts at P1,269 for dine-in. Save P365):
Half Chicken
Flavored Rice (Medium)
Lumpiang Shanghai
2 pcs. 350ml Beverages
5-inch Red Velvet Mini Cake
Bound for Love Bundle 2 (Price starts at P1479 for dine-in. Save P425):
Half Chicken
Lumpiang Shanghai
Sinigang na Tiyan ng Bangus
Plain Rice (Medium)
2 Sides Dishes (Eggplant Tofu and Corn Sisig)
2 pcs. 350ml Beverages
5-inch Red Velvet Mini Cake
Customers may also purchase the cake separately for only P399 for dine-in. Those who order in advance from Feb 5 to 11 for delivery on Feb 12-14 will get a free Buko Pandan Tub for extra sweetness, so it’s better to plan early for the celebration. The bundles can be ordered for dine-in, take-out, and delivery until February 28 only. The Red Velvet Mini Cake is available in Luzon stores except Naga and Palawan. Orders can also be made through delivery.maxchicken.com or 888-79000.
For more information, visit the official Facebook page at @MaxsRestaurant and use the hashtag #EveryKindOfLoveEveryDayToTheMax
Get ready to take an exciting trip with the most talented bunch in Sing 2, the much-awaited new cinematic chapter from 2016’s instant hit that introduced the world to endearing and unforgettable characters with big heart and dreams.
Voiced by a stellar cast led by Matthew McConaughey along with Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson, Taron Egerton, Tori Kelly, Nick Kroll, Bobby Cannavale, Pharrell Williams and Bono, Sing 2 follows the gang’s new journey of self-discovery as they go beyond their comfort zones. What begins as a dream of big-time success becomes an emotional reminder of the power of music to heal.
Illumination’s animated franchise, Sing 2 arrives with big dreams and hit songs as the ever-optimistic Buster Moon (McConaughey) and his cast of performers prepare to launch their most dazzling stage extravaganza yet …all in the glittering entertainment capital of the world. There’s just one hitch: They first have to persuade the world’s most reclusive rock star—played by Academy Award® nominee and global music icon BONO, in his animated film debut—to join them. Buster has turned the New Moon Theater into a local hit, but Buster has his eyes on a bigger prize: Debuting a new show at the Crystal Tower Theater in glamorous Redshore City.
But with no connections, Buster and his cast—including harried mother Rosita (Reese Witherspoon), rocker Ash (Scarlett Johansson), earnest Johnny (Taron Egerton), shy Meena (Tori Kelly) and, of course, provocateur Gunter (Nick Kroll)—have to sneak their way into the world-famous Crystal Entertainment offices, run by ruthless mogul Jimmy Crystal (Bobby Cannavale).
In a desperate attempt to get Mr. Crystal’s attention, Gunter pitches an outrageous idea that Buster quickly runs with, promising that their new show will star rock legend Clay Calloway (BONO). Problem is, Buster has never met Clay, an artist who shut himself away from the world more than a decade ago after the loss of his wife. Even worse, Buster has failed to realize that Mr. Crystal is an egocentric gangster who would rather drop somebody off the roof of a building than be lied to.
As Gunter helps Buster dream up an out-of-this-world theatrical masterpiece, and the pressure (and sinister threats) from Mr. Crystal mount, Rosita’s leading role in the show gets ripped away and handed to Mr. Crystal’s spoiled daughter, Porsha, played by Grammy-nominated artist Halsey. Desperate to save the show, and his life, Buster embarks on a quest to find Clay and persuade him to return to the stage.
A Universal Pictures International release, Sing 2 will hit Philippine cinemas on February 23.
Google, together with Filipino folk pop band Ben&Ben launches a new song to promote internet safety and digital responsibility. Entitled “Mag-Ingat” (Be Safe Online), the song is part of Google’s commitment to helping Filipinos use the internet safely and responsibly.
The two-and-a-half minute Filipino song addresses online threats today including scams, misinformation, and catfishing, and the importance of critical thinking and verifying information using trusted sources to protect oneself and others. It also reminds netizens to be wary of bad actors who lurk in the online space, just like in the real world.
This newest single from the young band ends strongly with a bridge conveying that online safety is a shared responsibility–people are all stewards of the digital world. It’s all in the hands of netizens to use the internet right and care for the online safety of one another.
The catchy and lively tune was written and performed by Ben&Ben, the Philippines’ #1 local artist of 2021. The award-winning nine-piece act is known for mixing Filipino folk music with pop to create songs about hope, love, and positivity.
WATCH:
“Filipinos are highly social people and most of us interact with one another digitally. In such a world, it’s no wonder that while the internet brings so many advantages, it also opens us up to many dangers if we are not careful enough. With ‘Mag-ingat,’ we wanted to use our music to spread awareness on such a timely and important issue–because all of us are responsible for making sure that the internet is a safe and positive space for everyone,” said Miguel Benjamin of Ben&Ben.
“Internet safety is so important to Google. Beyond tools, products, and policies that enable us to help people stay safe online, we deepen our local partnerships to promote digital responsibility. By partnering with Ben&Ben and through their music, we believe that we can teach internet safety to more people in a way that deeply resonates with and becomes part of their everyday lives,” said Mervin Wenke, Head of Communications and Public Affairs, Google Philippines.
Google’s holistic approach to digital responsibility is helping millions of people to stay safe in the online space. Aside from security measures including the two-step verification process, and security and password checkups, it also introduced programs such as Be Internet Awesome with the Department of Education, and supported NGO campaigns like the Cyberpeace initiative of Teach Peace Build Peace Movement.
“We thank Google for being a steadfast partner in promoting and upholding the digital safety of Filipinos, and Ben&Ben for creating an anthem that will remind every Filipino who listens to it to ‘mag-ingat’ and take steps into becoming responsible netizens,” said Atty. John Henry Naga, National Privacy Commissioner.
The “Mag-ingat” music video is already available on Ben&Ben’s official YouTube channel. “Mag-ingat” is also available on all digital music services worldwide.
As much as people hate to admit it, they actually love receiving flowers. May it be for a special occasion (like the upcoming Valentine’s Day) or just an ordinary day, receiving one will surely make anyone’s day a little bit better. If you’re already a bit pressured on what to get your S.O., choose from a romantic bundle of roses or a well-arranged bouquet from these talented florists:
They specialize in fresh and dried floral arrangements, handiworks, and decorative pieces for your spaces and celebrations. If you want to be less traditional, they even offer a money bouquet! Who doesn’t want to receive a money bouquet?!
For orders, message them on Instagram or call at 09175928460.
For the entire month of February, Bloomingails have come up with a Valentine’s Collection with over 20 arrangements to choose from. It starts with a budget-friendly P2,200 bouquet and the grandest one at P17,640! If you’re pressed for time, they offer same-day delivery as long as you order before 12nn!
Your loved ones only deserve the best! Choose from a beautiful selection of Signature Bouquets, Bloom Balloon Box, Inifinity, and Bloom Box. They use different fresh flowers to make each arrangement unique and lush.
For orders, visit their Instagram. View their Valentine’s Day catalog here.
If you want to gift exquisite flowers while also supporting local growers, check out Dalagang Bukid. And since their flowers are locally sourced, they’re very affordable too! Their Valentine’s Day arrangements range from P999 to P7,999 only.
For 2022, they’re focusing on their newest offering — Preserved Bouquets and Elegant Terrariums. Proven to stand the test of time, these arrangements do not easily wilt nor lose their scent quickly. Perfect to make Valentine’s memories that last!
Experience an elevated floral experience with Te Amo. For Valentine’s Day, choose from their fresh or preserved flower collection. They have sunflowers, roses, tulips, and more.
Another year, another Oscars! This year’s nominees for the revered Academy Awards have just been announced via the Oscars’ digital platforms with Leslie Jordan and Tracee Ellis Ross hosting the event. If you’re ready to place your bets on which films, actors, and filmmakers will be bringing home the trophies, we’ve got you covered! Here’s the full list of nominees for the 94th Academy Awards:
Performance by an actor in a leading role
Javier Bardem in “Being the Ricardos”
Benedict Cumberbatch in “The Power of the Dog”
Andrew Garfield in “tick, tick…BOOM!”
Will Smith in “King Richard”
Denzel Washington in “The Tragedy of Macbeth”
Performance by an actress in a leading role
Jessica Chastain in “The Eyes of Tammy Faye”
Olivia Colman in “The Lost Daughter”
Penélope Cruz in “Parallel Mothers”
Nicole Kidman in “Being the Ricardos”
Kristen Stewart in “Spencer”
Achievement in directing
Belfast – Kenneth Branagh
Drive My Car – Ryusuke Hamaguchi
Licorice Pizza – Paul Thomas Anderson
The Power of the Dog – Jane Campion
West Side Story – Steven Spielberg
Best motion picture of the year
“Belfast” – Laura Berwick, Kenneth Branagh, Becca Kovacik and Tamar Thomas, Producers
“CODA” – Philippe Rousselet, Fabrice Gianfermi and Patrick Wachsberger, Producers
“Don’t Look Up” – Adam McKay and Kevin Messick, Producers
“Drive My Car” – Teruhisa Yamamoto, Producer
“Dune” – Mary Parent, Denis Villeneuve and Cale Boyter, Producers
“King Richard” – Tim White, Trevor White and Will Smith, Producers
“Licorice Pizza” – Sara Murphy, Adam Somner and Paul Thomas Anderson, Producers
“Nightmare Alley” – Guillermo del Toro, J. Miles Dale and Bradley Cooper, Producers
“The Power of the Dog” – Jane Campion, Tanya Seghatchian, Emile Sherman, Iain Canning and Roger Frappier, Producers
“West Side Story” – Steven Spielberg and Kristie Macosko Krieger, Producers
Performance by an actor in a supporting role
Ciarán Hinds in “Belfast”
Troy Kotsur in “CODA”
Jesse Plemons in “The Power of the Dog”
J.K. Simmons in “Being the Ricardos”
Kodi Smit-McPhee in “The Power of the Dog”
Performance by an actress in a supporting role
Jessie Buckley in “The Lost Daughter”
Ariana DeBose in “West Side Story”
Judi Dench in “Belfast”
Kirsten Dunst in “The Power of the Dog”
Aunjanue Ellis in “King Richard”
Best animated feature film of the year
Encanto – Jared Bush, Byron Howard, Yvett Merino and Clark Spencer
Flee – Jonas Poher Rasmussen, Monica Hellström, Signe Byrge Sørensen and Charlotte De La Gournerie
Luca – Enrico Casarosa and Andrea Warren
The Mitchells vs. the Machines – Mike Rianda, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller and Kurt Albrecht
Raya and the Last Dragon – Don Hall, Carlos López Estrada, Osnat Shurer and Peter Del Vecho
Achievement in cinematography
Dune – Greig Fraser
Nightmare Alley – Dan Laustsen
The Power of the Dog – Ari Wegner
The Tragedy of Macbeth – Bruno Delbonnel
West Side Story – Janusz Kaminski
Achievement in costume design
Cruella – Jenny Beavan
Cyrano – Massimo Cantini Parrini and Jacqueline Durran
Dune – Jacqueline West and Robert Morgan
Nightmare Alley – Luis Sequeira
West Side Story – Paul Tazewell
Best documentary feature
Ascension – Jessica Kingdon, Kira Simon-Kennedy and Nathan Truesdell
Attica – Stanley Nelson and Traci A. Curry
Flee – Jonas Poher Rasmussen, Monica Hellström, Signe Byrge Sørensen and Charlotte De La Gournerie
Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) – Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, Joseph Patel, Robert Fyvolent and David Dinerstein
Writing with Fire – Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh
Best documentary short subject
Audible – Matt Ogens and Geoff McLean
Lead Me Home – Pedro Kos and Jon Shenk
The Queen of Basketball – Ben Proudfoot
Three Songs for Benazir – Elizabeth Mirzaei and Gulistan Mirzaei
When We Were Bullies – Jay Rosenblatt
Achievement in film editing
Don’t Look Up – Hank Corwin
Dune – Joe Walker
King Richard – Pamela Martin
The Power of the Dog – Peter Sciberras
tick, tick…BOOM! – Myron Kerstein and Andrew Weisblum
Best international feature film of the year
Drive My Car – Japan
Flee – Denmark
The Hand of God – Italy
Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom – Bhutan
The Worst Person in the World – Norway
Achievement in makeup and hairstyling
Coming 2 America – Mike Marino, Stacey Morris and Carla Farmer
Cruella – Nadia Stacey, Naomi Donne and Julia Vernon
Dune – Donald Mowat, Love Larson and Eva von Bahr
The Eyes of Tammy Faye – Linda Dowds, Stephanie Ingram and Justin Raleigh
House of Gucci – Göran Lundström, Anna Carin Lock and Frederic Aspiras
Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)
Don’t Look Up – Nicholas Britell
Dune – Hans Zimmer
Encanto – Germaine Franco
Parallel Mothers – Alberto Iglesias
The Power of the Dog – Jonny Greenwood
Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original song)
“Be Alive” from “King Richard” – Music and Lyric by DIXSON and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter
“Dos Oruguitas” from “Encanto” – Music and Lyric by Lin-Manuel Miranda
“Down To Joy” from “Belfast” – Music and Lyric by Van Morrison
“No Time To Die” from “No Time to Die” – Music and Lyric by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell
“Somehow You Do” from “Four Good Days” – Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
Achievement in production design
“Dune” Production Design: Patrice Vermette; Set Decoration: Zsuzsanna Sipos
“Nightmare Alley” Production Design: Tamara Deverell; Set Decoration: Shane Vieau
“The Power of the Dog” Production Design: Grant Major; Set Decoration: Amber Richards
“The Tragedy of Macbeth” Production Design: Stefan Dechant; Set Decoration: Nancy Haigh
“West Side Story” Production Design: Adam Stockhausen; Set Decoration: Rena DeAngelo
Best animated short film
Affairs of the Art – Joanna Quinn and Les Mills
Bestia – Hugo Covarrubias and Tevo Díaz
Boxballet – Anton Dyakov
Robin Robin – Dan Ojari and Mikey Please
The Windshield Wiper – Alberto Mielgo and Leo Sanchez
Best live-action short film
Ala Kachuu – Take and Run – Maria Brendle and Nadine Lüchinger
The Dress – Tadeusz Łysiak and Maciej Ślesicki
The Long Goodbye – Aneil Karia and Riz Ahmed
On My Mind – Martin Strange-Hansen and Kim Magnusson
Please Hold – K.D. Dávila and Levin Menekse
Achievement in sound
Belfast – Denise Yarde, Simon Chase, James Mather and Niv Adiri
Dune – Mac Ruth, Mark Mangini, Theo Green, Doug Hemphill and Ron Bartlett
No Time to Die – Simon Hayes, Oliver Tarney, James Harrison, Paul Massey and Mark Taylor
The Power of the Dog – Richard Flynn, Robert Mackenzie and Tara Webb
West Side Story – Tod A. Maitland, Gary Rydstrom, Brian Chumney, Andy Nelson and Shawn Murphy
Achievement in visual effects
Dune – Paul Lambert, Tristan Myles, Brian Connor and Gerd Nefzer
Free Guy – Swen Gillberg, Bryan Grill, Nikos Kalaitzidis and Dan Sudick
No Time to Die – Charlie Noble, Joel Green, Jonathan Fawkner and Chris Corbould
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings – Christopher Townsend, Joe Farrell, Sean Noel Walker and Dan Oliver
Spider-Man: No Way Home – Kelly Port, Chris Waegner, Scott Edelstein and Dan Sudick
Adapted screenplay
CODA – Screenplay by Siân Heder
Drive My Car – Screenplay by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, Takamasa Oe
Dune – Screenplay by Jon Spaihts and Denis Villeneuve and Eric Roth
The Lost Daughter – Written by Maggie Gyllenhaal
The Power of the Dog – Written by Jane Campion
Original screenplay
Belfast – Written by Kenneth Branagh
Don’t Look Up – Screenplay by Adam McKay; Story by Adam McKay & David Sirota
King Richard – Written by Zach Baylin
Licorice Pizza – Written by Paul Thomas Anderson
The Worst Person in the World – Written by Eskil Vogt, Joachim Trier
Four restaurants that started on foodpanda in 2020 share stories of their significant growth since signing up as vendors on the platform.
Sweettea, a milk tea shop founded by Charlene Francisco Sy and her husband in 2019, has expanded from 1 to 18 stores in a span of 2 years, thanks in part to its success in foodpanda.
“We are one of the few stores that are open at that time and we are overwhelmed with orders from foodpanda. They helped us grow the business in such a short period of time,” says Charlene, who juggles her roles as business owner and IT consultant.
Apart from the visibility, she also likes that the foodpanda merchant app helps her see crucial data that enables her to decide and to properly manage her business. The brand is also supportive in executing her marketing strategies, she says. She plans to grow together with foodpanda and have a “Sweettea in every city”.
Bigg’s Diner was founded by Carlo Beunflor’s mother and partners in 1983 in Bicol to answer the need of their kababayans for Western food. Armed with a strong vision, despite personal setbacks, the partners took out a bank loan to get started, and here they are now. 38 years later, Carlo leads the company’s tenured employees while training staff to “support them” and “give them all the resources” needed in achieving their goals.
After signing with foodpanda in 2020, Carlo felt the brand was able to address issues and challenges they’ve been facing as a company in a “swift” and “outright” manner.
“Our partnership with foodpanda augmented our sales significantly during the pandemic,” says Carlo. “Eventually, we would like to have a significant presence in bigger cities such as Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao but our brand strongly appeals to smaller provincial key cities as well. We would like to forge a strong partnership with foodpanda in every market we find ourselves in.”
Ribshack, which started at a food court in Downtown Bacolod City in 2012, had to work hard for a stable space for 3 years. But now they’re present in kiosks, weekend festivals, and malls. Ribshack joined foodpanda in 2020 and currently has 17 branches open on the app. “Due to the dining restrictions during the pandemic, foodpanda has helped maintain our presence, especially for the customers who cannot go out or dine in,” says Adrian C. Alagao, Ribshack’s Head of Operations.
“By tapping into the customer base of foodpanda, we can readily expand to those customers who might have otherwise not seen or visited our restaurant,” Alagao adds.
For future plans, Adrian hopes to “expand to more areas here in the Philippines.” This also includes continuing the company’s food-delivery partnership with foodpanda to reach more locations.
Penong’s Barbecue Seafood & Grills is a homegrown restaurant chain in Davao City that was founded in 2004.
Chad Robert Boniface Regis, the brand’s Chief Executive Officer, says his passion for cooking was the reason he had always been “fascinated” by the restaurant business. He finally pursued the idea when he had a family of his own.
“The first 3 months was a huge struggle. I would get up early every day to open the store and come home late from work just to attain an established brand name and a good foundation for my product and business,” Regis says.
The hard work paid off though. Penong’s now has 40 branches, including those in SM Butuan, SM General Santos City, and Quezon City. After partnering with foodpanda in 2020, the brand increased its presence to 27 stores online.
“foodpanda helps us establish an online presence through frequently advertising our products on its platform, connecting us with large customer audiences, and driving more delivery sales,” Regis shares.
His advice to aspiring restaurant owners? “Find your passion and make a living out of it.”
In participation to PUP’s 18th Ad Congress carrying the title, “ADTV: Your Source for the Latest News and Trends in Advertising”, Alam1D one of the sections from the fourth-year students of Advertising and Public Relations at College of Communication, held a webinar entitled “Philippine Ads, G KNB?” that talked about the different concepts and the latest blueprints in Digital Advertising, on February 4, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 NN via Facebook Live.
Following the tv shows and programs concept of the said event, the idea was derived from the famous local game show, “Pilipinas, Game Ka Na Ba. The program immediately garnered attention from the audience online, officially commenced with the host introduction, doxology, opening remarks from the chairperson and dean, and finally, the official introduction of the game mechanics.
On track with the concept, the program was segmented into three. The first round being called, “Let’s G! A Guide to the Concepts of Digital Ad” discussed by Mr. Amir Tohid focused on the basics of digital advertising. The second segment entitled, “The Game Plan: Winning strategies of Social Media and Content Marketing ” led by Ms. Julianna Carisle Matias concentrated on guides for social media and content marketing. Lastly, “One-on-AD: The final Search for the Concepts of Digital Ad ” talked by Ms. Ayvee Callao tackled SEO, SEM and Google Display Ads.
The whole program was packed with knowledge, fun and surprises as the webinar not only showcased brand new wisdom towards digital advertising through the great speakers but also was able to interact with the audience through exciting games and ‘Q and A’ portions.
Though caught up in a lot of circumstances during the current academic context, the fourth-year students of Advertising and Public Relations at College of Communication, PUP Manila remained unstoppable as they concluded their 18th Ad Congress successfully.
Films have intangible impacts on our society. A certain film may call for action, move people in ways that may be unexpected, inspire individually and even collectively, and at times, leaves a legacy. People watch films to be entertained, to be educated, to escape from the humdrums of daily life, and to travel beyond space and time. This is at the heart of the Japanese Film Festival – to share glimpses of Japanese culture to the world, one cinematic experience at a time.
Coming from the successes of the Japanese Film Festival Online in 2020, the Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) is bringing back our beloved film festival right at the comfort of our homes through another virtual edition this year, happening from February 14 to 27, 2022.
“The Japanese Film Festival Online 2022 gives viewers the chance to experience and learn Japanese ways and culture, as the featured films mirror our contemporary society and document people’s lives at certain periods in time. Films are indeed powerful vehicles for cultural exchange and bilateral relations” shares JFM Director SUZUKI Ben.
Take a look at these 20 impressive titles, from bittersweet coming-of-age stories to thriller, sci-fi, comedy, documentaries, animation, and heartbreaking ones, these films promise to leave viewers something memorable.
ReLIFE
This refreshing and touching love story suggests that perhaps living out one’s youth to the fullest can affect the direction that one’s life can take. This one’s a live-action feature film adaptation of “ReLIFE,” which was serialized on the manga app comico and adapted for anime and stage performance.
Time of EVE the Movie
A moving animation consisting of a string of episodes told by the customers about their sorrows of being discriminated against. The social settings of the film and issues surrounding old robots getting dumped as garbage provide realistic details to the world depicted. Originally a six episode online sci-fi animation, now re-edited and brought to the big screen with all-new additional scenes.
Aristocrats
This is an award-winning drama that questions the state of contemporary life through the perspectives of two female protagonists of different backgrounds.
Until the Break of Dawn
A heartwarming fantasy adapted from the eponymous novel by Naoki Prize-winning author Tsujimura Mizuki, this spiritual and humanistic drama that depicts the inner conflicts of those who, for various reasons, seek contact with the dead.
The Chef of South Polar
A classic Japanese comedy film with a mix of pathos and humor follows the bittersweet and charmed daily lives of a group of men living in the Antarctic, where their only joy is to eat.
Ito
A fresh and moving tale about a young woman growing out of her shell as well as the preciousness of familial bonds. The contemporary and specific “maid café” culture from Tokyo is juxtaposed with the traditional shamisen music of Aomori giving insight into the uniqueness and breadth of Japanese culture.
The God of Ramen
A moving documentary about the man who started a legendary ramen shop in Tokyo. This uniquely moving film is a record of a man’s uncompromising attitude expressed to its fullest.
Masked Ward
A tense mystery film set in the eerie confines of a hospital, where a chilling psychological battle unfolds and eventually leads into a chain of surprising twists. The film is an adaptation of a bestselling book written by a real-life doctor, and features two of Japan’s leading young actors, Kentaro Sakaguchi and Mei Nagano.
OZLAND
With a humorous and light-hearted touch, the film conveys the joy of working at an amusement park—a place of dreams—and draws the audience into the happiness experienced by the protagonist.
Her Love Boils Bathwater
A tear-inducing humanistic drama, that has won several awards, about the bonds between a strong-willed and deeply loving mother and her family.
RASHOMON
In this film that has garnered several awards, a group of murder witnesses all give completely different testimonies. One of the most celebrated films in Japanese history that questions whether there is such a thing as truth in this world.
Mio’s Cookbook
Set in Japan about 200 years ago, this entertaining period drama refreshingly portrays the bond between Miho, who stakes her life on cooking, and Noe, who has become a courtesan (high-class geisha) in Yoshiwara, Japan’s largest red-light district.
Happy Flight
This is an ensemble film depicting on-the-ground staff, cabin attendants and pilots in action. Through episodes related to the work involved in operating large commercial passenger flights, the film spins an entertaining tale that shows the growth of new staff members with both humor and suspense.
Under the Open Sky
This award-winning film tells the story of a former yakuza’s struggles to be accepted by society, even as he tries to live an earnest life. Naoki Prize-winning author Saki Ryuzo’s ‘Mibuncho’ serves as the basis for this drama.
Patema Inverted
This award-winning film is a truly unique sci-fi fantasy that almost numbs our own senses of up and down. A touching animation that creatively depicts the beauty of love, friendship, and courage.
The Floating Castle
A riveting historical spectacle about those who stand up for their dignity as samurai, armed with their wisdom, courage, and love for their people. Shot on a massive set, it presents an epic portrayal of Sengoku (Warring States) Period warlord Narita Nagachika, who fought back against a 20,000-strong enemy force with an army of 500 in the late 16th century.
It’s a Summer Film!
A girl passionate about samurai films convinces a boy full of mystery to make a film together that transcends time and space. This coming-of-age masterpiece incorporates elements of science fiction while providing a fresh look at young people who are serious about filmmaking.
SUMODO-The Successors
A documentary with rare access into sumo, Japan’s national sport and the behind-the-scenes lives of famous sumo wrestlers.
AWAKE
The year 2015 marked the first time that a shogi game software played against a professional human player. Inspired by a true story, this moving coming-of-age film is about a game between an AI and a human also about a fateful battle between two rivals, as well as the hard work that each of them had gone through to get there.
Bread of Happiness
This humanistic drama brims with kindness and is set in the backdrop of the beautiful and harsh four seasons of Hokkaido. The film is adorned with a variety of breads and dishes made with seasonal ingredients that heal the hearts of the wounded souls.
In addition to online film screenings, the Japan Foundation, Manila prepared “Let’s Talk about Japanese Films!” a 2-part free online talk event and will be available to interested participants even outside the Philippines. The first session, entitled Your Guide to Japanese Films, will be moderated by Mr. Tito Valiente, and will be joined by panelists Prof. Daisuke Miyao, Prof. Nick Deocampo, and film director Sigrid Andrea Bernardo. The second event entitled Inside the World of JFF 2022 Films will feature five young film critics namely Mr. Skilty Labastilla, Ms. Princess Kinoc, Mr. Janus Nolasco, and Ms. Stepanie Mayo; to be moderated by Mr. Richard Bolisay.
Join in the discussion with prominent and young up-and-coming film professionals as they casually talk about the influences of Japanese cinema in the Philippines and the world and tips to watch Japanese films. Additionally, there will be online campaigns throughout the festival where viewers will get the chance to win exclusive JFF freebies!To watch and view the full list of featured films, visit https://jff.jpf.go.jp/watch/jffonline2022/philippines/. Viewers can watch the films through their smart TV, computer, mobile phone or similar gadgets with access to the Internet. Follow the official JFM and JFF Philippines Facebook pages and social media accounts for more information.
Escape for a night or two with your loved one as Edsa Shangri-la, Manila offers a Valentine’s room package for stays between 6 to 28 February 2022.
The package includes breakfast for two (2), Valentine Love Heart box from the Flowerstore.Ph, a bottle of house sparkling wine, guaranteed 8am early check-in, complementary access to Health Club, and use of lagoon-shaped swimming pool within stay dates. Package rate starts at Php8,800++ per night.
Couples have a variety of picturesque dinner dates to choose from with the hotel’s restaurant and lounges, available from 12 to 14 February 2022. A sumptuous buffet at HEAT featuring Boston lobsters, ratatouille roasted leg of lamb and a foie gras live station at Php2,950 net per person inclusive of iced tea. For those who miss Japan, Senju offers a five-course set dinner with a choice of hot or cold sake (180ml), a glass of Sapporo draft beer or Strawberry iced tea at Php3,500 net per person. Lovers looking for a romantic evening while enjoying live piano music can spend the night at the Lobby Lounge, where a four-course set menu at Php6,000 net for two (2) persons with a glass of house wine, iced tea or chilled juice is on offer. Outdoor dining options include a four-course set menu paired with a glass of house wine, iced tea or chilled juice complemented with a welcome cocktail Al Fresco by the Pool at Php8,000 net for two (2) persons. Or for a more intimate setting, dine in the Gazebo, nestled in the hotel’s tropical garden. Rate starts at Php27,800 net which includes a welcome cocktail, five-course set dinner for two (2), a bottle of champagne and a dedicated butler throughout the night. Gazebo dining is available for the whole month of February 2022.
Celebrate Love at Edsa Shangri-la, Manila
For the perfect dinner date at home, Gourmet on the Move has got you covered with a three-course set menu at Php2,850 net for two (2) persons and Php6,800 net for five (5) persons available from 7 to 15 February 2022. To sweeten the celebration, Valentine cakes, chocolates, hampers, and more are on offer at The Bakeshop until 15 February 2022.
To complete the Valentine experience, couples may go for luxurious pampering and book a massage at CHI, The Spa which reopens on 14 February 2022, daily from 10am to 8pm. Treatment rates start at Php2,700net.
Edsa Shangri-La has embraced a series of safety standards and precautionary measures so that guests can enjoy what truly matters while staying at the hotel. The property is certified with the Safety Seal by the Department of Trade and Industry, acknowledging the hotel’s effort to meet protocols and regulations set by the government.
For inquiries and reservations, please call (63 2) 8633 8888, or e-mail manilaedsa@shangri-la.com. For takeaway and delivery, visit https://bit.ly/eslshangshop.
