Category: Time Out

Alabang West Parade Illuminates the South with “A Starlit Christmas”

Alabang West Parade welcomed the Christmas season with A Starlit Christmas, a month-long celebration that transforms the South into a radiant space for togetherness, creativity, and Filipino pride. The highlight of the launch was the Grand Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony held on November 7, marking the start of a season that honors the warmth and generosity of the Filipino holiday spirit.

The ceremonial lighting was led by City Councilor Macky Saito, Global Estate Resorts, Inc. President Atty. Monica T. Salomon, and Megaworld Lifestyle Malls executives Rene C. Arnobit, Vice President and Head of Mall Operations, Tinay Villanueva, Head of Brand, Creatives, and Marketing, and Vanessa Vicente, Cluster General Manager.

The symbolic lighting paid homage to the parol — the quintessential Filipino Christmas lantern — representing light, hope, and unity. Through this meaningful moment, Alabang West Parade reaffirmed its role as a vibrant community destination in the South, a place where people can celebrate, connect, and gather all season long.The night sparkled with performances from the De La Salle Santiago Zobel Chorale and Luntiang Dagitab Dance Troupe, filling the air with music and movement that captured the joyful rhythm of a Filipino Christmas. The evening culminated in a breathtaking pyromusical display that lit up the Alabang skyline and the hearts of everyone in attendance.

(De La Salle Santiago Zobel Choir)

(Luntiang Dagitab Dance Troupe)

“A Starlit Christmas is our way of bringing the community together, to celebrate Filipino artistry, generosity, and the shared joy that defines our culture. We want every family who visits Alabang West Parade to feel connected to the season, to one another, and to the stories that make Christmas in the Philippines truly special,” said Shiela Cervan, General Manager of Alabang West Parade.

A Cartful of Christmas Promo

As part of the celebration, Alabang West Parade invites shoppers and families to enjoy a series of special holiday activities throughout the season. The Cartful of Christmas Promo, running from November 14 to December 15, 2025, rewards every ₱2,000 single-receipt purchase from participating mall partners with raffle entries for a chance to win ₱10,000 worth of Landers gift certificates for two lucky winners, and a ₱30,000 Landers gift certificate for the grand prize winner to be drawn on December 18, 2025.

Filipino Artisanal Fair

The Filipino Artisanal Fair, happening every Friday to Sunday from November 14 to December 31, showcases local craftsmanship through a thoughtfully curated selection of handmade delicacies, woven apparel, and artisanal home goods — offering guests a way to shop local and support Filipino creativity.

A ‘Starlit’ Musical Christmas

Adding to the festive cheer, A Starlit Musical Christmas will feature performances from the South’s finest choirs and musical groups, including the Lyceum of Alabang Sangtinig Chorale on November 29, FEU Tamaraws Musical Society on December 8, MS Angeli Dei Choir from San Beda Alabang on December 11, and a return performance by the De La Salle Zobel Chorale on December 20.

With A Starlit Christmas, Alabang West Parade celebrates more than the beauty of the season — it celebrates the people who make it meaningful. Through its events, local showcases, and performances, it continues to shine as a home for Filipino creativity and connection, and a place where families can celebrate and gather all season long.

For more holiday updates, visit megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call (02) 8462-8888.

November 11, 2025
Updates to VCT Challengers in APAC 2026

We recently announced our Challengers Path to Champions that is going to shake things up for our Challengers leagues.

If you haven’t already seen it, here’s a quick recap – going forward, instead of qualifying through Ascension, Challengers teams will now have an opportunity to fight for slots at the International Leagues’ Stage 2 Playoffs leading to Champions.

As announced here, each International League will be giving 4 slots to Challengers teams. In Asia Pacific we will be splitting the slots as follows.

The top team from Challengers Southeast Asia, Japan, and Korea will each be given a direct slot in Stage 2 Playoffs.

The fourth and final slot will be determined by a Last Chance Qualifier between the best team from South Asia, Oceania, and the 2nd and 3rd seeds from Southeast Asia.

Given the number of highly competitive regions we have in APAC, we focused on finding a balance between recognising regions with a track record of competitive strength, while also ensuring other regions still have a chance to prove themselves and earn a slot. And in the case of Southeast Asia, which has such a large player base and many subregions, we wanted to provide an opportunity to fight for more than 1 slot.

Apart from having a chance to compete at the international league level and potentially qualifying for Champions, each Challengers team that manages to reach Stage 2 Playoffs will be given a USD 75,000 stipend.

Academy teams will still be included in Challengers leagues, but they cannot qualify for Stage 2 Playoffs. And to foster a more equitable Challengers ecosystem, we will be removing relegation protection for Academy teams in 2026. So if an Academy team finishes at the bottom of their regional Challengers, they will need to fight to keep their slot.

Each region’s Challengers format will be announced locally in the near future.

Changes to Challengers Southeast Asia

We are also making some changes to Challengers Southeast Asia next year that we hope will create even more opportunities for local teams and players.

We’ll be pivoting towards a tournament model that consists of a mix of local events that funnel up into pan-regional matches over two splits.

Qualification for Challengers Southeast Asia will start at the local level where teams will fight through an open qualifier.

Successful teams will then play in a local qualifying tournament. This is also where Southeast Asian Academy teams will begin.The 2 best teams from each local qualifier will then move on to Challengers Southeast Asia, which will be structured as a 12 team tournament.

This process repeats for each split.

We are launching 5 local qualifying tournaments for Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines. The final qualifier will be made up of all the other remaining Southeast Asian regions.

Players can also climb the ranks and qualify through Premier regardless of the residency. 2 of the best Premier teams from the corresponding Episode will qualify for each Challengers Southeast Asia split.

Our goal with this new structure is to be more intentional about bringing representation to Challengers Southeast Asia, while creating more room for competition and talent development at the local level.

We also recognise that streaming exclusivity was a pain point for our teams and fans this year. So we are lifting exclusivity for Challengers Southeast Asia next year and will be working with local partners to provide local language broadcasts for our community.

We appreciate your continued passion as we navigate these changes and hope you’ll join us next year to see how Challengers teams will shake things up at VCT Pacific Stage 2 Playoffs.

November 5, 2025
Shop Big, Save Bigger: Lazada 11.11 Mega Sale!
With the holidays just a little over a month away, the Philippines kicks off its most anticipated season of shopping and gifting! Lazada Philippines announces its 11.11 Biggest Sale of the Year running from November 10 (8PM) to 13, and this is the perfect opportunity for every Filipino shopper to check out their holiday wish lists and discover trending global brands at incredible local price points. Prepare for the best deals, including up to 90% off LazFlash deals, up to Php2,000 Lazada vouchers, and free shipping, ensuring bigger savings and smarter shopping, only on Lazada.

This year, Lazada is making online shopping even more seamless and rewarding by integrating powerful technology and loyalty features. To maximize your discounts instantly, the platform is introducing SmartStack on AI Lazzie, a brand-new feature that lets you instantly stack all your vouchers with a single prompt. No need to hunt around for codes, simply type “SMARTSTACK” in the chat and let Lazzie automatically combine your LazRewards and seller vouchers. Plus, AI Lazzie has been enhanced to provide intelligent and personalized product recommendations across millions of products for effortless discovery.

Beyond smarter savings, Lazada is rewarding its most loyal users through the newly launched Lazada Membership Programme. This offers a four-tiered loyalty ecosystem (Classic, Silver, Gold, Platinum) that provides next-generation privileges, including priority delivery, faster dispute resolution, and exclusive lifestyle perks with some of your favorite brands. This holistic approach ensures a premium, high-value experience that goes beyond traditional points-based rewards.

Shoppers can also register their qualified Lazada purchase for a chance to win in the 11.11 Shop and Drive promo!
- Prizes: One (1) winner of a BYD Sealion 6 DM-I and eleven (11) winners of Php 11,111 Lazada Gift Cards
- How to Join: Make a successful purchase worth at least Php 500 (net of all discounts) on the Lazada app from November 1 to 13. Purchase is valid with any product category except digital goods, bill payments, mobile top-ups, stores with digital goods products, and milk products for children under 3 years old.
- Registration: Register the qualified transaction using the 11.11 Raffle Registration form via CLEO (Lazada’s virtual customer care chatbot) from November 1 to 15
Don’t miss out on the sweetest brand deals of the year! Shop the 11.11 Biggest Sale of the Year from November 10 (8PM) to 13, only on Lazada.
November 5, 2025
KARADA Leads the Way in Philippine Health & Wellness with Innovative Body Therapy

Karada, Japan’s leading wellness and body therapy brand ,continues to solidify its position as a trailblazer in the Philippine health and wellness industry by providing Filipinos with a revolutionary approach to holistic body care.

Since its launching  in the country in 2012, KARADA has earned the trust of thousands of Filipinos seeking non-invasive and  holistic alternatives. At the heart of its innovation is the  signature AP Balance® therapy, a unique  treatment  developed in Japan that realigns the Atlas (A) and Pelvis (P) to restore the body’s natural posture and balance. It has become  a sought-after treatment  offering  relief from pain, fatigue, and stress, while promoting long-term physical harmony and wellness. This method combines  techniques from chiropractic, osteopathy, and deep muscle therapy

“Karada is a form of body maintenance called “seitai” that your body needs,” says Hanna  Stelton, Karada Philippines’ General Manager, who  advises regular visits to help correct posture-related pains and alleviate ailments, including cases of Scoliosis,Spondylosis, Frozen Shoulder, Sciatica and more.

It is ideal for people who suffer from body fatigue, poor posture, back or neck pain, muscle tightness or stress-related discomfort.  It is beneficial to office workers, athletes and busy parents who need posture correction and over-all body maintenance. For new clients, sessions are recommended once a week to correct imbalances, followed by maintenance sessions once or twice a month.

The therapists at Karada go through tedious and extensive  training by Sensei Hiroaki Naruse, FJG International’s Regional Manager and Head Trainer for the Philippines and  the equally skilled Iku Sumiya , Assistant Regional manager and assistant head trainer. This ensures the efficacy and safety of various techniques  and covers  anatomy, physiology, and the challenging AP Balance techniques. Certification is granted only after passing written and practical assessments that are at par with global standards.

“Karada is not a medical clinic,” Stelton says.  It does not cure diseases and injuries in the medical sense.   “It is preventive and supportive therapy.   It provides natural relief because, if there is AP misalignment, it causes chronic pain and discomfort, poor posture, imbalanced movement, mobility issues, fatigue and  potentially contributes  to dizziness,” adds Sensei  Hiro. The AP  Balance Treatment helps address these issues.

Each treatment at Karada begins with a consultation and assessment where the client’s current state, problematic areas or conditions, and limitations in mobility are discussed. It is also during this time that the therapists conduct safety measurements to ensure that the client will not be putting themselves at risk.

The AP Balance Body Treatment is  a skull adjustment that targets your neck and skull to treat your stress at the Atlas. The therapists also loosen stiff muscles with a whole body dry massage and stretching techniques, promoting better blood circulation and preventing pain from recurring. Clients can also avail add-on treatments that target limbs and extremities, extending the relieving touch of Karada’s practitioners.

To treat misalignment, the spine and pelvis are adjusted gently  to promote better balance of the body. Well-trained professional therapists safely use a gentle push and pull mobilization technique to align the spinous process, providing pain relief and satisfaction.

Sensei Hiro addresses misconceptions about cracking and pain, saying “Cracking is not the purpose of the treatment – it is actually a natural sound that can occur during alignment but is not required.  The key goal is alignment and muscle balance, not the cracking sound itself.  It is not a measure if the treatment is effective or not.  Effectiveness comes from proper techniques, not from joint noises.  Our methods are gentle, safe and precise.”

Meanwhile, Karada’s unique deep tissue massages and stretching services  lie in the masterful body weight technique that penetrates deep, working together with Karada’s specially-made beds that allow therapists to massage and stretch your body in different positions that culminate in a release of tension.

Other treatments include: Foot Reflexology, New services that are being introduced are stretch programs, comprehensive  wellness packages (KX Plus) and facial contouring (KOGAO) that combines physical therapy with lifestyle and posture education.

November 3, 2025
Celebrate A Christmas of Wonders with Rustan’s

The most enchanting time of the year arrives once again! This 2025, Rustan’s invites everyone on a holiday journey that promises to inspire joy from the very first glimpse.

On October 17, the spirit of celebration extends across all Rustan’s branches nationwide where everyone will witness a festive gathering filled with meaningful moments and enchantment to officially mark the start of the season.

Embrace the familiar warmth of the holidays and delight in the twinkling lights, magical details and vibrant experiences that’s designed to spark awe through a celebration that embodies Rustan’s signature artistry and attention to detail—a testament to its legacy of bringing wonder to Filipino homes for generations.

A Spectacle of Windows and Wonder

At the heart of this year’s celebration are the Rustan’s Christmas Windows, a beloved tradition reimagined through the theme of a grand holiday carnival. Each window will feature enchanting scenes filled with playful motion, festive red and gold accents, and charming characters such as toy soldiers, ballerinas, and magical creatures. Oversized ornaments, twinkling marquees, and delicate metallic details evoke the splendor of a vintage fairground. With its golden lights and dreamlike storytelling, it evokes both nostalgia and whimsy that will capture everyone’s imagination inviting them to pause and rediscover childlike wonder in the heart of the city.

The grand launch at Rustan’s Makati promises an afternoon brimming with wonder and spectacle. Guests will be welcomed by breathtaking décor in hues of red, silver, and gold, with festive details adorning the grand staircase and entryway. Upon arrival, guests will receive a Christmas map highlighting the games, treats, and surprises throughout the store. As they step in further, guests will encounter charming pocket performances from Christmas elf jugglers and toy soldiers on stilts to unicycling Santas, and pantomimes. Captivating performances by Markki Stroem, The Opera Belles, Axis PH, and a lively afterparty performance by The Naughty Pandas also await the guests. Truly an immersive holiday experience to celebrate Rustan’s timeless tradition of elegance, artistry, and heartfelt cheer.

A Spark of Holiday Magic and Merriment in Every Corner

As the celebration unfolds across all floors, Rustan’s invites guests to indulge in delightful activities and exclusive offers designed to make every visit memorable. From thoughtful treats to immersive experiences, each department brings its own touch of joy, turning every shopping moment into a celebration of the season.

At Rustan’s Beauty Source, guests can create their own ornaments with any beauty purchase, enjoy complimentary scalp treatments courtesy of Skalp Head Spa, and take part in exclusive beauty experiences with refreshments and pampering. In Women’s Fashion, popcorn giveaways for a minimum purchase and festive tarot readings under Tarots & Tinsels add a touch of magic, while Men’s Fashion brings cheer with playful mini-games, prizes, and bottles of butterbeer for every qualifying purchase.

The little ones will find their own joy at Rustan’s Kids, where activities like face painting, gingerbread cookie decorating, and an assortment of sweet treats make the celebration even more delightful. Meanwhile, Rustan’s Home invites families to enjoy Christmas cocktails and bubblies, customization corners, hairstyling sessions by Dyson and Shark Ninja, and mini carnival games filled with surprises.

The celebration continues in Rustan’s Shangri-La, Alabang, Gateway, and Cebu, each offering its own spin on A Christmas of Wonders. Guests can enjoy festive music, creative installations, and indulgent bites from partners like Venchi (available only Rustan’s Makati and Shangri-La), Auro Chocolate, Bizu Catering, Laguna Catering, and La Petite Fromagerie.

Rustan’s welcomes the holidays with a line-up of exclusive offers that make gift-giving even more delightful. On October 17 only, shoppers can enjoy a straight ₱1,000 discount with a minimum spend of ₱15,000 and earn 5x FSP points on regular-priced items with no required minimum spend. From October 18 to November 2, customers can continue to earn 3x FSP multipliers, for every ₱5,000 purchase, both in-store and online, while those who prefer flexible payment options can enjoy 0% installment plans for up to 12 months with partner banks including BPI, BDO, Metrobank, UnionBank, HSBC, RCBC, PNB, Bank of Commerce, and EastWest.

For those who love collectible holiday keepsakes, Rustan’s is also bringing back its Rustan’s Christmas Bear, available from October 17 to November 16 with a minimum purchase of ₱20,000. On launch day, customers can also take home a 20g Auro Chocolate Barand a complimentary scoop of Venchi gelato from Rustan’s Makati and Rustan’s Shangri-la for every ₱1,000 single-receipt purchase—a sweet start to a season of wonder.

The celebration doesn’t end after the launch. Festive Flavors will treat FSP members to gourmet popcorn or warm pretzels for every ₱1,000 purchase, while Magical Toasts offers a whimsical holiday brew to enjoy during the launch in Makati and the Thanksgiving celebration in Shangri-La. Children can also share their creativity through The Art of Christmas in partnership with Crayola and Ogalala, turning their artwork into heartfelt greeting cards and digital messages for loved ones.

From November 15 to December 31, Beauty Addict members who spend ₱5,000 or more at Rustan’s Beauty Source Makati can enjoy a complimentary latte or cappuccino with a croissant from My Happy Home Café, while selected stores will have Sweet Wishes with Venchi offers personalized Christmas cards with treats for members presenting their FSP card and receipt. Throughout the season, Santa Claus will make appearances across all stores—spreading joy, laughter, and the kind of magic only Rustan’s can bring to life.

This holiday season, let Rustan’s transform every visit into a story worth remembering. Experience timeless traditions, meaningful gifts, and magical moments that come together under the brilliance of #AChristmasofWonders.

October 27, 2025
GAC Showcases Three New EVs at Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit 2025
GAC made a commanding presence at the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) with the launch of two all-new electric vehicle models — the AION V and HYPTEC HT — and the first Philippine showcase of its global strategic model, the AION UT.

Under the theme “GAC Global Ecosystem — Leading a New Era of Green Mobility in the Philippines,” GAC announced the official market launch of two all-new battery electric vehicles (BEVs), the AION V and HYPTEC HT, while also debuting its global strategic model, the AION UT, for the first time in the Philippines following its rapid success in Thailand.

In addition, GAC showcased its latest hybrid models, the M8 PHEV and EMKOO HEV, further expanding its electrified product lineup and demonstrating a multi-path approach toward sustainable mobility. The launches of these vehicles mark a strategic move to accelerate GAC’s electric mobility rollout in Southeast Asia and reinforce its long-term commitment to sustainable transportation in the region.
- AION V – Reliable Performance, Everyday Practicality
A high-quality, long-range BEV SUV built for urban families and professionals. Equipped with GAC’s Magazine Battery 2.0 (fireproof even under direct impact), the AION V delivers a CLTC-rated range of 520 km and charges from 30% to 80% in just 16 minutes via DC fast charging. With a 2,775 mm wheelbase and suspension tuned for Philippine roads, it offers both interior spaciousness and ride comfort.

The AION V, a BEV SUV, is built for urban families and professionals.
- HYPTEC HT – Luxury Meets Intelligent Technology
This flagship electric SUV redefines comfort and design. Featuring dual-stage electric gullwing doors, Nappa leather interiors, reclining rear seats, and a 14.6-inch HD infotainment display powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8155, the HYPTEC HT is built for users who demand premium mobility. Its submarine-grade steel body and advanced safety systems make it as secure as it is sophisticated.
- AION UT – Smart Style for the Next Generation
Making its first appearance in the Philippines, the AION UT targets younger, tech-savvy drivers. Its launch follows a successful debut in Thailand, where it recorded 1,000 deliveries within 39 days. As part of GAC AION, the fastest EV brand to reach one million sales worldwide, The AION UT combines intelligent features with youthful design, offering Filipino drivers a preview of the model that GAC plans to introduce to the local market soon.
- M8 PHEV and EMKOO HEV – Expanding GAC’s Electrified Lineup
Alongside its all-electric models, GAC also showcased two hybrid vehicles — the M8 PHEV and EMKOO HEV — at the summit. The M8 PHEV, GAC’s flagship plug-in hybrid MPV, combines luxurious comfort with efficient performance, offering a smooth and quiet ride powered by its advanced hybrid system. Meanwhile, the EMKOO HEV represents GAC’s new-generation intelligent hybrid SUV, featuring the brand’s latest high-efficiency hybrid engine and sporty design, delivering both power and fuel economy.

Together, these models highlight GAC’s comprehensive electrification strategy, offering Filipino consumers a wider range of green mobility choices.

The HYPTEC HT is the brand’s flagship electric SUV and feaatures dual-stage electric gullwing doors.

Mr. Wang Shunsheng, Senior Vice President of GAC International; President of GAC International Asia-Pacific Regional Center: “This is a landmark moment for GAC in the Philippines. We are introducing world-class electric vehicles that combine advanced technology, practical features, and outstanding safety, tailored to Filipino lifestyles. As EV adoption continues to grow, our goal is to ensure that quality, performance, and accessibility go hand in hand.”

Driving Localization through “ONE GAC 2.0”

GAC’s expansion in the Philippines is guided by its “ONE GAC 2.0” global strategy, a blueprint for sustainable growth through localized operations. Since entering the Philippine market in 2018, GAC has built a nationwide network of over 30 dealerships and service centers and introduced a full lineup of globally tested sedans, SUVs, and MPVs.

In 2024, GAC achieved a 65% year-on-year sales increase in the Philippines, positioning it among the top Chinese car brands in the country. This momentum reflects Filipino consumers’ growing confidence in GAC’s product quality and aftersales support.

Mr. Calvin Cheng, General Manager of GAC INTERNATIONAL PHILIPPINES: “Our localization strategy has been the cornerstone of our growth. We are not just launching new models. We are also building long-term partnerships, creating jobs, and investing in the Philippine EV ecosystem. We see the Philippines as a key market in GAC’s Southeast Asia roadmap.”

Exclusive Launch Privilege Package for New Buyers

To encourage EV adoption, Mr. Reginald, Chief Brand Officer of GAC International Philippines, announced the introduction of an Exclusive Launch Privilege Package available to customers who purchase any of the newly launched models — AION V or HYPTEC HT. For only ₱999, buyers receive over ₱99,999 worth of additional benefits, including:
- 7kW wall-mounted home charger
- Portable charger
- Vehicle tint, car cover, and floor mats
- Charging credits
- Three-year LTO registration
- Three-year TPL insurance
- One-year preventive maintenance
- ₱10,000 cash discount
This package underscores GAC’s commitment to making EV ownership practical, convenient, and affordable for first-time buyers.

A Global Vision with Local Action

GAC’s participation at PEVS 2025 reinforces its Three Pillars of Leadership in the global EV industry:
1. Quality Leadership: GAC’s world-class manufacturing and quality control systems ensure durability, safety, and peace of mind.
2. Technology Leadership: Backed by a global R&D network across China, Italy, and the U.S., GAC is pioneering intelligent driving, energy efficiency, and smart cockpit systems.
3. Ecosystem Leadership: Through low-carbon supply chains and strategic collaborations, GAC supports sustainable development both locally and globally.
Looking ahead, GAC aims to deepen its footprint in the Philippines through enhanced localization, advanced technological partnerships, and a robust EV ecosystem that contributes to Southeast Asia’s climate goals.

“We are not just introducing vehicles but also creating an electric future that is inclusive, sustainable, and distinctly Filipino,” said Mr. Cheng. “Our journey is just beginning.”
October 23, 2025
Converge Powers the Aurora Music Festival as Official Partner
The Aurora Music Festival is reaching new heights as it teams up with Converge, the country’s leading fiber internet provider, as its official partner and event presenter.

This partnership celebrates the shared mission of connecting Filipinos—not only through technology but also through music, art, and cultural experiences that bring people together.

As Converge continues to expand its presence in people’s everyday lives, its participation in Aurora underscores the brand’s commitment to being part of the moments and passions that matter most. Festival-goers can look forward to exciting on-ground activities and interactive experiences that embody Converge’s dynamic spirit and dedication to Filipino creativity.

The partnership takes center stage at these festival dates:
- Aurora Music Festival Davao 2025, happening this October 25, 2025, at Crocodile Park Concert Grounds
- Aurora Music Festival Cebu 2025, set this November 22, 2025, at City di Mare Cebu, and of course,
- next year’s Aurora Music Festival Clark 2026!
Each Aurora weekend brings together spectacular live performances, dazzling hot air balloons, flavorful food stalls, and captivating art installations, offering an unforgettable celebration of Filipino artistry and culture.

With Converge as a proud event presenter, this collaboration goes beyond connectivity—it’s about strengthening the ties that unite communities and championing the vibrant spirit of Filipino talent.

Tickets are now on sale! Visit https://ticket.epiceventsph.com/ to secure your spot at the ultimate Aurora experience.

For inquiries, please call 09605266210 or 09674911488.
October 17, 2025
Unbox Amazing Travel Deals at Klook Travel Fest 2025
Klook Travel Fest 2025 is back—and it’s bigger, bolder, and packed with unmissable deals for every kind of traveler. From October 10 to 12, 2025, SM Mall of Asia’s Main Atrium will transform into a travel paradise where visitors can score massive discounts, flash deals, and freebies from 10 AM to 8 PM daily.

“We’re very excited to be launching this year’s Klook Travel Fest! We’ve strategically patterned our promotions with the results of our Klook Travel Pulse from earlier this year to make sure we’re giving our Klookers deals aligned with what they’re actually looking for,” shared Ulla Roqueza, Klook Philippines’ Associate Director for Marketing.

Expect Buy-1-Get-1 Flash Deals, all-day giveaways, and exclusive 50% off promos, with vouchers offering savings of up to ₱10,000. Whether you’re planning a quick escape or a long-haul adventure, this is the best time to book that dream trip across a wide range of destinations, including the Philippines, Asia, Europe, and Australia.

Deal after Deal, Day after Day

Going to Singapore soon? Score a surprise deal for tickets to different activities in Mandai Wildlife Reserve – from its world-famous Singapore Zoo, the Amazon River Quest at the River Wonders, a nighttime discovery at the Night Safari,  to a feathery meet at Bird Paradise, or even an adventure in the multi-layered Rainforest Wild Asia.  Discover where adventure, education, and conservation blend into one. If boating is your family’s bet, keep your eyes peeled for flash offers you can enjoy when you purchase  Disney Cruise Lines for an aquatic adventure aboard with Duffy and friends – from its themed areas, magical entertainment, and exquisite dining, it’s a holiday you’ll never forget.

Buy 1 Get 1 when Visiting Vietnam

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, this year’s festival has you covered with Buy 1 Get 1 Attraction Tickets for Sun World Vietnam. Look over the stunning views of rich forests and hills from the Sun World Ba Na Hills cable car or ride the breathtaking Alpine Coaster, one of the many attractions in the famous Fantasy Park.  More of a beach person? After all the fun at Aquatopia Water Park and Exotica Park, Sun World Hon Thom offers immaculate white beaches, as well as the world’s longest cable car overlooking pristine blue waters. You can also bag tickets to Sun World Fansipan and take the scenic route to the peak of Fansipan Mountain. With options ranging from monorails and funiculars to cable cars and even hiking, the trip is easily customizable to suit your needs and interests.

Whether for family trips or solo travel, Sun World’s recreational parks are perfect for travelers and groups of all ages!

Hot Deals to Hop Around Hong Kong

Explore the beauty of Hong Kong after securing hot discount drops for activities across Asia’s World City. The Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is a whole experience in itself that’ll sweep you off your feet with a scenic ride to the Ngong Ping Village. BigBus Hong Kong, on the other hand, is a guided open-top bus tour that takes you around the lush city of Hong Kong. Visit the iconic Ocean Park Hong Kong, where adventure awaits, whether you’re exploring the zoo or going on a thrilling ride. Don’t forget the magical Hong Kong Disneyland, where you can experience eight different themed lands that transport you to the magical world of Disney.

Get Even More Discounts with our Payment Partners

After adventuring through all that this year’s Klook Travel Fest has to offer, double down on your deals and get an extra PHP 500 off when you pay with GCash! Get an additional 10% off both local and trending destinations (like Thailand, Vietnam, and Taiwan), as well as 0% installment for 6 months when using GGives. Maya users get an exclusive 20% off first-time hotel bookings and an extra 15% off on experiences and transport for both local and international destinations.  Check out with BDO Credit Cards and Debit Cards to get 15% off your total basket for optimal savings that can be used during your upcoming holiday instead!

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Meet Your Favorite Klook Kreators

Awarded the title Kreator of the Year in 2025, you’ll find Jax Reyes gracing the Klook Travel Fest 2025 stage with his TikTok-famous travel hacks! Also in attendance is the real and relatable Marvin Samaco, with his easy-going itinerary inspiration and budget travel tips. Famous travel Kreator, The Poor Traveler, will also be making an appearance to share helpful travel tips for first-timers.  Expect more of your favorite Klook Kreators to step into the spotlight throughout the three exciting days of this travel fest.

How to Prepare for  Klook Travel Fest 2025

Make sure you don’t miss out on this year’s festivities by following these five simple steps:
1. Download the app through the Google Play Store or the Apple Store.
2. Book the Klook Travel Fest 2025 FREE Admission Ticket in Manila and download your free admission QR code for scanning upon entrance.
3. Stay updated on all things Klook Travel Fest 2025 by following Klook’s Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
4. Study up by learning how to use the platform!
5. Prepare all your essentials, like your government ID, your Klook App, and your admission QR code.
Make sure to visit the Klook Travel Fest 2025 for this year’s most exciting travel fest yet! Download the Klook app through the Google Play Store or the Apple Store to discover unforgettable experiences. For more information, follow Klook on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
October 10, 2025
Last Call for Talents: Join the MSO Concerto Competition 2025 Before the October 8 Deadline!
The Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation is excited to welcome back the MSO Concerto Competition 2025!

This long-standing tradition, first held in the 1960s and 1970s, has been an important part of the Manila Symphony Orchestra’s history of discovering and encouraging young Filipino talents. Many outstanding soloists had their first big break through this very competition, and now, the MSO is continuing that legacy for today’s generation of musicians.

The MSO Concerto Competition 2025 hopes to give gifted young instrumentalists the chance to shine, grow in their artistry, and experience the joy of performing as a soloist with a professional orchestra.

CATEGORIES

1. Instrument
- Strings (violin, viola, cello, double bass, harp, guitar)
- Woodwinds (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone)
- Brasses (trumpet, horn, trombone, tuba)
- Piano
2. Age Levels
- Level A: Not more than 12 years old by October 8, 2025 (3 winners)
- Level B: 13-18 years old as of October 8, 2025 (3 winners)
- Level C: 19 to 25 years old as of October 8, 2025 (3 winners)
REPERTOIRE REQUIREMENTS
- Applicants must prepare one complete movement from a standard concerto of the Baroque, Classical, or Romantic period.
- The piece must be performed from memory.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE

1. Video Submission
- Applicants must submit a video recording of their chosen concerto movement, performed from memory.
- Piano accompaniment is recommended but not mandatory.
- The video must be unedited, recorded in a single take, and should not be older than 2 months.
2. Application Form
- Applicants must complete the official MSO Concerto Competition Application Form and submit alongside the video link.
- Proof of age (valid ID) required.
- ₱1,000 Application Fee Applies
3. Deadline
- October 8, 2025
SELECTION PROCESS
- A screening committee composed of MSO musicians and qualified guest adjudicators will evaluate all submissions.
- Finalists will be chosen based on technical mastery, musicality, artistic expression, and overall musicianship.
- Winners from each level will be announced no later than October 10, 2025.
PRIZES AND PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITY
- Winners will be invited to perform with the Manila Symphony Orchestra in the Concert of Winners at the GSIS Theater on October 15, 2025.
- Each winner will perform the same concerto movement submitted during the competition.
- A total of 9 winners will be selected: 3 from Level A, 3 from Level B, 3 from Level C.
GENERAL RULES

1. The competition is open to all Filipino citizens and foreign students currently studying in the Philippines within the specified age brackets.

2. Judges’ decisions are final.

3. By submitting an entry, applicants grant the MSO Foundation permission to use their recordings and performance materials for promotional, archival, or educational purposes.

The MSO Concerto Competition 2025
Concert of Winners is on
October 15, 2025 Wednesday
7:30PM
GSIS Theater, Pasay City

Tickets are available at Ticketworld
Orchestra Center P2,000
Orchestra Sides P1,000
Balcony P500

CONTACT INFORMATION
Manila Symphony Orchestra – Circuit Makati Office
Address: 3rd Floor, Circuit Lane, AP Reyes Street, Circuit Makati, Makati City, Metro Manila

Telephone: (02) 8523 5712
Email: info@manilasymphony.com
Website: www.manilasymphony.com
September 30, 2025
Limited Slots Left for the First ASICS META: Time: Trials Philippines Run This October 19

For the first time ever, the ASICS META: Time: Trials, a global race redefining road running, is coming to the Philippines. Happening on October 19, 2025, at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub, the ASICS META: Time: Trials is a 10KM road race that invites runners to push their limits and chase new personal bests. With limited slots available, runners with a love for the sport and a drive to hit new personal records now have the chance to be part of a race experience built to celebrate exactly that.

Fresh off its success in Spain, Thailand, and Malaysia, this global event is engineered for speed: wide, flat courses, race-day precision, and world-class support. It’s a format that has already produced breakthrough moments, including Sonny Wagdos’ championship victory in Thailand 2024 and 2025, along with Richard Salaño’s podium finish in 2024 – proof that Filipino runners can rise to the international stage. Even in the female division, Joida Gagnao bagged second place in the 2023 and 2025 editions of the ASICS META: Time: Trials in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Bangkok, Thailand, respectively.

While the spirit of the ASICS META: Time: Trials is all about reaching new personal bests, the inaugural Philippine edition comes with a competitive edge: a ₱400,000 cash prize pot, split equally between the men’s and women’s divisions.

With ₱200,000 per division, the ASICS META: Time: Trials Philippines is set to be one of the most competitive 10KM races of the year.

“This is more than just a run, it’s a global performance experience,” said Ishina Buxani, Marketing Director of the SONAK Retail Group, the official distributor of ASICS in the Philippines. “The Philippines is home to one of the most passionate running communities in the region, and bringing the ASICS META: Time: Trials here is about giving every runner the opportunity to push their limits and discover what they’re truly capable of.”

In the lead-up to race day, the ASICS Running Club (ARC) offers free weekly training sessions on Tuesdays at ASICS Glorietta, Thursdays at ASICS Festival Mall, and Fridays at SM Mall of Asia. These sessions provide expert guidance, structured training plans, and highlight ASICS’ latest performance innovations to help participants prepare for their fastest race yet.

Don’t miss your chance to run for glory, or your fastest self, at the inaugural ASICS META: Time: TrialsPhilippines. Only limited slots are left for this first-of-its-kind race in the Philippines! Register online now via Race Roster.

Stay updated by following @ASICSPH on Facebook and Instagram.

September 30, 2025