Category: Time Out

Balesin Key Unveils a New Standard of Luxury Across Three Destinations

Balesin Island Club introduces Balesin Key, an exclusive membership crafted to redefine luxury living. This innovative offering expands Alphaland’s prestigious portfolio, granting members seamless access to three distinct destinations: the tropical haven of Balesin Island, the sophisticated urban retreat of Balesin City, and the tranquil mountainside escape of Balesin Pines. Designed for those who seek a refined lifestyle, Balesin Key promises unparalleled convenience and comfort across these remarkable locations. Let’s take a closer look at what this exceptional membership has in store.

Balesin Island Club unveils Balesin Key expanding members access to Balesin Island, Balesin City,
and Balesin Pines.

One Key, Three Distinct Worlds

“Balesin Key is more than a membership; it’s our members’ passport to three extraordinary worlds that provide a complete lifestyle,” explains Joanna Ongpin Duarte, Balesin’s spokesperson. With this key, members can enjoy the sun-drenched shores of Balesin Island, the cosmopolitan charm of Balesin City, and the serene beauty of Balesin Pines. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that ensures luxury remains within reach, no matter the setting.

This membership offers the flexibility to transition effortlessly between these destinations, catering to diverse preferences and occasions. Whether it’s relaxation, recreation, or refined urban living, Balesin Key delivers it all with a single, seamless access point.

Balesin City, a luxurious urban retreat where business and leisure seamlessly coexist.

Balesin City – Urban Sophistication Redefined

For those who thrive in a bustling environment, Balesin City—previously known as The City Club—offers a luxurious urban retreat in Makati. This destination seamlessly blends business and leisure, featuring well-appointed business lounges, expansive event spaces, and a selection of specialty restaurants mirroring the culinary excellence of Balesin Island.

Fitness and recreation are equally prioritized here. Members can enjoy indoor golf, pickleball, yoga, and Pilates, ensuring well-being remains a focus amidst a busy schedule. Balesin City strikes a perfect balance, providing a space where productivity and relaxation coexist harmoniously.

Balesin Pines, the newest addition to Alphaland’s prestigious portfolio of finest destinations.

Balesin Pines – A Mountainside Haven

Nestled near Baguio City, Balesin Pines emerges as a tranquil escape surrounded by nature’s splendor. This mountainside retreat boasts 18 luxury accommodations, a fully equipped gym, and the signature Leea Spa, all designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. The natural soundtrack of rustling leaves and chirping birds creates an ideal setting for reflection or a peaceful getaway.

Balesin Pines caters to those seeking calm and comfort, offering spacious suites and scenic views that invite members to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature. It’s a refreshing addition to the Balesin experience.

Balesin Island villa’s refreshed design curated by Head of Design, Rico Sison.

Balesin Island – A Tropical Retreat Enhanced

Balesin Island continues to shine as a premier tropical destination, now enriched with impressive updates. The villas in Balesin Village, redesigned by Head of Design Rico Sison, feature light-filled interiors and elegant finishes that embody island luxury. These refreshed spaces offer a sophisticated yet serene environment for guests to unwind.

The “Secret Beach” tour is now available along with other water sports activities.

Beyond the villas, adventure awaits aboard the M/Y Obsession, a 38.5-meter superyacht sporting a sleek new look and upgraded interiors. Members can embark on scenic boat tours to “Secret Beach” or “Turtle Cove,” or engage in water activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling. The island’s coral reef rehabilitation efforts have revitalized its marine life, making every aquatic experience visually stunning.

Revamped menu at Bali Warung featuring Rendang Sapi, Sate Lilit Ayam, Laksa Betawi

Revamped menu at Costa del Sol Casa Grande featuring paellas and tapas

Dining options have also been refined. Bali Warung serves authentic Indonesian cuisine, Costa del Sol Casa Grande offers Spanish-inspired dishes, and Han-Gang Mama Lee brings Korean flavors to the table. Classics like kilawin at Clubhouse Dining and Fish Fun remain beloved staples, ensuring a memorable culinary journey.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Balesin’s evolution goes beyond luxury—it’s deeply rooted in sustainability. By September, a solar farm will generate up to 60% of Balesin Island’s energy, significantly reducing its environmental impact. In April, Hiraya Farm will open for immersive tours, collaborating with Gourmet Farms to optimize the island’s produce. Guests can enjoy native snacks and teas crafted from fresh, homegrown ingredients, bringing a true farm-to-table experience to life.

This harmonious blend of indulgence and responsibility underscores Balesin’s dedication to preserving its natural beauty while delivering world-class amenities.

Excellence in Hospitality

Leading this ambitious venture is Alain Borgers, Alphaland’s Executive Vice President for Hospitality. With over four decades of experience, Borgers ensures that every guest encounter reflects the highest standards of service and luxury. His expertise reinforces Balesin’s reputation as a destination where every detail is meticulously considered.

From refreshed villas to innovative sustainability initiatives, Balesin Key members can expect a consistently exceptional experience across all three locations. It’s a testament to the club’s commitment to excellence.

A New Paradigm in Luxury Living

Balesin Key redefines the essence of luxury living in the Philippines. It integrates the allure of a tropical island, the refinement of an urban retreat, and the peacefulness of a mountain escape into a singular, cohesive experience.

Balesin Key is more than a membership card—it’s an invitation to a lifestyle of unparalleled freedom. Whether sealing deals in Balesin City, savoring sunsets on Balesin Island, or finding peace at Balesin Pines, members can tailor customize their experience to suit their desires. One key unlocks a world of possibilities, making it effortless to shift between urban elegance, tropical escapes, and mountain serenity.

March 28, 2025
UAE’s Prime Group Honors Goldilocks with Top Halal and Excellence Awards

UAE-based Prime Group, a globally recognized leader in quality assurance, compliance, and certification in Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, honored Goldilocks Bakeshop Inc. with two excellence awards at the Stakeholders Recognition Day & Gala Night held in Al Habtoor Palace Hotel in Dubai last February 19, 2025.

Goldilocks received the prestigious “Sustaining Halal Champion Excellence Award” for demonstrating consistent and exceptional commitment to upholding and promoting Halal standards. This reflects the Filipino brand’s dedication to quality and compliance with Halal principles, including Islamic dietary and ethical guidelines.

In addition, Goldilocks was recognized for “Product & System Excellence Award”, which honors the company for its outstanding performance in both product quality and operational excellence in manufacturing processes, quality assurance, and management practices.

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition for our lasting commitment to Halal quality and food safety worldwide. We take pride in the confidence and trust placed in Goldilocks by the Muslim community across the globe. Our commitment to quality and inclusivity remains at the heart of our journey as a world-class Filipino brand,” shares Sheila Marie Pabalate-Rea, Vice President for Quality Assurance and Technical Services at Goldilocks.

March 27, 2025
Dahil deserve mo magbakasyon: Book now, Pay Later, and Get the best deals
Summer has officially arrived, and while the heat can be overwhelming, planning your dream vacation shouldn’t add to the stress—especially when finding the budget to book that much-awaited and well-deserved trip. Whether you’re planning a fun getaway with your barkada or a relaxing family vacation, you can make your summer travel dreams a reality all through the help of your finance super app.

Woman checking the fight number on cellphone at the airport

GCash offers its installment product GGives and credit line GCredit to help you travel now and pay later. GGives allows eligible users to pay for big-ticket items of up to PHP 125,000 with zero downpayment, allowing you to book now and spread out your installments across 24 months. If you prefer the flexibility of a credit line, GCredit provides an instant credit line of up to PHP 50,000, depending on your eligibility.

If your vacation plans aren’t set in stone yet, GCash empowers you to go on that well-deserved getaway without the upfront cost so you don’t have to wait or sacrifice for your dream vacation. To make your getaway a reality, here are some of the services you can pay for using GGives and GCredit:
- Land and Sea Transportation: Pay for bus tickets using GGives and GCredit on Victory Liner, Partas, and SolidNorth, and for road trips, use toll road RFID services like AutoSweep and EasyTrip. For sea travel, book tickets with 2GO Travel, OceanJet, SuperCat, 12GO, and FastCat. Tickets can be purchased directly through the merchants’ portals or via biyaheroes.com, iwantseats.com, and bustickets.ph, where you’ll be able to pay later using GGives and GCredit.
- Air Travel: For air travel, GCash makes flying a breeze with its partnerships with Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, and Philippine Airlines. GCash makes planning domestic travel easy with instant credit and flexible payment options, allowing you to book now and pay later with GGives and GCredit.
- Accommodations: Finding the perfect place to stay is easy when you can book through trusted partners like Agoda and Airbnb, and pay in installments using GGives. Agoda offers a variety of hotels and resorts to suit your needs, while Airbnb provides unique vacation rentals for a more personalized experience, catering to different preferences and budgets.
- Activities: Make your trip even more memorable by booking exciting experiences through Klook, and pay later using GCredit or GGives. Whether you’re looking for guided tours, thrilling adventures, or cultural experiences, Klook offers a wide selection to make your vacation even more memorable.
Get Exclusive Travel Deals with GCredit and GGives

To make your vacation even more rewarding, GCredit and GGives offer exclusive travel promos that help you make the most out of your getaway. Whether you’re heading home for a long weekend or planning that dream vacation, GCash not only simplifies the entire travel process but also makes it easy to find the best deals.

Be sure to follow GCash’s official channels and watch out for upcoming promos designed to make your travel experience even better.

If you’re eligible, you can activate GGives by going to “Borrow” then clicking “GGives”. Fill out the quick application form, and once you’re activated, you’ll see your available credit limit! Note that your offer is subject to regular evaluation. To activate GCredit, go to “Borrow” then click “GCredit.” Fill out your details, complete your registration, and submit to view your credit limit.

If you still find yourself hesitating because of travel costs, think again—dahil tuloy ang travel goals! With GGives and GCredit, you can travel now and pay later, making your well-deserved break more attainable than ever. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an international trip, GCash’s convenient services and exclusive promos make it easy to plan, book, and enjoy a stress-free vacation. Kaya Pala with GGives and GCredit!

Access GCredit and GGives through your GCash dashboard or find them under “Borrow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery.
March 25, 2025
Fly Away to Your Dream Destination in the C2 Sip, Switch, and Fly Promo

The summer season has arrived, and it’s the perfect time to book that dream destination you’ve always wanted to visit. A beach getaway or a road trip can be great options if you’re looking to have a fun and relaxing time this season.

To help you get into full summer mode, you can turn your vacation dreams into a reality with C2 Cool and Clean’s “Sip, Switch, and Fly” Promo. Get a chance to win a 3-day, 2 nights trip for two to Boracay or La Union, or roundtrip domestic tickets for two to any Philippine destination. You can also score exclusive merchandise from the ready-to-drink tea brand to help you get into a summer vibe.

It’s quick and easy to join the “Sip, Switch, and Fly” Promo. First, you just have to purchase any size of your favorite C2 product at your nearby supermarkets, convenience stores, sari-sari stores, or via leading e-commerce sites. You can choose from any of its refreshingly delicious flavors, such as Apple, Lemon, Classic, Milk Tea Caramel, Milk Tea Wintermelon, and more.

With your fresh and cool drink, start filming a TikTok video using C2’s official promo TikTok sound to show how ready you are to relax this summer. Start with a fun clip of you wearing your favorites shades and taking a sip of your C2 drink. Then, drop your shades after drinking and strike your best “Switch to Relax Mode” pose. You can even get creative and shoot during your vacation or give your room a summer-y vibe. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #C2SipSwitchNFly and tag Official TikTok Page @C2CoolandClean when uploading your video.

Get ready to showcase your chill and fun moments during the summer season and make these even more relaxing with a bottle of C2. Its wide variety of refreshingly delicious and naturally healthy tea drinks can surely add fun to your vacations and even your regular hangouts at home.

Be sure to grab your C2 and switch to summer mode with the “Sip, Switch, and Fly” Promo. This will run from February 15 to May 10, 2025. Who knows? Your ticket to the hottest summer destinations might just be a video away.

March 25, 2025
Win Big, Redeem More, and Give Back with Globe Rewards Before March 31
Globe is giving customers more ways to maximize their points before they expire on March 31, 2025, transforming the rewards experience by turning everyday points into opportunities for thrilling wins, essential redemptions, and life-changing goals.

“As we approach points expiry, we want to ensure that customers fully enjoy the value of their Globe Rewards points,” said Peter Redan Ramirez, Head of Loyalty at Globe. “This year’s offers go beyond simple redemptions, creating exciting opportunities for customers to win prizes, enjoy exclusive perks, and support a worthwhile cause.”

While nearly 3 million Globe customers have redeemable points, many are unaware of their balances, lose track of their accumulated rewards, or feel rushed when redeeming them.

To ensure that every point counts, Globe Rewards is introducing March Haves – three exciting ways to engage customers whether they have points or not.
- G-Gantic Goals empowers customers to support animal welfare and provide rescued animals with a second chance at life by redeeming just 1 Rewards point.
Through its partnership with Pawssion Project, Globe aims to raise 150,000 points to give their rescued animals a second chance at life through supporting critical structures such as collapsible playpens in Bulacan and a pet nursery in Bacolod, ensuring better care for animals in need.
- G Raffle Rush offers Filipino families a chance to create the life they want, giving them access to enriching and delightful experiences beyond telco.
For as little as 1 Globe Rewards point, customers can win the latest gadgets such as an iPhone 16 Pro, and a MacBook Air M2. They can also enjoy all-expense-paid vacations to the Maldives and El Nido, as well as a Southeast Asian cruise, or receive Php100,000 in GCash, and more. A 0917Lifestyle shopping spree worth P10,000 and P10,000 Singlife credits are also up for grabs!

Customers who redeem any of the G Raffle Rush offers will also be getting exclusive offers from Pancake House, Jamba Juice, and Krispy Kreme to sweeten the deal.

Promo period runs from February 24 to March 24, 2025, with raffle draws on March 15 and March 31. Customers must complete a Know Your Customer (KYC) form to qualify.
- G Swipe for All gives customers an opportunity to win prizes without using any Rewards points. Every Monday in March, customers can redeem a free G Swipe on the GlobeOne app, unlocking various instant rewards.
In partnership with 0917Lifestyle, this initiative provides discounts and freebies on shopping, gadgets, and food from popular brands, including SM, Shopee, Power Mac Center, Adidas, Puregold, Giftaway, GrabFood, Jollibee, and Krispy Kreme.

Globe would like to remind customers to be wary of scam text messages on Rewards claims. Globe Rewards points may only be redeemed via the GlobeOne app.

Globe Rewards continues to innovate with meaningful and exciting experiences. To join, download the GlobeOne app via the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery and start redeeming. Learn more about Globe by visiting https://www.globe.com.ph/.
March 13, 2025
Meet the Nendoroid Jollibee toy collectible!

Over the years, Jollibee has established itself as a beloved global icon. With jolly favorites being staples on families’ dining tables and the loveable mascot turning into one of the most recognizable figures, the brand has become a symbol of joy for many people. This has led to many fun and exciting collaborations with notable brands and artists, further cementing Jollibee’s position as a top-of-mind icon in pop culture, both in the Philippines and beyond.

To kick off 2025 with a dose of excitement, Jollibee is thrilled to announce its latest brand collaboration, this time with Japanese hobby products manufacturer Good Smile Company (GSC). Called Nendoroid Jollibee, the new collectible is part of GSC’s famous Nendoroid line—cute, chibi-style figures around 10cm in size that come with swappable parts and accessories.

As the first ever Filipino brand to have its own Nendoroid figure, Jollibee joins the ranks of popular global brands and characters from famous movies, shows and games. This partnership aims to add more joy to the collections of Jollibee fans and toy collectors alike, as it features a unique style inspired by Japanese culture, while simultaneously celebrating a Filipino icon.

The Nendoroid Jollibee can do a variety of poses, thanks to its exchangeable parts and accessories which include the Chickenjoy bucket and Jolly Spaghetti, making it not only serve looks but also one’s favorite food! The figure also comes with a base and support arm, so collectors can securely place the item on their shelf, desk, or anywhere they want.

Like with other Nendoroid releases, getting your hands on the Nendoroid Jollibee is through pre-order basis, with the actual figures ready to be shipped by the third quarter of the year.

Don’t miss this newest collectible and pre-order the new Nendoroid Jollibee starting February 19, 2025 until April 2, 2025. Pre-orders can be placed at the Good Smile Company Online Store and through GSC’s official partner shops. You can also check out GSC’s website for more details, including pricing and shipping.

For all the latest updates, like Jollibee on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on X, Instagram, and TikTok.

February 21, 2025
MICHELIN Guide to Highlight the Culinary Excellence of Manila and Environs & Cebu in its Inaugural Edition
The MICHELIN Guide announced today its latest expansion into the vibrant culinary landscapes of Manila and Cebu. This new selection will focus on the bustling Metro Manila and the dynamic city of Cebu, while also beginning to explore the environs of Manila, including Pampanga, Tagaytay, and Cavite. The prestigious guide revealed that its independent, anonymous inspectors have been thoroughly exploring these regions to identify the most outstanding dining venues. This selection will highlight the best of Manila and Environs & Cebu’s dining scene, showcasing talented chefs and teams who embody passion, creativity, and respect for local culinary traditions.

“Our MICHELIN Inspectors have been following the evolution of the Filipino culinary scene with great excitement. The country’s deep-rooted culinary traditions, combined with a strong openness to global influences, create a uniquely diverse dining culture.” Explained Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides. “In Manila, we see young, talented chefs redefining Filipino cuisine with fresh perspectives, while Cebu, as a leading tourist destination, offers an impressive range of dining experiences with world-class hospitality.”

With its 7,641 islands, diverse regional cuisines, and cultural fusion, the Philippines has a thriving food scene that embraces both authentic heritage and contemporary innovation. From Manila & Environs, where Filipino cuisine thrives with strong regional identity, to Cebu, a globally recognized tourism hub with a flourishing hospitality industry, the country’s culinary landscape continues to evolve, attracting food lovers from around the world.

A standout example of the Philippines’ celebrated cuisine is lechon, a signature dish deeply embedded in Filipino culture. Particularly famous in Cebu, lechon has gained global recognition for its perfectly crisp skin and flavorful, tender meat, often enjoyed during festive celebrations and special gatherings. The presence of iconic dishes like lechon further elevates the Philippines as a top culinary destination, drawing food lovers eager to experience its bold flavors and rich traditions. The MICHELIN Guide’s recognition will further elevate Filipino cuisine on the international stage and expand global appreciation for the country’s diverse and dynamic food culture.

The arrival of the MICHELIN Guide is supported by the Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT). Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco stated, “We extend our warmest welcome to the MICHELIN Guide whose international recognition of the Philippines’ rich culinary heritage celebrates the diversity of flavors and exceptional creativity that permeate our nation. We are proud to share our vibrant culture and distinct cuisines to the world, which can be enjoyed through exceptional dining experiences across our dynamic cities and beautiful islands. We invite travelers to visit the Philippines and experience the love, warmth, and creativity of Filipino cuisine, while savoring innovative culinary creations shaped by diverse global influences.“

“The arrival of the MICHELIN Guide is not only a testament to our country’s culinary excellence but also a significant leap forward for Filipino tourism, with gastronomy now forming a key part of our national tourism priorities. In the Philippines, every dish tells a story and every flavor is an invitation to experience our nation’s rich cultural tapestry,” Secretary Frasco added.

The MICHELIN Guide Methodology

The MICHELIN Guide was created in 1900 by the Michelin tire company to support the growth of automobile mobility. Since then, it has remained loyal to its original mission: to settle in mature gastronomic destinations, to guide international travelers and local foodies to the best restaurants, to highlight world culinary scenes and to promote travel culture.

The selection will follow MICHELIN’s historic method based on five universal criteria to ensure consistency between each selection, including;
- The quality of the ingredients
- The mastery of cooking techniques
- The harmony of flavors
- The personality of the cuisine
- The consistency both over time and through the menu as a whole
The MICHELIN Guide Restaurant Selection

The MICHELIN Guide conveys its restaurant reviews through an extensive system of distinctions, which are awarded to special restaurants within its full selection. The most famous distinctions are its globally renowned MICHELIN Stars awarded to the restaurant offering the best culinary experiences. One MICHELIN Star is awarded to restaurants for “high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,” two MICHELIN Stars for “excellent cooking that is worth a detour,” and three MICHELIN Stars for “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.”

Alongside the coveted Star ratings, the selection also includes the popular Bib Gourmand category, a distinction awarded to restaurants that provide good quality food at a moderate price.

The MICHELIN Guide is committed to maintaining the highest global standards in its restaurant selection process. Our team of anonymous, experienced, and expert inspectors conduct continuous and rigorous evaluations of restaurants. These evaluations are carried out objectively and independently, ensuring that external factors do not influence the results. This dedication to impartiality and excellence guarantees that only the outstanding dining establishments are recognized.

The full restaurant selection of the MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026 will be unveiled at a special event to be held in the last quarter of 2025. It will be available exclusively in digital format on all the Guide’s interfaces: website, mobile applications, and social networks. It will join the global MICHELIN Guide restaurant and hotel selections to be found for free on its digital platforms.

To learn more about the MICHELIN Guide history, methodology or selection organization, please visit guide.michelin.com or follow updates on facebook.com/MichelinGuideAsia and instagram.com/michelinguide.
February 18, 2025
3 Ways You Can Kickstart a Healthier Lifestyle and Help the Planet Today

The new year is the perfect time to focus on health and wellness. For many, setting fitness goals and building better habits mark the first step toward a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Whether it’s exercising daily, meal prepping, or practicing healthy hydration everyday – these small, consistent habits can lay the foundation for long-term success.

The key is consistency—and it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here are some steps you can take to invest in a healthier life this year.

1. Develop just one healthy habit – but do it every day

Healthy habits don’t have to be complicated. Start with an activity you genuinely enjoy and aim to do it every day for two months. Once it becomes a habit, you’ll no longer rely on willpower to stay on track—it will be automatic.

A great example of a simple healthy habit? Running.

Running has surged in popularity, and it’s easy to see why: running boosts the mood, reduces anxiety, and delivers tons of physical benefits. And it’s not complicated—just grab your sneakers and hit the road!

One way you can really build your fitness habit is to join others in their journey. Run clubs have become a go-to for those looking to stay active and make connections. Their workouts are shared experiences, which can help you stay motivated.

2. Move your body everyday

Incorporating movement through running and joining runs as part of your routine is one of the best ways to build a healthy lifestyle. This year, you can make your steps count even more by joining the GCash Eco Run.

The GCash Eco Run gives everyone the chance to combine fitness with helping the planet. In partnership with Silliman University, a grey mangrove tree will be planted in Negros Occidental for every person that signs up to the GCash Eco Run. To double the impact of this initiative – GCash will plant an additional tree, for every tree planted!

Mangroves play a vital role in combating climate change, protecting local coastlines from erosion, and supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities by serving as fish nurseries. This initiative not only strengthens environmental resilience but also ensures sustainable livelihoods, fostering long-term benefits for both nature and people.

The GCash Eco Run offers distances for everyone – from beginners to more seasoned runners. The 3K and 5K races are open to participants 13 and older and children 12 and under may join if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Those who want to stretch their capabilities can join the 10K races, which is open to participants 16 and older.

The GCash Eco Run is happening on March 23, 2025 along Ayala Avenue in Makati. Until February 28, you can register and enjoy ₱150 OFF with promo code GCASHRUNTAYO. Every step supports mangrove restoration, helping protect our shores and marine life, so take advantage of this special offer while it lasts!

3. Embrace the Journey

Fitness is a journey, not a sprint. Progress takes time, so celebrate every small victory and don’t let setbacks discourage you. With consistency, movement becomes second nature—so embrace the process and have fun along the way.

Make 2025 the year you prioritize your health and your role in helping the planet. Join the GCash Eco Run to turn your fitness goals into meaningful action this March and create a healthier, more sustainable future—one step at a time.

Registration to the GCash Eco Run is now open until March 22, 2025. Sign up via the GCash app and receive your GForest Tree Certificate on event day. For more details, visit this link.

February 11, 2025
Edsa Shangri-La, Manila Becomes the First Halal-certified Hotel in the Ortigas Central Business District

Edsa Shangri-La, Manila is proud to announce that it has become the first hotel in the Ortigas Central Business and Commercial District to receive Halal Certification with the support of the Halal Development Institute of the Philippines (HDIP), an internationally recognised institution and a member of the World Halal Council. This certification enables Edsa Shangri-La, Manila to offer Halal-compliant food and services for banquets, events, meetings, and conventions catering to the needs of the growing Muslim market. The Halal Certification confirms that Edsa Shangri-La, Manila meets the highest standards of food, preparation, safety, and hygiene in line with the Islamic dietary laws and specifications. With this recognition, the hotel is now able to serve Halal menus at events such as corporate gatherings, weddings, and conferences, ensuring that all food is prepared in accordance with strict Halal guidelines.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity

In October 2024, HDIP began its series of in-depth training for various operating teams of Edsa Shangri-La, Manila including food safety and hygiene, culinary, engineering, stewarding, purchasing, receiving, service, and management. Edsa Shangri-La, Manila recognizes the growing demand for Halal food options as the hospitality industry becomes more diverse. This certification reflects the hotel’s holistic approach and commitment towards inclusivity, understanding and presenting a positive environment for Muslim travellers and business professionals.

“We are delighted and honoured to be the first hotel in the city to receive the Halal Certification. This is a significant achievement that reflects our dedication towards presenting all our guests with world-class service and respect for dietary needs and customs,” Stanley Lo, General Manager of Edsa Shangri-La, Manila shares.

The certification ensures that Halal food at Edsa Shangri-La, Manila is prepared from dedicated kitchens separate from non-Halal items and that hotel service associates are trained and certified in proper Halal food handling, ensuring compliance with food safety and hygiene
standards.

Looking Ahead

The latest certification forms part of Edsa Shangri-La, Manila service commitment and signature offering for its expanding market as it eases towards a new year ripe with possibilitiesfor meetings and events.

“This certification will allow us to provide tailored services for our Muslim clients, whether they are attending a corporate meeting, a wedding, or any other event,” says Stanley Lo. “We are excited to offer more choices for Halal dining and continue to provide exceptional service in an inclusive environment.”

February 7, 2025
Kim Ji Soo at the Pasasalamat Event of the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines

South Korean actor Kim Ji Soo is making waves in the Philippines, and his recent appearances are turning heads! Known for his roles in GMA 7’s hit shows like Black Rider and Abot-Kamay na Pangarap, as well as the movie Mujigae, Ji Soo has become a beloved figure in the local entertainment scene.

He recently graced the Pasasalamat event, a vibrant thanksgiving celebration hosted by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines. This gathering was a star-studded affair, bringing together influential figures from government, media, and the entertainment industry, all united in their mission to showcase the Philippines as a premier global tourism destination.

The TBP recorded P11.3 billion in sales leads in 2024, and also had collaborations with various influential personalities — American actor and model Timothy Granaderos, Filipino-American Nico Santos, American actor Josh Dela Cruz, American pop-rock act LANY, and Kim Ji Soo, of course — which resulted in over P1.44 billion in media values, further amplifying the presence of the Philippines worldwide.

Dressed to impress, Ji Soo stole the spotlight in a stunning ensemble by renowned Filipino designer Randy Ortiz. He sported a sleek black organic-dyed piña barong tagalog, paired with modern striped tuxedo pants, and stylish footwear from Marikina’s Godfather Shoes. This look not only showcased Ji Soo’s impeccable fashion sense but also his deep appreciation for Filipino culture.

From left to right: President of PR firm Visions and Expressions Susan Joven, Actor Kim Ji Soo, TPB Chief Operating Officer Marga Nograles, Managing Director of Universal Records and President & Founder of GLXY Talent Management Kathleen Dy-Go and, Editor in Chief of Philippine Tatler. Anton San Diego.

From left to right is Chief Operating Officer of Live Nation; Isabella Pascua, Managing Director of Universal Records President & Founder of GLXY Talent Management; Kathleen Dy-Go, Managing Director of Live Nation; Rhiza Pascua, Stanley Ng of Philippine Airlines Stanley Ng is the first active pilot to serve as the top executive of the flag carrier. The president and chief operating office of the Philippine Airlines since 2022 is a die-hard customer in the free market of ideas. Stanley Ng embraces ideas no matter where it comes from.and Actor; Kim Ji Soo.

January 23, 2025