Manila Bridal Fair by Manila Prince Hotel: A Premier Wedding Showcase

Manila Bridal Fair by Manila Prince Hotel: A Premier Wedding Showcase

The much-anticipated Manila Bridal Fair by Manila Prince Hotel is set to grace the Grand Ballroom on July 26 and 27, 2024.  This prestigious event aims to bring together a curated selection of industry experts, offering soon-to-wed couples an unparalleled experience. Admission is free on both dates.

The line-up of over 20 exhibitors is set to impress, from Angeline Cakes, Audiolex Interactive Photobooth, Babaylan Coffee, Big Day by Charles and Co., Cakecologist, Cocktails Manila, Events by Thoffy, FYI Events, Flowers by Alvin, Lawrence Tapalla, MTC Events, Music Podium Entertainment, Myra Lorenzo, Myrtle Salvador, Paper Flowers Manila, Photoculture, Purple Mix Lights & Sounds, Sentimental Groove Music, The Artisan Cellar Door, and Winvih Mobile Bar – all dedicated to making each wedding truly memorable. Couples can consult with these professionals and book their services during the fair.

On July 26, the fair will open its doors at 12:00 noon and will run until 7:00 pm. In the evening, there will be a bridal fashion show putting the spotlight on ready-to-wear gowns and suits by partner designers Carina Canlas, Fatima Beltran, and Ryan ChrisBaylen, plus members of Designers Circle Philippines.

On the second day, July 27, the fair will be open to attendees from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Additionally, partner designers will hold a trunk show at the presidential suites of the Manila Prince Hotel. Couples can view the designers’ gown and suit ready-to-wear collection, try them on, and make purchases on the spot, ensuring a personalized and exclusive shopping experience. Moreover, Benz Co-Rana, the founder of Weddings at Work, will present a talk, offering her insights to couples and wedding suppliers.

During the 2-day bridal fair, Manila Prince Hotel will be transformed by the creative talents of none other than Amante Fleurs and Joyce Aguilar at both the hotel lobby and the Grand Ballroom. Manila Prince Hotel will also showcase its signature themes: Classic for a timeless elegance, Opulent for a luxurious feel, and Oriental for a unique and exotic touch, providing attendees with a glimpse of the stunning settings that can make their special day unforgettable.

For more information about the event, call +63285256228, email in**@ma**********.com, or visit www.manilaprince.com.

Special thanks to event partners: Manila Bulletin, Wedding Essentials, The Manila Times, Wheninmanila.com, Department of Tourism, Culture, and Arts of Manila, Mixcraft Lights and Sounds, Weddings at Work, and SM Store Manila.

About Manila Prince

Manila Prince Hotel, a subsidiary of The Manila Hotel, is strategically located in the heart of Manila’s business district. Its proximity to the city’s historical tourist spots and main transportation hubs ensures a stress-free and convenient stay for our guests.

With its 300 well-appointed rooms, six function rooms and ballrooms, an elegant lobby with 24-hour reception, a business center, a swimming pool, and gym access, the Manila Prince Hotel offers not just stylish comfort, but also excellent value for money. Along with our commitment to excellent service and luxurious hospitality, the hotel boasts two (2) exciting dining outlets: Marcelino Street Café, the all-day dining restaurant, and Dragon Court, the Chinese restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine.

It also has a speakeasy bar called Hyde Manila. Hyde Manila is a hidden gem at Manila Prince Hotel that will transport its patrons into a realm where time stands still, and cocktails are crafted with artistry that transcends the ordinary.

The hotel is directly connected to the UN Square Mall, a popular shopping and dining destination in Manila. This convenient access to a variety of retail and dining options, along with our other amenities, makes Manila Prince Hotel a top choice for leisure travelers.

HATCH Exhibit: The 6th Edition

HATCH Exhibit: The 6th Edition

The 6th edition of the HATCH exhibit debuts at The Manila Hotel, promising to inspire fresh creativity within the iconic spaces of the Grand Dame. Notably, this year’s exhibit features the participation of the inimitable National Artist of the Philippines for Film, Kidlat Tahimik.

Ang Pagsilang ng Indio - Genius ni Kuya Pepe by Kidlat Tahimik

Ang Pagsilang ng Indio – Genius ni Kuya Pepe by Kidlat Tahimik

“It’s a challenge I’ve never done before, mangitlog (lay an egg), pero (but) why not? This octogenarian would like to remain innovative, even in his twilight years. So roll out your MB egg up to Baguio – and let’s see how my fantasy fertilizes this egg,” Kidlat shared via email correspondence when invited to join this year’s HATCH.

HATCH challenges Filipino artists to unleash their talent on an unexpected canvas – a fiberglass egg. Past editions have seen these eggs transformed into whimsical, exotic, and even profound art pieces. Artists use everyday materials infused into the egg, turning them into masterpieces.

More than just an exhibit, HATCH is a platform for established and emerging artists to experiment, pushing their artistic boundaries. Expect diverse styles, innovative installations, and thought-provoking pieces that spark conversation and appreciation for Filipino art.

Beyond the gallery walls, HATCH fosters a vibrant community, connecting artists, art fans, and the public, offering a unique perspective on Filipino creativity.

A new generation of “egg-cited” artists has devoted their time, talent, and skills to showcase the creative genius of the Filipino mind. Featured artists include National Artist of the Philippines for film Kidlat Tahimik, Marcel Antonio, Melai Arguzon, Andre Chan, Elaine Clemente, Katrina Cuenca, Sean Go, Julie Lluch, Marlon Magbanua, Glenn Martinez, Dennis Montera, Bea Policarpio, Joel Reglos, Maxine Syjuco, Herminio Tan, Valerie Teng, and Manila City Vice Mayor John Marvin “Yul Servo” Nieto.

HATCH 6th Edition is on display at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel from March 8 to April 7, 2024. Admission is free.

About The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel is located beside kilometer zero (0), where the City of Manila begins, and is within walking distance from the Philippines’ known landmarks: Rizal Park, Intramuros, and National Museums. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel maintains to be the choice hotel of the most distinguished clientele.

Since 1912, The Manila Hotel continuously provided the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience. It has more than 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms including three (3) ballrooms. Apart from these, the hotel offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with the Manila Hotel Spa, adult and children’s pools, and the Manila Hotel Health Club.

The hotel is home to the Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of priceless memories that narrate its illustrious past. It also has an Art Gallery that offers a window into a contemporary world, captured through the objective point of view of different artists.

It has six (6) dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure: Café Ilang-Ilang which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of International buffet delights; Champagne Room with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila — it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting; Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music; Lobby Lounge which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings; Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessens that offers the hotel’s signature pastries, bread, chocolates, and pralines.

CFDC Presents Nutrition Concert At The Manila Hotel

CFDC Presents Nutrition Concert At The Manila Hotel

In partnership with The Manila Hotel, the Children’s First One Thousand Days Coalition (CFDC) will present a dinner concert to raise funds for the nutrition efforts of non-government organizations helping the government address malnutrition of Filipino infants during the crucial period from conception to their second birthday.

The pre-Valentine concert called “The Greatest Love of All” will be held on Feb. 9, 2024, at 6 pm, at the Tent City of The Manila Hotel. The main performers are former Press Secretary Atty. Mike Toledo, former Executive Secretary Atty. Salvador Medialdea, and The Manila Hotel President and former Senator Joey Lina.

The Manila Hotel President and former Senator Joey Lina, former Executive Secretary Atty. Salvador Medialdea, and Press Secretary Atty. Mike Toledo.

The Manila Hotel President and former Senator Joey Lina, former Executive Secretary Atty. Salvador Medialdea, and Press Secretary Atty. Mike Toledo.

Beverly Salviejo

Beverly Salviejo

Bobby Alvarez

Bobby Alvarez

Other performers include Beverly Salviejo, Nina Campos, Jenny Sugay, Rachelle Rule, Rachel Verns, Pam Esquivel, Bobby Alvarez, Egay Rubiano, Jeffrey Panado, Egay Banaag, and the Adeodatus Children’s Choir (Baseco) with Manila Philharmonic Orchestra. Rodel Colmenar leads the music direction, with George Sison-Tagle and Paul Dizon supervising the overall direction of the concert.

Manila Philharmonic Orchestra

Manila Philharmonic Orchestra

CFDC member organizations include Rotary International, Lions Club International, Kiwanis International, Junior Chamber International, The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines, The Fraternal Order of Eagles – Philippine Eagles, Knights of Columbus, Knights of Rizal, Save the Children Philippines, World Vision Philippines, Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals, Philippine League of Government and Private Midwives, Crusade Against Violence, and many more.

In tandem with the government, the CFDC was formed to confront a serious problem troubling the Philippines: malnutrition during a child’s First One Thousand Days of Life – a very critical period when the impact of poor nutrition can be profound, long-lasting, even irreversible.

Thus, The Greatest Love of All is not merely an entertainment spectacle but a collaborative initiative to generate funds for the nutrition program of NGOs in the barangays. The CFDC welcomes everyone to participate in this meaningful cause, helping make the nutrition efforts a success and contributing to the goal of fostering “smarter, stronger, taller” Filipinos.

For more information on tickets and sponsorships, please contact John Gacutan at 09620668526 or +632 85270011 extension 1006.

Tree Lighting at the Manila Hotel

Tree Lighting at the Manila Hotel

As I entered the lobby of The Manila Hotel yesterday, it was impossible for me not to notice the large Christmas tree decorated in ribbons, bows, and balls in gold and red. Interspersed within its branches are twinkly lights that are unlit. But then, that is what I was there for … to see the tree when the Christmas lights are turned on. For The Manila Hotel, this will officially signal the start of the Christmas season.

The event begins with some Christmas carols sung by the Chorale of the Office of the President. As a choir member myself, I highly appreciate the effort they put in and I also couldn’t help but wince whenever I heard someone go out of tune. That being said, I think they gave a joyful performance!

I would have appreciated it more if not for the group of older women who somehow chose to stand around me when the event started and were chatting loudly amongst themselves. Sigh. How disrespectful! However, I was raised to show respect to my elders, no matter how rude THEY were, and just bit my tongue and tried to sidle away slowly and closer to the choir so that I can hear them more, and the chatty biddies less.

I looked over at them just to get a good look and since we were all wearing the same badges I couldn’t help but surmise that they, too, were members of the press. If I had to guess, they were probably from trad media and bosses (or bosses’ wives) as they gave off that kind of air. It doesn’t excuse the rudeness, though. Sigh again.

To be honest, that was the only blemish on an otherwise wonderful afternoon.

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuña

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuña

The Manila Hotel President, Atty. Joey Lina

The Manila Hotel President, Atty. Joey Lina

Welcome messages were given by Atty. Joey Lina, President of the Manila Hotel, and Manila Mayor Honey Lacuña.

As far as I know, The Manila Hotel was the first hotel to light up their tree for 2023. Unlit the tree was already beautiful but after several dignitaries were called in front each one stood in front of a podium that had a big red button.

After a countdown, each one pressed their red button simultaneously and the big, beautiful, gold-bedecked tree lit up!

Christmas truly comes early in the Philippines!

The Allianz MoveNow Camp: Moving PH teens to the center stage of Olympic Esports

The Allianz MoveNow Camp: Moving PH teens to the center stage of Olympic Esports

The first-ever Allianz MoveNow Camp – Esports Edition for teens took place in Singapore during the Olympic Esports Week (OEW). The camp showcased the skills and talents of teens in 11 different games during the first OEW finals. Through the MoveNow camps, Allianz PNB Life seeks to strengthen the role of sports in society by making it more inclusive, accessible, and engaging for teens in the Philippines and other Asian countries.

Allianz PNB Life (AZPNBL) — one of the leading life insurance companies in the Philippines — is a worldwide Olympic and Paralympic insurance partner, and the MoveNow camp is a joint initiative of Allianz and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The OEW was established to highlight the best of Esports and embrace the gaming world into the Olympic ecosystem.

The MoveNow Esports Camp showcased the best of Esports and exhibited the latest technologies and innovations in the field. Hundreds of teens, ages 14 to 17, from the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, and Thailand applied for a spot at the camp. Of the 23 participants selected, 3 were from the Philippines.

Philippine Team Captain Marlon Stöckinger, a former racing driver and the first Filipino to win a formula race in Europe, shared, “I was inspired by the talent, commitment, and dedication the teens showed during the camp. Everyone had a great time, and I’m sure the experience helped develop their skills further while creating once-in-a-lifetime memories for them.”

Tempest Dime, a 17-year-old Filipino participant, said, “It was cool to see these games becoming translated virtually through technology, proving that sports and gaming are not two separate things. The camp was a great display of sportsmanship and the Olympic values as we connected, competed, and learned from one another.”

All the participants received coaching, mentoring, and training sessions from experts and professional players such as professional racing driver Mikaela; YouTube soccer trick-shot artist Emmanuel; and professional Rocket League player, Kassio. These sessions enabled them to learn advanced techniques and strategies to improve their gameplay.

Research has supported the various benefits of Esports, such as improved executive function skills, hand-eye coordination, and visual acuity. And like physical sports, Esports also improves teens’ confidence, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and ability to communicate.

Gino Riola, AZPNBL Chief Marketing Officer, said, “At Allianz, we believe that anyone and everyone, especially the youth, can engage in sports and reap its benefits. The MoveNow program aims to create a healthy, safe, and supportive environment where young people can engage in sports and skills development.”

Allianz officially began its global partnership with the Olympic and Paralympic Movements in 2021, building on a collaboration with the Paralympic Movement since 2006. Since announcing the MoveNow program in June 2022, Allianz has run several initiatives, including the MoveNow Training Series, the MoveNow TikTok Club, and the MoveNow Camps. Through the MoveNow program, Allianz is committed to moving the next generation across the globe through global and local initiatives on the Road to Paris 2024 and beyond.

Join the Victory Day Bike Ride in Baguio City

Join the Victory Day Bike Ride in Baguio City

Baguio City will witness a momentous event that blends history and sportsmanship. The inaugural Victory Day Ride, spearheaded by the Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB), slated on September 3, 2023, will take cycling enthusiasts and history aficionados on a journey to honor the sacrifices of World War II veterans and raise awareness about Baguio Victory Day.

Mike Villa-Real, PVB First Vice President for Marketing and Communications, said, “The enactment of R.A. 11216 in 2018 marks September 3rd of each year as a special working holiday, marking Yamashita’s surrender and Victory Day in the Philippines. This day in 1945 is clearly a significant historical event marking the success and the toil and sacrifices of the soldiers of both the United States and the Philippines. However, it is not as well-known as the “Araw ng Kagitingan” (Day of Valor) commemorated on April 9 each year.”

Organized in partnership with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), City Government of Baguio, Wartime Heritage Guild Philippines (WHG), Without Limits, Salgado PR, this ride aims to foster a deeper understanding of the city’s significant role during WWII while encouraging active participation in the sport of cyclists of all ages and backgrounds.

Inspired by the annual Ride for Valor that retraces the infamous Death March, the Victory Day Bike Ride takes a different route, focusing on the historical sites and landmarks associated with Baguio City’s role in World War II. Cyclists and participants will embark on a 44.5-kilometer route that meanders through the city’s picturesque landscapes and historical spots, providing a unique opportunity to relive the past and honor the heroes who fought valiantly for freedom.

While the Ride for Valor primarily focuses on the Death March, the Victory Day Bike Ride aims to balance the narrative by shedding light on the broader scope of World War II history in the Philippines. The Victory Day Bike Ride seeks to increase awareness about Baguio City’s role during the war. The event intends to give due recognition to the countless Filipino and American soldiers who fought for the country’s liberation

The Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) invites sports and cycling enthusiasts to join the Ride for Victory Day, a bike-for-a-cause event that aims to raise funds for the maintenance of the country’s historical markers and other World War 2 heritage sites.

The ride is open to fully vaccinated cyclists and all types of bikes with brakes. Villa-Real said participants may ride at their own pace and will also implement a “No Helmet, No Ride” policy to ensure the safety of the participants.

Villa-Real also said a mechanic would be available to help those who encounter mechanical difficulties while roving marshals will be present to keep track of the riders’ progress. Support vehicles are allowed, but riders should only ride in the vehicle if they choose to drop out of the event.

The non-competitive bike ride will have five pitstops: Start at Baguio City Hall. First Stop, Camp Allen. Second Stop, USAFIP-NL Marker. Third Stop, Sablan View Deck. Fourth Stop, Fort Del Pilar (Philippine Military Academy). Fifth and Final Stop, U.S. Embassy in Camp John Hay.

The registration fee for the Ride for Victory Day is P600, which includes an official event shirt, a race bib and passport, a loot bag, a post-ride meal, and a commemorative medal.

Interested individuals may register online at https://bit.ly/victorydayride-regform, while groups may email ri**********@gm***.com   until September 1. Participants may also register onsite at INSERT BIKE SHOP PARTNERS HERE Baguio City branch.

PVB is a private, commercial bank owned by World War 2 veterans and their families. With its new Charter signed into law, the Bank’s ownership now includes Post War Veterans and AFP Retirees.

For more information about the event, follow Victory Day Ride on Facebook.

Protected by CleanTalk Anti-Spam