Ballet Philippines reimagines 'Alice in Wonderland' for the holidays

The company's 56th season continues with a new full-length production choreographed by Mikhail Martynyuk

By Feliciano Rodriguez III

Published Nov 10, 2025 09:27 am     

Ahead of its premiere, Ballet Philippines offered a glimpse of the production during a media preview on Nov. 7 at the Oasis Garden Café in Solaire Resort, Parañaque. Dancers performed excerpts in costume, giving guests a preview of the imaginative choreography and design that will define the show.

The ballet follows Alice, whose curiosity leads her into a world where rules of reason are suspended and imagination reigns. From sipping potions that alter her size to meeting gardens of talking flowers, she moves through scenes that balance humor with emotional depth.

One of the production’s most striking sequences unfolds in the Mad Hatter’s tea party, filled with riddles and absurdity. Later, the Queen of Hearts’ courtroom erupts into chaos as flamingos and hedgehogs turn into croquet mallets and tempers flare. Alice’s story culminates in a moment of defiance when she shouts, “Stop!” which shatters the dream and restores order.

For Mikhail, the challenge lay in turning a familiar fantasy into movement that speaks without words. “In Alice, I wanted to create a world where movement tells the story beyond words,” he said. “Through choreography, mime, and expression, we invite audiences to feel the humor, absurdity, and heart that make Wonderland so unforgettable.”

The production, he explains, merges classical ballet technique with “plastic comedy pantomime,” infusing the piece with theatrical energy. This mix creates what Ballet Philippines describes as a visually rich, family-friendly experience designed to enchant audiences of all ages.

“As we continue to evolve Ballet Philippines’ artistic journey, Alice in Wonderland represents our ongoing mission to celebrate imagination, courage, and the joy of discovery,” said Kathleen Liechtenstein, president of Ballet Philippines. “It also reflects our deeper purpose to bring Filipino talent and artistry to the forefront of the global stage, showcasing how collaboration between world-class artists like Mikhail Martynyuk and our homegrown dancers creates a uniquely inspiring expression of creativity and excellence.”

As the curtain falls and Alice awakens beside her sister, the ballet ends with a quiet moment that underscores its central theme: the courage to stay true to oneself and the boundless reach of imagination.

Alice in Wonderland will run for five performances from Dec. 5 to 7, 2025, at The Theatre at Solaire. Showtimes are Dec. 5 (gala performance) at 8 p.m.; Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets are available through TicketWorld. 

Chef Tatung's new book brings Filipino food back to its roots

At the launch of Pinas Simpol, the chef reframes Filipino cooking as memory, identity, and cultural intelligence

By Feliciano Rodriguez III

Published Nov 19, 2025 06:07 am

   PINAS PRIDE Guests join Chef Myke “Tatung” Sarthou at Lore in Bonifacio Global City for the launch of his new book

Chef Myke “Tatung” Sarthou gathered chefs, educators, cultural leaders, and media at Lore by Chef Tatung in Bonifacio Global City last Nov. 12 for the launch of “Pinas Simpol: The Love and Lore of Filipino Cooking,” a book that looks at Filipino cuisine through memory, home-kitchen wisdom, and cultural grounding.

The restaurant, part of the Michelin Selected 2026 list, set the tone for what many guests called a long-awaited articulation of how Filipinos understand and cook their food. In his remarks, Chef Tatung said the project began with a desire “to show that Filipino food is intelligent, beautiful, and rooted” but grew into something more reflective. The book, he explained, is “not really about recipes, but about remembering—giving words to what we already know by heart.”

At the center of Pinas Simpol is a framework he calls the “Four Legs of the Filipino Table,” describing food that is rooted, resilient, respectful, and responsive. He noted that Filipino cuisine “has never been improvised; it has always been intelligent,” pointing to daily cooking practices—laga, ihaw, gisa, and gata—as evidence of heritage shaped through lived experience. These gestures, he said, are “proof that simplicity can hold great wisdom.”

The new book is also the first volume in a planned trilogy to codify Filipino cooking for future generations. Chef Tatung emphasized that Filipino food is often difficult to teach internationally not because it lacks structure, but because documentation is limited. “We don’t have enough literature explaining its complexity,” he said, adding that while Japanese cuisine is taught through clear systems, staples like buro remain rarely documented despite their sophistication.

BOOK SPOTLIGHT Chef Myke “Tatung” Sarthou stands beside a large display of the Pinas Simpol- The Love and Lore of Filipino Cooking book cover.

Part of codifying the cuisine, he noted, is strengthening the ecosystem behind it. He recalled working abroad in Michelin-starred kitchens while cooking with calamansi from Vietnam and coconut from Thailand. “If I am to promote Filipino food, our people should be the first to benefit from it,” he said, calling attention to the need to support farmers, producers, and the local supply chain.

The launch also became a moment of reflection for the culinary community. Liza Morales, Program Director of Le Cordon Bleu–Ateneo and Amanu, said the event marked “a celebration of how Filipino cuisine is defining itself anew—through knowledge, pride, and purpose,” especially as the Philippines gains visibility through the Michelin Guide and the United Nations Gastronomy Forum. “For the first time,” she said, “international recognition and local confidence meet at the same table.”

Liza added that Chef Tatung’s work extends beyond restaurants and books, noting his consistent efforts in community feeding and relief operations. She also announced that Le Cordon Bleu–Ateneo will host another celebration of Pinas Simpol on Dec. 6, where French chefs will prepare dishes from the book. “For once, let the French chefs cook Filipino food,” she said.

A key section of Pinas Simpol introduces the Simpol ABC Framework—Assemble, Build, Complete—based on how Filipino households naturally cook. Chef Tatung said the approach reinforces the idea that intuitive cooking has structure. “Filipinos cook with what they have,” he said. “Tantsa is not guesswork—it’s intelligence.”

The book launch also coincided with his 10th year as an author. Since “Philippine Cookery: From Heart to Platter,” he has earned four Gourmand World Cookbook Awards and published eight titles, with three more completed. He traced his writing aspirations back to high school, when he first wrote that he dreamed of publishing at least ten books. Through the years, he said his guiding belief remains unchanged: “Filipino food must belong to Filipinos first.”

Pinas Simpol, published by Vertikal Kreatives Inc., is now available for ₱790 on major e-commerce platforms and will soon be sold in leading bookstores nationwide. The book blends essays, cultural reflection, technique, and recipe storytelling into a single volume meant to document and celebrate the depth of Filipino cooking.

Manila's A Mano rises to the world's top 50

 

Local pizzeria earns global acclaim for its faithful Italian flavors

By Feliciano Rodriguez III

Published Sep 10, 2025 09:11 am 

A Mano, a homegrown Italian restaurant in Manila, has climbed the global ladder of pizza greatness. At the 2025 edition of the 50 Top Pizza Awards, the restaurant ranked 49th in the world, a leap from its 70th place finish the year before.

The recognition adds to a string of honors. Earlier this year, A Mano took the 7th spot in the 50 Top Pizza Asia-Pacific list, up from 12th in 2024. It also won the Pastificio di Martino Award in 2024, which celebrates the best pasta program in the world. “To perfection,” is how co-director Albert Sapere of 50 Top Pizza described the winners of that prize. A MANO also claimed the same award in the Asia-Pacific region last year.

Founded in 2019 by Amado Forés, A Mano has built its reputation on fresh, faithful Italian cooking crafted by Filipino hands. Amado, who also serves as CEO of AF Hospitality, said the rise in ranking is a tribute to the team’s dedication. “It’s an immense honor for us to be part of 50 Top Pizza. Rising from the 70th to the 49th spot is a feat I attribute to our hardworking team — expertly made by Filipino hands, consistently producing world-class quality — and it motivates us to keep innovating while staying true to serving fresh and faithful Italian,” Amado said in a press statement.

Amado Forés at the 50 Top Pizza stage

The 50 Top Pizza guide is considered the most influential of its kind, with rankings determined by food critics, experts, and industry professionals across the world. The awards celebrate excellence in pizza-making, whether rooted in tradition or pushing toward modern styles.

AF Hospitality, the group behind A Mano, also manages restaurants such as Ramen Ron and Steak & Frice. Since July 2025, the company has carried on the legacy of the late Chef Margarita Forés, taking stewardship of her well-loved brands including Lusso, Grace Park, Margarita Florals, and Cibo.

Forés said the recognition is a reminder of what the restaurant strives for. A Mano expressed gratitude to the 50 Top Pizza organization and to loyal guests who continue to support its pursuit of authentic Italian flavors made with the finest ingredients.

Chef Jonathan Redoblado, Amado Forés, and Chef Erick Marron

Bites by the beach: Grab's Dine Out rolls into Boracay

 

With e-trikes, local flavors, and app-powered savings, Grab reimagines island dining for travelers and small businesses

By Feliciano Rodriguez III

Published Jun 25, 2025 07:28 am

On the sun-drenched shores of Boracay, a quiet shift is taking place. It begins not with sandcastles or surfboards, but with a green e-trike painted in Grab’s signature color pulling up to your hotel. This is how Grab welcomed media guests into a new kind of dining experience, introducing its Dine Out feature on the island as part of a larger effort to bring tech-powered tourism into more corners of the Philippines.

For Grab, the campaign is more than a soft launch. “This is the first step in a larger partnership with the Department of Tourism,” said CJ Lacsican, Grab Philippines’ vice president for cities. “We are enabling local and international travelers to connect with the Philippines in richer, more seamless ways.”

Dine Out is Grab’s newest in-app feature, now live in Boracay. The mechanics are simple. Diners already seated at partner restaurants can open the app, tap the Dine Out tab, select the venue, input the bill, and instantly enjoy up to 20 percent off. For those who prefer to plan ahead, discounted vouchers can be purchased in advance, with some featuring chef-curated must-try dishes.

The media preview kicked off with dinner at Nonie’s, where the plates focused on mindful, modern Filipino comfort food. The next day started with breakfast at The Black Attic on the quieter side of the island, in Bulabog Beach. From there, it was lunch at La-ud, which showcased deeply rooted Filipino flavors. Later, guests were treated to merienda at Muchos, followed by dessert at Kelana, a relaxed café with a sweet tooth and a view.

But Dine Out is not just about eating well. At its core, it supports local entrepreneurs. “We’re giving these businesses the ability to run smart, targeted promotions that deliver real results,” said CJ. “More tables filled. More revenue generated. More jobs supported.”

Grab Dine Out aims to make food discovery easier for travelers while giving small food businesses access to a wider market through the app. Currently available in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao, the service is now expanding into tourism-driven destinations like Boracay. The list of partner restaurants includes Cathy’s Bistro, Jeepney Stop, Totally Bananas, Kasbar, The Black Attic, La-ud, and Muchos, with more being added each week.

'Philippine Cocktail Week' teased by The Curator and Southbank Café + Lounge

Organizers led by top Manila bartenders announce dates for the country’s first national cocktail week, but keep full details tightly sealed

BY FELICIANO RODRIGUEZ III

May 6, 2025 06:24 AM

  

---

Something is stirring in the city’s drinking scene.

With little fanfare but unmistakable intent, two of the country’s most respected bar institutions—The Curator and Southbank Café + Lounge—have quietly announced what appears to be the Philippines’ first national cocktail week. The reveal, posted on a newly created Instagram page titled “Philippine Cocktail Week,” hints at a multi-day event scheduled for February 5 to 8, 2026. 

ADVERTISEMENT

The post gave no further details. But the people behind it say enough.

Fronting the initiative are David Ong, the creative force behind The Curator, and Kevin Corales, executive bartender at Southbank. Together, they’ve helped raise the profile of Filipino bartending through years of steady, uncompromising work—earning international recognition while cultivating a homegrown bar culture.

Now, it seems, they’re doing it for the country.

Though mum on the finer points, David, Kevin, and a group of like-minded advocates appear poised to turn the spotlight on local talent and present a new kind of drinking event—one that puts Filipino mixology squarely on the map. The effort mirrors similar movements across Asia, where cities like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore have used cocktail festivals not just to pour drinks but to shape perceptions. 

The Instagram post kept it brief. Just a date and a name. But in a city where word spreads fast and the thirst for craft runs deep, that was enough.

February 2026 is marked. The rest, for now, stays in the bottle.

Follow @philippinecocktailweek on Instagram for updates.

Oktoberfest 2024: North and south celebrations in Metro Manila

BY FELICIANO RODRIGUEZ III

Sep 26, 2024 09:17 PM

  

---

Photo by Kimia on Unsplash

This October, Metro Manila will host two major Oktoberfest celebrations, blending Bavarian tradition with modern hospitality. One will take place in the South at Newport City, and the other in the North at Solaire Resort, both promising a memorable experience for festival-goers.

Oktoberfest at Newport World Resorts

Larelen Go Dagondon, managing director of Weihenstephan Brewery products; Knut Becker, vice president for food and beverage operations at Newport World Resorts; David Jorden, chief marketing officer at Newport World Resorts; John Lucas, general manager at Hilton Manila; Lulai Sau, director of operations at Hilton Manila; and host Eiffelene Howard

Newport World Resorts is preparing for its second Oktoberfest, which has quickly become a signature event at the lifestyle destination. Scheduled from Oct. 24 to 26, the festival will take place at Hilton Manila, where the ballroom will be transformed into a Bavarian beer hall. Long wooden benches, festive buntings, and checkered tablecloths will recreate the traditional Munich atmosphere. 

“At Newport World Resorts, we take pride in creating experiences that are as authentic as they are enjoyable. This year’s Oktoberfest is no exception. We’ve gone all out to bring you the very best of Oktoberfest, right here at the country’s premier lifestyle and entertainment destination,” said Newport World Resorts Chief Marketing Officer David Jorden during the media launch.

Guests can look forward to classic Bavarian draft beers from Weihenstephan Brewery, the world’s oldest brewery. The event will also offer a grand spread of traditional German dishes, including pork bratwurst, frankfurters, crispy pork knuckle, and chicken schnitzel, served with sauerkraut and spaetzle. Desserts will include apple tarts and the fluffy, caramelized Kaiserschmarrn.

To keep the festive atmosphere lively, Austria's AnTon Showband will provide live entertainment throughout the three-day event. Tickets are priced at P4,900 nett for early birds until Sept. 30, and P5,400 nett from Oct. 1 onwards.

Oktoberfest at Solaire Resort North 

Michael Scheile, program host and Oktoberfest committee; Chef Sebastian Kellerhoff, vice president for culinary, Solaire Resort; Tobias Rast, Oktoberfest chairman; and Roland Odenthal, Oktoberfest committee

Up north, Solaire Resort North, in partnership with the German Club of the Philippines, will hold its Oktoberfest celebration on Oct. 19 and 20 in the Grand Ballroom. Unlike Newport’s event, Solaire’s Oktoberfest will span two days, with the second day catering specifically to families.

Guests can expect a variety of traditional German dishes, including Munich-style sausage salad, grilled pork sausage, roasted pork knuckle, and beef goulash, all paired with Weihenstephaner beer, the official sponsor.

German grub offered at the media lunch

“Our Oktoberfest is the most authentic, so you better choose us over the others,” joked Michael Scheile, program host and Oktoberfest committee member, during the Solaire media launch, adding a lighthearted competitive spirit to the event.

The first day of Solaire’s Oktoberfest will focus on adults, offering free-flowing beer, hearty German fare, and live music from Bavarian Sound Express, a band known for traditional Oktoberfest tunes. The second day will be family-friendly, featuring activities like a bouncy castle, face painting, carnival games, and a German costume photo booth, making it a perfect outing for families looking to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

A staff from Solaire Resort North offers a big mug of Weihenstephan beer to guests at the media preview

Solaire is also offering exclusive room packages for attendees, with a 20% discount on the Bed and Breakfast rate, available for bookings until Oct. 12. The room packages are valid for stays between Oct. 8 and 14. Tickets for Solaire’s Oktoberfest are available on the event’s website.

With Newport World Resorts and Solaire Resort North offering their own unique versions of Oktoberfest—one in Pasay and the other in Quezon City—there’s something for everyone in Metro Manila this October.

Inaugural Tourism Pride Summit seeks to empower LGBTQIA+ tourism in the Philippines

Navigating inclusivity, growth, and opportunities in LGBTQIA+ tourism

BY FELICIANO RODRIGUEZ III

Oct 4, 2023 07:35 AM

  

---

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco spearheaded the panel discussions, accompanied by a distinguished lineup that included Congressman Christopher "Toff" de Venecia from Pangasinan's Fourth District, Ronil Villacorta representing the Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP), Regine Carmelli Reyes of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), Atty. Regal Oliva, who serves as the President of the Cebu Lady Lawyers Association Inc., Girly Gravador, the proprietor of Cygnal Travel, and Assistant Professor Rielle Alcantara-Castro from the Asian Institute of Tourism at the University of the Philippines Diliman

There was a festive air at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel last Sept. 28, 2023, as guests for the inaugural Tourism Pride Summit, organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT), streamed into the Rizal Ballroom to find their seats.

Drums were beating, colorfully costumed, native-inspired dancers were grooving at the entrance, and everyone was smiling as the fiesta-like theme welcomed guests to the ballroom.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco

The event brought together figures from various sectors, including government, academia, tourism, the media, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Despite the festive atmosphere, the subject matter was indeed serious and business-oriented.

To sum it up, the event emphasized the potential of government investments in the LGBTQIA+ tourism market, which annually spends approximately $200 billion, to significantly contribute to the growth and progress of the Philippine tourism industry. 

The summit included panel discussions with the goal of advancing an inclusive and progressive tourism sector. These discussions centered on evaluating successful pride tourism initiatives from different nations, exploring the creative industry's contribution to the growth of the LGBTQIA+ tourism market (projected to surpass $.5 trillion by 2030), and addressing various related subjects.

Congressman Christopher "Toff" de Venecia from Pangasinan's Fourth District

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco spearheaded the panel discussions, accompanied by a distinguished lineup that included Congressman Christopher "Toff" de Venecia from Pangasinan's Fourth District, Ronil Villacorta representing the Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP), Regine Carmelli Reyes of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), Atty. Regal Oliva, who serves as the President of the Cebu Lady Lawyers Association Inc., Girly Gravador, the proprietor of Cygnal Travel, and Assistant Professor Rielle Alcantara-Castro from the Asian Institute of Tourism at the University of the Philippines Diliman

The conversations also explored the distinct obstacles encountered by LGBTQIA+ professionals, championing the cause of inclusive workplaces, promoting gender development, and enhancing the DOT's mission by drawing from the varied travel experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals. 

Additionally, the summit explored the growth potential of LGBTQIA+ trends in tourism as a niche market, educational programs that incorporate LGBTQIA+ awareness and sensitivity training, and policies aimed at promoting understanding, respect, and acceptance of LGBTQIA+ travelers and tourism workers to make destinations more welcoming for everyone.

”We at the Department of Tourism take pride in the enormous contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community across the tourism value chain in all of the regions of the Philippines. With the very first Tourism Pride Summit, we are responding to global trends that present massive opportunities for growth by pursuing niche markets that will create more jobs in tourism,” said Secretary Frasco.

IN PHOTOS: New National Museum in Cebu to showcase the rich history and culture of the Queen City of the South

Visit the NMP-Cebu and discover the treasures of Cebu's past.

BY FELICIANO RODRIGUEZ III

Jul 31, 2023 04:38 PM

  

---

AT A GLANCE

• The museum will be open to the general public for free starting Aug.1, 2023

• Photos from the official DOT Facebook page

---

The newly inaugurated National Museum of the Philippines in Cebu (NMP-Cebu) will open to the public on Aug. 1, 2023. It is located in the heart of Cebu City's shipping district and features five key art galleries that showcase the rich history, culture, and natural wonders of Cebu.

The interiors of the new museum

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, and other high-ranking officials from the Philippines, the National Museum of the Philippines, and Cebu Province were among the first visitors to the newly inaugurated NMP-Cebu.

“The inauguration is a true testament that when we pursue a united approach to any task, we can accomplish projects that will benefit generations of Filipinos,” Marcos said, in the inaugural event.

"Remain steadfast in further strengthening your institution’s resolve to pursue its mandate of managing and developing national collections in the fields of arts, cultural heritage, and natural history."

The inaugural event of NMP-Cebu last July 28, 2023

The first gallery, "Kinaiyahan: Cebu's Natural Wonders," features unique geological features and plant and animal species endemic to the area. The second gallery, "Ang Karaang Sugbo ug ang mga Kabiling Bahandi," contains significant archaeological finds that further educate visitors about the history of Cebu. The third gallery, "Paglawig: Cultural Movement Across the Seas," features exhibits on maritime history and industry. The fourth gallery, "The Philippine Center New York Core Collection of 1974," showcases artworks of leading Filipino artists in the early 1970s. The fifth gallery, "Ang Kamamugnaon ug Kinaadman ni Maestro Tinong," highlights the work of famed Cebuano artist Martino "Tinong" Abellana.

Here are some photos of the exhibits in the new museum:

The NMP-Cebu is a valuable resource for tourism and education, and is sure to be a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Kudos to the National Museum for this endeavor. One hopes that more localized branches of the National Museum will be built in the other regions of the islands.

The museum will be open to the general public for free starting Aug.1, 2023, from Tuesdays to Sundays, (except on religious holidays) from 9 a.m to 5 p.m.

Ballet Philippines brings back the magic this holiday season with ‘The Nutcracker’

Published November 25, 2022, 11:54 AM

by Feliciano Rodriguez III

After two years of lockdowns, it’s time to go back to the theatre and enjoy this treasured holiday show

Ballet Philippines closes the year 2022 with a full-length, on-site, ballet of “The Nutcracker,” a first since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. There will be performances at the CCP Main Theater on Dec. 17, 8 p.m., and on Dec. 18, 2 p.m and 8 p.m.

“It’s time to go back and watch,” exclaimed Ballet Philippines’ President Kathleen Liechtenstein, at a media preview of the ballet, which was held at the beautiful and historic Mira-Nila House in Quezon City.

After two years of just watching shows remotely, Lichtenstein told guests that it was high time to get out again and enjoy ballet, and that “The Nutcracker” is the perfect piece for the “new normal” holiday season.

The Mira-Nila House was the perfect venue for the press preview. The old, genteel mansion was a suitable backdrop for the minutes-long ballet preview. The skillful Ballet Philippines dancers pranced, twirled, and wowed guest at the mansion’s courtyard. The ballet company also showed off the wondrously designed costumes that are to be featured in this year’s “The Nutcracker.”

Ballet Philippines’ Artistic Director Mikhail “Misha” Martynyuk was also present, “The uniqueness of our performance is its high level of musicality. Every scene is built precisely to the rhythm of the composer’s work.”

Lichtenstein also revealed that this year’s The Nutcracker will be extra special, as it will be performed to live music from the Manila Symphony Orchestra.

“Playing time-honored compositions of Peter Tchaikovsky, audiences can expect complete enchantment as music and dance transport senses to the Land of The Sugar Plum Fairy,” they shared.

Choreographed by Martynyuk, this full length performance of The Nutcracker brings the complete Christmas experience to audiences. Martynuk explains, “We are creating a fresh version while still respecting the classical version of the play. The performance will not only uphold the motives of E.T.A Hoffman’s Nutcracker and The Mouse King, it equally showcases the brilliant libretto of Marius Petipa.”

For tickets to Ballet Philippines’ The Nutcracker, visit www.ballet.ph or go to TicketWorld