Philippines joins the list of leading Muslim-friendly destinations

 

WHAT A SIGHT Dmaukom Mosque in Maguindanao stands out for its pink facade, which symbolizes peace and love.

How these notable trends are shaping halal travel

Published Jun 19, 2025 11:33 pm

The surge in Muslim tourist arrivals in the Philippines in 2024 highlights the growing success of the country's inclusive travel initiatives, such as expanding Halal-certified dining and accommodations. —Judith Marie Dayrit, vice president, account management, Philippines, Mastercard.

Halal tourism in the Philippines is showing promising results as more international Muslim travelers enter the country. Recent data from the 2025 Mastercard-Crescent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) reveals that last year saw over 176 million international Muslim arrivals. By 2030, it is expected that this number will grow to over 245 million arrivals.

Another key achievement is our country’s rank rising up as the eighth most Muslim-friendly non Organization of Islamic Cooperation destination. To keep up the momentum, here are some trends listed by the GMTI that help shape halal travel and could bring the Philippines even higher in the coming years.

Muslim-friendly facilities

Prayer facilities, alcohol-free environments, and halal-certified dining options are essential in forming a Muslim-friendly destination. We already see this being applied in many of our malls, hotels, and airports. Prayer rooms are best placed in convenient and easy-to-spot locations while providing adequate space and resources, such as prayer mats, to allow for a seamless experience. A clear Qibla (a marker pointing to Mecca) should be present in the room. There should also be easy access to clean water for ablution. When dining, menus are best presented with halal-certified designators to make choosing meals easier.

Smart apps for halal journeys

Digital tools providing faith-aligned services are now readily available for Muslim travelers. Often, these apps allow the tracking of halal-certified dining areas, as well as options in meal-order apps for ordering halal dining choices. As the rise of AI continues, this opens the door for creating an AI service to assist in ensuring a Muslim-friendly travel experience.

Solo travel surge

Younger Muslim travelers are starting to embrace embarking on solo adventures. Making things easier for solo travelers can benefit even non-Muslim travelers. We can do so by prioritizing accessible public transportation, promoting destinations that highlight Islamic culture, and strengthening our local tourism sectors through diversity programs and tourism promotions.

A traveler’s guide to affordable and fun adventures

From take-off to touchdown, make your next travel worry-free with BDO

Going on vacations is one of life’s greatest joys—from exploring new destinations, experiencing different cultures, to creating unforgettable memories with friends and family. It should not be derailed by unexpected mishaps and last-minute changes.

That’s where BDO Insure Travel Insurance steps in, ensuring your trip is as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. Whether medical emergencies, baggage delays, or flight disruptions, BDO Insure expertly selects packages from different insurance partners to provide only the best options tailored to your needs.

Affordable options are available for travelers aged up to 75 years.

Planning a four-day visit to Asia? Coverage for emergency medical treatment benefits of up to Php500,000 starts at Php350. Want more protection? Boost your coverage to Php1.5 million for just Php463. That’s a small price to pay for a big peace of mind.

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Apart from these benefits, travelers can now opt in for a more comprehensive cover which includes emergency treatment of pre-existing conditions and extreme activities, reimbursement of rebooking fees, and additional benefit for first 4-hour delay and baggage delay for return flights.

For a more seamless experience, purchase your travel insurance in the Philippines at least four hours before your departure.

Next time you pack, remember to include peace of mind with an insurance package that lets you travel safely and enjoy every moment worry-free. BDO Insure Travel Insurance includes COVID-19 coverage, travel inconvenience benefits, and access to a 24/7 Emergency Travel Assistance Hotline.

Mothers take the spotlight at this event centered on empowerment and connection

 

Get ready to celebrate, mga nanay! Kamay ni Nanay is bringing a special treat to all the amazing mothers out there with “Araw ni Nanay—A Celebration of Love, Care, and Opportunity.” This exciting event, powered by Kamay ni Nanay, will transform SM City Sta. Mesa into a Mother's Day wonderland on May 18, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

TV actress Dianne Medina-Ilustre will host the day, guiding participants through a heartwarming program packed with fun and inspiration. This isn’t just your ordinary event—it’s a full-blown celebration of everything that makes mothers so special.

Here's a sneak peek:

Wisdom for nanay

Top speakers will share their expertise on topics close to every mom's heart. Dr. Emehly Sevilla of Vine Aesthetics will give the lowdown on self-care (because moms need pampering too!). MK Bertulfo of FH Moms will help the audience navigate the digital world, and MJ Aspacio of CityDanse Academy will reveal how art can work wonders for kids.

Dra. Em Sevilla

Entertainment galore

Audiences are in for a treat with a lineup of heartwarming and awe-inspiring performances. The much-anticipated “Haphow Musical” takes center stage—not just as a show, but as a moving experience that encourages reflection on life, love, and the values we hold close. Adding grace and charm to the program, Sophie and Herbie’s ballet performance will enchant guests with elegance. The celebration continues with appearances by other talented special guests, and to make the moment even more magical, singer-director Jeffrey Hidalgo will serenade the crowd with his soulful voice.

Real talk with real moms

Don't miss the panel discussion featuring Pamela Joy Estonilo-Lumagbas, the powerhouse CEO behind Kamay ni Nanay, along with other inspiring women. They’ll dive into everything from baby care to building a business—and how to keep your sanity in the process. Panelists include Leanne Dela Cruz of K Gold Beauty, Kristina Po of Shinjiru Wellness Trading Corp., Antonette Del Rosario, one of Kamay ni Nanay’s brand ambassadors, Dra. Em Sevilla, MK Bertulfo, and MJ Aspacio.

Mode Devi events team

Celebrating nanay’s stories

Get ready for touching and unforgettable moments as we recognize the inspiring winners of the “Cutest Baby” and “Best Aruga Mom” contests, as well as the heartfelt entries in the “Testimonial Contest.” The event will also celebrate the achievements of the Top 5 Kamay ni Nanay Affiliates—women whose dedication and compassion truly embody the spirit of a nanay.

Freebies and fun all day

Of course, there will be booths and activities where participants can snag freebies, discover new products, and simply have a great time. These booth activities will be open and available throughout the day.

Kamay ni Nanay is here for all mothers, their families, and anyone who wants to join in the love. This is your chance to celebrate the heart of every home and honor the incredible contributions of our nanay.

For more details and updates, be sure to check out Kamay ni Nanay's Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages.

Celebrate Mother's Day with dining and gift experiences at Conrad Manila

Conrad Manila offers buffet specials, set menus, and themed confections from May 1 to 12

BY MB LIFESTYLE

May 1, 2025 11:46 PM

  

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Conrad Manila is marking Mother’s Day this May with a range of dining experiences, themed confections, and wellness offers designed to give families a way to spend quality time with the mothers in their lives.

“Our mothers do so much for the family behind the scenes, often without recognition,” said Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila. “As a son myself, I know how deeply meaningful it is to carve out time to honor their love and devotion. At Conrad Manila, we have thoughtfully curated experiences that help families celebrate their mothers in ways that feel truly special.”

Brasserie on 3 will feature a lunch and dinner buffet on May 11, offering a selection of dishes such as herb-crusted leg of lamb, smoked brisket, garlic butter seafood, and fresh oysters. Mothers dining with four full-paying adults eat for free. Each mother will also receive a complimentary three-piece fragrance set from KAYALI. A floral installation will be available as a backdrop for family photos. The buffet is priced at P3,800 nett per person.

At China Blue by Jereme Leung, families can enjoy a special set menu available from May 11 to 12. Designed for groups of five or more, the offering includes dishes such as lobster, abalone, roasted pigeon, and a signature Mother’s Day mocktail. The set menu is priced at P4,998 nett per person.

For those looking to celebrate with dessert, Bru Coffee Bar is offering a range of themed cakes and pastries from May 1 to 11. Highlights include strawberry tiramisu, Nutella moist chocolate cake, and mango cheesecake with flower jelly. Whole cakes start at P2,200 nett, while pastries and smaller confections start at P120 nett. Items such as chocolate red rose flower macarons, cherry blossom pralines, and a Mother’s Day-themed chocolate picture frame will also be available.

The Conrad Spa Manila is offering bespoke treatments using wildcrafted ingredients from the brand Isun, designed to give mothers a moment of calm and relaxation.

Have you seen the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary in the world?

Taking a closer look at the Montemaria Shrine in Batangas City

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Apr 16, 2025 02:54 PM 

Mary, Mother of Asia - Tower of Peace

Holy Week marks a crucial time for Filipinos to reconnect with their spirituality. During this time, one practice is the Bisita Iglesia, wherein folks visit seven different places of worship to pray. Others take a pilgrimage to far-off places throughout the country. This year, consider visiting Montemaria Shrine in Batangas.

Montemaria Shrine in Batangas is home to the Mother of All Asia - Tower of Peace. It is the tallest statue in the country and is considered the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary in the world. In comparison, it stands taller than the US' Statue of Liberty and Brazil's Christ the Redeemer. Visitors at the shrine can go up to the hands and crown of the statue to see and take pictures of the Batangas Bay. The shrine also features the Sto. Niño Chapel, a place where the faithful can attend daily masses and receive the sacraments.

Sto. Niño Chapel

Last year, over 100,000 visitors went to Montemaria Shrine to pay their respects. This year, the shrine has added new features, including an expanded restaurant and food complex, a modernized Stations of the Cross, and an expanded road network to accommodate the projected increase of visitors going to the shrine.

“As we head toward the Holy Week, we invite the faithful to spend this solemn experience at the Montemaria Shrine — whether you are sightseeing with your loved ones or visiting to practice your Catholic faith,” shares Guoan Wu, President of Fluvion.

 

Brown sugar, bold moves

Seattle’s Best Coffee leans into indulgence with a Brown Sugar Collection that blends comforting sweetness with bold, everyday energy.

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Brown sugar isn’t just a fleeting trend—it’s a full-on flavor obsession. And now, Seattle’s Best Coffee is embracing the craze with a lineup of drinks that meet the moment with flair, comfort and caffeine. The Brown Sugar Collection, now available in all Seattle’s Best Coffee locations nationwide and on GrabFood and FoodPanda, takes the familiar combo of espresso and brown sugar and spins it into four irresistible drinks built for every kind of day.

Whether you’re in the mood for something warm and cozy, or looking for a cool, chewy twist on your afternoon sip, this collection offers a brown sugar pairing for nearly every craving.

So, what’s the buzz?
It starts with Seattle’s Best’s signature bold coffee—rich, smooth, and deeply roasted. Each drink layers that coffee with caramelized brown sugar, creamy milk, and a mix of thoughtful extras: matcha, chocolate, coffee jelly. The result is a drink menu that’s less about basic caffeine and more about mood-setting indulgence.

Here’s what you’ll find on the menu:

Hot Brown Sugar Latte
A classic done right. This is your morning comfort cup—bold espresso, steamed milk and caramelized brown sugar, all working in cozy, familiar harmony. It’s smooth and warm, like your favorite sweater in a cup.

Iced Brown Sugar Latte
For when you want something cool, smooth and reliable. Over ice, espresso and brown sugar take on a refreshing edge, while creamy milk keeps it mellow. It’s the kind of drink that goes down easy but keeps you going.

Iced Brown Sugar Matcha
An earthy-sweet option for matcha fans, with a little extra playfulness. This drink blends premium matcha with brown sugar and adds chewy coffee jelly for texture and surprise in every sip.

Iced Brown Sugar Midnight Chocolate
Chocolate, but make it bold. This drink brings together dark chocolate, caramelized brown sugar and a whisper of espresso, then pours it all over ice with coffee jelly. It’s dessert and pick-me-up in one glass—rich, layered and unapologetically indulgent.

Not just another coffee run
This collection isn’t just about flavor—it’s about turning routine coffee moments into something a little more elevated. It’s the sip that softens a stressful workday or sweetens a late lunch. Whether you take it to go, savor it in-store, or have it delivered straight to your doorstep, Seattle’s Best Coffee is making it easier to treat yourself—anytime, anywhere.

The Brown Sugar Collection is now available and ongoing, so there’s no rush—just plenty of reason to swing by and discover your new favorite drink.

Snap, sip and share your pick with #SBCphBrownSugar.

Meet some of Tagaytay’s women baristas and roasters

SMDC The Strip At Wind: A scenic hub for female barista power this Women’s Month

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Apr 10, 2025 08:37 AM 

Nestled amidst Tagaytay's cool climate, SM Development Corporation (SMDC) The Strip At Wind provides a tranquil escape from the city bustle

Perfect venue for community and empowerment
The event, spearheaded by Liminvl Coffee owner Bettina Belardo, drew an engaged community of women baristas and roasters.

“I believe that our competitors represent some of the most skilled baristas and passionate enthusiasts in the coffee industry,” shared Belardo. “Our aim for this competition is to provide an inclusive platform where every participant feels empowered and valued.” 

ird runner-up Anne Aliangan, first runner-up Nery Domingo, Liminvl Coffee owner Bettina Belardo, second runner-up Shelo de Jesus, and champion Robee Lanuza

The "Women Who Brew" initiative featured a barista competition that highlighted the exceptional talent within the community. Robee Lanuza was awarded the title of Champ, celebrating the pinnacle of skill and dedication. Following closely were Nery Domingo, who took home first place, Shelo de Jesus in second, and Anne Aliangan in third, after a fierce competition.

Aromatic atmosphere and industry connections 
From the cozy Liminvl Coffee to the bustling grounds of SMDC The Strip At Wind, the air was rich with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the lively exchange of industry insights. The attendees, including talented baristas from renowned establishments, participated in engaging discussions, shared expert brewing techniques, and sampled a rich array of coffee products. The strategic location of SMDC The Strip At Wind, close to the coffee farms and homegrown coffee shops of Cavite and Batangas, facilitated unique networking and collaboration opportunities within the region’s growing coffee scene.

Liminvl Coffee at SM Development Corporation (SMDC) The Strip At Wind promotes an empowering space for female coffee professionals

Celebrating women’s contributions 
“Women Who Brew” was more than just a gathering; it was a powerful reflection of the dedication and skill of women shaping the coffee industry. The success of this event underscores the power of community and the importance of recognizing the vital role women play in every industry, one perfect cup at a time, within the welcoming and beautiful environment of this premier Tagaytay destination.

Watch the video highlights here and witness the power of women in coffee.

When you're planning your next quick out-of-town getaway to Tagaytay, make sure to visit Liminvl Coffee @SMDCTheStrips for an exceptional coffee experience. While you're there, explore other fantastic establishments like Samgyupsalamat, Koibito’s World of Gelato, and Kurimi Milktea Bar for a complete Tagaytay culinary adventure.

SM empowers women artists with sustainability-themed Sining Filipina exhibit

Co-presented by Chinabank and SM Supermalls for the benefit of the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs, Sining Filipina is the Philippines’ only nationwide, all-women art competition.

BY MB LIFESTYLE

On March 27, 2025, ten women artists were celebrated as the best of the best at SM Aura as  Sining Filipina held its awarding ceremony and opened its exhibit. Co-presented by Chinabank and SM Supermalls for the benefit of the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs, Sining Filipina is the Philippines’ only nationwide, all-women art competition.

 

Sining Filipina: Her Earth, Her Future winning artists pose with distinguished guests, including Sining Filipina judge Tina Colayco, Mme. Roswitha Brieger of the Austrian Embassy, Zonta Club of Makati and Environs’ President Joanne Andrada-Zapanta, Chinabank Executive Vice President and Head of the Financial Markets Segment Ollie Palanca, Mme. Endo Akiko of the Japanese Embassy, and SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. President Elizabeth Sy.

 

Jowee Anne Aguinaldo (4th from the left) claims first prize in this year’s Sining Filipina: Her Earth, Her Future competition. Presenting the award are (L-R): Austrian Embassy’s Mme. Roswitha Brieger, Chinabank Executive Vice President and Head of the Financial Markets Segment Ollie Palanca, Zonta Club of Makati and Environs’ President Joanne Andrada-Zapanta, Japanese Embassy’s Mme. Endo Akiko, and SM Hotels and Convention Corp. President Elizabeth Sy.

 

Finalists’ artworks are on display at the SM Aura Upper Ground Level Atrium until April 3, 2025. 

 

This year, 52 finalists from across the Philippines were chosen to display their outstanding works, showcasing a wide variety of artistic styles, themes, and mediums–from traditional painting to experimental mixed media. The public is invited to explore this collection of remarkable works at the SM Aura Upper Ground Level Atrium, where the exhibit is open from March 27 to April 3, 2025. 

The Sining Filipina competition not only provides a platform for artistic expression but also offers Filipino women artists a valuable opportunity for recognition and financial support. This year, winners had the chance to take home up to Php 250,000 in cash prizes and gain recognition from the nation's leading art connoisseurs.
 

Wencyl Mallari (center) receives a special award for donating the full value of her paintings for two years in a row to the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs’ charitable endeavors. 

 

Sining Filipina: Her Earth, Her Future champion Jowee Anne Aguinaldo wins Php 250,000 in cash and a custom trophy for her painting titled “Panagtagpi-tagpi.”

 

Geanne Gentizon from Guimaras Island wins second place with her painting titled “Si Nanay sa Merkado,” taking home Php 150,000 in cash and a custom Sining Filipina trophy.

 

“Pinagtagpi-tagpi” by 3rd placer Shara Chan is an ode to women’s roles in sustainability efforts across the Philippines.

 

4th placer Ma. Jezsheel Asares with her painting “Bayan ni Juana.”  

5th placer Sunshine Vitto wins Php 50,000 and a Sining Filipina trophy for her artwork “Salamin ng Kahapon.”

 

As the exhibit continues at SM Aura, visitors can experience the powerful narratives and emotions conveyed through the artworks, as well as witness the immense talent shaping the future of Philippine art. 

 

Congratulations to all the finalists and winners of Sining Filipina: Her Earth, Her Future, whose work continues to inspire and showcase the limitless potential of women in the arts!

 

For more information on SM Supermalls’ activities empowering women and the arts, follow @SMSupermalls on all social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com.

Discover rare and exotic blooms at the Philippine Orchid Society’s exhibit and bazaar

‘An Orchid Extravaganza at Robinsons Magnolia’ runs until tomorrow, March 30, 2025!

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Mar 29, 2025 01:55 PM

  

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The orchid family is the largest group of flowering plants and boasts some of the most spectacular and showy blooms in the world. Their beauty has captivated people since prehistoric times. There is a certain je ne sais quoi—a French phrase for something indescribable—about these plants that has “lured” them to their demise. Oh wait, not people, silly—the orchids.

Orchids evoke a sense of rarity and exoticism. Known to originate from faraway tropical jungles and misty forests, they often carry mesmerizing stories, making them truly special. Fortunately, thanks to the efforts of orchid breeders, they have been extensively propagated and are now widely available for us to enjoy.

They come in a dazzling array of colors and sizes. You may acquire the show-stopping Cattleya or the elegantly flowering Phalaenopsis—both breathtaking blooms that make a lasting impression. A truly special gift, an orchid is something your loved one will remember for years. They are also easy to care for and can rebloom with proper maintenance. 

Unfortunately, many people are lured into buying orchids, only to unintentionally kill them—repeating the cycle again and again. Countless orchid plants have perished simply because their owners don’t know how to properly care for them.

To break this deadly cycle, the Philippine Orchid Society is hosting An Orchid Extravaganza at Robinsons Magnolia—a 10-day orchid show running until March 30, 2025. The event showcases various orchid hybrids and species and features a series of lectures on orchid care. These talks aim to “rehabilitate” serial orchid killers (and prevent future ones) by improving their understanding of orchid cultivation and reducing the chances of their next orchid meeting an untimely end.

This is a much better alternative than sending orchid killers to jail. 

The event also includes several commercial booths offering orchids, ornamental plants, and gardening supplies.

For more details, follow the Philippine Orchid Society's official Facebook page.

Celebrate Women's Month with Summer Komikon 2025!

Mark your calendars and join us for a day full of comics, creativity, and celebration at Summer Komikon 2025! 🎉

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Mar 14, 2025 08:34 PM 

 

The highly-anticipated Summer Komikon 2025 is set to take place on March 15, 2025, at the Bayanihan Center, Unilab Compound, Pasig City, from 10 AM to 8 PM. This year's event promises to be an exciting celebration of comics, creativity, and community.

 

In honor of Women's Month, Summer Komikon 2025 will feature special guests who are independent female comics creators. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet and greet Chocnut-San (I Ship Everyone Except for Me?!), Mitzi Bajet (The Nowhere Tree, Karnaval), Hans Dimapilis (Baby Butterfly, On Being Quiet), and Steph Bravo (FullHouse).

 

An informative talk on the Do’s and Don’ts of Portfolio Submissions will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM in Conference Room F. The Next Comic Art Crew will share their expertise, including insights from experienced international homegrown artists Harvey Tolibao (Marvel, DC, IDW, DarkHorse, Valiant, Zenescope) and Roi Mercado (G.I. Joe and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Armageddon Game - The Alliance), with Jiggy Cruz (Next Comic Art). Limited seats are available for this exclusive session.

 

Visitors can also discover hidden gems and support local artists as they showcase their work and latest releases. Renowned artists Jonathan Lau, Jomar Bulda, Jerico Marte, and Don Tantiado will be available at the KomiksKalye for live sketching and signing sessions, offering a unique opportunity for fans to have their comics signed and sketches drawn.

 

Interactive activities will abound, including exciting contests, game demos, and art jams, ensuring a fun-filled day for attendees of all ages.

Tickets for Summer Komikon 2025 are available at the venue on arrival. A 1-Day Ticket is priced at ₱150 and includes a P100 Comic Odyssey voucher that can be used to purchase selected items from the Comic Odyssey table. Special rates of ₱100 are available for Senior High Students, Senior Citizens, PWDs with valid IDs, and Komikon Shirt Wearers. Additionally, children below ticket table height will enjoy free entry.

 

The event is proudly sponsored by Comic Odyssey, National Book Store, The MANILA BULLETIN, Quantum Amusement Corporation, Famous Amos Philippines, Kwentoon, Kartuns at Komiks Cafe, Coffee and Comics, JAM 88.3, and student organization UP GRAIL - Graphic Arts in Literature.

For more details, please visit Summer Komikon 2025 on Facebook or email inquiry@komikon.org.

Charie Vega: Manila-based visual and digital Artist finds her way internationally

Her unique style, characterized by vibrant colors and intricate details, quickly captured the attention of art enthusiasts and collectors in Europe, allowing her to carve out a niche for herself in the international market.

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Feb 15, 2025 09:50 AM

  

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Charie Vega, a talented visual and digital artist based in Manila, has successfully penetrated the international art scene, notably selling her digital paintings across Europe. The journey of her artistic career took a significant turn in 2020 when the world was gripped by the Covid-19 pandemic. As a talent manager and owner of Vega Entertainment Productions and Euro Talent Festival, Charie's professional life in the music industry was abruptly halted due to the widespread shutdowns caused by the virus. 

Faced with the challenges of the pandemic, Charie turned her attention back to her art, a passion she had cherished for years. It was during this time of uncertainty that she rediscovered her creative voice and began to produce and sell her digital paintings. Her unique style, characterized by vibrant colors and intricate details, quickly captured the attention of art enthusiasts and collectors in Europe, allowing her to carve out a niche for herself in the international market.

 

 

In addition to her digital paintings, Charie is also skilled in stippling, a meticulous drawing technique that involves creating images through the use of tiny dots. This impressive method has enabled her to produce stunning works that have also found their way into the hands of collectors abroad. 

 

 

Charie Vega's resilience and adaptability during a challenging time have not only allowed her to thrive as an artist but have also showcased her ability to bridge cultures through her work. As she continues to expand her reach and influence in the art world, Charie remains a shining example of how creativity can flourish even in the face of adversity.

 

 

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