LOOK: Inside Mindanao's first tourist rest area

 Located in Manolo Fortich in Bukidnon, it has more than clean restrooms...

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Aug 6, 2023 08:58 PM

  

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By ANGELO SANCHEZ

What’s inside a tourist rest area (TRA)? Now, tourists in Mindanao, specifically in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon would find out as the first TRA in the region has opened recently. 

With the goal of enhancing the overall tourist experience, it’s not only a rest stop but also features an information center, comfortable lounge area with charging stations, a pasalubong corner, and a quaint coffee shop. Plus (and this is important) a clean restroom. 

Photos from the Department of Tourism (DOT) FB page.

What’s more is that this TRA also features works from local artists, highlighting the vibrant and creative spirit of the locals, a preview of the region's rich cultural heritage.

According to a statement from the Department of Tourism (DOT), the TRA is proof of the administration’s vision to revitalize the nation's tourism industry through improved infrastructure, innovative initiatives, and equal opportunities for development.

The TRA was made possible through a partnership between the Tourism Infrastructure Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and the local government of Manolo Fortich.

There are plans to inaugurate 10 TRAs throughout the country this year, with an additional 15 TRAs currently in development — all aimed at enhancing the country's tourism potential and making it convenient for all while visiting the countryside. 

'Dakilang Manggagawa' exhibit showcases the hard work and grit of the Filipino labor force

Masipag Artist Group celebrates the Filipino worker with the new exhibit at ARTablado in Antipolo

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Jul 11, 2023 09:38 AM

  

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From left: Masipag Art Group (MAG) with their guests of honor Frederick Epsitola (3rd from left), Nemi Miranda, Antipolo Tourism Head Mar Bacani and actor Mon Confiado; Balloon Vendor by Ton Munoz; Gintong Ani by Krister Isip

In a world where pop culture superheroes are often celebrated, a group of artists is giving a well-deserved shoutout to the real heroes among us: the laborers who put entire industries upon their backs.

"Dance of Desires" by Antonio Pacuan Jr.

“(Our exhibit titled) 'Dakilang Manggagawa' ay isang pagpupugay sa ating mga kababayan na walang sawang nagsasakripisyo alang-alang sa mamamayan. Kaya bilang pasasalamat, ito ang maging tribute namin para sa kanila. ('Dakilang Manggagawa' is a tribute to our countrymen who tirelessly sacrifice for their fellow people. So, as a form of thanks, we are giving this tribute to them.) ”

This is according to Rico Aunzo, spokesperson of the Masipag Artist Group (MAG), which is featured in an ongoing exhibit at ARTablado, which is located at the upper ground floor, Robinsons Antipolo. The show lasts until July 31.

"Sweet Harvest" by Rico Aunzo

The Masipag Artist Group (MAG) was founded in 2019 on the Manawari Art Group page on Facebook. The group's members did not know each other formally at first, but they bonded over their shared love of art and creativity. They began communicating via social media, sharing their work and ideas. As they grew closer, they decided to form a full-blown art group called Masipag, which means "hardworking" in Tagalog.

“Ang kasipagan ang susi ng kaginhawaan (hardwork is the key to success in life),” says Aunzo. The group takes inspiration from the words of the late great Tagalog poet Jose Corazon de Jesus: “Bawat patak ng pawis mo’y / yumayari ka ng dangal / dinadala mo ang lahi mo / sa luklukan ng tagumpay.”

"Gintong Ani" by Krister Isip

The founder and president of the Masipag Artist Group (MAG) is neo-realist painter Naptalie “Rico” Aunzo. His art style is characterized by a modern, traditional, and cubist take on classic Filipino tropes and customs. He has a recurring protagonist named “Pedrong Masipag,” who is meant to represent traits and virtues that an everyday Filipino possesses. Pedrong Masipag is the antithesis to Juan Tamad, the poster-boy of laziness in Pinoy folklore. He is described as a decent gentleman, dressed in a traditional barong Tagalog and salakot, and often illustrated doing noble deeds.

With Aunzo are Daniel Dumaguit, sculptor-painter Nelson Basa, Pol A. Mesina (the founder of Artipolo Group Inc.), Jayson Borlon, Krister Jhude Isip, Rem Kulas, Mori, Hannah Castalone, Ton Muñoz, Efren Saludar, Rodgie Gapayao, Doodz Iligan, Dominic Gomez, Antonio Pacuan Jr., Leo De Fraga Torcelino, Joyce Pertez and Mark Aparato.

Pride Month and the magic of EKquality

Diversity, equality, and inclusivity at Enchanted Kingdom

BY MB LIFESTYLE

  

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In celebration of Pride month, Enchanted Kindom is excited to announce our upcoming celebration, “The Magic of EKquality.” This celebration aims to create an atmosphere of acceptance and serves as a platform for fostering unity, equality, and celebrating the vibrant LGBTQIA community.

We invite everyone to join us for an unforgettable celebration of diversity and equality on July 2, 2023, at the Spaceport Grounds of Enchanted Kingdom, the “Magic of EKquality” promises to be an evening filled with star-studded performances and captivating entertainment.

The concert will feature an impressive lineup of talented artists, including the upcoming IWant TCS, DRAG & ME's actors Precious Paula Nicole (Drag Race PH winner), Lance Carr, Amy Nobles, JC Alcantara, and Andrea Brillantes. Joining them on stage are Vivacious dance crew,  anya Jose Evans, Loura Mercy, Tiffany, Lady Gagita, and Anton Diva, all set to bring their energy and charisma to captivate the audience.

In the spirit of inclusivity, we invite all park guests to participate in the SaGAYlahan segment, which allows individuals to showcase their creativity and individuality through their best Pride outfits. Attendees who arrive in their most fabulous pride costumes will have the opportunity to register for the SaGAYlahan segment and take part in the catwalk, competing for the highly coveted title of “Sagaylahan Queen.” Participants will also have a chance to win cash prizes, making this segment an exhilarating experience for all.

In the spirit of inclusivity, we invite all park guests to participate in the SaGAYlahan segment, which allows individuals to showcase their creativity and individuality through their best Pride outfits. Attendees who arrive in their most fabulous pride costumes will have the opportunity to register for the SaGAYlahan segment and take part in the catwalk, competing for the highly coveted title of "Sagaylahan Queen." Participants will also have a chance to win cash prizes, making this segment an exhilarating experience for all.

To further enhance the celebration, we are thrilled to announce the "Magic of EKquality" EK Online Store promo (EKOS). Starting from June 28 to July 2, guests can avail of a special discounted price of only P935 for one Regular Day Pass. Additionally, the first 2,000 guests to avail of the promo will receive a free Magnolia ice cream scoop, which can be claimed at Amazon Grill or Diggers, adding a sweet touch to the festive atmosphere.

The event aims to inspire not only the LGBTQIA community but also individuals from all walks of life to embrace diversity, equality, and inclusivity. By coming together and celebrating our differences, we can build a stronger, more accepting society.

LOOK: CEU MedTech alumna is Miss Earth Philippines 2023

A true embodiment of character and competence

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Jun 30, 2023 00:07 AM

  

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Centro Escolar University (CEU) Makati’s alumna Yllana Marie Aduana was crowned Miss Earth Philippines 2023 and will represent the country in the upcoming international pageantry in Vietnam.

The 24-year-old stunner from Siniloan, Laguna, Yllana Marie was a crowd favorite. Her beauty, intelligence, and deep passion for environmental advocacy made her stand out among the 28 other candidates. Her undeniable charm and graceful demeanor effortlessly captivates the hearts of many. 

During the final question-and-answer portion, Yllana was asked: "What do you think people in the future would say about your generation?"

Yllana Marie Aduana crowned as Miss Philippines Earth 2023 (Image from her Facebook account) 

"I would definitely say that our generation, although misconstrued as very ardent, I would have to say that we use our voices for a reason and that is to always speak up for the things that we know are right and for the things that we know we deserve. That is why we are very ardent about them,” she confidently said. “That is why I’m also conducting colloquiums on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and their interconnectedness to nature in hopes to precipitate people’s eco-consciousness because our future is the linebackers and the pioneers of environmental amelioration, and we should always take advantage of it at all costs."

True enough, her beauty comes with a purpose by being an environmental ambassador and green advocate. Yllana has actively participated in various environmental initiatives such as her advocacy dubbed as “E.A.R.T.H. Education.” where E.A.R.T.H. stands for Environmental Awareness and Action to Restore and Transcend Home through Education. She is also the founder of Edukasyon for Every Juan, a non-profit organization that aims to contribute in combating climate change and raising awareness about climate change. 

This is the second time that Yllana participated in the same pageantry. In 2021, she represented her hometown and finished as a runner-up. The same year, she was named Miss FIT Philippines, then proceeded to join Bb. Pilipinas in 2022 where she was among the Top 12 candidates and Face of Binibini Awardee.

Before conquering the Miss Earth stage, Yllana Marie is a licensed Medical Technologist. She obtained her degree in Medical Technology in 2018. She was also a former Ms. CEU candidate and represented the Makati campus.

Experts on how to combat ‘fake news’

Multidisciplinary perspectives on PH information disorder featured in UST’s Media Leadership Lecture Series

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Jun 20, 2023 02:05 AM

  

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(Unsplash)

In efforts to dispel the fog of disinformation occluding discourse spaces both online and offline, experts on combating the information disorder or the problem of "fake news" from the academe, church, media, and civil society discussed the current realities and possible solutions during the fifth installment of the UST Media Leadership Lecture Series. 

The Philippine Institute for Development Studies Research Information Department Director Dr. Sheila Siar, Philippine Communication Society Director/Public Relations Officer (PRO) and UST Journalism Program Coordinator Mr. Felipe Salvosa II, Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila Office of Communications Director Fr. Roy Bellen, GMA Network Inc. multidisciplinary journalist and documentarist Mr. Atom Araullo, Limitless Lab Chief Executive Officer Ms. Joie Cruz, and Break the Fake Movement Founder Mr. Gabriel Billones, Jr. served as the resource speakers.

Siar discussed “Realities of Information Disorder: Misinformation, Disinformation and Mal-Information,” where she differentiated the key terms misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation; explained cognitive psychology theories as to why people may believe or share false information; examined the state of the current information disorder in the Philippines and the methods employed to mitigate it; and suggested solutions that can improve the situation.

GMA Network Inc. multidisciplinary journalist and documentarist Mr. Atom Araullo

“Two things we can do [to strengthen defenses against the information disorder] are, first, in the area of education. For me education is key. Critical thinking and analytical reasoning should start very early in life in the home and in the school…,” she says, “[Second,] community engagement and capacity building are essential. Train and engage citizens to fact check.”

She further emphasized strengthening media literacy in the basic education curriculum as well as capacitating government staff with information functions, such as information, health, DRRM officers, on crisis and risk communication as well as science communication.

"We can't stop fake news from being made, but we can stop sharing it," Siar says.

Meanwhile, Salvosa talked about “The Academe’s Role in Inculcating Critical Thinking and Analysis among the Youth versus Information Disorder,“ where he expressed concern over people’s rising selective news avoidance and low trust in the mainstream news.

“The question of how journalists can raise the public’s trust in the news is something that will occupy or even bedevil practitioners and academics alike, for years to come. Now I think the answer does not lie in the past. Given the technological upheavals and constant emergence of new platforms that have disrupted journalism, journalists need to continuously establish their credibility to the public and slowly but surely earn their trust,” he says, emphasizing the importance of news literacy and thorough fact-checking that is accessible to the masses through translation into Filipino and other regional languages.

Araullo, lamented the hostility against journalists amid the vital necessity for journalism to assert free speech and guard fundamental rights.

“[Journalists] don’t only create content for fame or money,” he says. “We produce news and stories to inform public opinion and policy, to ferret out the truth, and to hold power to account to keep the wheels of democracy turning.” 

He also emphasized the need for engaging in conversations in good faith, rather than dismissing those who disagree as ignorant or bribed.  “We can start by listening to our community and involving them in meaningful conversations, not just to gather quotes, but also to gather sentiments and feelings. True, social media can be toxic for engagement, it can be tiring, and it can ruin your day. But a common mistake we commit is to dismiss those we fiercely disagree with as trolls,” he says. “There is a real person behind every account, fake or verified. Many of them could still be persuaded through constructive interaction. In schools, around dining tables, in our neighborhood, or online chat groups, we can spark engagement behind the simple old values of honesty, respect, and compassion, which would allow us to engage responsibly and in good faith.”

The UST Media Leadership Lecture Series (MLLS) is an annual forum that takes a proactive stance in the current state of media, an advocacy of the Thomasian community to have relevant and responsive information regarding the emerging technology-driven news media landscape. This year, the theme was “The Academe, Church, Media, and Civil Society: A Multi-Sectoral Initiative in Countering Information Disorder in the Philippines.” It was held on April 14, 2023, at the UST Paredes Ballroom, and live-streamed via the UST Office of Public Affairs Facebook page, where it remains available for public viewing.

Five things to do at the Philippine Book Festival

The upcoming Philippine Book Festival promises to be the biggest one yet.

BY MB LIFESTYLE

  

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If you’re planning to go to the World Trade Center Manila this June 2 to 4, here’s a quick game plan.

#1 See the original "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo" manuscripts
The upcoming book festival promises to be the biggest one yet, so before getting lost in the myriad of festivities, why not first get to the heart of the matter, the main reason why the festival is happening in the first place? In collaboration with the National Library of the Philippines, the NBDB has curated some of the rarest Philippine books to tell the story of Philippine literature.

The exhibit is all about firsts: the first novel ever written by a Filipino, the first book printed in the Philippines, and the first editions of Jose Rizal’s novels. The exhibit is one of the first things you’ll see once you get to the World Trade Center – a deliberate design choice meant to answer the basic questions before you immerse yourself in book chaos: it charts the evolution of Philippine narrative-making, in the process making us understand why and how the book (the Philippine book in particular) has endured all these years.

#2 Watch a tribute to one of our country’s foremost novelists
Through piercing realism and adroit social commentary, Lualhati Bautista chronicled the struggle and power of the Filipina in novels such as "Dekada '70," "Bata, Bata...Pa'no Ka Ginawa?," and "Gapố," All of which were both very much of and ahead of its time. A tribute for the late great author will take the festival’s main stage on June 2, from 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., presented by fellow luminaries in Philippine art and culture: National Artist for Film Nora Aunor, actress Sue Prado, and novelists Genevieve Asenjo and Luna Sicat Cleto.

#3 Have your favorite books signed
The Philippine Book Festival’s lineup of featured authors spans multiple genres, from children’s literature to komiks, poetry to self-help, you’re likely to find your favorite writers and artists at the three-day fair where they will be having book signings and meet-and-greet sessions. Don’t forget to bring your favorite books by the historian Ambeth Ocampo, and "The Rain in España" author Gwy Saludes, who will be taking the main festival’s stage on June 3 and June 4, respectively.

Other authors to watch out for include the National Book Award-winning fictionist Jose Dalisay Jr., the children’s book author Luis Gatmaitan, the food writer and book designer Ige Ramos, the YA author Mae Coyiuto, award winning fictionist Eros Atalia, and the economist JC Punongbayan (who will also be having a talk titled "Fact or Fiction: Nurturing Critical Thinking in Students"). Head to philippinebookfest.com to see the complete schedule of book signings and meet-and-greet sessions.

#4 Learn Filipino sign language
The festival is home to many workshops, which, as one would expect looking at the lineup of events and participating publishers at the festival, cover a vast range of topics that isn’t necessarily limited to writing and illustrating for books. On June 2, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., you can learn FSL or Filipino Sign Language for free with artist and deaf advocate Caldwell Jones “CJ” Reynaldo, whose beloved online komiks series “Whatcha Say?” captures the everyday experiences of those in the deaf community in the Philippines.

There’s no need to spell out the benefits of learning a new language, and FSL in particular may well be worth everyone’s time. In our efforts to break communication barriers to create more inclusive spaces, it’s worth understanding the value of FSL: as the official national sign language of the Filipino Deaf, it is a beautifully unique language that is highly visual and reflective of Filipino culture and ideas.

#5 Buy books—and then read them in the Book Nook
With thousands of books for purchase, the Philippine Book Festival is the best place to do your (bulk) book shopping. You can even look for that one obscure Filipino poetry title you’ve been meaning to read, as the festival has invited publishers from all over the country. Once you get your hands on the books you’ve been looking for, it’s time to read them! And you can do that during the festival, too, as its organizers have dedicated a reading space for anyone who might want to take a break from the festivities.

Called the Book Nook, this space is named after the reading sites the NBDB has set up in indigenous, remote, and highly populated areas around the Philippines. The Book Nook in the festival is designed to look like the actual Book Nooks, with curated Filipiniana titles and decor reflective of the country’s many different regional cultures.

Entrance is FREE for all. Most of the workshops and programs are free of charge. Register now at www.philippinebookfest.com. To stay updated on the latest news and announcements, follow the National Book Development Board on Facebook and @bookfestph on Instagram and TikTok.

Global women who rule 2023: PH women leaders celebrate Women's Month

Global Women Who RULE (GWWR) is a celebration of awe-inspiring tales from a collective of women forward-thinkers and achievers, out to pay it forward to society.

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Mar 21, 2023 11:30 PM

  

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Celebrating International Women's Month, this women leaders group is pulling out all the stops. Created at the start of the pandemic by Apple Esplana-Manansala, the past two years is seeing nothing but growth. Global Women Who RULE (GWWR) is a celebration of awe-inspiring tales from a collective of women forward-thinkers and achievers, out to pay it forward to society. On March 25, GWWR holds its main event, the GWWR Summit committed to use the power of social media to promote community and use #DigitalForGood.

On its third year, the GWWR Summit 2023 features 22 profiles of Filipino women leaders from all industries from all over. Pushing 4 pillars: Education, Mental Health, Human Rights, specifically Violence Against Women (VAWC) and Health, this year's event is on track to break its own record.

"The support has been tremendous, for which we are grateful. We have about a hundred nominees this year from PH and from the US, NA, APAC, ME and even Oceania—everywhere. It feels good to receive this kind of acknowledgement from our peers, from young women and men, and from colleagues and co-leaders, and of course from entrepreneurs and business leaders. GWWR is a 'Circle of Sisters' so to speak, and the outpouring of well wishes fills our hearts," says Apple.

GWWR 2023 is the first hybrid event for the year. With the world opening the more people are intent on socializing. For Apple, this is careful strategizing. The more eyes, the better. The more direct interaction, the more memorable and compelling it is for the hundreds of attendees that will join onsite at Enderun Extension, the venue partner. PuzzleBox BPO, Inc. and WELLife Corporation also joined in support of the event.

For online attendees, Apple's own 24\7 streaming media platform The New Channel (TNC) is the site. Though Global Women Who RULE is a separate entity from The New Channel, both are connected at the hip with GWWR providing opportunities for meaningful partnerships and programs with brands and media.

"We, at The New Channel, are very proud of our flagship movement Global Women Who RULE. We're helping GWWR encourage Filipino women to be brave and innovative and we give them a platform to speak up and be heard," says the prime mover.

This year's event GWWR Summit on March 25th stages the 3rd of what has been envisioned to be an annual search for amazing profiles to join their growing group targeting 22 new additions to GWWR from more than a hundred nominated profiles. Another first for GWWR 2023 is the hopeful release of the digital version of its PowerBook featuring the 2021 and 2022 profiles of GWWR women leaders.

Apple adds, "We are so proud to hold GWWR this year. It's a culmination of a full year's sweat and toil. We've gotten some buzz, but we have the chops to show for it. The topics for each keynote speech are rich and inspiring, and the speakers are the best in their fields and they teach from experience."

Apple isn't exaggerating. Among the enlightening talks will be coming from:

Mamie Lamley, founder of Empowerment On Fire and founding partner of Heroic Voice Academy. She will join via stream live from Colorado USA.

Marieton Pacheco, Omni News Filipino producer will be joining via stream live from Vancouver Canada.

Le-an Lai Angeles Lacaba, co-founder of 2xYou who will stream live from Cebu City.

Erika Canoy-Sanchez, executive vice president and COO of RMN Networks.

LTC Jannette C. Arceo GSC (MNSA) PA (R), commanding officer, 403 Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion National Security Fellow, Philippine Council for Foreign Relation (PCFR).

Mona Magno-Veluz a.k.a. Mighty Magulang, national president of the Autism Society Philippines.

Ace Gapuz, chief executive officer of Blogapalooza Inc..

Jenny Bautista Wieneke, chief marketing officer-Tokyo Tempura and an MSME Advocate.

Marjorie Carlet Edmonds, "The House Flipping Queen" and CEO of Carlet Edmonds Housing Solution, LLC who will be streaming live from Central Valley, California, USA.

Dianna David, creator of MVMT Medicina Somatic Practice & Authentic ExprEssence Coaching and will stream live from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

The primary beneficiary of GWWR Summit is Alopecia Philippines with the vibrant and larger than life Abby Asistio as spokesperson.  Completing this year's 22 profiles are:  Second Officer Marie Ison Maximo, Teresa Dumadag, Carmie de Leon, Arizza Nocum, Audrey Pe, Dra. Necy Juat, Gracie Miranda-Maulion, Atty. Josephine Santiago, Wandalyn Tan-Calupig, Ellen Perez, and Chazeline Caberos-Bautista.

"We're here to inspire, to compel women to harness their power and be a vehicle for good. GWWR is a group that can help young girls to start dreaming and work towards achieving goals, and therefore build and strengthen communities," adds Apple.

Celebrate Christmas in winter wonderland at Venice Grand Canal

by MB Lifestyle

McKinley Hill’s picturesque masterpiece turns into a winter wonderland this holiday season

The country’s first and only 40 ft. floating Christmas tree in Venice Grand Canal has been spruced up to exclude a winter wonderland vibe.

In their recent Christmas launch, the premiere lifestyle destination in Taguig City lit up the country’s first and only 40-foot floating Christmas tree along with the unveiling of the Winter Aquatic Adventure, a water-based scenery at the grand canal.

Leading Venice Grand Canal’s ceremonial tree lighting were: Graham Coates, head of Megaworld lifestyle malls, Coun. Marisse Balina-Eron and Mayor Lanie Cayetano of Taguig city, Italian Ambassador to the Philippines Marco Clemente, and Noli Hernandez, EVP for sales and marketing, Megaworld.

The Winter Aquatic Adventure is open to guests all Christmas season. While riding a gondola at the man-made canal, mall patrons can feel the holiday spirit and marvel at the iceberg installations with cute aquatic animals like polar bears, penguins, and sea lions.

Colorful lights illuminate the Italian-inspired malls including Venice Piazza’s famous fountain.

“At the heart of every Christmas celebration at Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, is the goal of having families, couples, friends, especially the kids to experience festive holidays. We are ready to welcome the community and make McKinley Hill a top holiday destination here in the city,” says Graham Coates, head of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls. 

Holiday Wonders
The days leading to Christmas will be extra happy at McKinley Hill. Patrons can enjoy weekly events filled with sparks, entertainment, and, of course, the food.  

Families and kids can watch Venice Grand Canal’s journey to Artica: Christmas aquatic adventure every Sunday this December.

The highlight of this year’s celebrations is the Journey to Artica water parade, which will feature aquatic mascots and characters, accompanied with lights and music. The show will be held on the weekends of December. Visit with family on Dec. 3, 10, and 17 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Venice Grand Canal Mall, Aquatic Area.

A grand fireworks display will light up the skies of Mckinley Hill every Sunday of December.

A lovely fireworks display for the amusement of everyone will light up the sky all Saturdays of December at exactly 7 p.m.. Christmas at the StrEAT, an open-air food fair with lots of fresh and appetizing selections, will be open to everyone who wants a feast from Nov. 18 to 20. Treat the kids to a Santa and Mascots Meet & Greet, and brighten your celebrations with live music performances in Music Under the Stars.

Holiday feasts
Feast on fresh and flavorful Italian dishes at Mama Lou’s Italian Kitchen. Mama Lou’s started as a humble family restaurant and has now become one of the most sought-after Italian restaurants in Metro Manila. After a long day of strolling and seeing McKinley Hill’s Italian-inspired architecture, it makes sense to dine in at Mama Lou’s and experience their modern but homey food selections. 

Mama Lou’s Italian kitchen offers delightful selection of Italian cuisines for family feasts or gatherings.

Toni & Sergio is one of the best when it comes to celebrations. Something you should order for the whole family or barkada? Their Paella di Pollo. The dish is a Spanish staple that is made with chicken, seafood, and other tasteful ingredients. Pair it with your wine of choice and it’s going to be a party to remember.

Toni & Sergio has a spacious and scenic alfresco dining area, which is among the best spots to watch Christmas aquatic adventure show.

You’ll never run out of Italian choices at McKinley Hill. Don’t miss dining at Ponte Rialto Ristorante Italiano. Try their best-selling dish Spaghetti Aglio Olio Peperoncino Con Vongole, which is meticulously prepared using only the freshest ingredients. Book a table at their alfresco area to get the best view of the Grand Canal.

Enjoy a scenic lunch or dinner at Italianni’s. With a warm and inviting atmosphere and an alfresco area, the experience at Italianni’s will be a homey treat for the whole family. Order their house specialties Italian Truffle Fries, Sicilian Salad, Chicken Picatta, and Margherita.

Holiday evenings are made more romantic at Ponte Rialto Ristorante Italiano with its impeccable views and gastronomic offerings.

Crustasia serves the best of Southeast Asia through a medley of Thai, Malay, Vietnamese, Indonesian, and Singaporean cuisines on their menu. One of the main attractions? Their flavorful and rich Mixed Seafood Laksa. An explosion of flavors await everyone who will sip into the Mixed Seafood Laksa, which is made from perfectly cooked noodles; the freshest prawns, squid, mussels, clams; and ofcourse the yellow chili laksa broth.

Holiday shopping
If looking for holiday presents for a special someone, visit Hearts & Arrows at the ground floor and shop from their world-class array of jewelry and watches. Stay chic and comfortable when working out and shop for the latest sneakers and sports and athleisure wear at Adidas.

A shop haven for cyclists, Hugo Bikes offers a lineup of bikes, from budget-friendly ones to high-end options. The bike shop also has a wide range of bike accessories like bicycle helmets that all pass safety standards.