Showing posts with label Lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lifestyle. Show all posts

March 10, 2026

Baguio blooms brighter as Jollibee spreads joy at Panagbenga 2026



Baguio City came alive as Jollibee, the Philippines' no. 1 fastfood chain, joined the vibrant Panagbenga Festival, delighting locals and tourists alike with a spectacular float, campus treats, and exclusive promos that added extra cheer to the City of Pines’ annual flower celebration.

“Panagbenga shows Baguio at its most beautiful, and Jollibee is proud to fill it with joy,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “Whether it’s a float that amazes or treats that make every day special, our goal was simple, and that was to share joy with every person, everywhere.”
Building on its legacy of festival excellence, Jollibee participated in the large float competition with a spectacular floral masterpiece inspired by Cordilleran artistry. The float featured a miniature Stone Kingdom symbolizing the region’s creativity, a radiant cityscape in full bloom, a rotating Mines View observation deck showcasing Baguio’s scenic landscapes, and a giant Chickenjoy Bucket seemingly blossoming from a flower, capturing the festival’s playful and joyful spirit.

Jollibee also partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry to bring its BEE Earth’s Best Friend campaign to Benguet, promoting sustainable practices. Customers who opted not to use plastic utensils for take-out or drive-thru orders from February 27 to March 27 were rewarded with incentives for future visits. Music fans enjoyed a lively appearance from Jollibee and Friends at the Coke Studio Concert at Melvin Jones Football Grounds on February 27.

Festivalgoers are encouraged to share their Jollibee moments on social media using #JolliPanagbenga2026 for a chance to be featured on the brand’s official channels.


Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises!
 



March 9, 2026

DENR cites SM for group-wide efforts on plastic recovery and waste management

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recognized the SM Group for its support of the Extended Producer Responsibility Program (EPR) that aimed to reduce plastic use, recover plastic packaging, and strengthen on-ground waste systems across its diverse business units.

(From left to right) Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary for Policy, Planning and International Affairs Atty. Jonas Leones; DENR Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla; SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Waste Management and Sustainability Solutions and SM GUUN President George Cheung; SM Investments Corporation Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability Timothy Daniels; SM Retail, Inc. Vice President for Sustainability Suyin Liu; Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS) President Engr. Jess G. Reyes; DENR Assistant Secretary for Environment and concurrent Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Director Jacqueline A. Caancan.


In a recently concluded event on January 30, 2026, the DENR cited SM’s coordinated group approach that went beyond compliance under Republic Act No. 11898, also known as the EPR Law of 2022, particularly in ‘advancing recovery, reduction, innovation, and inclusive circular economy practices that support the national Zero Waste to Nature agenda.’

“This award is a credit to every part of the SM group, and we're very grateful to receive it. From our retail business, to our banks and logistics companies, they have been reducing their plastic footprints in their packaging and influencing consumer behavior to use less plastic,” said SM Investments Corporation Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability Timothy Daniels.

SM's property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., through its #SMWasteFreeFuture project, has partnered with Japanese waste processing firm Guun Co., Ltd to convert waste back into new materials at their first waste processing factory in Consolacion, Cebu.

To further enhance the development of waste conversion, SM has installed RDC-labeled (recyclable, disposable, compostable) bins across various SM properties nationwide. Recyclables, such as bottles, cans, and paper, are sorted and sent to their respective recycling plants. Meanwhile, disposables such as cups, straws, and rags are converted into replacement fuel for cement kilns. Compostables, or food scraps, are converted to landscaping soil within 48 hours.

“GUUN is a collaboration across the Group that ensures consumption or waste is not the end of the economic cycle,” said SM GUUN President George Cheung who is also concurrently SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President for Waste Management and Sustainability Solutions.

The #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign consolidates various initiatives across SM’s ecosystem of businesses into a centralized system, communicating its commitment to environmental stewardship and championing sustainable communities.

Under this initiative, other SM companies, such as SM Supermalls continue to lead with its long-running Trash-to-Cash (TTC) monthly recycling market held in SM malls nationwide, where customers can exchange recyclables such as paper, plastic, metal or even appliances for cash. TTC facilitates the exchange of over 1.5 million kilograms of recyclables every year. Customers can also find the E-Waste Collection bins in Cyberzone areas and the Plastic Waste Collection vans in 15 malls.

In addition, SM Markets, the SM Group’s umbrella brand for SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and Savemore, has ushered in greener retail practices in encouraging the use of eco-bags over single-use plastics since 2007. In 2025 alone, SM Markets sold 20.8 million Green Bags, equivalent to around 31.2 million plastic bags avoided.

“When we look at plastics, which is a significant problem in the Philippines, we have looked to take quite a range of actions across the group. But what they have in common is that they are very practical, they are commercially viable initiatives, and they all have actual meaningful differences that we make to the plastics problem,” said Mr. Daniels.

March 6, 2026

Lenten Specials now available at The Manila Hotel


THE Manila Hotel welcomes guests to gather over meat-free, comforting dishes thoughtfully prepared for this Lenten season. 

Across its dining outlets, a selection of Lenten specialties joins the hotel’s well-loved vegan and vegetarian offerings, creating menus that feel both meaningful and satisfying.

At the Lobby Lounge, the Lenten menu leans into bright flavors and wholesome comfort. 






Guests can try the Spring Citrus Salad, a refreshing mix of mesclun greens, orange and pomelo in olive oil-raspberry dressing, or the Green Lentil Soup infused with fresh herb pistou.

Heartier options include Linguine in Walnut Sauce with cherry tomato and fresh basil, White Cheese and Spinach Pizza with roasted garlic and ricotta, and Tandoori Pompano served with tomato-cucumber salad and freshly baked naan.


MEAT-FREE OFFERS 

The Manila Hotel offers meat-free, comforting dishes this Lenten season across its dining outlets. Photo shows the Buddha Salad Bowl at the Lobby Lounge. 


Beyond these Lenten specials, the hotel continues to offer an extensive selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes year-round from salads to vegetable entrees and meat-free dishes, reflecting its commitment to inclusive and mindful dining.



For plant-based diners, the vegan a la carte menu at Lobby Lounge and In-Room Dining offers comforting favorites with a wholesome twist.

For those seeking a more refined culinary journey, Champagne Room presents its Vegan Degustation menu, a multicourse dining experience that evolves monthly.

At Red Jade, the Vegetarian Set Menu brings the classic Chinese flavors to the forefront. Meanwhile, M Takeout completes the meat-free offerings with well-balanced solo meals, comforting rice and noodle bowls with its vegan options.

PHOTOS FROM THE MANILA HOTEL


February 24, 2026

Tanza’s Transformation from Coastal Town to a Rising Growth Hub in Cavite

Driven by better connectivity, infrastructure, and early residential developments such as Micara Estates by Profriends, Tanza continues to evolve into one of Cavite’s emerging places to live


Tanza is steadily progressing into one of Cavite’s emerging growth centers, supported by improved access, growing communities, and a continuous pace of development.

As connectivity and infrastructure improve across the province, Tanza is becoming a practical option for families seeking long-term opportunities beyond Metro Manila. Residential communities continue to take shape, daily essentials are within closer reach, and growth feels steady rather than overwhelming.

Long before this shift gained wider attention, Property Company of Friends, Inc. (Profriends), one of the country’s fastest-growing property developers, recognized Tanza’s potential. In 2014, Profriends established Micara Estates, guided by the belief that progress should be built around people. Since then, the development has continued to support Tanza’s growth by nurturing meaningful connections and creating spaces where families can grow and feel at home.

Moving beyond a coastal identity

For decades, Tanza was known as a coastal municipality shaped by fishing and farming. As Cavite’s development gradually expanded, that identity began to evolve. Tanza opened itself to urban growth while preserving the community-oriented character that long defined everyday life in the town.

Located in northwestern Cavite and fronting Manila Bay, Tanza now benefits from a position within reach of major economic areas while offering a calmer pace than the capital. Residential neighborhoods and emerging commercial activity reflect a town no longer defined by a single livelihood, with families now engaged in manufacturing, retail, logistics, and services. This steady transition has allowed Tanza to absorb new opportunities without losing the sense of familiarity that continues to make it feel like home.

Stronger connectivity and accessibility

Improved road networks continue to support Tanza’s steady progress by making daily travel more efficient and predictable. Major routes such as CAVITEX, CALAX, the C5 Link, CCLINK, and the NAIA Expressway connect the municipality to Metro Manila and key business areas, helping residents manage work commutes, logistics, and access to essential services. Access to transport hubs such as the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), together with LRT Line 1, has also made public transportation more accessible for daily commuters.

Within Cavite, the Tanza–Trece Road provides direct access to Trece Martires City and other nearby destinations, while Antero Soriano Highway remains a vital local route supporting public transportation and connections to neighboring municipalities. Future access to the Cavite–Bataan Bridge is also expected to strengthen regional links, reinforcing Tanza’s role as a practical place for long-term living.

Living close to work and everyday essentials

Alongside better roads, economic activity in Tanza has expanded. Industrial zones, commercial centers, and new enterprises have created employment opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and services. These developments strengthen the local economy and allow more residents to work closer to home, supporting a daily routine that is easier to manage over time.

Access to everyday essentials has also improved. Shopping centers such as SM Tanza and nearby retail areas in General Trias provide residents with access to supermarkets, dining options, and basic services. Schools, hospitals, churches, and local markets are within reach, reducing the need for frequent trips outside the area. This growing convenience supports a balanced lifestyle, where work, daily needs, and family time can be handled within the same community.

A community designed to grow with Tanza

As Tanza continues to develop, established residential communities have played a role in shaping how growth is experienced within the town. Micara Estates has been part of Tanza since 2014, providing housing options at a time when the town’s wider transformation was only beginning to take shape. Over the years, the community has grown alongside the municipality, supporting families who chose to settle in Tanza for the long term.

Micara Estates was planned to support everyday living beyond the home itself. The vision comes to life through community initiatives such as GalingMicara, led by volunteer homeowners, many of whom are youth. They organize activities focused on sports, health and wellness, learning, livelihood, and environmental care. Through these shared efforts, families are encouraged to participate, strengthening everyday connections across the community.

Located along Antero Soriano Highway in Barangay Sahud-Ulan, Micara Estates remains accessible to transport routes, workplaces, and daily services. As Tanza continues its steady progress, the community provides Filipino families with a place to live that aligns with the town’s pace of growth and supports a stable, community-oriented lifestyle.

“Tanza’s progress has been shaped by steady infrastructure, expanding opportunities, and the people who have chosen to build their lives here,” said Nieves Santos, Business Unit Head of Profriends. “Our role at Profriends is to support that progress by creating communities where residents can feel settled and connected. Micara Estates was planned to grow alongside Tanza, offering families not just homes, but shared spaces and a sense of community as the town continues to move forward.”

For the latest updates on Profriends communities, visit its official website at www.profriends.com. You can also follow its official social media accounts for news, events, and community highlights on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

Jollibee surprises commuters nationwide with glowed up Yumburger


Thousands of commuters at major transport hubs and shopping centers across the Philippines were met with an unexpected treat as Jollibee launched its upgraded iconic Yumburger. The Yumburger now has a bigger beef patty and more dressing, making it more Langhap-Sarap while still priced at ₱45.

From office workers to students, many took the chance to try the improved Yumburger, making their usual trips a little more exciting. Crowds gathered at One Ayala in Makati, The Infinity in Pampanga, Paseo de Santa Rosa in Laguna, Parkmall in Cebu, and Rizal Park in Davao. Jollibee gave away 2,000 free Yumburgers at each location, plus 4,000 vouchers to try an exclusive combo in stores.


“Filipino commuters have always loved the Jollibee Yumburger, so we thought this was the perfect way to bring them a little extra joy,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “Our Yumburger is not just a burger, but a part of Filipino life and cherished memories. With this glow-up, it is more Langhap-Sarap, giving comfort and happiness in every bite while staying affordable for everyone.”

Adding to the excitement, the Yum mascot delighted commuters at each location, posing for photos, handing out burgers, and energizing the surprise giveaways.

Also, Jollibee released a new film featuring the glowed-up Yumburger and encourages customers to share their #GlowUpYUM moments on social media for a chance to be featured on the brand’s official channels.

The nationwide activity highlighted Jollibee’s commitment to giving Filipinos more of what they love, making a familiar favorite even better and more enjoyable.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises!

February 23, 2026

A Closer Look at The Manila Hotel Guest Experience

The Manila Hotel, the Grand Dame of the Philippines, continues to set the standard for luxury by blending its storied past with thoughtful, modern comforts—offering guests an experience that is memorable, welcoming, and distinctly special.



A New Layer of Elegance

In its commitment to preserving timeless elegance, The Manila Hotel has unveiled new carpeting throughout the Main Building. The refreshed look complements the hotel’s classic aesthetic while creating plush, revitalized ambiance. The result is a softer, more inviting atmosphere, one that makes every walk through the halls and into the guest rooms feel relaxed and unhurried.

A Stay That Comes Fully Stocked



Luxury at The Manila Hotel is felt in the little details. Guests booking the best available rate (BAR) directly in the website or via hotel reservations officers will find a fully stocked complimentary mini bar in their room, replenished daily. This simple yet indulgent touch turns every stay into a personal retreat, setting the tone for a visit that feels like home.

Special Discount for In-House Guests


True to its legacy of hospitality, all checked-in guests enjoy 20% off across most of the hotel’s celebrated dining outlets and The Manila Hotel Spa. From the refined elegance of the Champagne Room and the traditional Chinese flavors of Red Jade, to the renowned buffet at Café Ilang-Ilang, as well as relaxed moments at the Lobby Lounge, Tap Room, and Pool Bar, guests can savor every dining experience at added value. 


The same discount extends to the Spa, where guests can escape the city’s hustle and unwind in tranquility.

Stress-Free Daily Transfers



Understanding that Metro Manila’s vibrancy also lies beyond its grand doors, the hotel offers complimentary daily scheduled transfers to SM Mall of Asia and Robinson’s Place Manila, providing access for those seeking retail, entertainment, or a leisurely day out.

Culinary Fun for Junior Guests

For families, the hotel continues to be a haven for shared experiences. Every Sunday, Café Ilang-Ilang comes alive as a playful kitchen for little chefs. Children aged 5 to 12 can join the complimentary Kiddie Culinary classes, where they can try their hand at pizza making or cupcake decorating guided by the hotel’s skilled chefs. This delightful experience is available to junior guests who avail the Sunday lunch buffet at Café Ilang-Ilang, ensuring fun for the kids while parents savor the feast.



“At The Manila Hotel, we aim to provide more than just a room, we offer a legacy of service and a gateway to the best of Filipino hospitality. We invite our guests to fully immerse themselves in the luxury, comfort, and thoughtful touches that make their stay with us unforgettable,” shares Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 8527 0011 or +632 85301 5500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

February 22, 2026

Mynt powers next chapter of GCash: unlocking world-class innovations, advancing financial access


Mynt, the parent company of GCash, continues to grow from strength to strength as it pushes for more world-class innovations on payments, lending, and other financial services.

A street food vendor seamlessly accepting digital payments through GCash

The company has further built on the success of its core payments and lending businesses which delivered healthy year-on-year growth in 2025. Mynt’s attributable equity earnings to Globe reached PHP 6.1 billion (USD 103.7 million) in 2025, higher by 64% year-on-year.

“Our growth momentum continues as digital finance becomes more embedded in daily life,” said Martha Sazon, president and CEO of Mynt. “We are doubling down on expanding financial access to the masses through everyday payments, fair lending, and inclusive wealth and insurance products”

Pioneering next-gen, inclusive payments for everyday Filipinos

In 2025, GCash mobile wallet operator G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), further expanded financial access by partnering with the Philippine government in revolutionizing payments in the country's transport sector—starting with Metro Manila’s major rail and bus systems, which can now accept card, QR, and NFC payments.

This was further enabled by the launch of Tap to Pay, a next-generation NFC solution enabling secure, contactless payments across 150 million merchants worldwide. The company also accelerated its expansion into underserved segments, with 90% of users from lower socio-economic segments and 78% from outside Metro Manila.

Robust growth in fair and inclusive lending

Fuse Financing, the lending arm of Mynt, has also reached significant milestones in 2025 as it disbursed loans worth PHP 362 billion (USD 6.16 billion) life-to-date, a substantial 65% increase from 2024. This growth was driven by over 10.5 million unique borrowers, and GScore, its proprietary trust scoring system.

Fuse has also partnered with the Asian Development Bank for a PHP 1.75 billion loan (USD 30 million) to accelerate credit access to MSMEs—marking a landmark partnership in the ASEAN between ADB and a fintech company.

Unlocking wealth management and affordable insurance for all

GCash has significantly boosted its wealth portfolio, with its investment platform, GStocks Ph, serving 1.7 million registered users in 2025, a 65% increase year-on-year. It has also introduced its IPO Subscription feature, which enabled thousands to participate in a recent Philippine IPO, with orders via GStocks oversubscribed by over 200% during the sale period.

Through GInsure, GCash further expanded access to affordable insurance for millions of Filipinos — with 132.6 million policies sold life-to-date in 2025, nearly triple the previous year’s level. This growth was supported by a 45% increase in GInsure users to 20.6 million.

Deepening financial access for all Filipinos

GCash has also been doubling down its support for entrepreneurs in 2025 with the launch of the GCash Pera Outlet Plus App, making it easier for nano-merchants to access digital services, alongside GCash PocketPay, transforming smartphones into point-of-sale (POS) devices for card payments. The company also made receiving international remittances from the United States faster and easier through its Virtual US Account.

Underpinned by its growth and inclusive fintech innovations, GCash has solidified itself as the #1 Finance App in the Philippines by monthly active users, according to Sensor Tower data as of December 2025.

“Across our various businesses, we strive to achieve meaningful impact, aimed at Making Filipinos’ Everyday Lives Better and accelerating financial inclusion for all,” said Sazon.

February 21, 2026

Abi Marquez Featured in Netflix Documentary Series Being Gordon Ramsay

Filipino food creator Abi Marquez, widely known as the Lumpia Queen and managed by NYMA Talent Management, is featured in Being Gordon Ramsay, the recently released Netflix documentary series following world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay during a pivotal period of expansion in his career.

Abi Marquez and Gordon Ramsay

In Episode 4, Abi is seen being interviewed by the Netflix documentary team following her collaboration with Ramsay, offering insight into the experience and reflecting on the exchange between cultures, techniques, and perspectives in the kitchen. The segment provides a candid glimpse into the realities of working within a global culinary environment and the creative dialogue that emerges from such collaborations.

Abi Marquez and Gordon Ramsay

Being Gordon Ramsay documents Ramsay in the lead-up to the opening of five new restaurant concepts inside 22 Bishopsgate, one of London’s tallest buildings. Filmed over six months, the series offers an intimate look at Ramsay as he navigates the pressures of global expansion while balancing family life and the demands of running an international restaurant empire.

Abi’s inclusion reflects the evolving nature of today’s culinary landscape—one shaped not only by chefs and restaurants, but also by digital creators who serve as cultural bridges. With over 10 million followers across social media, Abi Marquez has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s most recognizable food creators, championing Filipino cuisine through accessible storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Abi Marquez

Building on this global exposure, Abi is set to take part in the upcoming Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, where she will collaborate with Melbourne-based Filipino-Italian chef Morris Danzen Catanghal at Nine Yards, marking another milestone in her growing international presence and continued efforts to bring Filipino food into global culinary conversations.

Providing additional context to the moment shown in the series, Abi later shared a single behind-the-scenes, documentary-style video on her YouTube channel, offering a personal look at the experience from her perspective and underscoring the significance of the collaboration.


FOLLOW ABI MARQUEZ AND HER FOOD ADVENTURES ON:

February 19, 2026

I'm now 15 years old!

Blessed, Thankful, Grateful, Always and Forever

Brain aneurysm is really a tough fight with life, a unique battle. I survived a ruptured brain aneurysm on February 19, 2011.Thankful forever to all who prayed and took care of me throughout the whole process. I'm so grateful to God everything lined up the way it did.

To God Be The  Glory! 

“With God, all things are possible” Phil. 4:13.

“Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.” -- Psalm 136:26

“I trust in God’s unfailing love for ever and ever.” --Psalm 52:8



✿◕‿◕✿










https://enjoyingwonderfulworld.blogspot.com/2012/02/i-am-brain-anuerysm-survivor.html


https://enjoyingwonderfulworld.blogspot.com/2020/02/i-am-9-years-old.html

February 18, 2026

Miss Universe Philippines 2026 Makes History with First-Ever Daily Free Fan Voting, Powered by Maya


Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) 2026 raises the bar with the launch of its first-ever daily free fan voting experience powered by Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines and Official Voting Partner of MUPh 2026.

The official candidates of Miss Universe Philippines 2026 take the spotlight as this year’s competition begins.

Through the Maya app, pageant fans can conveniently cast votes for their favorite candidates and receive free votes every day, allowing them to consistently show support throughout the competition. This makes fan participation more accessible and rewarding, enabling more Filipinos to actively take part in the journey to the crown.

For the first time ever, fans will also be able to participate in live voting during the coronation night. This marks a significant step forward in making the Miss Universe Philippines experience more interactive, secure, and inclusive.

A More Inclusive Miss Universe Philippines Experience

At the heart of this initiative is greater accessibility and participation. Through this collaboration, pageant fans nationwide can easily engage in the competition via public voting and real-time judging moments.

Fans can support their favorite MUPh candidates directly through the Maya app. By upgrading their Maya account, users can unlock access to free daily votes — making it easier to stay engaged and play a more active role in shaping the outcome of the pageant.

Chris Manguera, Head of New Business and Customer Lifetime Value at Maya, announces the launch of free daily fan voting through the Maya app.

Step Into the Judge’s Seat

Public voting through the Maya app will be open for a limited period ahead of coronation night, with the full voting timeline to be announced on the official Miss Universe Philippines social media accounts.

As part of this initiative, public votes submitted through the Maya platform will be integrated into the overall selection process, alongside expert evaluation, leading up to the announcement of semifinalists on coronation night.

In this way, both expert insight and public participation help shape the final results. Rather than simply watching from afar, Filipinos can now take part in a shared moment of pride, representation, and excitement.

Be Part of History

As Miss Universe Philippines continues to evolve, this partnership with Maya signals a future where beauty, leadership, and representation are shaped not only by experts, but by the Filipino people themselves.

With credibility, accessibility, and public participation at its core, the journey to the crown becomes a truly shared experience.




February 14, 2026

Richmonde Hotels Keep Romantic Traditions Alive

Some traditions never lose their charm—especially those that invite people to pause, reconnect, and celebrate the relationships that matter most. This Valentine’s season, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo present thoughtfully curated dining experiences and staycation escapes designed to turn meaningful moments into lasting memories. Through inspired cuisine, attentive service, and immersive seasonal offerings, Richmonde Hotels continue to honor the timeless ritual of celebrating love together.

“Occasions like Valentine’s Day remain meaningful because they give us a reason to slow down and appreciate one another,” shares Cluster General Manager Jun Justo. “At Richmonde, we see hospitality as a way to nurture these traditions by creating spaces where genuine connections and unforgettable experiences naturally come to life.”

Richmonde Hotel Ortigas: A Love Story Told Through Filipino Flavors


At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, romance takes center stage with Ang Kwento ng Pag-Ibig, a pre-Valentine’s dinner on February 13, 2026 at Richmonde Café. The five-course Filipino-themed degustation captures the evolving stages of love through thoughtful storytelling and elevated flavors.

The journey begins with cured tuna tartare brightened with calamansi, followed by heritage-inspired bringhe arancini that blends nostalgia with contemporary flair. A comforting guava-sinigang broth paired with salmon ravioli brings warmth and depth, while the main course offers a choice between slow-braised beef adobado or spirit-kissed halabos prawn. The evening concludes on a sweet note with tibok-tibok panna cotta drizzled with muscovado syrup, complemented by curated wine, cocktail, or mocktail pairings.

“Our intention was to create a menu that reflects the emotional arc of love,” says Food and Beverage Manager Ria Rosal. “And Filipino flavors provide familiarity, allowing diners to connect with the experience on a deeper level,” adds Sous Chef Rowell Manahan.

Guests wishing to extend the celebration may take advantage of the “Lucky Match” room promotion throughout February, blending Valentine’s festivities with the auspicious spirit of Chinese New Year. On February 13, special bundled packages combine an overnight stay with dinner for two, offering a seamless romantic escape.

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel: Shared Indulgence for Every Kind of Love

At Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, Valentine’s Day embraces every expression of affection with Relish in Love, an intimate dinner on February 14, 2026 at Eastwood Café+Bar. Designed around the idea of shared indulgence, the experience features a plated entrée of U.S. prime rib with local sea bass alongside a buffet selection of fresh salads, roasted garlic and cinnamon pumpkin cream soup, comforting sides, and decadent desserts. A dedicated kid’s menu, with an option of chicken or bratwurst served with spaghetti, ensures that celebrations remain inclusive for families as well. Each meal includes a round of drinks, from house wine to chilled juices and coffee or tea.

“Valentine’s celebrations today extend far beyond couples,” shares F&B Manager Dave Banez. “Many of our guests choose to mark the occasion with family or close friends, so we intentionally designed a dining experience that embraces every expression of love.” Executive Chef Pete Paluga adds, “Our aim was to craft a menu that feels inclusive and enjoyable for everyone—bringing together beloved date-night classics with familiar favorites to create a meal that’s both special and satisfying.”

Complementing the dinner is the “Lucky in Love” accommodation package, with overnight rates on February 14 bundled with the Valentine’s dinner for two. Discounted room offers throughout the month further enhance the festive mood, blending the spirit of Valentine’s Day with the good fortune of Lunar New Year.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo: Ilonggo Warmth and the Spirit of “Palangga”

In Iloilo, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo celebrates the Ilonggo spirit of palangga—a word that speaks not only of romance but also of care, warmth, and community—through Angga, a Valentine’s Day dinner on February 14, 2026 at The Granary.

The experience highlights generous, shareable dining with buffet-style appetizers, charcuterie, desserts, unlimited plated selections, bread baskets with assorted spreads, and a glass of wine. “The concept of palangga inspired us to create something heartfelt and welcoming,” says Executive Sous Chef Rey Parreño II. “We wanted the experience to feel abundant, comforting, and distinctly Ilonggo.”

Guests may continue the celebration with the “Sweet Escape” Valentine room package, available from February 12 to 18 and inclusive of breakfast, dining credits, and themed amenities. For those seeking flexibility, the month-long “Feel-Good February” promotion offers additional staycation options.

Across all properties, Richmonde Hotels blend timeless romantic traditions with contemporary experiences, inviting guests to celebrate love in its many forms while creating stories worth remembering long after the season ends.

For reservations and inquiries, guests may contact Richmonde Hotel Ortigas at (632) 8638 7777, email stay@richmondehotelortigas.com, or visit www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph. Eastwood Richmonde Hotel may be reached at (632) 8570 7777, stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com, or www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph. For celebrations in the City of Love, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is available at (6333) 328 7888, stay@richmondeiloilo.com, or www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph.

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