Experience a Season of Splendor at Discovery

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Discovery Hospitality Corporation invites guests to revel in its renowned and exceptional hospitality luxury experiences this holiday season as its esteemed hotels and resorts offer a range of festive packages that are sure to delight families and friends.

Holidays in the City

Experience the warmth and excitement of the holidays through memorable gatherings in the city. Discovery Primea, located along Ayala Avenue, offers festive feasts at two of its signature restaurants. Restaurant Tapenade offers a Spanish-themed Christmas Eve buffet and Italian-inspired meals to welcome 2025, starting at PHP 1,800++ per person. From a curated menu featuring premium beef cuts for a decadent holiday meal to a New Year's Eve Tomahawk Roast to ring in the New Year, Flame offers exclusive dining experiences with menus that highlight the finest seasonal ingredients set against the backdrop of twinkling city lights.

Discovery Suites, located in the middle of Ortigas, welcomes you to an all-you-can-eat feast featuring its renowned USDA Ribeye Steak, Holiday Turkey, Smoked Ham, Norwegian Salmon, and more. Join us on December 24 and 31 for a gastronomic adventure that will excite your senses and leave you with lasting memories for PHP 3,500+ or more per person.

 

For those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own homes, the two hotels also provide exclusive takeout options with a variety of holiday feasts and treats suitable for everyone. Discovery Primea at Home brings hearty family meals like Thanksgiving turkey and holiday roasts and platters to decadent sweets such as Christmas cookies and desserts. Pre-order 48 hours in advance to ensure your holiday feast arrives on time.

Enjoy a refined selection of platters from Discovery Suites, designed to be the centerpiece of your events. From private family feasts to huge festive occasions, these platters are intended not only to satisfy cravings but also to foster joy and connection around the table. Each platter serves five to six people. Orders must be placed at least two days before the delivery date.

The Yuletide Grazing Box, which includes artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and delectable pastries, is also available, as are the Discovery Suites' Sweet Discoveries, which range from handcrafted cookies to decadent cakes, with something to satisfy every palate.

Beachside Holidays

Escape the noise and bustle of Manila's holiday festivities for a more peaceful celebration in the country's lovely regions. Discovery's resorts in Boracay, Coron, Samal, and Sipalay are serving a variety of festive activities and cuisines, including Italian, Filipino, Spanish, and Asian options. It embodies the true spirit of the holidays, with delicious food and excellent company.

Welcome the New Year with spectacular events in these destinations. Discover Boracay's Cosmic Rave, which includes a breathtaking New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner at Sands Restaurant with the much-anticipated soulful sounds, dazzling lights, and high-energy beats, costs PHP 7,300++ per adult, and open for walk-ins. In Coron, kick out 2025 in style with Discovery Coron, where a magnificent feast at Firefish Restaurant sets the tone for an electrifying party under the stars. The New Year's Countdown Gala in Samal is a night to remember, featuring a live band, DJ performances, a lavish international buffet, exciting raffle prizes, and a breathtaking fireworks show for PHP 7,000 nett per person. Meanwhile, in Sipalay, celebrate the New Year’s Eve with a Spanish Buffet at Dayaw, which includes bold flavors of paella, roasted meats, seafood, fire dancing, wine toasts, and a stunning fireworks display for PHP 3,750 nett per person.

Cheers to new beginnings, lively festivities, and wonderful experiences! For more information about these offers, visit https://www.discoveryhotels-resorts.com/offers/season-of-splendor.

 

Banwa Private Island Elevates Filipino Hospitality

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Banwa Private Island, a premier luxury retreat nestled in the pristine waters of the Sulu Sea in Palawan, Philippines, is proud to announce that 63 of its frontliners have been certified under the Philippines Department of Tourism’s (DOT) award-winning Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) program.

Janet Oquendo, Island Manager of Banwa Private Island, expressed the island’s commitment to providing world-class hospitality with a distinct Filipino touch. “By participating in the FBSE program and certifying 63 of our frontliners, we aim to further elevate our service standards and ensure that our guests experience the warmth and authenticity of Filipino hospitality,” she said.

Recognized globally as the ‘Private Island of the Year’ by Destination Deluxe for three years and included in Robb Report’s ‘The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth’ for two consecutive years, Banwa Private Island offers an unparalleled luxury experience. Beyond its exclusive accommodations and world-class amenities, the island remains deeply rooted in Filipino culture and tradition.

The DOT’s FBSE program, hailed as the Training Program of the Year at the GovMedia Awards 2024, has empowered thousands of tourism industry professionals to deliver exceptional service. By embracing the seven core values of Filipino hospitality – Maka-Diyos (God-fearing), Makatao (People-oriented), Makakalikasan (Environmentally-conscious), Makabansa (Nationalistic), Masayahin (Cheerful), May Bayanihan (Community-spirited), and May Pagasa (Hopeful) – Banwa Private Island’s team is committed to providing warm and sincere service, from the iconic “Mabuhay” gesture to personalized attention to detail.

Through the FBSE program, Banwa Private Island’s 63 certified frontliners are now equipped to deliver world-class service, ensuring that every guest feels the warmth and hospitality that the Philippines is renowned for.

Recognized as one of the Philippines’ important shark and ray areas, Banwa Private Island is not only an exclusive destination but also a responsible steward of the environment. The island’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its eco-friendly practices, from sourcing local ingredients from its own organic farm to minimizing waste. Beyond its operational sustainability, Banwa Private Island actively participates in various conservation programs, including marine conservation initiatives and coral reef restoration projects. By preserving the natural beauty of the Sulu Sea, the island ensures a sustainable future for generations to come. Banwa Private Island is also known for its unspoiled natural environment, with an artesian well providing fresh spring water and a naturally mosquito-free ecosystem.

By participating in the FBSE program, Banwa Private Island reinforces its commitment to providing world-class hospitality with a Filipino heart. The island’s dedication to excellence and sustainability ensures that guests will experience a truly unforgettable and authentic Filipino experience.

For more information and inquiries in booking an island escape at Banwa Private Island, please contact our Reservations team through mobile/WhatsApp: +639178882864, send an email to reservations@banwaprivateisland.com or visit website at www.banwaprivateisland.com.

Winners of 50th Metro Manila Film Festival Gabi ng Parangal, "Green Bones" named as Best Picture

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"Green Bones," an inspirational prison story produced by GMA Public Affairs, was named Best Picture at the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival Gabi Ng Parangal held on Friday, December 27 at the Solaire Grand Ballroom in Paranaque City

Judy Ann Santos won Best Actress for her role in the horror flick "Espantaho" while Dennis Trillo was named Best Actor for "Green Bones.

Here's MMFF 2024 complete list of winners:

Major AwardsWinners

• Best Picture 1st: Green Bones
• 2nd: The Kingdom
• 3rd: My Future You
• 4th: Isang Himala

Best Actress in a Leading Role 

• Judy Ann Santos - Espantaho

Best Actor in a Leading Role 

• Dennis Trillo - Green Bones

Best Director

• Crisanto Aquino (My Future You) and 
• Michael Tuviera (The Kingdom)

Best Actress in a Supporting Role 

• Kakki Teodoro - Isang Himala

Best Actor in a Supporting Role 

• Ruru Madrid - Green Bones

Best Child Performer 

• Sienna Stevens - Green Bones

Best Screenplay 

• Ricky Lee and Angeli Atienza - Green Bones

Best Editing 

• Vanessa Ubas De Leon - My Future You

Best Cinematography

• Neil Daza - Green Bones

Best Production Design 

• Nestor Abrogena - The Kingdom

Best Visual Effects 

• The Kingdom

Best Sound 

• Strange Frequencies:Taiwan Hospital Killer

Best Musical Score 

• Vincent de Jesus - Isang Himala

Best Original Theme Song 

• Ang Himala ay Nasa Puso by Juan Karlos - Isang Himala

Special AwardsWinners

Gat Puno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award 

• The Kingdom

FPJ Memorial Award 

• Topakk

Best Float Award 

• Topakk
• Uninvited

Gender Sensitivity Award 

• And The Bread Winner Is…

Lifetime Achievement Award 

• Joseph 'Erap' Ejercito-Estrada

Special Jury Prize 

• Topakk 
• Isang Himala

Special Jury Citation 

• Vice Ganda

Breakthrough Performance Award 

• Seth Fedelin - My Future You

Student short film

Best Picture

• Saan Aabot Ang 50 Pesos Mo? – University of Makati (Best Picture)
• A Delivery Rider – City of Malabon University (2nd Best Picture)
• PNB 12–50– University of the Philippines Mindanao (3rd Best Picture)
• Special Jury PrizeInang Wak-wak – Mindanao State University

The Gabi ng Parangal was hosted by Robi Domingo, Gabbi Garcia, Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Tim Yap.

Jefrë Figueras Manuel designed the MMFF trophy featuring a silver figurine with an upper torso of film reel and filmstrip.

MMFF nationwide screening runs from December 25 until January 7, 2025.

Stream for FREE on BlastTV: The 2024 Asia Artist Awards in Bangkok!

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With appearances by NCT 127, NewJeans, WayV, ZEROBASEONE, LE SSERAFIM, EXO’s Suho, &TEAM, Byeon Woo-Seok, Kim Soo-Hyun, & many more!

Pinoy K-Pop fans can stream the 2024 Asia Artist Awards (AAA) for FREE on BlastTV this December 27 from 3PM (PH Time). The much awaited annual award show is shaping up to be one of the biggest entertainment events of the year, with an impressive lineup of both actors and musicians from across Asia. Taking place at the IMPACT Challenger Hall in Bangkok, Thailand, this year’s ceremony will bring together top names in music, television, and film for a memorable night of celebration.

The AAA’s musical lineup boasts a mix of fan-favorite groups, solo artists, and rising talents, ensuring a dynamic showcase of performances. Set to take the stage are BIBI, NCT 127, NewJeans, QWER, WayV, ZEROBASEONE, LE SSERAFIM, EXO’s Suho, KISS OF LIFE, WHIB, TWS, &TEAM, and NCT WISH. With such a diverse range of artists, this year’s AAA promises to deliver a unique experience that highlights the best in Asian pop music.

The awards will also spotlight prominent actors who have made waves in the industry this year. The initial lineup of actors includes Kim Soo Hyun, Byeon Woo Seok, Kim Hye Yoon, Park Min Young, Ahn Bo Hyun, and Jang Da Ah. Adding to this stellar roster, Joo Won, Jo Yu Ri, former Golden Child member Choi Bomin, and Kim Min have also been confirmed as attendees.

Returning to host the ceremony are IVE’s Jang Won Young and ZEROBASEONE’s Sung Han Bin. Jang Won Young, who will be hosting for her fourth consecutive year, will be joined by Sung Han Bin for a second time, following their successful MC roles in last year’s awards.

Pinoy K-Pop fans can livestream the much awaited awards show on BlastTV for FREE on Dec 27, Friday at 3PM (Philippine Time). No need to sign up! Just download the BlastTV app from Google Play or the Apple App Store or go to blasttv.ph.

Follow BlastTV on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X @blasttvph for more updates.

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About Tap Digital Media Ventures Corp.

TAPDMV is a leading Philippine media company which partners with globally recognized entertainment content producers and sport properties to deliver branded television services utilizing multiple distribution platforms which include Free To Air, Pay Television, and Direct-To-Consumer through BlastTV. The company’s content portfolio includes Studio Universal, tvN Movies Pinoy, UFC, WTA, NFL, PGA Tour, LPGA, WWE, Euroleague, Champions League, Bundesliga, Volleyball Nations League, and many more. Visit tapdmv.com for more information.

ICYMI: You can still win #MaligayangPaskOPPO gifts via the My OPPO App

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Are you still looking for ways to make your holidays even merrier and happier? Leading global smart device brand OPPO has got you covered with just a few taps on your OPPO device for a chance to win exciting and exclusive rewards this season!

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Hurry up and take advantage of over Php 500M worth of Christmas freebies up for grabs

 until January 5

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Up until January 5, you can simply open your My OPPO App and participate in the Christmas Capsule Carnival on a daily basis where you can win a wide variety of prizes - from OPPO devices, exclusive merchandise, and e-gift certificates from partner brands.

A part of OPPO’s Maligayang PaskOPPO promo where over Php 500 million worth of gifts await Filipino shoppers, the Christmas Capsule Carnival lets loyal OPPO users to play for free for up to two times everyday with additional plays available for 100 OPPOints each.

All they need to do is open the My OPPO App and tap on the Maligayang PaskOPPO banner, start playing and be ready to win any of the following:

●     OPPO Reno12 Pro 5G

●     OPPO Reno11 5G

●     OPPO Reno10 5G

●     OPPO A98 5G

●     OPPO A58

●     OPPO A38

●     OPPO Enco X

●     OPPO Watch Free

●     OPPO Enco Buds2 Pro

●     Exclusive OPPO x BASH Manila Billow Mini in White

●     Exclusive OPPO x BASH Manila Billow Mini in Black

●     Php 1,000 Giftaway digital voucher

●     Php 200 Pancake House digital voucher

●     Php 100 Lazada Wallet Top-up

●     Php 100 Grab digital voucher

●     Php 500 Max’s digital voucher

●     Php 1,000 SM Gift Pass digital voucher

●     Php 100 Bo’s Coffee digital voucher

●     Php 100 Robinsons’ Supermarket digital voucher

●     Php 300 Giftaway Universal digital voucher

●     Php 500 SM Cinema digital voucher

Registered My OPPO App users who are looking to purchase an OPPO device for themselves or as a gift to a loved one this season can also take advantage of the following discount vouchers from OPPO Brand Stores:

●     Php 5,000 off for the OPPO Find N3 Flip

●     Php 3,000 off for the OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G

●     Php 2,000 off for the OPPO Reno11 5G and OPPO A98 5G

●     Php 1,000 off for the OPPO Reno12 F

My OPPO App users are entitled to redeem one voucher per product and can claim their discounts when they buy in the following participating OPPO Brand Stores:

●     SM City North Edsa

●     SM Megamall

●     SM City Manila

●     SM Mall of Asia

●     SM City Dasmariñas

●     Market Market

●     SM City Fairview

●     SM City Clark

●     SM Southmall

●     SM City Olongapo Central

Get in on the holiday fun and take advantage of your My OPPO App and for a true Maligayang PaskOPPO season with OPPO!

Download the My OPPO App or visit this link to know more about the Maligayang PaskOPPO Campaign! You may also visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok for more information.