The event, “Deepening the Philippine Capital Market: Launch of the 1st SEC-Accredited PERA  Administrator,” marks a major milestone in the promotion of long-term investing and financial  security for Filipinos. 

₱10 Million Matching Grant Fund to Empower 2,000 Filipinos in Their Retirement Journey (From left to right) DragonFi CEO and Co-Founder Mr. Jon Carlo Lim and Co-Founder Mr. Edgar  “Injap” Sia II 

DragonFi Launches as the Philippines’ First SEC-Accredited PERA Administrator The SEC PERA Technical Working Group together with SEC Commissioner McJill Bryant T.  Fernandez, DragonFi CEO and Co-Founder Jon Carlo Lim, CTO and Co-Founder Cathryn Ann Lao,  and Co-Founder Mr. Edgar “Injap” Sia II 

The launch event was attended by SEC Commissioner McJill Bryant Fernandez, DragonFi CEO Jon  Carlo Lim, and DragonFi Co-Founder Mr. Edgar “Injap” Sia II, who each emphasized the importance  of this milestone in shaping the future of Philippine retirement savings. 

“This is a key undertaking that reflects our shared commitment to advancing the Philippine capital  market and ensuring the financial well-being of every Filipino,” said Commissioner Fernandez. He  highlighted the Commission’s steadfast efforts to strengthen the PERA framework, particularly  through SEC Memorandum Circular No. 14, Series of 2024 issued last year, which expanded  accreditation guidelines to include securities brokers, investment houses, and fund managers as  PERA administrators. 

“DragonFi’s accreditation signals a new chapter in making retirement savings more accessible and  efficient for Filipinos,” Commissioner Fernandez added, reinforcing the Commission’s  commitment to empowering more individuals to build their retirement wealth. 

To encourage more Filipinos to start investing in PERA, Mr. Edgar “Injap” Sia II has pledged a ₱10  million Matching Grant Fund to support 2,000 Filipinos, aged 18-35, in jumpstarting their retirement 

savings. Under this initiative, each participant who contributes their first ₱5,000 to their PERA  account will receive an additional ₱5,000 in matching funds, effectively doubling their investment.  

The impact of this initiative is immediate and significant. With the creation of 2,000 new retirement  accounts, the total number of PERA accounts in the country is expected to surge by 35%.  Additionally, the ₱20 million infusion into PERA—comprising ₱10 million from contributors and ₱10  million from the grant—will result in a 4% increase in total PERA contributions, providing a much 

needed boost to the country’s retirement savings pool. 

“This ₱10 million pesos Matching Grant Fund, is one of my ways as a passionate Filipino  entrepreneur, through my business endeavors now and in the future, here and abroad, to  contribute as much as I can towards our common patriotic goal towards a first world Philippines.,”  said Edgar “Injap” Sia II 

“I hope that through the PERA program and this initial grant, we’re not only paving the way for 2,000  Filipinos to become future millionaires but also igniting a movement that will empower millions of  young Filipinos to achieve financial independence within our lifetimes.” added Mr. Sia. 

Strengthening the Retirement Savings System 

As the first SEC-accredited PERA administrator, DragonFi is committed to making retirement  savings more accessible, transparent, and efficient. DragonFi CEO Jon Carlo Lim emphasized the  company’s dedication to working with corporations to implement employer-matching programs,  while also advocating for further enhancements to the PERA framework. 

“Our mission is to ensure that every working Filipino has the ability—and the motivation—to invest  in their future,” Lim stated. At the same time, he stressed the importance of continuously evolving  the PERA framework, ensuring that it aligns with global best practices and serves as a true catalyst  for deepening the country’s capital markets. 

“With strong support from regulators, businesses, and individual investors, PERA has the potential  to reshape the way Filipinos prepare for retirement,” Lim added. 

Filipinos will soon be able to open PERA accounts through DragonFi when the platform launches  its PERA services in the second half of 2025.

The post DragonFi Launches as the Philippines’ First SEC-Accredited PERA Administrator, Backed by ₱10M Grant from Mr. Edgar “Injap” Sia II appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

MANILA, Philippines, February 2025 – This Valentine’s season, Conrad Manila makes for a romantic setting for couples celebrating their love for each other, with its thoughtfully crafted gifts, indulgent culinary treats, and sweet surprises, made even more memorable with a heartwarming fireworks spectacle by the bay. 

“At Conrad Manila, we understand the importance of showing love and endearment, especially to the person you care about. The curated and inspiring experiences we have in the hotel this February, which include intimate dining and meaningful Valentine’s Day gifts, are tailored to create lasting memories that lovers will cherish forever,” Conrad Manila General Manager Fabio Berto passionately shares. 

Brasserie on 3

Celebrate love by the bay with a sumptuous spread of exquisite flavors and hearty dishes. Make this special day an affair to remember with those who matter.

Love by the Bay l 14 February 2025

Lunch: PHP 2,900 nett per person

Dinner: PHP 3,988 nett per person (inclusive of one round of sparkling wine, coffee or tea)

Highlights: cochinillo, premium carvings, oysters, charcuterie, and live band performance

This Valentine’s weekend, couples can indulge in an exceptional dining experience, as it coincides with the opening of the 12^th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition at the Mall of Asia Complex. Let beautiful moments spark, as the fireworks light up the sky, while delighting in a scrumptious buffet at Brasserie on 3. Guests are welcome to step outside to the restaurant’s veranda and enjoy the dazzling fireworks with a standing view. 

Bursts of Flavors and Fireworks l Every Saturday, 15 February to 15 March 2025 

Dinner: PHP 3,600 nett per person

Special Rate: PHP 2,880 nett per person for bookings fully paid 72 hours before dining reservation

C Lounge 

Raise your glass to love with our Valentine’s cocktails and indulge in a strawberry-inspired Valentine’s Day afternoon tea featuring exquisite sweet treats, savory sandwiches, signature seared scallops with strawberry gazpacho, and more delightful bites. For an even more romantic date, C Lounge also offers set dinner at the veranda from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. 

Amour Eclatant l 8 to 16 February 2025, 11:00am to 12:00am

Price starts at PHP 450++

Bombay Sapphire, Rose Syrup, Truffle Oil, Citric Acid, Strawberry Puree 

An Affectionate Afternoon l 8 to 16 February 2025, 2:00pm to 6:00pm

Valentine’s-themed afternoon tea set

PHP 3,288 ++ per set good for two persons

Inclusive of coffee or pot of tea, and one rose stem

The Perfect Spark 

Set dinner at the veranda l 7:00pm to 9:00pm

Comes with one bottle of wine, bouquet, box of pralines, and more

13 to 14 February 2025 l PHP 15,000 ++ per couple

15 February to March 2025 l minimum spend of PHP 20,000 ++ per veranda table (with a view of the Pyromusical competition)

China Blue by Jereme Leung

Make your dearest someone’s day with a menu that is as special as your bond, perfectly crafted for a regal and romantic culinary affair.

Dine with Love l 14 to 15 February 2025

Multi-course Set Menu, Lunch & Dinner

PHP 4,998 ++ per person (minimum of two persons)

Highlights: Crispy honey barbecue pork belly, Wagyu beef with sweet Chinese black vinegar sauce and pistachio, Braised fish-shape seafood dumpling with sour salted vegetable broth, Steamed snow fish and mushroom egg white with black olive garlic sauce

Bru Coffee Bar

Sweeten your Valentine’s Day with an array of delectable treats, each made with love and designed to delight your heart. Share a heartfelt gift with our specially curated hamper. 

Love in Every Bite l 1 to 16 February 2025

Valentine’s Cakes & Pastries l Price starts at PHP 200 ++

Valentine’s Hamper l Price starts PHP 3,600 nett

Embrace and feel the warmth of love this February with an inspiring stay at Conrad Manila. For a front-seat view of the Pyromusical fireworks display starting this Valentine’s weekend from February 15 to March 15, 2025, reserve a Bayview room with us. Visit Rooms & Suites | Conrad Manila for the best available rates and spectacular packages.  To learn more about Conrad Manila’s exclusive Valentine’s Day offerings, please contact Conrad Manila at +632 8833 9999 or email conradmanila@conradhotels.com 

About Conrad Manila

Conrad Manila is a luxury retreat located within the prestigious Mall of Asia Complex in Manila, Philippines, offering stunning views of Manila Bay and the city skyline.  Just a 15-minute drive away from Ninoy Aquino International Airport, this yacht-inspired hallmark on Manila Bay is situated atop the S Maison retail complex, providing direct access to premier shopping and entertainment options. Boasting 347 contemporary rooms and suites, Conrad Manila features world-class amenities including a stylish spa, rooftop pool, and five exceptional dining venues, including award-winning options like China Blue by Jereme Leung and Brasserie on 3. With nearly 2,000 square meters of event space, Conrad Manila offers an unforgettable experience for both leisure and business travelers alike. Recognized for its excellence, the hotel has been awarded LEED gold certification and named an ASEAN Green Hotel and MICE awardee, while also being celebrated in the 2019 Conde Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Award as one of the Best Hotels in the World. Join the conversation — visit Instagram, Facebook or visit www.hilton.com/en/hotels/mnlmbci-conrad-manila/ for more information.

About Conrad Hotels & Resorts 

Spanning five continents with a benchmark of nearly 50 properties, Conrad Hotels & Resorts creates a seamless connection between bold design, impactful experiences and curated contemporary art to inspire the conscientious traveler. Conrad is a place where guests are empowered to explore through intuitive service and experiences that authentically connect them with local culture. In addition to its award-winning hotel offerings, the brand also features an expanding residential portfolio combining sophisticated design, best-in-class amenities and purposeful service in sought-after destinations. Experience Conrad Hotels & Resorts by booking at conradhotels.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Conrad Hotels & Resorts at stories.hilton.com/conradhotels, and follow the brand on Instagram and X.

The post Celebrate Love in Luxury at Conrad Manila this Valentine’s Day appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

From Left to Right:Park Inn by Radisson Davao GM Sven Toune, Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu GM Marko Janssen, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Bacolod Area GM Sherwin Lucas, Lanson Place Mall of Asia GM Nils Rothbarth, Conrad Manila GM Fabio Berto, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA GM Ann Olalo, Park Inn by Radisson Clark Christina Dumaraos, Pico Sands Hotel and Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club GM Maxi Gavino, Taal Vista Hotel GM Ramon Makilan, SMX Convention Center VP & GM Mike Albaña

SMX Convention Center VP & GM Mike AlbañaSM Hotels & Conventions Corp. ends 2024 with an attitude of gratitude in the presence of all its properties’ general managers together with SMHCC Executive Vice President Peggy Angeles and SMHCC VP for Operations Cathy Nepomuceno during the recently concluded Annual Media Thanksgiving Party held at SMX Convention Center Manila.

The post SM Hotels & Conventions Corp. Ends the Year with a Grateful Heart appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

(In photo, from L to R: Carlo C. Cruz, Hotel Manager, Discovery Suites; Jaimie Tiu, Representative, JTKC Group of Companies; Paavan Patel, Vice President of Advisory and Asset Management, JLL)

Discovery Suites has been recognised as the Extended Stay Hotel of the Year – Philippines at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2024 – Asia, standing out for its ability to provide comfort, convenience, and luxury for guests seeking a “home away from home.”

Strategically located at the heart of the Ortigas Business District in Metro Manila, Discovery Suites offers easy access to major corporate offices, shopping centres, and recreational spaces, making it an ideal choice for business professionals and expatriates.

“At Discovery Suites, we always strive to create a vibrant and welcoming community where every guest is valued. Our team is dedicated to offering personalised service, making sure that guests feel at ease and well attended to. Whether you are visiting us for business or an extended leisure stay, we guarantee that your stay will be comfortable and convenient, making sure that you made the best choice for long-term stay living,” said Carlo Cruz, Hotel Manager, Discovery Suites.

With 220 suites, each fully equipped with a functional kitchen, separate living and dining areas, and plush bedrooms, Discovery Suites creates an environment that combines functionality with the comforts of home. Every suite is designed with both relaxation and productivity in mind, offering spaces that adapt to the varied needs of extended-stay guests.

Discovery Suites goes beyond traditional hotel offerings, providing an impressive array of amenities specifically designed to meet the needs of long-term guests. High-speed internet access ensures connectivity for both business and leisure, whilst a fully equipped gym and inviting pool provide options for relaxation and wellness. The hotel’s multiple dining outlets offer varied culinary experiences.

One of Discovery Suites’ standout features is its dedication to creating a community for long-term residents. The hotel’s team is trained to address a wide range of guest needs, from arranging transportation to making tailored dining recommendations.

“The team aims to foster an atmosphere where everyone is warmly welcomed and cared for, and quarterly mixers and social nights and other activities are organised by the Guest Relations team as well to build relationships and to create a community that feels like home,” Cruz added.

Beyond these social events, Discovery Suites provides essential hotel conveniences such as regular housekeeping and concierge services. By striking the perfect balance between independence and assistance, Discovery Suites draws in repeat guests from organisations such as the Asian Development Bank and Banco De Oro.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards – Asia is a premier awards programme presented by Travel Daily Media. It seeks to honour the pinnacle of excellence in Asia’s travel industry, covering the best hotels, airports, cruise lines, tour operators, travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology.

The TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2024 – Asia is presented by Travel Daily Media.

ABOUT DISCOVERY SUITES

Located in the heart of the Ortigas Central Business District, Discovery Suites is the choice address of business and leisure travelers, as it balances the convenience of a spacious residence with the personal touches of a hotel. 

Follow Discovery Suites Manila:

• Website: www.discoverysuites.com 
• Facebook: facebook.com/DiscoverySuitesOrtigas
• Instagram: @discoverysuites

The post Discovery Suites is Extended Stay Hotel of the Year – Philippines at TDM Travel Excellence Awards 2024 – Asia appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

Manila, Philippines | November 29, 2024 – Shangri-La The Fort, Manila garnered double recognition at the prestigious Tatler Best of Asia Awards 2024, held in Bangkok on November 24, 2024. The hotel was celebrated as one of the Best Hotels in Asia, while its exclusive speakeasy bar, The Back Room, secured a spot among Tatler’s Best 100 Bars in Asia. These esteemed citations highlight the hotel’s commitment to delivering unparalleled luxury and exceptional service in the heart of Manila.

As the only city hotel in the country to receive the award, Shangri-La The Fort, Manila proudly reflects the hard work and dedication of its entire team. Every detail, from personalised guest experiences to the world-class facilities, exemplifies the hotel’s ongoing mission to exceed expectations and set new benchmarks for excellence. 

The Back Room’s inclusion in Tatler’s Best 100 Bars in Asia further cements its reputation as one of the standout venues in Asia. This prestigious acknowledgment is a testament to the unique atmosphere, exceptional service, and innovative experiences that have made the acclaimed bar a standout destination for both locals and visitors alike.

Being included in such a distinguished list, alongside some of the finest establishments in Asia, is both an honour and a reflection of the team’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards in the hospitality industry. 

These accolades would not have been possible without the dedication and passion of each team member. The management extends its deepest gratitude to all team members for their hard work and congratulate everyone on this incredible achievement. This accomplishment is a testament to the collective effort and commitment to excellence that defines Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, ensuring its position at the forefront of luxury hospitality in Asia.

About Shangri-La:

Shangri-La, an iconic flagship brand of the Shangri-La Group, puts heartfelt service at the core of its distinctive Asian hospitality experience. Through imaginative and nature-inspired design, delightful culinary and cultural experiences, and its authentic and thoughtful service, the brand enables guests to realise their own moments of Shangri-La.

Today, the brand experience is brought to life in over 100 deluxe hotels and resorts at destinations around the world, including Australia, Canada, Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR and Taiwan, Fiji, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mongolia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sultanate of Oman, Thailand, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

For more information, please visit Shangri-La.com.

The post SHANGRI-LA THE FORT, MANILA HONOURED WITH TWO WINS AT THE TATLER BEST OF ASIA AWARDS 2024 appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

Tagaytay’s premier and historic hotel destination celebrates a more meaningful holiday season as it commemorates its 85^th anniversary.

Dubbed as “Timeless Christmas,” Taal Vista Hotel kicks off a joyous occasion with the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony last November 23. 

In his message, General Manager Ramon Makilan shares, “On our 85th anniversary, we are grateful to have been part of your lives, big or small, and we are thankful to each and every one of you for always making us your home.”

The ceremony was led by Ms. Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Ms. Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, and Mr. Ramon Makilan, General Manager of Taal Vista Hotel. A ceremonial gift-giving for the children of Augustinian Sisters Servants of Jesus and Mary, beneficiaries of the celebration, followed immediately after.

The legacy of a #TimelessTaalVista

Prior to the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, Taal Vista Hotel relaunched it’s A Walk Through Time exhibit through a short program and guided tour. This exhibit, which was first launched in 2022, immerses guests in an educational journey to gain deeper appreciation of the history of the hotel, Tagaytay, and the Taal Volcano over the past 85 years. 

A curated six-coure wine pairing dinner were of the occasion’s highlights. The collaborative expertise of Chef Leah Magallanes, Vice President for Quality and Sustainability of SM Hotels & Conventions Corp., Executive Chef Jayme Natividad, and renowned chocolatier and pastry chef, Chef Ely Salar, and Ms. Treena Tecson created a menu which was inspired by the milestones of Filipino history. Some of these dishes include Homemade Chocolate Ravioli, Paella Marisco Soccarat, Kitayama striploin with trio of Tagaytay mushrooms, and Chocolate Eruption featuring 60% Aton cacao dark chocolate. Each course is paired with Italian wines from Wine Hub. 

Guests were then treated to a musical showcase with timeless classics of the 1930s – the decade where Taal Vista Hotel, which was first named Taal Vista Lodge opened to the public. Performances from television, musical theater singer and actress Kayla Rivera, television, film, and musical theater actor and singer Vien King, one of the country’s leading saxophone artists Josh Espinosa, and young and talented pianist Kim Dominik Sarmiento brought nostalgia to the grand ballroom with their musical revue called “As Time Goes By.”

The ballrooms were elegantly adorned with Christmas lights and fresh flower centerpieces by Julius Villamante of Amante Fleurs, while Artuz provided professional lights and sounds for the event.

The Christmas tree lighting and 85^th anniversary celebration is indeed an extraordinary and memorable occasion. With more exciting offers for the holidays, Taal Vista Hotels welcomes everyone to experience the warmth of timeless sophistication.

About Taal Vista Hotel

As a cultural landmark in the heart of Tagaytay, Taal Vista Hotel remains committed to elevating its service and adapt to the changing needs of guests, all while preserving the warmth and friendliness of its staff. 

Taal Vista Hotel is located along Kilometer 60, Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City 4120, Philippines. For inquiries and reservations, please call +63 (2) 7917 8225, +63 (46) 413 1000 or +63 917 809 1254. Stay connected with Taal Vista Hotel by visiting our website www.taalvistahotel.com and join us on Facebook (facebook.com/taalvistahotel), and Twitter/Instagram (@taalvistahotel).

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Hotel101 is pleased to announce the successful issuance of the third (3rd)  batch of Golden Visas to unit owners of Hotel101-Madrid. This follows the  previous two batches of Golden Visas which Hotel101 has opted to  announce the first 3 (three) batches of Golden Visa to Hotel101-Madrid  unitowners. With these initial three batches successfully issued by the  Government of Spain to Hotel101-Madrid Unit owners, Hotel101 Global  expects the succeeding Golden Visa issuances to Hotel101-Madrid unit  owners to just flow consistently with new batches of releases expected  every few weeks at an even faster pace since Hotel101 has already  proven to be a highly suitable Golden Visa investment compliance.

This additional milestone is expected to significantly boost Hotel101 Global’s  unit sales revenue, attracting buyers from around the world. 

A Golden Visa for Spain, officially known as the Spain Investor Visa, is a  residence permit issued to non-European citizens who makes a substantial  investment in Spain such as buying a real estate asset worth 500,000 EURO.  Golden Visa applicants have to purchase 3 (three) Hotel101-Madrid units each  to comply with the investment requirements. 

The Hotel101 business model and concept happens to be a perfect solution for  the Golden Visa host country and its investors. When buying a Hotel101 unit, it  does not create a negative impact of reducing their local housing inventory, and  at the same time comes as a perfect solution too for the Golden Visa applicants,  as the Hotel101 investment does not require them to carry the hassle of  maintaining a house or apartment abroad. 

The first three Hotel101 overseas projects are expected to generate inflows of  US$471 Million (Php27.2 Billion) in foreign currency revenues to  DoubleDragon. Hotel101 Global expects to complete and fully sell out all its  units in Madrid, Spain and Niseko Hokkaido, Japan ahead of schedule. 

Out of the Hotel101 Global’s One (1) Million operating hotel rooms global target  by 2050, 50,000 are intended to be in the Philippines, which is expected to  further cement the position of DoubleDragon’s Hotel101 to become the largest  hotel company in the Philippines and simultaneously become one of the Top 5  hotel companies in the world. 

The asset-light Hotel101 unique and novel concept with one type of room all  throughout its ecosystem at an average of about 500 rooms per site, allows  DoubleDragon to generate revenue and income twice — first from the preselling  of the Hotel101 units, then second, after the project is constructed it generates  recurring revenues from its hotel operations. 

Hotel101 adopts dynamic pricing on its room rates via the Hotel101 Global App  where its room price moves up and down depending on the real-time supply  and demand on the chosen date of booking. 

DoubleDragon happens to be one of the very few Philippine companies that has  not only positioned a diversified hard asset portfolio spread out across the  Philippines, but it also happens to be one of the very few that has organically  developed a novel asset-light concept and highly unique business model in  Hotel101 (HBnB) that is portable and exportable to other continents globally.  The global expansion of Hotel101 is expected to eventually become one of the  major US Dollar inflow generators to the Philippines.

The post November 26, 2024; 3rd (THIRD) BATCH OF GOLDEN VISAS (GV)  OFFICIALLY ISSUED TO MULTIPLE HOTEL101-MADRID UNIT  OWNERS appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

The Yuletide Season is officially upon us as SotoGrande Hotel Katipunan (SGK) lights up its Christmas Tree on Friday, November 22, 2024 at 6 p.m. Expect the festive event to not just have one but three splendid Christmas trees to be unveiled in the hotel lobby exquisitely adorned with decors and lights in vibrant colors that indubitably resonated with the joyous vibe of the season.

Gracing the occasion is Exequiel Robles, President and CEO of Santa Lucia Land and Realty Group of Companies, the developer of Sotogrande, with Liberato Robles, Vice President of Operations; Vicente Santos, Executive Vice President; and Jayson Robles, Vice President for Project Development. Joining them are such esteemed guests as Enderun Hotels executives Thomas Wenger, Carlo Librea, and Tricia Tensuan as well as officers of Webbeds, Heytrip, Ontoya, Sumitomo (Sotogrande Hotel Katipunan’s corporate and travel agency accounts); DILG-MIMAROPA, DENR-FMB, DOH-CHD CALABARZON and Department of National Defense (the hotel’s government accounts); Gerry Roxas Foundation; and the children of Tahanan ng Pagmamahal, Sotogrande Hotel Katipunan’s CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) partner.

According to SotoGrande Hotel General Manager Lily Santos-Adrid, this is the first time that the hotel has organized such an affair to usher in the holiday season with a celebration steeped in Filipino traditions.

“While the hotel opened in 2022, a post-pandemic year, the opening was not grand. It was only in mid-2023 when it was managed by Enderun Hotels that we started this festive tradition, yet we opted to have a simple and subtle celebration last year,” Adrid shares. “Through the occasion, we also want to express our appreciation to our client-partners who have been with us for the past years,” she adds. 

With this year’s theme, “Paskong Pinoy sa SGK,” the hotel visibly highlights the culture and tradition of celebrating Christmas in the Philippines. The décor is an homage to the creativity of Filipinos from various regions of the country. The Christmas trees, measuring 11 feet, nine feet and seven feet in height, are all adorned with such native materials as sinamay, pawid, sawali, dayami, twigs, and native baskets.

A small “bahay kubo” is another eye-catcher which showcases Filipino Christmas favorites puto bumbong and bibingka.

Moreover, in the spirit of giving and sharing, Sotogrande Hotel Katipunan never fails to support Tahanan ng Pagmamahal, a charitable institution for abandoned children, through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm.

“SGK has been continuously doing CSR (initiatives) since last year. We donated food to the street children and vendors around the Quezon City area, and held another CSR (project) when we visited St. Pio Home for the Elderly last July,” affirms Adrid.

She furthers, “Apart from voluntary donations from guests and hotel employees, Sotogrande is going to have a promo beginning Nov. 22 until January 10, 2025, wherein every room booking, P100 will go to our chosen charity. This also applies when guests avail of our Christmas or New Year packages.”

Local and foreign guests can avail of the hotel’s F&B promo on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. It offers a package that includes buffet dinner and brunch buffet for two persons in a De Luxe Room priced at P7,800.

Guests who wish to spend the New Year’s Eve at SotoGrande Hotel Katipunan can book an overnight stay with buffet dinner, cocktails for the New Year countdown, and brunch buffet, priced at P9,500. The buffet dinner and brunch buffet are also available without room inclusion. (For more details, check SGK’s website and Facebook  page.) 

There will be Holy Mass schedules on December 24 and December 31 for hotel guests. Kiddie guests can also have a photo with Santa Claus on Christmas Day.

SotoGrande Hotel Katipunan, located at 181 Katipunan Ave., Project 4, Quezon City, is a three-star hotel which has 102 well-appointed rooms complete with amenities. The hotel promises excellent service and a wonderful stay to every guest.

For reservations and inquiries, call or text 0917-1258847. You can book directly  at https://www.sotograndehotels.com/ourhotels/sotogrande-katipunan/ or e-mail at reservations.katipunan@sotograndehotels.com.

The post SotoGrande Hotel Katipunan kicks off Yuletide Season with Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

• PERFORMANCES:

1. EMAR JHUN DE GUZMAN

– The Voice Teens Season 1 – Semi Finalist, TEAM BAMBOO

– Tawag Ng Tanghalan 4-Time Defending Champion, Instant Resbaker & Ultimate Resbaker

2. OLFU CHORALE

• LUXENT HOTEL CHOSEN CHARITY FOR OUTREACH PROGRAM

• Philippine Children’s Medical Center – Cancer Patients
• Outreach Program scheduled on December 13, 2024

• INVITED GUESTS

• Mr. Enzo Pineda
• Councilor Irene Belmonte
• Media Friends 
• Content Creators and Vloggers

In photo: Luxent Hotel Magement

FROM LEFT: Executive Chef Rafael Hubilla, Executive Housekeeper Rex Icamen, Director of Front Office JR Dimayuga, Chief Engineer Arman Dela Guerra, Director of IT & Security Erick Tagapan, General Manager Melanie Siy-Pagkalinawan, Director of Human Resources Edith Carreon, Director of Sales and Marketing Deanne Guerrero, Chief Accountant Aileen Bonilla & Food and Beverage Manager Ces Del Mundo.

FROM LEFT: 

Blanca Mercado, President and COO of the Manila Times 

Maria Victoria Paje, Division Chief for Tourism Development

Melanie Siy-Pagkalinawan, Luxent Hotel General Manager

Hon. Irene Belmonte, Quezon City Councilor, District 4

Enzo Pineda, Aspiring Quezon City Councilor, District 5

• FROM LUXENT HOTEL TEAM

• Melanie Siy – Pagkalinawan, General Manager, Luxent Hotel
• Deanne Guerrero, Director of Sales & Marketing, Luxent Hotel
• Kaint Jhon Interior, Marketing Communications Manager, Luxent Hotel

• EVENT PARTNERS:

•  Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc.
• Great Wall Arts

• PROGRAM FLOW

I. OLFU Chorale Performance

II. Special Performance from Emar Jhun De Guzman

III. Message from the Quezon City Government – Councilor Irene Belmonte

IV. Introduction of the Selected Charity

–      Philippine Children’s Medical Center – Cancer patients

V. Welcome Message from Luxent Hotel General Manager, Melanie Siy-Pagkalinawan

VI. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

The following individuals have been invited to press the button for the official Christmas Tree Lighting:

– Luxent Hotel General Manager, Melanie Siy-Pagkalinawan

– Mr. Enzo Pineda

– Councilor Irene Belmonte

– Ms. Blanca Mercado, President and COO of The Manila Times

– Maria Victoria Paje, Division Chief for Tourism Development Division

VII. OLFU Chorale Performance

VIII. Awarding Ceremony

• Mr. Enzo Pineda
• Quezon City Government (Received by: Councilor Irene Belmonte)
• Department of Tourism (Received by: Maria Victoria Paje, Division Chief for Tourism Development Division)

IX. Announcement of the Stars of the Night

X. Closing Remarks from the Director of Sales and Marketing, Ms. Sharon Deanne Guerrero

XI. Cocktail Reception

ABOUT LUXENT HOTEL:

Located in the heart of Quezon City, near the Philippines’ broadcasting networks, Luxent Hotel is a four-star hotel offering a 5-star experience that stands out for its thoughtful approach to hospitality. With 255 rooms, Luxent Hotel is designed to provide comfort and convenience for a variety of guests, including business travelers, families and tourists exploring the city. It offers two pillarless grand ballrooms, making them perfect for events like conferences and weddings. For dining, our three restaurants cater to different tastes and occasions, from casual meals to fine dining. We also offer two swimming pools, gaming Room and a fitness center, ensuring guests can relax and stay active during their stay.

The post  Luxent Hotel – Lush Bar & Lounge appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

Quezon City, Philippines – November 18, 2024 – The center of Ortigas was officially ushered into the holiday season on November 18, as Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria hosted their highly anticipated An Iconic Light-Up event. This year’s celebration brought deeper meaning to the season through a heartwarming partnership with the Autism Society Philippines (ASP).  

The event began with an enchanting transformation of ushers into ballerinas, setting the tone for a magical evening. Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, DOT Assistant Secretary Sharlene Batin, Mr. Ivan Agote of DOT NCR, Mr. Barun Jolly, Senior Vice President and Business Unit General Manager of Robinsons Hotels and Resorts, Ms. Ann Yap, Vice President of Robinsons Hotels and Resorts, and Mr. LJay Sumulong, National President of the Autism Society Philippines.  

The stage came alive with the powerful voice of Dani and the energetic piano performance of Luis, two talented individuals on the spectrum. Dani captivated the audience with her renditions of White Christmas and Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, while Luis mesmerized everyone with The Christmas Song and Christmas in Our Hearts, which prompted a heartwarming sing-along.  

The event also showcased the success of the Hoteliers for a Day program, where Rhav, Dani, Marlon, and Abi—four individuals on the spectrum—took on the roles of front liners, including front desk agents and restaurant receptionists. Their participation emphasized the hotels’ commitment to creating inclusive workspaces that are aware, accepting, and accommodating of individuals on the autism spectrum.  

“This event is not just a celebration of the holiday season, it’s a celebration of transformation,” said Pat Puyat, the General Manager of Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria. “With the support of ASP, we’ve taken steps to ensure that inclusivity and awareness remain at the heart of our business.”  

One of the evening’s highlights was the introduction of the hotels’ new Executive Chef, Luca Angioletti. Dressed as Santa Claus, Chef Luca surprised attendees by giving away delightful treats from Universal Robina and Crowne Plaza’s very own take on the popular pistachio chocolates.

An Iconic Light-Up punctuated with a resounding message of hope and joy, encapsulating the spirit of an Autism-OK Philippines and the enduring magic of the holiday season.  

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