(Makati City, February 22, 2025)… Did you know that NFL star Camryn Bynum of the Minnesota Vikings spends the NFL off-season in the Philippines? Bynum is Filipino through his mother, Jen, a third generation Filipino-American. He and his family established the nonprofit Bynum Faith Foundation to provide aid and holistic relief to underprivileged communities in the United States and the Philippines through food distribution, helping rebuild homes of disaster victims, providing tools for livelihood and education, and inspiring youth in athletic activities. Bynum goes to the Philippines to personally oversee these projects.

And did you know that Flag football is part of the sports program of the LA 2028 Summer Olympics (LA28)? The Olympic website describes Flag football as a non-tackling version of American football in a five-on-five format. Players wear belts with flags on them, and minimal equipment. Instead of tackling a player to stop a play, defenders try to grab one of their flags. The game’s emphasis is on speed. Flag football is played by an estimated 20 million people in 100 countries— including the Philippines.

When Bynum discovered that the Philippines had its own small Flag football community, and a national sports association–Flag Football Philippines–affiliated with the Philippine Olympic Committee, and players who loved the sport as much as he did, he was inspired to use his platform and resources to help elevate and grow awareness for Flag football in the country. And Camp Beezy was born.

Now going on its 4^th edition, Camp Beezy is a series of Flag football training campswhere players of all experience levels can learn how to play the game the right way. Bynum brings in professional coaches and trainers, and sometimes his fellow NFL players (the Kansas City Chiefs’ Nikko Remigio, the Chicago Bears’ Elijah Hicks, and the New England Patriots’ Jaylinn Hawkinshave all volunteered for Camp Beezy’s previous editions) to work with the participants. The camp gives participants an opportunity to learn tips and skills from professionals, and apply what they learned in a friendly tournament.

While Flag football arguably doesn’t have a huge following in the Philippines, itsinclusion in LA28 could be a turning point. Bynum believes that, and in a 2024 interview with The Game he said, “I think there’s so much good talent out here, especially among Filipinos. We love basketball, and that’s a really athletic sport, you have to be fast, you have to be quick, so the fact that they’re getting into flag football now, it’s just a matter of experience and people actually playing the game.”

It’s a sentiment echoed by RIESA Management, Inc.’s COO, Anthony Raymond, himself an avid Flag football player. RIESA has partnered with the Bynum Faith Foundation to help expand Flag football’s reach in the Philippines. “We were intrigued by the idea of promoting an up and coming international sport. We believe that Flag football is a sport that Filipinos can excel in. This is relatively a new sport to the country that we believe can grow and expand in a few years. The Philippines has put so much into professional sports such as basketball but we have yet to qualify for the Olympics. Maybe it’s time for us to groom Filipino athletes that suit our best physical attributes–speed, agility and quickness,” Raymond explained. And with companies already interested in a possible Philippine team for LA28, RIESA’s support for Flag football would jumpstart things for the sport.

RIESA is a locally-grown service hospitality company that manages and developsindividually distinct lifestyle boutique hotels and restaurants. Some of its brands are Hotel Dumaguete, Cala Laiya, La Mensa Dumaguete, and Buglas Isla Cafe (whose popularity and success in Dumaguete prompted the company to open branches in Arcovia, Pasig; Alabang, Westgate, and Batangas).

Bynum is now even more motivated to share and grow the game that he loves— and has given him the life that he has in the Philippines. Camp Beezy Vol. 4 takes place in Vermosa from February 20-22. This time, it will bring in 75 players with the best potential from around the Philippines and Asia to experience “a day in the life of an NFL player.” There will be coaching, training and drills, physical therapy and strategy sessions, and playing, of course. Lots of playing. The goal is for professionals to evaluate the participants with an eye towards forming a national training pool for the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028. 

Anthony Raymond is excited. RIESA is hosting a lunch for Bynum and his team at Buglas Isla Cafe in Alabang on February 23, and he hopes that RIESA’s partnership with the Bynum Faith Foundation is a sign that Flag football will finally have its day in the sun. “I am hoping one day, Flag football can be an after school sports activity offered for boys and girls in  grade schools, high school and college level,” he said.

As for Cam Bynum, he knows that Filipino athletes have the speed, smarts, and agility to excel at Flag football, so he will keep on doing what he is doing to spread his love for the game, and to help get a Philippine team to qualify for Flag football in the LA Olympics.

Sidebar: Why Filipinos can Excel in Flag Football

• Speed and Agility – Flag football isn’t about size or height. Filipinos are smaller and quicker, which is an advantage.

• Smarts – The sport requires a lot of strategy and the ability to think on your feet and sometimes improvise. Filipinos have the brains and the ability to do that.

• Hardworking – Filipinos have always worked hard to achieve their goals. Excelling at Flag football is no different. Learning and studying the game, improving skills like throwing, catching, running—can be done even without special camps or workshops.

• Space – Especially in the provinces, there’s always a park or vacant lot somewhere to throw a football around or play a quick game, and just like basketball, you only need 5 players a side.

Sidebar: Flag football 101

• It is a no-contact sport with ‘tackles’ made by removing one of three fabric ‘flags’ attached to the ball-carrier’s waist – one on each side and another at the

• There are 5 players from each team  on the field, and matches consist of two 20-minute halves.

• Play starts at the team’s own five-yard line with the centre snapping the ball back to the quarterback who either passes the ball forward to try and find a receiver, or hands off to a running back.

• The play is over when either a flag is removed (a ‘tackle’), the ball-carrier goes out of bounds, or a forward pass hits the ground.

• The team on offence has four attempts – known as downs – to go from their own five-yard line to halfway. If successful, they have another four downs to reach the endzone and score a touchdown. If unsuccessful on either count, the ball is turned over to the opposition who start on their own five-yard line.

• After a touchdown, worth six points, teams go for an extra point – by running or passing – from the five-yard line, or two extra points from the 10-yard line.

• If the scores are tied after 40 minutes, sudden-death overtime begins with the first team to score taking victory.

The post RIESA Partners with Camryn Bynum to Kickstart Philippine Flag Football Team’s Olympic Journey appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

Manila, Philippines (January 25, 2025)- Honda Philippines, Inc., the No. 1 motorcycle
manufacturer in the Philippines, is thrilled to announce the launch of The All-New Giorno+
at an exclusive event held at Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The
event was attended by media, content creators, and dealers to celebrate the debut of this
stunning new model. Designed with the fashion-forward Filipino customer in mind, The All-
New Giorno+ effortlessly blends modern classic design with exceptional performance and
innovative features, making it the perfect fit for those who value both style and substance.

This scooter is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a statement of individuality. With
its impressive curves, premium finishes, and advanced technology that transforms every ride
into a stylish and sophisticated experience. Whether navigating busy city streets or
embarking on a leisurely weekend ride, it delivers unmatched elegance and functionality,
setting a new standard for high-performance scooters that cater to both free-spirited and the
fashionable rider.

‘’Today, we are proud to unveil the newest and most awaited scooter model here in the
Philippines – The All-New Giorno+. This scooter expresses a modern classic styling that
seamlessly blends retro sophistication with modern innovation, making it a perfect
companion for outstanding individuals who value both functionality and fashion. With its
elegant body lines and relaxed form of riding, it is setting a new standard for high-
performance scooters with exceptional value for a class that lasts.’’ Says Ms. Sayaka Arai,
President of Honda Philippines, Inc.

This latest offering from Honda is not just a scooter but a fashion statement on two wheels,
and it has found the perfect face in celebrity and style icon Alden Richards. Known for his
confidence, versatility, and trendsetting style, Alden Richards perfectly embodies the
essence of The All-New Giorno+—a scooter that is chic, reliable, and performance-driven.
“I’m excited to partner with Honda Philippines as the face of The All-New Giorno+,” shares
Mr. Richards.

“This scooter perfectly blends style and function, which is exactly what I need in my busy
lifestyle and adventurous personality. I’m beyond thrilled to be here as the new face of the
ALL-NEW Giorno+, a product that truly captures the spirit of style, innovation, and freedom
— There’s so much more to look forward to as we kick off this exciting journey together!

LED Lighting system
From millennials to Gen Z, The All-New Giorno+ is sure to captivate riders with its opulent
vibe and top-notch features. One of its most striking elements is the headlight design, a bold
statement that is guaranteed to turn heads wherever you go. The LED lighting system,
which includes bright and energy-efficient headlights and taillights, not only to boosts
visibility but also enhances safety by ensuring clear, consistent illumination whether riding in
daylight or at night.

Silver Emblem
An impressive silver emblem on both sides of the body adds an element of iconic
sophistication, reinforcing The All-New Giorno+’s unique and stylish character. Meanwhile,
the brown seat cover and handle grip complements the modern classic design, offering a
touch of warmth and elegance to the overall aesthetic.

Touch-button fuel cover
For added convenience and ease, The All-New Giorno+ comes with a touch-button that
effortlessly opens the fuel cover, allowing you to fuel up without having to dismount, making
your riding experience even more seamless. With these design and functional features, The
All-New Giorno+ is not just a motorcycle—it’s an embodiment of both style and practicality,
perfect for the modern rider who appreciates convenience and flair.

Smart Key System

The Smart Key System offers a push-to-start function alongside enhanced safety features
such as an anti-theft alarm and answer-back functionality, elevating further the convenience
of this modern classic scooter.

Front Disk Brake with CBS

The All-New Giorno+ is also engineered for control and safety. Its Front Disc Brake with
Combi-Brake System (CBS) efficiently distributes braking force between the front and rear
wheels, ensuring stable and safe stops even during sudden braking. The front and rear
tubeless tire (100/90-12) provides superior grip and stability, enabling confident
maneuvering on various road conditions.

At the heart of The All-New Giorno+ is a state-of-the-art engine designed to deliver an
unparalleled riding experience. This advanced 4-Stroke, 4-Valve, SOHC, Liquid-Cooled,
eSP+ engine with the Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system to maximize both power
delivery and fuel efficiency. The liquid-cooled system ensures the engine maintains optimal
temperature, providing consistent performance even during prolonged rides or challenging
conditions.

The All-New Giorno+ strikes the perfect balance between responsiveness and smooth
operation, making it an ideal choice for both bustling city commutes and leisurely weekend
adventures. Its engine produces a maximum horsepower of 8.49 kW at 8,750 rpm,
delivering brisk acceleration that ensures you stay ahead of urban traffic. Meanwhile, the
maximum torque of 11.6 Nm at 5,250 rpm guarantees reliable power for climbing inclines,
carrying loads, or cruising effortlessly, even with a relaxed coffee stop in mind during your
weekend ride. This combination of power, efficiency, and versatility means that it’s a
dependable companion for riders seeking style, performance, and practicality all in one
package.

An exceptional individual will look forward to The All-New Giorno+ for a lot of reasons, but
perhaps one of the most exciting parts for fashion enthusiasts is its captivating looks and
trend-setting appeal. Primed to be one of the hottest lifestyle statements of the year, The
All-New Giorno+ is designed to seamlessly blend retro sophistication with modern
innovation, making it a perfect companion for those who value both functionality and flair.
Its carefully curated color options reflect a style that not only remains timeless but also
positions riders ahead of the fashion curve.

For those who appreciate elegance and refinement, the Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic
and Pearl Jubilee White exude classic charm, offering a sophisticated yet understated look.
Meanwhile, riders who love to make a bold and creative statement can opt for the vibrant
hues of Piquant Orange and Virgin Beige, which are perfect for showcasing a daring and
fashionable personality. These color variants symbolize self-expression and individuality,
making every ride an unforgettable style moment.

While The All-New Giorno+ boasts a stylish design on its own, owners can further enhance
its look and functionality with a range of accessories. From practical additions to stylish
upgrades such as handlebar covers and decals, riders have the flexibility to personalize their
Giorno+ to match their unique taste and lifestyle.

Stand Out Wherever It Takes You

For the busy professional who juggles work, play, and everything in between, or for the
trendsetter who values practicality without sacrificing style, The All-New Giorno+ is built to
complement a dynamic lifestyle.

Be part of the excitement at the official public launch on February 15, an event offering
the chance to experience The All-New Giorno+ through a test ride. This is an opportunity
to feel its smooth power, effortless handling, and standout features in action. Designed to
seamlessly navigate bustling city streets during the week or cruise with ease on laid-back
weekends, the Giorno+ redefines every journey with a combination of modern performance
and head-turning design that perfectly complements a stylish lifestyle.

Available in all Honda 3S Shops nationwide starting February 1, 2025, upgrade your ride
and experience The All-New Giorno+ at a suggested retail price of Php101,900.00, offering
exceptional value for a class that lasts.

For more information, visit www.hondaph.com. Stay updated on Honda’s newest products
and promos by following Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook (facebook.com/hondaph) and
Instagram (instagram.com/hondaph_mc/), YouTube (Honda Philippines_Motorcycle) and
Tiktok (tiktok.com/@hondaphilippines) or contact (02)-8581-6700 to 6799, and 0917-884-
6632.

The post The All-New Honda Giorno+ Makes Its Stylish Debut in the Philippines appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

MANILA, Philippines, November 2024 – Conrad Manila proudly announces its newest recognitions from the prestigious World Luxury Awards 2024, celebrating world-class excellence in hospitality, travel, and luxury. The hotel, along with its renowned Chinese restaurant, China Blue by Jereme Leung, and Conrad Spa, received multiple distinguished awards, further strengthening its reputation as a leader in the Philippine hospitality sector.

The roster of awards includes:  

• Conrad Manila: Best Luxury Sustainable Hotel in Southern Asia 
• Conrad Manila: Best Luxury Conference & Event Hotel in the Philippines  
• Conrad Manila: Best Luxury Hotel in the Philippines  
• Conrad Spa: Best Luxury City Hotel Spa in Southern Asia  
• Conrad Spa: Best Luxury Spa Retreat in the Philippines  
• China Blue by Jereme Leung: Best Luxury Hotel Restaurant in Southern Asia  
• China Blue by Jereme Leung: Best Chinese Cuisine in the Philippines  
• China Blue by Jereme Leung: Best Luxury Family Restaurant in the Philippines

“We are honored and delighted to receive these prestigious awards, which we consider as priceless gifts for the hotel this holiday season. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to consistently deliver unparalleled service and inspiring luxury through sustainable practices, exceptional dining, and a world-class spa experience,” shares General Manager Fabio Berto. “This truly calls for merrier celebrations at Conrad Manila.”

Recipient of the Leadership for Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification, Conrad Manila has consistently carried on its sustainable practices, while also ensuring that it caters to the changing demands of its market. The hotel is known for its modern and upscale events spaces, equipped with must-have features, such as audiovisual technology, high-speed internet, and other essential amenities apt for meetings and conferences of varied sizes.  

With its culinary excellence, Conrad Manila is also a favorite destination for gourmets and families alike. The hotel has five restaurants and bars, offering cuisine from all over the world, such as Filipino, Thai, Indian, and Italian delicacies at Brasserie on 3 and masterful rendition of authentic Chinese dishes at China Blue by Jereme Leung. Private dining rooms are also available for an ultimate and exclusive dining experience with either work colleagues and loved ones. Its luxurious experiences for guests become even more special with its Conrad Spa, which provides pampering treatments and therapies. This wellness haven features six treatment rooms (two couples’ rooms and four single rooms) with soaking tubs, private sauna, and steam facilities. 

Conrad Manila, one of the country’s premier hotels, remains dedicated to setting the standard for luxury and hospitality in the Philippines. The hotel takes pride in delivering exceptional experiences to its guests through smart luxury, world-class culinary creations by award-winning chefs, top-of-the-line amenities, and heartfelt service. Learn more about Conrad Manila at Conrad Manila

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 46 properties, Conrad Hotels & Resorts has created 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 inspiring 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 Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

The post Conrad Manila Bags Multiple Recognitions at the World Luxury Awards 2024   appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—The Pangasinan Provincial Government represented by Governor Ramon V. Guico III and San Miguel Holdings Corporation president (SMHC) represented by business tycoon Ramon S. Ang, formally sealed the partnership for the implementation of the Pangasinan Link Expressway (PLEX) project through the signing of a Joint Venture Agreement and Tollway Concession Agreements last Oct. 19 at the Sison Auditorium here.

A campaign promise of Gov. Guico, the establishment of the PLEX will finally be realized after over a year of hard work of local officials and some key department heads of the provincial government and the proponents.

The implementation of the big impact project is expected to stimulate more economic activities in the province and spur the development of Pangasinan by increasing mobility and faster delivery of goods and services.

Referring to as “game changer” in the province’s genuine progress, the governor earlier stated that PLEX is a major infrastructure project that reinvents the transportation landscape, prioritizes accessibility of citizens to major towns and cities, magnifies business and livelihood opportunities, multiplies economic activities, builds more infrastructures, facilitates province-wide travel and protects environmental resources.

“This is our way of increasing our inland connectivity to facilitate the movement of people, goods, and services. This is also our answer to the problem of traffic congestion,” Gov. Guico disclosed in his first State of the Province Address (SOPA) last March.

The SMHC was the only company that submitted to the provincial government a complete unsolicited joint venture proposal for the expressway project, a 42.76 km four-year project costing P34 billion.

Once completed, the expressway will reduce travel time from Binalonan town to the capital town of Pangasinan which is Lingayen, from an hour and 40 minutes to only around 20 to 30 minutes.

Project segments will be from Binalonan to Manaoag, 6.9 km; Manaoag to Calasiao, 11.3 km; Calasiao spur, 2.39 km; and Calasiao to Lingayen, 22.7 km.

Aside from easier mobility, PLEX will become a revenue-generating project for Pangasinan as the province will be entitled to five percent in the toll revenues and commercial development of the expressway.

Also, the province will be entitled to 30 percent of the earnings before tax after the proponent has surpassed a project’s internal rate of return of 10 percent. If it exceeded the project internal rate of return of 12 percent, Pangasinan will get a share of 70 percent earnings before tax.

The Binalonan-Lingayen segment will be the first phase while the Lingayen-Alaminos City will be the second phase of the project.

Establishment of major projects such as the PLEX is a fulfillment of the unifying vision that by 2031, “Pangasinan is the premier province of great opportunities, sustained economic growth, and a place where one can experience life at its best.”  

The post Pangasinan LGU, San Miguel Holdings Corp. seal partnership for PLEX project implementation appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—The Pangasinan Provincial Government represented by Governor Ramon V. Guico III and San Miguel Holdings Corporation president (SMHC) represented by business tycoon Ramon S. Ang, formally sealed the partnership for the implementation of the Pangasinan Link Expressway (PLEX) project through the signing of a Joint Venture Agreement and Tollway Concession Agreement last Oct. 19 at the Sison Auditorium here.

A campaign promise of Gov. Guico, the establishment of the PLEX will finally be realized after over a year of hard work of local officials and some key department heads of the provincial government and the proponents.

The implementation of the big impact project is expected to stimulate more economic activities in the province and spur the development of Pangasinan by increasing mobility and faster delivery of goods and services.

Referring to as “game changer” in the province’s genuine progress, the governor earlier stated that PLEX is a major infrastructure project that reinvents the transportation landscape, prioritizes accessibility of citizens to major towns and cities, magnifies business and livelihood opportunities, multiplies economic activities, builds more infrastructures, facilitates province-wide travel and protects environmental resources.

“This is our way of increasing our inland connectivity to facilitate the movement of people, goods, and services. This is also our answer to the problem of traffic congestion,” Gov. Guico disclosed in his first State of the Province Address (SOPA) last March.

The SMHC was the only company that submitted to the provincial government a complete unsolicited joint venture proposal for the expressway project, a 42.76 km four-year project costing P34 billion.

Once completed, the expressway will reduce travel time from Binalonan town to the capital town of Pangasinan which is Lingayen, from an hour and 40 minutes to only around 20 to 30 minutes.

Project segments will be from Binalonan to Manaoag, 6.9 km; Manaoag to Calasiao, 11.3 km; Calasiao spur, 2.39 km; and Calasiao to Lingayen, 22.7 km.

Aside from easier mobility, PLEX will become a revenue-generating project for Pangasinan as the province will be entitled to five percent in the toll revenues and commercial development of the expressway.

Also, the province will be entitled to 30 percent of the earnings before tax after the proponent has surpassed a project’s internal rate of return of 10 percent. If it exceeded the project internal rate of return of 12 percent, Pangasinan will get a share of 70 percent earnings before tax.

The Binalonan-Lingayen segment will be the first phase while the Lingayen-Alaminos City will be the second phase of the project.

Establishment of major projects such as the PLEX is a fulfillment of the unifying vision that by 2031, “Pangasinan is the premier province of great opportunities, sustained economic growth, and a place where one can experience life at its best.”

The post Pangasinan LGU, San Miguel Holdings Corporation seal partnership for PLEX project implementation appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.