There is something stirring in the kitchens of Novotel Manila Araneta City. Following its 10th year, the hotel is sharpening its culinary identity through a collection of new and reimagined dining experiences: Freshfinity, a modern buffet concept at Food Exchange Manila; the reopening of Indulge Gelato; a new plant-forward menu at Gourmet Bar by Novotel; and the Halal certification of its banquet kitchen.

Together, they signal a broader evolution in the way the hotel approaches food one that brings together global flavours, thoughtful sourcing, culinary craftsmanship, and a more conscious way of dining.

At the centre of this evolution are three chefs, each bringing a distinct point of view to the table: Cluster Executive Chef for Outlets Athena Tuble, Cluster Executive Pastry Chef Angelique “Angel” Llantanda, and Cluster Executive Chef for Banquet Michael Ramos.

A Buffet Reimagined: Freshfinity at Food Exchange Manila

At Food Exchange Manila, Freshfinity takes the familiar abundance of buffet dining and gives it a more focused culinary identity one shaped not only by variety, but by responsible dining, local partnerships, and a thoughtful balance of global inspiration and Filipino expression. Led by Chef Athena Tuble, the concept unfolds across six culinary stations, travelling from the aromatic kitchens of India and the comforts of Asia to Japanese precision and Italian classics, before arriving at premium seafood and generous cuts from the carving board.

The Maharaja puts fragrant spices and richly layered Indian dishes centre stage, while Flavors of Asia offers handcrafted dim sum and regional favourites. Sakura Sumi turns to Japan with fresh salmon and tuna sashimi, premium maki, and other specialties, while Cucina Italiana serves freshly prepared pasta and artisanal pizzas. Brasserie Maison brings together premium meats and seafood, while Butcher’s Block celebrates the pleasures of a proper roast with chef-selected cuts carved to order. Yet Freshfinity’s ambitions extend beyond variety. At the heart of the concept are “Our Table Values” a commitment to responsible dining, sustainable choices, support for local communities, and a culinary experience where global inspiration meets local identity.

Responsible Dining, Sustainable Choices

Freshfinity embraces a more mindful approach to buffet dining through thoughtfully portioned dishes that encourage guests to explore more flavors without unnecessary excess. Each dish is prepared and presented in considered portions to help preserve freshness, maintain quality, and make the most of every ingredient. Guests can discover new dishes, return for more of their favourites, and enjoy the freedom of an unlimited buffet experience while helping reduce food waste. It is an approach that keeps the generosity of buffet dining while giving each serving greater purpose.

Supporting Local Farms, Fisheries, and Producers

Behind the abundance is an effort to build closer and more meaningful relationships with Filipino farmers, fishing communities, local suppliers, and family-owned businesses, bringing the provenance of ingredients into the dining experience. Through locally sourced and Filipino-owned partners including Meliomar, A2Z, Metro Pacific, and Auro Chocolate, Freshfinity brings responsibly sourced produce, seafood, cacao, coffee, fruits, and other ingredients to the table. These partnerships allow Freshfinity to go beyond sourcing ingredients locally. They contribute to local livelihoods, help preserve Filipino food traditions, and give guests an opportunity to experience the distinctive ingredients and flavors of the Philippines.

Global Inspiration, Local Expression

While Freshfinity takes diners on a journey across different cuisines, its culinary identity remains rooted in Filipino ingredients, flavors, and heritage. Familiar recipes and traditional tastes are reimagined through contemporary techniques, creative presentation, and influences from around the world. The result is food that feels recognizable and comforting while offering something fresh and unexpected. By bringing together global creativity and local heritage, Freshfinity gives greater meaning to what arrives on the plate celebrating where ingredients come from, the people behind them, and the evolving tastes of today’s diners. Freshfinity is available every Friday for dinner and every Saturday and Sunday for lunch and dinner, priced at PHP 2,799 nett per person.

The Return of Indulgence

There are few pleasures quite as immediate as a beautifully laminated croissant, a slice of cake with afternoon coffee, or a pastry picked up simply because it looked too good to leave behind. That spirit of everyday indulgence defines the newly reopened Indulge Gelato & Bakery. Under the direction of Chef Angelique “Angel” Llantanda, the gelato corner returns with refreshed interiors and a broader collection of sweet and new savoury creations.

The pastry counter is particularly tempting. New creations include the Matcha Croissant, Strawberry Ribbon, Pain au Chocolat, and distinctly Filipino Ube Cheese Croissant. For something more decadent, there is Mango Shortcake, Matcha Biscoff Cheesecake, and Triple Chocolate Mousse.
Fresh from the oven are playful combinations that borrow from both local comfort food and contemporary bakery culture: Chicken Adobo Pocket, Longganisa Egg Danish, Buko Danish, Brownie Pain Suisse, Tuna Danish, and Coffee Bun, amongst others. It is a bakery that does not take pleasure too seriously and is all the more appealing for it.

Putting Plants at the Centre of the Plate

At Gourmet Bar by Novotel, vegetables are no longer relegated to the side of the plate. Chef Michael Ramos introduces a plant-forward menu built around vegetables, grains, legumes, and other wholesome ingredients, approaching wellness not through restriction but through flavour.

Part of Novotel’s Four Pillars of Life campaign, Longevity at Novotel embraces a refreshingly simple idea: living well begins with the choices we make every day. It is about feeling good, sleeping deeply, moving with ease, and creating meaningful connections with the people and places around us. Anchored in four essential pillars: Eat, Sleep, Move and Meet —Novotel’s evolving vision of wellbeing moves beyond fleeting wellness trends, focusing instead on thoughtful, everyday rituals that can make a lasting difference. At Novotel, eating well is never about compromise. It should be pleasurable, intuitive and, above all, delicious. The brand is embracing a more plant-forward approach to dining, with thoughtfully sourced ingredients and dishes that bring together flavour, freshness and nourishment. The result is food designed not simply to satisfy, but to make guests feel good proving that a more balanced way of eating can still be one of life’s great pleasures.

Featured dishes the Seared Cabbage Steak is layered with miso cream, furikake, and crisp nori, while the Cauliflower Bibimbap replaces traditional rice with cauliflower, accompanied by vegetables, edamame, crispy tofu, and sesame gochujang. For something heartier, the Brown Lentils and Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl combines earthy lentils and roasted sweet potato with fresh vegetables, avocado, and a miso-turmeric dressing. Rather than presenting plant-forward dining as an alternative, Gourmet Bar makes the case for it simply as another pleasurable way to eat colourful, satisfying, and full of character.

A More Inclusive Banquet Table

Chef Michael Ramos also oversees the hotel’s banquet culinary programme, where another significant development is taking place. The Novotel Manila Banquet Kitchen has received Halal certification, broadening the hotel’s ability to cater more inclusively to meetings, conferences, weddings, and social celebrations.

Its banquet repertoire draws from diverse culinary traditions, with Indian and Chinese cuisines among its particular strengths. The hotel’s affinity for Indian cuisine is especially well established through Prana Indian Cuisine, its homegrown Indian restaurant located alongside Food Exchange Manila. Together, these offerings reflect a more considered approach to banquet dining one that places cultural authenticity, inclusivity, and the pleasures of a well-curated table at the heart of every gathering.

Three Culinary Visionaries, One Direction

Although Freshfinity, Indulge Gelato & Bakery, Gourmet Bar, and the banquet kitchens occupy their own culinary worlds, the personalities of the chefs behind them give this new chapter its character. Chef Athena Tuble brings breadth and a sense of discovery to Food Exchange Manila. Chef Angelique Llantanda finds room for both precision and playfulness in pastry, while Chef Michael Ramos approaches the savoury kitchen through the complementary lenses of wellness and inclusivity.

For Tuble, the evolution feels particularly fitting as Novotel Manila moves beyond its first decade. “Dining has always been about more than what is on the plate. It is about discovery, comfort, connection, and the moments we share around food,” she says.

After 10 years, Novotel Manila Araneta City appears less interested in simply adding more to the table than in reconsidering what deserves a place on it. From sashimi and freshly carved roasts to ube croissants, cauliflower bibimbap, and more inclusive banquet menus, its latest culinary chapter is defined by range, but also by a clearer sense of purpose.

And, perhaps most importantly, an appetite for what comes next.

For restaurant inquiries and reservations, contact (+632) 8990 7888 or email H7090@accor.com.

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In 2026, with more Filipino travelers booking based on reviews than ever, telling a trustworthy review from a hollow one has become a genuinely useful skill. Here’s what actually separates the two.

What Actually Makes a Hotel Review Trustworthy?

Trustworthy reviews share a handful of traits, regardless of which platform they’re posted on.

Does the Review Come From a Verified Stay?

A trustworthy review typically comes from a platform that confirms the reviewer actually booked and stayed at the property, rather than an open comment section anyone can post to.

Verified-stay systems aren’t perfect, but they filter out the most obvious fake reviews — the ones written by competitors, disgruntled non-guests, or paid review farms. If a review platform doesn’t disclose whether reviews are verified, that’s worth treating as a yellow flag rather than an automatic dismissal.

Does the Review Include Specific, Checkable Details?

Genuinely useful reviews mention specific details — room number or type, exact dates, particular staff interactions, or concrete issues — rather than vague praise or complaints.

“Great stay, would recommend” tells you almost nothing. “Room 412 had a strong AC but the bathroom fan was broken, and the front desk fixed it within twenty minutes” tells you exactly what to expect and how the property handles problems when they come up. The more specific a review is, the harder it is to fake convincingly, and the more useful it is to you.

Do Third-Party Awards and Recognitions Add Real Credibility?

Independent industry recognitions — from established hospitality bodies or travel publications — carry more weight than user reviews alone, since they typically involve consistent evaluation criteria applied across many properties.

This is where a hotel’s track record starts to matter more than any single review. Conrad Manila marking its tenth anniversary with a run of Tatler Best Philippines distinctions this year is a useful signal precisely because it reflects sustained performance over a decade, evaluated by people whose job is comparing properties against each other — not a single guest’s one-off impression. The same logic applies to milestone recognitions like Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s five-year legacy, where longevity itself becomes a form of evidence — a property doesn’t maintain a strong reputation for half a decade by accident.

How Recent Does a Review Need to Be to Still Matter?

A trustworthy review reflects the property’s current condition, which generally means favoring reviews from the past six to twelve months over older ones, especially for newer or recently renovated properties.

Hotels change — new management, renovations, staff turnover, even shifts in maintenance quality can happen within a year. A glowing review from three years ago might describe a completely different property than the one you’d actually be booking today, so recency matters nearly as much as the content of the review itself.

Which Signals Should You Actually Trust Most?

Not every trust signal carries equal weight, so it helps to know which ones to lean on depending on your situation.

If you’re booking somewhere unfamiliar and want the lowest-risk option, prioritize properties with sustained third-party recognition over time — a hotel that’s kept earning accolades year after year has less room to be hiding a recent decline. If you’re deciding between two similarly rated properties, let the specificity of recent reviews break the tie — the one with detailed, concrete recent feedback is the safer bet over the one with only generic five-star comments. And if a review platform doesn’t disclose whether stays are verified, treat every review on it with a little more skepticism, regardless of how positive or negative it looks.

How Does This Actually Play Out When You’re Booking?

Picture two nearly identical hotels, both rated 4.5 stars. One has forty recent reviews, several mentioning specific room numbers, staff by name, and how a minor issue was resolved. The other has the same rating built almost entirely on short, generic five-line comments with no verified-stay badge and nothing posted in the last year. On paper, they look the same. In practice, only one of them is giving you enough real information to make a confident decision.

That gap — between a rating and actual evidence — is really what trustworthiness comes down to. A star average tells you very little on its own; the details underneath it, and how consistently a property has earned recognition over time, tell you almost everything. For ongoing coverage of hotel recognitions, milestones, and accolades across the Philippines, Lakbay Magazine’s Executive Class section and Travel section both track which properties keep earning their reputation, rather than just claiming one.

A trustworthy hotel review isn’t the one that sounds the most enthusiastic. It’s the one that gives you enough real detail to know exactly what you’re booking before you ever check in.

The post What Makes a Hotel Review Trustworthy in the Philippines in 2026? appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) continues to strengthen its role in shaping the Philippine MICE industry as its convention center arm, SMX Convention Center, was named Philippines’ Best Convention & Exhibition Center at the 35th TTG Travel Awards, its third consecutive win in the category.

The recognition, presented during the 35th TTG Travel Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner on September 24, 2026 at Centara Grand at CentralWorld in Bangkok, Thailand, underscores the growing presence of SMHCC’s MICE portfolio and its contribution to the Philippines’ business events landscape. The award is determined through voting by TTG’s readership, composed of travel and tourism professionals across the Asia-Pacific region.

For SMHCC, the successive distinction comes as the company continues to invest in venues and destinations that support the growth of trade and corporate events in the Philippines. Through SMX Convention Center, SMHCC is expanding its MICE influence beyond commercial centers and into emerging locations, creating more opportunities for conventions, exhibitions, and professional gatherings across the country.

“SMX’s third repeat win at the TTG Travel Awards reflects the strength of our MICE operations and our continued commitment to investing in key markets where commerce, tourism, and economic activity can grow together,” said SMHCC Senior Vice President for Operations Walid Wafik. “As SMHCC expands its portfolio, we are not simply increasing our footprint. We are creating platforms that connect people and organizations, bring events closer to regional markets, and contribute to the growth of the local economies and communities.”

Set to become the largest convention center in the SMX portfolio, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu will bring a major MICE venue to Cebu’s South Road Properties, further supporting the city’s position as a key business and tourism destination. Meanwhile, SMXCITE Center for International Trade and Exhibitions will add a large-scale exhibition within the SM Mall of Asia complex, complementing the existing SMX Convention Center Manila and providing a larger, more integrated destination for major events.

Beyond the major facilities, SMX is also bringing its convention and exhibition offering closer to regional markets through the development of SMX Trade Halls in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; Sto. Tomas, Batangas; and Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna. The said halls are designed to support exhibitions, corporate gatherings, and other professional activities in emerging growth centers, making MICE opportunities more accessible beyond the country’s traditional commercial hubs.

This growing network reflects SMHCC’s broader approach to MICE development, bringing significant happenings closer to more regional markets and creating opportunities across the wider tourism and hospitality ecosystem, from hotels and restaurants to transport providers, attractions, and local enterprises. As SMX expands its presence across key markets, SMHCC is also able to serve a broader spectrum of events, from international conventions and exhibitions to regional trade fairs and corporate gatherings.

As the Philippines strengthens its position as a competitive MICE hub in Asia, SMHCC remains committed to developing venues, facilities, and experiences that support the growth of the country’s MICE industry. Through its expanding portfolio, SMHCC aims to bring more events and visitors to different parts of the country while creating greater opportunities for local communities and businesses.

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Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila and Ascott Makati also honored at the World Travel Awards 2026

The Ascott Limited (Ascott), a Singapore-headquartered global hospitality company wholly owned by CapitaLand Investment (CLI), won three accolades in the Philippine market at the World Travel Awards 2026. Its flagship namesake brand Ascott, which embodies the Art of Living through refined residences, fine art and curated experiences, was named Philippines’ Leading Serviced Apartment Brand for the 10th consecutive year. Two properties in the Philippines were also honored, with Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila named Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartment for the fourth time and Ascott Makati named Philippines’ Leading Serviced Apartment for the seventh time.

The awards were presented at the Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony held on September 27, 2026 in the Maldives. At the same event, Ascott was crowned Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand for the 11th consecutive year, cementing its position as a leader in serviced apartments and extended stay accommodation. Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards honors excellence across all sectors of travel, tourism and hospitality, with winners determined by industry professionals and consumers worldwide.

In the Philippines, Ascott has established a distinctive approach to luxury, where sophisticated accommodation, fine art, and alluring experiences come together to create memorable stays for long-term guests and discerning travelers.

Patrick Vaysse, Country General Manager, Philippines, The Ascott Limited, said: “Celebrating 10 consecutive years as the Philippines’ Leading Serviced Apartment Brand is a proud milestone for Ascott and a testament to the dedication of our teams. This recognition belongs to every team member who brings our commitment to excellence to life each day, whether through thoughtfully curated spaces, meaningful guest interactions, or the care that goes into every stay. Here’s to another decade of creating memorable experiences, reaching new milestones, and raising the standard of hospitality in the Philippines.”

Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila retained its title as Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartment, marking the fourth time the property has received the prestigious accolade since 2020. Centrally located in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig, the distinguished serviced residence places guests within easy reach of thoughtfully designed parks, shopping boutiques, dining destinations, fitness facilities, and a variety of lifestyle experiences. Its residences, ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments, offer spacious and modern accommodations equipped with the comforts and conveniences suited to today’s discerning guests.

Meanwhile, Ascott Makati was once again named the Philippines’ Leading Serviced Apartment, marking the seventh time the property has received the distinction. Located in the heart of Makati and directly connected to Glorietta at Ayala Center, the luxury serviced residence offers accommodations ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments, along with exceptional convenience and easy access to a diverse selection of restaurants, shopping boutiques, and entertainment destinations. Its thoughtfully appointed residences combine the comforts of home with elevated hospitality, creating a luxurious home-away-from-home experience.

For more news and updates, follow Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila on Facebook and Instagram, and Ascott Makati on Facebook and Instagram.

Discover more of Ascott’s hospitality through Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), where members can enjoy exclusive rates and benefits across 18 Ascott, Citadines, Somerset, Oakwood, and lyf properties in the Philippines, as well as more than a thousand properties around the world.

The post Ascott named the Philippines’ leading serviced apartment brand for 10 consecutive years appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

This Halloween, the little ones are invited to set sail on an adventure filled with costumes, treats, games, and plenty of family fun at Savoy Hotel Manila.

For families looking to make Halloween more than just an evening of trick-or-treating, Savoy Hotel Manila is bringing together three ways to enjoy the Little Pirates, Big Adventure—from a fun-filled staycation and a festive Halloween feast to an afternoon party created especially for little pirates.

Turn Halloween into a family staycation

For families who want to make a whole weekend out of the celebration, the Little Pirates, Big Adventure Staycation Room Package comes with everything needed for a comfortable and memorable family escape.

Guests can enjoy a stay at Savoy Hotel Manila with buffet breakfast, a special Halloween welcome amenity featuring pirate-shaped cookies, 15-percent off all à la carte meals, and 20-percent off spa services.

But the adventure does not end in the room.

Children booked under the package will also receive an invitation to the Little Pirates, Big Adventure Halloween Party on October 25, 2026, at 2 PM at the Connect Lounge, Savoy Hotel Manila—giving young guests an afternoon to dress up, play, make new friends, and enjoy the Halloween spirit.

A Halloween feast before the adventure

Families who may not be staying overnight can still join the celebration through Savoy Hotel Manila’s Halloween Lunch Buffet Feast on October 25 at 12 NN.

Parents and children can gather around a sumptuous spread designed to make lunchtime part of the Halloween celebration. And there is an extra treat for the little ones: children joining the Halloween Lunch Buffet will also receive an invitation to the Little Pirates, Big Adventure Halloween Party later that afternoon.

It is a chance for families to enjoy a delicious meal together before the little pirates head off for their next adventure.

Then, let the little pirates take over

At the heart of the celebration is the Little Pirates, Big Adventure Halloween Party, happening on October 25 at 2 PM at the Connect Lounge.

Young guests are invited to come dressed in their best pirate costumes and get ready for an afternoon filled with Halloween fun. Little pirates can go trick-or-treating, have their faces transformed with fun Halloween face painting, join exciting games, and enjoy plenty of treats, prizes, and memorable moments with their families and new pirate friends.

And there is one more reason to dress the part: the little pirate with the best costume could win a cozy stay at Savoy Hotel Manila!

Whether families choose to make it a weekend staycation, enjoy the Halloween buffet before the party, or simply let the kids join the afternoon adventure, Savoy Hotel Manila offers different ways for families to celebrate Halloween together.

Because sometimes, the best Halloween memories are not about the biggest treats or the scariest costumes. They are about watching the kids laugh, seeing their faces light up, and giving families a reason to spend a little more time together.

This October, bring your little pirates, put on your best costumes, and get ready to make room for a Halloween adventure to remember at Savoy Hotel Manila.

Ahoy, little pirates! The adventure awaits.

Planning an early flight, late arrival, or quick Manila stopover? Book direct at savoyhotelmanila.com.ph.

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The GTBA-ONEKLIK 4th Travel Sale Expo (TSE) concluded a spectacular three-day run from October 2–4, 2026 at the Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall drawing 56,000 attendees across 200 booths and posting its highest sales performance since 2023.

Under the inspiring theme “Where Travel Dreams Come Alive,” this year’s edition delivered far more than unbeatable travel deals—it stood as a powerful engine for economic recovery, industry collaboration, and the uplifting of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the tourism sector.

Strong partnerships, dignified opening

The event was officially supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Metrobank as official bank partner. It was organized in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), the LGUs of Malay/Boracay, Aklan, Baybay, Leyte, and Batanes, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), and distinguished foreign missions including: Embassies of Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, and Israel; the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO); together with key international and national tourism organizations—Tourism Malaysia, Taiwan Tourism Authority, and Guam Visitors Bureau.

TSE 2026 also thanked its airline partners: Philippine Airlines, Starlux Airlines, Sunlight Air, United Airlines, and Malaysia Airlines; its valued hotel partners, as well as media friends, partners, vloggers, and television networks—all essential in making this milestone possible. The opening ceremony was graced by distinguished dignitaries: DFA Assistant Secretary Racquel Solano, PRA Chief Operating Officer Bob Zozobrado, Malaysia Ambassador H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Vietnam Ambassador H.E. Lai Thai Binh, Cambodia Ambassador H.E. Sin Saream, Laos Ambassador H.E. Thippasone Sengsourinha, Indonesia Chargé d’Affaires Victorina Hesti Dewayani, Israel Deputy Ambassador H.E. Ariel Seidman, TECO Deputy Representative Minister Michael Lee, TIEZA Assistant COO Dra. Rosanna Olgado, Metrobank Head of UPACM Amabelle Nucom, DTI Halal Head Mr. Al-Mahdi Jul Ahmad, Batanes Governor Jun Aguto Jr., Malay, Aklan Mayor Frolibar Bautista, Baybay Vice Mayor Atty. Ernesto Butawan. Their presence, alongside senior officials from DFA, DTI, LGUs, TIEZA, PRA, and other government agencies and tourism stakeholders, reflects broad national and international commitment to inclusive tourism growth.

Big savings, joyful celebrations

Thousands of excited visitors turned out eager to secure their dream destinations at discounts of up to 75 percent. Beyond incredible deals, the expo truly came alive with three full days of festivities: High-energy Zumba sessions that united the crowd in movement and joy; Creative highlights included F4 Meteor Garden Wannabe Contest, 3rd TSE Cosplay Competition, TSE Jingle, Interpretative Dance, and Fashion Show; Raffle draws, early-bird prizes, and grand giveaways throughout the event.

Lucky winners took home free round-trip tickets, hotel accommodations, premium travel essentials, and cash prizes—ensuring every visitor had a chance to leave with something special. The venue buzzed with excitement, smiles, and shared celebration from start to finish.

Lifting up SMEs, building the future

At its core, the GTBA-ONEKLIK 4th TSE was designed to empower local businesses. Record-breaking sales and robust foot traffic translated directly to stronger revenue, wider visibility, and new customer bases for hundreds of SMEs—tour operators, hoteliers, travel agencies, and tourism service providers—who are the heartbeat of Philippine travel.

“Every visitor who walked through our doors didn’t just book a trip—they invested in a local business, a community, and a shared future. Our success is their success, and together, we are making travel dreams come alive for everyone,” said Michelle Taylan, TSE Chairperson.

“To every exhibitor who poured your heart into your booth; to every visitor who walked through our doors with a dream in your heart; to every partner, sponsor, and friend who stood by us—my heartfelt thanks. You didn’t just attend an event—you breathed life into it. You made travel dreams come alive,” Taylan added.

“Every smile shared, every journey booked, every hand held in trust—these are the true treasures of these three days. You proved that tourism is not just about destinations—it is about people. It is about lifting one another up. It is about showing the world that together, we shine brighter.”

“We leave this expo not just with success—but with a renewed belief in what we can achieve when we stand as one. Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao—one heart, one home, one beautiful Philippines.”

With this landmark edition now complete, the entire tourism community looks forward to the milestone GTBA-ONEKLIK 5th Travel Sale Expo in 2027—promising even broader partnerships, greater opportunities, and bigger dreams to come.

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More Filipino workers stand to gain access to quality homes closer to their workplaces as Pag-IBIG Fund and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) bring together government land and affordable financing, building on the gains of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (Expanded 4PH) Program.

The partnership advances Expanded 4PH’s approach of addressing both sides of the housing equation by increasing the supply of quality homes and matching these with affordable financing. Coming as the country celebrates National Shelter Month, the collaboration also aligns with BCDA’s plans to provide affordable and mixed-income housing for workers within reach of New Clark City’s business, industrial and commercial districts.

Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary and Pag-IBIG Fund Board Chairman Jose Ramon P. Aliling said the partnership demonstrates how institutions can combine their resources to make homeownership more attainable for Filipino workers.

“President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed us to sustain our efforts to provide more Filipino families with access to decent and affordable homes. Through Expanded 4PH, we are bringing together government resources and capabilities to turn that directive into concrete housing opportunities. This collaboration between BCDA and Pag-IBIG Fund puts government land and affordable financing to work toward that goal. We hope to replicate this model with similarly situated institutions in both government and the private sector, making more land available for quality housing and ensuring that more families have the means to own a home,” Aliling said.

Under the memorandum of agreement, BCDA and Pag-IBIG Fund will pursue housing and other development opportunities on identified BCDA properties, bringing together land, infrastructure, financing and housing expertise to help create quality homes in locations that meet Filipino workers’ needs. The collaboration will initially prioritize approximately 14 hectares in New Clark City, comprising a 10-hectare property in Bamban, Tarlac, and a 4-hectare property in Capas, Tarlac, with the latter intended for a government center and other complementary developments. Camp John Hay, Morong Discovery Park, and the Poro Point Freeport Zone have also been identified for possible projects.

The planned housing development in New Clark City is intended for workers and aims to create a walk-to-work township, bringing homes closer to employment opportunities. The parties envision an integrated development that combines housing with commercial areas and facilities for rest, recreation and other daily needs, helping workers and their families enjoy a more convenient and balanced way of life. Set amid mountains and trees, the proposed township also seeks to offer workers a home environment with access to green surroundings while keeping them within reach of their workplaces and essential services.

BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang shared his perspective on the partnership.

“We see this as a long-term institutional partnership. As our project areas continue to grow, we want to make sure that our properties are put to productive use and that development keeps pace with the needs of the people. Through this partnership, we aim to advance projects within the Marcos administration’s term that will provide quality housing and help give Filipino families greater opportunities to own a home,” Bingcang said. “Building on our previous 4PH groundbreaking, we look forward to working with Pag-IBIG Fund to turn more of these opportunities into quality housing for Filipino families,” he added.

Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta said the partnership opens opportunities to make housing more affordable while placing greater attention on how a home’s location affects workers’ daily lives.

“Making homeownership more accessible means bringing together affordable financing and quality homes in locations that meet Filipino workers’ needs. Through this partnership, BCDA can provide access to government land, while Pag-IBIG Fund can contribute financing and housing expertise. This gives us an opportunity to build homes closer to workplaces and make it possible for our members to walk to work, helping them spend less on transportation, avoid long commutes and enjoy a better balance between work and home. Beyond homeownership, we want our housing efforts to ease our members’ daily expenses and give them more time with their families,” Acosta said.

Acosta and Bingcang signed the memorandum of agreement on October 8 at the BCDA office in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, with Aliling witnessing the signing. Also present were BCDA Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Gisela Z. Kalalo; DHSUD Senior Undersecretary Eduardo Robles Jr.; and Pag-IBIG Fund officials Deputy Chief Executive Officers Alexander Hilario G. Aguilar and Benjamin R. Felix Jr., Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer Atty. Marcial C. Pimentel, Jr., Senior Vice President Fermin A. Sta. Teresa Jr., and Acting Vice Presidents Atty. Jose Robert Po and Tina Marie Gabiosa.

The post Pag-IBIG Fund, BCDA partner to bring homes closer to workplaces under Expanded 4PH appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

Both are legitimate choices. The honest answer to which one offers better value depends less on which destination is “better” and more on what you’re actually optimizing for — time, money, or the feeling of having genuinely left home. Here’s how the two stack up.

What Actually Determines the Value of Each Trip?

Value isn’t just the price tag — it’s what you get back for the time and money you put in.

How Do Travel Costs Compare Between the Two?

A Manila weekend getaway typically costs less upfront since it skips airfare entirely, while a Cebu long weekend requires flight costs but often unlocks resort and beach experiences a city trip simply can’t offer.

If your budget is genuinely tight or your window is short, Manila wins on raw cost — no flight, no baggage fees, no risk of a delayed departure eating into your first day. Cebu’s added airfare cost is real, but it’s buying you access to something categorically different: white sand, dive sites, and island scenery that no amount of money spent in Manila will replicate.

Which Destination Gives You More for a Shorter Trip?

Manila is generally the better value for a true weekend (two days), since its attractions are concentrated and require minimal transit time between them, while Cebu rewards a longer stay that justifies the travel time to get there.

A recent look at Manila’s first-time visitor highlights makes the case well — heritage districts, food streets, and Manila Bay sunsets are all within a short Grab ride of each other, which means less time in transit and more time actually doing things. Cebu’s best experiences, by contrast, are often spread across the city and its surrounding islands, which works better when you have three or four days to spend rather than two.

What Does Each Destination Actually Offer That the Other Can’t?

Manila offers dense, walkable access to history, food, and culture, while Cebu offers beach access, marine activities, and a noticeably slower pace once you’re outside the city center.

This is really the core trade-off. Manila is a value play built on efficiency — you spend less time and money getting between experiences. Cebu is a value play built on range — the same trip can include a city day, a beach day, and an island-hopping day, which a Manila weekend structurally can’t offer regardless of budget.

How Does Hotel Value Compare Between the Two?

Manila generally offers more competitively priced hotel options relative to quality, while Cebu’s beachfront and resort properties command a premium tied directly to their location.

Hospitality groups have leaned into both markets differently — properties across Metro Manila, Batangas, Boracay, Iloilo, and Cebu each compete on different strengths, with city hotels typically pricing around convenience and access, while island and beach properties price around the setting itself. Paying more for a Cebu beachfront room usually reflects genuine value, since the view and access are doing something a city room can’t; paying a similar premium for a Manila hotel needs to be justified by something more specific, like location or service quality.

Which Trip Actually Fits Your Situation Better?

The better value depends on what’s actually limiting you — time, money, or the need to genuinely disconnect.

If your weekend is genuinely short, or your budget doesn’t comfortably stretch to a flight and resort pricing, Manila is the higher-value choice — you’ll spend less and still walk away with a full, well-used two days. If you have an extra day or two and you’re craving something that actually feels like a break from routine, Cebu’s added cost tends to pay for itself, since a beach and a change of pace are hard to substitute for. And if you’re genuinely undecided, the honest test is this: would you feel shortchanged doing a “city trip” this time around? If yes, Cebu’s worth the extra spend. If not, Manila will do the job for a fraction of the cost.

How Does This Actually Play Out for a Real Traveler?

Picture two friends with the same three-day weekend and roughly the same budget. One books Manila — heritage walks through Intramuros in the morning, food-street hopping in the afternoon, a rooftop bar at sunset — and comes home having spent almost nothing on transport between stops. The other books Cebu, spends slightly more on the flight, but ends the weekend having done a city tour, a beach day, and an island-hopping trip that would be simply impossible to replicate in Manila at any price.

Neither trip is the objectively better one. The Manila trip delivered more value per peso spent; the Cebu trip delivered more range per day taken off work. That’s really the calculation worth making before booking anything — not “which destination is better,” but “which kind of value am I actually short on right now: money, or variety.” For a closer look at destinations and properties across both cities as new options open up, Lakbay Magazine’s Travel section and Leisure section both track this regularly.

Whichever one you pick, the trip that actually delivers value is the one that matches the constraint you’re really working around — not the one that photographs better in the group chat afterward.

The post Manila weekend getaway vs Cebu long weekend — which is better value? appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

As the Philippine hotel sector prepares for an unprecedented expansion, homegrown operator Discovery Hospitality Corporation (DHC) is accelerating its growth push across the archipelago. To lead this strategic move, DHC has appointed hospitality executive Cynthia Esteban to the newly created role of Vice President for Strategic Growth and Partnerships.

Data from the 2026 Philippine Accommodation Pipeline Report, released jointly by the Philippine Hotel Owners Association and Leechiu Property Consultants, underscores a massive shift in local tourism infrastructure. The national pipeline is expected to reach 45,884 rooms across 213 properties by 2032. DHC’s counter-strategy focuses on asset-light growth, offering property management contracts, white-label operations, and brand affiliation models to independent resort and hotel owners looking to scale without giving up ownership autonomy.

Jose “Jun” Parreño Jr., President of Discovery World Corporation and Chief Operating Officer of DHC, shares: “As our portfolio continues to grow, we need a leader who understands both the operational and relational sides of this industry, and Cynthia brings that balance. We’re confident that her expertise will help us open new markets and strengthen the partnerships that drive our expansion.”

Cynthia, who brings over three decades of operational and commercial experience, sees this influx of supply as a major opportunity for homegrown hospitality brands. 

“As global hospitality powers push deeper into local markets, the competitive landscape is only getting tighter,” Cynthia comments. “Property owners need management partners who offer more than just an international name; they need leaders who understand local operating costs, regional market nuances, and authentic guest experiences. DHC is positioning itself to give homegrown properties the institutional backend, commercial engines, and brand strength needed to compete directly with foreign chains.” 

Defined by a 20-year career at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, her contributions to local hospitality earned her a Mabuhay Award in managerial excellence from the Association of Human Resource Managers in the Hospitality Industry.

Building on 26 years of operational experience, DHC’s partnership drive targets both established commercial hubs and high-growth destination markets, including Cebu, Clark, Subic, Baguio, Dumaguete, and emerging eco-tourism centers, giving independent developers direct access to DHC’s legendary brand of service—rooted in its hallmark “Service That’s All Heart”—alongside its direct-booking infrastructure, commercial capabilities, and end-to-end management expertise. 

For inquiries about Discovery Hospitality’s brands, property management services, or partnership opportunities, visit www.discoveryhospitality.com or contact Cynthia Esteban at cynthia.esteban@discoveryhospitality.com.

The post Discovery Hospitality mobilizes expansion strategy as Philippine hotel pipeline surges appeared first on Lakbay Magazine.

Your city address for the holidays celebrates the Filipino spirit of sharing, gathering, and coming home.

Citadines Roces Quezon City welcomed members of the media, content creators, and industry partners to an exclusive preview of its 2026 holiday campaign, “The Holiday Post: Your City Address for the Holidays,” offering a first look at the property’s festive experiences, culinary offerings, and seasonal celebrations.

Held at the property’s Penthouse Suite, the media launch showcased a curated selection of holiday dishes and signature festive offerings that will be available throughout the season. Guests were treated to a preview of Citadines Roces Quezon City’s holiday menu, featuring thoughtfully crafted dining experiences designed for intimate gatherings, family celebrations, and corporate festivities.

Inspired by the timeless tradition of sharing stories and staying connected during the holidays, The Holiday Post positions Citadines Roces Quezon City as a welcoming destination where meaningful celebrations come to life. The campaign reflects the property’s commitment to creating memorable experiences that bring people together, whether through festive dining, holiday stays, or special occasions celebrated with family, friends, and colleagues.

“Our vision for The Holiday Post is to create a place where people can gather, reconnect, and celebrate the moments that matter most,” said Faith Quijano, General Manager of Citadines Roces Quezon City.” The holidays are about shared experiences, and we are delighted to open our doors to guests looking for a warm and meaningful setting to create new memories.”

Throughout the season, guests can look forward to holiday feasts, festive hampers, specialty cakes and pastries, year-end celebrations, and bespoke events hosted within the property’s versatile venues, including the Penthouse Suite, an ideal space for intimate holiday gatherings.

With the launch of The Holiday Post, Citadines Roces Quezon City invites guests to make the property their city address for the holidays and celebrate the season in the heart of Quezon City. View their full holiday offerings brochure through their official social media pages @citadinesrocesquezoncity on Facebook and Instagram. For orders, reservations, and inquiries, contact Viber (+63) 962-2867724, call (+632) 8352-8888, or email frontoffice.crqc@the-ascott.com.

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