Events Archives - Page 3 of 9 - MyCebu.ph: Cebu News & Features

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Handmade shoes and bags, beautiful art pillows, novelty fabric, fashion accessories, and home accents curated by renowned Cebuano fashion designer Philip Rodriguez are available in the NEST Home and Fabrique…

The shop, which opened yesterday, is located on 38 Gorordo Avenue, beside Ramen Kamekichi.

Door stoppers

“NEST is the ideal shopping destination or distinct gift items. It is a special collaboration of innovative artist-entrepreneurs where fashion meets home ware,” the company said in a statement.

In curating products for the shop, Rodriguez said he is on the lookout for “anything Filipino but very contemporary.”

Among the items sold in the shop are beautifully crafted furniture made of denim and driftwood and done by a group of women in northern Cebu.

Beautiful art pillows

“We want more artisan crafts,” Rodriguez said, “to preserve our heritage.”

Also available in the store are accessories made of sea glass. “These are broken glass that you see it in the shoreline and they polish it and with the help of the Dutch government they train the women to turn it into jewelry accessories,” he said.

OPENING. (From left) Patrice Uytengsu, Selina Romualdez, Vanessa Gaston, and Philip Rodriguez during the opening of NEST Home and Fabrique Shop.

The items, along with the artworks that are displayed, will be regularly updated.

“We will be regularly changing the theme. Every season there will be new personalities coming in whom we will highlight,” he said.

“NEST takes pride in promoting the integrity of Filipino creativity and supporting the advocacy of the Filipino artist by providing an accessible and fitting venue to showcase their works of art,” the company said.

NEST is open 11 am to 7 pm on Mondays to Saturdays. For more information, you can contact the shop at +6332 231 2590.

More photos of NEST Home and Fabrique Shop opening

SEA GLASS. This necklace is made from polished broken glass weathered by the sea and found on the shore.

LOCATION. NEST Home and Fabrique Shop is located on 38 Gorordo Avenue, beside Ramen Kamekichi.

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3 min read

Events Lifestyle

Axis Entertainment Avenue lines up fun activities for holiday season

MyCebu

December 4, 2017 11:13 pm December 4, 2017

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Axis Entertainment Avenue transforms into a Christmas Candy Land and celebrates the festive season with live bands, holiday bazaar, and weekend farmers’ market. Ian Martin Borromeo of Vibo Place said…

Axis Entertainment Avenue transforms into a Christmas Candy Land and celebrates the festive season with live bands, holiday bazaar, and weekend farmers’ market.

Ian Martin Borromeo of Vibo Place said they have lined up several fun activities in time for the holiday celebration because they want the best experiences in the best surroundings for their customers.

Axis Entertainment Avenue is part of the two-hectare development along Escario St. that was rebranded to Vibo Place from its old name of Cebu Capitol Commercial Complex Corp. The area also hosts Cebu Grand Hotel, The Apartelle, and and CAIAA Center.

LAUNCHING. Ian Martin Borromeo (left) and Allen Andre B. Suarez during the launching of Christmas Candy Land at the Axis Entertainment Venue.

“We have live bands performing at the Axis Courtyard several times a week, a farmers’ market during the weekends, and holiday market where aspiring entrepreneurs get to display their wares,” he added during the Christmas Candy Land launch last November 30, 2017.

Christmas activities

The Christmas activities at Vibo Place are geared towards simple but joyful and meaningful celebrations, said marketing and leasing head Allen Andre B. Suarez.

He added that they were excited to offer more to customers, citing that new office spaces will be opened in Vibo Place and at a company-owned property just across the road in early 2018. Another plan for next year was to open residential spaces along Osmeña Boulevard in Cebu City.

This Christmas, guests can see large candy canes, giant lollipops, and peppermint candies spread throughout the place.

Axis Entertainment Avenue brims with good tidings for the Christmas season and guests can see over 50 large candy canes, giant lollipops, and peppermint candies spread throughout the place. The centerpiece decoration is the Gingerbread House, which is perfect for photos with families and friends.

As one of Cebu’s top dining and entertainment destinations, Axis Entertainment Avenue houses 22 tenants ranging from world-renowned brands to homegrown restaurants distributed among six clusters centered around the Axis Courtyard.

The Axis Holiday Market during the holiday season provides aspiring entrepreneurs and business-savvy professionals a venue to display their wares.

Axis Holiday Market

The Axis Holiday Market during the holiday season provides aspiring entrepreneurs and business-savvy professionals a venue to display their wares.

Axis has opened 24 slots, 13 of which have already been filled, for all manners of merchandise. Goods can range from clothes, perfumes, and accessories to various take-away dishes from all over the world.

A market slot with an area of 1.5 x 2m per costs only P2,000 per week and is open every Thursday-Sunday from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m. Those interested in joining may reach out through the Axis Instagram and Facebook accounts, email [email protected], or call (032) 412-2316.

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Events Lifestyle

Marco Polo Plaza marks season of giving with Christmas Tree of Hope

Marlen Limpag

December 2, 2017 11:50 am December 2, 2017

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Amid joyful songs and graceful dances, Marco Polo Plaza lights up one of the most beautiful Christmas trees in Cebu to mark the beginning of the festive season. But this…

Amid joyful songs and graceful dances, Marco Polo Plaza lights up one of the most beautiful Christmas trees in Cebu to mark the beginning of the festive season.

But this isn’t just any ordinary holiday decoration; it is the Christmas Tree of Hope.

CHRISTMAS POEM. Marco Polo Plaza general manager Brian Connelly reads a Christmas poem to mark the lighting of the hotel’s Tree of Hope.

During this season of giving, the Tree of Hope accepts donations for underprivileged Filipinos through hotel partner GMA Kapuso Foundation.

Marco Polo Plaza General Manager Mr. Brian Connelly said during the lighting of the Christmas Tree of Hope last November 25, 2017 that it has given more than a million pesos to aid in such projects as Unang Hakbang sa Kinabukasan, Give a Gift Project, and Operation Bayanihan.

One of the performances during the event.

Christmas Tree of Hope donations

Becoming part of this exemplary enterprise is easy. All you need to do is buy a Christmas ball for 200 pesos each and you get to hang it on the Tree of Hope with your good wishes, said Marco Polo Plaza Communications Manager Manna Alcazar.

The hotel has partnered with one of the world’s top airlines, Cathay Pacific, for Christmas 2017 so donors get a chance to win something for themselves when they donate to the Christmas Tree of Hope.

Those who buy two or more Christmas balls get a raffle ticket and a chance at the round trip flight to Hong Kong prize care of Cathay Pacific.

Performances by the Children’s Paradise Montessori Choir, Cebu Centre for Dance, Dreamcatchers, and GMA’s Migo Adecer entertained guests during the tree-lighting ceremony.

Tree of Hope

GMA 7 Cebu station manager Ann Marie Tan.

Connie Cimafranca of Cathay Pacific.

DONATION. Buy a Christmas ball for 200 pesos each and you get to hang it on the Tree of Hope with your good wishes. If you buy 2 or more, you get a raffle ticket and a chance at the round-trip flight to Hong Kong prize care of Cathay Pacific.

The beautiful Tree of Hope dominates the Marco Polo Plaza lobby.

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Events Lifestyle

Shangri-La’s Mactan lines up festive events in Yuletide Bliss

MyCebu

November 27, 2017 12:20 pm November 27, 2017

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Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu transforms into a whimsical oasis as it celebrates the Christmas holidays with a generous bundle of five-star dining experiences and exhilarating recreational fun in…

The seaside resort brightens up for the festive season with adornments of blue and gold, seen nowhere more clearly than in the cluster of magical Christmas trees and hot air balloon decor in the lobby area.

Memorable moments await all guests, who are encouraged to share their holiday stories with the #AlwaysMerryHere tag.

Christmas is also the season of giving and Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa pays it forward with a generous donation to the completion of the Sustainable Garden of Children’s Haven Orphanage.

The resort also contributed to the orphanage in behalf of media guests who attended the tree-lighting ceremony held last November 24, 2017.

Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa Christmas

CHRISTMAS LIGHTING. Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Paz Radaza and Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa General Manager Rene Egle listen to Christmas carols during a performance held to mark the lighting of the resort’s Christmas Tree.

Christmas dinners

No celebration is ever complete without a feast, and Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa has lined up a variety of options for guests at its world class restaurants.

Tides will serve a world of flavors in a Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet at P2,650++ per person and a Christmas Day Dinner Buffet at P2,450++ per person. It includes free-flowing red, white, and sparkling wine, plus a meaningful serenade by a Christmas choir.

Italian restaurant Acqua and seafood al fresco Cowrie Cove will both have Christmas Eve set dinners available at P2,250++per person and P2,650++ per person, respectively. Both are four-course set menus inclusive of a celebratory glass of Prosecco.

Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu tree lighting

#AlwaysMerryHere. Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu general manager Rene Egle welcomes guests to the resort’s tree lighting. The resort encouraged guests to share their holiday stories with the #AlwaysMerryHere tag.

Wine Bar offers a breezy seaside nightcap with Flair Tending Shows by its very own bar talents on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Christmas Day in a tropical wonderland is all about fun and even Santa gets in on the action. Instead of a sleigh, Santa Claus will come at 11 a.m. on Christmas Day in a thrilling parasail ride to the beachfront. He will visit the Adventure Zone gardens and Tides to greet guests.

CELEBRATION. Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa General Manager Rene Egle and Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Paz Radaza.

New Year feasts

The coming of the New Year brings with it its own tantalizing celebrations. Shangri-La’s Mactan welcomes 2018 with a combination of scrumptious food, free-flowing wine, and marvelous entertainment.

At Tides, there will be a New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet at P2,650++ per person and New Year’s Day Sparkling Dinner Buffet at P2,250++ per person. Both come with free-flowing wine and marvelous performances by a Flash Mob and Strolling Band.

As midnight draws near, guests may enjoy the night away in glamor and wonder at the Under the Stars Countdown Party. The event starts at 11 p.m. at The Marquee with door charge of P2,500 net per person. A spectacular fireworks follows at the beachfront.

Festive activities

Early on January 1, the resort arranges a refreshing start for 2018 with the New Year’s Day Yoga from 7 a.m. at the beachfront. A fit and fabulous day continues in the afternoon through the New Year’s Day Aqua Aerobics at 4:30 p.m. at the Main Pool.

Other activities lined up for the festive season: holiday wellness package at CHI, The Spa; arts and crafts at Adventure Zone; Movie Under the Stars on Christmas Day; and 12 Days of Christmas Instagram contest for resort guests.

For inquiries and reservations, guests may call (63 32) 231 0288 or send an email to [email protected].

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Events Lifestyle

Bestselling YA authors Jennifer Smith, Jasmine Warga sign books for Cebu fans

Marlen Limpag

November 13, 2017 10:27 pm November 13, 2017

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Young Adult (YA) author Jennifer Smith was at a queue in a convenience store when the inspiration for her latest book Windfall came in the form of a man with…

Young Adult (YA) author Jennifer Smith was at a queue in a convenience store when the inspiration for her latest book Windfall came in the form of a man with stocks of lottery tickets in his hand.

“I’ve always been interested in moments of change, that exact time when someone’s life changes. There’s not a better example of that than through winning the lottery,” she explained in an interview shortly before a book signing event at Ayala Center Cebu.

National Book Store brought another two bestselling authors, Smith and Jasmine Warga, to the Philippines. NBS hosted the book signing events for Smith and Warga last November 11 in Cebu and on November 12 at SM Aura Premier in Taguig.

Smith authored several bestselling young adult novels, including “The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight,” “This Is What Happy Looks Like,” and “The Geography of You and Me.” Warga wrote such books as “My Heart and Other Black Holes” and “Here We Are Now.”

BOOK SIGNING. Jasmine Warga (left) and Jennifer Smith talk to Cebu journalists before their book signing session with fans in Ayala Center Cebu.

Young Adult book themes

Windfall, which was published in May 2017, revolves around a young woman, Alice, who buys a lottery ticket for her best friend Teddy. It ends up winning him the $140 million but the money soon creates a gap between them.

Warga’s new book Here We Are Now tackles the life of Taliah, who recently meets her biological father Julian. He asks her to go to Indiana with him to meet her dying grandfather. Taliah goes on a journey with her father, and soon learns he wasn’t the father she hoped for all these years.

Her other book My Heart and Other Black Holes touches on such topics as teen romance, mental health, suicide and has been translated into over 20 languages.

Warga said music, though she has no aptitude for it in the way that musicians have, is a common theme of her book because she considers it the closest thing to magic in this world.

IN CEBU. Jennifer Smith and Jasmine Warga sign books for fans during an event in Cebu.

Writing inspirations

Smith and Warga talked about how they became writers, their writing process, inspiration for their books, and favorite authors.

The two said they had a great experience and already tasted a variety of Filipino food. What they haven’t done yet but wanted to do was try the local Jollibee branch.

All of Smith’s and Warga’s books are available at several National Book Store branches in the Philippines.

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Business Events Feature Lifestyle

Japanese brand Miniso opens 1st store in Cebu

Max Limpag

November 8, 2017 12:03 am November 8, 2017

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Quality products for a “very affordable price,” that’s what Miniso offers in its store, a company official said during the opening of its first branch in Cebu. Miniso opened in…

Quality products for a “very affordable price,” that’s what Miniso offers in its store, a company official said during the opening of its first branch in Cebu.

Miniso opened in SM City Cebu on November 3. The store has been packed with shoppers since then.

Filipinos have taken to the store brand and response has been very good, said Miniso Philippines Inc. president Michael Hong in an interview during the opening.

ELECTRONICS like these headphones are a popular category in Miniso.

Miniso branches in Philippines

Hong said Filipinos are amazed with their product offerings. “Wow. A lot of wows. A lot of suprises,” he said.

The SM City Cebu branched is the 36th in the country. They opened in the Philippine in June 2016, said Hong. Miniso will be opening 10 more by yearend, he said.

OPENING. Miniso and SM officials lead the opening of the store.

He said they’ve always wanted to open in Cebu, being a major city, but had to wait for space to be available. They will soon open in SM Consolacion and SM Seaside City.

Hong said they are also considering a store in Ayala Center Cebu.

NOW IN CEBU. Miniso has opened in SM City Cebu. It will soon be in SM Consolacion and SM Seaside City.

Wide range of products

Miniso sells a wide range of items from gadgets, stationery, kitchenware, toys, bags, cosmetics, among its many categories.

“What’s important is the value for money. We offer good quality but at a very affordable price. It’s not cheap – it’s really the value for the money,” said Hong.

MINISO pens.

He said Miniso is a Japanese brand and the Japanese take pride in quality control, he said.

“Good quality, unique style, trendy, reliable and low price. These are the features of Miniso’s products,” the company said in its website.

More photos of Miniso’s opening in Cebu

Our stash of Miniso notebooks.

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5 min read

Events Food

Blu Bar and Grill pairs great food, fantastic wines in Moonlit Wine Dinner

Marlen Limpag

November 4, 2017 1:49 am November 4, 2017

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Seafood on ice, it said on the menu. It doesn’t quite describe the delight of an appetizer that formally started our Moonlit Wine Dinner at the Blu Bar and Grill…

Seafood on ice, it said on the menu. It doesn’t quite describe the delight of an appetizer that formally started our Moonlit Wine Dinner at the Blu Bar and Grill of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.

Smoke enveloped the dish as it was brought to the table over exclamations of amazement, a pair each of fresh shrimps, mussels, scallops served atop a block of ice shaped like a bowl.

MAIN COURSE. Marco Polo chefs slice roast tenderloin for serving to those who joined the Moonlit Wine Dinner at the Blu Bar and Grill.

It came with the perfect complements: half a slice of lemon wrapped in a dainty net to trap the seeds when squeezed, spicy tomato-based dip, and a glass of Baron de Philippe de Rothschild Reserva Especial Chardonnay from Chile.

Our wine-pairing dinner just started, but it was easy to see we were in for a treat.

Moonlit Wine Dinner at the Blu Bar and Grill of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu

SEAFOOD ON ICE. Smoke enveloped the dish as it was brought to the table over exclamations of amazement, a pair each of fresh shrimps, mussels, scallops served atop a block of ice shaped like a bowl.

Culinary creations

We savored the foie gras paté with a glass of carmenere in between conversations that hopped from good food to family and reminisces of travel, in particular Taiwan, because we happened to be seated near a Taiwanese working for a Japanese IT company in Cebu.

The main course was Churrasco, and it included freshly roasted tenderloin slices and lamb cubes, sausages, pork belly, and fish fillets. We enjoyed the meat selections from both land and sea with another glass of red wine, this time poured from a bottle of Baron de Philippe de Rothschild Escudo Rojo.

MAIN COURSE. The main course was Churrasco, and it included freshly roasted tenderloin slices and lamb cubes, sausages, pork belly, and fish fillets. This was paired with a bottle of Baron de Philippe de Rothschild Escudo Rojo.

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu’s Moonlit Wine Dinner combined creations by the culinary geniuses of the Blu Bar and Grill and wines from Chile distributed by Titania Wine Cellar, Inc., said General Manager Mr. Brian Connelly.

“It’s not just the fact that the food and wine are both great, but the way we put them together to complement each other,” Mr. Connelly told dinner guests shortly before the start of the dinner.

PISTACHIO ice cream on warm choco lava topped with vanilla sauce, paired with a glass of merlot.

Dinner with moonshine

Manna Alcaraz, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu Communications Manager, said the wine-pairing dinner was intentionally scheduled last October 27, 2017 when it was waxing towards a full moon.

She added that the initial plan is to hold it one night every month when there is a lot of moonshine but they would probably start with quarterly Moonlit Wine Dinner events for now.

The first Moonlit dinner introduced wines manufactured under the Baron de Philippe de Rothschild brand and distributed in the Philippines by Titania Wines.

ROAST PORK. One of the many highlights of a great evening: delicious food, good wines, and great company.

Fine wine selections

Mr. Connelly said the wines that accompanied the food, from the chardonnay and escudo rojo to cabernet sauvignon, include some very fine selections from Chile.

From a full main course, we feasted on a selection of cheeses washed down with the Baron de Philippe de Rothschild Reserva Especial Cabernet Sauvignon.

Dinner ended on a sweet note with pistachio ice cream on warm choco lava topped with vanilla sauce, made all the sweeter by a glass of merlot.

Interested in this incredible extravaganza of food and wine? Call Marco Polo Plaza Cebu at +6332 253 1111 for the next wine pairing dinner schedule.

More photos of Moonlit Wine Dinner

GOOD FOOD, GREAT COMPANY. Our table with Manna Alcaraz (raising wine glass), Marco Polo Plaza Cebu Communications Manager, writer Dr. Nestor Alonso (standing) and staff of Titania Wines.

CHEESES. This plate was paired with Baron de Philippe de Rothschild Reserva Especial Cabernet Sauvignon.

FOIE GRAS PATE paired with a glass of carmenere.

MAIN COURSE. Meat selections.

FOOD, WINE PAIRING. Marco Polo Plaza Cebu General Manager Mr. Brian Connelly watches fireworks after opening Moonlit Wine Dinner. “It’s not just the fact that the food and wine are both great, but the way we put them together to complement each other,” he says.

MARCO POLO CHEFS get a much-deserved applause from the dinner guests.

MOONLIT WINE DINNER combined creations by the culinary geniuses of the Blu Bar and Grill and wines from Chile distributed by Titania Wine Cellar, Inc.

MEAT SELECTIONS.

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4 min read

Business Events Travel

Marco Polo Hotels-Hong Kong 2017 highlights: Awards, big events, upgrades

Marlen Limpag

October 28, 2017 4:39 pm October 28, 2017

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From winning awards and hosting big events to undertaking upgrades, it has been a busy and memorable 2017 for the Marco Polo Hotels-Hong Kong, which include the iconic Kowloon landmark…

From winning awards and hosting big events to undertaking upgrades, it has been a busy and memorable 2017 for the Marco Polo Hotels-Hong Kong, which include the iconic Kowloon landmark Marco Polo Hongkong as well as newer facilities Gateway and Prince.

The three hotels were given the Merit Award at the 2017 HKMA Quality Award ceremony held on July 21, 2017, while the yearly event Marco Polo German Bierfest garnered the Gold Award for “Best Outdoor Events: Arts, Leisure and Entertainment” at the Marketing Events Awards 2017 organized by Marketing Magazine.

ANOTHER AWARD. The Marco Polo German Bierfest was given the Gold Award for “Best Outdoor Events: Arts, Leisure and Entertainment” at the Marketing Events Awards 2017.

Samantha Poon, Director of Communications for Marco Polo Hotels – Hong Kong, said this demonstrates the commitment and dedication to quality at Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel, Gateway Hotel, and Prince Hotel. She provided updates during a dinner hosted by Marco Polo Hotels – Hong Kong for Cebu and Davao media and bloggers at the Blu Bar and Grill of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.

The annual Quality Award by the Hong Kong Management Association (HKMA) recognizes organizations from various fields of industry and business that have achieved outstanding performance and quality standards.

MERIT AWARD. Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel, Gateway Hotel, and Prince Hotel were given the Merit Award at the 2017 HKMA Quality Award ceremony last July 21, 2017.

Marco Polo Bierfest

Now on its 26th year, the award-winning Marco Polo Bierfest kicked off last October 20 and will run until November 11. Celebrated in the outdoor area of Marco Polo Hongkong, against the breathtaking backdrop of Victoria Harbour, the event features partygoers dressed in traditional lederhosen and dirndl while a German band plays folk and oompah tunes and hosts interactive and drinking games.

Marco Polo Bierfest

Guests get to enjoy authentic Bavarian dishes, including the best crispy pork knuckles in Hong Kong, and the finest German beers. Those who book a stay with any of the Marco Polo hotels via marcopolohotels.com within the Bierfest season get two complimentary tickets to the event through the Bed and Bierfest package.

To further extend the Bierfest spirit, hotel guests also receive in-room amenities Marco Polo German Bierfest 2017 special edition beer mugs (maximum two per room) and Erdinger beer (maximum two 500ml bottles per room).

BREATHTAKING VIEW. The Marco Polo Bierfest is celebrated in the outdoor area of Marco Polo Hongkong, against the breathtaking backdrop of Victoria Harbour.

Pretzel

MARCO POLO BIERFEST. Roast pork knuckle served with braised red cabbage and gratinated potato.

Hotel upgrades

As part of continued quality improvements, the Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel also recently completed an extensive upgrade to its building facade.

Gateway Hotel, meanwhile, is set to unveil an entirely new Continental Club floor in the uppermost level. It will feature 21 well appointed guestrooms and suites that offer stunning views of Hong Kong’s dramatic skyline.

Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel_Harbour View Room.

The new Continental Club rooms will continue to reflect a sophisticated, stylish design and layout, enhanced with the latest technology for today’s modern travellers.

Continental Club guests enjoy a host of exclusive privileges, from daily complimentary breakfast to all-day coffee to tea service.

Marco Polo Hotels – Hong Kong Cebu dinner for Cebu, Davao media

CEBU, DAVAO journalists and bloggers during the dinner at the Blu Bar and Grill of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.

COMMITMENT TO QUALITY. Samantha Poon, Director of Communications for Marco Polo Hotels – Hong Kong, said the recent awards demonstrate the commitment and dedication to quality at Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel, Gateway Hotel, and Prince Hotel.

HOTEL UPDATES. Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel, Gateway Hotel, and Prince Hotel provided updates during a dinner hosted for Cebu and Davao media and bloggers at the Blu Bar and Grill of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.

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2 min read

Events Tech

Huawei launches Nova 2i in Cebu

Max Limpag

October 21, 2017 6:48 pm October 21, 2017

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Huawei unveiled in Cebu today its latest mid-range phone, the Huawei Nova 2i, and the company said local response has been “overwhelming.” The Nova 2 was launched in key locations…

Huawei unveiled in Cebu today its latest mid-range phone, the Huawei Nova 2i, and the company said local response has been “overwhelming.”

The Nova 2 was launched in key locations in Manila, Visayas and Mindanao today. In Cebu, the phone was launched in SM City Cebu and Ayala Center Cebu.

The first 100 buyers of the phone yesterday got a free JBL Flip 3 portable speaker.

HUAWEI Nova 2i. Huawei area retail supervisor for Cebu Alvin Gales demonstrates key features of the Huawei Nova 2i during a press briefing held alongside the nationwide launch of the Huawei Nova 2i.

4 cameras, large display

The Nova 2i’s key features are its image quality with its 4 cameras and its large “FullView” 5.9-inch display.

“The Huawei Nova 2i pushes the boundaries of design with a massive 5.9-inch screen with FHD+ resolution and 18:9 aspect ratio. But while the screen may be big, the device remains compact thanks to a high screen-to-body ratio and slim metallic unibody,” the company said in its product information sheet.

The company said its dual front camera and dual rear camera allows users to “take stunning selfies and professional-looking photos with a bokeh effect.” It also offers an extensive array of options and controls for the camera, including the popular setting for wider aperture and one for food photos.

CEBU LAUNCH. The Huawei Nova 2i was launched in Cebu today at the SM City Cebu (above) and Ayala Center Cebu.

Huawei chipset, battery

The phone is powered by a Huawei Kirin 659 octa-core chipset. The phone comes with a 3340 mAh battery. The use of AI to gauge how the owner uses the phone and the fact that Huawei created the chipset mean the phone is able to do more with its power capacity, bloggers and journalists were told in a briefing during the launch.

The phone comes with a 4GB RAM and a 64GB storage that is expandable via a memory card through its hybrid dual SIM setup. That means you can use the second slot either for a 2nd SIM or a memory card to increase storage capacity.

NOVA 2I. Local response to the Huawei Nova 2i launch was “overwhelming,” a company official said.

The Nova 2i has LTE connectivity.

The phone comes with Aurora Blue, Graphite Black, and Prestige Gold. But for the launch, only Graphite Black is still available.

The Huawei Nova 2i retails for 14,990 and is available on a 0% 6-month plan via Home Credit.

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2 min read

Events Lifestyle

Jed Madela to hold La Voce dinner concert in Cebu

Press Release

October 19, 2017 9:03 pm October 19, 2017

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Jed Madela will serenade Cebuanos on November 17 with a dinner concert entitled La Voce at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. Madela is the first Filipino to win…

Jed Madela will serenade Cebuanos on November 17 with a dinner concert entitled La Voce at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

Madela is the first Filipino to win the World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) world grand champion title. He is also the first Filipino inducted into the hall of fame of WCOPA.

Since then, he has launched a successful music career and currently co-hosts and performs in ABS-CBN’s ASAP, and is also a member of the network’s Star Magic. Madela, who is known for his uniquely powerful vocal range has held concerts all over the Philippines and abroad. In 2009, he had a successful The Voice concert in Cebu.

Jed Madela.

Madela will be joined by Jolianne Salvado who is also from Cebu. She gained popularity in the Season Two of ABS-CBN’s The Voice Kids Philippines. She has impressed coaches Lea Salonga and Sarah Geronimo when she effortlessly belted out Tattooed Heart during the blind auditions. She is known for her powerful yet soulful voice. She has debuted her first single and music video, I Can’t Go On, just last year.

La Voce, with these two great artists, and an equally great show director Marvin Caldito is set to fascinate the audience with songs from different genres.

La Voce is a dinner for a cause concert for the benefit of Caritas Cebu Inc.

Tickets prices are at P3500 for VIP with dinner, P3000 for GOLD with dinner, and P800 for Balcony without dinner. For inquiries, please call 232 6888 or 0915 535 3873. You may also visit the La Voce ticket booth at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. (Press release)

Jolianne Salvado

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4 min read

Events Food Lifestyle

Cafe Marco whips up authentic Indian feast in Khana

Marlen Limpag

October 19, 2017 1:49 am October 19, 2017

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Spices and herbs plus robust flavors equal one incredible buffet experience as Marco Polo Plaza Cebu celebrates the Indian festival of lights Diwali with the culinary event Khana from October…

Spices and herbs plus robust flavors equal one incredible buffet experience as Marco Polo Plaza Cebu celebrates the Indian festival of lights Diwali with the culinary event Khana from October 17-24, 2017.

All throughout the food festival, the hotel´s buffet restaurant Cafe Marco will feature a menu of dishes paying tribute to the gastronomic adventure that is India.

Marco Polo is known for having the best food in Cebu and reinforces this reputation through culinary experiences like Khana, said hotel general manager Brian Connelly.

CAFE MARCO will feature Indian dishes during its Khana culinary journey that runs until October 24.

Culinary festival

Chicken tandoori, massala and curry meals, kebabs, several kinds of chutney, chapati, samosas, naan and roti are just a few dishes available for lunch and dinner at Cafe Marco during Khana.

Desserts include delectable concoctions like the carrot halva, falooda, jalebi, chai tea ice cream, and rose cheesecake.

Roast goat and biryani rice.

The culinary fest is aptly named Khana, which means food in Hindi. To ensure that the intricacies of India´s cuisine, one of the most colorful and diverse in the world, is presented to perfection, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu has taken on Judeline L. Murjani as event consultant.

Authentic Indian dishes

Murjani, a Cebuana married to an Indian national and the mother of former Miss Cebu Namrata Neesha, brought as usual her repertoire of experience and skills to the Cafe Marco kitchen.

She and Cafe Marco´s world class chefs prepared a line-up of dishes that make up an authentic and fitting Indian feast for Diwali. (Full listing of dishes at the end of this article)

Aloo Gobi Massala

Khana promises to be an exciting culinary journey with a special buffet lunch rate of P880 net per person from Mondays to Saturdays. Dinner buffet rate is P1,440 net per person.

Celebrate the Festival of Lights and experience a wonderful week of authentic Indian dishes, only at Cebu City’s finest.

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu Khana culinary journey

DIWALI. Marco Polo Plaza Cebu general manager Brian Connelly lights the rangoli to mark the start of Khana culinary journey.

More photos of Khana culinary journey

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu Khana indian food festival

Chickpea Dal Tadka

Chili pickles

Vegetable and Chicken Samosa with Chili Pakoora.

Gulab Jamun

Kushmar Salad

Lamb Roganjosh

Palak Paneer

Peda

Rose Cheesecake

Lentil Salad

Culinary consultant Judeline Murjani .

Former Miss Cebu Namrata Neesha Murjani.

Dancers perform a number to mark the opening of Khana.

Full Khana menu

Lamb Shish Kebab
Lamb Roganjosh
Lamb Vindaloo
Lamb Kebabs
Lamb Haryali
Lamb Kofta
Prawn Biryani
Vegetable Biryani
Jeera Rice
Chili Pakoora
Aloo Gobi Massala
Chickpea Dal Tadka
Vegetable Pakoora
Mixed Seafood Curry
Goan Fish Curry
Prawn Kebab
Fish Sarsowali
Whole Fish Massala
Gulab Jamun
Carrot Halva
Apple Jalebi
Falooda
Savory Lassi
Barfi
Bomra’s Tomato Salad
Fish Tikka Salad
Baingan Bharta
Lentil Salad with Panier
Chana Masala
Indian Potato Salad
Vegetable Samosa
Chicken Samosa
Papadum
Chapati
Naan
Roti
Moong Dal Soup
Chicken Mullingatawny
Vegetable Curry Soup
Raita
Green Chutney
Mango Chutney
Tamarind Chutney
Chicken with Gravy
Whole Chicken Tandori
Chicken Korma Curry
Chicken Tikka Massala
Chicken Kebab
Aloo Prata
Chai Tea Ice Cream

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3 min read

Events Lifestyle

Art materials, workshops featured in National Book Store ‘Make and Create’ festival

Marlen Limpag

October 16, 2017 3:11 pm October 16, 2017

3 min read

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3 min read

Fine art paper, journals and notebooks, colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolors, and pens of all kinds and functions, the National Book Store Make and Create Arts and Crafts Festival had…

Fine art paper, journals and notebooks, colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolors, and pens of all kinds and functions, the National Book Store Make and Create Arts and Crafts Festival had everything that budding artists and art fans could possibly need.

For the two-day event, the Prestige Paper Brands sold journals, notebooks, and sketchbooks at a discount. All the products displayed at the festival are also available at the National Book Store branch in SM City Cebu.

ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL. The 2-day event by National Bookstore featured fine art paper, journals and notebooks, colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolors, and pens of all kinds.

Buyers were able to choose to have their plain-covered journals personalized with their names or favorite quotes. This was done for free by the brand’s calligraphy expert.

Limelight notebooks are made of paper that´s up to 120 gsm so it’s thick and perfect for sketches or art works using watercolor.

The company also carries the Fabriano and Acquarello fine art paper products that have cotton in their composition. Fabriano has 20 percent cotton while Acquarello is made of 100 percent cotton. This makes both paper lines capable of holding water.

Limelight notebooks are made of paper that´s up to 120 gsm so it’s thick and perfect for sketches or art works using watercolor.

Art and crafts materials

Sam Josef Abatayo, Sharpie brand management trainee, said they have specialty pens that can be used on various materials including fabric.

Sharpie markers can be used for artworks on shirts, bags, and sneakers, he added. To make the design more permanent, it will have to go through a heat setting process.

Marvy Uchida is a Japanese brand that retails calligraphy, drawing, coloring, brush, and specialty pens.

Sharpie.

It sells ball point and chisel and bullet types as well as gel pens and highlighters for school and office use, according to May Janine Fernaneo, Marvy Uchida marketing officer.

The brand also carries drawing and calligraphy pens as well as fabric and other markers for hobbies and crafts.

Professional art brands

Prismacolor has a colored pencils set with a staggering 150 hues for professional use.

There are National Book Store products like Chameleon’s one pen blends and multiple tones and Caran D’Ache’s oil pastels and colored pencils.

Faber-Castell also has a lot of materials for children and students, from the soft touch brush sets and tri-grip brushes and watercolors to colored pencils and crayons.

Elmer’s Glue offers more choices now as well and has a colored line for more interesting artworks.

When it comes to pens and markers, Uni carries a diverse range of products. There are the Jetstream, Uniball, Click Gel, and Signo lines. It also has drawing pens, mechanical pencils, correction pens, highlighters, as well as several kinds of markers for a host of functions and uses.

More photos of National Book Store Make and Create Arts and Crafts Festival in Cebu

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4 min read

Events Lifestyle

Space age metallic, modern heritage, spunk inspire new FitFlop collection

Marlen Limpag

October 15, 2017 10:43 am October 15, 2017

4 min read

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4 min read

FitFlop introduces its autumn and winter 2017 collection of sandals and closed shoes silhouettes in Cebu, and they come in elegant metallic, lightweight breathable fabric, and high street fashion. In…

FitFlop introduces its autumn and winter 2017 collection of sandals and closed shoes silhouettes in Cebu, and they come in elegant metallic, lightweight breathable fabric, and high street fashion.

In line with the brand’s mission to be the most comfortable and addictive footwear in the world, it creates products based on biomechanics research but without compromising on style, said Primer Group of Companies regional brand manager Maria Soledad O. Aquino.

FitFlop´s autumn and winter collection took inspiration from space age metallics, modern heritage, and a fashion rebel attitude that makes sandals perfectly fine for autumn wear.

NEW FITFLOP COLLECTION. Primer Group of Companies regional brand manager Maria Soledad O. Aquino explains features on one of the new FitFlop collection during the launch in Cebu. With her is senior marketing associate Irene Trajano.

Autumn, winter collection

Senior marketing associate Irene Trajano said metallic embellishments can be found across several FitFlop styles for the season, from the glittering discs on toe-thong sandals to the pewter, rose gold, and black touches in the popular Uberknit fabric for ballerinas and sneakers.

Modern heritage details are incorporated in FitFlop mules, ballerinas, and sneakers, which perfectly complement the season’s fashion styles.

NEW FITFLOPS. The new line comes in elegant metallics, lightweight breathable fabric, and high street fashion.

This season’s collection also highlights spunk and one’s inner rebellious streak. One doesn’t have to limit the Lumy “slides and Banda” to summer; wear your pairs with their punk stud detailing paired with skinny black jeans and big jumpers during autumn, too.

FitFlop products inspired by high street fashion come in the muted and grandiose colors of fall: deep plum, midnight navy, tan, and black. Of course, the patent, snake, and suede and stud finishes on those sandals and closed shoes silhouettes definitely make them stand out.

IN CEBU. The new collection was unveiled in Cebu last week.

Legendary cushioning

According to Aquino, the story behind the brand started 10 years ago with FitFlop founder Marcia Kilgore who looked but failed to find footwear that she can wear through her daily routine.

¨She met with two biomechanics in London and, within a year of research and development, the first FitFlop that boasts of a triple-density microwobble system was released,¨ Aquino cited.

The technology makes possible the legendary super cushioning in FitFlop classic styles. It provides three levels of targeted cushioning for all-day comfort, and allows wearers to walk all day without feeling any impact on the foot.

FitFlop has since come up with the supercomff, anatomicush, and iqushion cushioning technologies for other product designs. FitFlop created the supercomff for people who prefer fewer inches on their footwear and anatomicush for the athletic styles like loafers and sneakers.

New Fitflop autumn and winter collection

FitFlop Banda TP Studs

Boogaloo

Honeybee

Lumy Leather Sandals

Lumy Leather Sandals Studs

Lumy Leather Slide

Lumy Leather Slide with Studs

Superballerina with Sequins

Superbendy Ballerina

Superbendy Mary Jane

Superskate with Sequins

Superskate Slip Ons

Uberknit Ballerina

Uberknit High Top

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2 min read

Events Lifestyle

Glass House: A new events space by Montebello

Joy Flores-Ablanida

October 4, 2017 11:54 am October 4, 2017

2 min read

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Brides-to-be will have another venue to consider as Montebello Villa Hotel, the city’s only garden hotel, launched last week the Glass House. “It started with a dream. A good friend…

Brides-to-be will have another venue to consider as Montebello Villa Hotel, the city’s only garden hotel, launched last week the Glass House.

“It started with a dream. A good friend introduced me to a supplier then the dream became a concept and turned into reality,” said Luis Martin Alvarez, the general manager and president of Montebello.

Alvarez went on to share that he got the Glass House inspiration in one of his travels abroad. He thought it will be beautiful to have such venue in a tropical country like ours where weather is unpredictable.

OPENING. Montebello general manager and president Luis Martin Alvarez welcomes guests to the opening of the Glass House.

First in Cebu

The one-storey Glass House, which is the first of its kind in Cebu, can accommodate up to 150 guests. It features an unobstructed view of the surrounding landscape.

This newest events space at Montebello is ideal for intimate celebrations. Weddings held here will surely get extra romantic with the venue overlooking the pond and the hotel’s famous landmark, the Bridge of Love.

Aside from wedding packages, Montebello offers debut packages and other special occasions.

GLASS HOUSE. The one-storey Glass House, which is the first of its kind in Cebu, can accommodate up to 150 guests. It features an unobstructed view of the surrounding landscape.

New changes at Montebello

At the launching event of the Glass House, Montebello’s Sales and Marketing Head Concon Kintanar also gave guests a glimpse of the awesome new changes happening at their hotel.

A mini gym, game room, small pool, new rooms at the Heritage Wing, and a mini spa are on the list.

“Our gym here is unique because others are overlooking the streets or walls but with us, you get a wonderful view of the garden,” said Kintanar.

The Glass House at Montebello is ideal for intimate celebrations.

The game room, she added, is not large but it’s pretty much complete.

Completion of the small pool is targeted by the end of October. In the same month, the hotel will start opening as well additional rooms at their Heritage Wing. The mini spa meantime will be ready by next year.

More photos of the Glass House launch

The Alvarez and Borromeo families during the launch.

LAUNCH GUESTS. GM Lui Alvarez with (from left) guests Darren Deen, Glenn Soco, and Jay Aldeguer.

OPENING. GM Lui Alvarez and Fabby Borromeo.

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2 min read

Events Sports

Primary Homes holds 3rd Dragon Boat event, launches Terra Manna in Argao

Press Release

September 25, 2017 10:53 am September 25, 2017

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2 min read

A third installment Dragons in Argao by Primary Homes, Inc. is happening from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. this September 30, 2017 at Terra Manna-Argao in Barangay Suba of the…

A third installment Dragons in Argao by Primary Homes, Inc. is happening from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. this September 30, 2017 at Terra Manna-Argao in Barangay Suba of the historic town of Argao.

Terra Manna-Argao is a new Primary Homes venture geared towards travellers and backpackers, and it will serve as jump-off point for three exciting Dragon Boat race categories.

Terra Manna offers the comforts of a modern accommodation at affordable rates. Various activities are also in store for guests.

Dragon Boat race categories

The third Dragons in Argao includes two fun-filled events: the Argao inter-barangay Dragon Boat clinic and competition and the Dragon Boat competition.

The Dragon Boat competition has three categories: 300-meter Short Boat Open, 300-meter Short Boat Mixed, and the 300-meter Barangay category.

Registration fee is P400 per person and includes the official event jersey and lunch pack.

DRAGONS IN ARGAO 3. Coach Nonnie Lopez (3rd from left), regional director of the Philippine Sports Commission, answers a question during the press conference for the Dragons in Argao 3 Dragon Boat Competition. With him are (from left) Rudney Alforque, sales manager of Terra Manna Argao; Roger Paller, executive assistant to Argao Mayor Stanley Caminero; and Randy Su, commissioner of the Cebu Sports Commission.

Acoustic Nights

From Sept. 21-30, 2017, Terra Manna-Argao will host Acoustic Nights. Food and drinks will be served and a socials night held on the last day as a tribute to the Dragons.

This event is part of the series of festivities leading up to annual fiesta of the Municipality of Argao.

This annual competition is presented by PrimaryHomes, Inc., Terra Manna-Argao, and Dragon Boat Cebu Central.

Registration details

For registration inquiries, you may call Randy at ‪0917-6262-621‬. For hotel bookings and other inquiries, you may contact Zhy at ‪0922-654-6375‬ or Trina at ‪0922-9060-804‬.

You may also follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/PRIMARYHOMESofficial for real-time updates or visit our website at www.primaryhomes.com.

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2 min read

Events Lifestyle

Marco Polo hosts viewing party for Game of Thrones Season 7 finale

Press Release

August 26, 2017 8:52 am August 26, 2017

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2 min read

Watch the Season 7 finale of Game of Thrones with other fans at the Marco Polo Plaza in its epic viewing party on August 28. The screening of the final…

Watch the Season 7 finale of Game of Thrones with other fans at the Marco Polo Plaza in its epic viewing party on August 28.

The screening of the final episode will be at the Manila Function Room. Doors will open at 6:30pm as we kick off the viewing party with a Season 7 analysis featuring some of Cebu’s hardcore GOT fans namely Carlo Borromeo, Shari Quimbo, Kat Layno and Kenneth Ruelan.

Hobby shops selling GOT merchandise like shirts, accessories and other things will also be available for every fan’s shopping pleasure. Of course, you all have to brush up on your GOT knowledge to get a chance to win a prize by answering some trivia questions.

VIEWING PARTY. Photo of the viewing party during the first episode of Game of Thrones Season 7.

You can also join the costume contest by registering on site. The winners for male and female category will each win an overnight stay at the hotel, inclusive of breakfast buffet for two.

Catch a special performance by Dreamcatchers Choir who will give a special rendition of famous Westeros songs. Finally, enjoy the epic finale episode via HBO HD in our 2.5 by 3-meter LED wall care of Guinto Lights & Sounds.

The Game of Thrones viewing party is free of admission with seats at first come-first served basis. Doors open at exactly 6:30 pm and at exactly 9pm the season ender episode will begin. Come early and have your dinner at the viewing party where affordable food and beverage will be available.

Please note that Game of Thrones is Rated R18+.

Stay tuned for more updates through our social media accounts. Like facebook.com/marcopolocebu to stay updated on all hotel activities and promotions. You may also call (63 32) 253 1111 or email [email protected]. (Press release)

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2 min read

Events

National Book Store brings Kevin Kwan to Cebu on August 27

Press Release

August 24, 2017 10:38 pm August 24, 2017

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National Book Store will bring international bestselling author Kevin Kwan to Cebu for a book signing on August 27 at 2 p.m. in the City Wing of SM Seaside City…

National Book Store will bring international bestselling author Kevin Kwan to Cebu for a book signing on August 27 at 2 p.m. in the City Wing of SM Seaside City Cebu. Registration will start at 10 a.m. Only books purchased from National Book Store and Powerbooks will be accommodated.

Kwan is currently promoting his latest book “Rich People Problems.” The novel is about the rich and powerful problems of Singapore.

When Nicholas Young hears that his grandmother, Su Yi, is on her deathbed, he rushes to be by her bedside—but he’s not alone. The entire Shang-Young clan has convened from all corners of the globe to stake claim on their matriarch’s massive fortune. With each family member vying to inherit Tyersall Park—a trophy estate on 64 prime acres in the heart of Singapore—Nicholas’s childhood home turns into a hotbed of speculation and sabotage.

Crazy Rich Asians

Kevin Kwan is the man behind ‘Crazy Rich Asians’, which is now being adapted into a feature film by Ivanhoe Pictures and Color Force, the producers of ‘The Hunger Games’ movies. Its sequel ‘China Rich Girlfriend’ was described by People Magazine as “a field guide to Asia’s uberwealthy echelon and comic satire at its best.”

Kwan was born and raised in Singapore, where he attended Anglo-Chinese School. After obtaining his first degree in creative writing from the University of Houston, Kwan moved to Manhattan to pursue a BFA at Parsons School of Design. Kwan currently resides in Manhattan.

The event is made possible in partnership with SM Seaside City Cebu.

“Crazy Rich Asians,” “China Rich Girlfriend,” and “Rich People Problems” are available in National Book Store, National Book Store Express, and Powerbooks. Shop online at nationalbookstore.com. Share your excitement by using the #KevinKwaninCebu. For more updates, follow NBS on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube (@nbsalert), join their public chat on Viber, and visit their blog at blog.nationalbookstore.com. (Press release)

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5 min read

Events Tech

Geeks on a Beach 2017 opens in Palawan

Press Release

August 24, 2017 9:56 pm August 24, 2017

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5 min read

Some 400 participants from government and the private sector, including successful technology entrepreneurs from Southeast Asia and Silicon Valley, gathered in Puerto Princesa, Palawan for Geeks on a Beach 2017,…

For two days, participants will get to listen to valuable insights from big names in the startup and technology community. There will be keynotes, panels, and discussions with separate breakout tracks in between.

Successful Filipino-Americans Yobie Benjamin and Aldo Carrascoso lead the list of the world’s prominent names in the field of startups and technology who arrived at the Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa Hotel in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

Navigating startup ecosystem

The first day will open with keynote speeches by Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron, Department of Information and Communications Technology Undersecretary Monchito Ibrahim, Voyager Innovations Vice President and Managing Director Dindo Marzan, and Token.io and ClickSWITCH.com Chief Technology Officer Yobie Benjamin.

This will be followed by the panel “How Founders Can Navigate Treacherous Seas; Path to potential Unicorns in the Philippines” where technopreneurs from Tokien.io, ClickSWITCH.com, GlycoProX Biosciences, Veem, Jukin Media & Verego, Plug and Play Technology Center, InnoVantage, Inc., StartUp Village, and MobKard will display the story of their success.

Another panel entitled “Startup Ecosystem – How to increase the number of successful startups in the Philippines” will highlight speakers from the DICT, Department of Science and Technology – PCIEERD, Department of Trade and Industry, TechTalks.ph, IdeaSpace Foundation, and the Philippine Software Industry Association (PSIA).

GEEKS ON A BEACH. (From left) Token.io Founder and CEO Emeritus Yobie Benjamin, Plug and Play Technology Center Co-founder and VP Operations Jojo Flores, GOAB Founder/Lead Organizer Tina Amper, Ideaspace Executive Director Diane Eustaquio, Ideaspace President Rene “Butch” Meily, Smart DevNet Co-Founder and Senior Developer Evangelist Paul Pajo, Voyager Innovations Inc. Managing Director and Vice President Dindo Marzan, and PLDT ICT Research and Development Vice President and Head Joey Limjap.

Investor panel

An investor panel which will bring together tech, design, and startup entrepreneurs to brush shoulders with the world’s biggest venture capitalists and investors in the tech world will meanwhile feature Greylock Ventures, North Ridge Partners, Plug and Play, Hatchd Digital, Endeavor Philippines, and Anthill Ventures.

The first day will include the presentation “Startup Nation – The Israel Story” by Sagiv Massad who is the Director of Technology and Cybersecurity for Business Profiles Inc. and Director of the Israel Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines.” Jojo Flores of StartupPH.org will also present “State of the Nation’s Startups: How Competitive can PH Startups Get?”

Corporate digital transformation

The second day will kick-off with keynotes by DOST-PCIEERD Engr. Russell Pilli, Center for International Expositions and Missions Executive Director Clayton Tugonon, and Philippine Chamber of Commerce Engr. Ramon Escueta

The panels for the day include “Corporate Digital Transformation: Becoming Victorious in a Collision between Businesses and Today’s Challenging Digital Forces” featuring Dragonpay Corporation, BlastAsia & Xamun Inc., PLDT Innolab, Philippine Chamber of Commerce, Payoneer, and the Puerto Princesa Chamber of Commerce, “The way of Creatives: Establishing a Sustainable Niche in a Disruptive Economy” with creatives startups GrupoMM, CreateCebu, 22 Tango Records, and Altum, and “Role of Incubators and Accelerators in Growing Mature Startups” with the BNEFIT, NICP, IdeaSpace Foundation, Muru-D Singapore, UP Enterprise, QBO, ASEAN Centre of Entrepreneurship, and MaGIC Malaysia.

GOAB partners

There are also talks on “Boosting FilipinoTrailblazers in Gaming and Animation” by Synergy88 Digital Inc. Managing Director and Co-Founder Jacqueline Chua, “Cultivating Creativity in the Circular Economy” by Altum Director Carlo Delantar, and “Chinese Tech Investment into ASEAN and How Startups in the Philippines Can Leverage On It” by EnterPH Interviews President Atty, Rocky Chan and Kay-Mok Ku of GobiVC.com.

PLDT, Smart, Voyager, PayMaya, ePLDT, Smart DevNet, PLDT Enterprise, PLDT Innolab, Ideaspace, and QBO are supporting GOAB as co-presenters while ASPACE Philippines is co-producer. GOAB is held in partnership with the City Government of Puerto Princesa, Palaweño ICT Association, DOST-PCIEERD, and Mindanao Development Authority. The official airline partner is Philippines Airasia and the official ticketing partner is Ticketbase. The silver sponsors include Payoneer, Zalora, PouchNATION, Istorya.net, Synergy 88 Digital, Uniform Solutions, Temasys, AtoX Solutions, and MaGIC. The bronze sponsors are NXTLVL Academy, LabPH, Spring Valley Corporation, North Ridge Partners, Amazon Web Services, Eastern Communications, Startechup, and Gobi Partners.

The media partners are e27, Tech in Asia, Bohol News Daily by Auza.net, InnoPub Media, Geeks in Cambodia, Asian Journal Publications, Balikbayan Magazine, Mobile Ecosystem Forum, ConnectedWomen.co, QueenCityCebu.com, GMA News Online, MyTV Channel Network, BeFast.TV, Wazzup Pilipinas, TechBlade PH, eMedia Production Network Inc., Inc. Southeast Asia, NU107.COM CO., SnippetMEdia, and Bloomberg TV Philippines. The organizational partners are the Philippine Software Industry Association, National ICT Confederation of the Philippines, UP CeBuinIT, Digital Commerce Association of the Philippines, Developers Connect, Science and Technology Advisory Council – Silicon Valley, Mynimo, Teradoor, Israel Chamber of Commerce Philippines, and the Cloud Security Alliance Philippines. GOAB is supported by Purple Cow, Orange Hub, iSkwelahan.com, DOST-MIMAROPA, Science and Technology Advisory Council Silicon Valley, and Science & Openvate Labs.

First staged in 2013, GOAB is organized by TechTalks.ph, powered by Sym.ph, branding by Happy Garaje, and pr by PRWorks. For further details, visit www.GeeksOnABeach.com, follow on Twitter/Facebook Geeks On A Beach. (Press release)

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2 min read

Events

Jpark presents beach fun, yacht cruise, top DJs in Havana by the Sea party

MyCebu Partners

August 15, 2017 10:28 pm August 15, 2017

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2 min read

Get ready to let loose as Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark hosts the hottest event of the season at Cebu’s newest party place Havana by the Sea. The Groove Cruise…

Get ready to let loose as Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark hosts the hottest event of the season at Cebu’s newest party place Havana by the Sea.

The Groove Cruise All White Party brings together beach fun, luxury yachts, and top music DJs in one enjoyable celebration this August 19, 2017.

Move to the rhythm of eclectic beats mixed by popular DJs Dennis Garra, Raff, Maf, MC JL, Cathy Rock, Janice Dizon, and Maxe Perez in a night of drinks and dancing at top Cebu getaway Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark.

Havana by the Sea is an open-air restaurant and bar built along the shoreline that makes the most of Mactan’s spectacular coastal views.

Havana by the Sea

The second installment of the House-Kissed beach event showcases the newest Jpark destination Havana by the Sea, an open-air restaurant and bar built along the shoreline that makes the most of Mactan’s spectacular coastal views.

Check out Havana, go on yacht cruise along the Hilutungan Channel, or show off your dance moves on the beach at the House-Kissed Havana by the Sea Groove Cruise All White Party this August 19 at Jpark resort.

Party tickets

Event partners include y101 FM, Jokai Marine International Inc., Knottical Power, Mojitos, AirAsia, 97.9 Love Radio Cebu, 96.3WRock, Monster Radio Cebu and Magic 92.3 Cebu.

Ticket to this Cebu’s hottest party is only P500 for Regular Patron with One (1) standard drink, VIP Yacht (limited slots)P1,800 with unlimited pica-pica and cocktail drinks and consumable tables for VIP Silver P3,500, VIP Gold P5,000, VIP Platinum P8,500 and VVIP for only P10,000.

Get yours now! For more details and to reserve your tickets call 494-5555 and 494-5293 or go to www.jparkislandresort.com or our official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/jparkislandresort/.

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3 min read

Events Feature Food

Sushisake at Radisson Blu Cebu pairs fine sushi, sashimi with premium sake

Marlen Limpag

July 31, 2017 11:57 pm July 31, 2017

3 min read

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3 min read

When Radisson Blu Cebu flew in Chef Jeff Yalung from the Middle East for a taste test, they asked him to create Japanese food that’s more than the usual fare….

When Radisson Blu Cebu flew in Chef Jeff Yalung from the Middle East for a taste test, they asked him to create Japanese food that’s more than the usual fare.

His creation is now the centerpiece as Radisson Blu Cebu merges traditional Japanese cuisine with modern flavors and came up with new dining concept Sushisake.

Located at the upper lobby of the hotel, the newly-launched restaurant is small and intimate and offers a fine selection of sushi and sashimi prepared in traditional Edomae style as well as an impressive collection of premium sakes.

DYNAMITE SUSHI. Chef Jeff’s specialty combines tuna, salmon, grouper, and a creamy crab as topping.

Sushisake features the traditional and specialty rolls of Chef Jeff, who has over 10 years culinary experience with international hotel brands in the Middle East, said Radisson Blu Cebu director for sales and marketing Ann Olalo.

Sushisake menu

The menu carries sushi servings that deviate from or improve upon traditional flavors and ingredients.

TRADITIONAL AND SPECIALTY ROLLS. Sushisake features traditional and specialty rolls paired with a premium sake collection.

One example is Chef Jeff’s dynamite sushi, which combines tuna, salmon, grouper and has creamy crab as topping.

“When you take a bite, something explodes in your mouth. That’s why we call it dynamite,” Yalung said during the restaurant’s recent launch.

CHEF JEFF YALUNG has over 10 years culinary experience with international hotel brands in the Middle East.

Chef Jeff also offers the special california, so called since it combines ingredients other than the usual crab sticks and cucumber plus a secret sauce.

A few other specialties include the surf and turf, spicy crab roll, and dragon roll.

Sushi specialties

Olalo said Chef Jeff can do over 50 sushi varieties infused with his own rich sauces and marinades and even welcomes the opportunity to create more. This is what makes Sushisake different from other Japanese restaurants in Cebu.

INTIMATE VENUE. Located at the upper lobby of the hotel, the newly-launched Sushisake is small and intimate.

She added that they envision Sushisake as innovative and trendsetting, and took great pains with the restaurant layout and furnishings.

The restaurant lights were inspired by chopsticks and the menu incorporated certain design elements: waves of the sea, a fishnet, and rice grain.

Sushisake is open from 6:00-10:00 p.m.daily. Guests are encouraged to make dinner reservations by calling (63 32) 402 9900 or by sending an email to [email protected].