Listen to spellbinding songs by local storytellers over coffee and delicious cakes on March 16 at 4 pm in The Good Farm Café in Mandaue City (check location). In honor…
Listen to spellbinding songs by local storytellers over coffee and delicious cakes on March 16 at 4 pm in The Good Farm Café in Mandaue City (check location).
In honor of International Women’s Month, 22 Tango Records has lined up a fresh batch of storytellers and poets that are ready to take listeners on a spellbinding journey, fueled by the sweet smell of coffee and cakes.
Mary Anchit
This latest Cuppa Folk features artists Lourdes Maglinte, JRuss & DT, The Labrats, and Mary Anchit, giving you songs that are drawn straight from the heart and played specially to feed your soul. Catch them on March 16 at 4pm at the JDN Square Building, 5th floor P Remedio St. Mandaue City.
This coffee series was organized to provide musicians and supporters alike a safe haven to connect, collect, and appreciate homegrown music. Because we feel that these songs are valuable, conscious listening is what’s encouraged from the listeners; thus, the #shhhhpolicy will be implemented as artists share their stories without the fear of opening up in front of an audience.
The Labrats
For more information and updates, follow 22 Tango Records on Facebook and Instagram. (Press Release)
World-class masterpiece M. Butterfly will be staged in SM Seaside Centerstage from March 14-17. The theater event of the year is presented by Tony and Grammy award winning producer Jhett…
World-class masterpiece M. Butterfly will be staged in SM Seaside Centerstage from March 14-17. The theater event of the year is presented by Tony and Grammy award winning producer Jhett Tolentino and FRONTROW Entertainment, the producer of highly-acclaimed independent films Bhoy Intsik and Bwaya.
The schedule of performances of M. Butterfly in Cebu City are as follows:
Mar. 14 – Thursday – Opening Night – 7pm
Mar. 15 – Friday – 7pm
Mar. 16 – Saturday – 2pm / 7pm
Mar. 17 – Sunday – 2pm / 7pm
Tickets are available in any SM mall or via SMTickets.com.
Producers decided to stage a national tour for M. Butterfly to bring the world-class masterpiece to those who did not have the opportunity to catch its 2018 Manila run. Before Cebu City, it was staged in Iloilo City and Dumaguete City.
Theater companies are rarely able to bring successful productions in Manila to other parts of the country of many challenges. Organizers said Jhett Tolentino and FRONTROW Entertainment are taking this bold step “to carry on their mission and advocacy in the performing arts and to further enhance audience development throughout the Philippine archipelago.”
This revival production of David Henry Hwang’s M. Butterfly is the winner of the 2018 Aliw Awards for Best Play, Best Actor and Best Director and got nominations for The Best Featured Actress in a Play.
The play tells the story of René Gallimard, a member of the French embassy in China. He meets and falls in love with Chinese opera star Song Liling, a woman whom he considers to be the embodiment of the perfect woman, Madame Butterfly.
Targeting audiences from ages 18 and older, the producers are hoping that this classic drama, inspired by Giaccomo Puccini’s opera ‘Madame Butterfly’, will likewise resonate to theater audiences from Luzon, Vizayas and Mindanao that “love, power and deception hold no boundaries.”
RS Francisco
RS FRANCISCO, the 2018 Aliw Award Best Actor for M. Butterfly will reprise his iconic portrayal of Song Liling, the Chinese opera singer who is Gallimard’s object of affection and seduces him through his biases of the East then exploits their intimacy to collect classified information for agents of the Chinese Communist Party.
RS first essayed this role in May 1990 for Dulaang UP, opposite veteran actor, writer and critic Behn Cervantes. On its debut, M. Butterfly immediately rose to critical acclaim with packed houses and box office success in over 100 performances throughout the Philippines.
In the many years thereafter, RS Francisco’s theater credits in numerous productions and variety of roles continued to hone his craft as a complete artist. In films, his most awards include the SINAG MAYNILA Best Actor, the STAR AWARDS Movie Actor of the Year and the SUBIC BAY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Best Actor.
When M. BUTTERFLY was revived recently on Broadway, RS had thought of bringing it to life once again to the new theater audiences of today. After all, this is the only ‘one’ role that continues to remain as closest to his heart.
Aira Igarta
To add a diverse twist to the M. Butterfly National Tour 2019, young actor AIRA IGARTA will step into the role of Song Liling as alternate in certain performances. As an original member of the Kurogo ensemble of the play’s 2018 Manila run, Aira is a stage and film actor from the Theatre Arts Program of UP Diliman where he took part in several Dulaang UP and Dulaang Labortoryo productions. Trained by the likes of Tony Fabella and Luther Perez, Aira was originally a dance and voice scholar at Quezon City Performing Arts Foundation (QCPADFI).
RS Francisco, Olivier Borten, and Aira Igarta.
French actor OLIVIER BORTEN will essay the role of Rene Gallimard, a former French diplomat, who relates the story of his passionate, disastrous affair with Song Liling from his cell in a Paris prison, where he is serving a long sentence for treason.
Philippine theater royalty JENINE DESIDERIO, who among many other theater, film, television and recording credits, assumed the lead role as Kim in the West End’s original Miss Saigon, will portray Gallimard’s wife – Helga. The pair married as a matter of convenience; Helga’s father had diplomatic connections that helped Gallimard ascend in his career.
After 25 years of stage acting experience in the United Kingdom, Scottish NORM MCLEOD has stepped into the Philippine stage as Manuel Toulon, the French Ambassador to China who also happens to be the dominant and strong-willed superior of Gallimard at the embassy in Beijing. Toulon promotes Gallimard to vice-consul and charges him with collecting information to aid the American war in Vietnam.
Jenine Desiderio
Trilingual American actor LEE O’BRIAN will once more personify Marc, the sexually unapologetic best friend of Gallimard. He encourages Gallimard to take sexual advantage of the women around him without regard for their feelings or even their consent. Although M. Butterfly was Lee’s first theatrical endeavor, his acting skills have already been tried and tested in international films “Edsa Woolworth” and “Forgive Me Father”. O’Brian also portrays Sharpless in M. Butterfly for a brief time.
Portraying the different roles of Suzuki, Comrade Chin and Shu Fang is powerful and well-rounded artist MAYEN ESTAÑERO. Her impressive performance in the 2018 run of M. Butterfly landed her an Aliw Awards nomination for Best Featured Actress. Mayen’s previous theater credits include Dalanghita Production’s Corazon Negro, An Operetta as Maestra, Virgin Labfest’s Mula sa Kulimliman as Leila and Sugid Production’s Buwan at Baril as Asawa. Comrade Chin is a member of the Red Guards, a paramilitary arm of the Communist Party in China. Song communicates with Comrade Chin often, to pass on the classified information he gathers from Gallimard.
Lee O’Brian and Olivier Borten.
Twice a finalist as Best Actress for the Aliw Awards, MAYA ENCILA receives her third nomination as Best Featured Actress for her unique characterization of Renee and Pin-Up Girl in M. Butterfly. The stunning Arizona native plays a young, sexually liberated Danish woman with whom Gallimard has an affair. Renee’s boldness presents a stark contrast to Song’s modesty, which Gallimard finds both exciting and obnoxious. A true expert in performing arts, Maya has taken the stage countless times as Mary Lennox for The Secret Garden, as Belle for Repertory Philippines’ Beauty and the Beast musical and as Lara for Philippine Stagers’ KATIPS, to name a few.
Rising soprano star JASMIN SALVO will be the new Opera Singer for the national tour.
The members of the ensemble playing the role of Kurogo are as follows: PHEITH IENA BALLUG, ULLYSES BASA, SASA CABALQUINTO, FRANCO FERRER and JOHN PAUL ORTENERO.
The artistic team of M. Butterfly are as follows: Jhett Tolentino and RS Francisco (Producers), Ohm David (Set), Eric Pineda (Costume), John Batalla (Lighting), Jethro Joaquin (Sound), Joed Balsamo (Music) and Carissa Adea (Choreography).
The M. Butterfly National Tour 2019 will benefit 10 charitable institutions: Iloilo Prima Galaw, Philippine National Red Cross Iloilo Chapter, The Children of Cebu Foundation, Silliman University Culture and Arts Council, the Arts Council of Cebu Foundation, Halfway Home for the Boys and St. Louis University Culture and Arts Center.
Check out M. Butterfly at the following social media accounts:
The Abaca Group of great food comes up with an appealing offer for diners: a promo card for every order at any of its dining establishments. Get a card for…
The Abaca Group of great food comes up with an appealing offer for diners: a promo card for every order at any of its dining establishments.
Get a card for a Jake’s chicken sandwich or luncheonette burger for an order of P1,000 or more at Red Lizard, a free corn chien fried rice or phat cooler when you spend P1,000 or more at Phat Pho, and either a free pasta pomodoro or hand tossed pizza with orders of P750 or more.
I particularly love the freebies offered by the Abaca Baking Company: getting your second frozen or hot coffee drink for only P50 or free and a complimentary boxed retail with your first two orders.
PROMO CARDS. The Abaca Group promo cards with appealing offers to diners.
Signature treats
Nina Olalo, Events and Marketing Coordinator, said they wanted to reward diners with signature treats in The Abaca Group’s restaurants through a series of cool and distinct cards.
The promo cards come with fun scripts like “Have a brew-tiful day” and “I like you a latte” for the ABC coffee treats or “This is nacho ordinary snacks” for the mini nacho freebie at Red Lizard. There’s even “You & me pho’ever” for a free large pho with orders of P750 or more at Phat Pho.
The launching of the promo cards was held in Red Lizard.
Promo cards
Receive one of these 21 unique promo cards when you dine in at any of The Abaca Group restaurants, including Maya, Abaca Baking Company, Phat Pho, and Tavolata.
Other sumptuous treats offered for free or at a huge discount with #TheAbacaGroupPromoCards — chicken taquitos, mini nacjos, tacos, burritos, and queso dips at Red Lizard; corn chien fried rice, phat cooler, banh mi sandwich, egg rolls and phos at Phat Pho, and margarita at Maya.
The Abaca Group made the announcement during a gathering of media and bloggers at Red Lizard last Friday, January 25, 2019.
Darren Espanto, Jona, and Lani Misalucha are 3 of the country’s top Original Pinoy Music (OPM) singers. The three are scheduled to hold a concert in Cebu and Davao aptly…
Darren Espanto, Jona, and Lani Misalucha are 3 of the country’s top Original Pinoy Music (OPM) singers. The three are scheduled to hold a concert in Cebu and Davao aptly headlined “The Aces.”
On February 2, they are set to perform at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino in Cebu City. On March 2, they will take center stage at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City.
He may be the youngest but 17-year-old Darren is more than capable of holding his own in the company of veteran singers like the other Aces. Darren started singing at 2 and rose to fame in the Philippines after placing second in season one of The Voice Kids in 2014.
His first album, Darren, debuted at No. 1 and has since been certified Double Platinum; his second album Be With Me also went to No. 1 and is now certified Platinum. Darren’s current single “Poison” is currently climbing the charts, and his third studio album will be released soon.
Shortly after winning season one of GMA-7’s Pinoy Pop Superstar, Jona—who at the time was still going by her real name Jonalyn Viray—became an in-demand performer and recording artist. Jona’s first studio album On My Own turned Gold, and her self-titled second album yielded a hit single in “Help Me Get Over.” It went on to win Song of the Year at the 2014 PMPC Star Awards for Music.
A year later, she made headlines when she transferred to the Kapamilya network and changed her stage name. She has released an album under ABS-CBN’s in-house record label Star Music, which was eventually certified Platinum. She has also filled concert venues here and abroad, both as a solo performer and as part of a group.
The diva known as Asia’s Nightingale hardly needs an introduction. Lani’s career spans decades and includes an impressive stint performing in Las Vegas, where she became known as the Siren of the Strip. During her time there, Lani performed with the Society of Seven at Bally’s and the Flamingo, making her the first Asian to headline a main showroom on the Las Vegas Strip. All of Lani’s albums have been certified Gold or Platinum.
Individually, Darren, Jona and Lani are phenomenal. Put them together in one show and what do you get? A concert that will highlight the very best of OPM, featuring four of its most excellent singers—the Aces.
The Aces is directed by Marvin Caldito. Tickets are priced at Php3,710 for Platinum, Php3,180 for VIP, Php2,120 for Gold and Php850 for Silver tickets. Tickets are available in all SM Tickets outlets. (Press Release)
The beat is getting louder and louder for the grandest festival in the Philippines, Sinulog. A business hotel strategically located right on the pulse of Cebu City, Quest Hotel &…
The beat is getting louder and louder for the grandest festival in the Philippines, Sinulog. A business hotel strategically located right on the pulse of Cebu City, Quest Hotel & Conference Center Cebu takes part in the merriment with a series of activities throughout the week.
Starting January 16, guests may visit a replica of the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño at the lobby, featuring a collection of images of the Señor Santo Niño. It will also house a mini kiosk offering Sinulog memorabilia and souvenirs.
BUFFET. The hotel’s all-day dining restaurant Pusô Bistro & Bar offers Cebuano classics including the famous lechon, humba, fresh kilawin, and more at the Sinulog Lunch Buffet on Sunday, January 20.
As the weekend approaches, guests will witness a show of color and talent. The hotel’s very own Tribu Quest Dancers together with a Sinulog Queen will grace the lobby and present a Sinulog dance at 10 am and 2:30 pm on January 19 and 20. To perk up the beat on Sinulog Day, January 20, drum beaters Infinity Tribe will have an electrifying performance at 4:30 pm.
A fiesta is not complete without a spread of time-honored homegrown recipes. The hotel’s all-day dining restaurant Pusô Bistro & Bar offers Cebuano classics including the famous lechon, humba, fresh kilawin, and more at the Sinulog Lunch Buffet on Sunday, January 20.
SINULOG QUEEN. The hotel’s very own Tribu Quest Dancers together with a Sinulog Queen will grace the lobby and present a Sinulog dance at 10 am and 2:30 pm on January 19 and 20.
Guests dining in groups of 8 or more enjoy a celebratory 15% discount on the regular buffet rate. Regular rates are P700 net for lunch and P850 for dinner. To mark the wonderful occasion, a free Sinulog photo booth will be stationed at the lobby from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm also on Sunday.
Contempo Property Holdings Inc and Bamboo Bay Community gathered 24 Cebuano artists to mount an art exhibit called “Halad Kaniño” at the condo development on Hernan Cortez St., Mandaue City. The…
Contempo Property Holdings Inc and Bamboo Bay Community gathered 24 Cebuano artists to mount an art exhibit called “Halad Kaniño” at the condo development on Hernan Cortez St., Mandaue City.
The exhibit centers on the Santo Niño and is timed with the celebration of the Sinulog festival, which honors the Holy Child. The exhibit opened yesterday and will run until February 12.
EXHIBIT OPENING. Contempo founder and CEO Beverly Dayanan (2nd from left) and exhibit organizer and painter Celso Pepito (4th from left) lead the ribbon cutting to mark the opening of the Halad Kaniño art exhibit at the Bamboo Bay Community in Mandaue City.
Contempo Property Holdings Inc. founder and CEO Beverly Dayanan and painter Celso Pepito, who organized the show, led the ribbon cutting to mark the opening of the exhibit yesterday.
The art show is a tribute exhibition of paintings, sculptures, and drawings of the Santo Niño.
It features the works of renowned artists Jonathan Abellana, Lida Aguilar, Ryan Roy Barral, Arnel Belda, Irvin Benlot, Cesar Castillo, Methuzael Carredo, Mary Evangeline Caya, Rhodesa Cruzet, Jess Dinglasa, John Dinglasa, Reynan Dingal, Ramo de Dios, Efren Enolva, Eunice Florendo, Jet Florendo, Jun Impas, Ann Lubanga, Guido Lubanga, Clint Normandia, Joseph Ong, Celso Pepito, Fe Pepito, Jose Mari Picornell, Garry Watin, Antonio Vidal, Marlone Ylanan, and Sonia Yrastorza.
A painting by Jun Impas.
Bamboo Bay is the flagship project of Contempo. It is a 1-hectare Asia contemporary development located on Hernan Cortez St., Mandaue City.
The company said in a statement that it is committed to support Cebuano artists by holding exhibitions to showcase their works. In April 2018, the condo development had a successful run of its Flower Power Art Exhibit, a collection of art pieces that captured the blooms and colors of summer. It was also held at Bamboo Bay.
Sturdy desks, comfy seats, high-speed fiber internet, soft music, warm lights, abundance of power outlets, plus good food and coffee, the WorkPlace Cafe in Banawa, Cebu City is designed as…
Sturdy desks, comfy seats, high-speed fiber internet, soft music, warm lights, abundance of power outlets, plus good food and coffee, the WorkPlace Cafe in Banawa, Cebu City is designed as a place where one can be most productive.
Couple Aden and Gretchen Sigue were looking to start another line of business and came upon the Workplace Cafe in Ramos St., Cebu City.
Mr. Sigue said they reached out to the Workplace Cafe owners and suggested a franchise agreement.
WorkPlace Cafe is designed as a place where one can be most productive.
Co-working cafe
Kristoff Villanueva, CEO of the company that owns the brand, said the facility is intended as a co-working cafe for students, creative sector, and freelance community.
“The Workplace Cafe is meant as a space for study and work within a coffee shop experience,” he said during the grand opening of the Workplace Cafe in Banawa yesterday, July 8, 2019.
Since the best ideas always come about when one is well rested, the facility provides a power nap station that allows customers to relax or doze off on comfy bean bag seats.
The newest cafe is only its second branch, added Villanueva, chief executive officer of Rise and Grind Equity Ventures, Inc. They plan to open a third Workplace Cafe, company-owned this time, in Mandaue City by next month.
The Workplace Cafe is meant as a space for study and work within a coffee shop experience.
Workplace Cafe Banawa
Workplace Cafe Banawa, located at Unit 2, Autogas Station, R. Duterte St., is open from 10 a.m. to 6 a.m. the following day. It offers three options for customers: hourly, daily, and monthly.
The hourly rate is only P50 and it comes with complimentary beverage of either iced tea or brewed coffee. Additional hour costs P35. A customer who orders a handcrafted beverage automatically gets a free stay of one hour.
If you choose to stay for the day, you pay only P280. This also comes with one complimentary drink. Mr. Sigue said customers who opt for the daily rate need only to add P70 to have access to unlimited coffee.
Customers may also avail of the monthly rate of P4,000, which is inclusive of locker use.
WorkPlace Cafe opens its 2nd branch in Banawa, Cebu City.
Cafe menu, amenities
The Workplace Cafe in Banawa all-day breakfast sets, several kinds of pasta, and short orders that range from green salads, fries and chicken wings, to pastries.
It can accommodate 120 customers and has two function rooms for those who wish to hold meetings and sessions. One function room can seat up to 10 people while the other can host up to 16. Rates start at P550 for the first hour and P450 for succeeding hours and come with one-time credits of P200 consumable on food and drinks.
Since it first opened along F. Ramos St. last November 2016, the Workplace Cafe has adopted a Plant and Grow program. For every bag of Bukidnon-sourced Hineleban coffee beans consumed, a tree is planted in return.
The power nap station.
FRANCHISE. Couple Gretchen and Aden Sigue (center) and CEO Kristoff Villanueva along with other business partners during the launch of WorkPlace Cafe in Banawa, a franchised branch.
Relive the music of the 90s and listen to such Pinoy icons as Jett Pangan of The Dawn, Paco Arespacochagga of The Introvoys, Glenn Jacinto of The Teeth, Meds Marfil…
Relive the music of the 90s and listen to such Pinoy icons as Jett Pangan of The Dawn, Paco Arespacochagga of The Introvoys, Glenn Jacinto of The Teeth, Meds Marfil of True Faith, Wency Cornejo of After Image, and Cooky Chua of Color It Red during the Sinulog weekend.
The OPM rock icons will be holding a concert on January 19 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
The concert is dubbed “90s Storm in Cebu.” It will take Cebuanos back to the decade that brought such hits as “Line to Heaven,” “Na Naman,” “Di Na Ako Aasa Pa,” “Next In Line,” among many others.
Ticket prices are SVIP: P3,000; VIP: P2,500; Gold: P2,000; Silver: P1,500; and Balcony: P800.
Tickets are available at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel Lobby and SM Customer Service. For ticket inquiries, call +63915 535 3873 or +6332 232 6888.
DiaGold, synonymous with elegant and timeless jewelry, marks a decade of brilliance. Through the years, the premier jewelry brand for engagement and wedding rings, and exquisite pieces made of diamonds…
DiaGold, synonymous with elegant and timeless jewelry, marks a decade of brilliance. Through the years, the premier jewelry brand for engagement and wedding rings, and exquisite pieces made of diamonds and different gemstones such as rubies, emeralds and sapphires after gemstones, has been celebrating different women of strength, power and integrity. Their newest ambassadress, Charo Santos-Concio exemplifies these values.
In Cebu last month to commemorate their 10th anniversary, she shared her love for jewelry and trust in the brand which led to their partnership.
“When I was a young girl, I grew up with a mom who had an admiration for the finer things, who loves good pieces of jewelry. I had that influence from my mother. So, when they asked me if I could be the endorser for DiaGold, I said yes right away. They showed me the pieces and they were beautiful. I was amazed by the collection,” she said.
Charo Santos-Concio
DiaGold was established in January 2008. It has eight stores nationwide with branches in Cebu, Manila, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Bacolod and Davao and is soon to open in Metro Manila in 2019.
Rey Valera, Nonoy Zuñiga, and Marco Sison are not your ordinary senior citizens. These three hitmakers—all of whom entered the music scene in 1970s—look like they haven’t aged a day…
Rey Valera, Nonoy Zuñiga, and Marco Sison are not your ordinary senior citizens. These three hitmakers—all of whom entered the music scene in 1970s—look like they haven’t aged a day and show no signs of slowing down.
In fact, their upcoming concert at the Waterfront Grand Ballroom on January 18, is aptly titled #Tanders, a term which they plan to redefine.
“It’s not something we hide, because even if we don’t say our age, people know that we have been performing since 1970s,” said Zuñiga.
Rey, 64, threw in, “Ang importante diyan, e, tanggap mo. Hindi yung nag papanggap na parang feeling bata pa, di ba.”
“Pero walang naming dapat ikahiya sa pagiging 60-plus na edad. Ibig sabihin kasi nun, marami kanang pinagdaanan, malayo na ang narrating mo, kumbaga, bihasa kana sa buhay.”
The youngest of the three OPM icons, Marco, pointed out that his age, 61, has never posed any restriction to him as a performer.
“Ngayon, when we say senior citizen, yung pumapasok sa isip mo ay hindi na yung parang uugod-ugod or matanda na.
“Like me, as a singer, I don’t say, ‘Hindi ko na kayang kumanta sa stage, I’m 60 na.’ Walang ganun. Hindi ko nga naiisip minsan.
“I guess it’s a good thing that music chooses no age.”
Rey Valera, Nonoy Zuñiga, and Marco Sison.
ALMOST TANDER LEVEL. Meanwhile, Giselle Sanchez will be the rose among the thorns, and, “the only Cebuana in the cast.”
The seasoned comedienne and performer is not a senior citizen yet (she’s just 43!), but she does not shun something that is inevitable.
Giselle said, “Anyone who is born before 1989 is already considered a tander. Sorry but let’s face the truth, after the millennial, the next level is the tander level.
“Why do I love them because I am one of them. It takes one to know one!”
JAM WITH #TANDERS. It’s guaranteed that the show will be more than just a walk down the memory lane.
Surely, Nonoy will include some of his timeless tunes such as “Never Ever Say Goodbye,” “Kumusta Ka,” “Doon Lang,” “Love Without Time,” to name a few.
Rey will most likely sing his greatest hits “Pangako Sa ‘Yo,” “Maging Sino Ka Man,” “Kung Kailangan Mo Ako,” “Naaalala Ka,” “Sorry Na, Puwede Ba,” and many others.
And the crowd can sing along with Marco as he belts out his classic pieces “My Love Will See You Through,” “Si Aida, Si Lorna, O Si Fe,” “Always,” and “Make Believe.”
The 3 OPM icons with Giselle Sanchez.
Nonoy remarked, “Isa siyang parang jamming session, kasi yung mga fans namin, for sure, alam ang mga kanta namin.”
Rey added, “Medyo maiiba nang konti. Base sana rinig ko, ha. Pero okay pa rin.”
Marco preempted, “Basta, makikiuso tayo. Yung mga kantang sikat ngayon, meron din.”
The comic relief will be provided by Giselle.
“Expect new jokes and new songs apart from my usual repartee because this is a concept show…I’m actually very excited.
“I just get challenged when I sing a duet with them because these are timeless hitmakers.
“It’s really an honor to be working with them.”
Tickets are sold via Ticketworld, Platinumlist, SM Customer Service and Waterfront Cebu City Hotel Lobby for the following prices: P3,000 (SVIP), P2,500 (VIP), P1,500 (Gold), P1,000 (Silver) and P600 (Balcony).
The show is presented by Echo Jam Entertainment Production, in cooperation with Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. (Press Release)
Fitbit, the leading global wearables brand, announced advancements to the on-device Fitbit user experience for its popular smartwatches: Fitbit OS 3.0 for Fitbit Ionic, Fitbit Ionic: adidas edition and Fitbit…
Fitbit, the leading global wearables brand, announced advancements to the on-device Fitbit user experience for its popular smartwatches:
Fitbit OS 3.0 for Fitbit Ionic, Fitbit Ionic: adidas edition and Fitbit Versa smartwatches lets you see even more personal data at-a-glance, including sleep and expanded exercise view. It also adds quick logging for weight and water intake. With these, it’s easier than ever to take action based on data right from your wrist.
10 new popular brand apps across health, fitness, smart home and lifestyle brands were announced, including achu health, Couch to 5K, Genius Wrist and MySwimPro. Others like FitBark, MINDBODY and TRX are coming soon to the Fitbit App Gallery, offering more tools to help maximize your health and simplify your life.
New Fitbit Exercise API and open-source developer tools provide Fitbit’s global developer community with faster, more efficient ways to build complex and innovative health and fitness apps and clock faces for Fitbit smartwatches; new developer apps Alpine Snow and Skateboard launch starting today.
Female Health Tracking trends will arrive in the Fitbit app in early 2019, offering a comprehensive view of menstrual cycle data including symptom trends, over time.
“We are excited to announce these software and app updates as they provide Fitbit smartwatch users with more ways to take action based on their personal data to achieve their health and fitness goals,” said Jon Oakes, Senior Vice President of Product at Fitbit.
QUICK LOGGING. With quick-logging on-device, keeping track of your weight and water intake is now easier than ever.
Take action right from your wrist with more health data and quick logging
The Fitbit OS 3.0 update delivers an expanded on-device dashboard to easily view additional and expanded stats and data, including sleep, log water intake and weight, with expanded exercise stats, heart rate and hourly activity, allowing you more ways to take control of and manage your important personal health data right from your wrist. Goal-based exercise modes have been added to Ionic, Ionic: adidas edition and Versa, so you can set a goal for calories burned, distance or time for 15+ exercises, including running, biking, swimming and more, and see real-time stats, progress and celebrations when goals are reached.
New health, fitness apps.
New health and fitness apps from popular brands
Fitbit is expanding its Fitbit App Gallery with 10 new popular brand apps to deliver enhanced health and fitness experiences and provide you with more unique ways to simplify your every day. These apps integrate with Fitbit data to offer guidance and insights to help track your progress and motivate you along your health and fitness journey.
Available in the Fitbit Featured App Gallery are four new popular brand apps and clock faces:
achu health: This clock face transfers your Fitbit data to achu’s illness prediction technology to help you evaluate potential illness, providing alerts when your body show signs of sickness before it happens.
Couch to 5K: Pulls your Fitbit data including distance and calories burned to provide you with insights and training programs for races ranging from 5K to a marathon.
Genius Wrist: Features four apps (Gym Genius, Gym Time Pro, Workout Builder and Workout Genius) which provide structured on-device workouts, productivity and visualization tools, offering different ways for you to view your Fitbit data and workout anywhere, anytime.
MySwimPro: Offers custom guided swim workouts, training plans and video coaching for all levels, using real-time heart rate from your Fitbit device to help you improve your swim performance. Post-workout analytics pull personal workout data to track progress and measure improvement.
“We are partnering with some of the most popular health and fitness brands to develop apps that leverage Fitbit data to offer unique experiences and deliver more valuable and personal insights to help our users to live healthier lifestyles,” said Tim Rosa, Chief Marketing Officer at Fitbit. “For example, apps like achu health pairs your Fitbit data with illness prediction technology to help you manage signs of sickness, and MySwimPro helps you improve swimming performance with personalized coaching plans based on your heart rate data during swimming workouts.”
GOALS. You can now set goals and get real-time stats during your workout for 15+ exercises including running, biking, yoga and swimming.
Additional third-party apps coming in early 2019 include:
Charity Miles: Syncs with your Fitbit activity data to raise money for 40 of the world’s top charities for every mile logged.
FitBark: Helps you and your dog get healthy together by showing your daily Fitbit stats such as activity, distance and calories burned alongside those of your canine companion.
MINDBODY: Keep your fitness and wellness top of mind with the ability to check the schedule at your favorite studios and view your upcoming MINDBODY classes from your wrist.
TRX: Guided workouts coach you through quick and effective TRX Suspension Training workouts that track biometrics using your Fitbit data, helping you get stronger and reach your fitness goals.
Advanced developer capabilities and innovative new apps
Since Fitbit launched its App Gallery in late 2017, its growing global community of more than 44,000
developers will now have access to more advanced capabilities, including a new Exercise API that makes it faster and easier to create, build and innovate more complex, high-quality apps for Fitbit smartwatch users. A new Scientific API helps developers and researchers perform advanced data processing through a more efficient collection of math, statistical and digital signal processing functions.
Fitbit Versa
Developers can now use their own algorithms when building health and fitness apps, in order to create more intricate apps in less time, and can easily record custom exercise sessions on the Fitbit platform. This allows developers to design Fitbit smartwatch apps for more complex activities like snowboarding, skiing and skateboarding, so you can keep track of more specific activities that aren’t necessarily step-based.
For example, starting today are two innovative developer-created apps leveraging the latest APIs that will appear in the Fitbit Featured App Gallery:
Alpine Snow: Take your Fitbit device on the slopes with the ability to track distance travelled, number of runs, speed, altitude, weather conditions, calories burned and heart rate in real-time, with the session available to view in the Fitbit App along with your GPS route.
Skateboard: Track your speed, heart rate, calories burned, and distance traveled while you skateboard, based on your Fitbit data.
All new popular brand and developer apps will be available in addition to the existing suite of 15+ Exercise Modes and more than 1,200 apps and clock faces currently accessible to Fitbit smartwatch users.
Period trends coming to Female Health Tracking
Last, Female Health Tracking, a highly engaged feature by women in the Fitbit app , will introduce menstrual cycle trends in the Fitbit app, allowing you to see your menstrual cycle data, logged symptoms and trends all in one place no matter what Fitbit device you use.
A showdown of extraordinary talent and chic outfits all in good fun as SYKES held its annual Year-End Celebration (YEC) dubbed “Rockapalooza: Party like a SYKESer” last December 9, 2018…
A showdown of extraordinary talent and chic outfits all in good fun as SYKES held its annual Year-End Celebration (YEC) dubbed “Rockapalooza: Party like a SYKESer” last December 9, 2018 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
SYKES executives, employees, and special guests descended on the Waterfront grand ballroom in their best rockstar outfits to celebrate the year’s triumphs.
“For me, it’s been the biggest and the best year we’ve ever had. We had the biggest sports fest and we participated in inter-BPO and city competitions. Guess who won? We did! This has been our year. So tonight is our night to celebrate and enjoy all that we’ve done, especially since we are celebrating our fifteenth year. Fifteen years is an accomplishment,” said John Sneed, SYKES Cebu’s Head and Vice President for Area Operations and Shared Services.
Ely Buendia and thousands of SYKESers sang as one to Pinoy rock hits.
Evolution of SYKES Cebu through Dance
One of the most entertaining segment of the Rockapalooza celebration was the Employee Dance Competition.
Seven groups delighted the audience with presentations that traced the evolution of dance through the years.
SYKESers showcased jazz and swing of the 1930s and 1940s, twist of the 1950s, break dancing of the 1980s, hip hop of the 1990s, and current dance moves in a flurry of outfit changes and rhythmic twirls.
This resembled the evolution and continuous growth of SYKES Cebu, from humble beginnings to making its mark as one of the leading BPO in the country.
Dance is definitely part of the rich Filipino culture as presented by Team R2BU, the grand champion, in their presentation. The team incorporated the milestones of SYKES Cebu into their dance in an upbeat, colorful, and dynamic rendition.
Team R2BU bagged the title as champions with their jaw-dropping performance.
Rockstars Meet Rockstars
Clad in black and leather ensembles, SYKESers brought a festive rockstar atmosphere to the of Waterfront Hotel halls. Rockstars for a night, they got to jam with Ely Buendia and Jason Fernandez as they rocked the night away with their OPM hits and own renditions of the classic rock songs.
Not only did SYKESers enjoy great music and sumptuous food, they also took home amazing giveaways and raffle prizes with winners taking home as much as P10,000 cash.
SYKESers know how to dress to impress with their amazing rock ensembles.
Anjo World, Cebu’s most anticipated theme park opens to the public today at Belmont One, Calajoan, Minglanilla, Cebu. On its soft opening today, 7 of 12 rides will be ready…
Anjo World, Cebu’s most anticipated theme park opens to the public today at Belmont One, Calajoan, Minglanilla, Cebu.
On its soft opening today, 7 of 12 rides will be ready to give thrill and amusement to its guests. The park will also offer park snacks and treats with partner establishments. Set to open in the 1st Quarter of 2019 are the iconic and gravity-defying Spinning Roller Coaster, 200 feet Ferris Wheel, Boomerang, Hip Hop and Bumper Boats.
Hip Hop (Go Go Bouncer)
Anjo World features thrill rides such as a 25-meter Drop Tower, Boomerang (Frisbee), Hip Hop (Go Go Bouncer), Space Shuttle and the Viking, to family and kiddie rides such as Mr. Cup (Teacups), Mr. Toad (Jumping Frog), London Taxi (Bumper Cars) and the Golden Carousel. Anjo World is definitely the perfect place to be with family, friends, and loved ones.
Located within the Belmont One Commercial Complex, it features different themed zones based on different continents of the world- Europe, Asia, America, Africa, all in one setting. Guests can talk a walk around the busy streets of Europe, be dazzled in the colorful streets of Asia, embark on an American escapade or go on a jungle adventure in Africa.
Golden Carousel
Anjo World showcases various rides and attractions that are imported from accredited manufacturers abroad who are members of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) with ample parking spaces for more than 200 vehicles.
Over a million local, regional, and international visitors are estimated to visit the park in the first opening. Anjo World projects 3,000 park visitors per day and around 7.5 million visitors in the next five years. (Press Release)
Bo’s Coffee, a brand known for its promotion of Filipino coffee, has opened its first tribute store in its hometown in Cebu. A tribute store, according to founder Steve Benitez,…
Bo’s Coffee, a brand known for its promotion of Filipino coffee, has opened its first tribute store in its hometown in Cebu.
A tribute store, according to founder Steve Benitez, is a flagship branch that offers people a new coffee experience. He said the concept took 3 years to plan and was meant to “showcase the best of what we offer.”
The company picked Bo’s Coffee Capitol branch – the first Bo’s outlet, explained Benitez – for its first tribute store because it is “about paying tribute to our roots here in Cebu.”
SHOWCASE THE BEST. Bo’s Coffee founder Steve Benitez discusses the concept behind the tribute store during opening of the first such branch – Bo’s Coffee Capitol.
Bo’s Coffee expansion
Benitez founded Bo’s Coffee in 1996 and has since expanded throughout the country. It recently expanded overseas by opening 5 stores in Qatar. Bo’s plans to have 200 stores and be present in 5 countries by 2020.
Central to the tribute store concept is the coffee bar. Specially trained baristas are able to prepare coffee using Philippine beans in various ways – from cold drip to pour over.
COLD DRIP COFFEE. Potent brew that takes about 8 hours to prepare. This one you drink on ice.
“The tribute store is where you can experience the best coffee in the Philippines,” he said.
It serves coffee made from coffee beans handpicked in Sagada, Benguet; Mount Kitanglad in Bukidnon; Mount Matutum in South Cotabato; and Mount Apo.
PURPLE MIDNIGHT. Tasty iced tea with wild hibiscus and blue ternate. This you must try.
Bo’s coffee bar
“Our version of a perfect blend is not only the sensuous taste and aroma of Philippine coffee but also the overall presentation of Philippine culture – its indigenous and nearly forgotten products, Filipino music and artistry, and even Philippine-grown tea,” Benitez said in a press statement.
Apart from just preparing your drink, the baristas at the tribute store’s bar can interact with customers and talk coffee with them.
Benitez said they are trying out the concept here with the plan of replicating it in other areas such as Manila.
COFFEE BAR. At the bar, you can order coffee made from Philippine beans and prepared various ways by specially trained baristas.
“We will continue to work on giving the best customer experience,” Benitez said.
The store also highlights products by social enterprises they partnered with. The interiors highlight the work of local artisans such as renowned designer Kenneth Cobonpue.
BEST OF THE PHILIPPINES. Steve Benitez says the tribute store is the company’s way to “showcase the best of Philippine artistry and talent.”
“We want to showcase the best of Philippine artistry and talent in the most ambitious project we ever had. The tribute store will be the commemoration and statement of the brand’s promise that this homegrown brand will continue to pave empowerment to the communities we serve,” Benitez added.
Bo’s Capitol has 300 square meters of space and can seat up to 110 persons. It is open daily from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Rather than giving your usual Christmas gifts, why not hand out artisanal products made by local small businesses this year? One of the best places to buy these products from…
Rather than giving your usual Christmas gifts, why not hand out artisanal products made by local small businesses this year? One of the best places to buy these products from will be the Pop District Bazaar on December 10 to 11 at The Tent, in Mandani Bay in Mandaue City.
Jayneil Enriquez, District Events Head of Marketing and Promotions, said Pop District Bazaar highlights small businesses in Cebu and offers them a venue to sell their products.
She said most of the locators are “lifestyle vendors” who sell garments, toys, and other fashion items. She said there are also vendors of men’s gear and locally crafted bags and shoes, including branded pairs made in Carcar.
PRESS CONFERENCE. Organizers talk to bloggers and reporters during the announcement of Pop District Bazaar.
One of the fashion locators is No Filter, a Cebu-based company whose products include NSFW (not safe for work) shirts with texts about sex.
“We sell parody and gag tees. We have statement tees that are bold enough to express the thoughts you are too afraid to say. We have no filter, we say what we want to say. If offended ka, wa mi labot,” No Filter says in a disclaimer near their items.
Enriquez said one locator imports hard-to-find cosmetics such as certain lines of lipsticks.
She said Pop District Bazaar will have 2 types of food vendors: outdoor tenants that cook a varied range of menu and food types and indoor tenants that offer packaged products.
FOOD. These jars of delicious gourmet danggit are sold by SumTim Fishy, one of the locators of Pop District Bazaar.
Among the food locators is SumTim Fishy with its delicious jars of gourmet danggit. The small company named after the owner’s children was present during the press conference to display their products.
Other locators will be selling various pre-loved items.
Mitch Ledesma, District Events Head of Resource Mobilization and Sponsorship, said they expect more than 100 locators during the bazaar.
District Events General Manager Charmaine Ong De Leon said the idea behind the event is to support local businesses and give a venue for Cebuanos to see what they can offer.
District Events Head of Leasing Ruby Pansoy said the event supports online and startup businesses. She said the theme of the bazaar is “Polar Express.”
OFFENDED? “Wa mi labot,”says No Filter, a company that sells statement shirts that include text about sex.
Local music will also be highlighted during the event with the company’s partnership with FatBoys Production. Local and national “influencers” will also be made available for meet and greet during the event.
To make it easier for people to go to the venue, the company has partnered with Angkas, which assured them of priority for bookings from the venue. The company said they are also talking to MyBus to make it easier for attendees to go to and from the venue.
Room Eleven Recording Studio is turning one with an anniversary gig dubbed TRACK 01. It will be held at Draft Punk Brewers & Skewers on November 30 at 9 pm….
Room Eleven Recording Studio is turning one with an anniversary gig dubbed TRACK 01.
It will be held at Draft Punk Brewers & Skewers on November 30 at 9 pm. Celebrate this milestone with them at Draft Punk Brewers and Skewers with performances from The Vast, Thinking Chair, Sepia Times, Bottlerocket, DT & The Nooks and Mampor & Me.
In one year of operation, they were able to finish two full length albums: Kiss & Disappear by Vincent Eco and Miss Mary by Mary Anchit.
Kim Trinidad recording at Room Eleven Recording Studio
They were also able to work on the following singles: Way Blema by Wonggoys, 2 Cents by Lourdes Maglinte, Between by Kim Trinidad, and a few more singles released under Viva Records – Paghandom by Jude Pastor and Hahay by Melody Hodgson.
To make great music, you need rooms with proper acoustic treatment, industry-standard equipment, a creative environment, and a knowledgeable production team who can work with artists of any background. Room Eleven Recording Studio is a specialized facility for quality audio production that’s devoid of distractions and dedicated to professional development.
Room Eleven Studio Control Room
The team is headed by Studio Director and Music Producer, Cattski Espina. The rest of the team is comprised of Sound Engineers Justin Alfafara, Erwin Ray Batucan, Clarence Mongado and Aandy Valentine. Mongado and Valentine are also in-house musicians together with Admin Assistant Redd Layne Odilao.
Room Eleven Recording Studio is located at the 2nd Floor of Mango Square Mall Annex Building, General Maxilom Avenue, Cebu City. You may reach them via [email protected] or (032) 383 2916 / 0905 562 21 37. (Press Release)
Musical legend Gary Granada will be in Cebu on December 8 for an advanced songwriting workshop. “What’s Wrong With Your Song?” is a diagnostic and practical songwriting workshop that will…
Musical legend Gary Granada will be in Cebu on December 8 for an advanced songwriting workshop.
“What’s Wrong With Your Song?” is a diagnostic and practical songwriting workshop that will be held at the Room Eleven Recording Studio on December 8 from 10am to 6pm. This workshop is recommended for non-beginners who have already written their own songs.
The workshop is run by 22 Tango Records together with Room Eleven Recording Studio.
Granada is a multi-awarded Filipino musician, composer, and singer-songwriter. He composed “Saranggola sa Ulan,” “Mabuti Pa Sila,” and “Kahit Konti,” among other Filipino classics. He has been making music for the past three decades and is known for writing songs with social relevance.
One of the ways that 22 Tango Records cultivates homegrown music is through continuing informal music education. With this as an anchor in its ever-evolving vision, 22 Tango is excited to cap this year with this workshop by a legend.
The early bird participation fee is P1,800 per person and will be valid until November 24. By November 25 to December 8, the participation fee will be P2,000. Early bookings are recommended as there are only limited slots available. You may also do online registration, simply message 22 Tango Records on Facebook to get the form. Payments can be accepted through online bank transaction, Palawan Express, or direct payment at Room Eleven Studio.
Treats not tricks greeted SYKES employees and their families who attended the Halloween and Family Day celebration last October 28 at the SYKES Grandhall in the Synergis Building in Mabolo,…
Treats not tricks greeted SYKES employees and their families who attended the Halloween and Family Day celebration last October 28 at the SYKES Grandhall in the Synergis Building in Mabolo, Cebu City.
Over a thousand people showed up to enjoy the joint celebration for Halloween and Family Day.
Kids and adults alike enjoyed the fun games and abundant food and drinks.
A magician treated the attendees to several amazing magic tricks. Inflatables, face painting, and the photobooth added to the enjoyment.
The participants came in their favorite cartoon character outfits, and the kids prepared presentations. Best in Costume awards were later given out. Everyone went home with smiles on their faces.
About SYKES Philippines
SYKES is a digital marketing and customer service global outsourcer, providing customer-engagement services to Global 2000 companies. With global headquarters in Tampa, Florida, SYKES’ sophisticated solutions satisfy the needs of major companies around the world, primarily in retail, communications, financial services, technology and healthcare industries.
SYKES’ differentiated end-to-end service platform effectively engages consumers at every touch point in their customer lifecycle, starting from digital marketing and acquisition to customer support, technical support, up-sell/cross-sell and retention. The company provides services through multiple communication channels encompassing phone, e-mail, web, chat, social media and digital self-service.
In 1997, SYKES became the first multinational call center in the Philippines. It paved the way for what is now known as the country’s sunshine industry. Taking the company’s pioneering spirit, it was also the first to venture outside Luzon, opening SYKES Cebu in 2003. The move created new possibilities and opportunities. To date, it takes care of more than 3,000 employees in Cebu alone. (Press Release)
Those who grew up in the 90s will remember the popular Tretorn sneakers with the classic gullwing accent that were often the footwear choice in PE classes. The Primer Group…
Those who grew up in the 90s will remember the popular Tretorn sneakers with the classic gullwing accent that were often the footwear choice in PE classes.
The Primer Group of Companies brings back to the Philippines the stylish whites manufactured in Sweden that now incorporate new technology innovations for maximum wear comfort.
Carlo Cecilio, Tretorn brand executive, said the company has upgraded its classic Nylites with EcoOrtholite technology that puts more support in the heel and ankle.
He added the gullwing accent now comes in more hues, including such school colors as yellow, blue, and green.
The Tretorn Nylite line, which offers leather and canvas choices and colors other than white, is available at all Res|Toe|Run outlets in Cebu.
Classic sneakers, chic sandals
According to Cecilio, the Primer Group continues to bring in more brands in line with its mission to provide an exciting range of comfortable footwear that will cater to different styles and personalities.
Aside from Tretorn, it now also carries chic and comfy leather sandals for women that are manufactured in Greece. Fantasy Sandals is produced by an established Greek brand that also makes leather bags.
The sandals have full polyurethane outsoles so they are lightweight and resistant to abrasions. Fantasy Sandals footwear also utilizes the bubble sole technology, where the air trapped during the moulding process provides extra cushioning. These are also available at Res|Toe|Run branches in Cebu.
The Res|Toe|Run stores, with its unique and out-of-the-box concepts and impressive selection of rare and iconic brands, has come to be a top-of-mind choice among the youth and the young at heart.
Your Kind of Comfort campaign
Knowing best that millennials value style as much as comfort when out shopping for the perfect pair, it comes up with the “Your Kind of Comfort” campaign for the season.
In the active comfort category, those who love engaging in various fitness activities can find such footwear brands as FitFlop, DC and People. On the other hand, lazy weekend mornings are best paired with easygoing footwear from Native and Faux Pas Paris.
Stylish comfort footwear offers a diverse mix of brands that embody edgy style without the wearer needing to sacrifice comfort. Check out the latest designs by Dr. Martens, Tretorn, Native, Regetta Canoe and FitFlop.
Believing that footwear must be comfortable no matter what the occasion, the polished comfort category carry styles that can fit a wide range of activities. Think Faux Pas Paris, Fantasy Sandals, FitFlop, Kickers, Sledgers, and Flossy for work, business meetings, and other special events.
Carlo Cecilio of the Primer Group of Companies talks about Tretorn and Fantasy Sandals in a media briefing in Cebu.
Res|Toe|Run branches
From ensuring the most optimal shopping experience all the way to housing the latest in comfortable footwear, Res|Toe|Run will always make sure that you enjoy nothing less than “Your Kind of Comfort.”
Res|Toe|Run branches may be found in the following locations: Banilad Town Centre, Ayala Center Cebu, and Robinsons Galleria Cebu. You may also shop for the latest footwear offers by Res|Toe|Run through its official e-commerce website, www.restoerun.ph.
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort presents the most wickedly fun celebration during Disney Halloween Time from September 13 to October 31, 2018. Halloween Town, where Jack Skellington and his mischievous friends…
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort presents the most wickedly fun celebration during Disney Halloween Time from September 13 to October 31, 2018. Halloween Town, where Jack Skellington and his mischievous friends from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” wreaked havoc, will be recreated at the all-new “Journey to Halloween Town” immersive walkthrough experience, challenging brave souls to face down the “Pumpkin King” and his friends.
Disney friends and villains are getting ready for wicked encounters with guests at Mickey’s Halloween Time Street Party and Halloween Time Festival Gardens. Duffy’s newest friend, Cookie, will also show off her first Halloween attire and join the party. At night, the park will be hauntingly fun, when Disney villains come out to join Villains Night Out! Chapter 3 and turn the park upside down.
In true Disney Halloween fashion, an extensive range of themed merchandise and food and beverage items will be available, along with spooky Halloween decor and fun-filled recreation activities across the resort’s three themed hotels, ensuring that all Pinoy guests can enjoy a “play, shop, dine, and stay” getaway at HKDL this autumn.
Reliving “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” at the all-new “Journey to Halloween Town”
“Pumpkin King” Jack Skellington and Oogie Boogie from the stop-motion classic “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” will loom large at the Main Gate of the park to herald Disney Halloween Time 2018. Themed decorations will point the way to the brand-new walkthrough experience, “Journey to Halloween Town,” at The Pavilion.
Get ready for an unforgettable journey, filled with iconic music and scenes from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Venture into Dr. Finklestein’s Lab, where Jack Skellington’s friend Sally is desperate for guests’ help. Beware of the evil Oogie Boogie, out to trap guests in his lair. Brave guests are invited to find out if they have what it takes to tackle blood-curdling Halloween Town! And don’t miss the Jack Skellington and Friends Halloween Time Character Greeting.
Disney friends revel in the Halloween spirit all day long
Guests will experience the brighter side of Disney Halloween Time at Mickey’s Halloween Time Street Party. Every afternoon, Mickey, Minnie and Goofy will appear atop three giant Jack-o’-lantern whirlies with other Disney friends and a host of parade performers to greet guests and share the joy.
Guests should have their cameras ready to capture immersive Disney character greetings from day to night! Mickey, Minnie and the whole gang will be sporting their brand-new Halloween costumes – with a touch of regal purple – to embrace the spirit of the occasion. Duffy’s new friend, Cookie, will appear in her first Halloween outfit, marking her Halloween debut together with Duffy, ShellieMay, Gelatoni and StellaLou.
At Halloween Time Festival Gardens, Winnie the Pooh and other Disney friends, in their Halloween costumes, will greet guests for photos during the day. Young guests can also learn to make Jack Skellington-themed paper masks and then go trick-or-treating. After dark, the gardens will be taken over by Disney’s infamous baddies for some wicked fun for everyone.
Disney villains and spectacular shows add thrills to dark nights
The park atmosphere turns ominous as the sun goes down, when fearsome Disney villains come out in force to join Villains Night Out! Chapter 3. This year, Maleficent leads the malevolent Ursula, the Evil Queen and Jafar in the procession. They will be joined by Jack Skellington, Captain Hook, the Queen of Hearts and Cruella de Vil to cause merry mayhem as they march along Main Street, U.S.A. Do not miss the big finale, as Maleficent ends the show on a fiery high note.
Bringing a celebratory tone to the night time experience, guests can enjoy the vibrant and colorful “We Love Mickey!” Projection Show along Main Street, U.S.A. every evening! This surprise party pays tribute to Mickey Mouse’s major milestones and features his memorable classics, his full-color heyday, and a crazy kaleidoscope of Mickey in modern styles.
We Love Mickey Projection Show.
Spoiled for choice with extensive Halloween merchandise and F&B creations
A bumper line-up of close to 100 Halloween themed merchandise items, from apparel to accessories, toys and home décor, will keep guests busy hunting for favorite keepsakes. Limited-edition pins commemorating the 25th anniversary of “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” are definitely collectibles. The Duffy and Friends’ collection highlights their newest Halloween outfits, exclusive to HKDL. The reversible Tsum Tsum plush toys instantly change Disney friends into Halloween looks. The new HKDL-exclusive Boo collection introduces the fun of playing “peek-a-boo” to uncover a Disney character. Guests can also dress up as a family in the new apparel collection from the Mickey and Friends assortment.
More than 20 new Halloween-themed snacks and drinks will be introduced in the park and hotel restaurants. The Halloween Mickey Ring at Main Street Bakery will be sure to put anyone in the mood for Halloween, as will the new Sesame Egg Puff and Jack Marshmallow Vanilla Cookie, available at Outdoor Vending Carts. The Purple Myst and Green Devil Special Drink adds plenty of fizz to the occasion. At Crystal Lotus in the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, Jack’s Party dim sum set, featuring Jack’s Shrimp Dumpling, Crispy Pumpkin Scallop Puff and Mummy Vegetable Bun, looks almost too good to be devoured.
Why not take a breather from all the excitement and settle down for a character-themed Halloween set menu at Main Street Corner Cafe hosted by Coca-Cola? For a change of pace, enjoy a parent-child DIY cookie decoration activity while relaxing over a family buffet at Chef Mickey at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel.
Enjoy a complete Halloween resort vacation
Halloween fun extends to the resort hotels with a host of Halloween activities for hotel guests to enjoy. Young guests may unleash their creativity by making exclusive Disney handcrafts like tricky Jack door tag, learn to make towel Sally and tricky treaty candy bag. Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel and Disney Explorers Lodge will immerse young guests in challenging themed games.
All hotels will also be delightfully, frightfully decorated. Taking the magic up a notch, guests can enjoy the Halloween Wicked In-Room Overlay for HK$899 from September 13 onwards. The room decoration package includes amenities box, slippers, door sticker, a pumpkin hamper with candies, wicked hats, cookies, a plush toy plus priority admission pass to “Journey to Halloween Town” and Halloween Playtime exclusively for hotel guests for a complete Halloween resort vacation.
Magical experiences fill Hong Kong Disneyland day and night
Seasonal entertainment will continue at the resort for the rest of year as Mickey and friends will share Christmas carols for a heart-warming celebration of “A Disney Christmas” from November to January 1, 2019. Festive fun will be introduced as Christmas tree lighting and romantic snowfalls create magical experiences for guests.
A rich line-up of one-of-a-kind experiences fill the park with magic day and night. The transformation of Hong Kong Disneyland’s castle is fully underway. The brand-new live atmosphere stage show “Moana: A Homecoming Celebration” in Adventureland marked the celebration of the first exciting entertainment offering under HKDL’s multi-year expansion spanning from 2018 to 2023. Next year, an all-new attraction: “Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle!” the second Marvel ride-through experience at the resort – will debut as the park continues to expand its Marvel-themed area.
There is always something new to discover at HKDL, and guests from the Philippines are invited to visit the resort every season to experience Disney magic!
