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News in the Philippines

Stay in the loop with your go-to source of blogs in the Philippines! Know the latest happenings and trending news in Manila and across the country.

Asia Premium Travel Mart holds talk re ‘Sustainable Responsible Tourism in Luxury Industry’
June 15, 2016

Asia Premium Travel Mart holds talk re ‘Sustainable Responsible Tourism in Luxury Industry’

On June 14, a press conference was held for the upcoming Asia Premium Travel Mart, in participation with some of the country’s biggest players in hotel industry, airline officials, and media.   APTM PLEDGE. Several attendees of the event were asked to pledge for sustainable PH tourism.   During the press conference, speakers encouraged all the stakeholders and media to push for long term and sustainable plan for Philippine tourism. The group’s president Fe Abling – Yu, emphasized the establishment of relevant, safe and convenient infrastructures for tourists since Philippine tourism gives big chunk of contribution to the economy. Yu also mentioned about the rising need on international connectivity to […]
21st French Film Festival Arrives in Manila
June 15, 2016

21st French Film Festival Arrives in Manila

The red carpet of the 21st French Film Festival on June 8 at BGC’s Central Square was dazzled by the entrance of Jaclyn Jose, the first Southeast Asian to win the Best Actress of the Cannes Film Festival for Brillante Mendoza’s Ma’ Rosa. This was a double celebration of France’s rich culture in cinema, and also the Philippine cinema.     Organized by the Embassy of France to the Philippines, Institut Francais, the Alliance Francaise de Manille and Cebu, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, in cooperation with the Ayala Malls Cinema, the SSI Group, Inc., and Central Square, the 21st edition of the French Film Festival opened with […]
Lunch out at Butamaru with these lunch sets
June 15, 2016

Lunch out at Butamaru with these lunch sets

Head on over to south as Butamaru in Alabang offers exciting lunch deals for everyone who are craving for some Japanese! Available from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm, from Monday to Friday, Butamaru Lunch Sets can be availed in 3 different combinations: Chashudon, a rice bowl topped with torched pork belly and egg; Toriten, chicken tempura; and Goma Dare Chasu Reimen, cold sesame noodles with pork belly or Ramen. All of these come with Dessert of the Day and soup; the ramen and chashudon come with gyoza.     For only P360* you can avail of these sets that will not just fill you up, but will also complete your […]
PLDT, Smart unveil new logos in line with change
June 14, 2016

PLDT, Smart unveil new logos in line with change

Change has come to PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc. with the unveiling of their new logos in line with a fresh brand identity and a shift towards digital.   CHANGE HAS ARRIVED. PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications Inc. unveiled these new logos yesterday at their “It’s a New Day for PLDT-Smart,” held at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel. Photo courtesy of PLDT News Center.   The logos were unveiled during an event held at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel called “It’s A New Day for PLDT-Smart.” In line with the rebrand and change in logo is the change in the company’s name, from “Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company” to “PLDT Inc.” […]
Japan honors former PH president Elpidio Quirino in Hibiya Park
June 14, 2016

Japan honors former PH president Elpidio Quirino in Hibiya Park

On June 18, a solemn ceremony will be held in Hibiya Park in Tokyo, Japan to commemorate former Philippine president Elpidio Quirino for his honor.     Several Japanese government officials and Filipino guests will be attending the unveiling of the metal marker bearing Quirino’s face, which will be placed in the park as a grand gesture of peace and friendship between Japan and the Philippines. According to Inquirer report, this commemorative marker was made because of Quirino’s role in rebuilding the two country’s friendship. As the sixth president of PH, Quirino made an important decision of giving a presidential pardon to the last Japanese prisoners of war in 1945. […]
Filipino wins Tony award for best costume design
June 14, 2016

Filipino wins Tony award for best costume design

Another Filipino has been added to the list of talents who have won a Tony! New York-based designer Clint Ramos bagged the award for the play Eclipsed at this year’s Tony Awards on Sunday, June 12.     The University of the Philippines Theater Arts alumni started doing design work for the campus’ theater production, Dulaang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas, before getting a Master of Fine Arts Design degree for Stage and Film at the New York University’s Tisch School of Arts under a full scholarship. Since then, he has been designing costumes for plays both in the U.S. and internationally. Ramos is the 4th Filipino to have won a Tony, […]
Celebrate Fathers Day with these exciting promos!
June 13, 2016

Celebrate Fathers Day with these exciting promos!

It’s time to give back to our loving fathers this coming Sunday, as we celebrate Fathers Day! Check out these exciting promos and discounts to help you spend wisely as you treat your dad on his very special day. Hurry and find out which of these can make your father happy!   Enjoy a 20% discount on select New Balance footwear and apparels! Drop by at your favorite New Balance stores and get your dad a new pair of shoes to use. Promo runs until June 19, 2016.   Dads love sumptuous meals. Let him devour his favorite food at Guevarra’s and get the chance to get him an Ibarra […]
FWD is now the PBA’s official insurer
June 13, 2016

FWD is now the PBA’s official insurer

FWD Life Philippines has recently inked a three-year partnership with the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) to become the official insurer of Asia’s first pay-for-play league. Photo shows (right) FWD Philippines President and CEO, Peter Grimes, and PBA Commissioner Chito Narvasa (left) following the announcement of the partnership between the two esteemed organizations.   As the fastest-growing insurance firm in the Philippines, FWD Life Philippines (FWD) empowers Filipino basketball players to compete with confidence because they are now covered by the insurer in a new three-year partnership, says the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) today. FWD Life Philippines has signed a three-year partnership with the PBA to become the official insurer of […]
Out Now! Philippine Primer June Issue
June 10, 2016

Out Now! Philippine Primer June Issue

Get Primer Magazine today to discover what’s happening in the Metro this June! via GIPHY Street: BGC For the June issue of Philippine Primer, come join us as we raid the unprecedented streets of Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Visit a modern Manila and walk on the street of BGC as there is always something new for everyone, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or going out on another food crawl. Philippine Primer features new and notable restaurants, establishment, and happenings around BGC. Start flipping the pages, book a reservation, and appreciate the good things in this cosmopolitan city in Manila!     Travel: Laguna Need a vacation destination that is […]
Reward yourself with JCB Deals!
June 10, 2016

Reward yourself with JCB Deals!

Get the most out of your JCB credit cards as you enjoy meals and relaxation with family and friends. Deals up to 20% off await when you use your JCB credit card!     Promo validity is from April 1, 2016 until June 30, 2016     Participating Merchants: My Kitchen by Chef Chris – 10% discount – G/F Oasis Park Hotel, 1032-34 Belen St Paco, Manila Saboten – 10% discount – G/F Serendra, McKinley Parkway Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City – G/F Glorietta 5, Ayala Center, Makati City Mangetsu – 10% discount – 38 Jupiter St., Bel-Air Village, Makati City Hatsu Hana Tei – 10% discount – 2/F Herald Suites, 2168 […]
Japan’s famous Cherry Blossoms, soon to bloom in Benguet
June 08, 2016

Japan’s famous Cherry Blossoms, soon to bloom in Benguet

CHERRY BLOSSOMS. In just a few years, you can already see Japan’s much-loved Sakura park in PH!   Now, you don’t have to go to Japan to see Sakura Park. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of sisterhood ties between Japan Prefecture and Benguet province, officials of Atok, Benguet and officials from Kochi prefecture and Japanese embassy planted over 30 cherry blossoms and other Japanese trees in the said province.   Photo grabbed from ABS-CBN News   These trees were planted at a mountaintop park situated at 2,000 meters above sea level. According to a CNN Philippines report, cherry blossoms were propagated in November 2015 but only few survived as […]
Liese, the No.1 Hair Color Brand in Japan, is now in PH!
June 08, 2016

Liese, the No.1 Hair Color Brand in Japan, is now in PH!

Liese is finally here to solve our hair-coloring problems with ease!     Known to be the Japan’s number 1 hair color brand, Liese has found its way to Philippine shores as they bring with them their hair color products perfectly fit for every Filipina.     With Liese Creamy Bubble Hair Color (BHC), every Filipina can now get the chance to color their hair as easy as ABC! Want to know why Liese is best for you? Here are 5 reasons why:     1. Liese BHC provides an easy DIY kit! With only three easy steps, you can now easily get the hair color that you want. Just […]
Filipino historian Ambeth Ocampo wins prestigious award in Japan
June 07, 2016

Filipino historian Ambeth Ocampo wins prestigious award in Japan

AMBETH OCAMPO. Author of “Rizal without the Overcoat,” is given an Academic Prize in Japan. Photo grabbed from ue.edu.ph   Known for his writings on national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, historian and writer Ambeth Ocampo has been given the Academic Prize by the prestigious award-giving body Fukuoka Prize in Japan. This Academic Prize is accordingly given to those who “have made outstanding achievements in the field of Asian studies, contributing to the world’s understanding of Asia.” This award is given by the Fukuoka Prize, an award-giving body which recognizes individuals from East, South, and Southeast Asia who have “outstanding contributions to the preservation and creation of Asian Culture through their […]
Dancing MMDA Constables remind everyone of #MMShakeDrill
June 06, 2016

Dancing MMDA Constables remind everyone of #MMShakeDrill

In case you missed it, the Metro Manila Shake Drill is happening on June 22, 2016 at 9 a.m. To remind people of the event, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) released this video on their official twitter account, @MMDA:     Yes, your eyes do not deceive you. Those are 2 of MMDA’s finest constables, dancing to the 1978 hit single Shake Your Groove Thing by Peaches & Herb. The Metro Manila ShakeDrill (#MMShakeDrill) is a metro-wide earthquake drill that’s looking to get everyone in gear when a massive 7.2-magnitude earthquake hits the nation’s capital. This event is organized by the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council […]
“The Greatest” dies at 74
June 06, 2016

“The Greatest” dies at 74

Dubbed “The Greatest”, boxing legend Muhammad Ali passed away last June 3 (June 4 in Manila) at a hospital in Phoenix, AZ. He was 74.   LEGENDS IN ONE PHOTO. The Beatles take a punch from then-heavyweight contender Cassius Clay, the man who would later be known as Muhammad Ali. Photo courtesy of Autore Sconosciuto via Wikimedia Commons.   In a report from NBC News, family spokesman Bob Gunnell said the boxing legend died because of septic shock “due to unspecified natural causes.” Ali has been battling Parkinson’s disease for 32 years prior to his passing. Tributes came in waves over social media from all over the world, especially from […]
Muslim’s holy month of Ramadan starts on June 6
June 06, 2016

Muslim’s holy month of Ramadan starts on June 6

RAMADAN. The holy month of the Muslims. Photo grabbed from sundaymail.co.zw   In accordance to the Islamic calendar, Ramadan will start on June 6 which prompts Muslims all over the world to do fasting in commemoration of their Islamic belief. The Ramadan is the 9th of the 12 months of the Hijra lunar calendar, which is considered to be the holiest of all months for the Muslims. It’s also the time when God’s revelation in Qur’an is finally completed. The Ramadan is associated with lunar cycles, which is why when the moon was sighted in Malaysia, according to Mufti Abu Huraira Udasan of Darul Ifta House of Opinion of Maguindanao […]
A taste of Japanese Sake: Hakkaisan Sake Tasting
June 03, 2016

A taste of Japanese Sake: Hakkaisan Sake Tasting

High quality sake is hard to come by, but thanks to the partnership between Hakkaisan Brewery and Philippine Wine Merchants (PWM), expats and locals alike can experience one of the best sakes from the land of the Rising Sun.   THE SAKE-TASTING CREW. It might as well have been a wine tasting event, as Hakkaisan Sake can be placed on the same level as wine.   A sake tasting event was held on Friday, June 3, at One Way Restaurant in Makati City to introduce Hakkaisan Sake to the Philippines. Nine kinds of sake were served, seven of which will be distributed in the country by PWM.   What makes […]
Share the Feeling today with COCA-COLA Emoticons!
June 03, 2016

Share the Feeling today with COCA-COLA Emoticons!

Have you ever gotten into a situation where there’s something you’re dying to say what you feel… but you just can’t say it? Coca-Cola is here to help you say what you feel with Coca-Cola Emoticons! Just drop by 7-Eleven Caltex Connecticut today, June 4, and get a FREE personalized COKE Emoticon for a minimum purchase of P100!   SHARE THE FEELING WITH COKE. Visit 7-Eleven Caltex Connecticut today and get a free personalized Coke Emoticon bottle! Photo courtesy of COCA-COLA Philippines Facebook page   #TasteTheFeeling with Coca-Cola and who knows, you might just get your message across without saying a single word. Can’t make it today? Follow the COCA-COLA […]
Starbucks’ Kape Vinta Blend is back!
June 03, 2016

Starbucks’ Kape Vinta Blend is back!

In line with the celebration of Philippine Independence Day on June 12, Starbucks’ Kape Vinta Blend makes a comeback you shouldn’t miss!     First introduced in 1997 when Starbucks first came to the country, Kape Vinta Blend was created for the opening of the first branch in the Philippines. The coffee is full-bodied with a soft and spicy finish made with Philippine beans. It’s made to resemble the typical Filipino coffee as it celebrates the Filipino tradition and culture. Kape Vinta Blend’s packaging features Vinta, a bright and colorful sail used in the islands of Mindanao.  Renowned Filipino artist Mauro “Malang” Santos designed the coffee stamp used on the […]
Senate approves bill prohibiting use of phones while driving
June 03, 2016

Senate approves bill prohibiting use of phones while driving

Just recently, the Senate has finally approved the bill that prohibits mobile phone usage and other forms of distracting activities while driving in the Philippines.     According to a press release from the senate, Senate Bill No. 3211 known as the “Anti-Distracted Driving Act,” aims to “safe guard the public from the ruinous and extremely injurious effects of vehicular accidents.” This bill prohibits the use of mobile communication to write, send or read text, and to make and receive phone calls. This also includes “using any electronic entertainment or computing device to play games, watch movies, surf the internet, read e-books, perform calculations, and other similar acts,” all while […]