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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.

PlayStation®4/PlayStation®3 “Dragon Quest Heroes: Yamiryuu to Sekaiju no Shiro”
February 09, 2015

PlayStation®4/PlayStation®3 “Dragon Quest Heroes: Yamiryuu to Sekaiju no Shiro”

Sony Computer Entertainment Hong Kong Limited (SCEH) Singapore Branch announced today that PlayStation®4 (PS4™) and PlayStaiton®3 (PS3™) software “Dragon Quest Heroes: Yamiryuu to Sekaiju no Shiro” will be available in the Philippines on 26th February, 2015 (Thursday) at a suggested retail price (SRP) of PHP2,999 and PHP2,499 respectively. “Dragon Quest Heroes™: Yamiryuu to Sekaiju no Shiro” Product Information “Dragon Quest Heroes: Yamiryuu to Sekaiju no Shiro” takes place in a peaceful country where human and monsters used to live hand in hand. In this new action RPG title, players will fight against monsters that have suddenly gone out of control with magical spells and powers. Let’s enjoy this new, impressive […]
Japan’s Snow Festival Features The Manila Cathedral
February 06, 2015

Japan’s Snow Festival Features The Manila Cathedral

A snow sculpture of the Philippines’ Manila Cathedral is one of the major attractions in the 66th Sapporo Snow Festival in Japan. Designed by Hokkaido Broadcasting Co. Ltd., the sculpture stands 13 meters high and 26 meters wide at a block called HBC Philippines Square. This is the first time the country has become part of Japan’s largest winter festival. (Photo of a snow sculpture of The Manila Cathedral shared by Sapporo-Hokkaido Contents Strategy Organization) From February 5 to 11, tourists can expect around 200 ice and snow sculptures in Odori Park located in the heart of Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. For more info, you can visit their website at http://www.snowfes.com/english/.
City of Dreams Manila Grand Opening
December 28, 2015

City of Dreams Manila Grand Opening

Manila, Philippines – The much anticipated grand opening of the world-class entertainment-inspired destination resort, City of Dreams Manila, has finally happened on Monday, February 2, 2015. A press conference was hosted by Co-chairman and CEO of Melco Crown Entertainment (MCE), Mr. Lawrence Ho, and Co-chairman, Mr. James Packer. “Our philosophy is very simple: we want to build things that we’re proud of. We want to build integrated resorts that will last over time,” said Mr. Lawrence Ho as he shared their vision in opening the 6.2 hectare entertainment landscape. “[After Macau, the] Philippines and Manila is really the first place we decided to go into. [It is] one of the […]
St. Marc Café Now Open in Greenbelt 3, Makati
August 22, 2016

St. Marc Café Now Open in Greenbelt 3, Makati

This popular Japan’s coffee shop opens their second branch on the 2nd level of Greenbelt 3, Makati. St. Marc Café is a specialty bakery and patisserie that offer freshly baked bread and pastries. St. Marc Café offers freshly baked bread and pastries which are flaky and fluffy. Now, people working in Makati can try their signature product, the Choco Cro, which is short for chocolate croissant. St. Marc Cafe Greenbelt can accommodate up to 80 people and offers WiFi accessibility. Its third branch is said to soon open at UP Town (sometime in 2015). Who is excited for it? You can buy Choco Cro per piece (Php 55) or per […]
ANA Presents: Japanese YOSE in Manila
January 30, 2015

ANA Presents: Japanese YOSE in Manila

The All Nippon Airways (ANA) will dispatch a yose comedy show featuring a famous Japanese comedian Shinnosuke Tachikawa. It will happen at the Fairmont Hotel Makati on March 1, 2015. The show will start at 3:00 pm. For those who don’t know, yose is a Japanese traditional comedy storytelling performed for Japanese and sometimes for visitors from abroad and foreign residents.  
Ehime’s Traditional Sake Now in the Philippines
December 29, 2015

Ehime’s Traditional Sake Now in the Philippines

Finally, Manila has the chance to grab an array of Japanese sake in stores soon, kicking off with a taste test held on January 29! Originated in Japan, a sake is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. Distinguished guests from BDO, JETRO Manila, Japanese Embassy and many others tried the newest drink in town in this private, intimate event held at the Anvil restaurant in the BDO South Tower, Makati. These businessmen were given the opportunity to leisurely and thoroughly taste the wide range of sake presented. The sake served came from the Ehime prefectures. They are known for their fine quality and are exported in countries like Singapore, […]
New World Makati Ushers in the Year of the Yin Wood Goat
December 28, 2015

New World Makati Ushers in the Year of the Yin Wood Goat

To officially welcome the Year of the Yin Wood Goat, guests are invited to receive a shower of good luck at the most auspicious spots of New World Makati Hotel on Thursday, 19 February 2015. Feng shui expert Princesse Lim Fernandez from the Yin & Yang Shop of Harmony guides guests on the age-old Chinese traditions and best practices to achieve happiness and prosperity. The hotel features a lagoon, positive sources of energy, and wishing trees with a special burning ritual where guests can cast their wishes and release them to heaven. The traditional eye-dotting ceremony will be followed by a vibrant dragon and lion dance prior a delectable feast. […]
Philippine Primer February (2015): Hotel Favorites in Manila
January 26, 2015

Philippine Primer February (2015): Hotel Favorites in Manila

February is a special month for both lovers and travelers. This month, Philippine Primer features the finest 5-star hotels there are in Metro Manila that offer total luxury and convenience. Here, we list down our recommendations and highlight the hotel’s most unique amenity which you can certainly look forward to when you visit! For cost-conscious tourists, don’t fret! Turn the page and check out an organized list of really good business and budget hotels that offer ideal comfort at great value. And of course, we can never miss featuring the most special day of the month! In preparation for the coming Valentine’s Day, Philippine Primer has come up with a special […]
Yoree Korean BBQ Goes South!
December 29, 2015

Yoree Korean BBQ Goes South!

AS FESTIVE AS CAN BE. Korean Cultural Center’s Samulnori band opened the event by playing some traditional Korean music. Yoree opens its new branch in Alabang Drums were beaten and gongs were played in traditional Korean fashion as Yoree Korean BBQ opened their new doors at Molito, Alabang. This new restaurant is their second one in the metro where they continue to serve nothing but the best of Korean cuisine. Famous for their state-of-the-art Korean barbecue, Yoree has 24 branches in Seoul. They import most of their ingredients from Korea, ensuring its quality and taste. They offer exquisite Korean dishes, such as Yangnyum Galbi, Gyeranjjim, Haemul Pajeon, Japchae, Jeyuk Bokkeum […]
Kleenex Introduces Women’s Newest Best Friend
December 28, 2015

Kleenex Introduces Women’s Newest Best Friend

“Just because we [try] to be superwomen [and] to achieve so much [doesn’t mean that] our looks and our hygiene […] have to suffer,” fashion blogger Nicole Andersson related her everyday toils and crosses as a modern-day woman. This is nothing new for today’s women of the world. Despite the ability to toughen up, women still feel the need to stay delicate and feminine. Enter Kleenex, the World’s No. 1 Facial Tissue, together with their newest and latest innovation: Kleenex with Cucumber Extract. “Whenever you buy Kleenex Facial Tissue now, you will experience […] softer tissues than before,” claimed Senior Brand Manager Ritz Tan. The brand also takes pride in […]
‘Dance Dance Asia: Crossing the movements’: Unfolding the Asian tour
January 22, 2015

‘Dance Dance Asia: Crossing the movements’: Unfolding the Asian tour

So much talent on one stage. Dance concerts are very atypical in the Philippines and it’s fortunate to have something like this in a country whose love for dance and music are reigning supreme. Everyone at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium in RCBC Plaza Makati was in awed by the show-stopping performances of the three Japanese dance crews last Jan 17 & 18. The s**t kingz, Tokyo Gegegay and TAPDANCERIZE keeps audiences on their toes during their kick off concert in the Philippines. The show opened with TAPDANCERIZE which features three tap dancers: Yuri Uragami, Gunjo and Satomi Toma and are accompanied by 4 instrumentalists. Each of the three members […]
5 Essentials for Manila’s Working Men
June 06, 2024

5 Essentials for Manila’s Working Men

The metro can be the perfect place to start a career. With all its hustle and bustle, who wouldn’t get inspired to get up every morning and seize the day? While you can have drinks with your friends at nightfall, reality has to kick in at day and there are a few essentials you guys will need in order to bring out your best despite Manila’s erratic weather. 1. Deodorant From Axe Philippine’s Facebook Page As a professional, we all know that first impressions last and image is everything so hygiene is of utmost importance. It doesn’t matter if you’re at an entry level position or already the boss. For […]
Pope’s Mass at the Quirino Grandstand
January 15, 2015

Pope’s Mass at the Quirino Grandstand

Scheduled to arrive to the Philippines today, Pope Francis will be holding Holy Masses at the Manila Cathedral on Jan. 16; in Tacloban, Leyte on Jan. 17; and at the Quirino Grandstand at the Rizal Park on Jan. 18.  Millions of Filipinos and other nationalities are expected to attend the Pope’s Mass at the Quirino Grandstand. Gates will be opened as early as 6:00 am and will be closed by 2:30 pm. Camping will not be allowed in the venue the night before. For those who will be attending the mass on January 18, here are a few safety reminders from the government: 1. Be calm. Don’t push. Don’t run. 2. Monitor public safety advisories. 3. Avoid bringing […]
Kichitora in Bonifacio High Street is Now Open
January 14, 2015

Kichitora in Bonifacio High Street is Now Open

Kichitora opens its 3rd branch today at BHS Cinemas, 3/F Central Square, Bonifacio High St. Kichitora, which means “lucky tiger”, is famous in Tokyo for their Paitan Ramen.  They even put up an enormous and beautiful tiger wall design that is definitely hard to miss. The new branch has a chic yet relaxing ambiance and can accommodate up to 50 people. At the event, guests were served with their delicious Gyoza, Ban Ban Ji (chicken salad), and Chicken Karage. L-R: Gyoza (P150), Ban Ban Ji (P295), and Chicken Karaage (Family Portion – P250 / Single – P150) (L-R: Paitan Tsukumen (P380), Paitan Ramen Zenbu no Se (P420), Hokkaido Miso Ramen […]
A Glimpse of Glam & Gold: SEA Xmas Bazaar
December 28, 2015

A Glimpse of Glam & Gold: SEA Xmas Bazaar

Christmas may be over and done with, but our pleasant memories of yesteryear live on. Before we totally immerse ourselves in the new and the fresh that is 2015, let’s take a look at one of the hippest holiday bazaars in the metro: the SEA of Glam & Gold Xmas Bazaar. It was a feast of food and fashion, indeed. The Henry Sy, Sr. auditorium was filled with the busiest last-minute Christmas shoppers, the best bag, shoe and clothes bargains and some unique food items, such as gourmet dried mango chocolates and our very own barako coffee. Most purveyors who participated are local, start-up businesses, like Kneutral and What If. […]
Turnover of Japan-Funded Reconstructed Daycare Center and National Agricultural School for Typhoon Yolanda Affected Areas
January 12, 2015

Turnover of Japan-Funded Reconstructed Daycare Center and National Agricultural School for Typhoon Yolanda Affected Areas

First Turn over ceremony in Typhoon Yolanda devastated area The Government of Japan will turn over the reconstructed daycare center and national agricultural school to the Government of the Philippines in a ceremony on January 13, 2015 in the Municipalities of Guian and Balangiga, Eastern Samar for the Japan-funded Quick Impact Projects under Urgent Development Study on the Project on Rehabilitation and Recovery from Typhoon Yolanda. The ceremony will be attended by second secretary of the Embassy of Japan Koji Otani and the chief representative of JICA Philippine office Noriaki Niwa.  The Quick Impact Projects is composed of projects which targets restarting of economic activities, reconstruction of daily lives, and […]
Visit Bohol Tourism Campaign for 2015 Launched
December 28, 2015

Visit Bohol Tourism Campaign for 2015 Launched

Makati City, Philippines – Even after the devastating catastrophe that hit the province of Bohol in October 2013, today, January 9, 2015, Bohol government officials has come together, with all smiles, to proudly launch their tourism campaign “Visit Bohol 2015” that aims to revitalize the image of the beautiful province of Bohol and to entice more visitors to come. Under the leadership of Gov. Edgar Chatto, “Visit Bohol 2015”seeks to position the province as a top-notch tourist destination with its amazing natural attraction and its friendly and honest people. “With Visit Bohol 2015, expect a much better and bolder Bohol – ready to welcome all of you to our beautiful […]
New World Manila Bay Hotel opens in Manila
February 13, 2018

New World Manila Bay Hotel opens in Manila

“Celebration Stay” Package Launches New Era for the Deluxe Property New World Manila Bay Hotel opened on 1 January 2015 as New World Hotels & Resorts’ second property in the capital and its “Celebration Stay” package welcomes discerning travellers with the brand’s signature “modern Oriental hospitality.”   With “Celebration Stay” guests enjoy a special rate starting at PHP6,800 (USD152) per room per night for a minimum two-night stay in a City Bay View Room, with complimentary access to the Residence Club Living Room for benefits such as daily Continental breakfast, all-day refreshments and evening cocktails. Also included is a complimentary one-way airport transfers, use of WiFi and the Boardroom for one […]
Announcement: Primer is Closed on Christmas Season
December 22, 2014

Announcement: Primer is Closed on Christmas Season

There’s only 10 days left before we officially say goodbye to year 2014! And we, here at Primer, are just as excited as you are to enjoy and spend the holidays with our loved ones. Please be reminded that our office will be closed on the following days: Wednesday, December 24, until Sunday, December 28 Tuesday, December 30, until January 4, Sunday Primer wishes you a holiday filled with love, peace and joy!
Gift Idea Series: All Ye Gents
February 28, 2017

Gift Idea Series: All Ye Gents

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… …or not, if you are behind your Christmas shopping. Yikes! Double yikes if you find it doubly difficult to think of the perfect gift for the men in your life. With all the sweet, cutesy and sparkly little trinkets out of the list, what else is there to give aside from that usual Nirvana t-shirt? Fight the urge to around like a headless chicken. Primer Magazine advices you to ACT COOL and check out our list of seven possible presents for the gentlemen: An NBA 2K15 Source: http://espn.go.com/ Holiday appeal: …or any video game related to the following: sports, cars, monsters, heroes, […]