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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.

H&M Manila to open this October!
December 28, 2015

H&M Manila to open this October!

Hurray to all the fans of this Swedish clothing retailer, H&M. The flagship store will be opening its doors on October 17, 2014 at SM Mega Fashion Hall from 9am to midnight. H&M will occupy 3 floors with over 3000 meters sq plan at the new wing of SM Mega Fashion Hall. This full concept store will highlight the 2014 autumn collections from kids, ladies to menswear. Make sure to head on its first day of opening as H&M will be giving away a lot of good offers. photo from H&M website H&M has over 3000 retail stores worldwide and the Philippines is its 55th market. Philippines houses to some of […]
Choco Cro is now in Manila – St. Marc Cafe Grand Opening
December 28, 2015

Choco Cro is now in Manila – St. Marc Cafe Grand Opening

Manila, Philippines – The grand opening of the Saint Marc Cafe (pronounced as “san maruku”) happened last Sept. 22, 2014 at the 1/F Fashion Hall of SM Mega Mall. (From L-R: Mr. Virgilio Lim [Pres of Suyen Corp.], Mr. Ben Chan [CEO of Suyen Corp.], Mr. Naoyuki Katamaya [Founder of Saint Marc Holdings in Japan], Ms. Ritsuko Fujii [Managing director of Saint Marc Holdings in Japan], and Mr. Taka Miyake [Managing Director of Saint Marc Holding in South East Asia]) The famous coffee shop from Japan already had a soft opening last August, but yesterday was the ribbon cutting attended by the people that made this all possible. Many famous […]
Gaucho Restaurant: A taste of Argentina
December 28, 2015

Gaucho Restaurant: A taste of Argentina

I never fail to notice this restaurant whenever I pass by the al fresco park on the 3rd floor of Robinsons Magnolia. The exterior is intimidating because of the tinted glass windows and the golden finish on the beautifully decorated gate below the sign Gaucho Cocina y Vinos Argentinos. Most restaurants in the Philippines offer Chinese, Italian and Western cuisines but never have I heard of one serving Argentinian cuisine –oh, and an authentic one at that. Once I entered inside, I was more impressed by the interior. It is spacious and sophisticated: from the black and white checkered floors, the wooden dividers, the tables and chairs to the deer […]
Tokyo-Manila Jazz & Arts Festival: Bridging Generation and Cultural Gaps
December 28, 2015

Tokyo-Manila Jazz & Arts Festival: Bridging Generation and Cultural Gaps

Manila, Philippines – The TMJAF Press Conference was held at the Teriyaki Boy, Glorietta, Makati on Wednesday, September 17. Some of the popular Filipino musicians like Sitti, Boy Katindig, Bratpack, Mel Villena, and Moy Ortiz were present to grace the event. Tokyo-Manila Jazz Arts Festival is an annual event that continues to focus on the cultural exchange and artistic collaboration between Japan and the Philippines. It aims to serve as a conduit linking both cultures through music and other allied art forms. This year will be an exciting one for both Filipino and Japanese fans as they take Jazz into a new level of entertainment. There will be a lot […]
Official website for the Papal Visit PH is launched
September 15, 2014

Official website for the Papal Visit PH is launched

The official website (http://papalvisit.ph) of Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines in 2015 is formally launched last Sunday, September 14 at the third Catholic Media Summit held at Pangasinan Training Complex and Development Center. His Holiness will make an apostolic visit to the country from January 15 to 19, 2015, marking the 20th anniversary of the World Youth Day in the country. (grabbed from Papal Visit – Philippines 2015 Facebook)  
Apple gives away U2’s ‘Songs of Innocence’ exclusively to iTunes users!
September 14, 2014

Apple gives away U2’s ‘Songs of Innocence’ exclusively to iTunes users!

The top pop-rock band of all-time U2 is once again teaming up with Apple for the largest album release ever. During the Apple event last September 9, U2 and Apple’s CEO Tim Cook announced that every iTunes Store customer exclusively gets the former’s newest album ‘Songs of Innocence’ for free. The album is already available in iTunes library and users can just tap ‘download’. (Right- Grabbed from U2 website; Left- Screen shot from iTunes library) Since iTunes has more than 500 million customers worldwide, this release definitely makes a mark in music history for it is the most widely-distributed album of all time. ‘Songs of Innocence’ will also be exclusive to […]
Apple officially unveils iPhone 6 & iPhone 6 Plus
September 12, 2014

Apple officially unveils iPhone 6 & iPhone 6 Plus

Apple finally reveals the biggest advancement in the history of iPhone – the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. Downloaded from Apple PR The new models are significantly bigger and thinner than iPhones 5 & 5s. The iPhone 6 has a larger 4.7” screen size and a 6.9 mm frame size, making it the slimmest handset Apple has ever made. The iPhone 6 Plus, however, has a much larger screen size of 5.5″ and frame size of 7.1″. Apple fans can expect a better and higher screen resolution with the Retina HD Display, the most advanced iPhone display that delivers brilliant colour and most advanced Multi-Touch experience. The screen is […]
Salalalalad Bamba at Bamba Bistro
December 28, 2015

Salalalalad Bamba at Bamba Bistro

Tucked away along Aguirre Avenue inside BF Homes Paranaque lies a restaurant called Bamba Bistro. This well-raved gourmet place in the South is owned by the very talented young chef, Ms. Christina ‘Tina’ Legarda. The name of Bamba Bistro came from the song La Bamba which her father used to play when she was young to comfort her whenever she was sad. (Singing it in my head now, “la, la, la, la bamba…”) Bamba Bistro is a combination of gourmet comfort food and modern bistro. It is a well-designed restaurant with fresh interiors, cozy couch, and a family vibe once you enter. The restaurant is divided into two sections: the […]
PRIMER Magazine September Issue: SALAD Feature
September 08, 2014

PRIMER Magazine September Issue: SALAD Feature

Have you checked out the September issue of Primer magazine? This month, Primer features our favourite restaurants in Metro Manila that offer the freshest selections of salads. Gone are those days when a salad was just considered to be the “rabbit food” or the boring green dish in the menu. Now, more consumers are opting for a more nutritional alternative than the traditional fast food. And salad is the best choice. In this issue, find out how these restaurants not only offer healthy and delicious greens but also put creativity in its serving. Start eating salads today. Eat healthy. Your body will thank you.  Grab the latest issue of Primer […]
IPPUDO Philippines finally sets foot in Manila!
December 28, 2015

IPPUDO Philippines finally sets foot in Manila!

The 42nd international branch of IPPUDO is finally opening its flagship store in the Philippines at one of the premiere shopping destinations in the city, Mega Fashion Hall. Today, Primer was invited to the food tasting event and press preview of IPPUDO PH! Many VIPs also attended the event. Founder Mr. Shigemi Kawahara, also known as the “Ramen King”, flew over to the Philippines to personally open this branch. At the opening, Mr. Kawahara told everyone that he is pleased that they are finally opening a branch in “the country of smiles.” He aims to make the Filipinos happy with their ramen. Founder of Standard Hospitality Group, Mr. John Concepcion […]
The 25th Philippine Travel Mart
December 28, 2015

The 25th Philippine Travel Mart

The BIGGEST one-stop travel trade exhibition is happening right now! The Philippine Travel Operators Association (PHILTOA) has organized the Philippine Travel Mart 2014. This year marks its silver anniversary, making it the longest running travel and trade exhibition in the Philippines. From Sept 5-7, you can catch more than 200 exhibitors such as tourist operators, hotels, resorts, transportation companies, and other tourism-oriented companies at the SMX Convention Center. Find exclusive discounts and travel prices slashed down up to 70%! This is in line with the 25 “Pasasalamat” Sale ng Bayan Tour Packages. The Philippine Travel Mart aims to give everyone opportunity to travel the archipelago at a fairly low price. […]
Primer’s MVP of the Month (August 2014)
September 15, 2014

Primer’s MVP of the Month (August 2014)

It’s that time of the month again when we share to you the Most Valuable Primer staff…. *drum roll* This August……. It’s none other than “the little giant”……. Cresen “SEN” Abrea! Sen is Primer’s Accounting and Admin officer. She keeps track of EVERYTHING that goes in and out of Primer — from the office budget to the equipments. And she also keeps the files and records organized and make sure they are up-to-date. Thank you, Sen, and keep up the good work!!!
The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge – Primer Edition
February 28, 2017

The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge – Primer Edition

Manila, Philippines – Today, the staff of Philippine Primer Magazine accepted the challenge of its CEO, Mr. Hiromichi Fujita and participated in the viral campaign known as the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. As a media company in the Philippines, we try to find ways to be part of this kind of advocacies that we truly believe in. We decided to donate and show our support on the fight against ALS by taking the challenge. ALS – Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Motor neurons  reach from the brain to the spinal cord and from the spinal […]
Rurouni Kenshin Premieres in SM Megamall
August 23, 2014

Rurouni Kenshin Premieres in SM Megamall

Manila Philippines – The Kenshin stars walked the red carpet premiere of “Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Inferno,” at SM Megamall Cinema in Ortigas, Wednesday night, August 6th. The cinema was on pandemonium when the cast of the popular anime arrived. The media and loyal fans were present at the event when the Japanese cast had their introduction. Japanese actors Keishi Otomo, Takeru Satoh, Emi Takei, and Munetaka Aoki traveled all the way from Japan to attend the Asian premiere in Manila.  Director Keishi Otomo “Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Inferno” is schedule to have its first screening on August 20th followed by its sequel on September 24th, entitled “The Legend Ends”. Takeru Satoh […]
PRIMER MAGAZINE August Issue: STAR CHEFS MANILA
December 29, 2015

PRIMER MAGAZINE August Issue: STAR CHEFS MANILA

For the past issues, we have been featuring the best restaurants you can find in the Philippines. We have presented to you their delicious foods, showed you amazing photos and shared with you the basic information. This time, Philippine Primer Magazine highlights the people behind some of our favorite restaurants. Get to know the most popular and respected chefs in the culinary scene. – from left to right, top to bottom – ◊ Chef J. Gamboa of azuthai ◊ Chefs Jackie & Rolando Laudico of GUEVARRA’S ◊ Chef Gene Gonzales of Cafe Ysabel ◊ Chef Rob Pengson of The Goose Station ◊ Chef Him Uy de Baron of nomama artisinal […]
Manila’s Tokyo EDM Invasion at its finest!
December 29, 2015

Manila’s Tokyo EDM Invasion at its finest!

Last August 2, Saturday, history was made as the most celebrated local and Japanese EDM DJ’s played together at the SMX Convention Center. The Tokyo EDM Invasion brought the no. 1 club in Tokyo, WOMB, along with top Japanese DJ’s – DJ Dantz, DJ Ayumi and DJ Daijiro. DJ Dantz (main act) Upon entrance, Modern Geisha welcomed us to an all out Tokyo Invasion. Since SMX is a big venue, the place was divided into 3 sections: the main floor – which served as the ground for all regular guests; the VIP – the Neon Strip Lounge that showcase high tables and downtown Tokyo drinks; The guests at SVIP section […]
Ramen Master Ikuta Satoshi of Ramen Nagi Visits Manila
December 28, 2015

Ramen Master Ikuta Satoshi of Ramen Nagi Visits Manila

Last August 2, Primer was invited to visit the 4th and newest branch of Ramen Nagi located in Robinsons Magnolia which only opened last July 25. Primer was lucky to meet Ramen Master and founder of the Ramen Nagi and Butao chain of restaurants, Chef Ikuta Satosh, and his team. Chef Ikuta Satoshi visited Manila to personally prepare ramen and the newest dishes for the guests. And of course, we ordered through the signature order slip, Omotenashi sheet. Red King the best-seller Butao King Here are the new dishes to be launched: Spring Roll Curry Flavor is an authentic Japanese Spring Roll with vermicelli inside spiced up with curry flavour […]
Primer’s MVP of the Month (July 2014)
August 05, 2014

Primer’s MVP of the Month (July 2014)

So it’s that time of the month again where Fujita-san announces the Most Valuable Primer staff. And the best staff for the month of July is………. *drum roll* It’s none other than…………….. POCHI!!! Too shy to get her photo taken! Congratulations! Thank you for all your efforts and hard-work in making our magazine feature layout beautiful! Keep up the good work!!!
Invitation to Cambridge Child Development Centre Makati’s Pretoddlers Openhouse
December 29, 2015

Invitation to Cambridge Child Development Centre Makati’s Pretoddlers Openhouse

  Everyone is invited to the Cambridge Pre-toddler Open House!    
O2 Space Marks Its First Month with a Blessing
December 29, 2015

O2 Space Marks Its First Month with a Blessing

Workstation Area (Php 600/8hrs or Php400/ 4 hours including high speed internet and free flowing coffee or tea) The rainy season is upon us and along with the deluge from the skies comes a flood of blessings for the newest co-working space in Makati, Optimal Office Space Solutions or O2 Space. Last July 19th, family and friends gathered to celebrate the actualization of what seemed like endless brainstorming, planning, calculating, strategizing and many other -ings. Hallway leading to Serviced offices, meeting rooms and pantry Pastor Roderick was on-hand to bless the serviced offices, meeting rooms, workshop space workstation area and even the mailboxes! Each space in the office was showered […]