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Clark Freeport Zone ready for business
With big-scale events in full swing once, Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga is ready to host various MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events with essential infrastructures, from transportation to recreational facilities, already in place to accommodate local and international guests. Supporting Clark Freeport Zone’s business tourism initiatives is Filinvest Mimosa+ Leisure City, the only leisure township in Central Luzon well-equipped with top-notch amenities to ensure personal and business travelers’ stay is as convenient and relaxing as possible. Strategically located at the heart of Clark Freeport Zone, Filinvest Mimosa+ Leisure City is a two-hour drive from Manila via NLEX, SCTEX and TPLEX and a short eight-minute drive from Clark International Airport. Access by sea is possible through the Subic Freeport Zone, while public transportation is available through Mabalacat Regional Bus Terminal. Meanwhile, guests from major cities such as Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Seoul can have three- to five-hour direct flights. Additionally, the new state-of-the-art Clark International Airport can accommodate eight million passengers annually and is equipped with the latest technologies to make travel easier. The North-South Commuter Railway, once completed, will also help reduce travel time from Clark to Metro Manila to less than an hour. Award-winning amenities Filinvest Mimosa+ is a leading MICE destination in Central Luzon, providing award-winning amenities catering to various business events. At the heart of the property is Quest Plus Conference Center Clark, which received the 2021 Sports Tourism Awards Hotel of the Year for hosting the PBA & Asian Cup Qualifiers’ bubble in 2020 and 2021. It offers the Magellan Ballroom, a 2022 ASEAN MICE Venues Tourism Awardee that can accommodate up to 550 guests. Aside from the renowned venue, Quest Plus Conference Center Clark also offers 304 rooms and luxurious grand villas, four multiple meeting rooms, and two Hilltop Convention Rooms. Mimosa+ also offers a diverse range of dining and entertainment options for guests. Food enthusiasts can relish the culinary delights of Mequeni Live, Mequeni Lounge and Charley’s Bar. Additionally, they can explore the breathtaking 128-hectare Mimosa Plus Golf Course, recently awarded Best Golf Course in the Philippines at the World Golf Awards 2022. This golf course now boasts two 18-hole courses — the Mountainview, known for its challenging terrain, and the Acacia Lakeview, renowned for its stunning scenery. The newly-furbished Mimosa Plus Golf Course Clubhouse has also added amenities such as the Mimosa Plus Golf simulators to help golfers practice their swing. Afterward, they can proceed to the recently opened Baker J Café, the new go-to café for French cuisine. The ideal destination for large-scale events The outstanding features found within Filinvest Mimosa+ allow guests to enjoy many fitness and recreational activities. They can utilize the property’s vast open spaces by running quickly or biking around Acacia Park, which features tree-lined biking and jogging lanes, a pavilion and seating areas. The enormous green landscapes of Acacia Open Grounds are available for recreational activities, perfect for families and friends. It houses fun and creative installations where some of the biggest cycling and leisure events were held. This includes the Philippine Cycling Festival Fun Ride, the Tri-Factor Duathlon, Titan 77.7 Philippines, and the Clark City Marathon. It also recently hosted The Bull Runner Dream Marathon and the two-day Philippine Cycling Festival 2023, an annual cycling event with more than 3000 participants. Soon, the Mimosa Basketball Court will be transformed into a multi-purpose court that can cater to sports such as Basketball, Volleyball, and Badminton. [caption id="attachment_134421" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Without a doubt, Filinvest Mimosa+ is a vibrant live-work-play township.[/caption] Thriving live-work-play township Complementing this well-balanced nature landscape, Filinvest Mimosa+ offers other developments worth visiting for investment and retail opportunities. The state-of-the-art WorkPlus, which already has four completed buildings and one more underway, offers business spaces conducive to growth and work-life balance. The Crib, a co-living residential area for the contemporary, has two available buildings for leasing and is set to launch two more buildings. There is also the Mimosa+ Retail Strip, a lifestyle and recreational strip that will soon open with various high-end retail and dining options, open for leisure and sports facilities partnerships. For residents looking to relocate to Clark, the Golf Ridge Private Estate, now available for pre-selling, offers an exquisite country-club lifestyle with a picturesque view of the neighboring golf course. Lastly, with the construction in full swing, the Mimosa+ Lifestyle Mall will be the new regional shopping and dining center destination. Moreover, investors and end-users looking to relocate or set up their business in the area can already find foreign investors, including the USA, Japan, Australia and South Korea, as Clark Development Center offers business-friendly terms and incentives. Processing of permits, license registration, and application are made more efficient, with approvals in less than three weeks. Without a doubt, as a vibrant live-work-play township with a host of award-winning amenities, Filinvest Mimosa+ is the destination in Clark Freeport Zone that’s ideal and capable of business tourism and leisure travel with family and friends. 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The Mall | NUSTAR Unveils a World of Culinary Delights
NUSTAR Resort Cebu sets new standards of luxury in accommodations, leisure, and exquisite culinary experience with the grand launch of its casual restaurants and premier cinemas on the second level of its retail component, The Mall | NUSTAR. Frederick Go, President and CEO of Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) and Universal Hotels and Resorts Inc. (UHRI),.....»»
PEZA chief lures potential Rotarian investors with ecozone perks
Members — particularly those in such business enterprises as manufacturing — of the Rotary Club of Manila, Asia’s oldest and biggest Rotary organization, were personally enticed by Philippine Economic Zone Authority director-general Tereso Panga of the benefits, particularly tax perks if they expand operations in the country or poured in investments in the ecozone. Panga, who served as guest speaker at RC Manila’s 14th General Membership Meeting at the Manila Polo Club, Makati City, on 5 October 2023, relayed to the prospective ecozone investors the various fiscal and non-fiscal Incentives offered by PEZA. He said the investment promotion agency offers income tax holidays or ITH of four to seven years depending on the industry tier and location, once onboard PEZA-run ecozones. For the National Capital Region, locators are entitled to four years of ITH for those that are in Tier 1; five years of ITH for Tier 2, and six years for those belonging to Tier 3. For locators in Metropolitan areas or areas contiguous and adjacent to NCR, a five-year ITH is given to Tier 1; six years for Tier 2, and seven years for Tier 3. “A five percent Special Corporate Income Tax holiday is also provided for 10 years for export-oriented projects, while enhanced deductions for five years are given to locators involved in domestic-oriented project activities,” Panga said. Other notable benefits awaiting interested PEZA locators include Customs duty exemption on importation of capital equipment, raw materials, spare parts, or accessories directly and exclusively used in the registered project/activity for a maximum period of 17 years unless otherwise extended under the Strategic Investment Priority Plan of the Philippine government; domestic sales allowance of up to 30 percent of total sales for export-oriented companies; value-added tax exemption on importation and VAT-zero rating on local purchases of goods and services directly and exclusively used in the registered project or activity for a maximum period of 17 years, unless otherwise extended under the SIPP; and exemption from payment of national and local government taxes and fees for the period of availment of the 5 percent special corporate income tax incentive Also, PEZA locators are entitled to employ foreign nationals; can enjoy long-term land leases of up to 75 years, and are entitled to the PEZA 2-year special non-immigrant visa issued to expatriates and their dependents as well as foreign workers. [caption id="attachment_194752" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Tereso O. Panga[/caption] PEZA performance Panga earlier reported that the investment promotion agency had reaped an overwhelming 114 percent increase in investments in the second quarter of the year, following the approval of 61 new and expansion projects for the period of April to June 2022. PEZA records showed that total investments are expected to bring in a total of P14.347 billion, 114.93 percent higher than the P6.675 billion approved investments for the second quarter of 2022. Of the 61 approved new and expansion projects, 16 are for the Information Technology industry, 15 for export/manufacturing, 13 for facilities, 13 for ecozone development, and two for IT Facilities and Logistics. Meanwhile, expected jobs to be created by those projects total 11,186, which is 29.06 percent higher compared to the 8,667 projected jobs in the 2nd quarter of 2022. For the January to June period of 2023, a total of 90 new and expansion projects have been approved and are expected to bring in P22.488 billion in investments, $747.093 million in exports, and 14,354 jobs. Japan remains PEZA’s top country investor in the first half with P8.007 billion in investments followed by Singapore with P2.169 billion. Also, Panga said that Japan topped the countries with the highest approved foreign investments at 27.34 percent, followed by Filipino companies at 23.19 percent, and American companies in the third spot at 14.82 percent. “PEZA accounted for 60.5 percent of the total foreign investment commitments in Q2 2023 with P35.75 billion,” he told the Rotary Club of Manila members. From 1995 to 2022, PEZA’s total dividends turned in to the National Treasury was a total of P26,889,567,738.07. Ecozones on the rise To date, Panga said PEZA hosts 422 ecozones and 4,352 locator companies/projects throughout the country. Of said number of ecozones, 299 are dedicated to IT Parks and Centers, 79 to manufacturing firms, 24 to agro-industrial parks, 17 are to tourism and three are to medical tourism ventures. Based on the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has projected that “the creation of ecozones will…maximize investments and promote industrial dispersion, especially outside metropolitan areas. Further, the ecozones will be integrated into the local economy by relaxing the requirements, facilitating the free flow of parts, components, and other inputs, and increasing open trade between zone locators and firms outside the zones.” In the coming years, various ecozones will be sprouting, while the ecozones that have already been officially proclaimed by the Office of the President include Robinsons Cyberpark Bacolod, Lima Technology Center (Expansion), Hermosa Ecozone Industrial Park (Expansion), Philtai Central Luzon Industrial Park, Felcris Centrale IT Park, ECCO 4 Building, Lopue’s Mandalagan IT Center, Marina Town Dumaguete, Naga City Industrial Park and Kamanga Agro-Industrial Economic Zone (Expansion), altogether with investments totaling P3.418 billion. Ecozones pending approval are MetroCas Industrial Estates-Special Economic Zone, Suyo Economic Zone and the expansions of Kamanga Agro-Industrial Economic Zone and Lima Technology Center, with a total investment amount of P773.962 million. As of September 2023, the governing board of PEZA has approved big-ticket investments with a total committed investment of P193.200 billion, and these are the First Pangasinan Property Development Corp., Raedang International Builders and Development Corp., Green Energy with Torrefaction Technology Inc., Dyson Electronics PTE, Ltd. Philippine Branch, Sunpower Philippines Manufacturing Ltd., Isla Import Terminals Inc., MJ Landtrade Development Corp., YCO Cloud Malvar Inc., Savya Land Development Corporation, RLGB Land Corporation, Robinsons Land Corporation, TDK Philippines, P. Imes Corp., Best-one Ever Luck Realty Corp., Knowles Electronics (Phil) Corporation, WIPRO Phils. Inc., Glensworth Development Inc., ACI Inc., Megaworld Corporation and Kyungshin Pampanga Philippines Inc. Currently, Panga said PEZA is focused on seven priority sectors, that is, advanced manufacturing, extractives (green ores processing), agriculture and blue industries, IT services and frontier technologies, eco-industrial park development (renewable energy and alternative energy, clean water and wastewater treatment, circular economy, sustainable development goals, green buildings, smart systems integration), Science, Technology and Innovation and the integration of small and medium enterprises into the ecozone value chain. Cannot be done alone by PEZA Panga, in conclusion during his speech at the Rotary Club of Manila meeting remarked that attracting foreign direct investments cannot be done by PEZA alone or by any other investment promotion agency left to its own devices. He emphasized that what is needed to make things work is a whole government, industry and society approach to lessen the cost and improve ease of doing business in the country. “Through our collaborations and strategic alliances, PEZA, together with the Rotary Club of Manila, other ecozone industries, and stakeholders, will strive for success in attaining our country’s goals and objectives, and continue to push for eco-zoning the Philippines towards inclusive and sustainable development,” Panga said. The post PEZA chief lures potential Rotarian investors with ecozone perks appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biggest franchise expo rides on growth
Franchising is expected to earn an unprecedented P30 billion by the end of the year, based on industry projections. During the Franchise Asia Philippines 2023 International Expo briefing on Monday, Philippine Franchise Association chairperson Sherill Quintana said that franchising revenues has reached P27 billion in the year to date, already surpassing the pre-pandemic 2019 revenues of P25 billion. With the growing local market, Quintana said global franchise brands should consider the Philippines as their “launching pad” in Asia. “The future is Asia, and the Philippines will be the launch pad for what the Asian economy will be able to seize for the global market,” Quintana said in a press conference in Quezon City. In the next five years, she said her group is expecting to reap 10 to 13 percent revenues for the industry over the next five years. PFA president Chris Lim said the exposition will be the biggest franchise show that the country hosted in the past 10 years. Franchise Asia Philippines 2023 International Franchise Expo will run from 27 to 29 October and the meetings of the World Franchise Council and the Asia Pacific Franchise Confederation from 24 to 30 October 2023. “More than a decade ago was the last time that a similar event was held in the Philippines, so it is really a very momentous occasion. And what a great way to really celebrate and to really show that we’re back in business, that the franchise industry in the Philippines is as vibrant as ever,” Lim added. SMX Convention Center taken up Franchise Asia Philippines 2023 overall co-chair Richard Sanz said this will be the first time for a franchise event to occupy the entire SMX Convention Center in Pasay City to showcase 1,000 local and global franchise brands from 26 countries. Further, he said 39 percent of the expo participants are new exhibitors with new concepts such as breastfeeding center, agriculture supplies, automated retail and convenience store, vape store and kickboxing gym. “This speaks of the vibrancy of the franchise sector with new players joining the market,” he said. Sanz mentioned that also 20 percent of the participants are international brands from Australia, China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Sinapore, Taiwan, Thailand and the United States. More than 50,000 exhibitors are expected to attend the expo. “This highlights the continued interest among Filipinos in franchising as an investment option,” Sanz said. The post Biggest franchise expo rides on growth appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Indonesia plans Bali light rail to ease congestion
Indonesia plans to start building a light rail transit system on the popular resort island of Bali next year to ease roadway congestion from the airport, a senior minister has said. Tourist-dependent Bali attracts millions of foreign visitors annually and the beach-dotted island's narrow roads have been clogged with traffic jams since its reopening after the Covid-19 pandemic. Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Pandjaitan said Thursday the light rail transit (LRT) system would be built underground and connect the island's international airport to popular tourist areas Canggu and Seminyak. "LRT (in Bali) will be underground so traffic at Bali's airport... in 2025-2026 can be managed," he said in the capital Jakarta, according to local media reports. He said the airport is expected to receive 24 million visitors annually by that time. "If it's not being done, then in 2026 we can be stuck three hours at the airport," he told reporters. The project, ordered by President Joko Widodo, had courted investment interest in Seoul, Tokyo and Beijing, he said. "There are South Korea, Japan and China. We will take those who allow transfer of technology, fast and affordable," he said when asked who could help fund the project. Bar some exceptions, buildings in Bali cannot be constructed over 15 meters (50 feet) in height, according to local laws. A LRT was recently opened in Jakarta that Widodo said would help ease congestion in the megalopolis and lessen pollution. Next week a Chinese-funded high-speed rail from Jakarta to the Javan city of Bandung will also launch. In another planned move next year, Bali will impose a 150,000 rupiah ($10) tax on tourists to fund cultural preservation as the island tries to capitalize on its popularity and protect its tropical allure. The post Indonesia plans Bali light rail to ease congestion appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
FLI debt papers get top PhilRatings grade
The proposed P10-billion bond float of property developer Filinvest Land Inc., or FLI, has been assigned the highest credit ratings and stable outlooks by the Philippine Rating Services Corporation, or PhilRatings. FLI’s proposed bonds, amounting to P10 billion with a P2-billion oversubscription allowance, were assigned an issue credit rating of PRS Aaa. The high rating was also assigned to FLI’s outstanding bonds, totaling P35.4 billion. Proceeds from the issuance will be used for capital expenditures and debt refinancing. “We are delighted to receive a PRS Aaa rating from PhilRatings for our proposed bond issuance. This rating reflects our healthy fundamentals and underscores our constant focus on growth and financial sustainability,” Tristan Las Marias, FLI president and chief executive officer, said. PRS Aaa signifies the highest credit quality with minimal risk. The capacity to meet financial commitment is extremely strong under the grade. Outlook stable PhilRatings also issued a stable outlook on PhilRatings. An outlook gives a glimpse on the direction of any rating change within one year. A Stable outlook means the rating will likely be unchanged in the next 12 months. PhilRatings said it took “into account the following key considerations: FLI’s established brand name and track record, with geographically diverse real estate products and substantial land bank for future expansion; its sound growth strategies; its improved revenues and operating cash flow, supported by more than satisfactory liquidity and interest coverage” for the outlook. For 2023, FLI will launch condominium and housing developments in Antipolo City, Taytay, Angono, Calamba City, Tanauan City, Trece Martires City, Bacoor City, Dumaguete City, and the Island Garden City of Samal. FLI will also accelerate the development of its township projects in East Town in Cainta, Rizal; Timberland Heights in San Mateo, Rizal; Ciudad de Calamba in Calamba City, Laguna, The Wood Estates in Trece Martires City, Cavite, and Palm Estates in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. The FLI townships will include residential, commercial, transportation, and school components to create a self-sufficient environment that considers the needs of residents and customers in mind. For malls, FLI is currently constructing Marina Town in Dumaguete City which will open by end-2023, and new malls in Filinvest Mimosa+ Leisure City and Activa Cubao which will open by end-2024. These will expand FLI’s retail portfolio by about 55,000 square meters in gross leasable area, or GLA, bringing FLI’s nationwide retail GLA to 300,000 square meters. The post FLI debt papers get top PhilRatings grade appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Filinvest Land bonds earn top credit score, stable outlook from PhilRatings
The proposed bond issuance of full-range developer Filinvest Land Inc. (FLI) has been assigned the highest issue credit ratings and stable outlooks by the Philippine Rating Services Corporation (PhilRatings). FLI’s proposed bonds, amounting to P10 billion with a P2 billion oversubscription option, were assigned an issue credit rating of PRS Aaa. The same PRS Aaa rating was also assigned to FLI’s outstanding bonds, totaling P35.4 billion. Proceeds from these bonds will be used for capital expenditures and debt refinancing. "We are delighted to receive a PRS Aaa rating from PhilRatings for our proposed bond issuance. This rating reflects our healthy fundamentals and underscores our constant focus on growth and financial sustainability. We are grateful for PhilRatings’ trust and confidence in Filinvest Land and aim to continue building the Filipino dream through our various property developments,” said Tristan Las Marias, FLI president and chief executive officer. Obligations rated PRS Aaa (the highest rating assigned by PhilRatings) are of the highest quality with minimal credit risk. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment to the obligation is extremely strong. Each of the ratings was also assigned an Outlook of Stable. An Outlook is an indication as to the possible direction of any rating change within a one-year period and serves as a further refinement to the assigned credit rating for the guidance of investors, regulators, and the general public. A "stable outlook" means the rating will likely be unchanged in the next 12 months. According to PhilRatings, the assigned credit ratings "take into account the following key considerations: (1) FLI’s established brand name and track record, with geographically diverse real estate products and substantial land bank for future expansion; (2) its sound growth strategies; (3) its improved revenues and operating cash flow, supported by more than satisfactory liquidity and interest coverage,” among other factors. For 2023, FLI will launch condominium and housing developments in Antipolo City, Taytay, Angono, Calamba City, Tanauan City, Trece Martires City, Bacoor City, Dumaguete City, and the Island Garden City of Samal. FLI will also accelerate the development of its township projects in East Town in Cainta, Rizal; Timberland Heights in San Mateo, Rizal; Ciudad de Calamba in Calamba City, Laguna, The Wood Estates in Trece Martires City, Cavite, and Palm Estates in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. These FLI townships will include residential, commercial, transportation, and school components to create a self-sufficient environment that considers the needs of residents and customers in mind. For malls, FLI is currently constructing Marina Town in Dumaguete City which will open by end-2023, and new malls in Filinvest Mimosa+ Leisure City and Activa Cubao which will open by end-2024. These will expand FLI’s retail portfolio by about 55,000 square meters in gross leasable area (GLA), bringing FLI’s nationwide retail GLA to 300,000 square meters. FLI is also present in the industrial park and ready-built factory leasing businesses with its Filinvest Innovation Parks in New Clark City, Tarlac, and Calamba City, Laguna. Last 19 August, FLI broke ground on the 25-hectare Filinvest Innovation Park Ciudad de Calamba, an expansion of the 50-hectare Filinvest Technology Park in Ciudad de Calamba. FIP-CDC is envisioned to become a stage for new and relevant products that will catalyze progress in the local community. The post Filinvest Land bonds earn top credit score, stable outlook from PhilRatings appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Moonrise marvels at Lucky Chinatown
Megaworld Lifestyle Malls and Lucky Chinatown are leading the grand community celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival with a week-long event from 24 September to 1 October. This year’s grand cosmic-themed event, Moonrise Marvels, is poised to be a culmination of art, culture, and traditions, serving as a beacon of unity for the thriving Filipino-Chinese community. “For years, the Mid-Autumn Festival has held a special place in the hearts of our community, and this year, we’re excited to give the people a celebration that honors the customs of the past while pushing art and culture forward,” shared Lucky Chinatown general manager Norico Mizoguchi. Here’s everything to look forward to at the many events at the Atrium, Lucky Chinatown Mall: Cultural Serenity offers an opportunity for attendees to witness an eclectic blend of cultures through a mesmerizing showcase of performances presented by the esteemed Philippine Lingnam Athletic Federation Inc. on 24 September. Moonlit Treasures beckons visitors to embark on an enchanting journey through a wide selection of items to shop for, from delectable mooncake delights, enchanting charms, collectibles, and so much more. From 25 to 30 September. Guests are invited to embark on a magical journey through a world of illuminated creativity by taking part in a mesmerizing lantern parade that showcases the cultures, artistry, and unity of the Fil-Chi community on 27 September. Galaxy Canvas is a celebration of artistic innovation and self-expression, encouraging participants to let their imaginations shine as they step into an exhilarating drip painting competition. Aside from the competition, attendees are invited to hop into their creative spirit and embark on an imaginative journey through a bunny-themed drip painting workshop, held in an exciting partnership with ALL About Art PH on 30 September. Guests can discover the art of crafting China’s iconic dessert pastry, the mooncake, through this interactive and engaging workshop, offering a hands-on mooncake making activity guided by expert instructors who have mastered the age-old tradition on 30 September. The Cosmic Dice Game provides an inclusive space for friendly competition and camaraderie among the community, bringing people together to foster a sense of unity and shared enjoyment in the cosmic realm of chance and strategy on 1 October. Wander off on a cosmic celebration filled with culture, arts, and fun activities with the community and visit Lucky Chinatown. Megaworld Lifestyle Malls is the retail and commercial development arm of Megaworld Corp., one of the Philippines’ largest real-estate companies, and the leading lifestyle mall developer. The post Moonrise marvels at Lucky Chinatown appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Popular South Korean streetwear brand now in Manila
Fashion & Forward’s MLB brand is ready to create a splash in the Filipino streetwear fashion scene, thanks to its partnership with Suyen Corporation. The brand has recently opened its debut store in the Philippines at SM Mall Of Asia, with plans to launch another store at SM Aura this month. Merging two vibrant and dynamic cultures — fashion and sports — MLB is a South Korean premium lifestyle brand that captures the essence of Major League Baseball’s heritage, embodying the quintessential American sports lifestyle with 150 years of tradition. In 2023, Suyen Corporation, the Philippines’ foremost retail company, sealed a partnership with Fashion & Forward, becoming the country’s official brand licensor of MLB. “We saw great potential in this formidable partnership with F&F,” said Bryan Lim, Suyen Corporation’s vice president for business development. “Our companies share the same ethos when it comes to sprucing up the ever-changing fashion landscape with the trends of the current lifestyle and culture milieu.” For 26 years, MLB has been at the forefront of shaping consumer lifestyles and driving modern fashion trends, seamlessly weaving oriental influences into the very fabric of America’s sports DNA. The brand takes pride in its sophisticated and meticulous approach to digital marketing, continuously expanding its product offerings to reach discerning consumers worldwide. Embracing today’s culture Banking on the varied preferences of fashion-forward consumers today, MLB’s thrust in delivering a distinct fashion experience through its collection of avant-garde streetwear pieces takes precedence. The brand greatly highlights contemporary casual and street fashion, as is evident from its exposure among A-list celebrities and social media trendsetters. “Our aim in this collaboration with MLB is to provide our consumers with an expanded array of streetwear options that suit their diverse lifestyles,” Lim added. “One great thing about Filipinos is that we excel in seamlessly infusing the latest cultural trends into our fashion expressions.” Catering to diverse preferences, MLB presents an extensive range of clothing and accessories, encompassing sweaters, t-shirts, sneakers and bags, to fulfill the fashion inclinations of every individual, whether they lean toward vibrant styles or seek to infuse extra playfulness into their looks. The post Popular South Korean streetwear brand now in Manila appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Debunking Misconceptions: Sustainable living doesn’t have to be expensive
A sustainable lifestyle is often associated with exclusivity, as many say it comes with great expense. Yet Pacita “Chit” Juan, founder of the Echostore, a social enterprise and retail store carrying green, fair trade products, begs to differ. The Echostore was first conceptualized back in 2008, a time when sustainable living was not as widely known and given great importance as much as it is now, making Chit Juan, along with two other women who also founded the enterprise, pioneers to the green living trending the country — a fact she claims to be her biggest achievement in all 15 years of the Echostore. “Kailangan may mag-umpisa eh (There has to be someone who starts),” Chit says. Adopting a sustainable lifestyle requires choice and dedication as it does not happen overnight, much as Chit and her co-founders’ decision to launch their business at a time when consumers were still somewhat unfamiliar with the idea of sustainable living. It took them many years before the Echostore really took off, according to Chit. She even recalls how many detractors they had during the first few years of the enterprise, saying the Echostore would shut down immediately. Yet, she proudly declares that she is pleased that they were still successful in launching the business despite negativity. In fact, this month of September marks its 15th year. [caption id="attachment_186641" align="aligncenter" width="458"] Photograph courtesy of ECHOSTORE CULINARY Virgin Coconut Oil.[/caption] She really believed that when something is dedicated to a purpose, it will succeed. “‘Pag mission-driven kasi, it will always succeed (When something is mission driven, it will always succeed),” she says. Even the pandemic did not put the store into a halt. Chit in fact says that it paved a way to further boost their online sales. “Priorities lang talaga (It’s all a matter of priorities),” Chits ays. She argues that the notion of sustainable living being expensive is merely relative and a matter of whether the person is fully ready to shift and commit to that lifestyle.“Bakit ‘pag bumili ka ng large drink sa Starbucks, hindi mahal? (How come a large Starbucks drink doesn’t seem so expensive to you?)” she quips. However, Chit does not deny the fact that sustainable products are indeed significantly more expensive than ordinary ones, as she says that a big contributing element to this is the fact that sustainable products have not yet achieved a significant market scale. Yet, she contends that sustainable living does not necessarily have to be absolute. “You don’t have to be vegetarian all the way. Gusto mo Monday ka lang meatless, o kaya Friday (You don’t have to be vegetarian all the way. If you want, you can just skip meat on Mondays and Fridays).”Those two days spent not eating meat is already a big step in integrating a sustainable lifestyle. So is using a water bottle or a metal straw, adds Chit. “Baby steps,” she says. “Baby steps, and before you know it, it becomes part of your lifestyle.” It is all about knowing your options in the things you do every day, according to Chit. Whether it is what you eat for breakfast or how you get to work every day. Being a responsible consumer is, after all, what sustainable living is truly about, adds Chit. This is why she expresses her joy that the Echostore was able to be exposed to the Gen Z‘s, as she says they are the ones especially mindful of the environment and the importance of sustainable living. “I have great faith in Gen Z, kasi pinanganak sila sa challenges ng climatechange.It’s your generation now who will bring this to the mainstream (I have great faith in Gen Z because they were born into the challenges of climate change.It’s your generation now who will bring this to mainstream),” Chit says. The post Debunking Misconceptions: Sustainable living doesn’t have to be expensive appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
French Apple workers call strike on iPhone 15 debut
Workers at Apple stores in France are set to strike and disrupt the launch of the iPhone 15 in a battle over pay, trade unions told AFP on Wednesday. The unions called for two days of action on social media beginning on Friday, when the new handset is due to launch, saying Apple management had ignored their "perfectly legitimate" demands. Apple has faced a rough time in France lately, with the government blocking sales of the iPhone 12 last Tuesday after it returned illegally high readings for radiation emissions. The global launch of the iPhone 15 was also overshadowed by the firm's capitulation to European Union demands for smartphones to be kitted out with universal charging ports rather than Apple's proprietary "lightning" ports. Apple workers in France have been campaigning for a seven percent pay rise but management have offered 4.5 percent -- which the unions say is too low given vast increases in the cost of living. "The launch of a new iPhone would normally be a cause for celebration but this time we're not in the mood," Albin Voulfow, the CFDT union delegate for Apple Retail France, told AFP. Organizers said most of Apple's 20 stores across the country would be affected, with staff walkouts expected at some branches and demonstrations planned at others. "The aim is not to blockade the stores but to make management and the public aware of the problem," said Voulfow. The company has not yet responded to an AFP request for comment. The post French Apple workers call strike on iPhone 15 debut appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Solar power to energize Pueblo de Oro developments
Pueblo De Oro Development Corporation, the property development arm of the ICCP Group, is walking the sustainability talk by installing solar panel systems to energize buildings in its projects. A pioneer of “green living” in the Philippines, Pueblo de Oro has consistently integrated environmental programs in its developments in Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Pampanga and Batangas. This includes flood control measures, erosion mitigation measures, recycling programs, generous open spaces and nature reserves, all designed to make communities more environmentally resilient. The developer has recently begun to harness renewable energy in its projects to make its site operations even more sustainable. [caption id="attachment_185486" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Solar panels at Pueblo de Oro Townsquare in Cebu.[/caption] Pueblo de Oro Golf & Country Club in Cagayan de Oro has installed solar panels in its Bag Drop Building, resulting to approximately 12 percent savings in monthly electricity consumption for the Club. In Cebu, Pueblo de Oro installed another rooftop solar system at Pueblo de Oro Townsquare, a three-level commercial strip located in Babag 2, Lapu-Lapu City. The system powers the administration office located in the retail center and is projected to reduce the office’s monthly electricity cost by approximately 46 percent. These initial rooftop solar panel set-ups are estimated to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by a combined 2,128 kilograms per year, equivalent to 97 trees planted and grown. On average, a mature tree can absorb and sequester approximately 22 kilograms of CO2 per year. “We will continue to tap into innovative practices and technologies, such as renewable energy, and expand its use in our day-to-day operations to make our developments more sustainable and environmentally friendly,” said Pueblo de Oro officials. In addition to the rooftop solar panels, the developer has also installed solar-powered streetlights in its various project sites. A total of 720 streetlight fixtures, ranging from 100 to 200 watts, were set up in Cagayan de Oro; Mactan, Cebu; Santo Tomas, Batangas; and San Fernando, Pampanga. Running at an average of 10 hours a day, the installed solar streetlights represent savings of over 320,000 kWh of grid-supplied electricity, or a reduction of CO2 emissions of approximately 154,787 kg per year, equivalent to over 7,000 trees planted and grown. In its Townscapes Malvar township in Batangas, the company is planning to utilize electric vehicles to service the community and potentially integrate them into the public transport network of the province. Meanwhile, Pueblo de Oro’s house design at Townscapes Malvar has secured a preliminary certification from EDGE, an internationally recognized green building certification system. EDGE reported that the purposeful and innovative design resulted in improvements of 20 percent in energy efficiency, 52 percent in water efficiency and a high 72 percent in embodied energy in materials used compared to a typical housing unit. For the homeowner, these translate to an estimated energy savings of 623.2 kWh per housing unit per year, or over P7,700 per year (estimated at current rates). It also means savings of 63 cubic meters of water per household per year. The post Solar power to energize Pueblo de Oro developments appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
What’s rising in Silay?
Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, the retail and commercial arm of property giant Megaworld, is unveiling its redesigned masterplan for Northill Parade, its retail and commercial development set to rise within the 53-hectare Northill Gateway township along the Bacolod-Silay Airport Access Road. The 2.4-hectare Northill Parade is a free-standing retail development concept that features a total leasable area 1.1-hectares. Aside from retail and dining establishments, the remainder of the space will be allotted to open spaces, parking, and landscaped pathways. Northill Parade forms part of the 7.5-hectare mixed-use retail and leisure complex inside Megaworld’s Northill Gateway township. “We are excited to introduce Northill Parade as our redesigned commercial development in Northill Gateway. This free-standing commercial concept is similar to the stopovers in the United States located along highways going to and from the airport. Aside from serving guests and tourists driving along the Bacolod-Silay Airport Access Road, Northill Parade will also offer great convenience to residents of Forbes Hill, Fountain Grove, and other nearby villages,” says Graham Coates, head of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls. Among the first tenants that will soon have free-standing restaurant outlets each in Northill Parade include five first-in-Bacolod international casual dining brands from The Bistro Grou. These brands include Denny’s, TGI Friday’s Randy’s Donuts, Texas Roadhouse, and Olive Garden. This will be the first branches of Randy’s Donuts and Olive Garden outside of Metro Manila, with the upcoming Randy’s Donuts establishment also featuring a dedicated drive-thru lane. The post What’s rising in Silay? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Margaritaville’ singer Jimmy Buffett dies at 76
American singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, best known for his 1977 hit "Margaritaville," has died at age 76, according to a statement on his website. "Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs," the statement said. "He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many." The statement did not include a cause of death. Buffett's classic chill-out anthem "Margaritaville," about beachfront living with a drink in hand, spent 22 weeks on the Billboard chart, and helped launch his decades-long music career and a business empire. Known as the "Mayor of Margaritaville," he released nearly 30 studio albums of country, folk and tropical tunes, and also launched a line of resorts, restaurants and retail stores that capitalized on his laid-back, escapist image. Born December 25, 1946, in the US state of Mississippi and raised in Alabama, Buffett began playing guitar in college and later started performing on the streets and in the clubs of New Orleans, according to his website. He released his first record "Down to Earth" in 1970, and a year later traveled to Key West, Florida, a place that became synonymous with Buffett's paradise-themed music and lifestyle brands. Buffett also penned bestselling books, appeared in movies and on television, and had a brief Broadway run with his musical "Escape to Margaritaville." But his signature song -- and its refrain: "Wastin' away again in Margaritaville, searchin' for my lost shaker of salt" -- is what his legions of fans and beach holidaymakers remember most. "There are people out there looking for a good time for a few days a year," Buffett told Rolling Stone magazine in 1996, referring to his fans, known as "Parrotheads." "We come to town and we're the carnival or the Mardi Gras. People blow off steam and then go back and become basically law-abiding citizens," he said. "But to see them on those two days, you'd go, 'My God, this is the most drunk and boisterous maniac crowd you ever saw!'" "Rest in power @jimmybuffett," rapper LL Cool J wrote Saturday on social media platform X. "I'm glad we had time to vibe. You were and always will be a Truly inspiring human." Former US senator from Alabama Doug Jones said he was sad to hear of Buffet's death. "Following the election in 2017 he serenaded us in Key West with 'Stars Fell on Alabama,'" Jones posted on social media platform X, referring to Buffet's 1981 song. "He lived life to the fullest and the world will miss him." Buffett was preparing to release a new record this year, according to his website. sco/leg © Agence France-Presse The post ‘Margaritaville’ singer Jimmy Buffett dies at 76 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Online travel fair offers deals with no expiry dates
If you can’t pass the planning stage of your dream vacation because you’re having difficulty finding a window of availability in your schedule or a common travel period with your companion/s while you’re all trying to find the best deals, then you shouldn’t miss this year’s September Online Sale put together by the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association. SOS is basically a travel fair, but done virtually for utmost convenience. As explained by HSMA vice president Amie Villena at the recent launch of SOS 2023, which she heads, all you have to do is visit their website and choose among the various deals their 87 property-members offer. You can buy one or more vouchers now and, since they don’t have expiry dates, you use any or all of them when needed. Just take note of the terms and conditions, including the blocked dates. [caption id="attachment_178857" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] STONE massage in Club Paradise Palawan.[/caption] The deals offered are in line with SOS 2023’s theme: ‘Eat. Stay. Love.’ So aside from discounted room stays, there are also weekend getaways, rejuvenation spa experiences and other recreational activities. Additionally, there are deals on restaurants, meetings and conferences packages and banquet occasions, such as weddings, birthdays and anniversaries. You can even mix and match your chosen deals, according to Villena, who’s also the director of sales and marketing at the Four Points by Sheraton Palawan Puerto Princesa. For instance, you can combine Cebu-Bohol deals, “therefore creating a unique itinerary for you and your friends or your family.” After purchasing the vouchers, you can then contact the hotel or resort when you’re ready to use them. “Domestic travelers can now start planning their vacations early as this allows them to catch seat sales, too,” said Loleth So, HSMA’s president who’s also area director of Sales and Marketing of Savoy and Belmont Hotel Manila Megaworld Hotels and Resorts. “That’s why SOS is very timely.” SOS participating hotels and resorts include: Acacia Hotel Manila, Belmont Hotel Manila, Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila, Holiday Inn Express Manila, Newport City, Kingsford Hotel Manila, Marriott Hotel Manila, Okada Manila, Savoy Hotel Manila, Sheraton Manila, Solaire Resort, The Bellevue Manila, and The Heritage Hotel Manila in the Alabang/Pasay/Parañaque area; [caption id="attachment_178856" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] STAYCATION at Clark Marriott Hotel.[/caption] Alta Vista de Boracay, Belmont Hotel Boracay, Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay, Discovery Shores Boracay, Feliz Hotel Boracay, Hue Hotels and Resorts Boracay, Le Soleil de Boracay Hotel, Movenpick Resort & Spa Boracay, Patio Pacific Boracay, Savoy Hotel Boracay, and The Lind Boracay in Boracay; Armada Hotel Manila, Bayview Park Hotel, Dusit Thani Manila, Hotel Lucky Chinatown, I’M Hotel, New World Makati Hotel, One Pacific Place Serviced Residences, Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central, Seda Residences Makati, The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences, and Winford Resort and Casino Manila in the cities of Manila and Makati; Best Western Plus Metro Clark, Clark Marriott Hotel, Grand Sierra Pines Baguio, and Quest Plus Conference Center in Central Clark, SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western, AC Luxe Angeles City, and Swissotel Clark in North Luzon; Bai Hotel Cebu, Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort, Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort, Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort, Fili Hotel Cebu - Nustar, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, MetroCentre Hotel and Convention Center, Mithi Resort and Spa, Modala Beach Resort, Quest Hotel Conference Center Cebu, The Bellevue Resort, Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino Mactan, and Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino in Cebu and Bohol; Bacau Bay Resort Coron, Club Paradise Palawan, Dusit Thani Hotels and Resorts Davao, Four Points by Sheraton Palawan Puerto Princesa, Seda Lio, Huni Lio, Lihim Resort, Miniloc Island Resort, The Oriental Leyte, and Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao in Palawan, Leyte, and Davao; Ace Hotel & Suites, B Hotel Quezon City, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Discovery Suites, F1 Hotel Manila, Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, Joy Nostalg Hotel and Suites Manila, Luxent Hotel, Novotel Suites Manila at Acqua, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Seda BGC, Seda Vertis North, and The Linden Suites in Quezon City and Ortigas; Acuatico Beach Resort, Acuaverde Beach Resort and Hotel, Anya Resort Tagaytay, Club Balai Isabel, Hotel Casiana Tagaytay, Pico Sands Hotel, Quest Hotel Tagaytay, Seda Nuvali, Summit Ridge Tagaytay, Taal Vista Hotel, and Twin Lakes Hotel in South Luzon. SOS 2023 is supported by the Department of Tourism, the Tourism Promotions Board, Atlantis and Isentia. It runs until 30 September. Visit www.HSMA.org.ph/SOS. The post Online travel fair offers deals with no expiry dates appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Digital venture Lentra launches local ops
A new digital lending software-as-a-service platform has officially launched local operations on Monday to help promote financial inclusion among the growing and digitally savvy population in the country. Armed with $78 million of recently secured Series B Funding, Lentra targets to provide financial lending services to retail stores and small to medium enterprises. The company has committed to leveraging over 60 financial institution partners to touch a significant slice of the underbanked population. “Demand for Retail and SME loans presents a huge opportunity for most banks in the Philippines. With a rising youth population and favorable policies to encourage financial inclusion, Lentra’s entry into the Philippines is timely,” Joel Del Valle, Lentra Country General Manager for the Philippines, said. “We will enable our banking ecosystem to keep pace with digitization and to accelerate financial inclusion,” he added. As such, Lentra CEO and Founder D Venkatesh also conveyed that the Philippines’ potential will help the company broaden its cross-country solution offerings. For Credit Information Corporation President and CEO Ben Baltazar, Lentra’s launch will help reduce the current 'time to decision' for small businesses and consumer lending, which can sometimes take around three to five weeks. “The drive to modernize lending systems is imperative to boost efficiency and agility in alignment with the country's economic growth aspirations,” Baltazar said. Founded in 2019, Lentra offers digital lending through its secure and scalable platform. It equips banks and non-banking financial institutions to create customized lending products and enhance customer experiences, through its API-driven modular architecture. Its lending platform currently serves over 60 financial institutions, and has processed over $20 billion worth of loan applications, with 2 million loans being processed monthly. The post Digital venture Lentra launches local ops appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Empowering Filipinos with inclusive next-generation technology
Over the past decade, the telecom industry has disrupted our lives more than the century that preceded them. The advancement in telecom technology has transformed all industries, with economic fundamentals shifting to adapt to the mobility and digitally connected lifestyle. Indeed there is no limit to what can be connected, the size of the connection, or even the services provided in the connected world. There is no limit to what the connected experience demands. "While we embrace the power of technology, we also recognize the significance of making these advancements accessible to all. Inclusivity is the driving force behind our innovation as we strive to empower individuals and communities with our transformative mobile and broadband solutions," said Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Telecommunity chief commercial officer, at the launch of their latest products DITO Mobile Postpaid FLEXPlans and DITO Home UNLI 5G WIFI. She said the rollout aims to empower all Filipinos and telecommunities by giving them access to affordable high-speed 5G connectivity. DITO is also making its presence felt after OpenSignal, an independent mobile analytics company, awarded DITO multiple noteworthy awards in their latest report: Upload Speed Experience, Availability, Excellent Consistent Quality, and Core Consistent Quality. DITO even dislodged Smart Communications from the top spot in the Excellent Consistent Quality category after scoring a record-breaking 58.8 percent versus Smart's 56.7 percent. Moreover, on Core Consistent Quality, DITO soared to a 79.9 percent rating, knocking-off Globe Telecom, from the top spot, only registered 77.7 percent. Incidentally, DITO's Upload Speed has also risen remarkably, with a score of 5.2Mbps. At the same time, the Availability Award they received recognized DITO for providing a robust and reliable network connection in places where people commonly go, allowing users to access DITO's network and stay connected easily. All these accolades in just their 2nd year of operations are a breakthrough achievement for the people's fave new telco, DITO Telecommunity. Postpaid plan for everyone DITO Mobile Postpaid FLEXPlans, the telco provider's newest mobile service, gives every Filipino a chance to upgrade to postpaid. Customers can choose from affordable and flexible SIM-Only Plans (with a locked-in period of 6 months) or Handset Plans (with a locked-in period of 24 months). For as low as P588 a month, Filipino customers can enjoy the benefits of DITO Mobile Postpaid, such as generous data allocation, data rollover, UNLI all-net calls and texts, premium handset offerings, and a bonus Prime Video subscription for 12 months. For Handset Plans, DITO partnered with Samsung for premium yet affordable phones that customers can choose from. Samsung Galaxy A02 is accessible for all plans, Samsung Galaxy A04 is free for FLEXPlan 888, while Samsung Galaxy A14 5G is free for FLEXPlan 1288. Samsung Galaxy S23 is also available with a corresponding cash-out requisite which can be viewed via this link dito.Ph/postpaid/handsets. Other Samsung handsets will also be available soon. DITO Postpaid plan customers are entitled to other FLEXible mobile service features such as Advance Pay, Mobile Number Portability, and Choose Your Number. Advance Pay allows SIM-Only Plan subscribers to make advance payments for their monthly subscription fees with a discount of up to 40 percent. It would also be good to note that customers can easily use Mobile Number Portability to carry over and keep their favorite Prepaid or Postpaid number as they switch to DITO Postpaid. They may also choose their number or purchase a vanity number for their new DITO postpaid plan. Customers using these features must apply for their DITO Mobile Postpaid FLEXPlans via DITO Experience Stores only for proper handling and servicing. To ensure the convenience of customers, DITO assures a fast and straightforward application process for their postpaid plans. Interested customers may apply for a DITO Mobile Postpaid FLEXPlan through the DITO APP, DITO Experience Stores, and Device Retail Partner Stores nationwide (Rulls, MemoExpress, EC Panda). They need to bring the following: Proof of Identification (at least one valid government ID), Proof of Financial Capacity (For example Certificate of Employment, Credit Card Bill Statement, and the like), Proof of Billing that reflects the Customer's Address, and a selfie (for applications made via the DITO APP). "DITO wants all Filipinos to have equal opportunities to reach their digital aspirations. By introducing our DITO Mobile postpaid offerings, we want to break the notion that postpaid plans are too expensive and reserved for a select few. At DITO, we're proud to say that there's a postpaid plan for everyone," affirmed Jasper Evangelista, DITO director for Brand and Marketing. The post Empowering Filipinos with inclusive next-generation technology appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
City of Firsts welcomes Gateway Mall 2, ibis Styles Hotel
The Araneta Group announced the completion of the Gateway Square, marked with the grand launch of Gateway Mall 2 and the pioneering ibis Styles Hotel. Gateway Mall 2, an extension of the Gateway Mall, has opened its doors to the public, ushering in a new era of retail and entertainment experiences. This massive P5 billion construction has 11 levels and a total area of 190,000 square meters. Gateway Mall 2 is ready to revolutionize the entire nature of contemporary shopping centers. It is a hub for various dining, entertainment and leisure opportunities. Lorna Fabian, Araneta Group vice president for leasing at the Araneta Group, said, “Gateway Mall 2 promises to be like no other mall in the world.” She added, “This is the latest in our ongoing efforts to keep providing firsts in the City of Firsts.” Diverse offerings With more than 400 businesses carrying domestic and foreign brands, Gateway Mall 2 provides a wide range of options in fashion, recreation, wellness, technology and gaming. Many well-known companies are expected to follow in the footsteps of notable companies like Anta, Converse, Puma and Skechers, which have already opened their doors. The mall boasts over 150 dining options ranging from quick bites to high-concept restaurants, including renowned names like a mano, Mamou, Grace Park, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse, Shake Shack, and more. Distinctive features [caption id="attachment_172969" align="aligncenter" width="525"] The 1,000-seat Sagrada Familia Church. | PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF PAULINE PASCUAL[/caption] The 1,000-seat Sagrada Familia Church, one of the mall’s standout attractions, was creatively designed with inspiration from the earlier times bishop’s miter and nods to Manhattan’s The Oculus. This stunning contemporary architecture is a tranquil haven with glass panels, stained glass windows and welcoming gardens. The pinnacle of innovation comes with the 700-square-meter Quantum Skyview, featuring the nation’s first ceiling-mounted LED display. [caption id="attachment_172967" align="aligncenter" width="525"] QUANTUM Skyview[/caption] The Quantum Skyview has already been used for the press conference of K-pop group EXO’s EXO-SC last 20 May, BTS’ 10th anniversary book, the 2023 PPOPCON Manila convention, and soon, more events will be made more exciting with this latest mall innovation. Marjorie Go, Araneta City’s AVP for Marketing, said: “We are redefining how our customers experience live events here at Araneta City. The Quantum Skyview provides an immersive visual experience that will thrill and delight our customers.” Future prospects By the end of the year, Gateway Mall 2 will welcome additional restaurant chains, shops and mall activities. Its title as the only mall in the Philippines with proximity to an indoor arena is cemented by its easy access to the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum. [caption id="attachment_172970" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ARANETA City’s Gateway Mall 2.[/caption] In conjunction with the new mall, the ibis Styles Hotel, the Philippines’ first of its kind, will be unveiled soon. This P2-billion establishment, operated under AccorHotels, will feature nearly 300 guest rooms, conference spaces and a rooftop deck with an infinity pool boasting sweeping views of Metro Manila. Completing a thriving superblock Gateway Mall 2 and the ibis Styles Hotel mark the final pieces in completing the 400,000 sqm Gateway Square superblock. This assemblage comprises the renowned Smart Araneta Coliseum, the Parking Garage South Building, Gateway Mall, Gateway Office, Gateway Tower, Novotel Manila and Gateway Mall. With 18 theaters with VIP lounges, more than 3,000 parking spots and easy access to attractions like the indoor floating garden, The Oasis, Topiary Park and Gateway Gallery, Gateway Square offers a haven from the everyday. Fabian said, “These new additions revitalize the integrated Gateway Square, offering a customizable modern and contemporary experience.” The post City of Firsts welcomes Gateway Mall 2, ibis Styles Hotel appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Low-end shelters drive CPG sales
The Antonio family’s Century Properties Group Inc., or CPG, continues to benefit from the rising demand for affordable residential properties through its First-Home Residential Brand, or PHirst, which in turn drove up company revenues in the first half. In a stock report, CPG disclosed that its consolidated revenues for the first semester reached P6.7 billion — 27 percent higher than P5.3 billion recorded a year ago. The company’s Phirst business contributed P3.5 billion in the total reported consolidated revenues, which represented more than half or 52 percent of the topline profit. High share of vertical dev’ts The remainder of the revenues, on the other hand, came from In-City Vertical Developments, Commercial Leasing, and Property Management segments which contributed P2.4 billion, P670 million, and P217 million, respectively. Meanwhile, CPG’s net income after tax hit P656 million from January to June, translating to a 20 percent growth from P548 million in the same period a year ago. “The demand for quality and strategically located first homes have proven to be resilient and even stronger and CPG was well-prepared to serve this market with its First-Home Brand. Maintain growth path “We are aiming to maintain this growth trajectory as we launch new projects,” CPG president and CEO Marco Antonio said. PHirst expanded its offerings last year following its entry to new market segments under new product brands: PHirst Sights Bay for socialized and economic segments, PHirst Editions Batulao catering to the mid-income market, and PHirst Centrale Hermosa — a mixed-use township encompassing residential, commercial, and retail establishments. The expansion significantly widened PHirst’s price point offerings — ranging from P580,000 to P8 million. Early this year, PHirst unveiled its maiden development in Nueva Ecija via PHirst Park Homes Gapan. It was followed in the second quarter by the opening of PHirst Impressions Batulao in Nasugbu, Batangas. The company said plans are in place to add two additional projects in the second half of 2023, which includes PHirst’s pilot venture in the Visayas Region. Collectively, these will bring PHirst’s portfolio to twenty active projects, on its way to achieving the programmed nationwide presence. The post Low-end shelters drive CPG sales appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New milk tea collab
Moonleaf Tea Shop brings the gaming and milk tea-loving community together for a legendary collaboration with the number one mobile game in the Philippines, Mobile Legends Bang Bang. Epic teas and treats await—from in-game prizes of skins and diamonds to in-store excitements from August to September 2023. Being the community’s tambayan for their authentic drinks, delectable eats and exciting events, Moonleaf is a staple brand that has become Pinoy’s go-to milk tea shop for years. If the conversation is about being the crowd’s favorite, Mobile Legends Bang Bang knows it too like no other — a well-acclaimed mobile game enjoyed by various types of gamers all over the country. A first in the Philippines, this partnership will excite milk tea enthusiasts and mobile gamers with extraordinary treats coming their way. “Here at Moonleaf, we are passionate about bringing communities together, and gaming is one of these communities. We are excited to launch this collaboration because we see milk tea and Mobile Legends as a perfect pair to give good vibes to everyone,” Mike Magallanes, Moonleaf marketing director. “Over the years, we have been partnering with brands across regions to deliver unique experiences for our gamers, and this is our first-ever collaboration with a local milk tea brand in the Philippines. We think this partnership is perfect because we’re very much in sync in gathering communities and bringing them a legendary experience,” shared Adam Wang, MLBB PH Community manager. Moonleaf will be launching a “Beyond The Clouds’’ menu that features drinks inspired by the game’s newest hero skins: Okinawa Milk Tea x Kagura, Wintermelon Milk Tea x Edith, and Passion Fruit Tea x Xavier. These drinks will retail from P95 to P115 each. There will also be special co-branded cup sleeves that showcase these new skins to excite everyone even more. Selected Moonleaf branches will be dressed up in MLBB-inspired decor and customers can also take home a Moonleaf x Mobile Legends co-branded key ring when they purchase drinks from the Beyond The Clouds menu. Because Moonleaf and Mobile Legends are always about bringing people together, this partnership also launches the Barkada Fight Promo. Here, groups of friends who are up for some healthy competition can brawl in an ML game over a perfectly-brewed cup of Moonleaf milk tea, giving the team MVP a chance to win a sought-after skin and the rest of the team members an exclusive MLBB Beyond The Clouds poster. Interested teams can choose either Dagupan, General Trias, Mindanao Ave, Matatag, or Kalibo Moonleaf branches as their battlefield. Gamers and ML fans can also flaunt their ML knowledge with the Quiz Challenge. Moonleaf and Mobile Legends will give away exclusive MLBB merchandise to winners. Interested players can participate in this contest by scanning a QR code at selected branches to answer the online quiz. This team up also takes the hype to the online world. With the Moonleaf x MLBB Fanart Contest, interested artists are encouraged to design artworks that show an ML hero enjoying a Moonleaf milk tea. Thirty winners can receive special MLBB skins or Moonleaf drinks for this contest. Unleashing more of everyone’s creative prowess, a Pose and Post Photo Contest will also be facilitated. Every customer is encouraged to strike a pose with their Moonleaf x MLBB drink and share it on Moonleaf’s social media pages for a chance to win skins and diamonds as well. The post New milk tea collab appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»