Hatch 2025: Filipino Street Art Debuts at The Manila Hotel

 

HATCH Emergence: A Fusion of Filipino Street Art, a one-of-a-kind exhibit celebrating the dynamic fusion of art and innovation officially unveiled on April 8, 2025 at the iconic Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel. The much-anticipated opening reception was a resounding success. Distinguished guests, including Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., president of The Manila Hotel; Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel; Sharlene Zabala Batin, Assistant Secretary for Tourism Digitalization and Resource Generation and concurrent Regional Director of the Department of Tourism NCR; members of the media; and notable content creators, gathered to witness this spectacular celebration of creativity.

This edition of HATCH debuts its first-ever thematic showcase dedicated to Filipino street artists, continuing its tradition of championing Filipino artistry and elevating urban and collectible art with an impressive roster of established and emerging talents who are redefining the boundaries of their craft.

This year’s art exhibit was combined with The Manila Hotel’s 2025 Easter Party theme, Easter at the EGGmerald City. At the heart of the installation are intricately designed acrylic eggs, transformed into unique works of art that merge street art, pop culture, urban narratives, and toy-inspired aesthetics. The exhibit is a vivid celebration of imagination, paying homage to the evolution of Filipino art and its growing influence on the global stage.

The opening reception drew an eclectic audience of art enthusiasts, collectors, and media, eager to witness the rebirth of new artistic generation. The Grand Lobby was transformed into a vibrant and whimsical gallery space, showcasing the creativity of stellar lineup of artists, including Jade Suayan, Trip63, Creon Chkn, Blic, Exld Manila, Distort Monsters, Gerilya (Jano and Mar Gonzales), Wesley Valenzuela, Isobel Francisco, Lianne Steffi Lim, Reen Barrera, Egg Fiasco, and Quiccs. Each piece reflected the distinct techniques and diverse styles that define contemporary Filipino artistry.

“We are honored to continue providing a space that not only showcases the dynamic talent of Filipino artists but also fosters a deeper appreciation for urban and collectible art within our historic walls,” said Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Hotel’s vice president for sales and marketing.

More than just an exhibition, HATCH serves as a platform for artists to push creative boundaries and explore new forms of expression. This exhibit has reaffirmed its role as a pivotal platform in the local art scene, demonstrating its ever-evolving dynamism.

HATCH is on display at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel until May 02, 2025. Admission is free. Limited HATCH postcards and stickers are available for purchase at M Gift Shop. For inquiries, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or email info@themanilahotel.com.

Bigger, Better, More Impactful: Discover the Soul of Filipino Flavor at the 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair

 

Prepare to dive deep into the heart of Filipino culinary heritage and witness the dawn of its innovative future! From April 9 to 13, 2025, the highly anticipated 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair transforms SM Megamall’s Megatrade Halls 1-3 into a vibrant crossroads of taste, tradition, and trailblazing entrepreneurship.

Presented by the Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Market Development, and OTOP (DTI-BMDPO) in collaboration with the DTI Regional and Provincial Offices, this is not just a fair; it's an invitation. An invitation to wander through aisles bursting with the aromas of regional specialties, to connect with the passionate creators behind over 250 unique food ventures, and to taste the 'Bagong Pilipinas'– a new chapter of Filipino ingenuity served on every plate.

“This this event exemplifies DTI's commitment to making its trade fairs progressively bigger and better – enhancing both quality and quantity. This continuous improvement provides Filipino MSMEs with significantly scaled-up avenues to market their products, fostering more substantial business opportunities. Ultimately, these expanded opportunities translate directly into crucial job creation and sustainable livelihoods for countless Filipino entrepreneurs and their communities,” notes Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza D. Bautista, Supervising Head of the DTI-Competitiveness and Innovation Group (CIG).

This year's National Food Fair is also a cornerstone initiative proudly supported by the Tatak Pinoy Strategy Program. More than just a marketplace, the NFF actively embodies the Tatak Pinoy spirit by serving as a dynamic platform aligned with the goals of the Tatak Pinoy Act. It strategically works to elevate Filipino food MSMEs by expanding their market horizons through enhanced access, fostering groundbreaking product innovation, and championing the integration of sustainable business practices. Furthermore, the fair is committed to fostering greater sustainability and technology adoption across the board – from food production and packaging to manufacturing processes – while accelerating the crucial digital transformation of MSMEs by equipping them with vital tools for e-commerce, digital marketing, streamlined logistics, and seamless cashless payment solutions.

What Culinary Adventures Await?

• An Archipelago of Flavors: Imagine sampling heirloom recipes passed down through generations alongside bold, new creations pushing culinary boundaries. From Luzon's robust savories to Visayas' freshest catches and Mindanao's exotic spices, explore diverse clusters featuring everything from farm-fresh produce and artisanal snacks to premium coffee, cacao, and innovative health foods.
• Worlds Within Worlds: Lose yourself in specially curated zones. Feel the vibrant energy of a farmer's market at the Fresh Produce Grand Marketplace, savor a moment of calm with exceptional local brews at the KAPEtirya Philippine Coffee Pavilion, or gather with friends for a delicious meal crafted from exhibitors' finest ingredients at the lively KAINAN Dining Area.
• Taste Tomorrow, Today: See how Filipino MSMEs are leading the charge in sustainability and innovation. Discover eco-conscious packaging, explore exciting plant-based alternatives, and get a first look at cutting-edge food technologies poised to make waves.
• Bridging Businesses, Building Futures: Be present for the landmark launch of the DTI Bagong Pilipinas Marketplace. This revolutionary B2B e-commerce platform isn't just digital; it's a bridge connecting local talent to global opportunities.
• More Than Just Tasting: Engage all your senses! Learn secrets from celebrated chefs in live cooking demos, delight your palate in wine-pairing sessions, spark new ideas in dynamic business talks, and soak in the festive atmosphere with vibrant cultural performances.

"This fair is a testament to the Filipino spirit – resilient, creative, and incredibly flavorful," Asec. Bautista reiterates. "We're not just showcasing products; we're celebrating the stories, the passion, and the immense potential of our food entrepreneurs to shine on both local and international stages, fully embracing the essence of Tatak Pinoy."

So, come hungry for discovery! Whether you're seeking authentic flavors, unique gifts, business partnerships, or simply a delightful day out, the 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair promises an experience that nourishes both body and soul. Be part of the celebration, support local MSMEs, and taste the vibrant future of the Philippines.

Event Essentials:

 What: 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair

 When: April 9-13, 2025

 Where: Megatrade Halls 1-3, Level 5, Mega B, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City   

Follow the Flavor Trail: Stay updated and get exciting previews via DTI-BMDPO's channels:

 Facebook: @BDTP   

 X: @DTI_BMDPO   

 Instagram: @dti.bmdpo   

 YouTube: @dti_bmdpo   

 TikTok: @dti.bmdpo   

For inquiries, please email the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP at BMDPO@dti.gov.ph. Aspiring entrepreneurs can also ask about future events through their local DTI Office.

How to Choose the Best Skincare Products for Your Needs

 

The key to a successful skincare routine lies in understanding your skin's unique needs and choosing products that align with those needs. Here's a new approach to help you pick the best skincare products for your routine.

Focus on Skin Health, Not Just Appearance

While many skincare products focus on quick fixes for visible concerns, prioritizing your skin's long-term health is important. Healthy skin is resilient and balanced, so selecting products that help maintain and support its natural function is essential. Look for products that strengthen the skin barrier, protect it from environmental stressors, and support its regenerative process.

For instance, products with antioxidants, like vitamin E or green tea extract, can help your skin defend against pollution and UV damage.

Start With a Simple Routine

When building a skincare routine, it's easy to get tempted by all the latest products and multi-step regimens. However, starting with a simple routine can help you gauge your skin's needs before committing to additional products. Stick with the basics: a gentle cleanser, a good moisturizer, and an SPF. Once your skin adjusts to these, you can gradually introduce serums or treatments.

This approach prevents overwhelming your skin with too many active ingredients and reduces the risk of irritation from product overload.

Consider the Season and Environmental Factors

Your skin's needs can change depending on the season and the environment you're in. For example, during the winter months, when the air is dry, you may need richer moisturisers or hydrating masks to prevent your skin from becoming parched. On the other hand, in hotter climates or summer months, you might want to opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic products that won't clog pores.

Pay attention to how your skin responds to different environmental factors, and tailor your routine accordingly.

Think About the Application Process

How a product feels during and after application is an often-overlooked factor in choosing the best skincare for your needs. The texture, scent, and absorption rate can play a role in whether you will stick to using it consistently. For example, a thick cream might feel heavy on oily skin, while a lightweight serum may not provide enough moisture for dry skin.

Choose products with textures and delivery systems that make you feel comfortable and confident, as consistency is crucial for long-term results.

Prioritize Non-Toxic and Sustainable Ingredients

More consumers are becoming aware of skincare ingredients' impact on personal health and the environment. Opting for products with non-toxic, cruelty-free, and sustainably sourced ingredients can enhance your skin's well-being and contribute to a healthier planet. For example, Medik8 cosmeceuticals offers a range of products that focus on clean beauty and transparency in ingredient sourcing, ensuring you can make mindful choices for your skincare routine.

Take Your Time and Be Patient

The journey to healthy skin doesn't happen overnight. Being patient and allowing your products to work over time is essential. This applies particularly to treatments for concerns like acne, pigmentation, or fine lines, which may take several weeks or even months to show noticeable improvement.

Avoid jumping from one product to another too quickly if you don't see immediate results. Consistency, rather than rapid change, is key to achieving lasting benefits.

Seek Guidance from Skin Professionals

While self-research and trial-and-error can be valuable tools, consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional can provide an extra layer of confidence when choosing the right products. A professional can help assess your skin's needs and even help address any underlying skin conditions that may require a more targeted approach.

Conclusion

By simplifying your routine, considering environmental factors, and prioritizing non-toxic ingredients, you can create a regimen that addresses your skin's immediate needs and helps maintain its overall health. And with patience and professional advice, you'll be on your way to healthier, more radiant skin.

A Wickedly Grand Easter Celebration and Holy Week Dining Delights at The Manila Hotel

 

The Manila Hotel invites guests to witness a time of reflection, gastronomic treat, and family-oriented celebrations through a specially prepared roster of Holy Week and Easter activities, and unique dining offerings this April. From a mystical Easter celebration, a spiritual Visita Iglesia pilgrimage, to dining experiences at Café Ilang-Ilang, Lobby Lounge, and M Takeout, something is in store for everyone.

Easter in the EGGmerald City

Families can look forward to a wickedly fun Easter event at The Manila Hotel Tent City on April 20, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Modelled after the fantasy world of Wizard of Oz, Easter celebrations in the EGGmerald City will turn the place into a pink and emerald wonderland with lots of fun activities for children such as bouncy castles, face painting, cupcake decorating, arts and crafts, egg decorating, magic show, balloon twister, musical, and more. Special appearance by hotel mascot Willy the Bear, who will be happy to greet younger visitors and take pictures with them.

"We are excited to offer a completely unique Easter celebration this year, bringing the mischievous world of Oz to life for the event for our young guests," says The Manila Hotel's vice president for sales and marketing, Marvin Kim Tan. "It's a great chance for families to make memories with each other in a celebratory and whimsical environment."

Easter celebrations at the EGGmerald City cost Php 1,999 net and come with admission for one child (12 years old and under) and one adult guest (13 years old and up).

For those who are willing to prolong fun, The Manila Hotel has a promotional room package at Php 10,000 net inclusive of overnight stay in a Deluxe Room, breakfast buffet for two persons at Café Ilang-Ilang, and one free Easter ticket at the EGGmerald City. Reservation period is ongoing until April 19, 2025. Stay date on April 20, 2025. Terms and conditions apply. By DTI Fair Trade Permit Numbers FTEB-217902 and FTEB-217877. Series of 2025.

Visita Iglesia: A Holy Week Pilgrimage

Lenten is a season of contemplation, The Manila Hotel invites one to join a meaningful Visita Iglesia tour on Maundy Thursday, April 17, 2025. The Traveling Salakot, Paul John Hernandez, a social science educator known for his engaging history tours with a focus on Philippine heritage, will be leading the tour. Endorsed by the Department of Tourism and National Parks Development Committee, The Traveling Salakot gives further insights into the meaning of each church along the way. Visita Iglesia will cover Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, Santa Rita Chapel, Saint Vincent de Paul Parish Church, Santa Maria Goretti, Archdiocesan Shrine of Nuestra Señora de Guia, and Our Lady of Remedies Church.

For Php 1,500 per adult and Php 750 per child (12 years and under), the package offers roundtrip shuttle and snacks. Two time slots to choose from: 8:00 am to 12:00 nn and 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Limited spots only, so do reserve through +632 8527 0011 or concierge@themanilahotel.com.

For a complete Holy Week retreat, visitors can book the Visita Iglesia Room Offer at Php 10,000 net per room per night, with a stay in a Deluxe Room, breakfast for two at Café Ilang-Ilang, and Visita Iglesia tour access for two adults and two children. The offer is bookable until April 16, 2025 via +632 8527 0011 or resvn@themanilahotel.com, stay dates from April 16 to 18, 2025 inclusive.

Pampanga Food Festival at Café Ilang-Ilang

Back by public demand, the Pampanga Food Festival is back at Café Ilang-Ilang from April 1 to 15, 2025, to present the rich Kapampangan cuisine. Lunch and dinner buffet will have a changing array of popular regional favorites such as Pako Salad, Sisig, Batuteng Tugak (stuffed frog), Sipo Egg, Pritong Itik, Suamna Native Mais, Kalderetang Bibe sa Gata, Adobo Balut, Bringhe, Tibok Tibok, Turrones de Casoy, and more.

Lenten Specials in The Manila Hotel

Marking the seriousness of Holy Week, The Manila Hotel offers a Lenten Menu at the Lobby Lounge until April 20, 2025, featuring a series of meat-free savory offerings: Easter Salad, Barley Vegetable Soup, Salmon Carbonara, Shrimp Pesto Pizza, and Norwegian Salmon Fillet.

Lenten Menu - Norwegian Salmon Fillet

Lenten Menu - Salmon Carbonara

Lenten Menu - Shrimp Pesto Pizza

For those who want to experience the season close to home, M Takeout has a Lenten Home Buffet of favorites and seafood fares such as Green Mango and Singkamas with Bagoong, Tuna Kinilawwith Gata, Escabeche Maya-Maya, Halabos ng Hipon, Inihaw na Lumot, Rellenong Alimasag, Kilawing Puso ng Saging, Vegetable Pancit Bihon with Tokwa, and Steamed Rice. From April 1 to April 30, 2025, this combination is available at Php 4,880.

For inquiries and bookings, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or log on to www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

Easter joy and family fun at Solaire Resort Entertainment City

 

Solaire Resort Entertainment City offers an adventurous and exciting Easter Sunday celebration for the entire family on April 20. The day starts with a Sunday mass at 10AM in the Grand Ballroom followed by a range of interactive activities with luxurious brunch buffets for everyone to enjoy. With fun-filled events like Easter egg hunts, bunny hopscotch races, face painting, and egg decorating, it promises to be an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.

Earn special discounts and Easter goodie bags when you accomplish all activities with the family. The Grand Ballroom holds easter egg hunting for all ages and bouncy inflatables to enjoy. At the Sky Tower area, kids can pick their own eggs to decorate at Waterside, complete a carrot toss at Oasis, and hop through Easter-patterned squares for a fun hopscotch activity at Fresh. At the Theatre Cafe, kids can enjoy cookies and cupcake decorating, face painting, balloon sculpting, and enhance their creativity through a coloring mural. You might just also catch Easter Bunny hopping around—so, snap a picture with him and your whole family! 

Indulge in an exquisite Easter brunch buffet at Finestra, Red Lantern, and Yakumi. Finestra offers casatiello, a ham and cheese savory cake together with herbs risotto, poached salmon, and chocolate eggs. Enjoy unlimited flutes of champagne, a seafood tower served directly at your table, a cold cuts station, a roast beef station by the kitchen counter, and luxurious desserts from a rich mille-feuille, macarons, tartalettes, homemade gelato, and more!

Eat all you can at Red Lantern with a dim sum buffet featuring crystal skin lobster dumplings, crispy deep-fried cheese and prawn spring rolls, baked signature black pepper wagyu beef tart, steamed Teochew dumpling, and more. At Yakumi, prepare for a sumptuous feast with eight live stations to choose from. Seafood lovers can enjoy grilled Boston lobster, scallops, blue marlin, prawns, and mackerel in the teppanyaki live station. You can also choose from a fine selection of meats like Kinross lamb chops, US ribeye steak, and Japanese sausage.

Oasis Garden Café Easter-inspired afternoon tea

For an Easter-inspired afternoon tea, delight in a wide array of tea sandwiches, delectable pastries and freshly baked scones at Oasis Garden Café. These include a savory chorizo and egg mousse tea sandwich, an orange cinnamon sable, Cheshire Pork Pie with glazed apple, and more. Enjoy it all with a pot of tea, an easter-inspired mocktail or sparkling wine, and freshly brewed coffee.

Complete your Easter celebration by booking a Deluxe Room with a city or garden view for only Php 10,500 nett until April 18. Book now by calling 8888-8888 or email reservations@solaireresort.com for a joyful Easter at Solaire Resort Entertainment City.