Chef Kevin Villarica opens Kevin’s Diner as the latest must-try in Araneta City’s food destination

 

 Chef Kevin Villarica

Araneta City elevates its culinary landscape with the arrival of Kevin’s Diner, an inspired new concept by Filipino culinary creative Chef Kevin Villarica. Soft-launched in September 3, the diner adds a deeply personal and flavorful chapter to the rising food destination in Gateway Mall 2.

Chef Villarica, whose impressive culinary portfolio includes Le Feu Steak House, Cochi by Marvin Agustin, Ayà, Ginza Gyu, and Hapag, continues to shape the local culinary industry with concepts that are both innovative and deeply personal. As he joins World Kitchens with Kevin’s Diner, he brings his signature blend of comfort and heritage to this groundbreaking dining destination where global flavors and culinary innovation converge.

The menu at Kevin’s Diner serves as a warm tribute to beloved comfort food, mostly inspired by the food of Chef Villarica’s youth, all celebrating flavors that evoke the joy of sharing a good meal. Menu highlights include:

Fish and chips

 Juicy burgers like the indulgent Kevin’s Triple Smash Burger (stacked with multiple layers of beef patty and cheese) and playful Jeepney Burger (added with a layer of egg), both served with potato wedges;

 Elevated silog meals like the Smash Burgersilog, Cornedbeefsilog, and a standout Rib-Eye Tapsilog, each with atchara on the side;

 Seafood favorites such as Crispy Fish Claypot Rice and Fish & Chips;

Kare-kare

Reimagined Pinoy classics like Kare-Kare and Sizzling Sinigang, both cooked with Chef Villarica's signature corned beef; and

 Prime steaks ranging from tender Sirloin and richly-flavored Picanha to a generously-portioned Tomahawk.

Prime steaks

Inspired by the comfort food of the world, World Kitchens is a first-of-its-kind, five-star dining destination curated by Singapore’s F&B visionary Andrew Tan Hock Lai. With 15 show kitchens led by international chefs, over 700 seats, and AI-powered ordering, World Kitchens redefines dining as a global culinary experience.

Rib-eye tapsilog

With a simple scan of a QR code, diners can browse menus from Kevin’s Diner and other show kitchens at World Kitchens, order a variety of dishes from different cuisines, and settle their bill—all without leaving their seat. This makes World Kitchens the first F&B concept in the country to introduce this kind of ordering setup.

Picanha

Kevin’s Diner is now open at World Kitchens, located at Level 4 of Gateway Mall 2 in Araneta City. For inquiries and reservations, contact +63 9189394537 or email wkreservations@aranetagroup.com.

The Manila Hotel Receives Tourism Pillar Excellence Award at the 1st Philippine Tourism Awards

 

The Manila Hotel is honored to receive the Tourism Pillar Excellence Award at the Department of Tourism’s 1st Philippine Tourism Awards

The Manila Hotel has been honored with the Tourism Pillar Excellence Award at the first-ever Philippine Tourism Awards, organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) under the leadership of Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. The recognition highlights outstanding contributions to the tourism industry, with a focus on excellence, sustainability, and innovation.

A landmark in Philippine history, The Manila Hotel was cited for its enduring legacy and its pivotal role in shaping the country’s tourism landscape. The accolade underscores the hotel’s commitment to preserving its storied heritage while evolving to meet the needs of the modern traveler.

The Manila Hotel's assistant director of sales Adrian Salumbides, marketing manager Abby Legaspi Maguigad with TPB COO Margarita Nograles, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, and DOT Usec Shahlimar

“It is with immense pride and gratitude that we accept this award from the Department of Tourism,” said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel. “This recognition reaffirms our belief that true hospitality lies in creating unforgettable experiences, from a warm welcome at the door, to impeccable service at every touchpoint, to the genuine attention extended to every guest. This award belongs not only to The Manila Hotel, but to the legacy of Filipino hospitality we strive to share with the world.”

The Philippine Tourism Awards—the first of its kind—aim to honor institutions and individuals that elevate Philippine tourism on the global stage. This platform paid tribute to enterprises that laid the foundations of Philippine tourism—pioneers and establishments that have significantly contributed to the industry’s growth over the years.

For The Manila Hotel, the Tourism Pillar Excellence Award stands as both a celebration of its rich heritage and a testament to its unwavering commitment to service excellence. For over a century, The Manila Hotel has stood as a symbol of Filipino pride, service, and hospitality. Today, it continues to uphold its legacy as the true heart of the Philippines.

Get Ready, South! Big Bad Wolf Books Returns for its Final Metro Manila Stop in 2025!

 

Book lovers, get your tote bags ready! The highly anticipated Big Bad Wolf Books is making its way to the south of Metro Manila for its grand finale of the year. After a series of successful events in Iloilo and Cebu, the world's biggest book sale is setting up at The Filinvest Tent, Alabang, bringing a massive treasure trove of stories right to your doorstep.

Big Bad Wolf Media photo during the Press Conference  (Purple Plum Fairy is 6th from the right side, wearing black with white prints)

Mark your calendars from October 2 to 13, 2025, because this is your last chance to experience the ultimate book-hunting adventure in Metro Manila for the year. Whether you're a seasoned bibliophile, a parent looking for educational reads for the kids, or just starting your reading journey, this event is a can't-miss.

A Book Lover's Paradise: Over 2 Million Books Await

Prepare to be amazed. The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale at Filinvest features over 2 million brand-new books across every genre imaginable. From thrilling fiction and heartwarming romance to insightful non-fiction, engaging children's books, and beautiful coffee table collections—there's something for every reader. And the best part? All these literary gems come with incredible discounts of up to 95% off! It's the perfect opportunity to stock up on your next reads without breaking the bank.

Bernard Lee, Business Head of BBW Malaysia and Lea Almeda, Country Head of Big Bad Wolf

  

With the holiday season just around the corner, this sale is also the perfect destination for early Christmas shopping. Find the perfect gift for every person on your list, from your picky nephew to your best friend who loves a good mystery.

Purple Plum Fairy with one of the books available with huge discounts at the BBW

New Book Category too: Body, Mind & Spirit Section

Get ready to expand your mind and nourish your soul, because Big Bad Wolf Books is thrilled to announce a brand-new category that will be a treasure trove for anyone on a journey of self-discovery: Body, Mind and Spirit!

For years, we've been your go-to destination for the biggest and most affordable book hauls, bringing you everything from thrilling fiction to essential children's books. Now, we're diving deeper, opening a portal to a world of spirituality, self-care, and personal growth.

Our new Body, Mind and Spirit section will feature an incredible selection of books designed to help you connect with your inner self and explore the mysteries of the universe. Are you curious about the ancient art of Tarot reading? Eager to understand the powerful energy of crystals and gems? Or perhaps you want to delve into the wisdom of different spiritual practices?

You'll find all this and more, at the same incredible Big Bad Wolf prices you know and love. We believe that knowledge should be accessible to everyone, and that includes the kind of knowledge that helps you live a more balanced, mindful, and fulfilling life.

So, next time you're on the hunt for your next read, be sure to head over to the Body, Mind and Spirit section. Discover the books that will guide you on your personal path, whether it's through the symbolism of Tarot cards, the healing properties of stones, or the profound teachings of spirituality.

Your journey to a more enlightened you starts here. Happy reading, and happy searching!

Plan Your Big Bad Wolf Adventure: Event Details

Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit:

• Venue: The Filinvest Tent, Alabang (Final Metro Manila Stop for 2025)

• Dates: October 2–13, 2025

• Admission: FREE for all!

Hours of Operation:

• Oct 2 (Opening Day, Thursday):

  • 10:00 AM – 12:00 NN (BBW Members & Early Bird Access)

  • 12:00 NN – 10:00 PM (Public)

• Mon–Thu: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Fri–Sun: 10:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight

Why You Can't Miss This Big Bad Wolf's Last Stop for 2025:

Beyond the jaw-dropping discounts and the sheer volume of books, the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale is an experience. It's the thrill of the hunt, the joy of discovering a new author, and the satisfaction of expanding your personal library. This event is a celebration of reading and literacy, and a chance to find your next favorite story.

Don't let this final Metro Manila leg of the Big Bad Wolf Philippines 2025 tour pass you by. Rally your friends, gather the family, and get ready for a book-shopping spree like no other. See you at The Filinvest Tent, Alabang, this October!

Hair today and tomorrow: MakatiMed’s fixes for a receding hairline

MMC - Stress, a poor diet, and harsh hair products can cause thinning and hair loss. It's advisable to consult a doctor for effective solutions.

From Sting to Jason Statham to Prince William to your dad or tito, let’s be real, a receding hairline is something that happens to almost everyone at some point in their lives. And, this gradual thinning and loss of hair, particularly on the temples, thus creating an “M, “U,” or “V” shape when seen from the top, can be something a lot of guys feel self-conscious about, even though it is totally common.

“Hair loss is something we all do not want to have but statistics will show that 50% of us will have it by the time we are 50. A receding hairline isn’t just due to aging, it is essentially a genetic and a hormonal problem. Some men experience hair loss as early as their 20s,” says Corazon Almira T. Mella, MD, a dermatologist from top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “These two factors, genetics and hormones, are the key players that contribute to hair thinning and loss. Stress, certain medications, and a diet deficient in vitamins and minerals have likewise been known to affect hair growth.”

There’s no cure for receding hairlines. “But you can delay its progression or increase the thickness of hair strands on your head with solutions that range from simple lifestyle changes to science-backed treatments,” suggests the MakatiMed dermatologist.

Manage your haircare routine. “Use shampoos specifically formulated to strengthen your scalp and make your hair more robust. Shampoos that are sulfate free are advisable,” shares Dr. Mella. “You can also ask your barber to recommend a more flattering hairstyle. Guys with receding hairlines can wear their hair slicked back, get a close-to-the-scalp buzzcut, or take it all off and go bald.”

Tweak your diet. Protein, healthy fats, and vitamins contribute to luscious hair. “Go for lean protein. Omega-3-rich salmon and mackerel are said to promote hair growth, and eggs contain biotin or vitamin B7, which strengthens hair,” says Dr. Mella.

Reduce stress. Do you know that there’s actually a name for stress-induced hair loss? “In telogen effluvium, hair falls in clumps following a stressful situation. It certainly doesn’t help men with receding hairlines,” explains Dr. Mella. Engaging in regular exercise (from walking and running to swimming and yoga), getting at least eight hours of sleep, and spending time with loved ones can calm frayed nerves. It’s also important to understand that in telogen effluvium, the hair shedding is temporary and if it has been going on for some time, proper evaluation and laboratory investigation is required.

Take prescription medication. Although minoxidil, a topical formulation that stimulates hair growth, is available over the counter, variants with a higher percentage of minoxidil require a doctor’s prescription. So does finasteride, an oral medication that reduces the production of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a naturally occurring hormone responsible for hair loss. “As mentioned, these medications are not a cure, and only work for as long as you continue to use them. Commitment to the medications is as important as the treatment itself.” reminds Dr. Mella.

Explore minimally invasive procedures. When you’ve tried the aforementioned recommendations but failed to get the desired results, it’s time to look into the big guns of hair growth.

“Microneedling stimulates the production of collagen through the puncture of tiny needles on the scalp,” says Dr. Mella. “Low-Level Laser Therapy subjects a patient’s scalp to low-power lasers, which trigger hair follicle activity. In Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections, a patient is administered with his own concentrated platelets on his scalp, where growth factors stimulate hair follicles. Exosome Therapy also relies on growth factors, in this case, from the tiny vesicles released by a patient’s cells.”

For surgery, hair restoration surgery in the form of follicular unit extraction, where the surgeon transfers the follicles from the sides and back of a patient’s head to the thinning or hairless parts in the front for a more natural look. Out of all the options, hair restoration surgery offers more tangible and long-lasting results. It is available at Makati Medical Center as an outpatient service.

Given all these solutions, Dr. Mella underlines a personalized approach to address hair loss, “What’s important to remember is that what works for someone may not work for you, and vice versa. Consult with your doctor on the most effective solution—or combination of solutions—for your type of condition, and be patient with the outcome.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

Big Bad Wolf Books Opens in Olongapo with Thrills, Deals, and Giveaways

 

The Wolf has landed, and the wait is finally over! Big Bad Wolf Books, the world’s biggest book sale, officially opens its doors today at the SMX Convention Center Olongapo with an exclusive VIP Day. The special preview welcomed partners, media, and guests who got first dibs on over 1 million brand-new English books at jaw-dropping discounts of up to 95% off retail prices.

The VIP Day marks the exciting start of a 10-day book hunt, running from September 19 to 28, 2025, where Wolfies from Olongapo, Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, and beyond can dive into a sea of stories—from enchanting children’s books and bestselling young adult adventures to inspiring non-fiction, cookbooks, business titles, and timeless classics. Whether you’re a lifelong bookworm or a first-time Wolfie, something is waiting just for you.

The Wolf Pack Has Arrived in Olongapo

Since 2009, Big Bad Wolf Books has grown into a global movement, bringing the joy of reading to 17 countries and over 50 cities worldwide. More than just a book sale, it’s a literacy advocacy campaign dedicated to making reading accessible, affordable, and exciting for everyone.

“Today’s VIP Day is a milestone for Olongapo. This event is not just about books—it’s about building communities and empowering readers,” said Ley Almeda, Country Head of Big Bad Wolf Philippines. “We are thrilled to finally bring the Wolf experience to Olongapo. Starting tomorrow, every Wolfie will have the chance to hunt for stories that inspire, educate, and entertain—books that can change lives.”

Big Bad Waves of Stories Are Here

Wolfies can look forward to a fresh batch of international bestsellers,

award-winning titles, and hidden gems making their way to Olongapo.

Highlighted picks include:

BEAUTIFUL WORLD, WHERE ARE YOU

(Besteller!)

Original Price: Php 1,100

BBW Price: Php 500

DAY TRADING ATTENTION

(New to BBW Olongapo)

Original Price: Php 2,300

BBW Price: Php 860

YOU’VE REACHED SAM

You've Reached Sam (New to BBW Olongapo)

Original Price: Php 1,300

BBW Price: Php 620

THE ULTIMATE COLOURING BOOK

(Bestseller!)

Original Price: Php 480

BBW Price: Php 180

HUMAN BODY (BOOK MAGNETS AND BOARD)

(Bestseller!)

Original Price: Php 900

BBW Price: Php 280

Howlin’ Good Deals for Every Book Hunter

Learning institutions—including schools, colleges, kindergartens, and libraries—can get 10% off English titles for bulk purchases worth ₱30,000 and above. Students can present their school ID to receive an extra 5% discount with no minimum spend, while teachers can avail the same 5% discount with a minimum purchase of ₱1,500.

After checkout, Wolfies can test their stacks at the Book Stack Battle corner—the taller the pile, the bigger the prize! Some towers have even reached over 60 inches high. Don’t forget to share your towering book haul online with #BBWOlongapo2025 to show off your Wolfie pride.

And with the Wolfie Grand Raffle, every ₱5,000 single-receipt purchase earns a raffle entry for a chance to win grand prizes:

• An iPad to keep you powered up and connected wherever you go.

• A Big Bad Wolf bookshelf stocked with books—your very own dream library.

Grab Your Limited-Edition Big Bad Wolf Books Merch

Bring home your ultimate Olongapo book hunt treasures! Flaunt your Wolfie spirit

with exclusive Big Bad Wolf collectibles—tote bags, mugs, notebooks, and more.

Perfect for book lovers and bay-side adventurers alike. Hurry, Wolfies—these treasures

won’t stay ashore for long!

Mark Your Calendars

📍 Venue: 4th Level, SMX Convention Center Olongapo Central
📅 VIP Day: September 18, 2025
📅 Public Sale: September 19 – 28, 2025
🕙 Time: 10 AM – 9 PM daily

Admission is FREE FOR ALL!

Follow Big Bad Wolf Books on social media to stay updated on promos, new arrivals, and last-minute surprises!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf Books’ current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).