Philippines

SM Supermalls joins the Metaverse with an AweSM SuperKids Zone in Roblox!

Get ready for an aweSM summer as SM Supermalls gives kids a glimpse into the future with a brand-new virtual entertainment zone in the Metaverse where they can immerse themselves in the biggest gaming and social experience platform for kids, Roblox!

This new aweSM space by SM Supermalls is now open for super kids to safely explore, play, and meet with friends.

With restrictions easing up, SM Supermalls wanted to bring the excitement of going back to the malls online through a virtual space in the metaverse gaming platform, Roblox – the most popular gaming app for Filipino children. Roblox serves as an avenue for kids to express themselves through custom avatars, while also serving as a safe place for kids to reconnect with their friends digitally in over 4 million different worlds!

SM Supermalls partnered with SVEN The Digital 1st Agency, as its metaverse partner, to become the first mall chain in the Philippines to enter the metaverse. With this simulated digital reality, kids can reimagine the mall experience in a way that they will appreciate and enjoy – a safe but free-to-play space with no rules and no limits:

Splash into the AweSM Super Pool!

Bump it out with the SuperKids with the AweSM Bumper Cars!

Get the best aerial views onboard the AweSM Ferris Wheel!

Have a ball and jump into the colorful AweSM Glowing Ball Pit!

Climb up the AweSM Rainbow Obby (obstacle course) and discover a secret maze on the rooftop – our favorite!

And there’s so much more! SuperKids of all ages are welcome to explore and do their own thing in the same fashion as a real-life mall experience, only this time it’s virtual and made especially for them.

What are you waiting for? Check it out and get your kids to play the AweSM SuperKids Zone at Roblox today! Roblox is available online or via the app that you can download for free through the App Store or Google Play.

For more information on the AweSM SuperKids Zone in Roblox, visitsmsupermalls.com or like and follow @smsupermalls on all social media platforms.

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Batangas, Philippines

Hamilo Coast: Nurturing nature for 15 years and beyond

The current rate at which individuals observe sustainability practices is far from halting climate change. Whether it is reducing the use of disposable items or saving more energy, environmentally conscious activities will only yield significant results if everyone is “cast in the same mold,” so to speak. That said, high-impact global sustainable development lies within the responsibility of the government and large organizations—conglomerates among them.

Understanding such a role, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, has incorporated its sustainable practices in its developments early on. Through SM Prime’s Costa Del Hamilo Inc., a leader in the leisure resort industry and the movers behind Hamilo Coast – this premium seaside complex in Nasugbu, Batangas, fosters a tangible connection with nature. Marking its quindecennial year, Hamilo Coast looks back at its milestones and achievements with its core emphasis on sustainable development.

“Sustainability has been at the forefront of our vision in providing a resort lifestyle. We strive to practice both environmental and social sustainability in our operations through our partners and commnunities,” Franklin M. Bolalin, Assistant Vice President for Hamilo Estate Management, said.

Disaster risk reduction

Every year, the country deals with an average of 19 typhoons, with some often resulting in damages to properties and loss of life. Coastal defenses such as seawalls and breakwater structures are often implemented to resist storm surges. In the case of Hamilo Coast, mangrove trees are the key.

Hamilo Coast’s 100,000 square-meter or equivalent to 10 hectares mangrove belt is one of the largest mangrove areas in the municipality. The sustainable beach resort town has since planted 50,000 mangrove propagules, protected hand-in-hand with the conservation organization World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines.

Biodiversity conservation

Apart from disaster mitigation, mangrove trees also benefit the climate by absorbing greenhouse gases (GHGs) and carbon dioxide. This capacity nurtures the ecosystem and biodiversity in the area, providing habitat for a wide array of species.

Hamilo is home to rich marine life and abundant flora and fauna. Its conservation programs and various sustainability initiatives have nurtured and conserved its precious biodiversity. There are about 96 various bird species found at the estate. Among these bird species are the rough-crested Malkoha and the Philippine eagle-owl.

From growing local plants to conducting regular coastal clean-up drives, coastal resource conservation initiatives are active in Hamilo Coast. With the help of WWF, they can increase their fisheries’ biological capacity and monitor their Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)—the Pico de Loro, Etayo and Santelmo coves which are among the three MPAs for Costa Del Hamilo’s Sustainable Development Project. Hamilo has been working with WWF since 2007 monitoring the health and viability of Hamilo Coast area.

In recognition of its conservation efforts, Hamilo Coast was cited by the World Wide Fund for Nature as its longest Sustainability Partner in 2020.

“Over the years, our partnership with SM significantly contributed to the impact we are making in our work in Hamilo Coast. From liquid waste and coral monitoring, to our present work on integrated waste management and food sheds, we hope that this continuing partnership would help us realize our vision of making Hamilo a holistic model of sustainability”, says Katherine Custodio, WWF-Philippines’ Executive Director.

Green buildings development

The path towards a sustainable future is paved with many interventions, including zero waste, dematerialization, zero emissions and resource efficiency practices. For its part, Hamilo Coast makes its intention to be a premiere sustainability community possible by making sure its buildings are designed with the environment in mind.

Some of the estate’s facilities are powered by alternative sources of energy. For example, its lamp posts use solar power more than traditional ones to function. Natural lighting and ventilation are also noticeable in some of its residential areas, which benefits the environment as well as its tenants. Additionally, Hamilo Coast implements a solid waste management plan that consists of recovery of materials and vermicomposting, among others.

Sustainable living

At Hamilo Coast’s core is how a distinct beachfront home can harmonize with its surrounding environment. As people crave for a more relaxed environment, closer to nature and the outdoors amid a work-from-home setup pushed by the ongoing pandemic, Hamilo homes give access to invigorating landscapes, coves to explore and the calming sea.

Fifteen years later, Hamilo Coast has surpassed its reputation as a weekend respite. It is now one of the best settlement options for people looking to live the coastal life in a sustainable community.

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Philippines

SM Supermalls to hold major events to commemorate Philippine Independence Day

As our national hero, Jose Rizal once said, ‘He who does not know how to look back at where he came from will never get to his destination.’ Tracing one’s roots is important to building one’s character. It is crucial to keep your feet on the ground as you reach greater heights. The same rings true for all Filipinos; we cannot truly appreciate the freedom we enjoy today without being aware of what our ancestors have fought for to gain our independence.

To celebrate Philippine Independence Day, SM Supermalls will be holding major events to commemorate this national holiday and encourage Pinoys to further embrace Filipino culture.

Join SM Supermalls’ Flag Raising Ceremony

Show your love of country and value the sacrifices of the Filipinos who died protecting and defending it. Come in colors of the Philippine flag and head to SM Supermalls’ Flag Raising Ceremony on June 12, 2022 – assembly time is at 8:30am. Give it the utmost importance, as this is the thread that knits Filipinos together from one generation to the next.

Indulge yourself with the best Pinoy Eats

As a champion of local MSMEs, SM Supermalls will spoil you with Filipino cuisine options and other local products from June 1-12. Savor the diverse and rich Filipino food offerings and have a taste of the best Pinoy dishes and treats from every region of the country. Enjoy special promotions during this period when you order your favorite Pinoy Eats on-ground or when ordering online.

Buy Local, Buy Pinoy

Support local businesses, buy fresh local produce and other specialty items from SM’s affiliates and tenants through the Buy Pinoy pop-up stores. Shop the best locally-made clothes, souvenirs, décor, and food brought to you by only the best Filipino businesses from June 1 to June 12, 2022.

“SM Supermalls have always celebrated Pinoy pride through various events where we get to appreciate our culture and express our gratitude to the heroes of past and present. Our Philippine Independence Day should never be taken for granted, because holding our national pride and heritage in high regard is what makes us true-blooded Filipinos through and through. We encourage everyone to join us as we celebrate freedom at SM Supermalls” Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls, said.

For #SafeMallingAtSM, you can follow SM Supermalls on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter or check out the mall entry guidelines and updates on mall hours here. You can also view the complete SM Directory here.

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Asia, Hotels, Pasay City

Midas Hotel and Casino employees get vaccinated against COVID-19

Midas Hotel and Casino, a luxury boutique hotel in Pasay City, proudly announces that its frontliners and staff are now fully vaccinated. With this, the hotel re-opens its indoor and al fresco dining areas, with limited seating capacity. Prior to this, the hotel has prepared for the re-opening by implementing sanitation measures to ensure safe dine-in spaces. The hotel continues to serve takeaway orders for pick-up or delivery.

With the help from the Pasay City local government unit (LGU) under the leadership of City Mayor Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano, and the Pasay City Alliance of Tourism Advocates (PCATA), the hotel’s fully vaccinated employees got their jabs done for a worry-free work environment.

“It is equally important for us to bring peace of mind among our staff who we consider as our pillars in these uncertain times. Now that we’re fully vaccinated, we continue to give our guests and patrons only the best which they deserve,” said Midas Hotel and Casino General Manager Lily Santos Adrid. “

The boutique hotel continues to follow minimum safety protocols required by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the IATF. Daily cleaning and sanitation of rooms and other parts of the hotel are observed to ensure safe stays. Sanitizers and posters that contain safety reminders are also placed in strategic locations within the hotel.

The hotel welcomes quarantine guests and essential bookers to stay. They can book a room today through this link or call the hotel’s reservations team at +63 7902-0100 or email at info@midashotelandcasino.com for more details. Individuals and families who would like to sample and order their favorite Midas Hotel and Casino food can do so by calling 09175217853 (Globe) or 09985626474 (Smart) or contacting Ms. Je-Ann Dela Cruz at 09175654712 or jessica.delacruz@midashotelandcasino.com for more info.

About Midas Hotel and Casino

Nestled in a bustling city, Midas Hotel and Casino stands tall in its grandeur as it welcomes upbeat travelers and families looking for a safe and delightful place to stay. The hotel’s 226 spacious rooms, four food and beverage outlets serving sumptuous local and international cuisines, a quaint little spa, a contemporary gym, expansive event venues, impressive casinos, and modern lifestyle shops coupled with heightened safety and security protocols present a comfortable and satisfying experience that lingers in the memories of its guests the world over. The hotel’s dedicated team known for its warm hospitality also ensures a pleasant stay for each guest, making this hotel a preferred brand for people with discerning taste. For those who desire the only finest things that life has to offer, Midas Hotel and Casino is the perfect hotel choice.

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Camarines Norte, Travel, Uncategorized

Philippines’ Parroquia de San Pedro Apostol

There are so many Parroquia de San Pedro Apostol around the world. There’s one in Venezuela, another one in Mexico and many other predominantly Catholic countries. Philippines also has its own Parroquia de San Pedro Apostol also known as the St. Peter the Apostle Church located in Vinzons (Indan) in Camarines Norte of Bicol Region.

What I love about this 400 year old limestone church is they restored it back to its 15th Century setting after it was gutted by fire in 2012. The newly restored church was inagurated in 2015.

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Bulacan,, San Rafael, Bulacan, Travel, Uncategorized

Blog Review: El Masfino Hotel & Resort in San Rafael, Bulacan

Last July of 2017, I visited El Masfino Hotel & Resort in San Rafael, Bulacan for the first time. The place looks upscale and new and has a huge golf space nearby. I loved their wave pool and of course the food!

If you want to have a quick getaway that’s near Metro Manila this hotel and resort is one of the perfect choice. I recommend this because it looks exclusive and the staffs are attentive to our needs. Can’t wait to go back! ❤

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Asia, Cambodia, Siem Reap, Southeast Asia, Travel

Where to Stay in Siem Reap in Cambodia?

I visited Siem Reap, Cambodia for the first time last time for my birthday. I traveled from Manila with connecting flights from Changi, Singapore to Bangkok, Thailand. From BKK I took a long bus ride to Siem Reap. I spent almost 3 days in Siem Reap, specifically in Tresor d’Angkor Suite located at Krous Village, Sangkat Svay Dangkum Siem Reap, Siemreab-Otdar Meanchey. Then took another night bus to Phnom Penh then had a quick visit at Ho Chi Minh before heading back to the Philippines.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap in Cambodia? There’s a lot of cheap hostels but if you want to splurge in a hotel room there’s a lot of 5-star hotel that’s near the Angkor Wat Archaeological Park. Read a lot of reviews first before choosing one 😉

 

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Batangas, Travel

Club Balai Isabel’s First Lakeside Pool Party

Last month, we came back to Club Balai Isabel in Talisay, Batangas to experience their first ever lakeside pool party. There were DJs, dizzying lights, foam machine, beer pong & more.

The Club Balai Isabel Aqua Park looks much better now guarded with more staffs. This is my third time at the hotel and park but I still want to go back. See you soon CBI!

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