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Lifestyle, Travel

Setting the Scene for Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan with Pinoy Pride

Yumeshima Island in Osaka has more to offer this summer and fall! Check out the fascinating cultural havens on show at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, if you’re traveling to see the city’s well-known culinary scene!

Photo courtesy of the Tourism Promotions Board

Get another perspective on our home while showing up for our kabayan on Philippine National Day! Happening on June 7, 2025, at the EXPO National Day Hall “Ray Garden”, the celebration will spotlight the heart of Filipino culture through food, dance, and music. At the core of the event is Hinabing Hiraya (Woven Imagination)—a stunning cultural showcase that brings the Filipino dream to life through vibrant performances. It’s more than just a show; it’s a moving tribute to the strength, creativity, and diversity of the Filipino people. Whether you’re there for the lechon or the tinikling, it’s the perfect event to invite your Japanese friends and travel buddies to experience what being Filipino truly means.

Osaka is sparking curiosity, spotlighting cultures around the world by showing it off with one big bonanza of global expression! The expo serves as both an invitation and a deep dive into its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and cultural exchange. The theme this year is: Designing Future Society for Our Lives.

The event serves as a “living lab” for global collaboration and the power of human connection. The sprawling site on Yumeshima Island in Osaka will house more than 150 pavilions, including contributions from over 160 countries and international organizations, showcasing emerging technologies, cultural traditions, and pioneering solutions for global challenges.

Photo courtesy of Pasona Group.

The Gundam Pavilion, presented by Bandai Namco, is a dream come true for anime and sci-fi fans alike. The Gundam Pavilion promises a life-sized, interactive installation celebrating Japan’s cultural exports and engineering prowess. Combining virtual reality, robotics, and immersive storytelling, the pavilion represents a playful but powerful symbol of Japan’s global cultural influence and technological imagination.

Pasona Group’s Naturverse invites travelers to an unforgettable expedition with the Awaji Island Trip! This immersive travel extension invites visitors to explore Awaji Island, just an hour from the 2025 Expo site, through guided eco-tours, organic dining experiences, and a hands-on look at how Japan is weaving together tradition and innovation in sustainable living. Highlights along the way include the playful Nijigen no Mori theme park, with beloved Japanese pop-culture experiences, and the charming Hello Kitty Smile theme park, with the iconic character lining every ride and attraction around the theme park.

You can gain preferential access to the Expo’s “PASONA NATUREVERSE” pavilion by presenting your boarding ticket to Awaji Island. In contrast to the futuristic fervor of the main Expo, the Awaji excursion offers a calmer, soul-nourishing experience.

Expo 2025 will run for six months, starting on April 13. Since it ends on October 13, make sure to use the Expo’s Ticket Portal and start making travel plans as soon as possible! Visitors are invited to make plans in advance and customize their Expo experience with daily, seasonal, and passport-style multi-entry passes.

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Travel

2GO and Go For Gold Philippines Collaborate on Race Series 5 in Iloilo

2GO Travel offers special sea travel rates for cyclists and teams heading to Passi City event

Nica-Lim Tan, Marketing Promotions Specialist of Go For Gold Philippines; Jeremy Randell Go, Head of Go For Gold Philippines; Roland Sunga, 2GO Travel AVP for F&B, Ancillary, and Hotel Operations; and George Narag, 2GO Travel Senior Brand Manager.

The official travel partner of Go For Gold Philippines for the fifth leg of the Go For Gold Race Series, which will take place in Passi City, Iloilo, from May 30 to June 1, is 2GO Travel, the country’s biggest and most prestigious marine travel company. Cyclists and their crews may travel to and from the event in safety, convenience, and affordability thanks to the partnership’s exclusive all-in sea transport pricing.

As part of the partnership, 2GO Travel is providing participants with exclusive all-in pricing for sailing from Manila to Iloilo (departing on May 27) and returning to Batangas via Roxas (June 3). For athletes who are traveling with their bikes and equipment, the package offers a 50 kg luggage allowance and waived expenses for handling sporting equipment.

“We are excited to support Go For Gold Philippines in empowering local cycling athletes and fueling interest in this rapidly growing sport,” said Roland Sunga, 2GO Travel AVP for F&B, Ancillary, and Hotel Operations. “By providing affordable and reliable sea travel, we’re not just moving people—we’re helping advance Philippine sports, one race at a time, one island at a time.”

Organized by Go For Gold Philippines, the Go For Gold Race Series is part of a larger national initiative aimed at discovering and nurturing rising cycling talent across the country. The organization is committed to building a sustainable cycling ecosystem by providing athletes with opportunities to gain exposure, accumulate points, and grow through consistent competition. The series also champions community engagement, bringing cycling events to diverse regions nationwide.

“This partnership with 2GO Travel makes our Race Series more accessible and allows even more athletes to experience competitive cycling,” said Jeremy Randell Go, Head of Go For Gold Philippines. “We believe that supporting Filipino talent begins by breaking down logistical barriers—and 2GO’s support helps us do exactly that.”

2GO Travel is preparing for additional partnerships as it continues to solidify its position in sports tourism. One such agreement is with Sunrise Events, Inc. for the Ironman 70.3 Lapu-Lapu City Leg in August. 2GO is making sea travel a wise and reliable option for sports teams and event planners around the country with its roomy, contemporary ships, onboard amenities, and liberal luggage policies.

Go to the Go For Gold Race Series website to make your travel arrangements: Sail to Go for Gold Race Series 5 Passi via 2Go! – Go For Gold PH.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

 

 

Food, Lifestyle, Travel

SM Supermalls: What’s New? Extraordinary Experiences in Davao

Exploration, trying something new, or treating every day as a major adventure are the first steps toward having fun.

There is always satisfaction in making every day feel unique, whether that means adding a little excitement to your routine, indulging all of your appetites, or reinventing your look with the ideal accessory.

These new firsts for SM Supermalls in Davao mark the beginning of the delight of discovery.

Pro-level Content Creation at SM City Davao

Achieve your influencer dreams and transform every adventure into star-studded content with the newly opened, first-in-Mindanao Insta360 store. Capture your explorations with a wide array of cameras and accessories—perfect for creative professionals and passionate content creators alike.

Insta360 features the latest camera models including the Insta360 X4, Ace Pro 2, and GO 3S—renowned for their ability to capture stunning details and deliver high-quality performance across various environments. In addition to their cutting-edge cameras, the store also offers a range of accessories and add-ons to elevate your shooting experience and streamline your content production.

Bountiful Flavors at SM Lanang

Expect more to look forward to with the soon-to-open Hakura Udon this coming May 2025a Japanese-inspired restaurant, promising an authentic dining experience in Davao. From traditionally made udon noodles to a perfectly crispy serving of tempura, indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of freshly prepared Japanese classics—served right at your table.

Feast like a king with Buffet 101—satisfy your palate at this all-you-can-eat restaurant that will open its first-in-Mindanao branch on May 15. Eat to your heart’s content with their diverse selection of international cuisines, crafted to delight your every cravings.

With SM Supermalls in Davao, the exhilaration of new experiences—from minor shocks to major thrills—is now closer than ever.

Discover Davao every day—only at SM Supermalls, where you can experience a #NewEraOfFirsts.

For the most recent information and activities, remember to check www.smsupermalls.com or like and follow @smsupermalls on social media!

 

 

 

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Lifestyle, Travel

Japan’s Urban Sanctuaries, Ziplines, Toilet Museums, and Luxurious Hotels: Anticipate the Most Pleasant Unexpected

There are always new methods for Japan to surprise tourists. One minute you’re in Central Osaka, a city of parks, shopping centers, and excellent dining. Next, you’re enjoying the downtime life provides on the terraces of the Gate Hotel Fukuoka, exploring a museum of Japanese toilets in Aichi, or ziplining over fields after a local breakfast in Chiba. New establishments are popping up all throughout the nation’s several prefectures, providing a variety of lodging options and locations to explore. Here are four new locations that should be on your next itinerary if you’re searching for new places to captivate you.

In the heart of Osaka, Grand Green Osaka unfolds as a new kind of urban retreat, where city parks meet upscale dining, design-forward shopping, and slow moments of wellness. Days begin with local pastries or pour-over coffee on terrace cafes, followed by sushi omakase, open-kitchen steak dinners, or a stroll through the flagship stores. Below ground, the buzzing Time Out Market gathers top chefs to serve some of the best food across Kansai, alongside live cultural events and performances. Soak in a rooftop onsen, wind down in meditation rooms, or simply watch the city come alive in this new urban paradise.

In the forests of Chiba, the Farm Slow Mountain Narita offers a slower, more grounded kind of getaway. Accommodations include glamping tents, cottages, and cabins scattered across a spacious, tree-lined property.

Mornings start with fresh, local food, while the rest of the day is open for zipline rides, vegetable harvesting, or following an AR-powered trail through the woods. In the evening, communal barbecue dinners bring people together under the stars. Find beauty in the stillness of Farm Slow Mountain Narita, easily accessible via car from Tokyo, and via bus or car from Narita Airport.

Photo courtesy of ©INAX MUSEUMS

The newest addition to the INAX MUSEUMS in Tokoname, Aichi, Toilet Museum celebrates Japan’s design-forward approach to one of life’s most overlooked essentials that the country does best. Exhibits walk you through the history of toilets in Japan, from early wooden bowls to the high-tech fixtures now famous around the world. It’s a clever, unexpectedly engaging stop that fits perfectly into the INAX MUSEUMS’ larger focus on ceramics, design, and everyday innovation. The museum is accessible by a 10-minute car ride from Chubu Centrair Airport, or a 40-minute limited express train ride from Meitetsu Nagoya Station.

The GATE HOTEL FUKUOKA by HULIC offers visitors to Fukuoka a refined and serene experience in the heart of the city. The hotel is located in the top levels of a brand-new business complex and has a direct connection to Tenjin Station. Anchor Grill Fukuoka, the hotel’s in-house restaurant, features local ingredients in every dish, and its top-floor lounge leads onto a breeze-filled patio with expansive views of the skyline. The décor of the guestrooms are modern and well-designed, while suites like THE GATE provide views of Hakata Bay.

Every one of these locations provides something a little different—an experience you weren’t even aware you were seeking. When combined, they demonstrate how Japan keeps evolving and delighting—not by adopting fads but by subtly increasing the standard.

 

 

Tech, Travel

Spin, sip, shake: your VIP admission to Love Boracay 2025 is your Globe Rewards

Globe Love Boracay

Unlocking the greatest experiences with your Globe Rewards Points will be the main focus of Love Boracay 2025 this summer, in addition to beach moods and breathtaking sunsets. Freebies and fun are on the way to the island. Globe customers may upgrade their beach vacation by converting their points into benefits.

Globe members can visit the Globe Booth at D’Mall Station 2 between April 26 and May 2 to enter to win beach essentials including drawstring bags, bucket hats, and canvas totes. To get a spin on the prize wheel, simply finish a brief survey or provide evidence of using Globe services, such as loading or paying your bill.

Aside from the Love Boracay activities, Globe Postpaid and Platinum customers will also be treated to a complimentary drink at the iconic White House Beach Resort during the Globe takeover of the Sunset Sessions.

And because no trip to Boracay is complete without a visit to Jonah’s Fruit Shake & Snack Bar, Globe Rewards can also get you sweet perks at the island’s favorite shake spot.

Every moment in Boracay is better, happier, and more fulfilling when Globe is present. Globe is the ideal summertime partner, whether you’re lounging on the beach, dancing at dusk, or enjoying a sweet treat. With the help of a more robust 5G network, Globe can help you pursue your interests and make experiences more satisfying.

Explore Globe’s website at https://www.globe.com.ph/.

 

Travel

Explore Japan’s Late-Blooming Cherry Blossoms: An Extended Spring Season

Although the early spring cherry blossom show in Japan is well-known, some of the most spectacular displays occur later in the season. These locations provide breathtaking late-blooming sakura, where the splendor of spring lasts a little longer, for those who miss peak bloom or would rather have a more sedate experience.

The star-shaped fort at Goryokaku Park in Hakodate, Hokkaido, is framed in delicate pink by cherry blossoms in late April and early May. The encircling most reflects the petals of the more than 1,600 trees that line the park’s paths. The entire scope of the flowers is seen from Goryokaku Tower, transforming the historic place into a sea of color. Lanterns illuminate the branches with a warm glow as night sets, giving an already remarkable scene a surreal feel.

In Aomori, Hirosaki Park transforms into a landscape of floating petals. In mid to late April, around 2,600 cherry trees bloom against the backdrop of Hirosaki Castle, and as the season progresses, fallen petals gather on the moat’s surface, creating the famous “sakura carpet.” Walking beneath the blossoms or rowing across pink-streaked waters makes for a hanami (flower viewing) experience unlike any other. Evening illuminations add to the charm, giving the park a quiet, almost ethereal glow.

In Miyagi’s Funaoka Castle Park, cherry trees cascade down the hillside, forming a tunnel of blossoms along the Shiroishi River. A short ropeway ride leads to a hilltop view where the pink canopy stretches out below, framing the distant mountains. From early to late April, the scene shifts with the light—soft pastels in the morning, golden hues at sunset, and glowing petals under evening lanterns.

In the historic streets of Kakunodate in Akita, weeping cherry trees drape over samurai-era homes, their branches swaying like flowing silk. Once a gift from Kyoto aristocrats, these trees now stand as a symbol of Kakunodate’s rich history. From middle to late April, visitors can walk beneath the blossoms, framed by the dark wooden houses that have stood for centuries. As dusk settles, the trees take on a softer glow, making the district feel even more timeless.

These places demonstrate that spring doesn’t end as soon as people think, even though Japan’s cherry blossoms are frequently thought of as a passing phenomenon. Hanami takes on a different pace in locations where the season persists, allowing visitors to slow down, appreciate the small nuances, and experience a slightly longer-lived aspect of Japan.

See the Cherry Blossom Forecast for more specific information on each region’s first bloom.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tech, Travel

Globe offers GoRoam for convenient and reasonably priced connection in China, Turkey, and Oman

GoRoam China

By extending GoRoam to China, Turkey, and Oman, Globe is lowering the cost and increasing the convenience of foreign travel for both tourists and Filipino employees working abroad.

Travelers can now access cost-effective, country-specific roaming plans in 17 locations across the globe with these new additions, eliminating the need to switch SIMs, wait in line at the airport for a local pocket WiFi, or remain within a specific range of a WiFi device in order to stay connected.

For as little as Php23 per day, GoRoam offers users dependable, fast mobile internet at prices comparable to those of local SIM cards. Long-term visitors to these locations will also be able to access websites that are blocked in their home countries without having to pay more for a VPN.

The latest offers come with affordable and extended validity options, catering to both short-term tourists and long-term travelers:  

  • GoRoam China – 15GB for 10 days at P800  
  • GoRoam Turkey – 10GB for 30 days at P800  
  • GoRoam Oman – 10GB for 30 days at P700  

These countries expand the reach of GoRoam, joining Hong Kong, Thailand, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia, UAE, USA, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, Canada, Japan, Vietnam, and the Maldives.

“As more Filipinos travel abroad, staying connected should be simple and affordable. GoRoam offers are highly competitive in terms of pricing compared to other alternatives and local SIMs,” said Paula Rivera-Castillo, Globe’s Head of International Business.

“With GoRoam, customers can enjoy reliable data roaming without the inconvenience of changing SIMs or unexpected charges. Our goal is to provide customers with a straightforward way to stay online wherever they go,” she said.

By making a reservation in advance via the GlobeOne app, customers may quickly activate their GoRoam subscriptions. For more flexibility, Globe Prepaid and TM customers can also sign up using GCash.

Globe still offers cutting-edge roaming options tailored for contemporary tourists. Customers can visit glbe.co/roam to register or find out more about GoRoam.

Sports, Travel

A thrilling PKA 2025 Kiteboarding Competition final will take place on Boracay Island

The picturesque shores of Boracay Island are set to welcome the grand finale of the longest-running kiteboarding tournament in Asia, the Philippine Kiteboarding Association or PKA Tour on its 10th Season. Over 80 elite kiteboarding athletes from across the globe gather for three days of high-octane action at the beach front of Aqua Boracay, Bulabog Beach from March 14-16, 2025.
 
This final stop of the tour promises to be a spectacular showcase of skill, speed and style, featuring top riders from the Philippines, USA, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

The Philippine Kiteboarding Association, often known as the PKA Tour, is the oldest kiteboarding competition in Asia, and its tenth season will culminate on the beautiful sands of Boracay Island. From March 14–16, 2025, more than 80 top kiteboarders from across the world come together for three days of intense competition at Bulabog Beach, which is located on the shores of Aqua Boracay.

Top riders from the Philippines, USA, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia are expected to put on a magnificent display of talent, speed, and style at this tour’s last stop. Yo Pudla of Thailand, the eight-time Asian Cup champion and current IKA Asian Champion in Twin-Tip Racing, is part of the all-star lineup. He will face off against other local athletes and top contenders like Stefan Vance of Northern Ireland.

Among the top athletes representing the Philippines is Warner Janoya, a Boracay-born kiter and one the country’s most promising talents. Janoya, a standout in both Men’s Freestyle and Foil Racing, is poised to make his hometown proud as he competes against the world’s best.

Adding the excitement, Triina Trei from Estonia, the reigning Season 9 Overall Champion in Women’s Freestyle and Foil Racing will be defending her title against a fierce field of competitors from Japan, China and Australia.

Paris 2024 Summer Olympics marks the debut of the kite foil races as part of the sailing competitions. This milestone made the organization pumped up together with the international kitesurfing community to promote more the sport with hopes of sending representatives to the LA 2028 Olympics.

The competition will feature four adrenaline-pumping disciplines: Foil Racing, Twin-Tip Racing, Freestyle and Hangtime, ensuring a diverse and thrilling spectacle for spectators and fans alike.

Watch in awe as competitors defy gravity in the Hangtime competition, vying for the title of being airborne for the longest duration without their boards touching the water. This jaw-dropping display of skill and control will keep spectators on the edge of their seats.

The tournament will feature a freestyle competition that pushes the boundaries of creativity and athleticism. Athletes will showcase an array of gravity-defying tricks, spins, and flips, adding a visual feast for spectators and judges alike.

Whether you’re a fan of the classic twin tip board or the cutting-edge foil boards, the racing segments will cater to all preferences. Feel the rush as competitors navigate the azure waters, demonstrating speed, precision, and tactical prowess.

“We are thrilled to mount our final leg of our Kiteboarding Tournament in Boracay, known for its perfect conditions and breathtaking scenery. This event will not only showcase the incredible talent within the kiteboarding community but also highlight Boracay’s commitment to adventure sports and environmental conservation,” said Jay Ortiz, President of the Philippine Kiteboarding Association and the chief organizer of the tournament.

He also quipped: “that energy here in Boracay, as the Island once again host the biggest yearly kiteboarding event in Asia.”

Don’t miss the chance to witness the world’s best kiteboarders in action as they push the limits of the sport in one on the most beautiful destinations on the planet. Boracay’s world-renowned turquoise waters and consistent winds provide the perfect backdrop for this premier kiteboarding event, which is expected to draw not only athletes but also enthusiasts, media and tourists from around the globe.

The PKA Tour Season 10 Boracay stop is powered by ICTSI, together with tour sponsors Aqua Boracay, Neutra K, ICT Cloverleaf Trading, ZIV, Under the Sun, Sun Zapper, Manila Water and Boracay Water, Lazy Dog Bed and Breakfast, and our tour hosts – Borongan, Eastern Samar, Roxas City, Cagbalete Island and Malay LGU and the Boracay Island community.

Take part in this unique occasion that blends Boracay’s natural beauty with the exhilaration of kiteboarding. Zander Servando can be reached by media inquiries at 09166885852 or [email protected].

For sponsorship options, please get in touch with Azenith Resurreccion at 09166902030 or [email protected]. Keep an eye out for real-time updates on social media by following the excitement with #PKATourSeason10 on the Philippine Kiteboarding Tour-PKA Tour Facebook page or PKATour on Instagram.

Event Details:

  • Date: March 14 – 16, 2024
  • Location: AQUA Boracay, Bulabog Beach, Boracay Island

Schedule: 

Livestream by PCTV and Arkimagine from 9:00AM to 4:00PM Mar 14-16

March 13, 3:00-5:00PM Registration with a welcome program

March 14 Friday 8:00 to 4:00PM Competition and races with evening socials

March 15 Saturday 8:00 to 4:00 PM Competition (hangtime and freestyle) with evening socials

March 16 Sunday 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM finals

6:00 PM Awarding Dinner and Ceremony

10:00 PM Afterparty

Lifestyle, Travel

#ColorsInBloomAtSM: An Explosion of Color, Tradition, and Festivity

🌸✨ Vibrant colors, joyful smiles, and cultural pride! 🎉 The Panagbenga 2025 celebration comes alive with stunning performances, festive outfits, and creative floral displays. #ColorsInBloomAtSM 🌺🌻 

A vibrant display of Baguio’s arts and culture, this year’s Panagbenga has been nothing short of spectacular.

One striking piece is a dynamic lightning bolt, expertly crafted from brilliant yellow and blue tile fragments. This work honors Baguio photographer and artist Kidlat de Guia, who passed away in Madrid, Spain.

An onlooker admires the captivating pieces at The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit, a key highlight of the event that brings the spirit of the Cordilleras to life.

The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit, a major event feature, uses its artistic talent to capture the essence of the Cordilleras. Works by Kabunyan de Guia, Guiller Lagac, and Oliver Olivete—collectively referred to as The Mighty Bhutens—are on exhibit. Their works, which draw inspiration from National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, exhibit an impromptu, lighthearted style that honors the area’s rich cultural legacy.

Savor the flavors of Panagbenga 2025 at the Food Truck Fest! 🍔🌮 A must-visit for foodies, this vibrant gathering showcases mouthwatering delights from local MSMEs, bringing together great food, good vibes, and a feast for the senses! 🌟🚚 #Panagbenga2025

Discover unique handcrafted treasures at the Food & Crafts Fair! From artisanal accessories to local delicacies, it’s the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind pasalubong.

The Food and Crafts Fair, running from February 17 – March 03, features local MSMEs presenting a variety of products, including souvenirs, foods, and delicacies. The Food Truck Fest at The Drive offers a unique mix of tastes and flavors from local culinary entrepreneurs.

Painting Panagbenga memories together! Families join in the colorful fun at Family Art Day, celebrating the festival’s vibrant spirit through creativity and laughter. #Panagbenga2025  #ColorsInBloomAtSM

The Painting Competition at Panagbenga 2025 brings artists together to capture the beauty and spirit of the festival on canvas.

The Panagbenga Festival at the mall was bursting with creativity as participants of all ages embraced the artistic spirit! From vibrant paintings to hands-on family fun, the art activities brought inspiration and color to the celebration. 🎨✨

The Arts and Crafts activity sparks creativity among students from various schools as they repurposed past Panagbenga decors into sustainable art. Families enjoyed bonding at Family Art Day, while friends found inspiration from the scenic Sky Terrace view during the Painting Competition.                 

Bringing the Panagbenga 2025 festival spirit to life, cultural performers from various local groups fill the mall with energy, rhythm, and tradition—celebrating the heritage of the Cordilleras in a vibrant display of music and dance.

The shoppers enjoy the Panagbenga spirit and festive atmosphere enriched by music and cultural performances from groups such as Day Eng Cultural Group, University of Baguio BIBAK Ubbun Kaafuan, Paggawisan Tako Am-In from the University of the Philippines-Baguio and Gawis Culture and Arts Ensemble.

A tail-wagging good time! Pawstival brings together pet lovers and their furry friends for a day filled with fun, games, and adorable moments.

Fur-parents and their beloved companions struts their super style in a fun-filled costume contest. The Pet Pawstival kicked off with a paw-some day of bonding and laughter, creating unforgettable memories for both pets and their devoted owners.

Guided by skilled artisans, participants discover the beauty of traditional weaving—one thread at a time.

The weaving workshop, led by master weaver Cathy Ekid from Bontoc, shares her expertise in backstrap weaving. With the assistance of the Pasakalye Group of Artists, mall-goers try their hand at this traditional craft, contributing to the preservation of the art of weaving.

Art that speaks to the soul—visitors find inspiration and meaning in every masterpiece at ‘Hiraya: Dreams in Bloom.

Hiraya: Dreams in Bloom showcased a heartfelt collection of artworks that captured dreams and aspirations through the enchanting beauty of flowers. Featuring over 60 pieces from 48 artists, the exhibit highlighted the incredible talent of prominent Pasakalye artists, blending tradition and creativity in a captivating visual storytelling.

From loom to runway—celebrating the craftsmanship of our local weavers in the Blooming Weaves fashion show and Exhibit.

Blooming Weaves celebrated Cordillera’s rich weaving traditions through a stunning fashion show and exhibit. Featuring the Fashion Designers Alliance Cordillera, the event blended traditional fabrics with modern, eco-conscious designs. Visitors admired intricate handwoven masterpieces, showcasing techniques like backstrap weaving, pedal loom weaving, and ikat dyeing—each a testament to indigenous artistry.

A feast for the senses! Fireworks, glowing lights, and dreamy floral décor come together to create a truly enchanting atmosphere.

Spectacular fireworks, vibrant floral displays featuring a dynamic blend of pastel floral designs, and striking gobo and light installations throughout the mall further enhanced the Panagbenga celebrations.

A masterpiece of artistry and agriculture! This year’s float parade was a spectacular tribute to the beauty of harvest season.

Residents and tourists flocked to see the much-anticipated Grand Float Parade on February 23. The crowd was mesmerized by the 44 exquisitely painted floats.

With a gorgeous design modeled after a cornucopia of abundant harvests, SM City Baguio’s non-competing entry as a hall-of-famer brought this year’s festival theme, “Blossoms Beyond Boundaries,” to life.

Lifestyle, Travel

Enhancing community relations at SM City Baguio through the SM Viyline MSME Caravan

Discover unique finds and support local businesses at the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan, happening at SM City Baguio from February 19-25, 2025.

SM City Baguio will host the eagerly awaited second phase of the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan from February 19–25, 2025, bringing together a vibrant shopping experience and a diverse range of MSMEs and community people. Viyline and SM’s partnership seeks to support local companies and encourage community involvement, and the event has a chance to transform MSMEs in the area.

Viy Cortez, a well-known influencer and wife of well-known YouTuber CONG TV, will be a highlight of the event. She will attend the opening ceremony and provide enthusiasm and celebrity power to the occasion. Viy Cortez is well-known for her large online following and impact. Her participation in this project highlights how important the MSME Caravan is as a chance to improve the community.

A variety of delicious food products, like bottled Pork Sisig Barbecue, are available at the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan, which travels to SM Supermalls nationwide.

The Viyline MSME Caravan is more than just a bazaar—it’s a collaborative effort to strengthen the local economy, support budding entrepreneurs, and celebrate the diversity and creativity of the MSME sector. By bringing together small business owners, influencers, and community members, this event nurtures deeper connections and encourages greater consumer engagement.

The Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan cultivates a thriving MSME ecosystem through collaboration, support, and a dynamic showcase of local talent. Photo from the Viyline Media Group.

The success of the first leg of the Viyline MSME Caravan, held at SM City Bataan last January 22 – 29, 2025, has set the stage for a thrilling second installment, and this collaboration with SM City Baguio promises to take things to the next level. With the support of influential figures like Viy Cortez, the event is bound to attract a wide audience, further solidifying the importance of MSMEs in promoting community growth.

The Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan’s triumphant first leg at SM City Bataan paves the way for an even more exciting continuation at SM City Baguio. Photo from the Viyline Media Group.

The caravan continues to SM City Dasmarinas from March 19-30, after its SM City Baguio stop (February 19-25, 2025). See the full schedule at www.smsupermalls.com.

Empowering MSME success at SM Supermalls

By offering premium retail locations and powerful promotions, SM Supermalls supports the expansion and sustainability of MSME’s. With the largest MSME community in the nation, SM provides comprehensive support from incubation to nationwide expansion, ensuring local companies prosper in a fiercely competitive environment.