Travel

Unveiled during the media launch, the official BÚTLAK video sweeps across Negros—its landscapes, landmarks, fashion, and artistry—bringing the island’s creative spirit to life.

One afternoon at SM Aura was enough to show why generations of shoppers have made the Negros Trade Fair a much-awaited celebration. The Association of Negros Producers (ANP), together with SM Supermalls, officially launched BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair with a preview that brought together the flavors, fashion, craftsmanship, stories, and creative spirit of Negros. From September 22 to 27, 2026, the landmark anniversary edition will bring 178 brands from the Negros Island Region to the SMX Convention Center Aura.

A Journey to Negros—Without Booking a Flight!

One of the media launch’s most evocative moments was the unveiling of the official BÚTLAK video. Taking viewers through the places, flavors, craftsmanship, and stories of Negros, the film offered the kind of visual journey that could make anyone want to book a flight and experience the island for themselves.

But there is no need to pack a suitcase. This September, Negros is coming to Manila for six days of food, fashion, art, homeware, and handcrafted discoveries at SMX Aura.

ANP leaders, partners, and Negrense culinary personalities share a celebratory moment at the BÚTLAK media launch.

ANP President Christina Gaston opened the program, emphasizing the fair’s role in helping creativity become enterprise. “For ANP, MSME development is about giving people the opportunity to discover what they can create, what they can become, and where their creativity can take them. Over 40 years, we have seen small businesses grow into enterprises and local products reach markets once thought beyond their reach,” Gaston said.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan and style icon Tessa Prieto celebrate the color, craft, and unmistakable creative spirit of Negros.

Broadcast journalist Ces Drilon serves as host, guiding guests through an afternoon celebrating Negrense creativity, enterprise, and heritage.

This was followed by welcome remarks from SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, who underscored how platforms such as the Negros Trade Fair can connect Filipino culture with greater economic opportunity. “Our role is to help open doors. For us, the Negros Trade Fair is a wonderful example of how culture and enterprise can grow together,” Tan said. Through SM for MSMEs, SM Supermalls continues its collaboration with ANP by connecting homegrown businesses to a high-traffic marketplace, greater visibility, new customers, partners, and growth opportunities. 

A taste of Negros: Guests sample regional flavors and culinary favorites during the media launch—a delicious preview of what awaits at the fair.

That journey continued at the table as guests sampled a taste of what awaits at the fair, with Negrense culinary personalities JJ Yulo, Joel Torre, and Chef JP Anglo sharing the flavors and stories of the province. The tasting offered just a first bite of the experience—from comforting regional favorites and heirloom recipes to fresh interpretations by a new generation of food entrepreneurs.

For Joel Torre—actor, restaurateur, and owner of JT’s Manukan—the pride behind the food is just as important as its flavor. “I’m a proud Negrense. I’m very proud of Negros products,” Torre said.

Chef JP Anglo linked that same pride to the fair’s ability to keep evolving. “Life is always changing; it’s a constant evolution,” Anglo said. “And that’s why the Negros Trade Fair is thriving through the years—it’s because of that chase to perfection and love for craftsmanship.”

Food, fashion, crafts—and 178 brands to discover

That same spirit is carried by a new generation of brands. Stephanie and Cristina Claparols of Lakat Sustainables described the fair as a place where ideas are exchanged and makers support one another: “To us, this really feels like a family gathering, and there’s a lot of new brands to discover, especially coming from the new generation. I think that’s the most exciting part of it.

Food remains one of the fair’s biggest draws. Visitors can look forward to well-loved names such as Bob’s Café, 21 Restaurant, Chicken House, El Ideal, and Virgie’s Homemade Products, alongside newer food concepts, regional specialties, sweet treats, pantry staples, and pasalubong finds.

As Basti Escalante of the Antonio’s Group put it, “Negrense food goes beyond inasal—there’s a lot more to discover.”

The fair will feature 178 brands across food, fashion, furniture, homeware, art, and local crafts—bringing come for the names they already love and leave with a new favorite—or several.

Beyond the table, the fair offers plenty to wear and bring home. Arête creates handcrafted island-style accessories using indigenous Philippine materials, while Ellege Handcrafted Fashion brings Negros Occidental’s intricate hand-smocking tradition into contemporary clothing. Other fashion and lifestyle labels will showcase resort wear, jewelry, woven pieces, and modern designs rooted in local culture. Home and craft enthusiasts can explore pieces by Hacienda Crafts, Tumandok Crafts Industries, Artisana Island Crafts, NVC Foundation, and other makers transforming abaca, rattan, bamboo, capiz, ceramics, wild pandan, and repurposed materials into distinctive décor, houseware, art, and furniture. Many of these pieces also sustain artisan livelihoods and help keep community craft traditions alive.

Leaders and partners behind BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair come together during the media launch. From left: Royce Cabuñag, AVP and Head of SM Communities; Chef JJ Yulo; Mary Anne Colmenares, NTF Chairperson; Chef Tony Boy Escalante, owner of Antonio’s; Francis Esteban, owner of Breakfast at Antonio’s; Christina Gaston, ANP President; Antonio Sebastian Escalante of Antonio’s; Pats Lim Dy, SAVP for SM Communities; and Joaquin San Agustin, EVP for Marketing of SM Supermalls.

A 40-year legacy designed for the next 40

ANP Vice President Mary Anne Colmenares captured the meaning behind the anniversary theme: “Our roots are found in the traditions, skills, and stories handed down to us. Our blooms are the new ideas, new enterprises, and new generations emerging from those roots. After 40 years, Negros continues to bloom—and its brightest chapters are still ahead.” The milestone edition is therefore both a homecoming and a new beginning. “We’re celebrating 40 remarkable years—but we’re equally excited about the next 40,” said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin.   More than shopping, this is a celebration of talent, heritage, and heart. Bring your family and friends, support local, and take home a piece of Negros! See you at BÚTLAK!

2GO Group Inc.’s new corporate headquarters situated in FourE-Com Center, Pasay City

2GO Group Inc., the Philippines’ leading provider of shipping and logistics solutions, has officially moved its corporate headquarters to FourE-Com Center at the MOA Complex in Pasay City. The relocation marks an important step in the company’s long-term strategy, reflecting its continued focus on operational excellence, employee experience, and sustainable business growth.

According to Will Howell, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of 2GO Group, the move was a purposeful business decision guided by the company’s vision for the future. He emphasized that the new workplace is designed to better support employees, encourage collaboration, and help drive 2GO’s next stage of growth.

2GO’s new headquarters offers a significantly enhanced workplace experience with modern facilities, professionally managed environment, and future-ready infrastructure providing a stronger foundation for the company’s evolving operational requirements.

At the heart of the relocation is 2GO’s continued investment in its people. Recognizing that the workplace plays a vital role in fostering innovation, collaboration, and organizational culture, the new office has been designed to support greater cross-functional engagement and provide employees with an environment where they can perform at their best.

The move also reflects the company’s broader commitment to excellence. As one of the Philippines’ leading transportation and logistics providers, 2GO believes its workplace should embody the same standards of quality, professionalism, and reliability that it delivers to customers and partners across the country.

“As we continue to transform the business, we believe our workplace should evolve alongside us,” Howell added. “Our new home at FourE-Com is more than a new office—it is an investment in our people, our culture, and our ability to deliver greater value to our customers and stakeholders.”

The move marks another milestone in 2GO’s ongoing pursuit of improvement, creating a workplace that empowers its employees, encourages innovation, and strengthens the company’s path toward sustainable growth in the years to come.

For more information, please visit https://2go.com.ph/ 

2GO Group Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer William Howell delivering his presentation during the Mindanao Business Conference in Cagayan de Oro City

2GO, the Philippines’ largest integrated end-to-end transportation and logistics provider, reaffirmed its support for Mindanao’s economic development by enhancing connectivity and helping businesses reach wider markets while enabling travelers to conveniently get to destinations nationwide.

During the 35th Mindanao Business Conference on August 12, 2GO Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer William Howell emphasized the importance of strong connectivity in building a more inclusive and future-ready economy for Mindanao. The conference took place in Cagayan de Oro City from August 11 to 13, centered on the theme, “Accelerating Inclusive Growth through Innovation and Sustainability: Bridging the Gap, Scaling the Future.”

“When we talk about the future of the Philippine economy, Mindanao is not a peripheral story,” Howell said, noting the region’s vital role in agriculture and fisheries, energy, manufacturing, mining, exports, and tourism. Howell emphasized that the region’s economic potential can be further unlocked by strengthening the connections that allow goods, people, and opportunities to move efficiently across markets.

Connecting Mindanao’s industries to wider markets, Howell outlined four strategic pillars underpinning Mindanao’s economic advantage: industry, growth engines, connectivity, and tourism. While the region continues to produce globally competitive agricultural and manufactured products and attract investments across industries, he emphasized that connectivity ties these growth drivers together by linking farmers to markets, manufacturers to customers, exporters to gateways, and communities to new economic opportunities.

“Connectivity is not merely about moving goods and passengers. It is about enabling commerce, expanding access, attracting investments, and strengthening communities,” Howell said.

As Mindanao’s industries expand, 2GO is supporting businesses through an integrated network of freight, logistics, and travel solutions. The company’s Forwarding network includes 93 distribution hubs and warehouses nationwide, with 18 located in Mindanao. In the region, 2GO Forwarding handles approximately 1.5 million packages, or 150,000 transactions, annually.

Through 2GO Sea Solutions, the company connects Mindanao to key commercial hubs across the Philippines. 2GO serves ports located in Cagayan de Oro, Ozamiz, Butuan, Dipolog, Davao, General Santos, and Zamboanga, as part of its 20-port network nationally, while transporting 2.5 million metric tons of cargo to, from, and within Mindanao in 2025.

Beyond regular sea freight, 2GO provides specialized logistics solutions designed to address the evolving requirements of Mindanao’s industries, including project logistics for large-scale developments, cold chain for agricultural and food products, e-commerce logistics, and cross-docking solutions that support faster movement of goods.

Connectivity also extends beyond the movement of cargo. Through 2GO Travel, the company supports the mobility of entrepreneurs, workers, tourists, and communities, helping connect Mindanao with key destinations across Luzon and the Visayas.

2GO Travel currently operates 36 active passenger routes nationwide, including 18 with a Mindanao connection. The network supports 37 weekly voyages connecting Mindanao to Luzon and the Visayas, strengthening access to markets, employment, tourism, and other economic opportunities.

These integrated services reinforce 2GO’s role beyond that of a transportation provider. By combining sea freight, forwarding, specialized logistics, and passenger travel, the company helps businesses move products from production sites to markets while connecting people and communities across the archipelago.

The company’s participation in the 35th Mindanao Business Conference builds on its continued engagement with government, chambers, and business stakeholders in the region. Earlier this year, 2GO, the Mindanao Development Authority, and the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. convened regional industry leaders to discuss logistics challenges and opportunities for strengthening supply chain connectivity across Mindanao.

The conference also highlighted connectivity as a key factor in shaping Mindanao’s economic future, with discussions focusing on strategic economic planning, resilience, smart industries, energy transition, digital infrastructure, trade, climate-smart business practices, tourism, and financing opportunities for MSMEs.

With its integrated sea freight, forwarding, and passenger travel services, 2GO continues to contribute to Mindanao’s growth by connecting people, businesses, markets, and opportunities across the country.

For more information about 2GO’s end-to-end transportation and logistics services, visit www.2GO.com.ph.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com.

(From left) Sharon Musngi-Ngo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Sea Solutions; Ethel Concepcion, Head of 2GO Corporate Marketing and Communications; Assistant Regional Director Evelyn Nacario-Castro of the Department of Economy, Planning and Development; Mr. Felix Taguiam, Regional Governor for Central Visayas of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry; President Regan Rex King of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Forwarding; and Francis Chua, Business Unit Head of 2GO Travel

2GO, the country’s leading integrated transportation and logistics provider, brought together Cebu’s business leaders, industry experts, and policymakers for a strategic forum focused on strengthening connectivity to support the region’s continued growth in trade, tourism, and the broader economy.

In partnership with the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and in coordination with the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Region VII, 2GO convened key regional stakeholders to explore Central Visayas’ economic prospects and highlight the crucial role of modern supply chain networks in connecting businesses with markets and travelers with major destinations.

“We want to hear your pain points and identify your areas of growth so we can co-create solutions together,” said 2GO Marketing Business Unit Head Ethel Concepcion, underscoring the company’s dedication to sustained dialogue and collaborations that enable long-term progress for regional trade and tourism sectors.

“When connectivity improves, businesses can move products faster and more efficiently. Tourism destinations become more accessible, supply chains build resilience, and new markets open,” said CCCI President Regan Rex King. “A stronger Cebu requires stronger connections, and those links begin with meaningful cross-sector alignment.”

The partnership reflects the shared commitment of 2GO and CCCI to foster a holistic economic framework. Through its expansive multimodal network, 2GO bridges trade routes across the Philippines, while collaborating with local organizations to unlock regional opportunities.

Highlighting the region’s trajectory, DEPDev Region VII Assistant Regional Director Evelyn Nacario-Castro presented an outlook emphasizing Central Visayas’ transition toward a more diversified and interconnected economy. Ranked as the country’s fourth-largest regional economy in 2025, Central Visayas is advancing toward modernized transit and freight infrastructure, backed by 90 strategic high-impact projects (SHIPs) scheduled in 2027.

The forum featured an executive panel discussion titled “Strengthening Connectivity for Tourism, Trade, and Regional Growth,” bringing together King and 2GO executives Francis John Chua (Travel), Faye Allonzo (Forwarding), and Sharon Musngi-Ngo (Sea Solutions) to share their perspectives.

Recognizing the critical role of logistics in driving regional development, 2GO reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships with businesses, government agencies, and trade organizations to establish dependable connections throughout Central Visayas.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com.

From left: Claire Bernabe, Head of Sales of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR); Geraldine Gaw, General Manager of Hotel Lucky Chinatown; Eden Decano, Chief Finance Officer of MHR; Arturo Boncato Jr., Group General Manager of MHR; Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of MHR; Capt. Stanley Ng, Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism; Loleth So, Group Commercial Director of MHR; Divine delos Reyes, Head of People Management of MHR; Den Navarro, General Manager of Savoy Hotel Manila; Rowena Samonte, General Manager of Twin Lakes Hotel.

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) takes inspiration from the well-loved Filipino expression “Tara!”—a casual invitation that means “Come on!”, “Let’s go!”, or “Join me!”. More than just a phrase, it reflects the warmth, sense of adventure, and shared experiences that make travel in the Philippines unique. Through its newest campaign, TARA!, MHR encourages Filipinos to travel more often, discover destinations more deeply, and create memorable journeys with affordable accommodations and value-packed travel offers.

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts held the TARA! media launch at Hotel Lucky Chinatown on July 6, 2026.

Members of the press and content creators embarked on Binondo Food Crawl 2.0, a curated culinary and cultural tour offered by Hotel Lucky Chinatown.

The campaign was officially launched during a media event at Hotel Lucky Chinatown on July 6, 2026, attended by members of the travel and lifestyle media along with content creators. After the program, guests joined a specially curated Binondo Food Crawl, highlighting the district’s rich culinary heritage and reinforcing the campaign’s message that unforgettable travel experiences can start right in the heart of one’s own city.

One thing I appreciated from the launch was how “TARA!” transforms a simple everyday Filipino expression into an invitation to rediscover the country. It was a reminder that meaningful travel doesn’t always have to mean going far—sometimes, the most memorable experiences can be found in familiar places, like exploring Binondo’s rich food culture. The campaign also highlights that traveling can be more accessible through affordable and value-driven stays, encouraging more Filipinos to explore, reconnect, and create new memories closer to home.

Newly appointed Undersecretary Stanley Ng of the Department of Tourism graced the event and recognized MHR’s initiative and how it is deeply aligned with the department’s “Discover More to Love” campaign, which encourages Filipinos to experience more of Philippine destinations.

“This campaign reflects our shared belief with the Department of Tourism that domestic tourism remains one of the strongest drivers of a resilient and sustainable tourism industry,” said Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts. “Every local trip supports livelihoods, celebrates our culture, and creates meaningful economic opportunities for communities across the country. Through TARA!, we hope to make discovering more to love about the Philippines easier, more accessible, and ultimately more rewarding for every Filipino.”

As the Philippines’ largest hotel operator with 16 hotels and more than 9,000 room keys across Metro Manila, Batangas, Boracay, Cebu, and Iloilo, MHR offers travelers more ways to rediscover the country through TARA!.

“TARA! is not just another hotel room promotion. It is an invitation for Filipinos to rediscover the incredible destinations we already have, from the heritage streets of Manila and Iloilo to the pristine beaches of Boracay and Cebu to the cool escapes of Batangas. With thousands of room keys across our portfolio, we are creating more opportunities for travelers to explore different parts of the country while enjoying the warmth of our Sampaguita brand of service wherever they go,” Loleth So, Group Commercial Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, said.

Participating hotels feature promotional rates starting at Php 3,800, with room-only offers available at Belmont Hotel Manila, Savoy Hotel Manila, Grand Westside Hotel, Kingsford Hotel Manila, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, Belmont Hotel Iloilo, and Mercure Mactan Cebu. Guests looking for stays with breakfast can enjoy the same local rate at Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Chancellor Hotel Boracay, Belmont Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, and Savoy Hotel Mactan, while Eastwood Richmonde Hotel and Twin Lakes Hotel are available from Php 5,800.

Through TARA!, MHR offers Filipinos affordable stays starting at P3,800.

Running from June 17 to November 29, 2026, with stays valid until November 30, 2026, guests may contact their preferred participating hotel directly or make their reservation through the property website using the promotional code TARAMHR.

The launch of the TARA! campaign comes as domestic tourism continues to play a vital role in driving the country’s travel sector. Based on data from the Department of Tourism, domestic tourism spending reached PHP 3.26 trillion last year, marking a 3 percent increase from PHP 3.16 trillion in 2024.

Tara sa Boracay Newcoast!

More than a travel campaign, TARA! is an invitation for Filipinos to rediscover the beauty of their own country—encouraging them to explore new destinations, embrace fresh experiences, and deepen their appreciation for everything the Philippines has to offer.

Vietjet Unveils Mega Sale Until June 7 including Manila–Ho Chi Minh City

Vietjet is rolling out one of its largest promotions of the year for Filipino travelers, making 12 million discounted seats available, including flights on the Manila–Ho Chi Minh City route. Running until 7 June 2026, the sale covers the airline’s extensive network of domestic destinations in Vietnam as well as its international routes.

The airline is also marking its ongoing global expansion with the launch of two new international services linking Hanoi to Almaty, Kazakhstan, and Prague, Czech Republic. Both routes are set to begin operations on 10 October 2026.

The following promotional fares are available during the booking window:

• Eco-class fares from USD0 (*)on all Vietjet domestic Vietnam and international routes, including flights from the Philippines to Vietnam. Enter promo code SALE66 when booking. Applicable for travel between 5 September 2026 and 31 March 2027 (**). This is an ideal option for Filipinos looking to visit family, explore Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, or connect onward to destinations across Asia.
• 15% off Deluxe fares (*)on the new Hanoi–Prague and Hanoi–Almaty routes with the promo code HELLOVIETNAM. Applicable for travel between 10 October 2026 and 31 March 2027 (**). Filipinos travelling to Europe or Central Asia can connect through Hanoi, making Vietjet a competitive gateway for long-haul journeys.

For those planning summer travel, Vietjet’s Summer 2026 Sale covers travel between 1 June and 31 August 2026 (**), with the following discounts:

• 30% off Deluxe fares (*)with the promo code SALE66DLX
• 20% off SkyBoss and Business fares (*)with the promo code VJSALE20

Travellers who book Deluxe class enjoy up to 20kg of checked baggage allowance, leaving plenty of room for shopping and souvenirs along the way. Deluxe fares also include priority seat selection and free flight schedule changes, offering added flexibility and peace of mind.

Vietnam is a well-loved destination among Filipino travellers, offering short flight times, affordable living costs, and rich cultural experiences. From the street food of Ho Chi Minh City to the heritage town of Hoi An and the karst landscapes of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam continues to draw growing numbers of Filipinos each year. With Vietjet’s expanding network, Filipino passengers also gain access to seamless onward connections across Asia, and now to Europe and Central Asia via Hanoi.

Onboard, Vietjet delivers a contemporary travel experience, offering a selection of hot meals that feature both Vietnamese and international dishes, along with attentive in-flight service. Flights are operated using its modern, fuel-efficient aircraft fleet.

Tickets may be purchased through the Vietjet website at www.vietjetair.com, via the Vietjet Air mobile app, or through authorized ticketing offices and travel agents nationwide, including those in the Philippines.

(*) Excluding taxes and fees

(**) Travel periods vary by route. Blackout dates apply. Please refer to vietjetair.com for details.

(L-R) Atty. Collin Derk Isidto, Vice President for Legal, Vallacar Transit Inc.; Ronald Ian Galimba, Vice President for Supply and Logistics, Vallacar Transit Inc.; Francis O. Chua, Business Unit Head, 2GO Travel; and Laurence Albert Orante, Business Development Manager, 2GO Travel.

2GO, one of the Philippines’ leading sea travel providers, has entered a strategic partnership with Vallacar Transit, Inc., more commonly known for its Ceres Liner buses, to provide seamless shuttle services connecting sea and land transportation across key Philippine gateways.

Through the agreement, Ceres Liner will deploy dedicated shuttle buses to transport 2GO vessel passengers from their point of disembarkation at port terminals. Its first leg was launched from Nasipit Port to a Ceres Terminal in Butuan City, with Cebu and Cagayan de Oro to follow soon, improving end-to-end travel convenience and accessibility for local travelers.

2GO Travel passengers can easily reserve their seats onboard before disembarking, creating a seamless movement from pier to terminal while synchronizing Ceres shuttle operations. This integrated approach enables more efficient passenger movement, reduces waiting time, and ensures better alignment between vessel arrivals and land transfers.

“This partnership strengthens access for passengers traveling to and from nearby provinces, making it easier for more Filipinos to connect to key ports and continue their journeys across islands,” said Atty. Collin Derk Isidto, Vice President for Legal, Vallacar Transit Inc. “By improving connectivity between land and sea transport, we help enable more convenient and reliable inter-island travel.”

“We hope that through this collaboration, we enable not only regular travelers and groups, but also entrepreneurs and communities to access more destinations across the Philippines,” said Francis O. Chua, Business Unit Head of 2GO Travel. “This added convenience opens more opportunities for Filipinos to explore and connect across islands.”

This partnership reflects 2GO’s continued push to strengthen its logistics and travel ecosystem by connecting sea and land transport services. By integrating mobility solutions, the company aims to deliver a more seamless travel experience while expanding its role as a comprehensive transport and logistics provider.

The parties are also exploring additional ports and terminals as they look to further enhance connectivity nationwide.

Travelers bound for Butuan may visit the Front Office onboard for assistance with shuttle arrangements.

To learn more about this partnership, visit travel.2go.com.ph.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com.