Tuesday, July 29, 2025

Enjoy a moviegoing experience at Gateway Cineplex 18

“Movies are a way to escape, but they also bring us together and connect us with one another. We know our moviegoers want to be immersed in the story, which is why we’ve made it a point to deliver an exceptional cinema experience. And now, we’re taking it even further by introducing unique, first-of-its-kind concepts here in the country. Gateway Cineplex 18 gives you choices to make your moviegoing experience truly extraordinary. Whatever you need, there’s a theater here for you! Wherever you sit, we make sure the sound, the visuals, and the comfort are exactly how you want them. We wanted to take the idea of a ‘movie night’ and take it up a notch. World Kitchens Platinum Cinema gives you a cinematic escape paired with flavors from around the world. Wolfgang’s Premiere Lounge takes it to another level—it’s a unique mix of fine dining and premium moviegoing you won’t find anywhere else. It’s about giving people more reasons to come together, relax, and enjoy the stories they love. Big stories deserve the big screen. So gather your family, your friends, and catch the next blockbuster with us here at Gateway Cineplex 18. We’ll make sure it’s an experience you won’t forget. ~Irene Jose, COO of Uniprom Inc.


Nothing compares to seeing a movie.  You are immediately taken to new realms as the screen comes to life and the lights go down.  You can encounter a variety of tales and life experiences there.  It is both a retreat, an exploration, and a discovery.  It expands our horizons and deepens our awareness by enabling us to explore our common human experience.  It truly is a mystical experience.

And that transformative power of cinema is exactly what’s celebrated at Gateway Cineplex 18. 

The largest movie theater complex in the nation, with 18 screens spread across Gateway Malls 1 and 2, is designed to accommodate both casual and devoted viewers.




With ten carefully planned theaters created by international consultant Ian Riches, the first Gateway Cineplex at Gateway Mall 1 set the bar high.  Every theater has full stadium seating for unobstructed sightlines, digital sound, and Boral acoustic walls.




The standard is further raised with Gateway Mall 2's additional wing.  Eight additional movie theaters are added, one of which is an impact theater with a curved sixty-foot screen.  Every seat in the complex has access to crisp, detailed music thanks to Dolby Atmos and Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound.

Gateway Cineplex 18 is a perfect place for film festivals, block screenings, advance premieres, and other special events because of its convenient location, variety of theaters, and cutting-edge cinema equipment.  It is perfect for both private parties and large-scale presentations because of its variety of cinema sizes.

With the launch of high-end concepts that fuse the pleasure of viewing a movie with culinary wonders, Gateway Cineplex 18 redefines what a night at the movies can be, going beyond simply serving as a location for events and screenings.




With 40 Lazy-Z-Boy recliners, the World Kitchens Platinum Cinema at Gateway Mall 1 creates a cozy atmosphere.  For crisper, brighter images, it has a high-performance projection system and a high-gain screen in addition to Digital Dolby Surround Sound.  With additional meals available à la carte in the adjacent lounge, each ticket includes a selection of delicious alternatives particularly selected by the chefs of World Kitchens at Gateway Mall 2.




Meanwhile, the Wolfgang's Premiere Lounge in Gateway Mall 2 combines upscale dining with a private movie theater atmosphere.  The only movie theater in the world with a Wolfgang's Steakhouse menu is this one.  Inside, Dolby Digital 7.1 Surround Sound gives each scene depth, and laser projection combined with a Perlux Screen produces vibrant pictures.  With just 120 seats spread over two halls, it provides a peaceful and concentrated movie-watching experience.

Gateway Cineplex 18 offers even more reasons to enjoy a movie.  It's never too early to purchase your tickets because there are still more blockbusters on the horizon.

To know more about the latest movies, deals, other promos, and to purchase tickets please visit https://gatewaycineplex18.com/ or download the Araneta City mobile app, which can be downloaded on any Android or iOS device. You can also follow them on FacebookInstagram, and X (formerly Twitter) to stay updated.



















GATEWAY CINEPLEX 18 at Araneta City, the country’s first and largest cineplex spread across Level 4 of Gateway Mall 1 and 2, continues to set the standard in cinematic entertainment. With more than 3,000 seats and 18 modern cinemas —the most in any mall in Metro Manila —it has become a top destination for blockbuster premieres, film festivals, and exclusive screenings. Each cinema is equipped with cutting-edge digital sound, Boral acoustic walls for enhanced audio clarity, and full stadium seating for optimal viewing comfort. Gateway Cineplex 18 offers a range of premium cinemas to suit every moviegoer —from the iconic World Kitchens Platinum Cinema, home to the Philippines’ first La-Z-Boy theater, to the immersive Dolby Atmos-equipped Cinema 5, and the luxurious Wolfgang’s Premiere Lounge. Surrounded by a wide array of dining and leisure options, it transforms every film outing into a complete and memorable entertainment escape.

Monday, July 21, 2025

Ajinomoto Philippines Champions Delicious, Hearty Meals with Less Sodium Recipes on World Umami Day

Miswa at Patola Soup


In honor of World Umami Day, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) reaffirms its dedication to encouraging better lifestyle choices for Filipinos by highlighting recipes that are lower in sodium without sacrificing flavor.

APC, a leader in food science and nutrition, emphasizes how umami, sometimes known as "the fifth basic taste," may provide deep, fulfilling sensations even when sodium intake is lowered.  This supports the APC's efforts to address growing health issues like heart disease and hypertension, which are frequently brought on by a diet high in sodium.

The global celebration of World Umami Day by encouraging healthier home cooking through heart-friendly, low-sodium meals — highlighting how umami, the fifth basic taste, can help enhance flavor without the need for too much salt.

Filipino favorites like Pininyahang Manok, Miswa at Patola Soup, and Ginataang Sitaw at Kalabasa are featured in this initiative, reimagined with AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning to preserve richness in taste while promoting smarter sodium intake.

The story also honors the legacy of Dr. Kikunae Ikeda, who discovered umami over a century ago, and how Ajinomoto continues to lead with purpose by using food science for better nutrition and sustainable home cooking practices.

Part of APC’s goals is to help Filipinos enjoy delicious foods they love in a healthier way. For generations, cooking with AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning can help achieve deliciousness, but more than that, it has been helpful in cutting back on sodium, making everyday meals better for the heart and overall wellness.


Umami-Powered Recipes for a Healthier Table

APC encourages home cooks to try these easy, nutritious, and umami-rich recipes:
  • Miswa at Patola SoupA comforting classic made more flavorful with umami, perfect for rainy days without the extra sodium.

Pininyahang Manok


  • Pininyahang ManokA creamy, fruity chicken dish that balances savory and sweet notes, made healthier for the whole family.

Ginataang Sitaw at Kalabasa – A vibrant vegetable dish in coconut milk, offering creamy umami goodness that celebrates local flavors.

These recipes use AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning and other APC products to help home cooks create meals that are both delicious and mindful of sodium content.


A Global Celebration of Flavor and Health

Every year on July 25, people celebrate World Umami Day, which honors Dr. Kikunae Ikeda's 1908 discovery of umami.  Over a century later, the Ajinomoto Group is still using this discovery to develop cutting-edge food products that promote healthier societies throughout.

APC is hopeful that many of us would come to understand that umami is our ally in better nutrition and not just a taste.  It enables us to make foods that are flavorful and lower in salt, demonstrating that eating healthily doesn't have to be boring.

For more recipes and cooking tips, visit www.cookmunitybyajinomoto.com.



















The Ajinomoto Group is a global company with specialties in the business of food and amino acids, guided by our leading-edge bioscience and fine chemical technologies.

Based on the corporate message “Eat Well, Live Well.”, we have been scientifically pursuing the possibilities of amino acids in supporting the healthy lives of people all around the world. We aim for future growth and continuous contribution to greater wellness by creating value through sustainable and innovative solutions for communities and society.

The Ajinomoto Group has offices in 36 countries and regions, and sells products in more than 130 countries and regions. In fiscal 2021, sales were 1.1149 trillion yen (8.73 billion U.S. dollars). To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.

Monday, July 14, 2025

AirAsia Philippines Now Serving Taipei with 17 Flights a Week

“The additional flights come at the perfect time as we enter Q3 and gear up for the peak travel season. This move gets us ready for the expected surge in demand during the ‘Ber’ months, when many Filipinos head to Taipei to enjoy its cooler climate from September through February. It also allows us to serve our guests better by offering more options and flexibility whether they’re flying for leisure, business, or to reconnect with family and friends.” ~Suresh Bangah, AirAsia Philippines President and CEO


Due to the increasing demand for travel between Manila and Taipei, AirAsia Philippines increased the number of weekly flights to the capital of Taiwan from 14 to 17 beginning in July.

The action was taken after AirAsia Philippines' Taipei route showed a good average load factor of 85%, highlighting high and steady passenger interest. Taipei is one of AirAsia Philippines' top-performing overseas destinations.

The airline carried more than 70,000 passengers to Taipei from January to June 2025 alone, and this number is anticipated to rise once visa-free entry for Filipino visitors staying in Taiwan for 14 days was extended until July 31, 2026.

Reiterating its dedication to affordable and dependable travel for everyone, AirAsia Philippines is increasing flight frequencies and fortifying its 15 + 1 fleet to satisfy the growing demand on both local and international routes.



















About AirAsia Philippines
AirAsia is a leading low-cost carrier with licenses to operate in five Asean countries—Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Founded in 2001, AirAsia has stayed true to its purpose and tagline "Now Everyone Can Fly". The airline has made flying affordable and accessible to over 800 million guests, connecting people and communities across more than 130 destinations. Today, as one of the largest airlines in the region, AirAsia is expanding to become the world's first global low cost network carrier. It operates more than 200 aircraft and holds a significant orderbook for the next decade. AirAsia leads in sustainable aviation with green initiatives and a net zero target by 2050. In 2023, it avoided 130,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions from its narrowbody regional network through 20+ efficiency measures, saving US$40 million in fuel and over US$388,000 in shadow carbon costs.

Cebu Pacific Showcases Filipino Culture at Australia’s Bondi Festival



Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines' leading carrier, has introduced the warmth and richness of Filipino culture to Australia with the opening of the Cebu Pacific Travel Beach Bar at Bondi Beach, a first-of-its-kind heated beach bar that provides visitors to the annual Bondi Festival with a unique way to experience the Philippines.

The travel beach bar is surrounded by standing heaters that create a pleasant atmosphere evocative of the Philippine environment, providing an ideal respite from Australia's winter season.  It also includes Filipino foods, music, and a design inspired by the bahay kubo, bringing a taste of the Philippines to Bondi Beach, one of Australia's most famous locations.




CEB travelers can book flights to Australia for as little as PHP 7,999 for a one-way all-inclusive cost till July 31, 2025.  The travel dates range from August 1 to December 31, 2025, making them ideal for vacations. 

CEB's travel beach bar is the first time an airline has been an official airline partner of the Bondi Festival—a ground-breaking relationship that demonstrates CEB's dedication to bringing Filipino joy to the global arena.   Festival visitors can visit the Cebu Pacific Travel Beach Bar until July 20.
 
The travel beach bar complements CEB's Fly to Your Happy Philippines campaign, as the airline expands its global efforts to encourage passengers to discover the country's varied islands in their own distinctive way.

Bondi Beach, located just outside of central Sydney, is noted for its broad expanse of sand, surf culture, and laid-back environment, which appeals to both locals and tourists.  It hosts the Bondi Festival every winter, a celebration of arts, live entertainment, and culinary experiences that has been made even more thrilling by CEB's tropical-themed vacation beach bar.

Filipinos may visit Bondi Beach and other classic Australian attractions by flying daily between Manila and Sydney and four times per week to Melbourne.  From Sydney's Bondi Beach and Opera House to Melbourne's Flinders Street Station and Federation Square, there's enough to do all year long.



CEB launched its Manila-Sydney route in 2014, followed by Manila-Melbourne in 2018. The airline has flown over 250 million passengers as it continues to offer affordable and accessible flights.

CEB operates in 37 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Book your flights now at www.cebupacificair.com.


Sunday, July 13, 2025

Filipino Elegance Meets Affordable Luxury at Hotel DreamWorld North EDSA

“Our goal was to create more than just a place to sleep. We've created a haven where guests can genuinely relax, supported by thoughtful, comforting service designed to feel like a gentle escape from the demands of everyday life." ~Christian Emmanuel Bona, Manager of Hotel DreamWorld North EDSA


In the middle of the metro's fast-paced beat, there is a refreshing hideaway where time slows down, smiles flow naturally, and every guest is greeted like family.  Welcome to Hotel DreamWorld North EDSA, a newly refurbished refuge that seamlessly blends comfort, sophistication, and compassionate service.

The North EDSA outpost of the popular DreamWorld brand, which already has locations in Cubao, Las Piñas, Araneta, and East Ortigas, is setting a new standard for boutique hotels in Metro Manila.  It has been modernized and renovated, making it the crown jewel of the DreamWorld family.


A New Standard of Comfort and Care

Stepping inside, you're greeted by warmth and thoughtful design.  The updated furnishings are modern yet homey, with a mix of soft tones, silky bedding, and elegant local details that make each room feel like a welcoming sanctuary.




Guests can enjoy a wide range of upgraded amenities, including:
  • A beautifully maintained swimming pool perfect for leisurely dips or fun with family and friends
  • A sleek mini bar stocked with premium refreshments
  • A hearty breakfast buffet served daily, offering a variety of local and international favorites to start your day right
  • Room service and in-room dining for those who prefer private comfort
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi, LED TVs, and work-friendly spaces for business or leisure
  • Safe and secure parking, plus 24/7 concierge support for a worry-free stay

Whether you're traveling for business, a romantic break, or a simple staycation, Hotel DreamWorld North EDSA has everything you need to feel calm and cared for.


The Heart of the City, the Soul of Hospitality

The hotel is conveniently positioned along EDSA, just minutes away from shopping malls, entertainment centers, and transportation hubs.  But inside, it's a serene world all its own: quiet, clean, and pleasant.


Designed for Every Kind of Guest

Business travelers will value the convenience.  Couples will enjoy the atmosphere.  Families will have space and comfort.  And everyone, regardless of their purpose for visiting, will find a hotel experience full of care and personality.

Best of all, everything is within reach.  DreamWorld North EDSA offers excellent amenities and compassionate service at a fraction of the cost of luxury hotels, proving that you don't have to pay a lot to be pampered.




Discover the Dream

Each Hotel DreamWorld location is distinctive, but North EDSA stands out not only for its gorgeous refurbishment, but also for its clever combination of city flair and real hospitality.

Hotel DreamWorld North EDSA is more than just a hotel.  It's a destination, a place to unwind, refuel, and rediscover what a wonderful stay may be.

Because here, you’re not just checking in. You’re coming Home.


Tuesday, July 8, 2025

DQ’s Latest Belgian Chocolate Obsession!



Experience soft serve like never before with DQ’s latest Belgian Chocolate Obsession! Enjoy these eight Belgian Chocolate Obsession creations before they disappear!

Nothing compares to Belgian chocolate as one of life's most basic pleasures.  There is something about it that makes every bite decadent and opulent, whether it is the craftsmanship, the flavor, or the quality.  And this is true regardless of the shape it takes, be it a chocolate bar with unusual tastes, a truffle packed with ganache, or even Belgian chocolate ice cream!

In relation to Belgian chocolate ice cream, are you aware of DQ's most recent Blizzard of the Month promotion?  Known as the Belgian Chocolate Obsession, it comes in eight distinct varieties and incorporates DQ's soft serve foundation, which is composed entirely of real Belgian chocolate!

A fresh twist on a campfire staple, the Belgian Chocolate Caramel S'mores Blizzard (starting at P129) combines DQ's Belgian chocolate soft serve with creamy caramel fudge, graham crackers, and mallows. It is then topped with additional graham crackers, mallows, and a DQ sandwich wafer.

Another option is the Belgian Chocolate Tiramisu Cheesecake Blizzard (starting at P129), which is a reimagining of an Italian classic that combines DQ's Belgian chocolate soft serve with cheesecake chunks, cake crunch, and strong coffee concentrate. It is then topped with additional cheesecake, cake crunch, and a DQ sandwich wafer.

The Belgian Chocolate Potato Chip Blizzard (starting at P129) is a strangely delicious delicacy that also has a lot of crunch. It's prepared with DQ's Belgian chocolate soft serve and crispy Ruffles potato chips, and it's finished with a DQ sandwich wafer and Belgian chocolate-dipped potato chips.

With DQ's Belgian chocolate soft serve covered with strawberry purée, crunchy peanuts, almonds, and cashews, and then topped with whipped cream and drizzled with even more strawberry purée, strawberry lovers are in for a berry-good time with the Belgian Chocolate Berry & Nuts Parfait (P219)!

The Belgian Chocolate Crunch Milkshake (starting at P219) is the ideal beverage to unwind with. It is crafted with DQ's Belgian chocolate soft serve, blended with creamy milk and cake crunch, then finished with whipped cream and even more cake crunch!

Additionally, DQ's Belgian chocolate soft serve is blended with rich caramel fudge, marshmallows, and bold coffee concentrate to create the Belgian Chocolate Caramel S'mores Frappe (starting at P219), which is topped with whipped cream, additional mallows, and a drizzle of caramel fudge for a rich and creamy pick-me-up!

Do you want some ice cream cake for yourself?  The Belgian Chocolate Potato Chip Tin Cake (P499), a 100% ice cream cake constructed with a blend of DQ's Belgian chocolate soft serve, is a surefire choice.

With a layer of cake crunch and chocolate fudge, the Belgian Chocolate Caramel S'mores Blizzard Cake (starting at P949) is a 100% ice cream cake crafted with DQ's Belgian chocolate soft serve combined with creamy caramel fudge, graham crackers, and marshmallows. It's the ideal dessert to share!

For a brief period, DQ's Belgian Chocolate Obsession line will be accessible.  Enjoy these along with your other DQ favorites by ordering takeout or dining in at the closest location.  Additionally, you can place your order for delivery through DQ's official delivery partners, GrabFood, foodpanda, and Pickaroo (prices may vary), the 8911-1111 hotline, or www.dairyqueen.com.

Don't forget to follow and give DQ a like on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) so you won't miss out on the latest updates, offers, and deals!

Tropical Bonds: A Barkada Escape at Boracay Newcoast



Leaving the city with your barkada and discovering that you are surrounded by laughing, the sea, and the sun is a magical experience.  That magic is realized at Boracay Newcoast's Savoy Hotel Boracay, which transforms group vacations into something truly remarkable.

The "Squad Stay and Slay" package offered by the Savoy Hotel Boracay simplifies preparation so that barkadas can concentrate on creating new memories with one another.  Imagine spending three days and two nights in chic, socially media-worthy spaces that are as lively as your friendship.  A substantial breakfast is served every morning to prepare the party for the island adventures that lie just outside the lobby.




Adventure? It is essentially included in the schedule.  Exciting activities that are effortlessly included in the stay include Helmet Diving to meet the underwater inhabitants of Boracay, Riding a Banana Boat, and Riding an ATV to explore rough paths.  It's an event designed to be enjoyable, hassle-free, and unforgettable, with costs starting at PHP 12,000 per person for parties of three and PHP 16,000 for groups of four.

The Savoy Hotel, however, ensures that visitors also take pleasure in the more subdued moments.  Imagine relaxing at the Vienne Lobby Lounge, catching up on untold stories, or relaxing by the Chambery Pool Bar as the sky becomes gold.  A dining certificate at Savoy Café adds a delectable cause to get together over shared meals, and round-way airport transfers keep the trip stress-free.




The enjoyment doesn't end at the beach.  Inside Boracay Newcoast, a short walk leads to distinctive stores, fresh brews, and eccentric concept restaurants.  Visit Almond Ink Tattoo Studio for sentimental mementos that will last long after the trip is over, or New Lounge for pampering days when lashes and nails are island-ready.

Naturally, a trip to Boracay Newcoast would not be complete without a group photo taken by the famous Keyhole, a memory that will be immortalized in your stories and TikToks.  Every hour turns into a memory that is just aching to be recounted, whether it is laughing till midnight, chasing sunsets, or simply lounging on Newcoast Beach.




Ultimately, what begins as a journey turns into a tale your team will retell for years to come. To make a reservation, go to www.savoyboracay.com.ph or follow the Savoy Hotel Boracay on Instagram and Facebook.