Manila City Gears Up for the Second RAMPA MANILA – A Celebration of Filipino Fashion

Manila City April 11, 2024 – Following the resounding success of last year's inaugural event, Manila City is thrilled to announce the return of RAMPA MANILA! In collaboration with Punto Consultancy, RAMPA MANILA 2 promises an even more captivating experience, set to take place on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at Bulwagang Eulogio Rodriguez City Hall Manila.

Building upon the momentum of the first RAMPA MANILA, spearheaded by the visionary leadership of Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan, this year's edition embraces the theme Textile, Texture, and Technique, celebrating the artistry and innovation that define Filipino fashion.

Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan shared her excitement, stating, "RAMPA MANILA is not just an event; it's a celebration of our rich cultural heritage and the boundless creativity of Filipino designers. As we gear up for RAMPA MANILA 2, we look forward to showcasing the best of Filipino fashion to the world."

RAMPA MANILA 2 is honored to showcase the brilliance of both established and up-and-coming Filipino fashion designers. Among the esteemed designers headlining the event are:

- **Anthony Ramirez**: With 15 years of experience in the industry, Ramirez's creations reflect a journey of self-discovery and creative expression.

- **Neric Beltran**: Known for his detail-oriented and innovative designs, Beltran's pieces are characterized by cutting-edge design and meticulous workmanship.

- **Mark Rancy**: From humble beginnings in a car garage to earning a dual master's degree in Fashion Management, Rancy'sjourney is one of passion, talent, and dedication.

- **Val Taguba**: Renowned for his dramatic bridal looks and impeccable craftsmanship, Taguba's creations captivate with their bold colors and intricate details.

- **Jhobes Estrella**: With a timeless and ever-evolving craft, Estrella's designs have adorned celebrities, beauty queens, and luminaries alike.

RAMPA MANILA 2 also shines a spotlight on up-and-coming young fashion designers from prominent design schools such as College of St. Benilde and iAcademy. Among them are:

- **Dhenyze Guevara**

- **Morissette Magalona**

- **Joanna Santos**

RAMPA MANILA 2 is not just a fashion event; it is a celebration of Filipino creativity, talent, and innovation. Join us as we come together to witness the beauty and diversity of Filipino fashion on one dazzling runway.

For media inquiries, please contact Steph Ongkio (Punto Consultancy) at steph@puntoconsultancy.com

### About RAMPA MANILA:

RAMPA MANILA is an annual fashion event organized by the City of Manila in collaboration with Punto Consultancy. It aims to showcase the talent and creativity of Filipino fashion designers while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.

### Contact Information:

Steph Ongkiko

Punto Consultancy

steph@puntoconusltancy.com

Source: Nyou

Israel Celebrates 75th Independence Day in Manila

The Embassy of Israel in the Philippines celebrated Israel’s 75th Independence Day with a reception at the historic Manila Hotel on the 4th of May.

“This 2023 is a year full of celebration. Aside from Israel’s 75th year independence, we are also celebrating the 65 years of friendship between our countries. Our special friendship is deeply rooted in our common history and values,” Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss emphasized in his message.

During the event, Israel-Philippines historically friendly relations was highlighted in a video presentation which includes: the Open-Door Policy of former president Manuel Quezon that provided a safe haven to Jews fleeing the Nazi regime and the vote of the Philippines in favor of UN Resolution in 1947 for the establishment of the Jewish State of Israel. Also given emphasis were the humanitarian assistance of Israel to the Philippines during Typhoon Yolanda and Odette, economic and defense cooperation between the two countries, and the historic visit of former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte to Israel in 2018, which is the first official visit to Israel of a Filipino president in office.

“I am proud to represent Israel, a country that within 75 years has become a global leader and a source of knowledge, research, and development, and innovation and technology,” Ambassador Fluss said. The Ambassador expressed his eagerness to partner with the Philippines to build more bridges in various areas, including innovation and technology, between the two countries and its people and to support each other in addressing the challenges in the years to come, especially during times of need. Ambassador Fluss also recognized the 30,000 Filipino caregivers in Israel dedicated to taking care of the elderly and disabled people.

The guest of honor in the event was Executive Secretary of the Republic of the Philippines and Retired Chief Justice Lucas Bersamin. Also on stage during the ceremonial toast were Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Charles Brown, Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos, and Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Carlos Sorreta. The night was attended by the diplomatic corps, senators, governors, other elected officials, the Israeli community and friends from the public and private sector.

An Israeli all-female drummer group, Rhythmania, performed during the celebration. Rhythmania also held a series of workshop and outreach events at White Cross Orphanage in San Juan City, Laura Vicuna Foundation, and children from different schools of Makati City.

In 2023, Yom Haatzmaut or Israeli Independence Day falls from sundown on April 25 to sundown on April 26 in the Hebrew calendar. This day marks the rebirth of Israel as a nation by a United Nations plebiscite in 1947.

The Philippines and Israel celebrated 65 years of friendship on February 26. This was the day when the Treaty of Friendship was signed in 1958 between the Republic of the Philippines and the State of Israel, establishing their full diplomatic relations.

Source: Embassy of Israel in the Philippines

HATCH: The 5th Edition

For the forthcoming Easter season, The Manila Hotel, in partnership with Manila Bulletin, brings back HATCH – a one-of-a-kind showcase of artfully crafted Easter eggs. Displayed as a focal point of the Grand Lobby of the hotel, guests will be treated to a delightful display of novel collaboration of Filipino artists.

With the aim to promote the local art scene and highlight the creative genius of local artists, HATCH: The 5th Edition features 18 uniquely customized acrylic eggs showcasing multitude of creative styles and distinct personalities of Filipino contemporary artists who come from different disciplines. Just as the artists adapted their respective unique styles of mixed media, each Easter egg has a different story to tell.

Featured artists include: Addie Cukingnan, Agi Pagkatipuna, Al Perez, Aner Sebastian, Carlito Ortega, Carlo Magno, Cindel Tiausas, Carlos Cee Cadid, Demet dela Cruz, Migi Sebastian, Egai Fernandez, Emmanuel Nim, Jinggoy Salcedo, Margie Organo, Maria Magdamit, Migs Villanueva, Monnar Baldemor, Reen Barrera, Remy Boquiren, Roger “Rishab” Tibon.

In 2020, Manila Bulletin won the gold award for HATCH during the 55th Anvil Awards. The exhibit moved from city to city where visitors were introduced to an exceptional showcase of Filipino artistry.

HATCH will be on display at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel until April 23, 2023.

Source: The Manila Hotel

The Prince returns… and rolls out the red carpet for guests

The hotel reopens to let guests experience affordable luxury in the city

(Manila, Philippines) – The Manila Prince Hotel by The Mania Hotel is delighted to officially announce its highly anticipated reopening on June 1, 2022. This heralds an exciting new chapter in the property’s history as it establishes itself as a perfect staycation place in the heart of the city.

The newly reopened Manila Prince Hotel offers guest affordable luxury with a reopening rate of only P1,999 nett for an overnight stay in a Deluxe room. This royal treatment can be enjoyed by two (2) adults and two (2) kids 12 years old and below, along with set breakfast for two.

Staycation seekers, weary urban warriors, working folk, and even guests from outside Metro Manila can expect unrivalled comfort and inimitable service while enjoying the hotel’s facilities and spaces. The hotel boasts of a pool where you can take your kids to enjoy an afternoon of fun, while the rest of the day can be spent having a hearty meal at the hotel’s Marcelino Street Café, which serves a la carte dishes for now. Eventually, Manila Prince Hotel’s amazingly decorated Chinese restaurant, Dragon Court, will reopen at a later date.

Guests are also within walking distance to malls and commercial establishments—the closest being UN Square, which has an array of fast-food choices on the ground floor like Tim Horton’s, Café France, Karate Kid, and many others. The hotel is in the center of everything, and convenient enough to be near banks, hospitals, schools, and convenience stores, churches, and many others.

But Manila Prince Hotel is not just welcoming stay-in guests but also those who are looking for the perfect venue for events that have been postponed or re-scheduled because of the pandemic. With the return of social events and gatherings, Manila Prince Hotel gives guests an option of an affordable but grand venue for conferences, meetings, and even gatherings like wedding receptions, anniversaries, and more.

A clean and safe environment

Manila Prince Hotel is a multi-use establishment that welcomes both staycation/leisure guests, and even guests who need mandatory stay bookings for a few days. Strict safety guidelines will be implemented.

With the reinforcement of cleaning and disinfection procedures implemented in rooms, common areas, function halls, dining outlets, and kitchen and employee areas, Manila Prince Hotel has adapted to current guidelines from the government to ensure guest safety and comfort.

Reservation for staycations as well as function rooms for meetings/conventions, launches and other occasions are now accepted. For enquiries and reservations, guests may call 0998-591-1912; visit https://www.manilaprince.com; or email info@themanilaprince.com.

Source: Manila Hotel PR

Kapetolyo by SGD

Delicious danggit lamayo and SGD black coffee for lunch at @kapetolyobysgd ☕️ #foodie

The Met

I watched a film at The Met and I still can’t get over how beautiful the place is.

HEPA Filtration System against viruses in place at The Manila Hotel

As The Manila Hotel’s famed Café Ilang-Ilang and the romantic Champagne Room reopened on January 28 and February 2, 2022, respectively. The hotel chose to suspend dining operations and do general maintenance when the holiday festivities died down to ensure food quality and guest safety, as well as do spot-checks on its facilities.

Café Ilang-Ilang is still one of the best eat-all-you can restaurants in the country where diners can indulge in a wide range of food selections for lunch and dinner daily. This brings together Italian, Filipino, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and even certified Halal dishes under one roof for an indulgent eat-all-you-can feast featuring crowd favorites like the US Beef Rib Roast; items from the Churrasco station; seafood like prawns and crabs; a glorious spread of different sushi and sashimi; Filipino favorites like Lechon with truffle rice; an array of desserts including bibingka, puto bumbong, and halo-halo; and many more.

Meanwhile, Manila’s premier destination for exquisite fine dining serves up lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, with choices from la carte items and special multi-course degustation menus—conceived by the hotel’s Executive Chef to showcase what this dining outlet is all about. Think generous servings of Black Angus Tenderloin, US Prime Beef Rib, the Chilean Sea Bass, or the satisfying Seafood Medley; there are also choices of starters; and for dessert, don’t miss out on the indulgent sweet delight—its signature Baked Alaska. The most romantic room in the country marks the return of its fine dining just in time for Valentine month.

#YouAreSafeHere will always be a commitment

As the hotel continues to accept staycation guests, social events in various function rooms, and with dining outlets reopening, it will be much safer for guests to visit and dine in the outlets as the historic hotel takes a technology-driven solution to create a safer environment for guests by installing several innovative High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) UV-Care Clean air purifying filtration system units in different high-traffic areas.

The UV Care Air Purifier with Humidifier with 8-Stage Filtration System is proven to kill 99.97% SARS-CoV2* and is a timely response to the surge of the COVID-19 Delta and Omicron variants in the country (*tested by MRI Global USA, according to UV-Care website). According to its manufacturers, the more advanced, medical-grade H14 HEPA filter has VIRUX® patented technology with a built-in activated carbon and photocatalyst filters that, along with UV LED lamp, is proven to effectively eliminate bacteria, germs, viruses, and pathogens. Their product information also states that these air filtration units are efficient in capturing and removing airborne particulates such as PM 2.5 and other allergens, dust, mold, and pollution from the air, and provides Ultraviolet-C sanitization to disinfect the air and kill germs. When used along with the best practices recommended by the IATF, DOH and DOT, it could be an effective indoor protection for both guests and staff.

The Manila Hotel welcomes dining and staycation guests with further assurance that “YOU ARE SAFE HERE”—because it isn’t just a tagline for us, but a commitment we uphold. For air quality, the hotel also installed heavy-duty York Solution Mobile HEPA Air-Handling Units in wider areas like the Grand Lobby.

Aside from dining options, staycation and leisure stays are now at guest-friendly rates from only P6,000 nett. For more information on room and restaurant rates and reservations, guests may call the trunkline 85270011 or 09989501912. They can also book rooms by emailing resvn@themanilahotel.com, and make dining reservations via restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com.

Source: The Manila Hotel

The Den

I enjoyed having coffee at The Den at Escolta. I had the Berg’s, which is their iced espresso blended with coconut milk. It tastes like a tropical awakening! The coffee is strong, while the coconut milk adds a unique flavor that reminded me of a holiday. It was perfect.

I also had their lemon mushroom cream pasta. I think I found a new hangout at this heritage street in Manila!

If you are craving for a low key coffee shop inside a heritage building, visit The Den. You won’t regret it.

#MyIntramurosStory

I recently got featured by the Intramuros Administration on their Facebook page. I shared my photo at the Casa Museum Museum.

I shared my story on the Walled City:

There was a time, before the pandemic when I would go to Intramuros every week. I am an avid brisk walker, and the change of scenery sparked my imagination while burning calories. What would have been my life if I lived during the Spanish era? Will I be happy in this bedroom? Will the cobblestones inspire me to keep on exploring beyond the walls? Will there be a place for me under the colonial sun? My Intramuros walks inspired me to think of a life different from my own. These walks pushed me to read historical fiction during the lockdown. I look forward to returning to Intramuros when things are much better.

I am passionate about the Walled City because it is a witness to our nation’s history and culture. I enjoy my walks there, and I want to go back once it is safe to go to out again. I hope that the pandemic will be over soon so that I can continue #myintramurosstory.

The Manila Hotel’s Lobby Lounge Reopens

As quarantine restrictions have been eased a bit in NCR+, The Manila Hotel is reopening its Lobby Lounge on May 24, 2021 after the temporary suspension of dining servicesdue to the ECQ. 

The reopening of The Lobby Lounge gives valued guests a perfect opportunity to enjoy its perks again: great food, meeting and endless conversation with both friends and business partners, excellent service, and free Wi-Fiinternet connection.

More than a typical café set up, the Lobby Lounge is quiet, comfortable, and spacious, which also means that guests are kept at a distance from each other and enjoy a bit of privacy with high-backed seats. Cleaned and sanitized daily, the health and hygiene protocols put in place by The Manila Hotel includes fresh air dampers that circulate fresh outdoor air into the lobby, which is also sanitized by air micro filters. 

The Lobby Lounge is also a grand heritage setting for a relaxing afternoon, with its white Doric columns, Philippine mahogany furniture with elegant chandeliers made of brass, crystal, and capiz seashells. More than our stellar interior, it serves hot meals like Sinigang na Salmon, Kare Kare, Crispy Pata, and other local delights. You can also enjoy the lavish “Merienda Especial” Filipino Afternoon Tea that includes native delicacies like Bibingka and Puto Bumbong paired with our specialty grade coffee beans, hot chocolate, or tea. Try the filling Manila Hotel club sandwich or assorted pastries. And escape the punishing weather outside when you relax in the cool interiors and enjoy fruit teas, or our Halo-Halo. 

The Manila Hotel’s The Lobby Lounge is known for its exceptional facilities and warm service. It also gives its guests an assurance that “You are safe here” as we strictly adhere to stringent health and safety protocols. 

The Lobby Lounge is open for breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks, and dinner from Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm. For more information, call 85270011.

Source: The Manila Hotel

Solo Date at La Cathedral

I recently had a solo dinner at La Cathedral Cafe to celebrate International Women’s Day. It was quite a trip to enjoy the sunset at the famed Walled City. The facade of the Manila Cathedral also provided the perfect background to a lovely dinner.

I had delicious chicken curry with rice and iced latte. I highly recommend reserving through their Facebook page to ensure slots during their coveted dinner hours.

I hope that you will get to try La Cathedral soon!

Solo Vday dinner

Last night, I celebrated Valentine’s Day with a solo five-course meal at Kapetolyo. It is a new restaurant and cafe that showcases local coffee and produce in their food. I ordered the shakshuka for my entree and of course, I indulged in free-flowing black coffee.

I appreciate the staff at this place because they went out of their way to make a solo female diner like me comfortable and happy. Everything was delicious and service was superb. I highly recommend this place beside Manila City Hall for your next dinner or coffee escape. Enjoy!

Belfry Cafe

Yesterday, I went to Belfry Cafe at the Manila Cathedral. It was also their opening day so it was great to catch them on their first day of operations- before everyone else discovers this hidden gem!

I was pleasantly surprised to see the bells above me. I knew it was a belfry, but I did not realize that the bells would be close enough to touch. Kudos to the design team for making this possible and incorporating the bells with the cafe setup.

It was very steampunk, and my latte and cheese roll were both delicious. It was a delightful experience straight out of a science fiction novel. Ironically, it was situated at the seat of the country’s Roman Catholic Church.

I highly recommend this cafe as it lives up to the hype with strong coffee and a lovely ambiance. Check out their Facebook page and visit them before it gets crowded.

La Cathedral Cafe

Yesterday, I went back to La Cathedral Cafe at Intramuros, Manila. I first visited the cafe back in 2020, and I loved their ambience and iced latte! This time, they relocated to another roof deck still beside the Manila Cathedral. Their iced latte is still delicious, and so is their carbonara!

I highly recommend reserving in advance via their Facebook page so that you can have guaranteed seats. The food and coffee are excellent and I swear you won’t be disappointed. Plus, the view is simply divine.

Give this cafe a chance next time your at the Walled City!

Estero De Binondo

Yesterday, I spent the afternoon with my good friend Joice at Estero de Binondo. We had a very late lunch consisting of steamed lapu-lapu and buttered chicken. Both were delicious! I highly recommend this hole-in-the-wall eatery for its no-frills ambience and value for money Chinese cuisine.

We capped off our catch-up session with some ube milk tea at Eng Bee Tin beside Binondo Church. It was a refreshing way to end a day of stories and laughter.

I will always go back to Binondo for cheap, delicious eats! I hope that you can also visit the world’s oldest Chinatown soon.

Covo 24K Colored Piyao

Yesterday, I returned to Covo 24K Jewelry at Chinatown Gold Center for some retail therapy. I purchased an enamel piyao charm which I matched with pearl beads on-site.

I was going for a feminine vibe here, and I think it has been achieved. Gold, pearls, and rose quartz make a lovely combination for all occasions.

What is your go-to jewelry combo? I hope that you can also find yours!

Noodles and Necklace Repair

Recently, I went back to Binondo to have my thin gold necklace repaired. I went to Chinatown Gold Center for the repair and I was impressed that the whole process took less than twenty minutes.

For only P180, I had my chain repaired and it was done in record time!

Before going home, I had mushroom meatballs tossed noodles and soy milk at Tasty Noodles. It is my favorite whenever I’m at Chinatown.

I hope to spend more free days at Chinatown! I love indulging in cheap, yummy eats and I always end up enjoying myself.

To more good times and foodie adventures!

Covo 24K Beads

Last Sunday, I went back to Covo 24K Jewelry Shop at Chinatown Gold Center, Ongpin, Binondo. This is not a sponsored post by the way. I am simply a happy returning customer who values gold jewelry at affordable prices.

During my visit, the price for their jewelry was Php3,600/gram. Their 18K gold chain was Php930, and their service for adding beads to an existing bracelet was free.

I bought a necklace, pendant, and money bag bead all for less than Php1,700. Not bad, eh?

If you want genuine 24K gold beads and other jewelry at accessible price points, I highly recommend Covo 24K. Do take note of the following to make your visit bearable and pleasant:

• The gold center has no parking. Best to park at Lucky Chinatown Mall then just walk to Ongpin.

• There is a queue to the shop. Get a number from the guard at the building’s exit.

• Wear light clothes and comfortable shoes as it was quite hot in the premises.

• They only accept cash payments.

• Always keep an eye on your belongings to prevent being pickpocketed.

I hope that you will have a fruitful visit to one of my favorite jewelry shops! It is always worth the trip from my Quezon City residence. Happy shopping!