Philippine Ballet Theatre presents "The Merry Widow"

 

For its first season production, the Philippine Ballet Theatre presents "The Merry Widow"—a delightful tale brimming with tangled relationships, near misses, and jealous lovers. Originally premiered as an operetta by Franz Lehár in Vienna in 1905 "The Merry Widow" has inspired numerous choreographic adaptations by ballet companies around the world. Set in Paris, the city of love, it explores themes of forbidden and rekindled love, wealth, and deceit. 

In its version, "The Merry Widow" is skillfully choreographed and presented by Philippine Ballet Theatre’s Artistic Director, Ronilo Jaynario, in a way that is sure to resonate with the Filipino audience’s appreciation for passion and drama. The dancers showcase their talents in classical ballet, character dance, mime, and theatrical acting. Franz Lehár’s exquisite melodies will transport audiences to a world of romance, wit, and opulence in "The Merry Widow" where every note celebrates love and elegance.

This ballet has been a true gem for the company. It’s inclusion in the season is an homage to its roots; unbeknownst to many, "The Merry Widow" was among the first ballets ever performed by the company. Former Artistic Director Julie Borromeo's version premiered in 1987, making waves and establishing PBT as a company with a sophisticated repertoire and innovative approach. It set the tone for what was to come. Almost four decades later, the ballet remains a testament to the vision of the founders: a company capable of competing globally with both Filipino works and classical repertoire. With hopes high, this fifth restaging aims to reaffirm that legacy. 

Philippine Ballet Theatre's The Merry Widow

As a company guided by an artistic council, continuing the tradition of rich taste, innovation, and undeniable skill is of utmost importance. Through this ballet, PBT wishes to honor PBT's founding members, expressing gratitude for setting the course toward the PBT of today, the National Performing Arts Company for ballet and contemporary dance. This production is lovingly dedicated to the eleven founding members: Julie Borromeo, Felicitas Radaic, Steve Villaruz, Gener Caringal, Eddie Elejar, Leonor-Orosa Goquinco, Vella Damian, Sony Lopez-Gonzales, the late Tony Fabella, the late Eric Cruz, and the late Inday Gaston- Manosa. Their pursuit of a fresh approach to ballet remains the guiding light for PBT. It's a fitting ballet to start the year right.

Casted members are all debuting in their respective roles. Jimmy Lumba will take on the lead role of Count Danilo Danilovistch, while Jessa Tangalin will portray the elusive Hanna Glawari. The role of Count Camille de Rosillon will be shared by Julafer Fegarido and Justine Joseph Orande, with Sophia Martina Tiangco and Gabbie Jaynario alternating as Valencienne. Bringing humor to the production, veterans Anatoly Panasyukov and Joel Matias will play Baron Mirko Zeta and Njegus, respectively.

Thanks to Philippine Ballet Theatre’s (PBT) partner, Philippine Airlines, and the support of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and the

National Performing Arts Companies, PBT will have a special limited run at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre. The production opens on April 5, 2025, with a matinee at 3:00 PM and a gala performance at 7:30 PM. It concludes on April 6 with a final matinee at 3:00 PM. Joyously romantic, this enchanting production promises to sweep audiences off their feet.

For ticket inquiries, call 09688708887, 09129455151 and +63286711968 or email secretariat@pbt.org.ph

Araneta City moves for the future for Earth Hour 2025

 

This March, Araneta City declares unity towards global sustainability by joining the global Earth Hour 2025 celebration. The City of Firsts once again joins the annual worldwide movement, reaffirming its role as a partner in creating a greener future for everyone. For this year, Araneta City invites everyone to Move for the Future by turning the annual tradition into an immersive experience that highlights environmental responsibility, energy conservation, and biodiversity awareness.

Lights off

From 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM on March 22, Araneta City will power down in sync with millions around the world for the WWF Earth Hour Switch Off. In one hour, the City of Firsts switches off the lights from its famous landmarks, establishments, and streets to signify its commitment to sustainability and a brighter, greener future for future generations.

“For Araneta City, Earth Hour is more than a symbolic switch-off,” Marjorie Go, VP for Marketing, said. “It’s a call to action, a reminder that every small choice we make can add up to real change.”

Interactive displays

In the days leading up to the actual Earth Hour event, action will start to take many forms. At Ali Mall, the Unplug and Play: Geo Quest activation will transport kids and kids at heart into an adventure that blends the thrill of exploration with beloved Filipino childhood games. From March 17 to 20, participants can navigate through an interactive forest trail, passing through the Patintero Clearing, Snake and Ladder Jungle, and Piko Shrub. At Gateway Mall 2, the attractive LED ceiling of Quantum Skyview will feature Quantum Wildlife: The Flight of Haring Ibon, a visual presentation from March 22 to 30 in collaboration with wildlife photographer and filmmaker Vinz Pascua of Haring Ibon PH. Through breathtaking images and compelling storytelling, the exhibit aims to raise awareness of the country’s endangered bird species and the importance of protecting their natural habitats.

Other events

At Farmers Plaza, sustainability takes center stage with SustainaBILIty: A POP QC Eco Fair from March 21 to 23. This initiative, held in partnership with the local government of Quezon City, will showcase local businesses championing eco-friendly products and responsible consumption.

The fair will also host eco talks on March 22 where discussions on resource efficiency and plastic- free solutions will take place, offering practical insights into how individuals and businesses can reduce waste and embrace sustainability.

Lastly, a special green initiative will be integrated at Araneta City's Sunday run club. On March 16, 23, and 30, the aRUNeta Eco Run Club will encourage participants to run not just for fitness, but also for the environment. Every purchase of an official run club shirt comes with a bamboo sapling pledge to the Green Project, an initiative by the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF) that aids in the reforestation of Rizal.

“Beyond simply turning off the lights in Araneta City, we are encouraging everyone to turn on their sense of responsibility. The power to create a brighter future belongs to each of us. So for this year's Earth Hour, we are not just observing. We are moving for the future, and we invite everyone to move with us,” Go concluded.

The Manila Hotel Wins Best Heritage Hotel Award

 

Best Heritage Hotel-- The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel, the country’s first premier hotel, has once again solidified its legendary status by receiving the prestigious Best Heritage Hotel award from Tatler Best Philippines 2025. This accolade, part of Tatler Philippines’ newly refined Tatler Best guide, recognizes the hotel’s steadfast commitment to preserving its storied past while delivering the true Filipino hospitality it is known for.

Tatler Best is known for its discerning selection of the country’s finest establishments, offering a sophisticated and detailed guide to top-tier hospitality and dining. The Best-in-Class awards for hotels recognize outstanding performance and enduring impact over the past year, making The Manila Hotel’s win a testament to its lasting excellence.

Steeped in history, The Manila Hotel has long been a witness to pivotal moments in Philippine history, having hosted dignitaries, celebrities, and industry leaders. Its storied halls echo with the narratives of those who have shaped the nation, making it a living landmark of heritage and grandeur.

Marvin Kim Tan, Vice President for Sales and Marketing of The Manila Hotel

“We are honored to be recognized by Tatler Philippines as the Best Heritage Hotel for 2025. This award is a testament to The Manila Hotel’s unwavering commitment to preserving its rich legacy while providing exceptional service. We are immensely grateful for the guidance of our president, Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr. and the visionary leadership of our board of directors, whose dedication has enabled this remarkable milestone possible," said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing, who received the award on behalf of the hotel.

The Manila Hotel Facade

Beyond its rich historical significance, The Manila Hotel remains a benchmark of luxury and Filipino hospitality, offering a carefully curated selection of experiences. These include historical tours of Rizal Park, Intramuros, the National Museums, and more, as well as the Heritage Museum, which features the hotel’s captivating historical photos and archives. The hotel also maintains an Art Gallery that celebrates Filipino creativity, alongside dining experiences that pay homage to local culinary traditions.

Champagne Room

Cafe Ilang-Ilang

As The Manila Hotel pays tribute to its illustrious past, it also looks toward the future, ensuring that every guest enjoys an unparalleled blend of history, luxury, and true Filipino hospitality—an institution where history lives on.

Mang Inasal, Fyang Smith go viral as new Halo-Halo video hits 2M views in just 7 hours

 

Mang Inasal’s Extra Creamy Halo-Halo music video, featuring Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11 Big Winner Fyang Smith, became an instant hit on March 17, trending No. 1 on X (formerly Twitter) and reaching two million organic views in just seven hours across multiple platforms.

The video showcases Fyang joyfully dancing to the CreamyYESS Extra Creamy Halo-Halo jingle, earning praise from online viewers who loved both her refreshing energy and Mang Inasal’s iconic summer treat. Meanwhile, on Facebook, "Mang Inasal," "Mang Inasal Halo- Halo" trended throughout the day as netizens eagerly discussed Fyang’s debut television commercial.

"The overwhelming response to the music video reflects how much Filipinos really enjoy our Extra Creamy Halo-Halo and how Fyang effectively connects with them," said Mang Inasal Marketing Head Allan Tan. “We wanted to capture the Unli-Saya (unlimited fun) of summer at Mang Inasal, and we’re glad to see people enjoying it.”

 

Fans took to social media to share their excitement, with comments like, "Iba ang energy ni Fyang!! Bagay na bagay this summer. At dahil na-LLS ako sa bagong video, sumugod talaga ako sa pinakamalapit na Mang Inasal branch! Ito na talaga ang sign, deserve nating lahat ng creamyYESS Halo-Halo!" (“Fyang’s vibe is perfect for summer! The new video got me LLS-ed, so I headed straight to the nearest Mang Inasal. This is the sign—we all deserve a creamyYESS Halo-Halo!")  Others mentioned how the TVC instantly made them crave halo-halo.

Fyang and Mang Inasal trend on social media

To make Mang Inasal’s FYANGtastic summer even more exciting, the brand recently launched the CreamyYESS Halo-Halo Caravan—a nationwide tour offering free Extra Creamy Halo-Halo at select locations, in partnership with the Department of Tourism’s Love the Flavors, Love the Philippines campaign.

 

Other upcoming activities include the National Halo-Halo Blowout on March 30 and a limited-

time 4 Cheese Halo-Halo available until April 30, 2025.

 

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit https://manginasal.ph for the latest

news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social

media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!

Manila Prince Hotel Fires Up the Grill with Barbecue Weekends

 

Marcelino Café, the eat-all-you-can restaurant of Manila Prince Hotel, is bringing the heat with Barbecue Weekends, an irresistible themed buffet that promises a feast of smoky, grilled flavors. Available every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for lunch and dinner throughout the month of March 2025, this special offering is set to elevate your weekend dining experience.

 

Savor an indulgent spread of barbecue pork ribs, Hungarian sausage, German sausage, chicken barbecue, chicken yakitori, chicken satay, and more—each dish expertly grilled to perfection. For those craving lighter fare, fresh seafood and vegetable options provide a delicious balance to the smoky, savory selection.

 

Beyond the barbecue, guests can explore an array of international dishes and Filipino specialties, ensuring a well-rounded eat-all-you-can experience.

 

Don’t miss Marcelino Café’s Barbecue Weekends for onlyPhp 1,099 nett per person, available every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for both lunch and dinner throughout March. For inquiries and reservations, call +632 53282222 or +63908 892 1912, or email fnb@manilaprince.com.

 

For more details, please visit https://manilaprince.com/dining/marcelino-cafe or follow them on Facebook (MarcelinoCafeMPH) and Instagram (@manilaprincehotel).