Tag Archives: Asia

Pampanga, Philippines

THE FIRST IN PAMPANGA—A New Era of Asian Flavors Served with a Twist

If there’s one thing that binds Asian culture together, it’s how our legacy and tradition are preserved through food. From the careful sourcing of ingredients to the creativity and innovation in preparation, Asian cuisines are truly made to be extraordinary.

SM Supermalls upholds this by delivering Taiwanese, Japanese, and Thai excellence to one of the centres of Filipino gastronomy—Pampanga. With the same sense of richness and attention to quality, Ninepot, The Matcha Tokyo, and Purple Rice establish themselves as must-try places at SM City Clark and SM City Pampanga!

Ninepot—Quality Taiwanese Hot Pot Experience

With the growing popularity of East Asian hot pot restaurants, Ninepot—its name reflecting the Taiwanese cultural belief that the number nine brings good fortune—sets itself apart by putting traditional Taiwanese flavors in the spotlight at the Tech Hub 2 of SM City Clark.

Unlike many hot pot restaurants that focus on unlimited servings, Ninepot prioritizes quality by offering carefully curated ingredients in each customizable set meal. Following a six-step process, Ninepot creates a well-rounded dining experience that highlights the richness of Taiwanese cuisine.

Each order includes a choice of protein, sides, broth, and vegetables, complemented by a dessert and a weekly special drink—completing a satisfying dining experience.

But what truly makes Ninepot stand out is its flavorful selection of soup bases, ranging from classic Taiwanese savory specials to hot and spicy picks. Among these are the signature Taiwan Stone Hot Pot, the aromatic Sesame Oil Hot Pot, the refreshingly sweet Dashi Broth Hot Pot, and the delectably spicy Szechuan Hot Pot.

The Matcha Tokyo—Haven for Premium-Grade Matcha

Matcha-inspired drinks and desserts are popping up left and right. However, despite the growing accessibility, matcha has proved to be a difficult flavor to handle—especially since matcha lovers are even more difficult to please!

But when it comes to perfecting that earthy, rich, and refined flavor, no one does it better than The Matcha Tokyo with its authentic, premium-grade selections at the Ground Level of SM City Clark.

Highlighting 100% organic matcha specials, The Matcha Tokyo is committed to promoting health and sustainability by bringing Japan’s finest matcha for daily and casual consumption.

For starters, their definite must-tries include the #1 best-selling Organic Matcha Latte—popular across all The Matcha Tokyo branches worldwide—and the Philippine-exclusive Ube Matcha Latte, which features a delightful blend of their high-quality matcha and the iconic sweet taste of purple yam (ube).

From a wide variety of matcha-infused beverages and pastries to chocolates, snacks, and conveniently available pure matcha powder—everything you can imagine to satisfy your matcha obsession is possible with The Matcha Tokyo.

Purple Rice—Thai Flavors with an Innovative Twist

Nothing is more delicious than sustainably crafted meals made rich with their culture of origin. This is exactly what Purple Rice brings to the table—introducing Thai flavors cooked through future-forward approaches to food at the Ground Level of SM City Pampanga.

Rooted in stories of heritage, environmentally conscious agricultural practices, and ultimately, a deep love and respect for Thai cuisine, Purple Rice offers a variety of creative Thai flavors fused with touches of Filipino warmth and food traditions.

Dedicated to serving authentic Thai cuisine with signature innovative twists, the uniquely colored Purple Rice takes center stage—often paired with popular Thai dishes and set against an inviting interior that enhances the experience.

Their menu features a variety of dishes, including soups like Tom Yum Talay, salads such as Purple Yam Woon Sen, and mains like Khao Soi and Pad Thai, with their best-selling meals including the Red Angus Beef Curry and Thai Halo-Halo, among other noteworthy selections.

Allow yourself to explore flavors that greatly satisfy your Kapampangan taste buds and visit Ninepot at Tech Hub 2 and The Matcha Tokyo at the Ground Level of SM City Clark, as well as Purple Rice at the Ground Level of SM City Pampanga.”

Whether you see yourself as a connoisseur of particular dishes or a casual food enjoyer, SM Supermalls ensures you get the best from across different cuisines—serving flavors suited to our own taste and culture while introducing food innovations that integrate familiar practices with new experiences.

There’s always more to enjoy and more to share at SM Supermalls! For more exclusive dining experiences and first-to-market brands, visit http://www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

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Cebu, Philippines

What’s New at SM Supermalls? Experience What’s First in Cebu

To live in the moment is your theme this month of June with several opportunities for joy and fulfillment heading your way.

What makes life truly rewarding is having the present moment to create meaningful memories—whether it’s by yourself or with the people you love. From sharing great food, to celebrating small wins, to saving the day after a long, arduous week—you can live your best life by making the most of today.

Indulge in having moments to cherish, and take the chance to create memories of happiness with SM Supermalls—right here in Cebu.

Moments Worth Savoring at SM City Cebu

What better way to share special moments than over delicious food? Savor memorable dining experiences with these must-visit food destinations headlining this June and July:

  • Manam—finally opening this month, get ready to relish familiar yet innovative flavors with modern takes on Filipino comfort food and traditional dishes—including their signature Beef Short Rib Sinigang & Watermelon.
  • Ooma—the long wait for this Japanese-inspired restaurant is over! Known for its bold takes on Japanese dishes, food lovers in Visayas can enjoy Ooma favorites including the Hanger Steak, Aburi Mixer, Ebi Tempura, and more.
  • 8 Cuts Burgers—a casual restaurant serving a wide menu of burgers and sides, highlighting their custom-blended patties crafted from premium grade ingredients.
  • Mo’ Cookies—a dessert haven known for its ooey-gooey palm-sized cookies come in flavors like Chocolate Chip, South Cotabato Fudge, and Nutella Crinkle, among many others.
  • Din Tai Fung—a renowned Taiwanese restaurant chain celebrated for its expertly crafted xiaolongbao, along with a variety of authentic Taiwanese dishes.

Unwind and Treat Yourself at SM Seaside City Cebu

Meaningful moments don’t have to be grand—because joy can also come from small wins, small steps, and all the little things you do to show appreciation for yourself. Check out these freshly opened hangout spot:

After a long wait, the fast-growing Pickup Coffee has finally arrived at SM Seaside City Cebu with its first-in-SM premium cafĂ© concept: Pickup Prime—offering elevated brews perfect for your productive lifestyle. 

Whether it’s your very first collectible item or your first time trying out makeup, there’s joy and fulfillment in treating yourself to new things and fresh experiences. Reward yourself with these first-in-Cebu stores launching this June:

  • Geek PH—specialty toy and collectibles store, catering to pop culture enthusiasts, offering a wide range of action figures, blind boxes, and other unique items.
  • Issy—a Filipino beauty brand renowned for its vegan, cruelty-free, and skin-friendly makeup products, bannering items designed to be versatile, easy to use, and suitable for the tropical climate of the Philippines.
  • Premier Drip—a wellness lounge specializing in intravenous (IV) therapy opening their first-in-Cebu store, offering the magic of having an enhanced overall skin health, radiant glowing, and boosted immunity.
  • Bangkok Kitchen Express—a Thai restaurant bringing the authentic flavors of Bangkok to Cebu for the very first time.

Parisian Bistro at SM J Mall

Take your special moments to a classic French dining experience here in Cebu. Our discerning food lovers can look forward to the opening of Salon de Thé by The French Baker—a Parisian-inspired café featuring European pastries, gourmet teas, and bistro-style dishes.
Life’s about what you do with every waking moment. Have your time, create memories worth remembering, and take center stage with lots of opportunities for joy here in Cebu—only at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.

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General Santos, Mindanao, Philippines

Discover Stunning Vista Land Residential Developments in General Santos City

South Cotabato nests at the lower half of SOCCSKSARGEN, home to the provinces of South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City. Its first-class, highly urbanized city, General Santos, is the regional center for industry and commerce. Tourism is also a key economic activity in the locale, as its terrains offer spectacular panoramas and the prospect of incredible adventures. While General Santos exhibits steady progress, it also pays homage to tradition through arts, festivals, and food. GenSan, as it is affectionately called, counts its heritage and culture as keys to identity, worldview, and way of life. 

Vista Land is building an extraordinary township and ready-for-occupancy (RFO) house-and-lot communities where Mindanaoan homebuyers and investors may find their place in the sun and aspire for a future they work so hard for.

General Santos City: Where bounty and beauty come together

Located along the coastline that hugs Sarangani Bay, General Santos City, the Tuna Capital of the Philippines, exudes a more progressive landscape. With an economy anchored on agriculture and fishing industries, GenSan also covers much of the ground in tourism. The  city boasts the largest airport in Mindanao, and one of the country’s modern international seaports, The Makar Wharf. 

Gensan earned itself the nickname Boom City of the South, owing to its vast exports, the influx of manufacturing and business process outsourcing (BPO) firms, and its many festivals, like the much anticipated Kalilangan Festival, which parades pride in its art and traditions. 

Living high and living it up at Altafina

Vista Land is building a micro-city in General Santos City through its collection of master planned developments called Vista Estates. Inspired by the sun-soaked outlook of San Diego, California, the striking similarities between these dynamic metropolises lend themselves to a thriving integrated community in Southern Mindanao.

Altafina is a portmanteau of alta, Spanish for high, and fina, meaning fine, calling to mind images of living high and living it up. It exudes a delight and dauntlessness that the metropolis is designed to capture and offer its residents. The retail selections in Altafina will measure up to the reputation of GenSan as a shopping hub—naturally, amazing food and beverage choices follow. Radiating the groove of a San Diego beach town, its amenities will maintain a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Embracing the city’s rich cultural diversity, spirited experiences, and abundant opportunities, Altafina curates a range of architectural styles and well-planned public spaces. Office spaces will rise side by side soothing parks, landscaped walkways, and modern commercial centers, fostering a balanced urban environment.

The residential configurations include mid-rise condominiums and neighborly house-and-lot communities. Its first condominium cluster, Altafina Residences, will offer vertical abodes to starting families, entrepreneurs, or young professionals who prefer to live near their places of work.  

Each building provides approximately 23 units per floor, with a selection of one- and two-bedroom residences. Seven to 12 storeys per condominium create medium layout density, allowing for privacy and breathing space. The buildings will be equipped with smart technology and security and safety features. At Altafina, the varied choices are now made even more rewarding with a limited-time PHP 100,000 gift certificate offer to help buyers furnish their new homes.

Camella Cerritos GenSan: Riding high with the waves of progress

Making it a mission to help every Filipino find their forever home, the most trusted and preferred housing brand in the country, introduced its first exclusive Italian-Mediterranean community in the city: Camella Cerritos GenSan. 

For nearly two decades, Gensan has become home to four thriving Camella house-and-lot communities, with more residential developments in the pipeline. The continued success of its neighborhoods, which have been called home by countless Filipinos, has been a testament to the legacy of Camella in the Boom City of the South. 

Camella Cerritos GenSan is a nine-hectare Italian-Mediterranean-themed community strategically located along Conel Road in Barangay Lagao. With its top-notch location and proximity to primary city roads, homeowners can comfortably traverse its urban centers and access daily necessities within a short time. 

Investing in Camella Cerritos GenSan brings opportunities for every family to discover an elevated lifestyle through its home options, from two- to five-bedroom, two-storey, detached house-and-lots. Homeowners enjoy the advantages of being close to educational institutions such as the University of Philippines-Gensan, the Allied Medical Center, commercial strips, and dining and entertainment hubs.

This month, Camella Cerritos GenSan presents Filipino families with a limited-time opportunity to invest in its non-ready-for-occupancy (NRFO) communities, offering savings of up to PHP 500,000 upon reservation and flexible payment terms of up to 36 months. For those seeking a forward-looking investment, the residential development also features lot-only (LO) properties with an exclusive 15 percent discount upon reservation and an additional 10 percent upon bank loan release, making it a value-driven choice.

An investment into a better way of living

Filipinos deserve the best—this driving belief has been integral to Vista Land and its day-to-day operations and is the secret to its success.

As the holding company of the housing ventures of Vista Group, Vista Land is primarily engaged in developing master planned communities, horizontal properties, and the construction of vertical residences in the Philippines’ key growth areas. Creating better, expansive, and global-oriented offerings and experiences for its residents, as well as delivering excellent long-term investment growth for its stakeholders, has always been the impetus behind the conglomerate’s continuous evolution.

Learn about Vista Land developments in General Santos City at www.vistaland.com.ph. Follow @VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial or call 0909 751 6465 to reserve.

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Bataan, Bulacan, Ilocos Sur, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Vigan

Dominance of Master Planned Developments in North & Central Luzon: An Outlook on Tourism, Growth, & Infrastructure by Vista Land

With the vision to become Bataan’s premier eco-estate, Verida’s 50 hectares will be given over to open spaces, eco-tourism opportunities, and renewable energy advocacies.

North and Central Luzon are undergoing a significant transformation due to the emergence of urban hubs, which are becoming key regions for the Philippines due to the synergy of cultural preservation, economic advancement, and infrastructure enhancement. This evolution is driven by collaboration between the public and private sectors, positioning these regions as major contributors not only within the country but also in the broader Southeast Asian landscape and beyond.

Vista Land, the Philippines’ leading integrated property developer, has aligned itself at the forefront of this change. The company has laid a strategic plan focusing on master planned developments and condominium projects, resonating with the regional shift towards self-sustaining communities that flourish amidst rapid urbanization, cultural conservation, and economic growth.

Tourism: Merging Heritage and Modernity

Vista Land master planned developments in North and Central Luzon tap into the rich cultural heritage and diverse tourist attractions of the regions. For instance, Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ilocos Sur, is famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture. As infrastructure projects like the Luzon Spine Expressway Network improve accessibility, Querencia, a Vista Land master planned development, aims to offer contemporary living while honoring the historical essence of the area. 

Giardana by Vista Manors, named after the Italian word for garden, aims to cultivate a life of vibrant connection and community in Urdaneta, Pangasinan

In Alaminos, Pangasinan, the renowned destination of Hundred Islands National Park is complemented by Ylana, which aims to enhance local eco-tourism efforts while promoting environmentally friendly practices. Similarly, in Subic, Zambales, a major tourism and economic hub in Central Luzon, Montessa will combine the natural beauty of the location with state-of-the-art amenities, making it an attractive getaway for tourists and residents.

Growth Centers: Emerging Economic Powerhouses 

In addition to tourism, the company is focusing on the economic potential of North and Central Luzon. These regions are becoming economic powerhouses due to their strategic locations, availability of land, and expanding industrial sectors. Vista Land master planned communities are being developed in provinces such as Bulacan, Pampanga, and Bataan to support the growing local economy.

One example is Verida in Balanga, Bataan, a sustainable and technologically oriented estate attracting residents from business process outsourcing (BPO) firms, tech companies, and educational institutions bolstered by the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge project. Similarly, Amistelle in San Fernando, Pampanga, caters to the growing residential demand in this regional commercial hub, strategically located near key infrastructure like the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and Clark International Airport.

The development of the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan is a game-changer, enhancing connectivity for local and international markets and spurring the growth of adjacent areas into industrial and commercial zones. In Santa Maria, The Crescent is designed for professionals and families who are drawn to the job opportunities in the area and proximity to Metro Manila.

The capital of Bulacan, Malolos, is also experiencing significant progress, driven by modernization initiatives and the rise of new business districts and residential enclaves like Provence, a 350-hectare French-Mediterranean estate. Baliwag, another fast-growing town, is capitalizing on its heritage and status as a gateway to North Luzon, with integrated estates like Castellana benefiting from improved road networks.

Infralink Projects: Paving the Way for the Future

Vista Land master planned developments in North and Central Luzon are intricately linked with the regions’ ongoing expansion of expressways, railways, and airports. These projects enhance connectivity, reduce congestion, and stimulate economic growth, making the areas more attractive to investors, tourists, and residents.

For instance, upgrades to Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte and road development projects like the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) are enhancing access to areas like Bramasole in Laoag, which combines modern amenities with cultural charm. Similarly, Tuguegarao in Cagayan Valley is set to benefit from the expansion of Cagayan North International Airport and highway improvements, with Rosevale offering a mix of residential and commercial options to accommodate the growing population.

Urdaneta, Pangasinan, is poised to become a key commercial hub in North Luzon, owing to its strategic location along TPLEX. Giardana capitalizes on the improved accessibility, positioning the city as a prime location for businesses and residents. In Bulakan, Bulacan, the anticipated completion of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) will further enhance connectivity to Metro Manila and Clark, with Silaya providing new housing solutions for the growing population.

Vista Land: Leading the Charge in North and Central Luzon, Shaping Developments for Tomorrow

Vista Land is committed to creating master planned developments that will flourish in the changing landscape of North and Central Luzon. As these regions continue to transform into economic powerhouses, the company is poised to lay the groundwork for innovative urban developments that promote regional growth while honoring the unique cultural and natural heritage of the area.

For more information on Vista Land master planned developments, visit www.vistaestates.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial.

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Cagayan de Oro, Mindanao, Philippines, Visayas

Top 5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Miss TravelTrade Expo VisMin in Cagayan de Oro

Ms. Chal Lontoc, Philippine Travel Agencies Association Trustee, Mr. Jaison Yang, PRO, Head of Programs and Production, TTE 2024 VisMin Edition, Ms. Julie Maballo, Organizing Head – Airlines, Travel Agencies, and iTTE Sellers, Ms. Cleofe Albiso (Megaworld Hotels & Resorts), Ms. Angela “Rhea” Velez (Cebu Pacific Air), Ms. Mattel Luna (Union Bank of the Philippines), Ms. Evangeline Tankiang Manotok, CPA, MPA, Chairperson, TTE 2024 VisMin Edition, Mr. Tito Noel Mora, Co-chairperson, TTE 2024 VisMin Edition, Ms. Thesa Pangilinan (Discover Hong Kong Hong Kong Tourism Board), Mr. Leonard Bryan U. Sansolis (Philippine Airlines), Ms. Irene Tumaob (TIEZA – Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority), and Ms. Thermina Ann Akram (Go Negosyo)

Calling all travel enthusiasts!

The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) is bringing the country’s biggest travel trade event to Cagayan de Oro City! The first edition of the TravelTour Expo VisMin (TTE VisMin) is set July 19 to 21, at the Limketkai Atrium, CDO, and it’s an event you won’t want to miss. Here’s why:

  1. One-stop shop for travel deals
    Over 50 exhibitors including airline companies, hotels and travel agencies are pulling out all the stops by offering amazing discounts and exclusive offers on domestic and international flights, hotels, tours, resorts, cruise lines, travel agencies, and even local Yakan weavers.
  2. Unveiling hidden gems
    Connect with travel experts from Visayas and Mindanao who can introduce you to
    unique destinations and hidden gems. From pristine beaches and vibrant cities to breathtaking mountains and historic sites, discover places you never knew existed and get expert advice on planning your perfect holiday.
  3. Curated itineraries and expert advice
    Travel professionals can design itineraries according to budgets and travel goals. Talk to travel agents who can answer your questions, share local insights, and ensure a memorable journey.
  4. Experience the best of VisMin hospitality
    TTE VisMin isn’t just about deals it’s about experiencing the warmth and hospitality of Visayas and Mindanao. Meet with tourism boards and local businesses, and learn about their regional cultures and captivating destinations.
  5. Be part of something special
    TTE VisMin marks a milestone for travel and tourism in Visayas and Mindanao. Be a part of this exciting event and discover why the TravelTour Expo is the biggest and most highly anticipated travel trade event in the Philippines.

TTE VisMin is your gateway to unforgettable travel experiences, incredible deals, and expert advice-all under one roof! Mark your calendars and get ready to explore the world, one adventure at a time.

TTE VisMin is mounted in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), the Hong Kong Tourism Board, and UnionBank. It is also supported by the City of Cagayan de Oro, Cebu Pacific, Go Negosyo, Latitude, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, the Philippine Airlines, and When in Manila.

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