Embarking on a Luxurious Journey: Celebrating Milestones with Discovery Shores Boracay and Club Paradise Palawan

Create cherished memories with loved ones at two of the Philippines' Finest Resorts, Discovery Shores Boracay and Club Paradise Palawan -- both celebrating their 16th and 10th anniversaries, respectively, this year!

The joy of summer doesn't have to end just yet. Take a moment to commemorate family and personal occasions with your loved ones at two of the Philippines' top resorts, Discovery Shores Boracay and Club Paradise Palawan -- both under the Discovery Resorts brand -- as they commemorate their 16th and 10th anniversaries, respectively, this year.

 

Offering a luxurious and unforgettable experience on the world-renowned island of Boracay, Discovery Shores Boracay has been the chosen destination since its opening in 2007. With its exceptional service, breathtaking beachfront location, and world-class amenities, it has become a favorite among travelers seeking and indulgent retreat that offers a perfect mix of slowdown strolls and a vibrant nightlife. 

To commemorate its Sweet 16, Discovery Shores Boracay has prepared exclusive deals for its beloved guests, offering the resort’s best of the best in the last 16 years. Choose to stay in the Junior Suite for only PhP 14,888++ or indulge in the Signature One Bedroom Suite for PhP 26,888++. These packages come complete with roundtrip boat and land transfers to and from Caticlan Airport, signature drinks, daily breakfast at the Sand Bar & Restaurant, a Terra's Touch Massage at Terra Wellness Spa, and a five-course dinner at either the Clubhouse Deck or Forno Osteria Restaurant.

Meanwhile, nestled in the breathtaking island paradise of Coron, Club Paradise Palawan has been providing a haven of natural beauty and top-notch service for a decade. The resort's commitment to sustainability along with its range of activities and experiences make it a standout choice for travelers who appreciate both luxury and eco-consciousness.

In celebration of its 10th birthday, Club Paradise Palawan has a special gift for its guests. Enjoy the tranquility of nature in the Garden Suite for only PhP 12,888++ or embrace the turquoise waters in the Oceanview Suite for PhP 14,888+++. The package includes roundtrip boat and land transfers to and from Busuanga Airport, signature drinks at Dugong Bar, daily breakfast at Firefish Restaurant, a traditional hilotmassage at the newly renovated Glow Spa, and a four-course dinner at the Firefish Restaurant. Additionally, guests can partake in a wide array of activities and experiences in the island.

Discovery Resorts crafted these irresistible “Celebrate with Us” offers in both resorts to give back to their guests as these offers highlight what loyal guests love about both properties. As Discovery Shores Boracay and Club Paradise Palawan commemorate their years of success, it’s also the time to reflect on achievements, growth, and the countless memories shared with their guests throughout the years. “Celebrate with Us” is Discovery Resorts way of expressing their gratitude to all the loyal guests who have been an integral part of Discovery Shores Boracay and Club Paradise Palawan all these years. 

As both resorts are opening their doors to guests celebrating their own milestones–weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and more. Discovery Shores Boracay and Club Paradise Palawan are prepared to turn these occasions into memories that will last a lifetime.

 

Join the celebration at Discovery Shores Boracay and Club Paradise Palawan and continue the summer fun by creating more memories! This exclusive deal is available from July 1 to October 15, 2023. For more information and bookings, visit Discovery Shores Boracay's website at www.discoveryshoresboracay.comand Club Paradise Palawan's website at www.clubparadisepalawan.com.

 

Come, celebrate with us!

Life After COVID: The Ups and Downs of Filipinos' Post-Pandemic Journey

The pandemic has undoubtedly altered our everyday lives. The transition forced us to reevaluate our livelihood while prioritizing our overall well-being in the midst of a global health emergency.  

While a post-pandemic lifestyle has its pains and gains, Filipinos have begun to put greater importance on their overall health and make mindful choices when it comes to the efficacy and safety of the health solutions we use. 

Whether the situation has influenced our present lifestyle in one way or another, here are a few ways our livelihood and health were reshaped. 

Hybrid work normalized for some industries

The pandemic reshaped work life for many.  Many office workers have started embracing a more confined lifestyle as the majority (80%) of Filipinos prefer hybrid work, which allows for greater work-life balance. However, it also results in lower levels of physical activity due to long hours of sitting.  

This flexible work setup nowadays is convenient for Charlene Miole, a BPO employee. “Mas marami akong oras para sa gawaing bahay at mas maraming bonding time sa family ko. Kaya lang, may mga times na masakit ‘yung balakang at balikat [dahil] sa ‘di tamang posture pag nakaupo kapag nag-ta-trabaho.”

[I have more time to do household chores and bond with my family. However, there are times that I get shoulder and hip pain due to my bad sitting posture when I work.]

Rise of on-demand delivery services

Food delivery rider, Conrado Collado, shared that the pandemic rather unexpectedly provided better opportunities as more consumers order their meals online. However, Collado admitted that he is sometimes overworked, causing recurring body pains. 

“Sumasakit ang katawan ko lalo na kapag buong araw ako bumibiyahe—byahe ng motor, lakad dito, lakad [doon]. Bihira ako umuwi ng bahay noon dahil sa taas ng kaso ng COVID tapos ‘yong asawa ko pa nawalan ng trabaho kaya dapat doble kayod. Hanggang sa ngayon, ito lang inaasahan namin kaya bumabyahe pa rin ako araw-araw,” shared Collado.

[I experience body pain especially when I ride for the whole day—riding the motorcycle and walking around for orders. I rarely went home before due to the high number of COVID cases. My wife also lost her job so I had to work double time. Up until now, this has been our main source of income so I deliver food every day.]

Filipinos realized the value of work

Meanwhile, getting laid off during the pandemic was the biggest worry of Joel Lim, a security guard. This pushed him to work harder to stay on the job to support his family, oftentimes, at the expense of his health. “Matindi ‘yung naging pangamba ko na mawalan ng trabaho noong pandemic, kaya ngayong unti-unti na tayo bumabawi, patuloy pa rin ako kumakayod. Kapag masakit ang katawan ko, bukod sa paglagay ng ointment, sinasabayan ko rin ng pain reliever para tuloy-tuloy talaga sa trabaho.” 

[I was concerned about my job security during the pandemic. Now that we are slowly recovering from it, I still continue to strive hard. So when I experience body pain, aside from using topical ointment, I also take a pain reliever so I could continue working.]

Importance of well-researched health products

During the pandemic, there has been a lot of confusion and misconceptions surrounding our health and the products we put in our body—one of which is people’s worries about getting vaccinated. Through consistent public education, eventually, there became a greater understanding of the extensive research that goes behind healthcare products.

In the same grain, pain medicines like Alaxan have gone through not just various scientific research, but also real-life monitoring of its efficacy and safety.  After decades in the market, Ibuprofen+Paracetamol (Alaxan) has not caused serious side effects to the body organs.  It is a synergistic combination of Ibuprofen+Paracetamol that was found to have the highest success rate among OTC pain medicines tested, according to a 2015 scientific review by Cochrane, a world-renowned independent research institution.  The same study also found that Ibuprofen+Paracetamol has fewer adverse effects than placebo which proves that the combination is not likely to cause serious harmful effects on our body when used at the recommended dose.

While there is no other way but to move forward, the pandemic has certainly pushed us even more to work harder and to value our livelihood without compromising our health along the way. Fortunately, these past years also taught us that well-researched health products are accessible to give us a strong fighting chance against these challenges.

For more information about Alaxan, visit their website. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

Savor the Fusion: AniLag at Café Ilang-Ilang, Where Flavors and Culture Unite

 

The Manila Hotel is delighted to announce an exciting culinary venture that brings together two esteemed establishments for a dining experience that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Laguna province and its heritage cuisine.

Café Ilang-Ilang, The Manila Hotel’s iconic dining destination known for its extensive international buffet spread, has partnered with Calle Arco, an ancestral home in Pagsanjan, Laguna, transformed into a restaurant famous for its authentic Filipino dishes prepared with heirloom recipes. This partnership will showcase Laguna’s annual food festival called Anilag or Ani ng Laguna which honors the region’s rich culinary heritage. 

“We are excited to introduce AniLag to the valued patrons of Café Ilang-Ilang. This partnership presents a wonderful opportunity for us to pay tribute to our cultural heritage,” says EJ Yap, The Manila Hotel’s Assistant Director for Food & Beverage.

Throughout the month of July, patrons of Café Ilang-Ilang will have the opportunity to experience the Anilagfestival through a carefully selected menu that will highlight Calle Arco’s revered recipes passed down through generations. Some of the featured dishes include: Binagoongang Crispy Pata, Hurnong Lechon, Kare-Kare (Galapong), Pancit Habhab, Sinigang na Baka na may Langka, Grilled Pla-Pla with Pako, and Kamote de Leche. These dishes are available on a rotating line-up at Café Ilang-Ilang’s lunch and dinner buffet until July 31. 

 

For more information, please call (+632) 8527-0011 or (+632) 5301-5500 or email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com

Get up to 59% off in the OPPO 7.7 Mega Sale!

 

Looking to upgrade your phone? OPPO, leading global technology smart device brand, will be giving storewide discounts, e-comm vouchers, special freebies, and bundle deals in this OPPO 7.7 Mega Sale.

 

As we enter the second half of the year, enjoy more than half the price off on your favorite OPPO devices. 

From July 7-11, get up to 59% discount when you purchase OPPO’s best-selling A16, A17k, A17, A55, A57 , A76, A78, A95, Reno6 Series, and Reno8 T Series in OPPO’s  official Shopee and Lazada stores.  Not only that, you can also get a 15% cashback on Lazada and 15% off Shopee voucher, both at a PHP 1000 cap. 

Exclusive 7.7 freebies

Special freebies and gifts await shoppers who will purchase OPPO products on July 7. Elevate your selfies and group photos with a free selfie stick when you purchase OPPO A55. Start instant dance parties with a free TG113 Bluetooth speaker that comes with your OPPO A76 purchase.

 

Reno6 and Reno8 Series shoppers will get a free Neon Island deskpad upon purchase, perfect for revamping your workspace at home or at the office. 

 

Exciting bundles and promos

Get more and save more with the OPPO 7.7 Mega Sale Bundles. You can get the OPPO Band and the Enco Buds 2 for just PHP 2299. The OPPO A16k, on the other hand, can be paired with the OPPO Band for only PHP 6,099 or with the Enco Buds 2 for only PHP 6,299. 

 

You can also choose your preferred combo to OPPO A16. You can pair it with the OPPO Band for PHP 7,299 or with the Enco Buds 2 for PHP 7,499. The OPPO A55 also comes with a nifty price of PHP 8,599 when paired with the OPPO Band or PHP 8,799 when paired with the Enco Buds 2. 

 

Enjoyable and fun vouchers

You can also enjoy storewide vouchers on top of the discounts and freebies you get! A PHP 200 off voucher will be given to a PHP 8,999 minimum amount spent while a PHP 400 off voucher will be given to a PHP 13,999 minimum amount spent. You’ll also get a free shipping voucher with a minimum spend of PHP 500 and a PHP 100 livestream voucher with a minimum spend of PHP 4,999. 

 

OPPO also gives convenient payment options for this 7.7 Mega Sale. Lazada shoppers can use LazPayLater and get 0% interest installment for up to 45 days on any purchase at the OPPO official store. Shopee users, on the other hand, can use SPayLater, you can get 0% interest installment for up to 3 months for smartphones like the A16 4GB, A17k, A17, A55, A76, A95, A78, Reno6 Z, and Reno6. 

 

Visit OPPO’s official store in Shopee and Lazada to start browsing. For more information on any of the OPPO devices, visit https://www.oppo.com/ph/ or check out OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

 

Alanis Morissette is live in Manila on August 1 and 2!

The countdown begins for Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill concert in the Philippines. One month from now, the Canadian- American singer-songwriter is scheduled to perform on August 1 and 2, 2023, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. Her concert is highly anticipated by her Filipino fans, who are eagerly waiting for the opportunity to witness the powerful voice of the Queen of Alt-Rock Angst. 

 

Morissette’s music has resonated with millions of listeners around the world since the release of her breakthrough album, “Jagged Little Pill,” in 1995.  Her songs tackle the themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth, striking a chord with listeners of all backgrounds. Morissette has solidified her place in music history with hits like “Ironic,” “You Oughta Know,” and “Hand in My Pocket, and witnessing her perform these songs in person is an experience that will undoubtedly create lasting memories. 

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill concert in Manila is promoted by Ovation Productions with TAPGO.TV as the official media partner. Day 2 concert tickets are still available at smtickets.com. Tickets are priced at 14,700 (SVIP), 13, 750 (VIP), 11, 750 (Patron), 9,750 (Lower Box A), 8, 750 (Lower Box B), 5,750 (Upper Box), and 2,750 (Gen Ad). 

 

For more details and inquiries about the concert, please check the official website and Facebook page of Ovation Productions at https://ovationproductionsmanila.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/ovationproductio. 

lyf Malate Manila and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate Finally Open Their Doors

The Ascott Limited (Ascott) just recently launched its latest properties in the Philippines, lyf Malate Manila and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate. The event marked a momentous milestone for Ascott as it expands its presence in the vibrant area of Malate, Manila. The two properties are set to offer a wide range of exceptional accommodations and experiences for travelers and locals alike.

 

The event formally began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Ascott’s Country General Manager Philip Barnes, lyf Malate Manila's POP Champion and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate Residence Manager Joyce Pascual – Agsaway, Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation COO Cathy Casares – Ko, City of Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah Honrado "Honey" Lacuna–Pangan, Department of Tourism Supervising Tourism Operations Officer Ivannovich Dmitri Tan Agote, and Singapore's Ambassador to the Philippines Her Excellency Constance See Sin Yuan. The symbolic gesture unveiled the properties, and signified the brand’s commitment to continue delivering unparalleled hospitality to the Filipino public.

[L-R]  Department of Tourism Supervising Tourism Operations Officer, Ivannovich Dmitri Tan Agote, Ascott’s Country General Manager Philip Barnes, Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation COO Cathy Casares-Ko, City of Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah Honrado “Honey” Lacuna-Pangan, Singapore’s Ambassador to the Philippines Her Excellency Constance See Sin Yuan and lyf Malate Manila’s POP Champion and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate Residence Manager Joyce Pascual-Agsaway. 

 

Philip Barnes, Ascott’s Country General Manager, expressed his excitement and pride, stating, “It’s been an eagerly awaited opening, but we are incredibly proud and excited to introduce lyf Malate Manila and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate to the city of Manila. These properties are just the beginning, bringing us one step closer to our vision of creating accessible spaces where everyone can thrive, build a community, and freely express themselves.”

 

Guests were treated to an exclusive property tour to showcase the amenities and facilities that make The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate a truly exceptional combination of comfort and convenience. 

 

Simultaneously, the guests also had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the distinct ambiance of lyf Malate Manila, experiencing its innovative co-living concept designed to foster connectivity, community, and a dynamic living experience for the modern generation.

 

“We are so thrilled to finally welcome guests in The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate and lyf Malate Manila. With the help of our lyf Crew, we are able to provide all our guests with an amazing experience. Even if they step out of lyf to explore the beautiful city of Manila, our crew is ready to provide them with insider information so they can have the full local experience” said Joyce Pascual–Agsaway, lyf Champion and Residence Manager of The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate.

With the completion of both properties, The Ascott Limited has successfully achieved its 11^th and 12^th milestone properties in the country. These two will join the ranks of established Ascott names, including Ascott Makati, Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila, Somerset Millennium Makati, Somerset Alabang Manila, Somerset Central Salcedo Makati, Citadines Bay City Manila, Citadines Millennium Ortigas, Citadines Amigo Iloilo, Citadines Cebu City, and Citadines Salcedo Makati, to showcase the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional serviced residences and meeting the evolving needs of modern travelers. 

 

To book a stay at lyf Malate and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate, guests may visit the official website. For those who want to keep up with the innovation of lyf Malate Manila, guests can follow the property’s official social media pages ( Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok )

CATCH NEW IN ENTERTAINMENT THIS JULY ON HBO GO

This July on HBO GO, don’t miss out on exciting movies like Evil Dead Rise and fresh new series such as Max Original Series Superpowered: The DC Story, where you can explore the history and influence of the comic book company. Tune in to Downey’s Dream Cars Season 1 in Robert Downey Jr.’s adventure as he breathes new life into some beloved classics, and catch new episodes of Warrior Season 3 and the finale of the highly anticipated HBO original drama series, The Idol – all available to stream on HBO GO.

 

Movie Premieres 

Evil Dead Rise Premieres Friday, July 7 on HBO GO A twisted tale of two estranged sisters, Ellie and Beth, whose reunion is cut short by the rise of flesh-possessing demons, thrusting them into a primal battle for survival as they face the most nightmarish version of family imaginable. Stars Alyssa Sutherland, Lily Sullivan, Morgan Davies, Gabrielle Echols and Nell Fisher.

Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris Premieres Saturday, July 8 on HBO GO An ordinary woman's dream of owning a Christian Dior gown leads her on a Parisian adventure where her unwavering spirit charms the elite. Stars Lesley Manville, Isabelle Huppert, Lambert Wilson, Alba Baptista, Lucas Bravo, Ellen Thomas, Rose Williams and Jason Isaacs.

Confess, Fletch Premieres Saturday, July 22 on HBO GO The charming and endlessly troublesome Fletch, becomes the prime suspect in a murder case while searching for a stolen art collection. The only way to prove his innocence? Find out which of the long list of suspects is the culprit, from the eccentric art dealer, a missing playboy to a crazy neighbour and Fletch's Italian girlfriend. Stars Jon Hamm, Marcia Gay Harden, Kyle MacLachlan and John Slattery.

 

New Series

Superpowered: The DC Story Premieres Thursday, July 20 on HBO GO Narrated by Rosario Dawson, this three-part Max Original DC documentary series takes an unprecedented look at the enduring and influential legacy of DC, allowing fans to rediscover the universe of characters, as well as the iconic comic book company’s origins, its evolution and its nearly nine-decade cultural impact across every artistic medium. Featuring a wealth of interviews with the industry’s most prolific creators and the actors who bring their iconic characters from the page to the screen, Superpowered: The DC Story reminds us that at the heart of DC are the comics – the four-color fantasies that forever spark the imagination and instil hope.

Full Circle Premieres Thursday, July 13 on HBO GO This Max Original limited series follows an investigation of a botched kidnapping which uncovers long-held secrets connecting multiple characters and cultures in present-day New York City. Stars Zazie Beetz, Claire Danes, Jim Gaffigan, Jharrel Jerome, Timothy Olyphant, CCH Pounder, Phaldut Sharma, Adia, Sheyi Cole, Gerald Jones, Suzanne Savoy, Ethan Stoddard, Lucian Zanes and Dennis Quaid.

Smartless: On the Road Season 1 Premieres Thursday, July 13 on HBO GO Hop on the road with Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes as they take us on an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the sold-out live tour of their wildly successful podcast, “SmartLess.” Travelling from city to city all over the country, the trio is joined by celebrities such as  Conan O'Brien, Will Ferrell, Matt Damon, Jimmy Kimmel, Kevin Hart, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, David Letterman, and other surprise guests.

Downey’s Dream Cars Season 1  Premieres Thursday, July 20 on HBO GO Robert Downey Jr. loves restoring classic cars. But he’s also become dedicated to fighting climate change. In this Max Original docuseries,  he’s bringing his beloved old cars into the future, making them faster, more powerful, and more efficient while keeping their souls intact.

The Lazarus Project Season 1 Premieres Thursday, July 20 on HBO GO George wakes to discover he’s reliving the same events over again. Mystified, he is introduced to The Lazarus Project, a top-secret organisation that uses its ability to turn back time to save the world from extinction. When George’s girlfriend, Sarah, suddenly dies, and the project won’t reset time to save her, he faces a choice between helping Lazarus or going rogue. Stars Paapa Essiedu.

How to Create a Sex Scandal Season 1 Premieres Thursday, July 27 on HBO GO This documentary seeks to expose a devastating and scarcely believable true crime story that begins in a swingers club in a small town in East Texas.

 

New Episodes and Series Finale on HBO GO

Catch new episodes of And Just Like That…Season 2, Warrior Season 3 and Sesame StreetSeason 53 every Thursday. Watch the finale of The Idol on Monday, July 3 and The Challenger: Battleground on Wednesday, July 26 on HBO GO.

 

Subscribe to HBO GO online at https://www.hbogoasia.ph/ or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for only ₱1,190 on the 12-month plan. Or access HBO GO via Cignal, Globe and Skycable. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.