Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, introduces yet another magical twist to the classic tradition of egg hunting at Eldar’s Easter Adventure on April 20, Sunday.

As part of The Enchanted Story of Eldar the Wizard campaign from April and June, guests will embark on a fun-filled quest with EK’s beloved characters — Eldar the Wizard, Benny, T-Tops, and Ogg — as they search for special egg stickers through exciting activities around the park.

Aside from trying out rides, attractions and spectacular shows, kids and the young-at-heart can channel their wit and creativity through eduFUN, EK’s very own educational and fun activities.

Exciting prizes and surprises await the lucky participants who will be able to complete Eldar’s Easter Adventure. Those who stood out in their best on-theme attire will also receive special treats from the theme park’s jolly and wise wizard.

In order to unlock this whole magical experience, avail the Eldar’s Easter Adventure bundle, inclusive of Park access and event pass. Enjoy early bird rates when you book this limited-time offering at the EK Online Store on or before April 19, Saturday.

Early bird rates include: Regular Day Pass for kids 48 inches and taller at Php 1,300; Junior Day Pass for kids 32 to 47 inches at Php 900; and EKsperience the Magic Card (EKMC) for Php 3,800. Existing EKMC members will also get access to this enchanting event with a special rate of Php 300.

Walk-in guests can avail the event bundle for its regular rate, subject to slot availability.

For more information and updates regarding Eldar’s Easter Adventure and EK’s other upcoming events and offers, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and Tiktok, and @ek_philippines for Instagram.

Candy trails, games, and golden eggs—your next family tradition starts here

The season of new beginnings is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a Tropical Easter experience that promises fun, laughter, and a touch of magic for the whole family.

This Apri 20, 2025 Winford Resort & Casino Manila invites kids and kids-at-heart to a Grand Easter Celebration like no other—set against the colorful backdrop of the city’s most vibrant entertainment destination. Think of it as your golden ticket to a day filled with sweet surprises, playful moments, and family memories worth keeping.

For only PHP 1,800, each ticket unlocks a full-access pass for one adult and one child (12 years old and below) to a carefully curated Easter adventure. Upon arrival, kids will be welcomed with delightful loot bags brimming with candies and treats, while both parent and child can enjoy a snack buffet and unlimited refreshments throughout the event. Beyond the treats is a world of play—interactive game booths, inflatables, a magic show, and the highlight of the day: a giant egg hunt inside a massive ball pit.

“This year, we wanted to reimagine Easter through a child’s eyes—full of wonder, excitement, and a touch of fantasy,” said Justine Vergara, Assistant Director for Hotel Operations at Winford Resort & Casino Manila. “Every corner of our event has been designed to let families bond, laugh, and create unforgettable moments together.”

BIG surprises are tucked inside our golden eggs

Two lucky egg hunters will win free access to WRCM’s heated pool for three

One winner will walk away with an overnight stay at Winford Manila

And as a final treat—all ticket holders will be part of a raffle draw for a chance to win an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room with breakfast for two. Two winners will be chosen.

Whether you’re a parent looking for a fresh holiday tradition or simply someone who wants to experience the magic of Easter once again, Winford Manila’s Easter celebration is your must-go event of the season.

TICKETS ARE LIMITED – REGISTER NOW:

Let your family’s next joyful memory begin at Winford.

A New Era of Dining in Cebu

Cebu’s dynamic food scene is evolving—and SM Supermalls is proud to lead the charge. With a longstanding commitment to redefining the malling experience, SM has become the home of first-in-Cebu dining concepts, global brands, and Michelin-recognized names. From the shoreline views of SM Seaside City Cebu to the central buzz of SM City Cebu and SM JMall, a new era of culinary discovery has arrived.

“We’ve always believed that Cebuanos deserve nothing less than the best—and the first,” says Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Through curated dining experiences and thoughtfully chosen food partners, we’re transforming how people dine, gather, and connect in Cebu.”

Dining firsts at SM Seaside City Cebu

As one of the largest lifestyle destinations in the Visayas, SM Seaside City Cebu has been at the forefront of introducing Cebu to international food powerhouses like Hawker Chan, the world’s first Michelin-starred hawker stall, and Tim Ho Wan, Hong Kong’s famed dim sum destination.

A taste of timeless Italian. Cibo brings its signature modern Italian dishes to Cebu and elevates every Cebuano’s dining experience with bold flavors and fresh, artisanal ingredients.

To xiao long bao and beyond. Lugang Café debuts at SM Seaside City Cebu with its famed xiao long bao, classic Taiwanese cuisines, and IG-worthy interiors.

Now, it continues to elevate the experience with Cibo, which recently opened its first-ever in-line store in Cebu—a welcome addition for fans of fine Italian fare with Filipino flair. Joining the roster is Lugang Café, now officially open and serving its famed xiao long bao and Taiwanese classics to Cebuano diners for the first time.

Elevated flavors at SM JMall

SM JMall is carving a new space in Cebu for sophisticated, modern, and globally recognized culinary brands. Among the exciting firsts is Hoshino Coffee, the beloved Japanese café chain renowned for its hand-drip brews and soufflé pancakes—a true Japanese indulgence now found in Cebu.

Fast, flavorful, and full of character. Cebuanos can enjoy Japan in two different ways: a solo-grilling experience at Yakiniku Like or savoring handcrafted brews and fluffy soufflé pancakes over brunch at Hoshino Cafe.

Also making a mark is Yakiniku Like, the solo-dining yakiniku experience that’s taken Asia by storm. This first-in-Cebu grill restaurant invites you to enjoy high-quality meat and fast service—ideal for the on-the-go yet quality-conscious Cebuano lifestyle.

A Michelin-recognized resto now in Cebu. Three-time Michelin Guide awardee, Twist & Buckle, lands in Cebu bringing an elevated comfort food experience to locals and tourists alike.

But perhaps the biggest news comes in the form of Twist & Buckle—the churro specialist recognized by the Michelin Guide for three consecutive years (2023, 2024, and 2025). This premium comfort food destination is set to raise the bar for Cebu’s gourmet casual scene.

The heart of local flavor meets global trends at SM City Cebu

Over at SM City Cebu, ABACA Baking Company takes the lead as the first-ever café concept within an SM mall. With its handcrafted pastries and strong Cebuano roots, ABACA is a proud local gem serving global-quality coffee and comfort food.

Freshly baked goodies are now in your hands. Your favorite neighborhood bakery café is now made closer to Cebuanos! ABACA Baking Company opens its first SM café concept in SM City Cebu—serving handcrafted pastries, premium coffee, and hearty bites made with love.

This April, Starbucks is set to unveil a first-in-the-Philippines store concept, inspired by modern native Filipino design—a seamless blend of cultural pride and contemporary aesthetic. Also arriving this April is Tavolata, the celebrated homegrown Italian restaurant making its SM debut.

Highly-anticipated brands are within reach.

Looking ahead to May, foodies can anticipate the Cebu debut of powerhouse names from The Moment Group—Ooma and Manam—offering bold Japanese flavors and nostalgic Filipino dishes with a twist, respectively. Wolfgang’s Steakhouse, world-renowned for its USDA Prime dry-aged beef, and Nagi Izakaya, a creative take on Japanese pub fare, will also open their doors—another first in Cebu, all under one roof.

SM Supermalls has always taken great care in ensuring that each new brand complements the Cebuano’s discerning tastes, values, and lifestyles. Whether it’s the convenience of solo-dining concepts, the community atmosphere of family-style restos, or the visual richness of native-inspired design, these food experiences are designed for the Cebuano lifestyle.

To know more about SM Supermalls’ new offerings, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the official opening ceremony of the 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair, a five-day celebration of Filipino culinary heritage and innovation. In photo are (L-R): SM Investments Corporation Vice-Chairman Tessie Sy-Coson, Department of Tourism Secretary Christina G. Frasco, First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go, and William Vincent A. Marcos.

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair is a vibrant celebration of Filipino heritage, culinary creativity, and entrepreneurship. The fair brings together over 250 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from all corners of the country to showcase the very best of Philippine food and beverage products.

In his message of support, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the event’s significance, saying: “This national food fair is more than a gastronomic celebration of our rich and diverse culinary heritage. It is a testament to the incredible talent, ingenuity, and industry of our local farmers and artisans who bring pride and honor to our country.”

In her keynote address, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque echoed the importance of supporting Filipino enterprises. “From the prized heirloom rice and coffee of the Cordilleras, to the artisanal chocolate of Mindanao, and the delightful fruit wines and kakanin of the Visayas—our unparalleled regional food heritage takes center stage,” she said. “Through this fair, we reaffirm that heritage cuisine is not just about tradition—it is about innovation, preservation, and sustainability”

A significant highlight of this year’s fair is the launch of the DTI Bagong Pilipinas Marketplace, the country’s largest B2B e-commerce platform dedicated to Philippine MSMEs. This platform aims to connect local entrepreneurs with institutional buyers and wholesale partners, both nationally and internationally, fostering a dynamic and inclusive digital ecosystem.

This aligns with the government’s Tatak Pinoy Strategy, a bold initiative to strengthen the country’s industrial capacity and elevate the global competitiveness of locally made products. Anchored on innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth, Tatak Pinoy empowers Filipino businesses—especially MSMEs—to move up the value chain, penetrate larger markets, and contribute more significantly to national development. By cultivating industries that reflect Filipino excellence, the strategy supports a future where high-quality Philippine products are not only locally celebrated but globally recognized.

The fair also features themed pavilions such as the Fresh Produce Grand Marketplace, KAPEtirya: Philippine Coffee Pavilion, and KAINAN: Onsite Dining Area, offering immersive culinary experiences. Daily activities include live cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, wine-mixing and food-pairing sessions, business dialogues, and cultural performances.

Event Details:

• What: 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair
• When: April 9–13, 2025
• Where: Megatrade Halls 1-3, Level 5, Mega B, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City
• Admission: Free

Follow DTI-BMDPO for Updates:

• Facebook: @BDTP
• X (Twitter): @DTI_BMDPO
• Instagram: @dti.bmdpo
• TikTok: @dti.bmdpo
• YouTube: @dti_bmdpo

For inquiries, please email the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP at BMDPO@dti.gov.ph. Aspiring entrepreneurs can also ask about future events through their local DTI Office.

At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas (RHO), leaders aren’t just hired—they are cultivated. For 26 years, the hotel has been more than just a workplace for its employees; it has been a training ground for aspiring hoteliers who have grown into leaders through hands-on experience, strong mentorship, and a culture that values potential over tenure. This enduring commitment to nurturing talent has shaped a remarkable legacy—one that continues to thrive through the success stories of individuals who started with humble beginnings and now hold key management positions.

Since opening its doors in 1999, RHO has been a gold mine for diamonds in the rough. Over the years, many have discovered their passion and honed their craft within its walls. Some have moved on to pursue new endeavors, while others have stayed and grown with the brand. As the hotel celebrates its 26th anniversary, it not only reflects on its legacy as a trusted name in Philippine hospitality but also honors its employees whose careers it has shaped.

Today, an impressive 85% of the hotel’s managerial team is made up of homegrown talents—17 out of 20 managers and department heads who have climbed the ranks since working at Richmonde. Jun Justo, current Cluster General Manager for NCR+ of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts (MHR) and concurrent General Manager of Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, exemplifies this success story. A former Rooms Division Manager at RHO in 2007, he became Hotel Manager at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel in 2010 but has remained involved with RHO with his appointment as Cluster Director of Operations for Richmonde Hotels in 2015 and now Cluster GM for MHR. “It has always been Richmonde’s culture to nurture talent,” he says. “At the hiring stage, we give more weight to a person’s potential and character than their work experience. Building leaders from within didn’t start as a conscious effort or a formal policy—it happened naturally as needs arose, roles changed, and people stepped up.”

Now under the management of MHR, RHO continues this legacy with renewed purpose. Methodical training programs, mentorship, and on-the-job coaching complement the culture of trust and empowerment that has long been its hallmark. “With the Richmonde brand now under the MHR umbrella, our talents are no longer limited to opportunities within the property,” shares current General Manager Oliver Esguerra. “They now have a bigger stage to grow and take on leadership roles within the expanding MHR portfolio.”

For Annie Dioso, Cluster Director of Communications for the Richmonde Hotels group, who began her journey as Executive Assistant in 2000, the company’s confidence in its people and the team-oriented environment played a crucial role in her development. “The trust and support given by management, coupled with the cooperation and assistance from other managers and associates, make Richmonde a great place for career growth,” she shares. “As the industry evolves, new positions emerge and new skills are needed. When this happens, Richmonde always looks within its pool to fill those gaps, giving all employees equal chances for career development—or at the very least, the chance to hone their talents.”

This culture of support and collaboration is something Myca Bonoan, now Assistant Director of Sales, experienced firsthand. She joined in 2020 as a Sales Executive, just before the pandemic lockdown. “Richmonde is an ideal place for both personal and professional development. The supportive and collaborative team encourages learning, and the company fosters a culture of excellence and professionalism,” she says. “Because of that, I was given opportunities to grow and take on leadership roles even during challenging times.” She also credits her growth to the values she learned at Richmonde: “Commitment to exceptional hospitality and customer service, strong teamwork, and adaptability in a fast-paced industry.” Looking ahead, Myca sees herself giving back to the next wave of hotel professionals. “I hope to mentor and share knowledge with new team members, help them grow, and continue to innovate to improve guest experiences and operational efficiency.”

For Axel Zapanta, now PMD Manager who began as an HR Assistant in 2017, the encouraging environment at Richmonde is what stands out most. “Richmonde Ortigas empowers its employees to strive for excellence,” he says. “It fosters a culture where innovation is not only encouraged but actively executed, making every achievement truly rewarding.”

As Richmonde Hotel Ortigas commemorates its 26th year, it celebrates not just its success as a business, but its people—the heartbeat and driving force of the hotel. With a strong foundation built on faith, dedication, and teamwork, the hotel remains steadfast in its mission to shape the next generation of hospitality leaders.