BPI brings Japanese flavors closer through VYBE and Ramen Nagi, plus other dining brands

The growing shift toward cashless dining continues as the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through its VYBE e-wallet, strengthens its network of brand partners with Noodlerama, Inc. The collaboration brings together digital payment convenience and exclusive dining opportunities, giving customers more ways to get value from their everyday transactions.

As part of the partnership, VYBE users can enjoy exclusive dining offers at participating branches of Ramen Nagi, Ramen Ton-ichi, Propaganda Bistro, and Akimitsu until October 31. The initiative provides customers with a convenient cashless payment option while giving them added benefits when dining at participating restaurant locations.

As part of the partnership, VYBE users can enjoy exclusive dining offers:

• Ramen Nagi: Get ₱150 off participating Hot Nagi side dishes with a minimum spend of ₱1,000.
• Ramen Ton-ichi: Enjoy a regular-sized Ton-ichi Ramen for only ₱99 when ordered with any participating regular-sized ramen.
• Propaganda Bistro: Get ₱100 off on one order of Crunchy Pork.
• Akimitsu: Enjoy an 8-piece California Maki for only ₱150 with a minimum spend of ₱500.

"At BPI, we continue to expand VYBE's network by partnering with brands that are part of our customers' everyday lifestyles. Through our collaboration with Noodlerama's restaurant chains, we're making QR Ph payments more rewarding while helping our partners connect with more customers. It's another step in making digital payments more convenient, accessible, and valuable for everyone." ~Eric M. Faustino, Head of Digital Partnerships at BPI

The exclusive dining offers can be availed by customers who pay via QR Ph using VYBE at participating branches nationwide during the promotional period. At the same time, VYBE users are not limited to participating partner brands. Through its QR Ph interoperability, the e-wallet can be used at any merchant nationwide that accepts QR Ph, expanding the convenience of cashless payments across a wider range of businesses.

This broader merchant acceptance allows VYBE to connect customers with more payment opportunities while supporting the continued adoption of digital transactions in the Philippines. By providing access to an expanding QR Ph network, VYBE helps make cashless payments more practical for everyday purchases.

BPI is likewise continuing to expand VYBE’s ecosystem through partnerships across dining, shopping, travel, and other lifestyle categories. With close to 2.9 million users as of September 2026, the e-wallet is developing into a platform that combines payment convenience with exclusive customer benefits. Its collaborations with partner brands are designed to create additional value for users while helping businesses reach a wider customer base.

The latest partnership underscores BPI’s broader commitment to encouraging digital payments as part of everyday transactions. By combining secure and convenient payment technology with meaningful rewards from trusted brands, the Bank continues to create opportunities for Filipinos to get more value from going cashless.

CASIO Brings Iconic Timepieces to SM City Marilao

CASIO officially opens at the second level of SM City Marilao.

A new destination for watches and personal style has arrived in Bulacan. CASIO has officially opened its doors at SM City Marilao, giving shoppers easier access to the brand’s iconic timepieces and innovative watch designs.

Iconic timepieces are now within reach as CASIO opens its doors at the second level of SM City Marilao.

CASIO offers a wide selection of watches suited for different lifestyles at its newly opened store at SM City Marilao.

With its reputation for functionality, durability, and distinctive style, CASIO continues to offer watches that can complement a wide range of lifestyles. Its collection includes timepieces suited for everyday use as well as statement designs for those looking to give their personal style an upgrade.

Shoppers can find timepieces suited for every personality and occasion at CASIO’s newly opened branch in SM City Marilao.

The new store at SM City Marilao brings some of CASIO’s most popular collections closer to shoppers, making it easier to browse different designs and choose a watch that fits their personality and occasion.

Discover timepieces featuring innovative designs and functionality at CASIO in SM City Marilao.

Get closer to CASIO’s popular collections at its newly opened store at SM City Marilao.

Whether you're treating yourself, searching for a gift, or growing your personal watch collection, CASIO offers a combination of timeless style and reliable performance now conveniently available at your Most Loved SM City Marilao.

For Any Kind of Stay Guests Need, There’s Always Richmonde Hotel Ortigas

Spend more time with the people who matter most at value-for-money rates with the Stay Together family time package which comes full of freebies the family will love.

Travel today can take many forms, and hotel stays increasingly need to keep up with the different ways people move, work, and spend their time. A family might be looking for a short urban escape, a professional may need a comfortable base for a business trip with time to unwind, while another traveler may extend a work visit to explore the city. Guests may also have accommodation needs influenced by their faith, cultural practices, wellness goals, or sustainable lifestyle choices.

With more than 27 years of experience in Ortigas Center, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas (RHO) has been welcoming travelers to one of Metro Manila’s continuously developing corporate and commercial districts. As one of the area’s pioneering hotels, RHO has built its hospitality experience around understanding the varied reasons guests travel and providing dependable accommodations for each type of stay. Today, the hotel brings together comfortable accommodations, access to the Ortigas Central Business District, nearby shopping and lifestyle destinations, convenient connections to surrounding cities, dining options, and genuine Filipino hospitality. Its latest room packages build on this experience by offering thoughtfully curated choices that allow guests to enjoy hotel stays tailored to how they want to work, relax, travel, and spend meaningful time together.

For Families Who Want More Time Together

Sometimes, the perfect family escape can be found without going too far. A change of scenery within the city can transform a regular weekend into an opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and spend meaningful time together. Catering to families with children from toddlers to pre-teens, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas’ STAY TOGETHER Family Time Package is ideal for visitors to Metro Manila as well as families looking for a convenient urban staycation. Rates begin at PhP 4,700 nett, with inclusions and perks valued at as much as PhP 2,000.

Get more value for your stay and more time to enjoy the metro when you stay 2 nights or more.

The package comes with complimentary breakfast at Richmonde Café for up to two adults and two children aged 12 and below, as well as one complimentary extra bed and an upgrade to the next room category. Families can further enjoy 20% off Room Service and Richmonde Café food and beverage orders, while Lobby Café orders receive 15% off with a minimum purchase of PhP 1,000. The package also includes late check-out until 2:00 p.m., subject to availability, plus welcome snacks for everyone to enjoy.

With breakfast, extra room comfort, dining perks, and additional time before check-out, the package gives families more freedom to relax and enjoy simple moments together—from a leisurely morning to a cozy night in.

For Professionals Who Want to Work Well and Live Well

Business travel is evolving, with professionals increasingly blending work with leisure instead of following a strictly corporate itinerary. Remote workers, digital nomads, and bleisure travelers are looking for hotel accommodations that provide the right environment for getting work done while also allowing time to relax and recharge.

Work well and live well with the Stay Balanced workcation package with amazing rates and even more amazing perks and savings.

Work well and live well with the Stay Balanced workcation package with amazing rates and even more amazing perks and savings.

For this type of traveler, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas offers the STAY BALANCED Workcation Package, starting at PhP 4,100 nett with benefits valued at up to PhP 2,500. Guests can select between PhP 500 in dining credits for use at any hotel dining outlet or complimentary access to alt|space, the co-working area located at the Lobby Café, including PhP 500 worth of consumable food and beverage.

The package further includes 20% off massage services, 10% off airport transfers, early check-in as early as 10:00 a.m., subject to availability, and a welcome amenity.

It is an option for travelers who want more flexibility from a business stay—whether that means concentrating on work in a new environment, enjoying a meal between tasks, or taking time to recharge before the next commitment.

For Travelers Who Prefer to Take Their Time

A longer stay can make a Metro Manila trip feel less like a packed itinerary and more like an opportunity to enjoy the city at your own pace. For bleisure travelers, the STAY LONGER Extended Stay Package at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas provides a convenient home base in Ortigas, combining extended-stay value with access to the city's business and lifestyle destinations.

The package starts at PhP 3,900 nett per night for a minimum two-night stay and PhP 3,800 nett per night for a minimum five-night stay. Guests can also enjoy food and beverage discounts and other package perks throughout their stay.

With offices, shopping destinations, dining establishments, and lifestyle attractions all within easy reach, guests can comfortably balance business commitments with leisure activities. Whether spending extra time on work, exploring Metro Manila, resting between activities, or enjoying an unhurried city break, the extended stay option gives travelers the flexibility to make the most of their time in Ortigas.

For Guests Who Value a More Inclusive Stay

Travel experiences become more meaningful when guests can feel comfortable and respected throughout their stay. For Muslim travelers visiting Metro Manila, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas offers the STAY COMFORTABLE Muslim-Friendly Package, created to provide convenient hotel amenities while supporting their religious practices.

Committed to inclusivity, Richmonde provides Muslim guests with access to amenities  that support their faith, including Halal menu items.

Guests booking the package receive PhP 1,000 in dining credits for the hotel's Halal menu, together with a Qibla in the room, use of a prayer mat and Quran, and access to a dedicated prayer room within the hotel. The package also includes 10% off laundry services for added convenience.

These thoughtful inclusions help Muslim guests enjoy their time at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas with greater ease, combining the comforts of a hotel stay with access to amenities and facilities that support their faith and daily needs.

For Those Who Want to Stay Mindful

Sometimes, the best way to recharge is simply to pause. Designed for travelers who value wellness, reflection, and sustainable living, the STAY MINDFUL Sustainable Package at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas offers a two-night accommodation starting at PhP 9,000 nett.

Amenities included in the Mindful Stay Package support the hotel’s zero food waste program which is part of its commitment to sustainability.  

Thoughtful details are woven throughout the stay, including a locally made welcome amenity and an edible, sustainably made turndown treat. Guests can also enjoy 20% off the hotel's plant-based menu, providing an opportunity to explore delicious alternatives while making more mindful dining choices.

The package also creates an impact beyond the hotel, with a portion of proceeds from every stay donated to Project Pearls. From appreciating local craftsmanship to discovering plant-based dining and taking time for quiet reflection, STAY MINDFUL encourages guests to enjoy a slower, more intentional kind of travel.

Different Reasons to Stay. One Place to Count On.

Travel looks different for everyone. Some guests arrive for business, others for leisure, family time, wellness, or simply a chance to enjoy a change of scenery. At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, these diverse reasons for traveling are reflected in the way each stay is thoughtfully designed around the guest. Across its different hotel experiences and packages, RHO maintains its focus on comfort, convenience, and its signature Sampaguita service—a warm, caring, and gracious expression of Filipino hospitality. It is this consistent attention to guests that helps make every visit feel comfortable and welcoming. Whatever the reason for the journey, for your kind of stay, there’s always Richmonde Hotel Ortigas.

All packages are available for stays until the end of the year. For reservations and inquiries, guests may contact Richmonde Hotel Ortigas at (632) 8638 7777, email stay@richmondehotelortigas.com, or visit www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph.

About Richmomde Hotel Ortigas

As the initial venture of leading real estate company, Megaworld Corporation, into the hospitality business, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas is a proud local brand that opened in 1999 at the heart of the then-burgeoning Ortigas Center. It is now a member of the steadily growing stable of homegrown brands under the Megaworld Hotels and Resorts group. For more information on Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, log on to www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph and for the latest news on the hotel, follow Richmonde Hotel Ortigas on Facebook and Instagram. 

About Megaworld Hotels & Resorts

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) is a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation under the Alliance Global Group Inc. The hotel chain is the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Group recognized by the World Travel Awards and the country’s largest hotel operator with 15 hotels, 8 brands, and 9,000 room keys including the ones in the pipeline. Experience Filipino hospitality through its signature brand of service, the sampaguita, across its brands including Savoy and Belmont in Boracay, Mactan Cebu, and Pasay. Richmonde hotels in Eastwood, Ortigas, and Iloilo. And Kingsford Hotel and Grand Westside Hotel in Paranaque, Hotel Lucky Chinatown Hotel in Binondo, Chancellor Hotel in Boracay, and Twin Lakes Hotel in Batangas.

McDonald’s and G-DRAGON Unite for ‘Asia Chicken Campaign’ Across 13 Markets

McDonald’s Philippines is set to introduce its “Asia Chicken Campaign,” on September 17, bringing together McDonald’s and G-DRAGON for a regional collaboration across 13 Asian markets. The partnership unites the global reach of McDonald’s with the cultural influence of one of Korea’s most recognized creative figures.

Positioned as an “ICON×ICON” collaboration, the campaign celebrates the international influence of Korean culture through a combination of food, entertainment, fashion, and digital experiences. G-DRAGON’s reach across music, fashion, art, and popular culture complements McDonald’s global presence and longstanding connection with consumers through food and shared experiences.

Led by McDonald’s Korea, the campaign is expected to reach hundreds of millions of consumers across the region. Its Korean-inspired flavor concept brings a new dimension to the McDonald’s experience in participating Asian markets while highlighting the continued global appeal of K-culture.
For customers in the Philippines, the campaign introduces McSpicy and McNuggets with Cajun Sauce. McSpicy features a juicy whole-cut chicken thigh fillet coated in a crispy spicy seasoning blend, served with fresh lettuce and creamy mayonnaise on a soft toasted bun. The combination delivers contrasting notes of crunch, spice, and savory flavor.

The McNuggets with Cajun Sauce offer another K-inspired flavor experience, pairing crispy golden Chicken McNuggets with a creamy Cajun Sauce. Its savory and tangy taste is complemented by a mild spicy kick.

McDonald’s will also bring the campaign to life through exclusive digital content and limited-time customer experiences across the 13 participating markets. Completing the collaboration is a collection of exclusive PEACEMINUSONE merchandise developed in partnership with G-DRAGON, giving fans another way to celebrate the meeting of two global icons beyond the menu.

“The Asia Chicken Campaign brings together two globally recognized icons, McDonald’s and G-DRAGON, in a unique collaboration inspired by the growing influence of Korean flavor and culture across Asia. Through this partnership, we are excited to create memorable experiences that connect people through great taste, creativity, and shared cultural moments. As only McDonald’s can, we are proud to deliver Feel Good Moments to customers across Asia.” ~Karl Christian Chua, Brand Manager for McDonald’s Philippines

For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, on Instagram, and on X. 

About McDonald’s Philippines

McDonald’s Philippines master franchise holder Dr. George T. Yang - who oversees and sits as chairman for 40 years - founded and brought the first McDonald’s store to the country in 1981. Since then, McDonald’s in the Philippines has been a formidable player in the country’s quick-service restaurant industry, having grown a store network of close to 800 nationwide. McDonald’s Philippines continues to aspire to make a difference in communities where it operates through its charity of Choice, Ronald McDonald House Charities Philippines.

Sony Philippines Turns Up the Energy with New ULT POWER SOUND Lineup and Star-Studded ULT Squad

Beyond the Beat brings together Sony’s latest ULT speakers, live performances, music, and style for an immersive celebration at COVE Manila.

With Beyond the Beat: The Next-Level ULT POWER SOUND Experience, held at COVE Manila, Okada Manila, Sony Philippines brought its ULT POWER SOUND experience to life with a focus on music, style, and powerful sound.

The event, which was intended to be Sony Philippines' largest ULT POWER SOUND launch in the nation, brought together industry guests and fans from MySony General Admission, Elite, and Platinum tiers.

The Sony ULT Squad was also present at the event; SB19, the newest member of the lineup, made their debut. Maki, KAIA, Jeremy G, A-Team, Carlos Serrano III, David Guison, Angelique Manto-Guison, Jacqueline Jala, and other members of the ULT Squad join them, bringing together some of the most fascinating performers and individuals in the nation.

New ULT Speakers Take Center Stage

The launch event began with a welcome address from Shuhei Sugihara, President and Managing Director of Sony Philippines, setting the mood for an evening celebrating music, technology, and powerful audio. Keira Ambubuyog, Product Marketing Specialist of Sony Philippines, introduced the latest ULT POWER SOUND products, while Arbie Bandiling, Senior Marketing Communications Executive of Personal Audio Systems, unveiled the newest ULT Squad Video and introduced the artists and personalities bringing the ULT experience to audiences.

Sony’s new ULT POWER SOUND lineup features three models the ULT TOWER 5, ULT TOWER 7, and ULT TOWER MAX. Designed for powerful audio experiences, the speakers feature newly developed large circular woofers, large-capacity speaker cabinets, and ULT DUCT to deliver deeper and stronger low-frequency bass.

For those seeking maximum bass performance, the ULT TOWER MAX delivers the most powerful bass yet in the ULT POWER SOUND series. The ULT TOWER 7 offers stage-worthy sound while maintaining portability, while the compact ULT TOWER 5 is designed for smaller gatherings with impressive bass, karaoke, and DJ capabilities.

Guests could explore the new Sony ULT speakers through several interactive event experiences. Step into the Beat transformed the space with an arcade-inspired setup, stacked ULT Towers, and a dance pad. The ULT Selfie Club provided an energetic backdrop for photos, while ULT Cover Star combined ULT Field speakers with fashion pieces from designer Alser Lumawag. The Bass District created a nightlife-inspired environment for KOLs and VIP guests, and the Karaoke Lounges allowed attendees to experience the lineup through live singing and entertainment.

Meet the Faces of the ULT Squad

At the heart of the celebration was the Sony ULT Squad, a growing community of Filipino artists, creators, performers, and personalities united by music, style, and self-expression.

The event was hosted by fashion influencer and ULT Squad member Angelique Manto-Guison, with A-Team setting the energy for the night through a high-impact opening performance. Carlos Serrano III followed, bringing his distinct personality to the stage, while David Guison and Jacqueline Jala  joined the ULT Models for a stylish fashion showcase. Jeremy G also took the stage, adding his signature musical style to the diverse lineup.

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Music took center stage as KAIA delivered a youthful contemporary pop performance, followed by Maki, who captivated the audience with his signature stage presence. The evening concluded with SB19, who made their debut as the newest members of the Sony ULT Squad. Their arrival combines Sony’s audio innovation with the group’s influence on the Filipino music scene, adding another dimension to the ULT Squad’s growing community of artists shaping modern music culture.

Through its latest products and expanding creative roster, Sony continues to celebrate the connection between powerful sound, personal style, and self-expression, bringing audiences experiences that go Beyond the Beat.

Bring Home the ULT POWER SOUND Experience

The latest Sony ULT POWER SOUND speakers are now officially available nationwide. The ULT TOWER MAX, ULT TOWER 7, and ULT TOWER 5 can be purchased through Sony Centres and authorized dealers nationwide across the Philippines.

Built around powerful bass, bold styling, and features that encourage people to enjoy music together, the new ULT lineup is designed to bring more energy to parties, gatherings, and everyday listening. Follow Sony Philippines’ official channels for more ULT POWER SOUND experiences, events, product updates, and announcements.

SONY CORPORATION

Sony Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation and is responsible for the Entertainment, Technology & Services (ET&S) business. With the mission to “create the future of entertainment through the power of technology together with creators,” we aim to continue to deliver Kando* to people around the world. For more information, visit:

http://www.sony.net

*Kando is a Japanese word that roughly translates to the sense of awe and emotion you feel when experiencing something beautiful and amazing for the first time.

Malaysia's DIY Hot Pot Now Open at SM City Grand Central

Foodies, get ready to turn up the heat.

A new destination is bringing the excitement of Malaysian-inspired hot pot to Caloocan. Located at the 5th Level of SM City Grand Central, Mala House offers diners a customizable hot pot experience where every bowl can be created according to individual tastes and cravings.

The restaurant’s standout concept is its you build your own hotpot, allowing guests to choose exactly what goes into their bowl. From fresh meats and seafood to vegetables, noodles, and other hot pot favorites, diners can mix and match ingredients to create their ideal combination. The level of spice can also be adjusted, making the experience suitable for those who enjoy a serious kick as well as diners who prefer milder flavors.

With every ingredient simmering together in a steaming, flavorful broth, each bowl becomes a personalized hot pot creation. Guests can keep it simple with their favourite ingredients or experiment with different combinations to discover something new.

Mala House is also designed for different dining occasions. Whether it is a casual meal with friends, a family food trip, a spontaneous craving, or a post-shopping treat, the DIY format makes dining more interactive and enjoyable.

For anyone looking to explore DIY hot pot in Mala House at the 5th Level of SM City Grand Central offers a flavorful experience where you decide what goes into your bowl. Choose. Build. Simmer. Enjoy.

A World of Flavours Awaits at Café by Westside

Dining at Café by Westside, the all-day dining restaurant of Grand Westside Manila Bay, is an invitation to explore a variety of flavours while still enjoying the comfort of familiar favourites. With a menu designed to suit different cravings and occasions, the restaurant offers a versatile dining experience throughout the day.

Café by Westside is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, serving everything from breakfast and lunch to afternoon meals and dinner. Diners can choose from an à la carte menu featuring Filipino favourites alongside Asian, Indian, Arabic, and Western dishes. Adding to its international culinary offerings, the restaurant presents its World of Flavours Dinner Buffet every Saturday evening, giving guests an opportunity to sample a broader selection of global-inspired dishes.

Designed as a welcoming space for shared meals, Café by Westside is suited for different dining occasions—from breakfast before work and lunch with colleagues to family gatherings and Saturday dinners with friends. At its heart is a simple dining philosophy: bringing people together over delicious food and shared experiences.

From familiar favourites to something new: the à la carte menu

The Café by Westside à la carte menu takes diners on a culinary journey that begins with familiar Filipino flavours and extends to a variety of international-inspired dishes. With an assortment of choices available throughout the day, guests can enjoy both comforting classics and new flavours in one dining destination.

Among the highlights is the restaurant’s chef signature Kare-Kare, where slow-cooked oxtail is paired with a savoury peanut sauce and shrimp paste for a rich and distinctly Filipino experience. The Home Style Sinigang offers another taste of Filipino comfort, featuring its signature sour broth with a choice of shrimp, salmon, US beef, or pork belly. Completing the selection are other much-loved local dishes such as Adobo, Crispy Pata, Lechon Kawali, Pinakbet with Bagnet, and Pancit—classic Filipino favourites perfect for sharing.

Then the menu begins to travel.

The international offerings at Café by Westside continue with a variety of Asian, Indian, and Arabic-inspired dishes. Diners can sample Seafood Laksa, where prawns, squid, and mussels are served in a comforting Malaysian coconut broth, or opt for other Asian favourites such as Pad Thai and Black Pepper Beef.

The menu’s Indian and Arabic selections bring together bold spices and aromatic flavours through dishes such as Murgh Makhani, Chicken Masala, Vegetable Korma, Chana Masala, and Biryani. Layered with herbs, spices, and caramelized onions, the dishes are available with choices ranging from chicken and egg to seafood, vegetables, and lamb.

For diners who prefer classic Western comfort food, the Signature Westside Burger pairs US Angus beef with a charcoal brioche bun. The restaurant also serves pasta, sandwiches, and other familiar favourites. Those looking for lighter fare can opt for Lumpiang Sariwa, Thai Prawn and Pomelo Salad, or Vietnamese Vegetable Spring Rolls.

“Good food should feel familiar, but there should always be something new to discover. At Café by Westside, we bring together flavours our guests know and love with dishes they may be trying for the first time. For us, it’s about cooking food people genuinely enjoy and giving them a reason to come back for another plate.” ~Chef Chris Lugtu, Executive Chef of Grand Westside Manila Bay

Save room for something sweet

For those with a sweet tooth, the culinary journey at Café by Westside continues beyond the savoury courses. The restaurant’s à la carte dessert menu features indulgent choices such as Dulce de Leche Cheesecake and 24-Carat Moist Chocolate Mousse Cake, along with Sugar-Free Tiramisu and Westside Homemade Gelato, whose flavours vary according to the day’s selection.

The flexibility of Café by Westside’s à la carte dining experience allows guests to enjoy the restaurant in a way that suits their occasion. It can be a convenient stop for a quick lunch, a relaxed meal with family and friends, or a leisurely catch-up that stretches into dessert and conversation.

Saturday nights become a World of Flavours

Throughout the week, Café by Westside’s à la carte menu gives diners the opportunity to explore flavours from different parts of the world. On Saturday evenings, that culinary exploration continues through the restaurant’s World of Flavours Dinner Buffet, where an even broader selection awaits.

The buffet is designed around variety, bringing together an extensive spread of Filipino, Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Western dishes, complemented by freshly prepared selections and desserts. Instead of limiting diners to a single cuisine, the experience allows each guest to create a personalized meal based on their cravings and curiosity.

Guests can begin with dishes they already know and love, experiment with unfamiliar flavours, or revisit favourites for another serving. Every plate offers an opportunity to discover something different, making the buffet experience flexible and enjoyable for diners with diverse preferences.

At its core, World of Flavours carries the same philosophy as Café by Westside’s broader dining concept: offering plenty of choices while bringing familiar favourites and international discoveries together in one welcoming setting.

Whether it is a family dinner, a weekend gathering with friends, or a relaxed Saturday night out, the buffet turns an ordinary evening into an opportunity to enjoy good food, explore new flavours, and share the table with the people who matter.

“Dining has always been one of the ways people come together, and that sense of connection is very much part of the experience we want to create at Grand Westside. Café by Westside welcomes families, friends, travellers and our local community to share a table, enjoy good food and spend time together. World of Flavours gives them another reason to do just that.” ~Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager of Grand Westside Manila Bay

An all-day table in Westside City

Set within Westside City in Parañaque, Café by Westside combines a convenient location with an all-day dining concept designed for different occasions. The restaurant is within easy reach of Entertainment City, SM Mall of Asia, and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), making it accessible to hotel guests, local residents, families, and groups.

The dining experience can begin with breakfast before a busy day, continue with an à la carte lunch, or wind down over dinner. For weekend diners, Saturday evenings bring the World of Flavours Dinner Buffet, offering an opportunity to explore a variety of cuisines in one generous spread.

Whether stopping by for a quick meal or settling in for a longer dining experience, Café by Westside provides a welcoming reason to gather, enjoy good food, and discover something new.

Café by Westside

All-Day Dining

Open daily | 6:00 AM–10:00 PM

À La Carte Menu

Available daily

Breakfast Buffet

Daily | 6:00 AM–10:00 AM

PHP 1,500 nett per person

World of Flavours Dinner Buffet

Saturdays | 6:00 PM–10:00 PM

PHP 2,298 nett per person

For reservations and inquiries:

+63 917 120 2815

+63 2 8230 8880 | +63 2 8230 8808

dine@grandwestsidemanila.com

About Grand Westside Manila Bay

Grand Westside Manila Bay is one of the largest hotels in the Philippines, offering 1,528 rooms and suites in the heart of Westside City, Parañaque. Designed for business and leisure travellers, the hotel features contemporary accommodation, versatile meeting and event spaces, wellness facilities and a collection of dining experiences.

Conveniently located near Entertainment City, SM Mall of Asia and Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the hotel combines warm Filipino hospitality with an easy, contemporary stay experience.

Business Meets Bibingka: Belmont Hotel Manila serves Simbang Gabi Favorites

Simbang Gabi Favorites featuring Puto Bumbong and Bibingka.

When the Ber months arrive, the Philippines begins its annual countdown to Christmas, ushering in one of the world’s longest holiday seasons. At Belmont Hotel Manila, the celebration starts with Simbang Gabi Favorites, the first feature of the hotel’s Paskong Pinoy Christmas celebration.

Designed with today’s travelers in mind, the offering gives business travelers visiting Manila an easy way to enjoy familiar Filipino Christmas flavours even with a packed itinerary. Available daily at the hotel driveway alongside the Bike + Brew Kiosk, Simbang Gabi Favorites is well suited for a quick afternoon merienda between meetings, a casual treat shared with a client, or something to bring along before heading to the airport.

The hotel’s location in Newport City makes the experience particularly convenient, with direct access to NAIA Terminal 3 through Runway Manila. Guests do not need to venture far to find a taste of the season. A short walk from their room or meeting, they can pause from their busy schedules and enjoy beloved Filipino holiday treats that bring a little taste of home to their Manila stay.

Tsokolate Baterol, a rich Filipino hot chocolate made with tablea, milk, and sugar.

“Paskong Pinoy is about the traditions and flavors that bring people together. Through Simbang Gabi Favorites, we want to bring that familiar Filipino Christmas experience into the moments we share with colleagues, clients, family, and friends.” ~Mayann Malapote, Hotel Manager

For travelers visiting Manila on business, Simbang Gabi Favorites at Belmont Hotel Manila offers an easy opportunity to bring Filipino Christmas traditions into the workday. A box of bibingka can add a local touch to an afternoon meeting with clients, while the same treats can be taken home as pasalubong for colleagues, loved ones, and business partners.

The holiday offering celebrates two traditional favourites closely associated with the Filipino Christmas season. Bibingka, served fresh, warm, and lightly charred, is a traditional rice cake often enjoyed during Simbang Gabi. Puto bumbong, meanwhile, is made from glutinous rice and traditionally paired with butter, coconut, and sugar.

Adding a contemporary touch to this classic pairing is Puto Bumbong with Dulce de Leche and Leche Flan, offering an indulgent interpretation of a much-loved Filipino holiday treat.

No Christmas merienda would be complete without a warm drink, and Tsokolate Baterol provides just that. Made with rich Filipino tablea, the hot chocolate complements the sweet treats and creates a comforting pairing for cool evenings and festive gatherings.

Whether served during a casual business meeting, enjoyed as an afternoon office merienda, or shared during a gathering with family and friends, Simbang Gabi Favorites capture the warmth of Filipino Christmas. For travelers, they also provide a simple and delicious way to bring the holiday experience home.

The Christmas treats are available daily from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM until November 2026, with earlier operating hours once the Simbang Gabi season begins.

Bibingka — PHP 200

Puto Bumbong – Classic — PHP 150

Puto Bumbong – Dulce de Leche & Leche Flan — PHP 200

Tsokolate Baterol — PHP 180

Simbang Gabi Favorites and the Bike + Brew kiosk at the Belmont Hotel Manila driveway.

For business travelers, corporate guests, families, and visitors on the move, Belmont Hotel Manila offers a convenient opportunity to pause and enjoy a warm taste of Filipino Christmas before heading home or continuing their journey. As the Ber months mark the beginning of the country’s beloved holiday season, the hotel welcomes guests to reconnect with familiar flavours and the simple joy of sharing good food together.

This season, Belmont Hotel Manila celebrates the warmth of Filipino Christmas by creating moments meant to be enjoyed, shared, and remembered. Guests are invited to gather, indulge in comforting holiday favorites, and Savor the Moment.

About Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts

Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts (MGHR) is a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation under the Alliance Global Group Inc. Recognized with a Tourism Excellence Award by the Department of Tourism in 2025, MGHR is the country’s largest homegrown hotel operator, offering Muslim-friendly accommodations and mindful stays across its growing portfolio of 16 hotels, 8 brands, and 12,000 room keys, including those in the pipeline. Experience Filipino hospitality through its signature brand of service, The Sampaguita, across its brands, including Savoy, Belmont, Richmonde, Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Twin Lakes, Kingsford, Grand Westside and Chancellor. Its properties are located in key tourism and business destinations across Metro Manila, Batangas, Boracay, Cebu, and Iloilo. MGHR also manages international brands, including Mercure Mactan Cebu and Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo.