A Christmas Celebration to Remember: Grand Westside Manila Bay Brings European Charm and Filipino Warmth to Entertainment City

The magic of Christmas comes alive through traditions, music, beautiful decorations, and moments shared with the people who make the season meaningful. At Grand Westside Manila Bay, this festive spirit took center stage during its Christmas Tree Lighting celebration held on November 12.

Welcoming distinguished guests, corporate partners, media representatives, and friends, the hotel presented an enchanting holiday experience under the theme “A European Christmas Village, Celebrated with a Filipino Heart.” The celebration brought together the elegance of European Christmas traditions and the warmth of Filipino hospitality in one memorable evening.

The event was graced by Hon. Mayor Edwin L. Olivarez, Mayor of Parañaque City; Hon. Councilor Pablo “Paolo” A. Olivarez II, First District of Parañaque City; Undersecretary Capt. Stanley Ng of the Department of Tourism; Ms. Anna Liza Vergara, Managing Director of Megaworld Global Hospitality; and Pastor Dr. Rafael Alfonso. Executives from Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, industry representatives, business partners, and hotel guests also joined the celebration.

Mayor Olivarez shared a message highlighting the significance of the occasion for Grand Westside Manila Bay and the city of Parañaque. The hotel, with its impressive 1,528 rooms, holds the distinction of being the largest hotel in the Philippines based on room count and continues to contribute to the development of Entertainment City's hospitality and tourism sector.

Stepping inside the hotel's festive setting felt like entering a charming European Christmas village. Twinkling lights, gingerbread houses, lush holiday greenery, and European-inspired market stalls created a picturesque holiday atmosphere. Adding a distinctly Filipino touch were traditional parols, while the graceful performance of a live harpist provided a beautiful musical welcome for guests.

Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager of Grand Westside Manila Bay, welcomed everyone and shared the inspiration behind this year's Christmas celebration. The concept reflects a beautiful blend of European holiday charm and the heartfelt warmth of Filipino Christmas traditions.

“Christmas has always been about the people we share it with. This year, we wanted to bring a little European Christmas charm to Grand Westside Manila Bay while keeping the warmth of a Filipino Christmas at the heart of our celebration. More than the lights and decorations, it's about family, friendship, gratitude and finding ways to share our blessings with others.” ~Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager of Grand Westside Manila Bay

The magic of Christmas became even more special when the executives and distinguished guests of Grand Westside Manila Bay gathered for the ceremonial toast and Christmas Tree Lighting. As the tree sparkled with festive lights, it marked the beginning of the hotel's holiday celebrations and a season filled with togetherness, joy, and shared memories.

The evening became even more touching with the performance of Minstrels Rhythm of Hope – Little Singers. Their heartwarming Christmas carols brought the spirit of the holidays to life, reminding everyone of the simple happiness that music and sharing can bring. Joining the celebration were Yna Angela Uy, Ms. Chinatown Global Philippines 2026, and Jyron Ngo, Mr. Chinatown Global 1st Runner-Up, who added to the festive atmosphere.

A Village of Giving

For Grand Westside Manila Bay, Christmas is not only about beautiful decorations and celebrations but also about sharing blessings with others. This spirit inspired the launch of A Village of Giving, a special Christmas community initiative supporting the children of Minstrels Rhythm of Hope – Little Singers.

Carrying the heartfelt message “Little Gifts. Big Smiles.”, the initiative celebrates the Filipino value of generosity and reminds everyone that even simple acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference in a child's life.

Through Minstrels Rhythm of Hope - Little Singers, children from disadvantaged communities are given opportunities to explore their musical abilities, strengthen their confidence, and pursue their education. Seeing the young singers perform during the Christmas Tree Lighting made the cause even more personal, giving guests a chance to connect with the children whose lives the initiative hopes to brighten.

From November 12 to December 21, 2026, guests, visitors, and hotel associates can participate by leaving gifts and donations at the dedicated donation house beside the Christmas tree in the hotel lobby. These contributions will be shared with the children in time for Christmas.

It's a beautiful reminder that the true magic of the season is not just found in sparkling lights, but in the kindness we share and the smiles we help create.

A Season of Festive Flavours and Traditions

The festive atmosphere at Grand Westside Manila Bay continues beyond its Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, welcoming guests to enjoy a variety of holiday experiences throughout the season.

One of the attractions to explore is the Christmas Village Market, featuring seasonal gift selections, festive cakes, and holiday hampers. Inspired by the charm of European Christmas markets, it offers guests a wonderful opportunity to discover holiday treats and gifts right in the heart of Entertainment City.

For those looking forward to festive dining, Café by Westside presents special seasonal celebrations, including Christmas Eve at the Village and A Golden New Year's Eve Feast. Guests can also enjoy its festive dining selections, World of Flavours, Grill & Rhythm, and Sip ’n Splash, with a special 3+1 dining offer.

The excitement continues into the New Year with A Golden Midnight, the hotel's New Year's Eve countdown celebration happening at the 5th Floor Open Deck. Guests who want to make their holiday celebration even more memorable can also explore the hotel's special stay packages, perfect for families and friends looking to spend quality time together.

With its combination of European-inspired Christmas experiences, festive culinary offerings, and Filipino hospitality, Grand Westside Manila Bay creates more reasons to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

About Grand Westside Manila Bay

Located in Westside City, Entertainment City, Parañaque, Grand Westside Manila Bay is a 1,528-room hotel under Megaworld Hotels & Resorts and the largest hotel in the Philippines by room count. The hotel offers contemporary accommodation, dining experiences, leisure facilities and versatile event spaces, complemented by warm Filipino hospitality.

For reservations and enquiries, visit www.grandwestsidemanila.com.

Christmas Magic Comes Alive at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan

Looking for a magical Christmas experience without leaving the city? SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan are bringing the holiday spirit to life with three spectacular Christmas installations that transform their atriums into colorful worlds of fantasy, wonder, and fun.

Under SM Supermalls' “SM Magical Sparkle” Christmas campaign, each mall introduces its own holiday centerpiece, offering shoppers and families more reasons to visit, explore, and capture unforgettable Christmas moments.

At SM City Grand Central, visitors can experience the charm of Italy through “Venetian Wonderland.” Inspired by Venice's picturesque island of Burano, the installation features a stunning 34-foot multi-tiered Christmas tree surrounded by colorful pastel houses, a glowing canal, a Venetian gondola, and a playful gondolier elf.

The European-inspired setting is completed by brick arch bridges, warm street lamps, festive greenery, and market-style stalls. With its gondola, canal, and colorful architectural details, the display offers plenty of picturesque corners for holiday photos and family bonding.

For a more enchanting Christmas atmosphere, head to SM City Valenzuela and discover “Once Upon a Moonlit Christmas.” The installation features a 34-foot Christmas tree dressed in crimson, violet, and gold, beautifully framed by a glowing star, metallic gold crescent moon, silver reindeer, crystal drapes, and sparkling illuminated stars.

The fairytale-inspired scene also features a velvet-red throne with elegant gold accents and surrounding presents, creating a picture-perfect spot where families and friends can pose and enjoy the magic of the season.

Over at SM Center Sangandaan, Christmas gets a sweet and playful makeover with “Sweet Plushie Holiday.” Expect towering Christmas trees, giant candy canes, candy-inspired decorations, and plush-inspired displays in a festive combination of red, silver, and gold.

Designed with a youthful and playful atmosphere, the installation is perfect for holiday snapshots, social media content, and memorable moments with friends and family. Its launch was made even more exciting with Gen Z music, dance performances, holiday entertainment, and a grand tree-lighting ceremony featuring a colorful confetti shower in red, silver, and gold.

Whether you prefer the romantic charm of Venice, a dreamy Christmas night beneath the stars, or a playful candy-inspired wonderland, these three SM malls offer different ways to enjoy the holidays.

With SM Magical Sparkle, Christmas becomes more than a beautiful display. It becomes an experience where visitors can reconnect with loved ones, take memorable photographs, and enjoy the festive atmosphere while shopping and celebrating the most wonderful time of the year.

Merry & Massive deals at Toy Kingdom's Toy Warehouse Sale

Toy shopping season is getting more exciting as Toy Kingdom brings back its Toy Warehouse Sale from November 5 to 8, 2026. Whether you're searching for Christmas gifts, hunting for bargains, or looking to expand your toy collection, the event offers plenty of reasons to visit.

With more than 300 brands participating and thousands of items available, shoppers can explore toys and collectibles suited to various ages, interests, and spending budgets. Bargain hunters can look forward to discounts of up to 70% on selected branded toys, while kidults and collectors can search for nostalgic favorites, hidden treasures, and prized pieces to add to their collections.

The warehouse sale also gives early holiday shoppers a chance to prepare their Christmas gift lists ahead of the festive rush while taking advantage of exclusive event deals.

Make room in your shopping schedule for four days of toy-filled discoveries at the Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall. The sale is open to the public, and no registration is needed. Shoppers can start visiting on November 5 when the doors open at 1:00 PM.

For more information about Toy Kingdom Toy Warehouse Sale 2026, follow on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok or visit toykingdom.com.ph.

Last Call Before Takeoff: Prime Video Opens the LOL Terminal for LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines Season 2

Vice Ganda, the cast, showrunners, and Prime Video representatives raise a toast to celebrate the successful premiere screening.

Space at One Ayala in Manila turned into an unexpected destination for fun as Prime Video prepared to launch LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines Season 2. Media guests, creators, and special attendees checked in for a unique terminal-inspired event filled with Instagram-worthy activities, Pinoy street food favorites, and plenty of opportunities to test their poker faces. Forget traffic jams and endless lines—the real challenge was resisting laughter and following the golden rule: bawal tumawa.

The contestants arrive in style on the blue carpet, making a dramatic entrance before joining the cast onstage for the media conference.

Vice Ganda is back in the driver's seat as host of LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines Season 2, bringing her signature wit, energetic personality, and quick-fire humor to the comedy competition. As the familiar face guiding the LOL terminal once again, she leads contestants through a challenge built around one simple rule: anyone who laughs is eliminated.

The excitement also brought together the show's ten new-season contestants during the media conference and premiere screening. The lineup includes Long Mejia, Epy Quizon, Candy Pangilinan, Ethel Booba, Pooh, Donna Cariaga, Chariz Solomon, Esnyr, James Caraan, and Charuth. Together with Vice Ganda, they gave media guests a preview of the colorful personalities, hilarious interactions, and unpredictable moments that define the upcoming season.

During the lively media Q&A, the cast opened up about their experiences on the show, sharing amusing stories and lighthearted exchanges about the difficulty of staying serious while surrounded by comedy. The gathering wrapped up with an exclusive screening of the premiere episode, giving guests an early taste of the unexpected challenges, surprising twists, and laugh-out-loud moments awaiting audiences.

Fans can catch LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines Season 2 exclusively on Prime Video starting October 30, 2026. The new season will be available not only to viewers in the Philippines but also to audiences across more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

The comedy competition is based on Documental, a successful Japanese Prime Original series created by and featuring Hitoshi Matsumoto and owned by Yoshimoto Kogyo. The Philippine adaptation is produced by UXS Inc. (Unitel / Straight Shooters) on behalf of Amazon MGM Studios.

The upcoming season forms part of Prime Video’s continued investment in Filipino entertainment, with a growing content slate that highlights stories from the Philippines and showcases the talents of both established performers and rising local stars.

About Prime Video

Prime Video is a first-stop entertainment destination offering customers a vast selection of premium movies, series, and live sports in one app across thousands of devices. Customers can discover Prime Originals from Amazon MGM Studios alongside an unmatched library of licensed movies and series, and playback features like  X-Ray that enhance the viewing experience.

In April 2026, Amazon shared Prime Video is a large and profitable business in its own right. For more information on Prime Video, visit www.amazon.com/primevideo.

About Amazon

Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, and Alexa are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit Amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews.

Beyond Hotel Sales: Recognizing Leadership That Moves Tourism Forward

The Megaworld Global Hotels and Resorts team celebrates its finalists at the 12th Virtus Awards

Promoting the Philippines as a destination worth exploring goes beyond selling hotel rooms—it takes passion, dedication, and a genuine commitment to showcasing the country's tourism offerings. For Dulce Amor Sy, Director of Sales and Marketing of Kingsford Hotel Manila, these efforts have earned her the title of Outstanding Sales and Marketing Leader at the 12th Virtus Awards of the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) Philippines.

The recognition celebrates Sy's work in creating more opportunities for people to discover Philippine destinations and encouraging travel around the country. Her dedication also mirrors Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts' Circle of Happiness philosophy, which is anchored on love for self, work, family, country, and God. Through this culture, the group inspires its team members to find deeper meaning in their work and contribute beyond their daily hotel responsibilities.

“Our roles go beyond our teams and our organizations. We also have a responsibility to champion our destinations and the Philippine tourism industry. Beyond Filipino hospitality, we must find more ways to showcase what our destinations have to offer and create more reasons for international travelers to visit the Philippines and experience our hotels.” ~Dulce Amor Sy, Director of Sales and Marketing of Kingsford Hotel Manila

From left: Margarita “Margie” Munsayac, HSMA Chair; Ma. Celeste B. Romualdo, HSMA Director of Membership; Socrates “Sonny” Alvaro, Managing Director of Megaworld Global Hotels and Resorts; Dulce Amor Sy, Director of Sales and Marketing of Kingsford Hotel Manila; Anna Liza Vergara, Managing Director of Megaworld Global Hotels and Resorts; Blanca CalilungMercado, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Manila Times; and Loleth G. So, HSMA President - during the awarding of the Outstanding Sales & Marketing Leader category.

HSMA's recognition of Sy extends beyond business performance and commercial results. The judges highlighted her involvement in promoting the destination where Kingsford Hotel Manila operates, as well as her active participation in local tourism initiatives. Her resilience, enthusiasm, results-driven mindset, and ability to use her vision, knowledge, and influence to motivate people and move organizations forward were also among the qualities recognized.

Adding to the hotel's achievement, two members of its team were also named nominees in their respective categories. Patricia Aiel Apeña, Reservations Associate, earned a nomination for Sales Associate, while Senior Sales Manager Saymoure Pelayo was nominated for Outstanding Sales and Marketing Manager.

From left: Saymoure Pelayo, Senior Sales Manager - Kingsford Hotel Manila and finalist in the Outstanding Sales & Marketing Manager category; Dulce Amor Sy, Director of Sales and Marketing Kingsford Hotel Manila and recipient of the Outstanding Sales & Marketing Leader award; and Patricia Aiel Apeña, Reservations Associate at Kingsford Hotel Manila and finalist in the Sales Associate category.

The Virtus Awards is an annual recognition program organized by HSMA Philippines in partnership with the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board. It honors sales and marketing professionals who demonstrate excellence and make meaningful contributions to the country's hospitality sector.

Located in Entertainment City, Parañaque, Kingsford Hotel Manila continues to serve both business and leisure travelers as part of Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts. Through the dedication of its people, the hotel highlights the importance of teamwork, shared purpose, and individual talent in achieving lasting success in the hospitality industry.

Grand Westside Manila Bay Nurtures Filipino Heritage with Sampaguita Planting Initiative at Tambo Elementary School

In an effort to nurture greener communities and strengthen its connection with local residents, Grand Westside Manila Bay recently conducted a Sampaguita planting activity at Tambo Elementary School. Hotel associates joined teachers, parents, and students in planting 45 Sampaguita plants, bringing the school community together through a shared environmental initiative.

Led by General Manager Joe Xavier Fijardo, the activity celebrated the country's national flower while encouraging collective action toward a greener and more sustainable environment.

“It's wonderful to see our team working alongside the students, teachers and parents. Through activities like this, we hope to encourage greater appreciation for our environment and Filipino heritage while building lasting relationships with our community.” ~Joe Xavier Fijardo, Led by General Manager  

The project supports Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts' (MGHR) MEGreen sustainability programme and its continuing advocacy to protect and promote the Sampaguita, a flower closely connected to Filipino heritage, culture, and hospitality.

The advocacy is also reflected in MGHR's Sampaguita Brand of Service, which draws inspiration from four core values: love, honour, dignity, and healing. These values serve as guiding principles for the group's approach to guest service and its efforts to make a lasting, positive impact on nearby communities.

For Grand Westside Manila Bay, community involvement remains an important part of its sustainability efforts. Hotel associates are encouraged to take an active role in volunteer programmes and internal fundraising activities, allowing them to contribute to meaningful causes beyond their everyday responsibilities.

“What makes this special is seeing our associates come together and give their time to the community. We want to continue encouraging this spirit of volunteerism, where caring for others becomes a natural part of our everyday culture.” ~Rodolfo Bazar II, Area Director of PMD at Grand Westside Manila Bay

Sampaguita planting has become one of the ways Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts brings its sustainability advocacy closer to local communities. Across its properties, the group works with schools and community organisations to promote the cultural significance of the Philippines' national flower while inspiring greater environmental responsibility. These activities are supported by the MEGreen programme, which advances sustainability efforts and facilitates the collection of Sampaguita seedlings for upcoming planting projects.

Through its partnership with Tambo Elementary School, the hotel also hopes to inspire students to become more mindful of the environment. Their participation in planting Sampaguita allows them to experience firsthand the importance of caring for nature and taking responsibility for the spaces they share with others.

Looking ahead, Grand Westside Manila Bay continues to explore ways to expand its environmental and community initiatives through active employee participation and fundraising activities. By encouraging associates to take part in these efforts, the hotel helps build a culture of giving that reaches beyond everyday work responsibilities

The Sampaguita plants now growing at Tambo Elementary School symbolize more than a successful planting activity. They reflect the growing bond between Grand Westside Manila Bay and its neighbouring community, as well as their shared commitment to protecting the country's natural and cultural heritage for the next generation.

Through these community-driven efforts, the hotel brings Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts' Circle of Happiness philosophy to life, demonstrating how the warmth and values of Filipino hospitality can reach far beyond its doors.

About Grand Westside Manila Bay

Located in Westside City, Parañaque, Grand Westside Manila Bay is part of Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts, the Philippines' largest homegrown hotel operator. With 1,528 rooms, the hotel offers contemporary accommodation, dining, leisure and meeting facilities in Manila's Entertainment City district. The hotel is committed to delivering memorable guest experiences while supporting sustainability and meaningful community initiatives.

SINE SINDAK Returns This Halloween to three SM Cinemas in Valenzuela, Caloocan

Get your barkada ready for a week of screams, suspense, and spine-chilling movie moments! SINE SINDAK: THE 7TH CYCLE is back from October 28 to November 3, 2026, bringing seven horror films, seven stamps, and rewards for moviegoers to enjoy.

The best part? Horror fans can catch the festival's ₱100 movie screenings at SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela, making it easier for northern Metro Manila residents to join the Halloween fun.

Whether you're a certified horror buff, a thrill-seeker looking for your next scare, or simply planning something different with friends and family, SINE SINDAK offers an affordable way to celebrate the spooky season. Catch one film or challenge yourself to experience more of the lineup—and collect stamps along the way!

₱100 IS ALL IT TAKES TO SCREAM

Ready for a horror movie marathon? For only ₱100, you can grab your ticket, take your seat, and experience the frightening lineup of Sine Sindak: The 7th Cycle.

But here’s another reason to watch: every film brings you one step closer to exclusive rewards!

With seven horror titles to choose from, moviegoers are encouraged to collect a stamp for every different film they see. So, if you’re up for the challenge, watch more movies, collect more stamps, and discover what rewards await those brave enough to complete the lineup.

WATCH SEVEN, COLLECT THE REWARDS

Ready to turn your horror movie marathon into a rewarding experience? Get your Sine Sindak Passport when you purchase your first eligible movie ticket, then collect one stamp for every different Sine Sindak film you watch.

Here’s the reward breakdown:

• 2 stamps: One sticker sheet
• 5 stamps: One free pop pouch
• 7 stamps: One free movie pass

Keep in mind that repeat viewings of the same horror film won’t count toward your stamp collection. You’ll need to watch different titles to move closer to your rewards.

When it’s time to collect a stamp or claim a prize, simply show your passport and a valid movie ticket or booking confirmation to the cashier. Complete all seven stamps, surrender your finished passport, and claim your free movie pass!

MAKE IT A HALLOWEEN BARKADA CHALLENGE

Looking for a Halloween activity with your barkada? Sine Sindak: The 7th Cycle brings a horror movie challenge to moviegoers around Caloocan and Valenzuela, giving friends a chance to test their courage one film at a time.

Kick off your horror marathon at SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, or SM City Valenzuela. Start with one movie, then see if your group can survive all seven different horror titles.

At only ₱100 per ticket, it’s an easy way to make your Halloween week more exciting. The real question is: who will be brave enough to return for the next film, and who will be the first to cover their eyes?

The stamp-collecting rewards make completing the lineup even more exciting, but nothing beats earning bragging rights and finding out who screamed first!

Your Sine Sindak challenge starts TODAY!

SINE SINDAK: THE 7TH CYCLE runs October 28–November 3, 2026 at:
📍 SM City Grand Central
📍 SM Center Sangandaan
📍 SM City Valenzuela

🎟️ ₱100 per ticket

Get your tickets:

SM Cinema App

◉ Apple: https://gosm.link/SMCinemaAppApple
◉ Android: https://gosm.link/SMCinemaAppAndroid

www.smcinema.com

SM Cinema ticket booths

So, gather your bravest friends, get your Sine Sindak Passport, and start collecting those stamps.

Seven films. Seven stamps. One challenge: can you survive the cycle?