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[ TAKEOFFPHILIPPINES.com ] A great time to end my month-long vacation on this New7Wonders in the World, Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Its rich history made it to the list of the Unesco Heritage Site as this city was established roughly 16th century now but still, the preservation of the architectural design are visible in the city even on their urban development program.

The main attraction of tourist here in Vigan is its preservation of almost 187 ancestral house in town, colonial structured churches, donation-driven museums, a free-roaming zoo and local Ilocano restaurants which is a must visit.

It was an exciting trip that I can’t forget as this was our first trip together with Gab going up north in Ilocos Region. It was really tiring but fun at the same time as we were simply backpackers. You can roam around the city within 2 - 3 days. We’ve got to experience The Ultimate Vigan Escape for a rough estimate of Php 5,000. 

Here are a travel guide and a sample DIY itinerary going to Vigan if your planning to visit this city soon.

Where to Ride Going to Vigan?

As Vigan is located here in Luzon, we can either go for a land or air transportation. There are many Vigan Tour Package offerings on every travel agency that you could try. It may include a van going to Vigan for an easy and worry-free trip but As for us, we decided to ride a bus. We felt that the best way to enjoy the trip is to experience riding it on the public transportation. 

We tried Partas Bus using their Online Booking System. There are several bus companies you can try on your Vigan trip but since convenience is our priority we ride on a Partas Bus. I recommend their good and fast service on accommodating our concern during our trip.

Express Bus Via TPLEX Fare: Php 760.00 (1 route, 5 - 6 hours travel time, 1 Stopover in between)

Riding a Partas First Class Express got us the following privileges:

Cuts your travel time by up to 4 hours! (Pasay to Laoag)

No passenger pick-ups along the road

Only one stopover

TPLEX

Terminal to terminal rates apply even for drop-offs

GPS-monitored

TV

Air-conditioned

Our Terminal Origin Address:

Aurora Blvd. cor. Edang St., Pasay City, Metro Manila. This terminal is along Tramo and alongside Five Star terminal.

Other Partas Terminal Address:

Pasay City, Bus Terminal

Aurora Boulevard (Tramo) Corner Edang St. San Roque, Pasay City, Philippines Telephone Number: +63 (2) 8528194

Sampaloc Manila, Bus Terminal Telephone Number: +63 (2) 7433242

Cubao, Bus Terminal 816 Aurora Boulevard, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines Telephone Number: +63 (2) 7278278

Bangued, Bus Terminal Zone 7, Nangaycayan, Bangued Abra, Philippines Telephone Number: +63 (74) 7528262

Baguio (Temporary Station) Convention Center, Baguio City, Philippines Telephone Number: +63 (74) 4448431

For the complete lists of Partas Bus Schedules, Fares and Terminals check out here.

Touring Around Vigan: Mode of Transportation

Vigan is a capital in Ilocos Sur that you can encapsulate your activities with just a day or two since its just a small town. Tourist spots along the Vigan proper are walking distance from each other but always prepare yourselves with a big bottled water and umbrella since the scorching heat of the sun is very imminent. Places like Baluarte, River Cruise, Mindoro Beach, Bantay Church Bell Tower seems to need to go for a ride since its a bit far. 

The main transportation used by people here is either the tricycle or a kalesa (horse-drawn carriages). If you’re looking for a more intimate time I would suggest riding a kalesa to enjoy the scenery but if you have limited time like us I would prefer riding a tricycle.

Tricycle Fee: Php 20 - up (Depends on the distance)

Kalesa Fee: starts at Php 150

Where to Stay in Vigan?

While exploring the streets of Vigan, we’ve noticed that each corner has numerous choice of hotels, inns and transient houses. Name it! You won’t have any problems looking for one. All you have to do is to be keen in looking for more affordable and cheaper rooms from the internet. 

Luckily we found the right tool to search for affordable hotels in Vigan by using Traveloka. Traveloka helps you book your hotels and flights in less than 5 minutes with just a click away. They even had promos that you can use while booking.  You can check their website or download their app on Android and IOS to try it first hand on this travel booking app.

Since we want to visit all the well-known tourist spots around Vigan City with less cost but still has a decent accommodation we landed on Mel Sol’s Inn and Resort at Bantay, Ilocos Sur, a 5-6 minutes tricycle ride from Vigan Proper.

Mel Sol’s Inn and Resort

Address: National Highway Metro Vigan, Bantay, Vigan City

Phone: 0917 571 2888 

When in Vigan: Where to Go?

We arrived at Vigan earlier than expected, we didn’t foresee that our bus has a new that's why we have ample time to roam around and go to church to start our Sunday with a positive outlook.

Simbaan A Basit

Liberation Blvd, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

It is located at the edge of a Cemetery in Vigan. According to history, the cemetery chapel was built over a century now and it is dedicated to Santo Cristo also known in Ilocos as “Apo Lakay” who is believed to save Vigan’s populace from a plague in 1756 and 1882. 

The chapel’s marker bears that the cemetery was blessed by Rev. Vicente Barreiro on Nov. 9, 1852 but the chapel’s interior now looks modern with all the repairs done through the years. Its name "Simbaan a Bassit" literally means "Small Church", since it’s a small it can only accommodate up to 100 people. 

Vigan Heritage Village - Calle Crisologo

Crisologo, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur 

After a mass at Simbaan A Basit, we decided to stroll around Vigan and search the well known Vigan Heritage Village wherein it was considered as a UNESCO Heritage Site as it helps out preserved the culture and history of Ilocos Region. 

You can explore those old houses with a century older than me by riding a Kalesa (horse wagon)  or by simply walking on the streets, as it also helps out burn some calories. It is much appreciated during the night as you can feel the romantic ambiance and stunningly beautiful light post in the area.

Mostly you can have your dinner on this streets as they have plenty restaurants to choose from and buy some cool stuffs on souvenir shops.

Vigan Cathedral / St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral

Burgos St., Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

After not so far from Vugan Heritage Village you can visit again a nearby church. Vigan Cathedral, It is a Roman Catholic Cathedral in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. It serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia.

According to history, The church itself was built in 1641 to replace the chapel and became a cathedral when the seat of the Diocese of Nueva Segovia was transferred here from Lal-lo, Cagayan in 1758, but not before being ravaged by a fire in 1739. 

The Cathedral of Vigan, as it is sometimes called, is a stunning tribute to Baroque architecture modified by the Ilocanos to survive earthquakes. It also has a bit of Chinese influence thanks to the carvings of lion dogs beside the outermost doors. 

Plaza Salcedo

Plaza Salcedo, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Right in front of Saint Paul Metropolitan Cathedral is the Plaza Salcedo, named after the Spanish conqueror, Juan de Salcedo who subdued the early native settlement in Vigan and established upon it Villa Fernandina for the monarchs of Spain in 1572. With this, Juan de Salcedo founded the third of many Hispanic settlements in the Philippines. Plaza Salcedo was the site of the execution of Gabriela Silang in September 1763.

According to history, the plaza was susceptible to fire during the Spanish regime. So the plan then was to create a man-made lagoon to minimize fire incidents. The original concept dating back several years ago is retained until March 2013 wherein a dramatic addition has been added to the once quiet and laid back park in between the Vigan Cathedral and the Ilocos Sur Capitol. The addition is a majestic dancing fountain.

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

See below complete sample itinerary. 

It’s More Fun To Experience The Wonders of Philippines! Brace yourself for more exciting, budget-friendly, mouthwatering and extreme trips.

Other Suggested Budget Itinerary:

Byaheng Norte: The Baguio Day Tour + Food Crawl Challenge

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Crown Asia, the foremost builder of themed residential developments across the archipelago, introduced Arché: The Origin of Aspiration, The Opulence of Address, an immersive presentation that articulated a compelling perspective on how communities are conceived and brought into being in South Luzon.

Arché, an immersive presentation of the latest Crown Asia developments in South Luzon, concluded with a ceremonial toast from Vista Land COO Mary Lee S. Sadiasa, joined by Crown Asia Group Head Romeo Sabater, Officers-in-Charge Shatriya Paredes and Ryan Tensuan, and Accounting Head Kim Manalaysay. 

The avant-garde gathering convened company executives, business partners, and esteemed guests in a choreographed setting enhanced by circular LED display and projection mapping. The venue became a vivid canvas, where light, layout, and layered visuals converged to narrate how refined residences are envisioned and experienced.

Crown Asia Marketing Leads Angelica Coral, Tricia Melarpis, Andrea Mijares, and Ace Simbahan unveiled Crown Asia’s latest developments: Verdalia in Batangas, Pinewood in Tagaytay, Serenza in Silang, and Ponticelli Groves in Bacoor City.

The event commenced with a cocktail reception, followed by a series of scenic curations guided by entrepreneur and actress Anne Gauthier. A multi-sensory sequence unfolded through the elements—land, earth, air, and water—each marking a dimension of community distinction. Accompanied by outstanding performances by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra and Ballet Manila, the event effected a measured balance of structure and sensation, reinforcing the interplay between architecture and atmosphere.

An exquisite dining experience followed, in which each course subtly echoed the elements. This integration of culinary and conceptual storytelling affirmed that the art of arrival extends beyond the landscape, expressed across every layer of the living experience.

At the core of Arché was the launch of the newest crown of communities across South Luzon. Verdalia provides a wellness-oriented setting woven into wide-open horizons; Pinewood reflects a highland haven of cool climes; Ponticelli Groves offers Italian-inspired bridges, boulevards, and breakthroughs; while Serenza showcases a suburban sanctuary characterized by serenity and sophistication. Attendees were also given a preview of Pranara in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, signaling a strategic step into shoreline destinations.

The gathering convened esteemed guests in a setting enhanced by circular LED display and projection mapping, turning the venue into a vivid canvas, where layered visuals converged to narrate how refined residences are envisioned and experienced.

The event extended into an exquisite dining experience, where each global course subtly echoed the elements. This integration of culinary and conceptual storytelling affirmed that the art of arrival extends beyond the landscape, expressed across every layer of the living experience.

The evening concluded with a ceremonial toast with words from Vista Land Chief Operating Officer Mary Lee S. Sadiasa, who captured the collective sentiment of the evening, “To our partners, pioneers, and our people, those who continue to build and believe, may we move forward with precision and pride. Let us raise our glasses to foundations firmly formed, to developments with distinction, and to what lies ahead as we lead: rising, refining, and redefining.”

Crown Asia Group Head Romeo S. Sabater welcomed distinguished guests to Arché: The Origin of Aspiration, The Opulence of Address, a grand launch of the housing brand’s four newest themed residential developments in South Luzon.

Through Arché, Crown Asia reaffirmed its commitment to creating communities where land becomes lifescape, earth becomes environment, and air becomes the avenue where ambitions ascend.

The art of arrival

Across Crown Asia communities in South Luzon, arrival is not abrupt, but artfully attained. In Silang, Serenza is a subtle, steady ascent, where terraced terrain and tiered gardens guide the gaze and the guest towards a state of stillness. Ponticelli Groves in Bacoor City is a poised promenade, where tree-filtered trails and foliage frames soften the shift from city pace to peaceful cadence.

Along the Tagaytay ridge, Pinewood is a portrait of permanence, where pine-scented surroundings, cool climate, and clean contours create a balance of calm and clarity. In Santo Tomas, Batangas, Verdalia completes the composition with a horizon held in harmony, where mountain views, mellow light, and measured landscapes settle into a scene of continuity.

These Crown Asia themed residential developments define the art of arrival as a sequence of settings where every pathway is purposeful, every perspective is precise, and every address is aligned to ground, then gently elevated.

Designed for distinction

Complementing these communities was the Crown Collection, a host of home models attuned to distinguished preferences and diverging life stages. From the scale of Lladro Grande, the financial foresight of Francesco, the flexibility of Topaz, the stately sophistication of Sapphire, the graceful grandeur of Garnet, to Murano’s mastery of modernity, each residence reveals the approach that balances usability and upscale living. From interiors imagined with intention, these living spaces are designed not only to be seen, but to be savored.

Bringing the beauty of the world to your doorstep

Built for the self-made, Crown Asia speaks to those who move with mastery, break through with boldness, and choose with clarity. Residences are not merely rewards, but reflections of their discipline, direction, and pursuit of distinction. A Crown Asia home is a trophy of triumph—an exquisite reward to and only for themselves.

Manila, Philippines – [25 April 2026] – The Thailand Franchise Pavilion was officially opened on 24 April 2026 at the International Franchise Expo 2026, welcoming visitors, investors, and business professionals to explore Thailand’s vibrant and globally competitive franchise sector. Organized by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce of Thailand, through the Thai Trade Center in Manila, the Pavilion is held from 24 to 26 April 2026 at Hall 2, Booth No. 319–330, SMX Convention Center Manila.

            Under the theme “Discover Strategic Partners,” the Thailand Pavilion presents fourteen Thai franchise companies across food, education, and wellness sectors. Together, they represent a strong portfolio of eleven food brands, two education-focused businesses, and one wellness brand, highlighting the diversity and readiness of Thai franchises for international expansion.

            The opening ceremony was attended by distinguished guests from both Thailand and the Philippines. Among those present for the ribbon-cutting ceremony were (from left to right) Ms. Sutinee Vathana, Director of the Thai Trade Center in Manila, Mr. Rangsant Srimangkorn, Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission of the Royal Thai Embassy in Manila , Mr. Sam Christopher Lim, Honorary Trade Advisor of Thailand in the Philippines , PFA Chairman-Council of Past Presidents and Director-International Relations, marking the official launch of the Thailand Pavilion at this year’s expo.

            Thailand’s participation in the International Franchise Expo 2026 reflects its continued commitment to promoting its franchise industry on the global stage and strengthening economic ties with international partners. The Pavilion serves as a strategic gateway for investors, master franchisees, and entrepreneurs seeking to expand their portfolios through collaboration with established Thai brands.

            “This year, we are proud to present a diverse lineup of Thai franchise brands that are well-prepared for international expansion. The Philippines remains a key market for Thai businesses, and platforms like the International Franchise Expo provide valuable opportunities to build strategic partnerships and foster long-term collaboration,” stated Ms. Sutinee Vathana, Director of the Thai Trade Center Manila. “We warmly invite investors and entrepreneurs to visit the Thailand Franchise Pavilion and explore the strong potential of Thai franchises in the global market.”

For more information, please contact the Thai Trade Center in Manila at: Telephone: 88940406, 88940403 Email: [email protected]

As conversations around sustainability continue to grow, many consumers are becoming more intentional in their everyday choices, from the products they use to the impact they leave behind. But for some, the shift toward greener living can still feel overwhelming, often perceived as expensive, inconvenient, or difficult to maintain.

This Earth Month, Watsons is making that transition easier. They invite customers to shop more consciously, balancing sustainability with smart spending, and turning everyday purchases into more intentional choices. By offering exclusive deals on their wide range of sustainable products and brands, they empower their customers to make better choices for themselves and the planet. With curated offers under its Sustainable Choices category, Watsons makes it easier than ever for shoppers to find options that align with their values across beauty, personal care, and wellness.

Running from April 18–22, shoppers can enjoy Buy 1 Get 1, Up to 50% Off on participating sustainable choices products from brands such as Watsons Naturals, Oxecure, Garnier, Aveeno, Nivea, Neutrogena, Glamworks, Luxe Organix, and more, available in stores and online via the Watsons app.

More than just a sale, the Earth Week Sale is designed to encourage simple yet meaningful changes in everyday routines. From refillable beauty essentials and products with reduced packaging to consciously formulated personal care items, Watsons offers accessible options for those looking to begin or continue making more mindful choices—making it easier for shoppers to switch across every step of their routine. Refilling, in particular, is one of the easiest ways to make a difference—helping reduce plastic use by up to 80% compared to regular bottles, while offering better value for money. It’s a simple switch that delivers both environmental impact and better value, making it easier to get more for less.

By making these products more visible and more affordable, Watsons helps bridge the gap between intention and action. What may seem like small swaps, such as choosing a refill pack or opting for more responsibly sourced products, can collectively lead to a more meaningful environmental impact. With promotions across these product lines, making the sustainable choice becomes not just easier but more rewarding.

“Sustainability doesn’t have to mean changing everything at once; it can start with simple switches, like choosing refill packs for the products you already love. Through our Earth Week Sale, we aim to make these options more accessible by offering better value and greater convenience, while helping reduce plastic waste. It’s about making sustainable living a practical and achievable choice for our customers,” said Danilo Chiong, Managing Director of Watsons Philippines.

This initiative is part of Watsons’ broader commitment to sustainability, reinforcing its role not just as a health and beauty retailer, but as a partner in promoting more responsible consumption. By continuously expanding its range of sustainable products and making them more accessible through campaigns like the Earth Week Sale, Watsons helps customers participate in a broader movement toward mindful consumption. And by integrating purpose into everyday shopping experiences, Watsons continues to make it easier for customers to align their purchases with their values.

Las Vegas, January 6, 2026 — TCL, a global leader in consumer electronics and the world’s No. 1 Mini LED and ultra-large TV brand, today unveils a new generation of visual technology breakthroughs and AI-powered products at CES 2026. This year, TCL introduces a series of world-first display panels, display technologies, and products, along with a full portfolio of intelligent devices designed to elevate smart living, immersive entertainment, and productivity.

A Glimpse into the Future of Displays

TCL continues to push the boundaries of display technologies that span all screen sizes, from large to small. At its CES 2026 showcase, TCL marks the global debut of its SQD-Mini LED Technology, representing a revolutionary leap in Mini LED performance. By transforming the local dimming zone of conventional Mini LEDs into Precise Dimming Series, it enables precise light control across the entire screen and delivers exceptional performance in both highlights and shadows. It also incorporates TCL's industry-leading Super QLED technology and an Ultra Color Filter Panel, achieving a longer service life, better color performance, and higher peak brightness. Furthermore, it offers a more stable global high color gamut, more precise light control, and a more refined appearance.

Also showcased is the world’s first TV powered by SQD-Mini LED technology – the TCL X11L. The TV achieves up to 100% BT.2020 All-Scene Wide Color Gamut and features CSOT’s WHVA 2.0 Ultra Panel for better color performance, higher native contrast and sharper picture quality. With up to 20,736 precise dimming zones and up to 10,000 nits, HDR content appears vivid and lifelike on this TV. The X11L also stands out with a sleek, nearly 2 cm-thinner and Virtually ZeroBorder design. For audio, it features Audio by Bang & Olufsen, offering a premium sound experience.

TCL’s collaborations with Gemini integration for Google TV and Dolby Vision 2 brings exciting upgrades to display experiences at CES 2026. Building on last year’s debut of the first “Always On” Google TV with Gemini, this year’s models will add even more intuitive ways to interact with your TV, including enhanced Google Photos search, new creative features with Nano Banana and Veo, and more. TCL also demonstrated Dolby Vision 2, the next generation of Dolby Vision, designed to deliver exceptional visual experiences through Content Intelligence, cinematic detail, and viewing environment awareness. Dolby Vision 2 is planned to be rolled out to TCL’s X and C TV lineups in 2026 via OTA updates.

In eye-care technology, the TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro smartphone, powered by NXTPAPER 4.0, delivers all-day eye comfort across all scenarios to ease eye strain in today's fast-paced digital environment. It's dedicated NXTPAPER Key enables seamless switching between three distinct viewing modes. Expanding its eye-care ecosystem, the TCL Note A1 NXTPAPER eNote tablet integrates AI-driven productivity tools with a paper-like reading and writing experience ideal for users seeking a more focused and efficient digital workspace. Alongside commercial displays and high-performance monitors, TCL is also unveiling the RayNeo Air 4 Pro — the world’s first HDR10 AR glasses — redefining portable viewing with advanced display technology that delivers exceptional clarity and comfort for both work and entertainment.

Powering the Next Era of Intelligent Living

Beyond display technology, TCL presents a wide range of AI-powered smart home solutions designed to bring greater intelligence to everyday living. These include the TCL FreshIN 3.0 Air Conditioner, the GeniusFresh Refrigerator, the AmeraClassic washer and dryer series, and the TCL AI SuperDrum washer-dryer combo. In addition, TCL smart locks offer advanced biometric security, AI-driven access, and seamless smart home control, while TCL Smart Home Energy Solutions deliver an integrated and AI-driven energy ecosystem for modern households, offering end-to-end control of power conversion, battery, and energy management to reduce energy costs, enhance efficiency, and support a low-carbon lifestyle.

In entertainment, TCL leverages AI to elevate picture and sound quality, enable smarter interaction, and enhance content generation. The PlayCube Projector brings cinema-grade viewing to any environment, while TCL AiMe — the world’s first modular AI companion robot — introduces lifelike, adaptive interaction that brings a human touch to smart living.

In mobility and productivity, TCL expands intelligence across smartphones, eNote tablets, and more. The TCL Human × Vehicle × Home Cross‑Scenario Solution enables seamless integration between the vehicle and home ecosystems. TCL 5G Mobile WiFi P50, featuring the industry's first 5G mmWave mobile Wi‑Fi with both fast and wireless charging, delivers an ultra‑convenient connectivity experience for on‑the‑go users.

Pioneering Partnerships that Are Shaping the Future Home

At CES 2026, TCL is also redefining the future of home design with TCL NXTHOMETM, which brings together smart home solutions, lifestyle appliances, and premium collaborations with brands including Bang & Olufsen, BMW Group Designworks Shanghai Studio and Alcantara. Also in the home, TCL ECORA™, developed in collaboration with Chris Lefteri Design, is a new sustainable material made from recycled porcelain ceramics that combines high-performance technology with eco-conscious design.

TCL’s commitment to innovation in display technology, AI, and sustainability is shaping a smarter, more efficient future for all. As the company continues to break new ground, its technologies are not only transforming homes, but also enhancing the way people live, work, and connect – paving the way for a more intelligent tomorrow.

To discover the latest TCL products and innovations, visit TCL at CES 2026:

TCL CES 2026 Booth:

Date: January 6 to 9, 2026

Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Central Hall, Booth #18604

About TCL

TCL is a leading consumer electronics brand and leader in the global television industry. TCL now operates in more than 160 markets around the world. The company specializes in the research, development, and manufacturing of consumer electronics products ranging from TVs, audio, home appliances, mobile devices, smart glasses, commercial displays, and more. Visit the TCL website at https://www.tcl.com.

About TCL Philippines:

To kickstart the Christmas countdown, SM Supermalls began its 100 Days of Happiness last September 16, where they aim to create a circle of happiness with 76 participating malls, shoppers, the marginalized communities of women, persons deprived of liberty, artisans, cause-oriented organizations, and select local government units.

"We want to create a circle of happiness in all our SM malls by featuring products of cause-oriented programs which we will offer to our shoppers who, in turn, give them to friends and family, and ultimately, benefit the communities that created these products," said SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan.

Through the campaign, SM Supermalls encourages Filipinos to support the advocacies of individuals and organizations that provide opportunities and create livelihood for their communities. For this year, SM partnered with bag designer Zarah Juan, Spark PH, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP), the Association of Foot and Mouth Artists of the Philippines, UNICEF, and the Quezon City LGU for its Vote to Tote initiative, among others.

The launch event held at SM North EDSA The Block was attended by SM Supermalls President Steven Tan and SVP for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin; Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Vice Mayor Gian Sotto, and select councilors of the city; Spark PH Founder Mica Teves; GSP President Dr. Nina Lim-Yuson; designer Zarah Juan; and Brownies Unlimited Marketing head Dustin Ngo.

Equipping young girls to lead and build the future, one box of brownies at a time

For this year’s 100 Days campaign, SM Megamall, along with 9 other SM malls, is collaborating with Brownies Unlimited and the Girl Scouts of the Philippines. For every purchase of a special GSP-themed box of brownies in-mall and via the SM Malls Online App, one girl will be sponsored with a GSP membership for a year. 

"We have a lot of young girls across the country and they've had such difficult times during the pandemic. Our membership dropped significantly. By buying a box, you can sponsor a girl for one year and she can learn so many things like being independent, loving her country more, and helping her community," said GSP President Nina Lim-Yuson.

Recently, SM Supermalls helped the GSP vaccinate all its 70,000 members nationwide. By providing them with convenient and safe COVID-19 vaccines, SM Supermalls was able to ensure that the GSP members have access to quality healthcare services. 

SM shoppers can purchase a box of brownies from 46 Brownies Unlimited branches nationwide and the SM Malls Online App.

Giving marginalized women and persons deprived of liberty hope for the future

Apart from the GSP partnership, SM Supermalls also partnered with the local government of Quezon City for its Vote to Tote program, Spark PH, and bag designer Zarah Juan to sell upcycled tarpaulin handmade tote bags sewn by marginalized women and female persons deprived of liberty.

"Christmas is all about giving. We are very happy that this year, the communities of Quezon City are included as beneficiaries in this program. And apart from helping the women in our communities, we are also able to help the environment by upcycling 70 tons of election tarpaulins that we've collected." said Mayor Belmonte.

Juan, the designer, was the brainchild of the upcycling initiative. "During the elections, there were tons of election campaign wastes. I wanted to do something and I thought I have my platform– my designs. If my designs can actually solve this problem, then it's worthwhile. Then I pitched the idea to Maica Teves, the founder of Spark PH. From there, we gathered all the help we can– from the Quezon City LGU who will help us collect tarpaulins, the women communities that can help us create, and SM Supermalls who can provide us the platform to distribute."

A Happiness Walk was done to showcase the upcycled tote bags that shoppers can buy in SM malls. Joining the Happiness Walk were men and women of substance including select Girl Scouts members, Jeremy Lapena and Bernce Sevilla of the Downs Syndrome Association of the Phils, Mylene Abiva of WomenBiz, media celebrities Ces Oreña Drilon, and Gina Pareño among others.

The proceeds of the upcycled tote bags will be given to the women PDLs in Camp Karingal, and the marginalized women of Barangays Sto. Cristo, Greater Lagro, and Pinyahan in Quezon City. The tote bags will be sold in the following SM malls:

SM Aura Premier

SM Southmall

SM City Fairview

SM City North EDSA

SM Megamall

Helping a community of artists 

And in the south of Metro Manila, the SM Mall of Asia family will be partnering with the Association of Foot and Mouth Artists in selling painted Christmas cards to the shoppers.

"All these and more will start to unfold in the coming days as we continue spreading happiness across all SM malls around the country. Let us not waste our next 100 days and use it to make one another happy by giving. Today, let the countdown begin to a hundred days of happiness!” Tan closed.

This is the second time SM Supermalls has started a holiday countdown campaign. In 2021, the biggest mall network in the Philippines showed the world more than a hundred ways of giving through 100 Days of Caring. Underserved communities surrounding the 76 SM malls were provided with their urgent needs through in-kind and monetary donations by the malls, its various business units, and the employees. 

For the list of all partner institutions and their beneficiaries visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow @smsupermalls on all social media accounts.

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Given the huge number of TikTok users and the length of time they spend browsing through the content, TikTok seems to be a helpful medium for sharing your travel tricks and ideas.

We compiled some of the hidden gems that our TikTok users have shared on their profiles giving new space to showcase the newly opened resorts in and out the Metro Manila for your next #staycation.

1.) The Cabin Resorts

Photo: The Cabin Resorts FB Page

📍 San Miguel, Bulacan

📞 09675832604 | 09750658877 | 09095131640

🌐 https://www.thecabinresortsph.com/

2.) The Villa Batangas

Photo: The Villa - Batangas FB Page

📍 San Jose, Batangas

📞 0960 692 0515

🌐 https://www.facebook.com/thevilla.tim

3.) Domescape

Photo: Domescape Glamping FB Page

📍 Nasugbu, Batangas

📞 0960 692 0515

🌐 https://www.facebook.com/domescape.ph

4.) Lime Resort Manila

Photo: Lime Resort Manila FB Page

📍 Atang Dela Rama St, Seascape Village, Pasay City

📞 Smart 0970 111 1117 / 0970 111 1119

📞 Globe 0967 400 0600 / 0967 400 0900

🌐 http://www.lime.ph/

5.) Tres Marias' Garden Cabin

📍 Silang, Cavite

📞 0926 753 8168

🌐 https://www.facebook.com/domescape.ph

6.) Moon Garden Tagaytay

Photo: Moon Garden Tagaytay FB Page

📍 San Jose, Tagaytay City

📞 0917 322 1524

🌐 https://www.facebook.com/MoongardenTagaytay

7.) Selah Pods



Photo: Selah Pods Hotel Manila FB Page

📍 F.B. Harisson, Pasay City

📞 289626796

🌐 http://www.selahpods.com/

8.) Hotel H2O

Photo: Hotel H2O FB Page

📍 Quirino Grandstand, Ermita, Manila

📞 272386190

🌐 https://www.facebook.com/HotelH2OPH

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📧 If you wish to send an invite and feature your province/company brand/event; Just ask the author of this vlog, email us at [email protected]

Follow our Social Media Accounts: Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeOffPHBlog

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Following the recent announcement by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Infectious Diseases (IATF) that the National Capital Region will be placed on Alert Level 1 until May 31, 2022, the National Museum Complex in Manila will continue to accept walk-in visitors; advance booking through https://reservation.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/ will only be required for groups of 20-30 people.

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