For those who understand that true luxury is found in being present for the moments that matter, this is the ultimate invitation. The Greenbelt Getaway to Wimbledon is a masterclass in curated experience, offering winners the best seats in history:
Two (2) Wimbledon Centre Court packages
Eight (8) days, seven (7) nights twin-sharing accommodation at Nobu Hotel (or similar)
Debenture Match Tickets to Centre Court and Court No. 1
Round-trip business class flights via Etihad Airlines (or similar), inclusive of travel tax
Round-trip airport and hotel transfers
From business class to the prestige of Debenture seating at Wimbledon, every detail is thoughtfully arranged. Because at Greenbelt, the experience is always unparalleled. Whether you are strolling through our gardens or sitting courtside at a decisive match point, it is about how you arrive, the energy you feel, and the access you enjoy.
Experiences Beyond Compare
Since 2023, the Greenbelt Getaway has reimagined how we reward our community, extending our signature experience far beyond the avenues of Makati. Our journey has evolved through distinct, curated stops: from the serene shores of El Nido, Palawan, to the high-octane energy of Formula 1 in Singapore, and most recently, exclusive shopping at Takashimaya Singapore. Each invitation has brought our patrons onto the global stage to witness the world at its best.
How To Join The Greenbelt Getaway To Wimbledon
From February 15 through April 15, 2026, every retail purchase at Greenbelt serves as an opportunity to win. Shoppers are invited to earn e-raffle entries across all retail merchants, excluding bills payment transactions. A minimum single-receipt purchase entitles you to the following entries:
Php 15,000 – 2 e-raffle entries
Php 30,000 – 6 e-raffle entries
Php 60,000 – 12 e-raffle entries
Php 100,000 – 25 e-raffle entries
To participate, drop by the Greenbelt 5 Concierge and present your valid receipt for registration. Visit www.instagram.com/ilovegreenbelt for the complete mechanics and full promo details. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-247452 Series of 2026.
The Greenbelt Getaway to Wimbledon promo runs from February 15, 2026 to April 15, 2026.
Herah founder Ryan Uy (center) with the leadership team guiding the brand’s women-centered approach to comfort, fit, and inclusive innerwear. Left to right: Iana Reyes, Marketing & Growth Manager; Shaira Par, Finance Manager; Rhoderick Rodica, HR Manager; and Lory Jane Odal, Operations Manager.
Shaped by its founder’s roots and real women’s experiences, Herah grows its inclusive innerwear mission nationwide with support from Shopee
Every Filipina is familiar with the pursuit of perfectly fitting underwear: comfortable enough for daily wear, seamless under clothes, and supportive where it matters. Yet the choices often fall short, especially when most designs still cater to a limited range of body types. Filipino innerwear label Herah is shaping solutions to fill this gap, creating innerwear designed around real bodies and real comfort.
Founded in 2021, the homegrown brand focused on creating high-quality essentials designed with the experiences of Filipina women in mind, prioritizing comfort and fit over price competition. This clarity in purpose drove 167% growth in 2025 and earned Herah recognition as Partner of the Year for Fashion at the recent Shopee Brands Summit, the event’s top honor for brands that demonstrate standout performance, strong collaboration, and consistent category contribution. The win placed a Filipino brand alongside major global names and highlighted the strength and innovation of Filipino entrepreneurs on the platform.
“Shopee has helped us connect with the women we want to serve,” said Ryan Uy, CEO of Brand Collective. “The platform’s tools have supported us as we stayed focused on creating quality products and serving our community.”
A brand built by listening to women
For Uy, the business began at home. As the only boy among four sisters, he became familiar with the comfort and sizing frustrations many women face with innerwear.
In 2021, he began developing Herah after recognizing how limited the local options were for Filipina women across different shapes and sizes. Inspired by global brands, he set out to build a homegrown brand rooted in the experiences of Filipinas.
Before launching in 2022, Herah tested products with women across body types to refine sizing, structure, and fabric. The goal was straightforward: dependable quality at an accessible price.
Herah’s leadership team is predominantly female, ensuring women guide key decisions across product development and strategy. “Herah comes from ‘Hurrah,’ because at its core, we exist to celebrate women, and create products that make women feel seen, supported, and confident,” Uy shared.
The brand’s lineup includes seamless wireless bras and lightweight panties crafted from soft, flexible fabric that adapts to a wide range of body shapes, and designed to deliver comfort, smooth lines, and good support.
Ryan Uy with his sisters (L-R): Gretchen Ty, Regine Anne So, Michelle Ongkeco, and Charlene Cua
Rising on Shopee as a leading Filipino-owned fashion brand
Underwear is a trust-based category. Comfort, fit, and body confidence are deeply personal, and customers need clarity before making a purchase.
As Herah expanded beyond its initial customer base, Shopee became an important channel for building that trust at scale. Detailed product listings with accurate sizing, real-time conversations through Shopee Live, and creator partnerships allowed the brand to address fit questions openly.
Beyond visibility, Shopee provided access to a broader customer base, enabling Herah to reach women outside major cities and grow without shifting its focus away from product quality. The platform’s infrastructure allowed Herah to compete on value instead of price alone.
“It still feels surreal,” Uy said. “We’re proud to be a Filipino brand, and even prouder of the impact we’ve been able to make on the lives of Filipino women.”
Herah founder Ryan Uy (left) receives Herah’s Partner of the Year Award from Shopee Philippines Head of Commercial Jack Ng (right) at the Shopee Brands Summit 2026
A lesson for Filipino entrepreneurs
Herah’s recognition reflects the growing confidence of Filipino brands building with intention in the digital space.
“Herah shows how Filipino businesses can stand out when they lead with customer understanding and product focus,” said Jack Ng, Head of Commercial at Shopee Philippines. “Our role at Shopee is to provide scale, tools, and reach that allow brands that understand their customers to grow beyond their initial market and compete more effectively.”
Uy hopes Herah’s journey inspires other Filipino entrepreneurs. “Start with a great product and make sure it solves a real problem. When you do that, customers become your strongest advocates, he said.”
As the brand grows, it remains anchored in a mission shaped by the women who inspired it, with Shopee helping to bring that mission to more Filipinas. For Uy, that progress is proof that listening closely, and building with discipline, makes growth sustainable.
About Shopee Shopee is a leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and Brazil. Shopee promotes an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem by enabling businesses to digitalise and grow their online presence, helping more people access and benefit from digital services, and uplifting local communities.
Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. Shopee is also a key contributor to the digital economy, with a firm commitment to helping homegrown brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.
Shopee is part of Sea Limited (NYSE: SE), a global technology company. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology through its three core businesses: Shopee, Garena, and Monee.
Female Viki Characters That Capture the Many Facets of Women’s Stories
There is something quietly powerful about settling in with a drama that resonates—the kind that reflects the messy, complicated, and beautiful realities of women navigating life.
Rakuten Viki, the leading destination for Asian entertainment, is celebrating women around the world this International Women’s Day with a specially curated collection of fan-favorite, female-led Korean dramas. Titled “Viki Celebrates Women,” this collection will be featured on Viki’s homepage, spotlighting stories that champion female-led storytelling– from boardroom power plays to slow-burn healing arcs to memorable romances.
To help viewers get started, Rakuten Viki has selected standout titles organized by mood and resonance, ranging from resilient female leads embarking on journeys of self-discovery to ambitious career women breaking barriers.
For the Nights You Just Want to Feel Something
Love Me
On paper, Seo Jun Kyung (Seo Hyun-jin) has everything: a respected career as an obstetrician, her life neatly in order. But beneath the composed exterior, there’s a wound that never fully healed, a family tragedy she’s spent years quietly carrying. When a free-spirited music director moves in next door, her carefully constructed walls begin to shift. Love Me explores vulnerability, healing, and the possibility of letting someone inside your walls.
My Mister
Lee Ji An, portrayed with striking restraint by IU, is young, exhausted, and burdened by debt and obligation. When she crosses paths with Park Dong Hoon (Lee Sun-kyun), a middle-aged engineer struggling quietly within his own life, the connection that develops between them is defined less by romance than by empathy and understanding. Widely praised for its emotional depth, My Mister remains one of the most poignant and quietly powerful dramas of its kind.
Yumi’s Cells
Breakups are messy. Healing is messier. Yumi’s Cells captures this experience through the animated emotions living inside Kim Yumi’s (Kim Go-eun) mind, each representing different facets of her inner life as she navigates love, heartbreak, and personal growth. The series blends inventive storytelling with a relatable exploration of everyday emotions.
Bitch X Rich
Dark, sharp, and gripping, Bitch X Rich blends emotional drama with the tension of a thriller. After witnessing a murder, Kim Hye In (Lee Eun-saem) transfers to an elite high school where power defines the social order and secrets are a means of survival. As she becomes entangled in the school’s ruthless hierarchy, Hye In quickly realizes she must navigate a dangerous web of alliances and rivalries to protect herself.
For When You’re Channeling Your Inner CEO
Love Scout
Kang Ji Yun (Han Ji-min) built her headhunting empire from the ground up and thrives in the cut-throat world of corporate recruitment. Despite her professional brilliance, she struggles with the practicalities of her mundane life. When her highly capable secretary begins to play a larger role both professionally and personally, their dynamic gradually shifts in unexpected ways.
Agency
Go Ah In (Lee Bo-young) is determined not only to earn a seat at the table, but to lead it. Agency follows her relentless climb through the ranks of a major advertising firm as she sets her sights on becoming its first female executive. Lee Bo-young delivers a compelling performance in a story that highlights the persistence, ambition, and resilience required to succeed in competitive corporate spaces.
First Lady
Just as Cha Su Yeon (Eugene) is about to step into one of the most powerful roles in the country, her husband blindsides her with divorce papers. What follows is a masterclass in watching a woman refuse to be written out of her own story. Blending political intrigue with personal drama, First Lady centers on a woman reclaiming control of her future.
For When You Want the Fun Stuff (Romance Included)
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo
A beloved coming-of-age story, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo follows aspiring weightlifter Kim Bok Joo (Lee Sung-kyung) as she pursues both athletic dreams and personal growth. With heartfelt friendships, lighthearted romance, and an endearing lead character, the series remains a standout favorite among K-drama fans.
Doctors
Yoo Hye Jung (Park Shin-hye) was written off early as a rebellious teenager with nowhere to go. After a mentor recognizes her potential, she embarks on a path that ultimately leads her to become a skilled and determined surgeon. Doctors is a satisfying slow burn that rewards patience, and Park Shin Hye is utterly compelling as a woman who built herself from scratch and discovers the mystery of her past.
Suspicious Partner
When legal intern Eun Bong Hee (Nam Ji-hyun) suddenly becomes the prime suspect in a murder case, an unlikely ally emerges in a prosecutor who chooses to help her uncover the truth. Blending elements of legal thriller and romantic comedy, Suspicious Partner offers suspenseful storytelling alongside a compelling central partnership.
From quiet healing to determined ambition, from boardrooms to courtrooms to high school hallways, these stories highlight the many ways women navigate challenges, pursue growth, and define success on their own terms.
The “Viki Celebrates Women” collection is now available to stream on Viki, with even more titles to discover.
Network unveils 2026 programming slate, including new show from celebrity couple Iza Calzado and Ben Wintle
The Pod Network (TPN), the country’s leading podcast network, announces it surpassed 50 million total listeners in 2025. This milestone reaffirms TPN’s dominance in the local podcast landscape, driven by high-engagement content and a rapidly expanding listener base.
Beyond the 50 million total listenership, TPN reported robust growth in community loyalty, boasting 4 million accumulated followers across its Spotify portfolio and a steady baseline of 3 million weekly listeners.
The network’s growth was fueled by a diverse content slate that resonated across demographics. TPN’s top-performing shows for 2025 included comedy show The KoolPals, Wake Up With Jim and Saab, Ano Ba Talaga? with Kuya Kim, Sitio Bangungot – Pinoy Horror Stories for Sleep Podcast, and Lecheng Pag Ibig ‘To. This mirrors the network’s 2025 data, which identified Comedy, Conversational Talk Shows, and Narrative Horror as the top-performing categories in the local market.
TPN’s continuous growth reflects a study released last year highlighting that more Filipinos are turning to podcasts to cope with emotional fatigue and mental saturation in an increasingly hyperconnected digital landscape.
“Podcasting isn’t just a format. It’s a habit. People don’t just stumble into a podcast — they choose it, they return to it, and they make it part of their day,” said Alan Fontanilla, CEO of The Pod Network.
Fontanilla emphasized that TPN’s 2026 direction focuses on intentionality. “We believe the future belongs to media that people choose with intention, and creators who show up with purpose, not content that fills time, but conversations that mean something. Reach creates awareness; trust creates preference. Podcasting is where we build the latter.”
The network also recognized global audio platform Spotify for its continued investment in the Filipino creator economy, from platform distribution to initiatives like launching the first-ever state-of-the-art podcast studio at TPN headquarters.
TPN unveils 2026 slate, including new show
Building on its 2025 success, TPN unveiled its 2026 content slate at “Press Play: The Pod Network’s 2026 Press Preview” at The Split, BGC. The lineup reinforces TPN’s dominance across comedy, lifestyle, and public affairs, with creators emphasizing that their growth is rooted in authenticity.
TPN’s top creators noted that the network’s high engagement stems from a departure from traditional, polished media. The KoolPals co-host James Caraan attributes their following to “underground” honesty, while Lecheng Pag-Ibig ’To’s Sam YG highlights how his show evolved from a relationship advice channel into a safe space for community-wide discourse on life and burnout.
This intentionality extends to TPN’s public affairs and education slate. Kuya Kim Atienza, host of Ano Ba Talaga?, emphasized the unique intimacy of the medium, noting that podcasting required him to pivot from “broadcasting” to active listening. Similarly, journalist Pia Hontiveros of Let’s Talk noted that the platform offers a vital human connection, stating, “People are looking to feel seen, it’s about making complex issues understandable and meaningful.”
The event also marked the launch of Between Us, a new show hosted by celebrity couple Iza Calzado and Ben Wintle. The series aims to normalize deep, vulnerable conversations on health, identity, and personal growth, offering listeners the “space” to discuss topics often overlooked in the daily grind.
“Our 2025 snapshot proves that today’s Filipino listeners aren’t just looking for content but resonance. By fostering an ecosystem of intentional media, we’ve transitioned from being a platform to becoming a trusted companion. Whether it’s through comedy, investigative discourse, or raw personal growth, we are committed to hosting the conversations that matter most to our audience,” said Inna Salazar, Head of Content Development of TPN.
For many Filipino families, a simple animal bite can quickly turn into a stressful and costly medical emergency. In the worst cases, it can even lead to death. Recognizing this everyday risk, Maxicare, the country’s leading HMO, has launched the PRIMA Animal Bite Care e-voucher, the country’s first comprehensive animal bite care with built-in insurance.
Recent data from the Department of Health (DOH) show rabies remains a significant concern in the Philippines, with 1,750 fatalities reported between 2020 and 2024. This is particularly timely as the DOH calendar declared March as Rabies Awareness Month. Studies also show about 40 % of rabies deaths occur in children aged 15 years and below, and most cases are linked to bites from domestic dogs, which remain the main source of transmission. Globally, rabies still kills an estimated 60,000 to 70,000 people each year.
For only ₱5,999, the new Maxicare PRIMA Animal Bite Care e-voucher offers the following benefits: two animal bite consultations, wound treatment, four shots of anti-rabies vaccine, an anti-tetanus vaccine and personal accident protection. It can be availed at any of the Maxicare Clinics nationwide, and coverage is for a period of three months, which is more than enough time to complete all necessary reactive vaccinations.
In other words, with this new product, patients with animal bite exposure, regardless of category, can get end-to-end treatment (completion of all necessary vaccines included) at any Maxicare Clinic. Also, in case Maxicare doctors deem that it’s necessary for a patient to be rushed to the emergency room, the built-in insurance coverage of Maxicare PRIMA Animal Bite Care can cover your expenses.
For those wondering, in case you get bitten by a stray animal or your unvaccinated pet, a single trip to the hospital can set you back for up to ₱15,000.
“Especially when it comes to accidents involving animal bites and scratches, the first thing that people think of is the cost that it will entail,” shares Maxicare Group Chief Customer Officer Raymond Hernandez. “Our PRIMA Animal Bite Care e-voucher is here to get rid of that very crucial barrier for you. You can purchase it online for only ₱5,999 at the MaxiHealth Online Store or via the Maxicare Clinics, and use it almost immediately after successful registration and activation. No need to wait hours for a doctor to attend to you, or worrying whether a vaccine is available.”
About Maxicare Group Since 1987, we’ve led the way as the Philippines’ premier HMO. Today, we’re the Maxicare Group: a unified ecosystem built for your holistic health and wellness journey. The PRIMA line of products is owned by MaxiHealth, and is exclusively distributed by Maxicare. This makes Filipinos’ everyday health and wellness simple and accessible at every stage of life, through quality outpatient care at Maxicare Clinics’ nationwide network.
To learn more about the PRIMA Animal Bite Care e-voucher or to secure protection for your family, visit shop.maxihealth.com.ph or any Maxicare Clinic today.
Ani All Day Dining Restaurant by Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo
SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) reinforces its commitment in championing regional pride and progress by celebrating Iloilo’s rich cultural and culinary legacy through Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo.
As the Philippines’ first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Iloilo continues to gain national and international momentum as it takes center stage through two landmark initiatives: the launch of the “Beyond the Plate” program and the “Kusina de Ilonggo: Mga Panubli Nga Sabor.” These efforts reflect SM Hotels’ broader vision of driving innovation while championing local identity among its properties across the region.
Participants, organizers, and facilitators during the Beyond the Plate workshop
“At SM Hotels, our success grows with the communities we serve,” said SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Vice President for Quality and Sustainability Ms. Leah Magallanes. “Through Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, we proudly stand as a tourism partner in celebrating heritage, empowering local talent, and opening doors to authentic Filipino experiences.”
At the heart of this culinary showcase is Ani Restaurant, where the “Kusina de Ilonggo: Mga Panubli Nga Sabor” transforms every meal into a cultural journey. Inspired by heirloom recipes and the culinary traditions of distinguished Ilonggo families, each curated menu brings time-honored flavors to life, while bridging generations and introducing Iloilo’s gastronomic story to a wider audience.
Mr. Rouel P. Guanzon, GM of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo during his Wine Appreciation session
Recognized by UNESCO as a best practice, “Beyond the Plate” underscores SMHCC’s advocacy to sustainable tourism. In collaboration with the Iloilo MICE Center, the initiative invests in skills development and professional growth for local talent to ensure that the community flourishes alongside the region’s expanding tourism landscape. In particular, through the “Beyond the Plate” program, journalists and vloggers are given the opportunity to elevate their craft through specialized training in food and wine storytelling. The initiative responds to the increasing demand from MICE groups and visiting delegations for more informed culinary coverage, in order to provide media practitioners with the skills they need to remain competitive and relevant in today’s dynamic content landscape.
The program was led by a stellar roster of master teachers drawn from the fields of culture, hospitality, culinary arts, and digital storytelling.
Dr. Hazel P. Villa, Associate Professor from Western Visayas, is a respected writer and an academic whose work highlights Iloilo’s arts, culture, and gastronomy. Her contributions appear in landmark cultural publications. In 2024, she was named one of the Ten Outstanding Ilonggos for her achievements in journalism, education, and public service.
Leah Magallanes, Vice President for Quality and Sustainability at SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, brought more than three decades of expertise in food and beverage, culinary operations, and sustainability. A certified working chef with experience in Michelin-starred kitchens, she guided participants in understanding flavor, taste profiles, and the language used to describe food.
Adobado nga Lukon and Bitsokoy Custard
Rouel Guanzon, General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, is a seasoned hospitality executive and respected educator. A founding professor of Enderun Colleges and Southville International School, he has long shaped the next generation of hospitality professionals. During the session, he shared his expertise in wine appreciation and sensory evaluation, helping participants understand how to thoughtfully experience and describe wine.
Kris Cruz is an award-winning mobile phone photographer recognized for his exceptional storytelling through smartphone imagery. He received the Best Travel Photo award at the International iPhone Photography Awards and has been featured by global brands such as Apple and Lufthansa. In the program, he demonstrated how content creators can capture compelling food photography and videos using only a mobile phone.
Chef Cidj Jalandoni, Executive Chef and Business Development Chef for Western Visayas at Nestlé Philippines, contributed his deep culinary expertise and industry experience. A graduate of the Academy for International Culinary Arts, he has built a career in professional kitchens while supporting culinary innovation and development across the region. His insights provided participants with a deeper appreciation of culinary craftsmanship and industry standards.
Strategically located in Mandurriao and seamlessly connected to SM City Iloilo, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo serves as a gateway to the city’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene, where heritage, hospitality, and innovation converge.
Between hitting deadlines and navigating the daily commute, the last thing anyone needs is the added stress of “Saan tayo kakain?” or “Kakasya ba ‘tong budget ko?” We already make a thousand decisions a day; lunch shouldn’t be one of them. Most of the time, we just want something fast, filling, and reliable without draining our wallet before the week is even over.
Chowking’s Chao Fan Mix & Match simplifies your midday routine by offering a heavy-hitting, customizable feast starting at just ₱99. It takes the guesswork out of your meal, letting you call the shots on your favorite wok-sarap combinations.
Make Your Own Wok-Sarap Combo Now!
Step 1: Choose your favorite Chowking Chao Fan – Pork Chao Fan, Beef Chao Fan, or Spicy Chao Fan.
Step 2: Choose your topping – Steamed or Fried Siomai, Crispy Wonton, Lumpiang Shanghai, or Chicken Chop.
Step 3: Level up – Add a drink and Chicharap for just ₱20!
Don’t Miss Out: Promo Ends March 31
The clock is ticking on this game-changing tipid hack! This promo Mix is only available until March 31, and it would be a total waste to miss out on such a consistent win for your wallet.
The Chao Fan Mix & Match is available for dine-in, takeout, and delivery in all stores nationwide. Head to your nearest Chowking or order via www.chowkingdelivery.com, the Chowking app, or through Chowking on GrabFood and foodpanda. Grab your favorite combo before the ₱99 deal is gone!
Thousands of people of all ages go to the SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City before sunrise, choosing health and wellness by joining the Share the Alaga Run.
A total of 8,000 people trooped to the SM Mall of Asia Complex recently to join Unilab and Watsons’ Share the Alaga Run.
The fun run – which had 10K, 5K, 3K, and 1K categories – was the culmination of Unilab’s 80th anniversary and a celebration of the 185th anniversary of Watsons Philippines’ parent company, AS Watson.
The two healthcare giants marked decades of being Filipinos’ trusted partners by bringing the “alaga” and igniting community spirit during the run.
Aside from chasing personal records and having fun with their loved ones, runners were treated to a health and wellness expo featuring free health checks, fun activities, and freebies.
Unilab and Watsons executives led by Unilab President and CEO Sebastian Frederick Baquiran and Watsons COO Jefferson Go (center)
Awards were also given to kiddie participants, announced by no less than Ceelin brand ambassador Dingdong Dantes.
During the post-run program, Unilab National Key Accounts and Shopper Marketing Group Head Kristine F. Venturina said Unilab and Watsons are committed to giving every Filipino household access to nothing but high-quality medicines and personal care products. Meeting world-class standards, these are products that people could trust to make recovery and wellness affordable and sustainable for all ages.
“It’s been 80 years of service – unwavering service giving nothing but our best. ‘Good enough’ is not good enough – Dapat Unilab Quality. That’s what we assure you of – nothing but our best in every vitamin and medicine,” she said.
Participants are treated to free wellness checks and an array of booths offering fun activities and prizes.
Meanwhile, Watsons Health Business Unit Director Cecille Marie Uy said the Share the Alaga Run was just one way of bringing alaga beyond stores into everyday, real life.
“We are also proud to celebrate today with our partners from Unilab. Together we are working toward one simple goal – making quality healthcare more accessible to every Filipino. That’s why this event isn’t just about running. We also brought free healthcare clinics and wellness services onsite because preventive care should be easily within reach and is part of our shared commitment to everyday alaga.”
In an age defined by speed and constant connectivity, the ritual of afternoon tea offers something increasingly rare: a deliberate pause. Once a leisurely pastime of 19th-century English aristocracy, afternoon tea has evolved into a modern expression of quiet luxury—an experience rooted in craftsmanship, heritage, and meaningful connection.
The tradition traces its origins to 1840s England, when Anna Russell began serving tea and light refreshments to bridge the long hours between lunch and dinner. What began as a private indulgence soon became a social custom that endures today in grand hotel lounges, and lifestyle spaces around the world.
At the heart of this continuing evolution is Twinings, established in London over 317 years ago and widely regarded as one of the world’s foremost authorities in tea. Sharing the same birthplace as the afternoon tea tradition, the brand continues to champion and reinterpret tea culture globally. And in the Philippines, afternoon tea meet-ups are not merely set menus or beverages but a new ritual of pause and connection.
A World of Flavor
Part of afternoon tea’s appeal lies in its range. In the Philippines, Twinings’ enduring best sellers reflect both classic tastes and a growing appreciation for richer, aromatic blends.
Among green teas, refreshing options such as Green Tea & Lemon and Green Tea & Jasmine offer bright, clean notes. Herbal infusions like Pure Camomile and Lemon & Ginger provide soothing alternatives suited for moments of calm.
For those drawn to tradition, black teas such as English Breakfast Tea and Earl Grey Tea remain staples—robust, balanced, and timeless. Meanwhile, flavored black teas including Four Red Fruits Tea and Peach Tea introduce a contemporary twist, appealing to younger tea drinkers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Together, these selections highlight how tea culture continues to expand and embrace heritage while welcoming innovation.
Curated Afternoon Tea Experiences
Beyond the cup, afternoon tea today is an immersive experience shaped by ambience, presentation, and thoughtful curation. Selected hotels across the Philippines are elevating the ritual through beautifully crafted tea sets featuring delicate pastries, savory bites, and refined interiors that encourage guests to linger.
Each tea place or venue reflects the spirit of afternoon tea as a refined and social ritual. From heritage properties to modern lifestyle hotels, these destinations reinterpret tradition for a new generation seeking meaningful, experience-led indulgence.
As luxury increasingly shifts toward authenticity and connection, afternoon tea remains a timeless invitation to slow down, gather with loved ones, and rediscover the pleasure of shared moments over a thoughtfully brewed cup.
A variety of tea set experiences are currently available at The Manila Hotel, The Bellevue Manila, Savoy Hotel Manila, and Century Park Hotel Manila.
The BingoPlus-Jagat collab will run from March 12 to 31.
The country’s number one and most trusted online entertainment platform BingoPlus has announced yet another exciting special event with lots of prizes in store, this time in partnership with popular location-based social networking platform Jagat.
From March 12 to 31, players may participate in the event by using the BingoPlus app to complete daily missions to earn Mystery Boxes. Each box contains a random amount of betting credits and a Bingbing with 9 unique styles to collect. Players will get a bonus reward by unlocking all styles.
To join, players must simply make a PHP 20 deposit and place a bet of at least PHP 20. This is cumulative throughout the month and may be completed on different days. Upon completion of the daily mission, the number of Mystery Boxes will be awarded depending on the user’s level.
Regular gets 1, Bronze to Gold gets 2, Platinum and Diamond get 3, Legend and VIPING get 5, VIP receives 10, and SVIP to SSSVIP gets 50 Mystery Boxes. One box is equivalent to 5 points, with a daily individual limit of 10 boxes per account. A daily global limit of 10,000 boxes is in place.
Betting credits range from PHP 5 to PHP 500, and by collecting all 9 Bingbing styles, players will receive a withdrawable prize ranging from PHP 1,000 to PHP 100,000. Jagat-linked users will get 1 Jagat Treasure Map redemption code from Mystery Boxes in addition to the rewards mentioned.
With multiple ways to win and exclusive collectibles up for grabs, DigiPlus, the Fortune 500 company behind BingoPlus, continues to deliver engaging and rewarding experiences for its growing community of players.
About DigiPlus
DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced the leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging interactive gaming and sports entertainment experiences. DigiPlus also operates GameZone, with more to come. For more information visit www.digiplus.com.ph.
