In 2011, Robbie Antonio led the development of The Milano Residences, one of the first residential towers in Asia to feature interiors designed by Versace Home. The development, located within Century City in Makati City , fused Italian fashion with modern urban living in the Philippines and has helped shape branded residences in the market.
Featuring its signature Greek motifs with baroque influences, , Versace’s imprint elevated the common areas of the Milano Residences, from its grand lobby and spa to the library and lounge. Buyers were also offered the option to furnish their own units with curated Versace Home pieces, turning personal spaces into immersive design statements.
Branded real estate as global signal
Antonio’s collaboration with Versace was driven not only by aesthetic considerations but also by strategic intent. By partnering with a globally revered fashion house, The Milano Residences helped set the Philippines ready to compete on the world stage for branded luxury development. The project introduced a new narrative where design, brand equity, and cultural relevance converged.
This brand alignment laid the foundation for his future collaborations with other international brands such as MissoniHome, Armani/Casa, and other global names, each contributing to Antonio’s growing influence in lifestyle-driven real estate.
Legacy influence on JAGI’s vision
Now with the family’s private office the Jose Antonio Group Inc. or JAGI, Robbie Antonio continues to apply this design-led strategy across ventures. The Versace collaboration became a reference point and proof that lifestyle, aspiration, and business can co-exist within development models. Today, as the private family office plans to grow into other sectors including consumer media and technology, the spirit of The Milano Residences remains influential. It represents a broader vision: to raise the bar for Filipino developments through internationally informed standards and design that resonates with local culture.
Taal Vista Hotel has proudly taken home the Grand Champion title in the Creative Bulalo Challenge held during the Tagaytay Food Festival at Sky Ranch Tagaytay on 3 August 2025.
Representing the hotel was its talented culinary team led by Executive Chef Jayme Natividad and his team – Executive Sous Chef; Chef Godfrey Vincenz Dalisay, Sous Chef; Chef Flagyl Suedad, Chef de Partie; Cook Raymond Calinawan, Cook II; and Mr. John Mark Ambion, Steward.
Taal Vista Hotel’s culinary team with Tagaytay Food Festival Founder and Chair, Ms. Rhea Sycip, and Co-Founder, Mr. Jay Sycip, at the 2025 Creative Bulalo Challenge held at Sky Ranch Tagaytay.
Their winning creation reimagined the classic Bulalo with a bold and flavorful twist, inspired by Pozole, a traditional Mexican stew made with hominy (corn kernels) and meat, known for its rich broth and vibrant spices. This unique fusion dish captivated the judges with its balance of familiarity and innovation. By infusing the rich, comforting flavors of Bulalo with the spices and hominy-based elements of Pozole, the Taal Vista Hotel team created a dish that was both nostalgic and refreshingly original.
Award-winning Bulalo Pozole by Taal Vista Hotel, a creative fusion of Filipino and Mexican flavors that earned the Grand Champion title at the 2025 Creative Bulalo Challenge.
“Pozole is a well-loved comfort dish in Mexico, much like Bulalo is for us Filipinos. We were curious to see how both dishes could harmonize, and it turned out to be a perfect match,” shared Chef Jayme Natividad. “I went around and tried a number of dishes and I found them to be really good and creative at that. Personally, I had no expectations since taste is relative. We just wanted to offer something that would spark curiosity and comfort at the same time.”
Participants of the Creative Bulalo Challenge, together with the organizing committee of the Tagaytay Food Festival 2025 and members of the judging panel, pose for a group photo at Sky Ranch Tagaytay.
As part of the celebration of this meaningful win, Taal Vista Hotel is proud to offer the award-winning Bulalo Pozole at Veranda restaurant’ a la carte menu.
The Creative Bulalo Challenge gathered a total of 13 participating hotels and restaurants from Metro Tagaytay, each showcasing their own unique interpretations of the beloved dish. The event was the closing highlight of Tagaytay Food Festival’s second year, an initiative that celebrates the city’s rich culinary scene and promotes local tourism through food and cultural experiences.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) and AirAsia rewards, the loyalty and rewards program of AirAsia’s parent company Capital A, have partnered to launch the new AirAsia Platinum Credit Card, allowing Filipinos to unlock unlimited adventures on their travels.
The AirAsia Platinum Credit Card offers Filipino travelers an elevated experience with its array of amazing perks and benefits for every part of their journey—whether they’re unwinding at the airport before their getaway, enjoying the sights and sounds of their overseas destination, or simply enjoying life’s best moments right here at home.
RCBC Credit Cards President CEO Arniel Vincent B. Ong relayed that, “The new AirAsia Platinum Credit Card is designed to integrate travel and lifestyle benefits seamlessly. Everyday purchases made with the card earn generous AirAsia points, which are automatically credited to the cardholder’s AirAsia member account. This makes earning and redeeming points easy for flights, hotel stays, and various lifestyle rewards.”
Accumulating AirAsia points is extremely fast with an AirAsia Platinum Credit card since every P28 domestic spend earns 1 AirAsia point, every P22 overseas spend earns 1 AirAsia points, and every P25 spend on AirAsia or the AirAsia MOVE app earns 2 AirAsia points. Based on the program mechanics, new AirAsia Platinum Credit cardholders are also welcomed with 15,000 AirAsia points and frequent card usage is also rewarded every month with 500 additional AirAsia points. On top of all these benefits, AirAsia Platinum Credit cardholders also enjoy a preferential FX conversion fee of just 1.85% on their international purchases, both in-store and online.
AirAsia Platinum Credit cardholders receive automatic AirAsia Platinum membership status for the first year after the card is issued. This membership provides benefits such as priority Check-in, boarding, and xpress baggage when flying with AirAsia. Diyao Leong, Head of Rewards Regional Partnerships at AirAsia rewards, stated, “This partnership not only provides our customers with a credit card, but also opens the door to a rewarding, accessible, and globally connected lifestyle.”
Other perks include complimentary access to the PAGSS International Lounge at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 before international flights for principal cardholders, travel insurance coverage of up to P5 million for accidents, trip disruptions, medical emergencies, and baggage delays, and access to Visa concierge, a 24/7 digital personal assistant and lifestyle guide that gives access to global lifestyle privileges.
The AirAsia Credit Card was first introduced in 2018 with a Classic variant. With the launch of the Platinum Credit Card variant, the benefits of the Classic Card have also been enhanced. This includes the introduction of a lower foreign exchange conversion fee of 2.50% and a monthly bonus of 300 AirAsia points based on the program’s mechanics. To conveniently apply for an AirAsia Platinum or AirAsia Classic Credit Card powered by RCBC, interested parties can also apply via the RCBC Credit Cards website at rcbccredit.com or https://www.airasiacards.com/ph/en.
Strategic Alliance Grows as Partners Set New Standards for Premium Flexible Office Solutions
MAKATI CITY, Philippines – KMC Solutions, the Philippines’ largest flexible workspace providers, and leading real estate developer Filinvest Land Inc. (FLI) marked a significant milestone in their expanding partnership with the official launch of FLX PBCom Tower. Located on the 33rd floor of the prestigious building along Ayala Avenue, this state-of-the-art premium workspace represents the dynamic growth of a collaboration that is redefining flexible office spaces across the Philippines.
The partnership’s expansion was celebrated with an exclusive “Opening Night Socials,” attended by KMC leadership, including VP of Workplace Solutions KC Tamayo-Gamboa, VP of Marketing Gian Reyes, COO Tracy Ignacio, CEO Parikshat Nagpal, and co-founders Michael McCullough and Atty. Amanda Carpo, as well as Filinvest’s leadership, including VP of Business Development Michael Mamalateo, Chief Legal Counsel Maria Victoria M. Reyes-Beltran and President of FLI’s Offices Maricel Brion-Lirio. The event culminated in a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, with Makati City Councilor King Yabut participating, marking the development’s significant contribution to the city’s dynamic business landscape.
Left to Right: COO of KMC Solutions, Tracy Ignacio; Chief Legal Counsel and Compliance Officer at Filinvest Land Inc., Maria Victoria M. Reyes-Beltran; Makati City Councilor, King Yabut; Co-founder and CEO for Workspaces at KMC Solutions, Michael McCullough; Filinvest Land Inc.’s nominee director for OSSI and President of Filinvest Offices, Maricel Brion-Lirio.
Complementing the evening celebration, KMC and Filinvest hosted an Open House and Media Lunch during the day, providing media partners, potential and existing clients with guided tours of the premium workspace. Attendees experienced firsthand the innovative design, amenities, and flexible office solutions that define the FLX experience, allowing them to envision how the space could transform their business operations.
Driving Partnership Growth Through A Prime Location
The expansion builds on the partnership’s initial success at Filinvest’s Alabang development. “We began with just one floor at Axis Tower 1 in Alabang, and it leased up quickly. That success opened the door for the exciting opportunity to expand into PBCom Tower, where we’re now able to offer even more flexible workspace solutions,” McCullough explained.
Left to Right: Vice President of People and Culture at KMC Solutions, Philip Luke Amores; Co-founder and CEO for Workspaces at KMC Solutions, Michael McCullough; Co-founder and Chief Legal Counsel at KMC Solutions, Atty. Amanda Carpo; Filinvest Land Inc.’s nominee director for OSSI and President of Filinvest Offices, Maricel Brion-Lirio; Makati City Councilor, King Yabut; General Manager, Australia, Global Marketing Vice President & Partnerships at KMC Solutions, Gian Reyes.
President of Filinvest Offices, Maricel Brion-Lirio, added, “It reflected the high demand for top-notch flexible workspaces. This expansion, part of our shared vision to create smart, sustainable spaces that empower entrepreneurs and businesses with the tools they need to succeed, was made possible through our partnership with KMC, the largest premium coworking space provider in the Philippines. “
FLX PBCom strategically occupies over 1,500 square meters on the 33rd floor of PBCom Tower, housing more than 300 workstations and offering tenants unparalleled 360-degree views of the Makati skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. The space integrates biophilic design elements with modern color palettes, creating environments scientifically proven to enhance mental well-being and reduce workplace stress.
FLX PBCom Tower – Coworking Area
“We’ve had our eyes on this space for almost 16 years. With its prime location along Ayala Avenue and its status as one of the tallest towers, it’s always been an iconic spot. The partnership made it all possible, and now we’re thrilled to bring FLX to life here,” said KMC co-founder Michael McCullough.
Premium Amenities and Business Advantages
FLX PBCom Tower is PEZA-accredited, offering significant tax incentives for qualifying businesses. This positions the workspace as a compelling choice for both local and international companies expanding operations in the Philippines while benefiting from government incentives that support growth and sustainability.
FLX PBCom Opening Night Socials
The facility boasts of amenities designed to enhance productivity and well-being, including ergonomic furniture, soundproof phone booths, and dedicated wellness zones with a massage corner. Additionally, FLX offers flexible workspace solutions, including private offices and premium coworking spaces, all equipped with advanced IT infrastructure and 24/7 support. These offerings cater to businesses—from startups to multinational enterprises—regardless of work model.
“FLX is the bridge that connects businesses to the future of hybrid and flexible work, enabling companies to adapt seamlessly to today’s evolving work needs,” McCullough added, emphasizing that “FLX represents the ‘hospitality’ of shared spaces—offering businesses maximum flexibility with fully serviced, ready-to-use environments that can be immediately operational.”
For more information about FLX PBCom or to schedule a tour, visit their website – kmc.solutions . Follow their social media accounts for updates: Instagram: @kmcsolutions, Facebook: KMC Solutions, LinkedIn: KMC Solutions and Partnership opportunities can be directed to quetiara.pascual@kmc.solutions
Classic Characters Inc. and New Creation Manufacturing Showcase Sustainable, Diverse Product Lines at Annual Trade Show
Manila, Philippines — Classic Characters Inc., creator of Canadian, Lifestyle, and Modern Linen lines, and New Creation Manufacturing, a homegrown leader in baby, children’s, and ladies’ apparel, put their proudly Filipino brands on the spotlight at their annual tradeshow entitled “Legacy and Dreams” held at the Sheraton Manila Hotel in Pasay City.
Now in its 17th year, the two-day event brought together over six decades of heritage, design innovation, and sustainable manufacturing in a curated showcase. Top institutional and commercial clients — including hotel groups, hospitals, retail chains, distributors, and e-commerce giants — explored an expansive portfolio ranging from luxurious hotel-grade linens, towels, and pillows to certified babywear, ladieswear, and pet clothing, reflecting the quality and versatility that have made both companies trusted industry leaders for generations.
Mr. Anil Daryanani (President, New Creation Manufacturing)
Through interactive booths, guests examined the intricate weave of premium linens, tested pillows designed for every type of sleeper, explored elegant yet durable institutional linens for hotels and hospitals, admired germ-resistant babywear displayed in a dollhouse-inspired setup, and posed for eco-pledge Polaroids to affirm their commitment to safe and sustainable textiles.
“By combining six decades of textile craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation and sustainable practices, we’re leading the way toward a more responsible, future-ready textile industry,” said Anil Daryanani, President of New Creation Manufacturing.
A Legacy of Quality, A Future Built on Sustainability
The story of New Creation Manufacturing and Classic Characters Inc. began in 1959, when founder Hiro Asandas set out to bring world-class bed linens to Filipino homes. From bed linens, Asandas steadily expanded his business, launching the Hello Dolly babywear brand in the 1980s and later diversifying into ladieswear, petwear, and lifestyle textiles.
Today, under the leadership of the second and third generations, the company continues to strengthen its presence in the Philippine institutional market. Its Canadian Manufacturing division continuously produces towels and pillows for leading hotels, hospitals, and other institutions nationwide.
“To sustain the legacy built by our founder, we must keep moving forward through innovation,” said Chand Daryanani, President of Classic Characters Inc. “We continue to invest in technology, enhance our production capabilities, and explore new sustainable solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients while protecting the planet.”
In recent years, the group has accelerated its shift toward sustainable manufacturing—upgrading facilities to run on solar power, introducing eco-friendly collections made from Organic, Bamboo, and Tencel fabrics, and having its products OEKO-TEX® certified to ensure products are tested safe from harmful substances. The reintroduction of Hello Dolly’s Sanitized® babywear line further reinforces its commitment to health and hygiene, providing antimicrobial protection for infants’ clothing.
With heritage as its foundation and innovation as its driver, New Creation Manufacturing and Classic Characters Inc. remain committed to their shared promise: quality you can trust.
The Delegation Lobby will be unveiled as an elevated guest arrival experience.
The Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), a symbol of Filipino architecture, culture and global convergence, is undergoing an extensive renovation to prepare the landmark for a new era.
The PICC has been the setting of the most significant moments in Philippine history. It has welcomed world leaders, renowned performing artists and generations of proud Filipinos. It has hosted personal and professional milestones through the past five decades.
Temporarily closed for renovation for the past 5 months, the PICC is being restored and readied to once again bring people together in celebration, partnership and dialogue come October 2025.
Renovation works at the Plenary Hall blend original design features with technological upgrades.
Where Heritage Meets Innovation
Two landmark events in 2026 prompted this historical renovation – its 50th anniversary and the Philippine hosting of the ASEAN Summit.
Months of rigorous planning guided the restoration and modernization of the PICC, a National Cultural Treasure, drawing from conservation studies, expert consultations and market landscaping. At the heart of these efforts is the PICC’s commitment to preserve the 1976 vision of its designer, National Artist for Architecture Leandro V. Locsin.
The PICC itself is a masterpiece. Its bold and imposing facade draws people into a geometry of massive concrete blocks displaying brutalism’s signature raw and exposed finishes. The entire complex is minimalist and functional, with shapes, forms, patterns and materials repeated all over its almost 12-hectare footprint.
The original grained raw concrete resurfaces through the work of skilled artisans.
As the restoration unfolds, the original beauty of Locsin’s magnum opus has begun to reclaim the spotlight. In the skilled hands of artisans, the PICC’s concrete elements, which have softened and faded over time, have sharpened. Concrete grains and textures have come out anew, and brutalist strength can once again be felt as you walk down the PICC’s halls and spaces.
In contrast with brutalist inflexibility are the softer elements, tones and curves of the PICC: wood rails topping raw concretestairways and balconies that flow through various levels; warm wood walls and floors that breathe life into colder concrete elements; and soft elegant lighting that amaze and at the same time draw people into expansive spaces.
One of the biggest challenges to the renovation is marrying the PICC’s commitment to restore with its duty to modernize and even trailblaze in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry.
Brutalist elements are softened by curved warm wood accents and ambient lighting.
Thus, included in the project are key upgrades that will ensure that PICC remains competitive in the domestic and global market. New technologies, particularly complete audio-visual equipment for event servicing, are being installed within the PICC’s rooms and halls. Gigantic LED walls will be integrated into each space, apart from high-speed complex-wide Wi-Fi; enhanced security systems and energy-efficient LED lighting.
Placing the PICC on a distinct pedestal in the MICE industry is its showcase of hundreds of priceless works of art. All of these pieces have been moved out of the PICC before the start of the renovation, except 4 permanently installed cultural treasures, including the massive “Pagdiriwang” by National Artist Jose Joya, and the imposing “Grid” and “Anito” sculptures by National Artist Arturo Luz, which continue to be subjected to protective measures and strict conservation protocols during the renovation.
Along with the much-anticipated reopening of the PICC, the PICC will also unveil its newly curated art collection, featuring key pieces from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Upon resuming operations, the PICC will not only be a leading MICE player but will institutionalize its decades-long status as a museum of art.
A Play on Juxtapositions: the “Brutalist Weave”
Says Atty. Nicolette Ann P. Cruz, General Manager of the PICC: “Every form and feature of the PICC is a play on juxtapositions. Through the renovation, the PICC hopes to bring both physical and sentimental appreciation of this historical and cultural masterpiece to new heights. Entrusted to the hands of renowned experts in the fields of art and architecture, infrastructure, interior design, engineering and construction is the challenge of harmonizing heritage with innovation and aligning preservation with progress.”
She concludes: “This will be more evident when the works are unveiled: light contrasted with shadow; lines softened by curves; coldness tempered with warmth. But into the boldness of Locsin’s brutalism will be woven threads of Filipino warmth and hospitality. When we reopen our doors, we will welcome the world into a 50-year vision of lasting genius and artistry.”
As part of its centennial celebration anchored on the theme of Nourishing Goodness, Del Monte Philippines launches the Nutri-licious advocacy—a nationwide effort that empowers moms to serve affordable, nutritious meals that can help address malnutrition in Filipino households.
1 in 4 Filipino Children Face Stunted Growth
Faced with 1 in 4 Filipino children under five affected by stunted growth*—a condition hindering a child’s health, development and future potential—the ‘Nutri-licious’ advocacy aims to make nutritious meals accessible. Partnering with the Philippine Stakeholders for Nutrition and Dietetics (PSND), a network of over 1,000 licensed nutritionists, Del Monte has developed easy, budget-friendly meals, each under Php200. The partnership with PSND will further strengthen the science behind our advocacy and expand our reach in educating more Filipino communities on the importance of including nutritious meals in our everyday lives.
Helping Moms Cook Nutritious Family Meals for Under Php200
At the heart of Nutri-licious is the belief that healthy family meals don’t have to be expensive. Del Monte features complete recipes that cost less than Php200 to serve a family of 4-5 using ingredients already familiar to Filipino households—like Del Monte Tomato Sauce, Pineapple Solids, and 100% Pineapple Juice with Vitamins A-C-E.
Del Monte Tomato Sauce is powered by LycoNutrients™—a blend of lycopene, iodine, and vitamins A and C that support everyday wellness.
Del Monte Packaged Pineapples (Tidbits and Chunks), dubbed as the “Superfruit ng mga Ulam,” are rich in vitamin C and fiber, helping boost immunity while enhancing dishes with their signature asim-tamis flavor
Del Monte Pineapple Juice ACE delivers “PinaPhyto-Five” benefits—anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective properties, based on research by the University of San Agustin.
To support this advocacy of bringing Nutri-licious family meals from the kitchen to the nation, we will be leveraging the Del Monte’s Kitchenomics platform, a long-time ally of Filipino moms. Recipes will be housed in Del Monte Kitchenomics along with a QR code linking to Nutri-licious recipes will appear on campaign materials for moms to be able to recreate them for their families.
A Centennial Commitment to Nourishing the Health of Filipinos
Nutri-licious is more than an advocacy—it reflects Del Monte’s 100-year commitment to Nourishing Goodness in every Filipino home. It marks the start of a bigger movement to make nutritious meals a daily habit—one mom, one meal, and one family at a time.
4 th Episode of environmental series shares song from an unlikely villain
Miming and Friends, the beloved animated YouTube miniseries, has released its fourth episode, continuing its journey of educating children and families about environmental sustainability through songs and animated characters.
Miming and Friends is a collaboration between Mondelēz International in the Philippines, and husband-and-wife tandem, Ramon del Prado and Meryll Yan – the local animated content creators behind the Miming and Friends YouTube channel. The series is dedicated to promoting sustainable snacking and responsible waste management practices through engaging and educational content. Partnered with the latter is Save Philippine Seas (SPS), a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving coastal and marine resources for collective action and behavior change.
The latest episode tackles the pressing issue of waste mismanagement and its relationship with climate change, bringing the characters together to learn about greenhouse gases and their impact on the world. “Episode 4 touches into the critical topic of climate change,” said Miming and Friends co-creator, Meryll Yan. “We believe that by understanding the causes and effects of greenhouse gases, we can empower the next generation to become proactive environmental stewards.”
The episode also introduces a new character – one who has a lot to say about greenhouse gas emissions and where they come from. Named Ghregoryo, the character is painted as a villain and has a very compelling song in the episode, which hopefully shines a light on the importance of individual actions.
“This episode dives into how our choices can affect the ocean and our climate in many unexpected ways,” explained Anna Oposa, Chief Mermaid and Executive Director of SPS. “We hope to help the youth connect their everyday actions like energy consumption or accumulating too much waste to the larger issue of greenhouse gases and the urgent need for responsible stewardship.”
“This newest adventure on greenhouse gases reminds us that building a sustainable future is a shared responsibility, and that everyone has a role to play,” shared Caitlin Punzalan, Corporate and Government Affairs Lead at Mondelēz International in the Philippines. “We are proud to engage with communities across the Philippines and inspire collective action towards a healthier planet.”
Since the release of Episode 3 in 2024, the channel has experienced consistent growth, climbing to over 42,800 total subscribers. This surge in viewership and engagement reflects the series’ ability to resonate with kiddie and family audiences and its effectiveness in delivering important messages about environmental stewardship.
Mondelēz International has been instrumental in supporting the series, aligning with their commitment to sustainability and waste management. Through the adventures of anthropomorphic cat-fish Miming and her friends, the series aims to inspire young viewers to take action and make a positive impact on the environment.
“At Mondelēz International, we believe that #SustainableSnacking starts at home,” adds Punzalan. “Miming and Friends provides a creative platform for reaching the right audiences with engaging content that inspires real and sustainable change. Sustainability can sometimes seem complex, especially for children. We want to help break down these concepts to show how our daily actions can have a positive impact.”
Beyond the success of the series, Mondelēz International also achieved key sustainability milestones, including the receipt of Plastic Credit Exchange’s (PCX) Plastic Cleanup Partner seal, recognizing the company’s efforts to not only meet but exceed the Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) law requirement of collecting post-consumer plastic packaging. Through its partnership with waste diverters, the company collects the equivalent weight of the plastic packaging it uses for its snack products and ensures this is diverted through recycling and other means to avoid being marine litter or landfill.
SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) proudly announces that SMX Convention Center has once again been recognized as the Best Convention & Exhibition Centre – Philippines at the South East Asia Business Awards 2025, presented by APAC Insider. Being the largest privately owned convention center operator in the Philippines, this recognition affirms SMX Convention Center’s standing as the country’s leading platform for business, trade, expositions, conferences, and lifestyle events—where ideas meet scale, and experiences are brought to life.
The South East Asia Business Awards honor companies that demonstrate exceptional business performance, service excellence, and innovation within the region. After a meticulous, merit-based evaluation by esteemed panelists, SMX Convention Center stood out among other contenders for its expansive nationwide presence, strong sustainability initiatives, and consistent commitment to service quality. This marks the second consecutive year that SMX has received this prestigious recognition, having also won the award in 2024.
“This award is a proud moment for all of us at SMX. It reflects the collaborative spirit and excellence that our team brings to every event, every venue, and every guest experience,” said Michael Jaey Albaña, Vice President and General Manager of SMX Convention Center. “This is more than a recognition of our infrastructure—it is a recognition of the people, the culture of service, and the bold vision that drives SMX forward as a catalyst for economic and event industry growth.”
A Growing Network of Premier Venues Across the Philippines
Since opening its doors in 2007, SMX Convention Center has grown into a network of premier venues strategically located across the Philippines. These venues serve as hubs for international conferences, trade expos, consumer fairs, corporate meetings, and milestone events. SMX Convention Center is actively expanding its reach to meet the growing demand for professional event spaces across the country. In addition to the much-anticipated opening of SMX Convention Center Seaside City Cebu in 2026—set to be the largest SMX property to date with over 21,000 square meters of leasable space—the company is accelerating its nationwide expansion with a strategic pipeline of new venues.
Powering the MICE Industry in Southeast Asia
As a brand under SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, SMX Convention Center continues to be a driving force behind the growth of the Philippine MICE sector. With a focus on service excellence, innovation, and destination development, SMX is elevating the country’s position as a premier host for global events and a gateway to Southeast Asia’s thriving business landscape.
SMX Convention Center was also nominated at the World MICE Awards 2025, a global program honoring excellence in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (M.I.C.E.) industry. Voting ends on 19 September 2025, and supporters are encouraged to cast their votes at https://worldmiceawards.com/award/philippines-best-convention-centre/2025 to help secure a fifth consecutive win.
Avant garde footwear designer and art provocateur Joel Wijangco unveiled his latest exhibit yesterday at the Yuchengco Museum, blurring the line between fashion, sculpture, and social commentary.
The exhibit showcases over 25 pieces of handcrafted shoes, each one acting as a sculptural narrative. From Bo-ho (Body Horror), a twisted stiletto exploring body dysmorphia, to Palengkera No. 1, inspired by the fishwife Amazons of Malabon’s wet markets, Wijangco’s work straddles art, fashion, and emotional archaeology.
“I design shoes the way some people write memoirs,” says Wijangco. “Each pair is a story…. sometimes mine, sometimes borrowed, always intimate and strange.”
Exhibit highlights include:
Sister’s Favorite, a noodle-inspired heel made during his sister’s breast cancer journey
Bond(age), an ox-red stiletto with six buckles and a golden halo, satirizing the trap of lifelong commitment
Osuang, a Gothic heel born from colonial anxieties around Filipina sensuality, reimagined for tropical vampires
Fitting ni Sioning, based on a shoe fitting with his grandmother, who revealed a tenderness hidden behind decades of sharpness
Blending surrealism, pop culture, Filipino folklore, and personal memory, Joel Wijangco’s work playfully interrogates identity, memory, and the absurdities of beauty. The exhibit runs through October 15, 2025.
