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Conrad Manila Shares Love This Valentine’s Through Its Thoughtfully Curated Culinary Experiences

By
PhilSociety
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China Blue by Jereme Leung

The luxury hotel by the bay presents meticulously crafted gastronomic experiences across its dining venues, from an indulgent buffet at Brasserie on 3 to a regal set menu at China Blue by Jereme Leung, and a starlit dining experience at C Lounge.

Conrad Manila celebrates Love Month with an elegant selection of dining exclusives across its acclaimed dining destinations, designed to sweeten the season and make it truly memorable for those dearly in love. This February, couples can look forward to heartwarming experiences, including a lavish buffet at Brasserie on 3, an exquisite set menu at C Lounge, and a romantic gourmet dining experience at China Blue by Jereme Leung.

Brasserie on 3


This Valentine’s Day, Brasserie on 3 offers an exquisite buffet crafted for devoted sweethearts, featuring an opulent spread of culinary masterpieces such as Valentine’s-inspired cake and premium meats. The experience is made even more special with unlimited house beverages for two hours and live romantic performances.

ALL-IN FOR LOVE | An Indulgent Valentine’s Buffet
13 – 15 February 2026
Veranda: PHP 5,588 nett per person | Indoor: PHP 4,588 nett per person

China Blue by Jereme Leung
Guests can celebrate love like royalty with an opulent Chinese set menu at the Michelin-selected China Blue by Jereme Leung. Promising a refined culinary date, every course is a winning card in the game of love, crafted with authentic flavors, artful presentations, and a touch of grandeur.

FOR THE KING & QUEEN OF HEARTS | A Regal Valentine’s Feast
14 – 15 February 2026
PHP 4,998 ++ per person

C Lounge


Couples can savor a moment of romance with an exquisite set menu at C Lounge, featuring three thoughtfully themed courses best enjoyed beneath the night sky on its exclusive veranda. Enhancing the experience are a bottle of sparkling wine, a bouquet of flowers, live romantic music, and Conrad Manila’s signature Carey plush toy –  all included in the package.

THE PERFECT PAIR | A Curated Valentine’s Set Menu
13 – 15 February 2026 | 6:00pm to 9:00pm
PHP 10,000 nett

Elevated Valentine’s celebrations await this February at Conrad Manila. For more information on the hotel’s latest dining offers, please contact +632 8833 9999 or email MNLMB.FB@ConradHotels.com.

Asia’s Biggest ACE Store Opens at Baliwag, Bulacan

By
PhilSociety
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A new benchmark in home and building retail is set to begin on January 16, 2026, as ACE Builders opens its largest store in Asia at SM City Baliwag. Covering over 6,000 square meters, this newest branch is the most expansive ACE store to date, offering a wide and complete range of construction supplies, home improvement products, and lifestyle essentials—all under one roof.

Designed for both homeowners and professionals, ACE Builders SM Baliwag combines scale, selection, and service to provide a shopping experience tailored to real, everyday needs.

ACE Builders officially opens its largest store in Asia at SM City Baliwag. Present at the ribbon cutting were (from left): SM City Baliwag Mall Manager Rodora Tolentino; SM Retail Inc. President Jonathan Ng; Baliwag City Mayor Sonia Estrella; ACE Hardware Phil Inc. Director JV Cobankiat; AHPI Business Unit Head Alvin So; ACE International Sales Director Calvin Kim; and AHPI VP Supply Chain Alex Kho.

Everything You Need, All in One Place
ACE Builders Baliwag carries an extensive lineup of trusted and reliable products across major categories:

  • Tiles & Flooring
  • Wall Cladding
  • Sanitary Wares and Plumbing
  • Paint and Paint Accessories
  • Electrical
  • Lawn and Garden 
  • Home Hardware
  • Small Appliances
  • Hand and Power Tools
  • Automotive Products
  • Chemicals and Cleaning Solutions
  • Pet Care Essentials
  • Home Basics and Storage

From major renovation projects to simple home upgrades, the store is designed to meet the demands of modern Filipino households, contractors, and construction professionals alike.

Strengthening a Growing Network
ACE Builders Baliwag joins other flagship stores in the ACE Builders network, including ACE Builders North EDSA, Fairview, and Pampanga. With the opening of its biggest location yet, ACE continues to expand its reach and improve accessibility to high-quality building materials and home solutions.

Since opening its first store in 1997 at SM Southmall, Las Piñas, ACE Hardware Philippines has grown into one of the country’s leading hardware chains, with 238 branches nationwide. The ACE Builders concept was introduced to provide a more comprehensive offering for customers needing larger-scale or more specialized products for construction and home projects.

Visit the Grand Opening
ACE Builders SM Baliwag officially opens its doors on January 16, 2026. Shoppers can look forward to exclusive opening-day promos and special offers across a wide selection of items.

With expert assistance from in-store staff, a wide product assortment, and a convenient location at SM City Baliwag, this store is set to become a key destination for building, improving, and upgrading living spaces in Bulacan and neighboring areas.

To find your nearest ACE Hardware or ACE Builders location, visit store locator here.

Conrad Manila Unveils “Spectrum of Abundance” by Lizanne Uychaco

By
PhilSociety
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Ribboncutting Ceremony Spearheaded by the Special Guest From Left: Mr. Rico Hizon (Guest of Honor), Ms. Elizabeth Sy (President, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation), Ms. Lizanne Uychaco (Featured artist), Mr. Akshat Sinha (Hotel Manager of Conrad Manila), Peggy Angeles (Executive Vice President, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation)

The iconic hotel by the bay presents a captivating art exhibition at the Gallery C, featuring artworks that embody good fortune and prosperity.

Conrad Manila opens its 2026 Of Art and Wine series at Gallery C with Spectrum of Abundance, a solo showcase by Lizanne Uychaco, celebrated as the country’s first and only Feng Shui artist. Curated by esteemed art connoisseur Nestor Jardin, this 24-piece art collection will be open for viewing from January 21 to March 21, 2026, offering an artistic tribute to the Year of the Horse through themes of success, harmony, and abundance.

Featured Artist Lizanne Uychaco shares the artistic inspiration behind the “Spectrum of Abundance” collection at Gallery C.

“Conrad Manila remains steadfast in its commitment to champion Filipino artistry that resonates with meaning and cultural depth,” said Akshat Sinha, hotel manager of Conrad Manila. “Through this year-opening showcase, we aim to share the promise of prosperity and positive energy that 2026 brings, as reflected in Ms. Uychaco’s exceptional artistry rooted in her Chinese-Filipino heritage.”

Spectrum of Abundance presents a series of auspicious works inspired by ancient symbols of luck, strength, harmony, success, wealth, happiness, and abundance – to celebrate and honor the Year of the Horse. Executed in richly textured mixed media, Lizanne’s works reflect her mastery across diverse disciplines – sculpture, pottery, jewelry, calligraphy, and painting. Each piece radiates positive energy, a harmony of culture, heritage, and artistic spirit.

The ribbon cutting ceremony, was graced by distinguished guests, including Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Rico Hizon, Consultant of SM Investments Corporation and Guest of Honor; Akshat Sinha, Conrad Manila’s Hotel Manager, and Lizanne Uychaco. 

All artworks are available for acquisition. For inquiries and more information, guests and art collectors may contact +632 8833 9999 or email Conrad.Manila.info@conradhotels.com.

SM Hotels Opens the Philippines’ Biggest SMX Convention Center in Cebu

By
PhilSociety
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Cebu City, Philippines — The Philippines’ biggest SMX Convention Center is set to open in Cebu in Q3 2026.  

Located at the Cebu South Coastal Road, the Php3.3 billion landmark project of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) will offer over 21,000 square meters of leasable event space setting a new benchmark for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities in the country.

With scalable halls, professional support services, and world-class amenities, the venue will provide organizers the capacity, flexibility, and convenience needed to mount world-class events up to 18,000 delegates.

“Cebu has always been one of the most in-demand destinations for events, and we are proud to finally bring SMX’s trusted brand of service to this dynamic market. It’s the culmination of more than two decades of experience in delivering professional and high-impact events,” said Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President – Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC).

Internationally recognized as the premier convention center in the Philippines, SMX has earned a reputation for delivering professionally managed spaces tailored to the diverse needs of large-scale exhibitions, conferences, corporate events, and celebrations. 

The SMX Convention Center will rise beside the SM Seaside City Cebu offering direct connectivity to major lifestyle, retail, and hospitality hubs as well as convenient access to key infrastructure such as the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport. 

It will form part of a carefully master-planned development that includes a 300-room Park Inn Hotel, a 200-room Radisson Hotel and the 16,000-seating capacity SM Seaside Arena, reinforcing Cebu as a complete, integrated MICE and entertainment destination.

“This is our response to the long-standing demand for a convention venue of this scale in Cebu.  Soon, Cebuanos and visiting delegates alike will no longer need to fly to Manila for major exhibitions, summits, or concerts—the experience will be right here,” adds Mr. Wafik.

For more information, please visit https://smhotels.com.ph/ 

JINS Philippines Introduces Beauty Lens, a Beauty-Inspired Lens Designed to Enhance Everyday Confidence

By
PhilSociety
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JINS Philippines announces the introduction of Beauty Lens, a beauty-inspired lens designed to subtly enhance facial warmth and complement everyday makeup looks, offering customers a new way to express personal style through eyewear.

Designed with modern women in mind, Beauty Lens addresses common beauty concerns such as looking tired, washed out, or needing a soft color balance around the face—especially in daily settings like work, school, and social activities. Through carefully placed gradient tones, the lens creates a gentle blush-like effect that adds warmth and dimension while maintaining clear vision.

Beauty Lens is available in three shades—Pink (Soft Rose), Peach Pink (Warm Apricot), and Orange Red (Terracotta)—allowing wearers to choose tones that best complement their skin tone, makeup preferences, and lifestyle. The lens also blocks over 99% of UV rays, supporting daily eye protection alongside aesthetic appeal.

(From Left) JINS Philippines Marketing Head Mr. Mark Charles Salecina, JINS Philippines Business Director Mr. Hiro Maezono,  JINS Philippines Sales Director Ms. Eiko Miyaji, SM Aura Premier JINS Store Manager Ms. Patricia Ami, and JINS Philippines Area Manager Ms. Hanelyn Virtudazo with the Beauty Lens Collection.

“Beauty Lens was developed for customers who want eyewear that feels effortless, wearable, and aligned with their everyday beauty routine,” said Mark Charles Salecina, Head of Marketing, JINS Philippines. “It offers a simple solution for those who want to look refreshed and put together, even with minimal makeup.”

Guided by JINS’s global “Magnify Life” philosophy, the Beauty Lens reflects the brand’s approach to designing products that seamlessly integrate function, comfort, and lifestyle relevance.

“Our goal is to create eyewear that fits naturally into our customers’ daily lives,” shared Eiko Miyaji, Sales Director, JINS Philippines. “Beauty Lens is designed to support confidence and self-expression in a subtle, approachable way.”

The JINS Philippines Team with Influencers during the launch of JINS Beauty Lens.

Launch Event at SM Aura
To introduce Beauty Lens to the local market, JINS held a launch event at its SM Aura store, collaborating with more than 20 female influencers from the beauty, fashion, and lifestyle space. The event provided guests with an opportunity to experience the lens in-store, create content, and explore how eyewear can complement modern beauty routines.

The gathering highlighted JINS’s continued engagement with its community and its focus on creating meaningful, experience-led product launches that resonate with today’s consumers.

Availability
Beauty Lens is available now at all JINS stores, with orders ready for pickup within 7–10 days—perfectly timed for your next look refresh. 

Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila Earns Prestigious Green Key Certification, Reinforcing Its Commitment to Sustainable Luxury

By
PhilSociety
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Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila has been officially awarded the Green Key Certification, an internationally recognized eco-label for excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operations within the tourism and hospitality industry. The certification marks a significant milestone for the property, underscoring its commitment to integrating sustainability into every aspect of the guest experience while maintaining the refined standards of modern luxury living.

Green Key certification recognises establishments that meet strict criteria across environmental management, energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and community engagement. For Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila, this achievement reflects a holistic approach to responsible hospitality—one that thoughtfully balances elevated living with mindful stewardship of the environment and the local community.

“Earning the Green Key Certification affirms our belief that sustainability and luxury are not mutually exclusive,” said Nils Rothbarth, General Manager of Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila. “At Lanson Place, we see sustainability as an ongoing journey—one that influences how we design experiences, engage our teams, and care for the communities and environments we are part of.”

As part of its sustainability efforts, the property has implemented initiatives aligned with Green Key criteria, including energy- and water-saving measures, waste management programmes, and responsible sourcing practices. Beyond operations, Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila continues to champion community engagement initiatives, reinforcing its role as a devoted host not only to guests but also to its wider neighbourhood.

The Green Key Certification positions Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila among a global network of hospitality leaders who are actively shaping the future of sustainable tourism demonstrating that thoughtful choices today can create lasting impact for generations to come.

To know more, visit website at https://lansonplace.com/mallofasia. Lanson Place Mall of Asia is located at Block 12, Palm Coast Avenue corner Seaside Boulevard, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. Follow its official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram) to find out more.

Register for free membership, visit lansonplace.com/loyalty.

Conrad Manila Ushers in 2026 with New Culinary Experiences Across Its Dining Destinations

By
PhilSociety
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The luxury hotel overlooking Manila Bay unveils an enticing array of gastronomic experiences across its acclaimed dining destinations, from themed Epicurean Evenings at Brasserie on 3 to a citrus-led afternoon tea at C Lounge and new à la carte highlights at MICHELIN-selected China Blue by Jereme Leung

Conrad Manila begins the year with a refreshed line-up of dining experiences across its signature venues, bringing together seasonal menus, themed nights and curated set offerings designed for both everyday indulgence and special occasions. From January, guests can look forward to Epicurean Evenings at Brasserie on 3, a new Citrus Afternoon Indulgence at C Lounge, and new à la carte creations at China Blue by Jereme Leung. 

“Conrad Manila starts the year by focusing on what we do best – thoughtful, well-crafted experiences shaped by our culinary team,” said Rupert Hallam, general manager, Conrad Manila. “These offerings reflect months of preparation and a shared commitment to creativity, consistency and the kind of dining that guests return for, whether for a weekday ritual or a milestone celebration.”

Brasserie on 3
The hotel’s all-day dining destination, Brasserie on 3, located on the third level, presents Epicurean Evenings, a calendar of weekly themed dinner buffets designed to bring variety to the dining experience. Available from January 20 to December 31, 2026, each evening highlights a distinct culinary narrative, from the timeless elegance of Italian cuisine and the bold spices of India to a Mediterranean-inspired culinary odyssey and indulgent seafood and premium meat feasts. Every spread is meticulously curated by Executive Chef Nicolas de Visch for an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

Epicurean Evenings l Themed Dinner Buffet 
6:00pm to 10:00pmlPHP 3,600 nett per person

La Dolce Vita: Italian Night (Every Monday & Tuesday)
A celebration of Italian comfort and craft, featuring artisanal pastas, rich sauces, and decadent desserts inspired by timeless trattoria favorites.

Curries of the World (Every Wednesday & Thursday)
An aromatic journey through the curry traditions from Persia, Mauritius, Singapore, and India, including a laksa station and dessert selections.

Churrasco Night: Premium Cuts & Gourmet Grills (Every Friday)
An endless feast of fire-kissed flavors awaits, showcasing premium cuts of meat expertly grilled and paired with gourmet sides and marinades.

Ocean’s Bounty: Seafood Night (Every Saturday)
An opulent spread of freshly caught treasures from the sea, including ethically sourced and masterfully prepared prawns, crabs, shellfish, and lobsters.

Mediterranean Culinary Odyssey (Every Sunday)
A vibrant buffet inspired by the coasts of the Mediterranean, balancing healthful indulgence with refined flavors. An indulgent buffet inspired by the coasts of the Mediterranean, featuring healthy selections and well-loved cuisine from Lebanon, Greece, Palestine, Egypt, and Western Europe. 

An Ode to Culinary Mastery l Chef’s Table Set Menu
For guests looking for a more intimate dining format, Brasserie on 3 also offers a Chef’s Table Set Menu positioned for celebrations, family gatherings and business meals, with three menu options built around the guest’s preferred main course.

Set Menu 3 (with Red Snapper) – PHP 3,588 nett per person
Set Menu 1 (with Lamb) – PHP 4,088 nett per person
Set Menu 2 (with Angus Beef) – PHP 4,588 nett per person

Savor the Privilege
From January 15 to February 13, 2026, Hilton Honors members can enjoy exclusive privileges at Brasserie on 3, with exceptional savings on sumptuous lunch and dinner buffets.

Savor the Privilege
Member & Silver: 25% savings
Gold, Diamond & Diamond Reserve: 50% savings

C Lounge
C Lounge ushers in a bright and refreshing start to 2026 with an indulgent afternoon experience, ideal for warm conversations against the backdrop of Manila Bay’s sweeping views. The curated set features citrus-infused sweets and savories, paired with coffee or a pot of tea.

Citrus Afternoon Indulgence
18 January – 31 March 2026 l PHP 3,288 ++

This January, C Lounge also invites guests to indulge in vibrant flavors and artfully crafted cocktails with Sips of Southeast Asia, a curated collection inspired by the region’s rich culinary heritage. From Singapore’s sophistication and Thailand’s zest to Malaysia’s depth and Vietnam’s flair, each creation is a masterpiece by Hilton’s finest mixologists.

Whisky enthusiasts can also look forward to Whisky Wednesdays, featuring a curated selection of premium whiskies paired with delectable bites, complemented by expert insights from our mixologist.

Sips of Southeast Asia
Until 28 February 2026 l Starts at PHP 550 ++

Whisky Wednesdays l Every Wednesday 
11:00am to 12:00am l Starts at PHP 400 ++

New À La Carte Creations at China Blue by Jereme Leung 
At MICHELIN-selected China Blue by Jereme Leung, Conrad Manila introduces new à la carte highlights that build on the restaurant’s signature approach with refined twists on beloved classics, elevated through modern techniques and bold presentation. 

Highlights include:

  • Golden roast duck with momo wrapper
  • Chicken, green apple, and crispy bean curd salad with truffle dressing
  • Seafood wonton, fresh scallop, mini abalone, crab roe soup
  • Roasted black cod with ginger flower gravy, pomelo, and pineapple
  • Sautéed shrimp coated with organic quinoa in calamansi sweet and sour sauce
  • Marinated live shrimp in Japanese plum wine
  • Roasted black cod with ginger flower gravy sauce, pomelo, and pineapple
  • Seafood wonton, fresh scallop mini abalone, crab roe soup

This 2026, culinary celebrations begin with grandeur at Conrad Manila. For more information on the hotel’s exclusive dining offers, contact +632 8833 9999 or email MNLMB.FB@ConradHotels.com 

A New Design Address in Makati: Furniture Republic Unveils Its Five-Level Showroom

By
PhilSociety
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(From left) Philippine Institute of Interior Designers national executive director for events Katherine Anne Correa, national director for PR Carla Leonor, FC Home Center chairman Araceli Dannug, Sarah Geronimo; Uratex Philippines’ Natividad Cheng and FC Home Center president and CEO Fernan Dulce, together with Furniture Republic heads.

Furniture Republic officially unveiled its newest five-level showroom in Makati, introducing a contemporary design destination created for homeowners, designers and business owners seeking pieces that reflect the pace and sensibilities of modern living.

The Exclusive VIP Day offered guests a curated presentation of  the brand’s expansive selection, presented within a space shaped for clarity, comfort and refined everyday use.

The celebration gathered interior designers, homeowners, business clients and long-time brand partners. The morning opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by key executives of Furniture Republic, followed by a traditional coin-throwing rite—a gesture that welcomed good energy and a thoughtful beginning for the new showroom.

A highlight of the program was a special performance by Sarah Geronimo, delivering heartfelt renditions of Maybe This Time and Kilometro. She added a warm, memorable moment to the launch, blending familiarity, artistry and a sense of celebration as the new flagship opened its doors.

5 floors of design shaped for real homes

Furniture Republic Makati was created as a space where guests can freely explore well-made pieces suited to how modern Filipinos genuinely live. Across its five levels, the showroom features living, dining, bedroom, workspace and accent pieces—each chosen for function, proportion and enduring style.

The flagship leans into design that feels lived-in, versatile and welcoming, whether for compact city condos, larger family homes or thoughtfully designed workspaces and offices.

This launch reflected Furniture Republic’s collaboration with partner interior design schools—Philippine School of Interior Design (PSID), De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, University of Santo Tomas, and School of Fashion and the Arts Design Institute (SoFA)—working alongside emerging designers through the development of “Curated Spaces.”

The Philippine School of Interior Design (PSID) presented “Achromatic Luxury” Living–bedroom concept—a composition inspired by the refined modernism of Andrée Putman. The mood board explored a layered grayscale palette, chrome accents, sculptural forms and richly textured upholstery, creating a sophisticated and quietly dramatic environment that balances softness, structure and contemporary elegance.

De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde showcased “Shoreline Reverie,” a Living–dining concept inspired by modern coastal serenity. Their mood board paired calming blue tones with natural wood textures and soft neutrals, creating an airy, contemporary setting that reflects a refined seaside sensibility.

The University of Santo Tomas – College of Fine Arts and Design presented “Gilded Oasis,” a Living–bedroom concept rooted in warm, nature-inspired tones. The mood board combined tweed textures, burnt orange and beige hues, natural wood finishes, and soft touches of gold to create a grounded and serene atmosphere.

SoFA Design Institute introduced “The Hidden Oasis,” a Living–Office concept inspired by the desert as a personal sanctuary. Their mood board combined warm earthen tones, natural textures, and soft organic forms to create a quiet, restorative space within the home, giving guests the chance to meet the young designers behind the work.

FR Coffee as a place to pause and connect

A signature element within the showroom, FR Coffee House, became a natural gathering point throughout the VIP Day. Designers reviewed pegs with clients, families discussed home plans and guests took moments to settle in between exploring the floors.

The café reflects Furniture Republic’s belief that showrooms should feel welcoming and lived-in—allowing guests to move at their own pace and consider pieces with intention.

A thoughtful gathering of craft, community and modern living

Furniture Republic envisions its Makati showroom as a place where people can reflect on the rooms they live in—how they move, how they rest and how design supports daily life. The brand aimed to create a setting that feels calm, intentional and aligned with the way modern families live, grow and create.

With its central location, expanded selections and refined environment, the Makati showroom stands as one of Furniture Republic’s most expressive homes—a contemporary setting crafted for those who value design that feels warm, modern and thoughtfully considered.

Furniture Republic invites the community to visit its new location and explore pieces designed for homes of varying scales, styles and sensibilities. The showroom is now open at its new design address along Osmeña Highway corner Lacuna Street in Brgy. Bangkal, Makati City.

Begin the year with Furniture Republic’s Clearance Sale—up to 50% off great selections, plus 10% off regular-priced display items for FR VIP Card holders. Sale runs through January 31.

Find showroom locations nationwide at https://www.furniture-republic.com.ph/.

SM Hotels Champions a Future-Ready Hospitality Workforce at Career Connect 2025

By
PhilSociety
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Attendees pose with the partner employers and executives led by SMHCC SVP for Operations Walid Wafik and SMHCC VP for HR & OD Charmagne Adonis.

SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) proudly took part in hosting Career Connect, a dynamic and integrated career fair held at the SMX Convention Center Manila, reaffirming SMHCC’s commitment to attracting, developing, and empowering topnotch talents in the hospitality industry.

Career Connect is a flagship talent initiative that brings together the diverse business units of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., the Property Management arm of the SM Group under one shared mission: to open doors to meaningful careers and nurture future industry leaders. The event showcased a wide range of opportunities across SM’s expansive portfolio, giving aspiring and experienced professionals alike a unique chance to explore multiple career paths in one venue.

The event welcomed 863 applicants, who had the opportunity to directly engage with top employers led by SM Prime Holdings, Inc.; SM Supermalls; SM Engineering Design and Development Corp. (SMEDD); SM Development Corp. (SMDC); and SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation (SMHCC). Representing SMHCC were its owned, managed, and franchised properties, including Taal Vista Hotel, Conrad Manila, Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA, and SMX Convention Center, each offering diverse roles across hotel operations, conventions, and guest services.

Career Connect was further strengthened by the support of partner organizations from various sectors. These included BDO for financial assistance and promotions; SM Foundation and LifeSkills PH for training and scholarship opportunities; and manpower agencies such as Kares International Commodities & Manpower Services Corp., Green Pasture People Management, Inc., and All Around Services and Merchandising Corp. Their participation underscored the collaborative ecosystem that supports career readiness and long-term employability.

Key government agencies including PhilHealth, SSS, Pag-IBIG, DOLE, and PESO Pasay were also present throughout the day, providing on-site assistance and addressing employment-related inquiries, ensuring that applicants received holistic support as they prepared to enter or advance in the workforce.

One of the highlights of the event was the panel discussion, Inside SM: Empowering People, Enabling Possibilities,” featuring HR leaders from SM Prime, SM Supermalls, SMDC, and SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation. The panelists shared insights into SM’s people-first culture, offered practical career advice, and discussed how employees can grow, thrive, and build long-term careers within the SM organization.

“Career Connect reflects what SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation stands for: creating opportunities, investing in people, and building a future-ready hospitality workforce,” said SMHCC Executive Vice President Peggy E. Angeles. “We are proud to open our doors to talents who share our passion for service excellence and innovation,” she added.

Career Connect 2025 was a productive and inspiring day filled with nurturing connections that link individuals, organizations, and institutions in a shared pursuit for growth, purpose, and professional success within one of the country’s leading hospitality and lifestyle groups.

For more information, please visit https://smhotels.com.ph/ 

Conrad Manila Appoints Rupert Hallam as General Manager

By
PhilSociety
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Hilton veteran appointed to lead Conrad Manila’s next chapter of growth and brand experience.

Conrad Manila has appointed Rupert Hallam as its general manager, effective January 2026, as the hotel enters its 10th anniversary year. Hallam brings more than 30 years of hospitality leadership experience, including over two decades with Hilton, to lead the 347-room luxury hotel overlooking Manila Bay. 

A seasoned global hospitality leader, Hallam is known for his strong commercial acumen, operational expertise, and dynamic leadership. He most recently served as general manager of Hilton Singapore Orchard, the flagship brand’s largest hotel in Asia Pacific, and previously held the role of vice president of sales in Hilton Asia Pacific, supporting the region’s commercial strategy and customer partnerships.

“Conrad Manila has been part of my Hilton journey since its earliest chapter, where I was involved in the property’s opening a decade ago, and it is a privilege to return as the hotel marks a significant milestone year,” said Hallam. “Together with the exceptional team, the focus will be on strengthening what Conrad Manila is already known for – thoughtful luxury, inspired dining, and standout experiences for business and leisure travellers, while continuing to deepen the hotel’s connection to the destination.”

Hallam will be joined by hotel manager Akshat Sinha, who has been part of Hilton since 2008 and most recently served as the hotel manager at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. The appointments underscore Conrad Manila’s focus on consistent leadership and continued momentum across its key pillars, including business travel and meetings, culinary experiences, and guest experiences. 

For the latest updates on Conrad Manila, please call +632 8833 9999, visit www.conradmanila.com or email ConradManila@ConradHotels.com.

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