Travel Tax and Lighthearted Talk with Mark Lapid

Got to talk to current TIEZA Head Mark Lapid and began our conversation about Travel Tax and funding. The Travel Tax on their end goes to infrastructure support for different spots in the country. He also mentioned the difference between them and the DOT. Their different mandate and roles in building hospitals, fixing airports with CAAP, terminals, wheelchair access, monitoring systems, conveyor belts, esplanade, boardwalks, lighting are just some of their duties. These are submitted by local government units and their board, in many places he mentioned in the interview.

He also talked about how his family still comes first, next is public service and showbiz. He treats showbiz as part of his passions, while politics affects so many people. The infrastructure gap in airports is huge compared to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries. They're doing a revamp and want all other domestic airports capable to land bigger airplanes and have those other airline companies to land directly in the provinces so they don't get congested in NAIA. 

He also talked to us about his relationship with his Dad becoming his number 1 critic and supporter. He also said how close they are with Coco Martin who they had the pleasure to work together in different Coco Martin led series, just to help since they have experience with it.

They've done this for several years and enjoy it. Imagine, they wanted this to be a 2 week guesting and they were there for almost a decade. He says "It's the art of "pakikipagkapwa tao". When we came back to the set, we were surprised about the big improvements, in the past you can't have a second take because of expenses. The digital era was freeing. I think I only feel better because of my wife (about his looks and health). We also want to lower taxes in cinema and encourage more creatives to release movies and make the public go back and watch in cinemas. I am against AI use, but if it's dangerous stunts, maybe we can consider but not to the detriment of production workers that can do a better job at it. We want to support it."

Mark Lapid reiterated that services their office implement to improve infrastructure needs to come from somewhere. Since the government still has no funds allocated for the TIEZA, they might ask for an extension for the Travel Tax until it gets funding somewhere else. There are people and the public that do benefit from their work, and it is essential to make sure the infrastructure gets maintained and managed well. 

Very Interesting Regional SHORT FILMS Showcased at Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival

Spent the whole day at Gateway Mall Cinemas to see Shorts set C and a few full length films. 

Regional films were in Shorts C. First one was called Pulis Dunggab. It is about street games, family, and the choices we make in life. Set in rural Cebu, it was all fine and dandy til something happened that would change their lives forever. Good overall, especially since it tackled social issues.

The second film was called The Sound of K. It was about being differently abled and the struggles they go through everyday life. Speech, which normally would be just mimicked by any person becomes a huge difficult task for  the character, among other things. A bit tragic to see but, I saw how people could learn from these scenes. It was excellently executed.

Third film NAKABINBIN talks about the pains people go through to get public service. The red tape, the difficulties we face just to bury a loved one, something that happens everyday... to ordinary people, and still happens today. It looked and felt painful, As always, Soliman Cruz showed depth, and carried this shirt film from start to end. Grabe!

The 4th one is called NANG MATAKASAN ANG TAGAY, a family drama of an OFW father and his son. His love was shown raw, and the film had pretty good premise. You might cry with the touching end. Heartwarming, and has an LGBT story line. 

I like the variety seen in Short Films seen at the Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival, you should watch them in Gateway and Ayala Malls. They've got the list of nominees out on the Puregold FB page. I'll post later! 

That Cute Movie "APOL of my AI " at PUREGOLD Cinepanalo Film Festival

Spent the afternoon at Gateway Mall cinemas to watch a full length film called Apol of my AI. Aileen Mercedes Is a substitute teacher who arrived in a school because Apol's original teacher had to bear her child. This film is not just a coming of age, but mostly the struggles of a Father who wasn't present all throughout his childhood, but couldn't earn enough to make a living in the Philippines.

His story is just like thousands of OFW's who want to make sure that the future of their kids , sacrificing time with them, and maybe, not being able to know them on a personal level. 

The story is cute, Zion Cruz looks like a real life cherub, and can act to boot. It's so nice to see him fall in love, be like a child, sing and also enjoy life. He also has a very complicated relationship with his Dad, and it'll show on screen if you watch it. 

I'd laud this film for its love for classic Filipino music and how it intertwines with the story. Maybe music could become a medium to repair their ties, especially since his father was a musician in cruise ships, since he needs to be at his best and impress his teacher. 

Who knows, Zanjoe might bag an acting award (though I think he might have had an advantage at parenting because he just had a baby!). The film also felt complete, you feel lighthearted as he tries to be the man he wishes to be. The Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival is still going on at Gateway Mall and Ayala Malls, go get tickets and win grocery items after watching (while supplies last). Theaters are packed , so go early!

Some Reasons to Watch BEAST at Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival

Just got out of Gateway Mall Cinema 18 after watching the film BEAST starring prime actor John Arcilla. It's a full length film dressed as a fable as much of the dialogue spin on farm animals that talk of love, relationships, and the struggles of raising a family in the countryside (at first). 

Agriculture might have been the industry that the Philippines is known for, but in reality, a lot of it has been delegated to real estate or urban development. They also talked about the struggle with the next generation who would rather have other money making jobs than tilling the soil and break their backs every planting/harvest season. People to crazy with these issues, which is discussed in the beginning of this film.

John plays a farmer called Omeng, one who spent years working in the fields. He gets news of it being sold, and deeply hurt in the process. The farm animals suddenly made him Dr. Doolittle-ish after being told to leave by his relatives. If it's AI or not (that Carabao), they did good technically in making it speak. I also loved how their conversations went, including the human-like words they used, sometimes funny and essential in bringing forth the emotions they wanted to give.

They discussed the importance of family ties, the beastly decisions they make in life. The film is also a lengthy journey (he did it from farm to the city), where he'll meet different people. It's also interesting because it'll show how their lives are intertwined (albeit being physically apart), fate always has a different way of doing things and yes, the adventures, the fun and drama included. 

This film feels good til the mid part, made me feel both happy and sad in the end. That's something you need to see and watch in cinemas since Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival is still on (schedule available on Puregold FB Page). 

Go to Gateway Cineplex and Ayala Mall Cinemas where short films and full length ones are being screened. I don't really need to sell something that John Arcilla does. Just him in the billing means you have to see it. 

The Importance of SHORT FILMS Showcased on Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival

While there was a GREAT choice of full films in the Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival this year, they got the short films into a package so you could watch several of it in one go. I got to see SHORTS A, and it was so good because the choices were awesome, from horror, sci Fi, documentary type, family, regional, they got the best ones in every story!

Here's a Quick Review:

Starfish - Man named Boyet does adult work in the city, but went home to the province after getting fired. His life is hard, even his sister, both brought up in an abusive home.It also talks about politics, boys love, gore, and pain. Much of it is symbolic, mirrors society.

Kung Hain Bisan Din - Main character is about to get married, story is about severed relationships with family. It is also deeply rooted in Waraynon dialect, She gets showcased in different camera angles, and wanting to become part of one of the most important events in her life. Felt bittersweet.

KANIBAL - This talks about politics, the family, set in a busy market. I like how they did it in Ilonggo/Hiligaynon. A bit weird. Character was for progress, until she personally gets affected. This is more on societal and political problems, and the hardships that most middle class go through.I liked the super unusual ending.

Sa mga Nagdaan at Lumipas - The film talks about LGBT struggles, the leftist groups, poor and underprivileged. It also talks about youth, music, and women. It has lengthy dialogue, needed to establish their view and a sense of being activists. It's also about Lesbians, and their colorful world. Sensible talk about love and relationships. Actress did so good on slow subtle scenes. 

LIMLIM - The movie talks about child abuse and early pregnancy. Scary to discuss something like it in cinema.so that alone is brave. It's a slow burn, and very quietly told. Actors were also good. Child should get recognition. My personal favorite. 

Shorts would be hard to reach especially because of their length and production value. Puregold took a RISK and chose a lot and have them be seen in a theater, it as worth it. Congratulations to Sir Chris Cahilig, the Festival Director who took these wonderfully made short films and have them connected to the audience. I hope this becomes a great start for these young creators, production, who wants to be seen. They did their job and I'm so happy to have seen all their work, I felt the future looks bright for Philippine cinema. 

They're still showing in theaters and they are being filled to the brim as we speak, make sure you do your part by seeing them in Gateway Mall or Ayala Malls, you would be impressed and I'm not joking. 

MASCULADOS Outs New Single "SAGING"

Your favorite muscled men of Filipino novelty music MASCULADOS just got a new single out called "SAGING" under Universal Records.

Known for their hit songs Jumbo Hotdog, Macho Papa, Lagot Ka and more, they're adding this new single for a newer, fresher take as they continue their careers this 2026.

They never really left the scene but concentrated in provincial tours so they get to cater their audience, the masses who have been supporting them all these years. Eric Mofar, Nico Cordova, David Karell, Robin Robell, Richard Yumul and Orlando Sol were all smiles when they went up stage and performed for us their hits. They also did the LIVE version of SAGING which we found very catchy and amusing. The naughty lines were always there and in the coming holidays, this will surely be something that would land in everybody's playlist especially those dance numbers for new employees during Christmas parties, for sure! 

The men also shared how they're in the works of doing concerts not just locally, but internationally. Universal Records has plans to do a few locations in Australia in the coming months, imagine how much fun it would be to see them with our kababayans in different states too. They are going to perform in other countries, so make sure to follow their social channels as they'll post updates about it there.

As for their music, SAGING is going to be one of a few tracks that they plan to release this year til the next. Even if we already fancy this one, they're hinting even better ones to be unleashed soon. There's no stopping these guys from doing it! Here's the rest of the press conference on video:

The event was sponsored by Shinagawa, The Cart Collective, Chasing Bananas Cafe and Bakery, Orich, Secret Fresh, Pacquiao 3 in 1 Coffee, Healthy Tropics, Grafiq Advertising and Noctos Music Bar.

They are currently managed by GLXY Talent Management. This is just the start. Go check out their music video at the Universal Records YouTube channel and download their tracks on Spotify. You'll love their SAGING!

RHIAN RIVERA and LEA BERNABE Will Be INTENSE in POV

Things are going to be extra special as Rhian Rivera and Lea Bernabe hosts the latest VMX content called POV (Pasilip on VMX). This is going to be crazy (after we saw the trailer, some wanted to walk out! They kid.)

Direk Carby Salvador says "If we were sexy in the past, we need to be three or four times intense to make this special. I am related to Ramon Salvador, he gave his blessings. We talked about this and we knew we had to put everything in one place, we cannot stop til we did everything we can. Being a director is something I love, but if I have relatives in the Salvador clan that I can do projects with, I'd be glad to." 

Rhian Rivera says "You have to watch this because this is very intense. It's our first time, we met on set and I wasn't supposed to be her partner. This will be all out. We have chemistry, we just looked at each other and did it. We just knew what our goal was and we are both competitive. To note, the camera man almost fell off their post because of how intense we did things. We needed to make scenes different every time we appear on screen because each time, we need to present a different flavor. It's art for us, in the long run, I want to be in mainstream projects, I think I deserve that too."

Lea Bernabe says "You will not be disappointed when you watch this, you will see what we can do. It's times 20 of what content we can do. I am happy to work with Direk and Rhian, and admit I get a little irritated when someone peeks at me secretly, but if I like the person why not. I know people tell me I look ordinary at first, but when they get to see me and know me, they like me already. Direk Carby didn't have to convince us, I think it's fate that we were paired in the movie. For me , if you are comfortable with the one you are paired with, you can do everything. I have heard people comparing me with established actresses, and I'm glad because they are multi awarded actresses."

Here's the Mediacon on video:

They promise to even bring more  intense scenes in the film, they said the trailer wasn't even half of what they've done. But you can only watch this if you subscribe on VMX, so you know what to do. (this comes out next month!)

JULIANNE RICHARDS on VMX's Pinay K@masuträ

In their aim to make things more passionate for Pinays as they do things in boudoir, the folks from VMX got another installment of Pinay K@masuträ called Pinay K@masuträ 3. This is directed by Carlo Alvarez who did the second one, and promised to make it even more daring, hotter than usual with the new host, the beautiful Julianne Richards. 

Julianne Richards says "Before I signed with VMX I was in Sydney, I worked in the hospitality field but before pandemic I tried in showbiz. I'm 22, I was discovered by KC Guerrero while I was auditioning in Pinoy Big Brother. I went to Star Magic and saw KC there. At first I was hesitant because my family is conservative. After reflecting, I saw this as an opportunity so I said yes after a week. I was in Home Sweetie Home, Love U, Wansapanataym, did extras. I was also in Desperadas, at first I really shifted my mindset because I told Mom who was very hesitant, I need to sacrifice to put my foot on the door and I'm glad I did it. VMX is very professional, I am thankful that it helped with honing my skills. I took a break doing pageants because I was concentrating with acting. Pageants was my Mom's dreams for me, I am doing this for me now. I also plan to finish my studies. I'd like to work with Joshua Garcia in the future. When this was given to me it was super last minute, wasn't familiar but really wanted to do it. I think my experience in pageants helped me a lot."

She added "I think I am more bolder here, Direk was super professional and it felt like a safe space which is why I'm comfortable talking about the topics. I took dance classes, I am also "pinalaki ng s3xbomb" and just had fun!"

Direk Carlo Alvarez says "We didn't have a problem with Julianne because she is very professional. Here, she is going to be dancing a bit too, it'll be new treatment. When we did it, I was also egged to dance with her. We have scenes you'll see in a wilder way, everything I asked was given to me more. She really learned the script quite fast, I am excited to see her in more narrative kind of films. This is the best K@masutra project yet! It's entertaining and you will be swayed by her dialogues, you will get to understand what they are doing in VMX movies after this. The second one was tamed, we had free hand doing this third installment, we were more tough with our choices."

Here's what happened during the presscon

Julianne is so gorgeous and very appealing to hear. As the host, she's going to take you to a hot journey in the world of VMX.

You know you can get these content at the VMX app, download it today to see what they have to offer!

ACER DAY 2026: The Music Run

It's like tradition, and why not because this is the 10th ACER DAY. They are also celebrating it differently with what they call "The Music Run" to be held on August 22 at the SM Mall of Asia Complex. This event is quite popular for doing the runs with a Soundtrack Run Course. You get to flex those legs by running, walking and dancing with Manila's most popular music. It functions as a prelude to the 10th Acer Day celebrations with the theme Shift the Game, a call for togetherness and breaking limits, all in one venue. Those who finish the race (by registering of course) could get tickets together with it. 

All you need to do is head on to  raceonic.com/sites/the-music-run-volume-2 or their social channels and Acer.com.

Conversations Deepen on 4th Installment of Drug War: A Conspiracy of Silence Series

Just got out of Cinema 76 in Tomas Morato this evening. We were there for the advanced screening of DRUG WAR: A Conspiracy of Silence on their 4th episode. This is solely shown via the REIN Entertainment YouTube channel which they deemed as the perfect platform to showcase a sociopolitical piece like this. This is produced by REIN Entertainment and KC Global Media. After seeing the first 3 episodes, we felt the stress, frustration, pity and anger they must have planned for us to experience while watching the show. The 4th episode would somehow give you a grasp of how the characters have developed, including the twists they're supposed to have because we're in the middle, this is a series of 6 episodes. 

Diretor Shugo Praico says "You will feel the heavy nature of this episode because Kiko will be experiencing something as he searches for justice for his father. We are at the point where they realize that they have the information, but what do they do with the truth while in the midst of corruption, and the things that may happen in the next episodes. Things will also become very personal. while they are in different sides. You will know what will happen to the character of Kiko after he went missing."

After the screening Romnick Sarmenta says "This isn't an easy role to portray, nor is it a light episode. Things like these don't have fairytale endings. You can't say one is wrong as it doesn't conform with your truths. You are both right, you both have your truths. It's scary because once you lose hope, nor have second chances, you throw away lives of people."

Putting this on YouTube means the public has access to see it and they get immediate reaction once they release an episode every Thursday. The reception has been quite awesome in the previous episodes, and it is gaining traction. Quite brave of them to do this. 

We also asked the writers how they made the decision to include the stories among the multitude of research they have done for the film, they considered the characters first, then get a feel about who would fit the stories they have. It stems from the emotion they could pull from the incidents, not just to choose the most sensational ones. They actually toned down some of it (albeit having scary scenes in it). It also had to be entertaining, coherent, and (admittedly)the ones that are actually VERY painful to read on the script (that you wouldn't even wish to happen with others) in hopes to get reactions and relate to their intended audience. 

The 4th Episode of DRUG WAR: A Conspiracy of Silence will be shown today Thursday August 20, 2026 on the REIN Entertainment YouTube channel. The first three episodes are there too. The finale episode will be on September 3, so make sure to catch and subscribe there. You'll get an appreciation about what Romnick Sarmenta, John Arcilla and Harvey Bautista can do on an intense acting piece. This deserves a continuance, several platforms so more people can see it. Join the conversation too as they would appreciate that. 

 

I'm hooked!

BOTEJYU Introduces TEISHOKU Meals and New Endorsers JERALD and KIM MOLINA NAPOLES

BOTEJYU is currently celebrating their 10th year, and the mark of having 100 stores in the Philippines. To make this even better, they're coming out with TEISHOKU Meals (The Complete Japanese Meal) as part of their efforts to make sure food is affordable at this joint. What surprised me most is that in the past, they knew people have been avoiding them because the restaurant was looking expensive, but if you look at their menu, much of what they have are actually affordable. They're making it more obvious with these TEISHOKU meals so you have protein as mains, soup, rice and a side dish included.

For starters, their Rice Teishoku have Unlimited Rice, Miso Soup and Kimchi (this is amazing!). Their lowest priced one is the Prawn Tempura Teishoku which costs Php 355, that's usually one dish in most restaurants but you get a meal with them. They also have other varieties like the Pork Tonkatsu, Teriyaki Chicken (which I had that afternoon), Diced Teriyaki Beef Garlic Steak, Fried Prawn Katsu, Samurai Sausage, Botekara, and Fried Salmon Teishoku set meals for you to enjoy. If you are more of a Ramen fan, get the Ramen Teishokus instead (these all come with Unlimited noodles) all for Php 495. They have it in Ramen-Amiyaki, Ramen-Botekara, Ramen-Gyoza, Ramen-Tempura, Ramen-Teriyaki Chicken variants, so you can choose what you want anytime of the day.

Check out the food here! 

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JERALD and KIM MOLINA-NAPOLES

Dubbed as the POWER COUPLE, newly weds Jerald and Kim was introduced as the endorsers for the BOTEJYU brand. They were very honored and grateful for this and it was awesome to see them excited to help the brand achieve its goals. They also talked lengthy about relationship changes after the wedding, and a new movie called "PINAKAMASARAP NA PARES SA BALAT NG LUPA" which Jerald Napoles did with Pepe Herrera.  

If you spend 2K in any participating Botejyu branch (with a Teishoku meal included), you get 2 FREE Movie Tickets for the film. Branches include SM Cinemas, Robinsons Movieworld, Ayala Malls, Gateway). This is for their August 26 screening. Jerald also lauded the folks from Marketing and Viva boss Vic del Rosario for thinking of this, because it's really going to benefit folks that are looking for deals! 

 Here's more of the press conference!

After seeing all that, are you raring to try TEISHOKU meals (The Complete Japanese Meal) and watch the movie? (ANG PINAKAMASARAP NA PARES SA BALAT NG LUPA). Make sure you also follow Jerald and Kim on socials as they're going to come out with more material from BOTEJYU there!

Vice Ganda Signs Pact with MEDIAQUEST: Now Dubbed As "QUEEN OF ALL NETWORKS"

Wednesdays are just supposed to be just a "regular" middle day of the week, but Vice Ganda and Mediaquest made it even more special as they become partners by signing a creative pact between the giant broadcast arm of the MVP group and Phenomenal Unkabogable Superstar. The event was attended by Slingshot Studios Ranvel Rufino, Ricky Vargas, and Manny Pangilinan who represents Mediaquest Holdings Inc.

For those who don't know, Vice and her team has been behind hit shows and concepts for programs like "It's Showtime!", "Everybody Sing!", "Gandang Gabi Vice" and those that come out of different networks. The MVP group sees her value in these, and they wanted to make sure her reach becomes even greater with their assets, and as Sir Manny Pangilinan says, "ANYTIME is the RIGHT TIME to do it with VICE GANDA". There's a huge opportunity now to have her concepts and ideas become a part for the global audience they cater to.

Vice thanked the MVP Group and asked for support from the public. She felt that she still has so much to contribute even though she has done so much in the previous years.

Vice says "I believe that comfortability is the enemy of achievements. It is the enemy of excellence, the comfortability. I still believe I have something to give, I have something more to unleash!"

Vice also touched on previous conflict and addressed it saying "I am glad that even heartbreaks can heal in time. We had learned things, and create great relationships after a heartbreak. The only fear I have is when I won't feel excited. Hope you support us in this partnership!"

Sir Manny Pangilinan says "I think Vice is a very exceptional person, an exceptional talent and I'm sure we as well are all excited about what content you could bring to TV5. The partnership the combination of capabilities will certainly give a new dimension to not only to TV5 but cuts across the Mediaquest group, the various platforms of PLDT and Smart which I think we need to brief you about so that you can generate more ideas."

 

This is just the start of something big. Congratulations Vice! You are worthy of the title, "Queen of All Networks!" 

WILBERT ROSS and ERIC EJERCITO on Korean-Filipino Produced Film "THE GUARDIAN"

Good news to those who love KDramas, action flicks and worthy series as the film called "THE GUARDIAN" will be shown this September 2nd in cinemas nationwide. This film by Jeong Jang-Hwan stars KPOP Idol Nam Woo Hyun, Park Eun-Hye, Han Jae-Suk, our very own Yassi Pressman, Wilbert Ross and Eric Ejercito. 

This is produced by GV Labs and Will Studios of Korea, and Ovation Productions, Parallax Studio, Robosheep Studios and Viva Films of the Philippines. The film will be distributed by Noori Pictures in South Korea and Viva Films here in the Philippines. In a nutshell, this is BIG!

What's good is that this film is entirely shot and made in the Philippines which means we are more than capable of doing it. The film tells a story of a son (played by Nam Woo Hyun) who sacrificed going to the Philippines to be with his mom who then got kidnapped by Korean gangsters. He needs to save her within 48 hours, a feat that may prove to be difficult within that time frame.

Actor Eric Ejercito says "They work on Korean time and they accomplish everything they have on paper. It's a different system but Filipinos could adapt to it. I've done a few action films but we switched with Wilbert, I did the romcom part. We are both nerds and we got to bond off cam. I am also very organized going to this character because it needs a month long shoot, I prepared for it. We also had them try Filipino food, sisig. They had fun here "

Wilbert says "In the action role, I had to go to Davao but I couldn't because I had to train for it. I worked out and did training, had to push my self because I had no martial arts background. The action sequence went smooth. We went out with the Korean actors, even though there was a language barrier, we got to let them experience night life. The character was new to me, I always play dumb roles but being a villain was so much fun."

Here's the media conference on video:

Producers Wesley Villarica of Parallax Studio Inc. and  Micah Fernandez of Robosheep Studios just confirmed today that the film will also be released by Lionsgate for international distribution. They also shared some appreciation on both sides as they learned a lot on this opportunity to not only line produce, but become actual producers of the film. They also mentioned some issues regarding some issues with other LGU's (which they kept secret) who made the production experience miserable. Good thing Quezon City gave them help, a place to do their work more liberally, and an LGU that really cares when they needed it (permits and locations included) which they hope won't happen if they plan to do movies here again soon. Yes, they plan to do more of these productions now that it has been done. Hopefully, it'll be easier to do (with them in the cast maybe?) but who knows, they might be making one already. 

THE GUARDIAN will be out on theaters this September 2, make sure you watch and support them! 

History, Good Food and Entertainment at THE TRIBUTE HOTEL

Quezon City is my hood. I've known the people and history here because of our familiarity with the families who live here. For us, Tomas Morato wasn't just a name for a street, but the first Mayor of Quezon City 1939 to 1942. He was a loyal friend to President Manuel L. Quezon, and we heard he never divulged his location to the Japanese back in the day. Today, his family lives in a compound in the middle of Tomas Morato. The property is huge and they now dedicated a part of it for The Tribute Tower, a mixed use building that houses THE TRIBUTE HOTEL, the DON TOMAS restaurant and condominium units meant for the Morato family.

To tell you honestly, I haven't heard of The Tribute Hotel prior to this visit. This was built and delayed during the pandemic (understandable). But just hearing there is one made me so excited because there are little to no hotels here despite the popularity of the area. The actual building sits almost at the corner of Scout Gandia and Tomas Morato Avenue (99 Scout Gandia Street Quezon City). It's pretty huge, so you wouldn't miss it. 

I wanted to stay here merely for a "Staycation", I wanted rest and refuge as it's been a while since I got sleep. Checking in was a breeze, the lobby was enough to fit people before going to the room and they served a welcome drink. There were no lines, so when they handed me my key I went up and connected to WIFI because I still had work LOL.

Here's a reel to immortalize that!

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We also got to talk to the GM Christian Guballa who also is part of the Approche Hospitality Management Corporation who manages The Tribute Hotel and several other Sta. Lucia Realty properties.

After a good nap, we headed on to have dinner at the hotel's very own restaurant called "DON TOMAS". It was also a Friday which means they've got an acoustic band to play for patrons who choose to have dinner and a few bottles at this place. Food is good as they've got international dishes served at this place named after the Mayor. Thanks to Chef Erwin Rarugal who made arrangements for us to dine with sampler dishes since we couldn't make our mind choosing what's good for dinner. Take a look at this!

 

If you plan to dine here, I'd suggest Beef Rendang, Chicken Saté, Beef and Tendon (sweeter and soy based), the Chefs Burger (burger patty is pure beef). They also served us Cuapao Sliders, Calamares Fritos, Soft Taco Mussel Sisig, Squid Bombs, Salmon Kimchi, Chicken Biryani, Nasi goreng, Braised Pork, the Carbonara de Tomas (light carbonara salty bacon strips) and their pizzas. For desserts, I would highly suggest you get the Ube Langka Mochi (It must be eaten whole) and the Basque Cheesecake. If you're a matcha lover, get the Tiramisu Matcha.

Here's how it looks like at Don Tomas!

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Here's our short interview with Chef Erwin Rarugal. He also does the food in other properties of Sta. Lucia Realty, experience is good.

 

There are 2 Room Types in The Tribute Hotel, but you can always merge rooms for groups.

They have conference rooms that could fit over a 100 folks, and stay here too.

 

What's good is that they have an INDOOR POOL which you can enjoy even on rainy days! Plus a gym in front if you need it.

Plus a really good view of the neighborhood and nearby attractions in Tomas Morato!

If you like what you see, go head on and take refuge at THE TRIBUTE HOTEL. They can be contacted via their social pages (facebook.com/thetributehotel) or their website thetributehotel.ph. This property is managed and operated by the Approche Hospitality group. They currently have good rates and I'm going back soon!