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Five luxury properties in the Philippines were honored by the website of the prestigious Michelin Guide.

The France-based travel guide awarded the ‘Michelin Key’ distinction to Amanpulo in Palawan, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort, Fairmont Makati, Nay Palad Hideaway Siargao and Raffles Makati, according to information from its website.

They all earned ‘One Michelin Key,’ which ‘set the standard for excellence in Filipino hospitality.’ Based on the Michelin Guide, ‘One Key’ denotes ‘a very special stay,’ where ‘service always goes the extra mile and the hotel provides much more than others in its price range.’

It added the ‘One Michelin Key’ was similar to the ‘Michelin Stars’ awarded to restaurants, wherein a recommended hotel or resort could be given as much as ‘Three Michelin Keys.’

‘As the Michelin Guide broadens its recognition to include outstanding stays, the Philippines debuts on the Michelin Key stage with properties that reflect the nation’s unparalleled warmth and natural beauty,’ wrote the guide on its website.

It added, ‘Each hotel, from city landmark to island escape, offers an experience as memorable as the country itself.’

The five luxury properties awarded each with a ‘One Michelin Key’ were among the 20 hotels and resorts recommended by the Michelin Guide, which also includes Admiral Hotel Manila – MGallery, Hotel Okura Manila at Newport World Resorts, Manila Marriott Hotel at Newport World Resorts, Shangri-La The Fort Manila, Solaire Resort Entertainment City, The Peninsula Manila, Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort, NUSTAR Hotel Cebu, City of Dreams – Nobu Hotel Manila, Grand Hyatt Manila, The Westin Manila, Piece Lio El Nido, The Funny Lion El Nido, Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort and The Lind Boracay.

The Michelin Guide also announced the launch of its expansion to Manila and Cebu on Oct. 30, 2025, wherein its inspectors would ‘seek out the most exceptional dining destinations’ in Manila and neighboring Pampanga, Tagaytay and Cavite, as well as Cebu.

Looking for your next food trip? These dining spots inside SMDC properties are low-key, amazing and worth a visit whether you live nearby or are just dropping in.

From Japanese beef bowls to Tagaytay cafés with a view, these places offer more than good eats. They bring flavor, vibe and convenience to everyday dining.

Here’s where to eat when hunger strikes:

1. Liminvl Coffee – SMDC Strip at Wind Residences, Tagaytay

Liminvl Coffee at SMDC Strip at Wind offers approachable specialty brews in a cozy, home-like space where residents, office workers and coffee lovers gather. Its best-seller is the Apricot Latte, a smooth espresso topped with apricot-infused foam, while favorites like the Americoco, Mushroom Melt, Fish and Chips, and hand-brewed pour-overs keep guests coming back, with seasonal coffee mocktails, an expanded food menu, and upcoming workshops making it a true community hub.

Price range per head: P400 – P700

2. Koibitos Gelato – SMDC Strip at Wind Residences, Tagaytay

Koibitos Gelato brings a little taste of Italy to SMDC Strip at Wind, offering authentic artisanal gelato made fresh daily with Batangas milk and premium ingredients from around the world. Families and kids keep coming back for must-try flavors like Batangas Tablea, Pistachio, Cashew Butter and Kapeng Barako, while adventurous guests go for the affogato with gelato and espresso. More than just dessert, Koibitos creates a space for families and friends to connect, play and relive childhood moments, all while enjoying handcrafted gelato in a warm, thoughtfully designed store.

Price range per head: P450

3. The Bakery – SMDC Strip at Wind Residences, Tagaytay

The Bakery at SMDC Strip at Wind serves freshly baked classics made with quality ingredients, offering favorites like the plain buttery Croissants for a taste of Paris, or Ube Cheese Pandesal, best enjoyed with their café-style coffee. More than a stop for your daily bread, it’s a neighborhood spot where residents and families return for comfort, connection and the simple joy of warm pastries straight from the oven.

Price range per head: P450

4. Tulua Café – SMDC Air Mall, Makati

Tulua Café at SMDC Air Mall is part of the Tulua wellness lifestyle brand, offering guilt-free comfort food crafted with wellness in mind. Known for favorites like Truffle Pasta, the Beach Babe Smoothie and nutrient-packed Smoothie Bowls made with natural sweeteners only, the café sets itself apart with clean recipes, a calming ambiance and interiors designed to nourish both body and mind. Residents, professionals and wellness-seekers come not just for the food but for a mini escape, leaving refreshed, cared for and eager to return.

Price range per head: P500 – P600

5. Umi Sushi – SMDC Air Mall, Makati

Umi Sushi at SMDC Air Mall brings simply good sushi to the heart of Makati, offering freshly made rolls and sets that balance flavor, texture and value. What started as a pandemic-born online brand has grown into a welcoming dine-in spot loved by young professionals, residents and families alike. Must-tries include the Umi Set 1 for variety, Crunchy Salmon for something light and Spicy Tuna or Kamikaze Rolls for a flavorful kick. More than just affordable Japanese dining, Umi Sushi delivers a cozy space where guests feel at home and always leave planning their next visit.

Price range per head: P500

6. Wolhwa Galbi – MAAX, Pasay

Wolhwa Galbi at MAAX brings authentic Korean barbecue from Seoul to Manila, offering premium specialties like the 56-hour Aged Premium Galbi and the 168-hour Dry-aged Samgyupsal, both crafted for unmatched tenderness and flavor.

First-time guests often go for the Gold Course, a curated set featuring signature meats and side dishes, while regulars range from families and office workers to concert-goers from the nearby arena. With over 130 seats, the restaurant is ideal for both casual dining and private gatherings, balancing authenticity and local tastes through traditional Korean recipes with flavors Filipinos love. Every visit is designed to be more than just a meal but a shared experience of flavor, warmth and company, leaving guests saying it’s the closest thing to Korea they’ve tasted.

Price range per head: P599 – P699

7. Sukiya – SMDC Strip at Mezza, Quezon City

SUKIYA, Japan’s famous beef bowl chain, brings authentic Gyudon made with the same recipe, equipment, and methods used in Japan. Guests can choose from five Gyudon sizes or try other favorites like Yakiniku and Yakisoba plates starting at just P75. With its unique fast yet full-service system, the store caters to students, professionals, commuters and families alike. Open for longer hours outside the mall setting, SUKIYA delivers Japan’s beloved fast food experience with flavorful, freshly made meals served quickly and consistently.

Price range per head: P300

8. One Pot – SMDC Strip at Shore Residences, Pasay

One Pot is the go-to spot for unlimited hotpot at SMDC Strip at Shore, offering a fun self-serve setup where you can mix sauces, pick fresh ingredients, and let their automatic hotpot system lift your food when it’s ready. Top picks include the Shrimp Bucket and US Prime Wagyu, along with their playful variety of meatballs like the Golden Chiz Ball and Lobster Ball. With its lively and welcoming vibe, it’s a favorite for families, groups and celebrations, especially with their birthday promo where the celebrant eats free with five paying adults.

Price range per head: P699 – P799

9. Jidong – SMDC Strip at Shore Residences, Pasay

Looking for a drink that’s both refreshing and filling? Jidong, an international brand known for its authentic milk teas, brings its signature flavors to SMDC Strip at Shore. Crowd favorites include the Herbal Jelly Milk Tea, Watermelon Coconut and Mango Coconut, loved for their rich, unique blends. First-timers should try the Mango Coconut, a creamy tropical mix with a hint of coconut milk. Every cup is crafted to deliver consistency, authenticity, and a taste that keeps guests coming back.

Price range per head: P130 – P330

10. Yanggoufu – SMDC Strip at Shore Residences, Pasay

Yangguofu Malatang at SMDC Strip at Shore brings the authentic taste of China’s beloved hotpot-style dish right to the heart of the community. Known for its rich Beef Broth with a light spicy kick, Yangguofu lets you customize every bowl with fresh vegetables, meats and noodles, making each visit a personal culinary adventure.

The self-service concept, paired with their famous condiment bar and attentive service, sets them apart from other dining spots in the area. A favorite among Shore Residences homeowners, visitors and SM employees, Yangguofu has quickly become a go-to destination for flavorful, satisfying meals. First-timers should dive straight into the signature Malatang Beef Broth, a must-try that delivers the perfect balance of spice, umami and comfort.

Price range per head: P350 – P500

11. The Aviary – SMDC Strip at Shore Residences, Pasay

Aviary at SMDC Strip at Shore brings the same calming, nature-inspired vibe it first introduced inside Manila Zoo’s Aviary Sanctuary into a new community setting.

By day, it’s a cozy spot for specialty coffee like the must-try sea-salt latte and refreshing yuzu citron soda, paired with favorites such as salmon ceviche and mala cream dim sum. By night, it transforms into a laid-back cocktail bar, serving globally inspired drinks and hearty mains like honey-glazed salmon with mango salsa and their signature rustic beef burger steak.

With its blend of comfort food, craft cocktails and a serene atmosphere, Aviary offers a pocket of escape in the middle of the bustling MOA complex.

Price range per head: P250 – P500

12. Sweeney Todd – SMDC Jazz Mall, Makati

Sweeney Todd Manila at SMDC Jazz Mall is a hidden speakeasy disguised as a barbershop, offering English-style comfort food, playful cocktails and a cozy vibe that stands out in Makati. Inspired by the movie of the same name, its signature Meat Pie is a crowd favorite, while must-try dishes like Truffle Bacon Pasta, Four Cheese Pizza and Buffalo Wings pair perfectly with drinks such as Blood on the Blade and Amaretto Sour.

The bar draws both professionals unwinding after work and Gen Z crowds on weekends, with themed nights like Tuesday Sing-Alongs and 90s Fridays adding to the fun. It’s a relaxed, music-filled escape where guests leave saying, ‘We’re definitely coming back.’

It was meant to uphold respect between chambers, but has interparliamentary courtesy become a shield for corruption?

As flood control scandals implicate lawmakers, questions arise about whether this political tradition still upholds accountability – or protects those in power.

After a magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck off the coast of Davao Oriental on Friday, October 10, classes and government work in Davao City and other areas have been suspended.

‘In view of the recent earthquake and to give way to the conduct of rapid damage assessment of infrastructures and facilities, classes in all levels, public and private educational institutions, in Davao City are hereby suspended immediately,’ the city government of Davao said in a Facebook post.

Another advisory was issued saying that government office work in Davao City has been suspended until further notice.

‘Private offices and establishments are given the discretion to suspend work or adopt work-from-home arrangements, but are encouraged to do so for the safety and convenience of their employees,’ the local government unit said.

The City Government of Cotabato likewise announced that classes were also suspended in the city.

After the earthquake in Davao, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival Sr. has ordered the suspension of work at Cebu City Hall following the advisories on possible aftershocks.

Here is a running list of all the local government units and schools that have announced class suspensions:

Schools

Davao del Sur State College

Tamugan National High School

Polytechnic College of Davao del Sur

Localities

Davao City

Cotabato City

Koronadal City

Municipality of Maitum

Municipality of Malabuyog

Municipality of Albuera

Municipality of Mabini

Municipality of Santa Maria

Municipality of Sta. Cruz

Sultan Kudarat

During these dark times when the country is going through moral and social challenges, Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula said people are called to act as saints and become ‘beacons of light.’

According to a CBCPNews post, Cardinal Advincula encouraged everyone to ‘normalize sainthood’ and make it part of their everyday life.

Advincula gave this message during the First National Postulation Conference held last Oct. 7 at the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center in Manila, and the launching of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) Office for the Postulation of the Causes of Saints.

He said that the conference held last Tuesday was timely and crucial amid the nation’s moral and social challenges.

‘It was when times were extremely dark that the Lord called saints to serve as beacons of light amid the decadence and despair,’ Advincula said. ‘We are saints in process, and the Lord is not finished with us yet.’

While not identifying specific moral and social challenges, the archbishop made the statement at the time when the country is going through a corruption scandal in government flood control projects.

Advincula also said holiness is not a privilege for only a few people but a call for all the baptized. ‘Let us normalize the idea of sainthood for all, especially among the young people. God did not call the perfect or the ideal – He looked at the heart and the potential,’ the prelate said.

Holiness, he said, is not measured by perfection or miracles but by love, humility and service.

‘The Lord is calling every one of us to be saints – to proclaim the light and joy of the Gospel in our homes, parishes, and communities,’ he added.

Not snap polls, but jail for plunderers

What the country needs is not a new election term but a prison term for the plunderers, CBCP president Kalookan’s Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David said amid calls for a snap election over mounting outrage against corruption in government flood control projects.

Senate minority leader Alan Peter Cayetano suggested last Oct. 5 for all leaders – from the President Marcos to members of Congress – to resign and to hold a snap election.

In response, Cardinal David said that ‘Even if it (the government) fails us, we must not throw it away – it’s something we have built together. Let’s repair it, guard it, and make it work. Not through a coup, not through revolutionary government, not through military rule, not through snap elections.’

‘Let the rule of law work. What we need is not a new election term – but long prison terms for the plunderers,’ he added.

‘We’ve suddenly awakened to the truth that patronage politics and dynastic rule are the greatest plagues of our nation,’ he said.

But there is no simple remedy to the country’s woes because ‘even if all the corrupt officials were to die, they would just be replaced by others like them,’ he said.

‘We are all part of the problem; therefore, we must all be part of the solution. We must help dismantle this culture of corruption,’ he added.

Impeach Marcos?

During Wednesday’s plenary sessions, neophyte lawmaker Rep. Kiko Barzaga said he intends to file an impeachment complaint against President Marcos for alleged ‘betrayal of public trust.’

‘I am filing an impeachment complaint against President Marcos. Hopefully, Congress will remove him soon so we can start investigating those involved in flood control anomalies,’ the 27-year-old lawmaker said.

However, Barzaga only showed the document (Marcos impeachment suit) in his vlog, where he accused the Chief Executive of ‘betrayal of public trust.’

‘Welcome back to the crocodile farm. The crocodiles are absent again, they are in vacation,’ he said, smiling in his vlog as he showed a video of the chamber’s plenary hall. ‘And I have another surprise – the Marcos impeachment complaint! Ameow hehehe Bye Bye Marcos.’

The Cavite fourth district congressman has not filed any complaint yet before the office of House secretary general Cheloy Garafil.

Marcos Jr. too busy

President Marcos is too preoccupied with his responsibilities to pay attention to the effort of Barzaga to impeach him, Malacañang said yesterday.

Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said filing an impeachment complaint is within the power of the House of Representatives, but the President is too busy to deal with such discussions.

‘At a time when the President is attending to a lot of things, these kinds of discussions are ignored. The President is busy helping our countrymen; many jobs are needed to uplift the Philippines, not to lower the dignity of the country,’ the Palace press officer said at a briefing.

Asked if Marcos is paying attention to Barzaga, Castro replied: ‘Just a smile.’

Castro said it is easy to make allegations, but the public should not believe in claims that are not backed by evidence.

US talent management A-Nexus Inc. announced that global unit Quadlips has added another member, Mashiro, a talented rising star from KLP48.

This marks a milestone in Quadlips’ journey as they continue to expand their diverse lineup of exceptionally talented Asian artists.

Formed in 2023, Quadlips serves as the global unit of the AKB48 Group, bringing together select members from various countries as they continue making waves in the Asian pop music scene.

The lineup currently features FENI (JKT48), COLE (MNL48) from the Philippines, FAME (BNK48), and now Mashiro, who adds a fresh dynamic to further create a diverse ensemble poised for global appeal.

Mashiro, hailing from Japan’s Nara Prefecture, is a proud representative of the second generation of KLP48 (Kuala Lumpur) and was announced as Quadlips’ new member at Japan’s Oshi Tera Idol Matsuri event last month.

“Mashiro’s arrival will not only enrich the group’s performance repertoire but also infuse her exceptional talent and stage presence into our collective work, the Quadlips,” said A-Nexus management.

The singer herself expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity

“I can’t wait to share my passion for music and performance with fans around the world,” Mashiro said. “I look forward to collaborating with FENI, COLE, and FAME to create unforgettable experiences together.”

Quadlips is actively promoting its latest single, “IDGA,” which debuted in the Philippines last August.

In the coming months, Filipino fans will also have the chance to connect with the group through select mall shows, along with opportunities to meet and greet their favorite members.

Aboitiz InfraCapital Water is looking to play a role in securing Cebu’s water future through sustainable medium-and long-term projects, including desalination and surface water solutions.

According to the company, Metro Cebu faces an estimated 350 million-liter daily water supply deficit as of 2025 in Metro Cebu.

In an interview with the media yesterday following the Cebu Water Summit 2025, Aboitiz InfraCapital vice president and head of Water Business, Eduardo Aboitiz, emphasized the company’s strong commitment to Cebu.

‘Cebu is my home and it holds a very special place in my heart, and in the hearts of the Aboitiz family as well. We are deeply invested here and we want to continue investing in Cebu’s future,’ Aboitiz said.

He explained that part of his speech during the Summit was to introduce Aboitiz InfraCapital Water and share its success in Davao, where its bulk water supply project has positively impacted the community.

‘It was really about sharing our story and also a call to action for all relevant stakeholders to work together and approach this collectively,’ he added.

Aboitiz said the company is currently conducting market studies and is eyeing two major solutions: a desalination plant as a medium-term option and a large-scale surface water project as a long-term solution.

‘These things don’t happen overnight. It takes time and careful planning,’ he noted, adding that the company already has a presence in the province, with three existing water operations.

These are the industrial water distribution in Balamban, the West Cebu Industrial Park in Toledo, and the 5-million liters-per-day (MLD) bulk water supply mini-desalination project at the Mactan Economic Zone 2 in Lapu-Lapu City, which began operations two months ago.

‘This facility currently supplies all the water requirements of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport,’ Aboitiz said.

Looking ahead, Aboitiz InfraCapital Water aims to scale up through partnerships.

‘Over the next two years, we’d like to explore public-private partnerships. As I mentioned earlier, we’re looking at both medium-term and long-term proposals that we want to push forward in partnership with government and other stakeholders,’ Aboitiz shared.

The company’s move comes amid Cebu’s continuing water supply challenges, with increasing demand driven by rapid urban development and population growth.

In the same interview, Engr. Maria Nenita Jumao-as, executive director of the University of San Carlos Water Resources Center Foundation, Inc. (USCWRCFI), said: ‘Water is a very big issue. There are different phases, water supply, usage, and disposal. And wastewater treatment is one of the biggest concerns in Cebu today.’

According to Engr. Jon Paulo Siglos, president of the Federation of Accredited Professional Organizations of Region VII, said the lack of a centralized sewage system in Cebu remains a critical gap in the region’s water management framework.

‘We do have septage treatment, but it’s not enough. What’s the point of producing so much clean water if, in the end, it ends up polluting our rivers and seas? That’s why this is one of the priority for the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (PIChE),’ Siglos said.

Jumao-as said that if at least three large dams are being built, then that gap (water supply deficit) can be significantly reduced, and although it’s a big challenge, it’s not impossible.

However, Siglos added that the problem is not that there is no water at all, but rather insufficient infrastructure to treat, store, and distribute water efficiently including proper wastewater treatment.

The Cebu Water Summit 2025, themed ‘Taking the Challenge, Firming Up Actions NOW!’, brought together government, industry, academe, and civil society leaders to consolidate actions for Cebu’s water security through the IWRM-DEAP framework – Integrated Water Resources Management through Data Sharing, Education and Awareness, and Policy Advocacy.

IWRM-DEAP outlines the following key actions:

I – Institutionalize IWRM: Promote inter-LGU coordination and collaboration, create an IWRM Council, and identify water champions to drive local action;

D – Data Sharing: Establish an IWRM Knowledge Center and online portal for evidence-based decisions, integrating climate change data and research outputs;

E – Education and Awareness: Strengthen knowledge sharing, conduct trainings, workshops, and campaigns to build capacity and public understanding of water issues;

A – Advocacy: Pursue policies supporting unified water governance, including the proposed Department of Water to address fragmented mandates;

P – Partnership: Deepen collaboration among LGUs, NGAs, academe, private sector, and CSOs to ensure shared responsibility and long-term sustainability.

Supported by the Department of Science and Technology-7 (DOST-7) and partner institutions, the Summit reaffirmed Cebu’s collective commitment to ‘secure every drop’ through science-based and inclusive solutions.

Paris Olympian Aleah Finnegan, presently training in Manila, is confident that the Philippine staging of the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships next month will further accelerate the promotion and development of the dynamic Olympic sport in the country.

‘I really think it is really important that our young girls will see high level gymnastics in the Philippines,’ said Finnegan, looking forward to the blue-ribbon junior gymnastics competition set for Nov. 20 to 24 at the Manila Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom located inside the Newport World Resorts in Pasay City.

‘Most of these young girls who may go into gymnastics just watching the athletes on TV or social media. But now we are actually bringing in high-level athletes to inspire and push them. It is the junior worlds, after all, so the athletes competing will be very talented,’ she noted.

A double gold medalist in the 2023 31st Southeast Asian Games, the comely athlete said that hosting the global elite junior gymnastics meet supported by the Office of the President and the Philippine Sports Commission is timely just a year since Carlos Edriel Yulo scored a historic gymnastics Olympic golden double in the French capital.

‘So the goal is that these Filipino athletes and gymnasts will be inspired once the gymnastics showcase gets going. We want to show the world that the Philippines is here to play,’ Finnegan said. ‘We don’t want to be overlooked and show we really are pushing for the sports of gymnastics.’

Fondly recalling that she started her own gymnastics journey at the young age of two, the gymnast was delighted that the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships will be held while she’s gearing for the next world seniors in Jakarta, Indonesia next month and the 33rd Thailand Southeast Asian Games in December.

‘I am actually really surprised that it is lined up well, and that I am here. I am really excited to be a part of it and help out the federation with whatever they need,’ she said.

At least one person has been reported dead due to the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck off the coast of Davao Oriental on Friday, October 10.

The earthquake struck off 44 kilometers northeast of Manay, prompting state seismologists to issue a tsunami warning in several coastal areas. The area is still being affected by aftershocks.

The local government unit (LGU) of Davao City announced that ‘there is one confirmed fatality related to the earthquake incident.’

Local officials have already reached out to the family of the deceased to extend necessary aid.

Meanwhile, the LGU also said that they tended to 347 people who experienced fainting or sustained minor injuries. They are now in stable condition, they said.

The City Engineer’s Office and the Department of Public Works and Highways has assessed the Bankerohan Bridge, Bolton Bridge, Davao River Bridge and San Rafael Bridge.

‘No major structural damage was found. All four bridges are declared safe for vehicular traffic,’ the LGU said.

While the epicenter of the earthquake came from the sea, tremors were felt in parts of Mindanao and Visayas, primarily in the Davao region.

The earthquake-affected areas remain under red alert as search and rescue operations continue.

Home Credit Philippines, the country’s leading consumer finance company, is excited for its exclusive pre-order offers for the highly anticipated generation of iPhones-iPhone Air, iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

From October 9 to 16, customers can secure their new iPhones and enjoy 0% interest for up to 24 months through Home Credit, making it its best offers to date.

Affordable daily installment rates:

iPhone Air – for as low as P76/day

iPhone 17 – for as low as P61/day

iPhone 17 Pro – for as low as P83/day

iPhone 17 Pro Max – for as low as P90/day

Why choose Home Credit?

Fast approval with just 1 valid ID

0% interest for up to 24 months

Pre-order made easy and accessible in all major Apple resellers nationwide

Home Credit Philippines continues to make premium devices more attainable for Filipinos. With its quick approvals and flexible installment plans, owning or upgrading to the latest generation iPhone has never been easier.

‘We’re honored to once again be part of bringing the latest generation of iPhones to the Filipinos.’ said Puneet Suneja, chief sales officer of Home Credit Philippines. ‘Filipinos have always had a strong affinity for iPhones, and we’re excited to continue making ownership easier and more affordable than ever.’

Customers can browse available units and store locations via Shoppingmall.ph, then proceed with pre-ordering at their preferred store.

Download the Home Credit App on Google Play or App Store for quick pre-approval or speak to a Home Credit sales representative at any partner store.