Ati Komunidad Takes on Nito Weaving, Preserves Boracay’s Heritage

 

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) celebrated this year’s Thanksgiving by supporting the Ati Komunidad of Boracay as they took on the challenge of mastering nito weaving, a traditional Filipino craft. Anchored on the theme “Weaving Heritage, Planting Hope,” the project underscores MHR’s commitment to preserving Filipino craftsmanship while creating sustainable income opportunities for indigenous communities.

 

Ms. Maia Israel (seated at center), Area General Manager of Boracay Newcoast, and the heads of departments of Chancellor Hotel Boracay supported Ati Komunidad as they train on nito weaving conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry.

“The Ati people are the original caretakers of Boracay. By nurturing livelihood opportunities for them, we honor their legacy and help ensure that progress on the island includes them. They are the heart of this island long before it became the destination we all know today. By investing in programs like nito weaving, we hope to uplift their lives and give back to the community that has given us so much,” Ms. Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, said.

 

19 members of Ati Komunidad actively participated in the 10-day nito weaving training organized by Chancellor Hotel Boracay.

Celebrating Heritage and Craftsmanship at Chancellor Hotel Boracay

Each year, MHR chooses a beneficiary community to honor during its Thanksgiving tradition. This year, the group extends its support to the Ati community in Boracay. As part of the initiative, MHR hosted a 10-day nito weaving training and graduation in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The training was held at the Ati Village beginning November 10, 2025 and gathered 19 Ati participants eager to learn the craft from Francia Escote, an accredited DTI trainer whose own journey began as a student in similar workshops. 

Today, Escote runs her own brand, Franz Handicrafts, and now teaches others how to turn this heritage craft into a sustainable livelihood. The training culminated on November 21 during MHR’s annual Thanksgiving celebration at the soon- to-open Chancellor Hotel Boracay. Top MHR executives and the Provincial Director of DTI-Aklan, Mr. Romel Amihan, personally awarded certificates to all 19 graduates. All participants were honored and given the chance to showcase their handcrafted nito creations.

The Ati Komunidad is the chosen partner community of Boracay Newcoast properties under the MEGreen Mindful Stay initiative.

 

Part of the Thanksgiving celebration is the introduction of MHR’s MEGreen Mindful Stays, the unified sustainability stay program designed for today’s rising breed of conscious travelers who seek meaning and positive impact in every journey, in which the Ati Komunidad is the partner community of Boracay Newcoast properties. 

“We all know that nito is flexible, durable, and naturally beautiful, just like the Ati,” said Maia Israel, Area General Manager of Boracay Newcoast properties. “We see in you the same resilience and hard work that continue to thrive despite changing times. As vanguards of Filipino culture and heritage, MHR hopes to help preserve the art of nito weaving. That is why we partnered with DTI-Aklan, who guided us in learning this skill, which can also serve as an additional source of livelihood.”

L-R: Mr. Arturo Boncato Jr. (Group General Manager of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts), Ms. Maia Israel (Area General Manager for Boracay Newcoast), Mr. Romel Amihan (Provincial Director of DTI- Aklan), Ms. Cleofe Albiso (Managing Director), Mr. Socrates Alvaro (Cluster General Manager – Boracay), and Mr. Avinash Menon (Cluster General Manager – Visayas), awarded certificates to all Ati Komunidad members who attended the training for nito weaving.

 

Love for Country Shines

Nito weaving, a tradition rooted deeply in Filipino and indigenous artistry, uses the strong and glossy nito vine to produce baskets, placemats, trays, bags, hats, jars, and other lifestyle pieces. Aklan is home to many nito artisans, and its weaving industry continues to thrive locally and internationally. 

The practice is both a livelihood and a social activity. In the past, women once gathered to weave as they bonded with family, often passing on the skill to their daughters through shared moments of crafting. One Ati trainee fondly recalled weaving vines into baskets with her mother as a child. By reviving nito weaving, MHR helps ensure that this timeless Filipino craft continues to be celebrated by future generations.

 

This initiative mirrors MHR’s Circle of Happiness pillar, Love for Country, which champions the preservation and celebration of Filipino culture and heritage. Through this initiative, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts hopes to open new doors for the Ati Komunidad, connecting them to potential buyers, local retailers, and exporters who continue to see the value and beauty of handwoven nito products. May this inspire more people to discover their work and, in their own way, help keep this meaningful craft alive. 

Megaworld Hotels and Resorts: Global One Hotel Group Inc., 22nd Floor, Alliance Global Tower, 36th Street corner 11th Avenue, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634. E-mail: salesinquiry@megaworldhotels.com. Website: www.megaworldhotels.com.

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Champions Conscious Tourism, Introduces MEGreen Mindful Stays.

As mindful travel continues to shape the future of tourism, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR), the largest hotel operator in the Philippines, is embracing the movement with the launch of MEGreen Mindful Stays, which is a unified sustainability stay program designed for today’s rising breed of conscious travelers who seek meaning and positive impact in every journey.

 

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts introduces its MEGreen Mindful Stays which will be available across MHR properties

“At Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, we want to do more for the growing movement of mindful travelers and become instrumental in this important shift. The recent disasters we have witnessed across the Philippines remind us that sustainability is no longer optional, it is the only way we should go forward. Through MEGreen Mindful Stays, we hope to inspire guests to travel with deeper intention,” Cleofe Albiso, MHR Managing Director, said. 

“Mindful travel goes beyond choosing greener options, it calls for a complete shift in mindset. It is about understanding the impact of every decision we make while traveling, from how we consume to how we connect with local communities. By embracing this mindset, we can collectively create more meaningful journeys for our guests,” she added.

 

MEGreen Mindful Stays is MHR's unified sustainability program embracing the growing number of mindful travelers

MEGreen Mindful Stays is rooted in MHR’s long-standing commitment to environmental responsibility and community empowerment. The program reflects the group’s belief that hotel stays can be greener while making a greater difference. Guests are encouraged to make thoughtful choices throughout their visit, becoming active partners in shaping a more sustainable tourism landscape in the Philippines.

 

Seated from left: Mr. Arturo Boncato Jr. (Group General Manager of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts), Ms. Samantha Manuel (Group Director of Digital Marketing and Reputation Management), Ms. Cleofe Albiso (Managing Director), Ms. Maia Israel (Area General Manager for Boracay Newcoast), Mr. Socrates Alvaro (Cluster General Manager – Boracay), and joined the media in a roundtable discussion about mindful travel and hospitality

Designed to celebrate sustainability, community, and purposeful travel, MEGreen Mindful Stay invites guests to slow down and savor experiences rooted in intention. A minimum two-night stay comes with well-balanced and locally sourced dishes, carefully curated turndown touches, and keepsakes that inspire mindful living long after the trip. Travelers may opt for the MEGreen Mindful Stays program in any MHR property across the country. 

Supporting Communities Across the Philippines

A portion of each booking directly supports MHR’s partner communities and initiatives across its destinations, including the Ati Komunidad in Boracay, which preserves indigenous heritage and livelihoods; Project PEARLS in Manila, which provides nourishment and educational support to underprivileged children; Visit Iloilo Campaign, which supports various heritage, culture, and art- based programs and advocacies in Iloilo; Coral Reef Care in Mactan, Cebu, focused on reef restoration and marine protection; and the Highland Farmers & Forest Guardianship initiative in Tagaytay City (Cavite), which sustains farm-to-table harvests and preserves cool-climate greenery.

 

Chancellor Hotel Boracay Newcoast, MHR's latest property

Aside from the abovementioned room package, MHR is also integrating deliberate, property-wide actions that make sustainable habits more effortless for guests, from greener dining choices to responsibly sourced amenities and operational practices designed to minimize environmental impact.

 

Chancellor Hotel Boracay Newcoast adds an additional 554 rooms

The soon-to-open Chancellor Hotel Boracay is MHR’s newest 554-room property in the tourism estate of Boracay Newcoast known for its private beach and stunning views of the iconic keyhole rock formation. Positioned between Belmont Hotel Boracay’s business-and-meetings escape and Savoy Hotel Boracay’s vibrant energy, Chancellor Hotel Boracay offers immersive, wellness-led experiences that encourage guests to slow down, reconnect, and savor the very best of the island.

 

The hotel lobby

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts: Global One Hotel Group Inc., 22/F, Alliance Global Tower, 36th Street corner 11th Avenue, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila.  E-mail: salesinquiry@megaworldhotels.com. Website: www.megaworldhotels.com. 

A Christmas Safari of Flavors (Kingsford Hotel Manila, Paranaque City, Metro Manila)

 

As the Christmas season approaches, Kingsford Hotel Manila proudly unveils its 2025 Jungle Jolly Hampers, a festive collection thoughtfully crafted to elevate the spirit of giving. Whether shared with family, gifted to friends, or presented as a meaningful corporate token, each hamper is designed to spark joy, strengthen connections, and bring the warmth of Filipino holiday traditions to every celebration. 

This year’s Jungle Jolly Hamper collection highlights the hotel’s passionate dedication to creating gifts that feel personal, purposeful, and full of festive cheer. From intimate home gatherings to office celebrations and client appreciation, these hampers offer a delightful way to show gratitude, share love, and make every December moment truly memorable. 

From Our Kitchen to Your Holiday Table

“Kingsford Hotel Manila is committed to elevating every holiday celebration through products that reflect both quality and heart. Our Jungle Jolly Hamper showcases the craftsmanship of our culinary team and our dedication to creating meaningful experiences for our guests and partners. This year’s collection is designed to bring families together and to make every gathering feel extra special,” General Manager Jorold Montelibano shared. 

Guided by this philosophy, each pastry and snack inside the hamper is crafted with intention of comforting, festive, and irresistibly flavorful. From classic Filipino touches like Sampaguita Polvoron to indulgent loaves, cookies, and marshmallows, every item is made to celebrate togetherness. 

Two Festive Hampers to Choose From

The Big Hamper (Php 2,500 NET) is filled with a generous selection of pastries, sweets, and holiday essentials, making it ideal for families, valued clients, or premium gifting.

Inside, you’ll find a delightful assortment that includes a Harri Keychain, Sampaguita Polvoron, Blueberry Banana Muffin, Garlic Parmesan Loaf, Zabana Rum Loaf, Banana Loaf, Kingsford XO Nuts, Pistachio Crisps, Pistachio Crinkles, Christmas Madeleines, Snickerdoodle and Black Forest Cookies, Chocolate Mango Marshmallows, and a bottle of Emperador Original Classic Brandy Liqueur.

 

Bring home the jungle joy! Festive flavors, cheerful treats, and holiday magic in every box.

Meanwhile, the Small Hamper (Php 1,800 NET) offers a thoughtfully packed array of holiday goodies perfect for colleagues, friends, or intimate family gifting. It features a Harri Keychain, Sampaguita Polvoron, Blueberry Banana Muffin, Garlic Parmesan Loaf, Zabana Rum Loaf, Kingsford XO Nuts, Pistachio Crisps, Christmas Madeleines, Chocolate Mango Marshmallows, and Emperador Original Classic Brandy Liqueur, everything you need for a festive and heartwarming treat.

 

Thoughtfully curated. Elegantly presented. The perfect gift for family, friends, clients, teams, and loved ones.

The Jungle Jolly Hampers are more than holiday boxes, they’re meaningful gifts filled with flavors made to spark joy, bring families together, and reflect the playful magic of Kingsford’s Jingle in the Jungle holiday celebration. 

Now accepting orders! Spread the joy this Christmas, one hamper at a time.

Kingsford Hotel Manila

 Kingsford Hotel Manila: Bagong Nayong Pilipino, Entertainment City, Tambo, Paranaque City, Metro Manila 1701, Philippines.  Tel: +632 8538 6388 loc. 8408.  Mobile number: +63 917 859 5307 and +63917 306 3911.  E-mail: dine@kingsfordmanila.com.

Fuss-free Organized Holidays with Loc&Stor 24/7 (Metro Manila)

 

The holiday season is famously the most wonderful time of the year. We look forward to shimmering lights, festive gatherings, and the sheer joy of giving. But let’s be honest, that joy often comes bundled with a generous serving of chaos: Your precious Christmas décor is lost somewhere under last year’s hobby articles. Gifts pile up, turning your living room into an obstacle course. For entrepreneurs, seasonal inventory, event booth materials, and client giveaways seize control of vital office space. The good news? The secret to surviving—and thriving—during the holiday rush isn’t just about cleaning up; it’s about clearing out.

Master the Rule of “Right Now”

At home and in the office identify items that are not currently essential to your daily life—unused sports equipment, bulk linens, old files, archived client files, excess office supplies, and old display materials. If you don’t need it daily, it shouldn’t be clogging up your prime real estate.

Designate a “Gift Central” Zone 

If you’re doing bulk shopping, those presents quickly dominate kitchen tables and spare corners. Designate a small, temporary area for wrapping only—and if that area is already full of existing clutter, it’s time to move the clutter out!

 Clear the Holiday Inventory Roadblocks

Businesses thrive on holiday sales, but seasonal merchandise, giveaway boxes, and booth standees can turn a productive workspace into a warehouse. Clear out any non-essential inventory that is blocking walkways or taking over meeting rooms. After the immediate clean-up, where do all those non-essential items go? This is where Loc&Stor 24/7 steps in as the organized holiday’s secret weapon.

J.P. Rizal Makati Facility

How Loc&Stor 24/7 Solves Your Holiday Stress: Loc&Stor 24/7 offers the perfect stress-free solution to conquer holiday clutter, allowing you to easily declutter your home for guests, hide gifts, or safely store seasonal decorations until the new year. Crush the holiday clutter with these smart space-saving tips from Loc&Stor 24/7:

•  The Christmas Décor Vault: For a seamless and stress-free holiday season next, avoid the perennial problem of searching for lost lights or broken ornaments by storing all your bulky Christmas décor—from tinsel and wreaths to giant Santa statues—in a clean, climate-controlled environment for instant retrieval. To maximize both efficiency and protection, utilize vertical space with shelves to neatly arrange your items. Employ durable boxes with clear labels for fast, hassle-free decorating and cleanup. Prioritize safety and access by choosing Loc&Stor 24/7’s well-lit facility that allows for easy sorting and safe organizing of fragile items.
• The Bulk Buy & Gift Sorting Hub: Transform your secure unit into the ultimate holiday headquarters, using the space to discreetly hold bulk purchases, seasonal décor, and deliveries, keeping them safe from curious eyes, especially children. Small units at Loc&Stor 24/7, starting at around P4,500 and capable of fitting up to 20 balikbayan boxes, offer an highly affordable solution for short-term holiday use. Even better, 24/7 access means you can sort and wrap gifts anytime your schedule allows, while the climate-controlled environment ensures a cool and comfortable space during those long gift-wrapping sessions. (Note: Price may change without prior notice.)
• Inventory Management for Entrepreneurs: Enjoy efficient inventory management through Loc&Stor’s eight flexible unit sizes ranging from Largantic Lockers (fitting up to eight balikbayan boxes for smaller event supplies) to Jumbo Units (18 sq. m. and up, ideal for bulk inventory). Streamlined logistics further facilitate stock management with convenient loading/unloading docks and ample parking designed to support frequent deliveries and large inventory drops, making the process hassle-free. Finally, adaptable rental terms empower businesses to easily upsize or downsize their units as inventory fluctuates, perfectly aligning with seasonal demands and optimizing costs.
• Guest-Ready Guarantee: Instantly transform your cluttered spare room into a welcoming, guest-ready space by moving these items out. Loc&Stor 24/7 provides free trolleys and ladders for hassle-free furniture moving, ensuring a smooth transition into a clean and well-maintained facility, designed to feel like an extension of your home or office. Take advantage of the short-term rental options, perfect for holiday-only decluttering, with a minimum rental period of just one month.

North EDSA Facility

Make your holidays truly hassle-free by taking advantage of Loc&Stor 24/7’s special holiday offer: Get 3 Months for the Price of 2! Pay upfront and secure your storage unit today. Sign up by calling (02) 7902-1898, email talk2us@locnstor247.com or visit: www.locnstor247.com.  Play it smart this season and avail of this holiday offer until December 31, 2025.

Sucat Facility

Loc&Stor 24/7’s modern, accessible facilities, open 8AM - 5PM, Mondays to Saturdays (storage facilities open 24/7), are strategically located in the following locations to serve the storage needs of families and businesses within and around Metro Manila:

• 54 E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave. (C5), Brgy. Bagong Ilog, Pasig City, Metro Manila. Tel: (02) 8570-2561 and (02) 902-1898.  Mobile numbers: (0916) 567-3004 (Globe) and (0998) 968-9746 (Smart).
• 7192A Urban Ave., Brgy. Pio Del Pilar, Makati City, Metro Manila. Tel: (02) 8810-9556 and (02) 7902-1898. Mobile numbers: (0917) 706-9362 (Globe) and (0919) 912-6800 (Smart).
• 155 JP Rizal, Space Solutions Bldg., Brgy. Tejeros, Makati City, Metro Manila. Tel: (02) 7902-1898. Mobile numbers: (0917) 709-5390 (Globe) and (0949) 992-5657 (Smart).
• 1238 Epifanio de los Santos Ave., Brgy, Apolonio Samson, Balintawak, Quezon City, Metro Manila. Tel: (02) 8353-6936. Mobile numbers: (0917) 703-4159 (Globe) and (0908) 819-1952 (Smart).
• RLX Warehouse, Meralco Road, Sucat, Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila. Tel: (02) 7902-1898. Mobile numbers: (0917) 711-8854 (Globe) and (0998) 537-6224 (Smart).

SSAA Award Trophy

Last May 22, 2025, at The Grand Hall, Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan, Loc&Stor 24/7 was once again been named the 2025 Multi-Site Operator Store of the Year – Philippines at the Self-Storage Awards Asia, marking its fourth consecutive win since 2022.

Pasig Facility

The Self Storage Awards Asia recognizes industry leaders who set new benchmarks in customer service and innovation. As flexible self-storage becomes an increasingly essential solution for families, entrepreneurs, and businesses, Loc&Stor 24/7 continues to provide world-class, secure, and accessible storage spaces that empower storers to succeed.

Urban Makati Facility

Don’t let clutter steal your Christmas cheer. This year, reclaim your space, empower your business, and focus on what truly matters: celebration and joy. For photos please click on the link; https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZwlUeK6O9w2WAOaNoK67wJjpIxUt7z2b?usp=sharing.

ERA: Healing Hearts (Makati City, Metro Manila)

 

ERA: Healing Hearts

The Philippine IATA Agents Travel Association (PIATA) and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Philippines Chapter proudly announce their first-ever collaborative fundraising concert, ERA: Healing Hearts, a landmark initiative dedicated to supporting survivors of recent calamities in Cebu. 

The concert, takin place on December 10, 2025, Wednesday, at 7:00 PM at RJ Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City, Metro Manila, will feature the iconic Filipina pop rock musician Ms. Lou Bonnevie alongside a lineup of celebrated artists such as Ramon "RJ" Jacinto, disc jockey, recording artist and remixer John Robinson, Rhada and OPM balladeer Bimbo "Bo" Cerrudo, all coming together for a meaningful cause.

This historic collaboration marks the first time PIATA and PATA Philippines have united to spearhead a large-scale mental health and humanitarian mission for survivors of the September 30, 2025 earthquake in Bogo City and the Cebu communities in Talisay City and Barangay Cotcot in Liloan, which were affected by Super Typhoon Uwan (international name: Fung-wong). 

This meaningful event is made possible through the generous support of Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), SABRE, Bluewater Resorts, and China Airlines. Their commitment to community healing and mental health advocacy is instrumental in bringing this initiative to life.

While natural disasters leave visible scars in the form of destroyed homes and infrastructure, the emotional and psychological impact on survivors often goes unseen. Many children and adults continue to experience post-traumatic stress, emotional distress, and profound loss. 

To address this urgent need, a team of therapists, counselors, and psychologists will conduct a three-day therapy program in Bogo, offering specialized sessions for both children and adults. This program aims to provide structured emotional support, a safe environment for expression, and a critical first step toward healing. 

Through ERA: Healing Hearts, PIATA and PATA Philippines Chapter hope not only to raise funds but also to shine a light on the importance of mental health care in disaster-stricken communities. The concert promises an unforgettable evening of music, solidarity, and hope—demonstrating the power of community, sponsors, and artistry in helping hearts heal. 

Tickets, available at the concert venue, are priced at Php1,800 (with one drink). For inquiries, contact mobile numbers (0917) 585-2213 (Ms. Ma. Paz), (0927) 322-9997  (Ms. Mary Fe) and (0916) 793-7386 (Mrs. Ma. Anne).

Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension Latest News

The Pokémon Company is pleased to share the following news about the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 software title Pokémon Legends: Z-A and the Nintendo Switch 2 software title Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, as well as the Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension DLC.

Mega Lucario

 

A video showcasing the latest information about Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension is now available on the official Pokémon YouTube channel. Please check out the reveal trailer of Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension | Mega Lucario Z at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ee8xkzBfT3o.

 

Mega Lucario Z

Mega Lucario Z, a Mega Evolution of the Aura Pokémon Lucario, appears in Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension It was determined to be a Mega Evolution rather than a regular Evolution, based on how its form changes through exposure to a Mega Stone and its increase in power far outshining that of an average Lucario. It is called Mega Lucario Z in order to differentiate it from the previously discovered Mega Lucario.

 

Mega Lucario Z

Category: Aura Pokémon

Type: Fighting/Steel

Height: 4’-3” (1.3 m.)

Weight: 108.9 lbs. (49.4 kgs.)

 

While Mega Lucario, the Mega Evolution of Lucario, appears in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the newly discovered Mega Lucario Z will be appearing in Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension. 

Z Mega Evolutions, such as Mega Lucario Z, need less time to fire off moves after receiving an order. But Z Mega Evolutions also burn through Mega Power very quickly, making them less suited for long battles, so Trainers must try to settle matches as fast as possible! 

Mega Mewtwo

Starting December 2, 2025, Trainers can receive a Mewtwonite X stone and a Mewtwonite Y stone through the Mystery Gifts feature in Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, and Mewtwo’s extra side mission will become available. 

If Trainers beat this mission, they will be able to add the Legendary Pokémon Mewtwo to their team. Trainers can use the Mega Stones you get through the Mystery Gift feature to Mega Evolve Mewtwo into Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Mewtwo Y.

Mega Mewtwo X

 

Note: In order to play Mewtwo’s extra side mission, Trainers will need to have completed the main story of the Pokémon Legends: Z-A or Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition game.

 

Mega Mewtwo Y

If Trainers have Mewtwo hold a Mewtwonite X stone, it will be able to mega evolve into Mega Mewtwo X. If Trainers have it hold a Mewtwonite Y stone, it will be able to mega evolve into Mega Mewtwo Y.

 

Mewtwo

Category: Genetic Pokémon

Type: Psychic

Height: 6’7” (2.0 m.)

Weight: 269 lbs. (122.0 kgs.)

 

Mega Mewtwo X

Category: Genetic Pokémon

Type: Psychic/Fighting

Height: 7’-7” (2.3 m.)

Weight: 280 lbs. (127.0 kgs.)

 

Mega Mewtwo Y

Category: Genetic Pokémon

Type: Psychic

Height: 4’-11” (1.5 m.)

Weight: 72.8 lbs. (33.0 kgs.)

 

In order to play Mewtwo’s extra side mission, Trainers will need to claim a Mewtwonite X stone and Mewtwonite Y stone in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Trainers may check whether they have claimed these Mega Stones from their satchel’s Mega Stones pocket.

 

Mega Stones

Trainers can receive gifts of Mewtwonite X and Mewtwonite Y stones by selecting Get via Internet from the Mystery Gift menu in their game. Once the Trainers claimed their Mewtwonite X and Mewtwonite Y stones, they should try heading to Lysandre Café. It seems that some systems will reactivate in response to the Mega Stones if they venture into the deepest areas of Lysandre Labs. 

Lysandre_Café_

Trainers can play Mewtwo’s extra side mission in both Pokémon Legends: Z- A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. Trainers will need to connect their Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 system to the internet. To connect to the internet, the Trainers’ user profile must be linked to a Nintendo Account. It takes approximately one hour of playtime before the Trainers are able to access the Mystery Gift feature. Mewtwonite Y and Mewtwonite X stones can be received in either the physical version or the digital version. 

In addition to the Nintendo Switch title Pokémon Legends: Z-A, there will also be a version released for Nintendo Switch 2: Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. 

This Nintendo Switch 2 software title will take advantage of the specs of Nintendo Switch 2 to offer improved graphics and frame rates during your adventure in Lumiose City. 

The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will also be playable on Nintendo Switch. When playing the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition on the Nintendo Switch system, the content will be the same as that of the Nintendo Switch software. Additional features and content that utilize the Nintendo Switch 2 system’s specs will not be included. 

For more information, please visit the official site at https://legends.pokemon.com/en-us. For more photos, click on https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iNkzqcBgUculI8VpeA0nZ4sD6TEEBbq

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Lands Major Recognitions in Two Prestigious Hospitality Awards

 

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR), the Philippines’ largest homegrown hospitality chain, continues to make remarkable strides in the Philippine hospitality industry as it took home the 11th Virtus Awards and the 28th Mabuhay Awards, two of the country’s most prestigious award-giving bodies. These recognitions highlighted not only MHR’s creativity and talent pool, but also its unwavering commitment to purpose-driven leadership, inclusivity, and Filipino hospitality.

 

Ms. Rose Libongco (Virtus Award Chair), Ms. Loleth So (HSMA President), Ms. Cielo Reboredo (Director for Public Relations),  Ms. Jennylyn Santillan (Director of Programs) and Mr. Jos Ortega (Virtus Juror) joined the MHR executives Ms. Cleofe Albiso (Managing Director), Mr. Art Boncato (Group General Manager), Ms. Claire Bernabe (Head of Sales and Strategic Partnership), Mr. Avinash Menon (Cluster General Manager) and Mr. Sonny Alvaro (Cluster General Manager)

Ms. Cleofe C. Albiso, Managing Director of MHR, said “These recognitions are a humbling reminder of what truly drives Megaworld Hotels & Resorts—our people. Their love for their work and their passion continues to elevate our service and our culture. Therefore, behind every marketing campaign and every milestone is a team that pours genuine heart, creativity, and purpose into their craft.  And when love becomes part of one’s purpose, it radiates authentically — guests feel it, colleagues feel it, and the entire organization grows because of it.” 

At the 11th Virtus Awards, held last October 16 at the Grand Ballroom of Okada Manila in Paranaque (with the theme “Paths and Bridges: Leading the Way and Building Continuity”), MHR’s “100% Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment” marketing campaign was hailed as the Marketing Campaign of the Year, besting 12 other hotel groups nationwide, making it a second consecutive win for the group after “Ang Sampaguita” received the same award last October 10, 2024.

The judges described the campaign as “authentic, inclusive, and commercially impactful — a purpose-driven innovation that addressed an untapped market with meaningful results.” They further commended MHR for demonstrating leadership with sincerity, cultural respect, and a strong sense of national purpose while achieving tangible business outcomes.

 

All of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts properties are recognized by DOT as Muslim-friendly

This pioneering initiative positioned MHR as the Philippines’ first Muslim-Friendly Hotel Chain, with all of its properties recognized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) as Muslim-friendly accommodation establishments. It also gained international acclaim at the Halal in Travel Awards in Singapore last June 12, 2025, where CrescentRating, a global authority on halal-friendly travel, honored MHR with the “Muslim-Friendly Hotel Chain” award for elevating the country’s readiness to welcome Muslim travelers.

 

L-R: Mr. Avinash Menon (Cluster General Manager for Visayas of MHR), Ms. Rowena Samonte (General Manager of Twin Lakes Hotel), Ms. Divine delos Reyes (Head of People Management and Development of MHR), Ms. Hanna Kristina Tiongson (PMD Manager of Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown), Ms. Maria Bianca Villanueva (Accounts Payable Associate of Twin Lakes Hotel), Ms. Cleofe Albiso (Managing Director of MHR), Mr. Art Boncato, Jr. (Group General Manager of MHR), and Mr. Josef Chiongbian (General Manager of Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown)

Moreover, last September 20, 2025, at Okada Manila, MHR received the Tourism Industry Excellence Award, during the DOT’s inaugural Philippine Tourism Excellence Award, for its efforts in promoting Muslim inclusivity and the Filipinization of hospitality through its signature brand of service - the Sampaguita. The awards night also showcased the strength of MHR’s talent pool, with 13 associates from various properties emerging as national finalists in the categories of Outstanding Sales and Marketing Associate, Manager, and Leader. 

MHR also took home two major awards at the 28th Mabuhay Awards, widely regarded as the “Oscars of Philippine Hospitality,” held last November 14, 2025 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. The event coincided with the 50^th anniversary of the Association of Human Resources Managers (AHRM) and carried the theme “Galing ng Pilipino, Ginto ng Buong Mundo,” honoring the world-class service of Filipino hospitality professionals. 

Ms. Maria Bianca Villanueva, Accounts Payable Associate of Twin Lakes Hotel, earned the Heart of the House Award in recognition of her dedication and excellence in back-of-house operations. Meanwhile, Ms. Hanna Kristina Tiongson, People Management & Development Manager of Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, was named HR Leader of the Year, marking another back-to-back victory for MHR following the win of Ms. Trixie Tan (Corporate Assistant Director of People Management and Development) last November 4, 2024. 

MHR sent a strong lineup of 30 nominees for the Mabuhay Awards. Their triumphs reflect the company’s Circle of Happiness philosophy — a culture anchored on love for God, self, family, work, and country. This framework continues to guide MHR’s people toward finding joy and meaning in their daily work, where passion for service meets purpose and authenticity. 

 

Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown celebrating the Great Place to Work certification of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts for third consecutive year

This culture of care and empowerment is strengthened by MHR’s Great Place to Work certification, which it has proudly achieved for three consecutive years. With 90% of employees affirming that MHR is a great place to work and an 87% Trust Index Score reflecting strong confidence in its leadership, the company continues to nurture an environment where innovation, inclusion, and excellence thrives.  MHR’s triumphs in both Virtus and Mabuhay Awards cements its standing as a trailblazer in Philippine hospitality — one that bridges commercial success with cultural empathy, and strategy with heart. 

MHR was also awarded the prestigious title as the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Group during the World Travel Awards (WTA) Awards last September 4, 2024 in Manila. This accolade marks a significant milestone for MHR, a rapidly growing homegrown hotel chain renowned for its heartfelt service and dedication to showcasing Filipino pride. 

Megaworld Hotels and Resorts:  Global One Hotel Group Inc., 22/F, Alliance Global Tower, 36th Street corner 11th Avenue, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634. E-mail: salesinquiry@megaworldhotels.com.  Website: www.megaworldhotels.com.