BEST NEW FIRSTS IN METRO MANILA: Flavors You’ll Come Back For

Great meals don’t just fill you up—they keep you coming back for more.

This season, SM Supermalls invites you to discover a bold new era full of evolving finds with a delicious lineup of food destinations made to spark cravings and create lasting favorites. From Japan’s rich culinary traditions to the artistry of coffee and chocolate, each first is thoughtfully made to raise the bar for flavor and bring fresh dining experiences to every table.

And as we continue to serve these dishes out hot, one thing remains constant: at SM Supermalls, we’re always growing and evolving with you to truly show that we’ve got it all for you.

A Journey Through Japan

Nothing compares to the depth and comfort of authentic Japanese flavors. These handpicked spots serve everything from rich, hearty ramen to delicate, traditional sweets—each one made to bring a true taste of Japan to the Metro.

●     Ramen Nagi - Craving comfort in a bowl? Ramen Nagi at the Ground Level, South Wing of SM Mall of Asia serves up rich, soul-warming ramen that’s as bold as it is satisfying. From creamy tonkotsu broth to perfectly chewy noodles and your choice of toppings, every bowl is made to hit just the right spot. Whether you’re a spice chaser or a flavor purist, this is your go-to for ramen that delivers on every slurp.

●     Warabimochi - Soft, silky, and oh-so-satisfying—Warabimochi is now here at the Lower Ground Level of SM Aura to give dessert a whole new texture. This Japanese favorite melts in your mouth with every bite, whether dusted in nutty kinako or topped with a luscious syrup. Light enough for an afternoon treat yet special enough to end a meal, it’s the kind of sweetness you’ll want to linger over.

Poured to Perfection

From the roast to the steep, every step is done with care. These coffee and tea destinations serve up expertly crafted cups that balance flavor, aroma, and artistry—perfect for slow mornings, midday pick-me-ups, and everything in between.

●     CHAGEE – Cool, creamy, and brewed just right—CHAGEE makes its Philippine debut by bringing a new kind of tea experience to SM City North EDSA at the 2nd Level, City Center. Every cup is steeped to perfection for flavor that hits just right. Whether you're in need for a little escape or chilling with friends, it’s tea time with a little extra kick of fun.

●     Kenangan Coffee - Bold flavors, smooth pours, and the best Indonesian vibe—Kenangan Coffee is now brewing at SM Megamall. Known for its signature lattes and creative blends, every cup is made to keep your coffee moments anything but ordinary. Whether you’re grabbing a quick pick-me-up or savoring it slowly, this is coffee that will stay with you long after the last drop.

●     H Proper Coffee Roasters - Turn your coffee runs into something worth looking forward to at SM Podium. H Proper Coffee Roasters is here to brew up rich aromas with just-right caffeine kick that can turn your ordinary day into a great one.

The Art of Indulgence

Some chocolates are so good they become an experience all on their own—and that’s exactly what you get with Läderach. Switzerland’s world-famous chocolatier has finally arrived at SM Mall of Asia, marking its first store in the Philippines. Known for its silky pralines, crisp nut-studded slabs, and decadent truffles, each bite strikes the perfect balance of rich and refined. Whether you’re into bold, dark notes or creamy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness, this is Swiss chocolate done right. One visit and you’ll know—this is the gold standard of indulgence.

Brunch O’Clock

Who says brunch is only for weekends? With the first Brunch Bureau in SM now open at the 2nd Level of S Maison, we’ve made it easier to turn any time of day into an excuse for pancakes at 3 PM. From perfectly brewed coffee to savory plates that hit just the right spot, it’s your moment to slow down and enjoy a little extra me-time. No rush, no rules—just brunch done your way.

How far will your cravings take you? From rich, savory staples to next-level sweets, Metro Manila’s newest dining spots are here to tempt, surprise, and satisfy. These aren’t just meals—they’re flavor moments you’ll want to come back to. All thoughtfully picked to turn your everyday cravings into something worth obsessing over here in this #NewEraOfSMSupermalls.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

#NewEraOfSMSupermalls All For You
At SM Supermalls, a bold New Era unfolds with Evolving Finds— bringing together the best in brands, dining, and experiences, all for you. From world-class cuisine and exclusive retail treasures to inspiring spaces that connect communities, SM continues to evolve to give you the very best of everything in one place.

As we grow, our commitment to sustainability, community empowerment, and creating memorable moments remains at the heart of everything we do. Because at SM, we’ve got it all for you.

Camella Lights the Country in a Christmas Celebration of Faith, Family, and Festivity

The glow of parols lit up Camella communities around the islands, as the Philippines’ most trusted and preferred homebuilder held its Christmas Tree Lighting Event and Homecoming Fair, a heartwarming celebration of Filipino homecoming and the lifelong dream of homeownership.

Christmas lights came alive in a synchronized display of festivity, marking the official start of the holiday season. At the heart of every neighborhood stood a towering Christmas tree, surrounded by families, residents, homebuyers, and business partners, all gathered to witness a timeless tradition that has come to define the Camella legacy of connection and continuity.

A celebration that illuminated the nation

The evening opened with performances by children's choirs, their cheerful voices filling the air with Christmas carols that evoked nostalgia and joy. Before the program began, mini parols were distributed to guests, creating a sea of soft, glowing lights signifying thanksgiving and togetherness.

As the music played, families, residents, homebuyers, investors, and business partners gathered around the stage, where live feeds from key locations linked Camella communities nationwide in a unified moment.

Event hosts welcomed the crowd, sharing stories and successes of families who found their forever homes with Camella. The highlight followed: guests switched on mini parols and approached the Christmas trees as Camella Group Heads led the ceremonial lighting. At the signal, thousands of lights illuminated communities nationwide, accompanied by children's choirs singing Christmas medleys. The spectacle culminated in a fireworks display, symbolizing the beginning of another season of giving and gratitude.

Festivities for families and the community

After the Christmas tree lighting event, guests enjoyed a seasonal spread filled with Filipino favorites, including puto bumbong and bibingka, as well as hot cocoa and salabat, which brought the comforting flavors of Christmas to every table. Camella communities also featured on-site activities that turned each neighborhood into a holiday fairground.

Children gathered at the kids’ crafts corner, where they made ornaments and wrote letters to parents, friends, and even Santa Claus. Families strolled through community market booths, supporting artisans and start-up businesses offering Christmas goods, gifts, and delicacies, fostering the spirit of bayanihan and local enterprise.

The Christmas Homecoming Fair: Extending the welcome of home

The week following the Christmas Tree Lighting, Camella held the Homecoming Fair, continuing the celebration of heart, home, and homeownership. 

To make the event more meaningful, Camella launches a special promo exclusive to the Homecoming Fair. Homebuyers will receive kitchen appliances depending on their reservation contract price to bring the spirit of the season into their new homes. These thoughtful tokens represent the comfort, convenience, and care that Camella extends to every Filipino household.

Camella honors those who continue to invest in their roots. Overseas Filipino homebuyers and investors with verified information, such as a passport, seaman’s book, or an ongoing employment contract, will receive a gift certificate for an overnight stay for two (2) at the Brittany Hotel Global South, perfect for a restful return or a cheerful celebration.

Home for the holidays

Camella continues its cherished Christmas tradition of welcoming families home through its annual Home for the Holidays campaign. This year shines the spotlight on homes for every hope and household, offering special savings for spot and flexible payment options and seasonal surprises that make homeownership more heartfelt, hopeful, and within reach during the most joyful time of the year.

The Philippines’ largest homebuilder

Camella is the flagship brand of the Philippines’ largest integrated property developer, Vista Land, providing beautifully designed communities in 49 provinces and 147 key cities and municipalities.

Camella, the leading and preferred housing brand with a nationwide geographic reach, builds thriving communities that embody innovation and progress with family and community life at its center, creating a legacy of value for generations to come.

To know more about Camella and its developments nationwide, visit www.camella.com.ph or follow @CamellaOfficial for news and offerings.  

Pizza Hut’s Truffle Mushroom Crunch, Hot Honey Pepperoni pizzas are made for the most adventurous foodies

With the Truffle Mushroom Crunch Pizza and Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza, Pizza Hut invites adventurous foodies to explore, taste, and enjoy the brand’s bold flavors in new and exciting ways.

Pizza Hut has always been a place for those who live curiously and crave more than the ordinary. And now, these adventurous foodies are in for a treat once more with its newest offerings promising a journey through rich textures, bold tastes, and unexpected delight: the new Truffle Mushroom Crunch Pizza and the Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza, here for a limited time only!

Truffle Mushroom Crunch Pizza

The Truffle Mushroom Crunch Pizza is a decadent yet cozy forest of flavor with every crunchy, truffle-rich bite.

The Truffle Mushroom Crunch Pizza is hearty, rustic, and delightfully crispy. Made with creamy truffle sauce, mozzarella cheese, and truffle oil for a rich aroma, it is then topped with mushroom slices from China, shoestring potatoes from the US, and truffle herb seasoning and parmesan cheese from New Zealand. It’s like walking through a forest of flavor where every bite is decadent yet cozy, perfect for those who enjoy a touch of earthy sophistication!

Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza

The Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza is sweet-spicy flavor adventure that turns a familiar favorite into an exciting new thrill.

The Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza delivers a playful mix of sweet, spicy, and savory. Made with pulpy tomato sauce from the US and mozzarella cheese from Australia, New Zealand, and the US, it is then topped with pepperoni and cream cheese from Denmark, and fresh basil for added freshness. Finally, it is drizzled with hot honey syrup from Thailand, adding a warm, sweet kick in every bite. It’s a flavor adventure for those who want something familiar with a sweet-spicy twist!

To make every adventure even more exciting, both pizzas can be enjoyed with any of Pizza Hut’s crusts! Choose Pan Pizza for that classic pizza indulgence, or Mega Crunch for that distinctly cracker-thin crust. There are also the Stuffed Crust and Ultimate Cheesy Bites for those who want more out of every slice!

These creations are available for a limited time only! Enjoy these together with your other favorites from Pizza Hut by visiting your nearest store for dine-in and take-out orders. You can also order for delivery by calling the (02) 8911-1111 hotline, logging on to www.pizzahut.com, with a few taps via the Pizza Hut mobile app, available for Android and iOS devices; or through Pizza Hut’s official delivery partners GrabFood and foodpanda (prices may vary)!

And lastly, make sure to follow and give Pizza Hut a like on Facebook, Instagram, and X so you won’t miss out on the latest news, updates, and offers!

ATM 2026 to explore new frontiers of ultra-luxury travel, driven by technology, authenticity and hyper-personalised experiences

·         Affluent travellers in the Middle East are fuelling record growth in luxury tourism by seeking experiences that combine innovation, sustainability, and cultural significance

·      At ATM 2026, ultra-luxury goes beyond hospitality to showcase innovations in private aviation, yachting, and lifestyle design, reflecting the blurring of lines between travel, lifestyle, and technology

· The ATM Ultra Luxury Lounge will create an exclusive environment for high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals to connect with prestigious world-class travel brands

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 28 October 2025: Advanced technology, cultural authenticity and hyper-personalisation are coming together to create experiences that transcend traditional definitions of luxury. Once synonymous with comfort and exclusivity, today’s ultra-luxury offers transformation through access and meaningful experiences, blending technology, privacy and sustainability.

This evolution will be explored in detail at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 4–7 May. Under the theme ‘Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology’, the event will explore how innovation and individuality are redefining the global ultra-luxury travel landscape. Central to this conversation will be the debut of the ATM Ultra Luxury Lounge, an exclusive space that will connect buyers that focus on ultra-high-net-worth travellers with prestigious, world-class travel brands.

Research from Fortune Business Insights indicates that the value of the global luxury travel market, characterised by premium and tailor-made experiences focused on exclusivity, luxurious comfort, personalised service, and enhanced privacy – trademarks of ultra-luxury travel – will grow from US$2.7 trillion in 2025 to US$4.8 trillion by 2032.

Reflecting these trends, the ATM Ultra Luxury Lounge marks the beginning of a multi-year focus on the evolving intersection between ultra luxury, technology, and sustainability. It will bring together leading global brands and specialists in high-end travel, including bespoke tour designers, private jet operators – a market expected to top US$943 million by 2029 according to advisory firm Creative Zone.

The dedicated space will serve as a showcase for ultra-luxury experiences, enabling suppliers to meet qualified luxury travel buyers through an exclusive appointments programme.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “While luxury travel remains one of ATM’s strongest growth pillars, ultra-luxury is emerging as the next frontier, reflecting the region’s maturing market and high-spending audience. To meet this growing demand, we have created the ATM Ultra Luxury Lounge, an exclusive space designed to connect ultra-luxury brands with buyers serving high-net-worth travellers, elevating their ATM experience through curated, high-value networking and collaboration opportunities.

“Ambitious projects such as Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea developments, the forthcoming Cheval Blanc in Dubai, which will be located on Naïa Island, and the private island-based Bvlgari Resort & Mansions in Abu Dhabi, combined with increasing interest in private jet purchases and rentals in the region, all underscore the demand within this sector.”

In addition to a keen focus on the ultra-luxury segment, ATM 2026 will continue to shine a light on luxury hospitality brands such as Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Jumeirah International, and One & Only, as well as some of the world’s top-rated luxury destinations, such as the Maldives and Mauritius, who have become a prominent part of the growing segment amongst the hospitality brands on showcase at ATM.

According to the ATM Travel Trends Report 2025, developed in partnership with Tourism Economics, luxury travel remains robust, with high-end and experiential segments outperforming global growth. Outbound regional luxury travel is rising at twice the global average, while Tourism Economics’ datasets show that travellers from the Middle East spend 50% more per trip than the global average, reinforcing the region’s position as both a key luxury destination and source market.

The trends that are positively impacting the sector have been outlined by luxury DMC, Experium, in their Top 10 Luxury Travel Trends Transforming the Middle East in 2025.  At the core of this is sustainability, wellness, and tech-enhanced luxury, which are all reshaping the definition and consumption of luxury. Today’s travellers are moving beyond opulence to seek purpose-driven, conscious luxury that connects them with destinations, communities, and personal wellbeing.

“Luxury travel is no longer defined by opulence alone, but by purpose, connection, and transformation. Today’s discerning travellers are seeking experiences that are not only exclusive but also meaningful, journeys that enrich their wellbeing, reflect their values, and deepen their connection with the world around them. As this evolution continues, the Middle East stands at the forefront of this shift, shaping a new era of luxury that balances innovation, authenticity, and conscious design,” added Curtis.

As the region continues to elevate global travel standards, the 33^rd edition of Arabian Travel Market will reinforce Dubai’s position as a hub for innovation, collaboration and investment in the future of tourism. Through features such as the Ultra Luxury Lounge, IBTM@ATM and ATM Travel Tech with its new Tech and Innovation hub, ATM 2026 will showcase how the industry is evolving to meet the needs of new traveller segments, while strengthening connections between destinations, buyers and brands that are shaping the next chapter of global travel.

The latest ATM news stories are available at https://hub.wtm.com/category/press/atm-press-releases/.

Register your interest to attend: Register for ATM updates.

Enquire to exhibit: Exhibitor Enquiry for Arabian Travel Market.

For more information, log on to wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html.

 

About ATM

Now in its 33^rd year, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is the leading global platform driving growth and innovation across every sector of the travel and tourism industry. Held annually in Dubai – the gateway to global travel and tourism with its unmatched connectivity – ATM is where the energy of opportunity comes to life.

More than just an event, ATM is a dynamic hub for industry communities, featuring forums, experiences, and networking opportunities that continue well beyond the show floor throughout the week. Now in a period of rapid expansion, ATM has grown 16% year-over-year, attracting over 55,000 travel professionals from 166 countries.

About IBTM @ ATM

IBTM @ ATM is the dedicated business events hub within Arabian Travel Market (ATM), connecting the global meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) community with the Middle East’s rapidly expanding meetings and mega events sector.

The feature brings together association planners, conference organisers, corporate buyers, and incentive agencies with destinations, venues, DMCs, and business event suppliers specialising in world-class events. With a comprehensive hosted buyer programme, targeted networking, pre-scheduled appointments, and a dedicated Business Events Stage featuring expert-led sessions, IBTM @ ATM is the essential platform for driving innovation, collaboration, and growth across the global meetings industry.

About ATM Travel Tech

ATM Travel Tech is the premier co-located technology event within Arabian Travel Market (ATM), dedicated to showcasing the groundbreaking innovations set to transform global travel by 2040.

ATM Travel Tech will feature more than 180 exhibitors from 30 countries across two dedicated halls, providing a dynamic platform for the technologies, partnerships, and ideas shaping the future of travel.

At its core, the Tech & Innovation Hub spans 850m², offering immersive demos in AI, VR and AR, robotics, fintech, and green technologies. The Future Stage will bring together global tech leaders, entrepreneurs, and futurists to discuss artificial intelligence, immersive commerce, cybersecurity, and sustainability, alongside the Start-up Pitch Battle. Evolving from ATM’s fastest-growing sector, ATM Travel Tech provides a dynamic platform driving the future of travel technology.

The next edition of ATM will take place in Dubai from 4–7 May 2026.

https://www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html    

About RX

RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. 

RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.

About RELX

 

RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX. *Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

World Travel Market (WTM) portfolio comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The events are:

 

WTM London is the world’s most influential travel & tourism event for the global travel community. The show is the ultimate destination for those seeking a macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping it. WTM London is where influential travel leaders, buyers and high-profile travel companies gather to exchange ideas, drive innovation, and accelerate business outcomes.

 

Next event: 4 to 6 November 2025 at ExCel London.

http://london.wtm.com/

WTM Latin America takes place annually in the city of São Paulo and attracts around 20,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers qualified content together with networking and business opportunities. In this its ninth edition – there have been eight face-to-face events along with a 100% virtual one, which was held in 2021 – WTM Latin America continued to focus on effective business generation, and achieved the advance booking of six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents and exhibitors in 2022.

Next event: 14 to 16 April 2026 – Expo Center Norte, SP, Brazil.

http://latinamerica.wtm.com/

 

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2022, WTM Africa facilitated more than 7 thousand unique pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of more than 7% compared to 2019 and welcomed more than 6 thousand visitors (unaudited), the same number as in 2019.

 

Next event: 13 to 15 April 2026 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town http://africa.wtm.com/

 

About ATW Connect:  Africa Travel Week’s digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology.

https://atwconnect.com/

 

WTM Global Hub, is the WTM Portfolio online portal created to connect and support travel industry professionals around the world. The resource hub offers the latest guidance and knowledge to help exhibitors, buyers and others in the travel industry face the challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic. WTM Portfolio is tapping into its global network of experts to create content for the hub. https://hub.wtm.com/

Go on a Spellbinding Island Adventure this Halloween at Discovery Samal

Discovery Samal is casting a spell of fun and excitement for the whole family with a Halloween celebration like no other.  This October 31, the island transforms into a magical playground for kids and adults alike with “Black Magic”, a festive day filled with enchanting thrills, delightful treats, and unforgettable memories.

Guests are invited to kick off their Halloween adventure with a bountiful lunch at Morning Catch where they can indulge in a feast of flavors and be entertained with a special Halloween program. As the afternoon unfolds, the magic continues with the much awaited Halloween Trick or Treat where guests can explore the resort and collect sweet surprises at every corner. Rate is Php 2,800 net for one child under seven and one guardian, Php 1,400 net for kids 7 to 11 years old, and extra charges for each additional kid or guardian. Guests 12 and up are charged adult rates.

Discover Samal continues to spread the magic with its enchanting lineup of activities to keep the fun alive. Guests will be dazzled by a mesmerizing magic show and a bubbly spectacle that will surely delight everyone. They can even try their luck with the human claw machine to win exciting prizes and capture their best Halloween moments at the themed photo booth.

Each pass includes round‑trip boat transfers from the Davao Welcome Center, a lunch buffet with one round of drinks, full access to the Halloween party and activities, photobooth use, and loot bags for kids, plus access to the Magic Show, Bubble Show, and the Human Claw Machine.

Other fun activities include face painting, a meet‑and‑greet with Discover Samal mascots Coco and Pearl, lively parlor and trivia games, a costume parade, resort‑wide trick‑or‑treat activity with stops at the reception area, Morning Catch, Haribar Lounge, The Bistro, the recreation area, and Samal Shores Residenza.

The festivities will end with an awarding segment of guests who will arrive in their best costume. Five standouts will be awarded Best in Costume and receive plush bears and F&B buffet gift certificates. One guest will win the Best in Character award and receive a Junior Suite stay. The festivities will run from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with snack buffet service within the window.

Escape the ordinary this Halloween and let Discovery Samal take your family on a spellbinding and thrill‑packed afternoon!

For more information and for reservations, contact Discovery Samal at +63 084 308 2998 or email fb@discoverysamal.com. 

THE BRAND

DISCOVERY RESORTS

Discovery Resorts epitomizes Filipino hospitality, evoking feelings of warmth and delight. As an iconic luxury resort, it promises memorable experiences that combine idyllic settings, refined comfort, and the genuine care of its passionate hosts. Every stay at Discovery Resorts is brimming with cherished memories—the kind that lives not in the mind, but in the hearts of its guests. A unique story passed on from generation-to-generation, and real-life-to-social share.  Discovery Resorts is a happy place that guests always return to enjoy and appreciate moments that matter. Current resorts under the brand are Discovery Boracay, Discovery Coron, and Discovery Samal.

THE MANAGEMENT COMPANY

DISCOVERY HOSPITALITY CORPORATION

Discovery Hospitality Corporation (DHC) is a proudly home-grown Filipino hospitality group, managing the Philippines’ best-loved brands—Discovery Resorts, Primea, Discovery Suites, Kip&Kin, and Signature Collection. It has emerged as a pioneer in the Philippine hospitality industry – owning and operating a diverse and vibrant collection of properties in the Philippines’ most celebrated destinations.

Confident in the growing Filipino hospitality industry, the group leverages its brand equity and trust for further growth in hotel management and expansion. Driven by its purpose to care for its stakeholders, DHC strives to deliver authentic experiences that are true to the locale and build hotel brands that inspire the modern traveler, underpinned by genuine Filipino warmth. For more information, visit www.discoveryhotels-resorts.com. 

Top 3 Things You Can’t Miss at HIMBON: The 39th Negros Trade Fair

Culinary Creations by Rising Negrense Chefs - Two Negrense talents wowed the crowd and stole the spotlight during the  media launch of Himbon: The 39th Negros Trade Fair last Aug 26, 2025—and their names are worth remembering. Their gastronomic menu was just a taste of what’s possible: innovative, world-class, and proudly Negrense!

 

Chef Cara Davis (Halong, Makati) – trained in Michelin-starred kitchens from New York to San Sebastián, she now fuses bold Asian flavors with her Mexican culinary background.    

Think uni toast with foie gras and crab aligue pave — just some of the inventive dishes she crafted, alongside many other culinary creations. 

Chef Luis Locsin (private dining star) – CIA-trained, with global stints from Jean Georges NYC to Bali, he now curates private dining. His charcuterie spread at the launch featured Negros blue cheese, Don Papa rum pâté. Proudly Negrense, globally trained.

Pâté en croute, and Casa del Formaggio Stracciatella, olive oil, and confit tomatoes

This year, the Negros Trade Fair makes its historic debut at SM Aura — and it’s bringing with it  the flavors, fashion, and flair of Negrense heritage. Here are the main reasons of must experiences for foodies, fashionistas, and lifestyle lovers you don’t want to miss: 

#1 Heritage Weaves, Modern Fashion & Accessories 

Handwoven Hablon, hand-smocked dresses, and chic tropical fibers reimagined for today’s wardrobe. Paired with striking local jewelry and artisanal accessories, these pieces prove heritage and modernity can walk the runway together.

#2 Handcrafted Home Finds 

From pandan to bamboo to buri—Negrense artisans transform natural fibers into elegant accents for your home. 

Discover design-forward décor and furnishings that bring timeless Negros craftsmanship into modern living.

#3 Artisan Sweet & Savory & Pasalubong 

Stock up on flavors that define Negros: – From Mumshies’ delicacies to Virgie’s home-made mango tarts and pastries, 

plus savory favorites like the Ereneta-Manaloto’s bottled Chorizo de Bacolod and a lot more— Sweet or savory, these iconic bites are made for gifting—or for keeping all to yourself.

Experience More at HIMBON 

Beyond shopping, HIMBON is a celebration of Negrense culture. Sip on Don Papa rum and locally crafted wines as live acoustic  music fills the air, bringing the warmth of Negros hospitality right to the city.

Let the fair inspire your next adventure with showcases of pristine beaches, heritage haciendas, and food tours—each one an invitation to experience Negros firsthand.  And of course, every artisan booth and styled corner is a story waiting for your feed, so don’t forget to capture your  #HimbonMoments along the way. 

At its core, HIMBON means “to gather.” And this fair is exactly that—a gathering of food, fashion, and heritage that  celebrates both tradition and modern creativity. 

• Save the Date: Sept 23–28 | SMX Convention Center, SM Aura 

• Taste. Shop. Celebrate. Experience Negros like never before.  

About SM Supermalls MSMEs 

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and  operators with 88 malls nationwide—marks a new era of connecting communities and redefining the malling experience 

through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. SM also champions Filipino entrepreneurship, empowering MSMEs— driving local growth, showcasing homegrown talent, and fueling the Filipino spirit of enterprise.