THE European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) said a landslide victory for the next President will help improve investor confidence by avoiding disputes over the incoming chief executive’s mandate.
ECCP President Lars Wittig said at a virtual forum Friday that European investors will consider a clear mandate a positive for the Philippines, citing the large plurality victory of President Rodrigo R. Duterte in 2016.
“From a business point of view, what was really good about Mr. Duterte being elected was (that) he won by a landslide. That gives certainty and predictability and that is something that gives us businesspeople (a good) feeling where we are willing to invest more money,” Mr. Wittig said.
Mr. Duterte won in 2016 after receiving 16.60 million votes. The second-place candidate was Manuel A. Roxas II with 9.98 million votes.
“It is a big help for us businesspeople that whoever wins, it doesn’t matter necessarily who it is, but that the person wins by a landslide,” Mr. Wittig said.
ECCP Executive Director Florian Gottein said that the next administration should focus on infrastructure and increasing investment.
“We want the next administration to continue improving infrastructure. We definitely want to see also a more ambitious fight against corruption, as well as opening further some areas such as foreign investments in renewable energy,” Mr. Gottein said.
Maurizio Cellini, First Counsellor and Head of Trade and Economic Affairs of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to the Philippines, said Philippine utilization of its Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) trade privilege in 2021 might be close to 2020 levels.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has said that the Philippines’ GSP+ utilization rate was 75% in 2020.
“We suppose that the (utilization rate) should be close to (the) 2020 level. We will have the data about the utilization rate for the GSP+ (in 2021) by the end of February or the beginning of March,” Mr. Cellini said.
GSP+ offers zero-tariff entry to 6,274 Philippine products on condition that the country complies with a number of international conventions.
Mr. Cellini said the GSP+ privilege, which is set to expire by the end of 2023, is subject to some adjustment.
“What we can say at this stage is that the spirit of the system will remain the same. I don’t think that there will be huge changes compared to the current one. But definitely, there will be some adjustments,” Mr. Cellini said.
“For instance, the GSP+ system is connected to the list of international conventions. So probably, there will be some update in the number or type of conventions that will be necessary to be eligible for the GSP+,” he added.
At the same forum, the ECCP also launched a Doing Business in the Philippines guide in partnership with KPMG Philippines.
“This comprehensive booklet aims to arm potential investors with knowledge on the Philippine business environment, as well as relevant laws and procedures in the country,” the ECCP said.
“As a guide for those interested in exploring various economic opportunities in the country, this booklet seeks to empower businesses to make informed investment decisions,” it added. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave
THE Department of Tourism (DoT) is expecting a steady increase in tourist arrivals in the next few weeks in response to the Philippines’ decision to open its borders further.
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said in a statement that the DoT said the impact will start to be reflected in the visitor numbers after a lag to put together travel plans in response to the opening.
“We at the DoT are glad that we are gradually reopening our borders to foreign visitors. But this enthusiasm is tempered by the constant reminder that the virus is still very much a threat and that we must always be vigilant so as not to negate the efforts we have made over the past two years to contain the virus,” Ms. Puyat said.
The government removed the requirement to quarantine in designated facilities for fully-vaccinated returning Filipinos and foreigners. Individuals are now required to present only a negative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test taken within 48 hours prior to the date and time of departure from the country of origin.
Under the new quarantine rules, the Philippines began accepting fully-vaccinated foreigners holding nationality of countries that are not required to obtain visas to enter the Philippines on Feb. 10. Fully-vaccinated returning Filipinos were allowed entry under quarantine-free conditions since Feb. 1.
Ms. Puyat urged the travel industry to follow health and safety protocols when handling guests.
“As we welcome our fully-vaccinated visitors to our country, we need to be assured that proper health and safety protocols are strictly enforced in our airports in order to provide a hassle-free entry for travelers,” Ms. Puyat said. – Revin Mikhael D. Ochave
Cebu’s plan to allowing the entry of unvaccinated foreigners is expected to help the tourism industry’s recovery, Senators said.
Sen. Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay-Angeles said unvaccinated foreign visitors should be allowed entry in selected locations.
“The bottom line is to live with the virus and gradually embrace the new normal. Maybe in selected destinations at first, but there should be medical safeguards in place,” she said in a statement.
Ms. Binay-Angeles said that the Philippines should get past its “trial-and-error phase” in dealing with the pandemic and needs to focus on drafting schemes for reopening the borders, noting that unpredictable policy will “have an impact on public health, aside from being economically disruptive.”
Sen. Francis N. Tolentino said he agrees with Cebu’s policy, though most international airlines ask for vaccine cards.
“Our tourism industry has been dead for two years. I think it’s time we revive it again so that our economy can recover,” he added in a statement.
Cebu Governor Gwendolyn F. Garcia on Wednesday signed an executive order that would let foreign nationals into the province regardless of vaccination status.
The executive order requires unvaccinated foreign travelers to show a negative RT-PCR test taken 48 hours before leaving their country of origin.
Such entrants face swab tests upon arrival and be sent to a quarantine facility where they must await another negative RT-PCR test result on the fifth day of quarantine. Those who test positive will be brought to an isolation facility. – Jaspearl Emerald G. Tan
NEGROS Occidental planter group Asociacion de Agricultores de La Carlota y Pontevedra, Inc. (AALCPI) said that the government’s plan to import 200,000 metric tons (MT) of sugar should be scaled back to 50,000 MT, the volume previously agreed with the government during consultations.
“Right now, we have enough supply, milling is ongoing so what balancing act between supply and demand is Mr. Serafica talking about. An initial order of 50,000 MT as suggested by industry stakeholders would suffice,” AALCPI President Roberto J. Cuenca said, referring to sugar administrator Hermenegildo R. Serafica.
Mr. Cuenca said that during consultations with the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA), producers agreed to imports in tranches of 50,000 MT towards the close of the milling season.
AALCPI added that 200,000 MT is “too big and definitely should not have been granted at this time.”
“(This) will have a disastrous effect in the sugar industry, particularly among the small sugar producers. We were never informed and yet Mr. Serafica knows we are the biggest group in so far as membership is concerned, and mostly of small sugar farmers,” it added.
Signed on Feb. 2, Sugar Order No. 3 authorizes imports of 200,000 MT of sugar to stabilize rising prices and augment supply in typhoon-hit areas.
“Mr. Serafica also knows we are in the midst of milling season and any importation order now will have a ripple effect,” Mr. Cuenca said.
“He should take time to consult small farmers so he can personally hear their appeals as many cannot afford to even replant for the next crop year if this situation continues,” he added. – Luisa Maria Jacinta C. Jocson
The Social Security System (SSS) has started refunding loan payments made by pensioners and expects to return P105 million in compliance with the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act (Bayanihan II).
The pension fund is giving back between one and two months’ worth of collected loan payments to borrowers that took out pensions in 2020, it said in a statement Friday.
SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Aurora C. Ignacio said the refunds will be granted to more than 25,000 borrowers.
The refunds are in accordance with Circular No. 2022-002 which was issued in compliance with Bayanihan II, also known as Republic Act 11494.
The law directed financial institutions to grant a 30-day grace period for borrowers’ loan payments without penalty or interest. The provision covered loan payments falling due between Sept. 15 and Dec. 31, 2020.
“We understand the predicament faced by our borrowers which is why they opted to seek loans from SSS to further finance their medical and immediate financial concerns,” Ms. Ignacio said.
Launched in 2018, the pension loan program gives access to short-term credit for retirees at an annual interest rate of 10%. These borrowings are payable in six, 12 or 24 months.
Pensioners that were making payments as of the implementation date as well as those that started payments in October 2020 will be eligible for the refund. They will receive refunds on loan payments made for October and November 2020.
Those who only started making loan payments in December 2020 are entitled to a one-month refund for that month.
Qualified pensioners will automatically get the refund credited to their respective accounts, in line with the refund procedure observed in Bayanihan I.
“SSS would also extend the pensioner’s loan payment term by one or two months without any additional interest or penalty. Suppose a pensioner’s loan payment term is until September 2021 and received a two-month refund; their payment terms will be until November 2021 without any interest or penalty,” the SSS said.
In 2021, the SSS extended P3.09 billion in loans to more than 69,000 pensioners. – Luz Wendy T. Noble
Philippine banks have been asked to conform to the government’s Sustainable Finance Roadmap in their lending to “green” projects.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin E. Diokno said in Circular Letter No. CL-2022-011 that strategies outlined in the roadmap, which was issued in October, will help take sustainable finance into the mainstream.
“All banks are encouraged to explore and consider, where applicable, the strategies, priorities, and principles outlined in the roadmap and guiding principles in developing their approach or actions towards adopting sustainable finance,” Mr. Diokno said.
The roadmap listed activities that are considered sustainable and environment-friendly, lending to which may qualify the institution for incentives.
Eligible climate change mitigation and adaptation projects include loans made to carbon sequestration measures, particularly the use of organic fertilizer; refrigeration projects that do not worsen global warming; renewable projects that that will help the Philippines hit its target of 15,000 megawatts in new capacity by 2030, and the strengthening of energy infrastructure.
Eligible in the sustainable-cities category are solid waste projects and the expansion of sewerage and septage treatment facilities.
The sustainable infrastructure component lists as eligible rail projects under the Build Build Build Program, and the bus rapid transit projects in Cebu and Metro Manila’s Quezon Avenue.
The resilient food systems category allows incentivized lending to develop pest-resistant crops or biocontrol agents.
Mr. Diokno has said that such incentives could include preferential rediscount rates. He said the exact nature of the incentives is still being considered.
In November, the BSP launched the second phase of its sustainable finance framework, with the focus on directing banks to monitor environmental and social risks in their credit exposure and business operations. The BSP expects banks to fully implement the framework by 2023. — Luz Wendy T. Noble
The peso weakened after inflation in the US rose to its highest level in four decades, raising expectations for a rate hike by the Federal Reserve.
The peso closed at P51.34 to the dollar Friday, against its P51.235 close Thursday, according to the Bankers Association of the Philippines.
The currency also weakened from the week-earlier P51.14 finish.
The peso opened at P51.36, posting a low of P51.37 and a high of P51.29.
Dollar trading volume fell to $913.88 million from $937.4 million in the previous session.
A trader said in an email that the peso depreciated as caution set in after US inflation came in stronger than expected, strengthening the case for monetary policy tightening.
The US consumer price index rose 7.5% year-on-year in January, the largest headline number in four decades.
The economist consensus in a Reuters poll was 7.3%. The December inflation rate was 7%.
The peso also weakened after hawkish signals from a Fed official, Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said in a Viber message.
St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank President James Bullard said Thursday that he would like to see a full percentage point increase in interest rates by July. Mr. Bullard was speaking to Bloomberg after the release of the inflation data.
After the Fed’s policy review last month, Fed Chairman Jerome H. Powell said monetary authorities have considered kicking off the process of raising interest rates by March. – Luz Wendy T. Noble
The ecosystem of work that goes behind food production – including the innovation borne from research – is the focus of “Flavors of Science,” a campaign by the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD).
Launched on Feb. 11, the campaign features the council’s work on the production of sweet potato; the conservation of tawilis (a freshwater sardine found in Taal Lake); and the purification of native chickens, ducks, and pigs among the country’s regions.
It is a little-known fact that the Philippines has different breeds of high-quality native pigs, said DOST secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña. During the campaign’s launch, he noted breeds such as the Q-Black from Tiaong, Quezon, the Benguet Native Pig from Benguet, the Sinirangan from Eastern Samar, and the Markaduke from Marinduque.
“We hope that [through this initiative], we will be able to acquaint the public on our agency’s accomplishments,” he said in the vernacular.
Celebrity chef, actor, and entrepreneur Marvin Jay M. Cuyugan, better known as Marvin Agustin, has been tapped by DOST-PCAARRD to incorporate native food ingredients in a series of cooking videos on his YouTube channel. To be released starting this month, the videos will also be shown on the council’s accounts on Facebook and YouTube.
“I was cooking cochinillo (roast suckling pig) using native pigs, but I couldn’t find enough supplies of them, so I was forced to use Spanish pigs instead,” Mr. Agustin said in the vernacular. His livestreamed comments about the advantages of using native pig in lechon (spit-roasted pig) – particularly the Markaduke –led to the celebrity chef’s eventual collaboration with the DOST-PCAARRD.
“The council contacted me and said they were already solving the challenges I mentioned,” he told the audience at the Feb. 11 launch.
Apart from the Markaduke, Mr. Agustin will also showcase recipes made with native chickens from Western Visayas and Zamboanga, as well as sweet potatoes or camote from Tarlac.
“It’s a huge deal making sure our farmers are supported by science,” Mr. Agustin said. “We need science and research when it comes to the mass production of food. Gusto natin, buong taon… may masarap tayo at consistent na [We want delicious, consistent, and year-round] food supply. — Patricia Mirasol
The Philippines is moving towards a COVID-19 endemic state – but the country is not there yet, according to the Department of Health (DoH) in a Feb. 11 media briefer.
An endemic disease is one that is always present in a given region. It occurs at consistent rates and in predictable patterns. Examples of endemic diseases in the Philippines include tuberculosis and dengue.
In the context of COVID-19, it means that the disease has already transitioned into a society-wide, acceptable disease burden, said DoH undersecretary Maria Rosario C. Singh-Vergeire. It means that – while the national government communicates preferred actions – there will be no more restrictions such as lockdowns, nor mandates such as limiting capacities in places. It also assumes access to vaccines and medicines, as well as the presence of safeguards in routine life.
“It does not mean we remove all COVID-19 safeguards, [nor does] it mean that the virus is safe or less virulent,” Ms. Vergeire added.
Safety nets are needed because a portion of the population is vulnerable, said Dr. Edsel Maurice T. Salvana, a member of the DoH’s Technical Advisory Group. Masking, distancing, and hand washing are still recommended.
“Our healthcare capacity is not the same as a lot of countries that are now getting rid of masks,” Dr. Salvana said, adding that mask-wearing might be the last safeguard to go. “Slowly but surely, we will be able to take these baby steps as we move to the new normal.”
The health department has an ongoing national vaccination drive between Feb. 10-18, with 662,318 jabs administered on the first day. More than half of these (442,346) were primary doses; the rest were booster shots.
The decline in new COVID-19 cases – like the current downward curve in the capital – is proof that vaccines work, Ms. Vergeire said.
“Except for Region 12, all regions are at low to moderate risk,” she told the press at the Feb. 11 briefer. “Our national health system capacity remains at low risk.”
Ms. Vergeire said the most important definition to consider is whether there is an equilibrium of immunity versus the transmission of the disease.
Measures such as vaccination drives for eligible individuals and safety seals for public establishments, she said, will enable this new normal environment.
“We are preparing for that point but – because of the uncertainty – we can’t declare endemicity yet,” added Ms. Vergeire. – Patricia Mirasol
The Filinvest group, through its innovation and venture-building arm F(DEV), will continue to kickstart Philippine start-ups and grow them to a regional scale in the next five to seven years. It is currently looking for more start-up ventures to invest in.
“More than simply ‘starting up’ these new ventures, we want to rapidly bring them to a level of operational scale that is required to make a real impact,” said Xavier G. Marzan, chief executive officer and managing director of F(DEV), in an official statement, “So we also view ourselves as a ‘scale-up factory’.”
Last year, the country ranked 51st out of 132 economies in the Global Innovation Index, a huge jump from 100th place in 2014, though it moved a spot down from 2020.
F(DEV)’s goal is to add to the high level of investing activity in the Philippine start-up ecosystem, which has attracted foreign venture capital (VC) funding in the past few years. However, it maintains that it is neither an accelerator nor a VC fund.
“We identify and invest in potentially viable large-scale start-up ideas and turn them into companies,” explained Mr. Marzan.
Though it’s owned by Filinvest Development Corp. (FDC), the group is governed by a senior-level board to shield it from various corporate structures.
FROM START-UPS TO SCALE-UPS
Venture-building to the unicorn level requires a mix of good start-up DNA, a venture capital mindset, and the might of a parent company’s ecosystem, according to F(DEV).
“Everyone needs to be fast, agile, creative, innovative, and comfortable with ambiguity. Moreover, people should have an unrelenting focus on solving customer problems and prioritizing customer experiences,” Mr. Marzan said.
B2B e-commerce start-up Qwote, one of F(DEV)’s recent recruits for its portfolio companies, made its public reveal at the Philippine Startup Week in November.
Bjorn Pardo, Qwote’s country chief executive officer, said in a statement: “There are so many underserved opportunities in the Philippines and in the region, so we need to find ways to rapidly serve those unmet needs.”
“By tapping into a large network of users and resources, we are able to accelerate time to market and expose start-up ideas to a broader audience from the get-go,” he added.
F(DEV) can also help with streamlining corporate processes, whether in commercial units, technology, human resources, legal, or finance.
“Our goal is to eventually scale start-ups to a regional level. Many times, the problems and gaps facing us here in the Philippines are very similar to what other emerging markets are experiencing,” said Mr. Marzan. — Bronte H. Lacsamana
Customer being assisted by the Wilcon in-house designer at Design Hub
Building your dream home for your family from scratch can be overwhelming yet an incredible opportunity. From planning, building, to designing your desired abode takes so much of your time and resources.
When all you want is to create the perfect home spaces suited to your preferences and lifestyle, you don’t have to be a professional to get things done and design the ideal home you’ve always dreamed of. And to turn your vision into reality, Wilcon Depot can help bring your dream home to life.
Wilcon in-house designer at Design Hub
With the retail giant’s goal of making home building and designing effortless for Filipino homeowners and builders, Wilcon offers Design Hub, a service that allows you to create your own design through computer software that provides floor plans and a 3D layout perspective of your design ideas.
Taking its service a notch higher, Wilcon Depot now uses Imos, an interior design software, for its Design Hub service. Imos software can create floor plans and 3D models such as living room, dining room, bathrooms, bedrooms, and even kitchen. In addition, it offers a wide range selection of tiles, sanitary fixtures, lighting fixtures, and furniture. Imos can also implement design changes and positioning of fittings while creating 2D and 3D drawings.
3D design output produced using Imos Software
Through the Imos software, customers can automatically have the summarized quantity of items used within the design and the estimated costing and prize. Imos offers better rendering output of the design and more realistic views.
Wilcon has a group of well-trained and knowledgeable in-house designers to assist you. Whether you’re going for a simple to luxurious design, Design Hub service gives you access to Wilcon’s top collection of products such as tiles, sanitary wares, fixtures, furniture, and accessories so you can come up with an actual design perspective.
Visit any Wilcon Depot store nationwide and start designing your dream home! For more information about Wilcon, you can log on to www.wilcon.com.ph. Follow their social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram. Subscribe and connect with them on Viber Community,LinkedIn, and YouTube.
Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by enabling them to publish their stories directly on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.
Celebrating Valentine’s Day is never complete without sharing a lovely meal with your beloved. This Love Month, why not treat the most special people in your life to a fancy meal and a breathtaking ambiance? At Megaworld Lifestyle Malls restaurants, dining is always a lovely treat.
So, get ready to plan the most romantic lunch or dinner this Love Month at Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, and to make it easier for everyone, we’re sharing some of the best spots here!
Eastwood City
Feast on luxurious burgers at Pound by Todd English (2F Eastwood Mall, 0917-712-3757). An elevated burger joint, Pound serves a selection of indulgent burgers made from house-ground beef patties matched with their signature brioche buns. Visiting their restaurant inside Eastwood City, you’ll find yourself enveloped in a vintage interior, transporting you to that 1920s speakeasy atmosphere.
If craving for a steamy bowl of noodles, head over to Ippudo (GF 1800 Bldg., 0907-543-8347) for some masterfully done options. Top your ramen of choice with Chashu, a serving of pork belly with a smoky aroma, a perfect complement to your Japanese treat.
Meat lovers would delight in House of Wagyu’s (GF Eastwood Mall, 0947-557-9103) steak offerings. Their understated interiors and ambiance are the perfect backdrop for romantic dates. Their steak cuts have gorgeous marbling and a more tender feel overall. For seafood fans, they also have Oyster Rockefeller and Grilled Prawns.
Stoned Steaks at Eastwood City
For a wine and dine like no other, take your dearest to Stoned Steaks (GF One Eastwood, 0917-710-6511) for more romantic vibes. If you can’t get enough of exquisite Pinoy flavors, there’s Locavore (GF 1800 Bldg, 0917-512-0159) and Crisostomo (2F Eastwood Mall, 0917-881-4768).
Try different cuisines, too. There’s the South African-inspired menu at Peri-Peri (2F Eastwood Mall, 470-6884), Greek flavors at Cyma (2F Eastwood Mall, 709-1955), and authentic Chinese cuisine at Gloria Maris (3F Eastwood Mall, 8372-1216).
More Japanese restaurant choices at Eastwood City include Sandaime (GF Eastwood Mall, 0907-542-8402), Grillin’ Ape (4F Cybermall, 0935-973-1159), and Katsu Sora (2F Eastwood Mall, 8570-7985).
Uptown Bonifacio
Salvatore Cuomo at Uptown Bonifacio
Say buon giorno to a genuine Neapolitan cuisine experience at Salvatore Cuomo & Bar Philippines (GF Uptown Parade, 0995-976-4314). Explore new flavors and try their Pasta Fresca Di Barbabietola is a must-try for a dinner to remember.
Impeccable seafood dishes and Filipino cuisine selections await couples and families who will dine at The Red Crab (2F Uptown Mall, 0995-976-4314). Don’t be afraid to dig into their perfectly seasoned crabs, and we suggest their flavorful Toasted Coconut Crab this Love Month.
Enjoy a scenic lunch or dinner at Italianni’s (3F Uptown Mall, 0927-318-1201). With a warm and inviting atmosphere and an alfresco area, the experience at Italianni’s will be a homey treat for lovebirds.
Mgyuu Steaks at Uptown Bonifacio
For a more sumptuous and premium feels, couples can head over to Mgyuu Steaks (UGF One Uptown, 0928-796-1369) and try its signature prime Angus and Wagyu steaks. They can also go to Livestock (2F Uptown Parade, 0936-066-6122) and delight in its famed Crispy Pata and more sumptuous pork dishes.
For more laid-back dates, try dining at Mamma Mia (UGF Uptown Mall, 0966—663-7803 / 0920-554-0329) and share platters of their Italian food options from breakfast to pizza, to pasta and entrees. For a sweet brunch or afternoon meetup, book a table at Wildflour Café + Bakery (GF Uptown Ritz, 8365-3872) and order from their sophisticated list of warm and filling meals.
Sworn to serve goodness in every bite, Scout’s Honor (2F Uptown Mall, 0935-225-5185) is a sweet spot for childhood favorite cookies as well as heartwarming meals. Try their Loaded Campfire Potatoes and Creamy Pesto With Grilled Chicken.
You can also spice up the occasion and take your date to a new food adventure, like Thai food favorites in Easy Tiger (2F Uptown Mall, 0926-112-6189), or discover flavorful Indian cuisine in Swaadisht (3F Uptown Mall, 7943-1373).
Forbes Town
Captivate your date with a Latin American gastronomic experience and take them on a trip to Cafe Alegria at Forbes Town (GF Forbes Town Road, 0995-278-5081). The team at Cafe Alegria creates soulful food for every type of taste, from meat-free options, brunches, tacos, and more vibrant flavors. For an authentic Swiss-French dining experience, couples can head over to L’Entrecote (GF Forbes Town Road, +632 885 648 58 or 883 627 64) and try its famous Steak and Fries combo.
Noor at Forbes Town
Noor (GF Forbes Town Road, 0956-156-3426) transports their guests to the Middle East, by serving the region’s most colorful and delicious cuisine. From Roast Beef Carpaccio to Fattoush Salad to Pumpkin Tabbouleh — the cozy and hip food place is filled with tasty treasures.
Melo’s Steakhouse (Burgos Circle, 8403-5968 / 8403-5969), home of certified Angus beef, is practically an institution when it comes to top-notch steaks and meats in the metro. For some melt in your mouth glory, order their Valentine’s Day special: Australian Wagyu Tenderloin with Grilled Lobster Tail with Red Cranberry Sauce, served with complimentary soup, salad and dessert!
Explore more around town and try French spot L’entrecote (GF Forbes Town Road, 0915-885-7622), discover Tex-Mex food at Southern Grind Bistro (GF Burgos Circle, 0917-815-2773), indulge in comfort food and some drinks at Tipsy Pig (GF Burgos Park, 8952-6877), bite into love with new pizza flavors from Pizzulu (Forbes Town Road, 0917-127-2548), or get whisked away to Siargao island life at Shaka Cafe (GF Burgos Circle, 0968-750-0779).
Paseo Center, San Lorenzo Place Mall, Three Central
Most of us miss having Samgyup dates, and now that the restrictions have eased and establishments have extended their areas to cater to more alfresco dining customers, we can go back to enjoying Korean favorites! Dine in at Bochi-Q Korean Restaurant at San Lorenzo Place (2F SanLo Mall, 0966-470-6111 / 0951-756-0679) and try their Unlimited Meat Hot Pot for an explosion of flavors.
Ooma Sushi Bar at Paseo Center (G/F Paseo Heights, 0919-084-5570) is a casual Japanese joint with bold, playful, and creative dishes. To give you a taste of how adventurous their sushi rolls are, they have a plethora of options like Salmon Skin Aburi Maki, Kimchi Prawn & Enoki Aburi Maki, Truffled Steak Aburi Maki, and Ebi & Kani Aburi Maki.
Nono’s at Three Central Mall
For the ultimate comfort food date, try Nono’s (G/F Three Central Mall, 0956-412-6596) Homestyle Chicken and Waffles! They use deep-fried chicken fillet that’s deep-fried to perfection, while their waffles are carefully cooked on the iron. The pairing is unbeatable no matter what time of the day.
Alabang West Parade
Couples who are craving for Korean BBQ can dine in at Urban Seoul (GF Alabang West Parade, 0915-282-9616). They have unlimited Korean barbecue offerings, as well over 80 Korean traditional dishes on the menu.
It’s always a yes for cafe dates. UCC Park Cafe (GF Alabang West Parade, 0995-617-6944) serves some of the best coffee selections in the metro. Go here for a breakfast or lunch date and order from their healthy selections, breakfast sets, salads, pasta choices, entrees, all-time favorites, and more. Finish your meal with their Kori Kohi, which is iced coffee cubes served with warm wilk.
To ensure safer and happier celebrations, all Megaworld Lifestyle Malls strictly implement in-store safety guidelines and protocols.
For more information, log on to megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call 8-462-8888.
Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by enabling them to publish their stories directly on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.
