Category: Travel

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2GO Confidently Projects Growth for 2025

 

After a transformative 2024, 2GO, the Philippines’ premier provider of logistics and maritime travel solutions, anticipates sustained growth in 2025. 2GO is committed to advancing the interests of its stakeholders and the communities it serves by solidifying its status as a sustainable and dynamic logistics partner.

A Year of Expansion and Transformation

2GO initiated an innovative ship re-fleeting program in 2024, which utilized state-of-the-art vessels to enhance operational efficiency, increase cargo capacity by 35%, enhance passenger comfort, and facilitate route expansions to Davao and General Santos City. This initiative emphasizes 2GO’s dedication to providing improved services and connecting a greater number of businesses and communities throughout the Philippines.

In the Visayas region, the company also enhanced its retail network, which promoted increased commerce both within and beyond the region. 2GO’s offerings continue to satisfy a broad spectrum of logistical needs, including reliable package and parcel services and temperature-controlled dispatches that are less-than-container-load (LCL).

Developing More Robust Partnerships

In 2024, 2GO’s success was contingent upon collaboration. The company aligned itself with the Filipino Brand of Service by partnering with critical organizations and events, such as the Department of Tourism and IRONMAN Philippines. Additionally, it collaborated with Cebu Pacific to optimize cargo scanning procedures for air forwarding.

2GO’s dedication to empowering local communities, propelling economic activity, and serving as a trusted partner in logistics and travel services is illustrated by these initiatives.

Upbeat in 2025

2GO is optimistic about the upcoming year. President and CEO of 2GO, Frederic C. DyBuncio, stated, “We are leveraging the strong foundation we have established in 2024 to achieve even greater success in 2025.” “We are prepared to confront new challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and maintain our exceptional value to our customers and partners with the assistance of our stakeholders and the commitment of our team.”

Innovative logistics solutions for special projects and forwarding, expanded cold chain and ISO tank services to new destinations, and further enhancements to cargo routes are among the key plans for 2025. These initiatives are designed to solidify 2GO’s status as a prominent economic development force in the Philippines by facilitating the efficient movement of products and passengers throughout the archipelago.

For additional details, please visit www.2go.com.ph.

Regarding 2GO Group Inc.:

2GO GROUP, INC. facilitates the transportation of individuals and goods throughout the Philippines. It is the country’s foremost point-to-point transportation and logistics provider. Five business divisions, including 2GO Sea Solutions, 2GO Special Containers and Value-Added Services (SCVASI), 2GO Express, 2GO Forwarding, and 2GO Logistics, are at the organization’s core.

2GO, a subsidiary of SM Investments Corporation, the nation’s foremost conglomerate, provides a range of services, including e-commerce logistics, including express courier deliveries and last-mile deliveries, as well as warehousing and inventory management. Additionally, 2GO provides customized containers and project logistics. Additionally, 2GO offers sea travel and a comprehensive array of peripheral logistics services, including import and export processing, freight forwarding, and customs brokerage. 2GO utilizes all of its services to develop distinctive supply chain solutions for all of its clients.

2GO has established a reputation for facilitating the efficient movement of products and commodities, providing exceptional travel experiences, and fostering business growth in both domestic and international markets, all of which are rooted in its 148-year history of expertise in transportation and logistics.

For additional details, please visit www.sminvestments.com.

 

 

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EK Gifts Filipinos With The Timeless Magic of Christmas

Celebrating its 29th anniversary, Enchanted Kingdom—the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines—offers the timeless magic of the holidays with a grand spectacle of music, harmony of lights, unlimited rides, and EKciting attractions.

Timeless Magic of Christmas

On Saturday, November 23, witness the grand kickoff of the holiday festivities here at EK with our Timeless Magic of Christmas event.

Get into the festive mood and join Eldar the Wizard and friends across the Park’s themed zones during the vibrant Eldar’s Moonlight Parade. Dance under the melody of dazzling lights and festive holiday music at the Eldar’s Brooklyn Symphony. Be enchanted by the lighting ceremony of the unique Enchanted Christmas Tree, adorned with the sparkling EK Storybook Characters decor. Sing along to classic Filipino Christmas songs playing at EK’s 22-foot Grand Parol, created by renowned Pampanga lantern maker Eric Bondoc Quiwa.

Groove with powerhouse dance crew G-Force, and don’t miss out on world-class Filipino music talent with the internationally-renowned De La Salle Santiago Zobel (DLSZ) Rondalla as they serenade us with their enchanting performance of Christmas carols.

EK’s homegrown talents, SMS, Victoria’s Way and the Kingsmen, will also be there to spread the magic through a series of spectacular musical performances.

And finally, to cap off the night, create more lasting memories with the Timeless Magic Fireworks Show to the tune of EK’s 29th-anniversary theme song, composed and sung by our very own P-Pop girl group SMS.

Homegrown EK Talents and Weekend Carols

This December, embrace the magical spirit of the holidays with our Christmas shows.

EK is set to showcase our homegrown talents through the play A Very Timeless Christmas featuring Eldar the Wizard, Princess Victoria, Princess Madeline, and SMS. Victoria’s Way and The Kingsmen and SMS will serenade guests with Christmas Songs at EK’s bandstand. Also, watch out for the Christmastime Parade and enchanting live carols every weekend this December!

A Merrier Timeless Christmas EKsperience

Christmas is made even more merry here at EK!

 Give in to your holiday cravings at EK’s Food Fiesta Bazaar located at the Eldar’s Village. Enjoy an array of Filipino and Korean street foods, fresh fruits, juices, hot meals, and delectable snacks.

Stay tuned for our upcoming holiday food offerings this December! EK is working our magic in creating a delightful selection of seasonal treats to make your EK adventure extra special.

Eldar the Wizard continues to bring enchantment to the sky with the Timeless Magic Fireworks Show on all Saturdays of 2024. This special display of lights gives a spectacular twist to one of EK’s traditions, the Sky Wizardry Fireworks Show, which will still illuminate the night sky during all of the Park’s open days except Saturdays.

Lastly, don’t forget to feel the magic of love with your family and loved ones at EK’s 4D motion stimulator Rialto with its new featured film, Happy Family: Next Level.

So save the date for your next EK getaway, as we are open six days a week starting December 3 to 15. We will also be open every day starting December 16 until the first week of January.

For more information about this celebration, available promotional offerings, and more of EK’s timeless magic, visit our press room at https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph/ek-press-room/ and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and Tiktok, and @ek_philippines for Twitter and Instagram.

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THE LINDEN SUITES Kicks Off The Holiday Season With Its Annual Christmas Tree-Lighting

The Linden Suites ushered in the holiday season with its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, spreading festive cheer and joy. This beloved tradition not only marks the beginning of the Yuletide season but also honors the steadfast support of the hotel’s valued guests and partners over the years as it prepares to celebrate its 25th Silver Anniversary in 2025. “As we look forward to celebrating our 25th anniversary, we are renewing our commitment to providing high-quality accommodation, said “Ma. Celeste “Tet” B. Romualdo, General Manager of The Linden Suites, as she warmly welcomed guests to the ceremony.

(Left to Right) Pearl Maclang; Maria Victoria Santiago, General Manager of the Ortigas Center Association Inc. (OCAI); Tet Romualdo; Cap. Thomas Raymond Lising of Brgy. San Antonio

The lighting ceremony was hosted by Pearl Maclang, the hotel’s commercial director, and the Christmas tree lighting was led by Tet Romualdo and joined by Bob Z. Zozobrado, general manager and CEO of the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA). Together, they officially illuminated the hotel’s Christmas tree and lobby, marking the beginning of the holiday season. Other notable guests included the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) ASEC Sharlene Z. Batin, General Manager of the Ortigas Center Association Inc. (OCAI) Maria Victoria Santiago, and Brgy. San Antonio’s very own Cap. Thomas Raymond Lising.

The Linden Suites Christmas Lighting Hosted by Pearl Maclang, Commercial Director; Led by Tet Romualdo, General Manager of The Linden Suites and Bob Z. Zozobrado, General Manager and CEO of the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA)
Youth Harmonic Ensembles Choir

Adding to the festive cheer, the Youth Harmonic Ensembles, a choir formed to promote music and education for students, delighted the audience with lively Christmas carols, spreading the joyful spirit of the season. The night was made even more special by the presence of distinguished guests and media friends, whose attendance turned the celebration into an unforgettable evening of warmth, laughter, and festive cheer, making this holiday season extra special for all.

Bucks Jimenez, Director of Sales of The Linden Suites; Lovely Malafo, Human Resource Manager of The Linden Suites; ASEC Sharlene Z. Batin of the Department of Tourism (DOT), Tet Romualdo
Glen Aries Viernes of Metrolinks.ph; Bucks Jimenez; Thoney Pascual of The Metropolista; Pearl Maclang; Kaidi Borja, Marketing Officer of The Linden Suites

Making this season even more special, The Linden Suites have released their Christmas promotion, “Linden’s Holideals,” offering great savings for guests eager to celebrate the season in their cozy suites with loved ones. Rates start at just Php 4,000 nett for a Deluxe Room. This exclusive offer is available for bookings until November 17, 2024, for stays up to December 29, 2024, subject to blackout dates and holidays. To book, visit their website at https://www.booking.lindensuites.com/4.39/, call +632 5638 7878, or email reservations@lindensuites.com.

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The Hyeongje Grill at Ortigas Center Raise the Standard for Korean “Samgyupsal” Dinners

 

A Samgyupsal feast in the Philippines is now a multi-sensory adventure through Filipino cuisine, accompanied by infectious laughter and priceless memories shared with loved ones. The folks at Hyeongje Grill in Ortigas Center are well-versed in it. That’s why it has everything that makes Korean barbecue and samgyupsal so special: it’s located on the metro side.

Guests of the Red Planet Hotel, families, and Ortigas office workers frequent Hyeongje Grill, which is situated on the ground floor of the hotel on Shaw Boulevard in San Antonio, Pasig City. It didn’t begin grilling until May of 2024, but it’s making a name for itself among the area’s most dedicated foodies.

The samgyupsal feast at Hyeongje Grill is the main attraction, and for good reason: the premium cuts of meat and fresh sides, served with the special excitement of a grilling experience, are sure to please even the pickiest eater. For the highest quality Korean BBQ, the restaurant employs charcoal instead of LPG. Rest assured, the exhaust at each table is always well-maintained, so there’s no need to be concerned. The best part is the affordable pricing for the limitless grilling feast, which can be as little as₱549 during certain times of the day.

Beef Bulgogi and the incredible Samgyup bowl, which includes rice, kimchi, lettuce, fishcake, and grilled pork or beef, are two other noteworthy meals on the menu. The bowl is perfect for clients who are in a rush or who are on the move.

Hyeongje Grill offers a wider variety of dishes than just Korean BBQ. Korean and Japanese flavors come together in this fusion dish. Beef Gyudon, Chicken Tenders (with Karaage), Tempura, Beef Yakiniku, and Wagyu Ribeye are just a few of the other popular items on the menu. Its tempura, chicken karaage, and beef gyudon rice bowls will surely become famous.

All samgyupsal dinners include complimentary ice cream, so there’s no complicated dessert selection. Frozen treats like Melona bars and other famous Korean treats are also available.

When families visit Hyeongje Grill, they can order kid-friendly dishes to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Tempura, Chicken Karaage, Beef Yakiniku, and Grilled Plain Beef with Salt and Pepper are some of the most beloved foods among youngsters. For children under the age of seven, the price drops to half price, and those under the height of four can eat for free.

Distinct from the crowd

Hyeongje Grill’s co-owner Reb Garcia explains that the restaurant stands out from the competition thanks to its emphasis on high-quality food and ambiance. Above all else, we value our clients’ opinions and work hard to incorporate their suggestions into our service. Our main differentiation is that.

Reb Garcia, Co-Owner of Hyeongje Grill

Not only does Hyeongje Grill have a tantalizing menu, but its location and ambiance also make a big impression. Located just 2 kilometers from major Pasig City and Mandaluyong City grilling joints, the place is easy to miss. Customers who drive can park in front of the eatery in plenty of spaces.

There are 18 tables within the restaurant, each with its own exhaust system, and a maximum capacity of 63 people can be served at once.
With enough space for ten or twelve people, Hyeongje Grill even offers a separate VIP area. Groups that value privacy while dining, meeting, or singing their hearts out can reserve this VIP room.

You can see the glass-enclosed kitchen from the side of the restaurant. “We intend the kitchen to be open for viewing so our customers can see how we cut our fresh meat and ensure freshness of our supplies,” Garcia adds.

You can get some cool drinks made at the open bar that’s right at the door. Soju, Japanese whisky, local beer products, and Japanese beer types are some of the spirited drinks offered at Hyeongje, which helps to explain why it’s a popular spot for professionals looking to unwind after a hard day at work or on weekends. In the near future, the eatery plans to create its own line of alcoholic cocktails.

The fifteen-person crew that works the restaurant’s three shifts every day—three cooks and a variety of dining and kitchen attendants—makes for an excellent eating experience. The staff here are real players, and they all share my vision for providing exceptional service and the best food to our customers. I encourage them to do a good job since I am their leader,” Garcia says.

Growth strategies

Hyeongje Grill has only been open for a short time, but it has already seen the growth opportunities for both its services and its brand. The restaurant is now just delivering to local offices, but they have big plans to extend this service so that more people in the city and beyond can have Hyeongje Grill in the comfort of their own homes.

Online ordering and delivery are currently under development. Like the recent meticulous and successful integration of credit card and e-wallet payments into our payment terminals, we are working on a dependable system, according to Garcia.

In addition, he drops hints that a second Hyeongje Grill location, most likely in the southern part of Metro Manila, is in the works for the near future. “Things are looking up for us right now. We are already in full swing, and I have no doubt that growth will soon set in. According to Garcia, they are even looking at forming a partnership with Red Planet Hotels in order to expand their branches to all of the locations where the hotel is located.

The 37-year-old Garcia owns and operates businesses in a wide range of industries, including business process outsourcing (BPO), foreign exchange (ForEx), co-working spaces, computer and laptop distribution, and Airbnb leasing, among others. The first restaurant he ever owned, Hyeongje Grill, was co-owned by his brother and a buddy from the United States who they also consider a brother. “That’s why the restaurant is called ‘Hyeongje,’ which is a Korean word for ‘brothers,'” according to him.

At the Ortigas Center in San Antonio, Pasig City, you can find Hyeongje Grill at Lot 5 Blk 4, Shaw Boulevard. It is open from Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. and from Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Send an email to hyeongjegrill@gmail.com or give them a call at 09209026248 if you have any questions.

 

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2GO Partners with Grab for Seamless Transport from Door to Shore

Thanks to its partnership with Grab, 2GO sea travellers can now enjoy seamless transportation from home to the pier.

In a move to elevate the travel experience for Filipino passengers, 2GO, the Philippines’ largest integrated transportation and logistics solutions provider, has partnered with Grab, Southeast Asia’s leading super app, to offer a seamless and convenient transport option from door to shore and shore to door. This strategic partnership spans five major ports across the country: Manila, Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Cagayan de Oro. It combines the strengths of two industry leaders to enhance the journey of modern travellers.

Starting today, every 2GO Travel ticket transaction made through the 2GO app will come with a Grab promo code in the booking confirmation email. Passengers can use this code to book Grab rides to or from their homes to the specified port, making the entire journey more convenient and hassle-free.

“At 2GO, we are dedicated to enriching every aspect of our customers’ travel experience, ensuring their journey is enjoyable and stress-free from start to finish. Our partnership with Grab perfectly aligns with our goal of providing seamless transportation solutions, both to and from the pier,” said Blessie Cruz, 2GO Retail Business Unit Head. “Grab is an ideal partner to help us deliver this promise, enhancing the overall travel convenience we offer to our passengers.”

As a trusted provider of safe, reliable, and convenient ride-hailing services, Grab Philippines is excited to be part of this initiative. “GJ Roño, Director for Commercial and Business Development of Grab Philippines, shared, “Grab has always been keen on collaborating with companies that share our mission of improving the transport experience of Filipinos. Through our partnership with 2GO, we enable more Filipinos to plan and access a seamless integrated transport experience that is safe and convenient.”

To avail of this exciting offer, passengers simply need to download the 2GO app, purchase their tickets, and receive a Grab promo code upon completing their transaction. The code is valid for rides both to the pier and back from the pier to their chosen destination, creating a truly seamless door-to-pier and pier-to-door travel experience.

With this partnership, 2GO and Grab are redefining the travel landscape in the Philippines. They combine trusted transport services with innovative digital solutions to make every journey a memorable adventure.

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Enchanted Kingdom Celebrates 29 Years Of Timeless Magic This October

Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, officially kicked off its 29th-anniversary celebration on September 28, Saturday, at the Eldar’s Theater.

This year’s celebration reflects how EK has stood the test of time and left a lasting legacy among Filipino families by providing transformative experiences since the park opened its magical gates in 1995.

Nico R. Mamon, EK’s 29th Anniversary Celebration Chairman, expressed, “Looking back at almost three decades of Enchanted Kingdom, we have created countless magical memories that transcend trends and generations. We are hopeful and excited to continue being a part of everyone’s story through our timeless offerings for the years to come.”

The launch unveiled a lineup of events and offerings prepared by EK in line with its commitment to providing magical experiences and memories that last a lifetime.

Enchanting Events Leading to the 29th:
On October 6, teachers are in for a magical treat as EK pays tribute to their timeless contributions to the growth of countless Filipinos through the World Teachers’ Day Magical Celebration. The day will be filled with activities such as learning seminars, EDU-fun games, entertainment, zumba sessions, and raffle prizes. Teachers can also enjoy two (2) Regular Day Passes for unlimited rides (except gated attractions) for a special price of Php 1,200, valid on October 6. This promo can be booked through the EK Online Store until October 5.

Timeless Magic Concert and Fireworks Show:
Gear up for the peak of the 29th Anniversary festivities on October 19! In partnership with Universal Music Group (UMG) Philippines and Coca-Cola, EK is set to bring a magical night of musical escape with the Timeless Magic Anniversary Show. The event will feature performances from G-Force, Janine Berdin, Zack Tabudlo, and EK’s homegrown talents—SMS, Victoria’s Way, and the Kingsmen. The day will end with the Timeless Magic Fireworks Show, synchronized with the 29th Anniversary theme song composed and sung by SMS.

EK’s SMS Shines with New Music:
EK’s P-pop girl group SMS will share their music on Spotify! Stream their first single “EK High! (Dance Like Me)” and watch out for the release of their new song “Meant to Shine.”

Scan this to access the Spotify of SMS and stream “EK High! (Dance)
Scan this to access the Spotify of SMS and stream “EK High! (Dance)

New Enchanting Ride:
Create more timeless memories with your loved ones with the new family thrill ride that will be coming soon.

Seamless Online Experience:
Enjoy optimized browsing with the addition of new features on the EK Mobile App. Guests can now receive push notifications for upcoming promotions and on-the-day events. Plus, special access when inside EK: plan your way around the park by checking estimated queue times for each ride right from the app. An enhanced EK Online Store will also be launched this October for a seamless booking and shopping experience.

Timeless Offerings:
Bring home the magic with the newest set of EK merchandise like the Eldar Pop, Twin Princesses Rag Dolls, and the six-piece set EK Christmas Baubles. Visit the merchandise shops, including the immersive tram souvenir shop at the EK Portico. Guests can also explore the newest gated attraction, the Midway Mirror Maze, and enjoy refreshments at the new Snaptooth Snack Station located at the Midway Boardwalk.

More Days of Timeless Festive Magic:
Make the most out of the holiday season at EK! The park will be open five days a week in October and every day starting December 15 until the first week of January.

For more information about this celebration and more of EK’s timeless magic, visit our Press Room at https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph/ek-press-room/ and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and Tiktok, and @ek_philippines for Twitter and Instagram.