Treat Tatay to Tagaytay, other Father’s Day gift ideas
MANILA, Philippines — Tatay, Itay, ‘Tay, Ama, Amay, Daddy, Dad, Dada, Papa, Papi, Erpat, Pudra — whatever you call your dad, whatever personality he might have, there surely is a way to make him happy come Father’s Day!
If you’ve been there, done that, and out of ideas on how to make his day extra special, here are some suggestions:
Relax, rejuvenate, reward dad with a Tagaytay ‘staycation’
Nestled amid a serene seven-hectare landscape, Anya Resort Tagaytay offers a tranquil escape from the chaos of the city. Embracing the philosophy of the 3Rs— relax, rejuvenate, and reward—the resort embodies Filipino hospitality, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and cherished.
At the resort, every detail is meticulously crafted to match your preferences. From personalized check-in times to the aroma of your room, the resort's bespoke experience ensures that each moment is uniquely tailored for your utmost comfort and enjoyment.
It offers a serene setting for a perfect blend of work, relaxation, and corporate wellness retreats. Seasoned event planners ensure flawless execution of business meetings and company planning sessions, complemented by curated menu selections. Beyond corporate events, the resort is also ideal for celebrating life's milestones, hosting dream weddings amid picturesque Tagaytay landscapes or intimate gatherings for special moments.
Additionally, it provides Corporate Wellness Programs that prioritize psychological health in the workplace, underscoring its commitment to holistic well-being for corporate clients.
Partnering with Chef Chele Gonzalez, Anya offers a culinary voyage. Chef Chele’s culinary vision of Spanish-rooted and international contemporary experience present sensational set menus and imaginative à la carte selections that entice discerning palates and invigorate the senses. Guests are invited to indulge in the enriching Soul Menu at Anila restaurant, meticulously curated to elevate their gastronomic journey and enhance their dining experience.
The resort aims to not just be a getaway, but a journey toward holistic wellness. The Niyama Wellness Center offers an array of spa treatments, meditation sessions, and fitness programs, catering to the evolving needs of wellness-focused travelers.
Embark on an eco-adventure at the resort’s newest attraction, the sensory garden. Here, guests are invited to delve into nature's abundance, engaging with aromatic herbs, encountering native animals, and witnessing sustainability in full bloom. As organic waste enriches the landscape, nurturing vibrant flora, the sensory garden stands as one of the many testaments to the resort’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Committed to sustainability initiatives aimed at attaining the coveted "Green Destination" green seal, guests actively contribute to these efforts through their immersive experience in the sensory garden.
Likewise, its commitment to personalized luxury has earned it recognition among the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. With a focus on safety and satisfaction, the resort guarantees a departure that leaves guests feeling completely rejuvenated and utterly at ease.
For inquiries and reservations, contact (+632) 657.1640 or (+63 917) 704.6159, or email reservations@anyaresorts.com or welcomehome@anyaresorts.com. Anya Resort Tagaytay is at Buenavista Hills Road, Barangay Mag-asawang Ilat, Tagaytay City. It is managed by AHG Hotels and Resorts, the most-trusted hospitality management group in the country.
Work-to-weekend must-have: U Elements’ Elite collection
U Elements, a premium travel and lifestyle powerhouse in the Philippines, debuts its newest bag line for travelers and professionals seeking functionality without compromising elegance and timeless appeal.
Meticulously crafted and elevated with top-notch features, the U Elements Elite Collection sets a new standard in premium backpack design. It offers a seamless fusion of sophistication and practicality, two qualities that define modern urban living with a sense of excitement.
“From its sleek exterior to its thoughtfully organized interior, every detail has been carefully considered to meet the needs of the modern professional,” stated Naldy Paguibitan, Vice President for Merchandising, Urbanize. “With features like a dedicated laptop compartment, padded tablet sleeve, and an array of organizational pockets, staying organized and on the go has never been easier.”
U Elements recently launched its latest backpack line at the UGF Uptown Mall, BGC, Taguig City last month. The intimate gathering, which was attended by press colleagues, content creators, and special guests, presented the U Elements Elite Collection as an everyday companion that equips every consumer to face the day with confidence and flair.
The esteemed line of backpacks was introduced with six practical pieces built to stand the test of travel and work. These unique bags were revealed as Ansel, Brice, Brook, Grant, Hugh, and Rhett—all beaming with unwavering commitment to traveling in style and comfort, while also capable of getting positive compliments at the office or meetings.
U Elements Elite Collection also includes a top-of-the-line trolley luggage that comes with three variants. Dubbed Elite Ford Business Trolley Luggage, the product is designed to carry work and travel essentials with expandable features and sleek style, reflecting one’s flair for adventure.
As Naldy elaborated, “The Elite Collection is built to withstand the rigors of daily use while remaining water-repellent to keep your belongings safe and dry. Whether you’re commuting to work or traveling the world, this backpack has you covered with its spacious main compartment, quick-release key ring, luggage strap, and USB port for on-the-go charging. The Elite Collection strikes the perfect balance between spaciousness and portability.”
Apart from introducing the U Elements Elite Collection, the exclusive event welcomed legal counsel and model Oliver Moeller as its brand ambassador. As a promising newcomer in the local entertainment scene and a competent working professional with an impressive academic background, Moeller first made waves as a guest on the top-rated TV program “It’s Showtime” and was later on signed as one of the talents of Cornerstone Entertainment, a premier Filipino multimedia entertainment agency.
“Atty. Oliver embodies the essence of our brand’s values and resonates with our target audience on multiple levels,” revealed Ronie Ilisan, Vice President for Marketing, Urbanize. “His background as a respected lawyer with a focus on corporate and labor law speaks to the professionalism and integrity we uphold at The U Elements. Additionally, his commitment to excellence is evident through his academic achievements, including a Master’s degree in Public International Law from the University of Queensland.”
Furthermore, Oliver’s diverse interests and active presence on social media made him an ideal representative for U Elements Elite Collection. Ronie pointed out that Oliver’s passion for sports, fitness, and lifestyle aligns perfectly with the functionality and comfort aspects of the bag collection, which was designed to meet the needs of the working class.
“Despite his television debut and media recognition as a ‘heartthrob lawyer,’ he remains grounded and dedicated to his legal practice, showcasing humility and authenticity—qualities that mirror the values of U Elements. We are confident that Oliver Moeller will effectively engage and inspire our target audience, driving brand awareness and loyalty among the working-class community.”
The U Elements Elite Collection is available at all Urbanize stores and SM Department Stores nationwide. You may also purchase them online via www.urbanize.com.ph, Lazada, Shopee, and Zalora.
Upgrade dad’s tech life
Book a distillery tour
This Father’s Month and Independence Month, it is time to raise a glass to fathers and Pinoy pride!
Gone are the days when Western countries are thought to be superior at making beloved spirits like gin, vodka, and rum. In the last few decades, Asian nations such as Japan and Taiwan have laid their claim to crafting brands at par with the best the West can offer.
Now comes the Philippines with the elite Archipelago (or ARC) line of spirits that has garnered a raft of prestigious international awards in just five years. Every bottle of ARC stands tall among the best of its peers internationally.
A proudly Pinoy premium brand, ARC gin is completely made in the Philippines, utilizing Filipino expertise, supporting Filipino farmers and employing Filipino labor. Archipelago spirits are distilled by Full Circle Craft Distillers, a family-owned and operated, state-of-the-art, Philippine Economic Zone (PEZA)-registered distillery in Calamba, Laguna, that is now open for weekend distillery tours. To book a distillery tour, contact 09171184446.
The artisanal spirits are lovingly handcrafted in limited batches that take full advantage of the fresh botanicals and rich terroir of the Philippines, using distilling techniques and up-to-date technology that keep the products up to the highest international standards. The flagship variant is the Archipelago Botanical Gin with its scintillating citrus-forward profile, followed by the second variant, Barrel Reserve Gin, with its more mellow, toasted oak profile. Both variants have garnered Gold Medals, Platinum Medals, Double Gold Medals, and Master Awards at top international competitions such as Asian Spirits Masters, SIP Awards, LA Spirits Awards, ASCOT Awards, and World Gin Awards.
Lava Rock Vodka is naturally filtered over lava rocks from the volcanoes of Taal and Mayon and has won a host of awards. No less than Wine Enthusiast gave it a “93” Rating and named it one of the “Top 100 Spirits for 2022.”
The recently launched Navy Strength Gin and Black Bamboo Gin have recently earned a Master Medal and a Gold Medal respectively at the recent Global Asian Spirit Masters.
Full Circle Craft Distillers also released their first rum variant: Double Barrel Rum. Handcrafted on Full Circle Craft Distiller’s copper still and gently aged for five years in new American oak and ex-bourbon barrels, this limited 100 bottle release offers rich, complex notes of butterscotch, vanilla and toasted coconut, and the lingering warmth of spicy oak.
Head Distiller Matthew Westfall stated, “Every Archipelago spirit is crafted with precision using the finest, locally sourced ingredients, such as fresh pomelo, calamansi, dalandan, and mango and a selection of exotic fragrant flowers that include sampaguita and ylang-ylang.
“We source these botanicals from across our archipelago, from upland farms in the mighty Cordilleras in northern Luzon to family plantations in Mindanao. Our aim is to showcase the wondrous array of exotic tropical botanicals that we source from small-scale farmers and share an exquisite taste of the Philippines.”
Even the bottle design is a salute to Filipino culture and artistry, employing the classic Letras Y Figuras (letters and figures) graphic style in its label and embedding the Filipino flag’s sun at neck, body and the base of every bottle.
ARC Craft Spirits are available online on LazMall, winery.ph, manila-wine.com, and boozy.ph and available in stores at major airport locations at Duty Free Philippines, Royal Subic Duty Free leading supermarkets and select Kultura branches. ARC is also pouring in signature cocktails at the country’s top five-star hotels, resorts, restaurants and bars.
Add some humor into your papa’s pamper time
Fans will be ogre-the-moon with this brand new Lush x Shrek limited-edition collection, available exclusively at the Lush Philippines website, lush.com.ph, this June.
Inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s “Shrek” franchise, the collection celebrates one’s inner swampy self, in contrast to the ‘clean girl’ aesthetic of recent years.
Just like onions, this collection has layers. Inspired by Shrek’s journey from a self-loathing to a self-accepting ogre, the range aims to bring joy and Shrek’s irreverent humor to the worlds of beauty and well-being – showing that there is no one way to be beautiful and feel good and that wellness can also be a swampy ogre bath.
“I love how Shrek is a family film I enjoyed when I was in my teens and now my own teenager loves all the meme culture of Shrek today. It’s a classic film that celebrates self-love and was an obvious fit for a Lush collaboration. It’s earthy and fun and perfect for some swampy self-care,” stated Melody Morton, Creative Concepts Director at Lush.
In the Philippines, the limited-edition collection features Get Outta My Swamp shower slime, Shrek Swamp bath bomb, and Fiona shower gel, as well as returning favorite scents for Gingy bubble bar and Donkey bath bomb.
Harness the power of the swamp for a slimy body wash, Get Outta My Swamp Shower Slime, packed with wheatgrass, an antioxidant with Vitamins A, E, and C, leaving skin bright and soothed, while cornstarch not only helps to create the texture of the sublime slime but is also fantastically softening on the skin.
Users can unleash their own swamp at bath time with Shrek Swamp Bath Bomb. It has a blend of rhassoul mud, oakmoss, and seaweed, hand-harvested from the Japanese coastline, that will leave skin feeling softened and cared for. It is scented with rich, deep chocolate mixed with a refreshing, minty, and spicy top note thanks to peppermint, pink pepper, and vanilla.
Be ogre-joyed with Fiona Shower Gel, a fairytale blend of fresh, fruity fragrance transformed into a beautifully cleansing shower gel. It is packed with Vitamin C, fresh cucumber juice cools and soothes the skin while giving it the healthy, radiant glow of an ogre in love. Sourced from South Africa, Buchu oil adds a fresh berry note to this fruity fragrance. This fruity shower gel is housed in recycled plastic harvested from the coastlines of Bali, Indonesia. Due to local infrastructures overwhelmed by tourism, the scale of waste management is not equipped to process the growing amount of plastic waste, posing a significant risk to wildlife, so instead, this plastic is collected and recycled for reuse.
Get acquainted with the scent of freshly baked goods with Gingy Bubble Bar in the form of everyone’s favorite gingerbread man. Users can crumble it under running water to release sweetly scented bubbles and swish around for even more suds.
Scented with cozy spiced caramel and waffle notes, drop the Donkey Bath Bomb sweet bath bomb into a nice hot bath to release swirls of color and waffle-sweet fragrance.
Take dad on a date with a breathtaking view
Seda's signature Straight Up rooftop bar has been known to offer breathtaking views, enchanting ambiance, and unparalleled hospitality, making it a must-visit spot for unwinding, special occasions, or romantic evenings.
Nestled in pivotal urban hubs across the country, the Seda team extends an invitation for you to visit and sample the latest offerings from Seda Residences Makati, located at Ayala Avenue Corner Amorsolo and Salcedo Streets, Legazpi Village.
Delight in exquisite tapas, classic cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere complemented by lounge music and themed promotions.
Go 'krazy' over garlic-infused food from drinks to dessert
Krazy Garlik has made a "krazy" comeback last June 8 at the 3rd Level of One Ayala Mall in Makati City for the dishes you loved, and for those moments shared over delicious meals. This time, expect things to be krazier than ever with wider menu and beverages.
One of The Bistro Group’s home-grown concepts introduced Filipino and Western-inspired menu using garlic as the hallmark ingredient. As it makes a comeback, you could once again delight in garlic’s versatility and distinctive flavor profile (from spicy when raw to sweet when roasted). Plus, other yummy dishes!
Order these top sellers- Amazing KG Salad and 40 Kloves Chicken. Other unique dishes worth trying are Shrimp on a Roll, and the Bag O Seafood. Don’t forget the Hara-Kiri rice that’s (beware!) might be too hot to handle (for a few), and Crema Catalana, the unique and garlic- laden take on crème brulee.
Enjoy these amidst the creatively-conceptualized interiors that are both inviting and inclusive. Minimalist in design with a touch of modernity, the neutral tones and pops of natural wood and muted red tones add warmth and texture, resulting in an overall sleek and timeless vibe. Even with the new look and modish interiors, one thing hasn’t changed- the same krazy-garlicky goodness that you’ve always loved.
Don’t just take our word for it. Experience the new Krazy Garlik yourself and get ready to feed your krazy kind of hunger. Krazy flavors coming soon!
Goldilocks introduces Coffee Layered Crunch
Milestone celebrations are made more special with the new Goldilocks Coffee Layered Crunch. Perfectly moist and delicious, this new coffee cake is sure to become a crowd-favorite among cake lovers.
Indulge in the Coffee Layered Crunch, where every layer is a different experience. The first layer includes a base made of a dense chocolate brownie. This serves as the foundation for this masterpiece as it beautifully holds the rest of its enticing elements.
A whipped cream layer is found on top of the brownie, giving it a luscious airiness. Then comes the middle layer, which features the brand’s classic mocha chiffon. From this, tastebuds are treated to a generous serving of coffee mousse. Its rich and creamy consistency give it a delightful indulgence. To top it all off, a layer of crunch made with sweet and chewy cashew praline. And with its toffee-like finish, the cake’s topmost layer is a beautiful contrast in every bite.
Enjoy the five premium layers in every serving. Order a Goldilocks Coffee Layered Crunch for P699, and let it be the centerpiece of your milestones – from special days like Father’s Day, to simple gatherings like family dinners and snack time. Orders can also be placed via GrabFood and FoodPanda or through www.goldilocksdelivery.ph.
A toast to dads without the sugar
In an exciting development for the Philippine ready-to-drink market, Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola launched the Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola Zero Sugar alcoholic ready-to-drink (ARTD) beverage last month.
Building on the momentum of last year’s successful launch of the original Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola alcoholic ready-to-drink product in the country, Coca-Cola Philippines and Brown Forman, Jack Daniel’s parent company, are enhancing their portfolio with a new offering that caters to the evolving preferences of consumers. This innovation continues the legacy of the cherished popular whiskey and soda cocktail, now using Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, packed for convenience and enjoyment.
Celebrated at an exclusive event featuring Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, who embodies the drink’s spirited motto, "Born Ready for More," this latest addition to the new Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola portfolio offers a new choice for fans of the classic premium cocktail mix.
Mark Jason Dee, Senior Director for Frontline Marketing of Coca-Cola Philippines, expressed the company’s commitment to consumer preferences, stating, “Coca-Cola pays attention to what consumers want, and we have seen how Filipinos are always in search of exciting options.
“Following the warm reception of the original Jack Daniel’s & Coca-Cola ARTD last year, it became clear that there was a demand for the premium cocktail mix that uses our Coca-Cola Zero Sugar variant drink. This new option meets the demand, reinforcing our dedication to innovation and satisfaction in the company’s partnership with Jack Daniel’s. Together, we deliver iconic drinks that turn into fan favorites around the world.”
The Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola Zero Sugar ARTD - combining Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey with Coca-Cola Zero Sugar – is a premium cocktail that draws inspiration from one of the world’s most popular branded “bar calls” or a cocktail ordered with specific brand names in premium bars and pubs all around the world. The packaging synergizes the iconic red Coca-Cola logo written in its classic Spencerian script with the bold, black Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 design, symbolizing being born ready or more adventures.
Now available in 320 mL slim cans with a 7% alcohol level, the premium cocktail drink can be found in convenience stores or supermarkets nationwide. Online purchasing options will soon be offered on Boozy.ph, CokeBeverages.ph, Shopee, and Lazada for consumers who are 18 years old and above.
Give dad an unusual coffee break
According to the World Coffee Portal Research, the Philippines is the second largest individual coffee-consuming market in Asia with 80% of Filipinos drinking an average of 2.5 cups a day. Japan comes in first place.
These numbers reflect that coffee is not just a pastime for Filipinos, but an integral part of their lifestyle.
Coffee enthusiasts who are looking for a quick stopover to enjoy a good brew will delight in the newest store concept unveiled by UCC Ueshima Coffee Philippines by the Mugen Group, the company behind the UCC cafes and restaurants in the Philippines. On June 5, it held the grand opening of its first Xpresso by UCC at Petron Bel-Air in Makati.
“At Xpresso, we understand that you’re always on the go, and we are here to fuel your journey with a shot of happiness. XPRESSO by UCC is more than just a coffee kiosk; it is a testament to our commitment to providing you with the best quality coffee, quickly and conveniently,” stated Mugen Group President and CEO Hubert Young at his speech during the event.
The grand opening was attended by members of the media and special guests, who were treated to a thrilling performance from Taiko Drummers, a raffle, games, and the Wish Bus.
“We are proud to offer our products at affordable prices without compromising on quality. Our coffee and food items are meticulously crafted to ensure they meet the high standards that UCC is known for. From P60 to P180 for beverages and P70 to P120 for food items, Xpresso makes premium coffee accessible to everyone,” Young said.
“As we move forward, we remain dedicated to our mission: to provide convenient coffee venues that serve the finest flavors of Japanese coffee at an affordable price.”
The menu includes to-go coffee and non-coffee varieties that are perfect with their pastries and sandwiches. The menu items are designed to be ready-to-carry for customers on their way to school, work, or home.
The store’s design and branding are heavily influenced by Japanese pop culture and aesthetics as can be seen in its logo, which consists of a red circle (similar to the Japanese flag) and the brand’s name, all contained within a stacked box.
The brand caters to coffee lovers from different age groups -- GenX, Millennials, and GenZ who are looking for quality coffee on-the-go. Its official tagline, “A Sip of the Rising Sun,” embodies its Japanese roots and inspiration. The company that eventually became UCC was founded in Kobe in 1933 by the Father of Coffee in Japan, Tadao Ueshima.
The tagline also mirrors the heartwarming and energetic personality of the brand in helping Filipinos level up their day and encourage them to be their best.
Indulge in Siomai Chao Fan
Chowking officially welcomes singer and actor, Darren Espanto to the family, as he joins the "Wok-Sarap" experience with the Siomai Chao Fan. Fans were buzzing after the brand's recent social media posts hinted at a new endorser. Now, the news is official: Darren is part of the Chowking family!
With his 10th-anniversary concert fast approaching, it seems all good things are coming together for Darren. “I’m happy to join the Chowking family and try something new from the usual food choices with Siomai Chao Fan,” said Darren. “Of course, with the recommendation of my bestie, Kim Chiu, I’m excited to invite everyone to try this kakaibang wok-sarap!”
"We’re very happy that Darren tried and loved Siomai Chao Fan’s kakaibang wok-sarap!" said Jia Du, Chowking PH’s Marketing Head. "We're very excited to invite those who haven’t tried the product to try it — we know this will also be their new favorite and bias!”
With Filipinos enjoying this kakaibang wok-sarap meal, Siomai Chao Fan continues to be part of everyday moments, connecting people by providing a delicious detour to share goodness. The restaurant chain is hinting at future surprises to keep their fans excited.
Wish dad a hearty bowl of good health
Get ready to add a pop of flavor to your day with HeyBo's first seasonal bowl – Gochu-pop.
HeyBo is located at the Ground Floor, Central Square Mall, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.
Bursting onto the scene from June 19 to August 13, this bowl is a harmonious blend of Korean-inspired flavors with oven-baked Gochujang Chicken, sweet potato noodles, and a medley of vibrant vegetables.