17th Fiesta Folkloriada kicks off at SM Mall of Asia

by Info @Brand Zone | December 9, 2023

Cultural diversity and artistic brilliance were showcased as the 17th Fiesta Folkloriada commenced at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall last December 4, featuring vibrant performances from renowned dance companies across the globe, namely Austria, Indonesia, Poland, South Korea, Spain, and the Philippines. The event is in collaboration between SM Supermalls, the Bayanihan Folk Arts Foundation, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and the Federation of International Dance Festivals.

The opening ceremony featured a speech by Bayanihan Folk Arts Foundation Executive Director Marielle Javellana, and a local opening ritual involving the heads of delegations and members of renowned international dance companies from the aforementioned six countries.

Bayanihan Folk Arts Foundation Executive Director Marielle Javellana

The heads of delegations from six participating countries—namely Austria, Indonesia, Poland, South Korea, Spain, and the Philippines—participate in a local opening ritual during the 17th Fiesta Folkloriada opening ceremony.

The stage came alive with a glimpse into the soul of Austria through the Trachtrenverein Rossecker Bruck an der Mur. Following suit was Indonesia's Al-Fath Cirendeu and Sanggita Kencana Budaya who presented Indonesia's way of life through its dance forms.

Meanwhile, Poland's Folk Group Zbojnicek took the stage next, weaving a narrative of the Polish culture with their spirited performance. The rhythmic beats of South Korea's Ryu Dance Company delivered a mesmerizing display of the Land of the Morning Calm’s rich heritage. Also, Ballet Ara de Madrid transported the audience to the heart of Spain with their passionate and emotive performance. 

Polish dance folk group, Zbojnicek

Ryu Dance Company from South Korea

Ballet Ara de Madrid from Spain

The pinnacle of the evening arrived with the performance by the Philippines' very own Bayanihan Dance Company. Their vibrant and energetic showcase of Filipino folk dances displayed the country's cultural vibrancy and storytelling through dance.

Bayanihan Dance Company, the national folk-dance company of the Philippines, established in 1956 by Dr. Helena Benitez, has garnered recognition both nationally and internationally, earning six Grand prizes in World Dance competitions.

The Philippines’ award-winning national folk-dance company, the Bayanihan Dance Company.

The 17th Fiesta Folkloriada is a testament to the power of dance as it transcends borders and fosters cultural exchange. The week-long journey culminates in a grand finale at the Open-Air Auditorium, Rizal Park Luneta on December 9, Saturday, at 6 PM. The finale promises to be a celebration of global unity and diversity, bringing together the world's finest dance companies for an unforgettable evening under the stars.

To know more about the 17th Fiesta Folkloriada and SM Supermalls, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media. 

Experience next-level fun at SM Game Park MOA

by Info @Brand Zone | December 7, 2023

Get ready to elevate your fun and dive into an action-packed experience at the newest sports destination in SM Mall of Asia (MOA)—SM Game Park!

Prepare for an exciting recreational and active lifestyle facility, launching you into a sporty era with an electrifying lineup of games and activities. SM Game Park MOA is the brand’s flagship branch, designed by the award-winning Hong Kong-based company, Alexander Wong Architects. It marks the fourth branch in the country, following SM Southmall, SM City Fairview, and SM Cagayan de Oro (CDO) Downtown.

Situated on the 3rd Level of the South Entertainment Mall of SM Mall of Asia, SM Game Park MOA spans 1,947 sqm of everything fun, offering top-notch amusements and the best amenities for everyone of all ages.

At SM Game Park MOA, let the good times roll at its massive 16-lane regular bowling area. Plus, have an unforgettable and exclusive experience with your social circles at the new four-lane private bowling, equipped with state-of-the-art Augmented Reality (AR) technology—a first in the country.

Gather the hoop crew and shoot your shots at the mini indoor basketball court, accommodating a team of 3x3 players. For those exploring other sports, test your skill with a bow and arrow at the archery zone by PANA.

SM Lifestyle Sports & Leisure Centers Assistant Vice President for Operations Joseph Silva (center) performs the ceremonial first basketball jump ball with Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) stars Marc Pingris (left) and Jayjay Helterbrand (right) at the mini indoor basketball court.

The ceremonial first arrow release is executed by top archers Emanuel Caducoy (left) and Adrianna Jessie Magbojos (right).

Master the art of billiards at any of the six billiard tables available. Serve up intense rallies at the table tennis area, or challenge a friend to a game of basketball hoops or E-darts at the arcade games corner.

The ceremonial first billiards break shot is performed by SM Lifestyle Inc. Sports & Leisure Centers Assistant Vice President for Operations Joseph Silva (left) and SM Mall of Asia Mall Manager Rosaly Anne Salazar.

There's no shortage of heart-pumping thrills at SM Game Park MOA. Sing, dance, and play your hearts out to your favorite songs and games inside the Game Room. You can now enjoy karaoke, and soon there will be additions like board games, dance consoles, and various other recreations, offering a multitude of options for passing the time. If you need to wind down or simply chill with the squad after a fun day, grab some delicious grub and refreshing drinks from the Sports Bar by Taters.

Enjoy karaoke and upcoming additions like board games, dance consoles, and various entertainment options in the Game Room.

Indulge in savory bites and cool beverages at the Sports Bar courtesy of Taters.

Exciting promos await customers, so make sure to check out the official social media accounts of SM Game Park on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more information.

Celebrate the National Stamp Collecting Month at SM

by Info @Brand Zone | November 20, 2023

The exhibit highlights the joys of stamp collecting.

In honor of the 256th founding anniversary of the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) and National Stamp Collecting Month (NSCM), a three-day Philatelic exhibition, dedicated to the collection of stamps, was held from November 13 to 15, with the launch taking place last November 13 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin expressed his enthusiasm for the NSCM Exhibition, stating, " SM Supermalls is honored to host this significant event, envisioning it as a source of joy for enthusiasts and an opportunity for the younger generation to appreciate the art and history encapsulated in these tiny treasures."

SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin

Philippine Postal Corporation Postmaster General Luis Carlos

The guest speaker from the Department of Tourism Undersecretary for Legal and Special Concerns, Atty. Mae Elaine Bathan

A classic aluminum mailbox that offers convenient letter drop-offs is displayed.

The “Journey in Philately” exhibit honors the Manila Central Post Office Building and the debut of the National Stamp Collecting Month 2023 stamps.

The second day highlighted the debut of the 'Dogs in Philippine History Special Stamps,' inspired by historian Ian Christopher Alfonso’s book, 'Dogs in Philippine History.' These stamps increased awareness and appreciation for our country's history and treatment of dogs, featuring the pet dog of young Jose Rizal, Saver (the iconic Aspin from 1990s television), and the Dalmatians of revolutionary writer Marcelo del Pilar, among others.

The 'Dogs in Philippine History Special Stamps' showcase notable figures, including the pet dog of young Jose Rizal and the Dalmatians of revolutionary writer Marcelo del Pilar.

As the Super Pets Club Project Lead and SM Supermalls' Assistant Vice President for Marketing – Special Events, Hanna Carinna Sy supported the pet dogs showcase to align with SM’s dedicated pet loyalty program.

(L-R): Historian Ian Christopher Alfonso, Philippine Historical Association President Dr. Francis Navarro, Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) Board of Directors Member Cristina Caringal, PHLPost Postmaster General Luis Carlos, National Commission for Culture and the Arts Chairman Victorino Mapa Manalo, and SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President for Marketing - Special Events Hanna Carinna Sy

Super Pets Club Project Lead and SM Supermalls' Assistant Vice President for Marketing – Special Events, Hanna Carinna Sy

A pet show, featuring animal trainer June Lazarte and his Chihuahua, Bullet, showcased tricks and a performance of the Philippine folk dance, 'tinikling'.

Animal trainer June Lazarte, with his pet dog Bullet, the Chihuahua, showcase a balancing trick.

On the third day, PHLPost unveiled the “National Children’s Month Stamps,” influenced by the well-known illustrator Beth Parrocha’s book. The stamps aligned with National Children’s Month, emphasizing children’s needs in areas such as physical and mental health, education, and overall well-being, showcasing our love and concern for their future.

(L-R): Stamp collector Dr. Ngo Tiong Tak, book illustrator Beth Parrocha, SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Operations Engr. Bien Mateo, Philippine Postal Corporation Postmaster General Luis Carlos, and National Authority for Child Care Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada

Other activities included the official signing of stamps and First Day Cover envelopes, the sale of postage stamps, and National ID registration by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

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