If you are looking for a lively Christmas shopping experience here in Alabang, be aware that the popular Noel Bazaar will be held at the Filinvest Tent from December 17 to 20, 2026. Each day of the bazaar starts at 11AM and will last until 9PM.
To be clear, the Alabang bazaar will be the 2nd bazaar to be organized by Noel Bazaar this year.
Wondering what’s waiting for you at Noel Bazaar 2026?
It’s more than just Christmas shopping! From exciting local finds, delicious holiday treats, and unique gifts to fun workshops, special activities, and the GMA Ukay-Ukay, there’s something to make every Christmas visit extra memorable.
So start making that Christmas list, tag your shopping buddies, and get ready to discover what’s in store this year!
Noel Bazaar already promised that there will be a wide selection of sellers that collectively have a lot of products to offer shoppers such as clothes, accessories, footwear, home décors, handmade crafts, food items, and other items that can be ideal for Christmas gift-giving.
Apart from the shopping experience, Noel Bazaar has prepared special activities to entertain shoppers.
While Filinvest Tent has its own parking area, parking spaces are limited. There are others nearby places that offer paid parking such as Commercenter and South Supermarket.
Watch out for Noel Bazaar in Alabang this December 17-20.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: Are you looking forward to Noel Bazaar in Alabang this December? If you have visited a Noel Bazaar in the past, how was your shopping experience and were you able to find the items you wanted?
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Disclaimer: This is my original work with details by doing personal research and watching the movie more than once. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.
Welcome back, film buffs and fellow geeks. Today, we go back to the year 2000 which saw the release of the original Scary Movie. It was a parody film that poked fun on the slasher film genre with Scream (1996) and I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997) as the major references. For teen comedy, it parodied American Pie (1999) which in my opinion is its 3rd main reference.
After getting released in cinemas in July 2000, Scary Movie (with a production budget of less than $20 million) opened way beyond everyone’s expectations grossing a then record $42.3 million (the highest opening weekend for an R-rated movie). It ended with over $157 million in North America and its worldwide total was at $278,019,771. By comparison, Scream (1996) grossed $173 million worldwide while I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997) had global ticket sales of $125.6 million.
Months later, Scary Movie opened here in the Philippines and I was fortunate enough to have seen it in one of Festival Mall’s original cinemas (1998-2024). After that, I replayed Scary Movie on DVD and cable TV, and saw most of its sequels.
With the newest Scary Movie (2026) playing in cinemas around the world, it is not surprising that the original Scary Movie of 2000 suddenly got featured in YouTube retrospective videos, retro movie reviews, movie podcasts and the like. Indeed, now is a good time to look back at the one movie that led to a franchise.
The story begins on the night of Halloween. A student named Drew (Carmen Electra) is alone at home and was about to cook herself some popcorn when she suddenly received a telephone call. The talk over the phone start friendly until Drew realizes she’s being watched by the caller. Suddenly a person dressed as Ghostface appears inside her house forcing her to make hasty decisions to survive.
Drew runs outside. As Ghostface grabs her, Drew’s clothes fall off exposing her body and underwear. Ghostface stabs her on the breast only to remove one of her silicone implants. Drew notices their family car approaching fast but she got hit accidentally as her father (the driver) was distracted. Ghostface eventually kills Drew.
A very short time later, the local high school got swarmed by several members of the press. The murder of Drew caused a major disturbance there. At school, Cindy Campbell meets with her boy friend Bobby Prinze, and their friends Brenda Meeks, Ray Wilkins, Greg Phillippe, Buffy Gilmore, and Shorty.
During class, Cindy notices Ghostface watching from a distance. She opens an anonymous letter with a message from the writer that he knows what happened during the previous Halloween. This compels Cindy and her friends to reflect about the hit-and-run accident they were involved in the previous year. They assume the masked killer stalking them is seeking revenge for the cover-up…
Quality
From Left to Right: Shannon Elizabeth as Buffy, Shawn Wayans as Ray, Lochlyn Munro as Greg, Anna Faris as Cindy and Jon Abrahams as Bobby.
This old movie is still very entertaining to watch. Under Keenen Ivory Wayans’ direction and his brothers’ involvement in writing the script, there is a strong emphasis on parodying films with the adult moviegoers in mind, and there definitely is a strong storytelling structure all throughout. There is a fine mix of comedy, horror, action and pop culture references throughout.
The comedic scenes or acts were done organically. Not one funny scene felt fake nor wooden. There definitely is something funny to see most of the time and very few films made me laugh or smile all throughout. When it comes to parodying key scenes from established films like Scream (1996), I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997), American Pie (1999), Scream 2 (1997), The Sixth Sense (1999), The Blair Witch Project (1999) and The Matrix (1999), the filmmakers went all-in to entertain viewers and I can say they were really successful here.
Apart from making parodies, Wayans and his team even went as far as doing their own remakes of key scenes from Scream, I Know What You Did Last Summer, and American Pie, complete with camera angles that strongly replicated those from the established films. With such creativity and passion behind the efforts, Scary Movie crafted its own narrative and had something fresh to show at a time when the slasher horror sub-genre of film was revitalized in American pop culture during the 1990s. In other words, there is something for American moviegoers to relate with in this film.
A notable parody of The Matrix in the film.
The filmmakers knew how to make fun of Scream and other films.
Along the way, the filmmakers got fine performances from the cast. To begin with, Anna Faris really stood out as Cindy Campbell and she showed a fine range of acting. Even though she only had a few professional acting credentials at the time of filming, Faris proved she can be the sweet girlfriend towards Bobby (Jon Abrahams), a real friend towards her friends (played by Marlon Wayans, Regina Hill, Shawn Wayans, Shannon Elizabeth, Dave Sheridan and Lochlyn Munro), be broken-hearted in reaction to betrayal, and even be an effective action performer. Faris is also good with executing comedy and her performance parodying the “What are you waiting for?” moment from I Know What You Did Last Summer is a must-see. This movie marks Faris’ breakout role and she became an essential player as the Scary Movie franchise grew in the years that followed.
Dave Sheridan as Doofy is absolutely cartoony and exaggerated, and also one of the more defining characters of the film. Regina Hill as the girlfriend of Shawn Wayans’ character ranges from talkative to annoying. Marlon Wayans is the 2nd most notable performer in the cast and he symbolizes the stoned guy while successfully delivering a lot of funny moments. Lochlyn Munro as Greg is the high-school jock who is arrogant, uptight and even panicky.
Yes, it is all true! Scary Movie (2000) accidentally predicted the rise of transgendered women (males who believe they are female) who displaced, harassed or even harmed real women in America. Even here in my native Philippines, transgendered individuals and LGBTQ members were caught committing criminal acts.
Shannon Elizabeth is a lot more than being a pretty face with an attractive body. She acted a lot in this movie ranging from being emotional to sarcastic and comedic.
The most surprising cast member here is Shannon Elizabeth as the rich and promiscuous Buffy Gilmore. Before watching Scary Movie, I saw Elizabeth in a small yet very notable sexy role as Nadia in American Pie and I was not surprised when she was presented as a walking sex symbol in this movie. Elizabeth surprised me with the huge amount of acting she did (easily overwhelming her limited acts in American Pie) being emotional, funny, and even sarcastic. As such, Shannon Elizabeth here is memorable to watch here.
As mentioned earlier, there is structure in the storytelling here. Even though a lot of films were parodied and some others were mentioned or visually shown, the filmmakers never lost their direction on telling the story in a coherent manner. In fact, Scary Movie’s story is still the best and the most solid among its many films within the franchise. As such, I enjoyed what was told and there definitely is a plot resolution to the crisis and paranoia that started early.
Conclusion
This scene parodies that of American Pie. The filmmakers went as far as replicating camera angles from the established movies and did their own remakes with comedy in mind.
With a nice mix of inspired works by the filmmakers, the fine performances of the cast members, the unrestrained adulterated comedy, sufficient number of parodies done and the solid storytelling executed, I can easily say that Scary Movie (2000) is still very enjoyable to watch from start to finish.
It is a parody film that was never compromised by the disease of political correctness (which Hollywood has too much of nowadays plus the other disease of wokeness) and the filmmakers succeeded in making something fun to watch without fearing of any potential backlash from moviegoers who might get offended. This movie also had perfect timing with its release during the summer of 2000 as many moviegoers were still aware of the many films parodied (or referenced at). By today’s standards, Scary Movie (2000) stood the test of time and many other comedies or parody films released by modern-day Hollywood (or Commiewood since Hollywood itself has too many woke nuts, modern-day Communists and social justice warriors who love to ruin entertainment) ended up failing to entertain.
Scary Movie (2000) is not just the best film of its own franchise. It is still the very best parody movie Hollywood has produced in the 21st century and nothing else comes close to it. As such, its replay value and fun factor remain very strong. That said, I am glad to have seen this movie in the local cinema and replayed it from time to time.
Overall,Scary Movie (2000) is highly recommended.
+++++
Note: All images sourced from IMDB.com.
If you wish to join a group of movie enthusiasts and talk about cinema, cinematic trends, Blu-ray releases and more relevant stuff, visit the Movie Fans Worldwide Facebook group by clicking https://www.facebook.com/groups/322857711779576
Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin report. Some parts in boldface…
Filinvest Development Corp., the holding company of the Gotianun family, reported an eight percent increase in attributable net income to ₱3.9 billion for the first quarter, as robust performances in its banking and real estate divisions mitigated the sharp downturn in its power business.
The firm reported to the Philippine Stock Exchange that its consolidated net income grew by seven percent to ₱4.8 billion from ₱4.5 billion in the first quarter of 2025.
Total revenues and other income for the first quarter of 2026 rose by five percent versus the same period in 2025 to ₱30.8 billion.
The increases in revenues and other income by business segment were: Banking, 12 percent to ₱15.6 billion; Real estate, 16 percent to ₱7.9 billion; and Hospitality, 0.8 percent to ₱1.2 billion. Power declined by 28 percent to ₱3.6 billion.
“Business results were mixed: Real Estate and Hospitality showed resilience against macroeconomic pressure while for others, profits were flat or experienced decreases versus a year ago,” said FDC President and CEO Rhoda A. Huang.
She noted that, “We are facing the challenges with resolve to achieve revenue and profit growth in 2026, despite increasing inflation and weakening GDP growth, through astute strategies and persistence of our organization.”
Banking unit EastWest Bank’s (EW) top-line growth was driven by increased loan volumes and effective management of funding costs, resulting in a 20 percent rise in net interest income (NII) to ₱11.1 billion.
Non-interest income was affected by trading performance amid volatile market conditions, but this was partially offset by an eight percent growth in fee-based income.
FDC’s Real Estate business, composed of Filinvest Land, Inc. (FLI), Filinvest Alabang, Inc. (FAI), and Filinvest REIT Corp. (FILRT), recorded a 16 percent revenue increase to ₱7.9 billion due to stronger residential and commercial lot sales.
Residential sales increased by 28 percent, driven by sustained sales of ready-for-occupancy units and a higher percentage of completion for various residential projects. Mall and rental revenues remained steady with slight gains in occupancy and foot traffic.
The Power subsidiary, FDC Utilities, Inc. (FDCUI), reported total revenues and other income of ₱3.6 billion for the first quarter of 2025 due to a notable decrease in spot market sales and lower coal cost passthrough rates. This was mitigated by reduced costs resulting from lower sales volume.
Revenues from hotel operations under Filinvest Hospitality Corporation (FHC) remained consistent with the previous year’s level, supported by higher average room rates and enhanced contributions from the Food and Beverage (F&B) segment across its portfolio.
The Banking segment was the largest contributor to revenue and other income for the first quarter of 2026, representing 51 percent of the conglomerate’s total.
Real Estate and Power followed with contributions of 26 percent and 12 percent, respectively. The Hospitality segment accounted for four percent of revenues, while the remainder was attributed to other business units.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Considering the current state of the economy of the Philippines today, how do you think Filinvest Development Corporation will be able to perform financially in this current quarter and the next quarter?
Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Southie Fest, a special event organized by South Snippets and its strategic partners, formally opened yesterday at the Carousel area of Festival Mall in Filinvest City, Alabang. A showcase of varied products and services offered by mostly business joints of the south, Southie Fest will last until Sunday (March 15).
I personally witnessed the opening of Southie Fest. There was a panel discussion wherein three local entrepreneurs shared insight about their respective businesses, how they managed their enterprise through the years, and what they learned from the many local communities of the south. South Snippets co-founder Donna Santiago was with them and she also shared insight about the organization’s drive of promoting businesses and connecting them with people of the South. Santiago confirmed that she is organizing South Snippets full-time.
The panel discussion held on the first day of Southie Fest inside Festival Mall. From left to right are the host, the three local entrepreneurs and South Snippets co-founder Donna Santiago.
Southie Fest is at the 2nd floor of Festival Mall in front of the old Carousel.
A few of the many booths/stalls that you can visit to see what they are offering. If you make it there, go around to explore.
I had a very tasty avocado shake there at Southie Fest. This one costs P120 and it is of very good quality.
Within the Carousel area – 2nd floor specifically – are lots of booths/stalls of varied local businesses offering customers a wide range of selections of food, beverages, accessories, collectibles, clothing, gift items, handcrafted items, services and a lot more. You really have to be there to truly discover them.
Remaining schedule of activities for March 14 and 15, 2026
Today, a “Southie Community Day” session will take place which will emphasize he community members and local digital trendsetters. It will help people understand who the Southie influencers and content creators are and what they do to inspire the community as they promote their respective platforms. There will be Q&A interviews, interactive games, and meet-and-greet opportunities.
On Sunday, the “Southie Family Day” will wrap up the event. Participants can dive into a variety of interactive workshops, creative classes, and community workout sessions. There will lots of things or experiences that participants can discover, and even learn from.
Southie Fest is a special showcase by South Snippets®, with support from JNE Branding Consultancy, Festival Mall, Aly Olaez, Neil de Belen Studios, Nextgen Events Management, Design Specs Printing Services, Carlo Suzara: Host & Content Creator, Terraland Pines, Kato Fertility Center, and the City Government of Muntinlupa.
It is also supported by Mama Lou’s Group and Mama Lou’s Italian Kitchen, Schola de Vita, MEgorgeous, Let’s Glow Aesthetics, Lando’s Bar Las Piñas, Manna & Muse, BetterLife Yoga Studio, Lindy Hop Philippines, Invitations by Ten Arts & Gift Store, BloomsBrewsMNL, Be Club Lifestyle Hub, SOS Children’s Villages Pilipinas, Kalye Negosyo, and Southies Strays.
Southie Fest media partners are labang Bulletin, TigaSouthKaba, WhenInManila.com, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Manila Standard, Life In Tagaytay, Life In Alfonso, Chef Beng, Lowkey Lakwatsera, The Quiet Diner, Southieto, Tara Tagaytay, Wild and Sassy Blog, Dyan sa South, Chizbun Eats, The Reel B, Mauriz Coronel, and Mini Shoots.
The event organizer booth and more nearby.
For those of you reading this, I encourage you to visit Festival Mall to attend Southie Fest while it is still going on.
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
The Royal Indian Curry House, an in Indian restaurant located in Filinvest City, was hit by a fire in the early morning of February 16 and the estimated amount of damage is at P16 million, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. The said restaurant is just steps away from Wildflour and South Supermarket in Alabang.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…
Fire damaged an Indian curry restaurant in Alabang, Muntinlupa, shortly before 5 a.m. on Feb. 16.
The Muntinlupa City Fire Station reported that the fire hit the Royal Indian Curry House in Filinvest Alabang at 4:48 a.m. The first alarm was raised at 4:53 a.m. before the blaze was put out by firefighters at 6:08 a.m.
The fire destroyed the second floor of the establishment, damaging P16 million worth of properties. The origin and cause of the fire are under investigation.
Visible damage of the 2nd floor of the restaurant.
The other side of Royal Indian Curry House of Alabang with visible damage at the 2nd floor.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, have you dined at Royal Indian Curry House already? What do you think caused the fire?
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Recently in the progressive City of Muntinlupa, Mayor Ruffy Biazon reached out to the local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and encouraged them to take advantage of the soft loans offered by the City Government, according to a news report by the Daily Tribune.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Daily Tribune. Some parts in boldface…
Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are encouraged by Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon to take advantage of the soft loans offered by the local government unit, as well as the national government, to elevate from micro to medium entrepreneurs.
In an interview during the opening of “Tindahan ni Tarsee” in Festival Mall in Alabang on Friday, Biazon said the LGU’s Muntinlupa Entrepreneur Financing Division (MEFD) has been consistently providing financial aid through soft loans to MSMEs.
“We are providing funding for MSME capital, interest-free, starting from P5,000 for as much as P150,000. More business owners became successful because of that project, especially those who lost jobs right after the pandemic. Most of them did not return to their jobs and became full-pledge entrepreneurs already,” he said.
Biazon said most of the business owners that the MEFD has assisted are engaged in food businesses and sari-sari stores.
The number of MSMEs in Muntinlupa City is pegged at more than 30,000, an increase from the 15,708 registered businesses in 2019 or before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country in 2020.
“We can see that our MSMEs are very successful, especially in our city, as they propped up the local economy and provide jobs even at a minimal number of two to three per entrepreneur. Yung mga hindi nakakapasok sa mga malls at ibang companies, sa mga MSMEs they have the chance to have jobs,” he said.
Biazon urged aspiring business owners to take advantage of the MEFD program, which will restart next year on 2 January, as the division’s funds for this year have already been fully utilized.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, are there any micro or small entrepreneurs among your local community’s members? What do you think makes Muntinlupa an attractive city for MSMEs to do business in?
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Welcome back my readers, YouTube viewers and all others who followed this series of articles focused on YouTube videos worth watching. Have you been searching for something fun or interesting to watch on YouTube? Do you feel bored right now and you crave for something to see on the world’s most popular online video destination?
I recommend you check out the following videos I found.
#1 The Matrix Revisited – What else is there to say about The Matrix? There are some who claimed it is the greatest science fiction movie ever made. Some described it as more relevant than ever due to the wide public use of artificial intelligence (AI) today. In my experience, I saw a special re-screening of The Matrix at the old cinema of Festival Mall in December 1999 and it was entertaining but I never became a fan of its entertainment franchise. Regardless, the film continues to entertain and surprise YouTubers and you can see how by watching the selected videos below.
#2 The Horror Aspect Of Halo: Combat Evolved – It has been 24 years since Halo: Combat Evolved launched along with the original Xbox console. I played and finished the classic sci-fi first-person shooting game on rented Xbox consoles before and it remains a highly significant gaming experience to me. Original game developer Bungie did not just create a great sci-fi game but also designed it to be immersive, captivating and atmospheric. Within the atmosphere in the game is the subtle but effective use of horror elements which added to the mystery. How does the horror function in the classic game? Watch and learn from the video below.
#3 Meat & Rice Meals In Japan – Here is another food-related video in Japan. This is for those who crave for delicious meals composed of nice amounts of meat and rice The food joint in the video below not only serves the mentioned meals, it is able to cook many kinds of fried rice as well! Watch and enjoy the video below.
#4 Most Notable Episodes Of The Real Ghostbusters – As a young boy in the 1980s, I saw the classic movie Ghostbusters in 1984 and a few years later, I started watching episodes of The Real Ghostbusters animated TV series on home video and eventually on local TV. For the newcomers reading this, The Real Ghostbusters was the sequel and spin-off to the 1984 film and it had a specific title (using “Real”) as a result of a dispute with Filmation which had the Ghost Busters franchise. I lost count as to how many episodes of the animated series I saw but there were a few notable ones I still remember and Minty Comedic Arts’ recent video contained them. Watch the video below.
#5 UAE Rejects Radical Islam And The Islamists! – Islamists are an extreme and evil bunch. They cause trouble wherever they are and they are driven to overwhelm others, to bring down societies and become the one discriminating dominant force. Islamists have already infiltrated many European nations by means of mass migration (including entry as asylum seekers or refugees needing the host nation’s humanitarian assistance) and teaming up with the Satanic Leftists (to form a new Islamo-Leftist mob overseas). In the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) knows how destructive radical Islam really is and they made clear that they not only reject Islamists but also remove them. Watch and learn from the video below.
#6 Japan Tightens Business Manager Visa Policy! – Recently, I blogged about Japan’s reformed policy on the business manager visa in response to the fraud and violations committed by foreigners – notably the Chinese nationals – who carried it. The requirements were drastically changed, new applicants must have at least a few years real experience of business practice, and the hiring of at least one full-time employee (who is Japanese or a permanent resident) must be done. As many of the abusers of the business manager visa were Chinese nationals, I found a video focused on the topic and what the affected Chinese holders of the visa in Japan think about the reforms done by the Japanese. Watch the video below.
Recently, this year’s Christmas spectacle at the Filinvest City Central Park was launched by Filinvest with a special event that attracted special guests (including Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon and Olympic Gold Medalist Carlos Yulo).
A few nights ago, I personally visited Filinvest City Central Park (Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vzt8D9yLzRSVVhae9) and I saw the new decorations highlighting the Christmas season. They look very similar to what was set up in 2024, notably the tall Christmas tree and the permanent structures that only needed decorating.
The Filinvest City sign at the Central Park.
Tall Christmas tree in the background, other decorations and lights in the foreground.
A short distance away from the tall Christmas tree was the park’s standout structure called The Tree (launched in late 2024) which has a very unique design that not only provides people cover from rain or intense sunlight but serves as a helpful place for special activities. At night, lights of different colors are projected towards The Tree which make a fine visual attraction.
As of this writing, I noticed there were lesser non-permanent structures (that were decorated with additional Christmas lights) during my visit at the park. Since Filinvest City still has a lot of activities scheduled at the central park, there is always the possibility that additional structure and lights will be set up soon. For reference about non-permanent structures and lights, click here for my 2024 Christmas Filinvest City Central Park article.
The permanent park structures plus added decorations and lights.
Visitors taking pictures at the tall Christmas tree.
Unsurprisingly, Filinvest City Central Park remains popular with families, visitors from other cities, some foreign tourists, and those who love the open-air environment of the CBD. It would be interesting to see if there will be more visitors coming to the park during the weekends leading to Christmas as the brand new Starbucks Filinvest branch with drive-thru has been attracting a lot of customers since it opened. That being said, Filinvest City announced through social media a schedule of events or activities happening at the central park.
Set to happen at Filinvest City Central Park are the following: Holiday Lights Symphony at The Tree on November 22, December 7 and December 20 starting 7PM; Fireworks Displace on November 22, December 7 and December 20 starting 8PM. Live musical performances on November 22-23, November 30, December 7, December 20-21 starting 6PM. To see the complete park activities schedule, click https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17aEHGaGX4/
Christmas is still all about Lord Jesus
The theme of Filinvest City’s Christmas campaign this year is titled as “Celebrate Magical Christmas Moments.”
First and foremost, Christmas is all about Lord Jesus, the Savior and hope of ALL nations. During the season, we remember not only His birth in Bethlehem in Israel, but also His overall significance and the hope He always bring to people. The world we live in is twisted and chaotic. While there are many who are indeed faithful to Lord Jesus, there are still many other people out there who remain lost and unsaved. A lot of people ended up lost as they allowed themselves to be manipulated by the secular, the worldly and other rebellious forces of the world we live in.
God sent His Son Jesus to us to pave the way for people to get saved and become part of His Kingdom. Realize how much God loves His creations and none of us would exist without Him. Learn from the bible verses below.
For here is the way God loved the world—he gave his only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life.
John 3:16 (TPT)
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6 (NKJV)
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Luke 2:4-7 (NKJV)
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”
Matthew 2:1-2 (NKJV)
By honoring, praising and following Lord Jesus, we are connected with the Heavenly Father. When we are faithful to the Lord, it is clear that we do not let the worldly nor wickedness get in the way. It is essential that we must have uncompromising faith in the Lord. Learn from the bible verses below.
Then Jesus answered and said to them,
“Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner. For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel. For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will. For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.”
John 5:19-23 (NKJV)
Then Jesus said,
“I am light to the world, and those who embrace me will experience life-giving light, and they will never walk in darkness.”
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To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Daily Tribune. Some parts in boldface…
Announced on October 28 by Chroma Hospitality, Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila officially transforms into Quest Plus Conference Center, Manila. With a refreshed identity, the rebranding promises more comfort, more connections, and more reasons to stay in the South.
“Quest Plus is about giving guests more. More ease, more experiences, and more reasons to come back,” said James Montenegro, country manager of Chroma Hospitality. “With this transformation, guests can expect the same trusted service with a renewed focus on delivering practical comfort and premium value every step of the way.”
The rebrand reinforces Chroma’s vision to make Quest Plus Hotels & Resorts the premium value-driven choice for both business and leisure travelers across the Philippines.
The recent move represents a new chapter for guests travelling to the South, as they can look forward to refreshed rooms, elevated event spaces, and dynamic dining concepts. All are designed to make every stay smart, seamless, and satisfying.
At Quest Plus Manila, guests can expect comfort from freshened rooms and thoughtful amenities that make every stay easy and enjoyable, value-driven by flexible packages for meetings, corporate stays, and family getaways, and more flavors from dining experiences that highlight familiar favorites in the South.
Whether for a quick business trip, a weekend getaway, or a full-scale conference, Quest Plus Conference Center, Manila invites guests to discover South’s new stay destination—one that’s familiar yet excitingly new.
“Alabang has always been a key destination for corporate and leisure travelers,” Montenegro added.
On its official website, Quest Plus Conference Center, Manila posted a welcome message as follows:
Welcome to Quest Plus Conference Center, Manila, your gateway to effortless comfort and rewarding experiences in the heart of Alabang.
Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or a bit of both, you’ll find more than just a place to stay — you’ll find space to connect, unwind, and make every moment count.
Located right within the vibrant Filinvest City, our hotel offers a refreshing balance between work and play, with contemporary guestrooms, elevated dining options, and thoughtfully designed meeting spaces for every kind of traveler.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Were you surprised by the rebranding of the premium hotel in Filinvest City? Quest Plus Conference Center, Manila can make Alabang a more attractive destination for tourists and foreign investors?
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
When Starbucks Philippines opened its newest branch in Filinvest City right across the Filinvest City Central Park in late October, there was a lot of social media buzz as well as discussions within Alabang community members about it ranging from happiness to being concerned.
To be clear, the said Starbucks Filinvest City branch is in a standalone place (no other business establishments beside it as of now) and it is the first-ever Starbucks Drive-Thru in Alabang. Being across Filinvest City Central Park, the coffee shop is a short walk away from East Asia Drive establishments like Parque España, Commercenter and The Mondrian Residences.
This is what the new standalone Starbucks in Filinvest City looks like.
A view within the 2nd floor. There is a lot more space off-camera.
The path leading to the drive-thru.
Although the new Starbucks branch was described as being located along Filinvest Avenue, its front (entrance and exit) is actually located along East Asia Drive as it faces Filinvest City Central Park. It also has its own parking area where motorized customers can park for free. For the Google Maps location, click https://maps.app.goo.gl/MVohqcwfrzRdry9C9
For a clear view of the location of Starbucks Filinvest City, watch the video I recorded and posted below. It is my solo walk video from Commercenter to Starbucks.
The coffee shop operates Monday to Sunday, from 6AM to 11PM.
On November 1, I made my first visit at the place to see it personally. It has a nice interior and the typical Starbucks look on the menus, the counter and display of food and drinks. What caught my attention was how spacious the 2nd floor was in terms of seats and walking space. The large windows provided visitors nice views of the Filinvest City Central Park and Filinvest Avenue. On that day, I did not order anything as I went there to look and observe.
On November 4, I finally made my first order of coffee by means of drive-thru. Even though there were two vehicles ahead of me, the drive-thru experience at Starbucks near Filinvest City Central Park was pretty smooth lasting less than ten minutes. I had a hot white chocolate mocha.
The menu displayed during my drive-thru experience.
My cup of coffee from the drive-thru.
As mentioned earlier, there were some people online who expressed concern about how the newest Starbucks branch in Alabang would affect the ambience very near the park which is a popular weekend destination for both local residents and visitors who enjoy the fresh air and open space.
There were those who expressed concern about the anticipated increase of vehicles along East Asia Drive by the park, and the possibility that someday, a long line of cars could be formed in the event a lot of motorists decide to buy coffee via drive-thru. Some commented that more vehicles attracted by Starbucks might make East Asia Drive less friendly and even risky for those who enjoy jogging or biking on the said road.
A few commented that Alabang alone has lots of branches of Starbucks already and I can relate with that. There is a Starbucks Reserve inside Westgate. Alabang Town Center has one (two if you count there other one at Metro Alabang), Molito Lifestyle Complex has one, One Griffinstone building has one, Festival Mall has two, a few in Northgate Cyberzone, and so on.
On the other hand, some people commented that having coffee at Starbucks will somehow boost their chances to visit Filinvest City Central Park which itself has special events during weekends depending on the season and weather conditions. The park has been a special place for Christmas activities (read my 2024 Christmas spectacle at the park by clicking here) and night-time music shows (recently held at The Nest, a special structure that provides a wide roof). For the Google Maps location of Filinvest City Central Park, click https://maps.app.goo.gl/vzt8D9yLzRSVVhae9
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Have you been to Starbucks near Filinvest City Central Park? If you have been there, what do you think about the design of the coffee shop? Have you tried their drive-thru?
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
