December has arrived, so it’s time to look back at the thrilling lifestyle events that made November 2024 special — here’s a review of the latest in Metro Manila and beyond.
As the holiday season continues to reach a fever pitch, various brands have been busy mounting exciting lifestyle events celebrating the launch of new stores, special products, and enticing concepts. Likewise, the arts and entertainment scenes saw events that celebrated the country’s artistic talents and gave guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in today’s creative landscape. Here’s what November 2024 had to offer in lifestyle for those who want to be in the know.
READ ALSO: What’s New: October 2024’S Latest Lifestyle Events
Store Launches
Emirates Store World Opening
Emirates has launched its first Emirates World retail store concept in Southeast Asia, which introduces a fully immersive Emirates experience in Manila. The new space marks a significant step in the airline’s commitment to the Philippines by redefining the travel retail experience for travelers.
Located at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, the newly unveiled 221 square metre retail destination was inaugurated by Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ deputy president and chief commercial officer in the presence of the Philippines First Lady, Liza Araneta Marcos; His Excellency Mohamed Obaid Alqataam Alzaabi, UAE Ambassador to the Philippines; and other distinguished guests, trade, and media partners.
Orhan Abbas, Emirates’ senior vice president for Commercial Operations Far East; H.E. Mohamed Obaid Al Qataam Al Zaabi, UAE Ambassador to the Philippines; Philippines First Lady, Liza Araneta-Marcos; Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ deputy president and chief commercial officer; and Saeed Abdulla Miran, Emirates’ area manager Philippines
“The new Emirates World Store in Manila is designed to serve as a one-stop shop where customers can explore Emirates’ best-in-class products and services and provides visitors a glimpse of our onboard hospitality and excellence, ensuring the bar is set high when it comes to retail experiences both in the Philippines and across our global network,” explained Kazim in a statement.
The store’s interiors evoke the feeling of flying with Emirates, specifically in the A380, with a luxe bar and lounge areas that mimic those within the aircraft, recreating the aircraft’s elegant, ergonomic, and relaxing atmosphere. Another standout feature of the new retail store is Emirates A380 onboard Lounge display, giving customers a first-hand look at the premium touches that define Emirates’ products in the sky, and bringing them closer to the airline’s high standards of in-flight luxury. Store visitors can also browse a curated selection of Emirates-branded merchandise and travel accessories, with a wide range of products from the Emirates Official Store — including the latest NBA collection for basketball fans.
The Emirates World Store is equipped with smart technologies that set it apart from conventional travel retail spaces, featuring an interactive self-service screen that allows customers to quickly browse flight options, check availability, and take selfies against the background of popular destinations operated by Emirates.
As Saeed Abdulla Miran, Philippine area manager for Emirates, shared in an interview with Lifestyle Asia, the interactive nature of the new Emirates World Store aligns with the Filipino market’s preferences for more dynamic, in-person experiences. “We find that in the Filipino market, customers love human interaction, so we had to enhance our presence and enhance that premium service to give them something that not any other airline is offering.”
Moët & Chandon Dinner and Pop-Up Store
Moët & Chandon, the world’s most celebrated champagne house, officially launched its 2024 festive season with an exquisite dinner held for friends of the house. The intimate evening featured a curated dining experience, with each course thoughtfully paired to complement the iconic flavors of Moët & Chandon’s champagnes. From delicate starters to indulgent desserts, the menu celebrated the interplay of fine cuisine and champagne.
The event—attended by notable personalities from the realms of fashion, cinema, sports, and gastronomy, such as Michelle Dee, Max Collins, Bela Padilla, Bianca Gonzalez, Jess Wilson and Moritz Gastl—set the stage for a season of celebration, elegance, and joy.
The centerpiece of this year’s festivities was Moët & Chandon’s newly-launched 2024 Holiday Edition. True to its 281-year history of blending tradition with creativity, the brand unveils a nature-inspired design that draws on the beauty of the Champagne region.
This year’s gift boxes are adorned with golden grapes, lush leaves, and natural patterns, capturing the splendor of Champagne vines and honoring the transformative power of nature. The Moët & Chandon’s 2024 Holiday Edition design merges classic motifs inspired by the iconic 1985 patterns with a modern, fresh twist, making it a perfect addition to holiday celebrations. At its heart, the bottle highlights Moët Impérial’s signature grape trio—Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Meunier—responsible for its distinct fruity flavors, smooth texture, and sophisticated finish.
This season, Moët & Chandon invites customers to elevate their gifting game with a timeless masterpiece that delights the senses and warms the heart. To extend the festive celebration, the brand has opened an exclusive holiday pop-up at One Bonifacio High Street, Ayala Malls, open until December 26, 2024 during mall hours.
Home and Dining
Stosa Cucine and Misuraemme at Opulence Design Concept
Opulence Design Concept, the premier destination for international homeware brands, continues to redefine home design with Stosa Cucine and MisuraEmme. These two iconic Italian brands are celebrated not just for their craftsmanship and design, but for how they bring order and ease to daily routines.
To highlight the artistry and functionality of these brands, Opulence recently hosted “Design, Style, and Dine” at its Greenhills East showroom in Mandaluyong City. Guests were treated to a live cooking demonstration by renowned chef Happy Ongpauco-Tiu, who showcased how Stosa Cucine kitchens elevate culinary experiences through festive recipes. Celebrity stylist Sidney Yap also demonstrated the seamless functionality and elegance of MisuraEmme’s bespoke closets, illustrating how the brand enhances everyday living with tailored sophistication.
“At Opulence, we believe that functionality is just as important as style. Stosa Cucine and MisuraEmme embody this philosophy, offering solutions that are efficient, elegant, and designed to last,” share Opulence Design Concept owners Gerry and Jinky Sy.
For over 55 years, Stosa Cucine has crafted kitchens in the heart of Tuscany, blending rich tradition with innovative design. Guided by a meticulous approach to ergonomics, Stosa Cucine spaces optimize movement and efficiency without compromising beauty.
Meanwhile, MisuraEmme has been a pillar of Italian furniture since it began reimagining spaces with bespoke creations in 1902. Most known for its highly customizable closets and cabinetry, the brand handcrafts its products in Italy’s Brianza district, its furniture reflecting the skill of generations of artisans while incorporating cutting-edge designs that adapt to modern lifestyles.
Sentro 1771’s Filipino Feast
Sentro 1771 hosted a special lunch that highlighted the beloved restaurant’s house specials and its continuous commitment to elevating Filipino cuisine through innovation and unparalleled hospitality. This was complemented by a live cooking demo with chief operating officer and executive chef of the 1771 Group of Restaurants, Vicky-Rose Pacheco, who discussed her process when it came to creating the restaurant’s various dishes — many of which were amalgamations of her travels abroad and memories of the Filipino food that marked her childhood.
Through the years, Sentro 1771, a pioneer in modern Filipino cuisine, has made it their mission to become a witness to every gathering, milestone, and moment as they take pride in offering refined and unparalleled hospitality and service.
First established in 2002, Sentro 1771 is not just your ordinary Filipino restaurant. Best known for bringing twists and innovations on traditional dishes, it mixes Filipino, Asian, and even Western ingredients and techniques, creating a unique gastronomic experience for guests.
These fusions have resulted into signature dishes that have become favorites for many Filipinos. Examples include the tangy and savory Corned Beef Sinigang, the addictive Fried Kesong Puti, and the umami-filled Rated GG (galunggong), all of which have been crowd favorites for more than two decades.
Aside from its dishes, Sentro 1771 is proud of its unique brand of finesse and high-standard service that no other restaurant can offer. Its well-trained staff is dedicated to providing personalized and attentive services matched with a homey and relaxing ambience. The restaurant’s branch in Capitol Commons has even transformed into the Sentro 1771 Restaurant and Events Place: the perfect backdrop for more milestones, social and business meetings, and celebrations while offering exceptional service and authentic Filipino food. Patrons can also exclusively book its BGC and Makati branches for private events.
Arts and Entertainment
Madame Tussaud’s Reveals Anne Curtis Wax Figure
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, the world-famous attraction boasting wax displays of famous individuals who have made waves through their respective crafts, recently added multimedia superstar Anne Curtis to its star lineup. A leading actress and host for more than two decades, Curtis is the newest Filipino to be displayed in Madame Tussauds Hong Kong’s star-studded halls. The star also made history by being the first-ever Filipino actress and host to be displayed at the Hong Kong Glamour Zone, alongside Hollywood A-listers Brad Pitt, Nicole Kidman, Lady Gaga, Chris Hemsworth, and the like.
Beyond acting and hosting, Curtis is also an entrepreneur and Celebrity Advocate for Children at UNICEF Philippines. Her wax likeness was revealed in a highly-anticipated unveiling event in Makati City, attended by none other than Curtis herself, along with her friends, family, and fans.
“This was a dream come true for me! It’s about time that Filipinos were able to introduce themselves worldwide across different fields,” the actress shared during the event. “I’m thankful that Madame Tussauds Hong Kong chose me to show that Pinoy talent is world-class.”
All her star qualities were beautifully captured in her wax likeness, posed as if she were ready to host and conquer the stage with her indispensable microphone in hand. The wax figure is dressed in an elegant cream-colored Dior gown donated by the actress, exuding the very same air of sophistication that she does.
“We wanted something that would be timeless and true to who I am. This was also the first look that I had when I had just stepped back into the fashion industry,” Curtis added. “The microphone also became such a powerful tool for me in my 27 years in the industry—hosting, speaking about my advocacies, and even doing concerts! I’m happy it became a part of my wax figure to inspire people to pursue their dreams.”
Anne’s twin will be available for viewing at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong starting December 9, 2024.
CCP Music, Movies, Magic
The Samsung Performing Arts Theater was alight with brilliance as the much-anticipated fundraising show Music, Movies, Magic brought cinematic melodies to life. Presented by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra Society, Inc. (PPOSI), the evening celebrated a dreamscape complete with a visual spectacle and the voices of some of the best Filipino musical and theater artists.
The event was a celebration of the arts and a commitment to preserving Filipino culture, with proceeds supporting the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra’s development and promotion initiatives. PPOSI will be channeling the proceeds into its scholarship program for Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) members, musical instruments and uniforms for the orchestra, and retirement benefits for the musicians.
The event delivered a breathtaking performance featuring a star-studded lineup of Filipino artistic luminaries. Under the baton of Maestro Gerard Salonga, the PPO transported the audience into a filmic odyssey, beginning with Johann Strauss II’s “Die Fledermaus Overture” from The Great Waltz.
From opera to film classics, performers Camille Lopez-Molina, Cris Villonco, and Arman Ferrer brought emotional depth to the evening, captivating attendees with their artistry. Highlights included Lopez-Molina’s moving rendition of “La Mamma Morta” from the 1993 film Philadelphia, Villonco’s medley of Michel Legrand’s film compositions, and Ferrer’s interpretation of “Be My Love” and “Mi Mancherai.”
The Philippine Madrigal Singers and Alice Reyes Dance Philippines also added magic to the stage with their performances, culminating in a grand collaboration on Leonard Bernstein’s “Tonight Quintet” from West Side Story.
The show ended on a festive note with PPO and the Madrigal Singers’ performance of John Williams’ symphonies from Home Alone, leaving the audience in awe and brimming with holiday cheer. It was a triumph for Filipino arts and culture as Music, Movies, Magic not only showcased the exceptional talent of Filipino artists but also highlighted the importance of supporting the local creative industry.
72nd Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature
Each year, Filipino writers come together at the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature to honor the art of storytelling and celebrate literary excellence. This year’s prestigious event was held at the Philippine International Convention Center.
Seasoned writers and their protégés, as well as aspiring authors, novelists, poets, and playwrights, were drawn to the special night of the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature.
The program commenced with a special tribute honoring the memory and lasting influence of the Philippines’ National Artists for Literature who have gone ahead, as well as the dedication and commitment of those who continue to use their craft to capture the essence of the nation. Present during the night were Dr. Gemino Abad and Dr. Virgilio Almario, while Dr. Resil Mojares joined via live streaming. They were conferred with the Gawad Dangal ng Lahi plaque, recognizing their extraordinary and invaluable contribution to our community of writers, inspiring the spirit and consciousness of all.
Four new Hall of Fame members were inducted in this year’s award ceremony. Winning a Palanca Awards medal or certificate is a high honor: but winning First Prize five times is an incredible feat. Prolific writers who have achieved this are thereby duly inducted into the Palanca Awards Hall of Fame, with a highly coveted big round plaque to show for it. This year, Eros Sanchez Atalia, Mikael de Lara Co, Miguel Antonio Alfredo V. Luarca, and Joshua Lim So cemented their literary legacy, bringing the all-time total of Hall of Fame honorees to 30.
The main event of the evening is, of course, the awarding of prizes to the winners. On top of the lifetime accolade, First Prize winners get a medal and cash prize while Second and Third Prize winners get a certificate and cash prize. (It is possible to not declare a winner of any prize for any category if no entry meets the judges’ criteria.) For its 72nd year, there were a total of 22 writing categories up for competition, including the Novel and Nobela. A total of 54 entrants emerged victorious in four divisions: Kabataan, English, Filipino, and Regional Languages. Of this number, 31 are new winners: including the Grand Prize winner for Novel, Lakan Ma. Mg. D. Umali. The youngest winner was 14-year-old Glorious Zahara Exylin C. Alesna, while the oldest winner was 78-year-old Antonio Hernandez.
Writers will come and go, but the Palanca Awards will continue to be a centerpiece of literary support in our country, providing incentives for writers to craft their finest literary works and making the pursuit in literary recognition attainable to all aspiring talents.
Fashion and Beauty
Aivee x Spectrumed: Launching Cristal Pro and Cellution In The Country
Aivee Clinic, one of the country’s leading practitioners of aesthetics and cosmetic dermatology, recently celebrated the launch of two cutting-edge technologies in the country: Cristal Pro and Cellution by Deleo. The clinic is the very first in the Philippines to use these innovative solutions, with the help of longtime partner Spectrumed.
Both Cristal Pro and Cellution offer non-invasive procedures that help shape the body without pain, and in a short amount of time. Focused more on sculpting areas of the body, Cristal Pro utilizes Cryolipolysis, crystallizing fat through cold temperatures that accelerate lymphatic drainage and fat cell removal. The procedure lasts around 30 minutes to an hour only and requires no downtime—which means patients get to proceed with their normal activities. Results can be seen within four to six weeks of treatment, and effects will continue gradually. For those with busy lifestyles, this treatment is a much needed one that—depending on the area being treated—usually requires only one to three sessions for optimal results.
Meanwhile, Cellution focuses more on cellulite treatment, and requires around six or more sessions (with maintenance) on a case to case basis. Much like Cristal Pro, Cellution is a great option for those who lead busy lifestyles, as each session takes around 30 minutes. Its treatment plan offers a non-invasive and painless approach that ingeniously combines four cutting-edge technologies: high-intensity focused diodes (HIFD™ technology), a mechanical massage, active cosmeceutical ingredients, and specifically calibrated radial vibration waves.
“We have almost all the solutions now for body contouring to give you a great figure and great results, including Crustal Pro and Cellution, which will keep the body in tip top shape,” shared Dr. Z Teo, CEO of the Aivee Group, in his remarks during the launch.
At present, both Cristal Pro and Cellution are only available at the A Institute at the third floor of Burgos Park Building in Forbestown Road, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
The Melissa Frizzante Campaign
Melissa, the popular Brazilian footwear brand, takes a bold and bubbly leap into a vibrant new world with the launch of Melissa Frizzante. This exciting campaign brings together style and flavor, highlighting fresh new colors for the iconic Melissa Possession sandal while introducing a playful twist: Melissa-flavored sodas inspired by the collection’s color palette and the brand’s signature bubblegum scent.
The campaign launched with an intimate and sweet event at Uma Nota, BGC, where guests sported their own vibrant pairs of the Melissa Possession sandal while sipping on the brand’s custom sodas in fresh, fruity bubblegum flavors: Don’t Worry Be Berry (a refreshing mix of blackcurrant and cranberry), Jelly Spritz (a cherry lemonade that pops in every sip), and Watermelon Haze (a sweet and juicy watermelon escape).
At the heart of Melissa Frizzante is the timeless Melissa Possession, with a classic silhouette that defined the 1990s as the original jelly sandal. Today, it continues to capture hearts across generations with an unforgettable design; though this time, its latest iteration features modern updates and a fresh color palette of red, dark pink, and clear pink that’s perfect for expressing personality and charm.
Crafted with innovation and sustainability in mind, the Melissa Possession is made from 100% recyclable PVC called Melflex. With a buckle closure and lightweight outsole, it’s designed for comfort and ease with casual outfits or chic ensembles. Whether you’re strolling the streets or enjoying a get-together with friends, the Melissa Possession easily transitions from casual to chic, making it the ultimate must-have for any occasion.
The new Possession colors are exclusively available on Melissa Philippines’ official website, while the brand’s Fall-Winter 2024 collection releases online and in its stores across the country.
A|X Armani Exchange Autumn/Winter 2024/25 Collection
A|X Armani Exchange translates Armani style into the fast rhythm of the metropolis, aspiring to clean essential lines and pure colors, functional details, and an idea of modularity. The vision is for a city wardrobe appropriate to any context and composed of garments that are infinitely mixed and matched for deeply personal results where individuality takes center stage.
This season’s colors center on a compact range of neutrals such as black, grey, blue, and warm camel tones, accented by hints of red and dashes of blue. The men’s collection is made up of down jackets, parkas, shirts, pullovers, and trousers with a concrete and composed feel.
On the other hand, alongside outerwear and padded jackets, the women’s selection includes blazers and trousers with a graphic feel, sequined pleated skirts, shorts and dresses, and fluid and transparent trousers, pullovers, and t-shirts. Materials are natural or technical, and accessories are an essential part of the brand’s message for the season: trainers, boots with rounded lines or slender with slim heels, handbags, shoulder bags, cross-body bags, and backpacks evoke streamlined functionality.
TUMI Celebrates the Joy Of Coming Together for the Holidays
TUMI, the leading international travel, lifestyle and accessories brand, celebrates the joy of holiday reunions with inspired gift ideas for everyone on your list.
Featuring the brand’s signature dynamic and innovative designs elevated with cutting-edge technology, this year’s holiday offerings include new additions to the iconic 19 Degree Aluminum collection, on-trend metallic colorways, and the introduction of an eye-catching reflective TUMI logo on select Alpha X bags. The festive lineup also features a curated selection of travel essentials and transportive fragrances.
Joining the 19 Degree Aluminum collection are four new lifestyle offerings. Designed for easy crossbody carry with its rotating strap and a removable option for handheld use, the Compact Sling is a stylish and versatile option for holiday parties and more. The other new additions to the performance luxury collection include a Travel Watch Case that offers unparalleled protection for up to three timepieces, and an elegant Sunglass Case for top-notch protection of your or your loved one’s TUMI sunglasses.
This year TUMI also introduces Pewter Metallic, an on-trend sparkly leather colorway to elevate any look. The Asra Small Crossbody in Pewter Metallic is perfect for a night out or holiday party, offering just the right amount of shimmer and elegance while keeping your essentials within reach. Crafted from softly textured leather, the Voyageur Vail Medium Tote in Pewter Metallic is ideal for carrying daily essentials and features a crossbody strap for added comfort and versatility. Also new this season is Silver Sky, a cool gray with a metallic sheen reminiscent of winter skies. Available in the Celina Backpack, Madeline Cosmetic, and more, this modern colorway adds a bright touch to the holiday season and makes for a functional and fashionable gift.
A striking new addition to the TUMI Alpha collection of high-performance business and travel pieces, Reflective TUMI Jacquard offers a unique take on festive sparkle. The eye-catching reflective print with an oversized logo placement adds a fresh and modern spin on key products such as the International Dual Access Carry-on, Brief Pack and Double Expansion Satchel. The bold design element adds a contemporary edge to the brand’s recognizable logo, providing the perfect blend of style and functionality for the modern traveler.
No matter where you call home and what holiday traditions you observe, the feeling of coming together is universal. TUMI will take you there.
Watches And Motors
Maurice Lacroix Aikon Quartz Chronograph Viewing
Swiss watchmaker Maurice Lacroix held a special viewing event at Cafe Kulture in Greenhills that highlighted its latest Aikon Quartz Chronograph collection. The Aikon is one of the brand’s most recognizable line of watches, which take inspiration from the Calypso, a beloved model from the 1990s.
Iterations of the Calypso-inspired Aikon would begin in 2016, with another Aikon line in 2022, where models became increasingly more modern and sleek to appeal to a younger generation’s more urban lifestyles and fashion preferences. The 2024 Aikon Quartz Chronograph collection gives the 2016 Aikon design a refreshed look with four new faces, in bold yet classic colors like a deep blue, black, a deep blue and silver combo, and a gold and white duotone.
Volvo EX30 Launches in the Philippines
Volvo Philippines, now under the stewardship of Hariphil Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), proudly unveils the Volvo EX30, the brand’s latest fully electric sub-compact SUV designed to have the lowest carbon footprint of any Volvo car to date.
This launch marks the beginning of a promising partnership between Volvo and HARI, a trusted leader in automotive distribution for almost 25 years. HARI’s role as Volvo’s official distributor in the Philippines ushers in an exciting era for the iconic Swedish carmaker. Known for pioneering safety and sustainability, Volvo continues to align its global values with local aspirations.
“We are proud to bring the World of Volvo to Filipino customers,” expressed HARI vice chair, president, and CEO Ms. Maria Fe Perez-Agudo. “Our mission is to make Volvo’s innovative and environmentally conscious vehicles accessible, starting with the remarkable EX30.”
Volvo’s journey toward sustainability has been marked by groundbreaking milestones, from the invention of the three-point seatbelt to its commitment to electrifying its entire lineup. By 2030, Volvo aims to have 90 to 100% of its global sales volume consist of electrified cars while reducing CO2 emissions per vehicle by up to 75%. These efforts are part of the company’s ultimate goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040.
HARI’s partnership with Volvo is a shared vision to redefine the Filipino driving experience through a balanced portfolio of mild hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and fully electric vehicles, bridging today’s needs with tomorrow’s aspirations.
“The EX30 is just the beginning,” Agudo emphasized. “Volvo’s electrified lineup ensures we’re not only addressing modern-day mobility challenges but also contributing to a better, greener future for everyone.”
Photos courtesy of Emirates, Moët & Chandon, Opulence Design Concept, Sentro 1771, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, The Cultural Center of the Philippines, The Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature, The Aivee Group, Melissa, A|X Armani Exchange, TUMI, Maurice Lacroix, and Volvo (unless specified).
Banner photo courtesy of Moët & Chandon.
