A10 Networks Launches A10 AI Gateway, an Intelligent Control Plane for Unified Management of All AI Operations

“Enterprises are being asked to move fast on AI and stay in control at the same time. AI use is spreading faster than teams can discover, govern, or secure it, driving up cost and leaving no single place to set the rules. The A10 AI Gateway gives organizations one intelligent control plane to see how AI is being used, to govern who can access which models, and match every request to the right model at the right cost. Our integrated portfolio gives customers a complete, sovereign way to put AI to work at scale. That is how enterprises adopt AI with confidence instead of trading speed for control.” ~Dhrupad Trivedi, President and CEO of A10 Networks

A10 Networks (NYSE: ATEN) has announced the upcoming A10 AI Gateway, an intelligent control plane designed to help organizations centrally manage and govern their use of artificial intelligence. The solution is scheduled to become available in the fourth quarter of 2026.

A10 AI Gateway provides organizations with unified AI routing, cost management, and governance across the AI agents, applications, and large language models (LLMs) they use. By providing centralized visibility into AI activity, the platform helps organizations optimize costs, manage access, strengthen security, and use AI more efficiently across their operations.

Background

As AI adoption continues to accelerate, organizations are increasingly integrating AI agents and generative AI capabilities into their business applications. However, managing multiple AI providers and models can make it challenging for enterprises to track which models are being used, monitor associated costs, and ensure that the right governance and security measures are in place.

AI workloads can also vary significantly, ranging from straightforward processing tasks to applications requiring advanced reasoning. This creates a growing need for an AI management platform that can optimize performance, minimize latency, strengthen security operations, and help organizations maintain better control over AI-related expenses.

Addressing these challenges, A10 AI Gateway brings an organization’s AI usage together through a centralized management platform. By consolidating AI operations into a single environment, the solution is designed to help enterprises manage their AI infrastructure more efficiently while maintaining stronger security and governance.

Overview

A10 AI Gateway serves as an intelligent control plane designed to centralize AI model routing, cost management, and governance across an organization’s AI agents, applications, and large language models (LLMs).

The platform intelligently identifies and selects the most appropriate AI model for each request based on its content and the organization’s applicable usage policies. At the same time, it provides centralized visibility into AI usage and costs, helping organizations optimize performance, manage expenses, strengthen security, and enforce governance policies. This approach also enables developers and users to access the AI models best suited to their specific requirements.

Key Features

Identity-based AI Access

Synchronizes with existing local directory systems to apply access and routing policies by user or group. For example, organizations can configure different AI models and usage policies for engineering and finance teams.

Smart Routing

Moving beyond static routing policies and simple request metering, A10 AI Gateway evaluates the complexity and type of each request. It automatically routes simple tasks to more cost-efficient models and tasks requiring advanced reasoning to more capable models.

Centralized Traffic and Cost Management

As a central control plane, A10 AI Gateway provides real-time, per-request cost tracking in dollars; per-model and per-team token budget management with hard limits and soft-limit alerts; and usage controls (TPM/RPM) by key or team. This centralizes visibility into AI usage and costs while supporting effective governance.

Integration with A10's AI Security Portfolio

A10 AI Gateway complements A10's existing AI security portfolio, including TrojAI, A10 AI Firewall and ThreatX. It supports security across the full AI lifecycle, from pre-deployment testing and runtime protection to controls at the network and API layers.

Flexible Deployment Within the Customer Environment

A10 AI Gateway is available as standalone software or with integrated hardware and can run entirely within the customer's own environment, including on-premises, private cloud and air-gapped environments. This enables organizations to maintain control over their models, data and policies while preserving data sovereignty - an advantage that cloud-hosted and edge-bound gateways cannot match.

Availability

A10 AI Gateway is scheduled to become available in the fourth quarter of 2026.

About A10 Networks

A10 Networks (NYSE: ATEN) delivers secure application and network solutions designed to protect, optimize, and scale business-critical systems across on-premises, hybrid cloud, and edge environments. Our portfolio is designed to enable large enterprises, service providers, and cloud platforms worldwide to achieve performance, reliability, and protection against cyber threats, while preparing their networks for the demands of AI and next-generation applications. Founded in 2004 and headquartered in San Jose, California, A10 Networks serves over 7,000 global customers. For more information, visit A10networks.com and follow us at A10Networks.

Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2026 Opens, Inspiring New Changemakers

Samsung Solve for Tomorrow returns, calling on students from government-managed science high schools nationwide, with almost PHP 2 million worth of prizes awaiting the top teams.

Samsung Solve for Tomorrow returns to the Philippines for its fourth year, continuing its commitment to empowering young Filipino students to use science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to create meaningful solutions for real-world challenges. With the support of the Department of Education (DepEd), the program encourages STEM students to become voices for their communities by identifying challenges they encounter and developing innovative solutions that can make a positive impact.

Now on its 16th year globally, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is an international competition designed to nurture young changemakers through STEM-based innovation. The program gives students a platform to transform ideas inspired by their communities into practical and meaningful solutions.

In the Philippines, the competition is open to Grades 8 to 10 students enrolled in government-managed Science High Schools nationwide. Through Solve for Tomorrow, students can showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while developing innovative ideas that address issues within their communities.

Samsung will award almost PHP 2 million worth of prizes to winning teams, participating schools, and teacher advisers. The Grand Prize is valued at PHP 730,000, followed by PHP 595,000 for the Second Prize and PHP 465,000 for the Third Prize. The remaining teams selected among the Top 10 finalists will each receive PHP 20,000 in cash prizes.

How to Join

Each team will consist of up to four students and one teacher-adviser, working together to develop a STEM-focused proposal that addresses a community, social change, or environmental sustainability challenge. Proposals may be submitted using a standardized format in Word, up to 3,000 words or seven pages, or PowerPoint, with a maximum of six slides. All entries must be submitted as PDF files not exceeding 40 MB.

Teams are encouraged to think creatively and explore how technology can help turn their ideas into practical solutions that can make a difference in their communities. Students may explore one of the following themes: Under Environmental Sustainability through Technology, students are encouraged to use STEM to find creative ways to reuse, recycle, and transform materials into valuable products, helping reduce waste and promote more sustainable practices.

Meanwhile, under Social Change through Tech and Sport, students can harness the power of technology and sports to support education, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion, creating new opportunities and a brighter future for the youth.

Lastly, under Solving Community Problems with AI, students can explore how AI can be used to develop innovative and practical solutions to challenges in their communities, while fostering critical thinking, social responsibility, and meaningful impact.

The Deadline for Entry submissions is on 02 November, 2026 at 11:59 PM via https://www.samsung.com/ph/solve-for-tomorrow/.

Entries for Samsung Solve for Tomorrow will be evaluated based on several key criteria, including design innovation, relevance to the community, feasibility, STEM integration, sustainability, and the clarity of each proposal. These criteria aim to identify solutions that demonstrate creativity while addressing meaningful challenges in the community.

The Top 10 shortlisted entries will be announced on November 16, 2026. The selected teams will then receive mentorship from a Samsung coach, who will guide them in refining and strengthening their proposed solutions.

On December 7, 2026, the Top 10 teams will present their final proposals before a distinguished panel of judges. Following the final presentations, the Top 3 teams will be announced on December 15, 2026, with the winners formally recognized and awarded by Samsung Philippines.

 

What’s at Stake

The Grand Prize winner will receive a comprehensive prize package valued at PHP 730,000, including PHP 400,000 worth of Samsung devices for their school and PHP 200,000 worth of Samsung devices for the winning students and their teacher. The team members will also receive PHP 100,000 in cash, while the teacher adviser will receive an additional PHP 30,000 cash prize.

The Second Prize winner will receive PHP 300,000 worth of Samsung devices for their school and another PHP 200,000 worth of Samsung devices for the team and teacher. The winning team members will also receive PHP 70,000 in cash, while their teacher will receive PHP 25,000.

For the Third Prize, the winning school will receive PHP 200,000 worth of Samsung devices, while the team and teacher will receive PHP 200,000 worth of Samsung devices. The team will also receive PHP 50,000 in cash, with an additional PHP 15,000 cash prize going to the teacher.

The other teams that make it to the Top 10 will each receive PHP 15,000 in cash for their team and PHP 5,000 for their teacher adviser.

Enabling Changemakers

Since its Philippine launch in 2023, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow has provided schools, students, and teachers with a platform to transform innovative ideas into practical solutions that create meaningful community impact. One notable example is last year’s winning project from Cavite Science Integrated School, which developed a solar-powered water-quality sensing buoy designed to monitor the health of mangrove ecosystems. Other standout innovations have included an egg-segregation solution and a sustainable, low-cost pest control system aimed at helping farmers reduce their dependence on chemical-based solutions.

As artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies continue to advance, Solve for Tomorrow encourages young Filipinos to explore and use technology in thoughtful and responsible ways. By turning creativity and new ideas into solutions for real-world community challenges, Samsung continues to inspire students to imagine possibilities, innovate with purpose, and become changemakers who can help shape a better tomorrow.

To participate in this year’s Solve for Tomorrow, please visit  https://www.samsung.com/ph/solve-for-tomorrow/. You can also follow Samsung Philippines on social media for the latest updates: Facebook, X, Instagram.

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-267269 Series of 2026

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances and network systems, as well as memory, system LSI and foundry. Samsung is also advancing medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions and robotics, while creating innovative automotive and audio products through Harman. With its SmartThings ecosystem, open collaboration with partners, and integration of AI across its portfolio, Samsung delivers a seamless and intelligent connected experience. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.

A World of Flavours Awaits at Café by Westside

“Good food should feel familiar, but there should always be something new to discover. At Café by Westside, we bring together flavours our guests know and love with dishes they may be trying for the first time. For us, it’s about cooking food people genuinely enjoy and giving them a reason to come back for another plate.” ~Chef Chris Lugtu, Executive Chef of Grand Westside Manila Bay

Some dining experiences are about enjoying familiar favourites, while others are all about discovering new flavours. At Café by Westside, the all-day dining restaurant at Grand Westside Manila Bay, guests can enjoy both in one inviting destination.

Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Café by Westside welcomes diners throughout the day, from hearty breakfasts and leisurely lunches to relaxed dinners. Its à la carte menu features a diverse selection of Filipino, Asian, Indian, Arabic, and Western dishes, offering something for different tastes and cravings. Every Saturday evening, guests can also embark on a global culinary journey through the restaurant’s World of Flavours Dinner Buffet.

Whether you are starting the morning with breakfast, enjoying lunch with colleagues, spending an afternoon meal with family, or gathering with friends for Saturday dinner, Café by Westside brings people together through good food, diverse flavours, and memorable dining experiences.

From familiar favourites to something new: the à la carte menu

Café by Westside’s à la carte menu offers a diverse selection of dishes inspired by flavours from the Philippines and beyond, giving diners plenty of choices to enjoy throughout the day.

For those craving authentic Filipino cuisine, the menu features beloved local favourites alongside the restaurant’s chef signatures. The Kare-Kare combines slow-cooked oxtail with a rich, savoury peanut sauce and shrimp paste, creating a comforting take on this classic Filipino dish. Another familiar favourite is the Home Style Sinigang, featuring a comforting sour broth with a choice of shrimp, salmon, US beef, or pork belly. Rounding out the Filipino offerings are Adobo, Crispy Pata, Lechon Kawali, Pinakbet with Bagnet, and Pancit, bringing classic Filipino flavours to the table.

Then the menu begins to travel.

Beyond its Filipino favourites, Café by Westside’s menu takes diners on a flavorful journey across Asia and beyond. Guests can enjoy Seafood Laksa, featuring prawns, squid, and mussels in a fragrant Malaysian coconut broth, alongside favourites such as Pad Thai and Black Pepper Beef.

The restaurant’s Indian and Arabic-inspired selections include Murgh Makhani, Chicken Masala, Vegetable Korma, Chana Masala, and Biryani. Rich in spices, aromatic herbs, and caramelized onions, these dishes come with a variety of options including chicken, egg, seafood, vegetables, or lamb.

For those looking for familiar comfort food, the Signature Westside Burger features US Angus beef served on a charcoal brioche bun. The menu also offers an assortment of pasta, sandwiches, and classic favourites. Diners seeking lighter options can choose from Lumpiang Sariwa, Thai Prawn and Pomelo Salad, and Vietnamese Vegetable Spring Rolls.

Save room for something sweet

The dining experience at Café by Westside does not end with the main course. Guests can complete their meal with a tempting selection of à la carte desserts, including the indulgent Dulce de Leche Cheesecake, 24-Carat Moist Chocolate Mousse Cake, Sugar-Free Tiramisu, and Westside Homemade Gelato, with gelato flavours changing depending on the day’s selection.

Whether enjoying a familiar favourite or discovering something new, Café by Westside gives diners the flexibility to create their own dining experience. From a quick lunch to a leisurely meal that ends with dessert and conversation, the restaurant offers a welcoming setting for every occasion.

Saturday nights become a World of Flavours

While Café by Westside’s à la carte menu takes diners on a culinary journey throughout the week, Saturday evenings bring a special celebration of global flavours with the World of Flavours Dinner Buffet.

Created for guests who love variety, the buffet brings an extensive selection of cuisines together in one generous spread. Diners can enjoy Filipino and Asian favourites, Indian and Middle Eastern dishes, Western classics, freshly prepared selections, and an array of desserts, allowing everyone to create their own dining experience plate by plate.

There is no single way to enjoy the buffet. Guests can begin with familiar favourites, explore dishes they have never tried before, go back for something they particularly enjoyed, or discover a new favourite worth having for a second helping.

Rather than focusing on one particular cuisine, the World of Flavours Dinner Buffet reflects Café by Westside’s all-day dining philosophy: plenty of choices, comforting familiar flavours, international discoveries, and food meant to be shared.

It is an inviting way to make Saturday dinner in Manila a little more special—whether gathering with family, catching up with friends after a busy week, or simply arriving hungry and exploring the buffet at your own pace.

“Dining has always been one of the ways people come together, and that sense of connection is very much part of the experience we want to create at Grand Westside. Café by Westside welcomes families, friends, travellers and our local community to share a table, enjoy good food and spend time together. World of Flavours gives them another reason to do just that.” ~Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager of Grand Westside Manila Bay

An all-day table in Westside City

Located in Westside City, Parañaque, Café by Westside is conveniently situated near Entertainment City, SM Mall of Asia, and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Its accessible location makes it a practical dining destination for hotel guests, nearby residents, families, and groups looking for a relaxed meal in the area.

From an early breakfast to a leisurely à la carte lunch or dinner, guests can enjoy a variety of flavours throughout the day. On Saturday evenings, the World of Flavours Dinner Buffet adds another reason to visit, inviting diners to explore an international spread and perhaps discover a new favourite along the way.

Café by Westside

All-Day Dining

Open daily | 6:00 AM–10:00 PM

À La Carte Menu

Available daily

Breakfast Buffet

Daily | 6:00 AM–10:00 AM

PHP 1,500 nett per person

World of Flavours Dinner Buffet

Saturdays | 6:00 PM–10:00 PM

PHP 2,298 nett per person

For reservations and inquiries:

+63 917 120 2815

+63 2 8230 8880 | +63 2 8230 8808

dine@grandwestsidemanila.com

About Grand Westside Manila Bay

Grand Westside Manila Bay is one of the largest hotels in the Philippines, offering 1,528 rooms and suites in the heart of Westside City, Parañaque. Designed for business and leisure travellers, the hotel features contemporary accommodation, versatile meeting and event spaces, wellness facilities and a collection of dining experiences.

Conveniently located near Entertainment City, SM Mall of Asia and Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the hotel combines warm Filipino hospitality with an easy, contemporary stay experience.

Fuse Financing bridges financing gaps for millions of MSMEs nationwide

“Financial resilience is more than access to loans. Business owners need solutions that help them earn, manage, protect, and grow their income. No single organization can close the financing gap alone. By combining accessible financing, practical knowledge, and strong partnerships, we can help MSMEs build resilient businesses that create jobs, strengthen communities, and contribute to a more inclusive Philippine economy.” ~Kevin Yu, Fuse Financing Inc. Head of B2B

Fuse Financing Inc. Head of B2B Kevin Yu  highlights the importance of accessible financing for MSMEs during a series of events, including the DTI National Forum on Strengthening MSME Disaster Resilience 2026. 

Limited access to formal financing remains a significant challenge for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines. While MSMEs account for 99.6% of businesses and provide employment to more than 65% of the workforce, many entrepreneurs continue to face difficulties in securing credit. Limited collateral, incomplete financial records, and the absence of credit history can prevent businesses from obtaining the funding they need to grow, expand, and contribute more meaningfully to inclusive economic development.

Kevin Yu, head of B2B at GCash lending arm Fuse Financing Inc., highlighted these challenges during a series of MSME-focused engagements, including the DTI National Forum on Strengthening MSME Disaster Resilience 2026, the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation Convergence Summit on Economic Resilience, GoNegosyo MSME Summit 2026, and Inquirer ESG Connect.

Across these discussions, Yu emphasized the importance of addressing the persistent MSME financing gap through more inclusive and data-driven lending solutions that can better serve entrepreneurs, including those who may have limited access to traditional credit.

At the center of this approach is the integration of financial services within the GCash ecosystem. Through GCash for Business, entrepreneurs can accept digital payments and manage business transactions while building a digital financial footprint. The resulting alternative data can help financing providers gain better insights into business performance and make more informed and responsible credit decisions.

According to Yu, this model can help underserved entrepreneurs, including first-time formal borrowers, gain access to financing. Eligible businesses can apply through GLoan Negosyo via the GCash app, with loans of up to ₱350,000, or through the GCash for Business Portal, where qualified merchants can access financing of up to ₱2 million. These financing solutions can help entrepreneurs fund inventory purchases, support working capital requirements, and pursue business expansion plans.

Yu added that fintech serves a complementary role alongside traditional financial institutions. While digital financial platforms can improve access, speed, and convenience for entrepreneurs, banks remain an important source of financing for businesses that require larger funding as they grow and scale.

Beyond access to financing, GCash also recognizes the importance of financial education in supporting the long-term success of MSMEs. Initiatives such as the Wais Tindera Caravan bring practical financial knowledge directly to local communities, helping entrepreneurs make informed business decisions, manage cash flow more effectively, and become more confident in using digital financial tools.

Responsible lending is likewise a key principle of Fuse Financing. The company’s fully digital collections process follows a zero-tolerance policy against harassment, reinforcing its commitment to fair and respectful treatment of borrowers throughout their financing journey.

This focus on responsible growth is reflected in Fuse Financing’s reach. As of the second quarter of 2026, the company had disbursed ₱451 billion in loans to 11.5 million borrowers nationwide, with one in three borrowers classified as an NMSME.

For GCash and Fuse Financing, these figures represent more than business growth. They reflect an expanding number of Filipino entrepreneurs gaining access to financial tools that can help them strengthen their operations, build resilience, and pursue sustainable business growth.

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

About Fuse Financing, Inc.

Fuse Financing, Inc. is a company that offers simple, affordable, and secure loans in the Philippines. Its primary goal is to enable individuals and small businesses to achieve financial security and growth through various digital lending products. Fuse Financing is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt, the first and only $5 billion unicorn in the Philippines. It’s also regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Mynt, through its fintech operations, is a staunch supporter of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly UN SDGs 5,8,10, and 13, which focus on safety & security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, respectively.

Transport & Logistics Philippines 2026 Expo Sets the Stage for Leading Solutions in Global Supply Chain

The Transport and Logistics Philippines 2026 Expo, which took place on September 16–18, 2026, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, set the stage for industry discussions, partnership formation, and the discovery of new ways to stay agile as Southeast Asia's supply chain industries navigate growing trade demands, global supply chain disruptions, digital transformation, and sustainability goals.

This event, which is being held in tandem with the highly anticipated international logistics symposium, LogiSYM Philippines, will bring together business executives, logistics specialists, technology providers, government representatives, global solution suppliers, and decision-makers to secure the solutions for supply chain management, transportation, and logistics in the Philippines and throughout the region. The Procurement and Supply Institute of Asia (PASiA) and Global-Link MP Events International, Inc. are organizing it, with Ayala Foundation, Inc. serving as the Impact Partner. This year's event, which will feature 1,400 square meters of exhibition space with over 450 brands, is expected to draw over 5,000 trade guests.

As supply chains become more complex due to the rapid growth of e-commerce, challenges in regional and international trade, and large infrastructure investments, businesses are under increased pressure to improve operational efficiency, boost resilience, cut costs, and accelerate digital transformation. As sustainability has become a strategic priority, companies are implementing more intelligent logistics solutions and cleaner technologies to remain competitive. Transport & Logistics Philippines 2026 has created a comprehensive business platform in response to these industry demands, allowing businesses and solution providers to communicate, evaluate technologies, compare globally competitive machinery, and establish partnerships that foster long-term growth.

Visitors will discover latest solutions, technologies, and services every major segment of the supply chain ecosystem, including:

• Commercial vehicles and fleet management
• Freight forwarding and multimodal transport
• Cold chain and temperature-controlled logistics
• Warehouse automation and material handling
• Supply chain management technologies
• Smart logistics and digital transformation
• Artificial intelligence and logistics software
• Last-mile delivery solutions
• Sustainable transport technologies
• Port, maritime, and aviation logistics
• Cargo handling equipment
• Industrial mobility and transport infrastructure

Further strengthening its industry relevance, Transport & Logistics Philippines 2026 incorporates five specialized exhibitions that address the most critical sectors of the transportation and logistics ecosystem:

• FLOWTECH Philippines
• Rentals Philippines
• Cold Chain Philippines
• Supply Chain, Warehouse & Storage Solutions Expo
• Trucks, Buses & Utilities Expo

The event is expected to attract a diverse audience of professionals, including:

• Logistics and supply chain professionals
• Manufacturers
• Importers and exporters
• Retail and e-commerce businesses
• Warehouse and distribution operators
• Fleet and transport operators
• Freight forwarders and 3PL providers
• Cold chain professionals
• Procurement executives
• Government and infrastructure agencies

With logistics continuing to play a vital role in supporting economic growth and regional trade, Transport & Logistics Philippines 2026 serves as a strategic marketplace where businesses can consult directly with specialists who can identify tailored logistics and supply chain solutions, discover innovations, exchange expertise, and unlock new commercial opportunities.

Event Details

Event: Transport & Logistics Philippines 2026

Date: September 16-28, 2026

Venue: World Trade Center Metro Manila

Registration: http://transportandlogisticsphilippines.com/registration

Website: transportandlogisticsphilippines.com

Admission: Free to Pre-register until September 15, 2026

Held in conjunction with: LogiSYM Philippines 2026

Registration:https://www.eventbrite.sg/e/logisym-philippines-2026-tickets-

1992039373390

Qualified Delegates can attend for FREE by using code: GLMPSHIPPERS2026 at checkout Incorporating Shows:

• FLOWTECH Philippines

• Rentals Philippines

• Cold Chain Philippines

• Supply Chain, Warehouse & Storage Solutions Expo

• Trucks, Buses & Utilities Expo

For exhibitor and visitor registration, visit www.transportandlogisticsphilippines.com or follow Transport & Logistics Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Business Meets Bibingka: Belmont Hotel Manila serves Simbang Gabi Favorites

“Paskong Pinoy is about the traditions and flavors that bring people together. Through Simbang Gabi Favorites, we want to bring that familiar Filipino Christmas experience into the moments we share with colleagues, clients, family, and friends.” ~Mayann Malapote, Hotel Manager

Simbang Gabi Favorites featuring Puto Bumbong and Bibingka.

As the “Ber” months begin, the Philippines officially enters its much-anticipated Christmas season. At Belmont Hotel Manila, the festive spirit comes with a distinctly Filipino touch through Simbang Gabi Favorites, the first offering of the hotel’s Paskong Pinoy Christmas celebration.

For business travelers coming to Manila for meetings, conferences, and work trips, celebrating the holidays does not have to wait until the day’s agenda is over. Available daily at the hotel driveway beside the Bike + Brew Kiosk, Simbang Gabi Favorites brings familiar Filipino Christmas treats within easy reach. Guests can enjoy them as a convenient afternoon merienda between meetings, share a casual treat during a client catch-up, or take some home before heading to the airport.

Situated in Newport City, Belmont Hotel Manila offers direct access to NAIA Terminal 3 through Runway Manila, making it a convenient choice for travelers with busy schedules. With Simbang Gabi Favorites just steps away, guests can easily enjoy a taste of Filipino Christmas tradition without having to go far from their room, meeting, or next appointment.

For business travelers, a box of warm bibingka can add a distinctly Filipino touch to an afternoon client meeting. It also makes a thoughtful pasalubong, giving guests an easy way to bring the flavours of Filipino Christmas home to colleagues, loved ones, and business partners.

Tsokolate Baterol, a rich Filipino hot chocolate made with tablea, milk, and sugar.

At the center of Simbang Gabi Favorites are two beloved Filipino Christmas treats. Freshly prepared, warm, and lightly charred, bibingka is a traditional rice cake closely linked to the Simbang Gabi season. Another holiday staple, puto bumbong, is made from glutinous rice and traditionally served with butter, coconut, and sugar.

Guests can also enjoy a modern interpretation of the classic with Puto Bumbong with Dulce de Leche and Leche Flan, combining familiar Filipino flavours with an indulgent contemporary twist.

For the perfect pairing, Tsokolate Baterol offers a rich and comforting Filipino hot chocolate made with tablea. Together with the Christmas favourites, it creates a warm treat suited for cool evenings, afternoon merienda, and holiday gatherings.

From casual business meetings and office merienda to celebrations with family and friends, Simbang Gabi Favorites are designed to be enjoyed and shared. They also make convenient Christmas pasalubong for travelers who want to bring a taste of Filipino holiday tradition wherever they go.

Simbang Gabi Favorites are available daily from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM until November 2026, with earlier operating hours during the Simbang Gabi season.

Bibingka — PHP 200

Puto Bumbong – Classic — PHP 150

Puto Bumbong – Dulce de Leche & Leche Flan — PHP 200

Tsokolate Baterol — PHP 180

Simbang Gabi Favorites and the Bike + Brew kiosk at the Belmont Hotel Manila driveway.

Belmont Hotel Manila offers a convenient holiday stop for business travelers, corporate guests, families, and visitors looking for a warm and distinctly Filipino treat before heading home or continuing their journey. As the Ber months usher in the Christmas season, the hotel invites guests to slow down, gather over beloved Filipino flavors, and enjoy the warmth and nostalgia of the holidays. This season, make time to Savor the Moment with Belmont Hotel Manila.

About Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts

Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts (MGHR) is a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation under the Alliance Global Group Inc. Recognized with a Tourism Excellence Award by the Department of Tourism in 2025, MGHR is the country’s largest homegrown hotel operator, offering Muslim-friendly accommodations and mindful stays across its growing portfolio of 16 hotels, 8 brands, and 12,000 room keys, including those in the pipeline. Experience Filipino hospitality through its signature brand of service, The Sampaguita, across its brands, including Savoy, Belmont, Richmonde, Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Twin Lakes, Kingsford, Grand Westside and Chancellor. Its properties are located in key tourism and business destinations across Metro Manila, Batangas, Boracay, Cebu, and Iloilo. MGHR also manages international brands, including Mercure Mactan Cebu and Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo.

Malaysia's DIY Hot Pot Now Open at SM City Grand Central

Foodies, get ready to turn up the heat.

Foodies looking for a new hot pot experience in Caloocan have another destination to add to their list. Mala House has arrived at SM City Grand Central, bringing the bold and spicy flavours of Malaysia to the heart of the city.

Located on the 5th Level of SM City Grand Central, Mala House puts diners in charge of their hot pot experience. The concept is simple: choose your ingredients, you build your own hotpot, customize the spice level, and enjoy it your way.

Rather than selecting from a fixed menu, guests can choose from a tempting variety of meats, seafood, vegetables, noodles, and other hot pot favourites. Each ingredient comes together in a steaming bowl, allowing diners to create a combination that matches their cravings.

Whether you prefer something fiery and spicy, savoury and comforting, hearty and filling, or a little bit of everything, Mala House gives you the freedom to create a bowl that is uniquely yours.

Open to satisfy hot pot cravings day and night, Mala House is a convenient choice for food trips, family meals, catch-ups with friends, and post-shopping dining. Every dip, simmer, and bite becomes part of the experience.

Ready to build your own hot pot adventure? Visit Mala House at the 5th Level of SM City Grand Central and enjoy DIY hot pot your way.