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Showing posts with label Pasay. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pasay. Show all posts

Summer in the metro can get intense, and sometimes the best way to beat the heat is to gather your favorite people, pack a weekend bag, and head to a massive pool resort right in the city.


Recently, my family, along with our good friends Team Basti, did exactly that. This is only the third time I have spent a staycation in an SMDC - first was in Wind Residences in Tagaytay and the other was in Breeze Residences in Manila.


We went on a quick but incredibly fun 2-Days, 1-Night (2D1N) weekend staycation at Shore Residences in Pasay City. It was the perfect, hassle-free summer escape without leaving Metro Manila.


If you are planning a big group staycation soon, here is a breakdown of how our weekend went, what to expect, and some tips to maximize your stay!



4 Airbnb Units & Direct Pool Access

Since we were a big group, we booked a total of 4 Airbnb units. One of the best decisions we made was ensuring that 2 of those units had direct pool access.


Quick Cost Breakdown
  • Airbnb Rate: ₱4,500 per unit / night
  • Pool Access Fee: ₱150 per head / day


Having direct pool access meant that from our balcony, we could literally open the door and take a quick dip into the refreshing 4-foot resort pool. It was incredibly convenient, especially for the kids who wanted to jump in and out of the water all day.


Note on pool fees: The condo admin charges ₱150 per person per day to use the pool. Because our crew couldn't get enough of the water, some of us happily paid for 2 days of pool access to maximize both Day 1 and Day 2!



Room Amenities: Home Away from Home

The Airbnb units were studio-type apartments, but cleverly laid out with a separate bedroom area, a cozy living room, and a dining space.


It truly felt like a home away from home.
The units came completely equipped for a comfortable family stay:

  • Kitchen: Clean fridge, induction cooktops, and complete kitchenware.

  • Restroom: Good water pressure, a water heater for the shower, and a washing machine—which was an absolute lifesaver for spinning dry all our wet swimwear!

  • Kid-Friendly Spaces: Aside from the massive pool networks, the central courtyard also features a dedicated, separate playground area where the kids could run around once they were done swimming.



Food & Errands 🍕

When you're on staycation with a big crew, nobody wants to spend their vacation hovering over a hot stove or doing the dishes. We decided to go full-on relaxation mode.

For all our main meals, we simply ordered through GrabFood. Being in the heart of Pasay meant we had endless food options—from fast food cravings to big family platters.

For quick errands, ice, drinks, and late-night snack runs, we didn't even have to leave the complex. There are multiple convenience stores right downstairs, including a fully stocked Alfamart, which made grabbing last-minute essentials completely effortless.


Guide to Shore Residences, Pasay City


📍 Where is it located?

Shore Residences is located within the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, Seaside Boulevard, corner Sunrise Drive, Pasay City. It’s highly visible, incredibly centralized, and sits right by Manila Bay.


🚗 How to Get There

Via Private Vehicle / Grab: Simply input "Shore Residences" (specify whether you are staying in Shore 1, 2, or 3) on Waze or Google Maps. If you're coming from the north or south, you can easily access it via EDSA, Macapagal Boulevard, or the NAIAX/Cavitex exits.

Parking Fee: P600 to P750 per night/stay

Via Public Transport (Commute):

  • LRT-1 / MRT-3: Take the LRT-1 to EDSA Station or the MRT-3 to Taft Avenue Station. From there, head to the front of Metropoint Mall or under the station where there are dedicated jeepneys and UV Express vans bound for SM Mall of Asia (MOA).

  • From MOA: You can take a short 10-15 minute walk towards Seaside Blvd/Sunrise Drive, or hail a quick tricycle/Grab ride to the main lobbies of Shore.




🎡 Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

If your group wants to explore beyond the pool area, you are practically surrounded by entertainment options:

SM Mall of Asia & IKEA (5-10 mins away): Shop, dine, or get lost in the massive world of IKEA. You can also visit the Space & Time Cube Museum at S Maison for some amazing futuristic photos.

SM by the Bay Amusement Park: Take a sunset stroll, watch the famous Manila Bay sunset, and let the kids experience the rides, including the famous MOA Eye Ferris Wheel.

Star City: If your crew is looking for more extreme thrills, the newly upgraded Star City amusement park is just a short drive away down Roxas Boulevard.

Gootopia / The Dessert Museum: Fun, interactive, and highly Instagrammable indoor parks located nearby that are perfect for kids and the young at heart.


Final Thoughts ✨

Our 2D1N staycation with Team Basti proved that you don't need to drive for hours to Laguna or Batangas just to enjoy a premium summer pool experience. For ₱4,500 a night, having a private space to bond, a massive resort-grade pool right at your doorstep, and the convenience of city living made it a weekend to remember.


Check Out More Staycation Ideas!



SHORE RESIDENCES: A Weekend City Staycation in Pasay


Few thoroughfares in Metro Manila carry the historical weight, academic energy, and sheer transit volume of Taft Avenue. Stretching roughly 5.7 kilometers through the heart of Manila, Pasay, and Parañaque, this vital artery is much more than a crowded commuter route—it is the spine of the nation's capital region.


Who Was It Named After?

Taft Avenue was named in honor of William Howard Taft, who served as the Governor-General of the Philippines from 1901 to 1903. Taft would later become the 27th President of the United States and, subsequently, the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

During his brief but highly influential tenure in the Philippines, Taft headed the Second Philippine Commission and spearheaded civil governance reforms, the establishment of the public school system, and the physical modernization of Manila.


History: From Burnham’s Grand Plan to Post-War Bustle

Taft Avenue was conceptualized at the turn of the 20th century as part of architect Daniel Burnham’s grand urban master plan for Manila. Burnham envisioned Manila as a "Paris on the Pasig," characterized by wide, tree-lined boulevards, neoclassical government buildings, and sweeping radiating vistas.

Taft Avenue after World War II

Key Historical Milestones


1905–1910s (Construction): Built out as a scenic, wide boulevard cutting south from the civic center around Rizal Park. It quickly became an upscale residential and institutional zone.

1945 (The Battle of Manila): Taft Avenue became a fierce, bloody battleground during World War II. Its heavy concrete universities, hospitals, and government structures were turned into fortified Japanese strongpoints, resulting in near-total destruction by allied shelling.

1984 (The LRT Era): The avenue underwent its most radical physical transformation with the construction of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1). The elevated concrete tracks forever changed the face of the road, trading Burnham's open skies for the urban shade and rapid mass transit that defines it today.

LRT-1 along Taft Avenue


Importance & Role Today

Today, Taft Avenue serves as a premier commercial, transport, and educational hub. It functions as a critical economic baseline for three major reasons:


1. The University Belt (U-Belt) South
Taft is the spiritual home of Manila’s student population. It anchors some of the country’s most prestigious higher education institutions, creating a vibrant, high-density student economy packed with dormitories, study hubs, printing shops, and affordable eateries.


2. High-Volume Transit Corridor
The avenue handles hundreds of thousands of commuters daily. It operates on three distinct transport layers:

  • Elevated Rail: The LRT-1 line runs directly above the entire length of the avenue.

  • Surface Traffic: A constant stream of traditional and modernized jeepneys, buses, and UV Express vehicles.

  • Underground Infrastructure: Extensive utility and drainage channels serving downtown Manila.


3. Healthcare and Civic Backbone
Taft Avenue houses the country's premier referral hospital and central government agencies, making it an essential destination for public health and national bureaucracy.



Connecting Roads

Taft Avenue runs a north-to-south course, acting as a crucial bridge between downtown Manila and the southern gateways of the metro.


Nearby Destinations & Tourist Attractions

Whether you are a heritage buff, an academic, or a traveler navigating the city, Taft Avenue places you within minutes of Manila's most iconic landmarks.


Heritage & Parks


Rizal Park (Luneta): Located right at the northern foot of Taft, this historical urban park is home to the Jose Rizal Monument and the Kilometer Zero marker.

National Museum Complex: Just off the northern end of Taft, visitors can easily walk to the National Museum of Fine Arts, National Museum of Anthropology, and National Museum of Natural History.

Paco Park: A short detour from Pedro Gil brings you to this beautiful, circular 19th-century Spanish cemetery turned peaceful public park.


Major Institutional Landmarks


Philippine General Hospital (PGH): Founded in 1907, this expansive, historic neoclassical compound is the largest government hospital in the country.

Manila City Hall: Famous for its iconic hexagonal clock tower, sitting prominently near the northern terminus.


Prestigious Educational Campuses


De La Salle University (DLSU): Its historic St. La Salle Hall is a registered National Historical Landmark boasting stunning neoclassical facade architecture.

University of the Philippines Manila (UPM): The health sciences campus of the premier state university.

Philippine Women's University (PWU) & Adamson University: Historic staples of the Taft educational landscape.

De La Salle University (DLSU)



Nearby Hotels & Accommodations

Given its central role as an entry point for students, medical tourists, and corporate commuters, Taft Avenue and its immediate cross-streets host a wide spectrum of lodging choices, ranging from boutique hotels to transit-focused budget stays.


Mid-Range & Boutique Comforts


Orchid Garden Suites: A popular choice for visitors looking to combine heritage aesthetic with proximity to the Vito Cruz portion of Taft. Tucked just a short walk away on Pablo Ocampo Sr. Street, this boutique hotel is set inside a beautifully preserved pre-war mansion compound.

The Heritage Hotel Manila: A well-established pick if you want a full-service experience positioned right at the intersection of Taft Avenue and EDSA, making it ideal for straightforward highway access toward the airport or the SM Mall of Asia complex.

The Heritage Hotel Manila

Budget & Transit-Friendly Options


Hop Inn Hotel Ermita Manila: Provides highly reliable, no-frills lodging just a short detour away toward the vibrant Malate and Ermita neighborhoods, known for its functional, squeaky-clean rooms.

Kabayan Hotel: Located right at the southern foot of the avenue near the Pasay Rotonda (where Taft Avenue meets EDSA), it sits literally steps from the LRT-1 and MRT-3 connection points, offering budget-friendly capsule-style dorm beds and private rooms.


Commuter Tips for Navigating Taft Avenue


Use the LRT-1: To bypass the heavy ground-level traffic during rush hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM), the elevated train is your fastest option. Central, U.N. Avenue, Pedro Gil, Quirino, and Vito Cruz stations span the main Manila stretch.

Stay Alert: Like any high-density metropolitan area worldwide, keep your personal belongings close and be mindful of your surroundings, especially around busy transit transfer points like Edsa-Taft and Pedro Gil.



Conclusion

Taft Avenue is far more than an ordinary transit corridor; it is a living timeline of Metro Manila's evolution. From its inception as an elegant boulevard in Daniel Burnham’s early 20th-century urban vision, through the devastation of World War II, to its modern transformation into an elevated transit-led megalopolis, Taft has continuously adapted to the changing needs of the city.

By seamlessly connecting institutions of higher learning, vital national healthcare centers, corporate districts, and foundational historic landmarks, the avenue serves as the true lifeblood for generations of Filipino students, professionals, and travelers. Navigating Taft Avenue may be chaotic and fast-paced, but understanding its rich history and strategic layout reveals why it remains an irreplaceable pillars of Manila's identity.

Taft Aveue corner Kalaw Avenue

WHERE TO STAY IN MANILA

Here's a list of hotel accommodation you can book in Manila:



ALSO IN MANILA



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.


TAFT AVENUE: History, Importance, and Guide to Manila’s Core Arterial Road


If you are looking for the perfect family staycation in the heart of Pasay, you know that the struggle to find "the one" is real. You want convenience, great food, and enough activities to keep the kids from climbing the walls.

Last October 2025, my family and I decided to skip the usual neighborhood trick-or-treating for something a bit more "magical." We headed to Belmont Hotel Manila to celebrate their highly anticipated Halloween event: Bailey and the Chocolate Factory.

Here is my full, personal review of our weekend stay, the "Golden Ticket" experience, and why this hotel remains a top choice for travelers and locals alike.



About Belmont Hotel Manila

Before we dive into the candy-coated details, let’s talk about the hotel itself. Belmont Hotel Manila is a premier 4-star destination that has built a solid reputation for "sophisticated staying." Since its opening in 2015, it has become a cornerstone of Newport World Resorts (formerly Resorts World Manila).

Belmont Hotel Manila

Location

The hotel is strategically located right across from NAIA Terminal 3. For travelers, this is a godsend. You can actually access the hotel via Runway Manila, the air-conditioned pedestrian link bridge that connects the airport directly to Newport City.

If you’re driving, like we did, it’s easily accessible via the NAIAX (NAIA Expressway). The hotel offers complimentary parking for staying guests, which is a massive perk in an area where parking slots are usually gold dust.

RELATED GUIDE: Best Hotels Near NAIA Terminal 3 (Room Rates and Online Booking Guide)


Day 1: Checking In and Rooftop Relaxation

We decided to maximize the weekend by checking in on a Saturday, one day before the big Halloween event. The check-in process was smooth, and the lobby already had that buzz of excitement for the upcoming festivities.


Rooftop Swimming with a View

The first order of business? The pool. Located on the rooftop, Belmont’s swimming area offers a stunning panoramic view of the airport runways and the Metro Manila skyline. It’s the perfect spot to watch planes take off while you soak.

Pool at 11th floor

Amenities: They provide fresh, clean towels at the pool deck.

Pro-Tip for Parents: The hotel is very strict about hygiene (which I appreciate!). Swimming diapers are required for toddlers. Make sure to pack some, or you might have a very disappointed little one!


A Taste of Filipino Tradition

After our swim, we headed back down to the lobby. One thing I loved was the local touch—they had stalls set up right in front of the entrance serving Bibingka and Puto Bumbong. Nothing beats the smell of charcoal-fired rice cakes in the afternoon! It was the perfect pre-dinner snack.

Bibingka and Puto Bumbong

Kids enjoy the beds

For dinner, we took a short walk over to Newport Mall. The options there are endless, but we settled on Bulgogi Brothers. There’s just something about a hot Korean grill that feels like the ultimate Saturday night treat.




Day 2: The Bailey and the Chocolate Factory Event

Sunday morning started with a heavy breakfast at Cafe Belmont. The spread had a great variety—from Filipino breakfast staples like longganisa and garlic rice to an omelet station and fresh pastries. We made sure to fuel up because we knew the "Chocolate Factory" was waiting.


The Room Package: Is it Worth It?

We availed of the Special Halloween Room Package for PHP 7,900. Looking back, it was a steal. Here’s what we got:

  • Overnight Stay in a comfortable, modern room.
  • Breakfast for Two.
  • Two Golden Tickets to the Bailey and the Chocolate Factory event.
  • A Limited Edition Bailey Bear (a high-quality plushie that my kids still sleep with).
  • Access to facilities and parking.

Party's about to start

A Magical Family Day

The event was inspired by the classic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Belmont really went all out. The theme was "Bailey and the Chocolate Factory," featuring the hotel's adorable mascot, Bailey Bear.

Bailey and the Chocolate Factory

For an entrance fee of PHP 1,400 per person (kids 2 and below were free), the value was incredible. The ballroom was transformed into a candy wonderland. We enjoyed:

  • Trick or Treat: Multiple stations where the kids could fill their bags.

  • Games & Entertainment: Fun activities that kept the energy high.

  • Face Painting & Arts: The artists were talented and very patient with the kids.

  • Lunch Buffet: A kid-friendly (and parent-approved) spread that was actually delicious.

  • Best in Costume Contest: Seeing all the creative costumes was a highlight!




Final Thoughts

Our overall experience at Belmont Hotel Manila was fantastic. Often, "event" hotels can feel cramped or disorganized, but Belmont managed the crowd perfectly.

The transition from our Saturday relaxation to the Sunday "sugar rush" was seamless. Whether you are looking for a place to stay before a flight or a dedicated family staycation spot in Manila, I highly recommend keeping an eye on their seasonal packages.

In character! Guess who!

Quick Summary for Travelers


Vibe: Modern, professional, but family-friendly.

Best For: Families, transit travelers, and staycationers.

Must Try: The rooftop pool and the breakfast at Cafe Belmont.

Nearby Attractions: Newport Mall, Newport Performing Arts Theater, and St. Therese of the Child Jesus Shrine.


Check Out More Staycation Ideas!



Belmont Hotel Manila Contact Details

Telephone Number: +63 (2) 318-8888
Email: reservations.manila@thebelmonthotels.com
Instagram & Twitter: @BelmontHotelManila


Read Next


Our Halloween Weekend at Belmont Hotel Manila (Review and Experience)


Get ready to witness a breathtaking spectacle of lights and music at the 12th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition (PIPC)!



12th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition

This annual event, originally known as the World Pyro Olympics, brings together the world’s top fireworks manufacturers in a dazzling competition that will light up the night skies of Pasay City.

This year’s competition promises five consecutive Saturdays of mesmerizing pyrotechnic displays, each paired with carefully curated music to create an unforgettable sensory experience.

The event takes place at the iconic SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Seaside Boulevard, a perfect venue for enjoying the scenic backdrop of Manila Bay.


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Event Schedule

Mark your calendars and prepare to be amazed! Here’s the full lineup of participating countries:

  • February 15 (Opening Night): Philippines 🇵🇭 & Austria 🇦🇹

  • February 22: France 🇫🇷 & China 🇨🇳

  • March 1: USA 🇺🇸 & Germany 🇩🇪

  • March 8: South Korea 🇰🇷 & United Kingdom 🇬🇧

  • March 15 (Finale Night): Canada 🇨🇦 & Philippines 🇵🇭

12th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition 2025

Each Saturday night will feature two countries presenting their best pyromusical performances. The competition culminates in a grand finale on March 15, with Canada and the Philippines lighting up the sky one last time before the winner is announced.


Ticket Information

Whether you're seeking a luxurious dinner experience or a budget-friendly seat, the PIPC offers a variety of ticket options:

February 15 to March 8:
  • Patron with Dinner: ₱3,000
  • VIP: ₱800
  • Gold: ₱500
  • Silver: ₱200

March 15 (Final Night):
  • Patron with Dinner: ₱3,000
  • VIP: ₱1,000
  • Gold: ₱600
  • Silver: ₱250



Where to Buy Tickets


Online: SM Tickets

On-site: Official PIPC ticket booths at SM Mall of Asia:
  • Level 1, North Entertainment Mall (In front of IMAX)
  • Level 1, South Entertainment Mall (In front of Toby’s)
  • Level 1, South Main Mall (In front of Charles & Keith)
  • Level 1, South Main Mall (In front of Panda Express)
  • Level 1, South Entertainment Mall (In front of Haidilao)
  • Level 3, South Main Mall (In front of Macao Imperial)



Getting There

The SM Mall of Asia is easily accessible by public and private transportation. For convenience, ride-hailing services, taxis, and buses regularly serve the area. Be sure to arrive early to secure parking and avoid missing any part of the show.




Insider Tips


Arrive Early: Secure the best spots, especially if you have Gold or Silver tickets.

Bring Essentials: Cameras, water, and some light snacks for comfort.

Dress Comfortably: Opt for light clothing and bring a jacket if it gets chilly by the bay.

Follow Safety Guidelines: Adhere to event rules for a smooth and safe experience.


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

Klook.com

The PIPC isn't just about fireworks—it's a celebration of artistry, innovation, and cultural exchange. Each participating country showcases its creativity by choreographing fireworks displays synchronized with captivating music.

So, gather your friends and family for a night (or five!) of awe-inspiring pyrotechnic performances. Who will take home the championship trophy this year? Head to SM Mall of Asia and find out!


Your Ultimate Guide to the 12th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition


In the dynamic landscape of Metro Manila, where industries constantly evolve and the demand for skilled labor remains high, institutions dedicated to technical vocational education and training (TVET) play a crucial role.



Among these, the Pasay-Makati District Training and Assessment Center (PMDTAC) stands out as a key facility under the umbrella of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Located within the vibrant National Capital Region (NCR), specifically serving the bustling districts of Pasay and Makati, PMDTAC is a cornerstone for skill development and competency certification in the area.

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What is PMDTAC?

PMDTAC is a TESDA-accredited training and assessment center that offers a variety of technical-vocational courses designed to equip Filipinos with relevant and in-demand skills for local and international employment. As part of TESDA's network of training centers, PMDTAC adheres to national competency standards, ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of various industries.

It serves a dual purpose:

  • Training: Providing structured learning programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience.

  • Assessment: Serving as a designated assessment center where individuals can undergo competency assessments to receive national certifications (National Certificates or NCs) for various qualifications, regardless of where they obtained their training. This certification is a recognized proof of skill, highly valued by employers.




Location and Accessibility

PMDTAC is strategically located within the TESDA Complex on the East Service Road, South Luzon Expressway, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. While technically in Taguig, its district designation covers Pasay and Makati, making it accessible to residents and workers from these areas. Its location within the TESDA complex signifies its integral role in the agency's broader mission to develop the Filipino workforce.




Courses and Programs Offered

PMDTAC, like other TESDA training centers, aims to address the skills gap in various sectors. While specific course offerings can vary and are regularly updated based on industry demand, PMDTAC has been noted for providing training and assessment in fields such as:

  • Entrepreneurship Level IV: Equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to start and manage their own businesses.

  • Carpentry NC II: Providing essential skills in construction, a perennially in-demand trade.

  • Technical Drafting NC II: For those interested in technical drawings and design, crucial in fields like engineering and architecture.

  • Domestic Work NC II: A significant qualification, especially for those seeking employment abroad as Household Service Workers. PMDTAC has been a vital assessment center for this qualification.

These courses are designed to be practical and industry-relevant, ensuring that graduates gain employable skills immediately upon completion. TESDA's programs, including those at PMDTAC, often fall under various modalities like center-based, community-based, and enterprise-based, catering to diverse learner needs and circumstances.



The Assessment Center Role: National Certification

Beyond training, PMDTAC's role as an assessment center is paramount. Here, candidates who believe they have acquired the necessary skills, whether through formal training, on-the-job experience, or self-study, can undergo a rigorous evaluation process. Successfully passing these assessments leads to the issuance of a National Certificate (NC) by TESDA. This certification is a national standard that assures employers of a worker's competency in a specific skill area, enhancing their employment prospects both locally and internationally.

PMDTAC's accreditation as an assessment center for qualifications like Domestic Work NC II highlights its importance in certifying a significant portion of the Filipino workforce, particularly those eyeing overseas employment.



Importance and Impact

The Pasay-Makati District Training and Assessment Center contributes significantly to:

Workforce Development: By providing accessible and quality TVET, PMDTAC helps produce a skilled and competent workforce ready to meet industry demands.

Poverty Reduction: Equipping individuals, especially from marginalized sectors, with employable skills offers them pathways out of poverty.

Economic Growth: A skilled workforce is a critical component of economic growth, attracting investments and boosting productivity.

Global Competitiveness: TESDA certifications, facilitated by centers like PMDTAC, enhance the global competitiveness of Filipino workers.




Contact Information

For those interested in inquiring about specific courses, assessment schedules, or general information, PMDTAC can be reached through:

Telephone: 810-5814 (This contact number has been consistently listed for PMDTAC).

Email: pmdtac@gmail.com or pmdtac@tesda.gov.ph (Email addresses may vary or be updated, checking both or the official TESDA website is recommended).

Center Manager: Vernadette F. Gonzales (as per recent public records).

PMDTAC continues to be a vital institution in Metro Manila, embodying TESDA's commitment to empowering Filipinos through quality technical education and skills development. It serves as a beacon of opportunity for those seeking to enhance their capabilities and secure a brighter future.



Guide to Pasay-Makati District Training and Assessment Center (PMDTAC)

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