Grand Fiesta Manila 2011: The best of the Philippines to the world
Is it possible to showcase the colorful traditions of the different regions in the Philippines in one setting? As Grand Fiesta Manila (GFM) 2011 has shown, yes, it can be done.
From the Mardi Gras-like revelry of the Visayas, to the indigenous tribes of the Cordilleras, to the country's flamboyant and iconic mode of transport - the jeepney - GFM 2011 is a unique celebration of the best of Philippine culture, only here at Resorts World Manila.
One of the participants for Biyaheng Makulay: Jeepney Design contest starts to paint his entry
(left photo). A newly decorated miniature jeepney is displayed at The Plaza, Newport Mall (right photo).
While you shop or dine in Newport Mall, watch out for Fiestas Filipinas Indoor Parade happening all Saturdays of December (December 3, 10, and 17) at 6:00 pm. Miss Resorts World Manila 2011 finalists will join the parade on December 17.
On December 4, Resorts World Manila pays tribute to the jeepney. Celebrities such as Donita Rose and Tuesday Vargas, Fine Arts students and professional painters Joel Mahilum, Anton Mahilum Jr., and Eberle Catambongan will compete for thehe P100,000 top prize up for grabs in Biyaheng Makulay: Jeepney Design Contest. The jazzed up miniature jeepneys will be exhibited to the public for FREE from December 5 to 8. The winners will be named after the judging ceremony on December 9 at The Plaza, Newport Mall.
The Pintadas Body Paint Fashion will be staged at the exclusive Genting Club on December 17 at 7:00 pm. With stunning models as canvasses, Rhett Eala will showcase his own interpretation of “Malakas at Maganda” while Randy Ortiz brings to life “Maria Makiling.” Rajo Laurel will interpret “Ibong Adarna” and “Biag ni Lam-Ang” while Tweety de Leon takes inspiration from a mythical creature - the Sarimanok.
Photos during the opening week of Grand Fiesta Manila (from left to right): Stilt walkers greet
guests at the Newport Mall; Resorts World Manila President Kingson Sian, Pasay City Mayor
Antonino Calixto, and Genting Hong Kong President David Chua push the symbolic switch to light the giant
Christmas tree; and the Meralco Choir serenades the crowd with Christmas carols.
The angelic voices of the students from St. Stephen High School, Lourdes School of Mandaluyong, Claret School of Quezon City, Philippine Women’s University - High School, St. Paul College Pasig, University of Santo Tomas - High School, Don Bosco - Makati, OB Montessori - Sta. Ana and Xavier School will mesmerize the audience with well-loved Christmas songs at A Night of Carols Chorale Competition on December 19, 7:00 pm at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.
Enjoy four more weeks of the grandest fusion of Filipino culture and Christmas tradition in Grand Fiesta Manila 2011, only here at Resorts World Manila.
To view the complete schedule of Grand Fiesta Manila, please click here.
