As quarantine measures begin to ease in various parts of the country, many are starting to find themselves back at the original oasis of the urban jungle — the mall. And they’re not just there to shop or dine, either.
As Ayala Malls marketing director Eunice Velasco explains, “Proximity and physical presence are not the only ways to gather. We can be together, if only through common values, shared hopes, and a collective purpose. The malls are where we can shop and dine for the season, yes. They’re also the venues that offer a sense of community where inclusivity and safety of our patrons are among our priorities.”
With this said, Ayala Malls makes a conscious effort to deepen its relationships with the various communities it serves through activities and customized programs to serve better the diverse cultures of each establishment it operates.
Gather hope
Ayala Malls is extending its facilities to support local businesses and community vendors through bayanihan bazaars — a series of curated fairs in collaboration with home, food, and fashion vendors from November until the year end.
Aiming to bring smiles this season, Ayala Malls welcomes shoppers to discover local goods that spark thoughtfulness and care for groups affected by the pandemic. One of these is the Christmas Décor Producers and Exporters Association of the Philippines (CDPEAP), which is composed of seasoned Filipino decor exporters who are currently facing the challenges caused by the pandemic and the influx of imported machine-made decor sold in the market.
Another is Weekenders PH, a specialty gifting association made up of “mompreneurs” who used to make a living through live events. Now making waves through passion hubs, the group infused Oscar Mejia’s bespoke fragrance specially made for Ayala Malls onto the booths. The signature scent is anchored on the feeling of a warm embrace, with clean and familiar notes that exude a sense of nostalgia and comfort unique to the Ayala Malls experience.
Next is a group of food vendors and restaurateurs including Expofairs Management Corp., Mercato, and RestoPH initially affected by multiple restrictions. Their partnership with Ayala Malls brings back flavorful options and gastronomic night markets for mall-goers to enjoy. Additionally, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is launching Kain Na! in Ayala Malls once again to further support local culinary from Region IV-A including CALABARZON this festive season.
One of the many community vendors to spot at the food market is Manong Rogelio, who serves delicious pinoy street-style ice cream in Glorietta. Dressed to impress, Manong Rogelio stands out in his formal clothes as he scoops frozen delights for customers from his Miro Ice Cream stand. Another is 65-year old Tatay Felix Endrina, the viral taho vendor whose name had spread far and wide for selling his local specialty in social events in and outside of Metro Manila. His business began in 1979 and it eventually grew exponentially through word of mouth as he shared his contact details for event bookings be it for weddings or mall bazaars. This season, catch him at Ayala Malls Circuit to support his business and enjoy a cup of sweet taho.
Of course, Christmas in Ayala Malls is not complete without the annual Designer’s Holiday Bazaar (DHB) founded and curated by Bea Zobel Jr and Sofia Zobel-Elizalde. An event with a cause, 20 percent of DHB’s sales is donated to Steps Scholarship Foundation and Ayala Foundation for APEC Scholarships to benefit children from CENTEX schools. Through DHB’s partner charities, shoppers are able to help children realize their dreams by contributing to their education fund. What’s more, DHB collaborates with NGOs and the Ayala Foundation to bring
local communities to the spotlight such as the Iraya-Mangyan tribe.
Gather memories
Ayala Malls is also hosting Parol installations and exhibits to dazzle the young and old during the holiday season. These will be held until the end of 2021 in multiple malls including Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Ayala Malls Circuit, and Abreeza.
Meanwhile, community choirs will fill the air with heartwarming music that stir the soul with excitement as one shops or dines. End the night by celebrating each other’s achievements in front of the festive visual fireworks display and LED show in Ayala Malls.
Gather faith
With another year coming to a close, give thanks to the One who is sovereign and is in control of everything even in times of uncertainty. Express faith and share in the community’s collective prayers as Ayala Malls hosts Simbang Gabi in Circuit Makati, Cloverleaf, Harbor Point, MarQuee, Feliz, Manila Bay, Alabang Town Center, Ayala Center Cebu, Central Bloc, and The District Dasmarinas. Those staying at home can also join Simbang Gabi through online services held in Solenad and Centrio.
Gather generosity
The holiday is a season to make love felt even further through thoughtful acts of gift giving. Show a generous heart that cares about the needs and wants of friends and family, especially those who have showered support over the months though it may entail sacrifice. While times are certainly challenging, love is magnified all the more through the simplest things. Find the most meaningful tokens for dads, moms, siblings, children, besties, and more at Ayala
Malls’ Mall Wide Sales from Nov. 15 to Dec. 19.
For more information on ongoing promos, mall events, and safety measures, please visit Ayala Malls at www.ayalamalls.com, or through social media at www.facebook.com/AyalaMalls360/ and IG @iloveayalamalls.
