ScreenX at SM Mall of Asia: Was the ₱700 Ticket Worth It?

ABBEY: I’m familiar with 3D and IMAX, but ScreenX was something new to me. It offers a 270-degree viewing experience, with additional screens on the left and right positioned almost at right angles from the main screen. Since ScreenX was newly launched in the Philippines, we took the chance to experience it by watching Wicked: For Good.

The movie highlights Elphaba’s side of the story and gives a fresh perspective on the much-loved Wizard of Oz tale. Watching it in a ScreenX theater adds another layer to the experience. The side screens extend your peripheral vision, making you feel more immersed in the movie.

That said, don’t expect the side projections to be as sharp as the main screen. ScreenX isn’t designed for detailed visuals on the sides, but more for atmosphere and immersion. I can imagine this format working really well for racing films, or visually rich movies like Jurassic Park and Avatar, where movement and scenery truly benefit from a wider field of view.

ScreenX cinema at SM Mall of Asia showing a 270-degree panoramic movie experience

WILL: We finally got to experience ScreenX at SM Mall of Asia (MOA)—the Philippines’ first 270-degree panoramic cinema, which officially opened in November 2025 at the 2nd Level of the Entertainment Mall in SM MOA, Pasay City.

Unlike a regular movie theater, ScreenX expands selected scenes beyond the main screen and projects them onto both side walls, creating a wraparound, immersive experience. Instead of simply watching the movie, it genuinely feels like you’re placed right in the middle of it—especially during visually intense moments.

ScreenX at SM Mall of Asia: Quick Facts

•Location: 2nd Level, Entertainment Mall, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay

•Ticket Price: ₱700 per seat

•Seating: Premium recliner seats

Tickets are priced at ₱700 per seat, and we booked ours through the SM Cinema app, which gave us a hard time to book. That is the main reason we queue for almost an hour and unfortunately just got the left side available seats. 

Our first ScreenX movie was Wicked: For Good, which premiered in the Philippines on November 19, 2025. 

Visually, ScreenX works best during the film’s bigger moments—Emerald City flyovers, wide aerial shots, and musical sequences that spill onto the side walls. The 270-degree effect adds scale and immersion but sometimes feeling gimmicky because the side screens only activate when the scene calls for it.

Is ScreenX Worth ₱700?

For the right movie, yes.

From our experience, ScreenX works best for:

-Action blockbusters

-Musicals

-Fantasy and sci-fi films

-Visually ambitious productions

If the film is mostly dialogue-driven or intimate, the premium price may be harder to justify. ScreenX shines when visuals are an essential part of the storytelling.

ScreenX Tips We’d Share Before You Book

1. Book center seats for the best 270-degree viewing experience

2. Arrive early so you don’t miss the ScreenX technology introduction

3. Choose visually driven films—action, musicals, and fantasy. 

4. Manage expectations: side screens activate only during select scenes

Would We Watch ScreenX Again?

Yes—but selectively and if have center seats. 

ScreenX at SM Mall of Asia is a genuinely unique cinema experience and something we’re glad we tried. At ₱700 per ticket, it’s not an every-movie option for us, but it’s definitely worth it for big, visually spectacular releases.

Bottom line:

✔ Worth trying at least once

✔ Best for blockbusters and special occasions

✔ Book early and sit center

***

SM CINEMA COUNTRY’S FIRST SCREENX THEATER 

(W) https://www.smcinema.com

El Nido Tour C: Hidden Beaches, Secret Lagoons & Island Hopping Guide

ABBEY: I highly recommend Spider Travel and Tours for island hopping in El Nido. Despite a reservation mishap between them and our hotel, they did not disappoint. Our hotel booking did not go through, but Spider Travel quickly arranged a spot for us on Tour C. From the start, they assured us that we would still be exploring the islands that day, and they delivered.

For Php 1,800, the package included towels, lunch, and a dedicated captain with his jolly crew. Tour C covers some of El Nido’s most beautiful spots: Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, Talisay Beach, Secret Beach, and Matinloc Shrine. Aqua shoes and snorkelling gear are not included, so it’s best to bring your own or rent. The tour runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop.
We had lunch at Talisay Beach, where the spread included chicken and pork adobo, pansit, prawns, tofu, and fresh fruits. It was simple, filling, and perfect after a morning in the water.

The most challenging part of the tour was entering Secret Beach. You have to pass through a small opening in the rocks and push through the waves, but once you get through, the view on the other side makes the effort completely worth it.

There is a separate Php 200 entrance fee for Matinloc Shrine. From there, we were able to take photos on top of the jagged limestone cliffs overlooking the deep blue sea, easily one of the highlights of the day.

After the tour, Austria’s Guesthouse offers showers where you can freshen up for Php 50, which is a welcome option after hours of island hopping.

Island hopping is truly a must-do in El Nido. Great views, good food, and relaxed island vibes make it an experience worth remembering.

El Nido Tour C island hopping with hidden beaches and limestone cliffs in Bacuit Bay

WILL: El Nido’s dramatic limestone cliffs aren’t just scenic — they are around 250 million years old.

Tour C allows you to experience these ancient formations while island hopping through hidden beaches and secret lagoons in Bacuit Bay.

If you’re looking for fewer crowds, more adventure, and breathtaking scenery, El Nido Tour C is one of the best island-hopping experiences you can choose.

Tour C at a Glance

- Duration: ~7 hours (7:30 AM–4:00 PM)

- Best for: Hidden beaches, swimming, snorkeling

- Highlights: Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Helicopter Island

- Crowd level: Less busy than Tour A

- Price: ₱1,800 (eco-fee included)

What to Bring -- These items make a big difference, especially when swimming through rocky entrances and sharp limestone areas.

•Sunscreen

•Dry bag

•Aqua shoes (available for rent at ₱100 per pair)

•Towel (provided by the tour guide) and a change of clothes

•Waterproof phone pouch or camera (available for ₱100)

Is Tour C for You?

•Non-swimmers: Possible with life jackets (some swimming required)

•Families: Recommended for older children

•Mobility concerns: Ask operators about physical demands before booking

Why Choose Spider Travel and Tours

As I shared in our hotel/resort blog, our booking from Charlie’s El Nido was unfortunately not relayed to Spider Travel and Tours. Despite this, Spider still helped our group of seven find another tour operator that could accommodate us.

They guided us on:

-Where to rent aqua shoes/snorkelling gears

-Where to wait for our assigned tour guide

-Even lent us towels for the entire tour

Spider  connected us with a top-notch tour guide, Gerald, who didn’t just guide us — he swam with us through the entrances of Hidden Beach and Secret Beach, ensuring everyone’s safety. He’s also an excellent photographer, helping us capture amazing memories throughout the tour.

That level of service truly stood out.

The Five Stops on El Nido Tour C

1. Helicopter Island

Named for its helicopter-like shape, this stop features: - Time spent: 45–60 minutes

-Steep limestone cliffs, a wide sandy beach and excellent snorkelling spot

2. Hidden Beach

Completely hidden by limestone walls and inaccessible by boat, this peaceful cove is reached by swimming through shallow water into a calm, sheltered beach.

3. Talisay Beach (Lunch Stop)

-Buffet-style Filipino lunch 

-Time for swimming and relaxation

4. Secret Beach

The highlight of Tour C. You enter through a narrow limestone opening into an enclosed natural pool surrounded by towering rock walls. The water is calm and incredibly scenic.

Aqua shoes are highly recommended here — the rocks beneath the water are sharp and uneven.

5. Matinloc Shrine

An abandoned hilltop shrine offering

•Panoramic views of Bacuit Bay

•A short staircase hike with amazing photo spots

•A mix of history, mystery, and scenery

Best Time to Do Tour C

•Best weather: January–April

•Fewer crowds: Early May or late November 

•Rainy season: June–October (weather dependent)

El Nido Tour C perfectly blends hidden beaches, adventure, and ancient limestone scenery into one unforgettable day. Swimming through narrow rock entrances and floating beneath towering cliffs makes this tour feel both exciting and timeless.

Explore 250 million years of natural wonder — one hidden beach at a time.

***

Spider Travel and Tours | El Nido

(F) https://www.facebook.com/SpiderTravelTour/

You can book too here in your GetYourGuide 

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Documents Needed to Avoid Being Offloaded at Philippine Immigration

Although as Filipinos, we have a liberty or right to travel in and out of Philippines (as Article III, Section 6 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution - https://chr.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Human-RIghts-Advisory-Right-to-Freedom-of-Movement-CHR-V-A2020-013.pdf). You can also some immigration policies under: Republic Act No. 7610 o ang Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act. Immigration officers enforce strict procedures and regulations for departing travelers for several reasons. These reasons are generally based on the country's immigration and security policies: 

1. Illegal Migration Prevention: 

Immigration officers are tasked with preventing illegal migration, which could include individuals attempting to work or stay in another country without the necessary visas or permits. This is to ensure that people entering a country have the appropriate legal status. 

2. National Security: 

Countries have a responsibility to protect their national security by preventing individuals with potential criminal or terrorist affiliations from entering or leaving. Strict screening processes help identify individuals who might pose a security risk. 

3. Human Trafficking and Smuggling: 

Stricter immigration checks help combat human trafficking and smuggling by identifying and stopping individuals who might be coerced or deceived into illegal activities. 

4. Return Assurance: 

Immigration officers want to ensure that individuals leaving their country have the means to return. Immigration officers might ask about travel plans, return tickets, and financial resources to ensure that people won't end up stranded in another country. 

5. Visa Violation Detection: 

Individuals who have violated the terms of their visa, such as working without proper authorization, may be flagged by immigration officers during departure checks. 

6. Documentation Verification, Public Health and Safety, Bilateral Agreements, etc. 

Avoid Being Offloaded 

Here are some tips that Filipino travelers might consider to help prevent offloading: 

1. Complete and Updated Documents: 


Make sure all required travel documents are complete, up-to-date, and valid, including your passport, visa (if applicable), return ticket, and other supporting documents. 

2. Clear Purpose of Travel: 


Be ready to provide clear and truthful information about your purpose of travel. Immigration officers often question travelers about their destination, duration of stay, and reason for going abroad. Be honest and consistent with your answers. 

3. Sufficient Financial Capacity
:

Show that you have enough funds to cover your travel expenses and stay abroad. This could include bank statements, credit cards, ITR or proof of sponsorship if applicable. 

4. Itinerary:


Have a detailed itinerary of your trip, including accommodation details, travel plans, and contact information of people you will be meeting abroad. 

5. Supporting Documents and Ties to the Philippines
:

If you're traveling for work or business purposes, have employment certificates, company IDs, business permits, or conference invitations as proof. If you're a student, provide enrollment certificates or school IDs. 

6. Confidence and Courtesy: 


Approach immigration officers with confidence and courtesy. Prepare for possible questions about your trip. Where are you headed? Why? How long will you stay? Confidence and concise answers are your travel buddies here. Answer their questions calmly and respectfully 

7. Stand Up for Your Rights:

You have rights as a traveler. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification if things aren't clear. You're entitled to know why you're being held or questioned. 

Commonly asked questions by Immigration Officers:

*Why are you going to the <country>?
*Have you been to the out of Philippines before?
*Do you have relatives in <country>? 
*Who is going to sponsor your visit?
*Where will you stay in the <country>?
*What are you going to do in <country>?
*What is the purpose of your trip?
*Do you have return air tickets?
*How much is your budget from this trip?
*What places do you want to visit?
*How long will you stay in <country>?
*What is the guarantee that you will come back?
*What work do you do and what company?
*Did you take leave at your job? 

Remember that the role of immigration officers is to ensure that your travel is legal, safe, and compliant with regulations. Following these tips and being prepared can help increase your chances of a smooth departure without offloading issues.

Enjoy planning your international trip! 

QUICK LINKS:

Cheap Flights: https://expedia.com/affiliate/E894ZpY

Singapore Hotels: https://expedia.com/affiliate/SuxWwtR

Things to Do in Singapore: https://expedia.com/affiliate/ygVn7jL

LUXURIOUS SANTORINI VIBES BEACH RESORT IN SORSOGON - Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front in Santa Elena

ABBEY: I was hooked when I saw the blue and white buildings of Residencia del Hamor. It’s like Santorini. This is where we stayed in Sorsogon. 

Welcome drinks were served upon arrival and a few moments later we were led to our rooms. Each room has its own balcony facing the pool and beach. This is a good place to see the sunrise. A big bed is at the center of the room and you have a kind of living room as well. Extra beds can be requested for other guest but of course for a fee. The restaurant served as our dining table. I liked their crispy pata; you can eat all except for the bone. Haha. I had espresso martini at their bar to wrap up the day. 

And in the morning we walked the stretch of the beach which is very therapeutic. It is indeed a relaxing stay.

LUXURIOUS SANTORINI VIBES BEACH RESORT IN SORSOGON - Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front in Santa Elena - Santorini Vibes

LUXURIOUS SANTORINI VIBES BEACH RESORT IN SORSOGON - Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front in Santa Elena - Exclusive Pool

LUXURY VACATION IN BICOL REGION PHILIPPINES! Condotel and Beach Resort in Albay and Sorsogon!

LUXURIOUS SANTORINI VIBES BEACH RESORT IN SORSOGON - Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front in Santa Elena - Restaurant

LUXURIOUS SANTORINI VIBES BEACH RESORT IN SORSOGON - Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front in Santa Elena - Sunrise

WILL: We are glad that we chose to stay in Recidencia than in beeeep*beepp*. Haha! Recidencia del Hamor Beachfront’s customer care knocks off the competition. It is easier to communicate with them. I mean, it won’t take days for you to to wait on their responds. I sent a mail around midnight and my delight when I checked my email in the morning they had replied me by 2AM. Kuddos to Front Office Associate named Ms Sheena Dig! Just one call and few exchanges of emails, everything was settled. Who wants a stress before their vacation right?

We were picked-up by Recidencia del Hamor van exactly on the time we prefered. The van is roomy and accomodated us comfortably. On our way from Legazpi to Sorsogon our driver gave insights what Sorsogon is known for, what are their primary crops and pointed out the Chiz’s Abode. We have a lovely ride to the beachfront.

Once we arrived, we were welcomed by front office staffs, taken our vaccines cards to get a copy, given a welcome drink and we were assisted by a golf cart to our rooms.

The Junior Suite Room is lovely and spacious, the bed is comfy and the toiletries is fragrance is quite calming. In front of the room is the pool exclusively available for resort guests. 

The beach! The sea! It is calm! Love it! And due to low tide you can walk/swim far and yet the water is still a chest deep. Haha!

We do not have an intention to go out of the resort and glad that they have a restaurant, bar and spa that is highly recommended for guests to try. Don’t forget to order their Crispy Pata and Bangus Belly for breakfast On our way back to Legazpi, our driver gladly dropped us off to some places that sells pasalubong. Abbey got a tablea in Aling Vicky’s store.

So what’s the verdict? Totally recommended! They know how to tale care of their customers, what they want and need. Thank you so much Recidencia del Hamor for this memorable stay in Sorsogon!

***

Recidencia Del Hamor Beach Front 

Php13,000 Junior Suite Room with free breakfast 

Van Transfer from Legazpi to Resort (2-way) Rate: PHP 6,000 

(F) https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...

(A) Brgy. San Sebastian, Sta. Magdalena 4709 Santa Magdalena, Philippines

(T) +63 905 245 1920

(E) reservations@recidenciadelhamorbeachfront.com.ph