Buscalan Ink

I recently got inked by Grace Palicas, the grandniece of Apo Whang-Od. She was in Manila for a few days, and I caught one of her mambabatok sessions. I chose their design for prayer, as I wanted to symbolize that my faith is bigger than the sky, which is represented by my star tattoo.

It was not painful at all. It was rather uncomfortable but I would recommend it because Grace has a light and steady hand. She also inks quickly and efficiently. My tattoo was done in twenty minutes.

You may visit Grace Tattoo Buscalan on Facebook to follow her upcoming tours and schedules both in and out of her hometown. It was an honor to be inked by a true artist, and now, friend.

A Mindful Exercise

Today, I was assigned to perform A Mindful Exercise on my BDJ Spark Your Magic Workbook.

Here was the assignment:

”Exercise is defined as a process carried out with effort in order to achieve a specific purpose of sustaining or improving health. There are no shortcuts in exercising. This is work that needs to be done to unleash your magic. List what you can do to improve your physical, mental, and emotional health…and commit to them.”

And here are my answers:

Health

• Drink 8 glasses of water everyday

• Get 6-8 hours of sleep every night

• Workout everyday

Heart

• Read the Bible everyday

• Use a gratitude journal

• Journal everyday

Mind

• Post blog entries at least once a week

• Listen to at least one podcast episode each day

• Crochet everyday

• Talk to my partner more about current events

• Commute once a week

I have been practicing most of these already, so I am off to a good start! It is understandable that there should be room for allowances due to the pandemic. However, I am determined to commit to practicing all of these for my own good!

Here’s to a more mindful way of living!

syd hartha reflects on her self-awakening with new single “hiwaga”

In less than two years of being signed under Sony Music Philippines, syd hartha quickly rose to prominence with compelling pop/folk anthems that expertly balance lyrical depth with relatability and social relevance. From taking a pro-woman stand on “ayaw” to documenting the importance of self-restraint on “paru-paro,” the young singer-songwriter marks a clear step forward in terms of exploring outsider themes that even her contemporaries would seem to avoid. 

Having that same grasp of writerly elegance without resorting to repeating herself, syd hartha takes a moment to reflect on her personal actions through her latest single, “hiwaga”—a stunningly produced, stripped-down tune that deals with self-awakening and healing in preparation to becoming “the best version of herself”—to reference a line from the coming-of-age film, Lady Bird. 

Writing from a place of newfound perspective and riveting wisdom, syd wrote “hiwaga” as a reminder that no matter who you are and what you may be going through, you are still capable of being part of a better change. “Basically, the love you have for yourself reflects to everyone and everything around you,” the critically acclaimed musician explains. “There was a time in my life where I felt so stuck and started to question my existence and the reason for everything. What inspired me to write this song is my awakening to the fact that I was given this life for a reason. I want to heal so I can be the best version of myself for everyone around me and I want to inspire people to do the same.”

Quite a diversion from her usual sound, “hiwaga” is produced by Johnoy Danao, and performed with her backing band consisting of Bea Fabros, Raisa Racelis and Pat Sarabia. According to syd hartha, the track was recorded at the confines of the musicians’ homes under the guidance of Johnoy Danao. “Initially, we thought of a big production incorporating more instruments like horns, but we decided we wanted to give the song a lot of room to breathe and let the lyrics shine.” syd adds, “recording ‘hiwaga,’ was definitely challenging because it was our first time producing a single without seeing each other.”

The song also features a rap verse from syd herself, who admits that hip-hop has greatly influenced her songwriting. “As someone who's so fond of several hip-hop artists’ writing and delivery, I noticed how stronger and more effective it is when the message is somehow spoken instead of sung. Also, when I wrote ‘hiwaga,’ it all started with just words; it was me having a conversation with myself. I decided then that I wanted the feel to be more conversational and more focused on the message of the lyrics.” 

syd hartha’s “hiwaga” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

Source: Nyou

Project Orange chronicles the growing pains of romance on “Play Pretend”

In less than three years, Project Orange has slowly but surely gained traction outside of Bacolod City’s relatively small but thriving music community. Thanks to their maiden singles “Ctrl + Esc” and “Sputnik Sweetheart,” the promising quartet earned their chunk of streaming listenership on cities such as Taipei, Manila, and Hong Kong—a proof that their brand of music sees no boundaries, and resonates on a universal level.

Formed by vocalist/guitarist Diana “Moose” Mapa, guitarist Ann Marie Pillado, bassist Martin Garces, and drummer Miguel Gabriel San Miguel, Project Orange returns with a distinctly laid-back affair that chronicles the growing pains of young love and the unsteady circumstances that define it.

Their new single “Play Pretend” captivates listeners with their sophisticated blend of bedroom pop and indie rock. The four-piece outfit employs a lush and dream-like palette in terms of musical approach, fully embracing a deceptively simple arrangement that wouldn’t feel out of place side by side with the breezy pop sensibilities of Clairo and Boy Pablo. 

“Too many people get caught up with the immense amount of music elements these days and I try to avoid that,” lead vocalist Diana Mapa shares in a statement. “The additional portions like the distorted guitar and synths were suggested by the producers in the studio and it added a stunning perspective to the song.”

Steeped in melancholic pulse, “Play Pretend” provides glimpses of a promising music act informed by the sound of its time, but never allowing trends to envelope the finality and packaging. It’s all heart, less feels: the more you immerse to the song’s intimate revelations, the closer it hits home.  

Lyrically, “Play Pretend” demands to be felt. With its wandering verses, a bridge that makes you feel like you're at a wit's end, and a chorus that hits you with a sanguine yet somber tune, the song represents built up feelings that will never see the light of the day. Mapa shares, “It’s like you’re running out of time, but at the same time you aren’t. And that distorts what you think of love, whether it be imaginary or reality.”

“Play Pretend” is the third official single of indie pop collective Project Orange under Lilystar Records. Stream their new track here.

Source: Nyou

Rico Blanco releases fun, upbeat single “Happy Feelin”

Alternative rock icon Rico Blanco spreads love and positivity amidst difficult times on his new single, “Happy Feelin”—out today, August 25, on all digital platforms worldwide.

On his second release this year under Sony Music, the award-winning producer and singer-songwriter delivers a bright, upbeat number that soars with an inescapable chorus and a rockabilly vibe. 

For someone who has spent a career pushing pop music to exciting new places, Rico Blanco succeeds in releasing a diverse selection of tunes that blends crossover appeal with an adventurous edge. Count “Happy Feelin” as the latest addition to his winning streak: a finger-snapping, retro-leaning bop that finds Blanco dialing down his sonic ambition for something that resembles a big ball of sunshine.

“Happy Feelin” is the second song written and produced by Blanco in his home studio during the lockdown period. It’s the follow-up single to “This Too Shall Pass,” which was released on the first week of May 2020.

Stream Rico Blanco’s latest single here.

Source: Nyou

Best Kept Secret of the South, the Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie by the Fet Boys

If you have ever wanted to know what it feels like to be hugged by a cookie, then you need to try the Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie created and baked by the Fet Boys. If you've never heard of them, it's because their cookies are so good, people don't want to share for fear of it being sold out which it almost always is. 

 The Fet Boys are twin brothers Karl and Kirk though Kirk is the one who bakes all the time. The Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie is his creation and this comes in GIANT and regular size. When I say it's a GIANT cookie, I mean it.

The Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie is made of chocolate chip goodness, walnuts, and chunky chewy cookie all rolled into one. People who don't like too much sweetness will enjoy this because it's not too sweet either. The sweetness is just right that even diabetics can eat a piece of this. 

People in Singapore love this and they are not fans of sweet so if they love the Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie by the Fet Boys, you know that the sweetness level is just right.  

 If you would like to experience being hugged by a warm cookie, message the Fet Boys on their Facebook Page. If you're not ready to take in the giant version, order the regular version. Make sure you order at least a dozen because everyone who ordered only 6 pieces ordered another dozen after just one bite.

text and photos from: the Fet Boys

The Overseas Fabulous Pinay: A Handbook for Independent Women

I just finished reading The Overseas Fabulous Pinay: A Modern Filipina’s Handbook on How to Thrive Abroad by Donna Avellana-Künzler. It was a joy to consume as it was written in the author’s humorous and tongue-in-cheek style. I appreciated that the book was divided in chapters which dealt with the essential matters on migrating to a foreign country, such as important documents and survival skills. These were balanced with light chapters on how to enjoy the expat life and making friends with different people.

Don’t get me wrong- I am not planning to move abroad anytime soon. However, I do know some female friends who are considering the big move someday. While the Internet is abound with resources on how to thrive aboard, this book uniquely targets Filipinas who want to not just integrate in another country, but to be fabulous while doing so. The book carefully lays out key strategies on making it overseas, beating homesickness, and balancing work and personal life.

Ms. Avellana-Künzler is a veteran in thriving overseas, as she has lived in three continents and wants to help Filipinas shine outside their comfort zones. She also wants to empower Filipinas by sharing her own life story so that others can learn from her wins and mistakes.

My favorite chapter was the last one, which was entitled Stay Fabulous. It helped me pinpoint what made me happy, how I reward myself, and what I would like to learn. Come to think of it, this book is not just for overseas Filipinas, but for every Filipina. This pandemic has made us all isolated to a certain extent, so conquering the outside world already feels like a major move in itself.

This book is a guide for Filipinas who want to transcend their own limits, whether its to move abroad or outside the home during Corona times.

I previously shared the press release for this book here.

The Overseas Fabulous Pinay: A Modern Filipina’s Guide on How to Thrive Abroad by Donna Avellana Künzler is available at major online book retailers Barnes & Noble, Kobo and Amazon for P750. Check www.ovfabpinay.com for announcements for book events and to get to know the author more through her blog. Be part of the #ovfabpinay Facebook community [www.facebook.com/ovfabpinay] and follow @ovfabpinay on Instagram [www.instagram.com/ovfabpinay] for more updates.

Stay safe and fabulous, everyone!

The Itchyworms to launch quarantine-themed album with a virtual event

The Itchyworms will be hosting a virtual album launch to celebrate the release of their highly anticipated fifth album, Waiting For The End To Start. 

A few hours before the 9-track album drops on digital platforms worldwide, the acclaimed pop-rock outfit is set to debut the songs for the very first time through an online listening and live commentary party, which will be streamed live via The Itchyworms’ official Facebook page on August 17, (Monday), from 7:30 pm onwards. 

Expect a night of fun and entertainment as The Itchyworms perform select cuts from their upcoming release, and promise music listeners to deliver a riveting music experience like no other. 

About the album

The Itchyworms’ upcoming studio album, Waiting For The End To Start was conceptualized and recorded with the members of the band confined in their respective homes during the nationwide lockdown. 

Thematically, the songs are written as a reflection of their individual and collective experiences during the quarantine period. It also inhabits a more adventurous and relentless approach in terms of production and songwriting, which produced captivating end results that music fans will surely love.

As Chino Singson, the band’s lead guitarist and back-up vocalist, shares in a statement, “Like any collection of music, it is a record of its time: A snapshot of the artist's reaction to his or her circumstances. But it's a concept album in that our aim was to create art in the midst of a pandemic, to capture our emotions in the music we record, even with the limited recording gear we have at home. So you'll hear amp buzz and imperfect vocals, but for me that's part of the spirit of true rock.”

The Itchyworms’ “Waiting For The End To Start” virtual album launch is presented by Sony Music Philippines, GNN Entertainment, and Linya-Linya.

Source: Nyou

Zack Tabudlo takes charge of his fear and soars in love with latest single, “Nangangamba”

Singer-songwriter and producer Zack Tabudlo finds renewed perspective on time’s delicate role in shaping your own destiny, setting an ultimatum on fear with his newest single, “Nangangamba,” out this Friday, August 7, on digital platforms worldwide.

On his first release under Island Records Philippines, Zack urges listeners to take ownership of their own feelings: that inaction may shield you from pain, yes, but ultimately it’ll get you nowhere. He brings love songs up a notch, infusing pop and R&B elements to his powerful vocals—a testament to his ever-evolving songwriting and production style. But moreover, it signals a shift on his creative choices in keeping his individual artistry as dynamic as his growth in the music industry. “With these new tracks, I'm sure people who have experienced these would relate so much more… [the latest single] is very different, music-wise and in terms of maturity,” he shares.

Part of this artistic growth is Zack’s experience of writing “Nangangamba,” a song he wrote a year ago. He cites an earlier failed romance as the inspiration behind the song. “I wrote down some lyrics about the things I was going through at the time. I was in a situation where I felt like someone I liked was playing too hard to get, and the song pretty much circles around that idea: that sometimes when we play too hard to get, we lose people who really love us or people who [turn out to] feel the same way.” The process of writing the actual song didn’t take long once the idea set in. “It all started with a melody that popped into my head while I was in class. Every time melodies or ideas pop in my head, I always grab my phone to record them just to make sure I won't forget. But this time, I knew I needed at least a couple of chords on any instrument just to seal the idea. I recorded all the chords I needed using a ukulele. When I got home I went straight to my home studio and finished the production with my vocals and everything. Five to six hours later, ‘Nangangamba’ was born.”

Now finally set to be released, “Nangangamba” unintentionally—and fittingly—became a case of practicing what you preach, as he sings, “Ito na ang pagkakataon / Wala nang pipigil sa’yo / ‘Wag ka nang mahihiya / Sabihin na ang totoo.” In some ways, the lockdown allowed him to reprioritize. “I have a home studio and all the equipment I need. Having all the time in the world made me focus more and be motivated to write lots of songs compared to when I was also studying at the same time.” 

Acquiring skills over time also made it possible to avoid tremendous adjustments to recording and producing the single despite limitations during the quarantine. “Just like in my old tracks, I’ve worked on them from top to bottom. I'm the producer, writer, singer, arranger, as well as the mixing and mastering engineer. It was really fun experimenting with different genres and I really like the vibe of each and every song I've been making lately. There are samples I've worked on from scratch with these tracks and I really can't wait for everyone to hear it.” 

His latest career step as part of the brand-new Island Records roster excites the multi-disciplinary artist. “Everyone in MCA Music Philippines and Island Records Philippines are amazing… They've been very supportive and very creative when it comes to ideas or projects, and I know I have a very strong team behind me.” 

About Zack Tabudlo

Zack Tabudlo is a singer-songwriter and producer from Manila, Philippines. He joined The Voice Kids in 2014 and went on to establish his solo career, writing and performing his own music. His first single, “Stay Here,” was released in 2018 and was featured on several Spotify playlists, including “Men of OPM,” “Philippines Viral 50,” and “OPM Says Chillax.” His subsequent single, “Mahal O Biro,” was again included in “Men of OPM” and “Pinoy Love Ballads” playlists. Zack premiered his first single of 2020, the chill-pop track “This Is Love,” in February.  

He has also collaborated with several OPM artists, undertaking writer and producer roles. He’s most recently been credited in arranging and producing Carlo Aquino’s single “Balisong” and Sharlene San Pedro’s “Everything Will Be Alright” and “Pusong Naliligaw.”

Now on a fresh path in his career, Zack sets his sights to winning the hearts of his audience both locally and internationally as one of the bold new signees to Island Records Philippines.

Follow Zack on Facebook · Twitter · Instagram

Source: Nyou

Ben&Ben launches BBTV in celebration of 1M subscribers on YouTube

After reaching more than a million subscribers on YouTube, multi-awarded nine-piece collective Ben&Ben have heeded the call of fans for more exclusive content in the coming days.

The acclaimed band has recently announced the launch of their upcoming weekly series, BBTV on July 31, Friday to celebrate this important milestone in their career. 

“We've been making vlogs that showed our life behind the scenes, but eventually the band and its team came up with the idea,” vocalist and guitarist Miguel Benjamin shares. “Its primary goal is to simply find more ways to connect to people through more varied content.”

Extensive range of content

Aside from themed music performances and collaborations, expect an intimate look at the band’s more personal and entertaining side as they share their journey of living together under one roof.  “We decided to live together to eliminate or at least greatly lessen the risks involved with working outside,” says Miguel. “We always had the idea of living together in the future to create content and write music, but with the situation now we realized that now was the best time to actually give it a shot.”

Ben&Ben also revealed about their plans to drop a “head bang” version of their smash single “Pagtingin,” as well as cover select K-Pop songs in the future. 

The online series, which airs every Wednesday, will also feature a more extensive range of content for people to connect to, including but not limited to games, competitions, challenges and other forms of entertainment. 

Sophomore Album 

Ben&Ben are currently working on the follow-up to their platinum-selling debut album, Limasawa Street, which produced generation-defining songs such as “Pagtingin,” “Fall,” “Araw-Araw,” “War,” and more. 

Paolo confirms in a statement that one of the reasons for moving in was to start writing for their second album to be released under Sony Music. “We wanted the process to be as organic and as involved as possible, and we're so excited to see what we can come up with where distance and time isn't a hindrance.”

Source: Nyou

New episodes of BBTV will drop every Wednesday of the week on the Ben&Ben YouTube Channel, starting August 5, 2020.

Sponge Cola signs to Sony Music, releases new song “Lumipas Ang Tag-Araw”

Sponge Cola has officially signed to Sony Music—the record label that released their debut album, Palabas.

To mark this return, the award-winning band drops a new song entitled “Lumipas Ang Tag-araw,” out today on all digital platforms worldwide. 

Capturing the essence of a belated summer anthem in less than four minutes, Sponge Cola’s latest single soars into the fast lane with verses that turn romantic yearning into an inescapable sing-along, and a power pop surge that packs a ton of punch. 

Connection in separation

The captivating and relatable lyrics echo the collective frustration of not being with the people we deeply care about and love. But on the other side of the narrative, the song presents an opportunity to weather the insurmountable odds through perseverance and resilience to get through life—thanks to the support and kindness of friends and family. “It's a story of connection in separation, and how we can be a source of comfort for each other during difficult times,” guitarist Armo Armovit adds.

Vocalist and guitarist Yael Yuzon fondly recalls the inspiration behind “Lumipas Ang Tag-araw” after driving his wife to work one morning under the new normal. He remembers becoming intensely emotional out of nowhere. “It was a strange feeling: a realization about everything that has or hasn’t happened since Covid-19, which yanked us away from our usual. And at that moment, this bright and happy melody just came to me, then some words and harmonies. When I got home, I fleshed everything out and recorded a demo within a few minutes. I guess I just needed to uplift myself, so I wrote something uplifting-- something that doesn't highlight the struggle everyone has been trying to deal with during the pandemic and the lockdown.” The creative and emotional surge led to writing the initial draft of “Lumipas Ang Tag-araw”—a love song that deals with the struggles of physical connection in the time of pandemic.

“Virtual” recording

The upbeat pop-rock tune is the first song that the band arranged and recorded in the comforts of their home, without being together in the same place. Armovit shares the challenging process that transpired during the preliminary stages of the recording. “We sent demos and voice memos to each other back and forth, tweaking parts, creating variations, until we all agreed on a final arrangement. Everyone then had to record their own parts at home and send it to a communal online drive for the producer, Angee Rozul, to bring everything together for the final track.”

Under normal circumstances, Sponge Cola would usually write the song, arrange it in a rehearsal space, and record it together in a studio. But due to the nationwide lockdown imposed in the previous months, the alternative rock quartet decided to use the time and resources available at their disposal to record individually at their own place. “There was a lot of self-editing because you're not being policed by your bandmates or a producer constantly keeping tabs on possible mistakes or improvements, at least in person,” says Yael Yuzon. “It was all about laying in your parts when the song was passed on to you, and you had the responsibility to keep things right and easy for the next guy to add on to.”

Music video

According to Armovit, the lockdown-inspired music video of “Lumipas ang Tag-Araw” takes an intimate look into the fictional and real-life character’s personal worlds—their bedrooms, living spaces, confined homes—and the routine that they’re up to, in hopes of coping with the situation under quarantine. “It was also our first time working under special conditions, where we had to film all the scenes ourselves with our own phones and cameras. I'm very thankful for the help and guidance from King Palisoc, our director, and the creative ideas from his team.”

The music video will be released on August 1, Saturday via the band’s official YouTube page.

Source: Nyou

Listen to Twenty-Nine Eleven’s take on 6cyclemind’s “I”

Filipino pop-rock outfit Twenty-Nine Eleven has finally released their remake of 6cyclemind’s “I,” off the upcoming Sige I-Cover Mo Lang Project.

The song serves as the second single of the online compilation, produced by 6cyclemind and their management Soupstar Music, and released by Sony Music Philippines. 

The aforementioned tribute record aims to introduce the band’s legacy as reliable hitmakers that continue to define an entire generation’s collective consciousness.

A captivating take

Twenty-Nine Eleven’s version of the alt-rock classic was handpicked as one of the three winners of the Sige I-Cover Mo Lang Project—an initiative that encouraged fans to submit covers of their favorite songs from 6cyclemind’s catalog. 

Their captivating take stands out with its earnest simplicity and delicate arrangements, giving the song a refreshing spin while maintaining the original’s timelessness and emotional appeal.

According to Fony Alfonso, the lead vocalist of the five-piece band, the song is already great on its own. “However, in order to make it sound like us, we wanted to rearrange the song and add more of our personality to it. As with all of the songs that we've done before, we experimented with it until we got the right ‘feel’ that we wanted to express as a band.”

An inspiration to young musicians

The independent band considers 6cyclemind as one of their inspirations. “After spending time with the members of 6cyclemind, we were able to understand that it wasn't only their music style that made them successful, but also their perseverance in pursuing their career and passion,” guitarist Alexandre Abesamis shares. “As they've told us back then, there were a lot of other better and more skilled bands than them, but what made them stand out is that they never stopped playing.”

Currently, Twenty-Nine Eleven is working on new material and experimenting with various sounds and techniques culled from their individual music influences. Drummer Jerell Co adds, “Ever since high school, we were subjected to various styles and genres of music from the most dramatic love songs to the heaviest rock songs. That alone has developed the kind of music we could make now.” 

Twenty-Nine Eleven’s rendition of “I” is now available on various music streaming and download platforms worldwide.

Source: Nyou

Ben&Ben to release a song inspired by a fan’s heartbreaking story

Award-winning Filipino band, Ben&Ben will drop their new single, “Lifetime” on June 4 (Thursday) via Sony Music. 

The intricately produced, folk-pop ballad was written as a response to a fan’s YouTube comment on their hit song “Pagtingin,” which to date, has amassed more than a hundred million streams on YouTube and Spotify combined. 

The fan, who goes by the alias of “Anne Jou,” shared her story of regretting not being able to express her feelings because she was afraid to lose the friendship.

“…instead of telling him what I actually felt, I hid and buried my feelings. And you know what happens to feelings that are buried? They grow. The like I felt for him became love. I wrote poems, songs. After 8 years, I attended his wedding [last] January. And guess what? The world is really overly-cruel. Before his wedding, he thanked me for being his best friend and told me that before he met the girl he got married to, he loved me first. For 5 years. But he was also scared of losing me so he just decided to keep it. I was shocked and I slightly had anger towards the world. We didn't know that if only one of us dared to make a move, a lifetime was waiting for us. So people, while you can, please express how you really feel so that in the end you won't regret anything.”

The nine-piece collective decided to make song inspired by a fan’s online confession—a proof of how powerful and moving words can be, when shared from a place of earnestness and raw honesty. 

Notwithstanding the technical limitations and struggles in recording brought about by the pandemic, Ben&Ben pulled through in a few days and finished the song in their respective homes with just their instruments and a studio software. 

The intimate recording session led to what is “Lifetime” now: an emotionally affecting song that leaves us wondering, what could have happened if we only mustered the courage to admit our feelings to the person we’re pining for, regardless of the outcome? 

“Lifetime” was mixed by veteran sound engineer JP Verona, and mastered by Grammy Award-winning Leon Zervos (Pink, Rihanna, Maroon 5, Beastie Boys, and Willie Nelson). It was written by Miguel Benjamin and Paolo Benjamin, and recorded and produced by Ben&Ben.

Ben&Ben’s “Lifetime” will be released on all digital platforms worldwide on June 4 (12 midnight, Thursday).

Source: Nyou

Extra special Mother’s Day at home with The Manila Hotel

Mother’s Day is a yearly reminder to cherish our relationship with our moms. Given this year’s unique circumstances, many of us will be celebrating this special day at home or even away from the special women in our lives—mom, grandmas, and aunts. Still, even when fancy dinners are impossible, Mother’s Day doesn’t have to becanceled. With some creativity and preparation, you can still give the most special woman in your life the Mother’s Day she deserves. 

Clockwise from bottom: Mango Cheesecake, Ohaina Chocolate Gateau, Opera Cake, Trio of Chocolate Mousse

The Manila Hotel pulls all the stops for you to still be able to give her a memorable Mother’s Day. This home celebration will have a five-star hotel feel and The Manila Hotel will make sure it gets close to a real feast. 

The Manila Hotel’s Mother’s Day Surprise gives you discounts when you choose to order the food-and-cake bundle and pay online on or before May 8, 2020 (Friday). You may choose items from the A La Carte Menu or Home Buffet sets (Filipino, Italian, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese favorites, as well as Certified Halal items) and get a 20% discount on your food bill, and a 10% discount on the cake of your choice. 

Because mothers deserve the only the best, you can choose from our awesome selection: our decadent Opera Cake; Ohaina Chocolate Gateau, a Lifestyle Inquirer Best Dessert Winner; the mouthwatering Trio of Chocolate Mousse, and our amazing Mango Cheesecake. 

 To order or for more information, please call 8527 0011 or message 0998-9501912. 

Source: The Manila Hotel

Heirloom Technomarine

After bringing my late grandpa’s watch to the shop, I later brought my late dad’s watch for some custom love. I chose thick black rally straps in artisanal leather to complement my father’s Technomarine. Reader, I wasn’t disappointed.

From my father, I learned some blobs of wisdom that enrich my life to this day:

• Cash is king

• Choose someone who will love you and still give you space because you’re an only child

• Work for yourself and never for your employer, even if you are employed

• Pray and believe

• Never be afraid to want good things for yourself.
  

I miss my dad, but I know that he is closely watching over me. I will surely live my life to the fullest because he is just hovering nearby. For now, I will live without abandon, and love like today is my last one on Earth.

Reliquarium

I visited the Blessed Ivan Merz Center and Reliquarium at Marikina City on Good Friday. I was accompanied by our loyal helper Racquel who was also praying for my dad’s recovery from terminal illness. 

The Reliquarium is located at 79 Narra St., Marikina Heights, Marikina City. They will be closed for renovations starting Easter Monday, so we made sure that we could visit the oratory during Holy Week. 

We were overwhelmed with their relic collection, and it was truly worth the drive from Quezon City. 

At the end of our visit, we were handed Certificates of Pilgrimage and healing drinking water.  

I got goosebumps at the Reliquarium as it was truly holy. It enabled me to have a personal encounter with the great saints and blessed men and women of the Church. I will definitely be back. 

Rafe x Bench 2019

Yesterday was a beautiful one for a fashion show! I went to Day 1 of the Bench Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2019 presentation at Bench Tower to see the trends of the season.  

It was a proud moment for me as well because my designer friend Rafe New York designed a special collab with Bench, just in time for the summer. 

His collection is marked by bold colors and gumamela prints which are perfect for day-to-night styling. 

His clothes also have an androgynous feel, and they also look and feel timeless. 

I am happy that Rafe continues to make a stylish impact in the Philippines, and the world. His designs are wearable but still stunning. I can’t wait to see how his new collection will translate to everyday wear. 

I had a fun time watching the show and buying key pieces from the collection for me and my family. 

It was a treat to see local celebrities on the runway! Gabbi Garcia was stunning in Rafe’s clothes. 

Kisses Delavin made the gumamela print preppy. 

Juliana Gomez was a refreshing presence with her cool swagger. 

I couldn’t be happier with the casual vibe of the collab!  

It was also a treat to meet social media fashion icon Lolandrogynous in the audience. 

And I got to have a photo with local sweetheart Kim Chiu. 

It was an unforgettable night, and I love Rafe’s inimitable talent. 

Here’s to more style stories to come!

Farm Saturday

Yesterday, I visited the GK Enchanted Farm with fellow Human Nature Core Advocates for a tour and immersion. This was my sixth visit to the farm. My previous tours were as a social business camper and with friends. Now, I am back as a core advocate with my own Human Nature Online Shop.  

But first I needed to fuel up at McDonald’s.  

We met up at the Human Nature Flagship Store.  

We were also given some nibbles by a fellow core advocate.  

Then, it was time for our journey!

We reached the farm at around 9:30am, and we started the tour.  

Our bubbly tour guide, Gelai, is a graduate of the SEED School. She speaks French, English, and Filipino!

I had a wonderful day of touring the farm, it’s various social enterprises, and of course, enjoying the delicious bounty of the earth!  

It was time for our ride back to the city.  

And before going home, I enjoyed an early dinner of toasted naked longganisa at Breakfast Bin. 

I needed the farm tour to realign myself with my values and to appreciate life more. I am proud to see the farm grow, and to be in the company of kindhearted friends.

Here’s to more goodness and opportunities!