UP Diliman Food Trip

I was at UP Diliman yesterday for a meeting, so I maximized my visit by checking out new places to eat, and hanging out at the cinema.

Here are my recommendations for a full day at UP Diliman:

Eat lunch at Mosh! Their beef bulgogi was delicious, and they have quirky tableware.

Buy a fresh fruit shake from the fruit stand near the Post Office. Their mango chocolate shake was refreshing!

Combo meals are still the best merienda on campus. My current fave: pancit canton (calamansi flavor) and chicken balls, with a side order of Kopiko Blanca in a bottle.

Go for a movie or two at the UP Film Cine Adarna! They show quality art and commercial films at Php200 or less. Yesterday, I watched Concerto, a WWII period movie for free!

Go for a brisk walk around the oval and burn some calories around the picturesque campus.

End your day with a tasty shawarma rice bowl from Shawarma Boss.

I spent less than Php250 for my meals, shake, and bottled iced coffee on campus. A leisurely day does not need to be expensive. I highly recommend U.P. Diliman for your next feels trip, whether you’re alone or with friends. Enjoy!

Foodie Therapy

Yesterday, I had lunch with my mom at Abbiocco, an alternative Filipino restaurant at Timog Avenue. It was my second time to dine there, and I had a delicious meal as always. Their baked chicken parmesan was perfect!

For dinner, I went to UP Area 2. I had Iskomai and Bacsilog. Both were yummy and comforting. For dessert, I had a fresh banana and chocolate chips shake.

My dinner fueled me for the feels as I watched Denise O’Hara’s Tayo Muna Habang Hindi Pa Tayo. It was a beautiful movie, which I highly recommend.

I hope that there will be more opportunities for me to continue enjoying my foodie and film-loving life!

RDFS 2019 Day 3

Yesterday, I attended the third day of the RDFS Forum at the ADB. The forum was wrapped up with solutions for sustainability such as smart farming and online businesses for agricultural products.
I also got to watch an art film entitled No Data Plan at UP. It was about the immigration crisis in the US, and it struck me how fortunate I am to live freely in the country I reside in.
I look forward to becoming an advocate of farmers in my own way by supporting local produce. I also want to keep the conversation going offline.
‘Til next time, ADB!

Stepping Up

Yesterday, I bought a handsome pair of loafers from local brand Beaters. Marikina-made shoes are the best, in my opinion. There is no greater way of showing support for our local sapateros than by wearing shoes that are proudly Pinoy.

I ended my day with two Spanish films at UP, where I always hang out for a curated selection of movies to watch. I enjoyed both titles, and I look forward to next year’s Pelicula Film Festival!

It is true- the right pair of shoes can definitely open doors for me. I am claiming that this will be the start of better things to come. For now, I will take life one step at a time.

Luck is Here

Yesterday, I went to a job interview wherein I was told that I was overqualified. Rather than take this rejection negatively, I saw it in a positive light. I realized that it was one less company for me to apply. It was an extra push for me to pursue other companies. And of course, being overqualified is better than being under-qualified.

Then, I went to UP Film to watch Rae Red’s Babae at Baril starring Janine Gutierrez. It was a well-made film which depicted how desperate situations in our society forces people to take violence in their own hands. Janine Gutierrez shines in this movie! I first watched her in Elise and of course, her acting chops gave justice to the movie’s badass title.

After the movie, I went home to find the sterling silver ear jackets that I won from local shop Arajera’s giveaway. It always makes me happy whenever I win a prize at raffles. I take this as a sign that luck is on my side again after all the trials that my family has encountered these recent months.

Also, these ear jackets are lovely! I can’t wait to rock them, while showing some local handmade love at the same time.

I am claiming that positive things will finally happen to me moving forward! Indeed, luck is here to stay.

Pancit Pares

Yesterday, I got to explore Area 2 at UP Diliman. I was craving for some pares for lunch, so off I went to this quaint street filled with cheap student-friendly eats.

My craving was satisfied at Agaw Pancit. Their pares pancit was delicious, and served piping hot!

I’ve had plenty of wonderful memories at the UP Shopping Center. I used to frequent this fresh fruit shake stand there, and after a hot bowl of pancit, I needed something refreshing. Good thing I found the same fresh fruit shake stand at the end of Area 2.

I was satisfied with my Php50 carrot shake! I will definitely return for more fresh fruit goodness in the future.

I ended my day with a documentary at UP Film and some yummy vegan sisig made of mushroom and tofu from Good Clean Cart Area 2.

Exploring a new street is good for the soul, and fulfilling for someone who likes collecting experiences while on a tight budget. With my passion for life and positive outlook, I know that I can make it through each day, one memorable meal at a time.

Self-Care Friday

I have been taking care of myself since getting rejected from this job I’ve been applying for. Everything happens for a reason. The best way to move on is to practice self-care.

I went to a waxing salon, then I watched LSS starring Gabbi Garcia at UP. I enjoyed my me-time and I realized that life isn’t too bad at all.

Coffee Fix

I had a busy day filled with personal errands and work-related tasks. I was able to finish them all by late afternoon, so I drove to UP to have some coffee and a pain au chocolat at Nomu.

Then, I watched The Cleaners, a feature film from the Active Vista Film Festival at UP Film Cine Adarna. It was a gripping documentary about the outsourced content moderators working in BPO’s in the Philippines. Having worked in a BPO for more than five years myself, I can say that I have experienced the unhealthy effects of outsourcing, even if I did not exactly work as a content moderator. I have experienced wrath, anger, and racist remarks from customers overseas. Watching the negative effects which these content moderators had to go through as cleaners for Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube was excruciating. And yet, they were doing their jobs as cyber cleaners to provide a better future for their families.

I consider myself fortunate that I can afford to leave the BPO industry. I am hoping to be part of the academe soon, where the environment is more dynamic and forgiving.

Documentaries help me process my own life. To have a warm pastry and coffee along with the films I watch is sheer bliss.

I hope that you will also watch films that have social relevance, and have your favorite snack to make things sweeter.

Slay, Pray, Play

I had a productive Thursday. I started my day with a meeting in Manila. My brunch consisted of this hearty mac and cheese, which was topped with sunny-side up egg. I ordered corn and cheese jello for dessert. It was a delicious combo!

After my meeting, I headed to Sta. Clara to pray for my upcoming opportunities, and to give thanks for all the blessings that I continue to receive.

I proceeded to Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe for some quality time with my furry friends from the east. Spending time with dogs is therapeutic for me, and it keeps me balanced.

I ended my day with some dirty ice cream at UP. I was in the campus to watch Pan de Salawal, an indie film which warmed my heart.

I make sure that I have enough hobbies to make life meaningful. Working all the time is not sustainable, so whenever I have time to spare, I visit the dog cafe, watch movies, and pray for more chances to slay. Life is about balancing my priorities and making each day colorful. And of couse, I show up daily to blog about it here on speakoutsam.com.

Uplifting

It’s not everyday that I get to do brisk walking around the UP Academic Oval. Being with trees and sunshine inspires me to get moving and stay positive amidst life’s challenges. 

The street food scene at the university uplifts me each time. The carioca, fish balls, and kwek kwek filled me up and made me feel young again. 

I got to watch Paillim, one of the movies featured in the recent Sinag Maynila film festival. The movie featured a fictional family who lives in a public cemetery, and their struggles to make ends meet- literally. 

Since I was already at UP, I maximized my visit by dropping by the Vargas Museum to recharge amidst art by Amorsolo, Hidalgo, Luna, and Edades, among others. 

Before going home, I had early dinner with my helper Racquel at Malingap Central, a hip food park near home. We had mushroom burger steaks from MushEat Lite, a vegetarian kitchen. We loved our food, and it was best paired with Siam Yum’s delicious Thai milk tea. 

It was also an honor to meet the man behind Malingap Central, Pino, Pipino, The Burger Project, and Breakfast and Pies, PJ Lanot.  

It doesn’t take much to make me happy. Art, film, healthy eating, and conversations keep me motivated to live my best life. Here’s to more uplifting experiences to come!

NAIA Work Day 1

Yesterday, I had my first day as a NAIA Buyer Services Representative for the IFEX 2019 (food expo). My first time to be a NAIA rep was last April for Manila FAME. I am thankful to CITEM for the opportunity to serve our country once again and to return to work in such a unique way. 

I got my pass to assist buyers from overseas. During my downtime, I got to crochet, eat, and get to know my shift partner, Alyssa. I also got to chat with airport staff Jang who kindly helped me with my job for the next four days. 

After work, I treated our loyal helper Racquel to dinner, coffee, and a movie at UP Film. 

I enjoyed my day at work and with our helper in the movies. It was another productive day. I know that with days that are balanced such as this one, I can manage to live a good life amidst all the challenges that I recently faced. 

Movie Afternoon

Yesterday, I watched a movie at the UP Cine Adarna’s Videotheque. 

I watched Above the Clouds starring the late Pepe Smith. 

It was a sunny day, and I felt inspired to take some photos. 

I also had Rodic’s tapsilog for late lunch. 

I did a bit of walking around the oval. 

Then, I dropped by St. Clare to pray for my dad and my other intercessions. 

I bought my favorite breakfast smoothie from Go! Salads for dinner. 

I ended my day with Ulan, directed by Irene Emma Villamor at Cinema Centenario. I love this microcinema because it feels like home- I even have a favorite seat (G5). I find myself here whenever I want to unwind and think things through. 

Films help me see things in a different perspective. Spending my free time at green spaces like UP Diliman is inspiring, and I feel energized with local film and trees.

Here’s to more simple joys with a dash of prayer and tapsilog!

Maria Movie Premiere

Last night, I went to UP Cine Adarna for the premiere of Maria. The night was a lovely blur, just like this photo. 

I’m all for a female-led action movie, and I’m happy that Cristine Reyes is the lead of this promising local film.  

The iconic ceiling of UP Cine Adarna is mesmerizing.  

Cristine Reyes is beautiful in her new hot pink pixie. 

I stayed for the Q&A with the cast and production crew. The movie kicked ass and I highly recommend it! 

Here’s to more female action movies and local films! 

1995

Yesterday, I went to UP Cine Adarna to go back to 1995. I was nine years old during that time, so I indulged on a childhood treat: bicho-bicho right outside the film center.  

Then, I watched Sana Maulit Muli starring Lea Salonga and Aga Mulach. 

It was released in 1995. It was a nostalgic trip back to the 90’s. Plus, it was a treat to watch a young Lea Salonga onscreen. 

I had a lovely time, and I proceeded to some self-care at a spa. 

I had early dinner at Breakfast Bin, where I had the delicious veggie skillet. 

For dessert, I had matcha and banana ice cream scoops from Papa Diddi’s. 

By the time I got home, I was inspired to finish knitting this cowl using yarn I bought from Rosario, Pasig. 

It was time to continue knitting, so I chose a ball of Mandala Yarn from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. I carried on from there. 

Sometimes, we need a trip back in time to appreciate the present more. I look forward to enjoying more vintage films in the future to inspire me to cherish my time.  

Simple Saturday

Yesterday, I finally got to watch ML starring Eddie Garcia. It was uncomfortable to watch, but I was able to stay until the end! 

Also, I watched this alone so it was a milestone. I conquered a suspense film by myself.  

I enjoyed a burger with egg and walked around the oval.  

I attended anticipated Sunday mass at the UP Parish Church.  

And I felt renewed after a challenging week! 

Sometimes, the best things in life are right across our neighborhood. UP is just a highway from my house, and I find myself enjoying simple joys such as quality films and street food in its premises. I will definitely go back!

Faith, Food, and Film

Yesterday I had beer and okonomiyaki with an old friend. 

It was delicious, and it was nice to catch-up with old friends, as always.  

I walked around UP to burn my lunch.  

I went to St. Clare to pray for some challenges I am currently undertaking, and for the strength to endure them all. 

Then, I had strong coffee while knitting.  

My last stop for the night was UP Cine Adarna to watch Through Night and Day starring one of my favorite actresses, Alessandra De Rossi.  

I had junk food and coffee while waiting. 

And like most Alessandra De Rossi films, it was a showstopper. I enjoyed it, even if it broke my heart.  

Looking forward to more food trips, prayer breaks, and film nights in the future! 

Film and Sense

I have been taking care of a sick family member for the time being. It can be stressful, so I make sure that I take breaks every now and then. 

I frequent the hospital chapel for some silence in the middle of the day.  

I also knit to keep myself calm and cheerful.  

I also continue to watch films! The other night, I caught the showing of Tanabata’s Wife at UP Film. 

It was beautifully shot and acted. Mai Fanglayan, who won Best Actress at the Tofarm Film Festival for the title role, was there for a short Q&A session. 

Everyone in the audience receives button pins. It was a fun screening at UP, as always.  

I bought vanilla milk tea from Moonleaf Maginhawa after the screening. I was preparing for two more movies that night. 

I love the Christmas vibe at the cafe! 

I continued my movie marathon at Cinema Centenario. My second film for that night was On Your Wedding Day. It was a funny, light feature.  

My third and last film for the night was Liway. Glaiza de Castro was amazing as a rebel mom. She also sang Pagbabalik well. Overall, it was heartbreaking film with a wonderful ending. I ended up crying while enjoying my dinner. 

I ate mt Tornado Peri-Peri chicken to-go. It was delicious! It was the perfect companion to Liway. 

If you also love films, go for a marathon at your local micro cinemas!  Support your local restaurants and cafes too. And don’t forget to clean as you go, especially since micro cinemas are usually kept clean by the owners themselves. Be a good cinephile and do yourself a favor by watching the latest features today. 

On Baths and History

I love taking indulging in eco-friendly bath products from my online Human Nature store.  (If you want natural toiletries benefitting Gawad Kalinga residents, please click on the link in the previous sentence and support my small business!)  Another thing I love is crocheting. Thus, I have combined my passions for natural toiletries and crochet by making my own scrubbie!

I followed a video tutorial on YouTube, so if you are also interested to crochet one, look for a video that suits you. Also, use 100% cotton yarn. 

As I have already finished my scrubbie, I returned to knitting and began another colorful cowl.  

I had lunch at Breakfast Bin, where I had my usual toasted naked longganisa with brown talangka rice. 

For dessert, I had this glorious matcha and toasted oatmeal ice cream scoops.  

I did some brisk walking at UP Diliman.  

Then, I dropped by St. Clare to give thanks and offer my intentions.  

I also visited Rags 2 Riches at UP Town Center to buy a metal straw. It already comes with a pouch sewn by R2R artisans. As always, I had fun looking around the shop as it features social enterprise brands! 

Then, it was back to UP for me.  

I watched Curiosity, Adventure and Love. 

It is a beautiful documentary about an American centenarian, Nana Jessie, who has called the Philippines her home for most of her life.  

While waiting for the film to begin, I knitted. 

The film’s co-director, Sunshine De Leon, was there to personally introduce her documentary. She is also Nana Jessie’s granddaughter. 

I learned so much about Philippine history just by watching the film. It is a gem of a film, and I highly recommend it!

If you enjoy something, go take it further, like in my case! I made my won scrubbie, ate soul food, prayed, bought from a social enterprise, and watched an independent film. Life is too short to wait for happiness to come your way. Make your own happiness your priority!

Faith, Food, and Film

Luti and I were able to go to Padre Pio Center at Libis, Quezon City yesterday. She is one of my best friends from high school, and we both had intentions to pray for. 

It was a solemn, quiet place of worship. We did not feel like we were still stuck in the city.  

We were able to do some shopping at the chapel store. I stumbled upon these cookies made of leftover bits of host from Dauis, Bohol. I had to buy a few packs to try at home. 

The center has a spacious chapel where masses are held daily. 

We then proceeded to St. Clare Monastery for more prayers. 

We were also able to have our Padre Pio souvenirs blessed by the sister at the convent.  

A hearty lunch at Breakfast Bin followed our prayerful journey.  

Of course, dessert was obligatory thanks to the scorching summer heat. We both had ice cream at Maginhawa favorite, Papa Diddi’s. I had roasted strawberry and ube this time! 

After our meal, I went to UP Cine Adarna to watch my grade school friend Ida Anita del Mundo’s film K’na the Dreamweaver. 

It was a beautiful love letter to the T’boli people and their rich culture.  

Lake Sebu was stunning onscreen! 

There were several scenes of t’nalak weaving, which was my favorite part about this movie. I love local textiles, so I’m all for promoting the art of weaving on film. 

I was fortunate to be able to spend time to pray, appreciate delicious food, and watch a friend’s film. I also had the chance to do so with my friend Luti. Life is definitely more fun with a little help from our friends- and a lot of faith.