Hindi Ako Bibo Kid

Road Trip: Island-hopping in Coron, Palawan Day 2

2011-11-22T04:49:00.001-08:00

The best part of my birthday getaway this year was probably the two-day island hopping in Coron, Palawan.

I thank Ralph's Pension House for taking care of our island tour, we didn't go through the hassle of finding a boat and a tour guide at a reasonable price. We just enjoyed our second and third day in Coron by going visiting the islands nearby.

FIRST ISLAND-HOPPING DAY. Our first stop was Siete Pecados Marine Park--a very nice snorkeling place. Unfortunately, we didn't have an underwater camera so we're not able to take photos of the corals and the fish which bit my left arm!

This is one of the rare chances to see a crystal clear sea water.
You really have to travel to see untouched coral reefs.

Two of the seven "breakaway" islands in Coron.
That's why it's called Siete Pecados, according to Manong.

Second stop, Kayangan Lake. I thought Mt. Tapyas was the only hiking adventure in Coron. We were wrong. To reach Kayangan Lake, we had to go hike which was equivalent to half of Mt. Tapyas I think.

This sight will greet you as you go near the Kayangan Lake.

Climbing Mt. Tapyas was easier
than this path going to Kayangan Lake.

Before going down to the lake, our tour guide said we can take a rest
by taking a picture of these stalactite formations.

And the top view of what greeted us earlier.

I really wised I had an underwater camera
because the rock formations below was amazing!

Third stop, Banol beach where we had our lunch. Its sand was same with that of Puka beach in Boracay.

White sand beach. Look at the clouds!

Seafood galore lunch. Kain na!

Before we left, we took the opportunity
to have a souvenir pic in this "rocky" spot.

Our tour that day ended at Twin Lagoon, which was the best part of the tour. I love how the water changed from hot to cold, especially when you lift your feet!

Beware of the sharp fossilized shells as you swim towards the lagoon. I had a deep cut on one of my fingers.

I don't have photos inside the lagoon because our cameras were not waterproof, but the experience was really memorable that we came back the following day.

Anyway, here are my other shots during that day.

I only used to see rock formations like this in magazines.

Here's another photo that I used to see in magazines.

At the port. Haggle on the tour packages. :)

One of the locals showed us the location
of Kayangan Lake in Coron island.

Going back to Corn town proper.

Road Trip: Birthday Getaway in Coron, Palawan

2011-11-16T04:11:00.000-08:00

Yes, I just turned 28 and I made this special day by going to Coron, Palawan—my third non work-related trip this year.

I’ve been seeing the beauty of this place through the photos of fellow travel bloggers. I must admit, every time I browse their blogs, I would always say, “Someday, I’m going to see you, Coron.”

Thanks to Cebu Pacific’s seat sale, I was able to fulfill that dream at a very affordable price.

Bye for a while, Manila.

Anyway, we flew to Coron on my birthday and arrived in the afternoon.

The reminded of me of the old Caticlan airport.

Our itinerary on that day included hiking at Mt. Tapyas and swimming at Maniquit Hot Spring.

Although we did not have the chance to see the beach on our first day, we were awed by the sunset as we go up Mt. Tapyas.

Then, we relaxed on the (very) hot water of Maniquit Hot Spring in the evening.

Here are some of the photos I took on that day:


View of Mt. Tapyas from the sea.


One needs to climb 724 steps to reach the top. It took us more than 30 minutes from ground to the cross.

Halfway to the cross, we couldn't resist
but capture this precious scenery. Look at the rays!


This is the view in front of Mt. Tapyas, nice shades of blue.

The lights on the cross were already on
when we reached the top.

Yes, it was already evening when we went down.
I hope the local government fixes the lights in Mt. Tapyas.


From Mt. Tapyas to Maniquit Hot Spring. Scary rough road.

But it was a relaxing dip at the end of the road.
Manong said the water was 38 to 41 degrees. Hotness!

I was glad that we were still able to enjoy our first day in Coron despite arriving a little bit late. And yes, the welcome late lunch was the best part of this day.

Fish are... sometimes good to eat.

Hello, antihistamine. I left you at home. Nyak!

Food Trip: Move over KFC, here comes Bon Chon!

2011-09-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

I first heard about Bon Chon from my officemates, when we were deciding which for the prize on our "biggest loser" challenge.

Right after that, I searched about Bon Chon and I found out that it's regarded as the "Best Chicken in America" by popular publications like New York Times and GQ. And I wondered, "What happened to KFC?"

I couldn't any longer for our challenge to end and I got curious by the statement of those publication so before heading to a movie premier months ago, I invited my cousin to have dinner at Bon Chon SM Megamall.

We were surprised with the taste of its chicken and we both thought, "We should have ordered a box of chicken instead of the ricebox."

Bon Chon chicken is very crispy but I did not feel guilty after eating its skin. I thought it's not too oily unlike other chicken offered by other fastfood chains.

True enough, while researching about Bon Chon, I read from Our Awesome Planet that: "Bon Chon is the original double-fried chicken from Korea. The first fry removes all the fat and makes it 'paper-fried crisp' and then the second fry includes the secret sauce." Isn't it nice?!

Of course, I knew that wasn't the last time I'd be able to eat at Bon Chon. In fact, whenever we're at its nearest branch, I would suggest that we dine in Bon Chon. Ha-ha!

Anyway, I was glad that Bon Chon invited me to its food-tasting event for bloggers last September 10 at its Ayala Triangle branch in Makati City.

Here, we got the chance to try its bestsellers:

Ginger Tofu Salad at P125.
Don't miss the wanton strips!


Bon Chon Chicken in two flavors-- soy chicken and spicy chicken. Try the spicy chicken if you're brave enough!

Calamari, at P125, best when dipped in Bon Chon's spicy mayo.

Go for Fish Tacos, at P75, if you're on a diet.

I was already full when Bulgogi Rice (P125) was served.
But I tasted its toppings, it's also a must-try!

I've also tried its Fish Ricebox yesterday, after my gym workout. I must say that it easily filled my stomach but it didn't feel heavy at all.

During the event, Bon Chon's COO Scott was also there to say hi to the invited bloggers. Of course, for some photo-op.


Scott with Bon Chon Ayala Triangle crew


Happy eating with friends! :)

I got fully satisfied with the food we tried that I ordered a 12-piece chicken wings, mixed flavors for my family. We ate it the following day with a red sauce pasta!

Thank you, again, Bon Chon for inviting me to this yummy event! :)

*Right now, Bon Chon has branches in Ayala Triangle, Acropolis, SM Megamall, Robinsons Galleria, Greenhills Promenade, Katipunan, and Shangri-La.

Soon it will be in Trinoma, SM Mall of Asia, and La Salle Taft.

Like it on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Bonchon.Chicken.Philippines
or follow it on Twitter: @BonChon_PH

Celebrity Sighting: The couples during the 5th Star Magic Ball

2011-09-13T09:02:00.000-07:00

Okay, aside from KC Concepcion and Piolo Pascual, there are other "sweet" celebrity couples who attended the annual Star Magic Ball.

Here are my shots of real-life couple, onscreen partners, and dates during the event:

Rap Fernandez, ???, Renz Fernandez

Jeffrey Tam , Venus Raj, Drei Felix

Roxanne Guinoo with hubby's cousin

Agot Isidro and Ron Morales

Julia Montes and Sam Concepcion

Jason Francsico and Melai Cantiveros

Gabby Concepcion and Pokwang

Erich Gonzales and Enchong Dee

Melissa Ricks and Matt Evans

Jodi Sta. Maria and Rafael Rosell

Empress Schuck and Ejay Falcon

Jake Cuenca and Lovi Poe

Kaye Abad and Guji Lorenzana

Xyriel Manabat and Zaijian Jaranilla

Billy Crawford and Nikki Gil

Vhong Navarro, Iya Villania, and Ryan Bang

Rayver Cruz and Cristine Reyes

John Lloyd Cruz and Shaina Magdayao

Bea Alonzo and Zanjoe Marudo

Angelica Panganiban and Derek Ramsay

John Estrada and Priscilla Meirelles

Valerie Concepcion and Dondon Hontiveros

Kristine Hermosa and Oyo Sotto

And thank you for giving this PEP gallery more than 1.5M hits :)

Couples galore at the 5th Star Magic Ball!

Celebrity Sighting: KC Concepcion and Piolo Pascual looking sweet during the 5th Star Magic Ball

2011-09-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

Before the Star Magic Ball, KC Concepcion admitted that she and boyfriend Piolo Pascual were going through some sort of misunderstanding. CLICK HERE to read PEP article

However, it seemed that they've fixed it immediately just in time for the big event that every Star Magic talent look forward to.

Here were some of the shots that shows Piolo's statement: "Wala kaming problema [ni KC]."

What do you think?

Celebrity Sighting: The stuning ladies at the 5th Star Magic Ball

2011-09-13T08:09:00.000-07:00

(REPOST) This is a super duper late post because too busy these days. And I didn't want to put these photos into waste so, I'm posting this with a very short intro.

For the second time, I was assigned to the annual Star Magic Ball. As usual my officemate and I were too busy interviewing the incoming Star Magic talent. Therefore, most of my photos were either blurred or dark.

Anyway, clearer and better photos can be seen on PEP. We have different galleries there from the 5th Star Magic Ball like this one: Couples galore at the 5th Star Magic Ball!

By the way, for those who already checked those galleries, a very, very big THANK YOU! I think we'll be gaining more hits this month because of you, guys. MARAMING, MARAMING SALAMAT! :)

Now, here's my not-so-okay shots from the event:

Kitkat

Coleen Garcia

Heart Evangelista

Angeline Quinto

Bangs Garcia

Dimples Romana

Gretchen Baretto

Agot Isidro

Queenie Padilla

Jessie Mendiola

Erich Gonzales

Megan Young

Jodi Sta. Maria

Wendy Valdez

Yeng Constantino

Maricar Reyes

Desiree del Valle

Iya Villania

Vina Morales

Pokwang

Jewel Mische

Maja Salvador

Kim Chiu

Here are the links to PEP Galleries taken during the 5th Star Magic Ball:

Red dresses at the 2011 Star Magic Ball
Who wore the black dress best at the 2011 Star Magic Ball?

Celebrity Sighting: The gorgeous men during the 5th Star Magic Ball

2011-09-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

This is a super duper late post because too busy these days. And I didn't want to put these photos into waste so, I'm posting this with a very short intro.

For the second time, I was assigned to the annual Star Magic Ball. As usual my officemate and I were too busy interviewing the incoming Star Magic talent. Therefore, most of my photos were either blurred or dark.

Anyway, clearer and better photos can be seen on PEP. We have different galleries there from the 5th Star Magic Ball like this one: Couples galore at the 5th Star Magic Ball!

By the way, for those who already checked those galleries, a very, very big THANK YOU! I think we'll be gaining more hits this month because of you, guys. MARAMING, MARAMING SALAMAT! :)

Now, here's my not-so-okay shots from the event:

Star Magic Icon John Lloyd Cruz

Coco Martin before the "brawl."

Gerald Anderson

Sam Milby

Joem Bascon

Diether Ocampo

JM Rodrigues

Enchong Dee

Rafael Rosell

Paulo Avelino

Joseph Marco

Ivan Dorschner

Carlos Agassi

Tyrone Perez

Gabby Concepcion

Xian Lim

Jolo Revilla

Robi Domingo

Albie Casiño

Ron Morales

John "Sweet" Lapus

Watch for the beautiful ladies at the Star Magic Ball on my next post.

Meanwhile, here's gallery for the men who walked on the red carpet during the Star Magic Ball.

Handsome Men at the 2011 Star Magic Ball

Food Trip: Rockin' Happy Lemon

2011-08-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Lemon at Promenade, Greenhills

When I first heard of "green tea with rock salt and cheese" of Happy Lemon, I was so puzzled why my officemates liked it. I mean, who would have thought that mixing these green tea with rock salt and cheese would taste good?

Rock Salt and Cheese variants.
I have yet to try cocoa and coffee

So, since I was curious, I said yes when an officemate asked me if I want to try it. It turned out, it really was delicious, only I had to lick the lid to get better taste of the cheese part.

I'll try these to next time

Last Friday, after the concert of Solenn Heusaff at Teatrino, Greenhills, my officemate and I dropped by Happy Lemon's store nearby to get a "refreshment."

I was surprised that at almost midnight, the store still has a lot of customers, most of them were teens.

The staff was calling customer "Tracy."
I didn't notice that it was the name on my receipt!
Wow. Do Isay and Tracy sound the same?

I wanted to try the cocoa with rock salt and cheese but I wasn't sure about its taste so I settled for the most familiar flavor.

I ordered four so my tatay, brother, and sister-in-law could taste it, too. I think they liked it. Hehe.

Here's the Happy Lemon menu by Our Awesome Planet.

Celebrity Sighting: Paris Hilton in Manila

2011-08-23T07:09:00.000-07:00

Paris Hilton looks like a Barbie doll.

Getting a invitation to the press conference of Paris Hilton last week was kinda hard. Thanks to my officemate who got the courage to send a message to Century Properties on its Facebook fan page, we were able to get a contact information. Also much thanks to Cris Valle who included PEP.ph on their media list.

Anyway, many call the controversial Hollywood celebrity and hotel heiress a "has-been" but, based on what I saw during the event, I think this is never an issue for Paris.

By the way, I'm not a fan but I think she was sincere in all her actions, especially towards her Pinay fans. I did not feel any doubt with the kindness she showed in public.

Paris Hilton signing her fans' copy of her authobiography:
Confessions of an Heiress: A Tongue-in-Chic Peek Behind the Pose

Also, I agree with the comments of one of the PEPsters on my article--Paris may not be as popular as she was few years ago, but hey, it still feels great that someone like her is giving attention to our country. Besides opening a branch of her boutique here also means employment for Pinoys.

A fan asked Paris to give her an autograph on her skin!

I just wished that instead of bashing her, the nega Pinoys should have just showed her a warm welcome. :)

By the way, here's the video of Paris meeting her "loyal friend and fan." (CLICK HERE to read related PEP article)

Health and Fitness: Affordable massage service at Big Apple Express Spa

2011-08-22T01:33:00.000-07:00

I'm not really a regular visitor of spa or massage parlor. I only go to such place when I can longer bear the muscle pains caused by stressed from work and recently, the spinning class I am attending at Gold's Gym.

Yesterday was one of those times that I had to lie half naked on a massage bed inside a dark room with mood music on the background.

I tried Big Apple Express Spa located just a floor above the gym at Waltermart in Roosevelt cor EDSA streets in Quezon City.

Since I used to go to Massage King in SM San Lazaro, I was expecting Big Apple's place similar to the former—one common room with several massage beds. But I was surprised that there's a separate room for each customer (reminded me of Balay Tari in Boni Avenue). There's a divider between each room which can be opened in case there's a couple or friends who want to chat during the massage.

At Massage King there's only one type of massage being offered. It just depends on the length of the massage that you want. However, at Big Apple, there's Manhattan, Royal Bangkok, Balinese, and Brazilian.

I opted for Manhattan because the receptionist told me it included stretching which I think I needed after a 35-minute stationary bike exercise. Also it was the cheapest, only P299.

However, on my next visit, I think I would try its “bestseller” Royal Bangkok which, according to the receptionist, focuses on the back part.

Another thing I liked at Big Apple was the masseuse. I was assigned to Ate Weng.

Unlike Massage King's staff who only ask you if you want what their doing or it's hard enough, Ate Weng was really concern on my muscle pains. When I asked her to add pressure on the right shoulder, she answered, “Yes, ma'am, bubugbugin ko 'yan mamaya, ang daming lamig, e.” And that “bugbog” was really a relief for me.

She also took extra time on my right arm up to my right thumb. In fact, she already asked me before I even told her, “Ma'am masakit din dito, 'no?”

In terms of the result, in my opinion, my massage experience at Big Apple was more relieving than my previous visits at Massage King.

Anyway, I think both massage parlors are still a better choice to have a cheap massage service.

Road Trip: Fun Weekend at Boracay Day 2 and 3

2011-08-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

On our second day in Boracay, I woke up wishing that the rain has stopped and the sea was calm.

I guess my prayers the previous nights were not that strong that when we went to the dining area of La Carmela de Boracay, I repeatedly told myself, "Shit, ang lakas pa rin ng alon!"

It was until I finished my breakfast that I came to realized: "Peste, wala na talagang cliff diving. Babalik na lang ako."

Anyway, websites say there are a lot of fun things to do in Boracay and we decided to do the most popular suggestion: Island hopping!

Outside our hotel many "bangkeros" were already waiting for guests, offering different rates for island hopping. We settled for the one that cost P2,500--which included snorkeling in Crocodile Island, visit Crystal Cove, and lunch at Ilig-iligan. The "bangkero" also gave us a discounted price (DAW) for helmet diving, which was P650/pax.

After the island tour, we were so tired that we didn't realize we have fallen asleep. It was already dinner time when we woke up.

Because of the "misleading" buffet at Victory Divers, we made sure that our second buffet dinner would be more satisfying so we chose the "classy" buffet offering of Le Soleil de Boracay, which cost P450/pax

Here were some of the photos I've taken:

Add caption

Let's go island hopping!

Ready to snorkel!

Fish are friends not food... Where's Nemo?

The Crocodile Island, looks like a croc's head at a certain angle.

What you can see within the cove

Souvenir shot

You can have your lunch break here

On Cove 1

This used to be one huge crystal DAW.

Heart-shaped stone

Trek to Cove 2

Cove 2

Don't forget to pass through this short cave :)

Lunch at Ilig-iligan

This shot best shows my second visit to Boracay. Ha-ha!

Boracay Blue, must-try!

Let the basagan begin!

See how red my face was already?
That's after a glass of Boracay Blue and two glasses of Mojito!

No, I'm not drunk. Okay?!

I may not be able to cliff dive that day, but I still managed to enjoy my second day in Boracay. :)

This day was the time to say goodbye to Boracay. I was kinda upset because it was the day when the sun showed up and the sea was a little calm already! Darn!

The sky is already blue, the sea is already calm...
But it is already time to say goodbye. Boo!

Road Trip: Fun Weekend at Boracay Day 1

2011-08-12T05:24:00.000-07:00

Finally, my dream to visit Boracay for a vacation came true!

Hello, Boracay, we meet again!

I first saw the beauty of Boracay in 2009, when I was assigned to cover the Goma Cup at Fairways and Bluewater. I was so bitin on that trip since it's more of work than pleasure. So, I promised myself that I would definitely go back to experience all everything I've read about the island on blogs and other websites.

Dear Typhoon Mina,
don't rain too hard while we're in Boracay!

It was earlier this year when we booked our trip. We were supposed to stay at The Tides... for free. However, due to the unfortunate incident that happened in my life last March, we ended up getting a discounted voucher at Ensogo.ph for La Carmela de Boracay--which was actually a nice place for backpackers like us.

Spacious standard room for two! Only at P1888/night!

Since we arrived too early for the check-in, we decided to left our luggage at the baggage area and strolled around to find food for lunch. And we ended up at Paradise Garden Resort, which offers buffet lunch for only P280.

Sulit buffet lunch! Sarap ng crabs!

When we checked in, we took a short nap. Then, we went to Puka Beach via tricycle for P150.

If you plan to enjoy the beach of Boracay, I suggest you go to Puka beach since there are less people swimming here than near the hotels. :)

Who says you can't enjoy the beach on a rainy day?!

When we return at La Carmela, we took another short nap to prepare ourselves to the nightlife in Boracay.

But before that, we went to Boracay Beach Club to inquire about the cliff diving at Ariel's Point. However, due to bad weather, the receptionist said there would be no cliff diving because the waves were very dangerous.

We left the place with me still hoping that the next day would be a sunny day.

Then, had our dinner at Victory Divers because its signage was so deceiving: Seafood Buffet for P250. But this was misleading because the only seafood on the buffet table were mussles, fish, and clam soup. Oh, the shrimp was kind of "pangat"... Pangatlong init!

It was really a wrong decision and I was not happy with it so, I did not take a photo of my meal.

Next stop was one of the popular bars in Boracay called Cocomangas.

The crowd was kinda disappointing because we felt we were the foreigners in the island... most of the customers were Koreans and we were seated next to the ladies room! Boo!

I just tried to enjoy the night by watching those Koreans dance, and the Koreans next to our table taking pictures of everything while their yaya was sleeping. Ha-ha!

On the left was the ladies room of Cocomangas!

Of course, I won't let this night end with a feeling of disappointment. So, I suggested to my travelmates to cap the night with a visit at the famous Jonah's Fruitshake store! Never miss this when you visit Boracay!

Shakes, sandwiches, etc... at Jonah's

Banana mocha peanut shake... for take out!

Expenses:
Buffet lunch: P280
Ride to Puka beach: P150x2 (divide by 4)
Buffet dinner: P250
Drinks at Cocomangas: P250 (my share)
Jonah's fruitshake: P120

I slept that night with HIGH hopes that I can do cliff diving the next day. *sigh*

Celebrity Sighting: Star Magic music video shoot (Part 1)

2011-06-25T10:34:00.000-07:00

Today, June 26, Star Magic will launch its first music video on ASAP Rock. This will feature its current talents, which are now more than 300 plus.

According to the music video director, Paul Soriano, each artist will be given an equal exposure on this video. Let's see how he and his team are going to do that. (CLICK HERE to read related PEP article)

Anyway, the music video's theme song, "Ikaw ang Magic ng Buhay Ko," is written and performed by former Pinoy Dream Academy grand champ Yeng Constantino. (CLICK HERE to read related PEP article)

Here are some of the photos I've taken during the two of the three shooting days I covered last May and early this June. (MORE PHOTOS on PEP.ph)

John Lloyd Cruz

Shaina Magdayao

Zanjoe Marudo

Matteo Guidicelli

Sam Concepcion

Robi Domingo

Rayver Cruz

Maricar Reyes

Erich Gonzales

Dominic Ochoa

Celebrity Sighting: Star Magic music video shoot (Part 2)

2011-06-25T10:06:00.001-07:00

Today, June 26, Star Magic will launch its first music video on ASAP Rock. This will feature its current talents, which are now more than 300 plus.

Anyway, the music video's theme song, "Ikaw ang Magic ng Buhay Ko," is written and performed by former Pinoy Dream Academy grand champ Yeng Constantino. (CLICK HERE to read related PEP article)

Here are some of the photos I've taken during the two of the three shooting days I covered last May and early this June. (MORE PHOTOS on PEP.ph)

Ejay Falcon and Empress

Jessy Mendiola and Joseph Marco

Ron Morales, Carlos Agassi, ???, Jon Avila

Nash Agua

Mika dela Cruz

Bugoy Carino

Izzy

Marikit, Makisig, and Maliksi Morales

PBB Teens Clash of 2010

Priscilla Meirelles and Sandra Seifert

Yeng Constantino

Food Trip: Pig out day at Yakimix

2011-06-10T11:08:00.000-07:00

Finally, I was able to claim my prize! Daming gutom for Yakimix!

Yakimix actually was the reason we started the "biggest loser" challenge. My officemates and I wanted to try this Japanese-Korean-Cantonese buffet restaurant. But since we knew we would be eating a lot in this place, we thought of a challenge that would motivate us to lose weight... in time for the Yakimix day.

We went to its branch at The Podium past 12 noon and it took almost 30 minutes to get a table.

Please take note that the restaurant takes a break from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. They also charge less during lunch time on weekdays--P500 during lunch and P580 during dinner and weekends.

My "to grill" plate.

The buffet include raw and seasoned meat and fish, which you can grill on the smokeless griddle on your table. It also has Pinoy food like liempo, lechon kawali, pancit, and of course, rice. Japanese menu include my favorites--tuna sashimi, salmon sashimi, kani sticks, and different rice rolls.

Look, ma, I can cook na!

Daming gutom!

Always check your grill or else your meat will be overcooked. :) Just put everything on the griddle. While waiting for it, get some cooked food or raw meat that you can eat.

I munched on salmon sashimi at tempura while waiting for my barbecues, mushrooms, longganisas, etc.

Desserts! Hello, sugar! :)

Don't forget your dessert. Yakimix has cakes from Goldilocks and Red Ribbon, tubs of Selecta ice cream with different toppings, and classic desserts like leche flan and tarts. My favorite is coffee jelly mixed with ice cream.

Yakimix also has a branch in Eastwood, Tomas Morato, and Trinoma Mall, where my cousins and I dine in four days after this. Gluttony!

It's really fun to eat, especially if it's free! Haha. Thanks to my two officemates.

Next prize: Chicken in either Bon Chon or Wee Nam Kee. :)

Happy eating. :)

Food Trip: Xiao Long Bao Experience at Shi Lin

2011-06-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

Last month, my officemates were supposed to treat me in Yakimix, which was my prize for winning the "bigggest loser," but we didn't know there was a cut-off time during lunch.

Since we're all hungry at the that time, we didn't have a choice but to look for a decent and affordable restaurant at The Podium in Ortigas Center, Pasig. My Fil-Chinese boss suggested Shi Lin because she said it has a delicious xiao long bao, whatever that is.

We all ordered noodles, I had its best seller noodles with peanut butter sauce.

Noodles in peanut butter sauce.

Then, my boss insisted that we should try xiao long bao so she ordered one.

Xiao long bao

It tastes like the siomai. But what makes it different is that it has a little amount of soup inside the dumpling.

Fake reaction.

Real reaction. Mainit ang sabaw!

Be careful on eating this dumpling because soup inside is really hot.

There's an instruction found on our table about the proper way of eating eat. What I remember is that you have to make a sort of hole at the bottom so you can sip the soup. Then, eat the dumpling.

My noodles with peanut butter sauce was also delicious. I thought it would taste weird but the peanut butter sauce blended well with the soft noodles.

Shi Lin's offerings range from 150-250. It also has a wide variety of food, similar to other Chinese restaurants. Few people are dining at its branch at The Podium during merienda hours.

The restaurant is included on Spot.ph's Top 10 Xiao Long Bao's List. CLICK HERE to find out what other restaurants offer xiao long bao.

Happy eating! :)

Celebrity Sighting: Maroon 5 "Hands All Over" in Manila

2011-05-24T07:39:00.000-07:00

Yeah, yeah, one of the perks of working for an entertainment media, watching Maroon 5's second concert in Manila! Wee! Thanks PEP.ph!

I did not only watch the group rock the SMX Convention last night, May 23. I also saw Adam Levine in person during the very short media junket prepared for Maroon 5 at Edsa Shangri-la Hotel in Mandaluyong City. Yeah boi! (CHECK PEP.ph's related article)

Maroon 5 gives a big thank you
to their number one fan named Heather.

"It's gonna be the greatest show of all time." -Adam Levine.


Ang gwapo mo! Okay, next to Brandon Boyd of Incubus.

And prior to the concert, I got nervous because the bouncers wouldn't allow Bumblebee to go with me! I was already panicking. Good thing, we were able to pass the bouncers when I approached the desk for ticket sales and pretended to ask if they have a baggage counter.

When they said none, my officemate and I just waited outside the door of the main convention center. And when the show was about to start, of course, the other concertgoers were all excited to get inside, I used that moment to get inside as if I was also in hurry. I showed the lady at the door my ticket and ignored the guy beside her who wanted to check my bag! Whew!

Aside from the rocker moves, Adam was also doing
some sort of pole dance with his mic stand!

I forgot there were five members in Maroon 5. Haha!


On my Twitter I said: "Adam Levine's skin-tight jeans makes me feel like I'm living in a teenage dream!" LOL

So, after Justin Bieber and Maroon 5, Futuretainment is bringing the Hollywood teenstar Miley Cyrus. But I'm really hoping to see perform on stage (for the second time) is Incubus. Hope PEP gets be one of its media sponsors. Hehe.

*More photos on PEP.ph

Health and Fitness: The Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition

2011-05-24T07:13:00.000-07:00

Yeah boi!

I did not put this post under "couch potato" even though The Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition is an upcoming franchised reality show of ABS-CBN. The reason is because I'm able to experience how it is to be like one of the "Bigating Pinoy" of this show.

This bed makes me want to sleep the whole day!

Last week, my fellow reporters and I visited its camp while the participants were out for a challege. The place was one of the club houses inside Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club in Gen. Trias, Cavite, which was transformed into sort of a house for the 12 challengers--complete with fitness equipment, comfy furnitures, and complete kitchenwares.

Thanks, Ms Chinggay for the pawis on my shirt! :)

We were there the whole day listening to its production manager Reily Santiago, who talked about the show; its resident nutritionist Nadine Tengco of Sexy Chef, who taught us what's good and what's not when picking food; and fitness instructors--sports medicine specialist Jim Saret and fitness trainer and former radio jock Chinggay Andrada--telling us how to properly exercise. (Check PEP.ph to read related article)

Who wouldn't want to be trained by this handsome trainer?! Ahaha!

Among all these activities, I enjoyed the 20-minute workout with each trainer the most. Grabe! My arms ached for a couple of days because Ms. Chinggay asked us to do plank workout and push ups, which I never really do when I go to the gym. (I only stay on the treadmill then some stretching, haha!). (Check PEP.ph's gallery to get a peek inside the camp)

Sige, kaya mo 'yan, Nherz!

In fairness, because of what we did during that day. I was more inspired to become more fit (and not just to lose weight). Oh, and yes, I'm doing the plank workout now! Wee! (Check PEP.ph to know the 12 Bigating Pinoy)

*The Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition will be hosted by Sharon Cuneta and its challenges will be facilitated by Derek Ramsay. It will start airing on Monday, May 30, on ABS-CBN's Primetime Bida.

**Thanks ABS-CBN Corporate Communication for the photos. :)

Food Trip: Magnolia Ice Cream for Summer

2011-04-04T10:23:00.000-07:00

If you're my age, I'm sure you'd remember Twin Popsies and Pinipig Crunch. These were the reason I got excited when I received an invitation to Magnolia Ice Cream Bloggers' Summer Party last Friday, at Executive Dining Room of San Miguel Corp. building, San Miguel Avenue in Mandaluyong City.

Summertime has just started and it's just timely that the former ice cream favorite (well, the manager admitted they're kinda behind Selecta and Nestle) re-introduce itself to the market.

Hmmm... which Magnolia Ice Cream will I pick?

At the event, I was able to taste again one of my favorite ice cream variant, the Twin Popsies. It still has the same orange flavors, the "malagkit" feel when it melts on your hand BUT it's not "twin" anymore, which is why it's now called just Popsies. Of course, this also comes in chocolate flavor.

Magnolia Chocolate Popsies

One ice cream flavor was not enough for me that night, I also had to taste Magnolia's Pinipig Crunch. It still has the same creaminess, the crunchy chocolate coating sprinkles with pinipig. I also noticed that it didn't melt easily because it took me several minutes to finish one stick, and it didn't drip on my hand.

Magnolia Sweet Corn Pinipig Crunch

Pinipig Crunch, wee!

Of course, Magnolia had to compete with the "drumstick battle" so it created the Spinner. The taste is not far behind the two leading brand to day and its price is the same as the other competing products.

Magnolia Spinner. Like its competitor, it also has
the same size and same taste and sold at the same price.

Magnolia also presented its version of the classic ice drop called Fun Bar, which has bubble gum and strawberry flavors.

Try Magnolia's Fun Bar bubble gum flavor! Yum!

The Magnolia Ice Cream Bloggers' Summer Party was even made more fun with exciting games, photobooths, and costume contest. Pilipinas Got Talent former finalists, The Velasco Brothers, were also present to give additional entertainment to us.

One of the Velasco brothers doing an amazing stunt.

Magnolia Ice Cream street vendors' uniform.

All smiles after a fun food tasting event by Magnolia Ice Cream.

Oooh, loot bags. I wonder what's inside...

... Magnolia Frozen Delights! Wee!

Magnolia Ice Cream would also have its version of street vendors. So, the next time you hear an ice cream bell or sound with Mamang Sorbetero wearing the hats above, make sure to call them out to taste the newest frozen delights of Magnolia Ice Cream. Oh, and don't forget to like it on Facebook :)

Food Trip: Californiaberry, not your typical froyo house

2011-04-04T09:02:00.000-07:00

When frozen yogurt became, many stores have opened to meet the demands of the curious taste buds. However, after a while, these froyo houses have become a little boring because most of them offers almost the same products--just frozen yogurt (plain or flavored) with toppings of you choice.

Maybe this was the reason Californiaberry sort of expanded their offerings by adding other drink products that still contain frozen yogurt. It also added some pasta on its menu for people who want to eat while hanging out with their friends or family, who prefers to have froyo. Oh, and they now offer organic coffee, too.

I think this is a good move for a store that wants to keep customers instead of buying other food to other store--you can have your froyo, while your company enjoys his/her snack and coffee in one place.

Anyway, last Sunday, I was able to taste Californiaberry's newest offering in time for summer. These are the Fresh Fruit Blends (fruit shakes with yogurt) and Ice Ice Baby (crushed vanilla/strawberry flavored ice with toppings of your choice).

To make this event more fun, the staff of Californiaberry in Sta. Mesa branch prepared a couple of games for the bloggers while others enjoy their pasta and fruit shakes.

Here were the photos I've taken during the food-tasting event:

Californiaberry is the only yogurt house
in the country that offers 0% fat yogurt.

It also has a wide variety of yogurt toppings.

Fresh fruit blends, available in five mixes.

Mango Tango fruit shake
--mango, banana, and peach.

Pasta selection--cheesy lasagna, seafood alfredo
pasta carbonara, and spaghetti bolognese.

I paired my Mango Tango with pasta carbonara
Nam nam nam nam!

Mr. Bong introducing Californiaberry's newest offering
--Ice Ice Baby

Shaved ice (plain and strawberry) with toppings.

Organic coffee.

Learn more about Californiaberry by visiting its website or like it on Facebook.

Party-Hopping: House Party with GSM Flavors

2011-03-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, a unique way of introducing a product was organized for Ginebra San Miguel's new product called GSM Flavors. Bloggers were invited to a house party held at Shang Grand Tower in Makati to get the taste of what they call "Ang Flavorite ng Barkada."

The organizer really prepared for this GSM Flavors iParty.
There were Post Its around the condo unit.

This is funny! LOL

Overflowing alcohol drinks and food
courtesy of GSM Flavors

The event was like a real house party where I met other fellow bloggers and drank GSM Flavors with them.

According to its PR, Jace Perlas, house party such as this is safer instead of going to a bar to get drunk. At home, barkadas can do fun stuff like we did during the party--we played Guitar Hero/Rockband and, of course, the most fun part was the parlor games, where my teammates and I won.

Eeeexit light... Eeeenter night! \m/

Let's the game begin!
Time to let out your creative juices! Aha-ha!

The game was a creative version of "Dugtungan" game. Each player in the team of five picked two words and must create the most witty and interesting story based on these, plus the words "flavorite" and "ang barkada." I must say every team really made an effort to have the best story, but our team's beki story really stood out! Ahaha!

The winning "beki" team. (From left) FPJ, me, party host TJ,
Rueka, Alex and Ryan

For that, my teammates and I did not only take home a lootbag from GSM Flavors but we also received e-GCs as a prize! Wohooo! It was all worth it for the straight up shot of pure GSM Flavor. Ha-ha!

Not only two, I took home four GSM Flavors.
Now, who wants to drink?

Anyway, try GSM Flavors, too, in case your planning to invite your barkadas for a drinking session or what is now called Nomo.

GSM Flavors is a low-alcohol proof party drink that comes in apple and lychee flavors. The Apple Fritz served during that night was good, but I liked the taste of Lychee Kiss better. I wonder what they mixed with it aside from Sprite...

Know more about GSM Flavors by liking its Fan Page on Facebook.

Celebrity Sighting: Renz Fernandez tries out showbiz

2011-03-26T00:04:00.000-07:00

Shameless plug. I just want to inform you about a newbie actor Renz Fernandez. He's the youngest son of late action star Rudy Fernandez and award-winning drama actress Lorna Tolentino.

Catch him on his first acting project with ABS-CBN's Princess of Drama, Kim Chiu, on Your Song Presents Kim tomorrow, March 27, after ASAP Rocks.

Please read full article on PEP. :)

Food Trip: Angel's Pizza for Lent

2011-03-25T23:42:00.000-07:00

During lent, every food chain creates a special offering for people who avoid eating meat. And to satisfy customers' craving without feeling guilty, Angel's Pizza created new no-meat products for this season--Angel's Thin Shrimp Pesto and Tuna Pesto, Pasta In A Dough Tuna Pesto and Calzone Tuna Pesto.

Last Tuesday I was invited to a food trip, along with other fellow bloggers, at its store Pasig City. The staff did not only served us Angel's Lenten Specials in this food-tasting event, they event presented a sample of Angel's Wish, where customer can choose his/her own toppings for the pizza.

Among the pizzas served, I liked the hand-tossed versions of Shrimp Pesto and Spicy Tuna Pesto. I'm not really a fan of thin pizza because I want a soft dough. I also didn't try pasta in a dough because the three slices of pizza I ate already filled my stomach. Oh, and for a better food trip, try dipping the pizza on sour cream. Yummy!

Here are some of the photos I've taken. (I did not bring Bumblebee because I thought the event will not push through).

Angel's Pizza has branches in Fairview, Paranaque, Makati, Recto
Kalayaan Ave., Malate, Pasig, Dagupan, and U.N. Ave.

Pasta in a Dough is available in three flavors--Tuna Pesto,
Creamy Carbonara, and Classic Spaghetti.

Pizza galore! (Clockwise from top) Angel's Thin Shrimp Pesto,
Tuna Pesto, Pasta in a Dough, and Angel's Garden.

Tuna Pesto Calzone

Hand-tossed (thick crust) Shrimp Pesto

Hand-tossed Spicy Tuna

I enjoyed my pizza slice with a cup-full of sour cream!
Nam nam nam nam!

If you're not avoiding meat this lent, I highly recommend Angel's Style, which my officemates and I tried last month.

Have these pizzas delivered at your doorstep! Just call 922-2222. If you're a SM Advantage, Laking National or Mercury Suki cardholders, you may get a free pizza or 20% off on your order. Learn more about this promo on Angel's Pizza Facebook Fan Page.

Road Trip: Things I liked in Singapore

2011-03-20T01:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is really what I want to share especially to those who are planning to visit Singapore.

The following photos are the things I hope I can see in the Philippines, maybe tomorrow? Malabo yata.


Singapore has A LOT of building. But these are not an eyesore.

Unlike this... :(

Taxi drivers are polite and honest.
And the air conditioning of the cabs are all working well.

This river in Singapore is as dark as Pasig River
BUT no foul smell. I also hope someday a "night life"
will be built along our Pasig River.


EZ Link. We need that, too, for a hassle-free commuting life. :) It's kinda pricey but it's worth it. All public transpo are very systematic.


Hello, MRT and LRT, can you make a floor sign like this, too?


Or maybe this sign on the doors? Oh, and please make all the stations air-conditioned too once you have increased the train fare.

Also, please put something like this inside the train.
It's tourist-friendly. :)

Even if you're lost in the city,
NO ONE WILL TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOU!

Strict traffic rules and these also apply to pedestrians!

Wonder why Singapore is known for being so clean?!

Even if you walk all day, you won't get lung cancer.
Too many green, less air pollution, and IT'S SAFE!

Like what we saw with Japanese,
people in Singapore are also very disciplined! Very!

Oh, and this is what I liked the most. Bike park in train stations!
Ride your bike going to MRT, leave it there,
and get it back after office work! Isn't it Amazing?!

Road Trip: Extended stay in Singapore

2011-03-20T00:42:00.000-07:00

So, I was convinced by my friend's housemates to stay for another day in Lion City. And with the activities we had last Sunday, I won't regret booking another flight going back to Manila.

Check out these photos to see why it was all worth it :)

The popular SG$1 ice cream.


Singapore's version of dirty ice cream. Sarap!

Earth hour this month, don't forget. :)

But I don't have any Chanel... LOL.

I feel poorer in this place. Ahaha!

We're about to see Singapore...

Scary!

But the scene was awesome!

Buildings everywhere...

Infinity pool with lovers making out under the sun...

I like this!
Outside, people throw coins in that globe-like structure.

I think I want to live in this city.

Happy trip! :)

More photos posted on my Facebook. :)

*Thank you to my colleagues who gave "pabaon," to Glenn and his wonderful housemates for showing me the beauty of Singapore. Sobrang salamat for making my first trip abroad so memorable and wonderful. :)