Rave and View

Text Scams Victims Still Fall For

2017-12-03T19:38:00.001+08:00

Email scams that used to be so popular in the internet world seemed to have grown old and so worn out. Another tool which is so popular to scammers is SMS (short messaging system) or via text messaging. Scammers try to imitate legit text messages from legit cash express money transfer companies so victims would still fall for it. These are called SMISHING messages. 'Smishers' use text messages nowadays as oppose to email because users tend to trust the former more than the latter after fraudulent activities sent via email have been exposed already.

For the past decade, money transfer business has become more accessible to both senders and recipients since transactions are done online. Companies like Remitly, Paymaya (you can send and receive money on upgraded accounts), Money Gram and a lot more.

Fraudsters/scammers send suspicious text messages in the hope that the victim calls the number from which the text was sent which is controlled by the fraudster rather than the bank's or company's customer service's hotline number.

Now, how are we going to identify legit messages from the fake ones?

First, always look at the sentence composition. Grammar and syntax represent professionalism. Most likely, the message did not come from a legit company if it has errors on grammar, spacing and syntax. Even the littlest detail like punctuation usage matters a lot if you are keen enough to notice it.

Second, the details should be complete. In the first photo, the message was too vague and incomplete. It has only the 'reference number' but it doesn't contain the sender's information. Unlike the second photo, all the pertinent details are indicated from the sender's name, the amount that was sent, money transfer company and the reference number.

Third, the sender will definitely confirm that with you via call, or another message, otherwise, it has been sent to you by a fraudster.

If the text message is suspicious as it may seem, never give out any bank information of yours no matter what happens if you don't want to be victimized. Be alert and be wise. Don't let your hard-earned money be stolen from you. Teach these scammers/fraudsters to make money legally. If you would still fall for their strategies and tactics after all these reminders, it's no longer their problem. It just means you are not just cautious. Beware!

Winning Answer of Teresita Ssen "Winwyn" Marquez in Reina Hispanoamericana 2017

2017-11-06T14:32:00.000+08:00

Are you a fan of Teresita Ssen Marquez? Do you think she deserved to win? What can you comment on her answer on the Question and Answer portion of the recently concluded Reina Hispanoamericana 2017?

Let me know your thoughts too on the issues that going around through the internet that she should have not joined this pageant since she is not Spanish or Latina, or whatever.

Review on Mc Donald's Garlic Parmesan Mc Spicy

2017-11-03T21:18:00.000+08:00

I have been a fan of Mc Donald's burgers as a kid and up until now. Throughout the years, the company managed to retain its customers and gain more because of their distinctive taste, especially in terms of their signature hamburgers.

Now, let us see if their latest Mc Spicy product is even comparable to its predecessor - McSpicy Chicken.

Without being biased, I still go for the former. The new one has a good balance of the garlic and parmesan taste but it kind of lacks the leveled up spiciness at least for my liking. If you want to know more about how my review went in details, feel free to click on the link and watch my video blog.

Review: Mang Peping Restaurant in Dagupan City

2017-10-28T15:57:00.000+08:00

To all the travelers out there that are planning to visit Pangasinan, you may want to check out my review on Mang Peping's Restaurant, situated in De Venecia Highway, Dagupan City. Find out what my verdict would be.

Morissette Amon wowed the Koreans in her performance at the Asia Song Festival 2017

2017-09-29T17:00:00.000+08:00

I must admit, Regine Velasquez's performance at the Asia Song Festival ages ago instantly made me a fan. But days ago, when I saw Morissette Amon's performance on Youtube, made me decide to make a reaction video on it. It was such a superb performance and I needed more people to share my excitement with. Please watch the video below to fathom what I am talking about:

Now, what do you say? Was I right to rave about it? Please leave a comment if you thought the same. Did she pick the right songs? Or if she were to pick another song, what do you think the song was?

The Comeback (with a sweet surprise)

2017-09-26T14:09:00.001+08:00

Where did the owner of this blog go? What happened to her? Does she still exist?

Apparently, yes. I am still alive. It just that it took me awhile to gather my thoughts from a whirlwind occurrence in my entire 2016. Let me give you an idea on what happened to my 2016 by a short video.

I decided not to dwell on the past but I will just use those memories in making myself even much braver and more fearless. I know dreams are larger than life and life is shorter than how we have imagined it.

And now that I am back, I am offering you something new. Something that I've been wanting to share with you for the longest time. My passion. Video blogs. You can view more of my videos here.

Let me know if you want to know more of my story and I will readily write a post about that. I am glad to be finally back. I miss you all.

Where Did May and My Faith Take Me?

2016-06-04T05:10:00.002+08:00

First of all, I want to apologize to my friends/readers who have been left hanging here at our online rendezvous. To those who noticed, yes, I took a brief hiatus from blogging and I failed giving you things to get excited about for over a month. I am regrettably sorry.

May has been a very trying month for me. My mom suffered from a mild stroke and being an only child that I am and unmarried, I solely took the responsibility of bringing her to the hospital the night she asked me to. It was after my class when she knocked at my door, which she rarely did. "Pakidala mo ako sa hospital, please" (please take me to the hospital) and there she was, dressed up and carrying her hospital bag. I kept calm and I silently uttered, "Please, God." I was not prepared for that scenario but I had to be strong just like I have always been.

I have two valid reasons why I am strong. First, being strong is a part of my personality. Vulnerable outside but steel on the inside. Second, I had no choice but to be one. At the emergency, the doctor asked her if she's dizzy and she consistently replied, "no". Vertigo was the initial findings because the symptoms at that time didn't match with the usual stroke manifestation. But to my dismay, she had to get admitted for close monitoring. When the doctor asked me for my consent, I nodded without batting an eye.

I didn't know how I managed to have a clear mind while listening to the doctor's instructions and had a flashback at the same time of my father's same situation five years ago. I didn't know how I was able to be in control while my system wanted to crash. I didn't know that it was possible to be simultaneously swallowed alive by both optimism and pessimism . I really didn't know until that moment. I was really scared but I knew I should not be. I didn't even have the right to feel scared and it seemed that all my rights have been taken away from me. With just a thousand pesos in my hand, I blindly accepted our fate to be in a place where financially unfit people should not rather be. Again, I wanted to save my mother's life so I had no choice but to get rid of worries and anxieties. Instead, I had to go with the uncertain flow. I don't usually go by the Filipino-phrase bahala na because it has been interpreted by some as a fatalist remark similar to que sera sera. but I had to let go of everything. I had to lift it all up to Him. Mind you, I usually seek solutions first before I surrender but that point has given me no choice but to cave in.

It was evident that we couldn't afford a suite for my mom so I initially opted to stay at the ward due to financial reasons but then again, I decided to transfer her to stroke unit to ensure and expedite her recovery. I didn't want to take chances and kill myself with guilt for the rest of my life. I just wanted the best for her because I didn't want to lose her to complications like how I lost my pop.

I was tormented to see my mother in that condition. Memories from 2010 have vividly come to my senses and it was something that I was not prepared of going through. Not just yet. I admit I have a love-hate relationship with my mother but she has no idea there's nothing that I wouldn't do to sustain her existence and travel to Batanes together. Trust me, you wouldn't want to be in the situation where you had to battle with fatigue because you had to go back and forth to the pharmacy to buy her medicines. During the first two days, appetite was sent away by my system and sleepiness was as if not at all present. I had to make sure I fed her on time and nurses would then let her take tons of pills and the never-ending dextrose replacement. It was countless. There was this one time, just as I was about to doze off, nurses would ask me again to run and get expensive vials for her brain. That time, she already experienced slurred speech and her body was half-paralyzed. As much as I would want to ignore the swelling hospital bills, I just couldn't. But if you want someone to recover from a serious illness, you would. I mastered the art of playing blind in just a couple of dreadful days.

Honestly, there were several occasions during the whole experience that I broke down because I was mad at her. I was mad at her stubbornness and the inability to listen to my reminders. I would continually remind her long before this whole predicament to cut the amount of her rice intake and get rid of fatty meat cuts. She didn't take me seriously and that made me more furious. None of these would have happened in the first place if she just cared to listen (insert a deep sigh right here).

It was after the entire unpleasant experience I realized how stronger I have become and how tiny of a deal everything seemed to me. I had so many reasons to give up but I chose to carry on. My everlasting faith played a vital role in keeping me sane and forced me to stand tall. In fact, I witnessed how He blessed me with people who didn't hesitate to help us and show us that we are loved and supported. I will always be grateful to the good Samaritans who never left us and prayed with/for us. I am only human who become susceptible to various kinds of pain but what's important is that I didn't let problems defeat me.

I haven't fully recovered from the debris of expenses amid the week-long hospitalization and this is not something new. My pain endurance is incredible that even myself was bewildered. I would no longer be here I guess if not for the divine grace and guidance. The important lesson in life I learned is that don't worship Him and worry about the problems that test your strength all at once. That is fake faith. If you believe in Him, believe in Him all the way and don't doubt Him not even once. Always ask for His guidance and hold on to what you believe in no matter how trying life gets sometimes. You are loved. I am loved. Everyone is.

P.S. I am definitely back.

Missha 4D Mascara | First Impression

2016-04-28T20:44:00.003+08:00

I used to think that mascaras can still be worn even after six months but some beauty gurus say that a mascara becomes stiff and dry after three months. That said, it's not a good idea to buy an expensive mascara if you can't use it for a longer shelf life. I found this inexpensive 4D mascara from Missha through Althea Korea and boy was I impressed with how it worked well on me.

10 Beauty Hacks A Girl Must Know

2016-04-20T01:36:00.001+08:00

I'm sure that every makeup enthusiast like me has pieces of beauty hacks (or even more) handy to utilize when the need arises. These beauty hacks that we know are something that we love sharing with our girlfriends or BAEs. I think my passion for reading and exploring things helped me big time in leveling up my hacking ability when it comes to skin care and everything in the beauty sphere.

Witch's Pouch Selfie Perfect Eyebrow | First Impression

2016-04-18T21:33:00.000+08:00

One of the three items in my first Althea box purchase ever is this - Witch's Pouch Selfie Perfect Eyebrow. Why did I choose this? First, it's affordable which got me thinking that it might be too good to be true. Second, its being double ended brow kit made me consider about its practicality. Lastly, I'm the type of a blogger who continues my quest on different eyebrow products so might as well try this out since editor's pick siya.

Service Review: Althea Korea Ph

2016-04-13T16:18:00.000+08:00

I'm thrilled to bring you my first service review for this year. As most of us know, Althea Korea has already reached Filipino Beauty Market. It is indeed surprising to note that the Philippine cosmetic industry has been immovably booming for the past decade. Before I carry on with my full review on Althea Korea's service, let me reiterate to you that this is not sponsored and a non-beta-tester review.

Improve Your Online Shopping Experience With BPI My ePrepaid Card

2016-04-06T00:30:00.001+08:00

I didn't hesitate to get myself a prepaid card when BPI launched its first re-loadable card a few years ago. It works almost the same as credit and debit card but it's prepaid, hence, the product's name. I chose my ePrepaid card over a credit card for three apparent reasons:

I don't want to incur hidden charges and be overcharged!
I can easily set my shopping limits since I used to be an impulsive shopper.
I cringe at the idea of using other company's money rather than my own because it psychologically pushes me to bite off more than I can chew (which elaborates # 2).

Rundown: 18 Mobile Apps You Might Need (part two)

2016-04-01T00:44:00.000+08:00

It is really difficult to emancipate ourselves from technology. The more it gets advanced periodically, the more we become so dependent on it. Looking back at the past, we would just get by a day through reading our favorite comic books or novels, watching our favorite soaps while having a quick chat with our family members after a long day. Before, having an old school cellular phone is just for people who were always on the go. But looking at us now, our reliance to technology is apparent and even myself cannot break away from digital slavery. There are times that our internet service provider would experience server downtime and we'd feel a sudden detachment from the cyber world.

What we mostly see are the perks we get from utilizing technology but we hardly see its disadvantages. I won't talking about its cons right now, instead, I will be sharing with you several mobile apps I find useful and helpful in my daily activities. However, I will be dividing this post into two parts so it won't get too tedious for us both. So, what's in my phone? I'm not certain if this will interest you or if you prefer the apps I will be featuring at all. I'd be delighted to share what I frequently use anyway. Albeit, what I will be doing a rundown on are the mobile apps that I personally go for and that offer straightforward operation in my opinion. I do not in any way state that the apps that I support are the best.

- See more at: http://raveandview.blogspot.com/2016/03/rundown-17-mobile-apps-we-need-part-one.html#more

As promised, here's the second part of my rundown on mobile apps I find useful and entertaining at the same time. In the first part, I featured two unheard-of yet promising apps like Peach and Viddsee and it received a great amount of response from those who already read the rundown. I categorized Viddsee as one of the unheard-of apps (although it's not totally new to others) because it seems that this app is still in the underground level in comparison to Youtube, Vimeo and Daily Motion. I like how this app sounds raw to others and I'm all praises because I can't get enough of my fondness of it. This time, let me bring to you my favorite social media apps and learn more why they are beneficial to me in terms of freelancing.

Rundown: 18 Mobile Apps You Might Need (part one)

2016-03-29T12:26:00.000+08:00

Disclaimer: This post is not in anyway sponsored.

Oriflame Seductive Palette | First Impression

2016-03-27T00:00:00.000+08:00

Some of the makeup enthusiasts who are in their mid-30s like myself find it a little daunting to play with bright colors as we might be labeled as someone who ages backwards or tumatanda ng paurong in my native tongue. What's with that notion, by the way? I came up with that because that is how conventional people think especially towards fashion trends.

Essence All About Matt Foundation | Review

2016-03-25T22:02:00.001+08:00

I've been meaning to purchase this and try it out if it's really got matte finish to it and so my gorgeous friend bought it for me for only 19 AED (P228). Finally, I will be able to do a review on this and let you guys know which skin type would it work on and what not. If you want to know my thoughts about it, then keep on reading.

Blogging Struggle Is Real (And How To Deal With It)

2016-03-23T20:20:00.004+08:00

One of the biggest challenges we face as bloggers is how to organize our daily life and work in an efficient manner. From planning an editorial calendar, to compiling pitch emails and more, the task of simplifying your day, week or month can be a daunting one. But getting a grasp on this organization can sometimes be the key to your success. Sometimes all it takes is a little motivation, and the right tools to get you going. One of the easiest ways to streamline and organize is with a good blogging binder.

Between scheduling sponsored posts, mapping out your month, and keeping track of opportunities, formulating a concise plan for productivity can be difficult. With the Blogging Binder, the ways in which you can expedite your work day are endless. Using a printable calendar might allow you to map out your projects more concisely. Downloadable checklists can provide easy list making and the ability to prioritize. And much more, from publicity worksheets, to inspirational tips.

No matter which tool benefits you most, this binder is your comprehensive guide to everything you need to start your journey. More importantly, it will give you some direction, and maybe even some inspiration.

And while we cannot guarantee it will make anything easier (you still have to be passionate about what you do!), we can promise a more streamlined, and focused approach. The more organized you are, the more that professionalism is reflected in your work, and your success. And that is one trait that will certainly not go unnoticed. Get your free Blogging Binder here today! (See photo below of a sample of what you get from the Blogging Binder)

I hope this solves our minor blogging dilemma. If you like this post, I'd appreciate if you subscribe to my blog if you haven't already, and show some lovin'! Or let's tweet, chat on Instagram and leave me a comment of Rave & View Facebook page. Have a solemn Lenten Season!

Kilo Off: Your Latest Aide In Achieving Your Fitness Goals

2016-03-20T22:17:00.000+08:00

Most of us are so eager to achieve our goals during the first quarter of each year, but due to some reason, the flame of that eagerness deliberately dies down as we feel the struggle. One common example is fitness goals. We usually wonder how those gym buff manage to convince themselves almost every day to sweat it out. To be honest, that is something that I cannot hold on much longer. Have you also been in a yo-yo dieting and exercising for god knows how long now? How do you deal with it then?

If you haven't heard about the latest craze in town - KILO OFF, then this blog post is for you. Let me show you as I walk myself through and learn more about the product, too.

Collective Haul: Purchase, Gifts and Giveaway Prizes | March 2016

2016-03-17T00:00:00.000+08:00

I'm super excited to share with you my haul for this month. It is a bit different from my usual haul posts because I included some items that I didn't personally purchase. Items that were given by a close friend and a fellow blogger! Isn't that amazing?!?

Glamworks Hair Removal Cold Wax Kit | Review

2016-03-15T17:32:00.002+08:00

I never paid too much attention to my facial hair until I started doing cosmetic brand reviews especially lip products. Of course, doing reviews on lip products obligates you to take zoomed in photos of your lips. When I first did a review on a lip product, seeing zoomed in photos of my upper lip kind of grossed me out. Facial hair is not really appealing especially to women. That being said, I'm going to do a review on Glam Works Hair Removal Cold Wax Kit and check out its effectiveness.

4 Types of Online Shoppers

2016-03-13T01:04:00.002+08:00

After bringing you a helpful article about how to spot legit online shops last year, which became the most viewed/read article to this date, I want to share with you my own experience both as a shopper and online seller this time. In my country, online selling has become so easy (yet risky) through the use of different social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. These platforms have given small-scale and start-up online sellers a lot of opportunities in showcasing their homegrown goods as well as the imported goods.

SHOP n' FLY with SM and Hong Kong Disneyland!

2016-03-08T23:24:00.000+08:00

SHOP N' FLY TO
HONG KONG DISNEYLAND

Prizes:
1. Roundtrip airfare via Manila airport (seats are subject to availability).
2. 3D/2N Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel accommodation (rooms are subject to availability).
3. Four (4) 2-day Hong Kong Disneyland Park tickets.

Mechanics:
1. A minimum single receipt of P1,000 entitles you to one (1) raffle coupon. Drop the
completely filled out raffle coupon in designated drop boxes located at the redemption
booths.
2. A minimum purchase of P500 Disney merchandise from select SM Affiliates
(The SM Store, Toy Kingdom, SM Hypermarket, SM SaveMore, and SM Supermarket).
3. Double your chances of winning! Present your EPLUS card and a minimum single
receipt of P1,000 to get two (2) raffle coupons.
4. Winners will be drawn on March 21, 2016. Announcement of Winners will be on
April 14, 2016.
5. Thirty (30) lucky winners will get a complete Hong Kong Disneyland Holiday package
for four (4).

Book & Borders: Read. Sip. Dine.

2016-03-08T22:25:00.001+08:00


Book & Borders Tuscany

When you hear "Quezon City", what's the first thing that pops into your head? Hole-in-the-walls! Yes, you're right! Quezon City has been the focal point of wide array of home-grown establishments like events venues, bistros, pubs, specialty shops, etc. Most especially if you are a foodie who always craves to taste something new, whether be it the ambiance or the set of menus.

In a city packed with bars and clubs, Books & Borders offers bookworms and individuals with quieter passions their own relaxing respite. The latest themed cafe to open in Tomas, Morato, Quezon City and McKinley Hill, Bonifacio Global City, Books & Borders has become one of the metro's more popular hangouts, and not for the reasons that you'd typically expect.

While coffee shops and cafes are now a dime a dozen, Book & Borders puts itself in a class of its own, distinguishing itself as a haven for people who want to enjoy a more relaxed afternoon, sipping their favorite brew and immersed in their favorite books.


Host Julz Savard


From left to right; Michael Harris Conlin of Henry & Sons, Eric Lim of Conlins Coffee World, Mary Simisim, Kristine Simisim and Nancy Go of Book & Borders.

"Here, you can relish the quiet, tucked in your little corner where you can enjoy your coffee or tea, and indulge in your favorite pastime - reading." shares Kristine Simisim, cafe owner. "Bring a friend or your new book and discover how time flies."

But even if you come empty handed, don't fret. Book & Borders offers an extensive selection of books, from the classics to contemporary bestsellers. And you are free to enjoy that at your leisure. The library is free and open for all, and for a better reading experience, customers are invited to use the book stands available at the cafe.

"I'm so ecstatic that there's finally a place for people like us. It's cozy and inviting, and you won't get too distracted like in crowded cafes. 'Books + coffee' spells the perfect afternoon," shares Kapuso artist and budding poet Benjamin Alves.

"What I love about Book & Borders is that there's always something new to discover because they constantly update their library. So even if you just want to browse, all the recent best sellers are on the shelves," shares Karylle, a self-proclaimed bookworm and travel books collector.


At the grand opening of Book & Borders Tuscany, from left to right; Benjamin Alves, Michael Lao, Karylle Tatlonghari-Yuzon, Kristine Joyce Simisim and Chef Dennis Apostol

But the bestsellers are not only limited to the books on the shelves, you can find them on the menu as well. Do indulge your sweet tooth with scrumptious varieties of cakes and squares. (Do try the Book & Borders bestseller: the Queso de Bola Cake!) For something more filling, the menu also offers delicious pastas (Truffle Mushroom Pasta and Tuyo Pasta) and sandwiches like the Beef Pastrami Panini as well as hearty rice dishes.

Of course, aside from their famous brewed coffee and cold coffee-concoctions, you must not forget to sample their array of refreshing smoothies, calming teas and juices.

Book & Borders is located at 281 Tomas Morato, Quezon City and RC-RCM and RD-RDM Building 5, Tuscany Estates, Mckinley Hill, Bonifacio Global City For more news and updates, follow Book & Borders on Instagram (@bookandborderscafe) and Twitter (@bookandborders). You may also call them on (0932) 871 7856.

Maybelline Gel Eyeliner | Updated Review

2016-03-03T19:54:00.000+08:00

I just usually edit my existing blogs whenever I try to insert updates or add-ons and this is going to be my first time to make a separate blog for a major update. I guess, that's the right thing to do since I want to correct something I had mistakenly thought.

GlamRock Prom Queen Makeup Look

2016-02-27T11:00:00.002+08:00