Eyes on Manila: A Mom's Lifestyle Blog

Vista Land Unveils Latest Residential Developments in a Landmark Nationwide Expansion

2025-03-26T10:54:00.004+08:00

In a bold move, Vista Land & Lifescapes, Inc. has announced plans for new residential developments ahead of its 50th-anniversary celebration. This landmark expansion reinforces the dedication of the Philippines' leading integrated property developer to providing house-and-lot developments for Filipino families while addressing demands for unique, premium, and sustainable lifescapes.

The newly unveiled projects, with an initial salvo slated for the first quarter and the majority set for the second and third quarters, encompass a selection of offerings catering to diverse market segments. House-and-lot properties and mixed-use developments will rise in 20 areas in Luzon and 12 spread across Visayas and Mindanao. Commercial properties in Urdaneta, Balanga, Malolos, Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro, and Butuan, among other cities, along with its foray into hospitality in Vigan, Bacolod, and Davao, underscore the broad-reaching influence of Vista Land across various sectors.

These additions complement Vista Land’s established communities, delivering beautifully designed options in residential neighborhoods and self-sustaining townships.

Having consistently earned recognition from prestigious real estate award-giving bodies such as Lamudi and Property Guru, Vista Land mixed-use developments will continue to offer seamless access to residential, business, commercial, and lifestyle components in central business districts, transportation hubs, and university clusters within Metro Manila. Its resort-inspired vertical villages in next wave cities will provide state-of-the-art amenities and green spaces to create a tranquil yet modern environment for its residents.

Recognizing the increasing preference for suburban living, Vista Land, the foremost house-and-lot developer throughout the archipelago, further expands its geographic reach with master planned developments while incorporating novel architectural configurations into its collection.

These additions complement its established communities, delivering beautifully designed options in residential neighborhoods and self-sustaining townships. The enhanced starter home models in emerging locations make homeownership more attainable for aspiring Filipinos by offering value-driven pricing and competitive financing options.

Solidifying its growth strategy, Vista Land has earmarked a capital expenditure of PHP 35 billion to sustain the momentum of these projects. This investment will be directed towards strategic land acquisition, construction, and infrastructure enhancements to ensure that each community is built to uphold quality and sustainability standards. Additionally, the company is capitalizing on smart technology, environmentally friendly designs, and community-centric planning to address current residential requirements and anticipate future trends in real estate.

Vista Land remains steadfast in its mission to build thriving communities that embody innovation and progress with family and community life at its center, creating a legacy of value for generations to come. With a record of nearly fifty years, this latest tranche of residential developments is an enduring testament to its leadership in the Philippine real estate sector. Vista Land ensures it remains at the forefront of an evolving market, and buyers and investors can look forward to a new era of well-designed housing solutions that redefine modern living in the country.

The market leader in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao for nearly five decades

Vista Land is the market leader in the number of homes and projects built, having constructed more than half a million houses in 47 provinces and 149 cities and municipalities. With a nationwide footprint, it operates its businesses through distinct units, including residential brands Brittany, Crown Asia, Camella, Vista Land High-Rise Development Group, Vista Manors, and Lumina.

Vista Land: Pioneering excellence in property development

As the holding company of the residential ventures of Vista Group, Vista Land is primarily engaged in developing horizontal properties, master planned communities, and the construction of vertical residences in the Philippines' key growth areas.

Filipinos deserve the best—this driving belief has been integral to Vista Land and its day-to-day operations and is the secret to its success. Creating better, expansive, and global-oriented offerings and experiences for its residents, as well as delivering excellent long-term investment growth for its stakeholders, has always been the impetus behind the conglomerate's continuous evolution.

To learn more about Vista Land and its developments nationwide. Visit www.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial.

Great Baby Skin with the Yoboo Baby Skincare Set

2023-08-02T00:14:00.002+08:00

Give your baby the gift of healthy, resilient skin
with the yoboo Baby Skincare Set

A baby’s skin is only 1/4 the thickness of adult skin, making it more fragile and sensitive to mechanical stress. It can also be prone to dryness, redness, and itching, which is why it requires extra care by developing good skincare habits with the help of gentle, high-quality products.

Finding the most suitable product for your baby’s skin can be challenging due to overwhelming options and information. After all, parents just want the best for their child.

Committed to helping every family raise children in a relaxed and scientific manner, Japanese-based brand yoboo provides expertly crafted skincare products for babies using natural plant extracts and biomimetic essence to awaken the skin’s intrinsic vitality.

“As each day goes by, your baby will be exposed to more environments as they experience and learn more about what the world has to offer,” said Chinen Rina, Pediatrician and Founder of yoboo. “Through its products, yoboo aims to provide expert care for baby’s skin at any time, whether it’s to protect it from the sun, soothe it from any discomfort or sensitivity, or sustain its moisture after a bath. Its formulations result in the ultimate baby care experience so that your child can enjoy life with healthy and resilient skin.”

For comprehensive skincare for baby’s head to toe, yoboo offers Baby Skincare Sets from ages 0-6 which include:

Baby Soothing Wash and Shampoo (400ml), a 2-in-1 foaming wash enriched with PRO-V5, vitamin E, Bisabolol, and camellia seed oil to gently and effectively clean the skin, properly hydrate it, and preserve its elasticity. Its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can also help relieve any discomfort and improve any sensitive skin condition in a timely manner. With these gentle ingredients, you can be assured of the best care for your baby's skin.

Baby Refreshing Moisturizer (70g), a body lotion which can hydrate and soothe dryness and redness with every use. One application of its transparent ice crystal texture turns into water, making it light and burden-free. Its multidimensional water locking system, double aloe vera juice and vitamin B5, and natural herbal extracts work together to nourish and lock in the moisture to make the body feel silky, refreshed, and comfortable.

yoboo Baby Refreshing Moisturizer

Through various tests with its users, Yoboo found out that the Yoboo Baby Refreshing Moisturizer can ultimately soothe your baby's skin by 30% within one hour upon application. In these tests, all of the participants reported immediate skin hydration, 96% said that the product improved their baby's skin dryness, while 88% said that redness was immediately reduced.

OlivOat Baby Cream OlivOat Baby Cream (40g), a body moisturizer enriched with glycerin, ceramide NP, and urea to improve a baby’s skin resistance. It features a lecithin emulsified liquid crystal system which is easily absorbed, penetrating the skin quickly without burdening it. Tender on the outside and moisturizing on the inside, the cream promotes double barrier protection which enhances the skin’s defense.

Aside from its moisturizing benefits, the OlivOat Baby Cream also has a unique dispensing feature. By pressing the top of the bottle with both hands at the same time, the cream will be dispensed at the top center of the cream outlet. This design ensures efficient dispensing, with no unnecessary leaks and spills. This design assures an equal amount of cream suitable for every use and prevents secondary contamination.

The yoboo Baby Skincare Gift Set is available in Shopee and Lazada for Php 1,199.00. To learn more about yoboo and its products, visit yoboo.ph or the Yoboo - Philippines Official Facebook Page.

About yoboo

yoboo is a Japanese Mom and Baby Care Brand established in 2009 with bases in Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Committed to providing professional mom and baby products that cater to moms and babies' different needs, yoboo's product line consists of Nursing Essentials, Feeding Essentials, Baby Skin Care, Baby Furniture and Accessories, Bath Essentials, Outdoor Essentials, Cleaning and Disinfection, and Baby Toys.

Making Meaningful Connections with Magnolia Chicken Timplados

2023-07-14T23:40:00.000+08:00

From all walks of life, Magnolia Chicken Timplados Fried Chicken Drumsticks with BBQ Seasoning can be relied in to offer an #Madalicious delight throughout the day. Find solace in how quick a fried chicken meal can be served and enjoyed, adding valuable extra minutes as one navigates through a busy schedule. Make family bonding moments count over the preparation and "shake-shake" fun experience. Share unforgettable memories over a comforting meal of tender fried chicken. Magnolia Chicken Timplados offers more than just a dish; it creates experiences that bring joy and connections. Sa Magnolia Chicken Timplados, iba't-ibang easy chicken sarap!

Magnolia Chicken Timplados, Maasahan Ano Mang Oras

Sa agahan, tanghalian, merienda man o hapunan; kaagapay mo ang Magnolia Chicken Timplados Fried Chicken Drumsticks with BBQ Seasoning. Ihain na para saýo, sa iyong pamilya o bisita. Madaling lutuin, masustansya sa protina at masayang ihain. I-shake-shake na ang paboritong Fried Chicken! Siguradong #Madalicious! Sa Magnolia Chicken Timplados, iba't-ibang easy chicken sarap!

Shop #PambansangManok now at:

🛒 nearest Magnolia Chicken Stations

🛒 Monterey Neighborhood Meatshops

🛒 *San Miguel Mart: https://bit.ly/MCOnSanMiguelMart

🛒 **Shopee: https://bit.ly/ShopMCOnShopee

🛒 **Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.ph/l.0Zj7

*Available in Metro Manila, and some parts of Rizal, and Cavite only.

**Available in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal only.

Stay Overnight for Php 9,000 and Get 2nd Night for Just Php125 at Rizal Park Hotel

2023-06-09T19:24:00.002+08:00

Manila, Philippines - June 6, 2023 - Rizal Park Hotel, a renowned historic hotel in Manila, is proud to announce its special room package in celebration of the Philippines' 125th Independence Day. Commemorating this significant milestone, Rizal Park Hotel invites guests to experience a remarkable stay and indulge in traditional Filipino dishes at unbeatable prices.

The exclusive room package, available from June 10 to 12, offers guests the opportunity to stay overnight for only 9,000 pesos and enjoy the second night for a mere 125 pesos. This incredible offer presents an excellent chance for both local and international travelers to explore the vibrant city of Manila and immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the Philippines.

"Our team at Rizal Park Hotel is thrilled to commemorate the 125th Independence Day of the Philippines with our valued guests," said Ms. Samantha Paz, Managing Director of Rizal Park Hotel. "We believe this special room package will not only provide an extraordinary experience but also allow guests to take part in celebrating our country's heritage."

In addition to the enticing room package, Rizal Park Hotel is delighted to offer an array of delectable Filipino cuisine offerings for a remarkable price of only 125 pesos per bundle. Guests can savor the flavors of popular Filipino delicacies such as pancit bam-I and sapin-sapin,puto and dinuguan, turo and sago’t gulaman at tusok-tusok of kwek kwek, fish balls and squid balls. This unique culinary experience promises to be a true delight for food enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the traditional tastes of the Philippines.

With its prime location in the heart of Manila, Rizal Park Hotel provides easy access to major historical sites and attractions. The hotel's elegant and well-appointed rooms offer a luxurious retreat after a day of exploring the city, ensuring guests have a comfortable and memorable stay.

For further information or to make a reservation, please contact 09176229280.

To know more about Rizal Park Hotel and its facilities follow https://www.facebook.com/RizalParkHotel and https://www.instagram.com/rizalparkhotel1911/

Psst! Having A Down Day? These Daily Reminders Will Pick Up Your Spirits

2023-05-23T20:14:00.006+08:00

In an ideal world, things will always go your way. The MRT will never be late nor packed, you can always buy whatever you want, and you will never gain a pound or two despite indulging your sweet tooth. Alas, an ideal world doesn’t truly exist and our daily reality can sometimes be tougher to navigate than how we hope it to be.

The thing is, experiencing these little bumps doesn’t exactly make life bad. Instead, you can think of them as little bursts of flavor that make your adventure a little bit more interesting! The way that we take pitfalls in stride is what makes the world of difference in how we manage them and so is giving in sometimes to situations instead of fighting them off.

If you need a little refresher that feeling BAD is not really all that BAD, then here are a few daily reminders that will surely turn that frown into a smile.

1. The only difference between a good day and a bad day is your attitude. – Dennis S. Brown

Could this be any more true? It may sound cliche or even too idealistic, but it is how we take and give in to things that change the way we view and feel them.

2. Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant. -Robert Louis Stevenson

This is the perfect reminder to all of us who can be a little tough on ourselves when we fall short of our expectations. Sometimes you win. Other times you just get to be a step closer to your goal. Both are okay.

3. Sometimes you need those bad days, to help you appreciate the good ones. – Unknown

Read that again. If every day is perfect, then what makes a good day… good? Appreciating your wins is so much sweeter when you’ve experienced losses, too.

4. I am learning to trust the journey even when I do not understand it. – Mila Bron

Not ultimately knowing where you are going or what’s coming next may be one of the most terrifying things in life. But it’s the element of surprise and the way that we enjoy the ride that makes life all the more special.

5. If life were predictable it would cease to be life, and be without flavor. – Eleanor Roosevelt

Yes, flavor. All the limitations we put on ourselves to make sure everything goes our way are the roadblocks that can make life black and white. Live truly and honestly by going through flavors. Bitter, sweet, or both, all are important in the great recipe of life.

When was the last time you allowed yourself to just ‘give in?' When you feel like the day is tougher than usual, tap on your inner child and remember how you used to handle your big emotions. For a lot of us, it is simply allowing ourselves to FEEL. That, or a bite or two of simply good ice cream.

The next time you are feeling down, get yourself your favorite Nestlé Ice Cream cold treat. The leading ice cream brand has never failed to make anyone smile with its quality flavors, one bite of which can turn a bad day into a good one.

Being the true champ that it is, Nestlé Ice Cream is making everyone’s summer extra special with its Great Ice Cream Sale. The promo, which will run until June 30 gives big discounts to cult favorites like Nestlé Temptations (Strawberries & Cream, Almond Brownie Fudge, Double Dutch, Cookies & Cream, Rocky Road, Mocha & Cashew), Nestlé Drumstick (Double Choco Vanilla and Ube Cheesecake), and Nobrelli (Choco-Keso-Ube, Choco-Manga-Ube, Choco-Pandan-Ube). This special treat is available when you buy in all leading supermarkets and Nestlé Ice Cream’s official Lazada store: Ice Cream Party PH.

If that is not a good sign that it is time for you to give yourself a break, then we don’t know what is. After all, ice cream makes everything so much better—though should you really wait for a bad day to have some? Go ahead. Indulge.

To stay updated on other promos, follow Nestlé Ice Cream Philippines and Nestlé Temptations on Facebook. You can also follow Nestlé Temptations on Instagram to add a little sweetness to your feed.

Rex Education’s ‘Bawat Paaralan Edukampyon Continuum’ Recognized at UNODC Conference as an Exemplary School-Community-Family Program

2023-05-23T10:50:00.000+08:00

Rex Education’s ‘Bawat Paaralan Edukampyon Continuum’ recognized at UNODC Conference as an exemplary school-community-family program for strengthening drug-abuse prevention

Attendees of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Conference pose for a photo at Novotel Manila, Quezon City recently, with the theme “Prevention Digest: Strengthening the prevention strategy and family-based initiatives in the Philippines

During the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Conference recently, at Novotel Manila, Quezon City, Rex Education bared its ‘Bawat Paaralan Edukampyon (BPE) Continuum’ for strengthening drug-abuse prevention.

UNODC’s Conference gathered organizations, policymakers, and prevention implementers for discussions on addressing drug-related problems in the country. Under the theme “Prevention Digest: Strengthening the prevention strategy and family-based initiatives in the Philippines”, UNODC encouraged individuals and groups to share drug-abuse prevention responses that are health-centered and based on family intervention. The agenda tackled the healthcare system, evidence-based programs, and Philippine experiences in family-centered interventions.

During the 3rd day of the event, REX was among the government and non-government organizations who shared their experiences with prevention programming, as well as the impact and influence of these initiatives.

Taking a whole school approach to reform initiatives

BPE officially launched during the January 2021 Annual Educators' Congress, where 400 private and public schools expressed interest and intent in pilot implementing the framework.

In March 2021, pilot implementation for BPE began with 13 schools completing one implementation cycle. These schools were Marantha Christian Academy, St. Edward School, Canossa Academy Calamba, Ednas School, Cherished Moments School, Colegio de Santa Rita de San Carlos, Inc., Cabulay High School, San Andres Elementary School, Divisoria High School, Rosario National High School, Sagana National High School, Patul National High School, and Sinili Integrated School.

REX gave life to the portmanteau ‘Edukampyon’, a combination of the words edukasyon (education) and kampyon (champion) to mean champions of education. The BPE program is grounded in the Edukampyon advocacy: To engage duty-bearers and build their capacities for respecting, protecting, and fulfilling the right to quality education.

Pursuant to BEDP 2030, REX advocates a whole-school approach that entails the collaboration of all members in a school community. The whole school approach recognizes that the informal curriculum is just as valuable as the formal one, highlighting the importance of providing learners with inclusive and safe environments beyond the classroom. This framework is meant to advance agendas on global education and reform initiatives such as health awareness, eradication of violence, and drug abuse prevention.

The whole school approach also comes into play in promoting the six facets of the Filipino whole learner. REX has identified various indicators that should ensure a Filipino learner is healthy, safe, engaged, supported, challenged, and values-oriented. Across these indicators, there is a common theme that encourages school culture and leadership to promote learners' physical and mental health, implement policies relevant to civic participation, and equip students with the essential competencies for lifelong learning. Families and communities are recognized as a major part of this advocacy, as the success of a child's education largely relies on the effective collaboration of stakeholders advocating every learner's well-being.

Bawat Paaralan Edukampyon in support of UNODC standards

Based on the standards of UNODC, drug abuse prevention is a significant motivator for children, young adults, and adults to contribute positively in their families, schools, workplaces, and communities. Drug-abuse prevention at the school level focuses on the health and safety of children and youth, in a bid to encourage self-actualization that can lead to the realization of their full potential, prompting them to become productive members of society.

UNODC has found that developing a student's personal and social skills can prevent drug use and alcohol abuse. For children aged 10 and below, programs centered on improving resistance skills and self-control have been shown to reduce general problem behaviors in and out of the classroom. Several other factors can also influence the discouragement of substance abuse, such as students' academic performance, commitment to school, and social opportunities.

To achieve these benchmarks, REX designed BPE as a three-tier implementation framework that will allow schools to conduct systematic assessments of their progress in the UNODC's domains. BPE encourages schools to work with their stakeholders, students, parents, and community members in the planning and implementation of activities and interventions that are relevant to UNODC's standards.

Bawat Paaralan Edukampyon is an exemplary school-community-family program for drug abuse prevention

The BPE's pilot implementation allowed learners to learn about drug abuse prevention through the collaborative efforts of their teachers, administrators, parents, and other stakeholders. In particular, parents reported feeling more engaged and knowledgeable of their children's school activities and priorities after participating in the BPE process.

The participating schools showed significant levels of involvement and support, having developed an appreciation for the BPE framework. REX intends to leverage this support in fine-tuning effective BPE advocacies, communications, and education initiatives for more schools across the nation.

In doing so, REX was able to complement UNODC's standards on drug-use prevention. Placing value in the partnership, emphasizing the importance of effective parenting, and delivering evidence-based prevention strategies proved to be the pillars that drove the success of BPE's initial launch. REX is committed to pushing BPE at a wider scale, in a bid to ensure children and youth become invulnerable and more resilient to drug use.

Mother’s Day at Rizal Park Hotel

2023-05-10T20:20:00.001+08:00

It’s the time of the year again when we celebrate the superwomen of our lives – the one day that’s all about her. Mother’s Day is just around the corner and it is best to plan this special occasion ahead. If you still don’t have a present in mind, it is always a good idea to give her a day of pampering and relaxation.

For all the sacrifices and hard work they have done, moms deserve nothing but the best so treat her to a well-deserved staycation in the heart of Manila on Mother’s Day. For only P6,000 nett per night, Rizal Park Hotel offers an overnight stay in a deluxe room with breakfast in bed for (2) two. Best of all, mom gets to enjoy a (1) hour massage at the hotel’s spa. This Mother’s Day room promo is available for booking from April 27 to May 13, 2023, with stay periods from May 12 to May 15, 2023.

You can always choose to celebrate this special day with your loved ones. Gather the whole family and treat mom to a delicious lunch or dinner at Café Rizal or Imperial Court. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, the hotel’s restaurants are perfect for a memorable family gathering.

For hotel inquiries and reservations, text or call (+63) 9177013817 / (+63) 9176571334 or email at reservations@rizalparkhotel.com. Follow https://www.facebook.com/RizalParkHotel

and https://www.instagram.com/rizalparkhotel1911/

Guess What? This Home Appliance Is The Most Popular Mother's Day Gift of 2023

2023-05-09T15:05:00.007+08:00

May is upon us again, which only means that the spotlight shines extra bright once more for our moms as we celebrate Mother’s Day. If you’re thinking of the right surprise to give to the number one lady in your life, then we’re here to give you a clue. It starts with an A and ends with an R. It’s a kitchen favorite, one that will help our number one chef flex her amazing cooking skills.

It’s Air Fryers! At least according to the latest data from OnBuy which has reported a big surge of sales on this nifty appliance weeks before the annual celebration of Mother’s Day. This kitchen must-have has boomed in popularity in the last couple of years and for good reasons. In this article, we’ll walk you through all its benefits by putting the focus on one of the most powerful models in the market: The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer. Below are all the reasons why you should #BringBrevilleHome.

1. Air frying is a better alternative to traditional deep frying.
When you deep fry, oil is heated into high amounts that can lead to increased concentrations of inflammatory compounds that are absorbed by the food. With air frying, you minimize the use of oil or can even entirely remove it. The way it works is that it uses convection heat to cook food, similar to the way a fan oven works. It can help you cook healthier versions of your favorite fried dishes.

2. Regular consumption of deep-fried food has been known to be correlated to the development of chronic ailments like cardiovascular disease. The use of convection heat to fry can create the same crispy exterior that we all love so much from our favorite fried treats. The result is healthier versions of meals with lower saturated fat that are better for our diets.

3. It’s versatile!
The versatility of this kitchen partner is something all cooking aficionados will definitely appreciate. The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer is a perfect example of this. On top of having a dedicated air frying setting, this unit from the premium home lifestyle brand comes with nine other cooking functions which include toast, roast, bake, crumpet, and even pizza. It’s like having 10 appliances, all in one powerful model.

4. It’s perfect for busy bees.
Talking about power, the Smart Oven Air Fryer is also ideal for anyone who wants to be efficient with cooking. Its dual-speed convection feature reduces cooking time by 30 percent which is perfect for all busy moms out there.

5. It’s very user-friendly.
Air frying food is a no-brainer because you can easily pick settings for your recipe. The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer takes this a notch higher with its Element IQ System which has a smart algorithm that creates the ideal cooking environment for a range of different cooking techniques. Forget about cold, uneven spots and ideal rack positions. This air fryer does it all for you and more, regardless of your cooking skills.

This Mother’s Day, give the gift of innovation to the special woman in your life by turning their dream kitchen into a reality. We already know that our moms are geniuses when it comes to creating meals that we love, but it doesn’t hurt to bring home an equally smart partner that can help them make even more cooking wonders. If you’re into it, you can even go the extra mile and take a crack at cooking by bonding with her to make your own Mother’s Day feast.
It’s time to #BringBrevilleHome this Mother’s Day. Want to know more about the Smart Oven Air Fryer? Visit their website to get the full deets about this appliance. Don’t forget to also follow their official Facebook and Instagram to get updated on their other releases.

Camella's Summer Splash Photography Contest 2023: Take Your Best Splash

2023-05-08T06:26:00.001+08:00

Camella is holding a photography contest featuring the amenities and community features inside Camella communities and their affiliate food and beverage outlets, such as Dear Joe and Coffee Project. The "Splash" photography contest is open to both professionals and hobbyists and will showcase different water movements or elements captured through photography, such as water running from fountains, water from sprinklers, dew drops, raindrops, or water activities like swimming. The entrants can also take splash photos of their beverages in participating F&B outlets.

The contest offers exciting prizes for the winners, specifically a GoPro Hero 11 action camera for the hobbyist category winner and a relaxing 3 Days 2 Nights Boracay getaway for two, with airfare and accommodations included, for the professional category winner.

Click this link to register for the contest or see additional information here.

Aside from this photography contest, Camella will also organize summer-related activities every weekend in its communities nationwide, such as picnic and glamping dates, drive-in movie dates, food fairs and bazaars, chalk art brigades, tie-dye making events, and bicycles for rent for kids and kids at heart to enjoy. These activities are perfect for families who want to spend quality time together while enjoying the warm weather.

Summer is the perfect time to take a break, relax, and have fun with family and friends. With Camella's Summer Splash 2023 activities and photography contest, you can beat the heat and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Live your dream life with Camella residential properties, created with nature and lifestyle amenities in mind to enrich your lifestyle. Whether it’s a house and lot or a condominium property, choose an innovative real estate developer with proven track record and expertise in the industry. For more information, visit www.camella.com.ph or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin.

Honoring the Heroes: Commemorating the Bataan Death March with a Memorial Ride on Araw ng Kagitingan

2023-04-01T21:33:00.001+08:00

Ride for Valor, a bike-for-a-cause to raise funds for the maintenance of the Bataan Death March markers and other World War 2 heritage sites is slated on April 9, 2023 or Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor), also known as the 81st Anniversary of the Fall of Bataan and the start of the Death March.

Mike Villa-Real, Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) first vice president for marketing and communications, said the event, in partnership with the Department of National Defense, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, Provincial Government of Bataan, and Wartime Heritage Guild-Philippines, aims to preserve the legacy of Filipino and American soldiers who fought for freedom and democracy during World War 2.

"The Bataan Death March is a somber reminder of the bravery and selflessness of Filipino veterans during the Second World War. It is an essential part of Philippine history and culture, and the Ride for Valor is an important way of honoring the veterans and preserving their legacy. Plus riders get to learn more about this historic event as they will be traversing the actual route of the Death March," he said.

The ride is open to fully vaccinated cyclists and all types of bikes with brakes. Villa-Real said the event will start at 2:30 a.m. from the Kilometer Zero in Mariveles, Bataan, to Capas National Shrine in Tarlac.

The non-competitive bike ride will have four pitstops: Mt. Samat, Balanga Provincial Capitol’s The Bunker, San Fernando Train Station, and Angeles Museum. Giveaways will be given in selected pitstops. Villa-Real said participants may ride at their own pace, adding there will be a 12-hour cut-off during the event.

He noted that the event will also implement a "No Helmet, No Ride" policy to ensure the safety of the participants. Villa-Real also said a mechanic will be available to help those who encounter mechanical difficulties while roving marshals will be present to keep track of the riders' progress. Support vehicles are allowed, but riders should only ride in the vehicle if they choose to drop out of the event.

The Bataan Death March is one of the darkest chapters in Philippine history, where around 80,000 Filipino and American soldiers were forced to march more than 100 kilometers in grueling conditions by Japanese forces in 1942. Thousands of soldiers survived but many also died due to starvation, dehydration, diseases, and the brutality of Japanese captors. The markers serve as reminders of the tragedy and heroism that occurred during that period.

PVB is a private, commercial bank owned by World War 2 veterans and their families. With Its new Charter signed into law, the Bank's ownership now includes Post War Veterans and AFP Retirees.

Ride for Valor 2023 is supported by Without Limits PH, Traqs Philippines, OneLGC, AIR21, Panahon.TV, and the Integrated Waste Management Inc, Neo Zigma PH, Hotel Sogo, The Oriental Hotel-Bataan, AFAB, Booster C Energy Shot, and Fitbar.

For more information about the event, follow Ride for Valor on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RideForValorPH.

It’s a Fun Easter at Rizal Park Hotel

2023-03-31T21:45:00.001+08:00

Prepare for a fun-filled easter as Rizal Park Hotel once again opens its ballroom doors on April 09 to celebrate a Feaster: A Fun Easter at Rizal Park Hotel. For only P800, kids and kids at heart can enjoy a day of exciting activities other than the usual easter egg hunt. The ticket covers 1 kid ages 0-12 and 1 adult companion, inclusive of a lootbag and access to the program, which starts at 2 PM until 6 PM. Expect an array of easter-themed games, a magic show, bubble show, ventriloquism, face painting, a photobooth, and child-safe inflatables.

Of course, it would not be an easter event without the easter egg hunt and to make it more fun, attendees are given a chance to win an overnight stay with breakfast by joining the ‘Golden Easter Egg Hunt’.

In addition to the Feaster event, Rizal Park Hotel is also offering a hard to resist room promo. From April 06 to 10 and for only PHP 8,000, enjoy an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room (Queen, King, or Twin) with buffet breakfast for (2) two and a choice of buffet lunch or dinner for (2) two at Café Rizal plus one (1) pass to the Feaster event.

Rizal Park Hotel’s rooms and suites feature turn-of-the-century interior decors with modern amenities. Each room is colored in neutral tones of gray, beige, and off-white, with shades of yellow that give off warm feelings of home. Machuca tiles, classic woodwork, and crystal chandeliers provide a taste of style during the Army Navy Club’s heydays.

Rooms and suites are available in both the Main and Club wings of the hotel, providing exceptional views of the city, the park, or the famed Manila Bay. The suites feature its own living areas and extensive bathroom amenities, including a bathtub.

For Feaster tickets, text or call +639276687839 / +639091431591.

For hotel inquiries and reservations, text or call (+63) 9177013817 / (+63) 9176571334 or email at reservations@rizalparkhotel.com. Follow https://www.facebook.com/RizalParkHotel

and https://www.instagram.com/rizalparkhotel1911/

Earn From Blogging

2023-03-27T21:52:00.000+08:00

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Fun Way to Learn Math For Kids

2023-03-27T19:00:00.002+08:00

Mathematics is a challenging subject for many individuals, but educators often suggest that starting children early is key to success. This adage holds some truth, as early exposure to numbers through tools such as kiddie flashcards can help familiarize toddlers with mathematical concepts. Fortunately, modern technology has provided children with even more engaging and entertaining educational games to aid in their mathematical development.

As a child, I found great joy in pressing the buttons of our old calculator and playing pretend as a cashier. At the time, we didn't have any toy cash registers available, so I had to make do with my trusty calculator and a few dolls as my customers. Despite the lack of fancy toys, I was able to use my imagination and create my own little world of make-believe retail. Looking back, those simple moments of play helped to foster my creativity and problem-solving skills, which have served me well in my adult life.

Playing as a Cashier

Like I mentioned, thanks to modern technology, kids can actually enjoy being a cashier using this game called “Grocery Cashier.” The gamer simply has to enter the correct prices of the items or the numbers won’t be punched through. Once everything is added correctly, you collect the payment, and then you have to give the correct change. That’s it! I’m a parent and I also enjoyed playing it just for the fun of it. I’m sure your kids would love it, too, especially if they love pretending to be a cashier.

Learning How to Compute Customer Change

I usually love receiving money from customers while doing the pretend-play as a cashier, but giving change is a different story. It takes a bit of mental mathematics to master it if you don’t have a calculator beside you. Of course, after doing it for so long, you can already master it. But when I was a kid, I would scratch my head while counting how much should I give back to the customer. If you want your kid to practice calculating change, this “Cash Back” game is a fun way to learn it. I think this is also good for your kid if he will be inheriting a store or a business from you in the future.

Lego with a Hint of Math

I recently discovered the existence of a game that may pique the interest of Lego enthusiasts. Best of all, it’s free! If your child is a fan of Lego, then they are in for a real treat with "LEGO City AdventuresBuild And Protect." Although I am not particularly fond of Lego, I found myself thoroughly enjoying this game. The objective is to construct a city using Lego pieces, but with a budget constraint, it requires strategic planning and cost management. But still, it’s fun to play with so I’m sure your kids will love it.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. As parents, you have the power to choose how to educate your child, whether it be through traditional methods or incorporating educational games. It's important to remember that every child is unique, and as such, it's up to you to determine the best approach for your child's learning. Trust your instincts and choose what works best for your family.

Pans Up Home Cooks! You #GataLoveJolly’s Coconut Cream and Coconut Milk

2023-03-24T15:43:00.002+08:00

Bicol Express

Are you a huge admirer of foods with "gata" (coconut milk) as a base? If you enjoy incorporating coconut milk's magical qualities into your favorite dishes, you're probably aware of how difficult it can be at times. Not because it is hard to cook with, but because of the preparation process when using it as an ingredient.

For example, if you are someone who prefers using freshly squeezed gata, then you might need to do the tedious task of squeezing your own coconut milk. If you’re lucky enough to get an already squeezed version from your suki at the market, however, then you usually need to use it as soon as possible to keep it from spoiling.

This can be a little challenging because it means that you always have to plan to cook your favorite gata dishes. But what if your loved ones want to have a taste of them stat and you don’t have time to run to the market anymore?

As a homemaker, cooking our family’s favorite dishes is one of the best ways that we show and express our love. There’s nothing more heartwarming than the thought of creating something that they can enjoy anytime when they want it. Jolly, the leading brand of packed fruits, vegetables and condiments, aims to answer common kitchen challenges by providing freshly packed ingredients straight to the pantries of homemakers without sacrificing quality. In the case of coconut-based dishes, the brand has two standouts that can finally give moms the chance to cook their family’s gata favorites anytime— Jolly Coconut Milk and Jolly Coconut Cream.

Both ingredients are made with 100 percent real coconuts and are packed with the creamy goodness of fresh gata that is as good and flavorful as the ones you get from the market. Coconut Cream or Kakang Gata has a thicker and richer consistency because it is made from pressing four parts shredded coconut in one part warm water while Coconut Milk (Gata) has a more liquid consistency (similar to cow’s milk) that is made from pressing one part shredded coconut in one part water.

Gata, regardless if it is in cream or milk form, is very versatile on its own. Whether you and your family are craving savory or sweet dishes, there is definitely a recipe where you can use this wonder ingredient. Coconut cream is perfect for savory dishes because its consistency provides a creamier and richer texture common in curries,. Use it for standout Pinoy favorites like Ginataang Isda, Chicken Curry, Ginataang Gulay, Bicol Express, and Laing. Check out our very own recipe for Bicol Express using Jolly Coconut Cream below.

Bicol Express

Ingredients:

3 to 4 tablespoons canola oil
6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 small ginger, finely chopped
1 can Jolly Whole Mushrooms 400g, drained and quartered
1/2 kilo pork belly, cut into cubes
1 tablespoon shrimp paste
250mL Jolly Coconut Cream
1/2 cup water
3-5 pieces siling labuyo, sliced

Procedure:

Heat oil in a pot over medium heat then sauté garlic, onion, ginger, and Jolly Mushrooms.
Add cubed pork belly and cook until the pork turns brown. Add shrimp paste.
Add Jolly Coconut Cream and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Add water if the sauce becomes too thick.
Add chopped siling labuyo. Remove from heat and serve with hot steaming rice.

Maja Blanca Recipe

Maja Blanca

Coconut milk, on the other hand, has a unique taste and texture that can give your desserts and beverages a distinct flavor. Crack open a can of it if you’re craving sweet goodies like Maja Blanca, Bibingka, Ginataang Bilo Bilo, Biko, and Ginataang Mais. Here’s our very own recipe for Maja Blanca using Jolly Coconut Milk.

Maja Blanca

Ingredients:

2 cans Jolly Coconut Milk 400ml
1 1/2 cups fresh milk
1 cup cornstarch
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 cup latik
1 can Jolly Whole Corn Kernels 425g, drained
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated (for topping)

Procedure:

Combine Jolly Coconut Milk, fresh milk, cornstarch, sugar, cheese and Jolly Whole Corn Kernels in a mixing bowl and stir thoroughly.
Place in a large saucepan and cook while stirring constantly over low heat until thick.
Pour into small mold containers. Cool, then refrigerate until firm.
Top with grated cheese or latik.

As a brand that has always been dedicated to providing high-quality ingredients to Filipino households, Jolly allows homemakers to show their care to their families through hearty, memorable dishes that they can cook anytime. Jolly Coconut Cream and Coconut Milk, in particular, are a true testament to this brand promise because they come in easy-open cans that can be easily stocked in our pantries for times when we want to cook our favorite gata dishes. Not only are they high-quality because they are made from one hundred percent real coconuts, they are also irresistibly creamy so you can expect to enjoy the same goodness from the ones you get from the market. You #GataLoveJolly for that, don’t you think?

Jolly products are available in leading supermarkets, groceries and public markets nationwide. You can also order Jolly Coconut Milk and Jolly Coconut Cream online on AceMarket.ph and Fly Ace Corporation’s stores on Lazada and Shopee. Need more recipe inspirations that can make you and your family scream #YanAngJollyLove? Follow Jolly’s official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts now for more ideas.

IP Law Enforcement, Student Groups, and Publishers Against Content Piracy

2023-02-26T09:26:00.001+08:00

Intellectual property law enforcement, student academic groups, publishers sign statement of cooperation against content piracy

(L to R) Jesus Manapat - National Bureau of Investigation, Stephen Floyd Abuso Gopez – Executive Vice president - Association of law students of the Philippines, Atty. Rowel Barba - Director - Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines, Dean Lilibeth Aragon - President - association of administrators in Hospitality, hotel and restaurant management educational institution and Atty. Dominador Buhain - Chairman Rex Education

Rex Education hosted a press conference recently, bringing together key organizations committed to educating people about piracy and stopping the illegal reproduction and distribution of copyrighted content.

Present at the event were leaders and representatives from the Philippine Association of Law Schools, the Association of Law Students of the Philippines, the Legal Education Board, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines, the National Book Development Board, the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations of the Philippines, the National Bureau of Investigation, Association of Administrators in Hospitality Hotel and Restaurant Management Educational Institution, the Philippine Librarians Association, the Philippine Council of Deans and Educators in Business, the Philippine Association of Collegiate Schools of Business, Philippine Association for Teachers and Educators, Professional Criminologists Association of the Philippines, Association of Christian Schools, Colleges and Universities and the Philippine Educational Measurement and Evaluation Association.

Piracy is defined as the unauthorized reproduction and distribution of copyrighted content, including but not limited to books, movies, music, and the like. In the Philippines, anti-piracy legislation is strengthened by Republic Act 8293 or the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines that protects and secures the exclusive rights of scientists, inventors, artists and other gifted citizens to their intellectual property and creations.

The press conference is a part of REX’s anti-piracy campaign, which was launched last September 16, 2022 at the Manila International Book Fair. The primary objective of the campaign is to curb, if not eradicate, content piracy by educating, communicating, and instilling among our colleagues, families, and children a true appreciation of the value of one’s own work. REX’s efforts in this direction are also in recognition and support of the relentless hard work of intellectual property law enforcement agencies in the country.

“We should continue to educate, communicate, and instill among our colleagues, families, and children a true appreciation of the value of one’s own work. In this sense, we are all duty-bearers. But above that, we are Filipinos,” said Atty. Dominador Buhain, chairman of Rex Education. “ Aside from our laws, what also binds us are our values, our sense of pakikipagkapwa, of pagpapakatao, our pride in our own work, and our respect for each other and of each other’s work.”

Over the past year, the campaign has gained the attention of various organizations with similar sentiments. Stakeholders from the education sector, along with consumers and learners, have all come together to express their support for the movement. Above all, there is a call to protect creators and all their intellectual property in all its forms.

“Throughout our rich history, we recognize and respect one truth about what we do: We are able to accomplish so much because of our people. REX has immense pride for the talented and hardworking individuals who pour their creativity, knowledge, and skills in the development of our learning materials, and these are not limited to books,” said Atty. Dominador Buhain, chairman of Rex Education.

For more information regarding REX’s efforts, feel free to watch the “Proud Ako” anti-piracy campaign video that was launched at MIBF 2022. Visit www.rex.com.ph to support Rex Education in its endeavor of protecting the publishing industry.

Jolly Encourages Home Chefs' Creativity in the Kitchen to Empower Home Cooks

2023-02-21T17:48:00.008+08:00

They assert that the stomach is the most direct route to a person's heart. This is definitely the case for many housewives, especially mothers, the moment they enter the kitchen. When you take the time and care to prepare something special for the people who matter to you the most, one just experiences an indescribable emotion. Naturally, the same applies if you're on the receiving end of such a selfless act.

While moms are real geniuses in the kitchen, however, there are also some downtimes when inspiration can run low. Fortunately, Jolly is here to curb that challenge for our home cooks. As the leading brand of packed fruit and vegetable products, Jolly brings convenience straight into our pantries by giving us easy access to fresh ingredients. The brand—which was born from the vision of empowering homemakers and unlocking their creative potential in the kitchen—has continuously enabled this by providing freshly packed fruits and vegetables straight into our pantries. This convenience, combined with the high quality of its products, has made Jolly a market leader in its industry and a top choice among home cooks.

To prove this, we had some moms take on the challenge of creating something special for their loved ones using some of Jolly’s best-sellers. Stephanie Lontoc of StefTheMomma shared one classic dish that never fails to impress her family—Creamy Beef with Mushrooms made with beef sirloin and her go-to Jolly Mushrooms and Jolly Cream of Mushroom Soup! It’s the perfect dish to make if you want to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen as it can only take thirty minutes to prep and cook! Watch her quick recipe here to cop it. : https://www.instagram.com/reel/CnBwgh0J6gL

Dyosa The Momma is another big fan of the tatak Jolly love. For her, she loves how she can still make healthy but also affordable dishes that never fail to be big hits for her family. One of her go-to recipes is Pork Picadillo which is perfect for all types of occasions. The dish is colorful, easy to make, and most of all, delicious and healthy. Go watch her recipe here: https://www.facebook.com/dyosathemomma/videos/1317862722317855

For the recipe, she used Jolly Premium Sliced Mushrooms, Jolly Green Peas and Jolly Garbanzos to make sure that the dish is bursting with flavor and nutrition. More than the convenience and easy access to these ingredients, she also loves how Jolly makes everything easier for the budget.

“With a growing family, dapat mas mindful na tayo sa gastos. Kaya hindi dapat mahal ang delicious meals. Konting creativity lang, pwedeng i-level up ang delicious meal. Kapag nabibigay mo ang sarap at sustansya, yan ang Jolly Love.”

Versatility is also something that’s very important in the kitchen. Thankfully, with easy access to fresh ingredients, you will never run out of dishes to try. The Peach Kitchen proves this by creating her version of Ginataang Gulay using Jolly products . She shares, “Isa sa paraan natin ng pagpaparamdam ng pagmamahal natin sa pamilya natin ay ang pagluluto natin para sa kanila. Kaya naman as much as possible gusto natin na masarap at healthy ang hinahanda natin para sa kanila.”

Check out her recipe below: https://www.facebook.com/PeachKitchen/videos/1812729012435899/

Jolly is a brand that was created by a family for families. Since its conception, it knows that when it comes to expressing love, Filipino households use the language of food to make connections and express their emotions. Still the undisputed leading brand of freshly packed fruits, vegetables, and other pantry essentials, it continues to fulfill its promise of empowering home cooks by expanding their creativity in the kitchen through its wide range of products. When you put your heart into every food you make and when you never run out of ideas in the kitchen, #YanAngJollyLove!

Shop your favorite Jolly products in leading supermarkets nationwide or online via Ace Market, Lazada, and Shopee. Don’t forget to follow their Instagram and Facebook accounts to keep updated on their latest news and offers.

New Hot Beverages to Love This Valentine’s Month from the Goodwill Market

2023-02-09T08:14:00.002+08:00

Nothing helps you get through a long workday like a warm cup of coffee or some chocolate. You can complete your assignments faster if you use the flavor boost from your beverage of choice. The Goodwill Market offers new coffee, tea, and chocolate drink goods that are ideal as breakfast or break time companions to make your refreshments even more healthful and enjoyable.

Chek Hup Cham Tarik mixes the softness of condensed milk with the richness of 100% imported Brazilian coffee beans and Kenya Black Tea. Each cup delivers a naturally smooth burst of energy because no artificial flavors or sweeteners are used.

Coffee drinkers can elevate their caffeine fix with Check Hup Kopi Tarik. It is a robust and aromatic blend of 100% Brazilian Coffee with creamy and sweet condensed milk that takes you on a perfectly-brewed taste trip.

Chocolate lovers can try something new, with the Chek Hup Chocolate Drink with Peppermint. This intriguing mix combines the super-rich flavors of fermented cocoa beans with the refreshing taste of peppermint. It is sweetened with Check Hup rock sugar with no artificial chocolate flavoring added.

Enjoy these new Check Hup drink variants conveniently delivered to your doorstep with The GoodWill Market’s online shopping hub which also offers more choices of curated wellness products and health essentials. What’s more, you can sign up for the online newsletter that delivers the latest promos and new product notifications along with interesting content that caters to your healthy lifestyle choices. For more information on The Goodwill Market and to shop securely online, visit www.goodwill.market

Rizal Park Hotel Welcomes Lunar New Year Prosperity with Good Fortune Menu

2023-01-18T20:17:00.002+08:00

As the luckiest animal in the Chinese Zodiac, the rabbit promises a year of prosperity, hope, and calm.

The historic Rizal Park Hotel invites guests to usher in abundance and success by celebrating the Year of the Water Rabbit with a sumptuous, curated menu of authentic Chinese cuisine, available across the property’s dining outlets from Imperial Court to Cafe Rizal.

At the signature Chinese outlet Imperial Court, families and friends may celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with menu options designed specifically for the occasion. Start with the Good Fortune Menu at P28,888/table (10 persons) featuring 9 curated dishes such as Grilled Wagyu Beef w/ Honey Mustard Salad, Shrimp Baby Abalone Truffle Sauce, Fried Pigeon, and Steamed Garlic Crab. The menu comes with two complimentary bottles of white wine.

Guests craving for Peking Duck, Stir-Fry Scallop Szechuan Style, and Steamed Lapu-Lapu may choose the Prosperity Menu, which features these along with six more dishes. The Prosperity Menu is available for only P29,888/table of 10 persons, inclusive of two bottles of white wine or rose.

Imperial Court’s Lunar New Year menus are available from January 21 to February 5, 2023.

On Lunar New Year’s Day, enjoy a dimsum buffet of Siomai, Tikoy, Dumplings, Buchi and other delicacies at the hotel for only P600 – an irresistible offer that comes with celebrating over a glass of wine and a festivity of lion dance and firecrackers. In addition, guests can also dine at Cafe Rizal for its buffet of Chinese congee and side dishes.

For more information about Rizal Park Hotel’s dining offers for the Lunar New Year, call (02) 8804-8700. Follow facebook https://www.facebook.com/RizalParkHotel and instagram https://www.instagram.com/rizalparkhotel1911/

About Rizal Park Hotel

Opened in 2017, Rizal Park Hotel welcomes travelers to the exclusive property that was once Manila’s social hall, the Army and Navy Club (ANC). Designed by the renowned architect William Parsons and unveiled in 1911, the ANC played host to Filipinos and Americans who relaxed, played sports, and enjoyed the high life within its grounds. Meticulously conserved and restored into a boutique hotel by Oceanville Hotel and Spa Corporation, Rizal Park Hotel features 107 rooms and an array of sumptuous dining options, such as authentic Chinese restaurant Imperial Court and all-day dining Rizal Cafe. The hotel also offers relaxing fitness and spa amenities and indoor and alfresco event spaces. Its proximity to Luneta, Intramuros, and Manila Ocean Park makes it the ideal place to stay and enjoy the city.

Hotel Sogo Lands Two Accolades at 10th Netizens Best Choice Awards

2023-01-05T17:41:00.002+08:00

Hotel Sogo, the country’s largest Filipino-owned hotel chain company with over 45 branches nationwide, has been crowned as the “Best Choice Philippines Leading Hotel Chain” and won the “Philippines Guest Choice Awards” by the acclaimed Netizens Best Choice Awards 2022.

The Netizens Best Choice Awards for Business Excellence play a vital role in promoting responsible use of the internet since it conducts online research and surveys for promoting the best brands, products and services that distinguished itself among its competitors by earning the Netizen’s Trust Seal.

Awardees are chosen through an online nomination and multi-criteria evaluation in a variety of category such as Product/Brand/Service Quality & Innovativeness, Image/Value Proposition & Pricing, Strong Brand Online Market Influence, and Proper & Responsible means of using the internet.

Remarking on the impressive win, Ms. Sue Geminiano, Marketing Director of Hotel Sogo, says, “This award is for the management, (as well as) the operations people [who are also considered as frontliners]. They worked so hard for this in a good and very respectful way. If not for them, Hotel Sogo will not be this big, well known, and will have many branches nationwide”.

As of writing, Hotel Sogo has 46 branches nationwide located in key cities in the metro and provinces. Further plans for expansion in other areas are still expected and the hotel looks forward to many more wins in the future.

For more details, visit www.hotelsogo.com or like and follow Hotel Sogo on Facebook (facebook.com/hotelsogo), Twitter (@hotelsogo), and Instagram (@hotelsogo).

Hotel Sogo Shines at Asian Business Excellence Awards

2023-01-02T17:41:00.015+08:00

Congratulations, Hotel Sogo!

The country’s largest Filipino-owned hotel chain company has been awarded as Asia’s Most Outstanding Hotel Chain of the Year and Philippine's Most Leading Hotel Chain of the Year.

Meanwhile, Hotel Sogo’s CEO, Mr. Reynaldo M. Malaca was recognized as the Philippines Most Outstanding CEO of The Year at the recent Asian Business Excellence Awards 2022 held in Quezon City.

Hotel Sogo Marketing Director, Ms. Sue Geminiano shares her gratitude to the award-winning organization for recognizing the hotel’s goal in providing a clean, safe, and top-notch service to its patrons and guests.

“On behalf of Hotel Sogo, thank you Asian Business Excellence Awards 2022 for giving us these recognitions. These awards are nothing if not because of the management and the hardworking staff of our operations. We will continue to give our all in providing our guests a safe and clean stay. Hotel Sogo will not be here without your love and support” she shared.

The Asian Business Excellence Awards (ABEA) is a prestigious International Citation in recognizing Asian excellence in corporate, products, services features and trademarks and/or brands founded by Young Asian Consumers Welfare Advocate.

Currently, Hotel Sogo has 46 branches nationwide located in key areas around the metro and provinces. The hotel anticipates expanding in more areas of the country and looks forward to many more recognition in the future.

For more details, visit www.hotelsogo.com or like and follow Hotel Sogo on Facebook (facebook.com/hotelsogo), Twitter (@hotelsogo), and Instagram (@hotelsogo).

How to Save Money in your 40s

2022-12-26T01:18:00.000+08:00

This crazy inflation has really affected most people, including myself. In the Philippines, it’s like having a salary of Php 20,000 is no longer enough to live comfortably even for one person. Also, saving money is really difficult nowadays especially if you have bills to pay. In my case, when I start saving, somehow I always end up spending it because of unexpected expenses. Right now, I have a work-at-home job and I’m earning just enough for food, rent, and transportation fees when my daughter and I commute to take her to school, which is just one tricycle ride away, plus I give allowance to my son who also commutes to school. So long story short, it’s hard for me to save.

So the question is, is it too late for people like me to save especially during these hard times? I looked at some interesting articles online that could help us give some insight. Here are some tips worth reading:

1.) Finish paying off any debt. According to an article from Forbes.com, if you have high-interest debt, finish it off once and for all during your 40s. All it's doing is holding you back. Right now, that’s exactly what I plan to do – finish all my debts, especially from Shopee so I can start focusing on my savings goals.

2.) Be honest. At first, I thought I can get rid of coffee so I can save some money. I know to myself that I cannot work without coffee so I really need to set aside some bucks for it. Another example is face-to-face classes. Times were different when my kids were still having their online studies. I did not need to compute their allowance and transportation expenses. Now, since face-to-face classes have been implemented, I failed to compute these expenses beforehand. Knowing your real expenses can help you set realistic financial goals.

3.) Learn a new skill. At my age, I am actually starting to feel like my current skills can be learned by fresh grad employees which makes me feel kind of depressed sometimes. So this year, I plan to learn some new skills, but I’m still working on what particular skills they’ll be.

4.) Avoid lifestyle inflation. Okay, this is new to me, but it’s also an eye-opener. While you can spend more on some goods like food, and drinks, and occasionally treat yourself to a family vacation, it's crucial to avoid letting prices get the better of you. Don't spend your entire budget on enhancing your lifestyle meaning if you know your salary is just enough, don’t spend money going to coffee shops and eating out every day when you know that you can’t financially sustain it. When you let your lifestyle inflate, your net gain is zero. So the bottom line is to maintain your simple lifestyle.

5.) Start a retirement fund. Considering you still don't have a retirement fund, I believe it's never too late to get one since we still have 20 years (or less) before we retire in our 60s. Though the contributions are higher compared to individuals who are in their 20s, it’s never too late to get one.

6.) Get a side gig. If you really think your current job can’t give you higher pay then it’s time to find another side gig or a part-time job to sustain your finances. You can also start a small business if you have the extra money. Having a passive income is a necessity.

There are still a lot of things we can do in our 40s. Some have started a business in their 40s or even in their 50s or 60s and became successful. As for me, what I need right now is extra cash to sustain my expenses so I believe I’ll be looking for another side gig. What about you? Tell me in the comments below what your plans are or if you have suggestions.

Globe, SM Advantage Card (SMAC) #UniteVsHunger, Join Hands for the Hapag Movement

2022-12-16T16:01:00.002+08:00

With every purchase of a SMAC card and every checkout, shoppers can now help support a family in need.

Leading digital solutions platform Globe and SM Advantage Card (SMAC), the loyalty card of retail giant SM, have come together to help put meals on the table of those in need through the Hapag Movement, Globe’s technology-driven program against involuntary hunger.

“We are excited to partner with SMAC at the most joyful time of the year so we can bring cheer to our fellow Filipinos who continue to suffer due to involuntary hunger. Now, it’s easier for shoppers to share their blessings to the needy, bring food to the table, and get assistance for decent livelihood as we mark this Christmas season post-pandemic,” said Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer Yoly Crisanto.

“Our collaboration with Globe for the Hapag Movement is a pioneering partnership for us as it aligns with the SM brand’s goal of providing support to Filipinos every way we can. This is the time for us to rally behind this cause to help those who continue to reel from the impact of the pandemic and challenges due to rising living costs. Ibaliknatinangsarap ng Pasko,” said Jay Beltran, SMAC SAVP Head of Sales and Marketing.

Through the partnership, P50.00 will be donated to the Hapag Movement and other SM Foundation programs for every purchase of a new SMAC card.

On top of this, SMAC members who will shop select items at the SM Store, SM Beauty, SM Appliance, Kultura, Surplus, Our Home, Baby Company, Crate and Barrel, Levi's, The Body Shop, Forever21, Ecco, and Miniso will earn up to 1,000 EXTRA SMAC Points, and half of the EXTRA points they earn will be donated to the movement starting December 15, 2022 until January 15, 2023, in time for this season of giving.

“We celebrate the season of giving with our SMAC members with the gift of giving— letting them share blessings with our most vulnerable kababayans,” Beltran said.

Globe’s Hapag Movement leverages on technology and collaboration to help 100,000 families experiencing involuntary hunger through supplemental feeding and livelihood support.

Globe initiated the program to help Filipinos severely affected by the pandemic, with its effects still felt until today. An estimated 2.9 million individuals reported suffering from involuntary hunger as of October this year, largely unchanged from the quarter before, according to a Social Weather Stations Survey.

To learn more about the Hapag Movement, visit its official page. You may also visit smac.ph or download the SMAC app to know more.

Try this Healthy Recipe for Noche Buena from The Goodwill Market

2022-12-11T03:55:00.007+08:00

The holidays mean indulging in good food to celebrate traditions with family and friends. However, having too many rich foods may take a toll on your health. Serving healthy alternatives at your get-togethers can ensure that you are providing nutritious and delicious options that everyone can enjoy without missing out on the festivities.

The Goodwill Market shares this paella recipe by Chef Joel Tan Navarro that uses Duru Bulgur instead of rice. It packs more than twice the fiber and four times as much folate from bulgur, plus the umami goodness of mushrooms and the heart-healthy properties of olive oil.

Mushroom Truffle Paella (Duru Bulgur’s Vegetarian Paella)

Ingredients:

✓2 tbsp. Umbria Original Truffle Sauce

✓1 cup Duru Bulgur coarse

✓A drizzle of Umbria Tartufi White Truffle flavored oil

✓1/2 cup shitake mushrooms fresh

✓1/2 cup shitake mushrooms dried

✓1/2cup white button mushrooms

✓1/2 cup portobello mushrooms

✓1/2 cup arugula

✓1/2 cup olive oil

✓1/2 cup onions

✓2 cups vegetable stock

✓Salt

✓Pepper

Preparation:

1. Soak dried shitake mushrooms in hot water and let them bloom. Set aside.

2. Prepare, wash and cut other mushrooms and set aside.

3. Cut onions and set aside.

4. Wash the arugula and trim it into small pieces.

Cooking Time:

1. Heat up olive oil in a paella pan

2. Brown fresh shitake mushrooms and set aside. It will be used as a garnish.

3. Add a little bit of olive oil then sauté onions.

4. Add the rest of the mushrooms until brown.

5. Add the truffle salsa.

6. Add Duru Bulgur coarse and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes.

7. Then add vegetable stock and let it simmer and reduce.

8. When reduced, place the fresh shitake mushrooms as garnish.

9. Cover with foil to continue cooking and adjust the heat to medium low.

10. When the bulgur is cooked, crank up the heat to achieve the socoratt (crispy bottom layer of

bulgur).

11. When done, take it off the heat and garnish with arugula. Serve.

Switch things up this Noche Buena with this filling and festive paella, made with Duru Bulgur that is conveniently available at The Goodwill Market online store. Shop smart and have your healthy goodies delivered directly to your doorstep through www.goodwill.market.

Unli ang Saya this Christmas with J&T Express PH’s Huge Shipping Discount!

2022-12-09T21:51:00.001+08:00

TAGUIG CITY – Leading e-commerce global delivery service J&T Express is giving away big discounts as an early Christmas gift to their customers nationwide. Get huge savings on shipping fees when you send your parcels via J&T Express this holiday season using its Unlisaya promo with a voucher discount, available on their mobile application.

The promo is offered to all J&T Express customers—especially the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Customers may pay as low as 39 pesos when they ship via J&T Express using Unlisaya promo with a J&T Express voucher. To avail of the promo, customers, whether walk-in or pick-up, must choose the Unlisaya promo and claim the daily voucher on the J&T Express mobile app.

“It is undeniable that most of us will purchase our Christmas gifts online. With the holiday craze coming, we are offering our lowest shipping fee yet as we hope to help lessen the shipping cost for consumers and to attract more businesses for the MSMEs. This is our early Christmas gift for everyone, whether our regular customers, business owners, or even those who ship via J&T Express for the first time. Now, they may enjoy shopping online for Christmas without worrying about the shipping fee,” says Zoe Chi, Vice President of J&T Express Philippines.

The promo aims to ease the hassle of paying high-shipping costs as Unlisaya offers a pouch-based rate fee, regardless of the weight of the item/s. Together with the Unlisaya promo and the J&T Express voucher discount, customers will save more budget for their Christmas shopping because of the affordable shipping rate.

J&T Express Philippines’ Unlisaya Promo is ongoing throughout the Christmas season, avail yours today!

Visit the nearest J&T Express or book a free pick-up via the mobile application or website to use the promo. To learn more about the services offered by J&T Express, log on to www.jtexpress.ph or visit www.facebook.com/jntexpressphilippines.

Have an Excellent Holiday Season with Promos by Taiwan Excellence Products

2022-12-07T22:40:00.004+08:00

Don’t fret thinking about your Christmas gift for a loved one this Yuletide season anymore. Taiwan Excellence has got a complete range of excellent lifestyle products you can choose from for that all-important present you can give in this most important and joyous season.

Take Acer, for example. One of Taiwan’s best IT brands that completely took the world by storm, Acer makes unboxing during the holidays a truly exceptional experience for the whole family.

Just buy any participating Acer products and be ready to get a free Digital SM Gift Pass worth up to P8,000. Promo runs until December 31, 2022.

Shop Acer products now to get up to P8,000 worth of Digital SM Gift Pass

Ready to give the gift of beauty this season of giving? Try giving away Annie’s Way products from Taiwan through their “Buy 5, Take 1” promo. You can buy any five of their popular Jelly Masks such as their Honey + Lecithin, Arbutin Hyaluronic Acid, Lavender, Aloe + Seaweed, Anti-Aging, Calendula + Chamomile, Charcoal + Vita-C Pore, Snail Secretion Repairing and get another one absolutely free! Now how about that for Christmas beauty?

Learn more about the Annie’s Way Buy 5 Take 1 in Jelly Masks promo here

Here's another one of Taiwan’s outstanding products on information technology devices. ASUS has its “ASUS/ROG Share 2022” promo, where you can receive up to P11,000 worth of wonderful freebies through the purchase of participating ASUS products. ASUS made it even sweeter where the freebie you’ll get depends on the price range of the ASUS product you will buy. Of course, the higher-priced products get a premium freebie, which is logical. But then again, just get whatever ASUS product your heart desires because every ASUS product is marked with excellence.

The ASUS/ROG Share 2022 Promo also offers limited-time exclusive bundle packages and discounts for select ASUS and ROG products such as laptops, mobile phones, and others.

Better hurry since the “ASUS/ROG Share 2022” is only up to December 31, 2022. Learn more here.

Worried about your loved one’s thinning hair up there? Give the gift of Aromase and its Anti-Hair Loss Set to give your man—or woman—that extra boost in confidence. With Aromase’s Juniper Scalp Purifying Liquid Shampoo, it softens and removes unnecessary sebum on the scalp and regulates the health of the scalp ecosystem for hair growth, moisturizes scalp, and effectively relieves scalp itchiness.

On the other hand, the Aromase Anti-Hair Loss Essential Shampoo for Hair Loss helps strengthen the protective mechanism of the scalp and maintains hair visibility and makes it even stronger.

With the Aromase Anti-Hair Loss Kit as your Christmas gift, you can never go wrong.

Looking to upgrade your computer hardware this season? Give yourself that gift of Transcend solid state drives, the leading brand in digital storage and multimedia products. The Transcend SSD225S, for example, is a 2.5-inch solid-state drive that’s designed for both desktops or laptops. Enjoy fast application processing times to greatly enhance your computer’s performance. Plus, with up to 2TB of storage capacity, saving your music, documents, movies, and photos will be such a breeze, a better choice than the usual hard disk drives.

Meanwhile, the Transcend MTE250S SSD features the 3D NAND flash, an 8-channel controller, and DRAM cache that delivers sequential read and write speeds of up to 7,200/6,500 MB/s (R/W) and ample capacity of up to 2TB. Its ultra-thin graphene heatsink guarantees stable performance despite working non-stop, with proven performance that gamers, content creators, and software developers will surely love and enjoy no matter what their game is.

Another award-winning Taiwanese IT product is MSI which you can consider giving as a Christmas gift for an exceptional family member or friend. Get a full joy with MSI’s “Joy-Full Christmas Sale” where you get special discounts and freebies worth up to P28,500. Whether for gaming or business productivity needs, trust MSI to give your computing this Christmas a big boost. And you only have until December 31, 2022, to avail of the MSI “Joy-Full Christmas” Sale so hurry up!

Avail the MSI “Joy-Full Christmas Sale” here.

So, forget about buying products that can be like a box of chocolates where you wouldn’t know what you’re going to get. When buying Taiwan Excellence products, you have no doubt that what you get is quality and excellence.

Eyes on Manila: A Mom's Lifestyle Blog

Vista Land Unveils Latest Residential Developments in a Landmark Nationwide Expansion

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Great Baby Skin with the Yoboo Baby Skincare Set

Give your baby the gift of healthy, resilient skinwith the yoboo Baby Skincare Set

Making Meaningful Connections with Magnolia Chicken Timplados

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Stay Overnight for Php 9,000 and Get 2nd Night for Just Php125 at Rizal Park Hotel

Psst! Having A Down Day? These Daily Reminders Will Pick Up Your Spirits

Rex Education’s ‘Bawat Paaralan Edukampyon Continuum’ Recognized at UNODC Conference as an Exemplary School-Community-Family Program

Rex Education’s ‘Bawat Paaralan Edukampyon Continuum’ recognized at UNODC Conference as an exemplary school-community-family program for strengthening drug-abuse prevention

Taking a whole school approach to reform initiatives

Bawat Paaralan Edukampyon in support of UNODC standards

Bawat Paaralan Edukampyon is an exemplary school-community-family program for drug abuse prevention

Mother’s Day at Rizal Park Hotel

Guess What? This Home Appliance Is The Most Popular Mother's Day Gift of 2023

Camella's Summer Splash Photography Contest 2023: Take Your Best Splash

Honoring the Heroes: Commemorating the Bataan Death March with a Memorial Ride on Araw ng Kagitingan

Ride for Valor, a bike-for-a-cause to raise funds for the maintenance of the Bataan Death March markers and other World War 2 heritage sites is slated on April 9, 2023 or Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor), also known as the 81st Anniversary of the Fall of Bataan and the start of the Death March.

It’s a Fun Easter at Rizal Park Hotel

Earn From Blogging

Are you a blogger who wants to earn in writing?

Are you a brand that wants to connect with influencers?

Fun Way to Learn Math For Kids

Playing as a Cashier

Learning How to Compute Customer Change

Lego with a Hint of Math

Pans Up Home Cooks! You #GataLoveJolly’s Coconut Cream and Coconut Milk

Bicol Express

Maja Blanca Recipe

IP Law Enforcement, Student Groups, and Publishers Against Content Piracy

Intellectual property law enforcement, student academic groups, publishers sign statement of cooperation against content piracy

Jolly Encourages Home Chefs' Creativity in the Kitchen to Empower Home Cooks

New Hot Beverages to Love This Valentine’s Month from the Goodwill Market

Rizal Park Hotel Welcomes Lunar New Year Prosperity with Good Fortune Menu

Imperial Court’s Lunar New Year menus are available from January 21 to February 5, 2023.

About Rizal Park Hotel

Hotel Sogo Lands Two Accolades at 10th Netizens Best Choice Awards

Hotel Sogo Shines at Asian Business Excellence Awards

Congratulations, Hotel Sogo!

How to Save Money in your 40s

Globe, SM Advantage Card (SMAC) #UniteVsHunger, Join Hands for the Hapag Movement

With every purchase of a SMAC card and every checkout, shoppers can now help support a family in need.

Try this Healthy Recipe for Noche Buena from The Goodwill Market

Mushroom Truffle Paella (Duru Bulgur’s Vegetarian Paella)

Ingredients:

Unli ang Saya this Christmas with J&T Express PH’s Huge Shipping Discount!

Have an Excellent Holiday Season with Promos by Taiwan Excellence Products

Give your baby the gift of healthy, resilient skin
with the yoboo Baby Skincare Set