THE PHILIPPINES AND BEYOND

Ilocos Sur Travel Guide

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 06:00:00 +0000

The whole Ilocos region is a great destination, but you will appreciate it even better if you can focus on each region at a given time. For instance, Ilocos Sur is perhaps the best representative of Ilocos’ significant contribution to history. Let’s check out the things to do and places to see in this place up in the map of the Philippine Islands.

Vigan. Oh, this town deserves a longer time under the spotlight, but in summary, it is the most beautiful heritage walk in the Philippines. Calle Crisologo, in particular, is worthy of many shutter clicks and a blog entry, perhaps even a poem! Don't forget to also check out the burnayan, where you can create a clay pot ala Demi Moore.
Vigan Empanada. While Ilocos is home to different food specialties, Vigan empanada remains to be a favorite. In fact, everytime there is a trade fair in Manila, booths that sell Vigan empanada always have long lines of people wanting a taste of this baby! So have it right where it was created, where there’s no long line, and just the perfect setting to have a hearty merienda.
Vigan Longanisa. Since we’re already in the topic of food, it is also worthy to mention Vigan longanisa, one that isn't typical, and can easily please your choosy palate. It is garlicky rather than sweet, and is perfect with vinegar and garlic fried rice. You will most likely be served Vigan longanisa for breakfast in your hotel!
Sta. Maria Church. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sta. Maria church is the first stop you will make upon reaching Ilocos Sur. It has a beautiful staircase that leads to a beautiful church. If you were using a camera loaded with film, you’d start to feel bad about how you’re so limited in taking photos. Luckily, we live in the digital age.
Baluarte. Just a short trip from the Vigan town center, Baluarte is a provate property owned by Governor Chavit Singson. Good thing he opened this to the public, because OMG this is such a hot property! It’s a zoo with a very interesting layout, which means kids will have fun exploring and adults will get in touch with their inner kid too. Although you won't be allowed to pet some animals, watching a python patiently wait for a live chicken for lunch can be quite interesting. Live Animal Planet, if you ask.

Travel Information

You can take a plane going to Laoag City via any domestic airline such as Cebu Pacific Air. From there, you simply need to take a bus ride that will take you to the land of windmills and beaches.

You can also opt for the longer, yet usually more enjoyable, mode of transportation, and that is hitting the road. Whether you go there with a driver or take a commuter bus, as long as you’re in good company, you’ll have one heck of a road trip to Ilocos Sur.

Chateau 1771, with Love

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 05:31:00 +0000

For the first time in twenty five years, Chateau 1771's executive chef, Vicky Rose Pacheco, introduces her top picks for lunch and dinner set menus for Valentine's Day: "a feast of light, fresh and festive for lunch while dinner features the rare French classics."

For lunch, worth the highlight is the watercress soup with lavash bread and its relieving, sophisticated texture. A natural super food, it’s heartwarming and oozing with revitalizing nutrients. While the main course, it will give you two options, but since grilling steak is a serious business at Chateau 1771, the seared U.S. beef tenderloin with blue cheese stuffing (P1, 300+) is a hefty reward for any meat lover. Made visually appetizing with grilled eggplant, zucchini, broccoli drizzled with roasted potatoes and fragrant roasted potatoes in olive oil, rosemary, and thyme, the 200 grams of pan seared beef laced with roasted garlic bacon sauce is brimming with juices and stuffing in every slice. If a version of this kind of flavor is what you’re rooting for but shying away from meat, go for the baked fish of the day (P1, 100+)—grilled and made tender with lemon, capers, thyme, and almonds. Judging from the risotto’s heavily-packed add-ons such as squid, shrimps made tasty in chicken and fish stock then topped with butter and parmigiano reggiano as a tasty finish, the risotto is the only fitting pair for a delicately cooked main course.

Dessert is as special as it features the melon’s juicy sweetness. Called the white cloud melon sabayon, it’s a refreshing dessert, lightly sweetened with poached meringue on whisked custard with melon and amaretto.

If planning for a romantic date, fork it out with a hot French dinner affair. Inventive and made from the freshest raw ingredients, Chateau 1771’s French-themed dinner focuses on the tasty yet uncomplicated classic dishes that are hard to find. For the soup, give the Swiss brown mushroom vol-au-vent with greens, edible flowers and pomegranate dressing a try. Delicately baked and in-house made, the French puff pastry round shell is filled with a creamy mixture smacked with garlic and thyme then deglazed with wine. With Swiss browns or the baby Portobello as the star in this soup, it results to an intriguing and heartwarming full-bodied taste.

Using a prime steak cut, the U.S. Angus bone-in rib steak with café de Paris butter (P2,600+), Duchess potatoes, and grilled ratatouille is every inch an irresistible meat from its cut to flavor. A ¾ inch thick slab of meat with the bone-in, it’s meant to be smothered with café de Paris butter spiced up with tarragon, rosemary, basil, and thyme with a spike of cognac.

If in the mood to try something exotic but not exactly like it, go for the French countryside comfort--the Rougie duck leg confit (P2, 400+). Another rare find, the duck meat is cured with salt, cooked in a special Dutch oven with the most-prized duck fat giving the flavor more depth and producing a velvety piece of meat. The result? A super tender meat that almost falls off the bones!

Good meal deserves a happy ending, so try the chocolate valrhona ganache tart with gorgonzola crème brulee on the side. Marrying the slightly salty flavor of Italian blue cheese and exuberant characteristics of chocolate valrhona plus the creamy and rich crème brulee, this dessert promises a palate-tickling cross between salty-sweet.

Chateau 1771 – Greenbelt 5 is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. every Sunday to Thursday and 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 m.n. for Friday to Saturday. For reservations, banquets and catering services, please call 729-9760 to 61 or (0917) 8626467. Chateau 1771 is a member of the Chateau 1771 Group of Restaurants that include Sentro 1771 in Greenbelt 3, Sentro 1771 in Serendra, Bonifacio Global City and Café 1771 in El Pueblo Real de Manila, ADB Avenue cor. Julia Vargas Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

Speck CandyShell Flip for iPhone5

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Sat, 02 Feb 2013 09:08:00 +0000

I got my iPhone 5 from the better network, Smart Communications. And since then, I have no regrets about owning an iPhone 5. Like every other smart phone, you have to have your phone taken cared of, protecting it from bumps, dents, and unexpected falling. After getting my iPhone 5 I know I had to have it protected, that's why I got one of the must have cases in the market - Speck CandyShell Flip.

The Speck CandyShell Flip for iPhone 5 is yet another mufti-awarded Speck CandyShell Flip version, after the CandyShell for iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S.

The CandyShell Flip features a clever flip-back panel that lets you easily dock your iPhone or use accessories like Apple's Lighting to 30-pin adapter and DJ headphones without taking off the case.

And just like every CandyShell case, it combines a hard, impact-resistant outer shell with a soft, shock-absorbent interior in a single piece, pop-in construction.

Resellers: Power Mac Center, Beyond the Box, Digital Hub, Digital Walker, iStudio, Switch, iStore, iCenter, Mobile 1, iGig, The A Shop, SencoLink.

Manang's Chicken - Ang Bagong Fried Chicken ng Pinoy

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Sat, 02 Feb 2013 08:15:00 +0000

Manang's Chicken started out from the family dining table of Jill Gerodias Borja, the President and CEO of Manag's Chicken. Their family cook, whom they fondly call manang, would always whip up the bestselling "sweet, salty, crispy, juicy chicken" during family occasions. It went out to be offered in weekend markets, then finally, starting as a store in Ortigas, after it slowly gained its following due to its unique flavor. Now, they have 12 branches all over the Metro.

Their signature double deep fried crispy chicken with Manang's secret soy garlic sauce is a must try because it's the culprit, the one which started it all. You can choose from an original, mild spicy or extra spicy sauce.

If you're not into chicken, they have just released their new food item, the Garlic Pork rice meal. "Meat-lovers rejoice! Big juicy pork chop deeply fried until perfectly crispy and topped with their special garlic topping.

2013 Travel Tour Expo Philippines, Save the Date!

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 01:35:00 +0000

The largest gathering of travel-holics is back, with the 20th Travel Tour Expo 2013 this February 15-17, 2013 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. Travel and tourism industry players, from destinations, resorts, hotels, airlines, tours, and a lot more, will be offering the best deals and travel options for both domestic and international travel!

While you're at it, do check out the El Nido Resorts booth, and get the lowest possible rates. It's your chance to book a vacation in our little piece of paradise. So save the date, and I will see you around! :)

Related Article: El Nido, Palawan's Newest Eco-Luxury Resort, Pangulasian Island, now opens

Get your Starbucks Pen with your 2013 Starbucks Planner

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 08:40:00 +0000

Now that most of you have your Starbucks 2013 Planners already, one must have Starbucks item is the Starbucks Pen! Regular price of the pen, which comes with 2 free refills, is P295, but if you redeem your planner, it's yours for only P195. Limited time offering while supplies last.

Shay Mitchell visits the Philippines and El Nido Resorts

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 11:10:00 +0000

I received an email from Gian Herrera of Styles Entertainment about a possible collaboration in hosting Shannon Ashley Mitchell, or more known as Shay Mitchell, who stars in the hit ABC Family series Pretty Little Liars as Emily Fields. As it was an opportunity not only for El Nido Resorts, but also to show to an international actress the beauty of the Philippines, I immediately set a meeting to finalize things after I got my boss' approval. After everything, we were all set to welcome the Filipino-Canadian actress, who was visiting with her mom for the first time in the Philippines.

Unfortunately, due to the Christmas rush and busy schedule in the office, I was not able to accompany them to Lagen Island Resort, where they spent several nights enjoying the islands and learning about El Nido Resorts' sustainability programs. On the other hand, I was able to send them off, and welcome them back from the resort.

My first impression of Shay is that she's really nice, optimistic, and warm. True enough, she's simply down to earth, funny, and sincere. And after talking to both Shay and her mom, I can see that she got it all from her mother, who raised her up well. I am sure she's very proud of her and what she has accomplished.

It was Shay's first time in the Philippines, and more than 10 years since her mom last visited. I can't believe that the first thing they saw was the beauty and rich biodiversity of our little piece of paradise - El Nido, Palawan. I am even happier that they liked what they saw so much, they wanted to stay longer in the islands.

The timing was perfect! During their first day, some Hawksbill Turtles were hatching on Dilumacad Island or Helicopter Island, so we brought Shay and the group there to help with the release. She was also able to see our newest property, Pangulasian Island, which is hailed by both Conde Nast and Travel+Leisure, as something to watch out for this 2013.

Everything was set-up to be perfect, thanks to all our staff, starting from the plane ride, courtesy of Island Transvoyager Inc (ITI), to the resorts' Resident Managers and their staff (Lagen Island - Ms. Carmel, Pangulasian Island - Ms. Lei and Sir August, Miniloc Island - Sir Noel), and especially our Environmental Office in Lagen, Jamie Dichaves.

Shay and her group were able to undergo our environmental trainings, or more known as the Be G.R.E.E.N. program, where a turtle badge with your name on it is earned by understanding and appreciating the sustainability programs El Nido Resorts has in place in ensuring that the environment and the rich natural resources of the area are well protected.

P.S. Every employee of El Nido Resorts has to undergo the trainings and pass the exam. You have to go through a quiz and pass it to earn the turtle badge. :)

It was an experience for the books for Shay. I am glad that she had a blast during her trip to El Nido Resorts Lagen Island. Check out her blog posts about her trip here and here. For me, I am glad to have met such an amazing person. Can't wait to have her back in the islands! :)

P.S. Photos #1 and #5 are by yours truly, Photos #2, #3 and #4 are by Jamie Dichaves.

#ColorUrLife with a sweet surprise!

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Sat, 15 Dec 2012 10:13:00 +0000

Have you seen this video of Enchong last week? Check it out. What do you do to #ColorUrLIfe? For me, I spend time in the beach, enjoying the island life, the sea, the breeze, and the wonders of nature and the marine life. For some, like famed actor and sports enthusiast Enchong Dee, he has something in store for his fans. Watch this video below to know what it is. Fans of Enchong Dee will really love this special treat he is preparing. He’s very thankful for the blessings and opportunities coming his way, most especially to his fans, which he will always cherish. A way of saying “thank you” to each and everyone, he has prepared a sweet surprise, a special treat, which you will get to experience, straight from Enchong himself. So, come one, come all...

Best Desserts in a Filipino Restaurant, Sentro 1771

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Sat, 15 Dec 2012 09:55:00 +0000

You would not probably expect to get the best and yummy desserts from a Filipino restaurant. At most you would ask or be offered with their best selection of cakes, sometimes halo-halo, purple yam or more known as ube, or probably leche flan. But you can easily get halo-halo probably from Razons or ube and leche flan from your trusted bakeshop.

Sentro 1771 invited some bloggers today to sample their food, which for me is my personal favorite, anytime of the day! But what I want to highlight now, is their dessert menu, which is filled with really delicious and noteworthy entrees.

Let's start off with their signature Sentro's Cheesecake, a baked but light, no crust cheesecake served with queso de bola and red egg. "Parang bibingka na hindi!" they say. You can distinctly taste the deep flavored cheese in the cheesecake, just perfect rendition of the popular "leche flan," but made differently.

If you are not into cheese, then probably their Coffee Bean Sans Rival is for you. It is more exciting and upbeat that the regular Sans Rival you see arround. Look at how it was presented! It is like a work of art which you hesitate to destroy, but you have to because it is really yummy.

Their Fried Suman and Magoes is made of rolled out suman fried to a light crisp and topped with ripe mangoes and served with sweet coco jam. Perfect Filipino dessert to end your meal.

Another must try is their Maja Blanca Crepe, a delicate and thin rice crepes filled with melt-in-your-mouth coconut milk custard with corn.

Last but definitely not the least, is their bestseller, which is really heavenly - the Coffee Pie. I love coffee, and infusing it in your pie is just so genius and satisfying. The coffee pie is one of its kind. Chocolate-cashew crust with coffee fillings topped with cream cheese and tofee sauce. Spell dessert porn.

Thanks to Kirk and Vannah for the invitation for lunch. :)

#SmartiPhone5 in the Philippines starting December 14, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 02:45:00 +0000

After a little more than 3 months since Apple released to the world the iPhone 5, yesterday, it announced that the iPhone 5 will be coming to 50 additional countries in December starting with South Korea this Friday, December 7, and the Philippines on December 14.

Early today, Smart Communications, tweeted "Save the date! The iPhone 5 will be available via Smart beginning December 14." with the hash tag #SmartiPhone5.

Together with a lot of Filipinos who are patiently waiting for an iPhone 5, I too am excited for its arrival in the Philippines. And where else can you get the best data service deal in the Philippines - only from Smart. So you can live more and be able to do more. :)

Edit: Get the #SmartiPhone5 from the #betternetwork! Sign-up here: http://bit.ly/iPhone5Smart

P.S. This post is not sponsored; artwork by blogger.

Cantonese at the Jasmine Restaurant of the New World Makati Hotel

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 15:47:00 +0000

The Jasmine Restaurant of New World Makati Hotel is offering something special this season, with the playful presentation of authentic Cantonese cuisine by Chinese Executive Chef Wong Kam On, who brings with him more than 20 years of extensive experience in the Chinese culinary industry.

Chef Wong introduces a new and creative menu to the already famous Jasmine selection, bringing the restaurant to a higher level of world-class dining. We were fortunate enough to be able to try for ourselves some of the notable and exciting dishes by Chef Wong.

First in the dinner sampling menu was the Dim Sum Basket with three kinds of dim sum, namely the Shrimp Dumpling "Har Gao," or more commonly known as Hakaw; the Chicken and Abalone dumpling and the Scallop dumpling.

Another appetizer, which was really well plated, was the Chicken and Jelly Fish Salad in Black Vinegar Sauce. I must admit that I do not really eat jelly fish just because it is such, but when I decided to try this dish, I could not help but finish my entire plate. Chef Wong was able to present it nicely to hide the jelly fish with the chicken salad, so as not to turn off those who are picky with what they eat. Overall, I would say I really enjoyed it. Props to the chef!

Another interestingly plated and tasty dish was the Pan Fried Egg Bean Curd and Seafood. It was fried tofu with mixed seafood and broccoli flower. All the ingredients were fresh and done marvelously well, which all tastes so good.

By this time, all the flavors and colors that passed our taste buds are screaming "yummy!" and we could not wait what's next in the menu, and how Chef Wong will wow us more. It was time for the Steamed Cod Fish Fillet, Egg and Soy Sauce to come out, and again, it was plated well. The taste did not fail, as expected.

One of the best dishes of the night was the Pan Fried Diced Beef Tenderloin in Barbecue Sauce. The beef was really so tender, it melts in your mouth. Who could have thought that the chef would make this ordinary Chinese dish tastes even better?

Together with all the food, we were also served this rice.

Another interesting and delicious treat from the chef is the Bailing Mushrooms, Shrimp Mousse in White Sauce. They say that it is aesthetically unappealing, but once you get a bite of this, I bet how it looks like does not matter. Shrimps are my weakness.

Last on the dinner tasting menu was the Braised Chicken with Basil Leaves. This was the least favorite among the dishes, but it does not mean it does not taste good. Chef Wong has mastered the taste of Cantonese/ Chinese cuisine, that I bet anything he does tastes really good. I could not help but feel full after the special meal for us that night.

To cap off the fun night with our hosts, our dessert is Chef Wong's specialty, which happened to be named after, who else, but the chef himself! Meet Chef Wong's Sesame Balls. We were all wondering what's so special about the sesame balls. When it came out, a humongous sesame ball was plated, and served in front of us. He said that it was best that we eat it with our bare hands, while it was still hot; so that is exactly what we did.

Jasmine at the New World Makati Hotel is open daily from 11:30am to 2:30pm for lunch and 6:00pm to 10:30pm for dinner.

Coffee Christmas Tradition is back with the 2013 Limited Edition Starbucks Coffee Planners

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 01:25:00 +0000

It is the season to start drinking coffee and to start collecting stickers to get your own Limited Edition Starbucks Philippines 2013 Coffee Planners! This year they come in 3 different leather cover colors - black, white and green. Starbucks Philippines Christmas tradition returns with the 10th edition of the Starbucks Planner. This year’s theme is “Moments of Connection” which is highlighted throughout the planner. "Starbucks believes that a shared moment of genuine connection over coffee is a simple act that helps provide an uplifting part of someone’s day."

The Starbucks Planners come with a magnetic bookmark. It also has thirteen “kindness cards” with different Starbucks treats that can be shared with family, friends and loved ones. The kindness cards may be redeemed at any Starbucks store in the Philippines during a specified period in 2013.

Alongside this Christmas Tradition, is the come back of our favorite holiday drinks, namely the Peppermint Mocha, Dark Cherry Mocha and Toffee Nut Latte.

A customer can avail of a Starbucks Christmas traditions planner promo card from November 3, 2012 to January 8, 2013. One sticker is awarded for each Starbucks beverage purchase. Holder must accumulate a total of seventeen (17) stickers (nine (9) Christmas beverage plus eight (8) core beverages except bottled drinks) to redeem one (1) Limited Edition Starbucks Philippines 2013 Planner.

With every redeemed Limited Edition Starbucks Philippines 2013 Planner comes a donation for the children of SparkHope – an early childhood care and development program in partnership with UNICEF.

Starbucks Doubleshot Espresso and Bottled Frappuccino

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 02:17:00 +0000

Now available in your nearest Starbucks Philippines store, is the Starbucks Doubleshot Espresso Drink. Starbucks introduced the delicious intensity of rich espresso mellowed by a touch of cream. "Starbucks Doubleshot® is a convenient, bold, authentic Starbucks coffee experience. Take it with you. Enjoy its concentrated flavor; plus the high quality and premium espresso experience you expect from Starbucks whenever and wherever you want it." It comes in a 6.5 ounce can, which is best served chilled. "No mess, no fuss." It tastes really good. It's not that strong, but gives you that kick to start a busy day and get you going.

Other two new addition to the display are the Mocha and Vanilla Starbucks Bottled Frappuccino. It is made of sweet, creamy, and low-fat blend of Starbucks coffee and milk in every bottle. It is for me a perfect buddy when you are on the go! Of course, it is best served chilled.

Thank you to Starbucks Philippines for the samples and the photo.

"Bite Into The Better Network" campaign of SMART Communications

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 03:10:00 +0000

Derek Ramsay, Anne Curtis and apl.de.ap have one thing in common. They are connected with the better network - SMART. Together with Ramon Bautista, Luis Manzano and Cristalle Belo, they invite you to live more and bite into the better network. Watch out for this!!! :)

New Nescafe Dolce Gusto Machines: Genio and Melody 3

noreply@blogger.com (Brian Ong) — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 03:57:00 +0000

No mess, no fuss, and a perfect cup every time. This is the promise of the two new machines that NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto brings to the market this November. The all-new automatic machines brew the right cup for you all in just one click – so pop, lock, and drop away without the wait.

Introducing the new additions, the Genio and the Melody 3, which come in compact, modern, and smart designs. What makes the two stand out, apart from the obvious stylish touch, are their automated preparation of drinks through the Flowstop Technology, which lets you get the perfect cup each and every time. They come with a selection wheel and a built-in LED that recommend the dosage to make the perfect drink.

The Genio looks like a hybrid of the classic Piccolo machine, only smarter and equipped with Flowstop Technology. The only tasks you have to take control of are turning it on, filling up the water tank, deciding the flavor you like to brew, inputting the recommended dosage, and you can leave the rest of the work to this genius.

Similar to a coffeehouse machines, the Genio has a 15-bar pressure system equipped to provide you with a foamy froth, rich créma, and a delectable flavor. Believe it or not, this machine just knows how to please any coffee drinker.

The first and the original Melody machine comes even more alive with its 3rd generation. The Melody 3 has evolved from its classical look into a more sophisticated machine. It is definitely eye-candy on the kitchen worktop, or on any office station with its sleek curves. Similar to the Genio, it has 15 bars of pressure, which is ideal to brew your steaming cup of espresso.

These NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto machines can handle both hot and cold drinks, but for those who like it hot, these machines come with the exclusive Thermoblock Technology, which heats water fresh every time, in less than a minute. They also let you save energy with its automatic switch-off feature.

Don’t feel a little less powerful though, because you can still maneuver the machine. It allows you to take control as you scroll the selection wheel to customize the coffee strength and mixture. This works best for multi-capsule drinkers who like switching from coffee, tea, to chocolate drinks. So go on and experiment with the strength, just like a boss.

Now giving you a wider selection to meet your high-quality coffee needs, NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto gives you four machine variations that meet the requirement of providing the closest thing to a barista-brewed drinks. The brand has been innovative with its selection of 9 capsule flavors, and now offering the market with new machine options.

El Nido Palawan's Newest Eco-Luxury Resort, Pangulasian Island, now opens

noreply@blogger.com (Bong) — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 03:58:00 +0000

Last October 15, the Philippines’ newest premier eco-luxury resort, Pangulasian Island in El Nido, Palawan officially welcomed its first guests to its shores, a Taiwanese couple, who were given a grand El Nido Resorts reception by the resort staff, headed by Pangulasian Island’s resident manager Lei Policarpio.

Pangulasian features 42 deluxe villas, which shares a pristine beach almost a kilometer long. It has a swimming pool, gym, spa, resort center with restaurant, library, boutique and a conference room, among other facilities and activities.

Take a dip at Pangulasian's Swimming Pool

The resort mixes contemporary Filipino and cutting edge “green” design with luxurious amenities and impeccable and personalized service, which makes it the ultimate eco-luxury destination in the Philippines.

The Taiwanese couple who were on their honeymoon stayed in Pangulasian for two nights, while the rest of their 8 days stay was split on Lagen Island and Miniloc Island in El Nido, two of the four island resort properties of El Nido Resorts; the last being Apulit Island in Taytay.

Lei Policarpio leading the couple to the resorts center

The Taiwanese couple meets their personal butler :)

El Nido Resorts now maintains and operates four island resorts in El Nido and Taytay, Palawan, with sustainability and eco-tourism as its thrust, putting a premium on integrating the protection and preservation of the environment, and the beauty of Palawan, with modern facilities, technology, and luxury.

Pangulasian Island resort staff with a grand El Nido Resorts welcome.

For inquiries about Pangulasian Island and El Nido Resorts, give them a call at +63 (2) 813 0000 or email them at holiday@elnidoresorts.com. You may also visit their website at http://www.elnidoresorts.com/ or their Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/elnidoresorts

Sharks are friends, not food: An Anti-Shark's Fin Soap

noreply@blogger.com (Bong) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 06:45:00 +0000

This Monday, October 15, LUSH Handmade Cosmetics will launch the limited edition Anti-Shark Fin Soap for the benefit of Save Philippine Seas (SPS), an independent movement that aims to establish a shark sanctuary in the Visayan Seas, among other Philippine marine conservation efforts.

The Anti-Shark Fin Soap is made of seaweed and sea salt. It is marked with a paper fin on top to highlight the animal’s most distinct feature.

Approximately 70-100 million sharks are killed each year for their meat, oil, cartilage, and fins. Shark fishing is a lucrative industry, fueled by the high demand for shark’s fin soup in many countries. Populations of many shark species have fallen by over 90%. It is unknown to many that sharks, as the apex of the marine ecosystem, have among the highest levels of toxic mercury found in fish. This can cause male sterility and extensive damage to the nervous system and fetuses.

In addition to its potential health hazards, the high consumption of shark’s fin soup and shark meat has alarming implications to the environment. As the top predators of the sea, sharks play an important role in regulating all the species in the marine ecosystem. The loss of sharks can cause the entire marine ecosystem and biodiversity to collapse.

Shark fishing is being done in coastal areas in the Philippines. The only shark species protected by national law is the whale shark, or butanding.

SPS and LUSH are gathering an ideal set of champions to make a stand for marine conservation and against the shark finning and fishing industry. SPS invites public participation in this campaign by holding a photo shoot on the day of the launch, October 15, 2012 from 10AM-7PM at the Shangri-La branch of LUSH.

The pictorial will be conducted by SPS. All photos will be digitally edited to have a unifying design. The tagline for this campaign is, “Sharks are friends, not food.”

Supporters are also encouraged to write letters to leaders using the “Sharks are friends, not food” postcards.

Switch to Smart!

noreply@blogger.com (Bong) — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:35:00 +0000

For people who are tired of dropped calls, missed messages,and slow Internet connection, now is the perfect time to ‘live more’ with the country’s leading network with the ‘nationwidest’ coverage.

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is holding the much-awaited, two-day only ‘Smart Switch Madness’ on September 28 and 29 at the Shangri-La Plaza Mall in Mandaluyong City, and everyone is welcome to avail of rebates, big discounts, and freebies from Smart Prepaid, Postpaid, Broadband and Infinity.

“People should stop feeling frustrated with their current service provider and to have to wait for their network to catch up,” said Noel Lorenzana, Executive Vice President and Head of Smart’s Wireless Consumer Division.

“This two-day event promises an easy and convenient switch to the biggest and most reliable network -- quickly and in a much more enjoyable manner,” Lorenzana added.

At the ‘Smart Switch Madness’, rebates, big discounts, and freebies will be available to everyone, including both new and existing Smart subscribers. These product offerings and service discounts will not be available anywhere else, but will be available exclusively on those days, at the event.

Don’t miss the exclusive offers at the ‘Smart Switch Madness’ and go to Shangri-La Plaza Mall this Friday and Saturday!

Visit smart.com.ph for more details.

Land Rover "It's More Fun in the Philippines" campaign with DOT

noreply@blogger.com (Bong) — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:30:00 +0000

Land Rover Philippines together with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) recently launched, at the Opus Restaurant and Lounge in Resorts World Manila, a joint tourism promotional campaign dubbed "Land Rovering. More Fun in the Philippines."

The campaign includes a series of Land Rover TV commercials and print advertisements featuring local tourist spots as well as off-road destinations in the country. Land Rover is the first automotive brand to tie up with DOT through the popular "It's More Fun in the Philippines" campaign.

"We are very excited with this project with DOT and TPB which will run until 2013 and hopefully will include an international campaign as well," shared LRPhils Motors Executive Director Marc Soong.

Asec. Domingo Ramon C. Enerio, representing the DOT Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr., was on hand during the launch of the Land Rover-DOT campaign tie-up. "DOT is proud to have found support from a distinguished world-class brand like Land Rover in our campaign to promote Philippine tourism," said Enerio, the Asst. Secretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions & OIC Tourism Promotions Board.

LRPhils also launched the first official "Land Rovering. More Fun in the Philippines" video which will be aired starting October 2012.

The video showed the multi-awarded Range Rover Evoque driving through the Paoay sand dunes of Ilocos Norte, while also featuring the giant windmills of the Bangui Wind Mills, and also Patapat Bridge which can also be found in Ilocos Norte.

Wake up to New Starbucks Breakfast Sandwiches

noreply@blogger.com (Bong) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 11:00:00 +0000

On September 11, 2012, wake up to a delicious breakfast at Starbucks, with the new Starbucks Breakfast Sandwiches! Definitely, nothing can say “good morning” best, but with a warm and savory breakfast treat. Handmade with ingredients like eggs, gourmet meats and cheeses and bakery style bread, it’s the perfect start to any day. :)

SPAM® BLACK PEPPER, EGG AND CHEDDAR CHEESE ON CORNMEAL BREAD
This sandwich is so hard to resist. Because when you combine a slice of SPAM® with black pepper, creamy scrambled egg layered with melted American Cheddar cheese on artisan cornmeal bread, it becomes a sandwich that is simple yet mouthwatering.

FOREST HAM, EGG WHITE AND GOUDA CHEESE ON OAT BREAD
If you want a flavorful sandwich but with less fat, this savory breakfast sandwich is for you. It is made with slices of forest ham, aged and smoky Gouda cheese and egg white scrambled egg on a toasty warmed oat bread.

BREAKFAST TAPA AND EGG WITH GARLIC MAYONNAISE ON DARK WHOLE WHEAT BREAD
A traditional favorite Filipino breakfast that you’ll find in almost every breakfast menu in the Philippines is made into a gourmet sandwich. Breakfast tapa with hints of basil and poached egg drizzled with garlic mayonnaise on a dark whole wheat bread.

RATATOUILLE AND MOZZARELLA CHEESE ON MULTIGRAIN BREAD
Our new vegetarian sandwich has everything you need for the day. Crusty warm artisan multigrain bread stuffed with a delicious blend of cheese, spinach, tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, portobello and shiitake mushrooms, garlic and onions. A vegetarian delight!

Starbucks Philippines introduces New and Returning Food Items

noreply@blogger.com (Bong) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 03:00:00 +0000

Starbucks Philippines wants you to enjoy your favorite Starbucks beverage with these savory and indulgent food items, which will be available for a limited time starting September 11, 2012.

BACON AND PARMESAN RING
Great for breakfast or brunch, the comfort of bacon is combined with the classiness of parmesan cheese. A crusty bread ring topped with aged parmesan cheese; the inside is soft and doughy with bits of smoky bacon and parmesan cheese. A classic combination. Best served warm.

SPANISH FRITTATA WRAP
This Spanish breakfast wrap provides a great source of protein in the morning. The crispy warm tortilla is filled with flavorful ground pork and sliced potatoes, then enrobed in egg, freshly sliced juicy tomatoes, and drizzled with garlic mayo. Best served warm!

CHOCOLATE AND STARBUCKS VIA® CRUMB CAKE
A perfect combination of chocolate and coffee. Light and dark layers of moist chocolate and coffee sponge cake, smooth coffee buttercream infused with Starbucks VIA Italian Roast, chewy cashew meringue with bits of chocolate covered with smooth and creamy coffee buttercream, finished with chocolate bits.

ALMOND PAIN AU CHOCOLAT
(Returning Favorite)
It is a typical product that you find in French bakeries. An all butter croissant filled with sweet almond paste, luscious dark chocolate and sprinkled with flaked almond and sugar icing. A chocolate lover’s fantasy. This product really has a feel of an artisan product, bringing you at the heart of small French villages. Best served warm.

ENSAYMADA
(Core Product Re-launch)
Great coffee deserves good food. This new ensaymada has a soft, airy and buttery dough generously topped with sweet and salty buttercream icing, grated queso de bola and powdered aged parmesan cheese.

Jump into Rich Indulgence with Starbucks' Salted Caramel Mocha

noreply@blogger.com (Bong) — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Starbucks Philippines introduces the Starbucks Salted Caramel Mocha, in hot, iced, and frappuccino blended beverages. As the weather becomes colder, Starbucks Philippines wants us to jump into rich indulgence with these signature espresso offerings, with the salty and sweet flavors of the new Starbucks Salted Caramel Mocha.

SALTED CARAMEL MOCHA
The warm and indulgent flavors of Salted Caramel Mocha are a perfect companion for a cold afternoon or evening. Experience uplifting warmth with this creamy mix of espresso and velvety steamed milk, blended with mocha sauce and flavored syrup. Topped with whipped cream, buttery caramel sauce and a mixture of turbinado sugar and smoked sea salt, this flavorful beverage is sure to make your day.

ICED SALTED CARAMEL MOCHA
With the same delicious flavor as the Salted Caramel Mocha in an icy cool format, the Iced Salted Caramel Mocha offers a cool and indulgent treat perfect for a warm day. Espresso and fresh milk are combined with mocha sauce and flavored syrup, served over ice and topped with whipped cream, buttery caramel sauce, and a mixture of turbinado sugar and smoked sea salt, hitting the perfect note.

SALTED CARAMEL MOCHA FRAPPUCCINO® BLENDED BEVERAGE
Rich mocha sauce and flavored syrup blended with Starbucks® Frappuccino® Roast coffee, whole milk, and ice. Finished with whipped cream , buttery caramel sauce and a mixture of turbinado natural cane sugar and smoked sea salt, it’s the perfect indulgent mid-day treat, and sure to be a favorite.

Moon Festival Tumblers Offer
Purchase any moon festival tumbler and get a chance to win a Salted Caramel Mocha Party for four! Promo runs from September 11 to November 2, 2012. Terms and conditions apply.

Hamilo Coast's Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club

noreply@blogger.com (Bong) — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 06:06:00 +0000

Hamilo Coast's Pico de Loro cove is one of the thirteen coves being developed by Hamilo Coast as a leisure lifestyle destination near Manila. Pico de Loro cove boasts of a beach and country club, and properties such as residential condominiums, villas, residential lots and a hotel.

We were able to inspect the property recently, see the development happening in the cove, and enjoy what Pico de Loro gives to its members and guests.

Pico de Loro Beach Club offers an unobstructed view of the sea. Some of the activities you could do, besides swimming in the sea and in their pools, includes going through the eco-trail, kayaking, scuba diving, birdwatching, or touring Hamilo Coast's magnificent coves.

On the other hand, Pico de Loro's Country club offers a variety of activities and services everyone can enjoy. It has a huge pool, kiddie center, library, function rooms, tennis, badminton and basketball courts, table tennis tables, gaming consoles room, bowling and billiards area, and a beautiful view of nature.

If a day is not enough to fully enjoy the grandeur of nature and the great scenery, a nearby hotel, Pico Sands Hotel, will give you the chance to extend on overnight or week-long visits - just like what we did! The hotel offers great accommodation, great food, a relaxing spa service, and the right relaxation and rejuvenation one needs, away from a stressful city life.

Village Tavern of the Bistro Group of Restaurants

noreply@blogger.com (Bong) — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 10:51:00 +0000

One of the newest restaurants of the Bistro Group is Village Tavern, a US-franchise which celebrates classic American comfort food with huge portions good for sharing, located at the Bonifacio High Street Central. It's definitely worth a try for food lovers, and for those wanting a good drink after work.

The other night, we were treated to the best of what Village Tavern has to offer: rustic whole wheat flatbreads made from scratch, fresh seafood dishes, juicy burgers, wide selection of cocktails and signature dishes, and decadent desserts. Village Tavern celebrates quality, value for money and complete satisfaction.

Asian Tuna Salad - Fresh center-cut Ahi tuna, seasonal greens, carrots, snow peas and edamame is sesame ginger dressing.

Grilled Chicken Spinach and Mixed Greens - Fresh spinach, seasonal greens, bacon, apples, cranberries, spiced pecans, blue cheese, sliced egg, and grilled chicken in sweet vinaigrette.

Blackened Shrimp - Shrimp served with Bayou cream sauce and toasted garlic bread.

Tavern Whole Wheat Flatbread - Homemade tomato sauce, pepperoni, mushrooms, green peppers, hamburger, onions and mozzarella cheese.

Gruyere & Applewood-Smoked Bacon Whole Wheat Flatbread - Gruyere, applewood-smoked bacon and caramelized onion.

Crispy Chicken Tacos - Chicken tenders with mango slaw and chipotle sauce, served with black beans in melted chocolate sauce and rice pilaf.

Maryland-Style Crab Cakes - Premium lump crab meat served with french fries, coleslaw and homemade tartar sauce.

Cowboy Burger - Applewood-smoked bacon, Cheddar cheese with caramelized onion and barbecue sauce.

Chicken Colorado - Grilled chicken breast topped with applewood-smoked bacon, barbecue sauce, tomatoes, scallions, Monterey Jack and Cheddar, served with black beans and rice pilaf.

Some of Village Tavern's Signature Cocktails: Tavern Mojito - Rum, Lime Juice, and Mint Leaves; and Honey Berry - Berry Vodka, Raspberry Vodka, Honey Syrup and House Champagne.

Very Best Carrot Cake - Fresh carrots, pecan and cream cheese icing served warm.

St. Barths Chocolate Torte - Rich and very moist French cake, vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce.

Double Decker Cheesecake - Layers of chocolate and traditional cheesecake served with raspberry and chocolate sauce.

I definitely enjoyed my Village Tavern food experience. I will certainly come back! Props to Chef Josh Boutwood, the corporate chef of the Bistro group, for making sure that what Village Tavern offers to its customers is simply the best. Thanks to Mitzi and Spanky for the invite! :)

Philippine Pavillion at the Yeosu Korea International Expo

noreply@blogger.com (Bong) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 05:33:00 +0000

In another historic first for the country, the Philippines won two (2) Gold Awards for its pavilion at the recently concluded Expo 2012 in Yeosu, South Korea – an unprecedented achievement in the history of the Expo awards – besting ten other country participants in the Small Pavilion Category (Category C). This marks the first time that the Philippines won the Gold Award in an international expo, and also the first time in the entire history of the international expo that a country has won two Gold Awards.

Adjudged by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), the Philippine pavilion was awarded Gold Award winners for Creative Display and Theme Development criteria from 11 participating countries, besting the likes of Vietnam, Brunei, Mexico, Tunisia, Egypt, and Lithuania. Lithuania and Mexico brought home the silver and bronze, respectively, for the Creative Display criteria, while Tunisia and Vietnam brought home the silver and bronze, respectively, for the Theme Development criteria. Pavilions were divided into four categories according to their type and size of exhibition space: Category A with 4 modules and above, Category B with 2 or 3 modules, Category C with 1 module or less and Category D for joint pavilions.

The illustrious and discerning BIE evaluated every aspect of participation such as innovation in design and display of exhibits, rich and understandable messages, flow of circulation within pavilions to ensure a comfortable visit, the best environmental solutions presented, and most importantly the education of the public and promotion of the expo’s values. The panel of judges was composed of prominent figures and experts from world expositions, architecture, and museum designs.

The Philippine Organizing Committee (POC) Commissioner General Domingo Ramon C. Enerio III (Tourism Assistant Secretary) and POC Secretary General Gwendolyn Batoon received the Gold Awards for the Philippines. The POC, spearheaded by the Department of Tourism (DOT) through the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), is composed of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), and the National Commission of Culture and the Arts (NCCA).

The Philippine participation in the expo was made possible by the following pavilion partners: Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), GMA Network, Inc., TV5, Cebu Pacific Air, Philippine Airlines, SM Supermalls, computer graphic specialist ImColor, Biemann Produktion Haus, Inc., Network of Underwater Digital Imagers, Inc., and the community of divers who have contributed in putting together an “aquarium of diving experiences” for the exhibits.

“This expo was my very first assignment from President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III when I started as Tourism Secretary in 2011. That is why we at the DOT and TPB are very proud and happy to bring honor and recognition to our country through the excellent showing of our Philippine pavilion in Yeosu, South Korea. This is a victory not only for the country’s tourism industry, but also for the Filipino people, and we express profound gratitude to all our partners in both the public and private sectors,” beamed Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr.

The three-month exposition that started last 12 May 2012 was able to draw a total of 8,203,956 visitors from across the globe, according to the International Media Center of the Expo 2012 organizers. With an overall theme of The Living Ocean and Coast and subthemes of Preservation and Sustainable Development of the Ocean and Coast, New Resources Technology, and Creative Marine Activities, the expo aimed to shed light on humankind’s knowledge of the ocean and pave the way for reaffirming global effort to resolve issues concerning oceans and coasts.

Showcasing the country’s rich biodiversity and FUN spirit, the Philippine pavilion captured the hearts of some 800,000 visitors from across the globe. The Philippine design team, composed of Stephanie Sy, Deo Alam, and Jonathan Kim Jimenez from Utwentysix (U26) Design Studio, took to heart this year’s expo theme as seen in the recycled materials used to build the pavilion that showed the connection between and among the seas and the coastal communities. The theme statement of the Philippines, “Island of Diversity – Seas of Connectivity” was authored by Professor Edgardo Gomez, world-renowned marine biologist and professor emeritus and founding director of the University of the Philippines-Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI).

Located within the International Pavilion section, the largest physical area in the expo site, the pavilion featured corals as the foci of the entire design. Indigenous materials were also showcased, with the ubiquitous abaca taking prominence. The sand was sourced from the country’s famous beaches, from the powdery white sand of Boracay to the pink sand of Sta. Cruz Island in Zamboanga, the brown sand of San Lorenzo in Guimaras, and the exotic black sand of Sto. Domingo in Albay. The idea was to portray the Philippines as a destination where fun and sustainable tourism coexist and form part of the indivisible whole.

Taking note of this year’s theme, Secretary Jimenez underscored the importance of ecological sustainability as part of the economy’s overarching goal of development and job creation. The country’s wealth of marine and coastal resources creates tourism opportunities, generates livelihood, and provides income for many communities.

“The Philippines is blessed to be at the heart of the Coral Triangle or The Amazon of the Seas. The country’s rich biodiversity is unparalleled anywhere else in the world. Koreans can attest to this, as they remain to be our strongest single market. Some of them have even made the Philippines their second home,” Tourism Secretary Jimenez enthused.

The Philippines also staged a cultural program, headlined by dancers from Ballet Philippines and the University of Cebu Dance Company, Pinoy-pop group Down to Mars, singers Gian Magdangal and Kyla, and host Sam Oh. The DOT tapped the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in producing the show that highlighted the country’s brand of FUN.

Korea remains as one of the Philippines’ key source markets and the biggest generator of visitors, chalking up 22.15% of the total visitor volume for the first semester of 2012. In 2011, the Philippines welcomed 925,000 Korean tourists or nearly a quarter of the tourist arrivals for the year, reflecting a 24.9% growth.

With this historic and unprecedented achievement, the DOT looks forward to sustaining its efforts in building a sustainable sense of excitement and eliciting renewed enthusiasm for the country’s tourism industry.

Photos from the Department of Tourism.