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I LOVE YOU, SABADO WITH JOLLIBEE

The country’s leading fastfood chain and home of happy memories for many Pinoys, is reviving one of its most iconic jingles. First launched in 1987, the fastfood giant’s most successful campaign jingle, “I Love You, Sabado”, is rewritten and given a fresh arrangement to encourage weekend family bonding again.

“Our ‘I Love You, Sabado!’ campaign inspired families to make the most of their weekends by spending quality time with one another. As a brand that promotes the joy of family, Jollibee is bringing back to life this campaign as we believe that the message still holds true in this day and age,” said Jollibee vice president for Marketing Harvey Ong.

KANO LUVS PINAY ON TV5

I rarely watch TV, let alone Filipino shows. No offense to my kababayan, but I find some shows/series running with the same format, same storyline, same humor, same drama. You've seen one, you've seen them all. I'd rather use my time doing something than watching Filipino shows. 

But.. I had a changed of heart when I watched the latest show from TV5. Last week, I was invited to watch the pilot episode of Kano Luvs Pinay. It is the latest offering of TV5.  It's a comedy show but  it will surely open our eyes and somehow we can relate to the message of the show.

Question: When you see a Filipina with a foreigner boyfriend, what do you think of the Pinay? The other day, I saw a Filipina with a foreigner boyfriend and heard someone say "nakabingwit si ate". We are quick to judge without knowing them and without bothering to know their story. But maybe they really found true love from each other without color, race barrier.

SHAKEY'S CONQUERS THE GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS

In time with celebrating 40 years of conquering the hearts and stomachs of Filipinos around the country, Shakey's is proud to announce that it has conquered yet another arena: the Guinness World Record for eating a 12 inch pizza in the fastest amount of time. WOW!!!!

MEET AND GREET FROZEN'S ANNA AND ELSA FOR FREE

Hear ye, hear ye! Here's your chance to meet Princess Anna and Elsa of Arendelle on their visit to Manila and South East Asia!

Date and Venue:

August 29 to 31, 2015 – Main Mall Atrium, SM Mall of Asia

RECESSION COFFEE BY DIGITAL WALKER IS NOW OPEN

A few weeks ago, I was invited to attend and get to know the newest coffee shop in town! It's situated inside Digital Walker, Eastwood branch. I think it's the first of its kind because you're the one who will put the price tag in your coffee. Yep! Aside from the delectable desserts served, surrounded with awesome gadgets accessories, you can pay whatever amount you want for your coffee!

ELECTRICITY RATES GO DOWN THIS AUGUST

Good news to all! Meralco announced that after three consecutive months of reduction, the overall rates for its residential customers this August went down by PhP 0.26 per kWh. 

SHOW YOUR MOVES WITH MCDONALD'S #SHAKESHAKEIT DANCE CHALLENGE

The return of McDonald’s Shake Shake Fries in BBQ, Cheesy Butter and Pizza flavors has not only been satisfying customers’ craving, but it’s also got them on their feet!

From August 23 to August 31, show your love for your favorite by busting-a-move with Shake Shake Fries, and join the #ShakeShakeIt dance challenge. Up for grabs is P100,000 cash prize!

RED PLANET OPENS TENTH HOTEL

Last week, despite the rain and traffic, we (me and the blogger friends) were determined to attend the official opening of Red Planet, Amorsolo, Makati Branch. I realized that we need go-to hotels like this that are very affordable, easy on the wallet yet offers simple but has modern facilities.

Red Planet is REDefining the value of hotel experience in Asia by launching its new hospitality brand in the Philippines and also coincided with the opening of its 10th hotel branch in the country. 

The new Red Planet hotel brand was specifically created to REDefine the value hotel experience for domestic and international travelers in Asia. Red Planet now operates hotels in Japan, Indonesia and Thailand. 

So, if you're planning to visit these countries and are looking for safe, budget-friendly hotels, book a stay at Red Planet as they provide high quality, comfortable, technology-enabled (Yes to FREE WIFI!!!) at affordable prices!

OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF THE SM STORE REGARDING THEIR PRICE TAG ISSUE

Official Statement from The SM Store: In reference to the price tag photo circulating in social media, we are sorry for the misunderstanding. We would like to assure the public that the price indicated on the tag is correct. The old price tag used came from another item, and is not referring to the promo item itself. This can be seen from the different item codes indicated on the individual price tags.

WD® EXPANDS ITS PERFORMANCE LEVEL DESKTOP HARD DRIVES TO 6TB CAPACITY

WD®, a Western Digital (NASDAQ: WDC) company and a world leader in hard drives, today announced the expansion of its award-winning WD Black™ line of performance hard drives up to 6 TB capacity. Shipping now, the 3.5-inch, 7200 RPM drive is the perfect solution for gamers and professionals in need of high-performance desktop systems and workstations.

     WD Black hard drives combine 7200 RPM spin speed, 128 MB cache, dual stage actuator technology, SATA 6 gigabits per second (Gb/s) interface, and an integrated dual processor to deliver ultimate performance in a maximum-capacity drive. The WD Black 6 TB is up to 29% faster than the previous WD Black 4 TB version in maximum data rate throughput and 10% faster in PCMark Vantage.

WIN BABY'S FIRST MILLION WITH PAMPERS BABY DRY

Every time I look at Sofi, I can't believe God has blessed me with an adorable daughter. When my hubby and I found out that we're having a girl, the joy I felt was indescribable. I know I'll have a blast with her. Hello to being her shopping buddy, her instant BFF, my constant date. I know we'll be best friends forever.

Aside from having a hard first trimester with her, everything went smoothly. I gave birth to her after 3 hours of labor via normal delivery. She was not a fussy baby. Just give her milk on time and let her burp, hehe! She was not a a cry-baby to get attention or a whiny baby either. She's just always smiling, being sweet and adorable. But of course I will not take all the credit because Pampers Baby Dry was our partner when it comes to her diaper. It made Sofi feel comfortable day and night.

UNIQLO LAUNCHES MAGIC FOR ALL COLLECTION

I'm super excited to check this out as UNIQLO announces the launch of MAGIC FOR ALL - the line of apparel that adds a touch of Disney enchantment, Marvel action, Star Wars adventure and Disney·Pixar creativity to everyday LifeWear fashions - in UNIQLO stores and online sites for this week. To communicate the MAGIC FOR ALL sentiment to adults and children, UNIQLO will begin to unveil a new print, digital and in-store advertising campaign called ‘Shadow Magic.'

“MAGIC FOR ALL aims to bring the magic of The Walt Disney Company and its iconic brands to the complete UNIQLO customer experience,” said John Jay, President of Global Creative, Fast Retailing Co., Ltd. “Our collaboration with the Disney Products Company is not simply about products; it is about a positive and joyful expression whenever you enter the world of Disney. The new campaign shows how Mickey or Minnie is in all of us, no matter what our age is or position in life. From art to design competitions, to exclusive in-store events and more, our hope is to express MAGIC FOR ALL in a fun and sophisticated way.”

CEBUANA LHUILLIER AND PIONEER INSURANCE PARTNER FOR MICROINSURANCE PROGRAM

Two of the country’s leaders in microinsurance have forged a partnership in a bid to continue expanding the number of Filipinos covered by insurance.

Cebuana Lhuillier, led by its President and Chief Executive Officer, Jean Henri Lhuillier, signed a memorandum of agreement with President and Retail Organization Head for Pioneer Insurance, Lorenzo Chan Jr., naming Pioneer as the underwriter of the Alagang Cebuana program.

CHANGING THE INSURANCE LANDSCAPE FOR FILIPINOS

Two of the country’s leaders in microinsurance have forged a partnership in a bid to continue expanding the number of Filipinos

covered by insurance. Cebuana Lhuillier, led by its President and Chief Executive Officer, Jean Henri Lhuillier (fifth from left),

signed a memorandum of agreement with President and Retail Organization Head for Pioneer Insurance, Lorenzo Chan Jr.

(second from left), naming Pioneer as the underwriter of the Alagang Cebuana program. The two companies aim to cover more

Filipinos under the Alagang Cebuana Plus Program, which for P25 will cover an individual up to P20,000 in personal accident

coverage and P5,000 fire insurance for a maximum of four months. Joining them are (from left to right) Pioneer Microinsurance

Head Geric Laude, Pioneer Group chairman David Coyukiat, Cebuana Lhuillier chairman Philippe Jones Lhuillier, and Cebuana

Lhuillier general manager for insurance solutions Jonathan Batangan

Alagang Cebuana is a microinsurance program that offers insurance products at a more affordable price.

“We have full trust and confidence in Pioneer Life Insurance, as it is one, if not the strongest microinsurance providers in the country today. The well-oiled machinery of Pioneer Insurance will be complemented by our 24/7 service outlets,” Lhuillier said. “This partnership will change how microinsurance is done in the country as insurance claims can now be processed anytime of the day, anywhere in the Philippines. And they get their insurance claim in cash.”

THE LIVING LEGACY OF FILIPINO FOOD AT VIA MARE

I remember when I was a kid every time we're craving for bibingka or puto bumbong we always head to the nearest Via Mare. And until now that I have a family of my own, Via Mare has a special place in our hearts. My family loves to dine-in at Via Mare, Promenade Greenhills branch and indulge with their Filipino merienda.

I can't believe Via Mare will be celebrating their 40th year in the food industry. In four decades, Via Mare not only change the Filipino's perception of its own cuisine, but they also brought global recognition to the sophistication and complex flavors of the Philippines. To kick off their anniversary, I was invited to attend the pre-anniversary lunch of Via Mare together with other bloggers.

STRIPTOP OUTLET POP-UP STORE IS NOW OPEN

Striptop Outlet Store opened its second pop-up store, Striptop Outlet Store just made brands going on sale available at your nearest metro mall.  Located at the 2nd floor between Davids Salon and Japan Home Center, Alphaland Southgate Mall, It showcases favorite brands of shoes, women’s and men’s fashion, personal care and a lot more! The store is open on August 01 to – 30, 2015from 10am-9pm daily.

GO NUTS WITH BASKIN-ROBBINS FLAVOR OF THE MONTH

Yay to my favorite! The world’s most beloved ice cream brand introduces Pistachio Almond as its Flavor of the Month. This famous flavor, launched in the 1960s, is a rich pistachio ice cream loaded with roasted almonds. If you can’t get enough of Pistachio Almond ice cream, try it as a milkshake or a sundae for a variation. 

Tapat Na sa Champion

UPGRADE YOUR DENIM STYLE WITH UNIQLO

When you hear the word UNIQLO, what comes first in your mind? Comfort and style, right? It has been our go-to store whenever my hubby buy his denim jeans/pants. He said that he loved the quality and it's worth every peso/cents. And it's true. UNIQLO never compromise its quality. They always reinvent, innovate and develop to more comfortable yet stylish, trendy denim jeans. They're always after and focused on every consumers' needs. And I'm glad I had a privilege to attend the launching of UNIQLO's fresh take on denim held at SM Megamall Fashion Hall. There was a little fashion show to get the first dibs on what's in store for us from UNIQLO.

THE RETURN OF MCDONALD'S SHAKE SHAKE FRIES

And it's baaaaaaaaaccckk!!!! More reasons to eat at McDonald’s as they give customers another snacking experience they can look forward to with the return of the Shake Shake Fries! Hooray!!!

CATCH MILES FROM TOMORROWLAND ON DISNEY JUNIOR

Woke up early one Saturday morning to attend the media launch of Miles from Tomorrowland held at The Exploreum in SM Mall of Asia. And I must say it was all worth it. The latest from Disney Junior's "Miles froblam Tomorrowland," is an intergalactic adventure series. This brand new program for kids aged 2-7 incorporates unique space and science facts as it charts the outer space missions of young adventurer Miles Callisto and his family.

BE RICH JUST BY ROLLING IT

If you are someone who plays interactive games, learning about it and work on strategies to ‘gamify' and you spend ninety percent of your leisure time into it, then you are a certified gamer! I bet your vocabulary includes avatar, username, clan or guilds and the likes. Have you ever joined a tournament and play for real money? Yes! Real money just for playing, and a chance to be rich! Real gamers would know what I'm talking about.

If you're a "gamer" or know someone, whether a casual gamer, a hardcore gamer, and the pro or even a ‘noob', this is something that will certainly enthuse your mastery in games. An exhilarating online game is about to become the next sensation in the Philippines. 

READ. SIP. DINE AT BOOK & BORDERS

Book lovers, rejoice! I discovered a perfect place to spend quiet time to feed our minds with words and letters and still feed our tummies with good food and yummy drinks. It can also be a perfect hang-out with friends for catch-ups. Book & Borders is the perfect place to be if you're looking for library-ish that served food. Been living in the metro all my life and it was my first time to discover a place like this. The book lover in me got kilig when I saw the selection of books that I can freely read without interruption and I can also order food without getting up (going to the rest room would be my forced break, teehee). Book and Borders is the perfect place for me-time.

Book & Borders is the latest themed cafe to open in Quezon City, catering to customers who have an appreciation for good books and equally good food and coffee. Unlike other crowded cafes where people are more engaging in chit chat, has purposely turned their space into something that is more relaxed and quiet. This is because the cafe encourages customers to go through their extensive selection of books, and take their time to hangout or read.

PHARRELL WILLIAMS RETURNS WITH ADIDAS SUPERSHELL

After the success of Supercolor, a concept that captured the attention of the world, Pharrell Williams returns with Supershell. Once again transforming the iconic Superstar model, Pharrell has collaborated with friends and creatives from around the world to bring a new chapter of the Superstar to life. 

In this Artwork Collection, Supershell brings art and creativity to the Superstar like never before. The Superstar’s Shelltoe comes alive with signature graphic artworks and designs from NYC contemporary artist Todd James, American photographer-director Cass Bird and contemporary Japanese artist mr. The artists’ designs are then joined by six of Pharrell’s very own artworks that explore life force and energy and its relationship with colour.

SHAKEY'S BIGGEST BRANCH IN CEBU IS NOW OPEN

Hey Cebu friends! I have the biggest news for you! After 40 years of making pizza, Shakey’s newest and BIGGEST branch in Cebu is now open to serve Guests. It’s bigger, it’s better and it’s here! 

Shakey’s Cabahug is the sixth and largest store in Visayas, having the capacity to seat up to 52 tables, or a total of 140 persons. And because this is the biggest branch to come to Cebu, room for parking 21 vehicles has been allotted for the convenience of Guests so no time is wasted in getting the Good Times and Great Memories rolling.

SAN MIGUEL PURE FOODS PREMIERES HOME FOODIE ON GMA 7

Hi I'm Jen.. and I'm a FOODIE! Almost every Sunday, some friends and I would go around Tomas Morato and try out new food, flavors, coffee shops and restaurants that we haven't gone to yet. And that's what a foodie is! According to Wikipedia, "a foodie seeks new food experiences as a hobby rather than simply eating out of convenience or hunger."

But do you know that you can be a foodie without actually dining out? San Miguel Pure Foods believe that you can be passionate for food in your own kitchen and create your own food experience. And this is what Home Foodie is all about. 

Thus, Home Foodie dishes are "masarap, masustansya at kayang-kaya."

ANNOUNCEMENT TO ALL CARLY RAE JEPSEN'S FILIPINO FANS

To all Carly Rae Jepsen's fans, sorry to break your hearts, Concert Republic regrets to announce that CARLY RAE JEPSEN’s concert in Manila on August 12, 2015 will be rescheduled. 

This is due to the recent typhoon that has also affected Carly Rae’s other Asian show dates. Therefore, a collective decision was made by the artist’s management to reschedule her show in the Philippines. This will also coincide with Carly Rae’s recently announced appearance at the MTV World Stage Malaysia 2015 on September 12, 2015.

INTRODUCING MARSHALL MAJOR II HEADPHONES

Marshall headphones and Marshall amplification proudly introduce Major II, the latest headphones succeeding the original Marshall Major.

An impressive second act, the classic Major kicks up its performance a few notches. Updated sound, looks, durability, and improved ergonomics give way to a whole new level of listening. A rock-solid character that’s built to last, the Major II makes its presence known. Its more advanced sound features include customized drivers, to deliver deeper bass and more extended detailed highs with a redefined mid-range and overall lower distortion. The detachable double-ended coil cord with mic and remote is equipped with an L-plug end, providing improved durability and carrying case. The dual 3.5mm jacks allow you to choose which side you prefer to wear your cable on or plug in and share your music with a friend.

MY O'WOW EXPERIENCE INSIDE THE OISHI SNACKTACULAR

Last year when I read some posts about Oishi Factory, I promised myself I'll go to there next one. So, imagine when I found out that it is happening again, I made sure my August 7 is free from any commitments. And I'm glad I was able to attend the Oishi Snacktacular 2015 yesterday! Yay!!! It really does live up to its promises of exciting games, fun-filled booths, and awesome activities for us to enjoy. 

Oishi has been part of our lives for decades. I remember munching their Oishi prawn crackers whenever I craved for something salty. Oishi products has also evolved to cereals for breakfast, juices like great lakes, smart-c, sundays and sun-tea to choco-chug chocolate drinks. Bread pan now comes in various flavors and they're perfect for our kid's baon. (Tip: I also use them for my salad.. As an alternative to croutons). They also have different kinds of snacks that will cater to everyone's cravings. And most of all, they now have their own version of pa-healthy chicharon. Yay for Marty's!

The Oishi Snacktacular is now happening at Trinoma Activity Center. It opened yesterday to the public and can be enjoyed until tomorrow (August 9). And for only Php20 for entrance fee, everyone will have a chance to party with Team O and join all the fun activities.

JOIN THE REAL CHEF CHALLENGE WITH LADY'S CHOICE REAL MAYONNAISE

Lady's Choice has been around for years. It's one of our staples in the house since we love making chicken sandwich, coleslaw, salad and more. It's our choice of brand when we make dressings too. And I want to share with you why Lady's Choice is the real deal! Because Real Chef's use Lady's Choice Real Mayonnaise!

GRAB ALL YOU CAN AT OISHI SNACKTACULAR 2015

When it comes to giving its consumers an exciting experience, Oishi never fails to deliver! Coming off from last year’s successful 40th year celebration at Glorietta 2 , Oishi brings back Snacktacular! A fun-filled event that will make everyone of all ages go, “O, Wow!”

POSH NAILS DETOX PARTY

SM SHARES PWD SOCIAL INCLUSION EFFORTS IN US EMBASSY FORUM

Just days after the culmination of the Philippine National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week, the U.S. Embassy held a forum to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities (ADA) act. The forum, entitled “PWD Rights: Diversity and Social Inclusion”, served as an avenue for inclusive dialogue between PWD advocacy groups and various stakholders like the academe, the government, and private companies.

REPERTORY PHILIPPINES PRESENTS SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS

We're pretty excited for this! Who doesn’t know the classic fairy tale that got little girls looking at the mirror while asking, “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?” or little boys yodelling, “Heigh-ho, Heigh-ho, Heigh-ho, Heigh-ho, Heigh-ho.”

Repertory Philippines returns onstage with its own staging of Michael Valenti and Elsa Rael’s adaptation of the classic fairy tale --- Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. But, Rep’s version is more than just a simple retelling of Snow White. It features an enthralling fusion of live music with mesmerizing choreography and classical ballet unfolding right before your very eyes.

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT AT FOUR SEASONS HOTPOT CITY WITH CITI CREDIT CARD

Here’s another dining offer that’s sure to give you and your family and friends reason to come together over a great meal. 

In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the country’s preferred credit card is extending a 25% discount at one of the newest popular buffet destinations in the metro, Four Seasons Hotpot City.

From now until September 30, 2015, pay with your Citi credit card to get the exclusive 25% discount on regular weekday lunch buffet at Four Seasons Hotpot City in SM Mall of Asia Complex.  To avail of the offer, you must dine in groups of 4 adults or more and settle the bill with your Citi credit card. 

A BRIGHTER FUTURE AWAITS BOY WHO STUDIED UNDER MCDONALD'S LIGHT

Thousands of people in and out of the country were moved and inspired by a Cebuano boy who studied outside a McDonald's store in Mandaue City using a stool for a table.

Nine year-old Daniel Cabrera frequently reads and answers his homework outside of the restaurant, says McDonald‘s North Reclamation Restaurant Manager Irish Prak. “Daniel and I had a deal before. If he earned a star in school, we would give him a Happy Meal toy.

RMHC grants Daniel’s request for new storybooks. In photo: McDonald’s Store Manager and RMHC representatives present new books and school supplies to Daniel Cabrera, his mother Christina, and younger brother Gabriel.

It all began with a Facebook post and a heartwarming appeal.  Daniel’s photo went viral reaching top local and international news channels.  People took notice and so did McDonald’s Philippines and its charity of choice, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC).

DISCOVER FUN FOR THE FAMILY WITH HONG KONG SUMMER FUN #DiscoverHongKong

Discover Hong Kong this summer! We all know that Hong Kong has always been a favorite spot for family vacations with its impressive variety of activities compactly and conveniently located in one dynamic city. From unique and inventive museums to the world’s most famous theme parks, Hong Kong makes sure there’s something fun to do for everyone—without the hassle of having to travel elsewhere.  And with summer in Asia’s World City rolling in, new features, exhibits, and prizes worth up to PHP 2.3B await visitors thanks to Hong Kong Summer Fun which runs until August 31, 2015.

The little ones and those young at heart will be raring to visit world-class theme parks as Hong Kong Disneyland unveils the Frozen Village. Based on the 2013 blockbuster animation, delve into a winter wonderland and prepare to be enchanted by beloved characters from the film. Sing along to musical performances from Queen Elsa, Princess Anna, and Kristoff, and get the chance to give Olaf a warm hug and hop on a thrilling toboggan sleigh ride. Meanwhile, characters from the popular messaging app LINE are heading over to Ocean Park Hong Kong for an exciting water party that’s sure to beat the heat. Dive headfirst into a disco foam party, waterfall swings, and water mazes and slides with LINE friends Brown, Cony, and Sally at the Ocean Park Summer Splash 2015 for some aquatic adventure for mom, dad, and the kids.

CHEF'S NOODLE AYALA FAIRVIEW TERRACES IS NOW OPEN

Can't believe it's been a year since I went to Chef's Noodle opening at Robinsons Magnolia (read my story here). And just recently, I had a pleasure to attend their opening at Ayala Fairview Terraces. They still offer wide array of mouthwatering Korean dishes.

The restaurant’s more adventurous take on food is something that keeps guests exciting and wanting more as the menu – which offers both Korean fusion and traditional Korean dishes; was developed by award-winning Korean celebrity chef Choi in Sun. 

7-ELEVEN TAKES FILIPINO DISHES TO THE NEXT LEVEL

We now have more reasons to drop by at 7-Eleven as our favorite convenience store now offers Pinoy's fave Filipino dishes! The world’s leading convenience store—7-Eleven, is not just your one-stop shop but it also serves as a diner that offers quality home-cooked style meals at a very affordable price.

The premium rice meal line, Chef Creations, was launched on May 2014 and since then, has conveniently offered amazing dishes that capture the taste of Filipinos.

First introduced in the menu were Pulled Pork with Adobo Dip, Pakbet with Bagnet, and Pork Sinigang sa Kamias – all of which are renowned chef and Filipino food advocate Claude Tayag’s personal twists on local favorites. Hungry customers can have these starting at P75 only.

With the increasing demand for more classic Filipino dishes, 7-Eleven continued its partnership with Chef Claude Tayag and introduced a new set of dishes to the Chef Creations premium line, the Bistek Tagalog and Pork Binagoongan.

Red Ribbon capitalizes on Filipinos’ unforgettable sweet moments

In a survey released in 2013 by the Annual Survey of Philippine Business and Industry (ASPBI), the number of manufacturing establishments for 2010 reached more than 16,000.  Interestingly enough, manufacturers of breads, pastries, cakes, pies and other similar perishable bakery products accounted for 20.3 percent or more than 3,000 of the total number of establishments.

This was a far cry from a time when small, independent neighborhood bakeries catered mostly to residents of small towns and barangays to the massive industry that it is today where bakeries are now conspicuously present in malls and other large commercial areas.The industry has grown to what is now a large scale concern also evidenced, not only the proliferation of many branches by the key players, but also by the entry of foreign brands.