Shopgirl Jen

Aaahhhh!!! Summer is just around the corner. And what better way to start? Wearing the SM Accessories for good vibes!

SM Accessories takes 2015 in a desert storm with the pre-summer collection of 2015. See Anne Curtis, Xian Lim, Georgina Wilson, Enrique Gil, Julia Barretto, Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla venture into the wild with pieces that merge style and function.

Animal prints and bold chains from WWW dominate the ladies’ line, combined with soft tones of pearls and fur. Indulge in multipurpose scarves that can be used in various ways—from hat and bag accents to turbans to a stylish sarong. Find your pair with eyewear in all shapes, colors and sizes for you to take around all year long. Layer bangles and necklaces and transform any outfit in an instant.

Combined materials such as leather and tweed from MSense take over the men’s line, from stackable arm swag to utilitarian backpacks and messenger bags for everyday use. The hues of army green, brown and black both camouflage yet make you stand out, perfect for easy mixing and matching.

Start the year right with all the right pieces you need in that wardrobe, and conquer your best year yet with SM Accessories. All items are available in SM Stores nationwide.

As I welcomed 2015 last January 1, I promised myself I'll go out of my comfort zone. Explore a little, try new things and be spontaneous. As much as my family wants to go out of town whenever we can, my hubby's work doesn't permit us and yes, I dunno how to drive (I know it sucks! haha - I added it in my bucket list/goal this year). I don't know pero parang I have this adrenaline rush to go out this year. Live a little. And when I say go out, I meant out of the country, go to disneyland, universal studios, shop at Bangkok. Travel by plane and everything by land.

So, when someone asked me if I want to join an overnight bloggers tour at Grande Island, Subic.. guess what? I didn't say yes right away. Lol! I googled it first since I've never heard of Grande Island. When I checked their website it occurred to me that the island is surrounded by water. And we have to take a 20-30minutes ferry ride to go there. It's been years since I went to the beach. And sad fact about me? I'm scared of mass water. I don't know how I got this phobia, pero takot talaga ako. Big factor na din that I don't know how to swim to save my life (I'll add swimming lesson to my bucket list). Haha! So any travel na may water, I'll say no right away. I thought kasi when we get to Subic, Grande Island na yun. Hindi pa pala. Going to the beach is ok, pero if I have to travel by water to go to the beach, medyo scared na ako. My fear got ahead of me and was preparing to text na I can't go. I don't know why pero there was this feeling inside of me that I'll regret for not going. Especially if I'll see pictures of my co-bloggers enjoying and having a grand time in my facebook timeline. I'll be kicking myself sa inggit for sure. Haha! Anyhoo, I asked my hubby also if he would approve. Sya yung sign ko if I'll go or not, and guess what? He said yes right away. Hay. haha! He told me if I want to live a little and be adventurous, this is now the right time. According to him, I always say na let's go out, let's go to the beach, let's do this. I want adventure. And here I am, presented an opportunity to try everything, and I will say no? Then I realized my hubby has a point (finally! Lol). And bigla na din akong naexcite. In short, I said yes na. Woot! 2015 is my year, and I need to overcome a lot of things and just get over it. (why am I telling you this story? I dunno! Haha! But seriously, baka may maka-relate and need inspiration for overcoming fear :D)

So anyway, the group met last January 16 at McDonalds's Mindanao, and we began traveling to Subic at 7am.

And whoever invented the NLEX and all that roads to shortened the travel up to Subic, bravo to you! It only took us less than 2 hours to get there. :)

Thank God there was no traffic that day. And after a lot of sight seeing here and there, we arrived at Subic Free Port to catch the 9am ferry ride.

Here's the ferry schedule to bring you to Grande Island.

group shot before our ferry ride (pic from Lariza)

The ferry was big enough to accommodate all of us. And hindi sya scary promise. Yay! A check in my bucket list!

Can you see the Grande Island?

Feeling brave, (pat on my back) haha! The water was calm and as we approached the Island, bigla akong naexcite.

If you want me to be honest, I was a little antsy and experienced anxieties while we were up there in the ferry. I checked where they stash their lifejackets (they were in front of us), lol! I was counting minutes until we land. I just covered my fear by having a lot of selfies, haha! And seriously, being in a group of fun people who wants to have fun and grand time, taking pix in every angle (lol), I was able to relax and enjoy the ferry ride. (group pic from Lariza)

You can't imagine my giddiness when I got off from the ferry. Yes! Land! Hahaha!

They also have mini cart like this to accommodate their guests to bring them to their Chalet room.

We were also greeted with a welcoming refreshment from this Kuya.

I just love how refreshing it is to see all these trees surrounding the Island. A little walk lang and there's the beach agad from our Chalet room.

We were given 5 Chalet rooms for 10 bloggers. Really, it was big enough for me and Lariza. It is an air-conditioned room with queen size bed. In every Chalet room, there are 3 beds, cable TV, vanity desk and drawers for our things. There's no ceiling light, they only have lamp shade. So if you're planning an overnight stay and is afraid of the dark, bring your emergency light or you can light up a couple of candles for a more romantic and cozy feel. But make sure you don't leave it lit. :D

Their bathroom is clean with heater.

Here's what the outside of Chalet room looks like. They're facing the beach so it has an easier access to go inside the room through here.

We had a menu set in our room and you can also have it delivered to your Chalet room for outdoor ambiance.

The winning "ulam". Who can say no to pork sinigang? We so loved it and we ordered them for lunch and dinner. Haha!

We only ordered 5 dishes and it is good enough for 10 pax. And for an Island cooking, they are all yummy! Though the beef was a little hard to chew, the "sabaw' and gulay makes up for it.

We were served fresh fruit platter. I think the only fruit they have are ripe mangoes, watermelon and pineapple. We've been served same fruit 3x during our stay.

Do you think I just wasted my time lounging around in our Chalet room? Haha!

Stay tuned for my next post of what happened when we were at Grande Island. Wait... can I just say that I was so proud of myself for being there? Lol! Cheers!

It’s a YES! Grammy-award winner David Foster, UK pop sensation and former Spice Girl Melanie C, Indonesian rock icon Anggun and Taiwanese-American pop idol Van Ness Wu have been named as the celebrity judging panel for the season premiere of hit talent search show, “Asia’s Got Talent” on AXN.

Billed as the biggest talent competition in the world, “Asia’s Got Talent” will light up screens across Asia in March on AXN and will feature some of the region’s most incredible performing artists as they compete to take home the coveted winning title.

Hui Keng Ang, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia said, “We have put together a superb panel of judges for ‘Asia’s Got Talent’. This is definitely our most ambitious original series to date and is very much in line with the type of smart, high-quality local programming that audiences have come to expect from AXN."

Paul O’Hanlon, Managing Director of FremantleMedia Asia said, “We’re proud to say that ‘Asia’s Got Talent’ will be the largest version ever of the Got Talent franchise, and our judges bring a depth and breadth of experience and talent worthy of this show.”

From thousands of applicants, the four judges must select Asia's most jaw-dropping, mind-blowing, and breathtaking performances. Those who move on to the semi- finals will face an even more intimidating judge, the AXN audience at home who will ultimately determine who wins the first season of Asia’s Got Talent. Adding to the excitement, the semi-finals and finale will be held at the iconic Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, with the winner awarded a contract to return and perform live at Asia’s leading entertainment destination.

Anggun, Rock Icon

Anggun started singing at seven and by 12 released her first Indonesian studio album, ‘Dunia Aku Punya’, with hit single ‘Mimpi’ recognized as one of the ‘150 Greatest Indonesian Songs of All Time’ by Rolling Stone magazine.

A series of singles and albums followed to make Anggun the biggest Indonesian rock star of the 90s. Her international breakthrough came in 1997 with ‘Snow on the Sahara’ which was released in 33 countries worldwide, topped music charts in Italy and Indonesia, and made the top 20 in Finland, France, Japan, Spain, and the US. Following that, Anggun released five more studio albums, and released songs that featured in Danish movie “Open Hearts” and the Hollywood box office hit, “Transporter 2”. Anggun is a recipient of the ‘Chevalier des Arts et Lettres’ from the French government. She is also a judge on “X Factor Indonesia” and “Indonesia’s Got Talent” TV series.

David Foster, Music Producer

David Foster discovered and launched some of the greatest music careers including Michael Bublé, Josh Groban and Celine Dion. He has created hit songs and award-winning platinum and gold albums for Earth, Wind & Fire, Natalie Cole, Michael Bolton, Seal, Chaka Khan, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Chicago, Hall & Oates, Brandy, ’N Sync, Boz Scaggs, and Gloria Estefan; propelled classical singers like Andrea Bocelli and Josh Groban into mainstream popularity; as well as created soundtracks for hit films like “The Bodyguard”, “Urban Cowboy”, and “St. Elmo’s Fire”. In 2008 and 2011, David performed and hosted his very own, star-studded “Foster & Friends” concerts in Las Vegas to celebrate the music from his career and toured Asia annually from 2010 – 2012. David has won 16 Grammy Awards from 47 nominations, and is the chairman of Verve Music Group.

Melanie C., Pop Icon

Melanie was part of the iconic five-member Spice Girls, in which she was nicknamed ‘Sporty Spice’. Following that, as a solo artist, Melanie sold more than 12 million records from six albums that she released. She has the second most No.1 singles in the United Kingdom and is also the only female to top the charts as part of a quintet, a quartet, a duo and solo. Melanie also performed the role of Mrs Johnstone in the West End musical “Blood Brothers,” for which she was nominated for ‘Best Actress in a Musical’ at the Laurence Olivier Awards. In 2012, Melanie co-starred in the musical “Jesus Christ Superstar”, and also judged the preceding talent search series “Superstar” to select the lead actor for the said musical.

Van Ness Wu, Actor/Singer

Van Ness Wu was born in California where he took classes in performing arts, acting and languages in Hollywood before moving to Taiwan at 21 to build his career. His breakthrough came with his lead role in the wildly popular hit idol drama “Meteor Garden” and its sequels. Van Ness and his co-actors of the series formed the pop idol group F4 – now known as JVKV – and released three studio albums.

Turning his attention to his solo career, Van Ness released his debut solo album in 2002 and followed that with six other solo studio albums up to 2013, as well as singles collaborating with musicians including Kanye West, Beyoncé, Wang Lee Hom, Kangta, and Coco Lee. He also acted in many other TV series including “Autumn Concerto”, “Material Queen” and “Peach Girl”, as well as movies such as “Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon” and “Kung Fu Chefs”.

“Asia's Got Talent” is the 63rd version of "Got Talent", which won the Guinness World Records title for being the world's "Most Successful Reality TV Format" in 2014. The hit format is co-owned by FremantleMedia and Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment.

The season premiere of “Asia’s Got Talent” on AXN is proudly presented by Marina Bay Sands, BIG COLA, Pantene, Caltex, Jetstar and Tune Hotels.

Marina Bay Sands is the premier sponsor of “Asia's Got Talent.” As Asia's leading entertainment destination and crossroads for global celebrities, Marina Bay Sands provides opportunities for local talent to shine on the world’s stage.

BIG COLA is the exclusive beverage partner of “Asia’s Got Talent”. With BIG COLA, ‘if you can dream it, you can do it’. Contestants and fans across Asia will be encouraged to ‘Think BIG’ and ‘Dream Bigger’ in pursuit of their dreams.

Pantene, the exclusive haircare partner of “Asia’s Got Talent”, makes hair stronger inside and shinier outside to enable contestants to shine and be the world’s number one talent.

Caltex is the exclusive petroleum partner of “Asia's Got Talent.” Caltex delivers a hassle-free experience to get people back on their journey quickly, so they can have more time and energy to do whatever matters most to them. By being a part of “Asia's Got Talent,” Caltex wants to celebrate key moments of the contestants’ journey to stardom, providing viewers the opportunity to enjoy the journey with them.

Jetstar is proud to be the official airline of the very first edition of “Asia’s Got Talent.” With more than 600 weekly flights to 22 destinations across 13 countries in Asia Pacific, Jetstar enables talent to fly further, connect with families and fulfil dreams.

Tune Hotels is an international select-service hotel brand that provides accommodation with high quality essentials in key gateway cities. Five star beds and power showers help “Asia’s Got Talent” contestants get a good night’s sleep and perform at their best.

AXN is a leader of regionally produced original content in Asia, with notable ratings successes including four seasons of the international Emmy-nominated “The Amazing Race Asia”; the Asian Television Award-winning “Cash Cab Asia”; “The Apprentice Asia”; “Cyril: Rio Magic”; “Cyril’s Family Vacation: Hawaii Edition”; and the Asian Television Award-nominated “Cyril: Simply Magic.”

www.AXNAsia.com/AsiasGotTalent

Bringing the simple versatility of neoprene to the original ZX FLUX silhouette for the first time, adidas Originals has created the ZX FLUX Neoprene Collection.

The collection comprises six iterations of the ZX FLUX constructed entirely from neoprene to create the lightest and most comfortable editions of the minimalist running model yet. Offered in clean black, grey and navy colourways, as well as a number of seasonal colourways of purple, mint and coral orange, each model then features a contrast white heel-cage and midsole with a wildcard outsole to add subtle pops of contrast, reflecting the pack's own combination of functionality and fashion-forward thinking.

#zxflux

#adidasOriginals

Shopping has never been this easy. And true to its word, with Lazada you can experience an effortless shopping, and everything you need from fashion, baby needs, gift for your friends and family, gadgets, cameras, home appliances, health and beauty, home and living, toys, sports and outdoors, computer and laptops, all are available in just a click away at www.lazada.com.ph.

And with the successful Online Revolution Month that culminated last December 12, 2014, Lazada is ready for another yet show-stopping shopping event tomorrow, January 27, to kick-off the Chinese New Year that's happening next month.

Ready yourselves to shop and get jaw-dropping deals of as much as 88% off on select best selling items, flash sales and surprise items. The sale will start at 12:01AM of January 27 and it will end on 11:59PM of the same day.

Here are a few pointers before you start clicking the shopping cart:

- Lazada will be holding a night Sales Promotion from 12:00AM - 8AM of January 27, with many vouchers up for grabs to give you the best additional discounts on top of discounted best selling items!

- There will be a 16 Hourly Flash Sales from 8AM until 11:59PM

- For the competitive shoppers, there will be hourly contests and special prizes on www.lazada.com.ph and on the Lazada Facebook Page

- For the Deal Hunters to get more out of their hard-earned money, Lazada will be unveiling killer deals on best-selling tech and lifestyle items with discounts of as much as 88% off!

- Exclusive discount vouchers can be availed from Lazada's partners such as Smart Bro, BPI, BDO and Maybank

Here's what to expect at the sale!

Good news! You can now get Php500 OFF when you enter ShopgirlJen as your voucher code upon checkout!

So, grab a coffee and start filling your shopping cart at 12:01AM - a few hours from now and take advantage of this year's opening sale from the Philippines Biggest Online Shopping Mall! Happy Shopping!!!

The annual Ajinomoto® Umami Culinary Challenge (UCC) 2015 is slated on Friday, January 30, 2015 at the Hall 2 of the SMX Convention Hall from 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. On its 6th year, UCC organizer, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation, puts together the best culinary teams from Luzon-VisayasMindanao in one (1) cooking arena to showcase their masterful culinary creations. UCC is the biggest, intercollegiate, multi-category culinary competition that focuses on the delicious potential of umami, the 5th basic taste. The event attracts HRM and Nutrition students in 54 schools coming from NCR, Ilocos, CALABARZON, Central Luzon and Bicol Regions and regional winners from Visayas and Mindanao. Apart from the Luzon-Visayas-Mindanao Cooking Showdown, UCC 2015 features three (3) competition categories: Best Filipino Umami Dish, My Own Umami Creation and My Eat Well, Live Well® Plate. The competing teams will be judged based on intensity of their dish’s umami taste, culinary technique and creativity, dish preparation and plate presentation. One of the major criteria is the Eat Well, Live Well.® Cooking, which referred to culinary nutrition or the integration of culinary skills and nutrition knowledge to create delicious and nourishing umami dish. Winners will receive cash prizes: first place winners P10,000, second place winners P8,000 and third place winners P5,000. National Showdown winners will receive PhP 15,000. Major prizes also include gifts from UCC 2015 sponsors: La Germania, Solane, Fujidenzo and Masflex. Ajinomoto® advocates culinary nutrition embodied in its slogan Ajinomoto® Eat Well, Live Well.

Leading technical experts in food, nutrition and medicine will also provide valuable insights to studentcompetitors to solidify their background in culinary nutrition and educate them about umami and its role in health and nutrition. Umami, the scientifically recognized and proven 5th basic taste alongside sweet, sour, bitter, and salty, was first identified and isolated by Dr. Kikunae Ikeda of Tokyo Imperial University in 1908. *** Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) is an affiliate of Tokyo-based Ajinomoto Co., Inc. Established in 1958, APC lives by its promise to provide consumers products that will always give the delicious taste to healthy and nutritious meals as embodied in APC’s slogan Ajinomoto® “Eat Well, Live Well.®” APC’s complete line of quality food and seasoning products are produced by international affiliates and local toll manufacturers using Ajinomoto’s license, quality standards and technological expertise.

LIST OF SCHOOLS (AS OF JANUARY 27, 2015)

ACADEMY OF ASIA SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY AND ARTS ASIAN; INSTITUTE OF MARITIME AND STUDIES; BENEDICTO COLLEGE; BULACAN STATE UNIVERSITY; CALAYAN EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION; CENTRAL LUZON OF COLLEGE AND TECHNOLOGY; CENTRO ESCOLAR UNIVERSITY- MALOLOS; COLEGIO DE SAN JUAN DE LETRAN- LAGUNA; COLEGIO DE SAN LORENZO; COLLEGE OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION; DE LA SALLE UNIVERSITY- DASMARIÑAS; DE LOS SANTOS STI- COLLEGE; DOMINICAN COLLEGE (SAN JUAN); DR. CARLOS S. LANTING; EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE (MANILA); FACILITIES MANAGEMENT COLLEGE; FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY; FIRST ASIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY AND HUMANITIES (FAITH); GREEN VALLEY COLLEGE FOUNDATION, INC.; HERCOR COLLEGE; HOLY CROSS OF DAVAO COLLEGE; JOSE RIZAL UNIVERSITY; LA CONSOLACION COLLEGES- TANAUAN; LA CONSOLACION COLLEGES- NOVALICHES; LAGUNA COLLEGE; LYCEUM OF SUBIC BAY; LYCEUM OF THE PHILIPPINES UNIVERSITY (CAVITE); MALAYAN COLLEGE LAGUNA; MANILA TYTANA COLLEGE; MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY; MARIANO QUINTO ALLARILLA; POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE MARINERS'; POLYTECHNIC COLLEGES FOUNDATION; METROPOLITAN MEDICAL CENTER-COLLEGE OF ARTS SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY; MIRIAM COLLEGE; OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL SUCCOR COLLEGE (OLOPSC); PAMANTASAN NG LUNGSOD NG MARIKINA; PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY; PARTIDO STATE UNIVERSITY; PERPETUAL HELP COLLEGE MANILA; PHILIPPINE CULTURAL COLLEGE PHINMA; ARAULLO UNIVERSITY; POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES (SAN JUAN); ROGATIONIST COLLEGE; SAINT FRANCIS OF ASISSI COLLEGE; SAN PEDRO COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION; SOUTHEAST ASIAN COLLEGE; ST. DOMINC COLLEGE OF ASIA; TARLAC STATE UNIVERSITY; TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES; UNIVERSITY OF PERPETUAL HELP SYSTEM DALTA-MOLINO; UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM (ANTIPOLO); UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS; UNIVERSITY OF THE EAST (MANILA); WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY PHILIPPINES.

APC’s products include AJINO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, Ajinomoto® Brand Ginisa Flavor Seasoning Mix, Ajinomoto® Brand Chicken Powder, PORKSAVOR® Allin-One Seasoning Mix, CRISPY FRY® Breading Mix, CRISPY FRY® Seasoned Crumbs, TASTY BOY® All Purpose Breading Mix, AJI-SHIO® Seasoning Mix, Ajinomoto® Brand Sinigang and FRES-C® Concentrated Powdered Drink Mix.AJINOMOTO PHILIPPINES CORPORATION 11th Floor, V Corporate Centre, 125 L. P. Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City, Philippines Tel No. 895-6081 to 89 | www.ajinomoto.com.ph

Baskin-Robbins, the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, is celebrating a “Royale Festival” until the end of February with the launch of a regal line-up of frozen treats inspired by its delicious Chocolate Mousse Royale™ ice cream flavor. Featuring silky chocolate mousse ice cream and decadent chocolate flakes, Chocolate Mousse Royale is a classic Baskin-Robbins flavor fit for royalty.

“Since making its debut more than 31 years ago, Chocolate Mousse Royale has become one of our most beloved ice cream flavors around the world,” said Jeff Miller, executive chef and vice president of product innovation for Dunkin’ Brands. “We’re excited to introduce a full line-up of frozen treats inspired by this classic Baskin-Robbins flavor, including a range of Gold Crown Layered Sundaes, a Chocolate King Waffle Cone, a Chocolate Mousse Royalty Triple Shake and our magnificent Royale Chocolate Ice Cream Cake. These delicious ice cream creations will certainly make you feel like a member of the King’s court.”

Baskin-Robbins’ Chocolate Mousse Royale ice cream flavor is available in participating Baskin-Robbins shops by the scoop, in a cup or cone as well as in fresh-packed pints and quarts to take home. In addition, guests can enjoy Baskin-Robbins’ full line-up of “Royale Festival” frozen treats including:

Chocolate King Waffle Cone: A cone fit for a king, this frozen treat features a scoop of Chocolate Mousse Royale ice cream in a freshly baked waffle cone, topped with a “crown” of whipped cream and diced almonds.

Baskin-Robbins Chocolate King Waffle Cone

Gold Crown Layered Sundaes: Baskin-Robbins is offering a range of layered sundaes this month which combine the featured Chocolate Mousse Royale flavor with layers of classic ice cream flavors and toppings, complete with whipped cream and diced almonds.

Baskin-Robbins Cookies ‘n’ Cream Sundae

Baskin-Robbins Chocolate Mousse Royale Sundae

Baskin-Robbins Very Berry Strawberry Sundae

Chocolate Mousse Royalty Triple Shake: This refreshing frozen beverage features a Chocolate Mousse Royale milk shake served over fudge and topped with whipped cream and diced almonds.

Baskin-Robbins Chocolate Mousse Royalty Triple Shake

Royale Chocolate Ice Cream Cake: This extravagant cake featuring Chocolate Mousse Royale ice cream and a layer of chocolate cake is adorned with elegant gold accents and is sure to be a stand out at any special occasion.

Baskin-Robbins Chocolate Mousse Royale Cake

Baskin-Robbins’ range of “Royale Festival” frozen treats are available at participating shops for a limited time until February 28, 2015.

For more information about Baskin-Robbins’wide variety of ice cream flavors and frozen desserts, visit their website www.baskinrobbins.ph or check out their Facebook (facebook.com/baskinrobbinsph), Twitter and Instagram (baskinrobbinsph) accounts.

Let's talk about sexual intimacy. Menarini Philippines continues to promote its Community to Control PE advocacy campaign this 2015 with its Happy Wife, Happy Life event. When it comes to sexual intimacy, couples need to be more open with their partners about what satisfies them.

Given that the two of you share a special bond, there's no reason for you to not be comfortable about discussing what you like - and don't like about sex. After all, an activity that is meant to be enjoyed, should provide fulfillment for both parties.

As such, Menarini Philippines together with the Philippine Urological Association, boldly launched its Commit to Control PE Advocacy campaign last year to address one of the more pressing issues regarding sexual intimacy - premature ejaculation.

In relation to this, Menarini Philippines held a talk, aptly called Happy Wife, Happy Life, which was held last January 10 at the Satin Room of the Seda Hotels in BGC and was attended by local bloggers. It aimed to shed better insight about what premature ejaculation is all about, and that it is not something to be embarrassed about because it can be controlled.

The event was hosted by popular celebrity columnist RJ Ledesma and featured a very insightful talk from sex and relationship guru, Dr. Margie Holmes, concerning "the love that last is better". Also present at the event was Dr. Dennis Serrano, who talked about the “basics” of premature ejaculation to help the guests have a better understanding of this condition.

Menarini Philippines strongly believes in this advocacy which is often left untreated because it is a topic that is usually considered taboo even in these modern times. The pharmaceutical giant hopes to make a stronger impact among Filipino couples on their campaign this year with more events like this.

Menarini is the world’s largest Italian biopharmaceutical company with a heritage of over 128 years and over 16,000 employees in over 100 countries. Here in Asia-Pacific, Menarini’s vision is to be a leading provider of important healthcare brands to improve the lives of people in the region. Menarini Asia-Pacific operates across the entire commercial value chain, from regulatory approval and product launch to lifecycle management with a diverse portfolio of proprietary and partnered brands in key therapeutic fields, including Dermatology, Primary Care, Allergy/Respiratory, Cardiovascular, Select Specialty Care, Men’s Health and Consumer Health.

For further information, please visit: www.menariniapac.com.

Felt like a kid again when I joined the bloggers field trip at Uratex plantation in Muntinlupa. I've never been there kaya I was excited to check on how they maintained to be on the top of mattresses provider after all this years.

Never under estimate the power of a mattress. After a hard day's work, don't you want to lie down in the softest foam and relieve all the tenses and stress? In my 9 years of marriage, I'm happy to say that we've been using Uratex foam since day 1 and up until now, gamit pa din namin sya. The life and quality of Uratex is already tested throughout the years, and Uratex now also provides not only foam but they also make plastic furniture made of monoblock (chair, table & cabinet); textile made of moquette, jacquard, ticot fabric.

The RGC Group of Companies revolutionized foam making in the country back in 1987 when they set up the very first continuous foaming machine in the country, the Vertifoam. The Vertifoam process involves computerized metering of materials to form perfectly-shaped foam with lesser scrap (less wastage) which benefitted both the market and our environment. In 2001, they surpass this feat by installing a yet a new foaming equipment called Hennecke. The German-made equipment, tagged as the Mercedes Benz of the foam-making industry, is considered the best in the world. The RGC Group then invested on another Hennecke machine, with a more latest technological improvements, to serve as back up to the 2001 version, in December of 2009.

Aren't you curious how Uratex makes quality beds to give us a good sleep at night? Yes, that big blue bar is the foam! We saw from scratch how they made this and it was pure awesomeness thanks to high-tech equipment and well-trained operators.

And to ensure the high quality of foams and mattresses, we witnessed how meticulous they are when it comes with the cutting, sizing and texture. The highly trained operators go back and forth to perfect each foam.

At the Muntinlupa plant, the foam is cut in 30-meter lengths. The 30-meter long blocks are then picked up by an overhead crane and transferred to the curing area. Foam is produced via an exothermic reaction where the center may reach up to 145-165 degrees Celsius within 20-30 minutes. It will not start to cool for another 3-4 hours but will reach room temperature within 24 hours and is “cured”.

Uratex laboratory personnel develop formulations that result to certain types of foam and also conduct tests to ensure that the formulation will meet final product specifications that customers look for.

The RGC Group of Companies revolutionized foam making back in 1987 when they set up the first continuous foaming machine in the country called the “Vertifoam” process. This involves computerized metering of materials to form perfectly-shaped foam with lesser scrap that benefited both the market and the environment because of less wastage.

Uratex has a line of products which aims not only to give its customers a good, comfortable bed to sleep on but also a kind of bed that can help them improve their health.

The Orthocare mattress, on the other hand, is what Uratex calls the “therapeutic” mattress, mainly because it relieves back pain due to improper sleeping positions and from sleeping on imbalanced mattresses. It is a medical-grade mattress that combines a high-density polyurethane mattress and a multi-zone topper with breathable open-pored cell structure.

On the other hand, Senso Memory Foam which is constructed using high-quality visco-elastic memory foam on top of a polyurethane base, and designed to sense the body’s weight and temperature, and then gently mold to its specific shape and contours and evenly distributes pressure all over the body. It supports the whole body, easing pressure points and discomfort usually associated with incorrect sleeping positions.

The Technogel mattress and pillows, is a bit expensive it is is a high-end product because of its unique look and feel.Unlike other available foam mattresses, Technogel deforms three-dimensionally, distributing pressure evenly over the entire contact surface to help promote better blood circulation and lessen interruptions during sleep. “Gel technology” is regarded as the next generation cushioning material for mattresses and pillows, and is now here in the Philippines.We also went inside their retail store for sure they use icverify.

Be careful with the counterfeit!

For more information, Multiflex RNC Philippines Inc. is located at Km.23 east Service Road, South Superhighway, Bo. Cupang, Muntinlupa City. 842-6326 to 27, 8500-0784-91 or call the consumer Uratex hotline at 888-680. You can also email them at sales@uratex.com.ph may visit their website at www.uratex.com.ph.

As we welcome 2015 with a bang, Samsung also opened the 2015 with a big bang! They recently released the Samsung Galaxy A Series. For the young and upwardly mobile crowd, there’s nothing better than having access to the A life – an awesome lifestyle that lets you freely express yourself and have fun the way you want to. The A life means being able to experience life’s greatest moments and sharing these with your friends.

Those who want to experience the A Life can make it happen with the Samsung Galaxy A series with its slim, stylish and full metal design. Launched last January 14 at Valkyrie, the Samsung Galaxy A Series is Samsung’s first full metal smartphone which features both a stylish design and powerful specs.

Available in three variants (Galaxy A7, Galaxy A5 and Galaxy A3), the A series features a first full metal unibody device that comes in a variety of colors and sizes, and advanced features that bring the Samsung smartphone experience to a new level of functionality.

The Galaxy A Series is Samsung’s slimmest smartphones to date, making them the perfect accessory to go with any get-up. The Galaxy A7 stands at 6.3mm thin, while Galaxy A5 and Galaxy A3 comes at 6.7mm and 6.9mm, respectively. For the Galaxy A3, there will be Black and White colors. Black, White, Gold, and Silver will be available for Galaxy A5 while Galaxy A7 will come in Black, White, and Gold.

Sporting an advanced 5MP front-facing camera, it allows you to take better selfies with greater ease than ever—whether you’re bar hopping with friends, lounging at the beach, or exploring a new vacation getaway. Innovative photo-taking features, such asWide Selfie, Voice and Palm Gestures Activation, Animated GIF, Beauty Face Features (Face Retouch, Eye Enlarge, and Slim Face), and Rear-cam Selfie, let users take photos in high resolution by automatically detecting and focusing on a person’s face.

Since photos are meant to be shared, you can easily share photos of your A life with friends using your favorite social mediachannels with the device’s fast network speed of LTE Category 4 standard.

Further, the A Series allows you to expand your entertainment options. Whether you want to play video games or watch films, you will surely love the Galaxy A series Super AMOLED display and Adaptive Display technology, which gives users a more exciting viewing experience. It delivers clearer images with deep contrast and better viewing angles for more vivid, colorful content in virtually any environment, even under bright sunlight.

To ensure that you always enjoy what technology has to offer in every facet of your life, the A Series was made for seamless multi-tasking and faster browsing experience. The A7 features an Octa Core (1.5GHz Quad Core and 1.0 GHz Quad Core) processor while A5 and A3 feature a Quad Core 1.2 GHz processor. In addition, the Galaxy A Series sports popular features exclusive to Galaxy devices, such as Ultra-Power Saving Mode, Private Mode and Multiscreen, as well as adjustable audio which intelligently adaptsand enhances sound output based on the user’s surrounding environment.

The Galaxy A7 is priced at Php 24,990, Galaxy A5 at Php 19,990 and Galaxy A3 at Php 16,990 will be available in Samsung Experience Stores and authorized dealers beginning January 2015.

After the global phenomenon of the “selfie” swept the whole country, everyone is now taking #IpanemaSelfeet, a campaign introduced by Brazilian flip-flop brand Ipanema that encouraged Filipinos to aim phone cameras lower, down to our feet.

From bloggers, fashionistas to celebrities—Pinoys from all walks of life took an #IpanemaSelfeet. These included Azkal football player Anton del Rosario and radio jock Gelli Victor at SM North Edsa, teen tandem James Reid and Nadine Lustre at Robinsons Ermita, Tom Rodriguez at Abreeza Mall in Davao, and Miss Philippines Water 2012 Samantha Purvor.

The #IpanemaSelfeet campaign was launched at Ipanema’s newest store in SM North Edsa in September and made its way to major malls such as Robinsons Ermita, Ayala Center Cebu and Abreeza Mall in Davao.

Everyone was then encouraged to join #IpanemaSelfeet with a series of mall events dubbed as #IpanemaSelfeet Sundays. Mall goers had an exciting day as they joined games and raffles, got discounts on their Ipanema flip flops, got to try on Ipanema’s new collection to take their #IpanemaSefeets, and enjoyed watching Brazilian performances.

“We are so happy that shoppers got a sense of adventure with our #IpanemaSelfeet campaign. So if you’re planning on a weekend getaway, slip into your favorite Ipanema flip-flops and take an #IpanemaSelfeet,” said ELRO Corporation Managing Director Patxi Elizalde.

The Davao stop was also momentous as it coincided with the opening of Ipanema’s 7th concept store in Abreeza Mall. This is another milestone for Ipanema, as this concept store is the first in Davao.

The fun continued online with the #IpanemaSelfeet contest on Facebook. Those who uploaded their selfeets on their Facebook account with the official hashtag, #IpanemaSelfeet got freebies and a chance to win a special accommodation at Punta Fuego in Batangas.

With its stylishly chic and colorful designs reminiscent of Brazil, and its signature buttery-soft sole, Ipanema is a perfect fit for Filipinos who are adventurous-at-heart. For more information Ipanema, visit www.facebook.com/IpanemaPhilippines.

Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival marks 19th year, all set for another historic Weekend of Everything That Flies

The Philippines’ first, foremost and longest-running gathering of aviators and aviation enthusiasts from around the globe is back for another Weekend of Everything That Flies.

This year’s Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival (PIHABF) is set on February 12 to 15 at the Philippine Air Force ADAC Hangar in Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga.

I remember the time when we went to hot air balloon fiesta 2 years ago. It was a fun day with friends and we were able to watch different kinds of hot air balloon. If you're planning to stay all day (which I suggest you should), don't forget to bring tents for a place to hang out with your friends. You can also bring your own kite to play with. And be early (expect traffic).

Earlier this year, a memorandum of agreement to hold the annual balloon fiesta was signed by Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president Arnel Casanova, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president Arthur Tugade, Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) president, (then) chief executive officer Victor Jose Luciano, and Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Foundation Inc. (PIHABF) president Capt. Joy Roa at the Asian Air Safari hangar in Pasay City.

Four full days of flying activities—including hot air ballooning, aerobatic exhibitions, skydiving, powered paragliding, aviation formation, search and rescue flight demonstrations, and balloon bursting, among other aviation spectacles—await attendees and participants to the highly anticipated event.

This year’s highlights include a total of 32 hot air balloons participating from all over the world, with special-shaped balloons featuring Old MacDonald’s Farm, Maximus the Beagle Dog, Burnie the Little Devil, Upside Down Balloon, Miss Daisy, Old Lady & the Shoe, Little Girl and Little Boy, Pink Elephant, Octopus, and Vincent Van Gogh, among a host of colorful traditional balloons.

After the 6:00 AM balloon launch, attendees can also look forward to non-stop flying exhibitions which include skydiving, motorized paragliding, aerobatics, formation flying, radio-controlled model flights, kite-flying, and rocketry, before the balloons fly in again at 5:45 in the afternoon, weather-permitting.

Activities are not only limited skyward, as the festival grounds are also brimming with fun for the whole family. Watch car-drifting exhibitions while airplanes try to drop flour bombs overhead; catch firefighting and safety demonstrations by the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC); discover unique goods and food finds at the “Fly Market”; see your favorite OPM bands perform onstage courtesy of Radio Republic; for would-be aviators, visit the displays of various aviation schools; learn more about birds and other animal species at the Zoocobia mini zoo; and for lovers, attend a free Valentines Concert staged by Jeepney TV on the 3rd Fiesta night, which falls on Valentine’s Day. A fireworks display and nightglow culminates the four-day event the following evening.

As part of this year’s activities, PIHABF also launched the search for Miss Aviation. First staged in the 1970s, this one-of-a-kind beauty pageant aims to promote, advocate and inspire the youth to take up a career in aviation, and support the country’s local tourism efforts. Twenty (20) female aviation students and professionals will vie for the title which will be awarded on February 10, 2015 during the Annual Aviator’s Ball to be held at the Manila Peninsula.

An outstanding pilot will also be receiving the Aviator of the Year Award during the Annual Aviator’s Ball which is a recognition given to aviators who have made outstanding contributions in upgrading the standards of safety and aviation interests in their regions. Other recognitions to be awarded during the event are: Fixed Wing Pilot of the Year, Helicopter Pilot of the Year, Flight Instructor of the Year, Female Pilot of the Year, CAAP Check Pilot of the Year, CAAP Controller of the Year and Aircraft Mechanic of the Year.

According to Captain Joy Roa, event director, the fiesta is a platform for improving the country’s aviation standing through collaboration and interaction with international aviators. “We have so much to learn from our foreign counterparts, and this fiesta is an opportunity to share and exchange cultures and ideas. Of course, this is also a chance for us to showcase the world renowned Filipino hospitality,” he said.

The PIHABF organizing committee is composed of volunteer aviation experts and industry practitioners who make sure that the fiesta is carefully planned and safety-oriented.

Roa added, “Despite the challenges and the setbacks, we are dogged in our determination to mount this event year after year because more than a spectacle, this is an advocacy for us. We want to educate everyone, especially the youth, about the beauty of aviation and the many life lessons we can learn from it.”

The PIHABF 2015 was made possible with the support of the Bases Conversion Development Authority, Clark Freeport, Clark International Airport, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, together with media partners the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Malaya Business Insight, Business World, Business Mirror, Pilipino Mirror, Natural 97.9 FM, DWIZ, ABS CBN, and sponsors, SM City Clark, UPS, Prudential Guarantee, Hotdog on Stick, CDO Bibbo Hotdog, Segway, Qube, Kopiko, Rudy Project, The Medical City, Yellow Cab, Tempra, Snow Cone, Flanax, Bonamine, Garant Group and Radio Republic.

Entrance tickets are at Php300 each, which is a donation to the PIHABF Foundation Scholarship Fund, granting scholarships to deserving but underprivileged students pursuing an aviation career in partnership with Air Link International Aviation School and the Philippine Air Transport and Training Services.. Tickets may be purchased at the fiesta’s official website, at Ticketnet outlets, or at the event gates.

For more information and updates on the 19th PIHABF, visit www.philballoonfest.net or its official Facebook page, at http://www.facebook.com/pihabf.

As a mom to Sofi, nothing I want more than to secure her future. I know that it is every parents responsibility to give and provide a good future to our kids. And to new parents, the joy of preparing everything from the moment you learn that you're pregnant to giving birth, all you want is the best for your child, right? Let me share with you how Manulife Philippines can help you prepare a good life our kids deserve.

Being a new parent means having your littlest loved one depend on you for everything. Their future is in the hands of their mom and dad. And to help expectant parents or parents of newborns journey into their new life stage, Manulife Philippines has now made life insurance more accessible through its Bundle of Joy advocacy. You can now build a more secure future for themselves and your family and be part of their community by signing up to www.manulifebundleofjoy.com.ph.

Expectant moms and dads, and parents of children under one year of age are entitled to a FREE one-year term life insurance coverage worth Php100,000. Furthermore, everyone who registers online can access good reads and helpful tips from experts, join various promotions and win exciting prizes and freebies.

The event was hosted by fellow mom Dj Dela Mar and pediatricians Dra. Anna Lorrain Nora-Gochingco, M. D., DPPS and Dra. Ceres Paulino-Canto MD also gave their expertise on how to take care of newborn.

Ryan Charland, President & Chief Executive Officer of Manulife Philippines shared that Manulife's Bundle of Joy is part of their continued advocacy to reach, secure and prostect as many Filipino families as possible.

"Financial protection should be in every new or expectant parent's checklist as the first step towards securing their family's future. Through Manulife's Bundle of Joy, we want to mate it easy for parents to access life insurance coverage by having them register online and become part of a community that can support their responsibility as partnes." Mr. Charland added.

Anyone can join and access the Manulife Bundle of Joy community by signing up at www.manulifebundleofjoy.com.ph. Here's how:

- Go to the Bundle of Joy website at www.manulifebundleofjoy.com.ph

- At the landing page, click on the Register Now or Sign Up Now button

- Fill out the fields under Account Registration

-Click on the Sign Up button

- And tadah! You are now a member of the Manulife Bundle of Joy community! Easy, right?

And to avail the free life insurance coverage:

- Perform steps 1 to 3 above

- For expectant parents or parents with a child below one year old, click the button "Yes, I would like to claim my free insurance."

- Accept the Terms and Conditions

- Congratulations! You are now covered!

Manulife Bundle of Joy is a proud partner with hospitals such as Makati Medical Center, Cardinal Santos Medical Center and The Medical City.

To know more about Manulife's Bundle of Joy, visit www.manulifebundleofjoy.com.ph or like Manulife Philippines Facebook Fanpage.

I remember the days (single years, actually) when I don't know how to cook. But when I got married, I had no choice but to learn and try. We can't live through fastfood and deliveries. Haha! Ajinomoto products, especially the ginisa mix and crispy fry were my magic weapon in the kitchen.They were my staples. And after almost 10 years of cooking for my family, they are still my magic weapon and my kitchen companion added with new products of Ajinomoto to make my cooking more easier but tastier. Every time I put meals that I cooked on the table, my daughter and hubby appreciates them. And I'm improving day by day. Thanks to Ajinomoto!

So last week, thru Mommy Bloggers Philippines, when I got an invite to attend Ajinomoto's Umami Challenge held at SMX Convention Center, I was excited because I know that I will learn a lot and will inspire me to make and experiment more in the kitchen. It's the 6th year of Umami Challenge, but my 1st time to attend. Different schools and universities took the challenge and were present for a live cooking showdown using Ajinomoto products as part of their ingredients. And with the variety Ajinomoto products offers, the students were able to make amazing appetizers, pasta and different kinds of meals.

Facts about Umami: Umami is the fifth basic taste. It has been recognized and accepted as a basic taste because it is distinct from the other four basic tastes (sweet, sour, salty and bitter) and also because of the existence of glutamate receptors within the tongue's taste cells, and cells within the brain which respond preferentially to the umami taste.

The word umami comes from the Japanese words umai (delicious) and mi (taste) and can be recognized in English as rich and savory, and in Filipino as “malinamnam” or “malasa”.

AJINOMOTO PHILIPPINES CORPORATION (APC) is part of the Ajinomoto Group that is engaged in three (3) business domains: Food, AminoScience, Pharmaceuticals and Health. The Ajinomoto Group aspires to fulfill the desire for good health, ensuring food resources, and protecting the environment. Its philosophy is to “create better lives globally by contributing to significant advances in Food and Health and by working for Life”.

For 57 years, APC has provided the Philippine market with products that are made with the highest standards of safety and quality. Its flagship product, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning has become a staple in Pinoy households. Other well-loved Ajinomoto® food products created with the Filipino in mind include AJINO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, Ajinomoto® Brand Ginisa Flavor Seasoning Mix, Ajinomoto® Brand Chicken Powder, PORKSAVOR® All-in-One Seasoning Mix, CRISPY FRY® Breading Mix, CRISPY FRY® Seasoned Crumbs, TASTY BOY® All Purpose Breading Mix, AJI-SHIO® Seasoning Mix, Ajinomoto® Brand Sinigang and FRES-C® Concentrated Powdered Drink Mix

Ajinomoto recently introduced its new food brand logo which incorporates the widely recognized Ajinomoto logo within a red, yellow and green chevron symbolizing deliciousness, liveliness and earth. This logo represents how Ajinomoto fulfills its promise to deliver a large but unmet demand among consumers today to bring together “deliciousness” and “well-being”. This is further underlined by Ajinomoto’s Food Brand slogan “Eat well, Live Well.®”

On its 6th year, UCC organizer, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), put together the best culinary teams from Luzon-Visayas-Mindanao in one (1) cooking arena to showcase their masterful culinary creations. UCC remains to be the biggest, intercollegiate, multi-category culinary competition that focuses on the delicious potential of umami, the 5th basic taste. Mr. Taro Fujie, APC President was present during the awarding ceremony. He happily remarked, “I thank all partner Chefs, Medical and Nutrition experts, who loyally support and give credibility to UCC and to all the students, who poured their hearts to deliver their best dishes. Ajinomoto will continually support Aspiring Filipino Chefs and promote cooking and serving delicious and healthy food.”

Mr. Taro Fujie, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation President

Apart from the Luzon-Visayas-Mindanao Cooking Showdown, UCC 2015 features three (3) competition categories: Best Filipino Umami Dish, My Own Umami Creation and My Eat Well, Live Well® Plate. The competing teams were judged based on intensity of their dish’s umami taste, culinary technique and creativity, dish preparation and plate presentation. One of the major criteria was Eat Well, Live Well.® Cooking, which referred to culinary nutrition or the integration of culinary skills and nutrition knowledge to create delicious and nourishing umami dish.

Ajinomoto® Umami Culinary Challenge attracted 54 Schools, thousands of HRM and Nutrition Students in their 6th year.

Here are some samples of what they made

A spread of umami or delicious food

The organizers asked me if I can be an impromptu judge for "My Umami Coach and I" category. I learned that one student and his/her coach worked hand in hand to make these delicious meal. It was not an easy task ha! Ang hirap nya especially if the students who made these were behind my back and seeing the hopeful look on their faces made me think 100x before I put scores in the paper. haha! But I super loved the experience. It made me appreciate people who has passion for cooking. We were told to judge thru nutrional distribution, portioning and presentation. Though we were not able to taste each food, it was hard to judge just by looking at the plate. It was really fun! I took the task seriously! Haha!

And the winners were The University of Santo Tomas (UST) who won the Umami Bowl Award (for the 2nd year) and the Luzon-Visayas-Mindanao Showdown for My Own Umami Creation during the recently concluded Ajinomoto® Umami Culinary Challenge (UCC) 2015. Sharing the spotlight with UST is Hercor College from Roxas City, who won the Best Filipino Umami Dish Luzon-Visayas-Mindanao Showdown. The event attracted thousands of HRM and Nutrition students in 54 schools from NCR, Ilocos, CALABARZON, Central Luzon and Bicol Regions and regional winners from Visayas and Mindanao.

Roxas City’s Hercor College is the National winner for the Best Filipino Umami Dish Luzon-Visayas-Mindanao Showdown. Their winning entry: Marinara in Savory Tomato

UST is the back-to-back Umami Bowl Champion and the winner of the National Cooking Showdown for the My Own Umami Creation Luzon-Visayas-Mindanao Showdown. They made Kinunot on Crispy Pancit Bato

Ajinomoto® Umami Culinary Challenge participants are mentored by the best in the industry

Culinary Luminaries – Judges for the Luzon-Visayas-Mindanao Showdown

Winners received the following prizes: first place winners – gold medals and P10,000, second place winners – silver medals and P8,000 and third place winners – bronze medals P5,000. National Showdown winners received gold medals and P15,000. Major winners also included gifts from UCC 2015 sponsors: La Germania, Solane, Masflex and Fujidenzo.

Good job to all schools who participated and congratulations Ajinomoto Umami Challenge for the successful event!

Toy nation unite! Another perfect bonding for parents and kids! The latest from toy-maker Auldey is making their waves in the Philippines. Infinity Nado takes gaming to a whole new level with its precision fighting tops that feature the latest in battle technology. Infinity Nado tops are designed using advanced physics that revolutionizes and increases game play and competition.

I got an invite to attend the press launch of Infinity Nado held at 55 events place. Infinity Nado promotes non-stop, action-packed fun focused on battle, justice, & friendship. They're also based on a popular Anime series and is currently airs weekdays at 9:30am on TV5.

I know not only kids will enjoy this, but adults or toy fanatic as well. Built for strength, stability, and speed, Infinity Nado tops are mechanical spinning wonders perfect for tinkering, thrill-seeking tots. It is composed of five interchangeable layers that manipulate the top’s center of gravity. This makes for precision control whether you wish to play at a lightning-quick pace or a hard-nosed attacking style.

They are selling these individually. Each has a different function. Infinity Nado’s sophisticated gameplay features the world’s first RFID (Radio Frequency ID) smart chips that store fight stats and data using a state-of-the-art digital scanning system. The smart chips store gamers’ personal information and keeps real-time track of level certification, accumulated score, and fight history.

Setting up the Infinity Nado is easy. Follow the directions on how to piece together the parts. Once assembled, activate the digital scanner, by yourself through a personal computer or with the help of Infinity Nado coaches who will be touring different toy stores in Metro Manila to spread the good word about Infinity Nado. After that, you can start keeping tabs on game history and progress to earn points to steadily climb up the ranks.

Yes, you got it right! Our Filipino version of "trumpo" goes digital! They are the first digital top in the world.

Infinity Nado Coaches Jessica, Gem, and Angel will be visiting major malls to interact with gamers and help newbies find out the ins and outs of this new and thrilling game. They will also be on hand to award serious gamers with their very own Nado Passport, a badge that serves as entry to sanctioned tournaments and into the world of Infity Nado.

Good news to all! Infinity Nado will soon be hosting weekly and monthly competitions where avid gamers can meet and bond. Not only that, but competitors also stand the chance to take home a brand new car if they win the Infinity Nado’s grand battle.

So what are you waiting for? Mix and match your Infinity Nado parts to stay on top of the class. Watch out for Infinity Nado spinning tops such as the Infinity Nado Aspis, Infinity Nado Jester, Infinity Nado Cyan Spout, Infinity Nado Furious and more. You can now grab your Infinity Nado toys in Toy Kingdom, Toy Town, Toys R’ Us and other toy stores in Metro Manila.

The Infinity Nado tour kicks off this weekend of January 31 and February 1 with a visit to Megamall in Ortigas Center, Pasig. The team will soon visit major malls near you, so watch out and keep those tops spinning until then.

Like its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/infinitynadoph and keep posted to find out more details on Infinity Nado products and information about their weekly and monthly tournaments.

UNIQLO today announces the worldwide launch of a special 2015 Spring, Summer collection created with Ines de La Fressange. UNIQLO Design Director Naoki Takizawa worked with Ines to merge her passion for the UNIQLO LifeWear concept with her style-inspired by refined feminine beauty and authentic quality. This is the third collaborative collection with Ines, comprising a total of 95 items in a wider range of fabrics (availability may vary by store).

The collection debuts in two stages. The first, for the Spring, recently launched, at UNIQLO flagship and large stores. New to the line is the natural caramel color common to southern France, dresses in vintage floral prints, and indigo shirts. The sophisticated styling includes new coordination approaches for classic sportswear, and updates to the garment-dyed nylon jacket and coats that proved so popular last year.

The second stage, for the Summer, are available at all UNIQLO stores from late February, featuring items that reflect the mystique of Morocco’s Marrakech and capture the spirit of a vacation by the Mediterranean Sea. The range newly includes vanilla and limestone gray hues, for vivid natural contrasts in the dazzling sunshine.

The Ines de La Fressange collection is designed to enhance feminine beauty, while effortlessly comfortable. Reprising the popular Soutien Collar Coat, final garment dyeing enhances softness and texture. The Floral Print Dress incorporates an elastic waistband, without a gathered front, to emphasize the silhouette. Shade contrasts in the pattern underscore the vintage appearance.

Ines de la Fressange said, “Fashion has to be fun. I learned from the world of high fashion that you can express elegance without owning many items. This collection is very easy to wear, match, and is layered to fit all women around the world. Fashion is one of life’s joys. Let’s enjoy it together! This is a really exciting collection. It’s easy to wear and offers everyday fun in fashion. These are the kinds of clothes I’ve longed for myself, and I couldn’t wait to wear them!”

Born into an aristocratic family in France in 1957, Ines de La Fressange grew to be a fashion model , becoming Chanel’s star model from 1983 to 1990, and the muse of designer Karl Lagerfeld.

In 1989, she was chosen by the French government as the likeness for a bust of Marianne, the symbol of the French Republic. Ines is also active as a designer, journalist, author, and fashion consultant, and in 2010 was selected as a member of L’Oréal’s “Dream Team.” Her book Parisian Chic has been translated into 17 languages, with more that a million copies sold worldwide.

In 2013, Ines re-launched her own brand, INES DE LA FRESSANGE PARIS, and is closely involved as creative director. The luxury lifestyle brand includes a wide range of products to create a truly a parisian style, from ready-to-work apparel to interior decorations.

Design Director Naoki Takizawa said, “In our work together, Ines and I always start by asking what kinds of clothing we should recommend to customers this season. We feel like chefs eagerly preparing the best in seasonal fare for their diners. We materialized our shared vision in a collection that we can recommend with confidence.”

“We wanted to create clothing that embraces fabric textures, colors and details, and Parisian wit. At the same time, we wanted to subtly bring out the personality of the person wearing the clothes, rather than overwhelm them. We also wanted to brighten a woman’s days, with clothing that naturally interacts with them.”

For more information about UNIQLO and Fast Retailing, please visit www.uniqlo.com and www.fastretailing.com.

Aim High. I think this is one of Allan Pineda aka Apl.de.Ap goals while growing up. Not only he is a successful rap artist and record producer today, but he's now an owner of Jollibee. Yep, you read it right! I was invited to travel all the way to Dau, Mabalacat, Pampanga last Thursday to witness the opening of Apl.de.Ap's Jollibee branch.

It was his dream to own Jollibee one day, and that day came when after all his hard work, trials, and life's challenges (I watched his life story in maalala mo kaya), his perseverance, patience and firm decision to succeed prevails. He is now an owner of Jollibee!

Apl.de.Ap has embarked on a new project, one that would bring langhap-sarap goodness closer to his fellow kabalen. He formally opened his very own Jollibee franchise store in Dau, Mabalacat, Pampanga (along McArthur highway).

The day before Jollibee officially opens (Feb 6), the Black Eyed Peas member, together with Jollibee Philippines President Joseph Tanbuntiong and Jollibee Regional Business Unit Head for North Luzon Kay So led the ribbon cutting and store blessing ceremonies.

“We are proud to welcome Apl.de.Ap into the Jollibee family as a franchise partner who not only shares in our commitment to reach more Filipino families and bring them together over great-tasting langhap-sarap food but also believes in helping other people through philanthropy works,” said Tanbuntiong.

My highlight of my day aside from seeing Apl.de.Ap for the first time was when I saw the biggest Champ I have ever seen in my life!!! Curious tuloy ako how they made it. And yes, they did the ~~traditional cake~~ burger cutting too.

The CHAMP!!! They're real, by the way, hehe!

“I’m very excited to open my very own Jollibee store, right in my home province. I’ve always wanted to have a Jollibee franchise because it’s a product I grew up with. Opening my first Jollibee store in Pampanga is a dream come true. Since I was a young boy, I always pointed at Jollibee and my mom would say, "Anak we need this money for your siblings also so next time na lang". And then one day, she finally took me into Jollibee and I think I lost my mind! I thought: "Oh my God, did this happen?" And now, it's just my dream. I wanted to have a Jollibee store to create employment and I thought it would be the most stable thing that could help out others." said The Voice Philippines coach who admits that he sees the franchise not just as a business opportunity but as a way to create jobs for his fellow kabalens.

Jollibee Dau Mabalacat is the fast-food chain’s 33rd outlet in Pampanga. It features the latest store concept designed to make the bonding experience more enjoyable for families and friends alike. The opening of the new store is in line with the brand’s goal to reach out to more families across the country, and currently has more than 850 branches nationwide.

I think Apl.de.Ap's story is an inspiration to everyone to never stop dreaming, aim high, and have a goal and desire to reach for that dream. Even if you think it is impossible. No one should stop you.

Congratulations Apl.de.Ap on the opening of your very own Jollibee!

I was invited to attend GMA Network Social Media Bloggers event held at Poetry and Prose Patisserie in Shangri-La Plaza. The invite said it's going to be a Kapuso Cook-Off, so I assumed I will just watch and take pictures of Kapuso stars doing the cook-off or cooking demo. But nooooo! Hahaha! Mas exciting yung nangyari, hehe!

The Kapuso Cook-Off was a cooking match between 3 teams, composed of GMA artists such as Coleen Perez, Mayton Eugenio and Benjamin Alves. The event was hosted by Stephanie Sol.

Since the place is near our house lang, I decided to bring Sofi instead of asking my mom to babysit. Later that night she told me that she enjoyed the event and the food were yummy. Lol!

It was our first time to try Poetry & Prose Patisserie. It is located at the ground floor of Shangri-La Plaza near the exit fronting Edsa Shang Hotel. Super loved the classic, minimalist interiors and the home-y feel. Perfect for meetings and casual dates. Poetry and Prose is owned by Jojo Paje and the manager is Rex Agoncillo. All recipes of the restaurant is well-researched and only use prime ingredients.

GMA artists Mayton Eugenio, Stephanie Sol and Coleen Perez

We were served yummy, delectable treats from Poetry & Prose.

I agree!! Lol

More, more sweet desserts from Poetry & Prose

Ok. So after we ate, we were told na kasali pala kami sa cook-off. Surprise, surprise! Haha! All bloggers who attended were teamed up with the 3 GMA artists. We were tasked to make sweet and savory crepes in 30 minutes. Actually, I got a little excited when I learned that we are going to make crepes. It's one of my family's fave dessert and I really want to make one but I don't know how or where to begin. hehe!

Oh so yummy! Mango and strawberry crepes!

Good thing there was a quick demo made by Poetry & Prose' Chef Angelo Santos. We learned techniques and how to make crepes easily.

I was with Team Benjamin together with Karina and blogger Lou N Pat. Yes, seryoso kami haha! It's hard pala when there's 4 of you in the team that has different take in cooking. We have different interpretation/style kasi. For example: what is the "little" amount of milk, "little" amount of salt, etc. We have different take of what "little" means. Though we did not win (ung sweet crepe kulang sa sweetness, ung savory nasobrahan naman, lol), I enjoyed doing it and Sofi also enjoyed watching me and memorized some of the ingredients so we can make one daw sa house, hehe. And also, we had hard time decorating our plate too! Because there's four of us, we have different ideas kaya ang hirap magdecide. I thought it's easy lang like sa mga napapanood ko sa mga food channels or kay Gordon Ramsey. Parang ang dali lang to make the food presentable and make it look yummy, appetizing and mouth-watering. But no! One drop of whip cream or syrup, you have to make sure na tama ang pagdecorate mo or else it won't be attractive anymore. Kaya hands down ako to people who's specialty is cooking and making desserts. You really make it look so easy lang. haha! (pics grabbed here)

With Kapuso star Coleen Perez who played one of the mean girls in "More than Words". She reminds me of Marianne Rivera. Can't imagine her playing one of the mean girls since she's quick to smile and approachable.

Kapuso Star Benjamin Alves is a certified foodie and in GMA's "Hiram na Alaala".

Before we went home.. tadah! And you guessed it right! Won this in the raffle. Thank you so much GMA Network for my induction cooker. It was actually included in my Christmas wishlist last December. Kaya you can tell naman from our smile na super happy kami. hihi! :D

You may visit Poetry & Prose Patisserie during store hours from 7am - 11pm and you can call them at 6310420 too. Don't forget to like their facebook fanpage for more news and updates! :)

Thank you GMA Network Social Media team for having me and Sofi. We really had a blast! Thank you, thank you! :)

Valentine's Day is just around the corner. So why not show your loved ones how you love them, appreciate them with a box full of Villa del Conte treats! Celebrate Valentine's Day with this heart-shaped box of artisanal chocolates from Villa del Conte.

The Villa del Conte Amore Gift Box has 200g of luscious praline balls such as macadamia, salted caramel and torrone to make such a wonderful celebration even sweeter. To get a box for your loved one, visit Villa del Conte stores at Greenbelt 5, Century City Mall, Shangri-la Mall, Resorts World, Alabang Town Center, and Robinson’s Magnolia.

Felt the love from Villa del Conte when I received this! Thank youuuuu!!!

For bulk orders, please contact 893-2575 or 621-6101. Go to http://www.villadelcontecioccolato.com/ to know more about Villa del Conte, or follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VillaDelContePh, Instagram: http://instagram.com/villadelconte and Twitter: https://twitter.com/VilladelConte.

Fisher Farms Inc., a world-class aquaculture food processor that supplies farm-raised seafood to major restaurants and food manufacturers here and abroad, is giving away an overnight stay at the Manila Shangri-La Hotel plus Fisher Farms goodies! Just share how you and your loved ones are welcoming the Chinese New Year the healthy way in #KungHeiLessFatChoi Online Photo Contest!

Here’s how to join:

1. Gather your family or friends to form a group. Groups may be composed of:

a) three (3) adults

b) two (2) adults and two (2) children

2. Like the FISHERFARMS Facebook page.

3. Post a photo on the comment section of the contest announcement of how your group will celebrate the Chinese New Year in a healthier way (e.g., you and your family wearing all red and biking together or having a healthy Chinese New Year meal). Make sure that you tag your family members/friends in the photo. Include the hashtag #KungHeiLessFatChoi, #GourmetBakedRelleno, and #Fisherfarmsph in your comment.

4. ‘Share’ the #KungHeiLessFatChoi contest poster on your personal Facebook Wall.

CRITERIA:

Creativity - 30%

Originality - 30%

Relevance to theme - 40%

PRIZES:

There will be 1 grand prize winner who will take away overnight stay in Makati Shangri-la Hotel plus Fisher Farms products worth P3,000. 1st and 2nd runners up will also bring home P3,000 worth of Fisher Farms products!

Deadline of entries: February 26, 12:00 PM. Winners will be selected on February 27, 2015 by a panel of judges.

TERMS & CONDITIONS:

Contestants can only submit one entry throughout the promo. Contestants cannot appear in other photos/entries aside from their own official entry.

Contestants may only win once. Only the contestants in the photo can avail of the prizes.

Fisherfarms employees and relatives up to second degree of consanguinity shall be disqualified from the contest.

All winners will be announced on Fisherfarms’s Facebook page on February 27, 2015.

Fisherfarms shall also notify the winners within 1-2 days of Feb 27 via direct message on

Facebook. Winners will be asked to provide their complete names, email addresses, and contact numbers.

Winners must claim their prizes at the Fisher Farms, Inc. office located at Unit 1610 16/F West Tower Philippine Stock Exchange, Exchange Road, Ortigas, Pasig City.

A representative from the winning group may claim the prizes on behalf of the other group members, provided that the representative present at least one (1) valid ID of each member of the winning group. For groups with children, representative must present the child/children’s birth certificate/s.

Prizes are non-transferrable and must be claimed within 60 days from the first announcement of winners in Fisherfarms’ Facebook page. Prizes left unclaimed after the said period will be forfeited.

Fisherfarms reserves the right to delete, disclaim, and report any improper posts/entries.

Contestants must own the rights to all photos submitted. By posting an entry, contestants

hereby transfer to Fisherfarms all intellectual property and ownership rights to their entry.

Fisherfarms shall be held free and harmless against loss and damage from any claim, demands, actions, liabilities and the like that may be brought by any third person against Fisherfarms as a result of or related to the submission of the contestant’s post or entry.

All decisions of Fisherfarms are final.

For questions, inquiries or concerns, please email sales@fisherfarms.ph

Good luck to all!

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Join Fisher Farms’ #KungHeiLessFatChoi Online Photo Contest