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DOT reveals top-tier hotels, resorts recommended by Michelin Guide

When it comes to spending a lot – we mean a whole lot – for a relaxing vacation, local and foreign travelers can look to the Philippines for a top-tier yet worthwhile getaway.

A reliable guide for tourists looking for high-quality restaurants and hotels is the iconic Michelin Guide, which has been rating mostly restaurants worldwide for over a century. According to information from its website (https://guide.michelin.com/en/about-us), “the guide now rates over 30,000 establishments in over 30 territories across three continents.”

The world-famous guide has featured on its website six accommodation establishments in the Philippines.

The Peninsula Manila: Timeless elegance in the heart of Makati’s financial district

Among the three hotels recommended by the Michelin Guide is The Peninsula Manila, located at the corner of Ayala Avenue and Makati Avenue in Makati City. It was given a score of 18.7 over 20 according to reviews by its former guests posted on the website of the Michelin Guide.

Guests will find in The Peninsula Manila “not only the expected comforts, from top-quality beds and bedding to oversized marble bathrooms, but you’ll find they’re delivered with a stylistic flair that leaves the lesser competitors in the dust,” according to the world-renowned guide.

Hotel Okura Manila: A serene Japanese-Filipino haven in Newport World Resorts

Also included in the Michelin Guide’s recommendations is Hotel Okura Manila, found in the vibrant Newport World Resorts complex in Pasay City that is close to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila.

The façade of Hotel Okura Manila. Photo from Facebook_Hotel Okura Manila.

Visitors are in for a treat at Hotel Okura Manila as it provides both Japanese and Filipino flair in its accommodation and food. With 190 rooms, “guests are welcomed into a serene and inviting atmosphere, where spacious accommodations are beautifully designed with a harmonious blend of Japanese and Filipino influences,” said the Michelin Guide.

Admiral Hotel Manila – MGallery: Art Deco charm overlooking Manila Bay’s iconic sunset

Another luxury hotel endorsed by the Michelin Guide is Admiral Hotel Manila – MGallery, located in the Philippine capital Manila. One of the city’s historical landmarks because of its Art Deco design, it houses 123 rooms that are “up to date” with “comforts like Bose sound systems and Nespresso coffee machines.” A distinct feature of this hotel is its Admiral Club restaurant which overlooks the famous Manila Bay sunset.

The cities of Manila, Pasay and Makati that host the said luxury hotels recommended by the Michelin Guide are part of the Philippines Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours program launched by the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The Philippines Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours app is available for download on Android and iOS and through the website https://philippines-hoho.ph/.

Amanpulo, Palawan: A luxurious island escape surrounded by untouched beauty

Amanpulo, found on the private island of Pamalican in Palawan, contains 60 rooms composed of “42 casitas and 18 villas are built in the style of the native Philippine bahay kubo dwellings, with thatched roofs and pebble-washed walls alongside luxe touches like king beds with rattan headboards and ornate indigenous-style furnishings,” according to the world-famous guide.

Nay Palad Hideaway, Siargao: An idyllic retreat in the Philippines’ Surfing Paradise

Travelers who want to ride the waves at the Philippines’ surfing capital Siargao can enjoy a relaxing downtime at Nay Palad Hideaway, just close to the island’s famous surfing spot Cloud 9.

Visitors enjoy the view of the river, the mangroves, and the hills at the top of the three-floor tower in Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao. Photo from the website of Nay Palad Hideaway.

Each of the resort’s 10 rooms is a private villa that is “generously sized — freestanding, set a good distance from the neighbors, with its private porch and tropical gardens planted with orchids and spider lilies — and features various cushion-lined spaces that invite you to take a load off,” wrote the Michelin Guide.

Nay Palad was recently awarded by British newspaper The Telegraph as 15th out of the 50 greatest hotels in the world.

Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan: A seaside sanctuary and scenic views near Cebu’s best attractions

For tourists flying to popular destination Cebu, Michelin recommends Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, a 40-villa and 250-room hotel that offers “jaw-dropping” views of the sea.

The island resort boasts of a three-tiered infinity pool, a private beach, 14 rooms for a spa, a beach club bar and grill, and a sports bar.

Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan is just 20 minutes away from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, as well as a short drive away from popular heritage and modern spots in Cebu City.

The DOT is committed to helping elevate the standards of hotels and other accommodation establishments in the Philippines, through rigorous accreditation processes and partnerships in the programs of the agency such as the Bisita Be My Guest program that rewards overseas Filipinos that would bring their foreign friends to the Philippines with vacation packages among others.

Also, tourists who want to know more about Philippine destinations, accommodation establishments, and the like, as well as seek assistance, can call the DOT’s 151-TOUR OR 151-8687 hotline. The agency is also accessible through mobile at +63995-835-5155, email at touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph, Facebook messenger at https://www.facebook.com/DepartmentOfTourism, web chat at https://philippines.travel/ and https://beta.tourism.gov.ph/, or via https://philippines.travel/ and https://beta.tourism.gov.ph.

The DOT has ensured that Filipinos employed in the hospitality industry will show the best of Filipino values to visitors by training them under the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence Training Program.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco is grateful for the support of the hotel and hospitality industry in promoting the Philippines.

Visit https://thephilippines.online/ or download the Travel PH App on Android or iOS to find out more about the Philippines.

#DOT #Philippines #getaway #MichelinGuide #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Dr. Wine Unveils Authentic French Fare in the Heart of Poblacion

Dr. Wine, the beloved wine bar in Poblacion, Makati, is thrilled to announce the launch of its revamped menu, which now offers an extensive selection of authentic French cuisine. Stepping beyond its reputation as a premier destination for oenophiles, Dr. Wine is poised to captivate diners with a culinary experience that transports them to the heart of France.

We are excited to introduce our guests to a new era of dining at Dr. Wine,” said Vincent Landais, Founder and Owner of Dr. Wine. “Our menu now showcases the very best of authentic French cuisine, prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail.”

The new menu at Dr. Wine features an impressive array of starters, including the Camembert D’Isigny Roti, Artichauts Frits, Salad Cesar du Chef, Porchetta Provencal, Confit de Suisse de Canard, and the Ragout de Poulpe.

Salade Cesar Du Chef.

For the main course, diners can savor the old menu classics which include the tender Boeuf Bourguignon, the succulent Poulet Grand-Mère, and the flavorful Pavé de Saumon Sauce Gribiche, among other delectable offerings.

Pave De Saumon Sauce Gribiche (Tasmanian salmon fillet with marble potatoes and asparagus).

Complementing the culinary journey are the restaurant’s extensive wine selection and the signature cocktails crafted by its skilled bartenders. Guests can explore a carefully curated list of French and international vintages, as well as unique libations that perfectly pair with the menu.

“We’ve always been known for our exceptional wine selection, but now we’re taking the culinary experience to new heights,” the owner added. “Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure that every dish on the menu is a true reflection of the French gastronomic tradition, prepared with the highest standards of quality and authenticity.”

Dr. Wine’s revamped menu is now available for guests to enjoy. Reservations are highly recommended to ensure a truly memorable dining experience.

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit Dr. Wine’s website at www.drwine.com.ph or call +63 2 8123 4567.

About Dr. Wine:

Established in 2016, Dr. Wine has become a beloved destination for wine enthusiasts and foodies alike in the heart of Poblacion, Makati. Known for its extensive selection of wines from around the world and its warm, inviting atmosphere, Dr. Wine is now elevating the dining experience with the introduction of its new, authentically French menu.

#DrWinePoblacion #newmenu #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Actress Lovi Poe Advocates Self-Love with New Makeup Collection ‘Love, You by Lovi’

Lovi Poe’s collaboration with Filipino cosmetic brand Ready Set Glow (RSG) aims to elevate self-love by celebrating her natural morena beauty. The actress intends to inspire others with her new makeup collection, showcasing the beauty of embracing one’s own unique features.

Aside from being hard at work promoting her current movie “Guilty Pleasure” co-produced by her very own company C’est Lovi Productions with Regal Films, prepping her Hollywood debut with upcoming film “The Chelsea Cowboy” and engaging in various endorsement deals, Lovi is now introducing a makeup collection called “Love, You by Lovi” with Ready Set Glow, marking her new era as a beauty entrepreneur.

Like a love letter penned to oneself, “Love, You by Lovi” is more than just a makeup line. It is a celebration of your unapologetic beauty and a declaration of your self-worth. The “Love, You by Lovi” collection includes five unique makeup products in neutral and bare skin shades, designed to highlight your natural beauty.

Five Unique “Lovi” Makeup Products

“Love, You by Lovi” was personally conceptualized by Lovi Poe with the Ready Set Glow team in a collaborative approach.

The collection has introduced five makeup products that beauty junkies will surely love.

 

Skin Poetry Scented Body Shimmer is meant to add some sparkle on your skin for that extra feel-good glow, meant to make you shine no matter the texture or color your skin is. It comes in 4 shades: Celestial Glow (ivory white); Dream Dust (lilac), Girl’s Girl (pink); and Sunny Side (beige). The product name “Skin Poetry” features a play on words, as it gives an ode to Lovi’s surname.

Me, Myself & I Lippie. This multi-use product is more than just a lip product. It’s a balm, high gloss, plumper and lip treatment– all in one chic tube.

‘In the Flesh,’ is an idiom for “you’re really here” which means the real you is present in the moment, is the nude pink shade.

Smitten is the pink shade lip color in the collection, while Plum Pout is the purple red color. Resolute Red is the red shade, and Majestique is the dark red color.

Heart in Bloom Cream & Powder Blush Duo, a celebration of self-love in every shade. This blush product comes in four shades: Blossom (pink); Fine Wine (purplish); Flourish (coral); and Rosebud (red).

The Love and Light Contour and Highlighter Stick effortlessly sculpts and illuminates your features, allowing you to express your unique radiance with ease. This contour and highlighter stick comes in 4 shades: Eclipse; Harmony; Sonnet; and Luna.

The Statement Setter Brow Trio, your key to embracing self-love and confidence through beautifully sculpted brows. This brow setter comes in two shades: Self-Motivation (dark brown); and Confidence Creed (brown grey).

Partnership With Ready Set Glow

Introduced in September 2022 as the endorser for Ready Set Glow, it is apparent that Lovi’s relationship with the brand has grown into a business partnership, describing her collaboration with the brand as empowering.

Lovi Poe with RSG Family.

For Lovi, coming to her era of being a beauty entrepreneur is a different high, saying, ”It’s a surreal and fulfilling experience. Seeing my ideas come to life and sharing them with others is incredibly rewarding!”

Lovi also shared why she chose the brand to be her partner in the business of beauty.

“Ready Set Glow has a fearless approach to beauty that resonates with me. Their boldness, creativity, and commitment to quality made them the perfect partner for this collection. From the beginning, we connected over a shared passion for beauty, and that synergy grew into a meaningful partnership.”

Marian Lao Siggaoat, co-founder & brand director of Ready Set Glow, explained why Lovi has always been an ideal partner to the brand.

“We believe that her values align with RSG’s brand values. She is a modern woman who is confident in her own skin and is not afraid to express her individuality. We offered the partnership to her and we are grateful she agreed. She believes in the RSG brand and she always uses them.”

The actress couldn’t stress more why it is important for her to choose self-love as the central theme of her debut makeup collection. “Self-love is about embracing who you are without seeking validation. It’s been a journey for me, learning to accept my flaws and celebrate my strengths. Embrace who you are, flaws and all,” Lovi concluded.

“Love, You by Lovi” is available in all Ready Set Glow e-commerce platforms.

#LoviPoe #RSG #LoveYoubyLovi #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Experience Luxury Glamping at Cupola in Landco Pacific BeachTowns CaSoBe

Experience the epitome of luxury glamping at Cupola in Landco Pacific BeachTowns Calatagan South Beach (CaSoBe) and elevate your beach vacation to unparalleled heights.

The experential stay at Cupola, the geodesic and dome-like suite by the beach, was truly unforgettable. Located at the exquisite Landco Pacific BeachTowns CaSoBe – Calatagan South Beach, Batangas, this 15-hectare property offers a year-round summer atmosphere. With its elegant interior, breathtaking outdoor jacuzzi, and beautiful garden, this luxurious glamping experience is the perfect sun-soaked getaway.

Breathtaking outdoor jacuzzi.
The author at Cupola during a recent stay.

Millennial Resorts Corporation, the hospitality arm of Landco Pacific Corporation, manages the five Cupola suites along with the unique accommodations and leisure amenities at Landco Pacific’s latest developments CaSoBe and Club Laiya in Batangas and Costa Azalea in Samal Island Davao.

Whether you’re enjoying the comforts of the suite, appreciating the breathtaking Calatagan sunset by the seashore, lounging under the stars or soaking in the soothing waters of the private jacuzzi, Cupola is your perfect couple’s, family or friends retreat for relaxation and adventure, no matter the season. Each of the 50-sqm Cupola comes with a king-sized bed, a bunk bed, common living area, ensuite bathroom, a mini-bar, a 75″ smart TV, air condition and modern amenities.

Cupola is within a short two to three-hour drive from Metro Manila. Being situated at CaSoBe, guests at this unique suite have access to a strong WI-FI connection, modern facilities and thriving tourist and leisure community.

Explore Other Distinctive Accommodations at CaSoBe

“Our teams have worked hard for the past few months to complete these new and unique hospitality facilities at CaSoBe. We are truly proud of the Chairman’s Cabin for its exceptional features curated and customized for our Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan. We are also excited to open its doors, limited to its shared and common areas like the living room, kitchen, and adjacent rooms from Monday to Thursday only. With respect to Mr. Pangilinan, this does not include his personal and private space. We’d like our guests to have a glimpse of what it’s like to have an upscale beachfront residence at CaSoBe,” stated Landco Pacific Corporation and Millennial Resorts Corporation President and CEO Erickson Y. Manzano.

Chairman’s Cabin

The beachfront Chairman’s Cabin is launched as the crowning jewel of the leisure and hospitality attractions at CaSoBe, a haven for leisure seekers in a tourist community. This well-appointed 300-sqm villa is custom-designed for Mr. Pangilinan, Chairman, Landco Pacific and its parent company Metro Pacific Investments Corporation. With four bedrooms and modern amenities, the villa is versatile for relaxation, social gatherings, and business meetings. It also serves as the weekend beachfront home of Mr. Pangilinan.

Chairman’s Cabin.

At this villa, a restful and productive weekend break for Mr. Pangilinan means an exclusive use of his private suite, access to fresh sea breeze, breathtaking sunset views, and enjoyment of Millennial Resorts amenities, balanced with work from the beach set-up.

For guest bookings, only the three bedrooms along with common area facilities of the Chairman’s Cabin are offered from Monday to Thursday. The private suite is reserved exclusively for Mr. Pangilinan.

CaSoBe Lighthouse

Standing at 15.5 meters with a panoramic 360 degrees viewing deck, the CaSoBe Lighthouse was presented as the sprawling property’s newest landmark. It serves as a beacon to guide residents, tourists, and visitors to CaSoBe as the place they can call home.

Lighthouse.
The author’s enjoyable moment at the Lighthouse.

Millennial Resorts Attractions and Amenities

These new facilities complement the distinctive resort amenities already operational and managed by Millennial Resorts: Crusoe Cabins, the refitted container vans turned into accommodations with modern amenities and recognized as the first EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies)-certified resort in the country, and the pod-like Cocoons; Aquaria Water Park with three-story slides; the 300-capacity the Canopy events space; and Captain Barbozza restaurant.

Aquaria

CaSoBe

CaSoBe, is a master-planned development offering mixed-use residential and commercial lots situated in the rising business hub and beach tourist destination of Batangas. Setting it apart from other beach properties, CaSoBe elevates the resort lifestyle with inviting details such as blue roads, street art, and creative lamp posts.

The premium beach development is strategically located near golf courses, polo fields, and tourist attractions, earning Calatagan the moniker of being the playground of the affluent.  Local facilities such as a hospital, public market, pharmacy, school, and chapel are likewise easily accessible.

All the lots at CaSoBe are literally within steps to the long stretch of powdery white sand beach. The property’s blue pavements are pleasing to the eye and in harmony with the environment of expansive clear skies and azure waters. There are tree-lined bike lanes and pathways parallel and leading to the shores.

Harbour Estates are mixed-use lots offered within CaSoBe. Entrepreneurs can live a healthy lifestyle and build their dream homes amid Calatagan’s rich history and famed sunset by the beach.

Transforming the landscape of Calatagan, entrepreneurs can invest in a property along the retail row and wear the hat of aspiring hoteliers or restaurateurs when they establish their bed and breakfast or cozy little café or restaurant to cater to the tourism market. They can also put up a shop for art workshops and yoga retreats, or a business for water sports enthusiasts.

CaSoBe is also poised to be a thriving creative, business, and tech community. Startup companies can engage in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.

Investors in the residential or mixed-use lots of CaSoBe have the benefit of enjoying the anticipated increase of their investment’s market value as proven by Landco’s track record of property value appreciation in Punta Fuego, Batangas.

 Landco Pacific and CaSoBe Awards

As a testament to its enduring commitment to providing high standards of leisure and resort developments for more than 30 years, Landco Pacific was awarded in the prestigious 2024 PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards – Southeast Asia’s leading property technology company, as a Highly-Commended Best Lifestyle Developer for its latest premium developments of Leisure Tourism Estates: CaSoBe and 23-hectare Club Laiya and in Batangas; and four-hectare Costa Azalea in Samal Island, Davao. These seaside properties with pristine white beaches are master-planned developments offering mixed-use residential and commercial lots situated in tourist destinations.

Landco Pacific is also a recipient of the Best Leisure Real Estate (Resort Estate) Developer of The Year in the 2023 Global Economic Awards, and 2023 Real Estate Asia Award; Best Luxury Leisure Projects Developer in the 2023 Global Business Outlook Awards; and Most Sustainable Developer and Best Real Estate Developer in the 2023 International Investment Awards for the development of the BeachTowns.

PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards recognized CaSoBe with a Highly-Commended honor as a Best Mixed-Use Development. This award came after the Silver Award of CaSoBe for Outstanding Development in Luzon – Masterplan in the 2023 Property and Real Estate Excellence Awards by the Philippine chapter of the International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI), dubbed as the “Oscars of Real Estate,” which recognizes properties that best embody excellence in all real estate disciplines.

For more information about Landco Pacific Corporation and Millennial Resorts Corporation, visit their website or Facebook page.

#CaSoBe #LandcoPacificCorporation #MillennialResorts #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

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Breeze Powers Up Every Mom’s Washing Experience with the New Breeze Power Machine’s Best Ever Clean

Breeze, a laundry brand known for tough stain removal, recently hosted an event to launch its new Breeze Power Machine Liquid Detergent with its Best Ever Clean compared to its previous formulations. With the goal of empowering every mom, this revolutionary product is specifically designed to enhance the laundry experience. Breeze Power Machine Liquid comes in three variants: Fresh Clean, Rose Gold and the newest – Luxe Red.

“The new Breeze Power Machine Liquid is a game-changer for moms who want the best for their families since they can tackle tough stains with confidence given its improved formula that adds more power to their partner washing machine,” said Lara Santos, Business Performance Manager of Breeze Philippines. “We understand the daily challenges of laundry. Even after using a washing machine, most still have to manually scrub and soak for hours to remove tough stains and that’s why we’ve continuously improved our product and makes the process easy.”

“Our focus was on creating a formula that delivers on all fronts—powerful stain removal, a refreshing scent, and an enhanced laundry experience,” added Amor Prieto, Unilever Research and Development Manager. “We want to give consumers a product that truly enhances their daily lives by making laundry not just a chore, but a rewarding task.”

The new Breeze Power Machine Liquid promises to level up your laundry game. With its advanced formulation, it delivers more cleaning power compared to previous Breeze Power Machine Liquid formula, ensuring a deep clean and leaves clothes with new fresh fragrance

Breeze’s latest innovation is all about giving more power to your washing machine compared to its previous formulations, making laundry day efficient and pleasant. As such, Breeze Power Machine Liquid is recommended by washing machine brands such as Condura, Dowell, Fujidenzo, and Midea.

Breeze Power Machine Liquid Detergent  is available in all leading supermarkets nationwide and at Unilever Home Care’s Shopee and Lazada pages.

For more information, visit Breeze Philippines official Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/BreezePhilippines.

 

#BreezePowerMachine #MorePowerToYourMachine #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Exploring the Wonders of Vietnam

Vietnam is a land rich with captivating tales, inviting explorers to delve into its enigmas and revel in its marvels at every turn.

 

Vietnam, with its rich tapestry of history and culture, is a land of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities. From the bustling streets of Hanoi, where the echoes of ancient traditions blend seamlessly with the hum of modern life, to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, dotted with towering limestone islands, Vietnam offers a feast for the senses.

Photo by: Benedict Trongco
Photo by: Athena Trongco

The cuisine, renowned worldwide, tempts with its delicate balance of flavors—pho, a comforting noodle soup, and banh mi, a delectable sandwich, are just the beginning of a culinary adventure.

Vietnamese cuisine. Photo by: Athena Trongco

Vietnam, located in Southeast Asia, is steeped in tradition, and its people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Their enduring spirit and resilience, add to the charm of this captivating nation. It offers a wide array of experiences for visitors to explore.

Journeying through Vietnam, one can enjoy the ancient town of Hoi An, with its lantern-lit streets and preserved architecture, or trek through the terraced rice fields of Sapa, where the mountains kiss the sky. Whether it’s the historical significance of the Cu Chi Tunnels or the spectacular beauty of the Mekong Delta, every corner of Vietnam tells a story, beckoning travelers to uncover its secrets and embrace its wonders.

Photo by: Athena Trongco

Discover the top five popular tourist landmarks in Vietnam:

1. Ha Long Bay: Marvel at the emerald waters and towering limestone pillars on a cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Cruising at Halong Bay. Photo by Athena Trongco

2. Hoi An Ancient Town: Stroll through the beautifully preserved old town, with its charming streets, colorful lanterns, and historic architecture.

3. Cu Chi Tunnels: Explore the intricate network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.

4. Imperial City, Hue: Step back in time as you wander through the ancient citadel and royal palaces of the former imperial capital.

5. Sa Pa Terraces: Trek through the breathtaking terraced rice fields of Sa Pa, nestled in the misty mountains of northern Vietnam.

Consider adding Vietnam to your list of travel destinations for your upcoming trip. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the delicious local cuisine and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people. It’s a wonderful place to create meaningful memories with your family and friends.

#Vietnam #travel #destination #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Regent Hong Kong Named #1 Hong Kong City Hotel at the 2024 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards

Hot on the heels of being awarded the Best Hong Kong Hotel at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024 in June and making the prestigious Travel + Leisure It List 2024 and Condé Nast Traveler Hot List in May, the reimagined Regent Hong Kong continues to garner global accolades.

In the 2024 edition of the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards readers’ survey, Regent Hong Kong has just been named the #1 Hong Kong City Hotel, #2 among the 20 Favourite City Hotels in Asia, and #7 among the 100 Hotels Voted Best in the World.

The 29th annual edition of the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, highlighting leaders in travel including top cities, islands, hotels, cruise lines, airlines, airports and more, is considered one of the travel industry’s most trusted rankings and reliable resources and guides for remarkable destinations and exceptional experiences.

Excellence and Innovation in luxury hospitality

As per Regent Hong Kong Managing Director Michel Chertouh, “On behalf of our incredible team at Regent Hong Kong, I am thrilled to accept this prestigious recognition from the editors and readers of Travel + Leisure. We are honoured to be at the forefront of excellence and innovation in luxury hospitality in Hong Kong, which is a dynamic destination renowned for some of the world’s most celebrated hotels.”

Corner Suite Harbour view _ king

He adds, “From serene interiors that juxtapose unrivalled cinematic views of Victoria Harbour to exceptional dining experiences, Regent Hong Kong is a rare gem on Victoria Harbour. However, what truly sets us apart is the highly personalised service “on your terms” and our unwavering commitment to quality and consistency. This accolade reflects the hard work and dedication of our colleagues, who consistently strive to create highly personalised experiences that create lasting memories for our guests. We thank our loyal guests and the travel community for enthusiastically embracing the new Regent Hong Kong and bestowing our hotel with this highly coveted award.”

A world-renowned luxury destination

Following a total transformation and rebranding back to Regent Hong Kong in November 2023, the hotel has been reimagined as a haven of discreet luxury and contemporary sophistication on the edge of famed Victoria Harbour. Consequently, it has received a notable array of industry honours, solidifying its position as a world-renowned luxury destination.

In 2024, Regent Hong Kong was named the Best Hong Kong Hotel at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024 and a Travellers’ Choice Awards Winner by TripAdvisor. In addition to receiving a coveted spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious 2024 Hot List and Travel + Leisure’s 2024 It List, as one of the Best New Hotels and Best New City Hotels in the world, regionally, Regent Hong Kong was named the Best Business Hotel in Hong Kong at the 2024 TTG China Travel Awards and also received the Best Design Hotel accolade at the 2024 The Bund Design Hotel Awards. Additionally, the newly relaunched Presidential Suite has been named one of Elite Traveler’s Top New Hotel Suites.

A celebrated dining destination

Regent Hong Kong also received numerous awards as a celebrated Dining Destination. The hotel’s signature Cantonese restaurant, Lai Ching Heen, has retained two MICHELIN Stars and two Diamonds in the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide for numerous years.

Lai Ching Heen Three Trios-至尊脆香三重奏-Pan seared Dumpling with Crabmeat and Crab Roe Baked Abalone and Pork in Puff Pastry Crispy Crystal Blue Prawn with Taro Landscape.

The Steak House, a MICHELIN recommended restaurant, has recently been named one of the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants and the Best Steak House by Foodie Magazine at its Foodie Fork Awards. Meanwhile Qura Bar was named the Best Restaurant Bar in Hong Kong by Time Out and best new bar at the Foodie Fork Awards. Click here for the complete awards list.

#RegentHongKong #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Carlos Yulo: The Golden Boy of Philippine Gymnastics

Carlos Yulo’s remarkable achievements at the Paris 2024 Olympics have not only elevated his personal standing but have also brought immense pride and honor to the Philippines. Securing double Olympic gold in artistic gymnastics is a testament to his exceptional talent, dedication, and unwavering commitment. Congratulations to Carlos Yulo on this extraordinary accomplishment!

 

Despite his many trials in the sport, Carlos Edriel Yulo has shown unshaken dedication and unwavering determination that led him to his historic win in the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Gymnastics was once a popular female sport, but Yulo’s win as a Filipino gymnast is historic as it is iconic, breaking gender stereotypes. His win had put gymnastics in the same spotlight as other sports like basketball and volleyball.

The playground

Journeys have to start somewhere. Caloy’s journey started small and unorthodox. He was seen happily tumbling in a playground by his grandfather, Rodrigo Francisco, who took Caloy to a nearby Rizal Memorial Complex to see if he would take a liking for gymnastics. “One time may lumapit sa amin na gymnast and may kaibigan din siya na nagturo sa amin. Tapos sinabi nila, bakit hindi kami sumali ng gymnastics doon sa may Rizal (Memorial Complex),” he said according to a Spin article in 2019.

His immediate display of talent showed remarkable promise.

The longer he trained, the fewer young gymnasts there were. Parents would pull their kids out of gymnastics, believing they would have no future in a sport like gymnastics. The Yulos, however, thought that the sport would open doors for Caloy.

Caloy as a young gymnast

As a young athlete, Caloy had already shown great talent in gymnastics, winning medals for different skills. In 2019 he started competing in the Palarong Pambansa — a multi-sport event for elementary to high school students nationwide. Representing the National Capital Region (NCR), he was part of the team that won gold, while claiming silver in floor exercise and fifth in individual all-around.

In 2013, Carlos Yulo moved up to junior-level competitions where he would earn more medals. He was coached by Allen Aldrin Castañeda who would eventually become his coach during the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Training in Japan

As years passed, Caloy’s career opened many doors for him. In 2016, he was sent to train in Japan under Coach Munehiro Kugimiya and supported by the Federation Internationale Gymnastique and the MVP Sports Foundation who would then prepare his way at the senior level of international competitions.

Kugimiya trained Yulo to become an elite athlete. He became a head-turner at the 2018 Doha World Championships, earning a bronze medal in the floor exercise before winning a historic gold medal in the floor exercise at the 2019 World Championships in Stuttgart, Germany. This historic win was his ticket to the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.

His stay in Japan was quite an eventful time in his life and career. He encountered many issues concerning his love life, family, and career. Caloy’s girlfriend, Chloe San Jose, was partially blamed for his losses as fans deemed her a distraction in his training. Caloy denied this and said that Chloe served as part of his motivation. He directly credits Chloe saying, “Naturuan din kasi ako ng partner ko na mag-grow, dati puro gymnastics lang ang alam ko… siya ‘yung part ng motivation ko ‘pag ginagawa ko ‘yung gymnastics ko po.”

 

Carlos with his GF Chloe San Jose in Paris. Courtesy: Carlos Edriel Yulo FB

 

Caloy decided to part ways with his Japanese coach, sparking controversy over his career and relationship with his mentor. He then explained that the decision was of no ill intent but rather a decision he would make to further push his career as a gymnast. Despite netizens and fans calling Yulo an ingrate, the Japanese coach and his mentee would remain tension-less as Coach Kugimiya later expressed his pride for the Filipino athlete upon his win at the Olympics in Paris. Yulo eventually went back under the coaching of his then mentor Coach Castañeda.

Carlos Yulo and weightlifting champion Hidilyn Diaz paved the way for aspiring athletes to pursue their passion for any sport. He will remain the Philippines’ golden boy, earning two iconic Olympic gold medals for his beloved country.

Contributed by Dana Angela Belo

#CarlosYulo #Olympicgoldmedalist #Filipinoathlete #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Eastwood Richmonde Hotel: Relax, connect, and feel at home

The Eastwood Richmonde Hotel offers a perfect staycation to unwind and bond with your loved ones.

 

My family and I spent a weekend recently at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel. We enjoyed our bonding moments with our daughter, Bea, before she returned to school after a few months of vacation. Indeed, family is where the heart is.

Family moments at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel.

Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by the receptionist, who assisted us with our reservation details. We were impressed by the newly refurbished, spacious, and welcoming lobby. The lobby’s Eastwood Cafe+Bar has also been upgraded and improved.

ERH lobby

 

Our room on the 33rd floor was spacious, with a Queen bed and an extra bed for Bea. There was also a living room where we relaxed and planned the rest of our stay. The bathroom was clean and well-stocked with toiletries and towels. The welcome gift was the hotel mascot, Richie Bear.

ERH Suite Bedroom

 

We started our day by checking out the amenities and heading to the swimming pool, where several other families were also enjoying themselves. We then visited the fitness center and explored the nearby shops and parks.

ERH pool during daytime.

 

Eastwood is a wonderfully pet-friendly neighborhood where you’ll spot numerous proud pet owners strolling through the parks and malls with their beloved furry babies. Additionally, ERH provides pet-friendly accommodations, so you can start planning your fantastic pet-friendly getaway soon!

During our visit to Eastwood, we boarded Eastwood City’s distinctive tram, which operates 20 circuits daily with stops at seven different locations. Following this delightful experience, we strolled through Central Plaza and admired the Eastwood Walk of Fame, a tribute to more than 300 esteemed Filipino personalities.

Eastwood tram

 

The next day, we enjoyed an energizing and fulfilling breakfast buffet at Eastwood Cafe+Bar. The buffet offers an array of food choices, including Filipino, continental, and international fares, and features several stations to cater to different appetites.

Family breakfast at Eastwood Cafe+Bar

 

You can also check out  the irresistible “Monsoon Deals” by Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, designed to treat you to a cascade of unbeatable rates and ensure a blissful stay. Immerse yourself in comfort with room rates beginning at Php4,400 nett per night, complemented by a generous 25% discount on a delectable buffet breakfast at Eastwood Cafe+Bar. Don’t miss out as the booking period extends until September 30, 2024.

During our stay at the Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, we were absolutely thrilled with the experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend this hotel for a tranquil weekend getaway with the family.

 

#EastwoodRichmondeHotel #familystaycation #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Journey Through Cebu: History, Culture, and Natural Marvels

Discover the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural marvels of Cebu.

 

Are you looking for an amazing travel destination this year? Experience the beauty of Cebu, one of the country’s most stunning provinces!

Cebu is one of the most sought-after places in the Philippines. It is home to rich culture, history, breathtaking sights, and friendly locals. The province of Cebu has six cities and 44 municipalities to explore. It is located at the center of the Visayas region and consists of a main island and 167 surrounding islands.

Cebu City nicknamed the Queen City of the South, is the capital city with a population of about 900,000 Cebuanos. Cebu is renowned for its food, particularly the famous Cebu lechon. This dish consists of a pig stuffed with herbs and spices, skewered on a bamboo pole, and then roasted to perfection over hot charcoal. The Cebu lechon is said to be more flavorful and crispier than versions found elsewhere in the country, making it a must-try.

Temple of Leah

Cebu is well-known for its rich history and boasts several famous landmarks such as Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro, and the Basilica del Santo Nino. In addition to historical sites, Cebu offers a variety of tourist attractions. One of these attractions is the Temple of Leah, often referred to as the “Taj Mahal of Cebu.” It was constructed in 2012 by Teodorico Adarna in honor of his late wife, Leah Albino-Adarna. The temple features a 10-foot-high statue of Leah in the lobby, serving as a reminder of her husband’s enduring love. The complex includes 24 different chambers, including a library, an art gallery, and a museum.

 

Sirao Flower Garden

If you have a passion for exploring and admiring the beauty of nature, a trip to the Sirao Flower Garden is an absolute must. Located in Barangay Sirao, this garden is known as the “Little Amsterdam of Cebu” due to its vibrant and meticulously arranged blooms. One of its standout features is the red and yellow celosia flowers, which resemble flames. Interestingly, the name “Celosia” is derived from the Greek word ‘kelos,’ meaning burning, reflecting its fiery appearance.

Sirao Garden is often described as an ‘Instagrammable’ place. It features various picture-perfect spots, including the famous giant hand with a breathtaking view of the mountains in the background, and Dutch-inspired windmills that provide a great backdrop to the enchanting blooms of Sirao.

 

Ka-Tilong Sunflower Farm

Ka-Tilong Sunflower Farm is another beautiful flower destination in Cebu, much like the Sirao Gardens. The farm covers a 2,000 sqm. area filled with vibrant sunflowers and colorful ornamental plants that are sure to capture your attention. This popular attraction is situated just a few kilometers from Sirao Gardens and is definitely worth a visit.

 

10,000 LED-powered roses

After a long day of exploring, you might want to enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring the 10,000 LED-powered roses at the 10,000 Roses Cafe & More. This Korean-inspired cafe is one of the most famous places to visit in Cebu City. The picturesque place is perfect for taking photos or simply enjoying your favorite coffee and admiring the view. It’s best to visit at night as the roses are illuminated, giving the place an enchanting, glowing look.

 

Whether capturing memories in picturesque locations or savoring local delicacies, Cebu guarantees an unforgettable journey for every explorer.

Embark on an exhilarating adventure in Cebu, where every moment promises a picture-perfect experience.

Contributed by Dana Angela Belo

#Cebu #Philippines #LoveThePhilippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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FinTech Alliance PH elevates AI discourse in Manila Tech Summit

Fintech Alliance.PH, the country’s premier association of fintech and digital innovators announced that it is gathering the largest number of fintech, finance, and digital finance organizations in the upcoming Manila Tech Summit to discuss the impact of the AI Revolution to bolstering Philippine economic growth.

Formerly known as INDX – Inclusion and Digital Transformation Summit, the fourth installment of the much-awaited prestigious collective of organizations is focused on the theme “AI Unlocked: Shaping Our Digital Future,” and is set to take place on August 6-7, 2024, at the Manila Marriott Hotel, Newport World Resorts, Pasay City.

The Manila Tech Summit aims to explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) in reshaping the nation’s landscape and driving economic prosperity, efficiency, and innovation across key sectors such as finance, education, agriculture, healthcare, transportation, and e-commerce.

Fintech Alliance.PH also sealed its partnerships with Philippine Marketing Association (PMA), Global AI Council, and Credit Information Corporation (CIC). PMA President and Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Newport World Business Kathy Mercado, Global AI Council President Catherine Jalandoni, and CIC President and CEO Atty. Ben Salazar were present to forge the strategic partnerships of their organizations with the leading fintech organization.

Lito Villanueva, Founding Chairman of the Fintech Alliance and RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovations and Inclusion Officer, emphasized the dent that AI has and will make on the Philippine economy. “AI is not just a tool; it is a transformative force that will reshape industries, influence economies, and cultivate innovation. Our theme reflects our collective aspiration to harness the immense potential of AI to drive progress, enhance efficiencies, and create unparalleled opportunities for growth.”

Villannueva added that it is the perfect time for the whole industry to come together and elevate the discourse on the future of AI in the Philippines.

“Being a step ahead means incubating ideas, motivating peers, and mainstreaming coopetition. After all, we can only continue thriving as an industry by tackling challenges and opportunities ahead, and plotting our future together through healthy competition and meaningful collaborations not only here but regionally and globally,” Villanueva expounded.

The event is expected to be an opportunity for members of the finance and fintech sector to identify the current trajectory of the industry and to leverage the emergence of AI technologies within the country and globally for sustained growth.

The two-day summit will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, and collaborative learning opportunities on the following topics: Issues and Challenges on AI Adoption in Asia, Harnessing AI: Evolving Skill Sets for the Tech Industry, Cities of the Future: Developing a Digital City, The Horizon of Quantum Computing, AI and Machine Learning In FinTech: Balancing Customer and Creditor Protection, AI Pathways to Socio-economic Development, Building the Great Wall of Cybersecurity: Upskilling Filipinos for the Next Industrial Revolution, and The Future of Filipino Artificial Intelligence.

Since its inception, the summit has become a flagship event for Fintech Alliance, serving as an exceptional platform for learning and networking among professionals and stakeholders committed to sustainable digital transformation. The event has grown significantly over the years, attracting participants from various industries. Attendees will have the chance to engage with economic policymakers, industry leaders, practitioners, legislators, and government partners involved in digital finance, digital transformation, innovations, and strategy.

The Manila Tech Summit is staged in collaboration with several government agencies, including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Department of Finance, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Science and Technology, Securities and Exchange Commission, National Development Company, National Privacy Commission, Credit Information Corporation, Insurance Commission, Anti-Money Laundering Council, and National Economic Development Authority. A number of strategic private partners will also be joining this biggest tech event in the country such as the Asian Institute of Management, Ateneo John Gokongwei School of Management, International Data Corporation, ASEAN Economic Forum, Asia FinTech Alliance, AI Global Council, Philippine Marketing Association, BDO, Insight Genie, Huawei, Shield, Digital Bank Associations, Grab Defence, Netcore, IDFy, GCash, Bureau Inc., Tata Consultancy Services, SID Technology, Institute of Internal Auditors, InvestHK, Globe Business, LinkedIn, Philippine Airlines, PLDT, and WIZ.AI.

To register for the event, please visit: https://fintechalliance.ph/

#FintechAlliancePH #ManilaTechSummit #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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The Allure of Angelique Lazo

Her main goal in life is “to continue to be of service to my fellowmen. For a career to be worthwhile, it should carry a social responsibility. If by what I do as a job, I could put a smile on someone’s face, I would.”

 

Angelique Lazo is a woman who has known romance, enjoyed its thrills and basked in its unspoken joys and experiences, and decided that love is more than all these. Her concept of love has matured. “Love is being able to maintain a relationship, staying in it through good and bad times,” she related.

Her main goal in life is “to continue to be of service to my fellowmen. For a career to be worthwhile, it should carry a social responsibility. If by what I do as a job, I could put a smile on someone’s face, I would.”

According to her being a media practitioner is “one of the best careers that one can have. At least, if you are not a total expert in it, you can interview the experts and you meet a lot of people. You learn a lot, too.”

She is in person as she is onscreen. She’s a person full of love, and full of wisdom. Her outlook is very positive. And she’s a very musical person. “I think I will die singing. I’ve inherited my singing voice from my mom (Susie). My mom is an original opera singer. I come from a family of entertainment people.”

Angelique has a wonderful family, to start with. His dad, Liberato Lazo, is a military man, gentle and astute. According to her, he’s a “walking encyclopedia.” Her mom Susie is an artist. Angelique is the only girl in a brood of four. Needless to say, Lazo’s children are all musically-inclined.

I asked her, are you happy? “You make your own happiness. Oo naman, hindi ba halata?”

Angelique is now enjoying wedded bliss. She’s regularly seen as the news anchor of Sentro Balita, the afternoon newscast of the People’s Television Network.

Here are the excerpts of the Q & A:

 

  • You once said that for a career to be worthwhile it should carry a social responsibility, how will you extend this to your fellow journalists?

I’m not going to say bad things about other people. I’ll start it with myself. I don’t agree with envelop-mental journalism—especially if you’re distorting the truth. You have to lead by example.

  • Will you sacrifice your profession for money?

You have to weigh things in the light of the future and the legacy you want to leave. Kung sa iyo okay lang na ganoon ang image mo pero trash naman ang ginagawa mo, kagustuhan mo ‘yan. Money you spend, and lose eventually.

  • Tell us about your childhood.

I grew up in Japan. I stayed there for eight years. And because of that, they thought that I was “Japayuki.” Kasi ang ibig sabihin talaga ng Japayuki ay galing sa Japan. In Japan, I learned a lot about their culture. I spoke their language. Life in Japan is different. Japanese people will teach you to clean your surroundings. They have a deep sense of respect for themselves and others. Living there, I became a more diligent Filipino. I studied there from grade school to high school. But in all honesty, our educational system is still the best.

  • What do you think is the solid foundation for a relationship to last?

Communication. You should never shut out the other. Once you stop talking that’s the end of it. There is no problem big enough if you talk it over. Another one is putting yourself in the other’s shoes. You won’t judge him right away. You would understand him more. And most of all, there should be between you a keen sense of integrity.

  • If you were to choose between love and career, what will you choose?

My mom chose love over career, and she’s happy. Love begets family. I think I would still choose family. I’m very family-oriented.

  • What is your greatest accomplishment so far?

Simple lang. These are the speaking engagements that I was invited to. For the fact that they invited me and interviewed me and in the process, they will tell you, “We want to be like you someday,” nakakaiyak, nakakataba ng puso. Kasi alam mo ‘yon hindi binabayaran, hindi gimmick.

  • What do you feel most grateful for?

My parents because they lead me towards the right path, because of the way they brought me up, have influenced me in the decision I make, my frame of mind, my sense of service, my zest for life. I was also thankful that I was able to study in good schools.

  • Whom do you admire most?

My dad and my mom. My mom had a flourishing career as an opera singer. She had a scholarship in Milan but chose to have a family. It’s hard to do that now; it’s self-sacrificing. We were brought up to appreciate things in life unlike some kids today who don’t value money. It seems life is so easy for them. Although my parents have means, they raised me to work hard, and not to be extravagant.

  • Aside from your family, what do you value in life?

Friendship. Sometimes your friends are your mirror. You will not see things for yourself, but they will tell you because they know you so well. I have a group of wonderful friends in the Ateneo Glee Club. We went on a trip all over the world. We’re together through thick and thin. There are also members of The CompanY.

(Based on the published feature article in the old Mirror Weekly magazine by the same author)

#AngeliqueLazoMayuga #newsanchor #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Photo courtesy: Angelique Lazo FB

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Ashley Ortega: Young, pretty and talented

GMA artist Ashley Ortega, who at 25, is as Gen Z as you can get.

Last May 30, she has proven that she’s not just another pretty face. She bagged an international award – her first – at the 2024 Harlem International Film Festival, where she won Best Actress for the Cinemalaya entry As If It’s True opposite  Khalil Ramos, (the film is on Netflix’s Top 10 Movies in the Philippines Today list).

She’s athletic.  At three, when most girls were playing with dolls, Ashley was gliding in the skating rink where her parents (mom is Filipino-German and dad is Spanish-Filipino) brought her. “You’re free to do anything on ice,” she explains.  “It’s so smooth!  When you glide, no one teaches you what to do!”

“You’re free to do anything on ice,” Ashley explains.

No wonder joining the Olympics was her childhood dream.  And she represented the Philippines in tournaments held in Thailand, Malaysia, China, and Japan.

But God had another plan.  She appeared in TV commercials at 12 and was named Ms. Olive-C 2014 Campus Model.

Showbiz beckoned. A string of film and TV assignments followed.  She co-hosted Willie Revillame’s variety show Wowowin.  Lately, she made a mark as anti-hero in GMA 7’s  Widows’ Web.   She will soon be seen in the historical drama Pulang Araw starring Barbie Forteza and Alden Richards.

But one can’t have it all.  Behind that sunny disposition is the story of a girl who never knew her father, and grew up without a dad. “My parents separated when I was five,” she recalls. “It was hard at first.  We had no communication with my dad.”

But age was on hers – and her older brother and younger sister’s side.  They were too young to bear the emotional scars of a broken home.  They bounced back.  That’s because they had their mom and each other.

Instead of rebelling, Ashley lost herself doing what she loves.  Figure skating being a performance sport as well as a training ground for athletes, Ashley never developed stage fright. She joined school performances. She was never shy. Talking came naturally.

Today, she doesn’t skip a beat when fellow celebrities and media interview her.  At a recent event, Ashley, looking smart in  black and white and a bejeweled purse, admitted to media that her love life is on hold.  She’d rather focus on herself and enjoy life on her own.

Love came knocking thrice.  The first time – and she hopes her last –  was with a showbiz guy. Like most actresses who prefer a more private relationship, Ashley wants someone whose work has nothing to do with her high-profile job.

She tells actor-host Paolo Contis that her ideal guy must be taller (she stands 5’6”). Since she loves going to the gym, he must also be athletic. He must be as attractive inside. For Ashley, this means being God-fearing, prayerful, family-oriented and respectful.  But the guy musn’t be a pushover.  Otherwise, he’ll bore Ashley to death.

“He must be an alpha male who can handle my stubborn side,” she explains. That’s a tall order.  But for someone like Ashley Ortega, the extra effort is worth it.

Photos courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/AshleyOrtegaUnlimited

#AshleyOrtega #rubyasoyph #rubyspreciousmoments

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Richmonde Hotel Ortigas’ Weekday Lunch Buffet at Richmonde Cafe is Back

The Richmonde Hotel Ortigas’ popular and enjoyable value-for-money lunch buffet at its all-day dining restaurant, Richmonde Café, is finally back! Residents, corporate executives, office workers, and frequent visitors of Ortigas Center can once again indulge in a sumptuous eat-all-you-can spree of culinary delights, perfect for a satisfying midday meal in the heart of the metro’s commercial and business district.

To welcome back the lunch crowd with a relaxed and invigorating buffet experience, Richmonde Café’s kitchen team, headed by Sous Chef Joey Daymon, has prepared a dynamic menu featuring an assortment of global cuisine, carefully curated to appeal to a variety of palates. From international flavors to local favorites, the buffet promises to be a wonderful gastronomic journey through taste and tradition. “Our goal each time is to serve familiar and well-loved dishes and create a spread that combines the comfort of home-cooked meals with the allure of gourmet fare,” shares Chef Joey.

Diners can expect a feast for the senses each time with a robust selection of appetizers, mains, and desserts, not to mention exciting action stations that feature a variety of freshly cooked items such as pastas, tapas, and fajitas, grilled meats, oven-baked pizzas, sizzling fried sisig, and many more! Mainstays like the salad bar, mixed sushi, cheese board, and premium beef carving will surely make each meal a worthy treat.

According to F&B Manager Ria Rosal, “We’re super thrilled to bring back Richmonde Café’s lunch buffet and serve our guests delectable food as we showcase our chefs’ amazing talents. Aside from the weekly Filipino-themed buffet every Monday, we will be coming out regularly with thematic offerings so our diners can always look forward to trying something new.” General Manager Jorold Montelibano added, “This may seem like a long time coming, but we believe that now is the best time to relaunch our lunch buffet because more and more people are working on-site and conducting meetings face-to-face. With our convenient location, the café’s relaxing ambience, and the remarkable dining experience we provide, our lunch buffet is truly an excellent option for those looking for good value for their money.”

Richmonde Café’s Weekday Lunch Buffet is available from Monday to Friday from 11:30am to 2:00pm for only PhP 1,585nett, inclusive of bottomless house-blend iced tea, and coffee or hot tea.

Richmonde Cafe

To celebrate the buffet’s comeback, Richmonde Café is extending an exclusive 15% discount to members of Richmonde Hotel Ortigas’ Viber community from July 3 until September 30, 2024. Anyone can join the Viber community where members get notified of the latest promotions and are entitled to exclusive offers.

There is also a 3+1 Birthday Blowout Deal available for those with birthdays that fall during the calendar month. The birthday celebrant just needs to bring three people paying the full buffet rate to dine for free and receive a complimentary slice of birthday cake. This offer runs until December 30, 2024.

The Richmonde Café is located on the second floor of Richmonde Hotel Ortigas with address at 21 San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. For inquiries and table reservations, call (632) 8638 7777 or (63) 917 534 4352 (mobile/Viber).

#Weekdaylunchbuffet #RichmondeCafe #RichmondeHotelOrtigas #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Manila’s Popular Organic Restaurant, The Wholesome Table Marks 10th Anniversary

It’s a celebration 10 years in the making! The Wholesome Table, Manila’s best-rated and most popular organic restaurant, is thrilled to announce its 10th anniversary. Since opening its doors in July 2014 by mompreneur Bianca Araneta-Elizalde, The Wholesome Table has been dedicated to serving diners and patrons wholesome, locally sourced meals that delight the palate and nourish the body.

The brand’s goal is “to build a healthy food culture where people can begin to make informed decisions about the food they eat and take charge of their health, by educating them about natural, organic food, nutrition, and the environment. After all, it is one of the few things consumers can control in life.” As their brand motto goes, “Eat consciously. Live consciously.”

Bianca Araneta-Elizalde, owner of The Wholesome Table, has always advocated for conscious eating and mindful living.

As Bianca and her team focus on a new vision for The Wholesome Table, many plans are brewing ahead. “I would love to do a twist on the brand, maybe another related concept. My creative juices are flowing. My team inspires me to do something new,” said Bianca. “We’re also working hard on the farm. One of the challenges we’ve always had at The Wholesome Table was suppliers because we were organic. I always wanted a farm that’s going to fuel the restaurant and it’s going to be even more than organic—it’s going to be biodynamic. Everybody will be eating produce and products from the farm, maybe even be able to buy from it.”

The Wholesome Table BGC, their flagship restaurant, opened its doors back in July 2014.

Ten years may seem to have gone by so fast, but anything greatly achieved comes with its own set of challenges. Its present goal is to rebuild and open more branches, hopefully soon, to get back to where they were and even expand further. Currently, their Makati (Salcedo) and BGC branches are up and running, with a new one opening by the fourth quarter of the year.

To commemorate this milestone, The Wholesome Table is holding a month-long celebration this July. Other than the revival of their classics for the special anniversary menu by Executive Chef, Chrioni Castillo, guests and patrons will be given discounts and the chance to win gift certificates, too!

  • The Classics Are Back: A curated selection of our best-selling classics that reflect the brand’s commitment to organic gastronomy and sustainability, exclusively available in our Special Anniversary Menu this July
  • 10% Off Delivery: Get 10% off when you order from GrabFood from 2 PM to 6 PM for the whole month of July.
  • Wholesome Afternoons:Get 10% off when you dine in at their branches from 2 PM to 6 PM from July 16 to July 31, 2024.
  • Sweet Treats: Get a free scoop of ice cream at the BGC branch on July 11, 2024.
  • Celebrate 10 Wholesome Years Social Media Promo: Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @thewholesometable and watch out for their contest mechanics to get a chance to win gift certificates.

What started as a vision of one mom to encourage others that healthy and mindful eating can be both enjoyable and beneficial for them and the farming community has now become a restaurant brand that stands the test of time. As Bianca shared, “I’m so happy that it resonated with the Manila crowd, along with the tourists and foreigners who have patronized our restaurant over and over again. I did not imagine this. I’m looking forward to the next 10 years.”

The Wholesome Table invites everyone in celebrating this special milestone. Come for the food, stay for the community, and leave with a heart full of joy and a belly full of organic goodness.

For more information, visit thewholesometable.com/.
Follow them on Instagram and Facebook @thewholesometable.

 

#thewholesometable #10thanniversary #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Team Kramer Joins MR.DIY Philippines in New Campaign: ‘For BIG and small FAMILYhan needs, MERON DIYan!’

MR.DIY Philippines launched its 2024 campaign at the MR.DIY store located on the 4th level of One Ayala Mall in Makati. The event marked the beginning of a new chapter for the brand, emphasizing its core value propositions: “Always Low Prices,” extensive product assortment, and convenient shopping across numerous store locations. The newest brand tagline, “For BIG and small FAMILYhan needs, MERON DIYan!” encapsulates the brand’s mission to cater to all family needs, both big and small, reinforcing MR.DIY as the go-to destination for home improvement.

The event began with a Media Thanksgiving session, which kicked off with a message of gratitude to the media from MR.DIY Philippines’ Deputy Head of Marketing Mr. Charles Salecina.

Mr. Charles Salecina, Deputy Head of Marketing of MR.DIY Philippines, expressed gratitude to the media during the Media Thanksgiving program.

This was followed  by fun games and prizes for the media, which included  “BIG and small, Hakot, Dakot, Panalo!” Challenge, where participants were blindfolded and given 15 seconds to scoop as many prizes as they could into a basket, taking home whatever they managed to gather. Trivia questions about MR.DIY also engaged attendees, with correct answers earning exciting prizes.

The main program commenced with opening remarks from Mr. Salecina, and halfway through his speech, he invited everyone to watch the 2023 highlights of MR.DIY, showcasing the brand’s achievements and milestones over the past year.

This was followed by a short message from MR.DIY Philippines’ CEO, Ms. Roselle B. Andaya, where she shared her excitement for renewing the brand’s partnership with Team Kramer, and how MR.DIY remains steadfast in its commitment to offer a delightful and convenient shopping experience.

Ms. Roselle Andaya, CEO of MR.DIY Philippines, delivers her message for the media and guests at MR.DIY’s Branding Campaign Launch held in One Ayala, Makati City.

“This year’s campaign reaffirms MR.DIY’s dedication to being your trusted partner for all home improvement needs,” said Ms. Andaya.

A significant moment in the event was the ceremonial “BIG and small” contract signing with MR.DIY’s Brand Ambassador, Team Kramer.

“We are renewing our contract with MR.DIY because our collaboration has been fulfilling and successful. MR.DIY’s commitment to quality and affordability aligns with our family values. We’ve seen how their products have enhanced our home and everyday life. The positive feedback from our followers has been overwhelming and we’re excited to continue this journey with our MR.DIY family, “ said Doug Kramer.

The unveiling of the 2024 campaign video and new jingle was accompanied by a dynamic dance mob, setting an energetic tone for the day, with Team Kramer joining in on the fun. Doug and Cheska Kramer spoke about how the new MR.DIY branding came to life. The couple highlighted the collaborative effort and shared behind-the-scenes of the branding campaign shoot and jingle creation, giving attendees a glimpse into the creative process. 

The “For BIG and small FAMILYhan needs, MERON DIYan!” campaign represents MR.DIY’s mission to serve the diverse needs of Filipino families, offering products that cater to both major home improvements and everyday essentials. The term “FAMILYhan” blends the words “Family” and “Pamilihan” (marketplace), positioning MR.DIY as the go-to market for Filipino families’ big and small needs. The campaign is designed to emphasize the brand’s dedication to affordability, quality, and variety, ensuring that every family, regardless of size, can find what they need at MR.DIY. This campaign ties seamlessly with the renewed brand story, showcasing MR.DIY as a reliable partner for all home-related needs.

“Our relationship with MR.DIY has grown stronger and more collaborative. We’ve deepened our understanding of their commitment to quality and affordability and created content that resonates with our audience. This partnership feels like a true alignment of values and goals,” Mr. Kramer added. Team Kramer’s continued partnership with MR.DIY highlights the brand’s family-oriented approach and commitment to enhancing the lives of its customers.

Ms. Roselle Andaya, CEO of MR.DIY signs the contract with Team Kramer, marking another chapter of success and partnership ahead.

During the media Q&A, Ms. Andaya discussed the brand’s strategies for rapid expansion and success in the competitive retail market.

She emphasized the importance of a customer-centric approach, among other factors that contribute to MR.DIY’s success. “Our key strategies include having  a customer-centric approach by ensuring we have the right variety of products at affordable prices in carefully selected locations to maximize reach. Additionally, we keep major processes as simple as possible to achieve faster scalability. The more we are able to scale up successfully, the more we benefit from economies of scale, where costs are spread out more, resulting in higher savings which are passed on to our customers as products they can buy at always low prices. The more our customers patronize MR.DIY, the more we are able to expand, thus the virtuous cycle continues,” Ms. Andaya added.

The event concluded on a high note, leaving attendees excited about MR.DIY’s future initiatives and continued commitment to providing variety, good quality and value for money for Filipino families. With its new campaign and renewed brand identity as the “familyhan” for big and small needs. MR.DIY is poised to strengthen its presence in the Philippine retail market.

#MRDIY #TeamKramer #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Taal Vista Hotel: Delighting you in every possible way

Experience pure joy and satisfaction when you stay at Taal Vista Hotel.

 

Going on a weekend staycation with family is a chance to experience new things, create memories, and strengthen bonds. Our recent staycation at Taal Vista Hotel was exceptional. It was a perfect escape from the stress of everyday life to relax and recharge.

The hotel is known for its breathtaking views, cool mountain air, great food, and impressive amenities. Then and now, Taal Vista remains a national landmark deeply ingrained in the history and heritage of the popular tourist destination, Tagaytay City.

The premier room where we stayed was spacious and squeaky clean. It offers the most spectacular panoramic view of Taal Volcano and Taal Lake amid a verdant landscape.

Welcome cake.

 

Great food, happy mood

Food makes us feel good while feasting on the mouth-watering dishes for lunch and breakfast at Verdana. It offers a Filipino-Continental buffet and a live cultural show by the Bughaw Folkloric Dance Group during the lunch buffet every Saturday and Sunday. It was satisfying for our tummies and eyes!

My favorites from the lunch buffet were maki rolls, ginataang alimasag at gulay, laing rice, rellenong bangus, pancit, fresh salad and fruits, Filipino delicacies, and halo-halo. For breakfast meals, I enjoyed coffee, fresh fruits, fried rice and danggit, chicken tocino, and champorado.

Maki rolls

We also cherished our time at the lobby lounge for snacks. We tried their hot chocolate and Americano coffee paired with delicious cakes and pastries. It helped us unwind and feel relaxed while we listened to piano music in the background. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the chance to experience a glam picnic that day due to the rain.

For our dinner, we relished the sumptuous pasta dishes at Taza restaurant. Taza is the Arabic word for fresh. We ordered pasta dishes such as Duck and Mushroom Lasagna, Fettucine Alfredo, and Pappardelle Primavera, which were rich, flavorful, and gratifying! We were also given a delectable chocolate cake for dessert.

Mouthwatering and gratifying pasta dishes from Taza!

 

Taza Fresh Table. Courtesy: Taal Vista Hotel FB page

 

Hospitable staff, going the extra mile

We appreciate the warmth and friendliness of its staff, especially for my hubby with a diet restriction. The chefs made an effort to prepare vegetarian dishes just for him! Special mention to Chef Ralph of Taza and Chef Kim of Veranda!

To digest what we ate, we toured the hotel’s other facilities – the swimming pool, the gym, the spa, Kultura Butik, and The Ridge, and made a side trip to Skyranch. For staying hotel guests would need only to pay 100 per person to pass through the gate from the lake wing to enter the amusement park.

It was a delightful stay for me and my small family – from the accommodation, food, service, and overall experience.

Enjoying our meals together as a family.

For Father’s Day, the hotel has a special promotion, “Feast for the King.” You can choose from BBQ Grill Night at Alta Ridge Bar or lunch buffet at Veranda. For details, call +63 2 7917 8225 or e-mail foodandbeverage@taalvistahotel.com.

 

 Magnificent views, history, and nostalgia

The charm of Taal Vista Hotel lies in its stunning views that continue to capture guests after several decades.

The Ridge is a viewing deck that offers one of the most spectacular views of Taal Volcano and Taal Lake. It also provides a panoramic scenery of Volcano Island, its surrounding Taal Lake, and the Tagaytay Ridge. Also visible are lakeside communities of Batangas Province including Cuenca, Lipa, Mataas na Kahoy, and Tanauan. On a clear day, Balayan Bay is visible on the far right.

 

Posing at The Ridge.

In the 1960s, Taal Vista Lodge became a popular destination among foreign dignitaries. Some of the past distinguished guests were Crown Prince Akihito and his wife Princess Michiko of Japan, former First Lady Imelda Marcos, and five First Ladies of heads of state who attended the Manila Summit Conference, among others. In 2003, Taal Vista Lodge became Taal Vista Hotel.

The property has surmounted unprecedented challenges in the past decades. While reading its history timeline wall indicates that “In the process, it has affirmed its status as an icon in Philippine tourism – a timeless property known not only for offering a majestic view of Taal Volcano but more importantly, for leaving its guests nostalgic with treasured memories of the past.”

The grand dame of the Philippine hospitality industry is #HereForAlways.

Find out more at http://www.taalvistahotel.com.

#TaalVistaHotel #Tagaytay #staycation #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph #exclusivecoverage

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Elegant Delights Await: Discover Madeleine High Tea and Bytes at Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila

The newly opened Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila, a lavish retreat designed to blend the charm of wholesome delights with modern elegance, has been an exciting addition to the hospitality landscape in Manila. Inaugurated last April, the premier destination is set to redefine the standards of comfort and convenience for both business travellers and leisure seekers alike.

Nestled in the heart of Manila, Lanson Place Mall of Asia offers an array of amenities including spaces that are perfect for co-working or relaxation, Bytes and Madeleine High Tea. Both are poised to become the go-to spots for those seeking a unique blend of casual comfort and sophisticated indulgence.

Elegance and Tradition Reimagined

For those looking to indulge in a bit of timeless elegance, the Madeleine High Tea at Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila offers an exquisite experience. The serene and sophisticated ambience, enhanced plush seating, creates the perfect backdrop for intimate gatherings, business meetings, or simply unwinding in style.

Guests can enjoy a meticulously crafted selection of premium tea from Agusan Del Norte, accompanied by cakes and pastries that blend classic and modern high tea flavours. The venue’s contemporary elegance and delectable treats create the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon or a special social event. Madeleine High Tea offers an indulgent experience, ensuring guests savour every sip and bite in style.

“Nature’s Apothecary has carefully crafted teas with to create an experience that brings out all of its natural flavours and aromas while perfectly blending with traditional and contemporary high tea elements. “Our goal is to provide a space where guests can relax and connect, whether they’re here for business or leisure,” said Deczle Enriquez, Lanson Place’s Director of Food and Beverage.

A Burst of Flavour in Every Byte

Guests on the go can elevate their work and leisure experience with Bytes at Lanson Place. Found on the 3rd level alongside Focus, the dedicated co-working space at the hotel establishment, Bytes is designed to cater to the different needs of today’s travellers.

Bytes provides a variety of hearty and delicious options that guests can snack on to fuel their productivity while working or to enhance leisure while spending time with friends, colleagues, or future business partners. Each item is crafted with the finest ingredients to ensure every bite is packed with nutrition. Bytes is a place where work meets relaxation, making every moment a revitalizing experience.

“The concept behind the Bytes is to offer our guests a wholesome and satisfying option that does not compromise on taste or quality,” said Deczle Enriquez, Director of Food and Beverage. “Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between meetings or enjoying a leisurely snack with friends, we want every visit to be a delightful experience.”

Guests are welcome to relish contemporary delights, whether they are looking for a quick healthy bite or spending a relaxing afternoon of indulgence, Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila has something to offer. Discover a haven where wholesome delights meet modern style. Visit Madeleine High Tea and Bytes at Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila today.

For more information about Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila’s upcoming events, and other offerings, visit the official website at www.lansonplace.com/mallofasia or follow the official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram).

 

About Lanson Place Personal Hotels & Residences

Lanson Place is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wing Tai Properties Limited (Wing Tai), a publicly listed company in Hong Kong (HKEx stock code: 369). Wing Tai currently manages 6 properties (in which Wing Tai has equity in two) under the Lanson Place brand, comprising luxury Personal Hotels and Residences in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore, as well as two new properties in Manila (opened in the third quarter of 2023) and Melbourne in (to be opened in 2024).

 

#LansonPlaceMallofAsia #MadeleineHighTea #Bytes #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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A Taste of Summer at Park Inn by Radisson Davao

Plunge into a refreshing, vibrant and feel good stay at Park Inn by Radisson Davao, one of the city’s premier accommodations, which was recently honored the Certificate of Excellence from Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards 2024.

Escape to a weekend staycation with the Summer Vibes package at Php4,588 in one of the hotel’s contemporary standard rooms, complete with a buffet breakfast for two at the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, VANDA. Additionally, the booking provides guests with the privilege to access the pool deck which houses an adult and children’s pool, complemented by a pool bar. Best time to dip in the pool? Between 4 to 6 PM where you can witness the stunning transition from day to night, while taking in the mesmerizing city skyline of Davao. This package is available until 08 July 2024.

Summer Desserts – Macapuno Leche Flan, Buko Halo-halo, Banana Split Trio, Wasabi Ice-Cream Cake and Malagos Chocolate Brownie topped with Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream.

Elevate the ultimate summer staycation with a selection of Summer Coolers, priced at Php150 each – quench your thirst with the refreshing watermelon-based Watermelon Fizz; Havana, a delightful mix of pineapple and coconut; a strawberry and mangosteen concoction Daba-daba; along with the Samarefic, a refreshing mix of cucumber and lemon with a kick of ginger; and cool off with the lychee-based cooler, Dabaw Breeze.

Who can say no to desserts? Indulge in Summer Desserts that will definitely satisfy your sweet-tooth and cool you off at the same time. The selection of desserts starts from Php300, kicking off with the good-for-sharing Banana Split Trio, the Malagos Chocolate Brownie topped with Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream, and the classic summer favorite – Buko Halo-halo. A surprising yet delightful aftertaste waits you with the Wasabi Ice Cream Cake – it will make you crave for it! And if you want a non-ice cream based dessert, the custardy and milky Macapuno Leche Flan is ideal for you. Enjoy these summer coolers and desserts until 31 July 2024.

Enjoy the Summer Season with loved ones.

After checking-out, enjoy a mini shopping spree at the adjacent SM Lanang Mall, an indoor four-story shopping mall that houses over 250 shops, restaurants and recreational hubs.

Park Inn by Radisson Davao features an inventory of 202 rooms and is strategically located right beside SM Lanang Mall & SMX Convention Center Davao. The property is the first Park Inn by Radisson property in Asia Pacific that opened doors in March of 2013. Amenities includes VANDA restaurant, the 24/7 self-service counter DASH, Pool Deck that houses an adult and children’s pool along with the pool bar, more than 90 parking slots and a covered foot bridge to the mall among others.

Relax, enjoy, and soak up the summer before the rainy season begins!

 All prices are in Philippine Peso and inclusive of applicable taxes.

For bookings & inquiries: reservations.davao@parkinn.com | fb.supervisor@parkinn.com | 082 272 7600 |  +63 917 859 1766 |  +63 917 859 1743

For more information: www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/park-inn-davao

Or connect with them on:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/parkinndavao 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/parkinndavao

 

#ParkInnbyRadissonDavao #summervibespackage #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Charting 4 Days of Fun at Regal Hotels in Hong Kong

 

Regala Skycity Hotel and Regal Hong Kong Hotel served as home to media guests from the Philippines and celebrity influencer Ashley Ortega, who joined the 4-day, fun-filled tour in Hong Kong organized by VFC Travel and Tours.

Hong Kong is an easy place to visit. With just an hour and 45 minutes flight from Manila, many tourists (including us) would frequent here for good reasons – to enjoy its dazzling city views, attractions, dining, nightlife, arts, culture, and shopping.

A well-planned trip is important to make the most of your stay, thanks to VFC Travel and Tours, who organized our 4-day, fun-filled tour in Hong Kong together with celebrity influencer, Ashley Ortega. VFC is your very first choice and go-to expert for trips to Hong Kong and beyond.

Regala Skycity Hotel and Regal Hong Kong Hotel served as our home for four days complete with superb accommodation and shuttle service. Regala Skycity is located on Lantau Island and is still in its first year of operation. It’s the place to be in the airport area.

Some of its recent awards include: “Best Airport Hotel” by TTG Asia Travel Awards (2023), “Best New Hotel” by TTG China Travel Awards (2023), Best Hotel Restaurant Interior (Hong Kong) by International Property Media Ltd in 2023 for Vivace.

Regala Skycity Hotel Exterior.

Regala’s strengths are its airport counter (not many hotels have this service), providing free shuttle service to and from the hotel, Tung Chung, Citygate Outlet, and NP360. It’s also one MTR train ride to Disneyland; a short ride to Hong Kong-Macau-Zhuhai bridge (or 45 minutes bus ride to Macau).

The group at the Regal Hotels airport counter.

Regal is situated in Causeway Bay and is near the MTR station, tram stop, popular shopping malls, and a short walk to restaurants, coffee shops, street food, Japanese specialty stores, and street shopping. These are the reasons that would make Regal the hotel of choice when in Causeway Bay.

Regala Skycity and Regal Hong Kong are part of the Regal Hotels brand known for its international standards of comfort.

We charted the activities that summed up our delightful stay in Hong Kong.

 

DAY 1

The group arrived at Hong Kong International Airport in the morning and headed to Regal Airport Counter B15, Arrival Hall B. We were accorded with free shuttle bus to Regala Skycity from the airport. Then, we checked in and met the hotel staff.

We had an enjoyable lunch at Vivace.

The welcome lunch was held at Vivace, the hotel’s Mediterranean restaurant located on the third floor. Recognized for its impeccable interior designed by Alexander Wong, the vibrant restaurant picked up a silver award for outstanding interior design at the Build4Asia Awards 2022.  The restaurant serves tasty and hearty dishes from Mediterranean hotspots including Spain, Italy, France, and Greece. With a robust and tempting cocktail menu and outdoor patio, Vivace is the perfect spot for alfresco dining and drinks.

They served us a Thanksgiving special menu, semi-buffet tapas lunch, anti-salad bar, appetizers, soup, and dessert. We indulged in the delectable cuisine while enjoying the company of Ivan Tso, Assistant Marketing Communication Manager.

After the sumptuous lunch, we started touring the impressive hotel rooms, themed rooms, grand ballroom, and meeting venues, a walk to 11 Skies, and Asia World Expo (AWE).

Modern and vibrant interior design of Vivace.

In the afternoon, we had the opportunity to meet the hotel’s gracious general manager, Renee Kim, who also hosted dinner for us at the Jade, the fine-dining, Chinese restaurant of the hotel located on the 12th floor. It presents exquisite delicacies in a plush environment enhanced by artistic features and breathtaking sea views. Private dining spaces are also available to elevate any gathering or occasion.

We enjoyed the 7-course Chinese cuisine served to us coupled with an interesting conversation on sundry topics.

From left: Regala Skycity General Manager Renee Kim, Ashley Ortega, and Ivan Tso.

 

Kim shared that they have an Executive Chinese Chef who not only specializes in Cantonese but also many regional Chinese cuisines.

As a true representation of Chinese culinary fare, the Jade brings together China’s dynamic regional cuisine ranging from Canton, Beijing, Zhejiang, Sichuan, and more.  “We have dynamic dishes from Beijing, Shanghai, Sichuan province, and many more. People like to try food from different parts of the world. Dimsum is a good representation of Hong Kong,” Kim said.

Kim explained that Regal is the core brand of Regal Hotels International, while Regala is a new brand, which focuses on lifestyle, wellness, and sustainability. They’re also planning to re-brand some of the existing hotels. Regal is more conservative, and upscale; Regala is more lifestyle and trendy.

Kim related that it’s challenging to manage a new property, especially after the pandemic. “Overall, there’s a downturn in the economy not just here in Hong Kong but in other countries. Despite the challenges, we have been able to open the hotel. We can’t complain. The business is picking up. Anyone who has tried our product, they loved it.”

Welcome dinner for the group with Ms. Kim and Sir Karl at the Jade restaurant.
Jade Restaurant – for your fine dining experience. It brings together China’s dynamic regional cuisine.

With the holiday season fast approaching, she said, that they are promoting Chocolate Christmas to attract more families and pet-friendly promotions.

After that wonderful dinner, we headed back to our assigned room – a comfortable twin bed – where you can immerse yourself in the Regala celebratory lifestyle to unwind your body and mind.

Cabana room – spacious and bright.

It was a sweet welcome, and everyone was excited to enjoy the remaining days of our stay. As they say, “It’s time for a joyous gala!”

 

DAY 2

A buffet breakfast awaited us at Petra, another restaurant of the hotel located on the ground floor, which serves international cuisine.

Breakfast at Petra.
Petra’s color scheme is pleasing to the eyes.

Right after, we were whisked away to experience the Tung Chung adventure and the convenience of staying at Regala. We visited the Citygate Outlet, a train ride to Disneyland, and then a free shuttle back to the hotel.

The writer is in the happiest place on earth!

We tried the mouthwatering dishes for dinner at Petra, which consisted of salad, main course (I settled on salmon, others opted for steak), and dessert. We all enjoyed it!

To digest what we ate, we took a walk outside the hotel, visited the hotel sky deck, and felt the cold weather that night.

 

DAY 3

It was time to check out from Regala and transfer to Regal Hong Kong for an overnight stay. This 5-star hotel provides spacious, full-service accommodations, and a choice of dining venues.

Group photo at the hotel entrance.

The group had the chance to meet the hotel’s general manager, Christo Diamandopoulos, who gladly agreed to a short interview about his work experiences and the room renovation plans. He has been with Regal Hotels for 10 years now. He also holds concurrent positions as general manager of Regal Kowloon Hotel, and vice president – the project for Regal Hotels International Limited.

Regal Hong Kong Hotel General Manager Christo Diamondopoulos (center) with Ashley Ortega and Vien Chan of VFC Travel and Tours.

 

He shared that he likes working in Hong Kong because the economy is very aggressive. He also cited that more tourists from the Philippines and Thailand are coming to Hong Kong either for business or leisure. “To all the lovely people in the Philippines, I wish to invite you to come and visit the Regal Hong Kong Hotel and the country of Hong Kong. We are well-prepared with attractive accommodation and services for an enjoyable stay. Hope to see you very soon!”

The Regal management also hosted lunch for us at the Chinese Restaurant, Regal Palace. The food was very satisfying. Soon after, we toured the hotel rooms, gym, and rooftop swimming pool (the only one in the Causeway Bay).

Rooftop swimming pool – overlooking a spectacular Harbour view. Courtesy: Regal Hong Kong Hotel
Topform gymnasium. Courtesy: Regal Hong Kong Hotel

We also rode the Peak Tram, checked out nearby shopping malls, Sogo, Sasa, Times Square, street markets, etc., and uncovered affordable souvenirs to bring home.

The Peak Tram. Courtesy: Regal Hong Kong Hotel

Another delectable meal for dinner was prepared for us, which we paired with red wine to our complete satisfaction.

With the comfortable bed and spacious room, we fell into a good night’s sleep.

 

DAY 4

We felt energized on our last day in the hotel and partook in the buffet breakfast at Cafe Rivoli.

After we checked out from Regal, we visited ArteM, an immersive media art;  Sky100,  a 360-degree indoor observation deck, which offers views of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbour, the Kowloon Peninsula, and Tai Mo Shan; M+ Museum, which featured Madame Song: Pioneering Art and Fashion in China courtesy of Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), and Harbour City for some sightseeing until our departure flight to Manila.

The post-pandemic world has certainly ignited our spirit of discovery and the enriching experiences travel brings to life. So, on your next trip, look no further. Make Regal Hotels and VFC Travel and Tours your first choice for seamless travel. For more information, visit https://www.regala-hotels.com/en/regala-skycity-hotel/ and www.regalhotel.com. https://www.vfctravelandtours.com/

 

#RegalaSkycity #RegalaHongKongHotel #VFCTravelandTours #HongKong #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

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Thai leading budget chain, Hop Inn Hotel, celebrates launch of first 4 hotels in Japan

Tokyo, Japan — HOP INN Hotel, a renowned budget hotel operator in Thailand and the Philippines, has officially launched its first four hotels in top tourist destinations in Japan.

The 58- strong budget hotel chain owned by Erawan Hop Inn Co. Ltd, subsidiary of The Erawan Group PCL, has opened its first-ever Hop Inn hotel in Kyoto in December, followed by the January launch of two hotels in Tokyo, and one to open in Ueno, Tokyo in early April.

Part of the company’s strategic investment plan of 10 billion baht to expand in Asia Pacific, this milestone is a blazing start to its mission to achieve over 150 hotels and 14,000 keys operating across the region with 4 times expected revenue growth by 2030.

Ms Pichanun Boonpromgul, President of Erawan Hop Inn said, “We foresee the significant growth of Japan tourism and believe in strong domestic demand. This is the right timing to put our footprint in Japan. Our first 4 hotels are in prime locations which will stimulate brand awareness of Hop Inn in Japan market. Hop Inn can serve all guest’s needs with consistency of service and value for money product. In the next five years, we aim to expand our Japan portfolio to cover all major cities. The successful expansion to Japan is our first step in achieving our Hop Inn 2030 vision “to be the leading budget hotel in APAC.” We foresee potential growth in this segment in various countries, leveraging our strong customer base and expertise to step in the new market.”

Established in 2014, the Hop Inn brand is known for its consistent quality accommodations and central locations in key business districts, and offers standardized facilities and professional service across all properties. Guests can be confident of a comfortable and convenient stay whichever Hop Inn they choose.

Twin Room at Hop Inn Kyoto
Facade

Located in the heart of Japan’s cultural capital, the 136-room Hop Inn Kyoto Shijo Omiya offers a uniquely Japanese accommodation experience with interiors inspired by Japan’s rich culture, traditional tatami rooms, and a public bath or sento. Only 200 meters from Shijo Omiya station, the hotel provides easy access to scenic attractions and UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto such as the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and Kinkaku-ji Temple.

Fans of international music artists will delight in Hop Inn Tokyo Iidabashi, located steps away from Tokyo Dome, the most famous concert venue in Tokyo. The 50-room hotel is only 3-minutes from Iidabashi station and a short walk from “Tokyo’s Little Paris,” Kagurazaka, a chic neighborhood with Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurants and the scenic Canal Cafe.

Semi Double Room Hop Inn Tokyo lidabashi
Facade of Hop Inn Tokyo lidabashi

Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa is strategically located right next to the iconic Senso-ji Temple. Conveniently accessible, the hotel is a 2-minute walk from Asakusa Station and close to Sumida Park, one of the most popular “hanami” spots during the Cherry Blossom Festival. Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa offers 115 clean and comfortable rooms for guests of all sizes, with connecting rooms and family rooms available for group travelers, and rooms with scenic views of Senso-ji Temple and the Tokyo Skytree.

Double Room at Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa

 

Facade of Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa

Opening in early April, Hop Inn Tokyo Ueno is located just 150 meters from Ueno station with direct train access from Narita Airport. The hotel is surrounded by local izakaya restaurants next to bustling Ameyoko Shopping Street and a short walk from top tourist attractions Ueno Park and Zoo, Tokyo National Museum, and National Museum of Nature and Science.

To celebrate the official launch of Hop Inn Hotel in Japan, guests are treated to an opening promotion of up to 40% off room rates starting from PHP 1,800 (JPY 4,950). Offer is valid for bookings from now until 31 January for stays until 31 March 2024.

For more information about Hop Inn Hotel Japan, visit www.hopinnhotel.com and follow their social media pages at facebook.com/hopinnhoteljapan and @hopinnhoteljapan on Instagram, LINE, and TikTok.

 About ERAWAN HOP INN

ERAWAN HOP INN Company Limited (“ERAWAN HOP INN”), a subsidiary of The Erawan Group Public Company Limited, currently operates 51 HOP INN hotels spread across 40 prime locations in Thailand, 7 HOP INN hotels in the Philippines, and 4 HOP INN hotels in Japan. ERAWAN HOP INN continues to expand HOP INN hotels in Asia Pacific, maintains its competitive advantage and strengthens leading position as the most consistent budget hotel network in Asia Pacific.

 About The ERAWAN Group

The Erawan Group Public Company (Limited) (SET: ERW) or “ERAWAN”, an investor and operator with significant investment and business development in the hospitality industry in Thailand and the Philippines. ERAWAN engages in hospitality business at all levels, ranging from 5-star hotels to budget hotels. By the end of the year 2022, ERAWAN has a total of 76 hotels in Thailand the Philippines and is expanding our investments in the Asia-Pacific region. For further details, please visit our website www.theerawan.com.

#HopInn #Japan #ErawanHopInn #ErawanGroup #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Regal Hotels International launches Regala Hotels brand with official opening of Regala Skycity Hotel in Hong Kong

Regala Skycity Hotel celebrates the vitality of life by balancing world-class hospitality with harmonious experiences that allow guests to rejoice, relax and recharge.

 

Regal Hotels International has launched Regala Hotels – a new and vibrant hospitality brand that provides a place for celebration and harmonious living. The first opening is Regala Skycity Hotel located at Hong Kong’s new   SKYCITY hub.

Regala Skycity Hotel lobby

Boasting over 1,200 guest rooms, three diverse restaurants serving cuisines from around the globe, a beautifully designed grand ballroom and two banquet halls perfect for weddings and conventions, state-of- the-art wellness facilities, children’s entertainment spaces, games rooms and more, Regala Skycity Hotel is a unique hospitality destination where people can celebrate the vitality of life.

The hotel has recently received green awards including the Silver EarthCheck Certification and the Beam Plus Gold Certification.

Conveniently located around the transportation hub to Greater Bay Area and rest of the world

Situated in the dynamic and exciting SKYCITY – a captivating new retail, dining and entertainment destination opening this year next to Hong Kong International Airport – Regala Skycity Hotel is conveniently positioned for those looking to explore Hong Kong, Macau and Shenzhen, or attend world-class events in the region.

The hotel is directly connected to AsiaWorld-Expo – one of the world’s premier exhibition and entertainment venues and 11 SKIES – Hong Kong’s largest all-in- one retailtainment landmark with two minutes’ walk via the enclosed footbridge, and is just a short ride away from Hong Kong International Airport via the Airport Express or the hotel’s free shuttle bus.

Regala Skycity Hotel exterior at night.

Guests will be able to reach Hong Kong’s Central District in less than half an hour aboard the Airport Express, the much-loved Hong Kong Disneyland in 15 minutes via taxi, and easily travel throughout the Greater Bay Area as The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and Tuen Mun- Chek Lap Kok Link are only a few minutes away by car.

A dynamic place for an unforgettable stay

The carefully designed Regala Skycity Hotel incorporates the Chinese philosophy of Wu Xing, translated as “the five elements.” By integrating water, earth, wood, fire and metal throughout the hotel’s various spaces, Regala Skycity Hotel has a distinctly unique atmosphere that is elevated by its natural surroundings. This ensures a harmonious balance throughout the hotel, allowing guests to truly relax and rejuvenate their hearts, minds, bodies and souls.

Wu Xing, the five elements are carefully integrated throughout the hotel including a balance of “Water” and “Wood” in
the public areas.

With 1,208 guest rooms, 90 of which are suites, Regala Skycity Hotel has the largest number of guest rooms on Hong Kong’s Lantau Island. All rooms are designed with a modern simplicity that exudes a vibrant and contemporary aesthetic while prioritizing endorphin-boosting natural sunlight. Guests will be delighted with an exceptional view overlooking the bustling SKYCITY, tranquil gardens or picturesque South China Sea.

Regala Skycity Hotel – Seaview Room.

Families can treat little ones to a memorable experience in one of the themed rooms located on the third floor, with themes like Racing Car, Frozen Castle, Pirates, Under the Sea, Brick & Block, and Jungle & Safari.

There are cabana rooms with patios available for those looking to host a gathering or BBQ party. All rooms are equipped with double-glazed windows, Wi-Fi, a telephone, international TV channels, a hair dryer, tea and coffee-making facilities, a mini-fridge and an in-room safe.

The hotel presents a myriad of experiences for all types of travelers. One of the most picturesque highlights can be found on the beautifully landscaped rooftop Sky Deck with panoramic views of Lantau and wellness facilities such as a Sky Gym, Jogging Track and Organic Farm are just waiting to be explored.

The Sky Deck also features a cocktail bar, ideal for a drink whilst soaking in a spectacular sunset or watching planes taking off and landing. The rooftop space also lends itself perfectly to late-night stargazing – a must-do when staying at the hotel.

The Sky Deck encourages healthy and harmonious living with a jogging track and Sky Gym.

Sure to provide fun for the whole family, there are five different game rooms throughout the hotel, including an arcade with video game challenges, ball games and virtual experiences. To further encourage healthy and harmonious living, guests are encouraged to take advantage of the outdoor swimming pool, self-guided driving and hiking tours, and tailor-made yoga and meditation activities.

Regala Skycity Hotel – Arcade Challenge Game Room.

Being a destination for celebration, Regala Skycity Hotel is going to present an exciting Annual Festival Programme. A series of “Music & Dance” Themed Festive Events will be launched to immerse our guests in spectacular celebrations.

Three trendsetting restaurants offering diverse gastronomic     experiences

The hotel presents diverse dining options via its three trendsetting and stylish restaurants. Featuring designs based on coastal lines, sedimentary rocks and calming blues, the spacious all- day-dining restaurant Petra brings diners closer to nature. Adorned with interactive and mesmerizing live cooking stations, the restaurant serves international cuisine through a contactless ordering system, ranging from authentic Southeast Asian fare to exotic Indian curries, Japanese delicacies and more.

Petra is an all-day-dining restaurant that serves international cuisine.

Vivace is an energetic bar and grill that takes guests on an unforgettable Mediterranean culinary voyage set amongst a Spanish-inspired scene of colorful stained glass and Iberian ceramic tiles. Recognized for its impeccable interior designed by Alexander Wong, the vibrant restaurant picked up a silver award for outstanding interior design at the Build4Asia Awards 2022. Welcoming guests with a convivial and lively ambience, the restaurant serves up flavorsome and hearty dishes from Mediterranean hotspots including Spain, Italy, France and Greece. With a robust and tempting cocktail menu and outdoor patio, Vivace is the perfect spot for alfresco dining and drinks.

Vivace takes guests on an unforgettable Mediterranean culinary voyage.

Chinese restaurant, the Jade, presents exquisite delicacies in a plush environment enhanced by artistic features and breathtaking sea views. As a true representation of Chinese culinary fare, the Jade brings together China’s dynamic regional cuisine ranging from Canton, Beijing, Zhejiang, Sichuan and more. Private dining spaces are available to elevate any gathering or occasion.

Private dining room at the Jade.

Healthy food is available 24/7 to support guest wellbeing. With farm-to-table and vegan menus, harmonious living is made possible with easily accessible healthy dishes and meals.

Flexible and tech-savvy function spaces with impressive            interior design

Regala Skycity Hotel is the perfect venue to celebrate every occasion, from weddings and meetings to large-scale events. Designed by the Hong Kong based award-winning architect and interior designer Alexander Wong, the hotel offers two Banquet Halls and the Regala Grand Ballroom, which is one of the biggest ballrooms in Lantau.

Accommodating up to 76 tables, the Regala Grand Ballroom expresses a dynamic energy through the myriad of rectangular white frames ‘spinning’ over like the Spiral Sky. The unique ceiling design creates a special lighting experience, complemented with a shoal of auspicious crystal chandeliers and giant pillars that also function as an LED display.

The Regala Grand Ballroom expresses a dynamic energy through the myriad of rectangular white frames ‘spinning’ over like the Spiral Sky.

Designed to rekindle a sense of wonderment for the natural elements, streams of sunlight in the Banquet Halls create an enchanting vision of ocean waves or flying clouds during the day and an interstellar effect at night with a series of star-like chandeliers.

With over 2,800 square metres of space and an impressive 6.7-metre ceiling height, the function spaces are equipped with state-of-the-art technology featuring synchronised AV systems, six built-in LED walls and six vertical LED panels.

There are also several unique outdoor venues, such as the Sky Deck and Terrace on the 5th, with breathtaking views making for excellent photo opportunities, positioning the hotel as an ideal venue for celebrations, weddings or MICE events.

To find out more about Regala Skycity Hotel and promotions, please visit skycity.regala- hotels.com.

 

#RejoiceAtRegala #RegalaSkycityHotel #HongKong #VFCTravelandTours #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Rediscover the pop culture enthusiast within you at the Omniverse Museum

Seeking for the next place to heal your inner child? Look no further as the Omniverse museum opens its doors to pop culture and science fiction fans everywhere! From big installations of your favorite movie heroes to actual set props–you can all see them for only P1,499!

Located in Japan Town, Makati, the Omniverse Museum boasts film artifacts from historic franchises like Star Wars, Justice League, Marvel, and Harry Potter. Every movie fan with a passion for the lore, plot and the art of collecting will find their hearts filled and their eyes feasting on over 20 worlds–an experience like no other.

Ryan Sison, a journalist and pop culture collector, brought the Omniverse Museum to life. His passion for blockbuster films added fuel to the majestic collection of movie paraphernalia stored intricately in the 3,500 square foot space. Despite being stereotyped as a museum, there are also interactive displays, fun facts, and various forms of movie magic.

Aside from parading movie trinkets and sets, the Omniverse Museum also urges adults and kids alike to explore the wonders of science fiction. There are also activities and interactive exhibits that explain science, particularly how it transcends from actual scientific experiments to full-blown movie plots.

As you delve deeper into the museum, there are also pieces signed by the world-renowned actors who have played historic roles. Most of the pieces featured in the collection are one-of-a-kind, earning the respect of collectors and fans alike.

The tour wouldn’t be complete without a flurry of photos highlighting these rare artifacts, as well as sitting on the famed Iron Throne or pretend-dining in the Great Hall of the Harry Potter universe! There are also life-sized figures of Iron Man, Yoda, and Spiderman–some of the heroes that shaped fan’s lives in different ways.

It might be a bit disconcerting seeing characters from different timelines sit beside each other–just like Newt Scamander and Voldemort–but intriguing enough to interest someone’s fanfiction fantasy! The worlds, or the sections of the museum, are also built to encapsulate the feeling of being inside the movie’s lore–just like the Bat Cave that’s akin to a prison cell.

Before going home, visitors can also buy film merchandise, from shirts to figurines. If they also need time to rest their feet, there is also a spacious lounge for everyone.

At the end of the museum tour, visitors will have to make a decision that will dictate how they exit. You can either take an Alvin and the Chipmunks themed exit or the thrilling and spine-chilling route, filled with iconic horror film characters such as Annabelle and Ghostface. Who knows what lies on both ends? It’s up to you to see for yourself!

The Omniverse Museum also features function rooms for parties and programs, especially pop culture gatherings. Be sure to reach them through their social media accounts or contact them directly at their email, omniversemuseum@amusements.global for bookings and inquiries!

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

 

#OmniverseMuseum #Makati #Philippines #rubyaspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Inside an Art Collector’s home

The open floor plan is a practical home design for this art collector. “It’s a plan looking into the future preparing for old age when one cannot go up and climb stairs,” she shared.

When designing a home, choosing an open floor plan is a personal decision. “Some just love the home and it happens to come with this kind of combination – kitchen, living, and dining rooms.”

“Others love the idea of having the rooms open to one another as they are great for entertaining,” according to an online source. Moreover, they want to see what’s happening in one glance.

“On the practical side, it’s a plan looking into the future preparing for old age when one cannot go up and climb stairs,” shared the owner of this exquisite residence, who is an art lover and certified art collector.

The kitchen in this open design is just adjacent to the dining and living areas. They share the same hue with the kitchen fixtures, dining table, and living room furniture.

Spacious and looking spruce kitchen area.

The kitchen area looks fresh, upscale, and neat. It has wide spaces to move around when prepping up meals for the household. It has seating areas around the marble island kitchen.

Their well-maintained living room looks great with a contemporary painting by visual artist Nikulas Lebajo. The atmosphere is welcoming, relaxing, and full of warmth. The painting is well harmonized with the interior of the living room. Moreover, a painting is like a mirror to the soul of the owner. One’s taste, character, and story are illustrated by the painting one chooses for the home.

The living room is adorned with a contemporary painting by visual artist Nikulas Lebajo.
The dining area is adjacent to the living room.
The billiard room with perfect lighting.
The bar area inside the billiard room.
A high window with a view.
The collectors’ painting collection of Nikulas Lebajo presently displayed at their residence in White Rock in the Greater Vancouver Area, Canada.

Interesting lighting and coordinated look to the kitchen, living room, billiard room, and master’s bedrooms are interesting touches that create a great ambiance and connected spaces.

#homeandesign #interiordesigninspiration #insideanartcollectorhome #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Seek the captivating spots of Bohol Island: The country’s first Global Geopark

Bohol Island is just one of the wonders of the Philippines, and as it is being more recognized in the worldwide scene, it is surely a sign to book your tickets with your loved ones now.

Bohol Island is making waves as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) unveiled it as the Philippines’ first Global Geopark, a real breathtaking gem in our archipelago. Bohol’s lush greenery has been cultivated by “periods of tectonic turbulence” which has made the island rise above the ocean–a unique geological identity like no other!

Underground Adventure at Hinagdanan Cave

If you’re looking for underground adventures, the Hinagdanan Cave is your next stop! It is best known as the mystical underground world deep within an enchanting cavern. Moving forward, onlookers will spot stalactites hanging from the ceiling like shimmering chandeliers, while an emerald-green lagoon glistens below, inviting you for a refreshing dip. The underground cave is home to an emerald-green lagoon that glistens in the dim light within the cavern, giving it a whimsical and mysterious vibe. It’s a surreal experience that will awaken the explorer within you!

Hinagdanan Cave. Photo credits to A Guide to the Philippines

Being one of the country’s most coveted tourist spots, Bohol Island is also home to various places, making it a haven for travelers. With its jaw-dropping sights and fascinating wildlife, it will surely make anyone feel both adventure and home at the same time.

World-famous Chocolate Hills

Starting with the whirlwind of attractions is the world-famous Chocolate Hills. Blessed with a landscape dotted with hundreds of lush, cone-shaped hills as far as the eye can see– it is no wonder that tourists from all races come to see this beauty. During the dry season, these wonders turn a mesmerizing shade of brown, a phenomenon that’s widely viewed and anticipated across nations.

Loboc River cruise

The Loboc River Cruise is also a delightful feast for the senses. This is Bohol’s floating restaurant, gliding along the gentle currents of the river, surrounded by lush greenery and singing birds. They also serve a mouthwatering buffet of local delicacies, all while traditional musicians serenade you with melodies. Watch out, as various species of birds adorn the cruise’s route, perfect for sightseeing and bird watchers. Throughout the journey, talented performers showcase traditional dances, showcasing the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage– giving travelers a slice of Filipino hospitality and rich culture. It’s a symphony of flavors, sights, and sounds that will leave you wanting more!

Tarsiers, the tiny wonders

A trip to Bohol is not complete without seeing the tiny wonders that are tarsiers! These tiny primates, with their big, round eyes and delicate fingers, are native to Bohol Island. The Tarsier Conservation Area houses these adorable creatures and is open to visitors observing them in their natural habitat. Of course, it is important to follow the protocols such as staying quiet and keeping the tourists’ cameras at a reasonable distance.

Photo credits to Bohol Philippines

Unique adventure at Panglao Island

Lastly, Panglao Island beckons with its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This vibrant underwater world is teeming with colorful coral reefs, playful dolphins, and exotic marine life. Panglao Island is frequently visited by snorkelers and scuba divers, eager to explore the vast underwater within. Moreover, the island’s beach bars and restaurants will make people surely appreciate what the real beachfront scene is like, armed with its acoustic live bands, exotic seafood and delicacies, and their live parties. Panglao Island promises a unique adventure you’ll never forget!

Panglao Island. Photo credits to Bohol Beach Club

Bohol Island is just one of the wonders of the Philippines, and as it is being more recognized in the worldwide scene, it is surely a sign to book your tickets with your loved ones. Bohol is waiting for you, eager to share its geological wonders and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this adventure!

 

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

Featured photo courtesy of Inquirer

 

#Bohol #island #FirstGlobalGeopark #Philippines #UNESCO #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Discover Sampaloc Quezon

The quaint town of Sampaloc is known for its impressive array of “buri” products, the source of livelihood of the amiable people of this 5th class municipality in the province of Quezon.

“Buri,” a large palm tree noted for its strong leaves that can be made into various products like bags and other native accessories. The houses are adorned with different buri products during the Bulihan Festival.

Assorted products made of buri and some native delicacies.

This writer has witnessed this festival in years past – during the 4th Bulihan Festival. The highlights of the festival were the costume parade and the showcase of native dishes, as only “Sampalukins” (how residents are called in Sampaloc) can uniquely prepare and do.

“Palos” Cooking Contest

One of the awaited activities of the festival was the native “Palos Cooking Contest.” “Palos,” is Sampaloc’s term for native eel, which is caught in the Maapon River. It’s often brought by Sampalukins as a present to somebody being asked for a favor.  The “madulas” is associated with a saying that if it is given as a gift to the person being asked for a favor, the request will be easily granted.

This exciting and one-of-a-kind cooking contest was participated by representatives from the 14 Barangays through the town’s Rural Improvement Club.

The cooking skills and creativity of the “Sampalukins” were once again demonstrated — with everything and anything that can be done and concocted with “palos.”  Spicy, sweet, saucy, “ginataan”, “ginisa”, baked, steamed, fried, what have you!

The winning recipe came from Barangay Ibabang Owain. The dish is called “Steamed Palos.”

Steamed “Palos”

Sharing here the winning recipe:

Ingredients:

1-kilo Palos (cleaned)

Ginger

Salt

Pepper

Green Chili

Chicken Broth

Calamansi or Lemon juice

White Onion

Grated Cheese

Aluminum Foil

Tomatoes for garnishing

Toppings: mayonnaise, grated carrots, chopped hard-boiled egg, onion leeks

Cooking procedure:

  1. Mix all ingredients and wrap with aluminum foil.
  2. Put onion leek into the water and set for boiling.
  3. Steam Palos for about 30-40 minutes.
  4. When cooked, arrange the steamed Palos on a platter with the toppings.
  5. Serve hot.

Uniquely Sampaloc

The “Parada ng Bayan”- a buri-inspired costume parade was participated by the different sectors of the community like NGOs, the private sector, puroks, barangay, and municipal government officials and employees.

The strong camaraderie was felt as the whole town took time to participate and support the costume parade. It was amazing to see how young women and men were dressed in different creative and distinctively classy costumes made from colorful buri. It was as if these costumes were tailored and styled by professional designers — knowing these were handcrafted by the “Sampalukins”!

The Bulihan Festival provides jobs to residents and promotes tourism in the municipality.

Beautiful sceneries

Some of Sampaloc’s beautiful sceneries are the Malaoag Cave and Underground River, the Hangga Falls, and the Kakati River. During our stay, we were fortunate to explore Hangga Falls, a hidden gem located in the boundary of the towns of Sampaloc and Lucban. An approximate one to two hours of trekking was needed to reach the destination, and was worth the exhaustion upon seeing the invigorating waterfalls!

Feeling invigorated at Hangga Falls after a two-hour trek.
With friends from Sampaloc

Discover Sampaloc and know more about its culture, people, and captivating attractions!

#SampalocQuezon #throwbacktravel #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Tia Belle’s in Silang offers traditional vegetable and fish dishes this Lenten Season

As the bastion of Christianity in Asia, the Holy Week or Semana Santa has been a sacred occasion for the Filipinos, with ancient traditions still taking hold up to this day. The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic nation with the nationwide observance of the Lenten Season. The Holy Week starts on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Sunday, with the Maundy Thursday to Black Saturday declared statutory holidays.

Filipinos are known for honoring traditions during Holy Week. True to its Catholic roots, each Filipino family has their own customs when it comes to the Lenten Season. Filipino families conduct the Pabasa or Pasyon and join festivals and processions.

One of the long-standing traditions is fasting or abstinence, observed during Ash Wednesday and Good Friday to honor Jesus’ death and His resurrection. Filipinos usually refrain eating various kinds of meat, sticking to vegetables and seafood-based dishes. This tradition also seeks to cleanse the soul and regenerate one’s spiritual health.

The Holy Week has always been a time for faith, family, and love – values which the Tia Belle’s in Silang resonate with – values that bind their love for the country and faith in God as infused in their famous roster of homemade Filipino dishes.

Tia Belle’s in Silang offers a wide variety of traditional vegetable and fish dishes that still stimulates one’s palate and leaves them satisfied with their meal. This Filipino-style restaurant makes it a point to honor the country’s values and traditions and prepare dishes to suit large families, Catholics, and non-Catholics alike!

Start with their seafood meals, their relyenong bangus, one of Tia Belle’s signature dishes. With its crunchy and tasty texture, this dish is cooked with vegetables and organic ingredients, free from processed food, and served with homemade atsara. It will surely satisfy your cravings!

Another fan favorite is the pinasingawang pompano sa dahon ng saging, a delectable Filipino dish highlighting the highly sought-after Pompano. This steamed dish is carefully wrapped in a banana leaf before being steamed, giving it a juicy and sumptuous smell that makes the food’s various flavors dance with one another, a must-try this Lenten Season!

Moreover, coconut milk enthusiasts may try Tia Belle’s special laing, made from fresh gabi and other root crops, topped with crushed chicharon and siling haba. This dish will surely tickle your taste buds! Another best seller is their special lumpiang bukid, a mix of root crops wrapped in a malunggay-based wrapper garnished with sesame seed sauce.

 

Tia Belle’s also caters to bulk orders, perfect for large families holding reunions or get-togethers during the season. Among these are the spicy seafood cajun and ginataang tilapia, Filipino seafood favorites that can cater to 20 up to 100 people.

For dessert lovers, they also serve Filipino-style halo-halo, their special inangit suman, and their signature dessert, Tia Belle’s famous pichi pichi, best paired with their special hot cacao!

The Holy Week observance is meaningful with food that respects and honors Filipino traditions, the same core values that Tia Belle’s stands for. With its superb hospitality and service, Tia Belle’s is the place to go during Lent for food and quality time with your family!

 

#TiaBellesSilang #filipinodishes #HolyWeek2023 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Chad Borja’s second chance in life

A Holy Week story of hope, surrender, faith, love, overcoming sickness, and the gift of life.  “My life now is full of constant reflection and prayer. Everything in this world is temporary,” the singer and OPM icon said.

 

Acclaimed balladeer Chad Borja and one of the members of the popular male group, The OPM Hitmen looked back on his past life. For someone who had been through a difficult battle with the Big C a couple of years ago, he hopes that his story will inspire other cancer patients not to lose hope.

“God moves mysteriously. He has given me a second chance in life,” he shared in a previous interview. “He answered all my prayers.”

The OPM Hitmen: Renz Verano, Richard Reynoso, Rannie Raymundo, and Chad Borja. Image: bworldonline

Chad related that he found out he had thyroid cancer after his show with pop diva Kuh Ledesma in Los Angeles in August 1998.

“I was jogging one morning when I felt a block in my throat. I was so feverish at that time so I decided to consult a doctor. I had consulted four doctors from New York and LA, and they told me that I had an irritated sore throat,” he recalled.

When he returned to the Philippines, he went to Cebu, his native hometown to seek the advice of other doctors. He was told to take antibiotics.

“But I was bothered. I was fully convinced that there was something wrong with my system. I underwent an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), where I was put inside a machine as if it were a coffin for 45 minutes. I preferred not to take sleeping pills because I wanted to know what was happening. After a few hours, the doctors interpreted that I had a mass in my throat, so I needed to undergo a biopsy.

He continued: “Four days after the biopsy I was told that I had a cold nodule. My doctor friends from Cebu and Laoag told me that I needed to undergo surgery before it spread. My fears, doubts, confusion, and depression started to manifest. I decided to do some research and to get a good endocrinologist (in the name of Augusto Litongua) from Makati Medical Center,” he said.

Just to be sure, he underwent another test at the Philippine General Hospital. Still, the finding was malignant.

“The doctor told me that if I undergo surgery there’s a chance for me to get well,” he said.

But Chad had mixed feelings about undergoing the surgery because he was advised by a fortune-teller not to do it.

“In one of my guest appearances at GMA-7, I was predicted not to undergo an operation because something bad would happen to me,” he recalled. “Then I started praying. I went to Coney Reyes to seek advice and enlightenment. After that, I became stronger deep inside. I decided to go on with the operation. Imagine, I was crying for one hour and 30 minutes.”

Bad dream

On October 8, 1998, Chad underwent surgery at the Makati Medical Center.

“I didn’t feel anything. At that moment, I didn’t care if I lost my voice as long as I stayed alive to give me time to repent for my sins. But the torture was after the operation,” he shared. (Chad has now an artificial thyroid. The operation had left him a horizontal scar on his throat.)

During the first three months, Chad had to take radioactive iodine (a liquid medicine) as part of his treatment. He gained weight because of this medicine. Then he had to regularly monitor his blood to find out if the cancer had spread or not.

“Through this experience, I have learned to surrender my life to God,” he said.  “The good news is that my cancer didn’t spread. However, there’s no assurance about it.”

Chad felt fortunate despite everything. “This is my second life,” he intimated. “Now when I wake up every morning, I pray and thank God for giving me an extension in life.”

Slowly, he went back to his singing. But this time around, he has a new outlook. “My life now is full of constant reflections and prayers. Everything in this world is temporary,” said Chad, who’s now a renewed Christian.

Chad said, what happened to him was like a bad dream. “Because of this difficult situation, I’ve become more humble. If I have grudges with people, I just humbled myself. I don’t let anger consume me.”

One thing he has learned from this experience is to be satisfied with what you have and never allow material things to rule your life.

“If you have the chance to say ‘I love you,’ to your parents, and loved ones, say it now, because you will never know what will happen,” concluded Chad, who has become a better person inside and out.

(Based on the article published in the now-defunct Mirror Weekly Magazine by the same author)

#throwbackseries #profile #entertainment #chadborja #singer #performer #opmicon #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Featured photo courtesy of blacktiemanila.com

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Diamond Star Maricel Soriano is a Tough Mama

Maricel Soriano reflects on her life as a single mom and concludes Kaya ko pala. Success to her is being able to live life her own way. But the most important thing, she said, was learning to love herself.

 

In real life, versatile dramatic actress Maricel Soriano is much like the frank and straight-talking Mary you see on TV, although much toned down and not really as combative as her past TV role in Kaya ni Mister, Kaya ni Misis (TV series 1999 – 2000). The bigger difference is that at home, she is both dad and mom to two children – Marron and Sebastien.

Her “heavy drama days” marred by three failed romances seem to have passed. She smiles easily. She is quite happy at the moment!

All the emotional hurts have healed over time, she said. Success to her is being able to live life her own way. She became a bit misty-eyed when she talked about how she was being a mom and how she loved her children. But the most important thing, she said, was learning to love herself.

Having spent half of her life in show business, Maricel has metamorphosed into a fine actress. From her Underage days (with Snooky Serna and Dina Bonnevie), John en Marsha, Kaluskos Musmos, Maricel Drama Special, and other equally memorable TV shows and movies, Maricel has earned the tag “Diamond Star.” To closer friends and associates, however, she is “Inay.”

Her wish? “A more glorious movie industry and for a long-lasting showbiz career.  For myself, I just hope that my career will go on for a long time,” she says. “While I’m in the business, I’ll make the most of the present moment and the opportunities it lends.”

She’s now in her 49th year in show business.

How are you coping as a single parent?

So far, I’m getting used to it. It’s both fulfilling and challenging because I didn’t imagine that I’ll be able to do it. Of course, it would have been different if my family were intact.

Did becoming a single parent change your personality?

Hindi pa rin, ganoon pa rin ako (laughs). Yeah in a way. Pagdating sa paggastos hindi ko na naiisip minsan ang sarili ko. Ang naiisip ko, I want to buy these things for my children. ‘Pag naging magulang ka ganoon pala.

What’s a regular day like for Maricel?

When I have no work, I just stay at home. I’m the type of person who doesn’t really like going out. I’m a very homebody person. Occasionally,  if I’m invited by my close friends. (Among her showbiz close friends are Roderick Paulate, Michael de Mesa, among others).

I seldom take a rest. Perhaps that’s how much I love my job. Alam ko kasi kung paano akong mahalin ng trabaho ko. It’s like give and take, bigyan mo ito ng importansya at ganoon din ang gagawin sa iyo. I always give my 100 percent to everything that I do.

How come you’re called “Inay”?

It started when I was doing Maricel Drama Special. So everybody was calling me Inay, instead of calling me ma’am or boss. Hello! Parang feeling ko teacher ba ako. For me, I like it when I’m being called Inay.

It seems you’re so close to gay people . . .

Because they make me laugh (‘cause it’s hard to make me laugh). They make me feel very comfortable. And I’m myself when I’m with them.  Iba ‘yong feeling ko kapag nandiyan sila. Ang treatment kasi nila parang nandoon ‘yong respect. They follow my advice and come back and tell me “Inay your advise is so effective.” So I feel so good. It’s quite ironic because, at one point, these people were misinterpreted by society. Tao rin sila. They know how to care and love. It’s just that some straight people don’t want to understand them.

What do you think is your biggest achievement as an actress?

My entire career. I always say this, “Ang pangalan ko, o kung sino man ako ngayon, ay hindi ko pinukpuk sa utak ng bawat mamamayan. Pinaghirapan ko eto pawis at dugo, kung baga. Kung anuman ang na-enjoy ko o iniiyak ko ngayon, it’s a package deal thing.

How about your biggest achievement as a person in general?

My greatest achievement is my children.

What else do you aspire for?

For more money, yes. Of course, all of us have a purpose in life. When you work, you should love your work because you’ll get paid for it. It makes you a whole person.

What do you feel most grateful for?

They come in a package. Kasi hindi lang isang aspeto ako dapat matuwa. Hindi naman tayo mabubuo kung kapiraso lang ang pinag-uusapan natin. Parang rosary ‘yan hindi mo matatapos na nilalaktawan mo ang isang mystery. Kung baga lahat ng nangyari sa buhay ko, pangit, maganda or mabaho, lahat pinagpapasalamat ko. Dahil kundi lahat ng ito, I don’t think I’ll be a better person.

And what’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in life?

I have to love myself! (she didn’t elaborate).

How would you like to be remembered?

I want to be remembered for being unique  — the real Marya.

 

(Based on the interview published in the old Mirror Weekly magazine by the same author.)

#DiamondStar #MaricelSoriano #veteranactress #icon #longevity #showbiz #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph #throwbackseries

 

Featured photo courtesy of  Maricel Soriano (The Official Fan page)

 

 

 

 

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Ricky Lee: From Multi-Awarded Scriptwriter to National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts

As scriptwriter-director Bibeth Orteza said, “Ricky Lee is a remembrance of all that makes the idea of writing romantic: a lonely childhood, collegiate years without money to spend, a term in jail even. And then an enviable body of work.”

 Ricky Lee has spent a good chunk of his career writing scripts for films. Like his screen films, he assumes multiple forms and shadows, complexity, and simplicity in one sleek package.

Filipino film buffs have bought this package, making Ricky, one of the best and most multi-awarded scriptwriters in the Philippines today. Some of his finest Filipino films include Himala, Moral, Brutal, Salome, Madrasta, Curacha,  and Miguel/Michelle, among many others.

Aside from his many years of teaching at UP and the Ateneo, he has been conducting scriptwriting workshops, proof of his generosity in imparting career secrets to aspiring and upcoming writers.

Ricky is also a well-known fictionist, having won several literary awards. He has published an anthology of some of his works in 20 years in fiction, journalism, and film (Si Tatang at Mga Himala ng Ating Panahon.)

Revise, revise

Ricky recalls that his scripts of Brutal and Moral had five to seven drafts before he finally perfected them.

“Talagang madugo, hindi bawat revision may nabago lang, talagang overhaul ng skeleton,” he shared during a past interview. “Kasi ‘yong first sequence ng Brutal walang makaintindi kundi si Marilou (Diaz-Abaya). So you have to be patient and concentrate para mag ugat ang mga paa mo. Kailangan mayroong matatag na foundation.”

In writing a script, Ricky follows not just his own judgment. “Natanggap ko na na magkakaroon ng sariling buhay yong script. Whatever will be good for the script doon ako susunod,” he said. “I’m willing to adjust to the popular taste of the audience. Dahil gusto kong ma-reach ang audience ko kaya ako nagsusulat.”

He culled most of his ideas from real-life experiences; some from his imagination. “The ideas in terms of the situation, characters, and images are mostly from outside influences and the environment. Then the inside which is the emotion.”

Length of time

In his early years as a scriptwriter, Ricky could finish a script in a month (the longer script took three months at the most). Now he can finish a script in one or two days.

For instance, the script of the movie Mapusok (starred by Rosanna Roces) was written for two days. As well as Malikot na Mundo (1997) and Sinner or Saint (1984). “I wrote Sinner or Saint on the airplane while going home from Brazil. Pagbaba ko ng airport, may script na ako,” shared Ricky.

The film Andrea by Superstar Nora Aunor was written in less than seven days. The longest material he wrote was Moral. “Hanggang nag shooting na nag-revise pa ako. Nagdidikta ako ng lines kay Marilou over the phone,” said Ricky, “because we wanted to find the best way of telling the story.”

Yet, it was the most fulfilling movie for Ricky.

Working with the best directors

His first year in the industry was a big advantage for Ricky because it was during this period that he got the chance to work with the local cinema’s best directors.

“Nakatrabaho ko agad sina Ishmael Bernal, Mike De Leon, Marilou Diaz-Abaya, Mel Chionglo, Lino Brocka, para akong nag workshop ng todo,” he said.

When he was working with Marilou he learned a different technique. “Expand. Push. When you develop the characters huwag kang nakakahon. Let’s go unstructured. Most of my works with her are mostly on women, like the trilogy of Brutal, Moral, and Karnal. We clicked because she’s a woman. Hindi ko kailanman ma-approximate ‘yong mga alam niyang nuances, malinaw sa kanya ang pagkababae.”

With Ismael Bernal, he learned how to go “classical and structured.”

Meanwhile, Mike De Leon was very conscious of details.

Whereas, Lino Brocka was grounded in one kind of social and political philosophy. “Laging malinaw iyon kay Lino. That’s very reassuring kasi alam mo ang direction,” he said.

Working with dexterous directors (with different approaches) has stretched Ricky’s creative side to the most. From 1979 up to now, Ricky is full-time in the movies. There may be ups and downs in his career, but there will always be people around who will pull him back from leaving the industry.

Nowadays, half of his time is spent writing scripts; the other half he devotes to writing literature, journalism, and theatre. And of course, teaching.

“I will never stop teaching even if it’s difficult to teach because I’m always grounded with reality,” he explained. “Kung puro showbiz ako, lulutang ako, maaaburido ka, o mababaliw ka kasi ang daming humihila sa iyo sa iba’t ibang sides. Mawawalan ka ng perspective.”

Working with the stars

Among the stars he has worked with, he particularly cherished the times when he became close with Nora Aunor. He first worked with Nora in Himala. But they became good friends while they were doing Andrea.

“Kasi trabahong kaibigan talaga ‘yon. We’re still friends up to now, but not as close as before,” he disclosed. Ricky related that he’s not close with celebrities. He keeps a distance from them as much as possible.

Turbulent childhood

Ricky’s turbulent childhood has taught him to face life’s challenges and to excel in one’s talent.  He endured many hardships in his struggle to become the country’s multi-awarded scriptwriter.

Courtesy: Mell T. Navarro FB

He typifies the rags-to-riches story. He was born into immigrant families originally from Fujian, China, and was raised in Daet, Bicol. He had a desolate childhood after his parents died when he was still young. He grew up under the care of a relative.

He excelled in school both in Daet and UP. His college days were something for the books. He experienced hunger and loneliness and was jailed for one year during Martial Law for his student activism.

He didn’t resent his past. Rather, he became selfless. He uses his life experiences, struggles, idealism, and intelligence to create over 70 screenplays that have stimulated many Filipino moviegoers. For those pieces of work, he earned more than 30 (and counting) trophies from all the award-giving bodies in the local movie industry.

Because of his upbringing, Ricky related that he became a very shy person. However, he got over his shyness when he entered show business. “I was extremely shy because my father was also extremely shy. We hardly talked. But he loved me. I was very sure of that,” he intimated.

Behind his reserved manner are his witty punchlines. “Defense ko ‘yon para hindi nila ako tingnan sa likod,” he said. “I’m very trusting, but deep inside I’m afraid to trust people. Kasi ilang beses na akong nauntog.”

As a child, he was wont to read almost everything.  “Ang feeling ko noon parang inaarmasan ko ang sarili ko. So I accumulated a lot of knowledge. Basa ako nang basa ng libro since I was seven years old.” But he always wanted to become a writer.

When he was in his fourth year of high school at Daet Chung Hua High School, he wanted to run away from home but there was no chance. He had no money.

“Then I read an ad from Free Press (Filipino) that they would accept the short story. Pinadala ko ‘yong story ko (entitled ‘Mayon’) and it was accepted. Every week, binabantayan kong lumabas ang story ko. Finally, when I saw my byline, na reaffirm ‘yong pag-alis ko sa Bicol. I was paid Php50 for my story. That was the happiest time for me as a writer. Then I came to Manila.”

Ricky said that he experienced the most personal growth during his Bicol and UP years. “Those were the happiest years of my life. And also the starvation years for me,” he said.

As scriptwriter-director Bibeth Orteza said, “Ricky Lee is a remembrance of all that makes the idea of writing romantic: a lonely childhood, collegiate years without money to spend, a term in jail even. And then an enviable body of work.”

By Ruby Asoy-Lebajo

(Based on the feature article published in the old Mirror Weekly magazine by the same author)

#RickyLee #scriptwriter #fictionist #teacher #upcloseandpersonal #exclusiveinterview #nationalartistforliterature #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Featured photo courtesy of Shandii Bacolod FB

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Upclose and personal with Ara Mina

“Ara Mina has a certain innocence and is in a category completely her own,” according to Direk Carlitos Siguion-Reyna. It helps that the actress is sexy and charming in person. She titillates readers with candid remarks on her sexuality. Meanwhile, this interview reveals a half-child, half-woman excited and eager to give her best shot.

Having a great body makes her more confident. Ara Mina described herself as “dibdib manok. Medyo hiwalay siya (referring to her breasts), so you need to push it, to achieve a cleavage. Sometimes it depends on the dress or bra I’m wearing.”

To maintain her 36-24-35 shape, Ara Mina said she works out at a gym twice a week and observes some dietary restrictions. “I have my dumbbells,” she volunteered. She said she has not eaten rice for two months now. Also, soft drinks have not been in her diet for two years.

Courtesy: Ara Mina FB page

Her liberal view of woman-to-woman relationships

Back to her past movie “Tatlo,” Ara Mina admitted she felt uncomfortable kissing another girl.

“I was tense, especially with my kissing scene with Ate Rita,” she said. “Ingat talaga ako. Mayroong torrid kissing scene pero hindi naman labas ang tongue. Actually, na-tense din siya.”

Ara Mina, however, confessed that she has a liberal view of woman-to-woman relationships in real life.

“It’s fine with me. In “Tatlo,” you can’t blame Elsie (my character in the film) if she falls in love with another woman (Rita Avila). She’s looking for something that she cannot find in her husband (Tonton Gutierrez).”

She recalled how she experienced difficulties doing a love scene with Rita. She called it the “Scandinavian style” ( a pumping scene between lesbian lovers, but she did not explain it in detail).

“We tried to relax . . . Nakakangawit talaga, pinagpawisan ako,” she relates. “Biniro ko pa nga si ate Rita na ituloy na namin sa kuwarto. Sa eksenang yon naisip ko, parehas naman kaming babae. So I decided not to wear any plaster. Pero talagang makikita ang boobs namin doon.”

Ara Mina admitted that she can be attracted to members of both sexes.

“I think there’s nothing wrong with having a relationship with another woman as long as there’s no sex involved. I couldn’t imagine myself having sex with another woman. I have best friends who are all girls. Sometimes I develop a crush on them. Sometimes, I feel I like a woman, and sometimes I like a man.”

But she denied being bisexual.

“Hindi ko masasabi,” she says. “Minsan gandang-ganda ako sa babae. Minsan nagsasabi pa ako, ‘Ang seksi niya.’ Wala naman akong nararamdamang feelings for her. It’s like an admiration.”

Reflected Ara Mina: A man is completely different from a woman when it comes to expressing affection.

“Ang lalaki siyempre medyo brusko; ang babae tender ang dating . Kaya lang nakaka-ilang kung humahampas ang boobs níyo,” she laughed.

In real life, Ara Mina said she has had lesbian suitors.

“I treat them as friends. Natatawa nga ako dahil kapag nanligaw sila, itsura nila babae, tapos inaamin nila na may boyfriend sila, pero may gusto sa akin at nag-I I love you,” she related. “They write love love letters, send flowers, chocolates, and stuffed toys. I entertained them kasi kung iniiwasan mo minsan delikado. Grabeng ma-in love ang mga lesbians; they’re very posessive, parang nakakatakot.”

Portraying meaty roles

Now that she gets to portray meaty roles, Ara Mina hopes that she will be noticed for her acting ability and not just her ability to show off those curves.

“Kahit na naghuhubad ako, gusto ko namang mapansin nila ang acting ko lalo na sa mga pelikulang ginagawa ko, para irespeto rin nila ako. Natutuwa naman ako dahil hindi nila sinasabi na bastusin ako, kahit na naghuhubad ako.”

She said she’s only daring in the movies. But she emphasized that she hasn’t experienced doing her onscreen love scenes in real life.

“That’s one good thing about me. At first, it was really difficult for me because I used to portray sweet roles. Like the scenes in my previous movie, “Sagad Sa Init” na nakipag-laplapan ako sa bubungan at sa kotse. As of now, ‘yong mga wild things na nagawa ko sa movies pa lang.”

Career transition

Ara Mina’s life changed when she junked her sweet image. But the transition was not easy. Going the bold route made it possible for her to land her first starring role in “Maldita.”

But it was in the movie “Curacha, Ang Babaing Walang Pahinga” that film critics began to pay attention to her. Before this, she became a supporting player in such movies as “Roller Boys,” “Butch Belgica Story,” and the “Flor Contemplacion Story.” She entered showbiz at the age of 14 via the teenybopper show That’s Entertainment.

Ara Mina said she couldn’t imagine herself portraying bold roles or posing nude for pictorials. She was conservative then, she said. She recalled how she would react negatively to the bold pictures she saw in the newspapers.

“Now, pagbukas ko ng dyaryo, ang sinasabi ko, Okay lang naman as long as ang mga shots mo na hubad ay artistic ang pagkakakuha,” she smiles.

Because of the attention, she’s getting at the moment, she vowed never to let success get into her head. She said she is especially thankful to her parents for understanding her when she decided to go bold without their permission.

In the near future, she hopes to bag an acting award, “Para masabi ko na rin na may narating yong paghuhubad ko,” she said.

Real-life

Ara Mina is Hazel Reyes in real life. Her mom combined the names of her two sisters Ara Christine and Mina Princess to come up with the name Ara Mina.

The eldest in a brood of six (two boys and four girls), Ara Mina is a product of a broken family. She was only seven years old when her parents separated. However, she was not disheartened by what happened to her parents. Although both have their own individual families, they maintain open communications. “They are on good terms now,” she notes.

Ara Mina is a high school graduate of Morning Dew Montessori. If her schedule permits, she said she plans to take up Interior Design or Fine Arts at the University of the Philippines (UP).

Off-camera, Ara Mina is a sweet, simple person. She doesn’t talk much during interviews.

“Hindi ako palaaway,” she relates, “gusto ko lahat ng tao kasundo ko. Tapos sweet pa rin, nando’n pa rin ‘yong pagiging childish ko. Sa set nga, nagugulat ang iba dahil parang ang lakas kong maghubad sa eksena. Then after the scene para akong bata. They are confused. That’s who I am. Trabaho lang.”

Her type of man is someone who resembles actor Matthew Mendoza. “Parang hindi siya makabasag pinggan, tipong hindi ka lolokohin. And he’s a gentleman, baby face talaga, she notes. “Yong guy dapat mabango ang hininga, malinis sa katawan, sweet, and understanding.”

Although she admits she has had two boyfriends before, one from showbiz, and one from non-showbiz. She prefers to stay at home during her free time and shuns the nightlife.

Ara Mina feels that her job is quite fulfilling at present. In her five-year stay in the business, she has been able to buy a condominium unit, a car, and jewelry. The other earnings go to her savings (time deposit) and her family. She rewards herself by shopping for signature clothes and accessories.

“Nakakatuwa dahil at my age, nakakabili na ako ng mga ganitong bagay sa sarili kong kita. . . kung baga sarili kong pagod.”

Older men go for her. Ara Mina reveals that she has received around five “indecent proposals” from different men.

“May nag-alok pa nga sa akin ng house and lot with matching brand new car and allowance. Siyempre ang kapalit no’n iiwanan ko ang career ko,” she revealed. “Yong tipong ibabahay ka. Hindi ko pinapatulan ang mga offers nila kasi kaya ko namang kitain sa sarili ko. Besides, I don’t want to experience what my parents had experienced in the past.”

(Based on the same writer’s exclusive article published at the now-defunct Mirror Weekly Magazine.)

As of a recent update, Ara Mina is experiencing a new “journey” in her personal life. She is now married to her non-showbiz husband, Dave Almarinez, CEO of Philippine International Trading Corporation (PITC). 

Featured photo courtesy of Ara Mina Almarinez Facebook

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Taiwan Tour: Exploring island and geology parks, and other scenic spots

Traveling broadens our horizons and gives us more opportunities to enjoy and learn about the places we visit.

On our fifth day in Taiwan, we had a jampacked itinerary and explored several interesting tourist attractions, such as (1) Yehliu Geopark Wanli District, New Taipei City, Taiwan; (2) Heping Island Park Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan;  (3) Zhengbin Fishing Port Nostalgia Pier Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan;  (4) Agenna Aboriginal Culture Restaurant Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan; and (5) Jiufen, Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan.

Sightseeing at Yehliu Geopark

Yehliu Geopark is a park of natural wonders. Located in New Taipei City, Taiwan, it has full of sea water-eroded holes as well as numerous rocks that look so real in many shapes and forms!

Mushroom Rock / Personal photo
Fairy’s Shoe / Personal photo

Among other statues are named Fairy’s Shoe, Tofu Rock, Ice Cream Rock, Mushroom Rock, Candle Rock, and Ginger Rock. But the most famous one is the Queen’s Head. All these make this 1,700-meter-long cape a geology park with rich ecological resources and a prosperous fishing village.

The Queen’s Head is the most famous rock formation. Courtesy: Taiwan Tourism

At Heping Island Park, tourists can appreciate ocean views and world-class geo-scape. The Cliff at the island park is the vantage point where you can see and feel the sound of the waves. The sight brings total relaxation to the mind, body, and soul. You can take time exploring the scenic spot and feel its everyday charm. The island park is located right within the North Coast and Guanyinshan National Scenic Area.

The Cliff in Heping Island / Personal photo

Zhengbin Fishing Port, also known as “Nostalgia Pier,” gives a more laidback feel. It is located in the south of Heping Island. The Port is built by the Japanese in 1934, and it was the biggest fishing port in Taiwan during the Japanese era. Although it gradually diminished as years went by, its down-to-earth appearance endures. The city is actively seeking to preserve it as a place for relaxation and nostalgia. There has been a boat named “Folk Art” at the Port, considered the first art museum on the sea. Sports activities such as dragon boat races are also quite popular in the area.

The Nostalgia Pier / Personal photo

The group had a sumptuous lunch at Agenna Aboriginal Culture Restaurant located in Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan. The dishes served to us were a fusion of local and international cuisines. Indeed, it was a hearty and satisfying meal!

Fun shot with former colleague Sara at Agenna / Personal photo

The last destination for the day was Jiufen, a well-known tourist spot in Taiwan. It’s a narrow street where you can shop for a lot of things from food to souvenirs. If you’re tight on a budget, it’s still alright to come here because there are a lot of stores offering some free food for tasting.

The writer striking a pose in Jiufen / Personal photo

Jiufen is located on a hillside that faces the ocean and is surrounded on three sides by mountains, with its people still maintaining their original simple lifestyle. With the changing seasons, the scenery also varies greatly, presenting different aspects of Jiufen. In the past, the place was the dreamland of gold diggers; now it has become a sanctuary for many artists and tourists.

Being able to see and appreciate the beauty and history of these scenic spots makes every trip a learning experience.

#Yehliu Geopark # HepingIslandPark   #ZhengbinFishingPort   #AgennaAboriginalCultureRestaurant  #Jiufen #Taiwan #tour #throwbacktravel #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

(Part 5 of a 6-part feature article)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Taiwan Tour: Cultural immersion experience

The Atayal culture was quite interesting. We were introduced to its unique qualities of aboriginal performances, recreational activities, local food and aboriginal cuisine, cultural skills such as bamboo dance, assassination ball experience, and clothing try-on.

 

(Note: Bringing back Day 4 of our unforgettable tour to Taiwan when the world was still COVID-19-free. )

On our fourth day in Taiwan, we traveled to the Atayal Resort in Guoxing Township, Nantou County; the high-speed rail in Taichung station; visited the national historic monument, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Taipei 101 Observatory, and mall, and had a wonderful stay at Amba Taipei Songshan.

Atayal Resort during the day. Courtesy: pinoyformosa.com

To fully embraced the Atayal experience, we stayed at Atayal Palace Spring Hotel with a Baroque architectural style. Located amidst the fresh greeneries and natural forest, we were secluded from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. The resort features the culture of the Atayal tribe, a minority aboriginal tribe in Taiwan.

Atayal Palace at night / personal photo

The Atayal culture was quite interesting. We were introduced to its unique qualities of the aboriginal performances, recreational activities, local food and aboriginal cuisine, aboriginal cultural skills such as bamboo dance, assassination ball experience, and aboriginal clothing try-on.

Bamboo dance experience / personal photo
Wearing the aboriginal costumes / personal photo
Enjoying the native game / personal photo
The writer in the company of Atayal aboriginals @ Atayal Palace Hotel / personal photo

A unique attraction at the resort was a popular skywalk that hangs out of the mountain located 500 meters above sea level, offering a stunning view of the mountainous landscape. The shape of the skywalk was in concise design with a geometrical pattern and tempered glass construction at the bottom.

Standing on the glass platform, 500 meters high above the mountain foot, you can admire the beautiful mountain landscape and spectacular natural scenery that leave you with many wonderful memories.

Beautiful Architecture

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall located in the heart of Taipei City / personal photo

From the resort, we took the high-speed rail to Taichung station to be able to reach Taipei City in 40 minutes. If by regular transportation, travel time would be two hours. Our next stop was at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall located in the heart of Taipei City.

It has become the landmark of the city and is most visited by foreign tourists. Its architecture is inspired by Tiantan in Beijing and is a prime example of the beauty of architecture.

At Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall / personal photo

Two stairs leading to the top, you will find the bronze statue of the historical great leader. It’s being manned by equally attentive guards. The stairs have 89 steps which represent the age of death of Chiang Kai-shek.

View from the top

@ Taipei 101 Observatory / personal photo

For first-time visitors like me, it was a must to visit the Taipei 101 Observatory. There was a fast lift up to the top and the view from the top was impressive!

I couldn’t get over how fast the elevator ride was. It was located inside Taipei 101 mall, considered Taiwan’s premier international shopping destination – featuring luxury goods, fashion, and fine dining. Here, you can enjoy your shopping in comfort and total relaxation.

Urban vibe

After a long day of the tour, we were billeted at the Amba Taipei Songshan, which was five minutes walk to Raohe Night Market. The hotel is admirable for its urban vibe, spacious contemporary rooms, dramatic views of Taipei 101 as you arrived at the chic lobby, and multi-purpose communal areas, best of all, it has one of the best lineups of buffet menus.

Amba communal space with the view of Taipei 101 / personal photo
Amba’s welcome note for this writer / personal photo
Comfortable bed @ Amba / personal photo

It is designed for the savvy urban traveler who appreciates creativity, connectivity, and conservation. Created by Ambassador Hotels, the amba brand was launched in 2012 to coincide with the group’s celebration of 50 years of luxury hospitality.

A sumptuous dinner in the company of Ms. Jeanie Mak, alignment officer of Amba (in yellow-orange scarf)

We had a nice time at Amba, especially with the gracious and very welcoming accommodation of the hotel’s chief alignment officer, Ms. Jeanie Mak (in a yellow-orange scarf). She joined us during dinner and introduced us to the many amenities of the hotel.

Succulent steak at amba / personal photo
Delicious salad @ Amba / personal photo
Bread and cheese / personal photo

With all these things that happened in just one day, we shared the joys and experiences like never before.

#Taiwantour #TaiwanTourismBureau #destination #Asia #tourism #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph #atayalresort #taipei101 #ambataipeisongshan #CKSMemorialHall

 (Part 4 of a 6-part feature article)

 

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Taiwan Tour: Love for rails and amazing scenery

Sun Moon Lake provides visitors with different charms in all seasons. But my favorite is in early spring around February, and the place is embraced by cherry blossoms in full bloom. Sun Moon Lake – a stunning landscape and a romantic paradise rolled into one.

 

Discovering new places of interest adds excitement to any traveler who visits the destination for the first time. On our third day in Taiwan, we went to the Jiji Township, still in Nantou County, where the Jiji and Checheng Railway Stations, the Toushe Basin, and Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area can be found.

  • Jiji and Checheng Railway Stations

Jiji is a lovely small town surrounded by beautiful mountains and streams. Even today, the town has retained its rustic style and precious ecological resources. Tourism has been actively developed here, revealing the town’s charm to visitors.

80-year-old Jiji Station in the Japanese style. Image: Personal photo

When you pay a visit to Jiji, make sure to take photos in front of Jiji Station. It is Taiwan’s most well-known Japanese-style terminal station and has been around for more than 80 years now. It was destroyed in the 1999 earthquake but later reconstructed and restored to its original look. Since then it became a must-visit tourism destination in Jiji.

Jiji Station / personal photo

Checheng is the final destination on the Jiji line and is often referred to as “The Last Train Station.” Full of beautiful and amazing scenery, the Jiji Line is like a gallery that provides both sightseeing and educational enlightenment.

The view of Toushe Basin. Courtesy:sunmoonlake.gov.tw
  • Toushe Basin

The next stop was at the Toushe Basin, where an old “Bed and Breakfast” (worth 25 million in Taiwan dollars) was located. But, because of the storm, the land became soft and wasn’t cultivated well. The structures turned crooked and appeared to be like a “leaning tower of Pisa.”

Sun Moon Lake: Beauty and tranquility. Photo courtesy of Sarion Films
  • Sun Moon Lake

The last location we toured for the day was Sun Moon Lake – the alpine lake with serene beauty and tranquility. It is located in the middle of Taiwan, with an elevation of 748 meters above sea level, the only natural big lake in Taiwan.

The southern part of Lalu Island is shaped like a new moon, and the northern part is shaped like a sun; for this reason, it was named Sun Moon Lake. Visitors are often captivated by the refreshingly beautiful and elegant landscapes in this location. It’s like a Manila Bay cruise if you compared it to Manila.

Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village Cherry Blossom Season. Photo courtesy of Sunmoonlake.gov

Here, you can also enjoy a fascinating ecological tour. Sun Moon Lake provides visitors with different charms in all seasons. But my favorite is in early spring around February, and the place is embraced by cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Biking at Sun Moon Lake. Photo courtesy of Sarion Films

Visitors can also appreciate the view of the lake by cycling around. It’s a must to experience the biking trails during your stay to better understand the different sides of Sun Moon Lake – a stunning landscape and a romantic paradise rolled into one.

#Taiwantour #TaiwanTourismBureau #destination #Asia #tourism #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph #throwbacktravel

(Part 3 of a 6-part feature article)

 

 

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Exploring Taiwan in 6 days

In this installment, I will take you to Taichung, Taiwan, where you can enjoy the tourist attractions such as Rainbow Military Village, Chun Shui Tang Cultural Tea House, Miyahara, Fengjia Night Market, and Red Dot Hotel.

 

Travel is a new experience that can transport you out of your everyday routine to create memories and discover new places of interest. For six days, we had the opportunity to explore the culture, beauty, historical landmarks, scenic tourist spots, and culinary offerings in Taiwan. Because this trip gave me a new way of looking at things and having new eyes – that no matter where you had been, whether the experience was good or bad – you take with you the memories and made you realize that life truly is a journey.

 

Colorful Rainbow Military Village in Taichung, Taiwan

On our first day, the schedules were already jam-packed. We went to the Taichung side of Taiwan and visited the Rainbow Military Village. Rainbow Village is a military housing facility. This was painted by a military soldier and was supposed to be demolished but then students petitioned for it to be retained. They decorated it by putting various beautiful works of art until it became a tourist attraction. Around 3,000 supporters are maintaining this housing project.

Sumptuous set meals @ Chun Shui Tang Cultural Tea House

Bubble Milk Tea

Then, we proceeded to Chun Shui Tang Cultural Tea House for our sumptuous dinner. The tea house is known for its bubble tea, hotpots, meal sets, traditional noodles, and delicious side orders like dim sums, bean curds, dry noodles, etc.

The writer @ Miyahara

The next stop was at Miyahara, a red-brick architecture built by Miyahara Takeo, a Japanese ophthalmology doctor in 1927. At present, Dawn Cake, a pastry company renowned for its pineapple cakes, acquired the building and preserved Miyahara’s original red-brick walls and archway. The interior decor was redesigned like Hogwarts in the movie Harry Potter. Visitors to Miyahara are not only recommended to appreciate the details of the historic architecture but also try Dawn Cake’s signature ice cream, bubble tea, and pastries wrapped in nostalgic packings. We loved this place!

Fengjia Night Market. Photo: roundtaiwanround

One of the most famous night markets in Taichung is Fengjia Night Market. Here, you can buy a lot of things like food, apparel, cosmetics, and other surprising pieces of stuff. It’s famous for its “cheap and yet massive quantity” of foods, luring people from all over the world. Recommended delicacies here are: Chinese sausage wrapped in glutinous rice, brown sugar tapioca milk, Chow mien (fried noodles) stuffed bread, octopus balls (takoyaki), humongous stinky tofu, and huangjinzei (aromatic rice stuffed in cuttlefish).

Courtesy: Me-Ann Clemente

We stayed at Red Dot Hotel for the night. The boutique hotel was attractive with its quirky fun and functional design. It has a big slide which you can use from the hotel’s second floor to the lobby – perfect to enjoy for the young and young-at-heart! Some of our group had tried the iconic hotel slide. I stayed in one of their spacious double rooms and quickly slumbered into dreamland. I woke up the next day energized and ready for the tour itinerary.

#Taiwantour #PanahonsaTaiwan #TaiwanTourismBureau #travel #destination #Asia #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

(Part 1 of a 6-part feature article)

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Lebajo Studio: A legacy of more than 50 years of artistic pursuits

The studio is a ground-breaking project of one of the respected icons of Philippine visual arts, Raul Lebajo.

This year marks the 80th birthday of one of the respected icons of Philippine visual arts, master surrealist Raul Lebajo. What makes the celebration significant is that it coincides with the fulfillment of his ground-breaking project – a studio – which now houses his masterpieces, old and new, and can showcase them to a range of art lovers and collectors, even to up-and-coming artists.

Nestled inside the sprawling Lebajo ArtFarm and family resort in Sinaliw Malaki, Alfonso, Cavite, the studio is a two-floor edifice with wide spaces. The roof interior is made of bamboo sticks, which emits a cool atmosphere and looks exquisite aesthetically.

The first floor serves as the main studio. It displays various works of the Lebajo patriarch and his two sons Nikulas and Gio, who both pursued their father’s artistic inclination to arts. The second floor or the loft is where the working area of Raul can be found. It is here where Raul stays most of the time painting to his heart’s content while having a view over the verdant surroundings of the farm.

The main studio is where all the paintings of the Lebajo patriarch are being displayed.

 

Nikulas Lebajo’s masterpiece (left) and Raul Lebajo’s huge artwork adorn the main studio.

 

“Inspiration comes from a wellspring of imagination – what I see from my surroundings – from simple to the most extraordinary, things I can draw motivation from,” Raul shares. “I just keep on painting. No one forces me to paint. It’s like a stream of thoughts, which keeps flowing when creativity is at its peak.”

Raul believes that an artist is someone creative, passionate, and effective. He is someone who is not constrained by money. Ultimately, the reward will come when people see the value of your work, he quips.

“I’m grateful that I can leave behind a legacy that my children and grandchildren will carry on,” Raul muses.

 

Two masters: Raul Lebajo welcomes National Artist BenCab to ArtFarm.

 

Not too far from the main gallery is the basement, where the master’s bedroom is located, then the guest room, and kitchen area. The look and feel of the property all came from Raul’s ideas.

One of the best parts of having the studio in this location is to be closer to nature. The scenery is delightful and tranquil. The air is a lot cleaner and fresher, too. You feel relaxed. You can look forward to a picturesque sunrise and be fascinated with the chirping of the birds around you while doing your gardening activities.

 

Raul and his wife Elena nurture together the ArtFarm.

Staying in this kind of healthy and comforting environment makes the artist more productive in creating masterpieces that resonate with his present views of the world at the time of the pandemic.

For the time being, the studio accepts visitors by appointment only. For inquiries, call +639296956656 and look for Gio Lebajo.

#lebajostudiogallery #lebajoartfarm #alfonsocavite #legacy #mastersurrealist #visualarts #filipinoartist #naturefarm #sanctuary #paintings #surrealism #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

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Taiwan Tour: Getting Closer To Nature

The atmosphere of quiet lushness from the mountain made our stay a whole new experience in getting closer to nature.

 

Monster Village during the day

Traveling through this side of Taiwan on our second day, makes you appreciate the beauty of the countryside.  In this installment, I will take you to Nantou County, where you can take a glimpse of magnificent views of the outdoors and cold weather at Monster Village and Sun-Link-Sea Forest and Nature Resort.

Photo-op of the group at Monster Village.

Monster Village is one of the most popular attractions in Nantou County. You will like it here because of its captivating scenery and cold weather, which is comparable to our very own Tagaytay City. The place is situated 1,100 meters above sea level – the reason for its cool climate – and you can almost see the mountains and the clouds covering the mountain top. There are all kinds of strange monster statues and the villagers are dressed in Japanese style.

It’s not just a tourist attraction, but a one-stop shop for the guests. Whenever you get hungry, you can choose from one of the restaurants here which served best-selling Taiwan and Chinese dishes.

Stinging Nettle or Biting Cat Bread @ Monster Village. Photo: Me-An Clemente

Interestingly, there’s a particular bread that caught our attention during our visit – the Stinging Nettle bread also known as “Biting Cat” in Chinese. The itchy part is the leaf and locals made it into bread but the inside is very savory and soft, it contains some cheese or some kind of meat as filling. But the highlight of the bread is the stinging nettle leaf on top of the bread.

Our group indulged in the set menu for lunch at Monster Village Theme restaurant. The food arrived in big servings. It was truly a mouthful of dishes served before our very eyes. We enjoyed the food, the company, and the ambiance.

You can also find some souvenir shops for your trip mementos. and a hotel within the village for long-staying guests.

The writer at the Flower Center

 

We also visited Sun-Link-Sea Forest and Nature Resort. The place has an annual average temperature of about 20 degrees Celcius and is 1600 meters above sea level. The climate is perfect like Baguio City. Here, you can enjoy a different side of Taiwan, far from the city.

You won’t feel perspired and get tired while walking; most of all, you get to enjoy being surrounded by nature. You will enjoy the atmosphere near the waterfalls, the environment surrounded by trees, and a Flower Center, which exhibited some 30 flower species, such as peony, color cabbage, hydrangea, tulip, and Taiwan cherry, fuchsia, etc.

Our accommodation at Sun-Link-Sea Hotel, an elegant building characterized by modern and neo-classical architecture, provided a total relaxation. The atmosphere of quiet lushness from the mountain made our stay a whole new experience in getting closer to nature.

#Taiwantour #TaiwanTourismBureau #destination #Asia #tourism #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

(Part 2 of a 6-part feature article)

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Exploring the City of Angels

Bangkok first-timers chart a memorable weekend experience.

Creating an authentic travel experience in Bangkok is a must. Well-known for its vibrant street life and cultural landmarks, it isn’t surprising why Thailand’s capital is a favorite destination for many foreign tourists.

Its attractions are endless: dazzling temples, thrilling tuk-tuk rides, boats to the floating market or just to cross the Chao Phraya River, shopping sprees at chic emporiums, and tasting culinary delights with their fresh and unforgettable flavors, savored at either fine dining restaurants or street-side stall. It is an amazing place with something for everyone.

If you are a first-timer here, exploring the city without a guide is part of the challenge.

Arriving alone at the Thai airport.

How many charming and unforgettable locations will you find without losing your way? It’s fun to make your way around in a foreign country and return safely to the comfort of your hotel at the end of the day. That is truly an accomplishment.

This is what we discovered on a trip to the City of Angels, in partnership with the Erawan Group, ibis, and Mercure Thailand. True enough, a fun-filled getaway here is accessible at almost every street corner.

Conquering Chatuchak

A must for any shopaholic is the Chatuchak weekend market. It has everything you can ever want from all over Thailand. And yes, you have to haggle to get a bargain.

Easily accessible by BTS Skytrain, it is best to designate a meeting place near the market’s entrance where you can all gather after exploring the market’s many alleys. For almost half a day, we discovered outstanding finds that we all wanted to bring home.

The writer at Chatuchak

If you are going there, wear light and comfortable clothing and shoes. Protect yourself against the sun by wearing sunglasses and a hat, and use sunscreen liberally. Bring enough cash. Most vendors do not accept credit cards. Beware of pickpockets, and watch your belongings.

Stunning Temples

Any tour of Bangkok’s temples should start at Wat Pho. It’s one of the largest temple complexes in the city and is famous for its giant reclining Buddha that measures 46 meters long and is covered in gold leaf.

The Grand Palace is one of the most visited places and is probably the most stunning attraction in the city. It was built in 1782 and served as the home of Thai kings and the royal court for 150 years. It now welcomes millions of visitors each year coming from all parts of the world. Wat Phra Kaew, the temple inside the Grand Palace, is where you will find the Phra Kaew Morakot, or the Emerald Buddha, a sacred image carved from a single block of emerald.

 Since our hotel is located by the river, the trip would be incomplete without experiencing the magnificent Chao Phraya River at least once. We spent a relaxing evening at the riverside after touring the city.

Comfort at the Best Price

Our home in Bangkok was the ibis Bangkok Riverside, one of the economy brands of AccorHotels, which promises modernity, comfort, and service at the best price.

Located by the banks of the Chao Phraya River, it offers outstanding value and beautiful river views. Situated close to the BTS Sky Train, which will whisk you into the heart of the city in minutes, it is also a short ferry ride from the riverfront lifestyle shopping and dining venue, Asiatique, and close to many other cultural highlights including the glittering Grand Palace.

ibis Bangkok Riverside has 266 cozy, contemporary rooms with double or twin beds, a desk, LCD TV with international channels, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities, personal safe, and hairdryer for a comfortable stay. The hotel also has a revolutionary bedding concept called Sweet Bed by ibis. It also has three spacious function rooms for up to 100 persons.
Taste, its all-day dining venue, reinvents tapas with new flavors and authentic local dishes. The Lobby Bar serves a wide selection of snacks and refreshments, while room service is available 24 hours a day. A highlight of the hotel is a fabulous riverfront swimming pool set in a beautiful garden and a petanque field for fun with the family.
Created in 1974, the ibis hotel chain is now the European leader in economy brands and the fourth largest chain in its category worldwide, with over 1,060 hotels and 135,000 rooms in 64 countries.
The writer @ ibis Bangkok Riverside

The Mercure Bangkok Siam, the seventh midscale Mercure property in Thailand, and ibis Bangkok Siam, the ninth economy ibis in the country, two hotels located in the central Siam area, provide guests with convenient access to all of the city’s top shopping, dining and entertainment venues.

Mercure Bangkok Siam has 189 rooms with a contemporary design, fully equipped facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, three meeting rooms for up to 126 delegates, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and the Sky Bar. Privilege rooms come with a coffee machine, a variety of local teas, additional bathrobes and amenities, and an iPod dock. Guests also enjoy exclusive access to the Executive Club with its all-day refreshments, business center facilities, and an outdoor terrace.

Mercure’s signature restaurant, The Eight, is named after its location, and services guests from both hotels. This all-day dining outlet features an extensive menu of local and international cuisines with indoor and outdoor terrace dining.

Dining with Erawan Team and Travel Buddies

On the other hand, ibis Bangkok Siam has 189 modern rooms equipped with LCD TV, a fridge, and complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access. All rooms also offer newly upgraded beds that are supremely comfortable. The hotel’s Quick Bite restaurant is open day and night, offering round-the-clock light meals. Guests also have access to the swimming pool and fitness center facilities at no extra charge.

AccorHotels, the world’s leading hotel operator, is present in 95 countries with more than 4,000 hotels and 240,000 employees. Its portfolio comprises internationally acclaimed luxury brands including Raffles, Sofitel Legend, SO Sofitel, Sofitel, Fairmont, onefinestay, MGallery by Sofitel, Pullman, and Swissôtel; the popular midscale and boutique brands of 25hours, Novotel, Mercure, Mama Shelter, and Adagio; the much-prized economy brands including JO&JOE, ibis, ibis Styles, ibis budget; and the regional brands Grand Mercure, The Sebel, and hotelF1.

With so many places to see and so many hotels to stay in, only one thing is certain: a return to Bangkok is needed to discover more of its many attractions.

(Re-posted from Experience Travel and Living magazine
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LEGOLAND® Hotel: A family-friendly LEGO® Themed Hotel

Bring your kids when you plan a vacation to this awesome family destination. The hotel has child-friendly features they will surely enjoy to the extreme. Remember, kids, are the star guests here. Enjoy it, explore it, experience it. Don’t hold back.

Family is love.

Traveling with my family is a memorable adventure filled with laughter, fun, and new experiences that last a lifetime. It is true that traveling in the company of those we love is like “home in motion.”

As we planned our international trip to LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort just recently, we were excited to try the various offerings at the resort, and our bonding time as a family. At this point in our family life that my daughter is already grown-up, it’s much easier to travel as much as we can, and when time allows for us to go all together. From NAIA Terminal 2, we had a layover in Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 1, then an almost two-hour drive by private van to reach our long weekend destination at LEGOLAND® Hotel Malaysia. The holidays we had been waiting for were almost here!

The spectacular lobby features a LEGO® castle and a LEGO® pirate ship that transcends into the sky.

Picture this: The spectacular lobby features a LEGO® castle and a LEGO® pirate ship that transcends into the sky. You can see children all agog with their LEGO® bricks inspiring their imaginations to create their own LEGO® models. As first-time guests of this hotel, you would think that there was pandemonium because the welcome ambiance wasn’t your usual of a hotel lobby. However, after you have settled down you get to imbibe the uniqueness and charm of LEGOLAND® Hotel, which is sure to make your stay unforgettable.

Primarily, it caters to families with children, for the young and young-at-heart. Make sure to bring your kids when you plan a vacation to this awesome family destination. LEGOLAND® Hotel is located at the heart of LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort.

My daughter, Beatrice posing in the lobby area.

Interestingly, as we toured the lobby area upon check-in, our eyes were caught with LEGO® mini-figures on display behind the check-in desk (it has around 12,528 mini-figures). The hotel is full of child-friendly features such as children’s play area with LEGO® bricks and Xbox 360 Kinect, interactive LEGO® features, swimming pool, themed lifts, low level viewing portholes, merchandise store, buffet restaurant with its organized LEGO® chaos, themed rooms, and of course, there are activities for children every day.

Busy play area.

All 263 rooms are themed to give guests the choice of playing pirate, commanding a kingdom, embarking on an adventure, or living like a true ninja. All rooms include a king-sized bed for grown-ups plus a separate semi-private sleeping area for up to three children, complete with a bunk bed, pull-out trundle bed, and entertainment unit. LEGO® features are found throughout the hotel as well as in the themed rooms, play areas, restaurants, and even the elevators.

As we went up to our assigned kingdom-themed room, we found ourselves entertained by a themed lift with dance music. It was a fun experience for my family. We were like dancing until we hit the assigned floor.

Enjoying the themed lift!

LEGO® Themed Hotel Bedrooms

Children are the star guests at LEGOLAND® Hotel. With a choice of themed rooms to suit every visitor, you can spur imagination and enter a world of daring pirates, brave knights, or powerful pharaohs. Guests can choose from these themed rooms:

  • Pirate: Step into your very own pirate cabin decked out with pirate bedding, curtains, wallpaper, and even Polly, a LEGO® parrot.
  • Adventure: Embark on the ultimate adventure and hunt for hidden treasure amongst tarantulas, scorpions, lizards, and other jungle animals.
  • Kingdom: Enter a kingdom fit for a Prince or Princess. Bunting, shields, and flags all meet the royal standards.
  • Ninjago: Enter the LEGO® Ninjago universe to master the elements, relax in your lavish room and sleep like a victorious

All in all, LEGOLAND® Hotel consists of 234 themed rooms and premium themed rooms, 7 pirate deluxe rooms, 8 kingdom suites, 13 premium Ninjago themed, 1 Ninjago kai suite. This year, the hotel has added more Ninjago rooms to ensure more people to be part of the Ninjago universe. When guests open their door, they step directly into a ninja cave and are greeted by famous Ninjago heroes. In the corner is an eagle keeping a watchful eye, and on the bunk beds are puzzles that can only be solved by true ninjas.

Royal welcome @ Kingdom themed room

As for our family, we loved our kingdom-themed room! It was beautifully decorated and we felt the Royal welcome! We had quality and sound sleep, too!

Exciting Dining Options

Throughout the duration of our stay, we have enjoyed the breakfast offerings at Bricks Family Restaurant, an all-day dining serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s a buffet-style concept restaurant and has a variety of cuisine catering to every taste bud of adults and children. The menu is just as exciting as families enjoy a meal together while sharing and relating their day’s adventure. It has a capacity of 465 guests. Open daily: 7:00am-10:30am & 6:30pm – 10:00pm.

Enjoying our meals together at Bricks Family Restaurant.
Interior of Bricks Family Restaurant.

Kai’s Sushi Bar is a brand new Japanese restaurant at the hotel. Hosted by the hero of LEGO NINJAGO himself, the restaurant offers a delightful variety of authentic Japanese food such as sashimi, tempura, donburi, noodles, and more.  Also available are sake, shochu, and Japanese beer while children can have their pick from a selection of cool Japanese mocktails. all of which are meticulously prepared by Kai’s talented chefs. Open Daily: 12:00pm-3:00pm.

If you’re looking for a la carte style restaurant while at the hotel, head to Di Mattoni Restaurant, the perfect place to enjoy delicious pizza and pasta, soups, and desserts. After a long day, delight yourself with specially-created cocktails while the children have a blast with fruity beverages. It has a capacity of 50 guests. Open daily: 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm.

Meanwhile, Coffee@Bricks is an upscale deli specializing in cold sandwiches, grab-and-go style, or dine-in from freshly made salads to a choice of macaroons plus the chef creations of the day.

Inviting pool area

We also checked out the inviting swimming pool located on the 5th floor of the hotel. Space was perfect for family and children to enjoy their moments together amidst the view of towering structures of Iskandar Puteri, Johor.

Indeed, it was an unforgettable trip! The wanderlust got us!

Featured photo courtesy of Legoland

____________

Special thanks to Ms. Stephanie Lee, marketing manager of LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort and to Sing Ying, public relations executive of LEGOLAND, the management and staff for the warm accommodation:)

#familytime #longweekend #getaway #familyentertainment #legolandhotel #legolandmalaysia #destination #vacation #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph #throwbacktravel

 

 

 

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Remembering ‘Dolphy’: A Father with a Big Heart

 

Dolphy: A family man. Photo courtesy of DramaList

On his 10th death anniversary, I thought of sharing my #throwback exclusive interview with the late King of Comedy, Rodolfo Vera Quizon or “Dolphy” to many of his adoring fans. He was truly Daddy Dolphy with a big heart for his children off and on-screen.

He was one of my dream interviewees, and I was truly delighted that I was able to fulfill this conversation with him before he passed away at the age of 83 due to multiple organ failure. Here is an excerpt from the feature article which appeared in the old issue of Mirror Weekly Magazine:

He may have been less than ideal as a “husband,” given the long list of relationships in the open book that’s been Dolphy’s life. But as a father who sired all of 18 children by several women, the “King of Comedy” is tops, by his children’s own account.

His real-life children attest to his goodness and greatness of heart, which, they say, more than compensates for his unusual route to fatherhood several times over. And even on-screen, Dolphy has played father roles depicting a truly admirable dad, one quite deserving of the affection and admiration of his brood despite his unconventional ways.

As in the long-running TV sitcom John en Marsha where he played bumbling but devoted dad to young Maricel Soriano and other budding stars. “I must admit that my being a father has not been normal. The mere fact that you’re in showbiz, the more that it becomes atypical,” he intimates. But in his own way, however, he has tried to make up for the lack of normalcy, he says. “With all my children, I would say that I have been fair to them. Whenever I’m here, I make it up to them; I give all my time to them.”

A loving father

He delves into his life as a father with gusto, appearing to enjoy talking about his numerous children. Being a father has not been easy because it entails a lot of responsibility and discipline. “What’s important for now is to see my children bonding together, instead of quarreling with each other. You’ll be surprised that they have different characters when they came from only one person,” he jokes.

Dolphy with son Eric. Photo courtesy of pep.ph

Dolphy admits he finds more pleasure in his children when they’re still in their infancy. “Pero kapag malalaki na, ang sarap pagsasakalin,” he smiles. Although he claims he allows no favoritism to cloud his love for his kids. But he treasures his girls. “Minsan napapansin ng iba na mas malapit ako sa mga babae, kasi nga iba ang karinyo nila,” he tells.

His children have only good words for the loving father. “He is very different from everyone because he’s the kind of person who has a big heart. He’s very loving and friendly. We always talk and we go out. We’re like brothers. Happy Father’s Day! I’ll always be here for you. I love you so much,” intimates Vandolph.  “He always has time for us. He’s a nice, loving, and generous person,” said Nicole and Zia.

His priority has always been his family. “Pero siyempre, una ang trabaho ko bago sila. Kung naiintindihan nila iyon, sila ‘yon. As a father, you have to provide something for your family, and that’s my role.”

He adds: “Even when I was just starting in showbiz, I frequently went abroad. I was the first one to become a Japayuki (that was in 1951). Most of the time, I would stay there for six months and my family would miss me. Then I would go back and stay for a month, then, I would leave again. And when I was here, I would accept engagements, especially during Christmas Day and New Year’s Day because the pay was triple. So, I had to work doubly hard because I wasn’t moneyed at that time, and of course, my children were growing.”

It’s both a joy and a pain to have so many children. “Mahirap talaga dahil kailangan mo silang pagbigyan lahat,” he says. “They always come to me if they need something or they want my advice, maski hatinggabi na. But most of the time, we go out, especially on Sundays.”

The late Dolphy with former live-in partner, Zsa-Zsa Padilla, daughters Zia and Nicole. Photo courtesy of Showbiz Chika

Dolphy has no regrets for all the things he has done in his life, like having children out of many relationships. “Hindi ko naman ginustong magkaroon ng anak na marami,” intimates Dolphy, a quiet and reflective thinker who admits to praying twice a day, morning and night. “Kapag nahiwalay ka sa asawa mo ang tendency mag-aasawa ka uli. I just tell my children not to do what I have done. It’s righteous to have only one wife and you have an anniversary to look forward to. That’s what I don’t have.”

And how would he like to be remembered? “As a good person. I want them to mention my name with a smile. That’s what my mission in life is, to make people happy.”

Featured photo courtesy of DramaList

#Dolphy #ComedyKing #throwback #exclusiveinterview #tribute

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It’s Time to Explore Singapore

Our Singapore trip will always be worth remembering. Foremost, we traveled and explored this bustling city-state in the heart of Southeast Asia as a family.

Amid the pandemic, Singapore now allows quarantine-free travel for all vaccinated visitors after omicron subsides. It’s just timely to reminisce about the moments and share them with you here.

Merlion Park is one of Singapore’s popular landmarks.

It’s easy getting around the city because of its efficient transportation system. We preferred touring the city by cab. In some instances, we would encounter hospitable cab drivers who would talk lengthily about the tourist attractions we should check out.  Since this was just a short stay, we planned what places to visit. The topmost in the itinerary was Merlion Park, one of Singapore’s popular landmarks. The Merlion is a mythical creature with a lion’s head and the body of a fish that is widely used as a mascot and national personification of Singapore. The Merlion symbolizes in its fish body the ancient city of Temasek, and its lion head, the legend of its discovery.

The captivating Gardens by the Bay

We were too excited to explore the Gardens by the Bay. At a height of 22 meters, this 128 meters long aerial walk is an experience not to be missed. As dusk falls, the captivating Marina Bay skyline emerges and the entire area comes alive nightly with the Garden Rhapsody — a free light and sound show.

 

We didn’t miss trying the Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, which is probably Singapore’s most famous chicken rice stall located at Maxwell Food Centre. It has more tourists (including us) than locals queuing up for a plate of this local iconic dish. The late Anthony Bourdain said that the chicken rice was so fragrant and delicious that it could be eaten on its own.

We also toured the Chocolate Gallery, where you can find and purchase high-quality chocolates to bring home as pasalubong for your loved ones.

We also had a  stopover in Little India, a vibrant cultural enclave of the Indian community in Singapore. The next location was Thian Hock Keng Temple, considered the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore.  It’s replete with heritage, and a must-visit for tourists interested in oriental culture.

Feeling serene at Thian Hock Keng Temple.

We stayed longer in Orchard Road, an upscale retail hub of the city. It is a popular tourist attraction with several clothing stores, restaurants, and coffeehouses. Then, we checked out Haji Lane, famous for its independent shophouses and quirky cafes. It is also the narrowest street in the city. 

The following day, we spent our afternoon at Gillman Barracks, home to celebrated art galleries, restaurants, and the NTU Centre for Contemporary Art Singapore. We visited several galleries as part of our art appreciation journey. To cap the day,  we enjoyed Singapore’s skyscrapers, and the well-lit surroundings even at night.

Art appreciation at Gillman Barracks.

Changi, the world’s best airport remains our favorite to date. By its very nature a tourist attraction and a sight to behold. You can do a lot of activities while waiting for your flight – from shopping to dining, relaxation, and unwinding.

Indeed, travel is rich with learning opportunities and provides a broader perspective on life. Above all, it creates bonding experiences with your loved ones.

It’s time to explore Singapore again. Nowhere else in the world is quite like this amazing place!

For more information on travel requirements for short-term visitors to Singapore, visit https://www.visitsingapore.com/.

Featured photo by Joshua Ang on Unsplash

#TravelMoments #Singapore #SoutheastAsia #familytrip #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Congresswoman ‘Migs’ Nograles: The girl with a very little rest

“Whatever I do in life, I always look at the consequences of my actions. Regardless of being a representative, a teacher, a lawyer, or anything, I always want to be a ripple of change,” shares Atty. Nograles. 

 

“People are always telling me that I’m the girl with no rest,” said Atty. Margarita Ignacia “Migs” Nograles with a cheeky grin. Earlier that day, she took her House of Representatives Oath, officially making her a representative of the PBA Party-list in Congress on July 1. Between her oath-taking, Nograles was a busy bee. She began the morning with her usual fitness ritual (meditation and a daily run), before answering e-mails, attending meetings, managing associates at her law firm, and doing her duties as a public servant.

It doesn’t stop there. Nograles finished shooting a new episode of Paano ba Attorney?, a TV program where she gives free legal advice to anyone who needs it. On the weekends, she works as a law professor, preparing her students for The Bar through review classes. Atty. Migs is also continuing her Master’s Degree in law, after taking a few short courses at Harvard Kennedy School and passing her Arbitration Accreditation courses. Could she be bionic? Probably not—but she’s certainly a Superwoman.

The Lady Boss

As a #LadyBoss who wears many hats, it’s very impressive to learn that Atty. Migs is only 31 years old. “[I love my job] because I get to help people,” she says with an ardent smile.

Her Davao-based firm NICAD (Nograles, Ilagan, Cayco, Aban, and Dabi Law) is committed to helping the general public find solutions in a cost-efficient and a highly-sustainable way. She and her partners participate in a lot of Pro bono work and free legal advice. “The practice of law is really to use your knowledge to help your client’s concern. We just had our anniversary on the first. We’ve already been operating for a year, and we’re still surviving. Even with free legal advice, we’re managing to stay afloat.” The firm is already looking to expand with an office in Manila sometime this year.

The Pro bono cases the firm accepts vary on different issues that each partner is passionate about. Atty. Migs, in particular, has a strong stance against domestic abuse, emotional abuse, and all forms of bullying. Not just for women and children, but men and the LGBTQI community, as well. “While growing up, I was a victim of bullying,” she says. “When I got older, I realized that a lot of friends had also been victims of violence. It is something very dear to me, and something I want to protect now.” While she was in office, Nograles had to take a small step back. She had to take a leave from the firm but still makes an effort to oversee her associates daily.

Paano ba Attorney?

Although she can’t physically appear in courtrooms at the moment, Nograles continues to use her skills through different avenues. For instance, in her show Paano ba Attorney? offers free legal advice to their viewers. Originally conceived as a short Facebook Live show during the pandemic, it has grown in popularity. The fourth season (which is currently in production) will be broadcasted on local television.

Nograles shares that their team receives 300 to 400 videos/messages a day from people seeking out her expertise. “It keeps me on my toes,” she shares. “It keeps me updated with the newest laws, and makes me feel fulfilled being able to answer questions on the spot. Also, [it’s great] to be able to help people with [nothing in return] but a simple thank you.”

It runs in the blood

You can say that public service runs through Atty. Migs’ blood. Her father is late Speaker Prospero C. Nograles, and her brothers, Karlo and Jericho, both hold positions in government. Watching them do their work (particularly their role in giving free education to thousands of youths), inspired her to be in politics.

Just a few months shy of her 32nd birthday, she will be entering the House of Representatives as a newly minted congresswoman, under the PBA Partylist. Even without having officially begun, the passionate attorney is already working on bills she is eager to pass. “What I plan to submit as a bill is the Domestic Abuse Law Bill. I’m working on it already. Another one is the expansion of the Solo Parents Act. In the law, solo parents don’t have additional support for education, which they need,” she states with assured vigor.

Supporting youths and athletes

As a former athlete, Nograles also wants to ensure that homegrown talents are given proper funding. She is advocating for sports legislation, sports protection, and grass-root support for local athletes.

Through the Party List, she hopes that she can establish standard and retirement benefits for emerging sportspersons. Her family’s work through the Nograles Scholars Program (which supported youths and athletes) truly inspired the young woman to help emerging Filipino talents.

She remembers boxer Nesthly Petecio (an Olympic Silver medalist) as one of the athletes they helped through the program. “Just look at her now,” she says with a proud smile. “Athletes should focus on training and shouldn’t worry about [the resources to do it]. Small issues like this are what I want to push in terms of legislation.”

Flourishing career

While Migs Nograles is just beginning her career as a congresswoman, she has already done so much to help those around her. Her desire to build a better Philippines reflects on her already flourishing career. It’s exciting to be in the audience and see the climb of this political superstar. “When I was a part of the Ateneo Student Leaders Assembly, they taught us to be a ripple of change,” she remembers. “Whatever I do in life, I always look at the consequences of my actions. Regardless of being a representative, a teacher, a lawyer, or anything, I always want to be a ripple of change.”

With such passion in her voice, it’s easy to believe her. However, to reach real “change,” one is afforded very little rest. Luckily for us, Nograles never does.

 

#MigsNograles #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Celebrate 90 Years of Play with LEGO® at Legoland® Malaysia Resort

To mark the occasion and help visitors enjoy the benefits of playing together, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort is launching a brand-new exclusive LEGO® experience: “Play Your Way.”

 

Johor Bahru – The LEGO Group is marking its 90th anniversary by celebrating the creativity of fans and the power of play as the new LEGO® Play Well Study shows play is fundamental to the wellbeing and happiness of the whole family. To mark the occasion and help visitors enjoy the benefits of playing together, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort is launching a brand-new exclusive LEGO® experience: “Play Your Way”.

From 16 June to 10 August 2022, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort visitors will be invited to discover their official Play Type and take on fun LEGO® build challenges to start their journey toward play mastery.

Guests will receive an exclusive, limited edition lanyard upon entry from our friendly staff and a limited edition pop badge for each Play Type build challenge they complete while exploring the park while stocks last. Visitors will be challenged to explore the different activities and find out which suits their play personality best:

  • Are you a Designer? Aware of problems, these builders are focused and get ideas from asking questions. Their LEGO® creations solve problems and playtime is thoughtful.
  • Are you a Maker? Aware of objects, these builders are energetic and get ideas from trial and error. Their LEGO® creations are detailed and playtime is experimental.
  • Are you an Explorer? Aware of the environment, these builders are curious and get ideas from new discoveries. Their LEGO® creations are bold and playtime is adventurous.
  • Are you a Storyteller? Aware of others, these builders are dramatic and ideas come from fantasy. Their LEGO® creations are used to entertain and playtime is theatrical.
  • Are you a Dreamer? Aware of possibilities, these builders are imaginative and ideas come from daydreaming. Their LEGO® creations are artistic and playtime is magical.

The ‘Play Your Way’ LEGO® build challenges encourage creativity for each play type, with prompts to spark different types of play. For example, Designers will be challenged to design a secret treehouse or the ultimate dragon. Makers are more experiential, so will be challenged to make a boat fly or a bus for the moon. The adventurous Explorers will love creating a magical lion, whilst Storytellers will have more theatrical build challenges, creating a castle in the sky or an underwater kingdom. For Dreamers, their creativity will be encouraged through magical build ideas from rainbows and flowers, to spaceships and treasure chests.

Within the park, Master Players (who have mastered all five play types) will roam the park in colorful costumes to surprise and delight guests with magic tricks and storytelling.

The new “Play Your Way” experience adds to the rides, shows, and attractions all geared to families with children ages 2-12 years old at LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort. The Play Your Way event will be included in Park admission along with everything that LEGOLAND® has to offer, and is hosted in the Rebuild the World area.

As part of the celebration, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort partners with LEGO for a special Imagination Playground roadshow, where visitors can enjoy a FREE RM150 F&B voucher with the purchase of four Triple-Park Pass while stocks last. The ongoing roadshow at the ground floor of Centre Court, Midvalley Megamall Kuala Lumpur, will end on 12 June 2022, before moving to its next stop from 20 July to 31 July 2022 at Midvalley Southkey Johor.

“LEGOLAND® is excited to celebrate the 90 Years of Play with the LEGO® Group – we know that play has huge benefits for the whole family, so what better way to celebrate than through playing together? Our new event allows guests the chance to uncover their play type and rediscover the joy of creating together with LEGO® bricks,” said CS Lim, Divisional Director at LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort.

Shipwreck dining diver

Play is an important part of everyday life and the LEGO® Play Well Study 2022 shows that play is fundamental to the well-being and happiness of the whole family. The LEGO Group polled more than 55,000 parents and children in over 30 countries and found that almost all parents think children strengthen their creativity (93%), communication (92%), problem-solving skills (92%), and confidence (91%) while they play. When children play, they develop skills that help them thrive in a rapidly changing world.

#LegolandMalaysiaResort #90years #Malaysia #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Three nearby waterfall destinations you can visit this summer

Summer is always the best time to experience and create moments in your favorite waterfall sanctuaries.

Traveling excites a greater sense of childlike wonder in us. This summer, make sure to go out and have fun with your friends and families. You don’t need to go far to enjoy and frolic under the summer heat, pristine and relaxing beaches, and invigorating waterfalls.

We have gathered our top three recommendations for nearby and easy-to-visit waterfall destinations.

  • Daranak Falls and Resort, Tanay Rizal

 A natural resort and popular local tourist attraction in and out of the country, Daranak Falls is one of the flagship destinations of Tanay. You can swim, picnic and have a great time with your family.

It has enchanting waterfalls, ponds, and rivers cascading through elaborate tropical trees and plants. This 14-meter high falls is truly a refreshing location. Entrance Fee: P50.00 (Children below 3ft. are free of charge). Picnic Shed: P300. Picnic Table: P200. Operation Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8 AM to 5 PM.

The author has a relaxing time at Daranak Falls.
  • Pagsanjan Falls, Laguna

Pagsanjan is known as The Tourist Capital of Laguna. It is where you can enjoy the well-known Pagsanjan Falls, and experience once in a lifetime thrilling and exciting boat ride, “Shooting the Rapids”. The town is continuously growing and attracting thousands of local and international tourists and businesses.

For more information, check the website: http://pagsanjan.gov.ph/

Natural waterfall in Pagsanjan, Laguna. Courtesy: DOT, Kathleen Mae Tugano
  • Labasin Waterfalls Tiaong, Quezon

The Labasin Waterfalls Restaurant is one of the attractions of Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort in Tiaong, Quezon. While visiting the resort, you can enjoy its traditional Filipino buffet lunch — kamayan style — while soaking your feet in the low running water.

The falls is not natural falls, but an overspill from the Labasin Dam, the Philippines’ first hydroelectric plant. Just the same, the experience is real and unique. At Villa Escudero, it is where Filipino history and culture come to life.

For more information, check the website: https://villaescudero.com.

Visitors enjoy a thundering live waterfall up close while partaking in their meals. Courtesy: Dito Sa Quezon FB page

As the saying goes, “There’s no better place to find yourself than sitting by a waterfall and listening to its music.”

Waterfalls, undoubtedly, cleanse the mind and soothe the soul. Summer is always the best time to experience and create moments in your favorite waterfall sanctuaries.

#summer #waterfalls #funtime #sun #daranakfalls #labasinwaterfalls #pagsanjanwaterfalls #itsmorefuninthephilippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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The Woman Speaks: How these Filipinas thrive in their respective careers

As we approach the end of March, women’s month may come to an end but the fight for women’s rights and women empowerment continues. These notable women have been successful and prominent in their respective fields, making a name for themselves in their chosen careers. Here are their thoughts on how women’s empowerment has changed their lives and how it revolutionized their careers.

Sustaining a culinary endeavor through strength and consistency

Evelyn Wise has been busy in the kitchen, not just by cooking sumptuous dishes but by also proving that women can also thrive in various careers. For her, women’s empowerment relies heavily on strength and consistency.

At the age of 69, Evelyn splendidly manages Tia Belle’s as its owner and chef, ensuring that women can also build, sustain, and innovate businesses in any industry. She relies on her inner strength to get things done and on her consistency to keep her business afloat. “Never go back, keep going despite the ups and downs,” she advises young women. 

Evelyn Wise (Facebook)

As she works in a hectic environment, Evelyn also views that women’s empowerment is also as vital as gender equality. “We must learn to work with both men and women,” she says.

Being a part of the culinary sector, Evelyn sees to it that her employees are judged based on their skills and merit and not by their sex or gender. Furthermore, her patience helps her greatly in managing her employees. “Be determined to motivate your people,” she says because noting their efforts will also contribute to the overall success of Tia Belle’s. 

On creative freedom, empowering herself and other people

The Filipino local art community is a flourishing sector that seeks to cement its contributions to the innovation of homegrown art in our country. Bambina Aseron is an artist that has made a name for herself in the art scene, both as an artist and an art consultant.

For her, the local art scene accepted her despite her flaws, which helped her feel empowered and strong. “Art and the local Filipino art community always remind me to have the courage to accept myself for who I am even though I know I’m not perfect,” Bambina elaborates. It can be said that art also centers on self-expression, and Bambina has taken into account the creative freedom and power given to her through her art, and she tends to use it to empower other people. 

Bambina Aseron  (Facebook)

Bambina also emphasizes that women empowerment is also about women’s agency or their ability and freedom to make their own choices for themselves. It can be hard to find one’s voice in this society that imposes judgment way too quickly and in a country where discrimination is rampant.

Bambina considers herself empowered through her art, for it gives her the keys to her voice. “Women empowerment to me is knowing that I always have the power to exercise my creativity and that I have the power of choice in all aspects of my life,” she expounds. 

Even though Bambina dabbles in a lot of roles within the art community, she still considers herself an art person wholly. Her passion for art is what drives her to take up space in this society as a woman and as an artist.

While art empowers her to make such fine pieces and to flourish in this industry, she also views art as a medium wherein others can also find comfort and power as well. Being in control of one’s piece and creative power is such a wonderful thing, and for Bambina, she’s lucky enough to experience and witness it at the same time. 

Women are meant to shatter glass ceilings and exceed expectations, and they need to be duly recognized for their worthy contributions to our society. However, as women’s month ends, our fight for women’s rights and women’s empowerment must not stop here, it must continue. Women deserve to be celebrated every day for who they are, what they do, and what they can be. 

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

#careerwomen #filipinas #evelynwise #bambina aseron #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Alice Reyes Dance Philippines Unveils “Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad”: A New Dance Adventure for Young Audiences

Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad is the latest addition to Alice Reyes Dance Philippines’ expansive repertoire of Filipino works, this time designed specifically for Children’s Dance Theater.

This new offering marks a significant milestone for one of ARDP’s talented choreographers, Erl Sorilla, who has crafted both the book and his first full-length choreography.

The production is brought to life with a captivating musical score by award-winning singer-songwriter Toto Sorioso, and magical sets and costumes designed by the renowned Filipino Director and Broadway Designer, Loy Arcenas.

Under the mentorship of National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, and ARDP Artistic Director, Ronelson Yadao, this production promises to be a magical experience for young audiences.

The story follows the adventures of Juan Tamad, the misunderstood boy in town, and his loyal monkey companion, Matsing. Aided by Juan’s unique ability to converse with animals and his innate love for nature,  they set out to find the village’s most prized treasure, the fruit of all their hard-work and labor stolen by the greedy ‘Buwaya,’ the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ A challenge he must complete to win the hand of Maria Masipag.

Along his journey, Juan encounters a variety of animals, including those from the stories of ‘Pagong at Kuneho,’ ‘Ang Gamu-gamu at ang Lampara,’ and ‘Buwaya at ang Paboreal.’ Through these encounters, Juan learns valuable moral lessons that guide him on his path. With the help of the animals, Juan grows in character, and ultimately finds the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ Inspired by the classic Filipino children’s stories of ‘Juan Tamad,’ this production brings a new twist to the beloved tales.

The new work will feature ARDP company dancers Renzen Arboleda as the titular Juan Tamad, with Karla Santos as Maria Masipag. Dan Dayo will take on the role of Juan’s trusted sidekick, Matsing, with John Ababon as Pagong, Monica Gana as Kuneho, Earl John Arisola as Buwaya, Krislynne Buri as Paboreal, and Francia Alejandro as Lampara,. Also featured are ARDP trainees Gianna Hervas and Crizza Urmeneta as the Gamu–gamu.

This production is specifically created for students, as it aligns with Grade 1-10 and High School subjects, including Filipino, Arts, Music, Humanities, Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao, Personal Development, Araling Panlipunan, Physical Education. Through dance and storytelling, Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad offers an enriching, multidisciplinary educational experience.

Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad premieres on November 10, 2024, 10:00 AM, and 4:00 PM at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater as part of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Children’s Biennale. Admission is on a Pay-What-You-Can basis. Please stay tuned on Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Social Media Pages for registration links.

#MgaKuwentoNiJuanTamad #CCP #AliceReyes #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Banwa Private Island is the Perfect Setting for Intimate Celebrations

Banwa Private Island, a premier luxury destination and two-time recipient of Robb Report’s The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth accolade, invites couples and businesses to celebrate their special occasions in a truly unforgettable setting.

As a major sponsor of the German Club of the Philippines’ 2024 Oktoberfest, Banwa Private Island participated in the ceremonial opening of the tap, a traditional Oktoberfest ritual. Catherine Villanueva, Head of Sales at Banwa Private Island, joined other VIP guests to toast to the start of the celebration.

“Banwa Private Island is more than just a destination; it’s a blank canvas for creating extraordinary experiences,” said Catherine Villanueva, Head of Sales at Banwa Private Island. “Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a luxurious getaway, we’re committed to providing the highest level of service and hospitality.”

Raising a glass to good times and great company! Catherine Villanueva, Head of Sales at Banwa Private Island, (4th from left) joins the festivities at the German Club of the Philippines’ Oktoberfest 2024.

Banwa Private Island is an experience, perfect for couples, proposals, honeymooners, and families. The island can also be booked exclusively for weddings, family celebrations, and corporate events, accommodating up to 40 guests.

With its private beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical surroundings, Banwa Private Island provides a truly immersive experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing. The island’s luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining options ensure that every guest is treated to the highest level of comfort and indulgence.

Banwa Private Island creates menus and dining experiences using local ingredients in international and Filipino dishes. Whatever your preferred cuisine, our chef team will be sure to provide just the type and style of food you want, when you want it. Fresh fish is locally available in abundance, and the majority of our fresh fruit and vegetables come from Banwa Private Island’s organic farm. Halal, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Mediterranean, Vegetarian, and Vegan options can all be catered for.

Located just a few kilometers away in Palawan mainland, the organic farm is part of Banwa Private Island’s sustainability efforts and aims to provide the majority of the island’s fresh fruit and vegetables, delivered daily. The farm is a community project and an educational and learning site for the community, our staff, and our guests.

By choosing Banwa Private Island for your celebration, you’re not just participating in a traditional event; you’re creating a lasting memory that will be cherished for years to come.

To explore  your wedding options or book your event at Banwa Private Island, please contact the Reservations team through mobile/WhatsApp: +639178882864, send an email to reservations@banwaprivateisland.com or visit  website www.banwaprivateisland.com.

#BanwaPrivateIsland #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Monitor Your Health Anytime, Anywhere with the HUAWEI WATCH D2

HUAWEI Philippines’ first ever smartwatch with Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM), the HUAWEI WATCH D2, is taking a leap forward in health monitoring technology, delivering faster and more precise health info than ever before.

Upgraded Blood Pressure Monitoring All on Your Wrist

“Hypertension is a significant health concern as it poses major risks for cardiovascular diseases,” emphasized known medical doctor and content creator, Dr. Lyien Ho. She also reiterated the serious danger of hypertension when it goes undiagnosed and untreated, stating, “It is often called a ‘silent killer’ because it may not present noticeable symptoms until complications arise, making regular monitoring crucial.”

“In the Philippines, hypertension is an urgent public health issue due to its rising prevalence and the associated complications that contribute to morbidity and mortality,” Dr. Ho added. With the prevalence of hypertension and its critical health risks, continuous blood pressure monitoring is not only helpful but increasingly essential for effective health management.

The HUAWEI WATCH D2 allows watch wearers to get an accurate blood pressure reading by simply raising their wrist. Users can set scheduled alerts to remind them to check their blood pressure even upon waking, helping them capture blood pressure data promptly. While users are asleep, the watch automatically checks users’ blood pressure with little to no disturbance, ensuring users get an interrupted sleep.

 Faster, More Precise Health and Fitness Insights

Powered by the HUAWEI TruSense System, the HUAWEI WATCH D2 offers improved accuracy, speed, and flexibility in health monitoring. The watch measures vital signs precisely. The watch also comes with Fusion Blood Pressure Algorithm, which works well with the ultra-narrow mechanical airbag to deliver accurate blood pressure monitoring more comfortably.

In a single tap, users can measure 9 vital health indicators, including heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen, stress, skin temperature, ECG, vascular elasticity, pulse wave arrhythmia, and sleep apnea detection. The watch then generates a Health Glance report in as quick as 90 seconds. This offers a quicker, more affordable avenue for users to manage their health compared to clinical check-ups. However, the watch is a non-medical device that should not replace diagnosis and treatment from medical professionals.

The HUAWEI Health App enhances family health management by allowing users to share and view loved ones’ vital signs including heart rate, blood oxygen, and blood pressure data. The app also sends alerts for irregularities in health readings, which helps ensure care for the family.

 Premium, Lightweight Design for All-Day Wear

The HUAWEI WATCH D2 features an elegant design with lightweight comfort. It comes with a sleek mirror bezel, a segmented body, and a seamless curved surface. The rotating crown offers a smoother user experience. The watch’s 1.82-inch large screen with a 2.5D floating design provides a broader, clearer visual experience. The magazine style-layout, with clear large fonts, of the UX interface displays vibrant colors that is truly a feast for the eyes.

Smarter Features for More Convenient Experience

The HUAWEI WATCH D2 encourages users to develop healthier habits that support effective blood pressure management with daily task tracking features, covering tasks such as exercise, diet, sleep, weight, and stress. This offers a holistic approach to health management.

The smartwatch also supports a range of smart lifestyle features like Bluetooth Calling,  allowing users to answer calls directly from their wrist. The watch is universally compatible with iOS and Android devices. The HUAWEI WATCH D2 is the perfect all-day companion as it boasts a reliable battery life that lasts up to 6 days for typical use, on a single charge.

To learn more, visit Huawei’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

 #HUAWEIWATCHD2 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Solaire Resort Entertainment City adds one more show for Lea Salonga’s ‘Stage, Screen & Everything in Between’ concert

 With over 45 years in the industry and awards both locally and internationally, Lea continues to shine and inspire audiences through her artistry. Her remarkable expertise and unwavering dedication have solidified her position as a true luminary in the field.

 

Solaire Resort Entertainment City, co-presented by Union Bank of the Philippines, announces an additional show for Lea Salonga’s “Stage, Screen, & Everything in Between” concert on November 7, 8 PM at The Theatre at Solaire. The November 4 and 5 shows are already sold-out and with this third show, fans can experience an unforgettable evening featuring a curated set list by Lea herself. All three shows include special guest Clay Aiken, recognized for his first runner-up win on the second season of American Idol.

With over 45 years in the industry and awards both locally and internationally, Lea continues to shine and inspire audiences through her artistry. The concert will highlight classics from her most iconic roles in Miss Saigon, Les Misérables, Disney’s Aladdin and Mulan, while also introducing new favorites from the critically acclaimed West End hit show, Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends, along with many other beloved songs from other musical genres.

“Stage, Screen & Everything In Between is a concert we’ve worked so hard to create, and I’m thrilled that we’re adding a third show on November 7! I’m also very excited to announce that my talented friend Clay Aiken will be our special guest for all three shows. Who knows, there might be a couple of musical surprises just in time for Christmas. We cannot wait to perform this show for audiences in Manila!” says Lea.

Experience top-tier entertainment like no other only at Solaire Resort Entertainment City. Purchase your tickets for the November 7 show starting October 9, 6 PM at ticketworld.com.ph or at the Solaire Box Office. For more information, visit sec.solaireresort.com.

#SolaireResortEntertainmentCity #LeaSalonga #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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F1 Hotel Manila Presents: Dine & Fly to Dubai for Two

F1 Hotel Manila BGC invites you to embark on an extraordinary dining experience with a chance to win an unforgettable trip to Dubai! From September 23 to December 25, 2024, every dining experience at F1 Hotel Manila BGC could be your ticket to an incredible Dubai getaway.

Dine & Fly to Dubai for 2 is a special promotion designed to elevate your dining moments at our premier hotel. Enjoy the culinary creations at our restaurants – F All Day Dining and The Canary- and for every single receipt spent on Php 3,000, you will earn one raffle entry. The more you dine, the greater your chances of winning this luxurious escape. With the promotion duration from September 23 to December 25, 2024, and travel dates valid from December 26, 2024, to February 23, 2025, guests have ample time to participate and plan their potential trip. The raffle draw for this exciting prize is scheduled for December 26, 2024.

Join F1 Hotel Manila BGC at F All Day Dining and The Canary for a chance to win these incredible prizes while enjoying a remarkable dining experience. On December 26, 2024, we will draw and announce the Dubai trip’s lucky winners. Stay tuned to our official Facebook and Instagram pages for updates!

For further information and reservations, please visit our website at www.f1hotelmanila.com, call us at (02) 8928-9888, or e-mail us at inquiry@f1hotelsandresorts.com. Terms and conditions apply.

#F1HotelManila #promotion #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Making Business Easier for the Modern Entrepreneur, One Delivery at a Time

W Express launches the Negoyso Booster Program, offering tailored delivery solutions to propel businesses forward.

Ever had to juggle inventory management, customer inquiries, and shipping logistics all at once? Entrepreneurs know how stressful it can be to keep things running smoothly. Enter the Negosyo Booster Program from leading courier service provider W Express, a game-changer for any entrepreneur looking for a reliable and hassle-free delivery solution. But this isn’t just about packages—it’s about helping individuals achieve their aspirations and ensuring that they remain focused on the core values of their business.

Whether you’re selling handmade crafts or tech gadgets, you’ll now have access to faster, more affordable shipping options that free up your time to focus on growing your brand.

 More Than Just Deliveries: Building Trust and Growth

What’s even better? W Express isn’t just about getting your products from point A to point B. The best features of the program are special rates and priority handling, giving the best value your business needs to succeed while avoiding hidden fees and long waiting times.

With promotional offers, such as delivery fees starting at just ₱113.40 for small parcels, you can scale your business without breaking the bank.

 How to Get Started

The best part? Joining the program is simple. W Express makes it easy to sign up, and you can start shipping with ease in just a few days. Plus, membership is free! So, if you’re ready to take your business to the next level, now’s the perfect time to hop on board.

  1. To join, simply complete the Negosyo Booster Program Enrollment sign-up form, available on W Express’  official website and social media accounts. You may provide your basic business information, including your business name, address, and contact details.
  2. Your application will be reviewed within 3-5 business days upon submission. Once approved, you will receive a confirmation email with further instructions.
  3. Once you have been accredited, you can choose from the business startup package options and begin right away on planning your deliveries.

“Online sellers face an increasingly competitive marketplace, and we know they need assistance urgently and proficiently,” W Express Chairman/President Dawn Feliciano said. “This is why our Negosyo Booster Program was conceptualized to at least ease some challenges on the part of these entrepreneurs,” she adds. “Our program offers practical delivery solutions that promote growth and savings so they can focus on scaling their business.”

Customers are invited to visit the website https://www.wwwexpress.com.ph/ , plus like and subscribe to W Express’ official Facebook and Instagram pages @wexpressph to discover the brand’s latest news and offerings. For inquiries, customers may call the hotline at (02) 8879-8888, message on Facebook Messenger, or visit any W Express branch.

 About W Express

 Wide Wide World Express Corporation formerly known as DHL Philippines, was established in 1971. It was through the dynamic leadership of its founding chairman, Mr. Rodolfo Feliciano and his strong partnership with Mr. Guy Coombs that has started courier service in the Philippines, known to be the first in the Asia Pacific Region.

Across the Philippines, we have stationed more than one hundred strategically located service centers equipped with over 1,000+ highly trained and professional employees complemented with approximately two hundred vehicles.

#WExpress #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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ManilART ’24: Illuminating 16 Years of Artistic Excellence

Held earlier this month from October 9 to 13, the country’s national art fair showcased a convergence of Philippine art in its many shades. ManilART ’24, with its theme “Prisms and Mosaics,” reflected the diversity of Philippine contemporary art, uniting various expressions into a vibrant, cohesive whole. This annual event, now on its 16th year, banners the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)’s overall celebration for Museums and Galleries Month, themed “Ani ng Sining, Bayang Malikhain” (Art’s Harvest, A Creative Nation).

Visions in Glass: The Legacy of Ramon Orlina

Philippine glassmaster Ramon Orlina’s long-awaited coffee table book, Visions in Glass, authored by art critic Cid Reyes and designed by Dopy Doplon, showcases his remarkable journey as an artist. Weighing 6 kilograms and comprising 57 chapters, this book is hefty not just in its contents. It spans Orlina’s artistic journey from the 1960s to the present, highlighting his life’s work of transforming discarded glass cullets into stunning art pieces. The overall project was brought to life and spearheaded by his wife, Lay Ann Orlina.

Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey with Cid Reyes and Ramon Orlina.

The book launch attracted notable personalities, including National Artist Virgilio Almario, Secretary Sonny Angara, Senator Allan Cayetano and Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano, Dr. Jimmy Laya, celebrity art patron Ms. Assunta De Rossi Ledesma, Metrobank Foundation’s Chito and Anna Sobrepeña, and Ms. Daphne Osena Paez, among many others. Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach-Jauncey was honored as the book’s Ambassador at the launch. In attendance at both the book launch and the vernissage night were top diplomats including Ambassador Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino of Malaysia, Ambassador Tull Traisorat of Thailand, Ambassador Dr. Lai Thai Binh of Vietnam, Ambassador Dr. Titanilla Toth of Hungary, Mr. Martin Karuse from the German Embassy and Mr. Mouablong Xayvue from the Embassy of Laos. Apart from this milestone book launch, Orlina has inspired his children, Michael and Anna, to pursue careers as glass artists, and his family has also established Museo Orlina as a cultural landmark in Batangas to honor his artistry.

Illuminating the Mosaic: Some Highlights of ManilART ’24

 This year’s fair featured an impressive array of works from 32 participating galleries. Plugged into Fernalia: Art in the Age of AI, curated by Gromyko Semper, explored the intersection of art and technology and its implications for contemporary creativity. The exhibit showcased a diverse range of artistic forms, including painting, sculpture, digital art, photography, and mixed media, featuring works from various artists such as Noel Sadicon, Joshua Palisoc, Pen Medina, Isobel Francisco, Jonathan Benitez, and Austrian fantastic realist artist Peter Gric. The exhibition was organized into four thematic sections: “Origins and Inspirations,” reflecting on AI’s initial promise to the art world; “Ethics and Appropriation,” addressing artists’ concerns about the use of their work by AI companies; “Human vs. Machine,” comparing AI-generated art with human creations; and “Future Visions,” envisioning the future of creativity in an AI-driven landscape.

Several artists chose to focus on nostalgia as their muse across various exhibitions. Hues of Nostalgia featured glass artist Anna Orlina and painters Bea Policarpio and Abby Añover, each interpreting a chosen decade. The Blast from the Past series by Otep Bañez presented mixed media installations infused with childhood memories and nostalgic technologies like the Walkman. Ang mga Anik-Anik ng Diwang Di-Malirip, curated by Gromyko Semper and Cheryl Hironaka, explored the Filipino practice of collecting small, sentimental objects known as “anik-anik,” representing personal history and memory. These exhibitions reflected on the intricacies of human existence and the connections formed through treasured memories.

This year’s iteration of the fair also featured collaborations between renowned sculptors. Steampunk Unplugged, by Danny Rayos del Sol and Ram Mallari, combined intricately carved ostrich eggshells and carabao skulls with brass robotic figures, pushing the limits of imagination. Jik Villanueva and Ramon Orlina showcased larger-than-life sculptures of brass ants carrying glass “grains,” highlighting that persistence yields good fortune.

Ed Coronel’s massive works graced the center-stage area of ManilART. The hyperrealist painter’s pieces, including the award-winning portrait of the Rayos del Sol family, Rays of the Sun, and his mural triptych The Wave, inspired by his ponderings on the West Philippine Sea, explore themes of cultural heritage and resilience through a blend of realism and expression.

Expanding the Experience: Conversations and Collaborations at ManilART

ManilART continued to offer its regular repertoire of talks, satellite shows, and refreshments. The fair hosted discussions that delved into the intersections of art, artists’ rights, and new technologies. This series of talks began on October 10 with Ian Felix Alquiros discussing Art for Stigma Reduction, followed by Hon. Christopher de Venecia’s talk on the Creative Industries Act and its significance for the visual arts and galleries on October 11. On October 12, Abe Orobia illuminated fairgoers about Art in the Colonial Periods, while Atty. Emerson Cuyo addressed An Artist’s Moral and Economic Rights, Duties, and Obligations. The round of talks concluded with a panel discussion featuring Marian Pastor Roces, Cristian Townsend, Noel Sadicon, and Jerry Yapo, who explored AI’s role in shaping contemporary artistic creation.

ManilART ‘24 also featured world-class satellite exhibits. One of these satellite shows, Viaje 4: Filipinism, was hosted across Europe, including Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, delves into the essence of Filipino identity through the works of several artists, including Nino Cris Odosis, Joseph Albao, Ian Maigan, and Windsor Magnaye. Another notable exhibition, Refracted Light, occurred on October 6-7 at Ricardo’s Galeria Al Fresco in Amadeo, Cavite. Lastly, Kutkot Pa More, a solo exhibit by Elmer Nocheseda at Galerie Du Soleil in Taguig, explored his distinctive “kutkot” technique as he came to terms with the onset of Parkinson’s disease.

Lastly, ManilART’s partners provided a delightful wine-and-dine experience while viewing art. Purefoods Deli elevated a beloved brand with its quality franks, sausages, and meats; MOD Coffee offered the perfect pick-me-up; Sebastiao Cocktails helped everyone unwind; and Via Mare was once again present to serve Filipino culinary favorites alongside the art fair.

“ManilART ’24: Prisms and Mosaics” was a celebration of all the shades and hues that make up Philippine contemporary art. Each fairgoer contributed to this vibrant display, reflecting the depth and creativity of the nation’s artistic landscape.

ManilART ’24’s participating galleries include 29 Kapitolyo Art Space, 371 Art Space, Annual Sculpture Review, Art Circle, Art for Space Gallery PH, Artalyer, Artienda Art Gallery, Artologist Gallery, Artes Orientes, AT Art Gallery, Daloy Likha Art Gallery, Drybrush Gallery, Espacio Manila, Florentino Gallery, Galeria Bañez, Galleria Nicolas, Galerie Artes, Galerie Raphael, Gallery Nine, Historia Art, Legacy, Life ’n Arts Gallery, M Gallery MNL, Museo Orlina, NAMI Art Gallery, OMVI Art Gallery, Pugad ni Art, Rayos del Sol Gallery, Renaissance Art Gallery, VAM International Art Gallery, Village Art Gallery and Ysobel Art Gallery.

The fair was supported by partners Museo Orlina, The City of Taguig, SM Supermalls, SMX Convention Center, Ladder Events Production, Vision Prime Media, Future Studios, Design Phoundry, Ticketbooth.ph, Via Mare Catering, Purefoods Deli, BDO, MOD Coffee, Grentek Solutions, Marco Polo Ortigas, Art Caravan, and Sebastiao Cocktails. Media partners include ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC), The Philippine Star, Inquirer.net, Metro, Inquirer Pop!, The Manila Times, Manila Bulletin, Preen.ph, Business Mirror, Peoples Journal, WhenInManila.com, Scout, Pilipino Mirror, Nolisoli.ph, Klik.ph, Cebu Daily News, Experience Travel & Living, Hue TVEverywhere, Malaya Business Insight, Manila Standard, and Alike.

#ManilART2024 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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The Nautilus at CaSoBe: Landco Pacific Corporation’s Iconic Beachfront Condotel

An architectural landmark that features hotel amenities, rental income opportunities and access to CaSoBe’s hospitality and leisure attractions.

 

The Nautilus, Landco Pacific Corporation’s newly-launched 10-storey condotel at the 15-hectare Landco BeachTowns, CaSoBe, draws its inspiration from the famous submarine, Nautilus, featured in Jules Verne’s classic novel, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. Commanding, like a ship on the shore, the iconic structure of The Nautilus carves the beach skyline as a homage to the legendary Nautilus, captained by the enigmatic Captain Nemo, known for its advanced technology, mysterious allure, and exploration of the unknown depths of the ocean.

“This is more than a home – it’s a sanctuary where infinite possibilities are anchored in every sunrise, every sunset, and every wave that laps the shore,” said Erickson Manzano President & CEO, Landco Pacific Corporation.

The Nautilus is master-planned by an award-winning international team of designers and thought leaders of sustainable built environments.  Its architecture was designed by Pomeroy Studio in Singapore and Visionarch, ranked 57th in the World Architecture 100 in 2024. Its target turnover is in January 2029.

The mixed-use beachfront condotel offers 171 residential units and 5 commercial units in a 4,614.5 sqm land area. All units have a priceless view of the bay and either facing the CaSoBe development along Miami South Street or Aquaria Water Park; open air private outdoor spaces (balcony); generous floor-to-ceiling height of the general area at approximately 2.80 meters and select energy-efficient appliances in place.

The Nautilus is accessible with vehicular and pedestrian access, pedestrian access from the boardwalk, residential and hotel guests parking area, and commercial parking area.

Sustainability Meets Luxury

The condotel is distinctive for its sustainability features that use recycled non-potable water for toilet flushing and plant irrigation, water-efficient plumbing fixtures or low flow plumbing fixtures to reduce water consumption, solar panels at the rooftop and parking canopies, double glazed low-E windows for better energy efficiency and reduced solar heat gain and improved sound insulation.

The building incorporates reinforcing bars made from recycled steel, window frames using recycled aluminum, and low carbon footprint cement for masonry works.  Its design features natural ventilation with garden courts at the hallways, mandatory use of LED lighting fixtures and use of energy savings appliances for all units, as well as Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations for its residents and guests.

Like all recent Landco Pacific developments, The Nautilus is registered and proudly pursuing EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification with at least 20% energy savings, water savings and embodied energy in materials.

Condotel Rental Income Opportunities

Landco Lifestyle Ventures (LLV) operates the leisure amenities and extraordinary accommodations in Landco’s BeachTowns situated in Laiya and Calatagan in Batangas and Samal Island, Davao.  At CaSoBe, with its team of hospitality experts, LLV shall provide hospitality management services for the rental program of The Nautilus.  LLV shall operate the building as a 4-star hotel, focusing on the value appreciation of its  clients’ investments.

Year-Round Summer with Unique Resort Amenities at the Award-Winning CaSoBe

LLV’s alluring accommodations and facilities also enhance the overall experience of guests at CaSoBe, which is recognized as a Highly-Commended Best Mixed-Use Development at the prestigious 12th Annual PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards.

Offering diverse leisure and hospitality amenities, LLV makes the Landco BeachTowns, attractive beach havens, weekend getaways, work from a resort options and venues for events and conferences in vibrant beach communities.

Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe, the refitted container vans turned into unconventional accommodations with modern amenities, is recognized as the first Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) -certified resort in the country.

Other enticing facilities include the pod-like accommodations of the Cocoons with murals of marine life, the newly-launched Chairman’s Cabin and lighthouse, Apollo and Cupola; Aquaria Water Park with three-storey slides; the 300-capacity the Canopy events space; Sands and Captain Barbozza restaurant.

For more information about Landco Pacific Corporation and The Nautilus, visit their website or Facebook page.

#TheNautilus #Landco #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph