Michael V’s staying power

 

“Proper timing is needed to become a good comedian,” said Michael.

Courtesy: GMA Network

Comedian-singer Michael V., also known as Bitoy is smiling ear to ear these days and there is one good reason why. He is grateful that their weekly gag show is still airing after more than two decades. Bubble Gang has become the longest-running gag show in the Philippines.

Michael related that he was introduced into the world of show business when he joined the rapping contest in Eat Bulaga many years back. Rap actually brought Bitoy to fame. It opened his doors to the movies and to television. His talent in comedy was tested through his previous stints in Tropang Trumpo, a former gag show on Channel 5.

Good Comedian

Proper timing is needed to become a good comedian, Michael said. “If it’s too early masasayang, if it’s too late hindi matatawa ang tao. Proper timing is needed to deliver the punchline plus, you need the right attitude after you deliver the line.”

How do you come up with your antics?

“I get my ideas from everyday life,” he shared. “Good sources are my community and surroundings. I observe people, I go around. I read books. I watch a lot of movies, TV shows, sitcoms, gag shows as much as I can, and other foreign shows. I watch cartoons a lot. Then, saka ko ini-implement sa foundation ko which is my environment. Na alam ko na pwede sa environment ko at magwo-work sa masa.”

Do you also watch yourself?

“I do, most of the time. I’m my worst critic, I would say. Every time I watch myself, doon ko nakikita ang sarili ko. Sometimes, I would say, ‘My timing was wrong. This line should have been delivered earlier or later. I should not have done this facial expression.’ Iniisip ko na lang palagi that there’s always the next time.”

How do you digest each character you portray?

“First, I have to read the script. So I would know the strength and weaknesses of the character. It would take around a week to have an idea of the character. Then another week para maging ako ang character.”

As a comedian, the oddest character he has done was portraying a lechon. The weirdest character was becoming a bird.  “So what I did was naglagay na lang ako ng tuka.”

Since he was a kid, it has been the dream of Bitoy to become a comedian someday. “’Yong movies ni Nino Muhlach at Dolphy hindi nakakalagpas sa akin,” he said. “But when I was four years old, I wanted to become a waiter. I was really fascinated with the bow tie. When I was able to watch Muhammad Ali on TV, I wanted to become a boxer. Pero that time pinagtatawanan ako kasi ang payat-payat ko. Later on, when I learned to draw, I wanted to become a painter. But then generic among kids to become a movie star someday.”

Michael V. related that his talent in cracking up jokes and making people laugh is inherent in him. No wonder, he remains to be at the top after all these years.

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

#throwbackseries #MichaelV #BubbleGang #exclusiveinterview #entertainment #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

 

Are you craving for Hainanese chicken rice?

Here are our food discoveries on this popular dish here and abroad.

In terms of chicken dishes, one of the most widely known is Hainanese chicken rice. What makes this dish so special is its delectable taste – the poached chicken meat and seasoned rice. No wonder travelers from around the world have all the rage for this iconic dish.

  • Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice

If you’re planning a trip to Singapore, post-pandemic world, make it part of your itinerary to experience Singaporean cuisine. This small, but progressive and important island nation located just south of Malaysia not only offers modern tourist attractions, and impressive skyscrapers, but is also famous for Hainanese chicken rice, one of the national dishes of Singapore. It is being widely available in most food courts and hawker centers around the country.

“Variants of the dish are also seen throughout Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia, where it remains a culinary staple,” according to an online source.

Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice stall. Personal photo during our previous trip to Singapore.

Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice is probably Singapore’s most famous chicken rice stall located at Maxwell Food Centre. As seen from our last visit in past years, it had more tourists than locals queuing up for a plate of this popular dish. You just need to be patient, and in no time, it will be your turn to order.

It was worth the visit because the dish was really delicious – both the chicken meat and the rice were cooked to perfection. Per order of the dish was like Php250.00 – Ph350.00 in our local currency.

Even the late Anthony Bourdain said that the chicken rice was so fragrant and delicious that it could be eaten on its own.

  • Homeboy Hainanese

The pandemic may have restricted our movement, and planning a trip to Singapore may not be ideal at the moment. But this won’t stop us from tasting this dish in Manila, and at the comforts of our home.

An interesting discovery is Homeboy Hainanese, which offers and delivers Hainanese chicken rice. Though, still new in the food business, it’s getting a significant following for its quality and healthier take on the famous dish.

The sauces are made from scratch and are very flavorful – soy sauce, ginger, and chili. Courtesy: Homeboy Hainanese

It was a delight to have discovered it through a lady client. The delivery came just in time for lunch and was freshly packed. The food pack consisted of chicken fillet which was very tender; rice (an Oh Crop Adlai rice best for dieters as well); and the sauces are made from scratch and are very flavorful – soy sauce, ginger, and chili.

To fully enjoy the dish, I dabbed all three sauces in one bite of chicken meat and rice. I was very satisfied with how the dish was cooked. Indeed, it was a tummy-filling Hainanese experience! You need not go to Singapore to try it. If you want your order to be consumed later, you can store it in the refrigerator, then, reheat it in the microwave at 600w for 30 seconds.

For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/homeboyhainanese

A mouth-watering dish and satisfying dining experience can definitely fulfill any food cravings.

Featured photo: Homeboy Hainanese

#foodtravel #hainanesechickenrice #homeboyhainanese #tiantianhainanesechickenrice #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Jimini Foods Group Elevates Your Bagel Sandwiches with Bogels N.Y.

Bite into amazing today!

Jimini Foods Group (JFG), a leader and innovator in the frozen-fresh foods category, introduces an exciting new product for Pinoy foodies with Bogels N.Y., your newest favorite amazing bogus bagels.

Bogels N.Y. takes pride in using the freshest ingredients and unique baking technique that results in incredibly satisfying bites. Delight in the wonderful crunch of a perfectly baked crust with a soft, chewy inside. Bogels N.Y. offers the perfect balance of health and great taste, all in one delightful bagel!

Bogels N.Y. bagels are best enjoyed with a generous dollop of cream cheese or butter, or as a sandwich stuffed with all your favorite greens and deli cold cuts. Bogels N.Y. can even be enjoyed on its own; it’s that delicious!

Bogels N.Y. bagels come in two classic flavors: Whole Wheat Delight and B&W Sesame Sprinkle. The Whole Wheat Delight offers a more satiating and dense bite, while the B&W Sesame Sprinkle gives you that extra crunch and texture. Elevate your breakfast sandwiches and snacks or make it an everyday meal on its own with Bogels N.Y. This is nothing you’ve ever tasted before!

Bite into amazing today!

Bogels N.Y. bagels are available in individual packs (P42) and per dozen (P504 per pack) and are available online on Gusta! and Naber.

 #BogelsNY #JiminiFoodsGroup #bagels #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Add to Cart: Top 10 best-selling books from Big Bad Wolf Books Online Sale

Due to the huge turnout, the sale has been extended until July 12, 2021.

This year’s Big Bad Wolf Books Sale was different than previous editions, but the response was incredible as always. More than 60,000 titles were offered at discounts of up to 99% in the first Big Bad Wolf Books Online Sale in the Philippines. Due to the huge turnout, the sale has been extended until July 12, 2021.

Choosing which books to add to your cart can be a daunting task, especially with the thousands of options available. To help you out, here’s a list of the top 10 best-selling books from this year’s sale:

1. The Atlas of Fairy Tales by Claudia Bordin – PHP 350 only!
Category: Picture and reading book for kids
This collection of incredible adventures of all your favorite fairy tales and children’s classics is told through a series of stunning illustrations that young readers will definitely enjoy.

2. Superheroes Without Capes by Isabella Grott – PHP 350 only!
Category: Picture reference book for kids
This picture book features the stories of 20 men and women who use their skills and talents to make the world a better place – because not all superheroes wear caps.

3. Junior Dictionary & Thesaurus by Cindy Leaney – PHP 390 only!
Category: Reference book
Every page of this dictionary and thesaurus for young readers is packed with colorful illustrations and pictures to help them improve their spelling, expand their vocabulary, and polish their grammar skills!

4. Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan – PHP 230 only!
Category: Asian Literature, Romance
This acclaimed 2013 New York Times bestseller follows the story of Rachel Chu, as she spends the summer in Singapore with her boyfriend Nicholas Young and his family. Crazy Rich Asians is the first novel in a series by Kevin Kwan.

5. A Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L’Engle – PHP 230 only!
Category: Young Adult Fiction
This special, movie tie-in edition of the upcoming major motion picture features the complete, unabridged original text of the 1962 novel. Winner of the 1963 Newbery Medal, A Wrinkle in Time is the first book in Madeleine L’Engle’s classic Time Quintet.

6. Trickery by Roald Dahl – PHP 190 only!
Category: Contemporary Fiction
In this collection of short stories, Roald Dahl takes readers on a journey into ten different stories that reveal the dark, twisted deceptions that humans are capable of.

7. Keep It Simple by Joe Calloway – PHP 190 only!
Category: Business and self-help
With over 30 years of experience as a consultant and coach to high performing companies and individuals, Joe Calloway is an expert in how to focus and simplify. By getting clear on what really matters most, you can streamline your life, reduce stress, and achieve the personal and business results you desire.

8. Success Affirmations: 52 Weeks For Living A Passionate And Purposeful Life by Jack Canfield – PHP 230 only!
Category: Business and self-help
Jack Canfield is a master motivator, world-renowned teacher, and best-selling author of “The Success Principles.” In his latest book, Success Affirmations, he helps readers break through to new levels of passion, purpose, and prosperity with 52 affirmations and proven wisdom.

9. Unlimited Power by Anthony Robbins – PHP 230 only!
Category: Business and self-help
Unlimited Power from Anthony Robbins is a revolutionary fitness book for the mind. It is the ultimate guide to peak performance in the age of success and shows how you can achieve an extraordinary life.

10. The Courage To Be Happy: True Contentment Is Within Your Power by Ichiro Kishimi – PHP 230 only!
Category: Business and self-help
In The Courage To Be Happy, Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga once again share their wisdom into simple yet profound advice to show on how to find true happiness.

More promos await Big Bad Wolf Books fans at the extended Sale
The Big Bad Wolf Books Online Sale is extended through Monday, July 12, 2021. In addition to a fresh restock of books, the sale also features a number of new limited-time promotions to look forward to at the official website [ph.bbwbooks.com], such as:

● Two thematic ‘Flash Sales’ during which further discounts will be offered for a few hours only!

TGIF – THANK GOODNESS IT’S FLASH SALE
Date: 9th July 2021 – 10th July 2021
Time: 8PM – 8AM

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER FLASH SALE
Date: 10th July 2021 – 11th July 2021
Time: 8PM – 8AM

● Extra 25% off discount on movie and music book titles.
● Special offer of extra 20% off on graphic novels.

Big Bad Wolf Books is proud to partner with the Bureau of Copyright and Related Rights of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) for the Big Bad Wolf Online Book Sale Philippines 2021 in a joint effort to continue to promote and inculcate a love for reading. Additional partners of the sale include Dragonpay and eGHL, ensuring a smooth online payment process for everyone, and ABSCBN News, the official media partner of Big Bad Wolf Books.

For more information about BIG BAD WOLF Books, please visit:
Website: https://bigbadwolfbooks.com/.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bbwbooksphilippines.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbwbooksph/.

#BigBadWolfBooks #TheBiggestOnlineBookSale #BBWPHOnlineSale #bestsellingbooks #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Huawei Releases 2020 Sustainability Report

Tech for Good: Sustainable Social Development with ICT

Huawei today released its 2020 Sustainability Report. The company has been publishing this annual report for 13 consecutive years. The 2020 report explains the major progress that Huawei has made over the past year in its four strategies for sustainability: digital inclusion, security and trustworthiness, environmental protection, and a healthy and harmonious ecosystem.

TECH4ALL digital inclusion initiative: Leaving no one behind in the digital world

The COVID-19 pandemic has strained global education and healthcare systems in a way that has never been seen before. The company has been using its innovative ICT solutions to provide people across different regions with equal access to quality education and healthcare resources and playing its part in the fight against the pandemic.

In 2020, Huawei rolled out its Skills on Wheels and Connecting Schools programs in over 200 schools around the world, benefiting more than 60,000 people. Huawei also used ICT solutions to assist the pandemic response in the communities where it operates and provided technical assistance to nearly 90 countries, doing its best to support local communities in this time of great need.

As part of its efforts to provide universal access to digital technologies and applications, Huawei provides 15 accessibility functions on its smartphones. Every month, about 10 million people use these functions that allow them to better enjoy a smart lifestyle.

In 2020, Huawei helped 22 protected areas in 18 countries manage natural resources and protect biodiversity more efficiently using its digital technologies. Huawei also launched the RuralStar Pro solution, which provides voice and mobile broadband services for sparsely populated remote villages. Its RuralStar solutions now provide network coverage for more than 50 million people in remote communities.

Staying people-centric: Building secure, trustworthy, and high-quality products, solutions, and services

“We believe that technology should be people-centric,” said Tao Jingwen, a board member and Chairman of the CSD Committee of Huawei, in the report. “Technology should serve people in a manner that fully respects their rights by guaranteeing informed choice and consent.”

Huawei treats cyber security and privacy protection as its top priorities. In 2020, Huawei released the Software Process Trustworthiness Capability Framework and Assessment Criteria, establishing a complete set of trustworthy coding production mechanisms. As of the end of 2020, Huawei had been granted 2,963 patents relating to cyber security and privacy protection around the world. Last year, the company signed data processing agreements with more than 5,000 suppliers and performed extensive due diligence to ensure compliance.

Despite the pandemic and being on the Entity List, Huawei continued to ensure the smooth communications of more than three billion people worldwide and support network stability during more than 200 disasters and major incidents.

Tech for a better planet: Powering green and sustainable development with technology

“An intelligent world should be a green world,” said Liang Hua, Chairman of Huawei, in the report. “Advances in technology can help us better understand and protect nature, mitigating the impact of human activity on the planet. We believe that technology can work in harmony with nature and help make this world a better place.”

As part of its efforts to create a greener and more sustainable digital world, Huawei focuses on cutting carbon emissions, promoting renewable energy, and contributing to a circular economy. In 2020, Huawei’s CO2 emissions per million RMB of sales revenue showed a 33.2% reduction compared to the base year (2012), beating the target (30%) the company set in 2016.

In 2020, the global environmental non-profit CDP scored more than 5,800 companies for its efforts to tackle climate change, and Huawei was one of the few companies that were recognized with a prestigious ‘A’ score for its actions to cut emissions, mitigate climate risks and develop the low-carbon economy.

To promote renewable energy, Huawei has deployed its digital power solutions in more than 170 countries and regions, serving one-third of the world’s population. To date, these solutions have generated 325 billion kWh of electricity from renewable sources and saved 10 billion kWh of electricity. These efforts have resulted in a reduction of 160 million tons in CO2 emissions.

The company is also using more eco-friendly materials, designing its products for greater longevity, using more sustainable packaging, and reducing waste. Combined, these actions will help promote a circular economy.

Tech for good: Continuing to create social value and driving progress towards the UN SDGs

In addition to creating more business value for its customers, Huawei recognizes the importance of creating social value for all stakeholders and advancing progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Huawei cares about its employees and puts their safety first. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the company took a number of steps to ensure the health and safety of employees and help suppliers and contractors safely resume work.

In 2020, Huawei organized more than 650 charitable activities around the world. Its flagship CSR program Seeds for the Future has benefited nearly 9,000 students from 130 countries and regions, and these young people will become a valuable talent pool for the ICT industry in the future.

Over the past year, Huawei continued to enhance its compliance program and engaged and collaborated openly and proactively with stakeholders to foster mutual understanding and trust.

In the post-pandemic era, technology is poised to play an even greater role in supporting sustainable social development. Huawei is ready and willing to work with its partners and use innovative ICT solutions to support progress towards the UN SDGs, and ultimately, to bring digital to every person, home, and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world.

The 2020 Sustainability Report can be found at: http://www.huawei.com/en/sustainability/sustainability-report

#Huawei #2020SustainabilityReport #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Discover Gusta! Foods PH: Your Online Kitchen Pantry for Your Family’s Best Meals

As we’re given more time to be at home, we savor the moments with our friends and family. Indeed, these past months have given us a unique and precious opportunity to reconnect and explore our passions – most especially when it comes to our talents in the kitchen!

As Filipinos, we show our love and appreciation for others through memorable meals made with love. And Gusta!, the country’s newest ONLINE KITCHEN PANTRY by the category creator of FROZEN-FRESH Jimini Foods Group, has become the ever-so-reliable partner of every aspiring cook and homemaker, bringing convenience and delicious dishes straight to your homes.

Gusta! guarantees fresh, exciting flavors, and amazing foodie finds all in one place. Discover a great selection that will truly delight your taste buds – from ready-to-heat meals to frozen-fresh goods, to ready-to-cook international and local dishes, snacks, desserts, beverages, and more!

For those who are looking for a quick and delicious meal, Gusta! introduces its “Chef’s recom-mendations,” which include selections from well-known restaurant brands such as CIBO, Chili’s, Casa Reyes, Max’s Group (Max’s, Pancake House, Teriyaki Boy, and Dencio’s), Nanbantei, XO 46 Heritage Bistro, Rico’s Lechon, and Cusina by Albergus, to name a few. If you’re craving some of your favorite snacks, Gusta! also carries selections from local iconic brands and favorites such as Jimini Whole Pizza, Potato Corner, and Nathaniel’s.

If you’re feeling kind of creative and want to whip up a delicious meal of your own, Gusta! also lends a hand, offering you the essentials you need – from kitchen ingredients to supplies and cooking tools.

Whether you’re prepping for a snack or a feast, find it here on Gusta! Simply add to your cart and have all of your orders delivered conveniently to your home. Delicious food and meals on your plate with just a few easy clicks!

Discover. Delight. Delivered. Delicious! Only at Gusta!

Head on to www.gustafoods.ph and have your orders delivered now! Sign-up for the newsletter and receive a 10% discount voucher on your first purchase. For updates, follow Gusta! on Facebook: Gusta Foods PH and Instagram: @gustafoodph

#gustafoodph #onlinekitchenpantry #gusta #deliciousfoodandmeals #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Huawei announces Seeds for the Future Program 2.0, planning to invest US$150 million in talent development over the next five years

Huawei on Thursday (July 8th) announced its Seeds for the Future Program 2.0, through which Huawei plans to invest US$150 million in digital talent development over the next five years. This program is expected to benefit more than 3 million additional people.

Huawei held a “Tech & Sustainability: Everyone’s Included” forum, co-hosted by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Representatives from Huawei, IUCN, the World Economic Forum, Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), Global Enabling Sustainability Initiative (GeSI), and Singapore Institute of International Affairs (SIIA) participated to discuss the role of technology in driving sustainability and building a more inclusive, eco-friendly world.

Promoting equal access to education and talent development

According to a 2020 report by UNICEF and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), about 2.2 billion people aged 25 years or younger still lack internet connections at home.

“Digital skills and literacy are not just the foundation for the digital economy; they are also a basic human right defined by the United Nations,” said Huawei’s Chairman Liang Hua at the forum. “Today we are announcing Huawei’s Seeds for the Future Program 2.0. As part of our commitment to continuously developing talent, we will invest US$150 million in this program over the next five years and help college students and young people improve their digital skills. This program is expected to benefit more than 3 million additional people.”

Huawei is committed to helping develop digital talent in the countries where it operates. In 2008, Huawei began to roll out talent development programs, through scholarships, technology competitions, and digital skills training, and has invested more than US$150 million in these programs. Huawei has since benefited more than 1.54 million people from over 150 countries.

The Seeds for the Future program is designed to inspire local talents and encourage seeds for the society to tackle digital challenges. The program has benefited more than 100 students in the Philippines.

As an echo for the forum, Huawei Asia Pacific held the APAC Media Virtual Roundtable with laser focus on addressing digital inclusion and sustainable development of this region. Jay Chen, Vice President of Huawei Asia Pacific, announced Huawei’s plan to cultivate more than 40,000 ICT talent in the next five years through multiple programs including Seeds for the Future in the region.

“In the digital economy, digital talent is playing an increasingly important role in driving digital transformation and economic growth. The access to education is vital for creating opportunities that support sustainable and fair development. Due to the pandemic, we are moving the program online and opening it up to more outstanding students than ever before,” said Jay Chen.

In the Asia Pacific, Huawei has been a firm enabler for building an inclusive talent ecosystem. Amid the pandemic, collaborations with top universities are accelerating. Till now, Huawei has built collaborations with around 200 universities in countries across the Asia Pacific and over 40 universities in the Philippines.

Addressing environmental challenges and enabling green development

Climate change and environmental issues are becoming global challenges. Though carbon emissions declined over the past year due to the economic slowdown and worldwide lockdowns, emissions are rapidly rebounding as economies reopen. Shifting to a circular economy and achieving sustainable development is now a common goal for all countries.

“Green and sustainable development has become a top priority for global economies,” said Liang. “Huawei has been leveraging its extensive experience in power electronics and energy storage as well as technical expertise in 5G, cloud, and AI, to develop its digital power business and provide digital power solutions for different industries. As of December 2020, Huawei’s digital power products and solutions have generated 325 billion kWh of electricity from renewable sources and saved a total of 10 billion kWh of electricity. These efforts have resulted in a reduction of 160 million tons in CO2 emissions.”

In Singapore, for example, Huawei FusionSolar Solution has supported Sunseap Group, a solar energy solutions provider, to build the world’s largest offshore floating Photovoltaic (PV) farms. With 13,312 solar panels, 40 inverters, and more than 30,000 floats, this five-hectare sea-based solar plant is estimated to produce up to 6,022,500 kWh of energy per year, supplying enough power for 1250 four-room public housing flats on the island and offsetting an estimated 4258 tons of carbon dioxide, according to Bruce Li, Managing Director of the Huawei Asia-Pacific Enterprise Digital Power Business.

“By working together, countries can mutually support one another to meet their sustainability commitments. There are many areas where digital technology can support this, such as in enabling a transparent and verifiable carbon market. Singapore’s public and private sectors have expressed interest in working with its neighbors on climate action,” said Associate Professor Simon Tay, Chairman of SIIA at the forum.

About Seeds for the Future Program

Seeds for the Future is Huawei’s flagship global CSR program. The program was launched in 2008 in Thailand. This program aims to develop skilled, local ICT talent and bridge communication between countries and cultures. By sharing our ICT expertise and experiences in the global business environment, young people from different countries can learn about advanced technologies in the ICT industry and accumulate ICT expertise and skills through the Seeds for the Future program, contributing to the progress of the global ICT industry. This program helps develop local ICT talents, enhance knowledge transfer, promote a greater understanding and interest in the telecommunications sector, and improve and encourage regional building and participation in the digital community.

#Huawei #Tech&Sustainability #ICTIndustry #SeedsfortheFutureProgram #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Featured photo: Huawei’s Chairman Liang Hua speaks at the Tech & Sustainability: Everyone’s Included forum

Modern ways to wear Filipiniana

A cropped terno top worn with slim silk pants . . . Art Deco-inspired black embroidery on a white silk terno top and ruffled skirt . . . an exquisitely embroidered capelet over a red shantung silk gown . . . a playful inabel terno top with pineapple designs.

These are some of the Kultura Filipino’s Modern Filipiniana designs for the contemporary Filipina. And you’ll be amazed how the traditional Filipiniana attire has been transformed into inventive and exciting new looks.

The iconic butterfly-sleeved terno gets a fresh new look worn with pants and other modern pieces. Natural materials like pinasilk and jusi are woven by local artisans into stylish pieces with exquisite hand painting and embroidery. Inabel fabric from the Ilocos region is updated with innovative designs.

In this time that intimate events and special occasions with health protocols are now allowed, make that moment memorable and meaningful and dress up with fashionable Modern Filipiniana and Barong Tagalog from Kultura.

The collection consists of both classic and modern silhouettes – tops, skirts, and dresses that can be worn together or mix and match. Many of the pieces are embroidered or hand-painted by artisans in our partner communities of weavers, embroiderers, farmers, and workers, making each unique and a true labor of love.

Perfect for small intimate events and special occasions, the Modern Filipiniana and Barong Tagalog collections are available at Kultura Stores.  You can also shop thru our website: www.kulturafilipino.com or thru Call to Deliver 09175174096.  Kultura ships here and abroad.

Featured photos: Feminine hand-painted silk cocoon barong top with puffed sleeves and is paired with a navy mikado silk ball gown skirt, beautifully embroidered silk cocoon capelet paired with a red shantung silk gown.

#ModernFilipiniana #BarongTagalog #Kultura #stylishpieces #mixandmatch #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

PH Pandemic Updates: More COVID-19 variants detected in ongoing biosurveillance

The Department of Health (DOH), the University of the Philippines – Philippine Genome Center (UP-PGC), and the University of the Philippines – National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH) report the detection of additional cases of two Delta (B.1.617.2) variant cases, 132 Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant cases, 119 Beta (B.1.351) variant cases, and three Theta (P.3) variant cases based on the latest whole genome sequencing report.

On DELTA VARIANT Cases:

The two new Delta variant cases are Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs) with travel history from Saudi Arabia. Both arrived in the Philippines on May 29, 2021, and have completed the requisite 10-day isolation period. They have been discharged from the quarantine facility after being tagged as recovered.

On ALPHA VARIANT Cases:

Of the additional 132 Alpha variant cases detected, 125 are local cases, one is an ROF, and six are being verified as to whether these are local or ROF cases. Based on the case line list, 15 cases have died and 117 cases have been tagged as recovered. The Alpha variant cases now total 1,217.

On BETA VARIANT Cases:

Of the additional 119 Beta variant cases detected, 111 are local cases, two are ROFs, and six cases are being verified as to whether these are local or ROF cases. Based on the case line list, three cases are currently active, 104 cases have been tagged as recovered, and 12 cases have died. The total Beta variant cases are now 1,386.

On THETA VARIANT Cases:

The additional three Theta variant cases are local cases and have already been tagged as recovered.

Currently, the Theta variant is not identified as a variant of concern (VOC) since more data is needed to conclude whether the variant will have significant public health implications.

The DOH reminds all fully vaccinated individuals to continue following the prescribed minimum public health standards to ensure that transmission of COVID-19 is minimized.

Mass gatherings are especially discouraged regardless of vaccination status, as these are the main drivers of outbreaks among unvaccinated persons in countries with relatively high vaccination rates.

The DOH is also committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure that border control measures are strictly implemented.

Source: https://doh.gov.ph/

Featured photo courtesy of Gustavo Fring on Pexels

#COVID19Variants #pandemiclife #Philippines #DOH #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

The Gonzaga Sisters sing praises of water for health and beauty

A lot of money is spent on cosmetics, facelifts, and other so-called beauty solutions to achieve young skin and a smooth, glowing complexion. The same goes for fitness products, supplements, gym fees, and equipment to possess a fit, healthy and ageless body.

But did you know that the simple, often costless solution to all those must-haves is just right under our noses? The answer is water.

If your skin is dry, dull, and prone to getting wrinkles, maybe you’re just not drinking enough water. Besides changing weather conditions and environmental irritants, not drinking enough water can give you a dry complexion.

As we grow older, the skin slows its production of the substances that keep our faces hydrated. Hydration becomes more and more important to keep skin elastic and wrinkle-free. Hydrated skin does look more plump, healthy, and youthful-looking. And here’s the thing. Hydration also keeps skin from being oily. Did you know that dehydrated skin produces more oil to compensate for the lack of inner moisture?

When it comes to health and fitness, water is the perfect solution as well. Water maintains our digestive, heart, and lung functions help lubricate our joints, protects our tissues, regulates our body temperature and so much more.

Contrary to common impressions, drinking more water will reduce bloat and flush out toxins, minimizing the harmful results of salty foods and snacks.

Some studies say water also helps with weight loss. Drinking a glass of water before a meal can help decrease appetite, help with portion control, aid in food digestion, and boost metabolism. If water is consumed instead of high-calorie drinks, it reduces calorie intake as well.

So how much water should you drink? Experts say eight glasses or two liters per day. But water requirements may differ based on age, environment, and activity levels. The more active you are, the more water you should drink.

The Gonzaga Sisters, Toni, and Alex are certified water buffs, the reason why they were selected by Nature’s Spring Water to be their official icons. Alex takes two liters of water per day while Toni is meticulous about the water she drinks, making sure it’s always bottled water she’s taking “because it’s safe, it’s sealed and you can trust it”.

Toni Gonzaga

“I didn’t believe in hydration before, but now I do. I know how water flushes out all the toxins in your body that you get from whatever you eat or drink. I always feel good after drinking water. And I also drink water to lose weight. It helps me to stay regular and I noticed that my “puson” (belly) is trimmer when I take water instead of juices and sugary drinks,” says Alex.

“When you drink water, you’re moisturizing your body and your inner beauty. Your cells are given more life, and this helps you glow. When you’re clean from within, you glow,” adds Toni.

Alex Gonzaga

The dynamic sisters continue to make waves in whatever passion they pursue, their respective YouTube vlogs, among others, where they have millions of subscribers. Visit www.naturespring.com.ph for more hydration tips and subscribe to Nature’s Spring newsletter to get 10% off on your first purchase.

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