Enjoy Chinese New Year Traditions at F1 Hotel Manila

The new year signifies a new cycle of opportunities and prosperity for most people. It’s a time to both manifest and be resolute with actions to better one’s outlook and outcome in life. The best way to herald this is a festive ritual that would bless the mind, body, soul, and spirit.

F1 Hotel Manila celebrates the new lunar year with a bountiful Chinese New Year lunch buffet at F All–Day Dining for Php 2,188 net per person on January 22, 2022.

A traditional Lion Dance performance will ignite the festivities accompanied by the beating symphony of drums, gongs, and cymbals. As the lion snakes its way through the crowd, it brings about harmony, prosperity, and fortune, and the noise is also believed to ward off evil entities. 

This can all be enjoyed as guests indulge in the Chinese New Year lunch buffet, which will be meticulously prepared by F1 Hotel Manila’s culinary team and will feature special Chinese dishes including the following: Yee Sang, a prosperity salad that symbolizes abundance and vigor, which is tossed for good luck; DongPo Pork Knuckle, pan-fried braised pork flavored with secret Chinese spices;  Duck Wrap pancakes with hoisin sauce; Suckling Pig and Tang Yuan, sweet glutinous rice balls with a hint of ginger, which may remind diners of local guinataan but with a twist.

A legendary Money Tree will stand in the foyer of the F All-Day Dining restaurant, which brings good chi or “energy” and is believed to bring wealth and prosperity to anyone who touches it.

For inquiries and table reservations, please call 7908-7888 or visit our website at www.f1hotelmanila.com.

 

#F1HotelManila #ChineseNewYear2023 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Christmastime in the City: Irresistible Holiday Treats

A round-up of holiday treats to make your celebrations merry and delightfully unforgettable.  Indulge in these establishments’ many special Yuletide deals – ranging from superb accommodation, buffet feast, and a year-end party to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!

 

  • Awesome holiday experience at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas

Richmonde offers value-for-money holiday room rates for bookings until January 14, 2023 (except December 24 & 31), starting at PhP 3,600 nett (room only) and PhP 4,200 nett (with breakfast for two) for stays from Sunday to Thursday; and PhP 3,800 nett (room only) and PhP 4,400 nett (with breakfast for two) for Friday and Saturday stays.

On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, you can celebrate with a comfortable and convenient city staycation complete with sumptuous buffets and fun activities. Invite family and friends to Richmonde Café on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve to bond over the dazzling Noche Buena and Media Noche feasts. The Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet is priced at PhP 1,595 nett and will be served from 6 pm to 10 pm.

RHO’s Deluxe twin room.

Give 2023 a hearty welcome with the generous gourmet indulgences at the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner Buffet and glitzy cocktails at the New Year’s Eve Countdown Party at the hotel lobby. The dinner buffet is priced at PhP 1,880 nett per person while tickets to the countdown bash are priced at PhP 1,280 nett each, inclusive of three drinks, a cocktail buffet, party favors, a glass of sparkling wine at the countdown, and live band performance. To make it a total celebration to remember, New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet and Countdown Bundle is available at a special discounted rate of just PhP 2,550 nett.

For inquiries, table reservations, and countdown ticket purchases, call (632) 8638-7777, SMS or Viber (63) 917 534 4352, email fbsup@richmondeortigas.com, or message @Richmonde Hotel Ortigas on Facebook and Instagram.

 

  • Festive buffets at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel

Have a wonderful time with an array of awesome room offers for your holiday break. On December 24 & 25, 2022, rates start at PhP 7,500 nett and come with a delightful breakfast buffet for two. To include a filling Noche Buena buffet good for two at Eastwood Café+Bar, book the Christmas Eve Room Package, valid only on December 24, which starts at PhP 10,500 nett, inclusive also of a special breakfast buffet for two.

Eastwood is the place to be on December 31st  and you can have a stylish welcome to 2023 with the New Year’s Eve Room Packages at rates starting at PhP 9,600 nett inclusive of brunch buffet for two, and PhP 12,600 nett for a night of revelry with two tickets to the New Year’s Eve Countdown Party and buffet brunch for two.

ERH Christmas Eve Buffet.

Indulge in fabulous banquets to celebrate the season and make your table reservation now to delight in the mouthwatering dishes specially prepared by Executive Chef Victor Barangan and his talented kitchen team. On Christmas Eve, feast your eyes, ears, and palate on the special spread highlighted by lechon roast, pork muscovado ham, beef short plate, Swedish meatballs with truffles, baked scallops, savory bonbons, and so much more, with live cello music in the background, at a rate of PhP 1,999 nett that comes with bottomless iced tea, coffee or tea, and a glass of red or white wine. The Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet is served from 6pm to 9pm on December 24th.

Bid 2022 adieu with a fun blast from the past at the Rockin’ Retro New Year’s Eve Countdown Party happening at the hotel lobby from 9pm to 12mn on December 31st. For only Php1,799 nett, revel in flowing drinks and a filling international-themed cocktail buffet.

For inquiries and bookings, call (632) 8570 7777 / (63) 917 531 6867 or email stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com. For table reservations, call (63) 917 821 0333 or send a message via Eastwood Richmonde Hotel’s official Facebook page.

 

  • Happy homecoming at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo

Have a happy homecoming or relaxing staycation at Richmonde and enjoy the most spacious rooms in the city with its splendid amenities and friendly service. Book from December 16, 2022 to January 26, 2023 at rates starting at PhP 5,700 nett (room only) and PhP 6,200 nett (room with breakfast buffet for two).

On December 24 and 31, have a Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve stay for as low as PhP 6,000 nett (room only) and PhP 6,500 nett (room with breakfast buffet for two) with all the above-mentioned perks.

The Granary’s Holiday luxe buffets Roast Turkey

This year’s festive feasts at The Granary are extra delectable with an impressive spread of holiday dishes the whole family will surely love! The Holiday Luxe Dinner Buffets happening on December 24, 25 & 31, 2022 and January 1, 2023, overflow with flavorful gourmet fare lovingly prepared by Executive Chef Ariel Castañeda and his kitchen team.

For those long-awaited family reunions and much-anticipated face-to-face parties, Richmonde has Holiday Banquet Packages to let you safely gather as you revel in style.  Rates start at PhP 59,000 nett for thirty (30) persons, and include a delectable lunch or dinner buffet with a round of drinks; coffee and tea; five (5) bottles of wine; four (4) pool passes each good for two persons; a gift certificate for an overnight stay for two persons in a Deluxe room with breakfast buffet; plus discount vouchers for room accommodations and food & beverage orders.

For inquiries, reservations, bookings and orders, call +63 33 328 7888 or contact stay@richmondeiloilo.com for room accommodations; +63 917 563 3973 / sales@richmondeiloilo.com for banquet bookings; and +63 917 563 3558 to order holiday goodies. Bookings and order of goodies may also be made online at Richmonde’s official website, www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph.

 

  • Holiday offerings at Crowne Plaza Seven Corners and Xin Tian Di Restaurant

Rediscover the warmth and joy brought by this Yuletide season as you dine at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria. Bask into the sumptuous feast from its season’s selections with your loved ones and friends.

In celebration of Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve at Seven Corners, they will be highlighting the following dishes: The signature Ribeye Steak, savory Roasted Turkey with Bread Stuffing, festive Holiday Ham and our succulent Salmon Wellington. You can enjoy these astounding dishes only at Php 3,300 nett per person.

Xin Tian Di has prepared a special set menu for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve that will surely complete your holiday celebrations. For as low as Php 1,888++ per person, you can enjoy authentic and luxurious Chinese flavors personally crafted by their in-house Chinese Executive Chef.

As we welcome the year 2023, celebrate Media Noche at Seven Corners Restaurant for a special rate of Php 2,500 nett per person. For inquiries, contact us at (02) 87900 3100, or email fandb.reservations@ihg.com.

 

Let us fill our hearts with gratitude for the past year and toast for good luck and prosperity in 2023!

 

#holidayoffering #christmas #newyear #richmondehotels #sevencorners #xintiandi #crowneplaza #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Best holiday treats to give your family this Christmas

It’s December, and the Christmas spirit is in the air.  The culture of gift-giving is more than just the price tags and fancy presents – it’s about the comfort and memory that comes with the gift. Giving your loved ones the perfect gift or treat is more tricky than it looks, but with this list of holiday treats, people will surely enjoy the Christmas season with a smile and a grateful heart!

 

Great food, great time

Richmonde Hotel Ortigas is ready to spice up your holiday season with its own special menu, crafted by the renowned Executive Chef Tristan Galang. Presenting a mix of delectable goodies and sumptuous dishes, Richmonde hotel showcases its Special Hotbox Platters which includes Salmon en Croute, Cottage Pie, Shepherd’s Pie, Chicken Pot Pie, and Potatoes au Gratin.

RHO Holly Jolly Yummy Goodies.

If you’re craving for something sweet to display at your holiday feast, Richmonde has the most delectable baked goodies that would brighten your family’s day! Starting with their Signature Moist Chocolate Cake, Flourless Chocolate Cake, and Red Velvet Cheesecake, your dining table will surely be filled with gorgeous smiles and happy stomachs! They also offer these fresh bread—Banana Walnut Bread, Creamy Spinach Baguette, Cranberry Babka, and Coffee Bun. You can also partner them with the affordable Richmonde Herbed Butter and Bacon Jam spreads.

They also offer Filipino favorites Plain Ensaymada and Ube Ensaymada, given a holiday twist with these new flavors, Pork Floss Ensaymada and Alcapone Ensaymada. They are also available in Mini-Ensaymadas in boxes of 4 pcs and 9 pcs.

If you want just the perfect gift this Christmas, you can choose from Richmonde’s Christmas Hampers! The Box of Freshly Baked Bliss and the Hamper of Holiday Happiness. What’s great is, they can also be purchased in bulk!

Eastwood Richmonde is also all geared up with its baked specials. They cooked up a twist in their Richmonde Christmas Cookies, with Sea Salt Double Chocolate, Oatmeal Craisin, and Santa’s Pantry flavors. They also parade their unique chocolate bars, with different flavors such as White Chocolate and Ube Marshmallow, Dark Chocolate with Dilis, and Milk Chocolate with Roasted Cashews and Candied Pili.

ERH Holiday Goodies 2022.

For those looking for Christmas staples, Eastwood Richmonde offers Christmas Tiramisu, alongside loaves with flavors like Banana Chocolate Chip, Walnut Bread, Chocolate Pistachio Babka, Kesong Puti, Tomato; Basil Focaccia, and Brioche. They also have the center of attention: delectable hams. Richmonde offers 1.5kg Muscovado Ham, 1.2kg Chicken Ham, and the 300g Sliced Muscovado Ham.

Moreover, they also have Christmas hampers such as the Sweet and Savory Christmas Bundle, as well as the Baked Yuletide Bunch. These tasty goodies will surely brighten up your holiday menu!

 

Best clothes to keep you warm

 The Fall/Winter 2022 Collection of UNIQLO’s LifeWear features a lineup of wardrobe staples that will surely keep you stylish this holiday season!

UNIQLO Holiday gift items.

Armed with its new HEATTECH technology, UNIQLO’s clothes will keep you warm, without the expense of bulking up in clothes. Moreover, it converts body moisture into heat, making you feel cozy and comfortable. Not bad for people seeking the snow and cold this season!

 

Electrifying music to keep you hyped

 If you’re looking for the next band to stan, Globe and 88risimg got your back! The 2022 Head in the Clouds Music and Arts Festival is coming to Manila for the first time on December 9 and 10 at the SM Festival Grounds in Parañaque City. Featuring renowned singers such as Joji, Jackson Wang, NIKI, Rich Brian, and eaJ, it is set to take Manila by storm.

Courtesy of Globe, you can avail two-day General Admission ticket for only P6,888 from its original price of P12,888. Just purchase your tickets at SM tickets with the special code GLOBEPASS to avail of the promo! Get it now and live your musical fantasy this holiday season!

 

Keep in touch with new high-tech phones

This season, Nokia is big on gift-giving as they introduce new models, such as the Nokia X30 and the Nokia C10.

Nokia Mobile Christmas Raffle Promo.

The Nokia X30 is presented to be the most eco-friendly smartphone, partnered with three years of warranty 3 and 3 OS upgrades. Nokia C10, on the other hand, is just a gift for the first-time smartphone user. It is the perfect entry-level phone for anyone who wants to be techy and at the same time, master the ropes of smartphones!

With all these gifts and treats in mind, your loved ones will surely feel lucky to receive these presents. There is nothing better than a well-thought-out gift – and this list might just be your key to a great Christmas. Happy shopping!

By Princess Friel Lontoc

 

#holidaytreats #christmas2022 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

‘Pa, Salamat’: Unique treats for the whole family

Whether he’s picking us up from school, making us laugh with his jokes, or secretly treating us behind Mama’s back, we can always count on Papa, Dada, Pa, Dad to be there for us.

As a way of saying “Pa, Salamat” to all fathers and father figures this Father’s Day weekend, Globe At Home launches various activities and promos to watch out for so that families can express their appreciation and love for our very own haligi ng tahanan.

“PA, Salamat” Treats until June 30!

Just by purchasing a Globe At Home Prepaid WiFi or availing of any Globe At Home Plan in select retailers nationwide, surprise Dads with free treats such as cakes, gas vouchers, and even a car wash!

Meanwhile, select current Globe At Home customers who download the Globe At Home app may celebrate Father’s Day with gift vouchers from Foodpanda, PureGo, HealthNow, and Viber.

Apart from that, Globe At Home Postpaid customers can gift their tech-savvy dads with a Huawei Vision S monitor. How? Until July 7, customers can earn raffle entries by:

  • Updating Globe At Home contact details by July 4, 2021 to earn (1) raffle ticket;
  • Upgrading current Globe At Home plans to a higher plan OR buying any Globe At Home add-on device to earn (3) raffle tickets;
  • Upgrading current Globe at home plan AND buying any Globe At Home add-on device to earn six (6) raffle tickets

 PA, Let’s hang out via Viber Chat Party on June 18

Each dad’s journey to fatherhood differs from one another and it’s fun to discover the amazing stories of one dad to another. Hear it from Globe At Home ambassadors themselves!  Dad of three, Drew Arellano, and first-time father, Slater Young will share their small and big dad wins at home, wise parenting do’s and don’ts, as well as cool and useful gadgets for dads through the Globe At Home Viber community on June 18.

 PA, Tag Kita on Social Media until June 30!

Stay tuned to the Globe At Home Facebook page for daily social media challenges with #PaSalamat giveaways for Globe At Home Prepaid and Postpaid customers for a chance to win Samsung Smart Things worth Php 19,000. Be ready with throwback photos or favorite photos with dad, legendary dad jokes or memorable lines, as well as valuable life lessons from dad.  Stay tuned to Globe At Home’s Facebook page for more information.

 Even if families today can’t celebrate like before, Globe At Home makes it possible to still own the world at home and have them say #PaSalamat to today’s awesome dads and father figures in our lives.

Follow Globe At Home’s Facebook page and subscribe to the Globe At Home Viber community. For more ways on how to say #PaSalamat this Father’s Day weekend, bookmark this page: https://glbe.co/PaSalamat.

#GlobeAtHome #FathersDay #uniquetreats #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

The joys of fatherhood

Celebrity fathers Ogie Alcasid, Ariel Rivera, and Cesar Montano are, no doubt, happy with how their respective careers have turned out, but they all agree they experienced far greater joy when they became parents. Needless to say, fatherhood has put meaning to their lives.

Let’s get to know their thoughts on fatherhood and child-rearing experiences.

Ogie Alcasid: “I found my place in the greater scheme of things”

“I found my place in the greater scheme of things,” uttered Ogie from a previous interview. Ogie is a doting and very supportive dad to three children (two girls, Leila and Sarah from his first marriage with former beauty queen Michelle Van Eimeren; and one son Nathaniel James with wife Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid).

Ogie with his children. Courtesy: Ogie Alcasid on Instagram

Ogie is enjoying his role as a father to the fullest. “Every moment that I’m with my children is important for me,” he shared. He became more of a child, too, “because when you’re already a parent you have to play with your kids. At the same time, you can’t take things for granted.”

He advises parents to have time for their family. “Even if it only takes two to three hours a day, make it a point to play and talk to your kids if you don’t want them to grow up not knowing you,” Ogie said.

Ariel Rivera: “The love for a parent to a child is unconditional love”

“There are no words to express my feelings when I became a father,” intimated Ariel from an earlier interview. “Now, I realized that your love for a son is very different from the love you have for your wife and mother.”

Ariel with his wife Gelli and children Joaquin and Julio. Courtesy: Jose Ariel Rivera FB page

With their two sons around, Joaquin and Julio (who are now attending schools in Canada), Ariel and his wife Gelli de Belen have become closer and stronger through times. The couple opted not to have a nanny when their children were still younger. “We didn’t get a nanny because I want to follow what my parents have done for us. My parents raised the five of us in Canada without a yaya. If they were able to do it with five kids, why can’t we do it? Kayang-kaya naman. Ang pinoy kasi gusto natin parati tayong komportable.”

The lesson he learned from child-rearing is the love of a parent to a child. “You’ll never know until you have one,” he said, “It’s unconditional love.”

The earnest balladeer has attained more depth and maturity in his musical career and personal life.

Cesar Montano: “Teach them the value of hard work and money”

Actor, film producer, and director Cesar Montano admitted that he’s a very lenient parent. “Kasi ngayon hindi na panahon ng lecture nang lecture sa bata. The children will not always listen to you, but for sure they will imitate you. ‘Yon ang paniniwala ko,” he explained from a previous interview.

As a parent, he has experienced the worst. But one thing he learned from it is “life should go on no matter what happened. Everyone learns from the lessons of life.” Needless to say, he has developed a broader perspective in life. “Lahat naman ng ito ginagawa ko para sa kanila. Mapalaki ko sila ng maganda at magkaroon ng magandang buhay.”

Cesar has admitted that he’s a very lenient parent. Courtesy: Cesar Montano FB page

One thing he learned from child-rearing, and which he inherited from his late dad, Genovevo, is to make life a little difficult for your children. “Hindi dapat bigay hilig. Hindi kailangan ng lahat ng pangangailangan nila ibibigay mo. Teach them the value of hard work and money.”

Life in Sta. Ana, he said, was the best time of his childhood days. His favorite hangout in Sta. Ana is Plaza Hugo, where he would always play basketball with his peers.

Did he imagine that he’ll become a popular star someday? “Ay, oo. Noong nagtitinda ako ng ice cream sabi ko siguro magiging sikat ako. Hawak ko ang bibingka, sabi ko ‘Cesar Montano ako paglaki,’” he guffawed. “Hindi ko akalaing maiisip ko ‘yon.”

Cesar is proud of his roots. “Siyempre. Dahil hindi ka magiging ganito ngayon, kung hindi ka magiging proud sa pinagdaanan mo. To be able to spend your life in your own way is a success in itself,” he ended.

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

Featured photos: Courtesy of Jose Ariel Rivera FB page, Ogie Alcasid FB page, and Cesar Montano FB page

#FathersDay #celebrityfathers #OgieAlcasid #ArielRivera #CesarMontano #throwbackseries #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Great Design Ideas for Dad’s Special Space

After a long day at work and family time at home, Dad craves to have his own special space where he can recharge, rethink, relax and be himself.  He longs for a quiet retreat where he can plunk down on a sofa, chill out with a drink, and unwind.

This me-time, after all, can make him a better husband and father which will eventually benefit the whole family. After all, what is more, pleasant than a man who is relaxed, happy, and stress-free?

This Father’s Day, help Dad create this special space – others call it a man cave – with a little help from Our Home.

Hallie Bar Set in white and wood finish.

There are cozy recliners where he can sit, recline, and relax.   Bar tables, chairs, and other bar essentials complete the fun.  If he must work at home, there are writing desks as well as ergonomic chairs to bring comfort to the WFH corner.

Lounge in style with this sleek and supple black leather Lexus Sofa.

Visit Our Home stores nationwide at select SM Supermalls for more Father’s Day gift ideas.  Customers who prefer to shop online can expect the same great shopping experience through www.ourhome.ph. In addition, Our Home has introduced Contactless Shopping Options for customers who prefer to stay in their homes. Customers can Call & Deliver – call 0917 8315260, pay online, and have their items delivered. They can Shop Live where a personal shopper takes them on a virtual tour of the store via video call. Curbside Pickup is also available.

**Shop in-store, online, or contactless with our Call & Deliver (0917)8315260, Shop Live, and Curbside Pickup services. Free interior design advice and affordable bespoke services are available.

**Only at Our Home. Great Designs. Great Prices.

#FathersDayGiftIdeas #dadsspecialspace #ourhomeph #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Treasure MOMents together this Mother’s Day

Megaworld Hotels, the country’s biggest and growing homegrown hospitality chain in the country, invites everyone to join in a free virtual serenade as we give tribute to an extraordinary woman in our lives we all call our mothers. The virtual concert is slated on the universal day of celebration, March 9, 2021, 5:30 PM onward and will be available via the Megaworld Hotels’ official Facebook fan page.

As the majority of the nation stays safe indoors and continues to battle the challenges by the unprecedented effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, tune in and be inspired as Group General Manager of Megaworld Hotels, Ms. Cleofe Albiso, and Department of Tourism Secretary, Sec. Bernadette Romulo-Puyat share words of encouragement that will ignite hope in the hearts of every mom and child from every walk of life.

Settling into the afternoon, enjoy the view of a golden sunset amidst the majestic Taal Volcano juxtaposed the Twin Lakes Hotel Tagaytay with live accompaniment of songs played by celebrated orchestra ensemble, Bernie Pasamba & the Music Masters and the vocals of Ms. Opalhene Barba.

Switch to a party mode while they whisk you off to the exclusive shores of Boracay Newcoast where Belmont and Savoy Hotel Boracay lights up the screen with the performance of a 5 gold medalist in the 2015 World Championships of Performing Arts in Long Beach California, Ms. Julia Serald of the Resorts World’s The Love Project.

Hosting the event is Vanessa Rodrigo-Reyes, known to many as Mommy Vanna, a long-running celebrated host for both social and corporate events and an advocate of healthy living, women empowerment, and mom entrepreneurs.

Win exciting prizes online! Participate all throughout the program’s interactive games.  You may just bag any of the following items:  1 Grand Prize winner of a Boracay Holiday package (2-night stay at Belmont Hotel Boracay and 2-night stay at Savoy Hotel Boracay with roundtrip tickets for 2 from AirSWIFT); 16 winners of Room Accommodation GCs from the different Megaworld Hotels; dining and SPA GCs from our special partners, PLUS, standby for details on our special LYKA giveaway promo for a chance to win a total of 30,000 worth of LYKA gems to be given away!

“In a moment when times are uncertain and our paths unclear, we turn to our mothers for guidance,” shares Ms. Cleofe Albiso. As a daughter and a mom of 4 children herself, she adds that “showing our appreciation to the women who radiates light into our homes is the least that we can do especially on their special day.”  This event also aims to rally and give hope and inspiration to the members of the tourism industry who may be at a loss due to the present unfavorable circumstances.

Together, representing an industry known for its genuine service, nurturing care, and homegrown hospitality, join them in honoring that special woman who has taught the value of Treasuring MOMents in your lives.

Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/megaworldhotels

Featured photos: Group General Manager of Megaworld Hotels, Ms. Cleofe Albiso, event layout, and Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.

#MomsDay #virtualserenade #TreasuringMOMents #megaworldhotels #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Delightful Treats for Mother’s Day

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo have prepared Mother’s Day takeaway bundle and yummy goodies that moms will surely love and enjoy at home! Plus, a specially curated dinner buffet on May 9th.

  • ·       Fiesta de Mayo for Mom at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel is dedicating this festive month of May to all mothers with its Fil-Mex-inspired takeaway fare featuring empanadas with unique flavors, and distinctive noodle dishes.

Perfect for snacks and as part of your lunch or dinner meal, Eastwood Café+Bar’s Meat Empanadas are anything but ordinary. Packed in boxes of 6 pieces, these fried flaky turnovers come in four variants: Pork Humba (PhP 475), Pork Sisig (PhP 515), Chicken Inasal (PhP 545), and Callos (PhP 475).

ERH Mother’s Day Empanada.

Since it’s not a party without a platter of pancit, Executive Chef Vic Barangan whipped up four delectable Celebration Noodles in honor of mom. There’s Pancit Alibawang (PhP 725) which is rice noodles in garlic squid ink sauce and topped with sliced vegetables, squid, and shrimp paste; Hot Ribs Pancit (PhP 865) made of soy noodles with braised Angus beef belly; Pancit con Lechon (PhP 885) consisting of stir-fried noodles with silky egg sauce and topped with spring vegetables and fried pork belly; and Mee Goreng (PhP 845), a popular Indonesian dish of soy chili noodles with chicken and herbs. Each order of Celebration Noodles is good for 4 to 5 persons.

ERH Mother’s Day Takeaway Bundle with Balloons.

To commemorate mom’s special day, order the Mother’s Day Bundle which comes with your choice of Celebration Noodles and Meat Empanadas, plus a 6” moist Richmonde Chocolate Cake for only PhP 1,650 nett. This set may be shared by 4 to 5 persons and includes a token for mom from Emperador Distillers. Add other items from Eastwood Café+Bar’s takeaway menu and if your purchase reaches PhP 2,500, you get a PhP 200 discount voucher that is valid for your next takeaway order. Call in your order in advance and if you are one of the first ten customers to have the Mother’s Day Bundle picked up or delivered on May 9, you get assorted do-it-yourself balloons for free!

Mom’s Fiesta de Mayo offerings are available from May 7 to 31, 2021 for curbside pickup and delivery within Metro Manila from 8 am to 6 pm. Delivery charges apply but deliveries within Eastwood City are free.

For inquiries and orders, call +632 8570 7777 or +63 917 821 0333 (mobile & Viber). One day lead time is required.

  • Gift Mom with a Charming Brunch Basket from Richmonde Ortigas

It’s the simple, thoughtful pleasures that make the most impact, especially if you add a whole lot of love. For mom this Mother’s Day, why not have her wake up to a hamper of delightful treats she can enjoy at home in bed, or even in the outdoors on a picnic blanket? However way mom prefers to savor the yummy goodies inside Richmonde Hotel Ortigas’ Mother’s Day Brunch Basket, it will surely be a treat she won’t soon forget!

RHO Brunch Basket

Freshly baked treasures like Richmonde’s mini version of its signature ensaymada, the Korean-inspired cream cheese, and chives bun, and French baguette complement the homemade goodness of the chicken galantine and the premium mortadella and lyoner cold cuts. The choice of grilled veggie wrap or grilled beef sandwich adds a filling option to the basket, while revel bars and sliced kiwi bring a bit of sweetness to the brunch set.

The Mother’s Day Brunch Basket is priced at only PhP 1,280 nett and is good for two persons. It is available for pickup or delivery starting May 8 until May 30, 2021. Delivery fees apply but for addresses within the San Miguel, Pearl Drive, and Escriva Drive areas, delivery is free.

For inquiries and orders, call (632) 8638 7777 or (63) 917 534 4352. One day lead time is required.·     

  • Celebrate the Merry Month of Mom at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo

May is mom’s month and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is kicking off the Mother’s Day festivities with a special dinner buffet on May 9th featuring some of the classic dishes of a culinary icon and also famous celebrity mom at that!

The Granary’s kitchen team headed by Executive Sous Chef Jeffrey Ticao will be “Cooking It Up with Nora Daza’s Recipes” in honor of all moms and the country’s legendary chef, restaurateur, author, and TV personality rolled into one amazing woman. Specially curated by Chef Nora’s talented children, culinary experts Sandy Daza and Nina Daza-Puyat, the buffet spread will be filled with a variety of delectable fare taken from the pages of their mother’s bestselling Let’s Cook with Nora cookbook. From appetizers to desserts, each bite fuses gourmet tastes with the flavors of childhood comfort foods.

It’s the Merry Month of Mom at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo with a Mother’s Day Buffet in honor of all moms and a culinary icon, and a luxurious hotel stay at a discount.
RHI Deluxe King Room

Start off your gastronomic journey down memory lane with starters like pork ball with ginger, shrimp cocktail, and hototay soup, then move on to the enticing mains that include pinangat with shrimp and buko, pinatisang manok, and paksiw na pata. The carving station spotlights the mouthwatering meatloaf deluxe and orange spareribs, while the action stations teem with lively cooking of pancit palabok and grilling of fresh meats. Serving sweet endings to the feast is the dessert table with scrumptious selections such as orange chiffon cake, Scottish short bread, and even guinataang halo-halo.

The Mother’s Day Tribute Buffet, happening on May 9, 2021, from 6 pm to 10 pm, is priced at PhP 1,150 nett per adult. Children 6 to 12 years old get a 50% discount. Prior reservation is required due to limited seating in compliance with local government mandates. To reserve a table, call +6333 328 7888 or +63 917 563 3558.

Make mom feel even more special by booking her a pampering stay at any of Richmonde Iloilo’s chic and spacious guestrooms any day this May. With the Merry Month of Mom promo available until May 31, 2021, you can give mom a luxurious mini-vacation for as low as PhP 3,800nett inclusive of a breakfast buffet for two and complimentary use of the Fitness Center’s gym and stylish outdoor pool.

Stay on a Friday or Saturday and you also get 10% off on the Weekend Dinner Buffet at The Granary. For room reservations, call +6333 328 7888 or +63 917 580 9058 or email stay@richmondeiloilo.com. Confirmation is subject to room availability and IATF guidelines at the time of booking.

#MothersDayTreats #RichmondelHotelOrtigas #EastwoodRichmondeHotel #RichmondeHotelIloilo #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Motherhood Thoughts and Experiences of Celebrity Moms

Becoming a mom is their greatest joy, shared these celebrity moms.

Let’s celebrate Mother’s Day with the most important woman (or even mother figures) in our lives. Let’s honor them for their undying love and for all the things they have done for us.

Sharing here the motherhood experiences of these three celebrity-moms whose perspectives in life have changed since they became moms themselves.

  • Gloria Diaz

 For Gloria Diaz, ageless queen of beauty and award-winning actress, her three children are her masterpiece. She considers having them and raising them to be good individuals as her biggest achievement in life.

Her three children are her masterpiece, according to Gloria Diaz. Photo courtesy of showbizportal.net

And rightly so, Gloria watches during all the years that she has been a public figure would agree. Amid the frenzy of showbiz and in the wake of a failed marriage, her record as a mother to two daughters and a son is unblemished.

“I think that’s a tall order,” she said, from a previous interview, “maintaining my home, combining career, personal and social life and staying free from scandals.”

As a mom, she thinks of herself as a friend to her three children: Abba, Rafael, and Isabel. “Actually I’m more like a friend, and not much of a disciplinarian. I’m just part of the group. But of course, you always draw the line. I’m the one who always makes sure that everything goes in its proper order,” shared the doting mom, who will always be there for her children.

  • Aya Sunga-Askert

 For model-turned-full-time mom and artist, Aya Sunga-Askert’s life has never been the same again. She gave up her modeling career to be with her family and to take care of her child, Maria Astrid Askert. She and her family are now based in Sweden.

Aya describes herself as a very protective mom. Photo courtesy of Aya Sunga Askert FB account

“Motherhood marks the end of self-centeredness. You can’t be selfish, you can’t think not only of yourself anymore. You have to think of your child, of your husband,” she disclosed from an earlier interview while she was still living in Manila.

“Now, I’ve learned how much hard work my mother had sacrificed for me when I was a baby,” she shared. For her, the happiest stage of motherhood is when she sees the developments in her baby. She describes herself as a very protective mom.

At present, Aya dedicates her time to her passions like dancing and yoga, to her artistic career (since her kids are grown up now), and to the art group she co-founded in Sweden, the Filipino Artists Association of Sweden.

 

  • Cong. Vilma Santos-Recto

 A mother for almost four decades now, Vilma Santos-Recto fears the time when her children will leave her to get married. Just recently, she was a happy witness to the marriage of her eldest son Luis Manzano to actress Jessy Mendiola in a simple intimate wedding ceremony held at The Farm at San Benito recently.

Cong. Vilma Santos-Recto’s greatest joy is becoming a mom. Photo courtesy of Vilma Santos-Recto FB page

“That’s why I make sure I spend time with them, especially with Luis, who has grown up to be a good-looking and well-mannered man. I talk to him a lot. We treat each other like barkada,” she shared from a previous interview.

Between her two boys, Ryan Christian is more likely to follow in her footsteps. “Mahilig siya sa pictorial,” she said with pride.

“As much as possible, I want to enjoy my boys,” said Vilma, whose greatest joy is becoming a mom, which she said is the very essence of a woman. As a mom, she’s liberated but with certain limitations.

Vilma attributes her success to hard work and focuses on everything that she does. “I’m not saying that I’m a good politician, but if you really want to learn, you’ll work for it,” she said. Likewise, she credits her husband Senator Ralph Recto for helping her set directions and get things done. “We are a perfect love match and we get things done,” she said.

(Based on the published exclusive interview in the old Mirror Weekly Magazine)

#celebritymoms #GloriaDiaz #VilmaSantos #AyaSungaAskert #MothersDay2021 #throwbackseries #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is a special time of year when you get to celebrate the first person you always turn to for pieces of advice, your superhero, confidant, best friend, and biggest supporter! On her special day tell her how much she means to you. Here are some gift ideas you can surprise her with on May 9.

  • Omo! White for that Korean-like, glowing skin

OMO! White is the first skincare brand in the Philippines that offers customized skincare to your specific skin type. In Korean slang, the term “OMO!” means “Oh my goodness!” After trying out their alcohol-free soap and toner, wait and see, and you’ll definitely scream “OMO!” while looking at your Korean-like, glowing skin.

You can choose from their list of products to suit your mom’s skin type:

(1) WonderClear Toner is now AcneClear Toner (for Oily and Acne-Prone skin), is an alcohol-free toner for oily and acne-prone skin. Scientifically mixed with powerful ingredients such as Glycolic acid, Niacinamide, and Lactic acid, that can help improve your skin’s appearance;

(2) HyperCleanse Toner is now IntenseCleanse Toner (for Normal to Combination skin), is an alcohol-free toner that gives maximum hydration with a quick swipe. Scientifically mixed with powerful ingredients such as Activated Charcoal, Allantoin, and Alpha Arbutin, soften and re-energize your skin. A must-have step to any skincare regimen, this toner mildly exfoliates to achieve that radiant and unforgettable White Glow;

(3) UltraLight Toner is now Ooh-la-Light Toner (for Normal skin), is a fast-absorbent lightweight formula that gives maximum hydration and mildly exfoliates to give you youthful, glowing skin. It is supercharged with Glutathione, Lactic Acid, and Alpha Arbutin.

There’s nothing like ending a stressful day cleaning your skin and feeling fresh and radiant after. Let your mom try Omo! products and experience having Korean-like, glowing, and radiant skin.

  •  SweetBlooms Rose Candy Pastillas

Surprise your mom with the most unique gifts that will make her feel appreciated and loved by giving her SweetBlooms Rose Candy Pastillas.

SweetBlooms are perfect gift ideas for Mom’s Day! These edible flower pastillas are made of quality and fresh ingredients, affordable, presentable, a yummy treat, and blooming with candy pastillas. Choose from an array of product choices you can find on their FB page. Visit the link: https://www.facebook.com/Sweetblooms.

Say it with #SweetBlooms. Share the bloom in all seasons! To order, contact: 09175073997, 09175139300, (02) 83520051, (02) 75020497.

  • SM Home essential items

With most members of the family spending more time at home, keeping it clean and bright is a challenge for Mom. Surprise her with exciting innovations from SM Home that will make her home-works a breeze and give her more time for herself.

This May, get discounts and online coupons on select home essential items and furniture from SM Home. Shop for your mom and place your order online through the SM Store’s Call to Deliver (#143SM) and ShopSM app. For more info and updates, follow SM Home at the SM Store on Instagram or visit thesmstore.com website.

Eufy HomeVac H11 is a mini vacuum that offers practical solutions to your home’s cleaning needs.
Save time from washing the dishes and keep your dinnerware germ-free with Hanabishi Dishwasher with UV Sterilizer.
  • Top picks from Hanabishi’s practical gift ideas are quality and affordable home products for busy homemakers, such as the following:
Hanabishi Hotpot BBQ Griller.

 

Hanabishi Hand Mixer.

#MothersDay2021 #giftideas #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph