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.
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.
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.
The resort provides the splendor and the ‘tranquility of an environment that truly feels away from it all.’
Whether you’re traveling for a family vacation or romantic getaway, for business or pleasure, Plantation Bay Resort & Spa is one of your best choices in the Philippines.
It’s a vast tropical plantation set in eleven hectares of secluded grounds. It’s a resort, a village, a playground, a respite from a stressful world.
Located in Marigondon, Mactan Island, and Lapu-Lapu City in Cebu, it has a waterfront hotel, a lagoon-style pool, and a posh spa. It offers one of the largest privately-owned waterways in the world, with the clean elegance of colonial-plantation architecture.
Courtesy: Plantation Bay Resort & Spa
This writer had the opportunity to experience staying at Plantation Bay some years back. Until now, it’s still vivid in my mind the splendor and the “tranquillity of an environment that truly feels away from it all.”
There will always be some places that will create an impact on you and are worth visiting the second or even the third time.
The author at the lagoon-style pool.
Plantation Bay offers you more facilities, more space, and more separate lounging areas. There are various things to try when you are at the resort. You will never get bored.
You can go swimming, kayaking, archery, mountain climbing, play tennis or volleyball, have a relaxing spa at Mogambo Springs (my favorite part), listen to an acoustic band in one of the fave restos, and have your future predicted by a fortune-teller, or simply enjoy your day while at the hammock amidst the lagoon pool.
Kayaking is fun!Have a relaxing spa at Mogambo Springs.
Outstanding Food Choices
Plantation Bay takes pride in its kitchens and can assure you of consistently delicious, beautifully-presented dishes at reasonable prices.
It has five outstanding restaurants, namely:
Kilimanjaro Kafé – offers international and Filipino cuisine, terrific soup, and vegan selections;
Fiji – offers seafood, Asian, and Filipino. It is often full so you need to come early;
Palermo – offers Spanish Tapas, Italian kinds of pasta, and the most complex, nuanced char-broiled steaks on earth;
Route 66 Diner – offers Retro American diner with all-day breakfast, burgers, hot dogs, and deli favorites;
Alien Abduction – offers a soda fountain in the late afternoon, family-friendly Night Club after dinner
Powerhouse Burger
Longganiza
Sake-infused-oxtail
During our stay, we dined in Fiji, the ambiance was so relaxing. When you’re in the mood for something different, try Kilimanjaro Kafe for the light international fare; or dine at Palermo, for another different ambiance that makes you enjoy Mediterranean-Continental dishes. We also tried the delicious burgers and hotdogs served at Route 66 Diner/Savannah Grill for our afternoon snacks.
Our trip to Cebu will not be complete without paying homage to the Cross of Magellan and Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino De Cebu. Not to mention, partaking in lunch at AA BBQ, reminded me of a happy conversation with travel friends because of its funny-sounding name.
The Cross of Magellan.
Travel buddies: (standing) Ana Manansala, publisher of Experience Travel and Living magazine; (seated, from left) advertising manager Nanet Bonifacio; the author; and designer Cliff De Torres.
When you’re inside the resort, you will not think of going out anymore – the charm of the place remains in you and make you want to stay a little longer.
Apart from providing an exclusive beach respite for Manila’s affluent, Landco’s development in Punta Fuego in Nasugbu, Batangas has also been anchored on serving its residents’ sailing and yachting lifestyle.
Bouncing back after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the highly-anticipated 19th Club Punta Fuego (CPF) Regatta was recently held as one of the major sailing events in the Philippines. The CPF Regatta brought together the sailing enthusiasts and sailor members of Punta Fuego Yacht Club (PFYC) and select members of the Philippine Inter-Island Sailing Foundation (PHINSAF) from all over the country.
Participants joined the exuberant yet highly competitive yacht race and winners were recognized in three categories: IRC Racing Class, Cruising Class, and Ocean Multihull.
Wild Honey – 1st place Cruising Class
Sy Selma Star with captain Jun Avecilla was hailed as the champion of this year’s Racer Cruiser Class, followed by Belatrix with captains Jun Villanueva and Sean Mitchell, Hurricane Hunter of Albert Aluta, and Karakoa of Ray Ordovesa in the same IRC Racing Class.
For the Cruising Class, Wild Honey of captain James Villareal got the top mark, in second and third place were Plus Ultra of Pablo Lobregat and Isabelle of Tere Marcial, respectively. Twin Popsies of captains Dylan Tantuico and Gordon Luk aced the Ocean Multihull, trailed by second placer MYGP of Vincent Ruais.
Club Punta Fuego, managed by Anya Hospitality Group (AHG), is the luxurious private Batangas beach resort, the gemstone of the 88-hectare seaside residential community of Peninsula de Punta Fuego. This sprawling luxury property is developed by Landco, known for pioneering premium landscapes for more than 30 years.
They are known for their exquisite vocal harmony, the very essence of their music. And their avant-garde fashion statements. The CompanY, Asia’s premiere vocal group, is a visual and aural treat for the young and the young once.
If you have noticed, the Y in their name is a capital letter for visual identity. “We type it differently so that it doesn’t come out as too generic,” said Moy Ortiz, the leader of the group.
Organized in July 1985, the group started as a backup vocal group to such first-rate artists as Gary Valenciano, Kuh Ledesma, Zsa-Zsa Padilla, Martin Nieversa, Louie Reyes, and Celeste Legaspi. Their popularity snowballed when “Everlasting Love,” a cut from their debut album ‘Yon Na!’ became the most requested song in the early ‘90s.
Initially, when “Everlasting Love” was released people thought it was a foreign song. Later on, they found out that it was sung by a Filipino group.
Courtesy: YouTube
“It was just the right timing that we got a recording deal,” disclosed Moy. “Personality-wise we were more comfortable with ourselves. We knew how far we could go. We didn’t know that we would take a hit in pop.”
In terms of visual packaging, The CompanY is more experimental. Their target market includes the yuppies, young executives, and professionals.
“We are entertainers we have to be visually appealing and interesting onstage. So you have to capture the attention of your audience. We had the guts to experiment with our looks, hair, clothes, and shoes,” shared Moy.
Courtesy: The CompanY FB page
This group has been a company of friends ever since their Ateneo College Glee Club days, where they acquired extensive and rigorous training in voice and traditional choral works. When The CompanY made their crossover to professional singing, they applied the discipline and accuracy demanded by the classical school into the world of pop music.
Starting with 12 members, the group eventually stabilized at six. Now, they are down to a 4-member group. The CompanY is not an overnight success.
After many years in the entertainment industry, they remain active and continue to share their music with the world.
Gary Valenciano has unveiled a brand new song “Pwede Pang Mangarap”, released under Universal Records. It’s the type of buoyant, morale-boosting track that transports listeners to a much-needed ray of hope as we dare to rise above the seemingly dream-crushing effects of the pandemic.
The pandemic may be making its way out of our lives slowly but its aftereffect is still felt by many, especially among those who have been striving to stay afloat in the world of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises. Some have had to stay closed for two years, while others have just had to shut down indefinitely. Thus, this uplifting track from Mr. Pure Energy came to life.
“Pwede Pang Mangarap” was made possible with the cooperation of The Association of the Filipino Franchisers Inc. (AFFI) and it’s the official TVC of BUYanihan, a known collective of brands, retailers, and MSMEs that aims to empower the Filipino entrepreneurs and help them highlight their world-class products. (WATCH THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO HERE)
“We’ve all heard of the light at the end of the tunnel, but I believe more in the fact that when our hope is fueled by our faith, God can become our light no matter where in the tunnel we may find ourselves in. Yes … I strongly encourage you to start dreaming once again,” says Mr. Gary V. about this powerfully crafted song.
Truly, life can’t always be easy, we all fall short but what’s important is that we don’t lose hope and become stronger versions of ourselves. Always keep your dreams alive. Stream “Pwede Pang Mangarap” on your favorite digital streaming platforms today.
The student that the Sintang Paaralan has guided has now become its leader – and he intends to do a great job at it. As the University President, Manuel has several plans that he wishes to implement to ensure that everybody is given the same chance as he was, decades ago.
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has been home to students from all walks of life, hence why it is dubbed the “Sintang Paaralan.” It was a haven for people who wished to continue learning despite obstacles and hindrances that may come their way. This is the exact environment that nurtures people into becoming something much bigger than themselves – something that Manuel Muhi has been on the receiving end of. Now that he’s back in the halls of the fabled university, the student that the Sintang Paaralan has guided has now become its leader– and he intends to do a great job at it.
Humble beginnings
Manuel Mengorio Muhi was just a seemingly ordinary student when he first entered PUP as a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering freshman. Life has been rather hard on him, as he did not come from a wealthy family. He was taught the painful and harsh realities of life early on.
“My learning journey in PUP required me to be humble to succeed, to make ends meet, to become more resourceful, and to appreciate the privilege of being a part of the university to further my education,” he shares.
Then and Now (Facebook)
Looking back, the time he spent as a student in PUP taught Manuel a life lesson in humility. “Kasi kapag PUPian ka, sanay ka sa hirap. Magtatrabaho sa gabi, mag-aaral sa araw. Minsan hindi sumasapat ang baon, pero dapat handa ka. Kaya matututo kang makibagay at magpasalamat sa mga taong makakasalamuha mo dahil sila ang tutulong sayo,” he elaborates.
Being a student at PUP has given him a chance to improve himself to unlock his highest potential, and Manuel was more than grateful for it when he received his diploma from the university in 1988.
The education that the university has provided him has given him the urge to reach for greater heights in the academe. “As a PUPian, hindi tayo tumitigil matuto dahil mataas ang pangarap natin.” Manuel says.
True to his word, he entered graduate school and earned a Master’s degree in Engineering, specializing in Transport and Road Engineering from the prestigious Technical University of Delft-International Institute for Infrastructural, Hydraulics and Environment Engineering – the Netherlands in 2000. He then chose to pursue a Doctoral degree in Technology at TUP Manila in 2008.
Armed with these huge achievements, he knew that he could look for greater opportunities elsewhere, but he chose to follow his true calling and that is to serve his beloved alma mater.
“The university helped me finish my education and gave me numerous opportunities to serve both inside and outside of the country,” he narrates. He knew that PUP could make it big – and he wanted to be a part of the movement that is going to make this vision a reality.
Back to Sintang Paaralan
Manuel felt that going back to PUP and serving the university is the best way to give back to the same home that has willingly accepted him – back when he was still a mere freshman student, lost in the university’s expanse. This time, he wandered through the classrooms as a professor, and later on, he became the Dean of the College of Engineering from 2006 to 2013.
“Magagaling ang ating mga estudyante. These are deserving youth and they need the university’s assistance,” he shares. As someone who benefited from the university before, he wishes to do the same for others by being someone that can give them the opportunities that he once had.
Courtesy of Facebook
He also served as the Executive Vice President, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Vice President for Research, Extension, Planning, and Development from 2012 to 2016. After being appointed as the University President, Manuel knew that this position should not be taken lightly.
“Isa din sa mga inspirasyon ko ang mga Iskolar ng Bayan. Nakita ko kung gaano nila ka-gustong makapagtapos ng pag-aaral,” Manuel expounds. “[PUP] has the potential to meet a wide range of needs in the surrounding communities, and I recognized that potential. It gave me hope that I could be a part of an institution that could have a significant impact on the lives of many people.”
The life of a leader
Being the University President is a huge responsibility that comes with all sorts of challenges. For Manuel, the position required him to be on his toes at all times.
“We cannot let our position get into our heads. What matters is the kind of leadership you demonstrate,” he shares. Manuel wants to be the kind of leader who knows and sees everyone– including their struggles, hardships, and eventually their successes. “Kaya mula sa pinakaibaba, mga estudyante, janitors, security guards, empleyado, hanggang sa mga middle managers, directors and executive officials, pinupuntahan po natin sila, inaabot, kinakausap, pinakikinggan.”
With this kind of leadership, he has also drafted plans for the university’s improvement, geared towards technological advancement and infrastructure improvement. As an engineer himself, his plan was more focused on improving the technology and facilities. “Over time, we are seeing improvements, from our comfort rooms to our sports facilities, student centers, and newly constructed research and laboratory facilities, we are working tirelessly to achieve our goals,” he states.
Courtesy of Facebook
He also plans to make PUP a smart campus, focusing on improvements in technology, and student services, mitigating compliance mistakes, automating workflows, reducing wait times, and conserving energy and resources, among other things. Just like any other institution, PUP must keep up with the times and the increasing demands for quality education.
However, the pandemic posed a significant challenge to his administration and hampered most of his plans for the university. As the University President, it was his job to ensure that everything is covered. “We were caught off guard and unprepared because we needed to come up with a solution right away to make things work,” he narrates. With his brand of leadership, he wanted to ensure that with whatever policy he implemented, no one will be left behind.
The pandemic’s awful hit
During these unpredictable times, the main concern of the university lies in three aspects: the studentry, the quality of the education they’ll receive, and the technological advancements needed to further their learning. With these in mind, the Flexible Technology Learning (FlexTel) is an alternative learning framework, which improved gradually through time.
FlexTel accommodates the needs of various learners, including their learning circumstances and their ability to access learning tools and gadgets. In this mode, the professors can also follow a curated teaching load that considers their flexibility as well. “Its implementation may have been hampered by birth pains, but it has opened the doors to learning for all PUPians across the country,” he adds.
With the mixed reactions from the studentry, Manuel recognizes that the FlexTel also needs improvement, and just like any other policy, it is open for criticisms and amendments. “PUP continues to work with various sectors to improve FlexTel implementation in the coming years so that it is more inclusive, accessible, and fully coherent,” he says, as he ensures that their concerns will be duly noted.
PUP Education on Wheels (PUP Official).
Moreover, he also launched the PUP Education on Wheels, a project that caters to the educational needs of the out-of-school youth in various places. This project aims to give more learning opportunities for everyone and to ensure that more people get access to education, regardless of their background. “Ito naman po ang matagal nang vision natin sa Sintang Paaralan, to make education accessible and of quality. The EOW is ongoing at napapakinabangan na ng maraming kabataan sa Smokey Mountain,” he proudly shares.
The Education on Wheels also seeks to expand nationwide, seeking out underprivileged youths – truly living up to PUP’s reputation of giving people, regardless of their stature, a chance at a quality education.
“The goal is straightforward: to bring education to those who cannot afford it, right at their doorstep. This would not have been possible without the generous contributions of our donors, all of whom shared the same vision of educating the next generation,” Manuel explains.
Currently, Education on Wheels has 65 students under the Bachelor of Science in Office Administration. Their courses are TESDA inclined, which guarantees them a job after two years of education.
PUP has come a long way as it is now regarded as the top choice for employers, according to JobStreet. It is now known as the number one producer of professionals in different fields.
The university continues to raise its proud colors as it always claims its spot as one of the country’s top-performing schools. Board top-notchers also hail from various courses such as engineering, accounting, law, nutrition and dieticians, psychometrician, and education, among others.
On criticisms and challenges
Since he sat in the highest position in the university, he has been faced with criticisms and various side comments from various sectors. Being in such a vulnerable post means that Manuel needs to have the right mindset to deal with them professionally.
“I was also once a student of PUP and alam ko po ang mga kailangang baguhin sa Sintang Paaralan, and this is their assurance that someone understands them at hindi natin hahayaan na mahihirapan ang ating mga estudyante,” he shares. He knows that no leadership is perfect, but for it to work, he has to listen to his constituents.
Manuel is aware that PUPians have valid concerns and that they only want what’s best for the entire student population-–a sentiment that Manuel shared back when he was still a student. This kind of connection, as he says, brings him closer to the calls of the studentry and makes him more adept at their needs and concerns.
“We always hear our students, sila ang priority. We always make sure that their frustrations are validated and heard. We understand them and make sure we address their concerns right away,” Manuel adds.
Looking ahead
PUP is one of the most highly regarded universities in the country, but Manuel knows it has so much potential to be more, unlock more doors, and open up new opportunities for students and employees alike. The university has always been in the service of the Filipino people, which also educates them about the realities of life and how the world essentially works. While this resiliency is commonly romanticized, Manuel sees it as undeniably patriotic.
“Lagi’t lagi naming binabanggit, ‘Mula sa ‘yo para sa bayan.’ Ito po ang identity ng isang PUPian. Buong husay na maglilingkod at magsisilbi para sa bayan. Nandyan ang Sintang Paaralan na kaisa sa pagtataguyod ng maunlad na bansa,” he expounds. “PUPians know that in everything they do, it must be for the country’s sake and for the masses.”
For Manuel, this is what makes PUP different from the other universities. “PUP taught me to accept where I am and honor where I am. Accepting where you are and realizing how far you still have to go and learn is another aspect of humility,” he explains.
The university has taught him life lessons that he carries up to this day, making him more grounded and humbled tirelessly. As the University President, Manuel has several plans that he wishes to implement to ensure that everybody is given the same chance as he was, decades ago.
The current PUP administration is now focusing on reaching the elusive National Polytechnic University status, which will eventually raise the university’s status and open more doors for the students.
“In the coming years, we would like to continue utilizing these by building better infrastructure, as well as higher educational standards. Several plans have been developed for PUP, and these plans will serve to demonstrate that the university is truly concerned with the interests of its stakeholders, particularly our students,” Manuel elaborates.
PUP has been a safe place for Manuel as a student, and as he sits as the University President, he also seeks to make students and employees feel at home within its walls. The university has been through various ups and downs during his administration, but one thing is for sure – he ensures that PUP will stay true to its nature of being a beacon of hope, critical thinking, and quality education for everyone. There is so much to look forward to, and Manuel is determined to do a great job at helping these plans become a reality.
(Ruby’s Precious Moments 3rd anniversary Special Feature)
Owning real property has been a dream for many. Those who are considering Sta. Rosa in Laguna will be glad to know that the dynamic city in the south has added another point to its desirability as the choice for property investment.
Elanvital, best known for offering quality homes in Laguna and Cavite for growing middle-income families, has just launched Zaya Sta. Rosa, its new development in the city’s Balibago district.
“Today we celebrate the beginning of many wonderful things,” said Raemulan Lands, Inc. CEO Eileen Uy-Doyle, as she led the groundbreaking ceremonies. “Zaya Sta. Rosa is designed for those looking for prime properties at the right price—for the young urban work force seeking to have their first home, those who are just starting in property investment by putting their money in a growing asset, or typical investors who recognize the value potential of properties in Sta. Rosa. We intend to add to the wonderful City of Sta. Rosa, build up the community of Balibago, and be part of an exciting new phase in the growth of this part of Luzon.”
Elanvital COO Apple Hurtado joined Doyle and other executives in the formal groundbreaking ceremonies, which saw the laying of a time capsule bearing the blue prints for Zaya Sta. Rosa.
The executives were later joined by Elanvital Chief Sales Officers Wilhelm Chuacuco and Belle Manalo in the traditional laying of the brass Pi Xiu at the entrance of the development. The Pi Xiu is an image of a mythical creature that is believed to bring good fortune, wealth, and protection.
“The property value of ZAYA’s location is already prime, so it is a wise investment opportunity,” explained Uy-Doyle. “It’s cheaper and more rewarding to buy a unit at Zaya Sta. Rosa than to rent somewhere, as the monthly amortization is almost equal to the monthly rent in the area.”
Zaya Sta Rosa is positioned as the ideal city-home. Located along the Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road, it is only 1.8 kilometers away from SLEX Sta. Rosa Exit and an 11-minute walk away from Balibago Transport Terminal. It allows residents to live near places where they work, and shop. There are 19 industrial estates in the city itself and neighboring cities, and eight malls and commercial strips within reach. forecast
Also joining the event was Engr. Rod Isidro, Chief Construction Office as well as Robert Ignacio, president of Elanvital’s partner contractor ROBIG Builders, and his team.
Elanvital, along with its partner developer Raemulan Lands, Inc., recognized as one of the top developers in the Philippines, continuous to strengthen their foothold and sustain their ranking as a top home provider in the country with the addition of this new development in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.
To know more about Zaya Sta. Rosa and Elanvital, click this https://elanvitalenclaves.com.ph or call our customer service hotline, +63 998 964 6501. For sales inquiries, you can reach us at +63 927 144 0196.
The locally-owned 5-star hotel – The Bellevue Manila continues on its mission to cater to a wide variety of palates, now with the welcoming of the beloved Hanakazu Japanese Restaurant as its new home.
Hanakazu first made its name in 2005 as an intimate restaurant located at the heart of BF Homes, Parañaque. Chef Hiroaki Otsuka and his wife Lorna launched Hanakazu intending to give customers a fresh take on Japanese cuisine while maintaining its authenticity.
“We are excited to dive into this new chapter for Hanakazu with The Bellevue Manila,” says Hanakazu Owner, Lorna Otsuka. “We hope to present dishes that are familiar to Filipino tastes, but distinctly in the Hanakazu way.”
Hanakazu gets its name from the name of Chef Otsuka’s daughters Hana and Kazu, reflecting the motivation for the passion, perfection, and customer satisfaction the Otsukas uphold.
“It is an honor for The Bellevue Manila to welcome Hanakazu to its doors. Chef Otsuka’s unique approach to Japanese cuisine is sure to be a favorite among our guests,” shares Patrick Chan, Managing Director of The Bellevue Manila, of the partnership with Hanakazu.
Guests are also invited to visit The Bellevue’s other food and beverage concepts: Phoenix Court for authentic Chinese cuisine; Cafe D’ Asie for a buffet of international spread, Pastry Corner for specialty bread, cakes, and other pastries and goodies; and Vue Bar for drinks and live music.
Featured photo from left to right: Mr. Patrick Chan, The Bellevue Manila Managing Director, Mr. Johnny Chan, The Bellevue Hotels & Resorts Chairman, Ms. Lorna Otsuka, and Mr. Sachio Otsuka, Hanakazu Owners
March may have ended, but we’re not done celebrating Women’s History Month just yet! We’re putting the focus on some of our favorite superstars – multifaceted women who are making waves in and out of the music industry.
These women continue to elevate their respective genres and empower others to express themselves, all while exploring different aspects of their artistry. Read on to discover if your favorite artist made the cut, and what songs of theirs you can’t miss!
Dua Lipa
Dua Lipa is an artist that needs no introduction. This pop superstar started her career by posting song covers on YouTube, but what propelled her into the spotlight was her hit song “New Rules.” From then on, it was just success after success for Dua, and the three-time Grammy Award winner is now on the US leg of her Future Nostalgia tour.
Dua Lipa
To share more about her experiences and create stronger connections with her fans, Dua also recently launched Service95. This weekly newsletter serves up curation of recommendations, stories, and conversations that readers won’t see or read anywhere else. Not long after, she launched her podcast called Dua Lipa: At Your Service, where she and several podcast guests discuss relevant topics such as the importance of responsible storytelling and women supporting women.
Songs you can’t miss: We’re pretty sure you’ve listened to “Levitating” a handful of times (and we can’t blame you), but another fun and upbeat song to stream is Dua’s latest release – “Sweetest Pie” with Megan Thee Stallion.
Bella Poarch
Anyone who’s on TikTok is bound to know Bella Poarch. This pure Filipina rose to internet stardom after a video of her lip-syncing became viral in August 2020, getting more than 50 million likes. What eventually followed was her rise to becoming the #1 most followed Asian on TikTok worldwide! Soon, all eyes were on the 25-year-old star, and she proved not long after that that her talents went beyond making TikTok videos.
Bella Poarch
In 2021, Bella released her first single called “Build a Bitch.” It became a global success, with its music video getting nearly 400 million views. This is no surprise, as the song is catchy, and fresh, and calls out the unrealistic standards that women are told they must live up to. Bella uses her music not only to entertain but also to go against problematic ideologies in today’s society.
Songs you can’t miss: “Build a Bitch” is a must-listen, but if you want the perfect blend of haunting and upbeat, check out her song with Sub Urban titled “Inferno.”
Saweetie
One female rap star who’s made a name for herself in recent years is Saweetie. The Grammy-nominated artist started writing rap music in her early teens and has pursued her passion for it since then. From uploading a now-viral freestyle video on Instagram to creating countless hit songs like “ICY GRL,” “High Maintenance,” and “My Type,” Saweetie is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with.
Saweetie
Outside of music, she released an ICY jewelry line and collaborated with UK-based fashion retailer PrettyLittleThings for her very own collection. Hard work and independence have always been in Saweetie’s blood, something that her Filipino-American family taught her at an early age. She’s proof that working for what you want pays off, and we are here for it!
Songs you can’t miss: If you’re looking for a song to hype you up and get you dancing, then “Best Friend” featuring Doja Cat is the go-to. Looking for something more sultry and sensual? Then check out Saweetie’s new breezy single called “Closer” featuring H.E.R.
GAYLE
Unfiltered, honest, and genuine – these are some words that describe chart-topping pop singer GAYLE. Much like Bella Poarch, this Gen-Z artist blew up on TikTok after sharing her hit song “abcdefu” on the platform. Since then, she’s been receiving much-deserved attention and acclaim, whether it’s being part of Billboard’s 21 under 21: The Ones To Watch or being a guest performer on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Gayle
GAYLE recently released her debut EP “a study of the human experience volume one,” which touches on her insecurities, desires, and raw emotions. Her relatable and nuanced songs embrace vulnerability, while also empowering others to be unapologetic about their feelings.
Songs you can’t miss: If you loved “abcdefu,” then you’ll love the equally catchy “luv starved.”
Avril Lavigne
Rounding up this list is none other than pop-punk princess Avril Lavigne. The multi-platinum singer recently released her highly anticipated album “Love Sux,” sending fans into a frenzy. The album was well-received, with several critics praising Avril for sticking to her nostalgic pop-punk sound while making sure it’s current and in the now.
Avril is set to go on her Bite Me 2022 Canada Tour this coming May and will be part of several concerts and music festivals for the rest of the year. As a trailblazer in her genre and the industry in general, she continues to inspire fellow artists to stay authentic to their true selves as they work on their craft.
Songs you can’t miss: If you want to listen to songs that are reminiscent of Avril’s past hits, then give “Bite Me” and “Love It When You Hate Me” a try.
We’ve compiled all the songs you can’t miss from these artists onto one playlist! Listen to them here.
HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, today announces the newest member and hero of the C-series family – the Nokia C21.
Whilst maintaining the excellent build quality, signature security promises, and the all-day battery life signature of the popular C-series, the new Nokia C21 comprises even more value. Coming at Php 5,490, it brings upgraded photography, better privacy, and improved speed for an extra smooth experience.
Sancho Chak, general manager for Philippines, Hong Kong and Thailand, HMD Global:
“We brought the C-series to Filipino fans to make reliable smartphones accessible to more users, as we bring maximum quality at affordable price bands. So, whether customers seek for great value daily driver, a very first smartphone, or a step up from a feature phone, the easy-to-use Nokia C21 will be the perfect partner users can trust. The new Nokia C21 gives our fans a smartphone that is safe, reliable, and durable, at a great value.”
Let memories go even further
Nokia C21’s improved 8MP camera with autofocus technology lets one capture cherished moments with their loved ones in more detail while navigating a world of QR codes with ease. Users can take advantage of Panorama mode to take sweeping landscape photos in a single shot. Plus, the front 5MP camera with flash is perfect for making memories day or night. Then, users can relive it all in breathtaking definition on a stunning 6.5” HD+ display.
Get things done faster
The Nokia C21 boasts a streamlined operating system on a higher memory smartphone with a multi-core processor that brings efficiencies without sacrificing the signature all-day battery life – download at speed and enjoy fast app opening times, for an even snappier experience.
Protect what’s yours and feel safe
For many, smartphones store one’s most private information. Nokia C21’s AI-powered face unlock is now supported by a fingerprint sensor for extra security and convenience. Two years of regular security updates come as standard for C-series, so users are assured that the Nokia C21 works hard in the background to keep everything in the phone safe, so fans can go about their day worry-free.
Rigorous testing to ensure durability that won’t disappoint
Made from sturdy polycarbonate, the body of the Nokia C21 is supported by a metal chassis on the inside and toughened cover glass on the outside. From force measurements to vigorous tumble, over 50 tests are carried out on every Nokia phone to ensure hardware durability, and Nokia C21 is no exception. The result is a smartphone that honors the long-lasting, Nordic excellence you’d expect from HMD Global, so users can hold on to their device for longer.
The beautiful Finnish aesthetic is also functional – designed with micro-texture on the back and curved sides to ensure a good grip in style.
Pricing and availability
Nokia C21 comes in 2/32 GB and 3/64 GB variants, in Dark Blue and Warm Grey color variants. The unit also comes with a free Nokia umbrella available at the memoxpress online store today. The Nokia C21 can be purchased from Nokia physical stores starting April 18 nationwide.
