Since I was young, I’ve had this deep affinity for sweets and I’m also a firm believer in the adage “There’s always room for dessert!”
Imagine my delight when I discovered that there’s a special place in the metro for dessert lovers like me: The Dessert Museum!
This destination is 12,000 square feet of space dedicated to desserts. It features eight themed rooms focused on a particular sweet treat, each with eye-catching visual elements such as giant-sized simulations of well-known products, background info on desserts’ history printed on the walls, games that visitors can play and other bric-a-bracs that complement the theme.
In these rooms, visitors can take fun and whimsical pictures of themselves in dessert-themed fantasy environments.
To a dessert lover like me who likes to geek out about her favorite food, this place surely comes close to my version of heaven.
Is it any surprise then that I would go here? Check out my trip through this wonderland of sweets!
Raining Donuts Room
Ten Thousand Marshmallows Room
Candy Cane Groves
Banana Beach
Room of Never-ending Bubbles
The Bewitched Bakery
Pinata Party
Kake-Pop Kourt
The appeal of The Dessert Museum mostly lies on the sheer number of great photo opportunities it provides. Knowing this, I had my daughter, #ExhibitA, accompany me so I have someone to take those snaps “for the ‘gram.”
During our two-hour tour throughout the museum, we were given fifteen minutes per room. The flow of people were managed by tour guides in each room to ensure that it won’t get too crowded and to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines. The museum also employs official photographers who can take group pictures fort he souvenir photos which you can buy for Php250 each at the gift shop at the end of your tour.
Thanks to the loosening of COVID-19 restrictions, guests of all ages are now allowed. Adults (at least 18 years old) are required to be fully vaccinated while kids (below 18 years old) should be accompanied by fully vaccinated adults.
Tickets are priced at Php799 for walk-ins, tickets bought online through thedessertmuseum.com are priced at Php699. As our visit fell during my birthday month, my daughter and I were able to take advantage of the Birthday Babies Are Free Promo, wherein we just needed to pay for #ExhibitA’s entrance while I got in for free.
Our tickets entitled us to enter the themed rooms, as well as get four dessert samples each, which were mostly made up of small pastries and bite-sized candies. I suggest you have a meal or a snack prior to your visit as well as bring a tumbler of water so you won’t get hungry or thirsty during your tour.
The Dessert Museum is located at Units 124, 126, 127a, S Maison, Coral Way, Conrad Hotel Manila, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.
Yes, an attack of the common cold can burden you with a lot of inconvenient symptoms, one of which is that irritating hyponasal voice. With everything you try to accomplish with your busy life, that voice can really get in your way.
For example, can you imagine how hard it would be to do any of these when we‘ve got that hyponasal voice:
Making a business presentation
Haggling over prices
Taking a kid to task for misbehavior
This nasal voice is normally caused by some blockage in your nose brought about by your colds.
Add this to the other annoying cold manifestations such as headaches, itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose and sore throat from post-nasal drip, and you’ve got a maelstrom of symptoms that can derail you for the day.
A clogged nose also hampers your sleep, robbing you of much-needed rest.
The best recourse is to avoid getting colds altogether by making sure that viruses that bring about cold symptoms are kept well away from you. Fortunately, this involves actions that have become part of your daily routine such as properly and regularly washing your hands, avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands and keeping away from people who are sick with colds.
If, after all your precautions, you still got a case of colds, your next move should be alleviating its symptoms.
Nafarin-A is an over-the-counter drug that contains the following:
Phenylpropanolamine HCl. A nasal decongestant that helps you breathe easier by clearing obstructed and congested air passages, decongesting your stuffy nose and clogged sinuses.
Chlorphenamine maleate. An anti-allergy substance that relieves allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes.
Paracetamol. An effective fever reducer and pain reliever.
A tablet every six hours should help you manage your cold symptoms so you could get back to what you need to accomplish for the day!
Nafarin-A can be taken be taken by adults and kids twelve years old and older.
Ask your doctor about Nafarin-A,
You can stock up on Nafarin-A by ordering online at Lazada or Shopee, or by shopping at leading drugstores nationwide.
And while the barkada might be raring to go out of town for some summer fun, the good news is that you won’t even need to leave the city.
Right here in Metro Manila is a place where friends can come together for a full day of fun: Manila Ocean Park!
An early start to our tour of Manila Ocean Park
The last stop of our Manila Ocean Park Tour
As the country’s first world-class marine theme park and premiere educational entertainment destination, Manila Ocean Park boasts of attractions that will surely appeal to everyone in the barkada.
According to MOP’s EVP & COO Francis Low, the park’s attractions are designed to be educational, interactive and experiential. These design pillars sets Manila Ocean Park apart from similar establishments. With exhibits that visitors can not only look at but also interact with, the park helps create memorable moments for the guests as well as add to their knowledge.
Want to know what you and your pals can expect at Manila Ocean Park? Well, read on, then.
Oceanarium
This is home to 14,000 marine creatures across 277 species indigenous to the Philippines and Southeast Asia. With a 220-deg curved walkway tunnel with an amazing view of sea creatures swimming overhead, Oceanarium will give your barkada the feeling of being at the center of the ocean’s wonders, as well as lots of spectacular photos for your Instagram feed!
Trails to Antarctica
If the summer heat is getting to you, make a beeline for Trails to Antarctica where you can learn more about this mysterious frozen continent as well as its inhabitants. An example of these would be the Humboldt penguins, curious and highly sociable animals that you can interact with for some feeding, and of course, a photo opp for just Php650!
By the way, some of these cuties were hatched and raised right here in Manila Ocean Park, thanks to its very successful breeding program.
All-Star Bird Show back to back with a Sea Lion Show
Manila Ocean Park is also home to our feathered friends such as macaws, cuckatoos and birds of prey which display their intelligence and skills through stunts and tricks during the All-Star Bird Show.
Back-to-back with the bird show is the Sea Lion Show which showcases Manila Ocean Park’s South American sea lions which include Sandra, the sexiest female with all the suave moves; Icis, the prettiest among the females; Ira, the youngest and cutest; while Yeni, the smartest. The only thorn among the roses is Vincent, a big and beefy male sea lion who is also diligent with his training. These marine mammals display their skills through funny antics and entertaining skits during the show.
The All-Star Bird Show and Sea Lion Show are performed back-to-back at 12.30pm and 4.30pm on weekdays and at 12.30pm, 3pm and 4.30pm on weekends.
While the park’s aviary, The Birdhouse, is still closed, you can book your very own Bird Encounter and give your inner Disney Princess (or Prince!) free rein.
You can also get up close and personal with a sea lion through the Sea Lion Encounter. For Php3,500 per person, a group of at least five people can get an exclusive demonstration of a sea lion’s talents and intelligence through learned behavior such as giving you a kiss, jumping through hoops and performing a water ballet with you. Sea Lion Encounters are available only via reservations and is subject to availability.
Jellies Dancing Sea Fairies
Did you know that jellyfish are sometimes called the “dancing sea fairies?”
This moniker is no doubt due to their grace and transparent beauty as they glide below and on the ocean’s surface.
They are showcased in their element against a fascinating display of multi-media effects and soothing music in the Jellies Dancing Sea Fairies Exhibit.
World of Creepy Crawlies
Sure, they may be scary (and sort of icky) but they’re definitely interesting. These snakes, frogs, lizards, worms and insects all have their own beauty and seemingly amazing superpowers that drive their survival despite the harsh environments they inhabit. You and your pals can see them in a new light at the World of Creepy Crawlies.
Super Toy Collection
Got comic book fans in the barkada? Or those who idolize the Man of Steel?
Well, they can geek out at the largest collection of Superman toys and memorabilia at the Super Toy Collection. Your entire group can even immerse yourselves in memorable scenes from the Superman movies.
Christmas Village
Despite the feeling that we’re almost melting in the city because of the sweltering summer heat, we can still experience the chilly holiday season at the Christmas Village. You can all hang out with Santa Claus or check out the snowy gingerbread house; your sneak peek into a winter wonderland is right here.
All these exciting experiences and more are waiting for you and your buddies at Manila Ocean Park.
So get set to enjoy the summer fun right here by booking your tickets through its website now with these fantastic deals available until May 29, 2022:
Jolly Splash 6 (Php560, previously Php2,300): includes access to six attractions – Oceanarium, Trails to Antarctica, Christmas Village, World of Creepy Crawlies, Jellies Dancing Sea Fairies, and Super Toy Collection
Festive Wave 8 (Php680, previously Php3,300): includes access to six attractions – Oceanarium, Trails to Antarctica, Christmas Village, World of Creepy Crawlies, Jellies Dancing Sea Fairies, Super Toy Collection, Sea Lion Show and Bird Show
Manila Ocean Park is located behind the Quirino Grandstand, Luneta, Roxas Boulevard, Manila. You may also book your tickets via Klook.
For more news and updates on its attractions and offers, follow Manila Ocean Park on Facebook and Instagram.
Check out my previous posts about Manila Ocean Park:
The heat is spelling summertime, but it keeps on raining P100 discount vouchers at Lumina Homes’ ShopeePay Piso Deals!
Extended to April 30, 2022, Lumina’s favorite vouchers are still up for grabs for only P1 at no minimum spend. Use them for various Lumina Homes transactions nationwide, such as reservation fees, monthly down payment, in-house monthly amortizations, and whatnot.
The vouchers are valid up to 30 days after purchase, and can be availed of through ShopeePay Discount, Cashback Vouchers, or offline payment vouchers purchased in advance.
How to get your own discount vouchers?
Using your Shopee app, follow these easy steps to get your own discount voucher:
Tap the “ShopeePay Near Me” section;
Click the “See All” and look for Lumina Homes “Discount Voucher”;
Read the voucher product details and click “Buy Now”;
Using ShopeePay, click ”Pay Now” to get your Php1 voucher;
You can now use or view your Discount Vouchers in the “My Vouchers” wallet.
How to redeem your discount vouchers?
Follow these simple steps to get your discount vouchers for your Lumina Homes transactions:
Look for the general scanner from the homepage of Shopee’s App;
Scan the QR in the Lumina Office;
Enter the total amount to be paid in the transaction;
In the voucher section, choose the “Lumina Homes: Discount Voucher” or “Cashback Vouchers and click “Use” to apply the discount;
The payment details will show the voucher’s instructions and rewards earned;
Click “Pay Now”.
Lumina Homes has 50 developments in several key locations nationwide, and it won’t be hard to choose among sites: Rizal, Bulacan, Bataan, Zambales, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Pangasinan, La Union, Cagayan, Isabela, Cavite, Batangas, Laguna, Quezon, Albay, Sorsogon, Iloilo, Cebu, Negros Occidental, Agusan del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Bukidnon, Misamis Occidental, South Cotabato and Davao del Norte.
It’s so hot to go house tripping, though, so feel free to get a first feel via virtual tour. Because who says you can’t go “dream home-hopping” around the country in a single day? Visits to Lumina projects have never been this amazing!
For more information and announcements, follow Lumina Homes on Facebook or visit its official website.
The Warner Bros. Pictures global blockbuster, Matt Reeves’ The Batman, starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne premieres Monday, April 18 first on HBO GO.
Two years of stalking the streets as the Batman (Robert Pattinson), striking fear into the hearts of criminals, has led Bruce Wayne deep into the shadows of Gotham City. With only a few trusted allies – Alfred Pennyworth (Andy Serkis), Lt. James Gordon (Jeffrey Wright) – amongst the city’s corrupt network of officials and high-profile figures, the lone vigilante has established himself as the sole embodiment of vengeance amongst his fellow citizens.
When a killer targets Gotham’s elite with a series of sadistic machinations, a trail of cryptic clues sends the World’s Greatest Detective on an investigation into the underworld, where he encounters such characters as Selina Kyle/aka Catwoman (Zoë Kravitz), Oswald Cobblepot/aka the Penguin (Colin Farrell), Carmine Falcone (John Turturro), and Edward Nashton/aka the Riddler (Paul Dano). As the evidence begins to lead closer to home and the scale of the perpetrator’s plans becomes clear, Batman must forge new relationships, unmask the culprit, and bring justice to the abuse of power and corruption that has long plagued Gotham City.
Starring alongside Pattinson (Tenet, The Lighthouse) as Gotham’s famous and infamous cast of characters are Zoë Kravitz (Big Little Lies, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald) as Selina Kyle; Paul Dano (Love & Mercy, 12 Years a Slave) as Edward Nashton; Jeffrey Wright (No Time to Die, Westworld) as the GCPD’s James Gordon; John Turturro (the Transformers films, The Plot Against America) as Carmine Falcone; Peter Sarsgaard (The Magnificent Seven, Interrogation) as Gotham D.A. Gil Colson; Jayme Lawson (Farewell Amor) as mayoral candidate Bella Reál; with Andy Serkis (the Planet of the Apes films, Black Panther) as Alfred; and Colin Farrell (The Gentlemen, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them) as Oz, aka The Penguin.
Reeves (The Planet of the Apes franchise) directed from a screenplay by himself and Peter Craig, based on characters from DC. Batman was created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger. Dylan Clark (the Planet of the Apes films) and Reeves produced the film, with Michael E. Uslan, Walter Hamada, Chantal Nong Vo and Simon Emanuel serving as executive producers.
The director’s behind-the-scenes creative team included Academy Award®-winning director of photography Greig Fraser (Dune, Lion); Reeves’ Planet of the Apes production designer, James Chinlund, and editor, William Hoy; editor Tyler Nelson (Rememory); and Oscar®-winning costume designer Jacqueline Durran (1917, Little Women, Anna Karenina). The music is by Academy Award -winning composer Michael Giacchino (the current Spider-Man, Jurassic World, Star Wars films, Up).
HBO Original Series as well as live channels are also available for streaming to SKYcable subscribers on HBO GO for as low as Php99/month.
SKYcable subscribers can activate HBO GO via Lazada
The Manila Hotel revives pre-pandemic traditions in observance of Lent and to celebrate Easter. With an array of activities for its staycation, dining, and walk-in guests, and even those staying at home, the iconic hotel gives city folk and those who prefer to stay in Metro Manila options for the coming week.
Visita Iglesia 2022
Lenten tradition of Visita Iglesia is a time to commemorate and solemnly celebrate Christ’s passion in prayer and sacrifice. With a stay at the hotel on April 13 and 14, 2022 for a minimum deluxe room rate of only P7,000 nett and suite room rate of only P10,000 nett, guests can register 2 adults and 2 children 12 years old and below to join the Visita Iglesia tour. Walk-in rate for adults is P1,500 nett and 50% off on walk-in rate for children 5 to 12 years old.
Stopping at seven churches, namely Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Pope Pius XII Church, St. Pancratius Church, Malate Catholic Church and the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Guidance, the tour includes round-trip shuttle service, in-vehicle guides, bottled water, and a scheduled snack stop at Marcelino Street Café at The Manila Prince Hotel.
Registration for the Visita Iglesia guided tour is coursed through the hotel’s Front Desk/Reception upon room booking or for walk-in guests. For inquiries and reservation please call 85270011 or email resvn@themanilahotel.com.
A Bear-y Happy Easter
The popular Easter Egg Hunt is back this year. The Manila Hotel’s in-house guests and those having Easter lunch at Café Ilang-Ilang can register their kids 12 years old and below for the hotel’s Easter activity at the Fiesta Pavilion on April 17, 2022.
Let your kids complete the activities listed in our “A Bear-y Happy Easter” Kiddie Passport on this super fun Easter quest. Let them experience the thrill of finding Easter Eggs at our play area, and even win exciting prizes from the eggs find! Let them join activities like Arts & Crafts, Groovebeats Kiddie Dance workshop, and kiddie ballet; and watch a magic show. The whole family can also get one photo for free at our Family Easter Photo Booth.
To join our Easter Kid Activities, every P5,000 worth of single receipt food bill in Café Ilang-Ilang on Easter Sunday lunch entitles a guest to one (1) complimentary pass (good for one kid with one adult). Additional kid walk-in rate is at P1,500 nett (for one kid with one adult). Discounts are not applicable to the walk-in rate.
For a room bundled with 2 complimentary passes (1 child and 1 adult each pass) to the Easter event, rates start at only P6,000 nett for a deluxe room, which accommodates 2 adults and 2 children ages 12 and below. Overnight package is inclusive of buffet breakfast (for two adults), use of swimming pool and gym facilities.
The Manila Hotel’s A Bear-y Happy Easter event is co-presented by Little Georgia Academy with Kinder City. Participating major sponsors are Make Believe Productions, Wonder Lab, Royal Artisans, Baby Fourth’s Couture, Star Baby Toy Store, Rhyme Lab Learning Center, S’mores Kit PH and Museo Pambata. Minor sponsors are Absolute Sales, DBE Fruits Trading (distributor of DOLE Fruits), ESV International Corporation, Globalinens Worldwide, Inc., RGL33 Fruits & Vegetable Dealer, SLC Agri Farm Ventures, Inc., Trisha’s Cakes and Pastries, and Werdenberg International.
Stick to your fast with our special Lent and Iftar (feast after Ramadan) from The Manila Hotel’s M Takeout.
New to our rice and pasta bowl menu: the Vegan-friendly Halal Buddha Rice Bowl [Roasted Cauliflower, Potato with Indian Spices, Vegetable Pakora, Yellow Dhal]; the Svaadist Rice Bowl [Chicken Tikka Masala, and Vegetable Pakora]; the Fish Katsu Curry Rice Bowl [Breaded tilapia fillet, curry sauce, and sesame sauteed beans]; and Vincolo Pasta Bowl [Spaghetti Tuna Bolognese, Zucchini Parmesan Garlic Bread], all at P190 nett. There’s also the Healthy Tofu Rice Bowl [Tofu-mushroom-carrot salpicao, and ginataang kalabasa at sitaw] at only P175 nett.
The Lenten Specials also include new Solo Meals: Nabati (Vegan)[Okra Masala, Vegetable Pakora, Roasted Cauliflower and Potato with Indian Spices, Vegetable Biryani and Dhal at P330 nett]; Jamila [Aloo Tikki/Potato Cutlet, Chicken Tikka Masala, Garlic Mustard Fish Fillet at P430 nett]; Primavera [Tuna-Cannellini Bean Potato Salad, Parmesan-Garlic Baked Tilapia Fillet, Roasted Cherry Tomato-Basil Fusilli Pasta, Mini Calzone, Italian Orange Cake at P430 nett]; Tagsibol [Ensaladang Talong, Baked Pampano Steak, Adlai, Mushroom Salpicao, Pancit Bihon with Tofu and Vegetables, and Empanada with Heart of Palm and Shrimp at P430]; and Haru [Maki Sushi, Tamagoyaki, Green Bean Gomaae, Saba-O Teppanyaki and Furikake Rice at P340 nett].
Our Lenten and Iftar Specials are available until May 31, 2022. Check out our Lenten Specials and place your order by visiting our website at https://www.themanila-hotel.com.ph/takeout/. You may also call our hotline at 85270011 or 0998-9501912.
Photo credit: Header image by Mara Rivera on Unsplash
At 8.30 am on Saturday, April 9, while many top executives would be enjoying a leisurely start to their holiday weekend, Francis Low, Manila Ocean Park’s EVP and COO, was already with his team of animal trainers and park staff, getting ready for the day’s activities. After all, weekends are the busiest days for the country’s first world-class marine theme park and premiere educational entertainment destination.
Animal lover
It’s hardly surprising that Low would be hands-on when it comes to park operations, especially animal training and handling, being a certified professional animal trainer himself.
In fact, before eventually taking on the leadership role in Manila Ocean Park, he was first hired as a consultant by the holding company, China Oceanis Philippines, Inc., to conceptualize and set up its Birds of Prey Exhibit and All-Star Bird Show in a bid to expand the park’s attractions.
Mr Low is a Certified Professional Animal Trainer in birds, birds of prey, mammals, marine mammals, etc
Mr. Low joins MOP VP for Sales & Marketing Joyce Tarroza in welcoming bloggers
When he started to helm the MOP team, he set about designing the park experience in a way that encourages the same love for animals that he and his team have.
“We designed our attractions in line with three key pillars,” he reveals. “They have to be educational, interactive and experiential.”
With today’s more well-traveled and knowledgeable market for entertainment facilities such as theme parks, Low feels that these pillars help to differentiate Manila Ocean Park from similar establishments. “We try to give park visitors experiences that they can only have here, so they have something to bring home and tell others about.”
One such attraction is the Sea Lion Encounter. While there are similar sea lion shows in other countries, Manila Ocean Park enables guests to interact with its highly trained sea lions as they perform stunts or exhibit their skills. “When guests get up close and personal with the sea lions, they realize they aren’t scary and can be quite fun. These are moments… memories that they will remember for a long time.”
Yeni, one of MOP’s smartest sea lions
Yeni going through hoops
Water Ballet with Yeni
Getting up close and personal with Yeni
Advocates conservation awareness
Manila Ocean Park’s attractions are also geared to promote animal conservation.
“In the Philippines, conservation awareness is very high,” Low observes. “People’s efforts in saving certain species, protecting marine life and saving the trees, some with the help of LGUs and international organizations, are very noticeable.”
He also notes that since conservation is not a one-off thing but requires continuous effort and resources over many years before results can be seen, a lot of people may not choose to commit to it. “What is important is to make people understand that conservation has long-term benefits for many generations down the line.”
Photo credit: manilaoceanpark.com
Photo credit: manilaoceanpark.com
One of the park’s conservation activities is its “Back to the Wild” program wherein juvenile white-spotted bamboo sharks are bred and raised safely in the park’s facilities, and then released back to the coasts in cooperation with government agencies such as the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, National Fisheries Research and Development Institute, and local government units.
“With the help of NGOs, we scope out areas and ensure that these are ideal for the bambo sharks to thrive, then we release them. We also tagged them to see how they are faring. We hope to hold another releasing this year.” shares Low.
Leads with heart
Low’s first few months after he took over the management of Manila Ocean Park in 2011 was all about getting a feel for the local culture. He shares, “I did not do a lot major changes. I blended in: I tried to understand Filipinos, Filipino culture and the way things are done here. By understanding these, it’s easier to put in certain ideas to my team and get them to support the strategies.”
He is proud of the park’s employees and the concern they demonstrated for the park and its animal charges during the height of the pandemic when the park was closed down and he was away in his home country of Singapore. “There was a time when two of the sea lions got sick but we couldn’t get medicine because all the pharmacies are closed. It was a very scary moment for us. I’m so glad that staff proved to be very caring: they went to the canals, sat beside the sea lions to coax them to eat. Because of their care, the two sea lions recovered.”
This care extended throughout the time when the park was closed down due to the community quarantine, but the trainers and staff simulated shows, despite the absence of audiences, so as not to stress the animals from the break from their routine.
He even boasts of how Manila Ocean Park’s security guards expanded their role beyond ensuring safety within the park by familiarizing themselves with the park’s various packages and pricing so that they can recommend attractions to the park visitors.
“I consider myself blessed that I have key leaders and key staff who go all out to make very good experiences for the guests, care for the park and the animals. These are things that money can not buy.”
By 6pm, activities within the park wind down but Mr. Low and his team are still seen up and about, assisting guests or overseeing operations. This routine plays out for six days every week as the park slowly but surely reopens attractions and dining establishments to cater to the public who are ready for new experiences after a long time spent indoors during quarantine.
Manila Ocean Park is located within Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila, open from 10am to 6pm, Tuesdays to Sundays (even during Public Holidays). For more details about the park or to book your tickets, visit its website. You may also book your tickets via Klook.
Check out my previous posts about Manila Ocean Park:
The journey of waste from your home can sometimes be a treacherous one. Ideally, waste from your home is brought to a Materials Recovery Facilities (MRF) where they are segregated according to type and diverted accordingly. However, according to Department of Environment and Natural Resources, in the Philippines only 35% of barangays have established and operational MRFs. This scenario can lead to waste being dumped illegally or even ending up in the oceans. Thankfully there is something we can all do to provide the best case scenario for waste.
Starting April 2022, Mondelēz International and Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies (BEST) are partnering to provide you more ways to properly manage your waste. Here’s how you can join:
Just go to any of the 11 BEST waste drop off sites in Metro Manila from April to June 2022. You can view the list here.
Bring the dry waste from your home like plastic, paper, metal and others. Make sure they are dry, clean, and free from food or other materials.
For any type of waste brought in, you can earn environmental points. These points can be used to redeem select Mondelēz International snack products as well as other items and prizes from BEST.
This program will run for three months so you have plenty of time to collect waste at home and bring them to the sites. And you can do it regularly too as BEST runs their waste collection activities all year long! For a list of all accepted materials at BEST sites, click here. You can also redeem different prizes for your points, check out this list.
Mondelēz International is the maker of beloved snack products like Tang, Eden Cheese, Cheez Whiz, Oreo, Toblerone and Cadbury. The Company aims to empower people to snack right, with the right snack, for the right moment, and with snacks made the right way. “We believe in sustainable snacking, where we are able to produce our delicious products while lessening our environmental footprint, including the impact of waste,” shares Atty. Joseph Fabul, Country Manager for Corporate and Government Affairs of Mondelēz International in the Philippines. “We know that any waste, when not properly collected and diverted can end up in nature, particularly the oceans. That’s why we’re working with organizations like BEST to help support and strengthen waste collection efforts in the country.”
At the end of 2021, Mondelēz International and BEST partnered for a similar initiative where people received boxes of Cadbury Shots chocolate for the wastes they brought to collection sites. This resulted in the collection of 12,893 kilos of plastic waste alone, and the distribution of 10,800 boxes of Cadbury Shots chocolates.
BEST is engaged in contracting and consulting for waste management related businesses. Its primary mission is to provide avenues for comprehensive waste disposal systems, public cleansing, general hygiene and materials recovery that promote sustainable development through proper solid waste disposal and resource conservation.
“We thank Mondelēz International for their continued support to our waste collection initiatives,” ends Jan Vincent Mercado, Senior Vice President for Business Development of BEST. “The challenge of collecting waste is a big one, and we encourage everyone to do their part in ensuring we do not harm the environment. At home we encourage everyone to segregate their dry and wet waste. For your dry waste, bring them to our drop off sites and we can help you to properly divert them so they do not end up in landfills or the oceans. You not only help the environment, but you also receive rewards for the enormous good you are doing the earth.”
About Mondelēz International Mondelēz International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MDLZ) empowers people to snack right in over 150 countries around the world. With 2021 net revenues of approximately $28.7 billion, MDLZ is leading the future of snacking with iconic global and local brands such as OREO, belVita and LU biscuits; Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka and Toblerone chocolate; Sour Patch Kids candy and Trident gum. Mondelēz International is a proud member of the Standard and Poor’s 500, Nasdaq 100 and Dow Jones Sustainability Index. Visit www.mondelezinternational.com or follow the company on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDLZ.
About Mondelez Philippines Mondelez Philippines Inc. has been providing consumers with delicious snack products for the past 59 years – since 1963. Its product portfolio includes Tang powdered beverages, Eden cheese, mayonnaise and sandwich spread, Cheez Whiz spread, Oreo cookies, Tiger energy biscuits, as well as Toblerone and Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolates. The company employs about 450 people in the Philippines, with a manufacturing facility in Parañaque City. Visit https://ph.mondelezinternational.com/home.
Lumina Homes has grown from a low-cost housing brand to one that provides a Filipino family’s ultimate dream home, but it always looks back to its roots of offering affordable and decent homes to everyone. Several award-giving bodies validate this commitment of Lumina Homes, and recently, the first-ever Carousell Property Awards recognized Lumina as Best Developer for Affordable Housing.
The 1st Carousell Property Awards celebrates the country’s most recognizable real estate developers and their finest developments. The Best Developer for Affordable Housing award is one of the nine categories, some of which were bestowed to Lumina’s sister companies under Vista Land & Lifescapes Inc., one of the country’s leading integrated property developers.
Vista Land has guided Lumina in its 10 years of building more than 100,000 homes for Filipino families.
These Lumina projects are available in over 50 key cities and municipalities in the Philippines such as in Rizal, Bulacan, Laguna, Isabela, Bataan, Zambales, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Pangasinan, La Union, Cagayan, Isabela, Cavite, Batangas, Laguna, Quezon, Albay, Sorsogon, Iloilo, Cebu, Negros Occidental, Agusan del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Bukidnon, Misamis Occidental, South Cotabato and Davao del Norte.
Each is strategically located close to major thoroughfares, transport hubs, schools, hospitals, and business and leisure centers.
Lumina also listens well to current market needs, and it has started converting its developments to cater to the demand for bigger living spaces. Due to the pandemic, most property seekers are looking into two-storey house and lots with bigger room provisions, bigger lots, and better ventilation.
“We in Lumina Homes are committed to go beyond what is expected of an affordable housing community. We will continue to maximize and level up our developments’ potential in providing residents the quality home and life they deserve,” shares Engr. Joemi Tan, Division Head of Lumina Homes.
Recently, Lumina “unboxed” eSpacio, its very own amenity center composed of well-thought and functional amenities. Aside from standard amenities such as a multi-purpose hall, mini gardens, playground, jogging path, and a shuttle terminal, eSpacio also boasts of a holistic community center and “Tambayan ni Juan.”
The community center has office provisions for Health Center, Day Care Center, Senior Citizen Center, and Barangay Center while the “Tambayan ni Juan” features an al fresco dining hub with live performers on stage, so that homeowners can have a safer place to enjoy new-normal leisure and entertainment.
But Lumina’s advantage over most affordable housing brands is its push for real-estate solutions early on, even before the pandemic started.
For safer, smoother and faster transactions, Lumina offers efficient virtual home tours and subdivision walkthroughs. It has also perfected online reservation, online appointment booking, and online payment options through digital wallets and digital banking in partnership with national bank players.
For more information and announcements, follow Lumina Homes on Facebook or visit its official website.
Now that working remotely is as accessible as ever, many of us are moving outside the city to leave behind the concrete jungle in exchange for fresh air and proximity to nature. A recent Santos Knight Frank survey corroborates this pandemic-driven shift, with 33% of respondents now preferring to live in the suburbs, in search of low-density environments and wellness-related features.
Yet before you pack your bags and turn your back on the city for good, you might want to check SM Development Corporation (SMDC)’s Vine Residences. As the name suggests, this prime gated community lies at the heart of Novaliches in Quezon City, complete with all the amenities for those who wish to live among lush greeneries and quaint spaces. A testament to its world-class features are the awards it won at the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards in 2021 — Best Upper Affordable Condo and Best Landscape Architectural Design.
Here, you can enjoy basking in the serenity only nature can bring — without having to look far and wide, or to break the bank.
Commit to a Purposeful Lifestyle at the Vine Nature Park
Named “Best Developer” in the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards both in 2020 and 2021, SMDC has been known in the industry for their commitment to sustainability. They exemplify this time and time with developments that provide safe and secure spaces, with vast, green spaces that encourage environmental stewardship and social connectedness.
At Vine Residences, this means various amenities strewn around what they call the “Vine Nature Park” that help you lead not just a healthy, active lifestyle but rather, a fulfilling one. There’s an eco and jogging trail where you can brisk walk or jog safely, day and night. There’s a private volleyball and basketball court too, where you can play friendly or competitive sports matches with your friends and family.
The best part, though, is the development’s very own Camp Hill Site, where you can spend intimate moments with your loved ones, surrounded by priceless gifts of nature. Imagine having long, tireless days of work or school – only for you to retreat in an enchanting campsite, literally a few steps away from your doorstep.
Nurture your family alongside nature
Did you know that living close to nature helps reduce stress levels, improves your mood, and has significant positive effects on children’s emotional, physical, and psychological well-being?
Now more than ever, health is of the essence. This goes hand-in-hand with the Santos Knight Frank study, which noted that open spaces, good air quality, and good views are now among the most important home considerations.
Luckily, SMDC has long been at the forefront of addressing Filipino homebuyers’ needs. Vine Residences boasts of a “Central Park,” where you will be greeted with sunken gardens, and easily, the most captivating landscapings you will ever see in a vertical residential development. Tranquil waters and spaces for meditation await you at the expansive swimming pools. There’s an outdoor children’s play zone too, to help mold and nourish your young ones.
Even more, Vine Residences is located inside the SM City Novaliches complex, giving you that extra exercise as you walk to a plethora of the area’s best restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment options. It’s also strategically located near reputable educational and health institutions, as well as major thoroughfares and transport hubs.
These, all together, make Vine Residences just the perfect place to raise your family.
Nowhere homier than the ‘Home of the Good Guys’
SMDC prides itself as the “Home of the Good Guys,” and it shows in every touchpoint the residents have everyday in the community. From the holistic features of each and every development, to the kind of security, safety, upkeep their property management team provides, to reliable internet connectivity, weekend markets, health and wellness caravans, and job caravans – SMDC encompasses true hallmarks of nation-building.
Choosing Vine Residences as your home, therefore, not only means making yourself privy to the good SMDC is doing for the country. You’re also given a chance to live in a community that empowers you to do more good, day by day.
Now is the best time to invest in real estate
According to Colliers Philippines, the Philippine property sector is set to see a positive year driven by the uptick in economic activity. “While we saw initial headwinds at the start of the year, especially [with] the spread of the Omicron variant, the gradual return of foreign professionals and turnaround in business and consumer confidence should help fuel the take-up of more residential units,” said Colliers Philippines Associate Director for Research Joey Roi Bondoc said.
Today’s economic landscape, therefore, makes up the ideal environment to invest in real estate. Santos Knight Frank backed this claim by encouraging investors to buy now while many government infrastructure projects are coming onstream. For Vine Residences, the completion of MRT-7 and the Mega Manila Subway not only means added convenience for residents, but rather, a generous increase in property values.
Colliers also reported to expect a rise in rent starting this year, which will be beneficial for those who might want to lease out their units. SMDC offers a worry-free leasing experience for interested investors with comprehensive leasing management services via SMDC Prime Key Leasing.
Vine Residences is a ready for occupancy (RFO) property, which means you can move right in, or start generating passive income in an instant.
With sprawling green spaces in a well-integrated, cosmopolitan community, Vine Residences offers a lifestyle you cannot find anywhere else in the metro.
SMDC is the largest and fastest growing real estate developer in the Philippines. Championing perfectly integrated commercial and residential environments, SMDC provides every Filipino and its investors access to a sustainable and attainable cosmopolitan lifestyle. Through masterfully planned and award-winning, complete developments, SMDC has been providing the dream homes of Filipinos in Metro Manila and other key cities in the Philippines.
Details and images provided by SMDC in a recent press release.
Jellybeans in the City 