Sun Life Foundation and Save the Children Philippines collaborate for “Project SUNBRIGHT”

Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation), the philanthropic arm of Sun Life Philippines, and Save the Children Philippines have joined forces to launch “Project SUNBRIGHT.” This initiative aims to reduce and prevent malnutrition among children and pregnant or lactating mothers by promoting exclusive and appropriate complementary feeding.

Project SUNBRIGHT is set to benefit 600 individuals in Muntinlupa City, including parents with infants or children under two years old, teenage mothers, caregivers, health service providers, and pregnant and lactating women. The project’s objective is to determine the causes of undernutrition among these groups and prevent them by promoting optimal “Infant & Young Child Feeding” (IYCF) practices, capacity-building of health service providers, and using Socio-Behavioral Change Communication (SBCC) strategies.

Project SUNBRIGHT
Sun Life Foundation officers handed over the giant check donation to Save the Children for “Project SUNBRIGHT” during the recent signing of the memorandum of agreement 

Empowering the Community through Advocacy

Through Project SUNBRIGHT, community groups among pregnant/lactating women and other stakeholders will be strengthened to promote IYCF. The project aims to enhance existing efforts to promote breastfeeding among beneficiaries who have children of breastfeeding age to minimize or eliminate malnutrition among Filipino children.

Lourdes Pambid, Program Manager for Urban Health and Nutrition of Save the Children Philippines, expressed her gratitude for the partnership. “Working with the Sun Life Foundation for this project has been truly fruitful and productive. They are very receptive of the project’s goals and have strong support for civil societies. Through this collaboration, we are able to provide a wide array of interventions that promote breastfeeding as well as enhance existing efforts through strong advocacy of the practice,” Pambid concluded.

Education and Awareness

Project SUNBRIGHT aims to bolster existing efforts in publicizing nutrition concepts and programs that prevent or reduce undernutrition through an education drive that will train participants on Republic Act No. 11148 or the “Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng Mag-Nanay Act,” maternal, newborn, infant, and young child nutrition, Kangaroo Mother Care, essential intrapartum and newborn care, and management of moderate to severe acute malnutrition.

Sun Life Foundation’s Efforts to Promote Health and Well-being

Kristine Dianne Millete, Executive Director of the Sun Life Foundation, emphasized that the initiative is anchored on “Health,” one of the organization’s pillars. She added, “The Sun Life Foundation is proud to have Save the Children as our implementing partner in this important endeavor to promote health and nutrition for mothers rearing up their babies. With this collaboration, we look forward to enhancing existing efforts to promote breastfeeding among the beneficiaries who have children of breastfeeding age in an effort to minimize or altogether eliminate malnutrition among Filipino children.”

Aside from Project SUNBRIGHT, the Sun Life Foundation continues to work with various organizations to promote health among its beneficiaries. One notable initiative is the Sun Life Barangay Health Stations, which provide basic healthcare in remote areas.

About Sun Life

Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing insurance, wealth and asset management solutions to individual and corporate Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of December 31, 2022, Sun Life had total assets under management of CAD1.33 trillion. For more information, please visit http://www.sunlife.com.

Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Header image by jcomp on Freepik

Make Mother’s Day berry-luscious with Inang Charing’s newest cake creation

Mother’s Day is fast approaching, and what better way to show love and appreciation to our moms than through a delicious cake? Luckily, Inang Charing’s Cakes and Pastries, an online bakeshop, has just the perfect treat for this special occasion.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
The business inspired by Grandma and adapted during lockdowns

Inang Charing’s Cakes and Pastries was named after the owner’s grandma, who instilled in her a passion for baking. Mylene Capili, the entrepreneur behind the business, started as Dress Up Brownies, selling pastries and cakes to her BPO officemates. Prior to the onset of quarantine lockdowns, Mylene and her partner Bem successfully adapted their enterprise to accept online orders, allowing them to cater to the increasing demand for desserts available for delivery.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
From brownies and cakes to custom cakes and more

Today, Inang Charing’s Cakes and Pastries offers a wide range of desserts, including brownies, revel bars, cookies, cakes, cheesecakes, and custom cakes. Mylene’s baking skills have even led her to create her very first three-tiered wedding cake.

These confectionery creations showcase Mylene’s baking prowess, as well as her creativity in crafting intricate cake designs.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
The berry-luscious chocolatey Mother’s Day treat

For Mother’s Day this year, Mylene has whipped up a special creation, the Berry Choco Luscious Cake. This delectable cake features a six-inch, three-layer chocolate cake filled with rich chocolate ganache and topped with fresh strawberries accented with edible gold leaf and a gold Mother’s Day cake topper. It’s designed as a naked cake, making it easy to transport via motorcycles for delivery all over the metro.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
A perfect cake for moms who don’t like it too sweet

One of the best things about the Berry Choco Luscious Cake is that it’s not too sweet. Mylene made sure to balance the filling-to-cake ratio to ensure that the overall flavor is not overwhelmingly sweet, perfect for those who want to savor the chocolate and berry goodness.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Order now before it’s too late

Cake reservations for the Berry Choco Luscious Cake (available for Php1,250) are only accepted until May 7, so make sure to send a message to Inang Charing’s Cakes and Pastries on Instagram or Facebook as soon as possible. Give your mom the sweetest treat this Mother’s Day with Inang Charing’s newest cake creation.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing

Disclosure: Product sample was provided to facilitate this feature.

Check out my previous posts about Inang Charing’s Cakes and Pastries:

Grab your limited edition green Nokia E3110 TWS priced under P500 this 5.5 on Techroom!

A month after its successful release at Techroom, Nokia Personal Audio stays current with the trend and adds a new color option for the Nokia E3110!

Nokia Personal Audio rides the Green Wave alongside leading tech brands by releasing new and refreshing green-colored gadgets in the market. Encased in a cool monochromatic green chassis, the new color way of the Nokia E3110 wireless earphones make a great music accessory and fashion companion this hot summer.

In celebration of 5.5, the Nokia E3110 will be more affordable since its release last month! All of the first exciting hues white, pink, purple, and the newest green color way will be offered at P499 (62% OFF from its SRP P1,299) on April 28 to May 9, 2023 at Techroom.

“Last 4.4, the Nokia E3110 was already competitive at P599, and we’ve seen great turnouts with that price point. However, we want to incentivize our fans even more during the 5.5 season with an additional P100 discount!” says Igue Bonifacio, Nokia Personal Audio Philippines – Lead. “We challenge ourselves to provide quality and affordable products in the TWS category, and edge out the competition with a 1-year warranty guarantee. There may be other TWS alternatives found online that are priced so low, but then the quality and customer service are being sacrificed. With our retail partner Techroom, aftersales and fast delivery can be assured by our customers.” he added.

Be sure to get these wireless earbuds #OnlyAtTechroom. Discount is only available at Techroom’s Lazada (https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/techroomph/) and Shopee (https://shopee.ph/techroomph) official stores.

Visit Techroom’s social media pages (@TechroomPH on Facebook and Instagram) to know more about the promotion.

Nokia Personal Audio

Techroom

HOLO Space is an authorized Philippine sales and marketing agency by Signeo Design-Richgo Singapore Pte Ltd.

Signeo Design-Richgo Singapore Pte Ltd is an authorized Marketing Agency and Distributor for Nokia Personal Audio Products in Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines.

Techroom is a Filipino MSME and online lifestyle shop that offers authentic gadgets for all Filipinos, nationwide.

Stream lag-free with SKY Fiber’s Unli Broadband Super Speed Plans and never miss a show again

Fresh shows are the hot topic of several conversations these days with new stories and exciting adaptations being brought to life on-screen. Don’t feel left out or ‘FOMO’ (fear of missing out) by staying up to date on the digital offerings many people are talking about.

Stream them lag-free using SKY Fiber’s Unli Broadband Super Speed Plans, which all have free speed boosts until December 31. For as low as P999/month, you can get the best value 20Mbps Plan boosted up to 30Mbps until the end of the year. You may also opt for faster speeds such as the 50Mbps Plan (P1,699/month) or 100Mbps Plan (P2,299/month) which have free boosted speeds of up to 150Mbps and 200Mbps respectively within the promo period.  

With an unlimited high-speed internet subscription, you can join in the daily primetime bida craze on Kapamilya Online Live available via Facebook and YouTube. Every night, hundreds of thousands of online viewers tune in to those platforms to watch the top-trending ABS-CBN series “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,” “The Iron Heart,” and “Dirty Linen.”

As these series fulfill audiences’ appetite for action and thrill, you can also fuel your adrenaline needs by subscribing to TapGO TV, a live TV and on-demand streaming service featuring live sports and a wide array of entertainment, available via SKY. Stream action-packed MMA with “UFC 288: Sterling vs Cejudo” on May 7, 8 a.m. or catch the best golfers in the “PGA Tour” on April 28 to May 1 for the Mexico Open tee off at Vidanta at 3:30 a.m., with replays at 2 p.m.

On the other hand, those looking for a light-hearted watch can check out the new ongoing iWantTFC original series “Teen Clash,” which revolved around a group of talented teens reaching for their rock band dreams. The series is continuously gaining traction online for its intriguing adaptation of the popular Wattpad novel of the same name. New episodes are being released every Friday at 8 p.m. on the iWantTFC app and website.

Easily catch up on the latest and hottest shows online when you’ve got a SKY Fiber Unli Broadband Plan. You can also receive free installation on May 1 until July 31 when you present one valid ID.

Subscribe online through the official website (mysky.com.ph/skyfiber) or SKY’s 24/7 assistant KYLA (mysky.com.ph/aboutkyla). For more information and updates, follow SKY on Facebook (fb.com/myskyupdates), Twitter (@myskyupdates), and Instagram (@myskyupdates).

Details provided in a recent press release.

Header image by drobotdean on Freepik

#StayForSummer for only Php 2,023 per night at these celebrity homes, exclusively on Airbnb

Summer travel is finally here! Excitement around summer continues to surge in the Philippines with searches for Airbnb Stays on the platform spiking by almost 400 percent year-on-year*, as Filipinos look forward to hitting the beach or mountains for a quick getaway with family and barkada.

This summer of 2023, Airbnb has partnered with three renowned Filipino celebrities-turned Airbnb Hosts to make their homes available for only Php 2,023 per night**! 

From a private room in a luxurious villa in Quezon to bed and breakfasts in surf destinations La Union and Baler, celebrity Hosts Zsa Zsa Padilla, Mylene Dizon and Glaiza de Castro will warmly welcome you into their homes. Starting today, guests can book each celebrity’s Airbnb stay for an exclusive two-night stay for only Php 2,023 per night this May**, on these special dates: 

“For Filipinos, summer is an amazing time to rediscover the rich wonders and beautiful destinations of the Philippines, while enjoying the iconic Filipino hospitality that our Hosts offer. We hope our #StayForSummer celebrity Host collaboration will encourage Filipinos to enjoy precious time with friends and family, and create meaningful summer memories together,” shares Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

What are you waiting for? Bookings open today, fastest fingers first! 

May 12 to 14: Zsa Zsa Padilla’s Casa Esperanza

Airbnb #StayForSummer
Airbnb #StayForSummer

Nestled between swaying coconut trees and emerald rice paddies in the tranquil town of Lucban is Casa Esperanza, the beautiful weekend home of renowned singer-actress Zsa Zsa Padilla and her partner, famed architect Conrad Onglao. The villa offers guests an impeccably stylish and private getaway in the countryside.

“At Casa Esperanza, we warmly welcome groups and families seeking to create unforgettable memories. Take a refreshing dip in our saltwater pool, stroll through our lush garden, and savor the serenity of dining inside our greenhouse. We love seeing our guests refreshed and rejuvenated after spending a night or two in our home, and we can’t wait to host more guests on Airbnb this summer,” says Zsa Zsa. 

May 19 to 21: Mylene Dizon’s Surfstar Elyu Room 8

Airbnb #StayForSummer
Airbnb #StayForSummer

You don’t have to be a surfer to enjoy La Union, which is full of hip coffee shops, delicious restaurants and exciting nightlife. But if you’re looking for a place with incredible views of the surf, check out actress-model Mylene Dizon’s Surfstar Elyu.

Mylene enjoys touring guests around and making them fall in love with Elyu, “We hope to make your stay as exciting and meaningful as when we first discovered this charming coastal town in the North. What was once a sleepy fishing village is now a buzzing vacation and surfing destination in the Philippines! We welcome our guests to join us and experience the incredible beauty and laidback lifestyle of La Union, with all the comforts of home.”

May 26 to 28: Glaiza de Castro’s Casa Galura

Airbnb #StayForSummer
Airbnb #StayForSummer

Singer-actress Glaiza de Castro’s gorgeous bed-and-breakfast opened just in time for the summer season. Located in the quiet town of Baler, Glaiza shared that the stay reminds her of her childhood and large family reunions. The home is spacious enough for large groups and features a pool, workout area and rooftop. 

Similarly, she wants her guests to create memories with their loved ones that they can look back on in future. She shares, “I hope everyone who stays in Casa Galura will make fun memories in Baler. I want them to feel relaxed and at the same time, build a more solid connection with their loved ones and friends. Some people say you really get to know more about people when you travel together and I agree! Baler has so much to offer and we are here to share how best they can explore this beautiful place.”

*Based on internal Airbnb data

**Price is per night and does not include service fees

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

Indulge in delicious comfort food at Mom & Tina’s

During a #ReturnToOffice day when our boss (also known as #FearlessLeader) was on leave, my coworkers and I consoled ourselves by having lunch at the Mom & Tina’s branch located a short walking distance from our building.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe is a popular restaurant concept named after the mother-daughter duo who founded it a few years ago. Its branches have since become beloved destinations for those looking for delicious baked goods and hearty comfort food.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

These establishments are marked by their cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and mouthwatering menu comfort food that includes breakfast items, main dishes, sandwiches, pasta dishes, salads, and cakes, pies, and other baked goods. Mom & Tina’s takes pride in its heirloom dishes, all made from scratch using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

During our lunch time foray, we feasted on Mom & Tina’s savory viands such as:

US Roast Beef (Php645). Tender slices of beef slow-roasted to perfection, served with gravy, mixed vegetables and fluffy mashed potatoes, definitely a must-try for meat lovers.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Paella Valenciana (Php495). Mom & Tina’s take on the classic Spanish dish, featuring saffron-infused rice cooked with chicken, seafood, and vegetables sautéed in oil with garlic, tomatoes and chorizo. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for sharing, which is what I did with one of my officemate.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Barbecued Chicken Fillet (Php395). Juicy and succulent deboned chicken leg quarter marinated in a special barbecue sauce and grilled to perfection and served with java rice and atchara.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Barbecued Pork Belly (Php395). A Filipino favorite, Mom & Tina’s version of this dish features pork belly marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and grilled to perfection. It’s served with rice and your choice of sides.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Pasta Carbonara (Php365). A classic pasta dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. Mom & Tina’s version features al dente spaghetti tossed in a creamy sauce with bacon and grated Parmesan cheese and served with freshly baked rolls.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Thanks to our #HappyLunch at Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe, we cheerfully faced the rest of our workday, even if #FearlessLeader was not with us. (Well, we made sure to share our lunch pics to make her miss us all the more, hehehehe!)

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

This Mom & Tina’s branch is located at Across ABS-CBN Main Building, 58 Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, Barangay South Triangle, Quezon City, open for dine-in, takeout and delivery weekdays from 8am to 10pm and weekends from 7am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, contact +63 2 83323579 or 63 999 8859254.

Other branches are located at:

  • S&R Libis, E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue corner Calle Industria, Bagumbayan, Quezon City (Tel: +63 2 82568611 or +63 999 8850092)
  • Tropical Palms Condominium, 103 De la Rosa Street corner Perea Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City (Tel: +63 2 88943598 or +63 999 8859252)

Know more about Mom & Tina’s by visiting its website or following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about Mom & Tina’s:

Loboc Children’s Choir performs at The Manila Hotel and Manila Prince Hotel

Hotel guests may witness special performances of Loboc Children’s Choir as they are scheduled to sing at the lobby ofManila Prince Hotel on April 30, 2023 at 2:30 PM and at the grand lobby of The Manila Hotel on May 1, 2023 at 2:30 PM.

Admission is free.

The renowned Loboc Children’s Choir has captivated audiences far and wide with their musical talent. Having won national and international competitions, the choir has grown into one of the Philippines’ most outstanding choirs today. 

Loboc Children’s Choir was founded in 1980, and within its forty-three years of existence, the choir has received accolades around the world as they held concerts in Austria, Belgium, China, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, and United States of America.  They took home the gold medal in both the Youth Category and Grand Prize at the 6th International Folksongs Festival “Europe and its Songs” held in Barcelona, Spain.

For inquiries, please call +63 2 5328 2222 for Manila Prince Hotel and +63 2 8527 0011 for The Manila Hotel.

About Manila Prince

Manila Prince Hotel, a subsidiary of The Manila Hotel, is situated in the heart of Manila’s business district and has close proximity to the city’s historical tourist spots as well as the main transportation hubs. With its 300 well-appointed rooms, 6 function rooms, an elegant lobby with 24-hour reception, a business center, a swimming pool, and gym access, the Manila Prince Hotel offers value for money and stylish comfort. Along with excellent service and luxurious hospitality, the hotel has exciting dining experiences for you and your family at its all-day dining restaurant Marcelino Street Café. The hotel is also connected to the UN Square mall for convenient shopping and dining. These and more, make Manila Prince Hotel a top choice for leisure and business travelers’ choice.

About The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel is situated in the heart of the City of Manila. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel maintains to be the choice hotel of the most distinguished clientele. Over the years, The Manila Hotel continuously provides the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience. It has more than 515 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms. Apart from these, the hotel offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with The Manila Hotel Spa and Health Club. It has 6 dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure: Café Ilang-Ilang which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of International buffet delights; Champagne Room with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila—it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting; Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music; Lobby Lounge which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings; Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessens that offers the hotel’s signature pastries, breads, chocolates, and pralines.

HAPAG: Your destination for comforting Filipino food during your Manila Ocean Park adventure

If you’re on your way to enjoy the exciting attractions at Manila Ocean Park with your friends and family in tow, food should be the least of your worries.

After all, Manila Ocean Park is home to quite a number of gourmet eateries, the latest of which is its Filipino restaurant, HAPAG.

The restaurant’s name is derived from Tagalog word which translates to “table” in English. In Filipino culture, the table holds a special significance as it is often the focal point of gatherings and celebrations, where families and friends come together to share meals and create cherished memories.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Just like its name suggests, HAPAG at Manila Ocean Park aims to be a place where people can gather around the table and indulge in the comfort of Filipino cuisine, creating a sense of warmth, togetherness, and hospitality. Its name not only pays homage to Filipino traditions but also reflects the restaurant’s commitment to providing a welcoming and memorable dining experience for its guests.

Ready for your foray into Filipino comfort food? Be sure to include these down-home delicious dishes when you dine at HAPAG:

Soups

Sinigang na Hipon (Php700). This classic Filipino dish features succulent shrimp cooked in a tangy tamarind broth, with vegetables like kangkong (water spinach) and radish adding a refreshing crunch. The sourness of the soup paired with the sweetness of the shrimp creates a comforting and satisfying bowl of goodness.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Sinigang na Baboy (Php650). For pork lovers, Sinigang na Baboy is a must-try. Tender pork chunks are simmered in a sour tamarind soup, along with vegetables like kangkong and eggplant. The savory and tangy flavors meld together, making it a perfect dish to warm your soul.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Vegetables

Pinakbet (Php250). This popular vegetable dish from the northern regions of the Philippines features a medley of fresh vegetables like eggplant, okra, and bitter gourd, cooked in a shrimp paste sauce. The combination of flavors and textures in Pinakbet creates a comforting and healthy dish that is perfect for vegetarians, those looking for a lighter option or as a side dish to complement other viands.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Mains

Beef Caldereta (Php550). A rich and hearty stew, Beef Caldereta is a Filipino comfort food that is perfect for meat lovers. Tender beef chunks are simmered in a slightly spicy tomato-based sauce with vegetables, potatoes, and carrots, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying dish that is best enjoyed with steamed rice.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Whole Fried Chicken (Php800). Crispy, juicy, and flavorful, Filipino-style Fried Chicken is a comfort food staple. HAPAG’s version is sure to satisfy your fried chicken cravings, with its golden-brown crust and succulent meat. Perfectly seasoned and fried to perfection, it’s a timeless classic that will surely hit the spot.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Crispy Pata (Php1,200). This version of the classic Pinoy dish is a true delight for meat lovers, featuring perfectly deep-fried pork knuckles that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It is served with a dipping sauce made with vinegar and soy sauce, which adds a tangy and savory contrast to the rich flavors of the pork.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Charcoal-grilled

Grilled Boneless Bangus (Php350). Known as the national fish of the Philippines, Bangus or milkfish is a beloved ingredient in Filipino cuisine. HAPAG’s Grilled Boneless Bangus is marinated then grilled, resulting in a moist and flavorful fish dish that is both comforting and delicious.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Grilled Liempo (Php500). A delicious way to enjoy pork belly is through HAPAG’s Grilled Liempo. Marinated in a special blend of spices and grilled to smoky juiciness, the result is a flavorful pork dish that is sure to please your taste buds. It’s a comforting and satisfying choice for meat lovers.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Chicken Inasal (Php260). This flavorful grilled chicken dish from the Visayas region of the Philippines is known for its distinct marinade made with calamansi, lemongrass, and vinegar. HAPAG’s Chicken Inasal is tender and juicy, with a tangy and savory flavor that is perfect for satisfying your chicken cravings.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Sizzling Plates

Sizzling Liempo Steak (Php500). HAPAG’s Sizzling Liempo Steak is grilled then served sizzling hot on a cast-iron plate, with a savory gravy that complements the pork. The sizzling presentation and the mouthwatering aroma make it a truly comforting and indulgent dish.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Sizzling Pork Sisig (Php450). A popular appetizer or pulutan in Filipino cuisine, Sizzling Pork Sisig is a sizzling plate of chopped pork face and ears, seasoned with spices and served with a tangy sauce. HAPAG’s version is crispy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors that will surely make your taste buds dance.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Rice

Bagoong Fried Rice (Php310). Bagoong, or fermented shrimp paste, is a staple condiment in Filipino cuisine. When used to flavor fried rice, it results to a savory staple that’s sure to complement your favorite Pinoy dishes.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Beverage

Sago’t Gulaman (Php120). Sago’t Gulaman is a popular Filipino beverage made with tapioca pearls (sago) and agar-agar jelly (gulaman) soaked in a sweet syrup made from brown sugar, water, and vanilla. HAPAG’s Sago’t Gulaman is a refreshing and nostalgic drink that is perfect for quenching your thirst and cooling down during a hot day. The combination of the chewy tapioca pearls, slippery agar-agar jelly, and sweet syrup creates a unique and satisfying texture that is both fun to eat and drink.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

So, after a day of thrilling adventures and exciting discoveries at Manila Ocean Park, take a moment to unwind and treat yourself to the comfort of Filipino food at HAPAG. Indulge in the rich flavors, warm hospitality, and cozy ambiance that this newest restaurant has to offer, and create lasting memories of comfort and culinary delight with your family and friends.

HAPAG is located at Ground Floor, Manila Ocean Park Complex, behind the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta along Roxas Boulevard, Ermita Manila, open daily from 10am to 7pm. Book your Manila Ocean Park tickets via Klook or visit its website.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

To stay updated on Manila Ocean Park’s attractions and dining establishments, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting held at this restaurant during my recent tour in Manila Ocean Park. Food items here were served at no cost to the attendees.

Check out my previous posts about Manila Ocean Park:

How to make the most of your visit to Manila Ocean Park

Celebrate the beauty of Flores de Mayo with the vivo V27 Series and #TheAuraPortraitMaster

No occasion is too small for Filipinos. When it comes to celebrations and festivals, Filipinos spare no effort to make each event as, if not more, memorable than the last one. 

Expect no less with the Flores de Mayo. In this month-long celebration of Filipinos’ devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, towns get adorned in vibrant colors, churches are filled with a kaleidoscope of flowers and people gather together to celebrate fiestas. Besides the gastronomic delights, there is singing and dancing, even bands and contests to cap the night off.. For many, the most anticipated part is the Santacruzan, a grand parade of young women and men dressed as queens and kings of old in commemoration of Saint Helena’s quest for the Sacred Cross. 

This Flores de Mayo, step up the merrymaking a notch and don’t just immerse yourself in all the festivities. Even better, capture all the glory and story of the celebration in their vibrant colors and beauty with the vivo V27 Series, the Aura Portrait Master. With its new and advanced camera features, the vivo V27 Series lets you preserve in posterity all the special moments of your Flores de Mayo to relive even years later.

One, two, three…say Reyna!

Is a dear friend or cousin  at the Santacruzan this year and you’re the designated photographer? Or are you there just to watch the parade? 

Either way, you’re sure to capture all the stunning ladies in their dazzling gowns and their dashing escorts with the vivo V27 Series. With its most advanced camera yet, vivo makes it possible to take great, studio-quality photos of all the queens in all their splendid aura without the need for a professional camera. 

The vivo V27 Series is powered by the first-of-its-kind Aura Portrait Algorithm, a camera system made up of three features — the Sony IMX766V, the Aura Light and vivo’s Advanced Portrait Mode. 

The Sony IMX766V, vivo’s newest and largest camera sensors, boosts image quality and vibrance by increasing the amount of light six times when photos are shot at low-light conditions to yield images that are bright and vivid. Aura Light, vivo’s new upgraded camera flash that resembles the appearance and capabilities of a ring light, is designed specifically for taking portraits. This feature evenly lights up your subject’s face for more refined skin tones and rich facial details. With the Sony IMX766V and the Aura Light combined, your portraits can reflect the natural beauty of all the Santacruzan queens and escorts as well as the colors and intricate details of their outfits, the flowers and arcs. 

vivo’s Advanced Portrait Mode further enriches photo quality. This feature, supported by vivo’s Exclusive Portrait Algorithm, beautifies and retouches each image using vivo’s AI algorithm to give your subject a more natural and healthier appearance without making exaggerated enhancements. It also supports a new Low-Light Portrait feature that adds tones to the background to make it more radiant and bring out stunning details and emotions. The Portrait Mode works harmoniously with the Aura Light, a feat ordinary smartphone cameras have yet to make possible. 

With the Aura Portrait Algorithm, everything that you need to take professional, studio-level photos is already at your fingertips in a smartphone that fits right in your pocket. Don’t miss your chance to capture all the special moments of your local Santacruzan with your new and powerful vivo V27 Series! 

Film, edit and post

If photos are not nearly enough to chronicle the beauty and grandeur of the Flores de Mayo festivities, videos will. The vivo V27 Series packs EIS + OIS Dual-Ultra Stabilization for stable recording of all street performances and parades. This feature reduces shakes and jitters during filming to help you better highlight the elegance and smiles of your Santacruzan queensFor when the parade and celebrations run long, toggle on the Super Night Video feature to ensure you still get clear and detailed output even when the sun sets or the festivities extend into the evening. 

When you’ve got all the videos you want, vivo’s exclusive Vlog Movie Creator can help you put all of them together into one fantastic vlog. Edit without the fuss and hassle, thanks to vivo V27 Series’ easy-to-use techniques and built-in video effects and features, allowing you to share your Flores de Mayo experience with your friends and followers as if they were there. 

Take advantage of this month-long festival to showcase your photography and video prowess. With the vivo V27 Series’ advanced camera features, you will surely capture every glorious moment of all May celebrations. 

The vivo V27 Series is available for purchase at vivo’s official stores nationwide. You may also get your vivo V27 Series at vivo’s vivo’s official websiteand Shopee, Lazada and TikTok stores.

Details and image provided in a recent press release.

#NoticeToThePublic: Good eats abound at Public Eatery, Robinsons Magnolia

If you’re on the lookout for the what’s new and absolutely delish, The Tasteless Food Group’s got something for you.

Drop by Robinsons Magnolia to immerse yourself in a new dining concept – Public Eatery!

Taking inspiration from subway lines, this elevated foodcourt destination is marked by energy and movement, from the stylish and modern decor to the airy open dining area layout bathed in ample natural light.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Public Eatery

Above all, Public Eatery brings the metro’s foodies to the express lane towards good eats by bringing together a diverse collection of dining options – covering a wide range of flavors and cuisines – in one convenient location.

Ready to go on a flavorful journey? Get all aboard and take your tastebuds for a ride with these exciting food stations at Public Eatery:

Anyhow

Our favorite ihaw-ihaw goes international! Inspired by the Pinoys’ penchant for various kinds grilled meats, Anyhow offers inihaw any way you like it! Here, your can make your own satisfying meal by combining your choice of smokey grilled meat – such as this succulent US Beef Belly – with equally flavorsome rice and sides.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Bad Bird

Famous for fully embracing umami flavors, Bad Bird goes all out in using MSG in its natural and processed forms: dashi, mushroom powder, furikake, miso, and more, all to produce that complex savory taste that tickles the taste buds. Check out Bad Bird’s Fish and Chips made with meaty white fish coated in its signature umami beer batter, and served with fries and tartare sauce.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Bookoh

Even the humble buko juice gets a make-over: at Bookoh, coconut water gets mixed with various syrups and sinkers to produce a tasty thirst quencher. This Coconut Pandan Gula Melaka Juice, for instance, combines buko juice with panda syrup, nata de coco, grass jelly and Gula Melaka, a type of palm sugar made from the sap of flower buds from the coconut palm.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
FRNK

Try out FRNK’s artisanal beverages that accentuate the natural flavor of milk through the addition of flavors from chocolates, teas, fruits and other ingredients. It also produces a variety bakery items that pair well with its milk beverages such as its plant-based Coffee Almond Doughnut that complements its Frozen Kokoa drink.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Konbini Karaage

In Japan, convenience stores are more than just places to grab some essentials at all hours. They also provide quick access to tasty munchables such as this Karaage, Japan’s crispy and yummy take on the fried chicken, served hot and fresh – quite conveniently – in a cute takeout box.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Le Chon

Chef Happy Ongpauco-Tiu celebrates savory roasted meats that define Pinoy celebrations at her newest venture, Le Chon. Aside from the hallmark lechon baboy and lechon manok, Le Chon also serves other meats, deliciously roasted lechon-style, such as this Lechon Angus Beef Belly.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Merry Moo

Our sweltering summer heat calls for some ice cream, doesn’t it? Well, chill out with some icy handcrafted confection that comes from the milk of happy cows at Merry Moo. Go for creamy and velvety scoops of Merry Moo ice cream richly flavored with Auro Milk Chocolate finished with a generous amount of roasted cacao nibs for an additional burst of cacao.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Morse

Perk up your day with a cuppa joe from the passion project of Mike Holaschke, the Austrian blogger behind “Making It Happen.” Power great conversations with your companions with The One, made with a shot of espresso topped with thick salted cream and sea salt.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
New York, Cubao

Award-winning and best-selling cookbook author Chef Myke “Tatung” Sarthou curates an array of much-loved, down-home, and “Simpol” Pinoy fare we all know and love, remixed for variety and rediscovery. NYC’s Tocino Ribs brings a hefty serving of salt-cured pork ribs, perfect for a very heavy breakfast with fried rice and egg.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
OK Bob

Satisfy your cravings for Middle Eastern dishes with OK Bob‘s fresh takes on classics such as kebabs, falafel, hummus and curries, with recipes and methods perfected by Chefs Decker Gokioco and Jorge Mendez. How about wowing your friends with a towering serving of Hanging Kebab comprised of a skewer of grilled beef hanging over a bed of buttered basmati rice topped with grilled tomatoes.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Samyan

Bite into Authentic Thai streetfood, curated by Chef Third “Ton” Tassanakajohn and produced by Chef Gabriel Ong, at Samyan. Named after the bustling Sam Yan Market in Bangkok, Samyan brings exotic yet comforting tastes and textures of Thai street cuisine, such as in this Khao Pad Pu, also known as Crab Fried Rice.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Seafood Oyster Bar

It’s quite shuck-ing how oysters have become a big hit in food halls. As evidenced by Seafood Oyster Bar, foodies have gone crazy over the briny taste and silky mouthfeel of oysters – whether raw with spiced vinegar, doused with garlic butter, heated with a few drops of tabasco or as an oyster shot – or even Baked and topped with Miso Custard. Because, why not?

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Thomson Road

Savor the flavors of Singapore at Thomson Road, inspired by the Lion City’s famous shophouses and hawker stands. Chef Johanne Wee dishes out fresh takes on Singapore’s much-loved street dishes, such as this spicy yet comforting Seafood Laksa.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Ten by Tsukemen

Sate your hunger with a mouthwatering bowl of ramen that scores a 10 out of 10. Chef Noel Mauricio helms the kitchen, taking his cues from the minimalist Japanese culture, to produce ramen bowls such as this Tonkotsu Premium, made with pork bone broth and ramen noodles topped with grilled chashu, aji tamago, sesame seeds and negi. Be sure to get the Richer broth, that’s the chef’s recommendation!

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
The Bev Bar

Who says you can’t make pour decisions? You can do just that at The Bev Bar which serves a wide assortment of refreshments to pair with your orders from other Public Eatery stations. Chef Patrick Go creates mouthwatering drinks such as this scrumptious Choco Chocnut Shake.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery

So let this be my Notice to the Public: Go full steam ahead on your next foodie adventure at Public Eatery. With so many cuisines to explore, you can always count on a flavorful and satisfying food trip.

Public Eatery is located at the Fourth Floor, New Wing, Robinsons Magnolia, Aurora Boulevard corner Doña Hemady Street, Barangay New Manila, Quezon City, open daily from 10am to 9pm. For inquiries, call +63 976 2810277 or email publiceatery@tasteless.ph.

For more information on Public Eatery, visit its website or follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Public Eatery

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting held at this venue. Food items mentioned here were served at no cost to facilitate this feature.