Philippines – Page 3 – Jellybeans in the City

Yul Servo Nieto presents captivating solo exhibit at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery

Yul Servo Nieto, the Manila Vice Mayor, accomplished actor, public servant, and multi-talented artist, is ready to captivate art enthusiasts with his highly anticipated solo exhibit, Directions II. This exclusive exhibition will take place at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery, showcasing Nieto’s unique vision and exceptional creativity.

A Passion for Art Beyond Acting

Although widely recognized for his acting prowess, Yul Servo Nieto’s passion for art goes beyond the screen. Directions II presents a collection of his works where he masterfully transforms discarded metal scraps into stunning pieces of art. Marvin Kim Tan, the Director of Sales and Marketing at The Manila Hotel, expresses gratitude for the opportunity to host Vice Mayor Yul Servo Nieto’s second solo exhibit in their art gallery.

Pushing the Boundaries of Artistic Expression

Following the resounding success of his debut exhibit, Yul Servo Nieto embarks on his latest endeavor, Directions II, to push the boundaries of artistic expression even further. The exhibit serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to environmental consciousness and the profound impact that art can have in sparking meaningful conversations.

Influenced by his Father’s Legacy

Yul Servo Nieto draws inspiration from his father, Martin Nieto, an architecture graduate and visual artist who played a significant role in the pioneering of the giant billboard advertising industry in the Philippines. While his father primarily works with oil and acrylic, Nieto explores the world of metal sculpture. Despite their different artistic paths, their shared love for art serves as a foundation of support for each other’s endeavors.

Join the Artistic Discourse at Directions II

Embark on an inspiring artistic journey at Yul Servo Nieto’s Directions II exhibit as he showcases masterful pieces on the walls of The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery, starting on June 12, 2023.

The net proceeds from the sale of Servo’s artworks will be donated to selected beneficiaries and charitable organizations.

For additional details and inquiries, please contact +632 852700111 or +632 53015500.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Embracing immersive travel: How Filipinos are opting for longer stays with Airbnb

Airbnb, the leading online marketplace for lodging and travel experiences, reveals a significant increase in the popularity of long-term stays among Filipino travelers. With a growth rate of over 2.4 times year-on-year in 2022, the trend indicates a shift towards slower and more meaningful travel experiences. As the upcoming off-peak season approaches, Airbnb encourages travelers to take advantage of lower travel fares and consider extended trips. To inspire potential adventurers, Airbnb shares the story of Liezl Jose, the winner of the ‘Fly and Live Anywhere’ contest, who embarked on a month-long immersive travel adventure with her family.

Photo of Liezel — Liezl Jose, the winner of the ‘Fly and Live Anywhere’ contest

Embracing a New Way of Travel

In the pursuit of escaping the confines of the pandemic and exploring new horizons, Liezl and her family eagerly sought an opportunity for relaxation and adventure. Winning the ‘Fly and Live Anywhere’ campaign through Airbnb felt like destiny, offering them the perfect chance to fulfill their dreams of visiting off-the-beaten-path destinations and creating lasting memories as a family.

According to Liezl, “An adventure doesn’t always have to be in far-flung regions or the most popular destinations because there are so many choices in our beautiful islands. Some natural wonders are practically in our backyards.”

During their month-long journey, Liezl and her family immersed themselves in the wonders of Dumaguete, Boracay, and Cagayan de Oro. They discovered the rural charm, indulged in the local food scene, witnessed breathtaking sunsets on stunning beaches, and even experienced adrenaline-filled whitewater rafting. Additionally, they embarked on road trips to Rizal and Batangas, where they reveled in picturesque natural landscapes and countryside beauty.

For Liezl and her family, the contest provided not only an opportunity to travel but also a chance to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle. Working and attending remote school from various locations, they discovered the joy of living like digital nomads while uncovering hidden gems in their own country.

Tips for Modern Travelers

Drawing from her experience, Liezl shares her top tips for anyone planning a multi-city adventure:

Choose Accommodations Carefully: When booking longer stays, prioritize Airbnb listings that offer reliable WiFi connection and essential amenities like drinking water, bathroom supplies, and a well-equipped kitchen. These small details contribute to creating a home away from home experience.
Explore Local Culture: To truly experience the local culture of your destination city, start by visiting local markets. Walking around allows you to explore the neighborhood and gain insights into the local food, people, language, and lifestyle.
Travel Light: Pack efficiently and double-check airline policies and airport transfers in case of last-minute schedule changes.
Disconnect and Immerse: Take breaks from technology and immerse yourself in your surroundings. Be present, respect the locals, appreciate the natural beauty, and take time to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

Embracing the Journey

Liezl reflects on her month-long getaway with her loved ones, emphasizing the importance of embracing the present and cherishing every moment. “No two sunsets are the same. Each one is different. Yet, it comes from the same sun. It doesn’t matter where we are; we belong anywhere we choose to make our home for the day.”

Section 5: Start Planning Your Adventure

To embark on your own immersive travel experience, visit the Airbnb website. Begin your journey today and explore the countless possibilities that await you.

About Airbnb

Airbnb is a global online marketplace that connects travelers with unique accommodations and travel experiences. With a diverse range of listings in over 220 countries and regions, Airbnb aims to create memorable and authentic travel experiences for people worldwide.

Details provided in a recent press release.

NY-based bartending expert praises the versatility and unique flavor profiles of Tanduay rums

Tanduay rums, known for their wide range of expressions, are receiving high praise from renowned New York-based concept beverage director and bartending veteran, Jeremy Le Blanche. Each Tanduay product offers a distinct and unique flavor profile, making them highly versatile for both sipping and mixing.

Le Blanche, with over 11 years of experience in the bartending industry, has established himself as an expert in his field. Having studied hospitality for five years and obtaining bartending licenses and degrees, Le Blanche’s passion for mixology and culinary arts led him on a journey around the world, constantly seeking new horizons and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

“For the past 8 years, each of my roles has been an amazing experience. I learned something new every single day. From Switzerland to London and finally New York, my focus has always been on personal growth and setting new goals for myself,” shared Le Blanche. His commitment to innovation and consistency allows him to create immersive sensory experiences through his cocktails, ensuring every customer receives the perfect drink.

New York City, with its dynamic and ever-evolving nature, provides an ideal platform for Le Blanche to showcase his creativity. The city’s vibrant energy fuels his drive to continuously explore and experiment with new flavors and techniques.

When asked about Tanduay’s position among other rum brands, Le Blanche expressed his admiration, describing the product as “very good, very clean.” Currently, his two favorite expressions are the Tanduay Double Rum and Especia Spiced Rum. However, Le Blanche acknowledged the highly competitive rum market, emphasizing the importance of effective marketing to increase awareness and give more people the opportunity to try Tanduay.

“It’s all about marketing now to make Tanduay grow in the US, so more people know about it and have the chance to try it,” explained Le Blanche. He emphasized the crucial role of promotion in showcasing the most exceptional cocktails, highlighting that excellence alone is not enough; uniqueness and effective marketing are key to connecting with people.

Le Blanche’s introduction to Tanduay occurred when he connected with Matt Robertson, the brand ambassador for Tanduay in New York, through social media. This encounter sparked an instant camaraderie that has grown stronger over the years. Impressed by the quality of Tanduay’s rums, Le Blanche found it effortless to incorporate them into his cocktails, and the enthusiastic support of the New York team at Tanduay further strengthened his bond with the brand.

“I love that Tanduay is from the Philippines. It grabs people’s attention and makes it easy for me to suggest something new. Once they try one of our Tanduay rum cocktails, they usually want to order another,” Le Blanche added.

Marc Ngo, Tanduay International Business Development Manager and Senior Brand Manager, commended Le Blanche’s endorsement, recognizing it as a testament to Tanduay’s commitment to quality and product research and development. Ngo also praised the craftsmanship and ingenuity of Filipinos, as all Tanduay products are proudly made in the Philippines using the finest sugarcane in the country.

Established in 1854, Tanduay has become an iconic brand in the Philippines, renowned for its exceptional rums. The brand has been consistently recognized with international awards and has dominated the rum category in the country. Tanduay was named the World’s Number 1 Rum for five consecutive years by Drinks International Magazine and has received the prestigious “Brand of the Year” award for seven consecutive years.

For more information about Tanduay and its range of products, please visit www.tanduay.com.

Sun Life and Smart renew partnership to promote financial literacy among cooperatives

Sun Life Philippines (Sun Life), the country’s leading life insurance company for 12 consecutive years, has renewed its strategic partnership with Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart). The aim of this partnership is to enhance financial literacy among cooperatives affiliated with Smart.

Expanding the Program’s Coverage

The renewed partnership between Sun Life and Smart will broaden the program’s reach by conducting financial literacy trainings for cooperatives in various locations, including Benguet, Bulacan, Cavite, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, and Metro Manila throughout the year. This expansion seeks to empower more cooperative members by providing them with essential knowledge about finance and its relevance to their industry.

Building on Previous Success

Sun Life and Smart are committed to surpassing the achievements of the program in 2022. Last year, the initiative successfully engaged and educated nearly 500 cooperative members on finance fundamentals. The partners aim to build on this momentum and continue empowering Filipinos to pursue their financial goals.

Advocating Financial Literacy

Sun Life has always been a strong advocate of financial literacy, recognizing its crucial role in leading individuals to a brighter life. With the renewal of the partnership with Smart, Sun Life President Alex Narciso believes they can further elevate their efforts and empower more Filipinos to achieve financial independence.

“Sun Life has always been a staunch advocate of financial literacy as we believe it plays a key role in achieving a brighter life. We are always looking for ways to elevate our efforts and help empower even more Filipinos to pursue their financial goals. I believe the renewal of our tie-up with Smart can help us do that,” Sun Life President Alex Narciso said.

Empowering Cooperatives through Financial Literacy

Cooperatives play a vital role in their respective communities and contribute significantly to the country’s economy. Recognizing their importance, Smart is committed to empowering these cooperatives through financial literacy and digitalization. By renewing its partnership with Sun Life, Smart reaffirms its commitment to supporting its partner cooperatives and providing them with relevant solutions.

“Given the key role that cooperatives play in their respective communities and in our country’s economy as a whole, it is important to empower them through financial literacy and digitalization. Through the renewal of this partnership with Sun Life, we are doubling down on our commitment to support our partner cooperatives and help provide them with relevant solutions,” FVP and Group Head of Smart Go-To Market and Subscriber Management Melvin Nubla said.

Joining Forces for Financial Empowerment

The collaboration between Sun Life and Smart represents a collective effort to promote financial literacy and empower Filipinos in their journey toward financial independence. As part of this endeavor, Sun Life encourages individuals to stay updated on the program and other initiatives by following @SunLifePH on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. To learn more about Sun Life and its products, visit its website at www.sunlife.com.ph.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Celebrating in style at Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico

As a true-blue foodie, celebrating my natal day somewhere with good food and good vibes is a must.

So to commemorate my 46th trip around the sun, I took the fam to dinner at one of the metro’s most celebrated buffet restaurants: Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico.

It’s not actually my family’s first time at this establishment. Over the years, together with our extended family, we have celebrated several special occasions at Guevarra’s, from birthdays to graduations and balikbayan visits.

Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico — Guevarra’s in 2014

Vintage ambiance with an old-world charm

The place itself would strongly appeal to aesthetes, given its quaint vintage-inspired architecture and decor. Situated in a house built in the 1920s, the restaurant still retains much of the place’s old-world charm from its sprawling courtyard, imposing stairway and the intricate woodwork and chandeliers in the main dining hall.

Decorating the walls are pictures commemorating the restaurant’s namesake: Pedro Guevarra, a Filipino soldier, lawyer and legislator who became Resident Commissioner of the Philippines during the American Occupation. During his term as resident commissioner, he worked tirelessly for the approval of the Tydings-McDuffie Act which paved the way for the establishment of the Philippine Commonwealth and its eventual independence from the US.

Also adorning the walls are plates signed by local celebrities which serve as their testimonials to their superb dining experiences at Guevarra’s.

Filipino buffet menu well-suited to celebrations

Chef Rolando Laudico is known for his modern take on classic Filipino dishes, and Guevarra’s menu reflects that. Its expansive array includes well-loved classics in Pinoy cuisine as well as hearty and tasty dishes from international cuisines.

Appetizers.

Breads, Rice and Pastas.

Mains, Grills and Carvings.

Desserts.

Budget-friendly celebrations

Despite its elegant setting and delicious food, Guevarra’s is surprisingly affordable. You can enjoy a sumptuous feast without breaking the bank with these buffet rates:

Regular Buffet: Php759 net (Seniors and PWDs at Php542.14)
Weekend Breakfast: P559 net (Seniors and PWDs at P399.29)

Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico is located at 387 P. Guevarra Street corner Argonne Street, Barangay Addition Hills, San Juan. For reservations and inquiries, call +63 2 870 1811, +63 2 87051874 or +63 917 3112222, or reserve online.

Buffet schedules are:

Lunch 11:00am – 2:00pm
Late Lunch 2:30pm – 4:30pm (weekends only)
Maagang Salu Salo 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Dinner 7:30pm -10:00pm
Weekend Late Lunch 2:30PM to 4:30PM
Weekend Breakfast 7:30AM to 10AM

Some reminders:

Pets are not allowed (sorry, leave your furry friends at home).
Guests are required to wear face masks at the Buffet Area.
Parking spaces are on a first come, first serve basis. Parking along Mabuhay Lane is prohibited.

Get lucky with GCash: Win up to Php 100,000 every week!

GCash Lucky Load is back and better than ever! Get ready for a chance to win big this 2023 with this exciting promo. As a GCash user in NCR, North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, you have the opportunity to win up to Php 100,000 every week from the Lucky Load draw.

To participate in the promo, all you have to do is purchase at least Php 50 worth of mobile, broadband, or non-telco load on the GCash app. This automatically earns you one ticket to join the Lucky Load promo.

There are three ways to access your tickets: by clicking on the pop-up banner after purchasing load, checking the Lucky Load notification in your GCash inbox, or tapping the Lucky Load icon in the Enjoy section of your app menu.

To play GCash Lucky Load, select 6 icons from the roster of 30 and submit your ticket entry. The winning Lucky Load combination will be announced every Monday, and all winners for the week will be announced on the GCash app and Facebook page every Tuesday.

This year, a grand pot prize of Php 100,000 per broad region will be given out every week by GCash:

6 matched Icons – NCR (Php 100,000)
6 matched Icons – North Luzon (Php 100,000)
6 matched Icons – South Luzon (Php 100,000)
6 matched Icons – Visayas (Php 100,000)
6 matched Icons – Mindanao (Php 100,000)

If you’re the only winner who matches all 6 icons, you’ll win the entire Php 100,000 prize pool in your region! And if there are no winners for the week in all regions, the pot prize will be carried over onto the next draw the following week.

With GCash, buying load and staying connected is now even more convenient, plus you have a chance to win bigger prizes! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be the next lucky winner. Download the GCash app from the App Store or Google Play today.

Promo runs until July 31, 2023.

About GCash

GCash (G-Xchange, Inc.) is the #1 Finance App in the Philippines. Through the GCash App, 79M registered users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills at over 1,600 partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 5.2M partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones. GCash is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt (Globe Fintech Innovations, Inc.), the ﬁrst and only duacorn in the Philippines.

GCash was recognized by The Asian Banker (TAB) and by the IDC in 2021 for its outstanding digital ﬁnancial inclusion programs.

Enhancing quality of life: Doc Pao Bellosillo’s approach to healthcare

Dr. Juan Paolo Bellosillo, known as “Doc Pao,” is a medical doctor with a passion for understanding and empowering his patients about their health condition. His expertise in preventive medicine, natural medicine, and energy medicine has enabled him to help many people achieve better health and wellness.

Doc Pao’s educational background is impressive. He obtained his undergraduate degree in economics from Ateneo de Manila University Loyola Schools, with concentrations in natural sciences, math, law, and foreign languages. Later, while working in wellness and healthcare, he pursued his Masters at the School of Urban and Regional Planning in the University of the Philippines as a University Scholar.

Doc Pao has also experienced two near-death experiences brought about by progressed arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis of the heart. These experiences sparked his desire to prevent mortalities due to heart attacks not only at an individual level but also on a larger scale. He pursued Natural Medicine and Energy Medicine at the IFP institute Official School of Naturopathy and Natural Sciences and graduated Magna Cum Laude. Doc Pao also went to Germany’s International Academy for Homotoxicology to augment his arsenal against acute, chronic, and degenerative diseases.

Aside from his impressive medical background, Doc Pao has also undergone training and education in sports and nutrition. He supports athletes and the general public to fuel their performance in competitive races or the race of life. He has been educated and trained under the Philippine Red Cross in the areas of life support and first aid, and he was even President of his class composed of 70 nurses and allopathic doctors.

Doc Pao’s compassion for others led him to lead a team of Coast Guard Auxiliary and First Responders in a Medical-Psychological Mission in the heart of Tacloban, Leyte, during Typhoon Yolanda-Haiyan. He has also become a resource speaker in various TV programs such as Doctor’s on TV, Rise and Shine, and Good Morning Kuya, using the television to educate and reach out to people to avoid diseases and increase their quality of life.

During the pandemic, Doc Pao was actively helping those in need. He provided medical care and nutrition to around 400 patients, including law enforcement, military personnel, and civilians. Doc Pao also took care of a family of eight with varying medical needs, helping them overcome COVID-19 without being intubated during the height of the pandemic. He utilized a multidisciplinary team of healthcare workers, implementing cellular nutrition protocols, and monitoring the patients through compact equipment, even in their homes when hospitals were full.

Doc Pao’s ultimate goal is to help the Philippines develop a more realistic COVID-19 management system with zero casualties, utilizing whole medical systems. He advocates for enhancing the quality of life and helping people avoid becoming sick in the first place. He believes in the importance of exercise, a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep, even during these challenging times. As he says, “my passion is to understand, share and empower patients about their health condition.”

To support Doc Pao’s advocacies, we can spread awareness of the importance of holistic healthcare and support efforts to enhance the quality of life, such as:

Share information about Doc Pao’s approach to healthcare and his advocacies with friends and family.
Promote the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare and wellness, which includes exercise, proper nutrition, and sufficient sleep.
Encourage others to adopt healthy lifestyle habits to prevent illness and improve overall quality of life.
Consider supporting organizations and initiatives that align with Doc Pao’s advocacies.
Stay informed about the latest developments and recommendations related to COVID-19 management and prevention.

As he encourages us, “lend your talent where it can benefit more people.”

We can also visit his website, https://docpaorepublic.ph/, to learn more about his approach to healthcare and how we can support his efforts.

Details and image provided in a recent press release.