Cheers to more aspirations to fulfill, and making sure our bucketlist of new things to dream about remains filled for a long, long time.
Now is the time to celebrate and remember to have fun.
Cheers to this new milestone in our lives! This is our moment to go further out of our zones and fully live our authentic selves wholeheartedly.
Even if it’s a little harder now to tie our own shoelaces in the morning kay medyo naga sakit-sakit na ang tuhod, at least it reminds us that we are still here.
Laban ra!
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Photos taken during my staycation at Nustar Resort & Casino, Cebu City.
Nustar is the first 5-star Filipino hospitality brand in the Philippines and the first integrated resort in Cebu;boasting luxurious rooms, exceptional dining options, full-service spas, concierge services, and other premium amenities.
Vista Land Launches New Residential Developments in Mindanao
Vista Land, the Philippines’ leading integrated property developer, continues its commitment to regional development and real estate expansion through a stunning spectacle of its newest residential developments in Pagadian City, Zamboanga City, and General Santos City. Titled Exquisite: Refining Modern Lifestyles in Mindanao, the event gathered Vista Land executives, employees, and business partners for an immersive presentation of culture and communities that embody the evolving achievements and aspirations of the Filipino way of life.
Hosted by the reigning Hiyas ng Pilipinas and Miss Tourism World Philippines, Marela Juaman, whose poised and polished presence guided the proceedings of the afternoon, the occasion opened with an outstanding performance by Step One Dance Company. Their interpretive interlude also echoed themes of movement and Mindanaoan cultural motifs, mirroring the Vista Land mission of nurturing neighborhoods that resonate with the distinct character and contemporary design of the region. Complementing the residential offerings was a presentation from Strategic Commercial Assets Group, offering a glimpse into upcoming commercial opportunities across Mindanao.
Exquisite highlighted Camella Courtyard, Andaluz Villas, and Altaria by Crown Asia, reflecting the diversity of the region while anticipating the demand for elevated and enriching lifestyles. With its strategic positioning across emerging business districts in Mindanao, Vista Land crosses the threshold of this real estate frontier, delivering refined, resilient, and regionally attuned communities for pioneering professionals, growing families, and Overseas Filipinos.
In his keynote address, Engr. Ric Pallesco, Group Head for South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, emphasized the rising trajectory of Mindanao as an economic powerhouse. “Mindanao is now firmly at the heart of progress and prosperity,” he shared. “Vista Land is proud to support this shift by introducing housing solutions that honor both tradition and transformation—created for present-day lifestyles while built for the needs of tomorrow.”
Rooted in refinement
Exquisite unveiled three residential developments that demonstrate Vista Land’s signature strengths, including premium locations, accessibility to essential establishments and services, and amenities that enrich the overall quality of life of its residents.
Camella Courtyard in Pagadian City is a secure and stylish enclave featuring spacious layouts, expansive open spaces, and linking greenways that harmonize sanctuary with shared spaces. Strategically located near transportation hubs, local institutions, and essential establishments, it supports multigenerational living in one of the most promising provincial capitals.
Andaluz Villas at Vista Estates returns for a sophomore salvo in Zamboanga City, offering lot-only properties within a Spanish-inspired enclave that values space, security, and regional identity. Whether securing a parcel of land for a family home, a minimalist retreat, or mixed-use settings that accommodate hybrid setups, it empowers homeowners and investors to build according to their preferences.
Altaria by Crown Asia introduces an upscale lifestyle experience within its themed development in General Santos City, positioned as the preferred address for discerning homebuyers and investors seeking refined everyday living in the southernmost city.
Not everyone finds it easy to say “I love you”, especially to Dad. But this Father’s Day, foodpanda reminds everyone that you don’t need the perfect words; just the perfect meal. Sometimes, the right meal at the right moment is the most meaningful gesture. From his favorite ulam or a classic comfort, foodpanda helps everyone show love to the dads in their lives in the most Filipino way possible: through food.
Love, Delivered
Some bonds are built on big laughs, and others on quiet gestures. With fast, reliable delivery, flexible scheduling, and countless options, foodpanda makes it easy to say “mahal kita.” Because sometimes, the aroma of his favorite dish arriving at the door is all it takes to warm his heart.
Bridging Distances with Every Order
For many, living far from their fathers means shared meals aren’t as easy as they once were. Whether you’re miles away or right around the corner, foodpanda helps make Dad feel celebrated by bridging the distance by delivering thoughtful surprises and delicious meals to let him know you’re thankful for everything he has done.
Meals that Matter and Savings that Help
Treating the dads that mean the most doesn’t have to be complicated or costly, and with foodpanda, those moments can come with a little extra value. Families can enjoy Php555 cashback on food delivery using the code LOVEYOUPA, on Father’s Day weekend from June 13 to 15.
To unlock more discounts, users can subscribe to pandapro—a subscription that offers exclusive perks like unlimited free food delivery, pickup discounts, special deals on groceries, and more. Enjoy 15% cashback with code PROCB, and 30% off a 12-month plan with code GORPRONA.
Whether it’s our dads, lolos, titos, stepdads, kuyas, or anyone who’s stepped in to be that steady, fatherly presence, this day is about them, and foodpanda is here to help you honor them with love that goes beyond words.
About foodpanda. foodpanda is an on-demand food and grocery platform, dedicated to helping customers get their tasty favorites fast. Since its creation, it has grown to more than 170,000 partner restaurants in more than 400 cities across 10 Asian markets. foodpanda is a subsidiary under Delivery Hero, a worldwide leader of the food delivery industry. foodpanda Philippines is dedicated to bringing food lovers their favorite meals from curated local restaurants in the Philippines. It currently operates in 150 cities and municipalities across the country and is continuously expanding. For more information, visit http://www.foodpanda.ph.
How it works. Through the foodpanda website or via the new iOS and Android apps, customers can enter their address and view a curated list of restaurants and shops serving their neighborhood. Once they have found their choice, they can place an order in the comfort of their home or office, paying online through foodpanda’s secure platform or via cash-on-delivery. The order is then carefully prepared by the restaurant or shop, picked up by the foodpanda delivery partner and delivered straight to their doorstep.
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Still stuck in my post-concert blues! It’s been days since the opening night of Mayhem Singapura, and I am still at high that I finally experienced Lady Gaga, live!
MAYHEM SINGAPURA 5.18.2025
The pre-game. Met some fellow little monsters in SG. Shout out, Dan Dale! 🙂 We went to Singapore National Stadium around 4PM. It was way too early for the 8 pm show, but a time well-spent to see and mingle with fellow monsters who flew to SG from as far as China and Australia. The pre-show vibe was all fun and costume-quirky. I low-key regret not wearing one.
Stadium Security was strict. I brought with me a small bagfor essentials and a clear water bottle. It’s good to know that water is refillable inside the stadium for free. Snacks and light meals at the booths rage from 5 to 14 SGD.
As per my seat, I purchased a CAT1,PA6, which is relatively close to the stage (approx 25 to 30m away). This is already a good seat, considering the 50,000 seating capacity of the venue. I purchased my ticket straight from ticketmaster.sg website. No agents fee or mark up whatsoever. Everything was DIY.
The best stage design inspired by the Phantom of the Opera. Huge stage prod, typical of Lady Gaga extravagance.The “Mayhem” show is a theatrical experience that brings Lady Gaga’s new album “Mayhem” to life. Killer choreography, a spectacular stage setup with multiple props and costume changes, and a night of singing, dancing, and fun, elevating the traditional concert format.Mayhem show is an artistic masterpiece. This photo was taken when LG performed ‘Paparazzi’Act 4. Best part of the show, IMO. Lady Gaga in her raw form, just being her undecorated self, with her piano and a voice full of love.The world stood still when Lady Gaga sang ‘Shallow’.‘Bad Romance’ as the finale number. The show lasted 2 hrs.Full house 50,000 pax. And I am proud to be part of this assemblyMRT Station after the show. On Full packed
Still on high whenever I recall moments from the Mayhem tour in Singapore, and seeing Lady Gaga perform and actually connect with us, the audience. At some point, I stopped recording and just enjoyed her music and presence. Gaga has, and will always have a place in my heart.
Robinsons Hotels and Resorts, the hospitality division of Robinsons Land Corporation, recently opened the first property under its upscale brand (Grand Summit Hotel) in General Santos City.
Grand Summit Hotel-GENSAN is billed as a 4-Star hotel, with its distinctive Contemporary Asian-inspired interiors and tastefully designed amenities. Apart from offering high-rated facilities, all 102 rooms of the hotel are carefully styled to meet the needs of its guests.
The Hotel Lobby LoungeAt the in-house Cafe and Restaurant. 📷 Ian Ray Garcia
The hotel also serves international cuisines at Café Summit, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant.
Grand Summit Hotels Gensan Address: Lagao, General Santos City Email: reservations@summithotels.ph contact: +630833200210 , +639296650112
Cebu Pacific Air introduces CEB Flexi—a flight “add-on” feature that gives us travelers the flexibility to rebook flights up to two times, and until (2) hours before departure, for a minimal fee.
Uncertainties knock on unexpected days. Worst ones are those that result to moving the trip to a later date, and pay rebooking fees for the changes. The CEB Flexi works as a buffer for such scenario. Once CEB Flexi is availed, it would be easier now to rebook the affected ticket to another convenient date, hassle-free! Purely optional, but highly recommended for its practical benefits. This facility is basically 60% cheaper compared to current rebooking fees, and passengers only have to pay the difference in fare (if applicable).
CEB Flexi “add on” is priced at PHP499 for domestic flights, PHP799 for international short haul flights, and PHP1,099 for international long-haul flights. Once availed, this minimal fee shall be added to your ticket upon purchase.
CEB Flexi can be availed thru online bookings starting October 22, 2019. It shall be part of the “add on” features together with the check-in baggage options, in-flight meals and travel insurance interface. www.cebupacificair.com
This option is only available via CEB App and CEB website booking.
Cebu Pacific Air is further enhancing its online assistance facility with their cute virtual travel auxiliary, CHARLIE. Reachable via Facebook Messenger and on www.cebupacificair.com, Charlie can retrieve your existing itinerary, check you in online, provide digital boarding pass and address basic booking or seat sale questions.
It’s no secret that Taiwan has one of the world’s best street-food scenery. The culinary philosophy in Taiwan is simple. ‘Eat often and eat well. Small eats — but lots of them!’ Taiwan’s food is a mash-up of the cuisine of the Min Nan, Teochew and Hokkien Chinese communities, along with Japanese cooking.
Taiwanese food is actually a popular thing in the streets of New York (USA) since 2009. Taiwanese food continuously expands its influence to neighbouring countries and beyond. That being said, Taiwan Bureau of Foreign Trade is bringing to the Philippines a glimpse of their food industry on the upcoming #TaiwanExpo2019. The Expo shall be held here in Davao City! Taiwan-based brands for food and beverages will be showcasing their products and business opportunities.
Save the Date: #TaiwanExpo –> November 8 and 9 at SMX Convention Center of SM Lanang.
When traveling solo, taking good photos with yourself in it is probably one of the biggest challenges to deal with. Excluding those naturally photogenic people without any bad angle,taking selfies with a cam phone often produce awkward compositions. Your face may be too near the camera, which is not flattering at all. Using a selfie stick may solve this, but it does limit your creative poses and movement. Timers on the other hand, take a lot of effort. I myself have been struggling with these, until I was introduced to the Advanced Selfie Technique.
Handheld selfie. Oh di ba am’pangit? mukhang undin.
What is Advanced Selfie?
Advanced Selfie is coined by Sorelle Amore, a popular British social media influencer. The technique is shooting creative selfies from a digital camera that is remotely connected and fully controllable with your handheld mobile phone. No help, no production team—completely solo.
I was introduced to the art of taking better self portraits by my friend Kareen Lucero, who is also a travel enthusiast. Then on, selfies from my recent solo travel have improved greatly.
With a camera that is remotely controlled by your mobile phone, you get to see your background and angles, thus make corrections and improvements on the spot. It’s something that a timed camera cannot provide easily.
The Tools Needed to do it:
1.) Digital Camera – Wifi Connect-Capable. I use a Sony Mirrorless Camera that I can remotely control with my smartphone. Most recent cameras of any brand that bought 5 years ago (or maybe earlier) have this feature already. Ask your camera seller to verify.
2.) A Smartphone. I’m using an Android operated – Oppo Phone.
3.) Imaging Edge Mobile App installed on my android mobile phone. Imaging Edge is provided by Sony,which is downloadable via Play store.There are other respective ‘Cam to Phone’ connectivity app for Canon and etc. Just ask your camera seller or google it. After installing the app on the phone, you must remotely connect the phone and the camera via its wifi feature. The phone gives instructions on this. For further assistance on the app, click here. Installation videos are also available on youtube. Just search Image Edge to Sony Camera.
4.) A Handy Tripod for the camera. I use a flexible octopus tripod bought from lazada.
5.) Practice,practice,practice!
The Image Edge App as shown. This app is for Sony “Cam to Android Phone” connection. There are also apps for other cam brands that can be downloaded from Google Play Store. Apple Phones, I did not research. Probably meron din.
The Phone, via the Image Edge App, lets you view whatever the camera sees.
My Octopus Tripod. This beauty was first introduced to me by my friend Ian Garcia. The tripod is flexible. You can actually tie it on railings or wherever safe.
Sample photos and the advantages explained:
Find Better timing. Crowd and passerby are always a struggle. With a remotely controlled camera, you can easily take a shot when the background is clear, as seen from your mobile phone. This is probably the best advantage that a timed camera alone cannot provide.
Find better facial angle. Oh di ba, nagmamaganda?
Create Dynamic Poses. You can play different movements and framings to level up your composition. This is definitely impossible to do when using a selfie stick. Another advantageous feature of the Image Edge App is that also has a timer option that can delay the shot on your camera.
Play on Distance. Wide frame or close ups, pwede! This feature is camera dependent though. My Sony allows 10-15 meters distance. But I believe most cameras do. baka nga better pa.
No help, no production team—completely solo.
Possible Cons:
Since you’ll be placing your camera at a distance, always keep an eye on it for snatchers and kawatans.
Hiding your handheld mobile phone is a challenge for beginners. But this can easily be solved. You’ll probably develop your own technique din.
So basically, that’s it! Easy-breezy, right? Kaya nyo din yan. Practice lang. I myself, beginner’s level pa din in terms of creativity. There will always be room for improvements and more inspirations to absorb.
For more Advanced Selfie techniques, follow Sorelle Amore (@Sorelleamore) on IG. She also handles the @advanced.selfie IG page, which I also follow.
Mga beshies and readers of mine from VisMin, may good news ko! Cebu Pacific will now be flying DAILY from Cebu to Tokyo-Narita and back starting December 1,2018. Excited much? Yes, we are!I once asked a travel-enthusiast friend why she keeps on coming back to Tokyo. She cheerfully gave me four reasons: the beautiful season-based cityscape,the ultra-modern facilities, the Ginza shopping district and the level up food trip experience. Tokyo,Japan is definitely among the top travel destinations of Filipinos for a lot of reasons. And with the CebPac daily flight from Mactan Airport, traveling to Tokyo shall now be more practical for us living in Visayas and Mindanao. Flying time only takes 4 to 4.5 hours.
Got a long weekend coming? Tara, lets go-Tokyo!
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So, excited na mulaag? Wait lang, guys. Secure your Tourist Visa first. Wag kayong ano! Check the link below for guidelines.
Day Zero (Thursday): We left Cebu-Mactan Airport in the morning and arrived in Tokyo-Narita around 3:00pm. We went straight to Tokyo-Ginza shopping district because shopping is priority! Joke lang. I just window-shopped with my friends. The biggest Uniqlo Flagship Store is located in Ginza. 12 Storeys lang naman, mga bes! All seasons Uniqlo products. bakanteha na imong credit card for this.
Ginza district is lined with ultra-modern architecture and posh shop interiors to inspire every designer’s creative lobes.
The 12 Storey Uniqlo Building in Ginza
Ginza district gets even more amazing with its bright lights at night.
Day One (Friday): Cultural Immersion Day. We spent the day in Tokyo’s Old District-Asakusa for a temple visit and experience traditional Japanese hobbies.
Gold fish scooping activity at Asakusa Kingyo (Budget 1500 Yen/pax)
Sensō-ji -Asakusa Temple Visit (Free Entrance)
Original Daruma Painting Activity (Budget 2000 Yen/Pax)
I purposely gave a realistic costing because it is better to fly prepared than maging dukha doon sa Japan. But kayang kaya naman to lower this costing; particularly on airfare. Alam ko, abangers tayo ng sale eh. hehe.
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More Blog posts on Tokyo to Follow:
Tokyo Video-Blog
Detailed Hostel Living in Tokyo Video-Blog
Foodtrip Around Tokyo and Beyond
Japanese 7-11. 1000 Yen Lunch Challenge Video-Blog
Maximizing JR – Unlimited Bullet Train Pass . Is it worth the money?
I once asked a travel-enthusiast friend why she keeps on coming back to Tokyo. She cheerfully gave me four reasons: the beautiful season-based cityscape,the ultra-modern facilities, the Ginza shopping district and the level up food trip experience. Tokyo,Japan is definitely among the top travel destinations of Filipinos for a lot of reasons. And with the CebPac daily flight from Mactan Airport, traveling to Tokyo shall now be more practical for us living in Visayas and Mindanao. Flying time only takes 4 to 4.5 hours.
