Happiness is having a sister, sharing a sandwich, getting along... 🎶🎶🎶 ❤️
#sisterslove — with Belle Mecabalo at 香港迪士尼樂園 | Hong Kong Disneyland.
Today's Photo Friday at Garin Farm Pilgrimage Resort in Iloilo.
Yesterday, Bacolod City celebrated Chinese New Year with a bang as it was the opening of the 6th Bacolaodiat Festival. And every year it gets more and more exciting as more activities are added to give more color to the festival.
Tribu Paghidaet of La Paz won the 1st runner-up for this year Iloilo Dinagyang Festival Ati-ati competition held last Sunday, January 23,2011. The group is compose of 62 warriors, 30 girl dancers, 30 star dancers, 50 drummers and backed up by 55 staff members.
Click here for good video
Cancer is one of the most deadly disease in the world and it doesn’t matter how old you are 70, 50, 20 or 5. It is more traumatic to them for children have a hard time coping up with the disease. Children should be playing with friends, dreaming of fairytale, climb up the trees, they should be full of hope and not be battling this frightening disease to survive. Let’s help and support them. Let’s give them their dreams back and help them fight CA.
This is our chance to help out to this children and their family. They need to have a strong support system from family, friends, you and me. I know how hard it is when your love one is suffering from CA, as my Dad died of cancer. It was really hard but thanks to the support of everyone we get through it and my Dad didn’t give up till the end. So, help and support the campaign and give those children their dreams back.
*****
Real Love Campaign
Unilever Foodsolutions has partnered with Kythe in order to assist it in its mission to improve the quality of life of cancer patients through fun and normal activities like cooking. In the Real Love Campaign outreach programs, Unilever Foodsolutions and their operators are able to interact with kids with cancer by creating healthy sandwiches using Lady’s Choice and Best Foods mayonnaise.
Unilever Foodsolutions has partnered with Kythe in order to assist it in its mission to improve the quality of life of cancer patients through fun and normal activities like cooking. In the Real Love Campaign outreach programs, Unilever Foodsolutions and their operators are able to interact with kids with cancer by creating healthy sandwiches using Lady’s Choice and Best Foods mayonnaise.
Kids are given a wide array of ingredients to choose from and fun animal-shaped cutters in order for the kids to learn that preparing healthy food can actually be enjoyable. Aside from this, kids also engage in other activities like storytelling sessions, scrapbooking, and other arts and crafts modules.
To further strengthen this campaign, Unilever Foodsolutions has also partnered with Team Manila to come up with a specially designed, limited-edition shirt which will be available in Team Manila outlets in Rockwell, SM Mall of Asia, Trinoma and online through its website.
You can support this cause by purchasing your own limited edition Real Love shirt through Team Manila’s online store (Php550 or $12.50). Parts of the proceeds will go directly to Kythe Foundation and its operations for cancer-stricken kids. Click here to view the women’s Real Love shirt and the men’s Real Love shirt.
In order to mobilize the public further, Unilever Foodsolutions also has a Facebook page dedicated to the Real Love campaign. With every 1,000 “Like” entries until it reaches 10,000 fans, Unilever Foodsolutions will donate 1,000 sandwiches to the different Kythe partner hospitals.
I’m sure all of us have known and/or lost at least 1 person in our lives with cancer. Let’s all join together in fighting cancer by showing Real Love to kids with cancer. Make a real difference in their lives by joining the Real Love Campaign by liking the Facebook page or by purchasing a Real Love shirt.
Want to win a limited edition Real Love shirt?
Join this Real Love Shirt Contest.
Join this Real Love Shirt Contest.
Contest Mechanics:
1. Like the Real Love Campaign Page on Facebook
2. Simply complete this sentence: “I will share my love to the kids of Kythe by____________”
3. Once you’re ready with your answer post it as a note/status on Facebook (+1 entry) and/or blog about it (+1 entry).
4. Post all direct links of your entries in the comments page (below). Make sure you don’t forget this, otherwise I won’t know you joined. Also leave your Name and Valid Email Address.
5. Only those who are based in the Philippines can win.
1. Like the Real Love Campaign Page on Facebook
2. Simply complete this sentence: “I will share my love to the kids of Kythe by____________”
3. Once you’re ready with your answer post it as a note/status on Facebook (+1 entry) and/or blog about it (+1 entry).
4. Post all direct links of your entries in the comments page (below). Make sure you don’t forget this, otherwise I won’t know you joined. Also leave your Name and Valid Email Address.
5. Only those who are based in the Philippines can win.
I’ll pick the winner based on the quality of your answer and how well you promoted your entry. The contest will run from October 4 to October 11 (Mon), 8PM. Contest has been extended so that it’s exactly one week. 
The winner will be announced on October 12 (Tuesday) at 10:00 AM.
For more information on the Real Love Campaign, Kythe and how you can help, you may call Unilever Foodsolutions at 588-8855 (Metro Manila) or 
1-800-588-8855 FREE (outside Metro Manila) or send an email through foodsolutions.philippines@unilever.com. You can also visit Kythe’s official website (http://www.kythe.org).
1-800-588-8855 FREE (outside Metro Manila) or send an email through foodsolutions.philippines@unilever.com. You can also visit Kythe’s official website (http://www.kythe.org).
Kythe: Because children should be flying kites, not fighting cancer.
Yesterday, I went to the Orchidarium & Butterfly Pavilion with my friend Monic and I was really amazed that amidsts this polluted city there is such a place like this. A place where you can relax and enjoy the flowers, the indigineous plants, tree ferns, experience a rainforest and a man made waterfalls.
As I stroll around the place, I could only spot a few flowers in bloom for it's the middle of February and mostly flowers bloom in summer. But it's ok 'coz I just want to have a relaxing walk and a breathe of fresh air. The gardens landscape is really beautiful. And because of the layout of the place you won't feel the urban noise and the pollution of the city. It's like your in another place. Well, if you want to know what I'm talking about just visit the Orchidarium. It is located in the Heart of Manila, at the Rizal Park and it is open daily from 9:00AM to 5:00 Pm except Monday where they have a Nokia Day. For inquiries call telephone numbers (632) 527-6376, 527-6378
So what are you waiting for? Bring your family there and have fun. Oppss! Before I forgot, there is more to the place than just plants. You can also go wall-climbing, go fishing and walk at the hanging bridge (under renovation at the moment). It is also a perfect place for a Wedding Reception and gatherings. So, see you there!
Orchidarium & Butterfly Pavilion
As I stroll around the place, I could only spot a few flowers in bloom for it's the middle of February and mostly flowers bloom in summer. But it's ok 'coz I just want to have a relaxing walk and a breathe of fresh air. The gardens landscape is really beautiful. And because of the layout of the place you won't feel the urban noise and the pollution of the city. It's like your in another place. Well, if you want to know what I'm talking about just visit the Orchidarium. It is located in the Heart of Manila, at the Rizal Park and it is open daily from 9:00AM to 5:00 Pm except Monday where they have a Nokia Day. For inquiries call telephone numbers (632) 527-6376, 527-6378
So what are you waiting for? Bring your family there and have fun. Oppss! Before I forgot, there is more to the place than just plants. You can also go wall-climbing, go fishing and walk at the hanging bridge (under renovation at the moment). It is also a perfect place for a Wedding Reception and gatherings. So, see you there!
Orchidarium & Butterfly Pavilion
Teodoro F. Valencia Circle, Rizal Park Manila
Telephone Numbers (632) 527-6376, 527-6378 Fax: (632) 527-6379
Telephone Numbers (632) 527-6376, 527-6378 Fax: (632) 527-6379
Website: http://www.theorchidariummanila.com/
Uhmm... Nice
One of the few orchids in bloom
Isn't this beautiful?
Another place to visit in UST is the Arch of the Centuries in front of the España Street. The Arch of the Centuries has a classic Greek or Roman style design. The details are very good and it has survived and restored many times due to the Waolrd War one when it was bombed and of course due to earthquakes.
"Any visitor or new student who enters the España main pedestrians' gate is immediately drawn to the Arch of the Centuries, right in front, about fifteen meters away. Classical Greek and Roman in inspiration with its Doric fluted columns, but baroque in its wealth of curving and embossed details, it looks like one of those triumphal arches for victorious Athenian athletes or returning Roman generals that are seen in history books. The medallion arch is usually a memorial for all distinguished Thomasians. The inscription says, "Gateway to the history of the finest breed of Filipinos". On the lower facade of the pillar, a commemorative plaque honors Jose Rizal, national hero and UST alumnus, and another plaque, Manuel L. Quezon, President of the Philippine Commonwealth, also a UST graduate. On the sides of the rectangular top of the arch are panels depicting some milestones in the life of St. Thomas Aquinas. Above all these, sits the serene, regal image of this angelic doctor, scholastic philosopher and theologian, patron of the University and of all Catholic schools.
The side of the arch facing the campus was the main doorway to the university building before it was destroyed by World War II. The stones of that doorway, now rough-hewned and eroded, were transferred and reassembled piece by piece in its present site. The side with its Grecian design facing España Street is a reconstruction of the doorway as it originally looked." (Source: UST Website)
UST Main Building
University of Santo Thomas is the oldest university in the Philippines, not only that, it is also the World's largest Catholic Univeristy. It was founded in the year 1611 by the 3rd Archbishop of Manila, Msgr. Miguel de Benavides, O.P. with Fr. Domingo de Nieva and Fr. Bernardo de Santa Catalina. The University was first called Colegio de Nuestra Señora del Santisimo Rosario but later renamed to Colegio de Santo Tomas in the memory of the Dominican Theologian, Saint Tomas Acquinas. Well, the University has a massive and imposing structure which gave it an unpainted, gray and rugged look that was acquired through the test of time. It even withstood many earthquakes and World War2, where the Japanese forces transformed the place into a concentration camp. The main building of UST was designed by Fr. Roque Ruaño who is a priest, as well, as an engineer. Well, at the main building tower you can see a cross that symbolizes the University's mission to impart knowledge in the sacred and civil sciences.
Well, University of Santo Thomas has a really impressived structure and history. Aside from that, UST also achieved many recognitions and a number of important dignitaries have visited the place, among them are Pope Paul VI, Pope John Paul II, King Juan Carlos I of Spain (who was a Prince at that time) and Mother Teresa of Calcutta just to name a few. So, a trip in UST is really worth it. Just don't forget to see the Campus landmarks such as, the Arch of the Centuries, Benavides Monument, Beato Angelico Gallery, UST Botanical Garden, Santissimo Rosario and a lot more. I'll just let the photos speak for themselves.
Yesterday, I went to Makati with Arian, Enrico and Raymond to witness Makati's Caracol Festival. It was my first time to hear about this festival, so when Enrico invited me to go there my initial reaction was "what's that?" but since I don't have anywhere to go, so I grab the chance for a photo op.
Well, Caracol Festival was derived from a Spanish word means "Snail Shells" and it signifies the City being a shell of fun and merrymaking even at the time of hardship. The festivals theme is the preservation of Mother Earth and it was shown on the participants costumes. Participants from Elementary schools were mostly dressed in animal costumes like dogs, bees, cats and the most popular was the birds costume. While the High school and College students were dressed as fairies, butterflies, flowers, jellyfish, seahorses, Indians, squids, illegal loggers and a lot more. The participants also had a lot of props and special effects to emphasize their point.
I was a little disappointed with it 'coz I was expecting a street dance and a loud music or drum beats, instead they only walked the street from Makati Ave going to the judging area in front of Park Square1. It was a small place, so only a few people had a chance to witness the participants routine. It was a small festival unlike the Sinulog or Masskara but it has a potential to become a big one, if only the City government will fund and campaign for it. They should have advertise the festival so that more people where informed about Caracol Festival. Imagine, even people who resides in Makati for a long time haven't heard about it, what more to those who live outside Makati. And the host even said that the festival had started in the year 1986. Well, are they serious about that? It has been years people! I just hope next year the organizer will think of putting up sound system on the streets if not, they could hire a lot drummers for their parade so that participants could go street dancing. And a lot of people could witness the Caracol Festival.
For me, this is one of the best costume in the festival. Nice color combination and it has a lot of beads
Human Frog with a lonely eye
Yesterday, 150 bloggers were invited to join the Trinoma Bloggers Food Tour which were organized by the said shopping mall and Yehey! The tour started around 2:30 for the registration at the Cinema Lobby and meeting fellow bloggers. They divided us into 5 color groups (consist of 20-30 bloggers) that represent which floor the bloggers will start the tour. Aside from that, they also handed us a give-aways which contains Hershey's Chocolates, Ayala Notepad, Yummy Magazine and a free cinema admission ticket.
Well, it was an afternoon of fun and food. Just imagine going to 34 restaurants and eating all the food they prepared for us. It was an afternoon of pigging-out. To name a few of the 34 restaurants who confirmed for the tour were TGIF, Jack's Loft, Italianni's, Holy Cow Chop House, Fish & Co, CYMA, Bubba Gump, The Madison Grill, Hosseins Persian Kebab, La Maison, Crustasia, Cabalen, Terriyaki Boy, Super Bowl of China, Bacolod chicken Inasal, Conti's and Bread Talk. Isn't that wonderful? Well, we didn't get the chance to go to all 34 restaurant ''coz we were full after our 5th stop and of course we run out of time for being such a camwhore ;) The tour ended with a band performance by SOUND and raffles prizes were given away. Unfortunately, I didn't get any grr..
Well, all in all it was a great and fun experience. There are food that are ok and there are those that are really sumptous. So here are some of my favorites from last night tour. I'll just let the pictures talk for themselves. Opps! Sorry! I don't have a photo of La Maison's sumptous Creamy Wine Mussels. But I asure you it's really very yummy.
Holy Cow Cheesecake is the best cheesecake I ever tasted. It will satisfy everyones sweet tooth.
Hosseins Persian Kebab has the best interior design. If you want an intimate dinner this is the place to be.
More photos here.
Bonifacio Shrine, ever heard of it? I know, most of us Filipino know who Andres Bonifacio is, but we don't know where the heck is Bonifacio Shrine, right? Well, Bonifacio Shrine is located across Manila City Hall. It showcases the life of Andress Bonifacio as a revolutionary leader of the Philippines. He was one of the founder of the "Kataas-taasang, Kagalang-galangang Katipunan", also known as KKK, which aimed to gain independence from the Spanish colonial rule in the late 19th century.
Anyway, while we were at the shrine, we saw some people spitting and throwing their garbage there. It was really frustrating. I hope someone will take action on this. Hello! Calling the City Government! :)
New Years eve already passed by but still we want to see beautiful fireworks and be enthrallled by it. Well, don't fret 'coz once again the skies of Pasay will shine for the 3rd WOrld Pyro Olympics. This year Pyro Olympics competition will be held at the Manila Bay late February. It will showcase the craftmanship, creativity and artistry of the World's fireworks master. I assure you that this will be the best of the best when it comes to fireworks display. So, if I where you guys leave your calendar open on the following dates and witness this amazing event.
World Pyro Olympic Schedule
by La Mancha Pyro Productions
February 16 - China and Germany
by La Mancha Pyro Productions
February 16 - China and Germany
February 23 - Japan and Australia
March 1 - Korea and Dubai
March 8 - Italy and Venezuela
March 15 - France and the Philippines.
Just want to greet everyone a
PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR!
Yesterday, we went to the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines", San Fernando Pampanga, for the LIGLIGAN Parul or the world-renowned Giant Lantern Festival. It was my first time to witness the said festival and I was really amazed. The lanterns were really beautiful and exceptional. The commercial "walang ganyan sa States" comes to my mind while watching the dancing lanterns 'coz it's only in the Philippines where you could see this. Well, all I can say is my 1.5hr trip fom Manila to Pampanga was worth it.
Well, it's not the usual lantern competition we see on TV or in the Mall 'coz the lanterns are really HUGE. As in 20 feet high lanterns carried by a truck, used a gazillion of light bulbs (just kiddding! They only used 5000 light bulbs) and controlled by a rotors. This rotors are the one that makes the light dance to the rythem of the music in various beautiful patterns.
This year 8 barangays joined the competition to show-off their craftsmanship and ingenuity, namely: Brgy. San Juan, San Nicolas, San Felipe, Telabastagan, Santa Lucia, Sto. Nino, Dolores and Del Pilar. It is a community effort where in the entire barangay help in making this lanterns, from the design concept, to the construction and labor. They are doing this not for the cash, but for the barangays pride and honor. And that's something!
Aside from that, there's also a fireworks display after the grand event. And if you want to see this awesome lanterns just head to the Paskuhan Village in San Fernando, Pampanga for they will display the Giant Lanterns there from Dec. 16 upto Dec 30, 2007. Or contact the Pampanga's Tourism Office.
They have lots of special effects and the lights are really in sync with the music.
2nd Runner-up: Brgy. San Nicolas.
This is one of my favorite lantern in the festival. I like the details of their tiles and it really sparkles in this photo.
3rd Runner-up: Brgy. San Felipe
I also like San Felipe's special effect. They started with a little boy, then with an angel flying and after the narration, the lights started to dance with the groove.
More Giant Lantern Pictures here
Yesterday, me and a friend decided to rediscover Manila and to be a tourist for the day so we went there armed with our digital camera, extra battery, extra film for thr SLR, shades, sun block and last but not the least money for the entrance fee. OUr first stop was San Agustin Church.
San Agustin Church is the oldest stone Church in the Philippines. It was built in 1587 and was designed by Juan Macias. The Church was completed in 1607 under the supervision of the Augustinian Father namely, Francisco de Bustos, Ildefonso Perez, Diego de Avila and Brother Alonso de Perea. The church has suffered a lot and was able to stand the test of time. It has withstood the bombings of World War II, numerous typhoons and earthquakes that reduced the city to shambles and also it was restored many times.
Well, in 1993, San Agustin Chruch was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. They stated that the San Agustin Chruch possesses exceptional universal value that deserves protection for the benefit of all humanity.
I'm really proud that some people still care in preserving our heritage. I hope this will not be the only one 'coz there are many beautiful structures there that needs to be preserve and restore to its past beauty.
San Agustin Church is the oldest stone Church in the Philippines. It was built in 1587 and was designed by Juan Macias. The Church was completed in 1607 under the supervision of the Augustinian Father namely, Francisco de Bustos, Ildefonso Perez, Diego de Avila and Brother Alonso de Perea. The church has suffered a lot and was able to stand the test of time. It has withstood the bombings of World War II, numerous typhoons and earthquakes that reduced the city to shambles and also it was restored many times.
Well, in 1993, San Agustin Chruch was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. They stated that the San Agustin Chruch possesses exceptional universal value that deserves protection for the benefit of all humanity.
I'm really proud that some people still care in preserving our heritage. I hope this will not be the only one 'coz there are many beautiful structures there that needs to be preserve and restore to its past beauty.
Earlier, me and my sister went to Greenhills to eat at CONTIS and buy some gifts for her goodchild, unfortunately we don't know where Contis is :) so we decided to have dinner after the Mass and shopping of course!? First, we went window shopping, then went to Toy Kingdom (One of my favorite place ever!?!) bought some gifts and then eat at FRESKA at Promanade Greenhills.
When we arrived at Freska, the waiter told us their best selling food are the kinilaw na pasayan (shrimps in vinigar), oyster rockafella (oyster in olive oil, with spinach and mozarella cheese), managat and squid and a lot more. So we decided to order Oyster Rockafella, Shrimps in Aligue and Pancit Molo. It was delicious! Not only that they also offer scrumptuos dessert, especially mango salad. YummmyyyY!!!!
When we arrived at Freska, the waiter told us their best selling food are the kinilaw na pasayan (shrimps in vinigar), oyster rockafella (oyster in olive oil, with spinach and mozarella cheese), managat and squid and a lot more. So we decided to order Oyster Rockafella, Shrimps in Aligue and Pancit Molo. It was delicious! Not only that they also offer scrumptuos dessert, especially mango salad. YummmyyyY!!!!
The restaurant has a great interior and a nice ambience. The food are not that expensive but unfortunately it has a small serving. The staff are really friendly (of course they should be hehehe... ). And lastly, the service is really good and really fast.
FRESKA
2nd Floor Promanade Greenhils
Katipunan Extension, Blue Ridge, QC
Tiendisitas Frontera Verde, Pasig City
Ar last, after months of planning I actually joined Ivan Man-Dy's "A FEU Good Men Tour" and see the artistically fabulous Far Eastern University (FEU). We explored all the corners of the campus and it scream ART DECO, from building architecture of geometric patterns, to staircases, doors, doorknobs, gates and windowpanes. Aside from that, this campus is a big gallery. It houses the works of the well known National Artist like the sculpture of Vincent Manansala (who is a painter by the way, not a sculptor), Murals of Carlos "Botong" Francisco and Antonio Dumlao. And even the gates and the doors are all crafted under the guidance of a National Artist, Pablo Antonio. Aside from our National Artist, the campus also houses the works of Italian sculptor Monti. Well, it was really a fabulous and artistic campus.
Who would have thought that in the busy, populated, traffic congested Manila there's a hidden gem in it? The fabulous FEU is the country's largest and best preserved ART-DECO complex. It also won an honourable mention at the prestigious 2005 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards!
Who would have thought that in the busy, populated, traffic congested Manila there's a hidden gem in it? The fabulous FEU is the country's largest and best preserved ART-DECO complex. It also won an honourable mention at the prestigious 2005 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards!
I'll just let the pictures speak for themselves.
OLD MANILA WALKS
by Ivan Man-DY
oldmanilawalks@gmail.com
+632-917-329-1622
Campus sidewalk
National Artist Vicente Manansala's sculptures
"Empowering the Youth" mural
Are you a designer wannabee? Do you have talent in designing, drawing or painting? Well, if you are and you want to showcase your talent just join the 1st Annual Artwork T-shirt Design Competition. The deadline of the competition will be on Nov. 15, 2007. All you need to do is to buy an Artwork product like t-shirts, caps, skirts, bags and accessories to be able to join. Then you need to register for only 50 pesos, I repeat for ONLY 50 pesos, and they will give you a plain t-shirt to work on.
The prizes for the competition are: Grand Prize trip for 2 in Singapore with PHP 25,000 pocket money. 2nd Prize PHP 15,000, 3rd Prize PHP 7,000 and for the finalists PHP 3,000. So, what are you waiting for? Go to the nearest Artwork store and join the fun! And see you on Nov 15 at the judging venue. Well, as if I'm joining the said competition :) I'm NOT 'coz I promised my friend that I'll help her with her entry. But let's just wait and see.
The prizes for the competition are: Grand Prize trip for 2 in Singapore with PHP 25,000 pocket money. 2nd Prize PHP 15,000, 3rd Prize PHP 7,000 and for the finalists PHP 3,000. So, what are you waiting for? Go to the nearest Artwork store and join the fun! And see you on Nov 15 at the judging venue. Well, as if I'm joining the said competition :) I'm NOT 'coz I promised my friend that I'll help her with her entry. But let's just wait and see.
Tomorrow will be the start of the Masskara Highlights and as what I had said, I'll go home in Bacolod and celebrate it, but unfortunately I can't wahhhhh.. My sister told me that I have to stay here in Manila until November. I don't have a choice 'coz she will be the one who'll pay for my plane ticket hehehe... That's what you get if you don't have a work and money hehehe.. I really hope that I can go home in November and attend the Tourism assembly.
Anyways, I'm making a new layout right now but I don't know yet if I'll use it here or upload it as a free layout in Koficcino Designs. Well, here's the screenshot of the retro (in blue) layout.
Anyways, I'm making a new layout right now but I don't know yet if I'll use it here or upload it as a free layout in Koficcino Designs. Well, here's the screenshot of the retro (in blue) layout.
