One of the bonding moments

Family bonding really matters to me. It's a time of joy and laughter, to have a better relationship.  Since I got married, as well as my brothers and sister, we set and schedule our Family bonding in our parent's house which was our house before when we were still single.

Our family bonding is done twice or thrice a month or it depends on the availability of my siblings.  Most of the time we have our get together during dinner.  Sometimes, each of us bring food or we chipped in and raise a certain amount to buy ingredients for my mother's dish that we certainly love.  We choose that because most of us love that, then we wait till she's done.

Before we take our dinner, there is always a mini conference, telling stories and updates about our lives while our kids keep on playing.

The gathering always starts after lunch.  Good that our houses are just a walk away from our parents house.  Its easier to have a family bonding but of course there are times that some of us missed that family bonding.

Another bonding moment but outdoor.

In that simple bonding moment, we make our parents happy and they love it very much.

Incidentally, there were some unforeseen things that happened to us before Valentine's Day.  There was a little misunderstanding happened between me and my youngest sister that keep us cold with each other.  No communication at all even text messages.  These are some of the unavoidable circumstances that siblings always don't agree with each other.

Valentine's day came, but all of my siblings have their different dates with their respective family.  So we decided to have our family bonding the day after Valentine's Day.  February 15, 2013 that was the time that we held our family bonding and we all went to our parents house.

This time, it's a little bit unusual and uneasy between me and my sister. We asked again our mother to cook Pork Caldereta and Gatang Tilapia.  My Family loves those food especially if my mother cooks it.

The time of conversation comes and our mini conference started in our sala, but still my sister and I did not talked that much.  We continued chatting with our brother, pretending that there's nothing wrong with both of us and pretend as well as if one of us is a not there.  My mother knew it before we came that day, I open up it already to her.

Our situation goes on until our Mother finished cooking.  Then dinner is served.  We kept ourselves busy assisting our kids with their foods, we make sure that we don't have time to mingle even in just a single moment.   That's really hard, but I don't want to spoiled our family bonding because our kids enjoys it very much.

We ended the day and the bonding moment but still, we weren't able to patch things up between us.   I am thinking now, what will I do so that our misunderstanding ends, a little talk to her, but she don't want to talk to me. At the back of my mind, I am the eldest, she should be the one to think of the ways to talk to me. I've waited but still no text, no call or even personal message on FB...nothing..

I miss talking a lot with my sister, she's my best friend, she shares also her problem and the best of all she seek advices from me, I miss those things. It's almost 2 weeks that we haven't talk. I need to do things that will bring back our closeness again.


Since food is our bonding moment, I decided to call a family bonding this coming March 2, 2013, guess what? The date is set by me, but I will surprise them by texting them about our Family bonding.  And of course, this time i will directly text or maybe call my sister to inform her about our Family bonding.  Perhaps that's the first move.

This time I will not ask my parents to cook food.  I am glad that Max's have their delivery services. Since most of our kids loves chicken, I will definitely order the 4 Real Delivery Meals, since we are 16 in the family, I will order 4 sets of 4 Real delivery Meals.


Since there are variety of side dishes on the 4 Real Delivery Meals, so we can choose whatever my family wants, isn't nice? Well, it is, because kids will enjoy the sarap to the bones of Max's Chicken plus the long time favorite the caramel bar of Max's Corner Bakery.  By the way, if this is possible to order also and to deliver one box of caramel bar, I will give it to my sister, so that the simple smile on her face will reflect, that's the 2nd move.


And this is the set up, I will tell all my sibling except my sister that they need to go in our old house at around 4pm, then next is dinner. So, I will schedule my sister around 2pm, so that we have an ample time to talk in front of my mother, because we are very close with my mother, I want her to listen on us and give her opinion. Isn't it a perfect time??? and that's the 3rd and final move.

Well, hoping for the best, I guess so, but I am pretty sure that we end up with a smile in our faces and will bring back our closeness and for sure a full loaded tummy of ours.

Watch their video about their latest treats for individuals away from home #salosalokahitmalayo.




Visit www.maxschicken.com to know more of #salosalokahitmalayo.

A week after heart's day my correspondent Justin was delighted enough to witness Yoshinoya's Gyudon Eating Contest Grand Finals.  It is a yearly event done by Yoshinoya Philippines lead by their President and General Manager Timothy James Yang.  The event was held at the New Activity Center of Glorietta 1 in Makati City.  Completing the line up were the twenty eight (28) finalists who competed during the qualifying rounds from different stores of Yoshinoya in past month.  Aside from the 28 contestants present in the Grand Finals there were also contestant from different medias coming from the print, television, radio and online.  Making the total contender of 32 individuals.



Yoshinoya was founded in the 1800 in Japan during the 1800 and it became popular with delicious recipe of beef and rice known as Gyudon (beef bowl) which was created by Matsuda.


Now, Yoshinoya, with its annual Gyudon Eating Contest hailed the ultimate Beef Gyudon King out of the twenty eight (28) only three (3) of them rise victorious.  If you've joined the qualifying round you definitely know how hard it is to finish a number of bowls.  So for the final match was even more difficult as they have to eat the most number of beef gyudon bowls in 15 minutes and less leftover.  The Top Three (3) Finalists with the most number of bowls consumed and the least weight left after 15 minutes will be declared winners.



The first place winner will receive P100,000 and the bragging rights to be called the Yoshinoya Gyudon Eating Champion, second placer gets P50,000 while the 3rd placer takes home P25,000. Non-winners will get consolation prizes worth P2,000 of Yoshinoya Gift Certificates.  The winner of the media division will get P30,000.



After the opening and some introductions of the guest and dignitaries present during the event, the intense munching starts.  There were plenty of emotions and expressions during the contest.  With the span of 15 minutes finalists are eager to consume as many as they can.

The buzz triggers the end and the finalists were given 30 minutes to rest.  Just enough time for the judges to check and weighs the number of bowls consumed.

After tallying all, Japanese Cultural Attache to the Philippines Maki Mizusawa together with Mr. Timothy Yang announced the winners of the Gyudon Eating Contest.  First announced was the winner for the media division in which our blogger friend Florencio Jusay, Jr. or FPJ bagged the P30,000 cash prize finishing with 7 bowls.


For the Yoshinoya Gyudon Eating Champion was Douglas James Candano.

Congratulations to all the winners!

If you're eyeing to be next year's Gyudon Eating Champion be sure to check out their stores at SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM Mall of Asia, Robinsons Galleria, the newly opened Glorietta branch, SM Manila and also in SM Pampanga.

Who wouldn't watch the phenomenom teleserye in daytime. Well as a full time mommy, I always watch the "Be Careful with my Heart" everyday as in, if ever I have a commitment because I am a blogger, I see it to log on www.iwantv.com to catch the episode that I missed.

The Kilig factor is usually there, the longing to watch how Ser Chief starts to court Maya. It is really fun watching that teleserye, mind you, even my kids love it. He knew all the names of the character.

Oh this is the good  news for all Filipinos outside Philippines they are going to visit some countries whose TFC subscribe or watching Teleserye. The cast will fly to the Middle East in March, USA and Canada in May, Europe in August and Japan in November.


Most of them are really happy to have a world tour, particularly Abby, Sabel and Doris. "Be Careful with my Heart" cast, to be led by Jodi Sta. Maria and Richard Yap, is going on a world tour to thank the global Filipinos for their phenomenal support to ABS-CBN's no. 1 daytime kiligserye.

Sinced it premiered last July 2012, "Be Careful With My Heart" has changed the daytime viewing of the whole nation. In almost seven months on-air, the show has achieved several milestones. The daytime teleserye enjoyed high TV ratings nationwide that are comparable to primetime shows. It's soundtrack sold so well to achieve a gold status. Its mall shows were such a hit that thousands of fans flock to every event, in any location. The show was such a big hit that it quickly invaded the digital world as it managed to beome a daily hot topic on social networking sites like Twitter, one of the most liked fanpages on Facebook and the most viewed program in the video-on-demand site iWanTV with more than 25 million page views as of January 2013. The kilig-serye further proved its unique international appeal as it was recently named as one of the finalists in telenovela category of the prestigious 2013 New York Festivals (NYF) World's Best Television and Film.

For more detail about the world tour, continue to follow "Be Careful With My Heart", everyday 11:45am before "It's Showtime" on ABS-CBN's Prime-Tanghali. Also don't miss "Be Careful with my Heart Sabado Rewind" every saturday, 10am before It's Showtime.


For more updates, log on to www.abs-cbn,com, follow @becarefulheart on Twitter; and like the show's official facebook fanpage at www.facebook.com/becarefulwithmyheartofficial

In this basketball-crazy country, It’s little-known knowledge that a low-profile but no less prestigious league has been producing top-calibre achievers who have gone on to become successful in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). This little league that could is the Metro Manila Tiong Lian Basketball Association (MMTLBA), the longest running Filipino Chinese high school basketball competition in the Philippines. It was founded in February 1970 to nurture the values of excellence and teamwork among Chinoy youth. Current member schools are Xavier School, Hope Christian High School, Grace Christian High School, Chiang Kai Shek College, St. Jude Catholic School, and St. Stephen’s High School.

Where stars are born: Jeron Teng, now a star player for the DLSU Green Archers, was a high-scoring swingman from Xavier School in high school, once scoring 104 points in one Tiong Lian match. In this old photo here, Teng stands in front, fifth from left, receiving a trophy with his team in a previous MMTLBA season.

In celebration of its 43rd year, MMTLBA is presented by the phenomenally successful global brand BonChon Chicken as the Tiong Lian - BonChon Basketball Tournament. BonChon Chicken Philippines Managing Director Scott Tan, himself an alumnus of a Tiong Lian school, says, “I can clearly recall the impact the Tiong Lian made on myself and my schoolmates in terms of cultivating teamwork and excellence. These are the same values that guide the work my BonChon team and I do everyday.”

In the four-decade-long history of the MMTLBA, they count several well-known luminaries as their alumi. Chris Tiu is the former Team Captain of the Team Gilas National Team, and is currently a prominent rookie on the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters PBA team. Joseph Yeo and TY Tang had much success in college with DLSU and are now playing crucial positions in their respective squads in the PBA.

The winning tradition continues with more recent batches of Tiong Lian graduates: brothers Jeric and Jeron Teng are now making a name for themselves in the college rank, leading their respective UAAP teams – the UST Growling Tigers and the DLSU Green Archers -- to strong finishes just this previous season

Former Tiong Lian standout Justin Chua plays for the Ateneo Blue Eagles, and credits getting to where he is now to his playing experience with the MMTLBA.

For former Chiang Kai Shek College stalwart Justin Chua, who won the last of his five straight championships with the Ateneo Blue Eagles just last year, the work ethic, fighting spirit, and winning attitude came from having a prolific Tiong Lian basketball upbringing. The attention given to the league by prominent universities and scouts looking for young basketball talents also gave him the edge when it came to having more opportunities post-MMTLBA. “There’s a unique kind of exposure and audience in Tiong Lian, so I was very fortunate to have played there,” says the now aspiring PBA player.

Former Tiong Lian player Kent Lao has represented the Philippines in international basketball tournaments, and currently plays for the UST Growling Tigers.

In between breaks for playing with the UST Growling Tigers, St. Stephen’s High School alumnus Kent Lao competed for the Philippines as part of the Energen Philippine Team U-18 in last year’s FIBA Asia, also sees Tiong Lian as a big opportunity for young athletes like him. Although he doesn’t want to get ahead of himself in terms of playing hoops professionally, remains positive that if it comes true – and will owe a major part of it to his brilliant Tiong Lian stint.

For Ms. Judy Go Tan, principal of this year’s host St. Stephen’s High School, even for those who have had less stellar college basketball showings, the association has remained a strong influence among students, particularly when it came to balancing education and life with basketball, so that they may be primed to face whatever challenges lie ahead, and whether or not they will choose to pursue their athletic dreams even further. “Above all, it’s character formation that we want to develop in our students. They can learn a lot of life lessons from Tiong Lian basketball through the positions that they play in their respective teams. They learn to sacrifice their small self for the greater good of everyone,” says the SSHS headmistress

Former Tiong Lian shooting guard Emarson Que is now successfully balancing basketball and academics in De La Salle University – enabled by the values he learned playing in the MMTLBA.

Just like for former Stephenian Emarson Que, who is currently part of the Green Archers Team B lineup, he may not be looking into chasing after his basketball ambitions after college, but he’s self-assured about his current state in academics, and he has the Tiong Lian League and his alma mater to thank for.

Such is the enthusiasm surrounding this year in one of the most distinguished high school basketball events in the country, where dreams are born and future stars are made. Empowered by notable forerunners, brilliant display of talent and heart in playing and learning together, and all-out support from presenter BonChon Chicken, it’s yet another inspired and historic basketball season unfolding.

The Tiong Lian - BonChon Basketball is currently running until February 28. Select games are televised every Saturday at 5 pm, on Basketball TV (BTV).

Most of the mommy like me loves shopping.  We do shopping for the nth time already for our family, specially for our kids.

On my part, since I am a full time mommy I usually think first the needs of my kids and of course my hubby, since he is the one working for us I definitely prepare to buy things for him.  But this time, he wants me to buy things for me, I think a post valentine treat, hahaha. I love it, and very thankful.


Since it is also a family bonding, we went to SM Sta mesa with my kids. Guess what, my eldest son help me choose what I am going to buy. Lots of people busy on choosing what dress, shoes, make up and other things that you can see at SM Departmet store.


I saw some kids also happy on shopping together with their family. My hubby is carrying our youngest son, at first, while my eldest son is with me trying to find best dress and sandals for me. Oh, my son is already a grown up now and he's the one who's helping me with the shopping.  So, I am a kind of shoppers that will look for the sale with a good quality. Find here, find there. There are times my son said, "Wow, that's beautiful Mommy". Even inside the fitting room, my son is with me.


Until we found a dress, I fitted the black and the one color. You know what, he chose the white one. Well, well, my son is now my fashion designer, no more hubby anymore. My hubby used to be my fashion designer.

So we grab the white one. Next stop, the sandals. I want the flat one, it's comfy and cute. This time I choose the black sandals and it's sale. From 450.00 down to 299.00. isn't nice?


Now, I realize, I can do the shopping with my son only, hahaha. With the Blouse and Sandals that I brought amounting to less than 1,000. What a great deal.



So mommies, try to get also the suggestion of your kids in doing your shopping, its really fun. Yours truly done with my shopping, I hope this will not be the last shopping for me, hahaha.



'Till next post of Shopping experience.

Families are growing and the house just for a couple is not enough, specially if the kids are hyperactive boys, so a better and bigger house is needed but of course we don't just buy one. We need to examine, think, and perhaps asks people who knows things about houses. ANC's Open House is the answer to all your problem with regards to houses.

This coming February 23, 2013 Saturday at 6 PM ANC's Open House will be airing its first pilot episode with a replay every Sunday at 11 AM. So if you have questions and things to know about houses better write it down and perhaps they can answer those things for you.


Here are some tips that Property Company of Friends, Inc. or PRO-FRIENDS, one of the fastest growing developers in th country, shares some tips in properly selecting one's home.

Choose the type of house that suits your family's size and lifestyle - The most important step in the house selection process is determining the type that fits the entire family.  Condominiums work well with start-up families, especially since they fit in relatively smaller spaces.  However, when your family's composed of five or more members, the space a single house and lot offers is more advisable.

Cosider the location of the house - In choosing a house, make sure it is situated in a family or child-friendly environment.  the most ideal place to settle down, especially for a large family, is a peaceful and guarded neighborhood.   Also consider the distance between your house and the rest of the members' offices or schools and other amenities.

Align your selection to your budget - The family's budget plays a big part in selecting a house.  In choosing, make sure all projected expenses will be met by the family's income.  There are various payment schemes that can be availed, so being practival with your choices is the most mportant.

Catch more of these tips from PRO-FRIENDS on the pilot episode of ANC's newest lifestyle program Open House.  This program is hosted by Jing Castaneda and Chase Tinio, Open Hosue aims to help and teach viewers on home basics and how to transform one's house into a beautiful place to live in. 

The Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO) has recently organized “EyeBags,” a campaign that seeks to support the education of students from underprivileged families through the donation of various school materials. Incorporating ‘green’ into the advocacy, eye doctors from all over the Philippines have committed to donate hundreds of unused bags from medical conferences that they attend every year.

“These convention bags are highly functional. Instead of throwing these away, we thought of engaging all the eye doctors who are members of the PAO to donate the bags and reach out to Filipino school children in need of support. The project has grown tremendously that we have expanded to donating other school materials to help promote and enhance students’ learning experience in their schools,” shared Dr. Johann Michael Reyes, PAO Committee Chair for Public Relations.


This year, volunteers from the PAO and graduates from Xavier High School, Class of ’82 trooped to Paraway Mangyan Elementary School in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro to distribute bags, school supplies, clothing items and teaching materials that will benefit both students and teachers. “We believe that education is one of the best ways to change society. With this project, we endeavour to help instil hope in the hearts of Filipino children, one Eye Bag at a time,” Dr. Reyes said.

The PAO accepts donations through its secretariat. Individuals and organizations may contact PAO at 813-5318 or send their donations to Unit 815 Medical Plaza Makati Condominium, Amorsolo corner Dela Rosa Streets, Legaspi Village, Makati.


The PAO is an internationally-recognized specialty society of ophthalmologists in the Philippines. It aims to ensure access to quality eye care for Filipinos. The PAO commits to continuously develop its members professionally through clinical education, research and practice management, in a collegial and harmonious environment, contributing to ethical, professional and compassionate practice. For more information about the PAO, please visit: www.pao.org.ph.

With almost 500 people in attendance, young singer-songwriter Jensen Gomez’s album launch for Umpisa transformed Guijo Street in Makati into a concert venue last February 1. Jensen, along with his band, performed all the 10 songs included in the album.

To his fans, Jensen’s strength as a singer-songwriter is his uncanny ability to turn heartbreaks into beautiful songs. This is evident in the 10-track-album, which talks about heartbreaks, moving on, regrets, and wanting to start all over again.

“Playing music is my vehicle to express my personal mishaps, experiences, stupidity,” says the young singer-songwriter. “I hope my music will make you feel that you are the only one who is experiencing stuff- heartbreaks, and heartaches. There is, after all, safety in numbers.”

True enough, the number of people who attended the launch proved that people appreciate Jensen’s music. Hosting the event were singer-actress-TV host Karylle and Robin Nievera, a good friend of Jensen. TV, movie and theater star Tippy Dos Santos performed Umpisa with Jensen (the album includes their duet), while former Rivermaya vocalist Jason Fernandez jammed with the song Sisikat Ang Araw.

After Jensen’s 10-song-set, musician friends of the young singer-songwriter performed for the after-party held at Saguijo – Mayonnaise, Carlos Castano and She’s Only Sixteen.

Jensen then performed an acoustic, intimate set for the fans and friends, which further highlighted how musically-gifted he is. Sponge Cola frontman Yael Yuzon showed support by attending the acoustic set.

“The whole process of mounting the album launch was one exciting roller coaster ride,” admits Jensen. “So many changes had to be made, but better things came our way with other people’s help. “

From being one of the most promising names in the independent music scene, Jensen was discovered by Universal Records and management group Orion Entertainment because of the album’s title track and single Umpisa.

“Like any musician my age, I have experienced many difficulties. Luckily, amidst all the struggles, people have been supportive of me and my music. This made me pursue my passion,” expresses Jensen. “The release of this album summarizes everything I’ve been through in the past five years as a person, lover and musician.”

Jensen Gomez is being managed by Orion Entertainment. For inquiries, please email olrac1023@gmail.com.

Follow Jensen Gomez: Website: www.jensengomez.com
Twitter and Instagram: @IAmJensenGomez
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jensengomezofficial
Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jensengomez
 UMPISA MUSIC VIDEO: www.youtube.com/watch?v=a51RZivFD7Q

UMPISA Tracklist:

1. Not Even Close
2. Alone
 3. Umpisa
4. Could Have Been
5. Just Vowels
6. Runaway
7. Subdued
8. Tulad Ng Dati
9. All I Want
10. Sisikat Ang Araw

Bonus Track
11. Umpisa (duet with Tippy Dos Santos)

We encounter different competition in the Philippines. Food has been subject of some competition.  Last week Chef Robby invited some bloggers to taste his entry the Porchetta which he puts a Filipino twists on it.

Chef Robby will present his take on Porchetta, which is usually referred to as the "Italian pulled pork" made of savory, fatty and moist boneless pork roast of Italian Culinary Tradition, spice with garlic, rosemary, fennel and other herbs.  Chef Robby puts a Filipino twist in this Italian dish by using the Pinoy's well love lechon, spice and dressed with caramelized onions and arugula leaves to suit the Pinoy taste.


I am not a fan of onion in particular, but this time due to different presentation in caramelized onion, I love it, really. Another thing is the arugula, I don't eat vegetables, and this time it's not cook. I thought i can't take that arugula thing, at first I just taste the bread, which is taste good then the lechon which is i love it then the onion, i just put the arugula on the side, but when I saw my co-blogger Vance Madrid eating much that veggie and ask me to taste it, well, i just tried it, and it taste good, until I notice that I ate already all the arugula that I put on the side before.


"This version of the Porchetta in a way brings together two worlds of culinary tradition - the Italian spiced pulled pork in a sandwich and the Pinoy's well-celebrated Lechon. We serve the Porchetta in a freshly baked bun with potato wedges to make it a complete sandwich meal that is very tasty and filling", said Chef Robby.  "We know how Filipinos love lechon, the Porchetta now comes as another way for us to enjoy our lechon," adds Chef Robby.


The Porchetta, served as the Italian Roast Pork Sandwich, will be Chef Robby's offering at his Orange Truck at the Food Truck Challenge, which will be the kick-off event of The Manila Food and Wine Festival 2013. The Food truck Challenge will pit some of the best Filipino Chefs to test their culinary prowess, skill and food creation in a fun yet fierce battle for culinary honor. Battle ground is at the SM Mall of Asia complex, Block 12.

The Manila Food and Wine Festival 2013 carries the theme Cooking Revolution and is geared towards positioning Filipinos as Global Culinary Revolutionists. It is only in the Philippines where every other person you meet either cooks great food, peddles fantastic dishes, or loves terrific treats with or without occasions to speak of,

The Manila Food and Wine Festival 2013 is spearheaded by the Culinary Education Foundation founded by Annie Pascual-Guerrero.

Tickets for Chef Robby's Porchetta can be purchased at the Manila Food and Wine Festival website, www.mfwf.ph and be at the MFWF in orange to avail exciting freebies. Online ticket is at PhP250.00, on-site ticket is at PhP350.


So better get your ticket on line to have a cheaper price and look for the orange color, it represents Chef Robby's Porchetta.

Present at the opening were Karate Kid Business Unit Manager Wilber Z. Escleto, CafeFrance Corp. President Malou Molina, Karate Kid EVP Raymond Yap, Manila Complaint and Action Team Chief Franklin Gacutan, former COMELEC Commissioner Rene Sarmiento, and former PNP Director General Nicanor Bartolome.

Karate Kid, home to the metro’s favorite Japanese-American specialties, gives more Filipinos a chance to experience its delectable offerings as it opens its newest store in Quiapo, the first one for 2013.

“The market for Japanese fusion cuisine has shown steady growth through the years and we feel that Karate Kid has greatly contributed to that,” says Karate Kid EVP Raymond Yap. “After the success of Karate Kid’s five store openings last year, we continue to strengthen our commitment to provide Filipinos with the brand’s signature Japanese-American delights as we expand in key areas in the metro.”

Karate Kid EVP Raymond Yap with (from L-R) former COMELEC Commissioner Rene Sarmiento, former PNP Director General Nicanor Bartolome and Manila Complaint and Action Team Chief Franklin Gacutan formally open the Karate Kid store in Quiapo.

Also present at the opening of Karate Kid were former Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Nicanor Bartolome, former COMELEC Commissioner Rene Sarmiento, and Manila Complaint & Action Team Chief Franklin Gacutan.

Visit Karate Kid’s newest store in Quiapo and get your Japanese fusion food fix with bestsellers like the Sizzling Spicy Squid Tempura, Chicken Teriyaki, Beef Gyudon, Kido Master Burger and Japanese Mochi Halo-Halo today

Having a night of concert with your hubby is just one of the best thing in life and I was glad to share the night with my hubby watching the phenomenal PSY as he sing and dance the world wide hit Gangnam Style here in Manila. This is one of the rare opportunity for me, so I really made the night enjoyable.


The one-night show of PSY, the Korean hit maker that sung the Gangnam Style made every Filipinos present at the Arena wonderful and fun. Take note as well, though it's embarrassing I admit this was my first time to watch a concert with international stars.

Scheduled and rescheduled made this event pushed far more its original schedule before. But at last and thankfully it has made its way.

The concert started a little bit late from its schedule but was heated up by Aiai De Las Alas when she steps into the stage and begun with her drance number and crazy antics. Since most of the audience were Koreans, Aiai made some good grin jokes like greeting the Korean “anyo nga seo” which sounded like “what is yours?” of course it is translated in Filipino. It sure made quite a laugh. Aside from jokes and dance, she also shows her singing and comedy act.

Later on the audience got even livelier with the performance of the comic duo, Jose and Wally. Sing, dance and of course comedy act of the two, initiating and interacting with the audience.

Then the main event comes, the time and the person that most of the audience are looking for, none other that PSY. Fluent with his English grammar he came out of the dark into the stage requesting to lit up the entire arena, so he could see all the audience. This is quite interesting because most of the concerts that I've been the audience area are usually unlit and the stage is the only place with the spot lights. What's more interesting is that PSY requested for everybody to enjoy, interact, and have fun as he perform for the audience. Though he knows the audience won't be able to understand his song he was happy that the Filipino audience enjoyed and dances with PSY's Korean music.


Of course every good things are reserved for last and PSY's last song was what everybody is waiting for, the hit music GANGNAM STYLE. Me, I did enjoy the show and loved seeing my hubby dance along with everyone in the Arena as PSY sung the Gangnam Style in anchor.

This February, love song is in the air. Filipinos love listening to the music, it gives relaxation, inspiration and it reflect what is the particular mood when listening or playing the songs.  Songs are written based on ones particular story and most of them are about love.  Writers expresses their lives and their emotions with the songs they create.

This coming February 24 different love songs or now called P-Pop songs will be judged to highlight the most well love Pinoy Pop song. 

In celebration of 60 years of Philippine television, ABS-CBN and Star Records once again set the stage for brilliant Filipino composers to share their musical masterpieces to the world as it relaunched the country’s biggest multimedia songwriting competition “Himig Handog” with the theme, “Pinoy Pop (P-POP) Love Songs: Mga Awit at Kwento ng Pusong Pilipino.”
 
Now on its 5th year, “Himig Handog” received a total of 2,500 original compositions from Pinoy songwriters worldwide. And from the thousands of entries gathered, 12 songs were chosen as “Himig Handog P-Pop Love Songs” finalists, which include “Alaala” by Ma. Fe Mechenette Tianga, Melvin Huwervana, and Joel Jabot Jr. from Iloilo; “Ano’ng Nangyari Sa Ating Dalawa” by Jovinor Tan from Malabon; “If You Ever Change Your Mind” by Marion Aunor from Makati; “Hanggang Wakas” by Soc Villanueva from Australia; “Kahit Na” by Julius James de Belen from Quezon City; “Nasa Iyo Na Ang Lahat” by Jungee Marcelo from Pasig City; “One Day” by Agatha Obar Morallos from Baguio City; “Pwede Bang Ako Na Lang Ulit” by Jeffrey Cifra from Cavite; “Sana’y Magbalik” by Arman Alferez from Caloocan; “Scared To Death” by Domingo Rosco Jr. from Bohol; “Tamang Panahon” by Wynn Andrada from Makati; and “This Song Is For You” by Jude Gitamondoc from Cebu City.

The 12 song finalists will be immortalized by some of the biggest names in the Philippine music industry including Angeline Quinto who will be the interpreter for “One Day,” Aiza Seguerra for “Anong Nangyari Sa Ating Dalawa,” Erik Santos for “This Song’s For You,” Yeng Constantino for “Alaala,” Juris for “Hanggang Wakas,” Toni Gonzaga for “Kahit Na,” Bugoy Drilon for “Pwede Bang Ako Na Lang Ulit,” Jovit Baldivino for “Sana’y Magbalik,” KZ Tandingan for “Scared To Death,” and Daniel Padilla for the song “Nasa Iyo Na Ang Lahat.”

Two young songwriter-finalists will be the interpreters of their own compositions– Marion will sing her song “If You Ever Change Your Mind” and Wynn will share his heart out through his creation, “Tamang Panahon.”

Aside from the “Himig Handog P-Pop Love Songs” CD, which is now available on all record bars nationwide for only P250, the 12 song finalists will be featured in music videos created by the students from some of the country’s most prestigious universities including University of The Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University, University of Santo Tomas, Polytechnic University of The Philippines, San Beda College, Far Eastern University, University Of The East – Caloocan, MINT College, Philippine Christian University, Adamson University, and Technological Institute of The Philippines. The music videos will be first aired on “Himig Handog Pinoy MYX special” on MYX SkyCable channel 23 this Friday (February 1) at 6pm.

Just like its previous runs, “Himig Handog” will be giving away special awards aside from the grand prize. Fans will have the power to choose the winners in various special awards categories. For the Star Records Buyer’s Choice, simply purchase a copy of “Himig Handog P-Pop Love Songs CD” at leading record bars and fill-up the voting cards or download your favorite songs via http://www.apple.com/itunes. For the Tambayan’s Choice and MOR’s Choice, tune in to Tambayan 101.9 and MOR stations Nationwide and request for your choice love songs in the CD. For the sa TFC’s Choice, Kapamilyas abroad can vote online through http://www.tfc.tv. While for the MYX Choice for Best Video, Support the music videos by requesting through MYX or register at www.myxph.com and choose your favorite “Himig Handog” music video. The deadline of voting for MYX Choice for Best Video is on February 23 (Saturday) at 12noon.

“Himig Handog P-Pop Love Songs” grand finals will happen on February 24 (Sunday) at the Mall Of Asia Arena in Pasay City and will be aired live on ABS-CBN channel 2.
For more information about “Himig Handog P-Pop Love Songs,” visit Star Records’ Facebook fanpage at www.facebook.com/starrecordsphil or follow @starrecordsph on Twitter.

The night was filled with fun and laughter for Bryan Termulo's 2nd Bloggers' Conference at Insomia Bar in Centris in Quezon City last February 9, 2013,  Bryan Termulo answers questions from the bloggers. Gladly, Bryan Termulo was game with the session and most of the bloggers shoot their questions, though some of them were already known to many. Mommy Jo ask one question that made everyone listened to what would Bryan will answer. The question was “Tell us things that we don't know about you (Bryan Termulo)?” Well before that here's something about Bryan Termulo and his upcoming Birthday Concert.

When you're an industry newcomer, it helps that your name sounds familiar. Perhaps the fact that “Termulo” is actually an anagram of “tremulo” (a trembling in music) helped Bryan Termulo somehow ring in the heads of industry movers? Or maybe – most likely – he turned heads because of that soothing, balladeer extraordinaire swagger that got most looking.

It mght also be the good looks. But then again almost every artist out there – even those devoid of originality – has that. Good looks could only take you so far. But now, after just several years in the industry and finally getting his biggest break thus far by getting to sing the theme song of the phenomenal teleserye “Walang Hanggan”, Bryan, it seems, is just getting started.

Dubbed as “The Prince of Teleserye Theme Songs”, and aptly, after making hits one theme song after the otthr in primetime teleseryes on the Kapamilya network, the young balladeer is now crossing over yet again to another arena: concert performances.


“Pressured ako “coz I have less than two months to prepare. I should give all my best. It's my first concert. I'm thinking if the tickets will be sold, kung marmaing manonood, baka mamaya ma-sold out tickets pero wala namang nanonood,” Bryan candidly says of his fears, with his huge boy-next-door grin on.

After getting the runner-up plum back in 2007 for Pinoy Pop Superstar Year 3, most artist would probaby think they're not good enough. But was it just a trend that most contest runner-ups end up as great or even greater, superstars than the actual grand winners of singing contests?

Case in point, the “runner-up” success got Brgyan a slot in the weekend noontime show of the Kapuso network SOP where he stayed for three years, while juggling an acting career in “All My Life” playing the character Dino. In his third year with his former network, he launched his first album “Begin”, at the same time crossing over to his network's rival ABS-CBN.

With the Kapamilya network, he continued juggling acting and singing duties, as he became a mainstay in ASAP 2012, co-starred in Budoy, and sang three teleserye theme songs, “Bihag”, “Pagdating Ng Panahon”, “Hanggang Ngayon”, “Dadalhin”, and “Kailan” for the network's most successful teleseryes “Walang Hanggan”, “Dahil Sa Pag-ibig”, “Kung Ako's Iiwan Mo”, “100 Days to Heaven”, and “Ina, Kapatid, Anak”, respetively.

Untiring, he also releasedf his sophomore album “Hanggang Ngayon” last year while preparing for another whirlwind year as he sings “isang Sulyap Mo” yet another theme sing for upcoming teleserye “Juan Dela Cruz” top-billed by Coco Martin and Erich Gonzales.


Bryan is also juggling singing and acting throughout the year yet again as he is set to star in the upcoming teleserye “Against All Odds” starring Judy Ann Santos, KC Concepcion, Sam Milby, Jericho Rosales and Jessie Mendiola.

Obviously thankful for all the blessings thrown his way, he admits to still be into his first love, singing, “Singing is my first love and the reason why I'm in the industry. I'm known as a singer. Acting is just a bonus.” And even though the blessings are coming from all corners, the thinking artist knows he couldn't let his guard down, “I still want to finish studying so that if acting and singing do not work out, I'll have that to fall back to.”

Bryan says he is lucky to be doing that one thing he loves most while traveling thentire country.

“Mahilig kasi ako sa lakwatsa pero 'di ako mahilig sa night life. It's memorable having to travel for free – getting to places that I want to go to even though jus the airports,” the singeracotr says, laughing at the irony of it. “The fact that you can travel the entire Philippines because it's your profession is such a blessing,” he adds.

Busy as he is, he arms himself with a most obvious fan tool for artists like himself: social media. “Wala namang masama mag-'Hi' ka. Sometimes kumustahin mo sila (the fans). If you have a show by air or by sea, and then you see they're there, you have to be thankful for that.”

The thanks don't stop there though as he admits to loving the fan interactions, especially on stage.

“You an maximize your skills on the stage and you can really reach out unlike in the studio, you sing but when the people want to go to you, they can't do it,” he says acknowledging the importance of touching base with his fans.

Fans who are looking forward to Bryan's first solo concert should take hints at the fact that he's listening to a variety of artists like One Direction, Jason Mraz and Bruno Mars.

“I want the fas to see that this is not a typical balladeer concert. I'm preparing really well, we really chose the best songs, and the performance is not just singing only. I'm gonna give my best and I will sing with my mind and my heart,” Bryan teases.

Bryan's first concert coincidentally falls a day after his birth date, hence the title “Bryan XXV Termulo”. This only means one thing for the fans, it's going to be a party.

Right now, Bryan admits to being busy at all the prepartions, to the point of obsessing over the dos and don'ts with his production team. The balladeer is quick to point out though that trust plays an important part in his team where he listens to inputs as they do when he gives his.

“Sometimes I do suggest songs when I feel it would help. I'm very open naman if they say otherwise. I have my thoughts, I have my ideas, but if my team says otherwise, I'm okay,” he says.

From now until the date of the concert, as Bryan juggles with the usual singing and acting, there would be tons of preparations going on.

Right now, with eveything in place, Bryan admits to not being too complacent, as he whishes for the best in the upcoming concert – his first since he launched his dbut album in 2010. How does he cope with the pressure

“Practicce hard, pray hard and work hard so that the concert becomes a success,” Bryan divulges.

When Bryan entered the scene, all he had was the voice, the good looks and his tremulo that is supposedly enough to sen reverberations across the scene. As he nears his first major concert, Bryan is baking on this same tremulo, this time wishing it would be the fans quivering in shriekds and excitement.

His promise for the concert is simple: “Fun, Enjoy and at the same time, party.”

Catch “The Prince of Teleserye Theme Songs” Bryan Termulo at “Bryan XXV Termulo” The Birthday Concert on March 9, 2012 (Saturday) at Music Museum, 8PM! With special guests Liezel Garcia, KZ Tandingan, Bugoy Drilon and Melai Cantiveros. Ticket prices 2,000, 1,500, 1,200 and 800. For ticket inquires please call Ticketworld at 891-9999 or Music Museum: 721-0635 and Teatrino 721-6726. Php2,000 VIP ticket buyers will get a Limited Mini-Magazne of Bryan Termulo plus a Meet & Greet after the concert!

Bryan Termulo's sophomore album “Hanggang Ngayon” is still outon all record bars, nationwide.

Oh before I finish here are some of the things that we doesn't know about Bryan.

• He loves the bitter taste of Ampalaya. He doesn't eat it if it's not bitter.
• He does nailbiting.
• He's forgetful, especially with his cellphones.
• He's not a techie guy.

Bryan Termulo's Bloggers' Conference is brought to you by BWB Records and Music Production Inc. in cooperation with LionhearTV, Pinoy Magazine, Erase Placenta, Lifeline, Cetaphil, Skechers, SOLO, Star Magic and Tambayan 101.9.

www.facebook.com/BRYANTERMULO | www.twitter.com/bryantermulo
www.facebook.com/PinoyMagazine | www.twitter.com/pinoysongmag
www.lionheartv.net | www.twitter.com/LionhearTV

Experiencing romantic music and excellent three course dinner is rare for us and having it together with my hubby is an experience to remember. Last Valentine's Day at the Rockwell Power Plant Mall a sweetest thing happened to us and thank you very much to Rockwell Power Plant Mall for that wonderful event. It was an awesome dinner date with my hubby! The night was filled with plenty of surprises from Rockwell, there was an awesome and tasty three way course dinner with some goodies and it also comes with a movie viewing. Now, isn't it great and an awesome Valentine's date?!


This experience goes to my lovely memory bank because it's the first time that we have this kind of dinner date. Great, romantic, lovely and exquisite for us.

Love does not stop after marriage it's just the beginning of a neverending courtship, wonderful moments, and memorable life together. Make more memories and stories together!

Leaving loads of nail-biting cliffhangers for loyal viewers as it went on its mid-season hiatus, “The Walking Dead” Season 3 returns to Fox Philippines on Feb 16 at 8:55 PM. Fans of the hit TV series about a hardy group of survivors of the zombie apocalypse are expecting an all-out war to explode on their screens at the premiere and will tune in to see what happens when different aspects of human nature clash in a world with little hope left in it.




“The Walking Dead” chronicles the lives of a motley band of stragglers who somehow survived the onslaught of a zombie apocalypse and were brought together by desperation and the will to live in a new, terrible world. The group is led by Officer Rick Grimes, played by Andrew Lincoln, who fully embraces his role as chief after the events of the previous seasons, having been forced time and again to question the motives of his people and discern what decisions to make in order for them to survive. At the onset of Season 3, the group, composed of his wife Lori, his son Carl, Herschel and his daughters Maggie and Beth, and original members Daryl, Glenn, Carol and T-Dog, desperately looks to Rick to determine their next move, and he lays down the law by declaring that their priority is to find a semi-permanent shelter where they can recover safely. Meanwhile, Andrea is found and cared for by the rogue self-styled warrior Michonne when she is separated from the group as they flee the walker-infested farm.


The first half of Season 3 was relentless in revealing one shocking development after another. In their quest to find a safe haven, Rick and his group encounter numerous dangers as they fight to claim an abandoned prison full of walkers. The story also followed Michonne and Andrea’s adventure in parallel, who stumble upon a thriving community of survivors led by someone who calls himself “The Governor”, played by David Morrissey. Andrea and Michonne find themselves seduced by the order that The Governor has imposed on the community, which offers a life similar to the days before the zombie apocalypse. But soon after their arrival, they encounter the sinister truth behind the community’s success.


Recently, The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences presented An Evening with The Walking Dead, where a panel of cast members, including Andrew Lincoln (Rick), Norman Reedus (Daryl), Laurie Holden (Andrea), Steven Yeun (Glenn), Lauren Cohan (Maggie), DanaiGurira (Michonne) and David Morrissey (The Governor), along with Creator and Executive Producer Robert Kirkman, Executive Producer Gale Anne Hurd, and Co-Executive Producer and Special EFX Makeup Supervisor, Greg Nicotero, discussed the first half of Season 3 of The Walking Dead at length in front of an audience. They explored the character’s motivations that led them to certain decisions and actions that helped set up the inevitable battle that will occur in the latter half of Season 3.

"One of the enduring strengths of the show is that it keeps reinventing itself," said Andrew Lincoln. Lauren Cohan added, "The ways we’re pushing boundaries is so interesting and surprising to see on TV." The actors’ portrayals of their characters have also been integral to the show’s appeal to audiences. Gale Ann Hurd said, “The reason people watch the show is the cast...the audience is invested in the characters.”


Catch the much anticipated premiere of  The Walking Dead 3 part 2 on FOX Philippines, February 16 at 8:55 PM!

Valentine’s Day is just a few days away, and the air is fraught with anticipation for the year’s biggest love celebration. Those who may be too busy looking for the perfect present this Valentine’s Day should worry no more with Lazada, the country’s premier online shopping mall that offers all-around convenience for time-strapped shoppers.


Lazada is home to a vast selection of products from books, clothing, footwear, personal care, accessories, electronics and gadgets that will surely captivate the most discriminating taste. Featured brands include Samsung, Cherry Mobile, The Body Shop, Celine, Nike and Spalding.

Women can score major points with their beaus by treating them to cool items that let them indulge their playful side with Lazada’s travel and gaming-related goodies.

Men can embrace their inner Casanova by surprising the ladies with this season’s sexiest lingerie from Lazada, boasting of red-hot offerings that go from sweet to seductive.

Ordering from Lazada is fast, simple and easy, allowing busy bees to squeeze online shopping even during lunch breaks. Lazada also offers free shipping for all orders P1000 and above nationwide.

And as an added treat this February, Lazada is rewarding all MasterCard holders with an additional 15% off on all products listed in the “Share Your Love” campaign when they pay using their MasterCard® credit card.

Promo runs until February 14 so hurry and make Valentine’s sweeter with these amazing deals! For more details, head on over to www.lazada.com.ph/sweet-valentines.