Women Bartenders on Creating Cocktails With Tanduay, Defying Stereotypes, and Thriving in a Male-Dominated Field

As renewed interest in cocktails continue to grow, bartenders are also taking the spotlight, and in El Nido and Siargao, two bartenders are paving the way for women to shine in a male-dominated industry. 

Sharleen Antonio works with her husband and fellow bartending professional, Larry Guevara, in one of Palawan’s top beach destinations. Riza Delguime, meanwhile, is a bartender for a leading resort in the country’s surfing haven.

Creating Tanduay-Infused Cocktails

 

Both women have been bartending for years and share a preference for Tanduay in creating cocktails.

“It’s very easy to mix in cocktails because of its unique and bold character. I usually go for the classic Tanduay Dark Rum in my root beer and rum with a squeeze of fresh lemon. I have my own signature cocktail, which is perfect when I mix it with Tanduay. We have female guests here in the resort who would request for cocktails that are not too strong, and I would make one for them also using Tanduay. There are different varieties of bars here like sports bars and pool bars, and they are all super busy because of the many tourists who visit our island. It’s very easy to mix in cocktails because of its unique and bold character. I usually go for the classic Tanduay Dark Rum in my root beer and rum with a squeeze of fresh lemon. While I may have experienced some catcalling and received some indecent proposals from male guests in some instances, I have to say that I have been lucky to have always worked with my husband behind the bar. In 2016, we joined Pilipinas Got Talent Season 5 to show that there is more to bartending than meets the eye. That would be the key to your success. Bartending is fun, and you get to entertain guests. Gone are the days when women were simply considered as bar backs or force multipliers during busy bar shifts. Or worse, simply as ornaments behind the bar. It is my wish that female bartenders will continue to flourish and leave their own mark in the field we all so love and are passionate about.” ~Sharleen Antonio, works with her husband and fellow bartending professional

She shared that they used Tanduay rums in her bar management class back in college, so she is very familiar with the brand. Collaborating with the brand, she came up with three Tanduay-infused cocktails that are perfect for any time of the year -- the Mango Basil Mojito, Tanduay Espresso Martini, and Tanduay Old Fashioned.

Delguime likes Tanduay’s sweet and strong flavor. Foreign customers would usually ask what rum brand she uses in her cocktails and would then request drinks infused with Tanduay rums.

Delguime further shared that the bartending scene in Siargao has always been “good and clean.”

Breaking the Glass Ceiling

Antonio shared working in a male-dominated industry wasn’t easy in the beginning. Women bartenders used to be seen as just “cotton candies” behind the bar to attract male clients and rake in tips.

Advice for Aspiring Bartenders

Delguime advised aspiring bartenders to just be themselves. 

Antonio, meanwhile, has made it her advocacy to educate people about bartending as hospitality and F&B professionals.

Antonio wants to motivate, inspire, and empower women bartenders and those who would like to start a career in the bartending industry. She and her husband have been conducting workshops and seminars around the country to help aspiring bartenders better their craft.

Peak Travel Reminders for the Lenten Break

The Holy Week is a time for reflection and reunion with families, with many Filipinos taking the opportunity to be with their loved ones, either to participate in religious activities, or go on a much-deserved vacation.

While airports are expected to get busy at this time of the year, air travel should not be a chaotic experience for every Juan. Here are a few reminders from Cebu Pacific:

1. Be on time at the airport and beat traffic

Cebu Pacific and Cebgo passengers must allot time for traffic going to the airport. Passengers must be at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 and 4 at least three (3) hours before departure for domestic flights, and four (4) hours for international flights. Passengers traveling to Dubai are allowed to check in as early as seven (7) hours before departure.

 

2. Check in online

Long lines may be avoided at the airport by checking in via the official CEB mobile app or via the Manage Booking section of the CEB website. Both options are available from seven (7) days up to one (1) hour before scheduled time of departure for domestic flights, and up to four (4) hours before scheduled departure for international fliers.

 

3. Check flight information, closing times

All check-in counters close one (1) hour before the scheduled time of departure to ensure there is ample time for all necessary pre-flight procedures. After checking in, we encourage passengers to immediately go through immigration and final security to avoid delays. Boarding commences 45 minutes before the scheduled departure.

 

Updated flight information may be viewed at https://www.cebupacificair.com/flight-status

 

4. Self-tag luggage for select domestic destinations

Guests flying out of select domestic destinations (Manila, Davao, Clark, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, Bohol, Iloilo, and Zamboanga) are reminded to self-tag their check-in luggage at the designated kiosks at the airport, prior to proceeding to counters for bag drops.

 

5. Pack your bags accordingly

Passengers must bring only one carry-on bag for a more convenient flight experience. The carry-on bag must not exceed 7kg in weight and can fit in the overhead bins or under the seat.

CEB has exempted items that are allowed to be carried aside from the single hand carried bag:

• Gadgets or food items that cannot be checked-in;
• Items purchased inside the airport (requires proof of receipt);
• Assistive or medical items such as walking canes, foldable walkers;
• Baby food and necessities for passengers traveling with infants;
• Or a small bag that can fit under the seat.

6. Checked baggage policy

Passengers are encouraged to purchase prepaid baggage online via the CEB website or mobile app to save on fees. CEB has implemented a per piece baggage policy which applies to all passengers with checked baggage. A passenger can bring one (1) piece for each purchase of 20kg or 32kg, and may get up to any two (2) of these weight options, for a maximum of two (2) pieces of baggage and a combined weight of 64kg.

Any excess in size, weight and pieces are subject to oversized baggage fee, excess baggage fee and/or extra Bag Fee.

 

7. Check the airport terminal assignment of your flight

Passengers must check their itineraries and boarding passes before proceeding to their designated airport terminal. Cebu Pacific’s 5J flights arrive at and depart from the NAIA Terminal 3, while Cebgo (DG) flights to and from Manila operate from the NAIA Terminal 4 at Domestic Road, Pasay City. There will not be any terminal change for Cebu Pacific and Cebgo flights from NAIA.

 

We are grateful to every Juan for choosing to fly with us. We look forward to more travels with you, and your families and friends in 2023. CEB now flies to a total of 34 domestic and 25 international destinations. Visit www.cebupacificair.com for more information.

Ayala Land's Vermosa Estate grows rapidly, exciting investors, businesses and communities

Vermosa, Ayala Land’s fourth largest estate said to be the new business and lifestyle district of the South, is in intense growth mode in 2023. 

The next financial and commercial center down South is expanding retail outlets and services, also adding features and amenities like parks, a government center, a church and malls that support community and commercial needs. 

Residents, investors and businesses are excited about the rapid rise of commerce and a thriving community inside the 725-hectare central business and residential district that straddles the cities of Imus and Dasmarinas in Cavite. Boasting a complete package of residences, malls, offices, institutions, schools, entertainment venues, government centers, BPOs and a world-class training and lifestyle destination for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, Vermosa continues to spur growth in the Daang Hari corridor. 

Meralco is putting up a dedicated substation within Vermosa to ensure continuous power to homes, commercial establishments, institutional facilities and the growing features and amenities of the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub (AVSH). A Landers store, the Ayala Malls Vermosa, Army Navy and Panda Express drive thru stores will soon rise in the area, joining food brands like Starbucks, McDonalds, Jollibee, Burger King, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and Peri Peri Chicken in servicing the area that has become a busy east-west connector. A government center will soon provide vital services with the Philippine Red Cross also putting up a headquarters in place.

Capital values for commercial lot investments have thus almost doubled at 82% since the Estate was launched in 2014. Home investors have expressed satisfaction with the high turnover rates of the different residential areas. 

Now, the different residential communities composed of the 125-hectare private enclave called The Courtyards by Ayala Land Premier, the stand-alone 36-hectare upscale modern community of Alveo’s Ardia, and the 10-hectare Avida Verra Settings located in the residential district, are preparing to welcome their projected initial 2,000 residents.

Meanwhile, Vermosa Campus Town, the estate’s commercial business district -- a modern, contemporary urban center with ultra-wide landscaped pedestrian walkways, bicycle lanes, jogging paths, an active street life and pocket parks -- will complement the varied lifestyles of residents and outside guests.

More key developments are in the works ensuring that Vermosa lives up to its promise of being the leading growth center in the South, attracting investors and businesses wanting to expand in this part of the metro.

VVermosa is strategically located near key urban centers and made accessible by a network of roads like Daang Hari, SLEX, MCX and CALAX. Greater accessibility to the estate’s residents, visitors and enterprises is provided by access points in Daang Hari and Molino Highway.

UnionBank Named Best Retail Bank In The Philippines Four Years In A Row!

Most Recommended Retail Bank Group Pic

At the most rigorous, prestigious, and transparent annual awards program to recognize institutional and individual leadership in retail financial services in the Asia Pacific region, UnionBank was lauded for once again outperforming its peers.  The Asian Banker’s Global Excellence in Retail Financial Services Awards Programme 2023, held last March at the Lotte Hotel in Hanoi, Vietnam, recognized UnionBank with its 4th consecutive BEST RETAIL BANK in the Philippines award and honored for being voted the MOST RECOMMENDED RETAIL BANK in the Philippines. 

BEST RETAIL BANK IN THE PHILIPPINES

The Asian Banker International Advisory Council cited UnionBank for establishing a “robust culture of innovation and collaboration supported by significant investments in productivity, growth, and digitalization both at the front-end and back-end that allows the bank to maintain a competitive edge over its rivals.”

According to The Asian Banker, UnionBank “outperformed its peers in 2022 with 26% retail revenue growth, compared to the market average of 10%, an improved net interest margin of 4.9% and strong deposit growth of 32%.” Contributing to the bank’s performance in 2022 was the bank’s ecosystem-focused customer acquisition strategy through its mobile app and platforms, adding up to a customer base of 7.9 million in 2022.  The bank also launched apps such as Insurance Marketplace, InstaPay2 to receive international remittances and a business banking app for micro and small and medium-sized enterprises.  

“By investing heavily in building a strong digital infrastructure, advanced analytics capabilities, and a cloud-first approach the Best Retail Bank in the Philippines is Union Bank of the Philippines,” cited The Asian Banker.

Most Recommended Retail Bank in the Philippines 

Based on the BankQuality™ Consumer Survey, a digital consumer feedback channel developed by The Asian Banker, UnionBank was voted by consumers as the Most Recommended Retail Bank in the Philippines, “for sustaining its position in the country as a pioneer and with a 100.90 BankQuality Score.”

Innovative, modern, and reliable, were some of the accolades from the bank’s customers.  With the launch of different technological and digital innovations such as eDAO (ePaycard Digital Account Opening), remote cheque deposit (RCD), and embedded banking, customers responded positively, saying that the bank provided convenient banking, fast and smooth transactions, and features that were easy to use and hassle-free.  

The Annual BankQuality™ Consumer Survey conducts interviews with approximately 11,000 bank customers in 11 markets across the Asia Pacific region. The survey period is between January and February every year.

The awards were received by UnionBank Consumer Banking Head Manoj Varma in Hanoi, Vietnam during The Asian Banker’s first in-person global awarding ceremonies since the pandemic. UnionBank has always been at the forefront of embracing technological innovations that empower its customers. The consistent recognition of the Asian Banker reinforces its commitment to deliver superior customer experiences and power the future of banking. The awards set the foundation of our aspiration to become a Great Retail Bank—the largest and most profitable consumer bank in the country over the coming years.  

The Asian Banker is the region’s most authoritative provider of strategic business intelligence to the financial services community. The Singapore-based company has offices in Singapore, Malaysia, Manila, Hong Kong, Beijing, and Dubai, as well as representatives in London, New York, and San Francisco. It has a business model that revolves around three core business lines: publications, research services and forums.

BingoPlus continues to promote local festivals bysupporting Victorias City’s Kadalag-an Festival

Coronation of Ms. BingoPlus Kadalag-an Queen 2023 Kyla Rose Romarate

True to its mission of promoting Philippine leisure activities like sports, concerts, beauty pageants and cultural festivals, BingoPlus, the first live-streaming bingo in the Philippines, went to Victorias City, Negros Occidental to support the Kadalag-an Festival from March 17 – 21.

The festival that was instituted in 1999 as a thanksgiving celebration in honor of Our Lady of Victory is a colorful celebration of Victoriahanons’ culture and traditions. Street dancing, merrymaking and the search for the Kadalag-an Queen are the highlights of this festival that also marked its 25th Charter Day this year.

BingoPlus, one of the sponsors of the event, added color to the festival by letting revelers join their fun booth activations and selecting Kyla Rose Romarate as Miss BingoPlus Kadalag-an Queen 2023 who was crowned by Victorias City Mayor Javier Benitez award on Queen Coronation Night.

“This involvement in Kadalag-an is a testament to the fact that BingoPlus is more than just an online entertainment brand, but a brand with a mission to promote Filipino culture and traditions by supporting local festivals, among others. In fact, BingoPlus also supported Victorias City’s 9th Kalamayan Festival last December. That Christmas festival celebrates the bountiful years of the sugar industry that helped sustain the progress of Victorias City.” ~Jasper Vicencio, President of AB Leisure Exponent, Inc.

For more updates and info visit www.bingoplus.com and download the BingoPlus App.

Emirates embraces the spirit of the Holy Month with a thoughtful passenger journey

Emirates unveils new signature livery for its fleet

With the Holy Month of Ramadan expected to begin this week, Emirates is preparing thousands of Iftar meal boxes for fasting passengers both onboard and at boarding gates, an array of religious content and Ramadan series on ice, and traditional Ramadan refreshments and meals in the lounges.

Iftar Meal Boxes honoring Bedouin heritage

 

From the March 22, customers breaking their fast across all cabin classes to select Emirates destinations will receive thoughtful, nutritionally-balanced iftar meal boxes. Iftar meals will be served in bespoke boxes designed by Emirates to represent the rich Emirati heritage of the Al Sadu weavers. Al Sadu is a traditional form of weaving practiced by Bedouin women of the UAE, who handmade soft furnishings and decorative accessories with distinctive geometric patterns. Reflecting the social aspect of Ramadan as family and friends gather to break the fast, the Al Sadu weavers used to come together in groups to spin and weave, exchanging family news, singing, and reciting poetry.

 

The iftar meal boxes will include light dishes and starters such as hummus and spinach bil zeit, Greek salad and cauliflower bil tahini, falafel sandwiches, pasta salad and fried aubergine with mint, zaatar chicken salad and cauliflower bil tahini, chicken musakhan sandwiches with Arabic bread, as well as staples like traditional dates and refreshing laban. A smaller box will also be served at boarding gates at Iftar time including all the essentials to comfortably break the fast.

 

Emirates’ iftar box will be served to complement the regular hot meal service and menu’s will be refreshed on a weekly basis to ensure a best-in-class dining experience during the Holy Month. The boxes will be served on flights to select destinations during times that coincide with iftar, on flights to and from the Gulf region, as well as flights catering to Umrah groups travelling to Jeddah and Medina during the month of Ramadan. Passengers may also check in one bottle of Islamic holy water ‘ZAMZAM’, containing up to 5 liters per person at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and various airports in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

 

Captain announcements of Iftar time

 

To ensure the highest levels of accuracy for fasting Muslim passengers, Emirates uses a unique tool to calculate the correct timings for imsak (the time to commence fasting) and iftar while in-flight, based on the times of the sunrise and sunset of the location the flight is passing by using the aircraft’s longitude, latitude, and altitude.  When the sun sets, passengers will be officially informed of the iftar time by the captain.

Ramadan refreshments in the lounges

 

For customers on the ground boarding during iftar times, boxes containing water, juice, a banana, and dates will be available to fasting customers at gates for several destinations. At the Emirates lounges in DXB, traditional Arabic sweets, dates and coffee will be offered during Ramadan. Meals available in First and Business Class lounges will include a selection of hot and cold Arabic mezzeh, lentil soup, lamb ouzi served with dakous and coriander mint raita, shish taouk with harissa red pepper dip and Emirati ouzi. Desserts will feature kunafa with pistachio and baklava ice-cream, baklawa pistachio finger, sweet cashew kol w shkor and Arabic coffee and dates ice-cream. Emirates lounges are equipped with dedicated prayer rooms and ablution facilities to ensure a peaceful environment for worship. 

Ramadan content on ice

 

Throughout March and April, Emirates ice inflight entertainment will feature special religious content including Hadeeth Al Emam Al Tayeb, Nawafez Aala Al Hayat, Qu’ran Mubeen, Deen Al Tasamoh, Meythaq Al Hayat, Mahe Ramadan (Urdu), Ramadan Ki Fazilat (Urdu), Noor E Ramzan (Urdu) and Niyamat – E – Ramadan (Urdu). The Holy Qur’an is also available on ice.

 

Popular Ramadan series and dramas will also be available on ice, such as Al Wade' Mustaqer – Season 2, Nasiby Wa Qesmetek – Season 4, Tahqiq, Rivo, 25 Soual, and Fil Sayara. Amongst the diverse content on ice, there are more than 5,000 channels of on-demand entertainment including 742 Arabic channels featuring movies, TV, podcasts, and music.

 

Ramadan Awareness Training for Emirates staff

 

Emirates provides Ramadan awareness training for its cabin crew and on ground teams in Dubai and across its network.  Special training resources have been provided to ensure operational teams are aware of the Holy Month, understand the cultural significance and nuances of this time and recognise specific practices that Muslims engage in, so they are prepared to provide the highest levels of service to customers at all touchpoints of their travel journey.

Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Updates Local Veterinarians with New Developments

Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines Inc. launches Vetmedin S for canine heart disease, Vaxxitek HVT IBD ILT, Vaxxitek HVT IBD ND and Prevexxion RN for poultry diseases, and Entericolix for swine 

• Innovative products and new technology join hands in leading the fight against animal diseases.
• Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc. releases new brands: Entericolix for swine, Vetmedin S for canine cardiac health, and for poultry, Prevexxion RN and new variants under the Vaxxitek brand: Vaxxitek HVT IBD ILT and Vaxxitek HVT IBD ND.

During the recent Philippine Veterinary Medical Association's 90th Scientific Conference and Annual Convention, Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc. announced new brands, two cutting-edge farm equipment, and a brand-new educational website to local animal health care professionals. 

The SMX Convention Center in Pasay City hosted the event in February, which provided attendees with information about the most recent technological advancements and animal health knowledge. Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health proceeded to introduce new devices and products that were of interest to the general public in accordance with the convention's theme, "Strengthening the Practice of Veterinary Medicine with Advanced Technologies and Networks."

“At Boehringer Ingelheim, we count on innovation as one of our core values. Fueled by our passion to improve the lives and well-being of humans and animals alike, our relentless pursuit of advancement delivered us these new products and devices. As innovative and as effective these products and tools may be, they can only serve their purpose with the help of every veterinary professional in this room and all over the Philippines. Boehringer Ingelheim reaches out to you. You are key in making the purpose of these products and tools come to life.Let us make these innovations work to make their benefits count in the lives of humans and animals here in the Philippines. Let us make these innovations work to make their benefits count in the lives of humans and animals here in the Philippines.” ~Dr. Sukje Sung, Head of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc. 

Dr. Sung gave an outline of the new variations of Vaxxitek for poultry and the three new brands for the three fundamental species the organization is presenting in the country: Entericolix for pigs, Prevexxion RN for poultry, and Vetmedin S for dogs with concerns about their cardiac health.

Prevexxion RN is effective against very virulent strains of Marek's disease, while Vaxxitek HVT IBD ILT and Vaxxitek HVT IBD ND help prevent Infectious Bursal Disease, Marek's Disease, Newcastle Disease, and Infectious Laryngotracheitis in poultry. Entericolix provides swine with 21 days of immunity against edema disease and diarrhea caused by E. coli and C. perfringens Type C; Additionally, Boehringer Ingelheim has introduced Vetmedin S, a medication that has been shown to improve the quality of life and delay the onset of congestive heart failure in dogs with heart disease.

Dr. Sukje Sung, Head of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health

Building up Dr. Sung was Dr. Melvin Cassion, Client Experience Lead for Boehringer Ingelheim Creature Wellbeing Philippines, Inc. "With regards to creature medical care, we are now past the period of therapy and control, that was so quite a while back. Prevention came next. However, Boehringer Ingelheim is now moving from disease prevention to prediction. He emphasized the resources available to the Philippine pork industry with that statement: SoundTalks®, a device that uses artificial intelligence in conjunction with always-on, in-barn audio monitoring to detect signs of respiratory disease, and FreVAXTM, an innovative vaccine injection device for pigs that does not require the use of a needle.

After that, Dr. Cassion unveiled the Animal Health Hub, an online learning portal that veterinarians can use to quickly access a variety of learning modules and keep up with the most recent technology and knowledge. The website, which initially launched with a focus on companion animals like dogs and cats, will soon include other species and be accessible to related users like veterinary students, farm managers, veterinary technicians, and others.

Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com.

Boehringer Ingelheim

Boehringer Ingelheim is working on breakthrough therapies that transform lives, today and for generations to come. As a leading research-driven biopharmaceutical company, the company creates value through innovation in areas of high unmet medical need. Founded in 1885 and family-owned ever since, Boehringer Ingelheim takes a long-term perspective. More than 52,000 employees serve over 130 markets in the three business areas, Human Pharma, Animal Health, and Biopharmaceutical Contract Manufacturing. 

Daughter of former flower farmers lives a vibrant life through the SM Scholarship grant

Stability is the foundation of a well-lived life. With basic needs fulfilled, people have the opportunity to develop themselves, explore various facets of life, and contribute to the welfare of the community.

When aspiring youth, especially those from low-income households, are given the chance to stand on solid ground, they readily take the chance. They utilize it as a seedbed where they can cultivate their dreams and aspirations.

One testament to this is SM scholar alumna Jonnah Jane Sacamay, who grew up in a family where stability seemed like an uncharted territory. Years back, Jonnah’s family’s main source of living was flower farming. This made them walk on a thin line as the demand for flowers was seasonal, and they were also often affected by unpredictable weather disturbances. 

But while they had journeyed through life with uncertainty, they had always planted in her mind the power of education.

“Given that the nature of farming is very seasonal, our income is not stable. Aside from augmenting our daily needs, we also had to ensure that my education is secured. I was informed that I got accepted as an SM Scholar. From then on, a huge weight was lifted off my parents' shoulders. I could pursue my chosen degree in my chosen university. The SM Scholarship helped me reach my dream of becoming a CPA, and this opened doors for me, enabling me to land a job that empowered me to help my family. My experience in retail has given me wide knowledge in different areas. With this, I always make sure that my family makes informed decisions in all aspects of life. One thing that has become a tradition among SM Cebu scholars during my time was to have an outreach program. In our own way, we were able to pay forward the help that we received from SM. It was a fulfilling experience that we could share our blessings in our own little way. Having a degree enabled me and my family to experience more in life. It paved the way for me to secure a stable job, which allowed me to travel, treat my family to a nice meal, take them shopping on special occasions, and most importantly, support my parents and their medical expenses. Aside from providing me with a scholarship grant, working in SM has provided a sense of security for me and my family.” ~Jonnah Jane Sacamay, SM Scholar Alumna

Holding on to the power of education

And so, to help her family, she studied hard in grade school as soon as she learned about others who had the opportunity to pursue college through the SM College Scholarship Program. With her whole heart dedicated to learning and her eyes set on the SM scholarship, she finished high school as the class valedictorian. Once the forms were available, she immediately processed her application at the SM Store in Cebu.

Through the scholarship offered by the SM group through SM Foundation, she was able to focus on the development of her skills and knowledge not only in accountancy but especially in life. She became a Magna Cum Laude graduate of BS Accountancy at the University of San Carlos.

Jonnah currently serves as a Senior Accounting Manager at the SM Store, Cebu. Aside from financial security, she currently takes care of her parents’ medical expenses and lets them enjoy vibrant life experiences after retiring as flower farmers.

Opening doors to more

SM Foundation made it its goal to help create an environment where low-income families can thrive and achieve stability, just like how the SM College Scholarship Program paved ways for Jonnah and her family.

For the school year 2023-2024, the application period is open from February 1-March 31, 2023. The selected scholars may specialize in accounting, information technology, engineering, and education with full tuition and monthly allowance, including enrichment programs and activities. 

For more information about the SM College Scholarship program, visit https://www.sm-foundation.org/what_we_do/college-scholarship-program. 

Fly to and from Manila for As Low as PHP 88 with Cebu Pacific's Special Seat Sale

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, continues its 27^th anniversary celebration in March as it launches a special seat sale for travelers to and from Manila.

 

From 10 AM on March 24 until March 30, CEB travelers to and from Manila can book their flights to select domestic and international destinations for as low as PHP 88 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. The travel period is from June 1 to September 30, 2023.

 

CEB is running a “March Pinabongga” month-long series of promos and seat sales as gratitude to its loyal customers over the past 27 years. Aside from seat sales, CEB is also offering up to 27% off on select add-ons to make flying more convenient for its passengers.

 

With CEB’s low fares now made more affordable by seat sales, every Juan will have more chances to go enjoy the freshly picked mangoes from Cebu, go island-hopping in Puerto Princesa, and satisfy your cravings with the delicious dishes of Iloilo, Bacolod, Davao, and General Santos.

 

Take photos with the most scenic locations in Japan, Indonesia, Bangkok, and Hanoi, and shop till you drop in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taipei with direct flights via Cebu Pacific.

 

Passengers with existing Travel Funds may use these to pay for flights and other add-ons. Apart from the Travel Fund, other payment options such as payment centers, credit or debit cards, and e-wallets may also be used.

 

CEB currently flies to 34 domestic and 25 international destinations, spanning across Asia, Australia and the Middle East.

Book your flights now via bit.ly/CebuPacificSale.

No Need to “Play Safe”: How to Switch Up Your Sex Life the Safe Way

When done right and with proper caution, very few things feel better than sex with your partner. But with all the misconceptions and inaccuracies surrounding the topic, many couples tend to be tentative with their approach, likely compromising the quality of their sex life.

For one, a lot of people are too afraid or conscious to do more adventurous things with their partner simply because they don’t know what counts as “too much” or “safe enough”.

Are dotted or glow-in-the-dark condoms safe to use? When is it okay to add sex toys and devices into the mix? Will your partner welcome the idea of using a lubricant? These are examples of often-unanswered questions that can lead to more inhibitions, which in turn cause you to play it safe for the sake of, well, being safe.

When it comes to safe sex, there’s no such thing as too safe. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make room for new ideas and experiences that can help invigorate your sex life. Here are some things you can do to switch it up in bed without crossing any lines:

Begin your list of “yeses”, “noes”, and “maybes”.

The first step to spicing things up is to identify the factors that will help pique your partner’s interest. Separately, write down two things: What you want to change and retain about your sex life, and what you’re willing and unwilling to do in bed. Use your respective lists as an opportunity to meet in the middle and decide on items that match up.

Create a joint fantasy with your partner.

Build anticipation by creating a sexual fantasy that you and your partner can get on board with. Incorporate details that will serve your needs and wants, but be receptive to their ideas as well. It doesn’t have to be a full-blown scenario; a joint fantasy can start with something as simple as agreeing on where to do it or adding something minute to an otherwise established routine.

Add or remove sensory experiences.

Sometimes, merely pleasuring the senses makes all the difference in bed. Other than giving your partner what they want to see and hear, give their sense of touch (fabrics like silk and leather), smell (aromatic scents from candles and oils), and taste (fruit-flavored condoms) a treat as well.

Explore products that can make sex more exciting.

Safe sex doesn’t mean you’re limited to what you can do during sex. In fact, there are now contraceptives that can even help heighten the pleasure a couple feels during lovemaking. PREMIERE Condoms, for one, offer different variants that can certainly elevate the experience. Here are some examples:

Ultra Thin

An ultra thin condom for a more sensitive feel.

Dotted

Condoms with raised pleasure dots that provide an intense experience.

Air

Soft, smooth, and super thin condoms that imitate a bare-skin contact.

Nice & Tight

Lubricated with SENSITIGHTR that helps create a tightening effect on women.

Cruise Control

Condoms with a special additive to help prolong performance.

Glow

Glow-in-the-dark condoms to light up your night.

Earthquake

Features a vibrating O-ring for an “earth-shattering” experience.

Cool Watermelon

Condoms that give a fresh watermelon taste

Another possible recommendation is a product like EZ Lubricating Jelly, a water-based, condom-friendly lubricant that provides the feeling of natural lubrication. You can also look up toys, devices, and other intimacy products that will fit in nicely to your joint fantasies.

Whatever you decide to do as a couple, always prioritize safety and pleasure. All it takes is one conversation on how you want things to go from here. Maybe you can even show your partner this article!

Here are some of the biggest Asian acts performing at the City of Firsts

Here are some of the biggest Asian acts performing at the City of Firsts

Memorize those fanchants, gather your merch, and take out your lightsticks because some of the biggest pop acts in Asia are taking over the City of Firsts!

Starting this weekend, some of the most in demand and popular artists are coming to Manila to meet their fans and treat them to exciting performances.

First are Moonbin and Sanha who will be having their first fanmeeting and concert at the New Frontier Theater this Saturday, March 25. Moonbin and Sanha is the first official sub-unit of ASTRO, and they have chosen Manila as the first stop of the MOONBIN&SANHA (ASTRO) Fan Con: [Diffusion]. Get ready for performances and special stages that were especially prepared to thrill Pinoy Arohas. To get your tickets, for the MOONBIN&SANHA (ASTRO) Fan Con: [Diffusion], please visit this link.

Next, we have WayV who will be coming to Manila for their Phantom Fan Meeting tour this Sunday, March 26 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. WayV, the Chinese sub-unit of the hugely popular NCT, will be performing here in the country with five members, Kun, Ten, Xiaojun, Hendery, and YangYang and will be performing many fan favorites such as Take Off, Love Talk, and their latest single from their fourth mini-album, Phantom. Aside from non-stop performances, the members have many surprises in store. So, WeiZenNies, make sure to be there for WayV’s first fanmeet in the country. To secure your tickets, click this link.

The fun doesn’t stop there because you’ll get to see back-to-back-to-back K-pop performances from a Hallyu legend and two of the biggest fourth gen acts today! On April, 11 see The Boyz, Aespa, and Taeyeon dominate the stage of the Big Dome for K-Verse at the Big Dome. Prepare for a night of powerhouse vocals and energetic performances at K-Verse. Visit this link for tickets and more information.

Another Korean celebrity is also coming to the New Frontier Theater to meet his fans! Kim Mingue, who rose to stardom after his career-defining role on The Heavenly Idol, is meeting his Pinoy fans at the Heavenly Moment: Kim Mingue 1st Fanmeet in Manila on April 14. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this event! Buy your ticket here.

Meanwhile, EXO-Ls can celebrate because EXO-SC, the sub-unit composed of Sehun and Chanyeol, is coming to Manila for the Back to Back Fancon Tour. It will happen on May 20 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and the boys have prepared many performances and surprises for Pinoy Exo-Ls. More information will be provided soon, so stay tuned!

Lastly, the it girls of K-Pop are also headed for the Big Dome! Get ready for The Prom Queens: IVE The First Fan Concert on June 17 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Sing your heart out to IVE’s monster hits like Eleven, Love Dive, and After Like at their first concert here in the Philippines. Stay tuned for more details and ticketing info for this event.

Here are some of the biggest Asian acts performing at the City of Firsts

For more information about these events, visit the Ticketnet website. To learn more about the Smart Araneta Coliseum, please visit www.smartaranetacoliseum.com. And to discover what the New Frontier Theater has to offer log on to www.newfrontiertheater.com.

Experience OPPO’s Future-Forward Innovations at Inspiration: Ahead this March 18

Leading global smart device brand OPPO puts innovation, openness, elegance, and technology at the forefront in the Inspiration: Ahead event on March 18, 2023 at the BGC Amphitheater in Taguig City. Everyone is invited to see the latest offerings from OPPO, get up close and personal with the brand’s ambassadors and content creators, and participate in interactive booths. Get the chance to also meet OPPO celebrity brand ambassadors Bea Alonzo and Nadine Lustre! 

“OPPO looks forward to bringing to life our brand mantra of ‘Inspiration Ahead,’ through this one-of-a-kind experience for Filipinos. We aim to spotlight OPPO’s innovation in products and services and how they add more value to the lives of our consumers and community.” ~Joanarc Sales, PR and CRM Head of OPPO Philippines

Discover OPPO’s Latest Innovations Firsthand

OPPO Inspiration: Ahead will highlight the brand’s latest smartphones for people to appreciate their cutting-edge features. The soon-to-launch OPPO Find N2 Flip, which has an industry leading hinge that offers users a more refined foldable screen, long-lasting battery, and a generous cover screen display. Those visiting the Inspiration: Ahead event can be one of the first in the country to try out the much-anticipated OPPO Find N2 Flip’s Hasselbad camera capabilities alongside the recently launched OPPO Reno8 T 5G and its 108MP Portrait Camera and Microlens Technology in various booths and activities.

Be Inspired by OPPO’s Brand Ambassadors Bea Alonzo, Nadine Lustre, and more

The program will also feature sessions on useful photography and fashion tips and tricks from some of the best in the industry. Learn how to level up photography skills from celebrity photographer Magic Liwanag and content creator David Guison while fashion experts Daryl Chang and Pam Quinones will show guests how to maximize their OPPO smartphones to unleash their creativity and discover the best style that suits them. Enjoy music from today’s up

 

Be one of the first few to be part of an exclusive meet-and-greet with two of OPPO’s superstar brand ambassadors, actresses Bea Alonzo and Nadine Lustre! 

Register in the venue as early as 4:00 p.m. and be one of the first to complete all tasks in the interactive booths. The first 25 Bea Alonzo fans and first 25 Nadine Lustre fans who present their fully stamped wristbands at the redemption area will qualify for the meet-and-greet.

To know more about #OPPOInspirationAhead, visit the OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph/ or its official Facebook page at OPPO Philippines.

About OPPO

OPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone - “Smiley Face” - in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO provides its users with the ColorOS operating system and internet services like OPPO Cloud and OPPO+. OPPO operates in more than 40 countries and regions, with 6 Research Institutes and 5 R&D Centers worldwide, as well as an International Design Center in London. More than 40,000 of OPPO's employees are dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.

A taste of Argentina and Japan in one hot bowl

Ramen Nagi has something new for you! 

Any bowl of hot, authentic ramen from Ramen Nagi is always a treat, but the ramen chain just keeps on giving us new flavors to rave about. 

Ramen Nagi has given us innovative ramen bowls such as the Tom Yum King, the Crab King, and who could forget the Unbelievable Niboshi King? Ramen Nagi has been creating new hot bowls of ramen and partnering it with flavors we’ve only dreamed about. 

This time around, Ramen Nagi has partnered with Bolzico Beef to create another king-worthy bowl of ramen - the Bolzico Sukiyaki King. 

A medley of both Japanese and Argentinian flavors, the Bolzico Beef Sukiyaki is an ode to a classic Japanese dish - the sukiyaki. In Japan, sukiyaki is a type of  nabemono or hot pot dish and best served piping hot with a side of white rice. Definitely a staple of Japanese cuisine! 

The Bolzico Sukiyaki King is a guaranteed treat—a hot steaming bowl of freshly-made noodles in their signature tonkotsu broth mixed with a special sukiyaki sauce. This is topped with thinly-sliced tender strips of Bolzico beef, soft cubes of melt-in-your-mouth tofu, leeks, an egg yolk for some richness, and fire sauce for a touch of heat. Definitely a hot bowl of ramen fit for a king!

It is truly a hearty meal that offers a medley of flavors and beef that simply melts in your mouth.  This special treat will only be available for a limited time! 

Head to your nearest Ramen Nagi branch to taste their new and innovative Bolzico Sukiyaki King from March 1 - 31, 2023. 

The Bolzico Sukiyaki King is available for dine-in and delivery through your app of choice - Grab, FoodPanda, Pickaroo, and ToktokFood. 

For more details, check out Ramen Nagi PH on Facebook or Instagram.

Lime El Nido Resort - The Next Food Destination

Everyone is getting ready for their next vacation spot, where sand and swimming are top priorities, as summer approaches. The Philippines has a number of world-class beaches with stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters.

Picturesque mountains, limestone cliffs and white sand as well as the dreamy waters teeming with aquamarine life are surely guaranteed to amaze anyone who steps into Palawan, also known as the Last Frontier of the Philippines. Lime El Nido Resort is the perfect place where one can enjoy nature’s wonders together with the comforts of a luxurious resort that offers a relaxing stay, world-class amenities and excellent service.

Synonymous to an island retreat is good food. Lime El Nido Resort aims for locals and guests alike to have a total feast of the senses with the Celebrity Chef Series which will kick off this March featuring guest Chef Sau del Rosario of Sawsaw and Cafe Fleur. Chef Sau has refined his culinary craft not only in the Philippines but also in other parts of the world. Throughout his more than 20-year experience, he has mastered the art of Filipino cuisine, putting his own distinct touches in the process.

“I am pleased to collaborate with Lime Hotel and Resorts for the Celebrity Chef Series. ‘Arkipelago: Featuring Food From Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao’, brings together the unique mix and tastes of the three major islands of the Philippines. I hope anyone who goes to El Nido will be pleased with the line-up I prepared as they rediscover the culinary delights that are part of our culture.” ~Chef Sau

His menu offerings will be available from March 15 to June 30, 2023. The wonderful spread includes some of these mouthwatering delights: Kinilaw na Maya-maya, Pinoy Style Caesar Salad, Chorizo & Citrus Chicken Jus, Sous-vide Lengua Pastel, Lamb Shank Caldereta, Sisig, Crispy Pork Belly with Macadamia Kare-kare Sauce and Deconstructed Halo-halo.

One of the main activities at El Nido is island hopping. Visitors can enjoy the novelty of having their lunch arranged and brought at any of their stopovers. While this has been a norm for quite some time now, it still has a long way to go in terms of quality, serving and presentation. The Celebrity Chef Series aims to level up this service by going the extra mile. On top of a well-curated menu, food will be served hot and fresh, with guests being comfortable with a cozy table set-up, completing the perfect island experience.

“Lime Hotel and Resorts is known for providing fun-loving individuals an unforgettable visit across our three destinations, namely: Lime Resort Manila, Lime Resort El Nido and Lime Hotel Boracay. We want to elevate the El Nido experience with a unique gustatory adventure showcasing the wonderful flavors of our country. Through the Celebrity Chef Series, we envision Lime El Nido as the perfect food destination in the island. We are glad to work with Chef Sau in this endeavor and look forward to the next collaborations with other chefs in the coming months.” ~Emil Po, CEO

Lime El Nido Resort is about 15-20 minutes away from the airport and Lio Beach. For more information and reservations, visit www.lime.ph.