Meet New Ride Hailing App: PeekUp

Filipinos are always looking for alternatives and with the recent high prices and hard times getting a car, this news just came at the right time. A new player in the ride hailing industry just opened shop, and they are called PeekUp. They're app is now available on the App Store and Google Play, and I've downloaded it too to give it a try.

The platform is easy to use, and utilizes Google Maps as the base. So most often than not, you will be able to find the place you are going to if it is on that too. Payments currently accept CASH and CARDS (more soon). And upon checking the vehicle types, they have Compact (4 seater) and Plus (6 seater) vehicles.

Their rates also seem a bit lower than the leading app, so you really get to have a choice now and save a few bucks using it. As for driver availability, they are still ramping up and encouraging referrals with drivers and passengers. I bet this would be good in the next few months as more drivers get to join them (6000 according to their CEO). They also have a promo of getting credits for the first ones to join them (limited numbers according to posters) and get 2000 points in the process.

In the launch event they did in SM Megamall Fashion Hall dubbed "PeekUp City", celebrities Ara Mina, Paulo Avelino and Cristine Reyes got to work up a crowd. They also encouraged the public to download the app and try them out today. 

Mr. Dave Almarinez the CEO of PeekUp Philippines says "We need to have a ride hailing up that will benefit the Filipinos, that was one year ago. PeekUp means the best experience, smooth rides. Our cars are 4 seaters and 6 seaters. It is important to always have it affordable and safe. We want students and passengers to try it out because this is 100 percent Filipino owned ride hailing app, with potential to grow in the region, and in other countries. Our dream is to have this design and app built by Filipinos to become present in other places soon."

PeekUp is on the way! Are you excited for comfort and convenience? Go download PeekUp now! You may use my referral code JOHN1254 if you plan to install it today!

PS

Ara Mina will be having a concert called Ara Mina All of Me which is her 30th Anniversary concert on July 11th at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City.

Office of PNP Chief Marbil Issues Statement on False Information in Social Media

Recent pronouncements, malicious attacks on social media has gotten the office of the PNP Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil worried where they insinuate removal of rice allowances for PNP personnel and having them donated to persons deprived of liberty. These are being strongly denied, unfounded and baseless as there have been no directives from their office, nor do they have plans to do so. These moves have been orchestrated to discredit the PNP Chief who has been working hard to restore reputation through smart methods. They say these are outright lies, fabricated, made to malign his policies.

PNP Chief Marbil is not using the word WAR in addressing operations in substance abuse, as he doesn't want to be associated with human rights abuse in the past. His office has noted essential reforms as of recent:

Mass formation and Flag Raising (15-20 minutes)

Personnel should be present and operational at 8am sharp 

Prohibit the use of cellphones while on patrol

Simplification of personnel compliance 

New UPER Criteria

Finish 70 percent of warrants and wanted individuals

No favoritism in promotions and assignments

Non exclusivity of promotions

Restriction of Police Community Relations

Non re-assignment of PNP personnel facing cases on their previous units

Meetings to be conducted online to maximize time for unit commanders

No changes for one month

Removal of 24 hour duty for personnel

They also deny the inclusions of inverted crawls in the PNP Physical Fitness Test. They also deny false information about donation of allowances as CIP, CDP, and rice subsidies are automatically added on regular salaries.

Respondents are forewarned that such accusations and lies will not be tolerated, and a thorough investigation is being done. People found at fault will be sanctioned.

He also urges the public to be vigilant and only believe verified information. Trust that the PNP under Chief Marbil and his office will serve and protect you, the Filipino people, with professionalism and integrity.

PEPE HERRERA WIll Make You Laugh and Scared in BANTAY BAHAY

This morning was nice as we were able to talk to Pepe Herrera, famed actor and theater persona, starring in his film called BANTAY BAHAY under Regal Films. This is directed by Jose Javier Reyes who also joined via zoom during the mediacon.

Direk Joey said "I already had so much admiration for Pepe since I do see him in his previous projects and in theatre. I was working on this material for a while now and I did intentionally make this character for him.. he was always in our mind even prior to shooting this."

Pepe said "Direk Joey made me realize how it was possible to work within a specific time, his system was the best I've ever experienced among those that I've made in the past. We start at 10 and stop at 10pm, sometimes even earlier, and use the time to bond with the rest of the crew. I was prepared to be scolded initially, but turns out he only shouted once and it was funny. It was the best experience with him, and if there's a chance I'd love to work with him again."

The film was shot in a mansion in Sariaya, Quezon. They saw how naturally scary it was especially the basement. The house according to owners was a pre-war property and they put women and children in the basement in case Japanese would come. They didn't get to shoot in the basement because it was also claustrophobic. To give you an idea, they have posted a tour of it on the Regal Entertainment YT channel too.

Here's our interview with PEPE HERRERA during the mediacon

If you want to watch the film, it will be out in theaters nationwide this May 1st. Pepe is a very talented actor, and I hope in some way, you get to know him a little better in the video as he talked more about his personal life.

#SANAOIL Event Mounted: Artistic Fight for Sovereignty

We've been on our toes (even more recently) as Filipinos when it comes to the obvious bullying and tyrannical try of other countries to own what properly belongs to us at the West Philippine sea. No surprise, a non-profit org called Pinoy Aksyon (Pilipino Aksyon for Governance and the Environment) together with KM64 (a writers collective) just recently came out with #SanaOil  (a performance event) to better inform us about what's happening out there through songs, dance, spoken poetry showcasing their different talents while giving focus to the cause. 

One of the activities include Spoken Word Slam Competition which talks about how we have sole proprietorship of not just the body of water, but the riches of the sea and everything underneath it #TubigatLangis. It was a time to hone speech for showcasing patriotism and a sensible call for action. KM64 artists also did "sabayang bigkas" with groups like Kalipaya Theater Group, YT famous Jong Madaliday, Fifty Per Hour, the Tanghalang Bagong Sibol (theater and dance company), Chiang Lion and Dragon Dancers, Hype, Justine Taller and the one and only Dalaygon Queen Lady Morgana of RPDRPH.

PinoyAksyon wants #SanaOil to become just the start in order to make Filipinos become part of more efforts through innate freedom of expression, environmental care, and the importance of the country's sovereignty. 

We need to have active participation now because we can't just stand around and do nothing while they continue to bully us. 

MANG INASAL Gets Recognized as STRONGEST BRAND

Looks like another award has been bestowed by well loved grilled chicken brand MANG INASAL as they get recognized as STRONGEST BRAND by a London based brand valuation consultancy firm called BRAND FINANCE.

Mang Inasal has surely expanded with new stores across the country, and has a very resounding brand, making it a familiar place not just for Filipinos but Asians. Inquirer.net points out a 201 percent brand value increase which amounts to 374 Million dollars. This financial value is huge, and being recognized by the world's brand valuation firm is but an honor for them.

Go celebrate by getting some delivered via manginasaldelivery.com.ph or other food platforms. Follow their social channels to know more deals about them lovely, juicy grilled chicken, because yes, they win!

Summer Shots Better with realme C67

Looks like the folks from realme is going to make your chance to own a phone even hotter as they get the realme C67's price drop, a huge summer offer until April 30.

They know you're raring to go to different islands, beaches in the Philippines and taking photos would certainly be something that you would likely do to keep memories. This realme C67 won't be in stores forever, and it has a 108MP camera, Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 processor, 8GB storage, Dynamic RAM Expansion, so you have a place to put those photos and videos you've been shooting for content creation.

Go see stores where it is available, else, just get them from online shopping platforms where official realme stores are. These handsets are less than 10K, which is a huge deal than in regular priced ones with the same model.

Cebu Lawyer and Viral It's Showtime Searchee OLIVER MOELLER Gets Signed with Cornerstone Entertainment

You've seen him in It's Showtime as a searchee Lawyer from Cebu, but we all know he's got the looks and physique to make it to showbusiness and yes, he's actually doing it as he just signed with Cornerstone Entertainment today. His name is Oliver Moeller, and he's just starting.

He is a real deal lawyer, one who graduated from University of San Carlos in Cebu. He took the bar exams in 2016 and passed, so yes, you can call him Atty. Oliver for all the right reasons. 

He didn't stop there though, because he also took his masters degree in Public International Law from University of Queensland Australia back in 2019. He also worked in Brisbane at Little Lawyers who's specialty lies in compensation cases before he went back to the Philippines. His specialty is corporate law.

He's also into sports, fitness, strength training and coaching. His Filipina Mom Joy Moll, German Dad Heino Moller and his siblings were all at Kao Manila club that afternoon to support him. He was born in Deutschland but grew up in Lapu-Lapu city in Cebu. He has a lot of potential so we wondered what he wants to do in show business.

He was welcomed by Cornerstone Vice President Jeff Vadillo and their President Erickson Raymundo. As for now, Oliver will be flying back and forth from Cebu if ever he has projects in Manila. He also is open to do workshops and training for acting projects, and maybe delegated hosting stints because he's quite eloquent in English. 

Here's the interview on video, please enjoy!

Thank you to Cornerstone Entertainment for letting us interview Oliver, he's got a lot of things on his plate, but we see him taking his sweet time to put all his health, fitness and legal assistance causes in front of his new found fame.. to hopefully put it to good use with the folks from Cornerstone. Thank you also for partnering up with Philippine Entertainment Bloggers Association (PEBA), I'm so glad to be part of this organization ☺️. 

Special mention to KAO Manila (2F Newport) for being the perfect spot to do this interview. Can't wait to go back there for food and clubbing!

Congratulations Oliver! Looking forward to see you in shows soon!

No More POWER Worries with the Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G

It's been a while since I've held a bowling ball, but I think I still got the hang of it. This goes the same with the Infinix Note 40 Pro+ 5G, a brand that's pretty well known for their GT gaming line (and official MLBB handset). Needless to say, these folks take the phone game seriously because they address things you need and still be innovative. 

The Infinix Note 40 Pro+ 5G took only a few minutes to charge while we were playing. With its 100W Fast Charging (wired) and 20W Wireless Charging, you can use the phone for your professional or creative tasks even if you're in a jiffy. Best of all, it's not clunky and didn't have to sacrifice its "looks" because it's so sleek, professional looking and very pretty.

How fast you say? The Infinix Note 40 Pro+ 5G gets to 50 percent of power in just 8 minutes courtesy of its Hyper Mode. The device also has a low temp mode to make sure it stays cool even when it's too hot outside. If you prefer a balance between the two, Smart Mode is the answer so you don't have to sacrifice form or function.

This MagCharge accessory comes with the phone, so you can do Wireless Charging!

They also had us get acquainted with their new brand ambassador, someone feisty, tough, gorgeous and sexy from any angle. She is actress and YouTube star Ivana Alawi... who just like their phones, looks good and full of energy. 

These phones (4G) and the Infinix Note 40 Pro+ 5G will be launched today in online shopping platforms and their authorized kiosks (in malls and stores nationwide). If you want to know more about the phones, follow their official page and join their community on Facebook. Albeit my first time working with an Infinix phone, I really like this Infinix Note 40 series. It's classy, and won't make you worry about losing power when you are in the creative mood.

BUM Black Army: Signing Kim Perez and Sparking Change

Change is indeed inevitable, and we're seeing it happen with clothing brand BUM Black Army. 

Following their street laden aesthetic, they've managed to grow with the generation that wore it all. Today, they've gone the route of doing clean lines, more urban, and army inspired designs. It's a pretty significant deviation from the looks they served in previous years... and we loved what we saw! 

A pop up runway show happened during their recent event at Sine Pop, St. Mary Street in Quezon City. This is also the occasion where they bared news of their newest brand endorser KIM PEREZ. He's a good looking host, model and actor. A Sparkle artist known for his roles in MPK, Regal Studios, hit series Hearts on Ice and Black Rider.

 

BUM BLACK ARMY COORDS

Their new collection just felt right. They call it BUM Black Army Coords. From the forest to the desert, or simply the outdoors... you're bound to enjoy a more comfortable line of clothes with the apt colors for the season. The city streets will be so cool with Earth tones, different greens and even charcoal on what you're wearing. Those pullovers, jackets with hoodies, shorts with pockets, won't go unnoticed especially if you try to mix and match them with another. The loose fit, would make you stay quite comfortable no matter where you are. You can stay versatile with each piece, no need for nerfing what you already posess, the confidence and look when you have BUM Black Army on your body. They even have accessories to go with it.

It's time you get tough, clean and be obesessed with #BUMBlackArmyCoords because at the end of the day, you deserve it!

Here's the show on video, enjoy!

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A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

 

Meet KIM PEREZ, the newest BUM Black Army Endorser

Kim was quite nice to talk to. He knew about BUM prior to becoming an endorser of the clothing brand and told us about how he's been using it in shoots, at home or even on occasions. He also likes the prints, the colors, and how it fits with his existing wardrobe. We asked him about what he also feels now that he's part of the illustrious celebrities who have endorsed BUM Black Army.

The trust given to him is humongous, and by the looks of it... it fits him and his personality. I like the various BUM Black Army camouflage prints they showcased during the show, and if it's out in stores, I'm going to be part of the reason why you'll run out of it. Watch out for the materials they're coming out with especially in stores, and mall tours they're planning to do in Visayas and Mindanao.

This is just the start, and if this is the change we're seeing... I'm glad it happened!

If you want to know more about the brand, go follow them on their official social channels. They will also be coming out with the collection in shopping platforms, and TikTok so you just wait!

DARK ROAST COFFEE HOUSE Opens Inaugural Branch in Maginhawa QC

There's always a reason to go to a coffee shop in Quezon City, and there's a new one that opened in Maginhawa Street. It's called DARK ROAST COFFEE HOUSE and we got first dibs on what they're offering.

This coffee shop is a passion project amongst friends. All of them were into into diving initially, but their bond was forged by their love for the dark roasted brew. Knowing their tastes, they want it different but couldn't get what they want from big coffee shops they frequent to. They want strong bold flavors, but less acidic. Hence, the dark roasted coffee beans. This is where they got their name from.

We got there during their soft opening (still is so you can already go there). The place is pretty homey. It's got bits of wood and metal, signifying a more industrial interior. They also have a loft where they have a couch, and two tables which I love. It's a perfect spot for people watching and a little privacy (for you).

Jianne, one of the owners shares "This is the first branch, but by the end of this year we want to open up a second one. Our near future plans include partnering up with resorts, or function as a commissary. We studied foot traffic in different places and Maginhawa was just something we loved. We're just lucky coffee shops here have lower rent, reasonable prices (which makes their products affordable) and we felt the universe was just telling us to do it here."

Meet Eli, Krista, Jianne and John, owners of DARK ROAST COFFEE HOUSE

Jianne adds "Dark Roast Coffee House is built on passion and love. We want to serve coffee without compromising quality. We are on soft opening today but will have our grand opening on the 13th. We hope you could visit us and have Dark Roast Coffee."

Spanish Latte and Strawberry Latte

They have a few items on their menu, but their top recommendations include Salted Caramel and Spanish Latte. They also have Creme Brulee which the owners stand by. For non coffee drinks, they have Matcha Latte and Strawberry Latte. 

They have pastries, breads, cakes, crinkles, cupcakes and others. They also have sandwiches, customized cakes (but ask). 

Krista who's in charge of the baked goodies told us "Red Velvet Cupcakes were already served in coffee shops, a lot of people love it. We want to do a variety, so we simply brought it back and made it part of the food served at Dark Roast. We also have breads, Beef and Cheese Turnover, Korean Cream Cheese Buns, Almond Croissant (topped), but made sure we toned down on sugar, and have a balance of savory and sweet products. We converted part of our house into a commissary, so we hope you get to try them all when you visit Dark Roast Coffee House in Maginhawa."

Here's a short tour! 

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A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

Dark roasted coffee gives a deep and more robust flavor profile. It's got a bold, smoky notes. They also source their coffee locally from Baguio which was quite nice to know. If you're looking for a coffee fix while you're in this side of Quezon City, just head on the Ground Floor of TKC Building at 107 Maginhawa Street at Teachers Village in Quezon City (or simply search Dark Roast Coffee House on Google Maps).

It's this building here! Just walk inside a bit and you'll see it! (see red arrow)

Make sure you try the Peach Fizz on a hot day and my personal favorite, the Beef Turnover. Just have it toasted and it's a done deal! 

See you there!

GARY VALENCIANO Willl Be Doing It "One Last Time"

I couldn't believe I'm seeing this, because as far as I'm concerned, he's still the best in his craft, the one and only Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano.

This weekend, he will be doing it for ONE LAST TIME. This is officially his 40th Anniversary in showbusiness, happening April 26 and 27 at the MOA Arena at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds in Pasay City.

This will be epic, as he has built a huge lineup of stars with the help of Star Magic. In the MOA Arena, he's going to perform with Bullet Dumas, his son Gab Valenciano, and daughter Kiana. LDSC's Gio and Liana Martinez (his nephew and niece) will be flying to the Philippines to make sure they get to dance with him tin both dates. PPOP guys BGYO, Ebe Dancel, Gloc-9, the original Manoeuvres and new gen, The A Team, over 40 more dancers and 30 theater actors will also be there to make sure, it's going to be a GRAND one!

Because this is going to be his last, friend and Concert King Martin Nievera will be re-living their rivalry from the 80's, perhaps a proper way to end things. Divine Diva Zsa Zsa Padilla will be there on the second day, so there's going to be a lot to look forward to on both dates.

This concert is made even more special as proceeds will be given to Shining Light Foundation, a Christian organization which is dedicated to communities (indigents) and individuals with their needs (spiritual or financial).

 

Go get tickets as they're going, going, gone soon! For more information, check Gary Valenciano's social channels as they will be posting updates as they happen!

JOROSS GAMBOA and SAM COLOSO Joins BARANGAY SINGKO PANALO

Just left TV5 Novaliches studios this afternoon after meeting with Direk Percy Intalan and the cast of Comedy/Gag-Gameshow "Barangay Singko Panalo" which is currently in their first month on the Kapatid Network. Currently, it is being hosted by Jerald Napoles and Kayla Rivera (who plays Kags Je and SK K), and since it's a Barangay setup, Direk Percy told us how this all will evolve with new and fun characters. They announced this afternoon the addition of Joross Gamboa and Sam Coloso.

Joross has already been in several shows and hit movies, his comedic timing would certainly fit in what they wanted to do with this show. He plays Kagawad Jo, a guy who just came back from a seminar from Baguio. Kag Je and J will surely bring more funny antics in between games and skits in the show. Sam Coloso on the other hand is like an Energizer bunny, she's super hyper and fun which would be so good for the contestants of the show. She's going to make sure that every single person on set will get the same endorphins she produces to get encouraged in the challenges they whip out everyday on the show. 

Jerald says "We have new things to share with you today. This is also a sitcom so you get to know the cast as it goes. A bigger cast means bigger collaborations, there will be more ideas. Actually, we don't really talk to each other (he kids), we easily pickup things, it's like we're not working on set. Expect our banter with contestants to become even more interesting. This is a fun experience, we don't try to make things technical, and I hope people feel that in the show. Filipinos are looking for that format."

Kayla adds "I'm excited to share with you that we are growing even more in the show. There will be a few people joining us in the Barangay and I hope you are as excited as I am in welcoming them in Barangay Singko Panalo. In a Barangay there are so many members and so far, in our taped episodes the energy is over the top and I'm so happy our family is getting bigger."

Here's the video we shot during the press conference!

Joross was quite happy and said "There's a transition happening in my life, starting in this show, I'll be a politician. I'll give you envelopes later but it doesn't have anything on it, so just put something there.. God Bless! (He kids). You will not see a game repeated, you will also hear stories from contestants, and even if it's like playing games in streets, it's going to be fun!"

To add to the fun, they also introduced Bob Jibailey who plays the Vulcanizing Shop owner who plays Boogie. He's a pretty cool guy. There's also a former writer who initially was just working behind the camera but they encouraged him to join the cast. He now plays the role of Kap AL, his last name is Moranas, so go figure! He was so thankful for the production as he becomes a part of the show.

It's quite fun to know that they will be doong different games everyday (runs from Monday to Friday). Contestants are auditioned, from the public, and they stand to win over 100 thousand pesos in the Jackpot round. The things they do are quite easy, physical, and can be done in Filipino parties of every kind. This is directed by Rich Illustre and they make sure every episode is something you should look out for. This will be shown every weekday at 5:30pn before Frontline Pilipinas. This is also part of TodoMax Primetime Singko. Make sure you follow their social channels for more updates, they want to make sure the TV audience would go back watching TV again which I think is noble. 

Wouldn't you want to join the fun at Barangay Singko Panalo?!