YLLANA RACING and OKADA Announces MOTORSPORT CARNIVALE 2025

Good looking actor, councilor and pro racer Jomari Yllana welcomed us at the Okada Glass Ballroom this morning for the Motorsport Carnivale 2025 hosted by Yllana Racing and Okada Manila.

"I started underground racing during my teens, but it was quick. I was picked up by Ochoa, managed my career and placed me in Toyota in 1996. I got pro, and my advocacy for safe racing. It's passion for competition, combination of thrill and admiration for machinery. The more you practice, the more better you get from it. I'm half a century old, paving the way to open races which has been banned in the 80's, now we are organizing legal ones to guide more every step of the way. Hopefully to promote and get future champs, and to also host international races soon. We are setting up the platform for the next generation. The circuits are there, the approach we are doing right now is to bring back races in Manila."

He adds "We want to unite, you'll be surprised because they are just waiting for a venue. May 4th will be big, the Filipino motor culture is alive and this will be big!"

They have prepared several motorsports events this year to put Philippines in the world map and found home in the biggest integrated resort Okada Manila. The first event will be in May 4th, then one in the last week of June (TBA on Motorsport Carnivale 2025 social channels). As proud producers who are also in the industry, they want folks to enjoy races first as they are held in Manila. The last one was the Motorsport Carnivale 2023 which they also organized.

Rikki Dy-Liacco the Head of Motorsports at the Automobile Association Philippines says "We are equally excited, we had Motorsport Carnivale in 2023, and after a hiatus, we will have prepared over 2 years, to hopefully accommodate everyone, to have a long term relationship with Okada and do motorsports in this side of the metro. We believe the time is right, it's time to give back to motor sports." 

He adds "As a part of AAP, my dream of putting motorsports back in its hey days, where local and foreign competitors would come and enjoy venues in Manila. This is a big opportunity to achieve that goal, Joms and I want to bring in a race event of international standards, if not this year, maybe next year. We are crossing our fingers to do it now, but if not, we can do it in 2026. This is why we are also focusing on amateurs and children."

Okada's VP for Hotels Robert Scott reiterates "We are proud to partner with Yllana Racing, with passion, local talent, we are building a great tourism event this coming Sunday. Here's to growing it, we are excited for this event!" 

Here's our very candid interview with Jomari Yllana before the launch!

JOMS CUP The 1/8 Mile Challenge 2025 will also happen on May 31st, a drag racing event for Super Cars, Muscle Cars and Vintage Car Categories. They will also have one race specifically for Electric Vehicles, with celebrity drivers to do it. This will all amount to 2400 vehicles, thousands of car fans, same spirit and hopefully a comeback for a Philippine Grand Prix soon. The big awards night will be in November, and this will be a regular thing as they are already preparing for next year!

They also will be spearheading events for the Rally of Paranaque and Rally of Lubang will happen in June (and will have several city roads closed) and the plan is to have the course end in the same boardwalk so folks can see the racers in the finish line.

There are several projects in the pipeline, stay tuned for more updates from Motorsport Carnivale 2025 because they've got a great program lined up for you folks!

Dark Roast Coffeehouse Turns ONE!

Dark Roast Coffeehouse Turns ONE!

I couldn't believe it's been a year already. What started out as a normal conversation between diving friends, was all realized in this Maginhawa spot. Your favorite Dark Roast Coffeehouse is now a year old.

Business wasn't all smooth sailing, they admitted to have had challenges because while trying to improve their products and services, they didn't get a lot of feedback at first. Now they're taking suggestions seriously, and they are super thankful about the improvement and growth they have done during this time.

 

The fun bunch told us about the challenges they had about quality. Because they had different customers telling their preferences, and they also had different baristas at different times of the day, what could be sweet and earthy for one person wouldn't be the same for the other. They were able to standardize a lot of their prep work, their raw materials, considering these all were growth pains and something that businesses like them go through. They initiated telling their team about the standards they wanted to keep, not to say they've already overcame challenges, but knowing it's a continuous process of learning more about it.

Here's our interview with them that evening!

Their location is another one. Maginhawa after all is a food community and has about 5-7 coffee shops with more to open soon. It's not just the competition, but maintaining quality and consistency that every person behind the counter should adhere to. It's a lot of work just to make sure whoever is making the cup would taste the same whatever time of the day, made darker, bolder, better.

The celebration didn't end there as they launched 2 new bread variants particularly the OREO CROISSANT and the BLACK SESAME CROISSANT. They also released a new drink called MIDNIGHT MOCHA. As the name suggests, the breads are more on the sweet side (but not too sweet as Titos/Titas would love). I prefer the BLACK SESAME CROISSANT more since it also has a little nutty flavor with it. These were prepared by the same folks who did BUTTERBOY CROISSANTS who's known for their quality, big, flaky and sinful ones. In fact, it didn't take them long to collaborate with the new flavors because they were very easy to work with. Now you'll get super good croissants here every time.  

 

This month, they're also building a full pledged community. Aside from the good bread and coffee they just launched, they're getting Dark Roast Coffeehouse merch available for loyal customers. With several visits and purchases at their store at the Ground Floor of TKC Square Building, you could get their super cool tumbler and handy dandy eco bag with the Darker, Bolder, Better line on it. 

This is just the first year and they've managed to do a LOT in that short amount of time. I'm super happy for them and wished I could do the same with my set of friends. Folks usually won't suggest that, but seeing their success and milestones so far, I wouldn't be surprised if they're going to be huge soon.

Congratulations DARK ROAST COFFEEHOUSE on your anniversary! 

Food, Fun, Entertainment at new Manila Spot SHINMA MALATE

Haven't been in Manila for a while but this spot deserves your attention. If you're in the mood for live entertainment, pretty sick DJ's, awesome music, food, drinks, and a great time, you should take the trip to 615 General Malvar Street in Malate, Manila to see SHINMA MALATE.

It's the hottest club this side of town. They've got well crafted cocktails and good bar food cooked ala minute. With several VIP tables, lounge chairs and bar tables, you can get those special occasions celebrated properly with a party. I haven't seen a place in this area that has got state of the art lights and sound system, something that could rival some of the biggest bars in Quezon City or nearby areas.

Changing the Entertainment Landscape in Manila

Malate is iconic, but in recent years it has been witness to obvious reduction in entertainment establishments. There is a need for places like SHINMA MALATE that could accommodate folks that need it in different price points, and they've addressed this quite nicely. It gives a different energy, as it is well designed, perfect for foreign nationals who would like to have Manila as a destination to party!

There were several DJ's during their opening night, one of which is female DJ Dead Niccss plus a multitude of local rappers who made sure folks have extraordinary music to dance along to. Kapuso actors also came to the event including owner Kimson Tan, his friends Kim Perez, Jay Arcilla, Brent Valdez and popular loveteam Sofia Pablo and Allen Ansay.

Might I suggest their Rosé wines, their huge Fruit Platter, Fried Chicken and Pizza. It's serving size is good for groups, mostly bar chow so have dinner before you get to SHINMA MALATE. They also have several house dancers who would entertain you to start the show. They also have KPOP dance nights, other surprise performers for different nights. They do play popular music, but mostly those that have been engineered well by the DJ's, so you get a different take with it. 

 

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You've got a lot of things to enjoy at SHINMA MALATE. It's time you have a very fun night in Malate, Manila if you are a little bored of other cities. I remember how I enjoyed our time there. Now head on to SHINMA for more fun nights!

VXON Releases "Sh*t Sobrang Init" Single

VXON's C13, Sam, Franz, Vince and Patrick were at the Rocket Design Studio this afternoon as their newest single "Sh*t Sobrang Init" and music video was launched today.

They're taking a different route than usual, as this summer track is their hottest, more daring single to date. They had their adoring fans in attendance, and this will be part of their upcoming EP planned by Cornerstone Entertainment and Cornerstone Music.

Truth be told, they got us hooked with the new single that had more of a summer vibe as they included various tropical instruments for the catchy tune. For the ladies and those who feel a little frisky, the boys delivered a music video with a theme that got them basking in the sun, sweltering hot, all sweaty but inviting. It's a huge change from their wholesome look in previous videos, and want you to dance along with the new choreography they prepared for their adoring fans, and those who doesn't know them yet. 

During the interview, they shared how they were in a creative mood with the naughty lyrics, and got the music done quite fast without their usual huddle when making a track. The producer already found the one they made apt for the feel they wanted for the single, and I could barely hear the music when they performed earlier (because their fans were screaming on the top of their lungs).

The video is already out on the VXON Official YouTube channel so get acquainted with these guys today!

This is under Cornerstone Entertainment and Cornerstone Music.

SB19's MINTYLADORSES Come Alive with Acerpure Cozy HF1

Acer's Home appliance arm Acerpure just made a remarkable idea come true specifically SB19's MINTYLADORSES through a special edition model of their Acerpure Cozy HF1 which they mentioned during Christmas on YouTube.

It's handheld, has 100 speed, pretty easy to carry around so you can show it off to fellow A'Tins. It also comes in a box with their faces on it, plus a few stickers, sketchpad and a lanyard so you can wear them proud in concerts or just about any occasion. This has already been out since April 16, and available at the Acer Online Store for Php 1,999.00. 

Go visit their social channels to know more about it!

A Balanced Lifestyle at Pico Terraces at Hamilo Coast

Maybe, just maybe, you're looking at your next summer home. We're sure you've been dreading Manila weather because it's just too hot out here for most of the day. With 7,100 islands to choose from in the Philippines, SM Prime takes you to Pico Terraces at Hamilo Coast in Batangas.

It's a really quiet refuge from SM Leisure Resort Residences, tower structures that are mid rise development set to be all done in 2027. You can just walk a few minutes to Pico Beach and get access to the Beach and Country Club. It's also available in different floor sizes if you want a one, two or three bedroom layout. It's definitely made for families who would want a different feel from the urban setting. Something that would balance your lifestyle if you want to run here when you need a little more peace and quiet. This is something that isn't too far from Manila either, because a 2 hour drive could get you there according to Ms. Shirley Ong the EVP of SM LRR. They are also keen on keeping much of the land for open spaces, something that you should consider especially if you have a lot of kids, or family members. They also have a lot of amenities, gym, a place for yoga and other activities for the day.

They also have pools that would rival huge resorts, all in the comforts of the cove. If you are also a nature lover, want to trek, they have trails and more to enjoy the outdoors. They also have several places you can hold private events, those special occasions aimed to make memories, you'll love it there! Go find them on socials and their website, I bet those 211 units would run out fast judging from the interest growing with it.

CANON Brings INKFinite Possibilities: Push Your Business to the MAX

If you're still in your home office and often find yourself nowhere to print because you ran out of ink, it dried out, or it's just not efficient, then CANON has good news for you. They are making a commitment for quality printing and they're taking it further up a notch by bringing in new printers that can do it fast, secure, and done with high quality. They now have MEGA TANK printers that do it with vivid photos, rich color gamut, highly accurate paper feeding, and more.

If you want to print photos, documents, scan (Canon core), with easy to read text that you can use for businesses and productivity, they have all pigment capable printers that can do it. They are answering the evolving needs of small offices and home offices, Anuj Aggarwal the President and CEO of Canon Marketing Philippines, Inc. says "There are INKfinite possibilities with Canon. In a world where value and efficiency are vital, we have cost effective solutions designed to streamline workflow and unlock inkfinite possibilities. We hope you see how we push boundaries."

PUSH YOUR BUSINESS TO THE MAX WITH CANON

Local businesses need solutions to meet demands of modern workplaces. Low cost printing with GI-71 series, GI-790 series and the GI-76 series. Canon does lower than industry average cost per print. They also can do high volume, do it fast, convenient printing through wifi. They also have a way to easily maintain it through cartridges that you can do on your own without going to centers for support. They also have 180 service partners for inkjet printers, it is also versatile so your businesses thrive. 

They had Googly Gooeys, other businesses tell their story. They were able to accept more orders, print needed documents so they could focus more on important things. They were able to maximize their printers to serve their customers. With the affordable bottles, it was possible.

Kristelle Marcelino introduced their printer line. They have single function, multi function, G80 series, G70 series photo printers, G70 series, GM70 series monochrome and the MAXIFY Series. The MAXIFY printers use pigment as ink, they also classify their printers in the volume that is needed especially for MSME's. They have schools, hotels , construction, hospitality and medical establishments use it. It has replaceable parts, cartridges that can be replaced by unscrewing one bolt off the actual printer. It can also do auto duplex printing so if you need to print back to back pages, it can do it automatically. It can also support various media sizes and is cost efficient especially in black economy mode. This is why you should consider the MAXIFY GX7170 , GX6170 and the GX5170.

The next time you need printing a lot of documents or pages, these huge CANON printers might be your best bet!

INTRAMUROS Administration Launches Summer Festival and Tourism Passport

It's going to be a lot different at the walls of Intramuros in Manila as they celebrate their 46th Anniversary and the 2 initiatives, the Intramuros Summer Festival and their exciting Intramuros Passport.

Atty. Joan Padilla says "We are on our 46th year of the Intramuros Administration and as a testament for our commitment, I am thrilled to announce the two initiatives the Intramuros Summer Festival and the Intramuros Passport. This will happen on April 26th, aimed to showcase history, vibrant culture, deepening Filipino identity in one day. We have programs, projects, activities to enjoin everyone in the development of the walled city. We have partner schools who made this possible, and we are also excited to launch the Intramuros Passport. This will unlock access to key locations, allowing you to collect stamps to remember your experience here. If you avail of it, you get free access to the Summer Festival and Sinag Concert in the evening. This is an opportunity to strengthen our partnerships, together with the CCP and Ballet Theatre, to perform here as this will be a commitment to the future of Intramuros. Mabuhay ang Intramuros!"

Head of Tourism Promotions Rhea Kristine Cy says "The Intramuros Summer Festival is taking place at the Plaza Moriones in Fort Santiago, and will have activities in other locations too. The local businesses, schools and residents will also have collaborations with them on this day. Domestic and International tourists are encouraged to come."

7:30 Zumba Session at the Plaza Moriones, 8am Street Parade to Plaza San Luis, Performers from schools of zletran, Manila, Mapua, PLM and Lyceum will also be there. UST will have a medical mission at the same time til 12 noon. Centro de Intramuros will have Storytelling Sessions from 2:30pm, Living Museum at 2pm in Centro de Turismo, Pop Up Markets at General Luna along the Riverwalk. The grand Sinag Concert will happen at 6-10pm at Plaza Moriones inside Fort Santiago. Artists like The Itchyworms, Earl Agustin, Over October and students will perform in the concert. This will be hosted by Zephy Francisco and Boobay. 

Intramuros is currently vying for Asia's Leading Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards, so if you have time, go vote for them!

About the Intramuros Passport, Head of Business Management Dan Mendoza says "This is a milestone, a creative tourism initiative to position Intramuros as a vibrant tourism destination. To get it, you need to purchase it at ticket booths at managed sites and this will get you to Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, Baluarte de San Diego (8 sites) for only 350 pesos. It's non transferrable, seniors and pwd's will be given discounts. You get to earn passport stamps at each site, a rewarding cultural journey. It will be memorable, and there will be perks on pre selling starting April 26, because you get free tram rides, and the Summer Fest Sinag Concert. Discounts will be given to passport holders in participating partners like Barbara's, Tesoros, coffee shops and a whole lot more. There will be more things to come back to in Intramuros. You can scan the qr code for more information."

There will be FREE regular performances to be done by Philippine Ballet Theatre as they also partner with the Intramuros Administration, (they did this too in the 90's but it stopped in 2021 for various reasons) now they are forging shared visions to life!

Now that's just the start, there's a lot more that is going to happen in the walled city soon. More shows will be scheduled this year as they partner up with CCP and Philippine Ballet Theatre. Go get the Intramuros Passport today!

A Look at Jodi Sta. Maria's Psycho Horror Thriller "UNTOLD"

Regal Entertainment's scary movie offering "UNTOLD" was just given an advanced screening and scream party at the SM City North Edsa's THE BLOCK. It was witnessed by Regal Entertainment head honchos Keith Monteverde and Roselle Monteverde. While Jodi Sta. Maria is out of the country filming an international project, actresses Sarah Edwards and Kaori Oinuma attended the screening to say hi to lucky students, fans and media covering the event.

Jodi plays Vivian Vera, a reporter/anchor for a TV station. The film was easy to absorb at first, but it is a psycho thriller, full of jump scares and g0re. It was also very claustrophobic because much of the entities come from different directions. This is also about PTSD, mental health, and family.

Keith and Roselle Monteverde, Regal Entertainment Inc. is personally working on this film

This seems like a huge experiment for Jodi, and the film is full of things that would make you question realities. You get scared for a while then end up being in a flashback, or immerse in a supposed alter reality then see it being true. You also won't be able to invest too much on characters because one minute they're goody two shoes, the next day they're going to the underworld. Her involvement with all of them is consistent though, which again, made this story line cerebral, it makes you think and question every time what is true, what is happening now, and what's not.

The entertainment value certainly is enough for a Jodi Sta Maria film, and if you doubt her capability to scare, I've seen several people in my row screaming at times. Much of the content is psychologically heavy, and you'll feel the struggle on why the characters are doing what they are doing, even after the "afterlife". The narrative is stressful, so make sure you are ready for this horror film because by any standards, Jodi did justice with hear character. You'll also love some not so serious things that JK brings, which gives relief despite the heavy plot.  

Director Derrick Cabrido may have had a field day doing this with an actress that is capable of playing complex personalities. She did phenomenal, and the script certainly has been researched well. If you are practicing witchcraft (not that I'm insinuating you are), you'll also be seeing a lot of clues why we say that. This is another layer that you should discover when you watch it on theaters on April 30.

ALFRED VARGAS To Pay Tribute For Superstar NORA AUNOR

I distinctly remember watching the film "PIETA" during its advanced screening a couple years ago at Sine Pop in Quezon City. If memory serves me right, it's the last film released prior to a horror flick "Mananambal" which was also done by prolific director Adolf Aix Jr. last year. ALFRED VARGAS played her son Isaac who least wanted to be recognized but it was a bit too late because of her mental state and the mystery surrounding their affinity with another character played by Direk Gina Alajar. That was iconic compared to the same movie with the same title done in 1983.

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In recent events and her passing, Alfred says "My dear Ate Guy (Nora Aunor's moniker), working with you has been one of the greatest honors of my life. You have touched my heart in so many ways and have also given me so much without uttering a word. You have inspired and mentored me through our scenes and I won't forget about our time in PIETA, and I won't forget you. Her humility and generosity is only what true stars possess. I only felt this with you Ate Guy. Thank you for accepting me wholeheartedly, and to have the chance to work with you, to know you as the one and only SUPERSTAR, may you rest in peace and I love you!"

And as a tribute to the SUPERSTAR Nora Aunor, Alfred Vargas will be doing a screening of PIETA in SM.Cinemas nationwide later this year so that her adoring fans would be able to get a glimpse one of the last films of Ms. Nora.

A worthy tribute for a National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts!

Peaceful settlements of dispute with China: Is it Possible?

There is tension in the West Philippine Sea and it can't be denied that it has further soured relations between our two countries. While it's maddening to even hear things like bullying and physical harm to fishermen and coast guard personnel, we were able to hear from the Chinese side as some of their educators from different universities were in the country to tell their side and how the Chinese psyche works. 

This is part of Kamuning Bakery Cafe's Pan de Sal Forum which was moderated by Rod Cornejo. Former Senator Nikki Coseteng and Professor Rommel Banlaoi the President of the Philippine Society for International Security Studies and Director of the Center for the Study of Philippines-China Relations was also there to explain things about the Philippine action and challenges. For the Chinese side, they had Dr. Lei Xiaolu the Vice Director of the South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative (also a Professor from the  China Institute of Boundary and Ocean Studies in Wuhan University), Dr. Zheng Zhihua the Associate Professor and Head of East Asia Marine Policy Project at the Center for Japanese Studies in Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Dr. Yan Yan the Vice Director of the South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative and also the Director of Research Center for Oceans Law and Policy, National institute of South China Sea Studies, Professor Hu Bo the Director of the South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative and Director of the Center for Maritime Strategy Studies and Research Professor of the School of International Studies in Peking University.

Nikki Coseteng says "It is very dangerous to be guided by propaganda. Peace is a necessary ingredient for a future we can depend on, for opportunities, and the establishment of it that is based on justice."

She adds Those who make money from war are not winners. Does everyone want peace in Asia? We do. We read the Philippines is purchasing F16 jets, but those are almost obsolete. We saw Ukraine, Gaza, and support coming from abroad but the people who perished in millions are inside the country. We in Asia have an economy 3-4 times bigger than EU, why would you want to destroy that? We want that for our children. We have to sit down, don't kid yourselves on settling it now. That won't happen. It might take one or two hundred years, but it would benefit generations thereafter."

Professor Rommel Banlaoi says "Peaceful settlements of dispute with China is the topic for today. I need to cite the work of a good friend from the US Taylor Fravel who mentioned 23 territorial disputes of China since 1949. In his dissertation, he has indicated how China has been able to resolve disputes where China gets less of the contested territory. In more cases than one, China offered a generous compromise of the disputed land, and give more to the neighboring countries. This is a finding from an American, and not from Chinese."

Professor Hu Bo says "We should peacefully resolve the South China Sea issues. It is difficult to resolve it with maritime disputes and 5 parties. In our lifetime we would not see the resolution of it. No other party will give up maritime claims. In the last year , there is progress even if there is tension. It is important for both countries, the China policy is consistent. Foreigners ask what the next step is, China has no plans, but remain status quo."

Dr. Yan Yan says "In the long run, how do we prevent crisis? It is self restraint. We already have bilateral relations and talks, any of the communication is being done, and in the long run we want to solve the disputes. If you look at it objectively, we don't want to do it by force but by peaceful resolution. This is what we are trying to achieve."

Dr. Zheng Zhihua "Three facts to choose, justice, respect and peace in the China sea dispute. We also need to know the understanding of China with regards to international law. Giving the capability to resort to defend territorial integrity, it is not possible for them to give up sovereignty."

Dr. Lee Xiaolu says "Every dispute has a peaceful solution, to not jeopardize the final solution. Member states should talk to other member states to prevent future disputes and not other non claimant states. Mutual negotiation and agreements through bilateral efforts should manage and handle it. Peace and stability should be a priority for people. We need to sit down to create an economic development for everybody."

Here's the forum on video to give you more context about the things they wanted to say about recent conflicts;

We got the impression that they'd rather have this be sat down with just two parties rather than involve others to resolve it. Is it possible to have a peaceful resolution? That still remains to be seen, but here's hoping it becomes a non violent process because war is NEVER an answer.