LEILA BARROS Back in Manila

When I heard that I was meeting LEILA BARROS on this day, I fondly remember how Filipinos went crazy for her a couple years ago. In the late 90's to 2000's, she looked like a doll but hits balls like her country depended on it. This is her charm, which pinoys have always loved. After years of not hearing from her, she comes back like she's never left the scene. Armed with the same charm, she now is a successful family woman, a mother, and a Senator of Taguatinga, a federal district in Brazil. Since it's FIVB season, the Philippines Volleyball Federation sought her help to announce something good happening like the 2029 FIVB World Women's Volleyball Championship which will also happen here as the sport grows even bigger.

Leila was also invited to come back to the Philippines a few times but she never had the chance to do so because of life. She figured the growth that was happening now was something she couldn't pass, so she hopped on the plane and arrived albeit delays from one of the strongest typhoons in the world. She fondly remembers Filipinos holding placards asking Leila to marry them. This day for the meet and greet was a little different because Leila now has the time to actually be with people, take lots of photos and she even talked to us with the help of an interpreter.

AI generated this smiling version of her :)

One thing I couldn't forget was when I asked her about how they are dealing with corruption in their country. It made the folks quite quiet in the crowd, but she said they're dealing with it as well in Brazil because they have some individuals meddling with their pension funds, and they sought help from deputies (one that represents agencies) and a few Senators to probe into it. How I wish I could say the same with ours no?! 🤣

Here's our short chat with her on video:

She was so nice and accommodating. She made sure folks would have a Leila moment they won't forget and went to the venue of FIVB matches to announce the big news. She also said hi to fans the whole day as she was leaving the next day. She mentioned she's got plans to go back and bring her family for a holiday (her husband is a beach volleyball Olympic gold medalist) and bring her son Lukas too. 

I'm so excited about the Philippines hosting another FIVB, and hopefully, we'll get to watch it with her as well. Hope you get to see more talented players in our turf!

Artists Warn Expect the Unexpected on SING GALING SINGLEBRITY EDITION This Weekend

Got the chance to see the Sing Galing Singlebrity Edition 2025 folks yesterday and what good things they've got on sleeve as they prepare their first episode this coming September 27 on TV5 and their other assets. Veteran judges Rey Valera, Randy Santiago and several celebrities told us about their experience and what to expect on the show.

Of course, different people means different personalities. Aside from being serious about the contest part of the show, Sir Rey Valera told us "You'll get to see the good side of the contestants (that we also are with in the industry) when we talk about their individual charities. They are doing this to help folks that are in need. They will do everything for them, that's what is fun in this show because of that different angle. Doing this is like not turning away from your promises in helping others. This is also a way to give back for the years they've been supporting us as artists. People who watch our show sometimes go on wheelchairs, when you get to age and still sing, you are relevant, if you want to pass it to the next generation, this is how you should do it."

Singer Ariel Rivera says "I can say, expect the unexpected. I know some of the contestants are good actors, but when I heard them sing, they're really really talented. People think we only act on screen but we're happy to be part of this and share our talent to help others. We appreciate those that appreciate us. We're friends for years (talking about other artists on the show), being kind goes a long way."

Nina added "I love my fans, they're not all perfect but they are the reason where we are right now. We shouldn't forget that."

K Brosas told us "We're not at the top but we're not going away, we love our craft and the people that work with us. We are thankful and remember our roots."

Here's more of our interviews after the event:

Oh by the way, Rey Valera and a couple of his friends are establishing a way to support up and coming artists on their new YouTube channel. If you want to be part of it, just visit youtube.com/@Sigma54music to get in touch with them. This is his way to leave a legacy. 

And again, make sure you watch SING GALING SINGLEBRITY EDITION because it will premiere this September 27 at 7PM and 8PM on Sunday on TV5, Buko Channel and Sari-Sari Channel too. It's going to be super fun!

GMA Playlist Features Songs of Love, Life with JOHN REX, KIM DE LEON, KIM PEREZ and MITZI JOSH

GMA Playlist has always been a really good platform to further dabble artistry of home grown GMA artists as they tackle songs about love, regret, friendship and the trials of life. It will be part of a line of soundtracks under GMA Network's "Ganito Tayo, Kapuso: Masayahin" (This is what we are Kapuso, Fun) which is part of their values campaign made with Sparkle Artists performing the different songs.

I distinctly remember several actors from Sparkle's stable who have done this and recorded songs meant for GMA shows as soundtracks and this time, they're doing the same. We saw Kim Perez, Kim de Leon, Mitzi Josh and John Rex perform their songs (in different genres), all heartfelt and ones that you can connect with. Some talk about love, being sorry, friendship that aligns with their network's current campaign. The lone rose Mitzi Josh performed "Ikaw Na Lang Ang Kulang" while Kim de Leon did "Basta't Magkasama Tayo". Champ John Rex did "Kahit Wala Nang Tayo" and Kim Perez had a more 2000's rock vibe with "Huling Hinto".

Their thrust is all about connections, because at this day and age we've gone accustomed to being in front of computers, tablets, our phones. This takes our inter personal ones on the backseat, so imagine how that puts our relationships with family, friends and everyone else in trouble. That's a really good talking point, and I hope the conversations continue after the GMA Playlist release.

Here's our interview with them at the posh THE GRAND HOUSSE which is both a fashion house and restaurant (really good selection and food btw!): 

When I asked them about their dreams, they all want to have the chance to have their own concerts, but ultimately just want to share their music, have someone appreciate it. Kim Perez believes he doesn't have to achieve the status of the big names in the industry, just the thought of putting out a song, as part of OPM, that's enough for him. Kim De Leon didn't even imagine singing at one point but now have 3 singles out under GMA Playlist. He also wishes to become a singer songwriter soon. Mitzi is thankful because singing is her first love, and wants to do Coachella, a concert, sing and have folks sing along with her (hopefully soon). John on the other hand wants to become a person who inspire others, and hope the song touches hearts, not just the charts, to see people in love with what he does on stage.

All these tracks for the GMA Playlist (these 5 singles) are produced by Rocky Gacho and can be streamed worldwide. Now go and stream them on platforms today because they're planning to do more music in the coming years, it would be awesome you could follow their journey now.

MAISON MIDORI: Making Cait Lee's Matcha Dreams Come True!

Caitlin Lee has always grown a fascination about Matcha ever since she had it in Japan a couple years ago. She was a little dumbfounded when the rest of her family didn't like it while she adored the green beverage prepared during that trip, and she never forgot about it. During the pandemic, the resurgence of liking to baked breads and pastries also brought her love for all things Matcha as a flavor. She felt it was time to follow her passion and start her own Matcha brand called "Maison Midori".

Her mission was simple, to bring high quality green tea to the Philippines. A small project but had so much love and support, she invites you this time to savor the moment.

Cait Lee says "I'm the girl behind Maison Midori, and I'm a chemist, and matcha is my biggest passion. I was 15 on a trip in Japan. I think during the pandemic I had a baking business and think that's how it started. Thank you for being in our pop ups and bazaars, the management who have been working hard during this past weeks. I am so glad I have a support system beside me, I wouldn't be able to do this without you and God. I was praying so hard about this business, but then I am so grateful."

Here's a rundown on what happened on video:

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She also put importance on building communities done with passion, connections, love and faith. If you want to get a hold of it, they have rht Tenshi Samidori and Maroyaka Okumidori teas available online at maisonmidori.com. You can also get the Fukami Matcha, a limited edition variant which you can enjoy mixed in beverages or just by itself. They also have bamboo whisks and scoops on the site if you want to be little serious about it.

Congratulations on making your dreams come true Cait Lee, here's wishing you more cups for folks to love and enjoy!

The Art of Leadership: Foundation Teaches Essential Skills for Success

It is true to say that it takes a community to raise a child, and it also takes a nation to raise great leaders. B!ng0P|us Foundation recently had their 2nd FutureSmart Leaders General Assembly at the country's financial hub Makati City. This brings in over 80 scholars from around the country to teach them the manners of growth, inspiration and connection. The foundation sought help from some of the industry's leading trainers, beauty queens, even those from NGO's who have experience in leadership to teach these young minds and help them become future ready leaders themselves. 

They dubbed it as the PLUS Factor (Pioneering Leadership and Uplifting Service) aimed to give young ones life skills, community leadership and personality development. 

They also taught them about public speaking, build confidence, show presence and how to share these traits with others. Aside from that, they had Management Strategies hold consultations so they could start identifying their purpose, so they could see what they need to do for a better future. 

Present during the occasion was Jasper Vicencio who's part of B!ng0P|us Foundation a d AB Leisure Exponent. They were also given a very educational talk about how to advance their platforms courtesy of beauty queens Chelsea Fernandez and Kat Llegado. 

They also talked about the importance of volunteerism and more. Ms. Issa Litton shared her experience in public speaking, voice and communications which is a huge part of her career. They immediately got feedback after each session which is very important for their initiatives. If you want to know more, just search for them on their official social channels.

BUM BLACK ARMY Takes Over Tenement

Taking on the huge task of revelry in the streets is BUM Black Army. Their utilitarian line has been put into one of the country's iconic basketball courts which has been a venue for grand murals forged by the locals and community. Previously, it has been a canvas for NBA superstars showcasing the Filipinos passion and individual stories. 

This is the same power that BUM Black Army wants to hold as folks from every walk of life wear their clothes. It's available at their site bumblackarmy.com or apps like Shopee, Lazada and TikTok. You may follow their FB page @officialbumph to know more about their movement. 

Take a look at this! 

World class, utilitarian, the coolest looking street wear in the market. That's BUM Black Army for you! 

SING GALING: Sing-lebrity Edition Starts This September 27

Looks like your weekend watching will be severely interesting as TV5 amps up one of their hottest fun shows SING GALING as it enters another installment of SING GALING: Sing-lebrity Edition to find the Ultimate Bida-oke Sing-lebrity. 

 

Hosted by gorgeous Donita Nose, funny vixen comedienne K Brosas and literally *shadey* Randy Santiago this coming September 27 onwards. This is for the benefit of their individual "Bidaficiaries" and will be judged by Rey Valera, Ariel River, Nina, Ella May Saison, Mitoy Yonting and Ethel Booba.

And if that's not enough, they'll be fielding in over 48 celebrities in the show coming from different genres and industries. They have the opportunity to choose their charities and help if they get to be the Ultimate Bida-Oke Singlebrity. This includes Almira Teng, Andrew Muhlach, Anton Diva, Arman Salon, Bobby Andrews, Carmi Martin, CJ Navato, CJ Opiaza, CJ Ramos, Chad Kinis, Cedrick Juan, Dawn Chang, Divine Tetay, Dominic Ochoa, Gio Alvarez, Gus Abelgas, Jay Gonzaga, Jay Manalo, Jeff Tam, Johannes Rissler, Keanna Reeves, Krissha Viaje, Kych Minemoto, Laila Chikadora, Leandro Baldemor, Lloyd Samartino, Luis Alandy, Madam Kilay, Mark Ian Garcia, Maoui David, Maui Taylor, Meryll Soriano, Nathalie Hart, Nikki Valdez, Noel Comia, Patricia Javier, Rey “PJ” Abellana, Rikki Mae Davao, Romnick Sarmenta, Rufa Mae Quinto, Ryle Santiago, Sexbomb Mia Pangyarihan, Sexbomb Monic Icban, Troy Montero, Valerie Concepcion, Via Antonio and Yobab. As you can see there are TV, film and theater actors, singers, and internet celebrities who will surely do their best to get that crown.

 

Let's not forget your Singtokers (Gab, Queenay, Ari G, Yanyan, Muse Jazz, Niko and Zendee) who will also do hosting duties, online so you get to know the contestants through behind the scene segments for the duration of the show. Again, this shows 7PM on Saturdays and 8PM on Sundays and will be shown on TV5, Sari Sari Channel, Buko Channel, and TV5 social accounts where available.

This will certainly be an exciting year for you, those who love these celebrities, and their chosen charities. So who's your bet?

DORNBRACHT Celebrates Diamond Jubilee, Showcases ATELIER Line

DORNBRACHT is a German luxury bath and spa fittings brand founded in the 50's by Aloys Dornbracht and son Helmut. They are celebrating their 75th year and had a showcase of their best ware at their showrooms in Twenty Four Seven Building in BGC. They are supplied in the Philippines by Focus Global under their Bath brand together with other premium names in the market. 

At the event, they showcased DORNBRACHT's Atelier line to exhibit the various ways they can do fixtures. What we got from that is simple, they can do anything you can imagine. The faucet and knobs that have been exquisitely designed was added with layers of brass, gold, feather, egg shells, leather, mother of pearl and more. The finishes were stunning. reminiscent of bubble reflections, draped blue fowl feathers, and leather from the best craftsmen in Germany, Switzerland and other EU countries.

Here's a short tour of the showroom. If you fancy it, get in touch with them through their social channels to arrange an appointment, or just visit the Twenty Four Seven building on office hours.

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They also held a short program to commemorate DORNBRACHT's Diamond Jubilee. Stephen Sy of Focus Global says "This is a reflection of the 75 years of Dornbracht. It marks more than 12 years of partnership with Focus Global. Water is now part of design and wellness because of them. They always set new standards, and as partners we see that together with designers, architects, engineers and consumers. We are grateful for the trust and excited for the opportunities ahead in the years to come. Here's to many more with Dornbracht!"

Kevin the Regional Head or Dornbracht says "75 years is a long time, but we are the only brand to continue and focus on taps and showers. We are the luxury brand producing it from Germany to the region. We are focused on maintaining presence in this segment. Thank you for being here!"

They also shared how their pieces have been installed in several hotels in the country as part of their spa centers. If you have something in mind, a dream or two, they can do it. Tell them and they've got folks who can source everything, and make that possible. Their current collection speaks volume of what design, craftsmanship and passion can do. 

Congratulations to DORNBRACHT! Congratulations on 12 years in the Philippines, and 75 years around the world! 

SportsP|us, Smart, POC Sign Pact for PH Athletes

This afternoon was certainly a time for celebration between the folks from the Philippine Olympic Committee, SportsP|us and Smart Communications Inc. as they sign a historic Memorandum of Agreement to support national athletes and teams with unparalleled connectivity, more online engagement and visibility in different sports events that they will be in this year and in the future.

 

 

 

The event was graced by James da Costa the head of SportsPlus partnerships, Bambol Tolentino the President of Philippine Olympic Committee, Jude Turcati the First Vice President for PLDT- Smart's Sports. There were also several athletes in the event including Carlos Baylon Jr. Gold Medalist in Wushu in the recent World Games (in China).

SportsP|us' James da Costa says "Standing beside athletes and equipping them with their needs is what we do. From grassroots development, we want to be part of our athletes efforts."

Jude Turcati from Smart says "The MVP has been beyond business to support the dreams of our athletes. The support has given us moments of pride on the world stage. Inspiring the youth, teamwork and resilience, and through this partnership we will get them connected especially when they compete abroad. We will be there every step of the way. We thank the POC and SportsP|us, the best is yet to come, para sa bayan, para sa Pilipino."

POC President Bambol Tolentino says "This is not for me, for POC, but all for our athletes. We put importance in preparations for the SEA Games, Asian Games, and the Olympics. Smart and SportsPlus has always been a big help ever since, and this may produce more medals. We are glad companies still support us, we thank them for their help with the government."

 

This starts a multi year support for funding the athletes training and preparation for the SEA Games, Asian Games and the Olympics. This will certainly benefit them in their goals to bring honor to the country. The endless pursuit to make sure they do their best in their respective sports and the support of the private sector will surely be a welcome development with various sports organizations that this will benefit. They will also help in the grassroots programs, plus a few local ones which the POC encourages they do in the next few years. 

TAIWAN Excellence Shows LOHAS Day with Catriona Gray

When I heard of it initially I didn't know what it meant, but LOHAS basically is Lifestyle of Health and Sustainability. Taiwan Excellence brought the cause to Market!Market! this morning with no less than Miss Universe Catriona Gray, a fitting face because this is something that she feels so strong about and they talked lengthy about it in what they call LOHAS DAYS Activate, which makes a lot of sense in this day and age. 

Fitness sessions and lifestyle experiences, with the tons of brand that Taiwan has, they will be showcasing them at the Activity Center from September 12-14 to support your goals. 

Check out what we saw at the event:

Aropec for water and diving gear, Besv Folding bikes, Acer Swift Laptops, Vinxper wine accessories, Hepty Extinguishers, Atunas Yoga and Fitness equipment, ASUS laptops, FECA Slam dunk Basketball Kit, GIANT XTC SLR 29, and more.

Josephine Shun of TECO says "Taiwan is serious about health, and the idea is very simple which is why we launched a program like LOHAS. This is health and lifestyle using Taiwanese technology. We are currently third in the world exporting fitness machines. Running along the mountain, the ocean and the warm smile, that is LOHAS and we want you to enjoy what you see around you!"

Director Alex Lai of the Taiwan Trade office in Manila says "LOHAS is not just strength, but a choice, the way we live. This is not just limited to us, but the generations to come. We have 70 Taiwanese companies presenting 30 products like folding bikes, eco products, and excited about you enjoying the fitness classes which we will hold here at the activity center. There is something for everyone, this is carefully selected to match your market and most of them have awards. You will also have the mascot to make sure you'll have fun today. On 17-19 there will be a Taiwan expo on SMX Convention center where you can find even more companies to grow your business with."

Catriona Gray says "As the LOHAS ambassador in the Philippines, I'm excited to make you enjoy fitness and a healthy lifestyle. I am very proud to represent them, many of us know it is attainable. A healthy sustainable life is achievable, we get to encourage our friends too. Like this year, I got into running because I wanted to move, it made me happy, I guess it's endorphins. My schedule is crazy but I wanted to have an achievable routine, so I do pilates, stretch, get in the water, it should fit your lifestyle. You need to take care of your mind spirit and body. I'm really inspired by their LOHAS movement, they enjoy it, use their spaces, something that we can learn and adapt in the Philippines. I love getting sleep, have a night without phones, eat good food, not just convenient food. We have to schedule time with activities, we are busy but we have to have some of it for ourselves."

She adds "Making conscious decisions is what sustainability is. I am conscious about water bottles, fashion, we need to look for solutions that impact the community. The car free days, the community runs, small actions that we can do for the environment."

If you want to join the fitness and wellness sessions, see exhibits and products from Taiwan, they will be there til the 14th so make sure you head down to Market!Market! or their FB page for updates by searching TaiwanExcellence.ph on the platform.

LUMOS FLOAT Review: First 360° Rotatable Projector For Movie Nights on Walls or Ceilings!

Taking time out of your busy schedule to watch a movie, a show or two has been really hard these days. Work for most is getting in the way, but it certainly the same level of sadness if you don't have your own projector at home. These days, it's essential because going to theaters have already been a little troublesome and expensive. Add to that, transportation costs, overpriced food, and that kid kicking your chair too.

I've featured LUMOS a few times here on the site and have lived to enjoy it so much that I get to use it regularly for family gatherings and parties. Folks often ask me where I got it. Well let me get you in on a secret, you can actually purchase this online and have it delivered to your home conveniently. They also have a new one called LUMOS FLOAT, a one of a kind 360 degree rotatable home cinema projector which we installed just a week ago. See, my room needed an upgrade because I've always wanted to have one installed for movie nights or YouTube sessions because I love watching anime series off the app.

The LUMOS FLOAT is pretty light and compact. No more heavy and bulky projectors!

 

For starters, installing this LUMOS FLOAT is quite easy. You can mount this off a regular tripod or choose to put this on a wall or ceiling. Think about the possibilities. If you put this above your bed, you can beam it to the wall in front or even use the ceiling if you are lying on your back. This means you can be in the most comfortable position you can imagine. Like watching the best shows without straining your neck.

 

 

They call this the SkyTrack, a built-in bracket that makes it even easier to mount the projector with hooks from 3M without the need to drill your walls or ceiling. You can then have it pointed to your preferred position, totally convenient for those who are not handy with building stuff (especially those IKEA shelves you've been meaning to finish months back LOL). The LUMOS FLOAT can be projected to a wall so you can get a 150-inch screen. Since my room is a bit small, I could take it a little around 1.5 meters away from it and I could enjoy a 50-inch screen. It's super easy to set it up that way and looks crisp at 1080p quality. It has 3000 lumens which makes it brighter than usual, I've seen no washed-out parts so far, the video quality is quite awesome!

The LUMOS FLOAT uses its remote to focus, way more convenient now since it's not manually done. The device also has built in apps like Netflix, Wi-Fi connection and Bluetooth if you want to connect it to the internet or your device. It has Wireless Mirror Casting, so you can easily see what you have on your phone. I even watched several videos from my phone without any hitches. The sound quality was also good and loud enough to fill the room. With it, you'll feel those shows and movies would be more immersive. You'll start to fall in love with those nights you'd spend with loved ones, your family, and with yourself. 

 

If the video looks a little imbalanced, it's easy to access the settings and adjust the projector. You can also adjust the zoom to your liking. The device also has a USB port so if you've got media you need to access from a drive, this is plug and play. So far, I'm addicted watching anime on it and several Filipino series. I've also been watching several action movies which felt like I'm in the actual scene in full volume. No wonder a lot of people get hooked with the LUMOS projectors. This isn't just me, a lot of folks swear by it and I'm sure if you experience it first hand, you'll know what I'm talking about.

Here's a little preview of the LUMOS FLOAT:

The LUMOS FLOAT also comes in 3 colors. You can choose Gold, Silver or Pink. I prefer the Gold since I have several gold accents in my room and it goes pretty well with the white walls. This costs Php 4,999 for the regular while the Smart version (with the apps) cost Php 7,999. It also comes with a 1-year local warranty so if you run into concerns, they'd be able to take care of it.

If you want to know more, visit their official site http://www.lumosprojector.ph/float and see what difference it makes on your entertainment arsenal. Prepare to change your views about projectors and be obsessed!

San Miguel To Start Oktoberfest with Grand Party

I've been so lucky to have been able to celebrate a lot of parties, but the San Miguel Oktoberfest parties are on another level. They're marking their 135th Anniversary this year, and that means we get to enjoy a full blown rock fest... at no less than the Okada Manila grounds in Paranaque City.

This will be a 2 day event and will happen on September 20-21 where you can enjoy some of the country's top acts, tons of food and your well loved San Miguel beverage to fit right in your hand. They're going to fill the venue with it, to prove once again that there's a winning global brews in the midst, plus a multitude of dishes prepared by restaurants like Cibo, Wolfgang Steakhouse, Las Flores, and a whole lot more. Yes, you can be sure there's going to be a lot of pairing. 

 

Music on the other hand will be taken on stage by Rico Blanco, December Avenue, artist Arthur Nery, popular band Lola Amour, the folks from Brownman Revival, iconic The Dawn, Autotelic, The Juans, The Cohens, DWTA, Carousel Casualties, Over October, It All Started in May, Magiliw Street plus more acts happening that day. The appearance of their very own San Miguel pro basketball team, Billiard gods Efren Bata Reyes, Django Bustamante (who will play too btw!), will be expected. 

 

They might join the party too. There will be tons of San Miguel merch that you can avail on these 2 nights, so make sure you get enough shopping money to enjoy that. Tickets will be sold at the venue or Ticket2Me.net if you want to get them online. If you want to know more details about the event, just visit their FB page by searching SanMiguelOktoberfest on the platform to see how it all happens.

Are you ready?!