iStudio Plus Starts Coffee Sessions: More Products In Store!

Just attended the coffee session of iStudio Plus at their 3rd Floor Gateway Mall branch in Quezon City. It's a venue to collaborate, talk amongst tech brands at their space in the mall. For starters, we got to know the folks from Insta360 and Ecoflow power stations (under Enabled). We also talked to the folks from DIVOOM speakers. 

 

EcoFlow is the number one power station brand in the world. They are tech driven and eco friendly made for individuals, family and those who need them. They are present in tech conventions around the world and has impressed award giving bodies for design and tech. Their prime products include the EcoFlow River 3, which is a ups and takes an hour to charge. It's also waterproof and very compact, perfect for travels. They are 30 percent smaller than competitors. They also have River 3 Max Plus which can be stacked, if you need double the capacity then this is perfect for you because it is modular. They also have the bigger EcoFlow DELTA 3 Series, a bit bigger and has bigger output of 1800W. Products cost 35-69K. They have bigger ones for homes that have 4000W. It can also be expanded, best for homes if you want something off the grid. They also have the EcoFlow Trail 300+ to launch in the PH soon (November), which you can use in camping trips. Costs 10-15K.

The best 360 camera in the world is also available in iStudio Plus, the Insta360. It's got all day and all night angles, very good in low light. It has enhanced replaceable lenses, can do 8K videos, 208 minute battery life, waterproof at 15m. The Ace Pro 2 on the other hand has AI capability, better quality videos and can be used for filming. It's more of an action camera than a vlogging one. The battery also lasts 180mins but can be charged fast. Their flagship camera is the Insta360 GO ULTRA. It's got Ultra HD videos for day and night shots, magnetic mounts, longer battery life at 200 minutes, do underwater shots, and fast charging for 12 minutes. It also has AI editing and cloud so you can edit while traveling. Even if you are not a pro it can do the legwork and make it for you. They also have the devices packaged for creators with sticks and mounts for motorcycles too.

Divoom speakers are quite different because it's made with art and pixels in mind. Their newest one is the Times Frame, a digital picture frame that also displays video done through the Divoom app. It also has clocks, widgets, customized edge lights so it can be the star of your show (in the bedroom or elsewhere). They also have retro speakers like the Ditoo 5M which can be displayed with pixel art. It also has Karaoke mode so you can take it out on parties. If you want something cute, the Dipow 65 would fit you, it has an LED screen and can stand like a character, or the DIPOW 35 if you want something smaller that you can attach to a phone or power plug. They also have a Times Gate model which has a larger display, something fancy for rooms or decor. They have the very popular Cyberbag that has displays on the back, I've seen that in motorcyclists. It's super cool! If you want something smaller, they also have the Cyberbag M or the Pixoo Sling Bags that you can pair with your phone app and use for display. The Spark Pro on the other hand can be the Karaoke arsenal to have, it's got superb audio and very portable. If you need something smaller,  they have the Fairy or Spark Pop (which I personally use in the shower to enjoy hours of music!).

Here's a tour of the place, enjoy! 

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Now if you need Apple or non Apple products, you can go to iStudio Plus branches near you. You can also inquire on their Facebook page if you need more information about these devices too. 

MIKA SALAMANCA is the New LUXE ORGANIX Brand Ambassador

After a really great week for Mika Salamanca, she's not stopping anytime soon as she gets signed with beauty brand LUXE ORGANIX. The event was graced by GMA AVP for Talent Management Mr. Vic Del Rosario, Ms. Anne Puno the AVP for Talent Sales Branding and Marketing, Ms. Joy Marcelo the FVP for Sparkle, Mr. Eugene Yap and Ms. Diane Yap the CEO and President of Luxe Organics.

Mr. Eugene Yap says "It's her authenticity that made us have her as our endorser. We are a brand that remains affordable but effective. She is inspiring and has influence, this is an exciting partnership"

Mica says "I always see them in stores and I personally use their product. I didn't really have to make an effort because I knew, one day, that I would be part of this brand. I am super happy because a lot of brands approached me but this one works for me. I like the cleansing balm, but I'm a fan of the Aloe Vera and Rose Scented products that they have. I need to show them my skin, and that's because of LUXE ORGANIX."

When asked about the things she could suggest for those starting skincare or makeup, she says "Before you even put on something that would cover your skin, you have to make sure it's hydrated. I get little breakouts when I use things that are not in a gel form so Luxe Organix is the perfect solution for me."

She also suggested to use the spray on Sunscreen because we need to always look young. Sun damage certainly isn't a part of that, so she gets points for choosing that among the products that they have.

Luxe Organix is available in Watsons, leading stores and online too.

That Nordic Spirit Flavor City Party was Epic!

I've been partying non-stop and gracing different clubs every weekend for years now. While I'm still in the mood for it, some of my peers are all trying to embrace family life and adulting, which is not a bad idea. I on the other hand have not stopped, and I am so glad about it. It brings me endorphins, and I love it. 

I was invited a little over a week ago to Nordic Spirit's Flavor City party at the POP UP place in Katipunan Avenue. They're a brand of t0bacco free nic0tine pouches that are designed for no fuss, very discreet use. I used to sm0ke occasionally but stopped cold turkey about a decade ago and things like these weren't available in the PH market. It's a Swedish brand and available in different flavors like Fresh Frost, Lush Red, Lush Crimson, and Green Frost. It's used by tucking under the lip, left or right side cheek and could last you around 40mins. They didn't encourage using it but I did, and I think it's a pretty good alternative. They also had several booths and activities to try out, so it was fun to see all that happen.

Anyway, the party was sick because Denise Julia and Sam Concepcion performed on stage. Crowd was quite young but their music was universal. I loved what they dished out including the DJ who was there til the wee hours of the morning. Thanks for the epic party Nordic Spirit!

MIKA SALAMANCA Becomes Stellar Face of J Spray Fragrances

 

This isn't the first time we've had the opportunity to meet Mika Salamanca. Luckily we've had the chance to talk with her during post PBB stints, several endorsements, and now for J Spray Fragrances. They're a home grown brand that's involved in beauty, cosmetic and personal care products. She is their first ever endorser which Mika felt so honored about. 

Mika says "If a brand trusts me like this, I do get encouraged. This huge brand trusted me to be the face of their product and it's something that reminds me, to always be a good person. It's not just my image that I have to think of, it has to be all the brands that put their trust on me too. I am so flattered when these things happen. Now that I'm more matured, I grow, I make sure that when I say something in social media, it's the truth from me. I make sure I believe in my statements because in the future, when things get magnified, I can stand by it."

She also shares their upcoming projects coming out next year... she says "I've been looking forward to do Hotel88 which will show next year. It will be shot this month as we're going to be in a locked in taping for it. I'll be with the other housemates in the show so I'm so excited to do it because it wouldn't be awkward since we've been together inside the PBB house. I would like to see how our dynamics work now that we'll be together in a series. I've already done the workshops with them, but this is real life so I want to see what will happen. We need to talk, deliver lines and learn from each other." 

She also says that when someone compares them with other housemates, she gets flattered because they're both busy and established, she thinks it's a matter on how you see it. She believes that people have their own preference. About her new book "Lipad" she mentions how she's so thankful receiving a lot of good reviews about it. She lifts it all up to God. The one she remembers was in National Children's Hospital where a cancer patient thanked her for giving him a book. When she gave the copy, he told her that he will treasure it and remember her. She told him not to do that but just remember the lessons in the book she gave.  

Here's the press conference on video:

 

 

Mika loves the scents because they've got a lot of variants. They've got ones named "Glamour", "Admire" and "Charm", or "I Do", "Be With You", or "Love Fantasy". They also have the pastel themed "Everyday With You", "Uptown Girl" and "Mi Amore", and for the boys "Blue Water", "Aqualic" and "Wave" or the Constellation themed "Prince Charming", "Boy Next Door" (which Mika wanted Papa P to wear) and "Rockstar". These are all available on online shopping platforms and their Facebook account JSprayOfficial. 

Congratulations Mika! Here's to more of these in the future!

SISTERS Welcome New Sis MEGAN YOUNG

She's still so beautiful and has a certain glow after giving birth to a baby boy, she's the one and only Miss World 2013 Megan Young. She is the new Sis of popular feminine hygiene brand Sisters manufactured by Megasoft Corporation.

Megan says "If I'm going to be honest, I didn't get to take care of myself after giving birth. Mikael was there when I was getting overwhelmed, and that reassurance from him got all my Mom guilt out of my system. Sometimes you just want to take care of everything but we have to learn to share the responsibilities. Now I get to taking care of myself and my baby. I always say I am a strong follower, but when he got injured I saw how I was able to lead. Sisters is a brand I truly believe in, and use too. We're happy to share this to other folks, my management knows about it."

She adds "My last project was Royal Blood, but I'm excited to take on new projects because now we can do content, a show with all of us together. For now there will be one parent with Leon, we want him to grow extra happy. We're mostly at home taking care of Leon, we have minimal time to go out but plan to travel with everyone soon because my baby already has his passport"

Megan wasn't briefed yet but so eager to be part of the school visits they do to teach those of age about feminine hygiene. She knows through experience how they often are too shy to be seen using pads which is a normal occurrence. This is also part of their efforts on Sister's 25th year anniversary. You will see Megan on activations, posters and commercials on their socials and TV. 

 

Here's the press conference on video:

 

 

 

Congratulations Megan on getting this endorsement and for baby Leon! 

MQuest Ventures and PARI Unite for AWIT AWARDS

Took the trip to hip Poblacion district in Makati for a one of a kind Vibe PH night where folks from production giant MQuest Ventures and the Philippine Association of the Record Industry signed a partnership to host the 38th edition of the prestigious Awit Awards. 

The event was hosted by several vibe jocks (Maxie Andreison, Joao Constancia, Anna Ramsey, Elijah Canlas, Kych Minemoto, Queenay, a mix of their young gen) and a lot of the artists under different recording companies were in attendance to support the pact. MQuest Holdings President and CEO Ms. Jane Basas and PARI President and Chairman Atty. Marivic Benedicto formalized this signing with executives from various labels serving witness too. I think I've seen Universal's Ethel Cachapero, OC Records James Banaag, and Alpha Music's Alvin De Vera (some personally said hi) at the event. 

For those who don't know, VIBE has been doing countdown shows in multiple channels and has been quite aggressively promoting OPM these past few months and we've seen several established, up and coming, indie and more performing on the show. They're a very good bunch interviewing artists, giving them the platform they need to promote music, and love for it. Actually, much of the event had artists perform in between Vibe portions where they interview them. 

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CUESHE performs their classic hits!

As for the 38th Awit Awards, it will happen this coming November 16th at the huge Meralco Theater in Ortigas. It will be at the helm of Johnny Manahan to direct the show. Artists like Ben & Ben, Over October, Lola Amour and popular Dionela were also announced to perform in the awards night, . We were also treated with lovely songs by CUESHE (and other bands). I like how some of them did it in a different way. You can watch it on my YT account's Shorts @kumagcow.

Again, the awards night will be shown on Vibe at TV5 and the associated channels of Vibe PH, TV5, MQuest, PARI and Awit Awards.  

It just sounds so exciting! 

ALFRED VARGAS' Message To His Younger Self

Looks like former cong and now (QC's 5th) Councilor Alfred Vargas is spending his weekends reflecting on life and improvement as he reminisces on what advice he can give his younger self. In true makata fashion, he pens out a heartfelt message in Filipino signifying resilience, his fears, overcoming it, real success and how to achieve it. 

He also tells the importance of love for family, honoring them, giving respect, and how to be of service to others. He also dedicates these lines to his faith. Here's his recent Instagram post:

His knack for words and urge to share what he has learned through life experiences is something that should be emulated. 

We can't be just complacent, we need to continuously learn from our mistakes, improve ourselves and other people. We all need to work on that, and not forget to share because wisdom, is golden.

A Taste of the SMB Oktoberfest Party

The mood was crazy as folks went to Okada for the kick off of SMB Oktoberfest which was a 2 day event last September 20. This isn't an ordinary day because they are also celebrating their 135th year, a milestone for the homegrown brand San Miguel Brewery Inc. 

At the launch, they had performers like Rico Blanco, Lola Amour, December Avenue, my favorite boy Maki, Arthur Nery, Brownman Revival, The Juans, The DAWN, Autotelic, The Cohens, Paprika, DWATA, Carousel Casualties, Magiliw Street, It All Started in May, Sean Archer, Acapellago, DJ Chelsea and Rammy. Executives such as SMB President Carlos Berba, the action superstar Coco Martin, Okada's Vice Chair Takako Okada,  and several dignitaries joined in the fun and celebrated with overflowing new brews such as the Pale Ale, Fruity Wheat Ale, Summer Ale and the Specialty Lager (which everyone enjoyed). They also had the Magician Efren Bata Reyes, Django Bustamante, and the San Miguel Beermen who did several exhibition games and fan interaction, something you will look forward to on SMB Oktoberfest day. 

Here's a glimpse of it on video!

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Top local bands are slated to headline the actual Oktoberfest festivities which include Rocksteddy, Sun kissed Lola, The Collars, Progeny, Parisukat,  Urbandub, December Avenue, Missing Filemon, Nikolay, and Kuwako. It will also happen on October 18 in Paseo de Sta Rosa in Sta Rosa Laguna, then on October 31st at the Queensland Manor in Cebu City. 

Tickets are already available at the Ticket2Me app and website, so go check out schedules published at the SanMiguelOktoberfest FB page to know more about this festive month! Don't say we didn't tell you about it! 

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!