Travel Tax and Lighthearted Talk with Mark Lapid

Got to talk to current TIEZA Head Mark Lapid and began our conversation about Travel Tax and funding. The Travel Tax on their end goes to infrastructure support for different spots in the country. He also mentioned the difference between them and the DOT. Their different mandate and roles in building hospitals, fixing airports with CAAP, terminals, wheelchair access, monitoring systems, conveyor belts, esplanade, boardwalks, lighting are just some of their duties. These are submitted by local government units and their board, in many places he mentioned in the interview.

He also talked about how his family still comes first, next is public service and showbiz. He treats showbiz as part of his passions, while politics affects so many people. The infrastructure gap in airports is huge compared to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries. They're doing a revamp and want all other domestic airports capable to land bigger airplanes and have those other airline companies to land directly in the provinces so they don't get congested in NAIA. 

He also talked to us about his relationship with his Dad becoming his number 1 critic and supporter. He also said how close they are with Coco Martin who they had the pleasure to work together in different Coco Martin led series, just to help since they have experience with it.

They've done this for several years and enjoy it. Imagine, they wanted this to be a 2 week guesting and they were there for almost a decade. He says "It's the art of "pakikipagkapwa tao". When we came back to the set, we were surprised about the big improvements, in the past you can't have a second take because of expenses. The digital era was freeing. I think I only feel better because of my wife (about his looks and health). We also want to lower taxes in cinema and encourage more creatives to release movies and make the public go back and watch in cinemas. I am against AI use, but if it's dangerous stunts, maybe we can consider but not to the detriment of production workers that can do a better job at it. We want to support it."

Mark Lapid reiterated that services their office implement to improve infrastructure needs to come from somewhere. Since the government still has no funds allocated for the TIEZA, they might ask for an extension for the Travel Tax until it gets funding somewhere else. There are people and the public that do benefit from their work, and it is essential to make sure the infrastructure gets maintained and managed well. 

Very Interesting Regional SHORT FILMS Showcased at Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival

Spent the whole day at Gateway Mall Cinemas to see Shorts set C and a few full length films. 

Regional films were in Shorts C. First one was called Pulis Dunggab. It is about street games, family, and the choices we make in life. Set in rural Cebu, it was all fine and dandy til something happened that would change their lives forever. Good overall, especially since it tackled social issues.

The second film was called The Sound of K. It was about being differently abled and the struggles they go through everyday life. Speech, which normally would be just mimicked by any person becomes a huge difficult task for  the character, among other things. A bit tragic to see but, I saw how people could learn from these scenes. It was excellently executed.

Third film NAKABINBIN talks about the pains people go through to get public service. The red tape, the difficulties we face just to bury a loved one, something that happens everyday... to ordinary people, and still happens today. It looked and felt painful, As always, Soliman Cruz showed depth, and carried this shirt film from start to end. Grabe!

The 4th one is called NANG MATAKASAN ANG TAGAY, a family drama of an OFW father and his son. His love was shown raw, and the film had pretty good premise. You might cry with the touching end. Heartwarming, and has an LGBT story line. 

I like the variety seen in Short Films seen at the Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival, you should watch them in Gateway and Ayala Malls. They've got the list of nominees out on the Puregold FB page. I'll post later! 

That Cute Movie "APOL of my AI " at PUREGOLD Cinepanalo Film Festival

Spent the afternoon at Gateway Mall cinemas to watch a full length film called Apol of my AI. Aileen Mercedes Is a substitute teacher who arrived in a school because Apol's original teacher had to bear her child. This film is not just a coming of age, but mostly the struggles of a Father who wasn't present all throughout his childhood, but couldn't earn enough to make a living in the Philippines.

His story is just like thousands of OFW's who want to make sure that the future of their kids , sacrificing time with them, and maybe, not being able to know them on a personal level. 

The story is cute, Zion Cruz looks like a real life cherub, and can act to boot. It's so nice to see him fall in love, be like a child, sing and also enjoy life. He also has a very complicated relationship with his Dad, and it'll show on screen if you watch it. 

I'd laud this film for its love for classic Filipino music and how it intertwines with the story. Maybe music could become a medium to repair their ties, especially since his father was a musician in cruise ships, since he needs to be at his best and impress his teacher. 

Who knows, Zanjoe might bag an acting award (though I think he might have had an advantage at parenting because he just had a baby!). The film also felt complete, you feel lighthearted as he tries to be the man he wishes to be. The Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival is still going on at Gateway Mall and Ayala Malls, go get tickets and win grocery items after watching (while supplies last). Theaters are packed , so go early!

GO LOSE POUNDS The MARIE FRANCE Way!

Go Lose Pounds (GLP) is the newest Marie France call as they build programs for you to lose weight, the Marie France Way. They make you feel good, look good and be well. With trusted information, guidance, you are going to be able to get to your goals, only if you qualify for their new GLP's. To start the conversation, they did a program at the halls of Manila Peninsula. 

Marie France understands that every journey, every body is different, but they'll be with you every step of the way. They had us try machines and treatments of Marie France to the hotel, which a lot of people tried. 

Dr. Erick Mendoza an Endocrinologist talked about weight loss. He mentioned how much it is apt to make it holistic, and of course sustain it. He says it's s not just eating less, moving more than solves things. We need to understand that weight gain is not a failure of will power, it's biology, genetics, stress, medications and medical conditions. There are a lot of reasons for obesity, it's not just because you are lazy, weak or being a failure. We need to understand obesity better, as we are now equipped with more strategies beyond just the scale. Insulin resistance, bp, sugar, cholesterol, of which are silent killers. He added how one should understand the person's medical history, a multidisciplinary approach like what Marie France does, of which we gain back strength, mobility and independence. He also mentions how it should be individualized, and progress takes time.

He reveals GLP 1 is revolutionizing weight management. That it responds to therapy, but it is a tool and not the sole way to lose weight. It also works well with guidance. Your target weight is not the finish line, but continued self care, physical and mental wellness too. You can do it with Marie France.

They also had several people take the GLP treatment and eventually got to their goals,.but the difference is, they trusted Marie France is the place to do it. Weight loss means muscle loss also, and some of them had sagging, Marie France had them try treatments to stop that from happening. It's why guided treatment is a must. It is necessary. While GLP-1 is not for everyone, Marie France can design something for you. Backed by medical science, you can't do it wrong with them.

Remember, pogress is not just a number in the weighing scale, it's the small wins that do.

Rosanna Roces' Colorful Past Revealed in Maddox Jewelry Visit

Known for being a feisty, experienced and gorgeous actress til today, Rosanna Roces' name still resonates to every Juan. Her stints in shows, series on TV and film made a mark and her personality shines when she talks, it can get as real as it can get.

She was trying to look for a place when she saw the Maddox Jewelry shop in Marikina City. Because she loves jewelry so much, she ended up going in and buying a few pieces, then met the equally beautiful owner Ms. Charo Cordial. 

Their conversation became very personal and went to her traumatic past, she found out she was given up for adoption for a mere Php 4,500. She only found out when she was already 15 after seeing a contract with the name of her biological mother in it. Admittedly, she got hurt but said she will always treat her adoptive mother her real one, someone she looked up to ever since. She also talked about her rift with comedy queen Ai-ai delas Alas whom she treated as a good friend, but ended up fighting over small things, then a half baked apology which even worsened the case. 

It all changed when they had to appear in one show. She went in to Ai-ai's dressing room one day and didn't even think about drama or confrontation. They immediately laughed it off like nothing happened. Imagine, they didn't talk to each other for 20 years and it all ended in one day. That's when they figured how time heals all wounds. 

Rosanna was so openly talking about very serious stuff while at the store with Ms. Charo Cordial. It's why she is loves by the masses, so if you love stories like these go follow Maddox Jewelry on Facebook, TikTok and their YouTube channel where she uploads more of these interviews. Just search for Maddox Jewelry on these platforms. 

Some Reasons to Watch BEAST at Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival

Just got out of Gateway Mall Cinema 18 after watching the film BEAST starring prime actor John Arcilla. It's a full length film dressed as a fable as much of the dialogue spin on farm animals that talk of love, relationships, and the struggles of raising a family in the countryside (at first). 

Agriculture might have been the industry that the Philippines is known for, but in reality, a lot of it has been delegated to real estate or urban development. They also talked about the struggle with the next generation who would rather have other money making jobs than tilling the soil and break their backs every planting/harvest season. People to crazy with these issues, which is discussed in the beginning of this film.

John plays a farmer called Omeng, one who spent years working in the fields. He gets news of it being sold, and deeply hurt in the process. The farm animals suddenly made him Dr. Doolittle-ish after being told to leave by his relatives. If it's AI or not (that Carabao), they did good technically in making it speak. I also loved how their conversations went, including the human-like words they used, sometimes funny and essential in bringing forth the emotions they wanted to give.

They discussed the importance of family ties, the beastly decisions they make in life. The film is also a lengthy journey (he did it from farm to the city), where he'll meet different people. It's also interesting because it'll show how their lives are intertwined (albeit being physically apart), fate always has a different way of doing things and yes, the adventures, the fun and drama included. 

This film feels good til the mid part, made me feel both happy and sad in the end. That's something you need to see and watch in cinemas since Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival is still on (schedule available on Puregold FB Page). 

Go to Gateway Cineplex and Ayala Mall Cinemas where short films and full length ones are being screened. I don't really need to sell something that John Arcilla does. Just him in the billing means you have to see it. 

The Importance of SHORT FILMS Showcased on Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival

While there was a GREAT choice of full films in the Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival this year, they got the short films into a package so you could watch several of it in one go. I got to see SHORTS A, and it was so good because the choices were awesome, from horror, sci Fi, documentary type, family, regional, they got the best ones in every story!

Here's a Quick Review:

Starfish - Man named Boyet does adult work in the city, but went home to the province after getting fired. His life is hard, even his sister, both brought up in an abusive home.It also talks about politics, boys love, gore, and pain. Much of it is symbolic, mirrors society.

Kung Hain Bisan Din - Main character is about to get married, story is about severed relationships with family. It is also deeply rooted in Waraynon dialect, She gets showcased in different camera angles, and wanting to become part of one of the most important events in her life. Felt bittersweet.

KANIBAL - This talks about politics, the family, set in a busy market. I like how they did it in Ilonggo/Hiligaynon. A bit weird. Character was for progress, until she personally gets affected. This is more on societal and political problems, and the hardships that most middle class go through.I liked the super unusual ending.

Sa mga Nagdaan at Lumipas - The film talks about LGBT struggles, the leftist groups, poor and underprivileged. It also talks about youth, music, and women. It has lengthy dialogue, needed to establish their view and a sense of being activists. It's also about Lesbians, and their colorful world. Sensible talk about love and relationships. Actress did so good on slow subtle scenes. 

LIMLIM - The movie talks about child abuse and early pregnancy. Scary to discuss something like it in cinema.so that alone is brave. It's a slow burn, and very quietly told. Actors were also good. Child should get recognition. My personal favorite. 

Shorts would be hard to reach especially because of their length and production value. Puregold took a RISK and chose a lot and have them be seen in a theater, it as worth it. Congratulations to Sir Chris Cahilig, the Festival Director who took these wonderfully made short films and have them connected to the audience. I hope this becomes a great start for these young creators, production, who wants to be seen. They did their job and I'm so happy to have seen all their work, I felt the future looks bright for Philippine cinema. 

They're still showing in theaters and they are being filled to the brim as we speak, make sure you do your part by seeing them in Gateway Mall or Ayala Malls, you would be impressed and I'm not joking. 

Atty. TONY LA VIÑA Sets Records Straight for Senator Loren Legarda and Representative Leandro Leviste

While information seem so murky and lacking these days, the heavy hitting Atty. Tony La Viña is setting the record straight for Senator Loren Legarda and Congressman Leandro Leviste. While the mother and son is abroad taking medical treatment, the lawyer, environmentalist, human rights advocate and academic lead wanted to set the record straight for them in the Philippines.

Atty. Tony La Vina says "This is a very important topic and it's good that we can tell the truth because there's a lot of misinformation and things that are being misunderstood about Senator Loren Legarda and Representative Leandro Leviste. I'll start with the headlines then you can ask about it, but first, there's been no government funds used in any of the projects that they say they benefited from. This should be clear for us. The Solar ng Bayan franchise that was given by congress that was non exclusive, so in other words it's not Leandro's franchise. It wasn't implemented because of the government office, the DOE didn't release a place where it will be implemented, nor rules and regulation for it. It was de facto revoked because it wasn't implemented."  

He also reiterated that claims of Ghost Electricity is unfounded because it was never implemented or generated. He also mentions that the renewable energy service contracts only involve private investments and no monopolies as Leviste only held a small percentage of the total contracts. The financial obligations (accusations of 24/10 billion) were issued to a different company and not to Leviste.

Here's his statement on video:

Atty. Tony La Vina also said that he accepted this case because of his opposition to political persecution and violations in due process, saying both the Senator and the representative didn't commit corrupt acts. He also says there's no outstanding financial obligations in the billions, and no involvement of the Senator but just a mother without any role in her sons business. 

He is here to ensure they get justice. Atty. La Vina also mentions that the Senator will issue a statement in the right time, and is convinced there should be no standing legal case against them.

(His statement is in Filipino, for direct translation, please refer to video. This was done with brevity. Thanks!)

NYX Opus Opens Doors Today

If you are obsessed with dining with friends and family, there's a new NYX branch that opened at Opus Mall in Quezon City. I've had the pleasure of experiencing NYX at their first one in One Ayala, but this one in Opus is something else.

Located at the mall's 3rd Floor, this intricately designed restaurant (thanks to Headroom for the concept) was something so impressive, I'd liken it to modern upscale spots in LA, Chicago or New York. What's different about this buffet place is that they also employ technology on every table, as you'd be able to order via QR several dishes a la carte without going around the restaurant. This appeals to a lot of folks who not only want to enjoy the ambiance, but the premium service that comes with it. My drinks and learning curve was answered by the eager server, which you'll find amazing as soon as you take your seat. 

On the menu, I ordered several servings of Wagyu steak slices, Truffle Cream Sauce, then walked for their Moroccan Salmon, Lamb Kofta, Chicken Turkish Kebab, Seaweed and Kimchi Butter and my personal favorite, the Slow Roasted Pork Belly. That last one was actually made of dreams, and I'm not even joking. Imagine soft meat chunks, layers of fat, and the skin CRUNCH that could reach and be heard by the next table. I'd go back just for that.

Here's a quick tour of NYX OPUS so you could see why it's all worth dining there:

 

 

 

They also have a separate Premium Menu which they have available on special occasions (today was one of them so I did! Priced separately.)

The Menu via QR was fast and convenient, I didn't need to stand up to get food, I just waited for the 10 dishes I ordered on my table. They were amazing especially the Wagyu Beef Plate.

 

Duck, Wagyu and Truffle Dumplings. Didn't I tell you? It was amazing! 

This is just the tip of the iceberg, because apart from the good food, they have wine, yogurt drinks, cocktails and just about anything you can imagine. Go visit them today at the 3F of OPUS MALL in Quezon City. It sits beside the Bridgetown property and a little drive exceeding Eastwood City. The mall is also so posh, I loved it there.  

 

 Would you take the drive to get to NYX Opus? I would!

 

Author Darwin Mariano Talks About NAMWARAN and the Golden Tara

After being launched at the Manila International Book.Fair, they did a showcase at the National Museum of Anthropology in Manila as they launched a novel by Atty. Darwin De Jesus Mariano entitled NAMWARAN and the Golden Tara.

This story reminds us the importance of heritage, history and the connections they have with each other. It tells the story of a diverse people, like a museum to bridge the gap between us and the artifacts we had at bay. This can affect you and me, a generation who can be proud of their past and national identity. 

While this may be fiction, it mirrors the Filipino. It helps us understand the community that lived before us and how early society was done. Having this be shared to new folks would make them understand and be inspired with stories.

Atty. Mariano says "In the late 90's and 00"s, we started a group , a community of museum advocates. Life got in the way, but during those times, I saw dream weaving, bronze plates, it filled my fascination, things I didn't learn in school. I took notes, and felt it could make a good story. I couldn't write, didn't want to, but since I'm 50, we made it into a comic of sorts, then life happened again, then wrote the novel myself. I did a few hundred pages, told a story from this region of the world. I hope the book makes you feel there is so much to us, that we can be more connected, more than we could ever know."

He read to us a part of the first chapter, and it was excellently described, he was very intricate in introducing the characters. Here's the press conference on video:

NAMWARAN and the Golden Tara is available in leading bookstores, also in Centralbooks which has branches in QC, Makati, Cebu, Manila and Davao.

Orange Magazine PH Forges Juicy Partnership with LAKBAY Magazine

Two entities, one known for Publishing, Travel, Government and Business while the other delves into Lifestyle, Brands, Entertainment and everything Online. Orange Magazine PH is taking a leap into having their work published in well known LAKBAY Magazine (and vice versa).  

Orange Magazine PH and I go way back, not that I've worked there because this site is older. They're currently celebrating their 17th year and wanted publishing to happen. It's tangible, the stories are forever, not seasonal or plain trendy. Here's some of the things we talked about during the signing ceremony at the SAVEA Bay City Manila Hotel in Paranaque City. 

There wasn't much convincing involved, just good old recognition that they could benefit from this partnership. Lakbay Magazine has been distributed in various corporate settings, airports, local and international spots. Orange Magazine PH's online presence is huge, always in the hottest events and brand launches, including celebrities that mirrors what's happening in the country. These folks obviously know what they're doing, and with each others expertise they could help each other grow. While these may be a phase, they're quite eager to put their content on print and online, something Jeman Villanueva (who owns Orange Magazine PH) always dreamed of. This is a very promising start, and Lakbay Magazine will take charge on Travel content while Team Orange will concentrate on Lifestyle, like a working marriage.  

Honestly, I'm super happy for them. They get to help each other reach more people. 

Some of their supporters like Tai Chi (a cool stick and liniment brand) gave folks massages and loot bags with Guyasteen Coffee and Kuchi Kuchi Cooling Powder in them, and SAVEA Bay City (who's pretty new) actually helped them with the event and made things happen. I can't wait to see the actual printed magazine be done in a few moons. They're also testing the waters so if you're keen to support them, this is the right time to actually do it. Message Lakbay Magazine if you want copies as they do give these away for FREE. If you're interested to be part of it, contact them there as well. 

I'd like to take this bit to congratulate both LAKBAY Magazine and Orange Magazine PH for the wonderful work they're about to embark on. Thanks for including us on your special day!

SHUVEE ETRATA and ANTHONY CONSTANTINO Star on "From VLOG to LOVE"

We've been seeing them before and after the highly successful PBB Celebrity Collab Edition, and yes, they look so good together that people have asked, when can they have their own project? Fret not because here it is, it's called "From VLOG to LOVE" which will be shown every Friday and Saturday, 7PM via the GMA Network YouTube channel. 

This is a mini series, a formulated romantic comedy where a goody two shoes provincial maiden got the interest of a visiting Filipino American lad who's got a naughty plan in place (oh maybe it ain't love!).

The cast includes Sparkle stars Caitlyn Stave, Kiel Gueco, Christian Antolin, Marnie Lapus, Che Cosio, and veteran actress Ruby Ruiz. This is a mix of laughter and love for those who are looking for a kilig fix, so make sure you see once it comes out. This is set in 2026, so aside from the romance, there will be complications on how this will all play in the age of social media, the internet and reel or real relationships. 

Make sure you follow their story because who knows! This might just be the start of something good.

GARY VALENCIANO "Back at the Museum" This October

I distinctly remember the first time I got to watch Gary Valenciano LIVE. I turned quiet, jaw dropped, and didn't make sense when he started dancing. People lost it, I lost it, because the man just showed how God given his talent is. 

The Music Museum was full to the brim, and this October, he's going back there to do "Back At The Museum" which is a 10 night concert where he could bring the same quality of music, high energy dance and his story of triumph in the industry. This will all happen on October 1,3,8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29 and 31st. That's every Thursday and Saturday of October, part of the celebration of Manila Genesis Entertainment and Management Incorporated's 40th year in the business. The location is significant for Mr. Pure Energy as he's officially done over 103 shows here. It's very intimate as the audience sits very near, you can feel him talk, feel the wind when he moves and dances, which is why it's so apt to do it in this venue.

Pure Energy One Last Time 

They plan to have this as a documentary and show on streaming platforms, possibly next year and have it be included in festivals. This will have his story embedded in it, his music, and the love he poured into his career over the years. 

Gary adds "My dream was to have a one-day showing in a theater or a limited run but wherein I will personally invite people to come and see it. And in one showing, one day, a time slot where I want people from the entertainment industry, the media to come and see it. And it will only be you guys. So it will be a full theater of people who know me enough because you've known me for years. I'm really hoping that can happen!"

That's 10 shows this coming month, and he adores how the new generation still appreciates his music. He hopes they too get fueled with the same fire and passion to help OPM flourish, reach audiences beyond our shores and be felt by audiences today. He also plans to do a tour of this sort in other parts of the Philippines, visit educational institutions too. Here's hoping folks could experience what we've seen in his concerts and not do mobile phone recording all the time. In the concert, you will get to experience looking all over the venue, which he promises to try new things (a huge hint!).

 

The concert will be directed by his son Paolo Valenciano, and will be musically directed by Mon Faustino. His special guest include Frankie Pangilinan who's recently been doing good in music. This is for the benefit of Shining Light Foundation. You may get tickets via premier.TICKETWORLD.com. Email tickets@ticketek.com.ph or tickets@manilagenesis.com.ph or their number 0999 954 5922/0917 550 6997 all up to you!

Kolette Madelo, Jude Hinumdum, Meann Espinosa, Dingdong Bahan, Jarren Garcia and Nikki Valdez for The Art of Breaking Up

The Art of Breaking Up will have a run at the PETA Theater on November 6 to December 6, 2026. Star Magic Spotlight will be pointed to Kolette Madelo, Jude Hinumdum,  Meann Espinosa, Dingdong Bahan, Jarren Garcia and Nikki Valdez as they talk about their work on stage.

This is the handy work of George de Jesus and directed by Dudz Teraña, a part of Teatro Kapamilya and PETA. This is Nikki Valdez's first straight play, and not doing a musical is quite comfy. Meanne talked about she initially didn't want to do acting, but ended up in a role even if she was too frank for comfort. Dingdong on the other hand is also from PBB, then did a few series on TV and landed roles which he found weird initially. Jarren felt the previous videos shown during the event made him feel nervous, like he's "being evicted again" he kids. Jude joked about the purple eye shadows, the Tabing Ilog the musical, dulaang UP and TV shows during the HIGH STREET days. He feels blessed and happy, he's a funny chap.

In a nutshell, it's about love, breaking up and finding love again. It's also about a web of characters, only a few vocalists will be featured and it's mostly talk. Songs would be in the background to make sure the feel of it would be front and center.

The play is interesting, so if you're itching to watch it, go see it at the PETA Theater on that run. Go get tickets via Ticketnet and watch it then! Thanks to Star Magic Spotlight we got to know them better!