Big Screen Dreams: Coco Martin, Matti, and Monteverde Team Up

When I got invited to this event, we weren't told about who's coming on stage but pretty much got clues with the shirts of the people filming it, they all had CCM printed which makes us believe it's a Coco Martin event. There were 3 chairs in front though so just seeing that made me realize it was something big, and true enough they came out with guns blazing.

One is an iconic director, of OTJ fame, Erik Matti, the other is a big producer from the Monteverde clan, Mr. Dondon Monteverde and of course, the biggest action star of this generation, producer and director Coco Martin. They plan to do 2 huge film projects for Coco particularly "MayPagasa The Battles of Andres Bonifacio" and "OTJ: Maghari" which will be under Reality Studios and CCM Productions.

Sir Dondon told us that this was sealed on the sidelines after some talks happened at the death anniversary of Mother Lily Monteverde a few months ago. He says "The death anniversary of my Mom started all of this. Losing my Mom was a huge blow to the industry. We always wanted to work with Coco and we've met in events with it behind our minds. It was just an opportune time to start talking, showing him other projects. He didn't like what we presented him at first, but when he knew about these two films (not included in the discussion, he just wanted it to happen!"

Direk Erik Matti had huge success with the OTJ franchise and Coco always wanted to be part of it. Direk Erik shares "Maghari is the story of Joel, the Tatang of OTJ. It's a 90's themed movie of him protecting his family. MayPagasa The Battles of Andres Bonifacio is a historical bio, and it is scary to do because it is based on that. Ours is different, we're bringing it to the future and shooting it in a modern way. It's all about what is happening now in the country." 

Coco was smitten with the thought of doing an OTJ installment and told us "When I watched OTJ, I honestly was waiting, waiting to be cast in a film like it. I required my staff to watch it (before doing Batang Quiapo) and I hoped they notice me. I asked myself and said maybe I wasn't enough, because they weren't calling me. I was silent, and thinking they were not considering me because I didn't have potential, so I tried to do one myself (his shows) but got so busy with my series. One day, they informed me that they wanted to talk about it, I told them I was waiting for this to happen. I know how folks have been appreciating Filipino films that they made, they pitched a few projects with me but I told them I was a fan of OTJ and Buybust. After that, I talked about a historical film, then they talked to me about a project they wanted to do about Bonifacio. They thought I was a fit in these two projects they didn't talk about initially."

He added "Now that we're together, we just needed to make it bigger for a global audience. This will make a mark in the Filipino film industry. I'm also working with the best, and this IS an answered prayer! We can't wait to release this in 2027!"

Here's the whole press conference on video:

Giants Coco Martin, Direk Erik Matti and Dondon Monteverde actually has plans to do more, so this is just for starters. When I asked about challenges, Coco was severely optimistic that all these projects are possible, he's always had that positivity in all his projects since he's successfully done it. He attributes most of it because of this optimism, and since they plan to release this internationally, they need your support once it comes out locally. With an internationally acclaimed actor (tons of indie films on his belt), Director (familiar with Filipino film projects released worldwide) and the best production outfits this country, these projects are pretty much a done deal. 

I just can't wait to see it! 

Baskin Robbins Opens at Bonifacio Global City

This, is stuff made of legends.

When I heard Baskin Robbins, I had to say yes immediately. It's name doesn't only mean ice cream.. but you would need to think about the flavors, the textures and varieties that comes with it. I can even say, that it takes a lifestyle to make heads and appreciate it. I was so glad to have heard of the news that they opened their first full blown store in the Philippines.

It's located at the mall found in the Central Square, Bonifacio Global City. I immediately peeked at the chest freezer and found my favorite flavors already there. Pistacho just sounds so good in my books.

Now you've got the chance to get your Milkshake, scoops and build your own sundaes! Nobody said you can't have 2 or 3 scoops in your freshly made wafer bowls too. Top it off with chocolate syrup, nuts, whipped cream and cherry on top... it's just made of dreams! Available flavors are: Jamoca, Mint Chocolate Chip, Jamoca Almond Fudge, Pistachio Almond, Pralines n Cream, Gold Medal Ribbon, Caramel Chocolate Crunch, Chocolate Mousse Royale, World Class Chocolate, Cookies n Cream, Green Tea, Coconut, Choc Chip Cookie Dough, Mango Tango (which I've tried), Chocolate, Peanut Butter n Choc, Chocolate Chip, Very Berry Strawberry, Rum Raisin, Macadamia Nuts n Cream, Vanilla, Love Potion #31 (which I also had), Hokey Pokey, Orange Sherbet, Rainbow Sherbet, Citrus Twist Ice, Chocolate Chip NSA, Caramel Turtle NSA, Cotton Candy, Blackberry Yogurt, Strawberry Yogurt, Mango Yogurt, Maui Brownie Madness... it was heaven on Earth!

They even have merchandise that's got Baskin Robbins all over it. I specifically love the bags and drink containers as seen above. I also love the cap I got from participating in one of Baskin Robbins' games during the launch. I battled it out with other bloggers in scooping ice cream in one cone. I think I did okay and of course I ate it all! :)

We also saw hunky Azkal Anton Del Rosario and wife Samantha Richelle - Del Rosario enjoying the sundaes with their super cute kid! He also remembered me since I have interviewed him in other presscons before. I love them. His wife was also so gorgeous in that classic 60's pinup-esque outfit. Don't they look adorable? :) They truly love Baskin Robbins!

When we almost thought the ice cream and chit chat was enough for the event, they went in and surprised us with a mob dance courtesy of The Philippine All Stars!

 These guys and gals also grabbed some of the kids on the sidelines so they can dance with them in the middle of the new mall. By the way, I've only seen SSI brands on this mall. I think this place is theirs. Although Baskin and Robbins is managed by a local company, things are imported as well. It was much of a happy day! 

  Congratulations Baskin Robbins! Welcome back! The decade you went away just made you surely missed! Their store is in the Upper Ground Floor of the mall in Central Plaza, Bonifacio Global City. Make sure you save some Very Berry Strawberry while you're there. :)

For more information about their store:

Baskin Robbins Ph

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http://baskinrobbins.ph

The Electrolux Housewarming Party

I arrived a little late at the new Electrolux office in Bonifacio Global City a couple of days ago. Although from afar, I heard a familiar voice from one of my favorite DJ's on Philippine radio Delamar Arias - one of the hosts of my most favorite radio show in the entire world The Morning Rush on RX93.1. I've been wishing to see these guys for a long time but I haven't seen them together since the Bactidol campaign. Today, Delle was here to host a very special day for Electrolux and yes they have moved into a very nice and upscale office in the Fort. It was really nice for them to invite us over and take a look at their newest products including their endorsers too.

Ms. Janice Villanueva and Delle were preparing something on the kitchen when we got there. This is their open faced fish panini. I guess it's about the same process in cooking but it was made easier by making it with just a few steps. Mixing the onions, tomatoes, spices and other ingredients, lay them on top of the fish, put them on top of the panini and bake until brown. I think I've gotten the hang of this because I do cook. I think their dish was special though because they got to use the Electrolux oven and made it in minutes! Voila!

 

It's even healthier and really tasty, made with love by Ms. Janice Villanueva. It passed the standards of Delle, so that says a lot. It was during this time that I also saw Delle's cute as a button son Cooper who was sitting on the side. It was like a short family gathering really. This new Elextrolux office looked so homey despite of its urban flair.

Then I saw my favorite Chef in the world Chef Bruce Lim (Nigella Lawson comes a close second for obvious reasons LOL). I still distinctly remember meeting this guy for the first time during an Electrolux event last year and I've seen him a couple of times since. I've learned a lot and still enjoy to catch his show on the Asian Food Channel every now and then. It's so great that he's one of the personalities endorsing for the brand because he's got it all. 

He also showed us around the kitchen and told us about this great refrigerator here. The thing is, he showed his romantic side hehe. He usually writes notes on the fridge door directly and says how he goes about using it everyday. A proud father, it's also the place where he posts his sons drawings. If it can make the wear and tear of kids and his busy cooking, I don't think anyone will have problems working with Electrolux appliances in your homes. He made us a fast and easy pasta dish using Pene, mushroom and cream. Ahhh.. I had seconds of course! Thanks Chef for a wonderful meal!

When a short raffle was held, they dropped the bowl and did the greatest thing that evening. They gave us each a brand new Microwave Oven! Woot! Thank you so much to the executives of Electrolux and CONGRATULATIONS on your new home at the Bonifacio Global City! Can't wait to see more of your events there as you launch new products in the coming years!

PS. I love your No Noise Blender. When can we see that in action soon? :)

For more information about their brand:

Electrolux PH

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Visit their official website

http://www.electrolux.com.ph