RK Rubber Enterprise Corp. Launches 6th CINEGOMA Film Festival

If you're in the look out for indie films, there's a lot being showcased at the CINEGOMA: RK Rubber Film Festival. It's an open film festival hosted by RK Rubber Enterprise Corporation to feature student and non-professional films that tell stories of resiliency, grit, determination and the Filipino spirit. They are also making sure the film makers are going to be featured in several locations across Quezon City.

This is their 6th installment, so far from the initial 6 films independently produced when they started, they now have a little over 50 films shown in several locations. They also have some of the films released in other provinces like Olongapo City prior to this launch in Quezon City. They also did a parade to promote the CINEGOMA Film Festival around Quezon City Circle grounds with a full on band, street dancers, participants and the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe. 6th installment not only means film, but workshops and several mainstream works that are exhibited for the filmmakers and the public.

Xavier Cortez the CEO of RK Rubber who heads the festival says "I feel pressured because of the introduction but this is the 6th year of the CINEGOMA Film Festival. Thank you to the organizers, to the employees of RK Rubber, the production department of the same corp, the logistics department and operations, to RK Rubbers Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, the RK Rubber Davao and to the media who went here for the opening of CineGoma. You are giving them voice, to those who volunteered and supported CINEGOMA and provided expertise and experience, to help make sure we get to understand how go organize this show and emman dela Cruz. We also have the sales department of Manila who got us huge projects to contribute here. If we are this big and do this every year, there will be more than 40 films that will benefit from it. Folks have never got tired of CINEGOMA because the independent and small filmmakers are being given experience, so they too can tell their stories. Each of you have stories, unique ones that can change the lives of others. Because if we do that, there will be a huge impact on communities, and I hope this 6th CINEGOMA becomes bigger in the next few years as we imagined it to be."

He adds "I feel proud that my once schoolmates are now cheering for a person who wants good things to happen with filmmakers. I get teary eyed, because they're so proud of me too. For all who participated, full length or shorts, congratulations to all of you! I'll do my best to make this better, give more opportunities for filmmakers and this is all for you!"

Here's what happened at QCX that morning:

This year's categories are separated into Student, Commercial, Pro, made with AI and RK which are meant for RK Rubber Enterprise employees only. As mentioned by Sir Xavier, prizes amount from 5,000 pesos to 25,000 pesos depending on the award category. This will run from November 24-29, and the awards will be given at the Quezon City University on the last day. Make sure you watch the films at Sine Pop and exhibitions around Quezon City during this time because after all, it's the City of Stars! (Please check schedule on CINEGOMA social channels).

This is certainly a great way to showcase their talents, and hopefully, the ones who have a lot of promise gets noticed especially the students. They were very eager to showcase their work during the festival launch. Congratulations to RK Rubber Enterprise Corporation for mounting this every year!

Susana's by Pelayo's: Comforting Pasta That Might Change Your Life

Susana's mouthwatering signature Lasagna

Quezon City certainly has some really remarkable food havens and one of them is the Banawe area. There's a multitude number of cuisines, and each street still has some dishes to discover, but this one might change your life (oh yes we love puns!).

For those who are familiar with Pelayo's Cafe + Bistro (and their restaurants across Luzon), they've been in the food industry for a couple of years now. Solidly known for their mouthwatering Crispy Pata and Patatim, they have been able to satisfy countless Filipino homes with their quality cooked dishes and hosted tons of events and gatherings too. With the success of the brand in recent years, they continued to innovate, research and develop recipes for the ones at home, and to be able to make their lives easy in preparing ready to eat meals especially for those who they love.

Native Salad with Poached Egg

My personal favorite, the Patatim

Their well loved Crispy Pata

Beef Sinigang for those rainy days

Bangus Sisig

Hearty and corn lovin Suam

That's the secret ingredient to the food they serve and this month, they're launching Susana's Lasagna, a namesake of the owner's (Rad Pelayo) grandmother. We had a half serving of it on a plate to whet our appetite, and to tell you honestly, their version is a really good one. If you're often being served the tangy Italian versions of it in high end restaurants in Manila, Susana's Lasagna is a lot different because they managed to modify the dish to fit the Filipino palate. It's not too sour, not too sweet, but just right. It's also very cheesy, where one should note that even if they made it affordable, they didn't shortchange in the quality of ingredients. This is something they take pride on.

How This May Change Your Life

Susana's by Pelayos is actually starting to grow their business. This means, that YOU have the opportunity to be part of that by becoming a reseller or a franchise owner. It's the holiday season and Susana's Lasagna knows there's a lot of people who dread cooking for a lot of people during this time.

Conveniently sold frozen, you would just need to have this delivered, thawed (if you need it for other days) and put in the microwave or oven. Their goal is to be able to help other entrepreneurs to start their own business by selling them, or even have it be supplied to restaurants and cafe's as well. This means that as a seller, you don't need to do hard labor cooking. Customers have been loving the pasta like we did and the products can last a few months (best to consume in 2 months) but it could last in the freezer for more than that.

Franchise owners have the option of having time tested products both from the Pelayo's bistro menu and the Susanas by Pelayos line of pastas to sell or enjoy. If you're interested, please get in touch with them via their BANAWE BRANCH at 0917 119 3366 or visit them at 74 P. Florentino st. Sto. Domingo Banawe, Quezon City or their LUBAO BRANCH by calling 0917 144 4628 or their address Purok 3, Lourde Lauc Pao, Lubao, Pampanga.

They have these dishes combined in boxes with drinks and other viands so you can conveniently serve guests during events. The pasta from Susana's are also available in Solo, Sharing and Party Size. I bet there's going to be a lot of people who would order this during Christmas or New Year. Ordering is also easy as referrals will be done with nearby sellers/franchisees once they get in touch with their page Susana's Lasagna on FB.

Experiencing PANDA PLATES: Flavors of the World in Quezon City

 

Manmaru Japanese Restaurant, Pandan Asian Cafe took out their best dishes!

There's often a discussion between friends and family where to eat, but I think this doesn't happen often in Quezon City. Here, we've got choices, choices that you don't have (I kid!). Oh how I love being in my hood, and people know it. Imagine, you can feel like you've been around the world just by going through several restaurants in Tomas Morato. This is the experience done courtesy of the folks from foodpanda. They properly call it PANDA PLATES: Flavors of the World in Quezon City. Hold on to your seats because this is good! 

Chili's Tomas Morato had Half Slab of Ribs, Truffle Burgers, Molten Chocolate and Salmon.

 

As you can see, Quezon City did not disappoint when it comes to food from around the world. We also went to BASTA Cafe in Kamuning, pick ups from Dulcinea in Tomas Morato, had deliveries from Amici in the Scout Area and end with a feast at CHILI's in Tomas Morato. You can literally walk to these establishments but might take a while in some of them. Good thing we've got the foodpanda app to ease the burden on folks during this rainy afternoon. 

The Quezon City Tourism Department's Ms. Yasi Jorge told us this is one of the city's best culinary destination and they're glad that foodpanda is doing it here. It has been a vibrant way of showcasing food culture, tradition and innovation. Every street offers new flavors, a new story, and great experience. They're happy to be a part of the gathering that makes food from this place shine. There's a lot of home grown restaurants and establishments in this place and they're raring to welcome guests even more. Added it's a culinary capital that is worthy to be explored. This gives emphasis to give support in everything local. The dining culture is alive and thriving in QC, and definitely more to explore!

Ms. Jade Legazpi foodpanda's Senior Account Manager also shared how they'll be launching promos specifically during Quezon City's founding anniversary. This was on October 12th where they gave up to 20 percent discount on QC restaurants, so make sure you follow foodpanda's social media channels so you wouldn't miss promos like it in the future. foodpanda's Jerome Mangahas also awarded winning participants in the days event. It was really fund and we didn't go home hungry, thanks foodpanda!

Can't wait to have another one of these food crawls happen soon!

KAI MONTINOLA Appears at the "HEARTS AND BELLS" Event in Megamall

My favorite cake brand is ramping up their stores with an even bigger look as "Hearts and Bells" unveiled their newest branch at the 2nd floor of SM Megamall Building B in Mandaluyong City. One great thing was PBB Teen housemate Kai Montinola was gracing the event (we had the pleasure of meeting her in previous occasions) and it was certainly lovely to know that she's here to support them and give a huge thanks. She personally met with the owners Mr. Reynold and Marita Laddaran too.

For those who don't know, Hearts and Bells actually was responsible for the actual cake that Kai had during her debut (18th birthday) which is why she really see it fit to be present during one of the brand's biggest event this year. If you're familiar with the brand, they usually have those square kiosks and fridges but now are sporting a bigger, new look. They've been able to grow to over 15 branches over the years and have a very loyal following because of their buttercream cakes, which are not too sweet and tastes so good! 

Cakes by Hearts and Bells (photo from their FB page, edited by me)

The folks from Hearts and Bells had Kai cut the ribbon for their newest branch. People from all walks of life suddenly packed the area, trying to take a glimpse of the PBB alumnus, Star Magic artist and the new store. We had the pleasure of talking to Kai after the event, and we got to talk about a few things regarding her recent endorsements, shows, music and future plans. She was gorgeous, very eloquent, very smart too. 

Kai says "They were the ones who made my cake during my debut, to return that favor and thank them, I am here today. Even if they've been very quiet, they've grown as a brand and now have 15 branches all over the country. I love that they're not showy, not commercial, I love how they do business and I'm glad I'm here."

Talking about her recent wins, she attributes it to PBB and her journey there. She adds "My biggest achievement though is just being able to push through, not really the title that I've achieved, but with all the challenges that came my way, I am glad I am still here. Add to that my first album, and my first MMK appearance, I can say I'm still ready for more."

She also feels elated on how brands have continued to trust her and became their endorser. She's very new in the industry and felt her dreams are starting to all come true. To be chosen by these brands, she feels honored and validated. She also feels the good kind of pressure this brings and hope to become better at it and her craft. Though she feels that she still has a LOT of things to learn. She chooses the brands that are the same with her morals, also tells us how thankful she is for the team that supports her career.

Here's our whole interview with Kai after the event:

I would like to take this bit and say thank you and congratulations to Hearts and Bells on their recent achievements. Be assured that I'll continue to order my Mocha flavored cake from you guys every occasion that I can. Thank you also to Kai for being so nice that afternoon, and for letting us interview her after the event. Really appreciate it! Here's wishing more success in the coming years as your star shine brighter! 

QC Councilor Alfred Vargas Dedicates Recent Accomplishments to Manager Lolit Solis

QC Councilor Alfred Vargas just graduated from the University of the Philippines School of Urban and Regional Planning (SURP). He attained GWA of 1.028, and was recognized as class Valedictorian, even given the Dean’s Medallion in this very same course.  

As you may know, the showbiz industry is still grieving with the recent passing of Lolit Solis, manager to the stars and prolific entertainment scribe. She is also Councilor Alfred's manager for over 21 years, which is why he was extremely emotional upon accepting it. 

During his speech at the UP Film Center, he didn't forget to dedicate his accomplishments to Ms. Lolit, cried on the podium and said "This is for you!"

He also gave thanks to his wife Yasmine and kids Alexandra Aryana, Cristiano and Aurora for the insurmountable support and sacrifice during this period. He emphasized how love and compassion plays when doing urban planning for a city. He also egged his classmates to do the same, with kindness, as it plays a crucial role with planning urban dwellings. He adds "It would be quite meaningless if we be unconcerned with others. We shouldn't abandon these principles and do what is right. We can't be blind or numb about the lies, corruption and poverty because it is a reality. It's not enough to use our hands, we need to use our hearts, and compassion. That and good governance will bring social justice and bring dignity for those living in the state."

 

He also stated how important their roles are in looking for solutions to address overpopulation, the housing shortages, lack of infrastructure, issues with the environment, health, safety, education and inequalities. He reiterated the importance of listening to the needs of the public, of every sector, especially the marginalized ones before executing plans in the industry. This is something that he has learned early being a public servant. He also cited the Quezon City Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO) wherein it has bore fruit, with the passage of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act when he was still congressman of the same district. He encouraged them to use what they learned from the course to improve lives of those living in their city, one area at a time.

After his undergrad degree in AB Management Economics from Ateneo in 2002, Master’s degree in Public Administration from UP Diliman’s National College of Public Administration and Governance (NCPAG) in 2021, he now plans to accomplish a PhD in Urban and Regional Planning at the same institution. Dedicating this to his late manager was an apt act, Ms. Lolit would have been mighty proud of his accomplishments as she was when she was still with us.

Helping Cops and Their Families Through PNP OLC Foundation Projects - Ms. Mary Rose Marbil

We had the opportunity to talk to Ms. Mary Rose Marbil, wife of PNP Chief Rommel Marbik a few months ago. She explained to us briefly the initiatives of PNP OLC Foundation Inc. which has now continued to do projects involved in health, family and aspirations of those who are in need while in service. She used to work for private corporations but now use her skills to better organize the foundation to push their shared vision for uniformed and non uniformed personnel, and their beneficiaries. 

As of now, they are putting emphasis and help for those suffering from Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and various kinds of cancer which comprise over 80 percent of their beneficiaries.

Aside from that, their LAB (Love and Blessings) Virus program provide monetary support and needed health kits for those who are under 17 Police regions which she also relentlessly tries to visit on a regular basis to make sure their health concerns get addressed to this day. 

She also worked with the Quezon City LGU to put up the Child Development Center inside Camp Crame for Early Childhood care for those who are working under the government arm. They are also pushing for upgrades of medical facilities inside the camp, to better serve their community.

Dark Roast Coffeehouse Turns ONE!

Dark Roast Coffeehouse Turns ONE!

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

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

 

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

Here's our interview with them that evening!

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

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

 

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

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

Congratulations DARK ROAST COFFEEHOUSE on your anniversary! 

ARJO ATAYDE Holds Emotionally Charged State of the District Address in QC

While the rest of the world is trying to solve the various international crises, I'm witnessing something good in my own turf. See, this isn't a common occurrence in this side of Quezon City, but the 1st District Congressman is telling us the state in his area. He's Arjo Atayde, and I think he's in a whole different league. 

Communication of his current projects, accomplishments and those that he's still working on was the topic during this event. Sadly, I don't see this happen in other districts so it was refreshing that he really made an effort to do so especially when people are asking for accountability.

The State of the District Address' call was still his priority projects in the matters of health, education, livelihood and his promise of doing it with the "Aksyon Agad" spirit in the 3 years he served here. He also is pushing for more reforms with regards to current mental health efforts, ways in youth development and social welfare for the most affected individuals in the barangays he carries out duties on.

Arjo says "With the regular talk with our residents, we get to act on things, their needs and the Aksyon Agad movement has resulted in actions that directly benefit our constituents. Life became easy for tax payers, it also saved government resources and improved health care systems. With our specialized centers, people from different regions now have access to it . We also want to stop those who manipulate prices, to provide affordable food. We imposed Student Loan Payment moratorium especially during calamities, ensuring academic recovery and to support them from elementary to college. We have also the Expanded VAWC act to give more protection for women and children. We also tackled the Eddie Garcia Law, Quezon City General Hospital to become a medical hub."  

He adds "We want to make sure people have food on their table and a brighter future. We are always ready to share our blessings to help more people. Aksyon Agad was aimed to help people with their lives, with training, with the help of government agencies, start expanding businesses and increase earnings. In health, we conducted medical and dental missions, it helped over 75 thousand individuals, 60 patients a day in our dialysis center, some free eyeglasses, guarantee letters for payments and on the go services for communities too. 4598 students have received support with the help of CHED, receiving scholarships, funding Senior High School students through the governments AKAP program. We are supporting sports programs like in the recent inter barangay sports meet. We will soon add other sports programs. We also are partnering with Gardner College to have 100 college scholarships and 200 for Senior High. We also participated in Kyusiklaban and it has expanded city wide, thank you to QC Mayor Joy Belmonte for that. We also have seasonal events, Passport on Wheels and government services, plus several barangay and SK council events. This sets 400 thousand people helped in 3 years, this makes sure that it directly affects you, from your taxes. Each of them to make you feel better, to make sure the city has a bright future with more efficient facilities. Education remains a top priority which is why we built several buildings for elementary and high schools in the district. We also had the rehabilitation of bridges, roads, to help in traffic and floods in our part of the city. We also have on going infrastructure developments in various barangays, improving accessibility for social services. We also aligned it with the QC flood control program, and also soon, our barangays will have Solar Energy. There will be more construction of Barangay Halls, Public Library, and Sports Facilities. This includes Culiat Bridge, Pasong Tamo, West Riverside Pumping Stations too. We want District 1 to be done fast, no drama, effective and have programs that directly serve our people. They shouldn't wait, it has to be resolved now without prejudice. I will not stop, we are data driven and it will change lives. We still have so much to do, but I promise to continue these in District 1. Seeing you all here, I am overwhelmed. Thank you for putting your trust in me. Thank you!"

An emotional Arjo Atayde during his speech 

There is flooding in parts of his district and appropriation of funds for the G Araneta Avenue detention basin, Talayan Flood Interceptor, he also took measures for a more sustainable solution for it. He took notice of needed infrastructure upgrades and sensible urban planning. He also sought stricter enforcement of environmental laws in his district. As of date, he has over 46 republic acts, 65 house bills co-authored, 174 House Bills filed as Principal Author and 78 resolutions passed in these past 3 years. He also has worked with several government agencies to implement sustainable livelihood programs, for those displaced workers, scholarships for his constituents, and those who are in crisis. He also took initiatives for free livelihood programs and created food carts to benefit MSME's. He also has taken action on matters that involve the youth, and did it with industry help with music, sports programs and various events for the community.

This is just his first term, and with the changes and initiatives he's set in his side of the world, it would be remarkable to see him transform his district to a better one with the laws passed with his Aksyon Agad principles set. I envy you folks in the 1st District. You've got Juan Carlos "Arjo" Atayde by your side!

Facial Care Centre Celebrates Newly Opened West Avenue Branch in Quezon City

Stars, celebrities, skin enthusiasts and executives arrived at the new Facial Care Centre West Avenue Branch in Quezon City. They were there to celebrate the opening of this newly spruced up branch, and by the looks of it, they've made it super nice. It's got clean interiors, pastel colors, ample space for consultations and procedures. It'll be so convenient to take care of yourself when you're here.

Skin you deserve, it is something that they live by. This is their commitment to serve you and give you a more holistic approach to your well being because they believe every individual is beautiful on your own. Their expertise in slimming and skincare procedures is unquestionable. (I heard they've got Exoderm procedures done here!)

Actress Gelli de Belen came recommended by her Aunt and says "It's been so many years and I like the way they take care of my skin. I feel my skin is in good hands. Back then my goal was to become beautiful and take care of skin issues, but now I just want to relax. I want to be rejuvenated whether it be physically, mentally, and emotionally. Here as soon as you step into the door, someone greets you with a big smile, and even the smell gets you into the pampering mood, it's like a spa where you would feel comfortable. That's what we need at Facial Care Centre, and just let them know what your needs and issues are so they could give you the results you need. They'll surely take care of you! I wouldn't be with them til now right?" 

This branch sits at the same floor as Marie France at the 7th Floor of Mpire Center Building. They also had us do a few activities during the launch which I thoroughly enjoyed that afternoon. I also saw several of their clients who's been with them for years, and spent time there talking about how it has changed their skin regimens, to ultimately still maintain young looking profiles to this day.

Congratulations Facial Care Centre!

If that's something that interests you or love the idea of taking care of yourself, head on to Facial Care Centre. I love that it is in Quezon City!

Come Celebrate National Taco Day with TACO BELL

I often pass by this branch in Gateway Mall when I have events in Marikina, Antipolo, Manila and Cubao area. It's spacious enough that I don't get bothered by people from other tables, to enjoy my soft or crunchy Taco Bell Beef Taco when I crave for it. Today (October 4th) is a special day for taco fans especially in the Philippines. Today marks NATIONAL TACO DAY and Taco Bell has an offer you can't resist.

On this day, when you buy their cult favorite Crunchy Beef Taco, you can get the second one at 50% OFF. This is only for today though!

This usually costs 99 pesos regularly, but since it's National Taco Day, you can get 2 of them for the price of Php 149. You get to save Php 49 if you avail of it today!

Best of all, you can get it though dine-in orders, or take out, and even in delivery services. This includes GrabFood, Foodpanda and Pickaroo, else, you can order via 8911-11-11 or through their official website tacobell.com.ph. Make sure you follow their social channels to know more about this offer and future ones they plan to release. I'm going there right now to get myself some Crunchy Taco fix!