AI Powered VISION EXPRESS Opens BIGGEST Flagship Store in Mall of Asia

Leading eye wear retail giant Vision Express just opened their newest flagship store at the 2nd Floor Entertainment Hall at the Mall of Asia in Pasay City. As of date, they have over 80 Vision Express stores all throughout the country and their success has been driven not just by doing well curated designer eyewear, but using AI technology to further enhance their services. 

 

Vision Express CEO Ms. Neelam Gopwani says "We have our new AI driven Virtual Styling Studio that can check your face shape, your colors and can pick the best pieces for you so your experience is better, easier. No more guesswork if you are overwhelmed with the eyewear displays because it can choose for you. We also have a really cool machine called Vision Plus which can check hypertension, cholesterol, diabetes risks from your eyes and do it in 30 seconds. It can give you a full scale report, and recommend through AI what you can do for your health. We're so proud of that technology. We started this about a year ago, we are taking advantage of that. The value of your eyes and protecting it over time. At the moment the Virtual Styling Studio is exclusive in the Mall of Asia branch, and we plan to roll it out in other stores very soon. It curates and customizes it for you."

Here's our interview with Vision Express CEO Ms. Neelam Gopwani

They have a dedicated section for Ray Ban, and have the largest collection of eyewear from them.

If you are a fan of brands like Loewe, Gucci, Mont Blanc, Prada, Miu Miu, Tom Ford and so much more (40 brands), they have already selected pieces that would best fit you by curating the eyewear selections. They did the best sellers world wide, you will find the perfect pair for you. This store also warm, very comfortable and has lots of seating. It's very chic and minimalist which makes it more attractive even from the outside.

I looked around and tried to find the perfect one for me, I seldom find eyewear that would fit me because I'm literally a big guy. Lo and behold they have Mont Blanc on the shelves which fits my style and size. I love the first one on the left, so if in case I'd get prescription glasses soon, I'd be glad to do it in that pair. I bet you'll find one easy when you visit their stores too.

See... it looks good on me!

If you are looking for hard to find ones, the latest model of eyewear from the reputable and premium brands, Vision Express is the place to find it. 

Where to Dine on MOTHERS DAY at SM Mall of Asia

In case you are looking for places to eat during Mothers Day, here's a little guide for those who prefer the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

There's Italian American comfort food, coffee and pizza at Prologue, some Korean BBQ you can cook ala minute at Maple Tree House, proteins at Yappari Steak, Spanish tapas and wine at Barcino, food from around the world at One World Deli, and the lovely, fresh Italian cuisine at Cibo. SM Mall of Asia will all have this at the installation they have for Grand MOA Hotel at the Grand MOA Fair tomorrow so if you are up for a stroll around the mall, go get your food and drink fix at different places inside the sprawling property and make those memories again with the best woman in the world, your MOM!

There are tons more to look forward to in restaurants and events in the mall on this day, so make Mother's Day even more special at one of the biggest malls in the world, SM Mall of Asia! Follow their social channels for more recommendations.

Say I LOVE YOU to your mom of course!

Epic Celebration at #AcerAtingPasko with Kings SB19 and Ladies from G22

We had so much fun at the #AcerAtingPasko event at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall a few days ago. Thousands of fans, media partners and onlookers took time out to celebrate Christmas with the PPOP Kings SB19 and the fabulous and talented ladies of G22. Before the festivities, we were treated to Christmas songs by world class UP Madrigal Singers. 

At the event, they first showcased their newest products and announced their offers during the holidays including Php 5,000 off on premium Acer products (select models on laptops and projectors) and up to Php 10,000 worth of appliance center EGC's when you purchase select products from their stores this season. For the fine print, please visit their social channels and see announcements for these. But from what I gathered it's all about the 2024 AI PC's they have specifically the Swift Go 14 AI and the CoPilot+ PC that it has in the system. It's going to make life easier especially if you're more of a creative or using them for office functions. The new laptop has better battery life than its previous models. That alone is something so good to see on the holiday sale.

 

Anyway, Bullets and A'Tins then had the time of their life when SB19 and G22 performed on stage and did several of their worldwide hits, no doubt, we could feel the screams from the same floor we were in and the bleachers. It was deafening, and we're not surprised. They were ultra talented, good looking and knew it was time to treat their fans with their music! (make sure you follow @kumagcow on TikTok because we've got their performances there!).

Meanwhile, one of the most exciting part of the show was when SB19 and G22 exchanged gifts. Here's how it went!

See why we had fun that day?! Make sure you follow Acer because there's more of this happening soon!

Celebrating 10 Years: "JUAN KARLOS LIVE" at the Mall of Asia Arena this November 29th

I distinctly remember being seated beside this good looking lad at a concert in Mall of Asia Arena a couple of years ago. Even back then, he's one of the most adored artists of his generation, and I could reckon how he was at awe of how it must have been like performing on stage especially at this big venue. This year marks his 10th year in the industry and with all the pieces falling into place, it's the right time to hold his very own concert. They call it "JUAN KARLOS LIVE", happening this November 29 at the same venue.

JK says "I'm excited, but nervous, but I'm working with amazing and talented people so I'm concentrating on audio and visual aspect of the concert. Nathan Studios is working on a lot of things. I never think of it too much, it was never really set as a goal to perform in big stages, it was more of contentment wherever I perform. I think it's just the people I work with that makes it worth it. I have a song called KALAWAKAN, which is a nice song, but haven't performed it on stage yet just like a few collabs I've done in the past. Sometimes I forget it, but imagining performing those songs just have that cool aspect."

He adds "I don't think anyone could be ready for something like this, but Tita Ibyang (Sylvia Sanchez) told me not to think of what to perform, because this is for the fans that supported me all these years. It's something that I have to do for the people who believe in me, it is the direction I felt was right. With that, I just said "oo nga ano", it is for them. I'm trying to balance selfishness and selflessness, to try to balance the flow of the show that I'm just there to perform rather that complicate it. It will be intimate, a jam session, it will be an experience, no lessons, but the feeling of being in that capsule to be able to relate to those songs, and the life we went through all these years. I just feel like yesterday I was a bisaya that was just playing on stage by coach Bamboo, not taking things seriously when I was in Voice Kids as a bonding moment. I never dreamt any of these things, now here we are because of that one decision I made to please my Mom. For some reason, it was something she wanted, it made us happy. It's beautiful because I've been through a lot to be able to get to where I am now. To reflect on that, and be in this moment, it's beautiful. I am lucky and blessed to be surrounded by people who believe in me."

 

For him it was a no brainier for Nathan Studios to produce this because Ms. Sylvia was a mother figure. She was the one who pushed the concert even if the decision was made. He just said yes to it. JK also discussed his relationship with his Lola, the one who pushed him to achieve things. One that didn't talk too much, but is part of who he is. He says the things she does is cute, and he's happy she is witnessing this.

JK also lamented how he used to watch concerts, and believes how he should be a consumer before becoming a performer. He felt he was able to get a perspective of what he should see to enjoy a concert, and now that he is doing this, he is finding solace in creating songs that the populace will appreciate, make him feel good, because music was the thing that made him feel constant even if he's going through a lot. This is for the people who made him, and his songs, part of their lives.

 Here's the full press conference on video, took a long time to upload this, please enjoy!

He is honest, fragile and vulnerable, and wishes to write more songs in the near future. He has a lot in his coffers, it's just the release part that worries him and prolly his label. The viral version of "Through the Years" may or may not be played on the concert too because a lot of people are requesting for it. It's just going to be a surprise, so make sure you get the few tickets left for the concert on the 29th! We heard some sections are already sold out!

This concert is also directed by Paolo Valenciano. Musical Direction is by Karel Honasan. This is produced by Nathan Studios and fully supported by his label Universal Music Group Philippines.

Get your tickets at SM Tickets website smtickets.com/events/view/13698. He's a very cool guy, and I think I'm a fan. :)

ROSSINI Serves Comforting Italian Dishes at S Maison

If you've been the person to choose where to eat in the Mall of Asia grounds, I've got good news for you. There's this nice and quaint Italian restaurant at S Maison's 2nd Floor called ROSSINI that I think you should visit. It's light and bright interiors, cozy seats and classy decor won't be the only reason to go here because the food is equally great.

Mango Cannoli and Meatball in Marinara

Cappellini Ai Frutti Di Mare for the seafood lovers out there!

Fruit Drinks and their signature ROSSINI Pizza! The pizza is legendary because it contains chopped up foie gras combined with fig. It was the right amount of sweet and savory. Best dish served that afternoon.

Steak with Salsa Rosso. Angus Steak with roasted asparagus, mushrooms, onions and potatoes.

They also have a private room at the back that can accommodate around 20. If you're looking for a date place, a place to celebrate your birthdays or intimate gatherings, go give ROSSINI a visit. Food is comforting, best shared, because like Italians, we are family-centric.

Again, it's at the 2nd floor of S MAISON at Conrad, Mall of Asia grounds in Pasay City. Trust me on the pizza. 

 

TATERS Celebrates 30 TRENTAstic Years in the Philippines

Taters Event Team Snack Slammers photos from PixRebuplic

It was a Trentastic day to spend with media, celebrities, influencers, partners, suppliers and executives from Taters as they celebrate their 30th year in the country. This was held at the SM GAME PARK at Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

I still remember the time when they were only serving popcorn and chips, but now they've already ventured into other food items that are loved by movie goers nationwide!

These days, they've managed to do chicken, fish, burgers, even churkey hotdogs for more flair. They adapted quite well even during the pandemic, and now that they are celebrating 30 years in the industry, they're raring to launch a few more food and beverage items so you can enjoy it inside the cinemas or at the comforts of your home.

Here's some highlights of the event:

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Now you can see them in different parts of the country catering to sports events, game centers, even delivery services because they can. CEO Ana Maria Tanchanco attributes their success to customers who make demands of their products, it just keeps them on their toes.

They also partnered with new SM Game Park so they could reach new mall goers who just need a small bite before or after their activities inside the mall. Taters COO Joseph Brian Tanchanco knows their extensive menu inside the facility will be bang for the buck, and become a part of the Taters experience they've been doing for 30 years.

Our participation in the Trentastic Game On Sport + Snack Tournament was surely one for the books! I played Bowling, Billiards, a few more activities til my back had sores. Congratulations to TATERS for having us at their fun event! Cheers to even more years after this fun 30th anniversary celebration!

SB19, Sandara Park, G22 Headline Acer Day 2024

 

Another year, another installment of ACER DAY!

Today we just got word that ACER day is happening this coming August 4, 2024. It will be held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City and the stars coming are phenomenal!

Since it's 2024, everything will be going with the theme of AI, but theirs is kinda quirky as they call it "AI'm Limitless", which means YOU have the power to push your limits and see what kind of products, PC's will fit your lifestyle.

Acer Ambassadors will be in full force which means performances from well loved PPOP Kings SB19, the national krungkrung Sandara Park and G22 are expected to do several numbers. Add to that, Rico Blanco, Ebe Dancel, TJ Monterde, and Cup of Joe,

Want a surprise? SB19 and G22 will be telling you more about "Acer U: Charged to Lead" Back to School Promo where you can get discounts on the latest laptops, Acer home devices, and even gear from Under Armour as a freebie (depends on purchase and will be given GC's). It can range from 10-14K, and must be registered at warranty.acer.com.ph to claim it. If you want to know more about how you can take advantage of the discounts, visit their social channels and official website. You can get information about the concert there too.

See you there! I'll be covering it!

GARY VALENCIANO Willl Be Doing It "One Last Time"

I couldn't believe I'm seeing this, because as far as I'm concerned, he's still the best in his craft, the one and only Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano.

This weekend, he will be doing it for ONE LAST TIME. This is officially his 40th Anniversary in showbusiness, happening April 26 and 27 at the MOA Arena at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds in Pasay City.

This will be epic, as he has built a huge lineup of stars with the help of Star Magic. In the MOA Arena, he's going to perform with Bullet Dumas, his son Gab Valenciano, and daughter Kiana. LDSC's Gio and Liana Martinez (his nephew and niece) will be flying to the Philippines to make sure they get to dance with him tin both dates. PPOP guys BGYO, Ebe Dancel, Gloc-9, the original Manoeuvres and new gen, The A Team, over 40 more dancers and 30 theater actors will also be there to make sure, it's going to be a GRAND one!

Because this is going to be his last, friend and Concert King Martin Nievera will be re-living their rivalry from the 80's, perhaps a proper way to end things. Divine Diva Zsa Zsa Padilla will be there on the second day, so there's going to be a lot to look forward to on both dates.

This concert is made even more special as proceeds will be given to Shining Light Foundation, a Christian organization which is dedicated to communities (indigents) and individuals with their needs (spiritual or financial).

 

Go get tickets as they're going, going, gone soon! For more information, check Gary Valenciano's social channels as they will be posting updates as they happen!

Bistro Group Opens SARAP Bistro Filipino and Xi Nen Hot Pot at MY SOUTH HALL

 

After a long time, it was certainly nice to journey down south and have a good meal at My South Hall, Bistro Group's line of concept restaurants at Conrad S'Maison. Got to eat there a few times, and each time, I'd try to order something new because it houses Fish & Co., El Pollo Loco, Modern Shang WCKD, and cult hit Randy's Donuts. 

They had something new up their sleeve when I got there a few days ago. The first is called SARAP Bistro Filipino and the other is Xi Nen Hot Pot. These are two new brands they've conceptualized for My South Hall to add to the already great selections that they had. This is quite fun for restaurateurs since you can pretty much test the waters if people love the new dishes. I had my eyes on a few especially the Filipino dishes from SARAP because even if some were traditionally prepared, it felt new for me.

SARAP Bistro Filipino specializes on Filipino comfort food, the classics and those that were made with a twist. They are served family style so you can order a few to get a taste of the new viands. I like those with sauces that I can smother over hot Garlicky Rice. What's special about MY SOUTH HALL is that you can order from other restaurants without going too far because they are in one place. SARAP Bistro Filipino had Sinigang, Bopis (which doesn't taste organy), Fried Tawilis (eat it while it's hot!), Lumpia (they make a mean one) and Ginataang Kuhol.   

Xi Nen Hot Pot serves Taiwanese inspired hotpot dishes. You just need to choose our protein and they'll cook it for you on the table (yes you don't have to cook!) which is quite different than usual hotpot restaurants. Their broth can be adjusted to taste as they'll give you sauces to adjust the flavor, and since I did like it a bit more intense, I put in the whole plate in because I like it savory. Here's what it looks like on video a few days ago.

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See, there's more where this came from and if you're a person who couldn't choose where to eat or what to have for lunch or dinner, this place is perfect! 

This is again located at the Conrad S. Maison. Walk to the far right at the back (when facing Mall of Asia) and look for the MY SOUTH HALL sign. Ask the friendly hostess to have you seated as there are instances it gets quite busy during those peak hours. Take home desserts, drinks and donuts before going home, you're going to love it!

Health and Beauty Coffee Brand "Luxxe White Coffee" Launched at MOA Arena

Coffee is just something that I look forward to in the morning, a cup or two a day would be a norm. It's a ritual for millions of people everyday, and it does more for your body than just jump start your day. Research shows (from Mayo Clinic) that moderate intake lowers the risks of premature death in certain illnesses. What's even better is that there's a new health and beauty coffee brand launched last month at Mall of Asia Arena called "Luxxe White Coffee".  

This one's a little different as it's got Premium Japan Collagen to promote skin elasticity, Japan sourced content for detox and brightening your skin. This also has L-Carnitine, Spirulina, Barley, Grape Seed, Mangosteen, and Garcinia Cambogia for reducing fat and appetite.This blend makes the coffee have butterscotch notes, and has Stevia as sweetener (so no worries if you are watching your sugar intake). Frontrow CEO Sam Verzosa dubs this as the easiest way to do self care while enjoying a cup each morning. Wouldn't that be a good thing to have everyday?

Frontrow Mentor Richmond Yu adds "We really thought about this product before releasing it in the market. This took years of conceptualization and meticulous production of me, RS and Sam to make sure it benefits every user."

At the launch, they also gave recognition for top FRONTROW Distributors, their 137 Millionaires, over 80 new car and 59 property owners. All have achieved milestones in their careers while making sure to market and sell Beauty Soaps, their Korean Skin Care line and supplements which are pretty well known for its efficacy and quality in the country.

Now they have the new Luxxe White Coffee to showcase and enjoy themselves. Now that it's out in the market, you get the chance to take care of your skin, your health, and your loved ones. You can get them today via FRONTROW authorized distributors nationwide.

LEE MIN HO Celebrates SM65 with SMDC

The good guys from SMDC (SM Development Corporation) celebrated SM's 65th Year with the one and only Asian superstar Lee Min Ho. At the SMX Convention Center, patrons of SMDC, executives, guests and media were treated to an evening with the good looking guy through several interactive games, and SMDC property laden promotions throughout the show. They also showcased properties like Glam, Gold, Sands and Sail.

The event was also hosted by Sam Oh, so the conversation with Lee Min Ho was quite nice since she could translate fast and connect with Tagalog during the interview portion. Though trying to be formal, she was a tad fangirling with Lee Min Ho, she couldn't help it because he was just that good looking.

SMDC President Jose Mari Banzon went up the stage and welcomed everyone then said "To our investors, media partners and guests, good evening. We are celebrating something special, the 65th anniversary of SM and the birthday of Henry Sy Sr. We are thrilled to share to be the Developer of the Year this 2023. In our newest campaign step into luxury, we put in the forefront the premium designs, and our endorser Lee Min Ho. Let us build dreams, thank you and enjoy the evening!"

Lee Min Ho on the Up Close and Personal portion said "I am excited to be here, after we all survived the pandemic I can see you in person now. It's an honor for me to be part of this brand SMDC, they've been in the business for 65 years and that says a lot. Of course having a dream home means we work with people that are professionals, that's SMDC."

Here are snippets from the event last night. Thank you to SMDC for letting us cover Lee Min Ho's tour in Manila. It's super fun to see him enjoy the intimate evening with not just SMDC patrons, but his fans who have loved him for years. Good thing is he acknowledges that, and he knows the same people who supported him since he was promoting Boys Over Flowers back in the days are still the same ones in the event. Can't wait to see him in new projects which he teased a bit in the program. Be back in the Philippines soon LMH!

PH Ice Queen Sofia Frank Gets GOLD at 2022 Asian Open Figure Skating Tourney

There's no stopping Filipino Figure Skating champ Sofia Frank as she recently won the 2022 Asian Open Figure Skating Competition. The event was held at the Oasis Center in Jakarta, Indonesia. She is as of date the highest ranked ISU femme athlete in the country and has been a Junior World Figure Skating competitor twice.

Her feat was also recognized via Senate Resolution 360 which marks her impressive performance at the annual competition. This was filed by Senator Bong Revilla cognizant of her outstanding win amongst 8 other world class athletes and scored 50.19 in the short program and 93.78 during the Free Skate. This resulted in 143.97 points to top the Senior Women Category. She could possibly be our next GOLD hopeful in future Winter Olympics.

She was also lauded by Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva and marked her performance at the Colorado Spring Invitationals, the famed US International Figure Skating Classic and several other shows in the US and EU.

Sofia also started training at the age of 3 under Natasha Adler De Guzman and Quida Robins. During her teens, she was under Olympic coach Tammy Gambill. She had been doing Junior-Senior level of competitions in the US Figure Skating and International Selection pool which has made her gain more experience in the sport. Currently, she is training for the upcoming 2024 Winter Olympics which will be held in Paris, France in hopes to represent the Philippines in Figure Skating. She's in the Philippines this month to do "Carols On Ice" which is a fundraising gala for the Philippine Skating Union (PHSU) who manages both Figure Skating and Speed Skating sports in the country. This is being done in cooperation with SM Skating and they're doing "Journey to a Dream" as their theme this year. 

The show will be hosted by Bb. Pilipinas 1985 Ms. Joyce Burton-Titular. Guests include GMA artists Ashley Ortega, Skye Chua, Olympian Michael Martinez, Edrian Celestino, Isabella Gamez and Alexander Korovin, Skye Patenia, Sofia Guidote, Hayden Balucating, Felicity Eco, Veronica Eid, Sophie Hernandez, Kate Orrock, Krystle Siy and more skaters from the PH National Developmental Pool, Speed Skating and Hockey Teams. 

Sofia Frank will be performing with other Filipino skating athletes using music (mostly OPM) celebrating Christmas time in the Philippines. So make sure you be there for the event on December 21st, at the Mall of Asia Ice Skating Rink and remember, show starts 7PM!

Support the cause and our team in the dream of becoming Ice Skating champs this coming Olympics! Tickets are sold at https://ticket2me.net/e/36073 and it'll surely be a fun time with family if you watch it.

Best of luck Sofia!

See IKEA's Life at Home

What does your home look like? What do you think your home needs in order to make it better? How do you live your life at home?

As you know, IKEA is set to open its doors in Pasay City soon. But before that, IKEA wants to know these too so that they would be able to bring modern furniture design that could help Filipinos thrive at home. This helps them understand what we need so they made the effort to talk to several locals who will benefit with IKEA opening at the SM Mall of Asia grounds soon. It's why they had the Life at Home series launched in their official Facebook page recently.

They now know that eating and sleeping is pretty much cookie cutter but there are really stark differences when it comes to culture because we're very sentimental, and always have extended family at home. Your grandma for instance play a role in the lives of everyone in the family, which is not common for other EU or US households and they talked to Filipinos about it. 

Georg Platzer the Store Manager of IKEA Pasay City says "The four dimensions that help us define home are: the people we live with, the things we own, the amount of space we have and the place we live in. Home is a feeling. This fascination helps us to better understand people’s needs, dreams, and challenges, especially for the new markets we enter like the Philippines."

If you want to know more about how they did it, check out the videos here and their website. You would learn a lot how IKEA studies are conducted in the Philippines.

SM LEI Opens Olympic Sized Ice Skating Rink at SM Mall of Asia

It looks like a lot like Christmas at SM Mall of Asia as they don't let down in more developments within the mall. They just opened a new Olympic sized Ice Skating Rink at the mall's third floor which has been in construction for such a long time now. It's about 1,800 square meters which would definitely be the literal coolest place to hang out and do different disciplines of ice sports.

It's got it's own digital score boards, player boxes, a hige lobby, a snack area, and it's own locker room and will be the home of the country's Ice Sports athletes. From Hockey, to Speed Skating, to Figure Skating and other events, it would now be easy to host 

COO of SM Lifestyle Entertainment Inc. Herman Medina Cue says "Mr. Henry Sy Sr. was a fan of this sport and fast forward today we are producing top notch ice athletes including ones that join the Winter Olympics. We are now producing world class facilities to be a venue of international tourneys, and a place to be with family. Athletes, welcome to your new home!"

This October will surely be fun so if you want to dash towards your goals, visit them today at the SM Mall of Asia, because they believe the Filipino is world class!

KUMAGCOW

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