ALDEN RICHARDS Celebrates 15 Years with MOVING FORWARD Concert

15 years must have been a tall order for most people, but for Alden Richards... it's like he's just starting. The talented and multi awarded actor is celebrating this milestone with some of the most important people in his career, HIS FANS, which he deem deserves this concert, a way to thank them for supporting him this long. 

Watch him arrive at the red carpet in Shang Mall!

 

Alden says "I'm very excited this coming December 13th as we celebrate my journey, my learnings, the things I learned and how we keep on Moving Forward. I thank C@$in0 P|us, Bench, Belo, CDO, White Flower and Oxycure for all their help. The purpose of this event is for my 15th Anniversary, and how I want to give back and pay it forward. I want to highlight the people that have been part of my journey in the last 15 years, and that's the fans. Why Sta. Rosa Laguna as the venue? Because I've been in the industry so long but I haven't had a big event in a place where I grew up. With the help of the people of Sta. Rosa, we were able to mount this event. And I'm very excited because now I could give back to the place where I grew up in. Since Day 1, they've been always there for me. It's our little way of saying thank you to them, and I'm doing it all in this one event."

He adds "In the 15 years, there's been a lot of fan interactions that have happened. I get surprised about news, the most memorable one of which the folks that I have helped in the past would suddenly come up to me and say how their lives have changed because of that. I was just there to help, but to actually see how it has changed their lives means a lot to me. It gave them comfort, I think those are the ones that really touch me in fan encounters. I remember in 2019, a girl standing in the crowd was looking at me intently. She was holding a diploma, looking at me the whole time, smiling, so I wondered what it was about. She approached and told me that she already graduated, and that I was responsible for it. I learned that it really isn't about the volume of people that you help, it's the effect you have on people, it gives me more passion, grounds me, that because of all the things I'm doing in my own way, it creates ripples of kindness. It's why I continue doing the things I'm doing today.That kind of platform and reach, it's what keeps me going."

Here's a video of the media conference, please enjoy!

One of the highlights of the concert is the inclusion of PBB artists Will Ashley, Bianca De Vera and Dustin Yu. He will also have popular band CUP OF JOE performing a song or two in the event. This is produced by Myriad Events, and for tickets you can get them at https://arxv.helixpay.ph/. There are only a few seats left as Diamond and Platinum sections are sold out. This is a once in a lifetime experience to be with him at this locale so if you're a big fan, it's time you take the trek down south to see Alden Richards in the flesh!

Alden Richards is MOVING FORWARD and there's no stopping him anytime soon! Congratulations Alden! :) 

40 Years of MARIE FRANCE with DAWN ZULUETA and Daughter Ayisha

A pioneer in slimming services in the country since 1985, Marie France is celebrating their 40th anniversary. 

When I got invited to this event, I was thinking of the thousands of men and women who have undergone their services; and how it has ultimately changed their lives. 

They've been known to do scientific and non surgical weight loss programs, with some of the best looking celebrities proving how effective it is, and each of them get armed with confidence, the knowledge to take care of themselves because at the end of the day, they truly deserve it. 

The corporation started small, like any other business, but with their name on the line, they made sure to develop their services by working with the best in the world. Marie France Group of Companies now also has Svenson, Facial Care Centre and pioneered the best slimming, health and wellness offerings the country has ever seen. 

Who would ever forget the time when one of the country's brightest stars Ms. Dawn Zulueta graced a huge billboard back in the days. While making blockbuster movies and appearing on local TV, she made sure that she stays on her best shape with Marie France's help. She also looks like a vampire, as she didn't look like she aged, and people loved her for that. This time, she's going to be with Marie France together with her daughter Ayisha who's obviously inherited her good looks, turning to the same place to take care of her skin especially since she's also had breakouts like any teen of her age.

It was heartwarming that the love and care continues after all those years. They're trusting the same people who made their life journey easy, the folks from Marie France.

Here's a glimpse of the event:

What's more touching is that, some of the women that have been with Marie France also went to the 40th anniversary celebration and told us their stories. Some are single, some are married, some have kids, but every single one trusted Marie France. It has changed their lives for the better, as I am too now that I am having treatments with the hair experts from Svenson. I've just started, and I can't wait to tell you how it has been a great journey with them. Their corrective measures made me realize I've been ignoring a lot of things when it comes to taking care of my hair. My friends on the other hand are availing services from Facial Care Center, and they have been loving each day. Can't wait to have sessions with them too.

I am so happy I'm one of the thousands of individuals who's life has been touched by Marie France, and I'm sure if you'd try it one of these days, that you will see the value of it too. Congratulations to everyone at Marie France, and I say, cheers to 40, and more years of taking care of us! 

San Miguel To Start Oktoberfest with Grand Party

I've been so lucky to have been able to celebrate a lot of parties, but the San Miguel Oktoberfest parties are on another level. They're marking their 135th Anniversary this year, and that means we get to enjoy a full blown rock fest... at no less than the Okada Manila grounds in Paranaque City.

This will be a 2 day event and will happen on September 20-21 where you can enjoy some of the country's top acts, tons of food and your well loved San Miguel beverage to fit right in your hand. They're going to fill the venue with it, to prove once again that there's a winning global brews in the midst, plus a multitude of dishes prepared by restaurants like Cibo, Wolfgang Steakhouse, Las Flores, and a whole lot more. Yes, you can be sure there's going to be a lot of pairing. 

 

Music on the other hand will be taken on stage by Rico Blanco, December Avenue, artist Arthur Nery, popular band Lola Amour, the folks from Brownman Revival, iconic The Dawn, Autotelic, The Juans, The Cohens, DWTA, Carousel Casualties, Over October, It All Started in May, Magiliw Street plus more acts happening that day. The appearance of their very own San Miguel pro basketball team, Billiard gods Efren Bata Reyes, Django Bustamante (who will play too btw!), will be expected. 

 

They might join the party too. There will be tons of San Miguel merch that you can avail on these 2 nights, so make sure you get enough shopping money to enjoy that. Tickets will be sold at the venue or Ticket2Me.net if you want to get them online. If you want to know more details about the event, just visit their FB page by searching SanMiguelOktoberfest on the platform to see how it all happens.

Are you ready?!

SMC Celebrates 135 Years with Commissioned Artwork by Francis Nacion

In 1890, San Miguel was born. They began expanding to 70 countries and has never stopped winning the hearts of consumers too. It's been 135 years, and this 2025 the mighty brew of Manila has been a symbol of Filipino pride. They're launching a limited edition can together with artist Francis Nacion.

Francis was inspired by close family ties, friendships and to mark this occasion, a painting was commissioned to showcase culture, heritage, and togetherness.

Ice Seguerra performed with the cast of WALANG ARAY as a treat for patrons and media who covered the event.

This is the artwork that was unveiled that evening, done by Francis Nacion. This will don the actual San Miguel cans.

Carlos Verba the SMC President says "We would like to thank Francis for the impressive piece of art that he did in collaboration with SMB. 2025 marks the celebration of our 135th year, we have sustained to become a cultural icon, including Joya, Bencab, Alcala, and it depicts how ingrained we are in culture. It's a long way back, and it ceases to amaze me how we were able to go through time when Rizal was still alive. I counted years, including all the occasions that we would be part of. Globally we were there. Most technology were not yet even thought of, but we already had San Miguel. In 1930 we were already being exported. In the 39's we were also in the US, HK and Shanghai. If you ask the old timers, they would think they were a local brand, but it is a Filipino brand. Even in Spain we had it, still is one of the leading brands in UK and the EU, hard to convince them that it started here. They all trained in Angeles in the Philippines. We were ahead by 100 years versus some of the leading brands today. We are also in UAE and in South Korea. We are present in 7000 islands, Pale Pilsen was born together with C3rv3sa N3gra. It has grown to now San Mig Light, the flavored beers, the 10 percent Red Horse, we are developing more in the coming years.

He adds "In addition, SMB is not just brewing it, but making sure it's or high quality. We are the most awarded Filipino brand and we will make sure to achieve greater heights. We will achieve our goals."

Here's a raised glass to the men and women of San Miguel Corporation. Congratulations on your 135th year, and wishing for more reasons to celebrate in the coming years!

UNILAB and Mercury Drug Celebrate 80 Years of Quality and Care with ALAGANG SUKI FEST 2025

8 whole decades is a long time, and that's exactly how long UNILAB and Mercury Drug has been providing quality and care for Filipinos. To celebrate with a bang, they got some of the hottest acts and personalities in the country to headline their show entitled "Alagang Suki Fest 2025". People were just shocked how they were able to combine the Koolpals, Jolina Slaydangal, Robi Domingo, and artist Belle Mariano, world dance champs Legit Status, hot band Mayonnaise, pop prince Darren Espanto, chart topper Maki, Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano, and the country's PPOP girl group BINI.

The venue was packed and they started the show with a few games with the audience to break the ice. 

Jolina was not just the momshie, but a generation that reminded us of the 90's, and how good it was til it lasted. Same with Robi who taught us how to take care of our tummies. Belle Mariano was the surprise of the evening, she was fun and had folks standing up, and went to the audience area because she really just wanted to have fun during her performance. She was really entertaining!

Belle really knew how to work the crowd, and she sang a few 80's and 90's hits, which really made us sing along with her. Her set was fun!

Legit Status showed us why they are world class. With jumps, tumbles and crump moves, we just watched knowing how difficult it is. That's passion personified.

Mayonnaise sang their hit songs, and thought to surprise us with JOPAY at the end of their set. Folks thought they wouldn't sing it but they did!

Darren and Maki really had the young ones mesmerized by their songs (and dance for Darren). Maki had a different sound, it appeals to a lot of folks. Though I haven't heard some of it, I am impressed. No wonder he's always in the mind of international acts who've heard his songs. He's really good! Darren on the other hand has performed his hits, and some of his newly released singles which were loved by many.

Highlight of the evening was Mr. Gary Valenciano, when folks thought it was going to be ballads, he comes completely bonkers with the Maneuvers. He didn't just wear the Mr. Pure Energy moniker, he became it. With high energy moves, songs, he got everyone off of their seats to dance and sing along with him. He brought us to church, he made us stars in our own seats, and that says a lot for a world class performer like him. Super love the evening because of that!

The nation's PPOP Girl Group, BINI made the crowd crazy. With their hit songs, and surprise number in the end, we were all just thankful how our dreams came true courtesy of UNILAB and Mercury Drug Corporation. Thank you for letting us be part of this wonderful celebration of your 80 years. Here's to more in the next few years because I'm sure you'll try an even bigger one right?!

If you want to watch the concert, head on to my TikTok account @kumagcow because I've managed to take videos of it in several parts. 

Thank you for the quality, for the care and the love you bring for Filipinos!

PIOLO PASCUAL and RABIYA MATEO at the 10 Years of Vibrant Colors HAIRFIX Event - SM Grand Central

Celebrating 10 years of Vibrant Colors are the folks from Hairfix and its mother corp Lifestrong Marketing Incorporated. They had us on the edge of our seats about the things they planned to do on this historic day, choosing to do it in SM Grand Central in Caloocan City with gorgeous Miss Universe Philippines Rabiya Mateo and the one and only Ultimate Heartthrob Piolo Pascual 

The good men and women of Hairfix came with offers blazing, taking along several products to irresistible sales, which all are treats for consumers in the North, including a meet and greet session with both celebrities right at the center of SM's Beauty section. Things got real packed quite quick as news of their appearance spread by word of mouth. Everybody then was in a celebratory mood and they started festivities with a real good program showcasing ways to take care of hair, and bringing needed color to it. Here's our video coverage of that afternoon:

Rabiya shared tips on how to use Hairfix products to make sure they achieve that polished beauty queen look. Then they called Piolo Pascual who started serenading everyone with some of the sweetest OPM songs and the standards, then reaching with the other hand with bouquet of flowers for the delight of ladies there. 

The event was also witnessed by Lifestrong Marketing Inc. head honchos CEO Lance Lee and COO Ms. Margaret Lee. They reiterated their passion to come out with more products and colors that would redefine hair care for Filipinos for years to come. 

Congratulations to Hairfix! Here's wishing you all the success to continue with the innovative ways you take care of not just hair, but grooming, health and confidence of your customers in the Philippines and beyond!

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!