MIGUEL TANFELIX Shares His San Diego Comic Convention Experience

I've had the chance to interview Miguel Tanfelix a couple of times in this site since I've covered a few of his birthdays, endorsements and shows in the past. To say the least, I've seen him grow up in person and on screen and in real life. He's had many achievements, awards and yes, he deserved all of that and more. This interview was something that I did look forward to because aside from his stint in Voltes V: Legacy (which btw I religiously watched when I was a kid) and now, something big happened recently that must be known.

You see, for geeks like me, it's a dream to be in the biggest comic convention in the world called "San Diego Comic Con". It's the largest one, even stamped by Guinness World Records. It's also where much of your DC and Marvel movies are announced before they come out of theaters. It's a big deal to just attend it, but if you're part of the show, that's a whole different level!

The Voltes V Legacy 's Steve Armstrong was asked to fix his US Visa a couple months back, but then he got word that it wouldn't be pushing through. So he kinda relaxed and worked a lot in the series and planned to go to the GMA GALA. Then a little over two weeks before the actual flight, they told him they were flying to San Diego. Imagine how he panicked because he didn't really work on his Visa. He was approved a few days before the actual flight. He also traveled with a couple of GMA Executives and his loveteam Ysabelle Ortega who plays Jamie Robinson in the same show. Miguel being in this comic con means he had to represent not just GMA or the show, but the Philippines in the biggest comic convention in the world! Here's our really long chat with him a few days ago, please enjoy!

 

Then he gave us the story of why he wasn't at the GMA Gala, and why he wasn't online that time... he was sleeping!

Miguel also told us about the little trip they had in Sta Monica and the proposal they saw while the sun was setting. It was romantic!

 In the event, there was a panel discussion that happened and they thought it wasn't going to be well attended. The place was actually filled up to the brim and still had people outside in the line. They went to the people that were not able to go inside and thanked them for their support.

I am so happy about Miguel and the whole Voltes V: Legacy cast's achievement (and you should be too), plus the fact that he represented the country well in the biggest comic convention and pop culture event in the world. The event will be shown soon online (I think), so stay tuned for updates about that. If you're a fan of Miguel and Ysabel, I hope you continue to support them especially now that this happened. It's a win not just for them as actors, but for what they've done for the Philippines. 

I hope this isn't the last time they'll be going to SDCC, and I think they're working out something so they'll be able to bring the whole Voltes V Legacy cast to the US soon.  That would be an awesome opportunity no?

Congratulations Miguel!

Fans Sorely Miss VICE GANDA in "It's Showtime!"

It's been almost a month of no Vice Ganda seen in the set of It's Showtime and honestly, I could really see how the madlang people have missed him a lot. Vice's humor, snappy replies to mothers in the ReiNanay portion was particularly missed especially when it became an opportunity for him to learn and analyze their life stories.

I could just imagine how it'll be best to see him also do funny stuff with the judges since talented funny mom Melai Cantiveros joined the panel plus Ogie's perfect persona would be a ball of fun to make short stories with too. Anyway, she's probably going back soon after her highly successful sold out concert in the US. She was also able to produce vlog episodes of her shopping trips and food adventures while talking to ordinary folks in Hollywood/LA area. Vice also took time out and walked Hollywood's famous walk of fame and bonded with Ion since it's also their third anniversary. Needless to say, she really got recognized not only by Filipino fans but Americans who got to watch her on YouTube or TFC.

Seeing the success of the concert in California might actually spark either a tour in other countries or perhaps Filipino communities elsewhere. What I'm quite sure of now is that, Vice is heavily missed in the "It's Showtime!" studios and if she comes back, it'll be better family viewing for everyone on ABSCBN's Jeepney TV, A2Z and on digital. Hopefully she's gotten enough sleep and rest so she can come make everyone laugh again in live episodes. Fans and ponies surely miss you.

Vice Ganda's "adVICE of the Day" Stays Buzzworthy

Last night's episode of "Everybody Sing!" had me thinking. The contestants were pretty much struggling to answer one particular song in the Jackpot round and have listened to it several times, and their time was running out. All the other songs were guessed correctly instead of one which is "POP Goes the Weasel" which is an old nursery rhyme/song published in London. Everybody at home knew it (thanks to my Dad who always played the old stuff!), and hearing the stories of the factory workers who lost their livelihood during the pandemic was heartbreaking, Vice Ganda must have felt what I felt, the urgency to help these people. During the last few seconds, Vice dropped a super obvious clue, and of course... they won the Jackpot prize!

This means 25 Factory Workers won a whopping Php 500,000. If you split that among them, they'll get 20,000 pesos each which in this day and age would help a lot especially those who lost their jobs. I heard some of them even struggle to put food on the table, this won't just give them relief, but give them a second shot at making a living. What Vice said after was actually even MORE moving. Here's the clip!

Kalahating milyong piso ang paghahatian ng 25 factory workers na nanalo sa Kapamilya game show na "Everybody, Sing."

Todo pasasalamat sila sa host na si Vice Ganda, na gumawa ng paraan para makuha nila ang jackpot prize na P500,000. pic.twitter.com/pVxmnwG1U4

— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) August 31, 2021

This moved me, the rest of the people watching the show. I saw a lot of the Factory Workers go off camera and ball, cried, let it all out because they knew how these all are going to be a huge blessing for them. Vice says "Of course nandiyan pa rin ang harutan at kulitan sa 'It's Showtime' at 'Everybody Sing' pero kailangan din natin magbigay ng inspirasyon at positive good vibes sa mga manonood. Madami ang nag-guide sa akin at nagbigay sa akin ng inspiration so I'm just paying it forward now that I have a platform to reach a lot of people."

Aside from that, his team came out with adVICE of the day. In the show, she also mentioned something about the upcoming 2022 elections which is very on point. It's been talked about and liked A LOT on social media.

 

The Unkabogable Vice Ganda by the way will continue her brand of entertainment in California USA. She's having a two night concert called VAX GANDA: A Dose of Laughter in Pechanga Resort C@sino on October 15 and 16. You can get information about it and tickets on Pechanga.com or StarmediaEntertainment.com. If you are in the US and in nearby states, take the trip and see her LIVE!

If you've been stressed at work, or stuck at home and can now follow health protocols to go to venues, might as well see why Vice continue to be loved by many.

One Fine Wine Pairing Evening with Beringer

I was a little hesitant going to this occasion because first, it was very far from where I live and second I was actually afraid of getting drunk. With all those worries, I knew better, so I went to Makati to check out Beringer Wines. Honestly, I've heard of them but never had been able to actually get to taste a bottle or two. Their reserve is located at Napa Valley, Sonoma County and Paso Robles. Fueled with passion spanning 140 years to make wines that want to rival that of other wine producing countries of Europe, they built their empire around it and now have a variety of products in their cellars. During this event, they even paired it with some of the Philippines' best dishes. They also did it with the usual steak, and even dessert!

This is the classic Zinfandel which is one of their rich, full bodied reds. It's perfect to have for those more intense savory meats. It has notes of vanilla, and pretty intense spices.

What else to pair it with but with some really good Longganiza from Lucban, Vigan and Alaminos. The intense garlic, the savory burnt bits on the Philippine sausages was a good match with this strong red.

This Beringer Pinot Noir on the other hand had some fruity notes. Probably been mixed with raspberries or something like it, with the usual spices of course.

Fashion: Forever21 First x Forever Launch

It's one of the stores I frequent to even if they have a teeny weeny section for men. I adore their wife beaters, their pants, their shirts, the shoes, the jackets, the bags and the little things in the 21MEN section. It's like everything's pre selected already and all you have to do is grab a bag and stuff it to the brim and see if you can still swipe your credit card after. They have kilometers of sections for women and you'll almost get lost while inside the store. The sweet yellow designs you and I may have seen before went kaput when I visited their gigantic store in SM Megamall by giving it a hip makeover. The Californian brand went more black and white, wood and brick with some industrial metal shelves seen shining here and there. It's more clean and chic unlike the more girly version they had previously, although still VERY edgy as much as they've done it in their 9 stores nationwide. 

So I did the next thing and stayed a few meters from the other bloggers and concentrated on the 21MEN section in this 2,600++ square meter store just to stay in tune with my site's theme. Mind you there are tons of worthy clothes, accessories that any shopper would love. They even have a Shop Forever promo where MasterCard holders can get to win a wardrobe of their choice, and possibly a 21K shopping spree every 2,500 worth of purchase. You can even double your chances of winning by using your SM Advantage Cards, SM Prestige,  BDO Rewards, PRiMO Cards too if you shop until the 31st of October 2014.

Then here I am posting my favorites

The Right Note

It's been a while since I've updated you with what I've been doing with my music. I've recorded four tracks and had it all on raw piano. Doing that made me realize how important this heirloom piece is for our family. It's even older than me I guess and honestly putting a price on these things would probably be offending my forefathers. It's been with us for a long time and I haven't been able to think about selling it for a more modern model. That includes my comparison to Steinway Prices too. The reason I'm considering it is because I couldn't do without maintenance. Tuning this old one up every year also is costing me. Finding who'll do that is also a big problem so I am weighing my options as early as now.

The price of these items in this part of the world isn't a joke. It would cost an arm and a leg; or other body parts on some instances. The question is; would I spend something for a new one or do I just keep this? You think about all the people who held each key of this wonderful piece of history and you can't succumb thinking you'll end a generation of musicians who kept this within our home for the last half century. If that isn't one thing I should consider then I don't know what will. See my dilemma? It's not just a piece of furniture for our family; it's the memories that come with it that's important. It's like answering if the piano is a percussion or string instrument, you'll never know in your lifetime the right answer. Maybe my future kids' one of these days would know. As for now, I'll probably have to carry the burden of making this a part of my life. It won't work if I just have it sit there and collect dust. Maybe one day if the music I make becomes understandable for one or more people I'll probably find this all worth it... just like my forefathers did. I just need to find the right note.

Creating Music Again!

It's been a while since I touched the keys of our piano. It's been collecting dust for years but I am up to purchase a new one perhaps because this one just doesn't sound right anymore. There are several things my relatives in Irvine told me about pianos, and one of them is that I can actually get some Used Pianos Los Angeles without breaking the bank. It's pretty special to me because music has been a part of my life and I just recently got so enthralled in making music again. I would love it to be like what I did in the 90's.

I also have amassed a few compositions that I would like to publish or put melody on. I already have an idea what I could put into an album. I've consulted my friends about this a few months back and they are thrilled to see me doing this once more. They want a whole different tune and we have talked about minor changes. It will pretty much affect personal tastes but I think I can adjust. It was about 10 years since I did this and I wouldn't want to claim I'm an expert. I will put my foot down though if they force me to change some parts of the chorus because I have invested a lot of time perfecting that part. Maybe I will concentrate on Pop music; after all I have done alternative music verging into that genre.

After putting in music I have to invest more time to listen to 12 or 14 tracks. I want them all to be cohesive to the theme that I am envisioning. With my friends tagging along and people in the industry being more receptive to my music, I think I can do better. I think I can be that great composer I've always dreamed of because I know I hold my own future.

MOSSIMO is California Cool!

With it's roots from the East coast, Mossimo has transcended and finds itself combine with things associated with the US West Coast too - dubbed as one of the greatest American apparel companies. The marriage just spelled oozing sexiness and freedom to choose among Mossimo's different aesthetics and interpretations as compared with brands that are fashion forward in the local and international scene. After all, they are a brand that caters to cutting edge fashion and innovation. Have you visited their store today? If not you are missing a lot!

MOSSIMO is California Cool! - Easy and light materials using bright earthy colors is one standard that Mossimo is trying to follow today. The brand effortlessly is becoming hip, young and urban. They are also setting up a new store format with the "California cool" feel that personifies a street-beach lifestyle culture which those two coasts of the US actually imposes. The Mossimo branch in Trinoma Mall, Quezon City is already implementing this look since November 1 and the place just looks brighter and better. A representation of young and fresh store would end up accommodating a wider and younger age demographic.Ms. Magnolia David of Mossimo Philippines is so proud they were able to come up with this concept; and pretty soon other stores will follow suit.

Men and women need not to spend a lot of money just for urban fashion and they are gearing to make this a better deal by bringing choices to their 66 branches across Metro Manila. They will also be opening up more branches soon outside of the metro.

Having some natural elements such as wood and cold ones like metal, the store would ultimately make a better and brighter shopping experience. The clothes also exude this feeling of nostalgia, arts and craftsmanship so you know you are getting your money's worth. The clothes are impeccably made to be cool, colorful and stylish. I should know, I have several shirts, pants and accessories already part of my wardrobe and all are from Mossimo of course! With hand painted logos and a play on various industrial pieces it also gives the store a very calm and collected feel.

Soon these 80 to 150 sq m stores filled with apparel from young men and women will make a mark in the lovely paradise called the Philippines.Mossimo will dominate the urban fashion scene soon in Manila; then the nearby provinces. Mossimo is indeed California Cool and it will continue to be on this path from hereon. The brand will continue to evolve in the coming years and all you gotta do is sit back, relax and make your wardrobe better than the usual with Mossimo clothing. They've got specials this Christmas season you should definitely take advantage of. I saw some shirts and other garments on sale when I passed by this branch last week and I'm sure they still have it running. You should definitely drop by and get it!

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Lovin' Californiaberry!

Staying healthy these days take a lot of effort. Going to the gym, changing lifestyles and eating healthy have to happen before you can see ultimate change. Yes, we're guilty to have to given up desserts and snacks. This time, we have healthy options. There's no excuse why we don't have to choose this lifestyle; if you've got awesome food to go with it... it's a dream waiting to happen!

I visited California Berry yesterday and saw how I could get what I want without feeling guilty. For a cup and more of this Frozen Yogurt or Ice Shavings they call "Ice Ice Baby"... it's blissful and yummy at the same time. It's the best alternative for Ice Cream and the health benefits are tremendous!

They've got the ordinary frozen Yogurt, but this month they've got BLUEBERRY yogurt on their shelves. It's seasonal, they change flavors every now and then.. and this one was oh so yummy!



A spoonful of this great concoction would be heaven on earth. It's got the right consistency, its tangy but just have the right amount of it. Very close to the fruit flavor without that grainy feeling you get from it.

The Toppings!

When you want something good, you have to think about the toppings. They definitely have a lot to choose from so we did a couple of versions with the frozen yogurt and Ice Ice Baby. This one's got the plain and blueberry flavored yogurt plus KIWI fruit, cherry and mangoes! Ummm!!!

How can you resist? =)

Strawberry flavored Ice Ice Baby with Jelly Beans, Orange Candies and small Chocolate kisses!

Melon Ice Ice Baby Flavor flooded with KIWI Fruit and Mangoes. It's one of the best combinations I've ever tried!

For the sweet tooth, you can go for the tiny oreo cookies and candy sprinkles. The Taro flavored Ice Ice Baby is one of their best sellers! I'm not surprised!

For those who LOVE texture on their cup, why not try Mangoes, Walnuts and Lychee pieces on your blueberry yogurt! Yummy!

Take different things on your Melon Ice Ice Baby and enjoy it with marshmallow and Cherries. You can't have enough of cherries! =)

If you're up for some classy add on's you can get the Almond slivers.
Remember that you can get more toppings for an additional 20 pesos!

Go healthy and get this one right after you go to the gym. Taro Ice Ice Baby flavor and slices of Banana for that filling dessert! Cheat with a little blueberry syrup too!

The Pasta's!

The Pasta selections in Californiaberry spells a lot like comfort food. They serve it in a few minutes keeping it hot and fresh, truly meant for people on the go. If you are up for a quick lunch or a snack you can choose up to 4 variants which are in their store!

Think about that thick white sauce and pieces of juicy seafood items like shrimp and calamari rings. It's one of their best sellers!

This was the Spaghetti Bolognese which we ordered a few months ago, you should get one of these when you don't want an overload of cheese and stay purist with meat sauces!

The Cheesy Lasagna! Oooh I can't resist the cheese layers and meaty sauce of this one! You'll surely behave like Garfield with one bite of this favorite item on the menu!

(images courtesy of californiaberry.net)

For fruit juices, organic US Grade coffee and short order pastas, this is the place to be!

You'll get this and more on Californiaberry tubs!

Make sure you visit their stores nationwide!

In a nutshell, make sure you order the pasta's and Yogurt, I also love the Ice Ice Baby Taro flavor so if you are in the mood of comfort food that's healthy... visit Californiaberry okay?!


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