Haven't been in Manila for a while but this spot deserves your attention. If you're in the mood for live entertainment, pretty sick DJ's, awesome music, food, drinks, and a great time, you should take the trip to 615 General Malvar Street in Malate, Manila to see SHINMA MALATE.
It's the hottest club this side of town. They've got well crafted cocktails and good bar food cooked ala minute. With several VIP tables, lounge chairs and bar tables, you can get those special occasions celebrated properly with a party. I haven't seen a place in this area that has got state of the art lights and sound system, something that could rival some of the biggest bars in Quezon City or nearby areas.
Changing the Entertainment Landscape in Manila
Malate is iconic, but in recent years it has been witness to obvious reduction in entertainment establishments. There is a need for places like SHINMA MALATE that could accommodate folks that need it in different price points, and they've addressed this quite nicely. It gives a different energy, as it is well designed, perfect for foreign nationals who would like to have Manila as a destination to party!
There were several DJ's during their opening night, one of which is female DJ Dead Niccss plus a multitude of local rappers who made sure folks have extraordinary music to dance along to. Kapuso actors also came to the event including owner Kimson Tan, his friends Kim Perez, Jay Arcilla, Brent Valdez and popular loveteam Sofia Pablo and Allen Ansay.
Might I suggest their Rosé wines, their huge Fruit Platter, Fried Chicken and Pizza. It's serving size is good for groups, mostly bar chow so have dinner before you get to SHINMA MALATE. They also have several house dancers who would entertain you to start the show. They also have KPOP dance nights, other surprise performers for different nights. They do play popular music, but mostly those that have been engineered well by the DJ's, so you get a different take with it.
You've got a lot of things to enjoy at SHINMA MALATE. It's time you have a very fun night in Malate, Manila if you are a little bored of other cities. I remember how I enjoyed our time there. Now head on to SHINMA for more fun nights!
The holidays are here and if you haven't thought about what to give to that special someone and or family, I think I've got the coolest gadget you could set your eyes on especially if you're into meaningful connections.
Globe AT HOME 5G WiFi was just recently launched in the country. If you're looking for internet connection with 5G speeds, this certainly would be something you would love to have when family or friends are not around. Sending messages, hearing their voice, or simply seeing them on video would certainly make you happy, and distance between you feel quite shorter. The new Globe AT HOME 5G WiFi modems is different because it's got a display showing your signal strength, smart support which you would be able to do if trouble happens. It doesn't need wires to connect to it, and being wireless is so convenient for guests, visitors, students and even family. It looks so modern too, and it'll fit right in on your house's interiors if you are a little conscious about design. I know, sometimes gadgets take a lot of space and become an eyesore, but this modem is slim and quite nice looking.
Easy Connections
If you're the type that always entertain a lot of guests in the house, you can have the WiFi connection shared just by showing them a QR code directly from the LCD screen of the modem. You need not blurt out your passwords to strangers, so you have control over your network. Best thing about it is that Globe is so confident about it that are offering this for a week risk free, so if you're not satisfied with how it performs (with the 5G WiFi), you can return it and get a refund (in good condition of course!). They are also in a very giving mood so during the holidays they have a Php 899 rate for 250GB which you can use for 30 days.
According to the Vice President and Head of Brand Management for Globe AT HOME Ms. Abigail Cardino, this is designed for customers varying needs and their lifestyle. If you are at work or simply doing things at home, you can use the new 5G WiFi Modem for work and play. You can avail of it via globe.com.ph, make the holidays become an event where you don't have to worry about internet connection, but just the meaningful connections you have with your loved ones. Wouldn't you want that for the holidays?!
5 of some of the hunkiest guys in the Philippines in one film? Yes, it is possible! This comes as CALL ME PAPI will be shown on theaters this coming December 7th, nationwide! This stars Enzo Pineda, Lharby Policarpio, Royce Cabrera, Aaron Concepcion and Albie Casiño. It's a full blown barkada film, so if you've got friends that stick with you through thick or thin, you'll definitely find yourself in one of the characters.
A Filipino Barkada film, CALL ME PAPI stars Enzo Pineda, Lharby Policarpio, Royce Cabrera, Aaron Concepcion and Albie Casiño
Times are tough for films this year but they're raring to have this shown during the holidays. This is the opportune time to do it because this film was delayed because of pandemic restrictions, it took them over 3 years to finish it. It's a tale of 5 men from different walks of life, all of whom would be testing the bonds of friendship, and camaraderie. Have you ever heard of "friends being family you choose?", that's exactly how this one goes, but there's more to their individual struggles that will be told in the film.
Check out what happened during the press conference last week:
Seasoned actresses Katya Santos and Irma Adlawan will also be joining the cast. Anya Aguilar will play the girlfriend of Albie Casino in the film.
Enzo says "My character is a little artsy, but always end up with the wrong women, like some who are married, and struggled finding out what relationships are and if it does make him happy."
Royce says "I play Lito in the film. He is a hard worker, a call center agent, and does every odd job imaginable just to put food on the table."
Albie adds "I play the character of Bret, who's a waiter, a man who's going through life and survive daily struggles. His life is going to change once that he finds out that he has to take care of a baby, who's mom left behind."
Lharby plays Mario, a call center agent, who's a man's man. He takes care more of his peers rather than just himself. He doesn't go out much, and just stays at home after work. He also contributes for the expenses of his family, doing his best to help his papis all the time.
Aaron Concepcion plays Roy, a farmer, someone from the province who wanted to just help his family. There will be a twist on his professional career, which will affect not just his friends, but his family too.
Life may have been very complicated for these 5 guys, but it would be nice to see how the dynamics of their friendship would solve their problems, how one would be able to help one another or break down in shambles when you need them most. I hope this gives a glimpse on the lives of Filipino guys that are not toxic, and puts a lot of importance on their peers, to hopefully help each other out in times of trouble.
This will really be a huge challenge for production, and the cast to bring this message across. I pray they get noticed for awards as this has got a solid concept and story. This is also dedicated to the film's producer Shandii Bacolod who passed away a day before the shoot was done. This is also directed by Dr. Alvin Yapan. She made remarkable work especially for this project because she believed in the material, the cast too. Again, if you would like to see a feel good Filipino barkada film, give CALL ME PAPI a visit on theaters this coming December 7th. Bring your friends!
I have always wondered why a lot of people still don't delve into using online transactions. It's actually very convenient and if you ask me, we've got a lot of options now that banks and even corporations started to come out with apps that could do the job what normal bank visits would do. I mean, I've been to my home bank and spent a little more than 2 hours just to deposit money, imagine the things I could have done with that amount of time, which is why I tell my friends the same thing.
In exemplar, my friend has an online business selling mens accessories, watches and shirts. It was a small business back then but they did start getting more than the usual activities when they got word of mouth joining several bazaars and they had to hire people so they could cope up with the demand. After several years of doing this, she didn't have time anymore to go out, have fun, or enjoy the fruits of her labor because she had to do all the accounting work even if it wasn't something she finished college for. She had to endure the same things as I did including lining up to pay for SSS, Pagibig Fund for her employees and include a lot of bills and taking money in and out of the bank. It was a mouthful to say but just imagine how stressed she was because she didn't know several apps could do it, which is why I suggested she lived a little and give GCASH a try. The next month, she didn't have to pay her Meralco, Water or PLDT bill in three different locations anymore, she tied up her BPI account and got money she sees the need to. Then when it came to her employer obligations, she didn't have to lineup anymore because SSS and Pagibig was accessible. She even swears payments were coming in smoothly since it's now possible to transfer funds using the app.
We even had more time to hang out and do a small party for her kid. She thanked me in the sidelines but reminded me that I have to pay half the bill, and GCASH even had that hahaha! She could have gotten me a treat but no, I had to pay in the end LOL! Oh yeah, she is that kind of a friend! Haha!
She thanked me for GCASH though, and that was enough. She paid for my coffee later in the evening, I was thankful at least, she got her life back. No more lines, no more stress, I guess that counts.
Kris is such a good person. I've known her since a long time ago, most often when she was paired with Aljur Abrenica. Tons of things happened along the way and she's survived a ton of trials for years now. I can say she's successful already and she's one of the prized actresses that can do lead roles for GMA. She's been well taken cared of and I hope she continues to make more projects in this network. Although that day, I felt something was a little off. She was a little sad I think, hopefully not. During her birthday celebration at Roxy in Tomas Morato, she wanted it to be very different. It's still a charitable cause because they invited teen moms and distressed people from a local NGO (Kaisahang Buhay Foundation). She also invited close friends, fans and the organizations that have continued to support her all these years. It was really nice seeing them in one place. I saw them talk, really bond, something that Kris wanted to do even in the past.
She had her sponsors chip in some of their products. I was surprised to see Scent for Senses which had really nice products for aroma therapy. If you're just relaxing, and want to get away from stress, this would really be a nice thing to have at home. I also think it doesn't cost that much and is so easy to set up. I was already dreaming of a bubble bath when I saw the logo. It's nice that they thought about helping Kris on this day, the teen moms and the mom fans would probably need it.
Ruru Madrid, Ashley Ortega and Gabrielle Garcia, stars of My Destiny
Stars of the hit GMA show My Destiny Ruru Madrid, Ashley Ortega and Gabrielle Garcia are starting to make the story interesting in this evening primetime show. Looks like lucky Ruru Madrid and his character Paul Andrada is deemed wanted by the two other lady stars but he's not as fortunate with his parents that's bringing the grunt to their relationship. If they continue the trend, they'll probably be separated in the next few episodes and Paul will probably have to choose between them later on. Nicole Perez, Gabriella Garcia's character isn't too happy about the arrival of Alex (Ashley Ortega's character) when she acts like a confidant to Paul Andrada at his most difficult times. The question is, is she really just a shoulder to cry on? Or is she really gunning for Paul's love? She's her best friend, but what if she's really interested with Paul? Will that spell world war III? Possibly.
They are not the same though when they are not in character. Ruru Madrid, Ashley Ortega and Gabrielle Garcia are really obsessed with their craft right now and they continue to learn more about acting through workshops and immersing themselves on the role given to them. Remeber when Ruru appeared on Protege a few years ago? He might be the runner up there but he's getting big breaks from this station. Now he's even building up to be a triple threat, but he says he's not stopping there. He's so thankful that he's being given the chance to learn a lot because he says this is his passion. He's not just the teeny bopper he once was anymore and he can say that he's really getting serious about this. He's now being paired with Ashley Ortega which he also worked with in Dormitoryo and Bamboo Flowers. Their friendship is getting even stronger because working together in projects just made them closer which is very good since they are being honed as a love team. Ruru also says Ashley is so fun to be with and also works hard to make all their scenes as good as possible... because like him, Ashley's pretty involved in her craft. Ashley also says the same with Ruru and adds that there is no dull moment whenever he's around. Gabrielle Garcia, although a newcomer to the program says highly about her co stars and wishes to be with them more in the next few projects from GMA. They've also gotten to be with each other on workshops and she says she loves having friends as she continues to learn from professionals during the shooting days of this project.
Make sure that you watch "My Destiny" from Monday to Friday, week nights on GMA.
International Family Food Services Inc. Shakey's Brand Manager Koi Castillo, Marketing and Guest Engagement Director Chez P. Manalaysay, EVP/CEO Vic L. Gregorio and General Manager Jorge Q. Concepcion.
Say hello to some of the people behind the enormous success of Shakey's! Yes! It's that same restaurant you've learned to love all these years. Now, better than ever - they invited us over to actually get to know them a little more than the usual. The company itself has been so quiet these past few years, but have grown so tremendously huge during this period. Case in point? This is the only brand in the country that officially has posted double digit growth for 10 straight years! Unbelievable? No, because with careful business planning and corporate changes that have been executed well - they have not just set a record, but has broken this mark twice in its existence. Plus, this is their 40th Year in the Philippines, ain't that much industry players in the country that has achieved much as they have.
Shakey's very own Mr. Vicente Gregorio (EVP/CEO of International Family Food Services Inc.) told us about the company and how they were able to turn around their Pizza chain that was losing a lot during the late 90's. Remember the beer place we used to have then? Well, they weren't earning that much and the customers dwindled down during those years. They had a call to reinvent themselves and they got the right man for the job. I didn't know till that day that the CEO actually worked in this place in the early 80's. He proudly mentions that he started as a dishwasher to make ends meet - then moved up the ranks. The corporate structure and the people inside the corporation had an existing system that generously gave recognition to those that must have worked their butt off the place. Isn't that inspiring? Now, he's one of the most coveted movers and shakers of the corporation, that's together with the people who made it now a worthy family centered restaurant that it is now. This is the same reason why they are putting that same practice and value in learning. They dedicate so much in training - to get one of their best assets up a notch... their people.
Speaking of assets, Shakey's Marketing and Guest Engagement Director Chez Manalaysay told us about some of the new things inside their stores. We also delved on some of the software/apps that they have in the Google Play Store and Apple store. Have you heard of Send-a-Shakey's? Anywhere around the world that you have friends/family, you can surprise your loved ones in the Philippines by ordering online and have them delivered right to their doorstep/be consumed inside the store by ordering online. Isn't that sweet? Aside from that, they've also got the Shakey's App where you can order barkada/group meals that'll save you a lot when you order through that. They also have 2 buses roaming around the country just to get to your Shakey's fix... that's Shakey's on Wheels! I've heard thousands enjoyed that! They are ready to serve pizza, pasta, chicken and everything else on their menu if you wish. Plus, who wouldn't love the Pizzanatic Supercard that can get you great deals or free pizza when you order your favorites from the store. Isn't that neat? :)
This Shakey's branch in Katipunan is actually one of the few lone standing stores of Shakey's that they plan to actually have more of. Aside from the brand new spanking interiors, they've got pretty sick amenities inside the store that you won't find in other fast food outlets of its caliber. The Fun Zone is my favorite, it brings back memories. I love arcade games and this will definitely take me back to that time again. Oh nostalgia! Also, they've got awesome sports events on HD TV all day every day!
Shakey's General Manager for Operations Jorge Concepcion gave us a rundown of things we love in this joint and what we need to look forward to - this as they continue to listen to you their important customers as they continue to evolve even their menu.
A new item the Lemon Cucumber Cooler was nice. Then of course I had to have my favorites too aside from the lovely thin crust pizzas that they have, I gotta have my Chicken and Mojos. Shakey's has shown how big they are, act on every issue and improve a ton. After all, they're here for the long run! It was awesome getting to know this brand a little better, thanks to the good people of Shakey's for having us!
When you've got really good friends from high places and you can't think about what to give them when it's their birthday/just have a special occasion, you might want to consider this cool thing from my friends over at Memoirmag. I was surprised to receive this a couple of days ago in the mail and they've got a pretty great idea of putting memories into this form. Something that you can see everyday, something that is very PERSONAL. Things like these are indeed priceless. I wouldn't trade it for the world!
I remember meeting Roanne for the first time in a bloggers trip to Guimaras a few years back. Since then, I felt so comfortable with her and her brother. Her demeanor in life is so amazing and even if she's a successful professional in Macau, she stays grounded and humble. She's one of the most beautiful faces I've seen too so it's just right that we become first class friends. She then gave me these awesome trinkets from Memoirmag.
MEMOIRMAG is basically a product and a service. They turn your "precious moments" into magnets. If you are like me who spends countless hours of their day appreciating their good looking selfies online, this is perfect for you. Or if you have those special moments on Instagram that you want immortalized on magnet form then this is the way to do it. In their case, they chose the awesome photos from my @kumagcow Instagram account and got that printed like this!
They prolly use really good photo paper because it's shiny. Plus I think they have taste just by looking at the photos they chose in this bit. It's been years since I've found that photographer photo on the bottom right when I was in the documentary for street photography in Atom Araullo's show KALYE. That show isn't even here anymore, but now I can see the memories EVERYDAY.
Grumpy? No. I love this particular shot done my Ron Torres during the wedding of my friends Louie and April Niduaza which I think happened 2 years ago. I don't usually have portraits but this was perfect LOL. See what I mean about memories?
This one was part of the series I did for Converse. I love my jacket from Marks and Spencer with the bags and shoes from Converse! Woot! You can pick your Outfit of the day and put it into magnets like these. Wouldn't that be awesome?
Now my photos would take the spotlight in our home refrigerator so that every time someone opens the door, they will see me first haha! Aside from that, I can probably put this on my home office table and put the memos on it. It's pretty darn useful and it's gonna look so good if you put it anywhere in your home... now why don't you get one for your friends/family?! How? That's easy!
Plus the price of these things are really affordable. Giving gifts isn't really about the amount you pay for it, sometimes it's just the thought that comes with it. Make sure you check them out and they'll have it delivered right to your doorstep. It's really awesome! You should have one for yourself and the ones you love! Now do yourself a favor and get those digital photos printed now by Memoirmag!
Yeah yeah you can say all you want! I know I am a little lame in some ways and this isn't one of them. I like seeing Charice succeed and also seeing international stars. I am one of the millions who adore her. Why not? She's got one hell of a voice... If you think about it we've got lots of them here that didn't get to penetrate the world market. Aside from Lea I don't think there are others who made significant contributions aside from Journey front man Arnel Pineda and Charice in these times.
Did you know they arrived yesterday? Yeap they just got in from a tour in Japan! Natalie Cole and Reuben Studdard will be here to perform on the concert. There's also a Canadian foursome that sings standards and operas which I don't have a clue of who they are but they are here too. I wonder if they are as good as the others on the list. A big disappointment though are the no shows like Michael Buble and the other ones Charice sang with a few months ago.
Charice actually sang with NEYO in Las Vegas and got him to do Michael Jackson numbers. That's one achievement again on her hat. It's the same concert where she received 2 standing ovations for singing Celine Dion songs. David Foster is really promoting her a lot these days and he's not surprised if Charice makes it BIGTIME as if this wasn't big already!
Are you going to watch this concert?! I wonder how much it costs. Better look at ticketnet because they probably have them listed too.
OT: I love the album Jojo released on her tumblr account. It's all for free so I suggest you get a copy too.
