Foundation Implements Programs: Improves Lives in SOCCSKSARGEN Region

Continuing on their efforts on health and livelihood, BingoPlus Foundation (the social development part of DigiPlus Interactive) is taking their social development work down south, particularly in General Santos City. Choosing this place amongst places that needed help must have been a hard task especially for what they plan on doing.

This means they will be bringing KalusuganPLUS and KabuhayanPLUS which are some of the programs they have successfully implemented in other areas which need access to public health, job opportunities too. After all, they wouldn't be just giving out things, but have them learn to fish correct?

This not only would affect individuals, but more of families and communities. Sanitation facilities were awarded to different barangays like San Isidro, Tinagcan, Ligaya, Bawing and Calumpang. This area alone houses 3000 people, so now they all have access to clean water and proper sanitation which is important in urban living. Some of these towns actually have indigent families from the Badjaos, a sea/shore dwelling tribe in the region. This also coincides with the local government unit's efforts especially in health and sanitation, to prevent folks from getting sick from waterborne diseases which happens a lot in the SOCCSKSARGEN region.   
 
KabuhayanPLUS also gives them proper training so they could achieve skills and use it to earn a living. They even teach people dressmaking and tailoring. They get TESDA certifications which they can use later on if they want to pursue something in the industry. This has also given single mothers/parents opportunities to earn, to put food on their table... and for their families.   

From beyond providing aid, this foundation's programs will not only give them what they need now, but beyond that. It would give them hope, and a future that is stable, healthy, and still living.

Forest Lake Solidifies Lead in Memorial Park Development

A company that brings compassion, care, innovative services that brings customers first, one that only Forest Lake could bring.

They've been in the industry since 1997, building over 37 memorial parks in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. They have grown significantly over the years, with even bigger steps taken starting 2005 up to 2015. They managed to double their portfolio from 2016 to 2020 then launched 8 more memorial parks in 2021-2023. To date, they now have 3 Billion worth of sales last year and steadfastly personifying their call of "A Better Place" where families, friends could lay to rest their loved ones.

They have strategically strengthened their collection services and increased earnings year on year. They also increased assets (20%) with plans to develop even more of it in the future, but make sure that it remains affordable despite economic challenges and inflation this year.

Alfred Xerez-Burgos III the President and CEO of Forest Lake Development Inc. says "We are lucky to have our core values intact to solidify our stature in this industry. Always putting personalized service, value, teamwork, continuous innovation, creativity and professionalism as part of our priorities, it made us who we are today."

With plans to expand in even more places throughout the country, they remain optimistic and bullish on growth and build more chapels, columbariums, and cremation facilities to meet the needs of Filipino families and their loved ones.

Here's to even more years of service to Filipinos!

Luxe CEO Anna Magkawas dons Renee Salud Runway in Mindanaoan Couture

The who's who of the fashion industry took to the grounds of Okada Manila on May 9th for a runway show by esteemed fashion designer and legend Renee Salud. The show was a hodge podge of glitz, glamour, culture and a heavy concentration on Mindanaoan influences. It was a sight to behold!

One of the highlights of the show was when the CEO of Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group Ms. Anna Magkawas went on stage wearing Mama Renee's Mindanao Tapestry II. After the show, she shared what it felt like being on stage adorned with one of the best creations that evening and said "It just felt so surreal , I was so nervous, but at the same time quite proud seeing all that happen. This is the first time for me to wear a gown designed by him, and walk for the show at the same time. I had no idea it would be that grand, but I guess you can expect that in a Renee Salud show. I had a very tight schedule, and only did fit late because of work. I was the last one to do so a day before the show, I was just thankful we were able to rehearse on the day itself, I managed to pickup a few things about the flow of the show."

For those who don't know, Ms. Anna Magkawas is the woman behind Luxe Slim which is a famous brand of health products in the country. Her thrust fashion wise is to stay with the classics, those that exude elegance. She doesn't wear pieces that may be too revealing, and stayed with very neutral colors. 

The show also had pieces that mix the traditional and modern while utilizing our home grown materials and native textile. They also got to showcase unique pieces, which Renee Salud could only execute. It's why Ms. Anna is always at awe of Filipino fashion designers and find how each region is quite different, something she's eager to wear in future shows and events too.

If you want to know more about Ms. Anna Magkawas and her empire, follow her social channels @anna_magkawas on IG, @annamagkawasofficial on FB and LuxeSlimPH for her products. 

Congratulations on this show Ms. Anna! 

BUM Black Army: Signing Kim Perez and Sparking Change

Change is indeed inevitable, and we're seeing it happen with clothing brand BUM Black Army. 

Following their street laden aesthetic, they've managed to grow with the generation that wore it all. Today, they've gone the route of doing clean lines, more urban, and army inspired designs. It's a pretty significant deviation from the looks they served in previous years... and we loved what we saw! 

A pop up runway show happened during their recent event at Sine Pop, St. Mary Street in Quezon City. This is also the occasion where they bared news of their newest brand endorser KIM PEREZ. He's a good looking host, model and actor. A Sparkle artist known for his roles in MPK, Regal Studios, hit series Hearts on Ice and Black Rider.

 

BUM BLACK ARMY COORDS

Their new collection just felt right. They call it BUM Black Army Coords. From the forest to the desert, or simply the outdoors... you're bound to enjoy a more comfortable line of clothes with the apt colors for the season. The city streets will be so cool with Earth tones, different greens and even charcoal on what you're wearing. Those pullovers, jackets with hoodies, shorts with pockets, won't go unnoticed especially if you try to mix and match them with another. The loose fit, would make you stay quite comfortable no matter where you are. You can stay versatile with each piece, no need for nerfing what you already posess, the confidence and look when you have BUM Black Army on your body. They even have accessories to go with it.

It's time you get tough, clean and be obesessed with #BUMBlackArmyCoords because at the end of the day, you deserve it!

Here's the show on video, enjoy!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

 

Meet KIM PEREZ, the newest BUM Black Army Endorser

Kim was quite nice to talk to. He knew about BUM prior to becoming an endorser of the clothing brand and told us about how he's been using it in shoots, at home or even on occasions. He also likes the prints, the colors, and how it fits with his existing wardrobe. We asked him about what he also feels now that he's part of the illustrious celebrities who have endorsed BUM Black Army.

The trust given to him is humongous, and by the looks of it... it fits him and his personality. I like the various BUM Black Army camouflage prints they showcased during the show, and if it's out in stores, I'm going to be part of the reason why you'll run out of it. Watch out for the materials they're coming out with especially in stores, and mall tours they're planning to do in Visayas and Mindanao.

This is just the start, and if this is the change we're seeing... I'm glad it happened!

If you want to know more about the brand, go follow them on their official social channels. They will also be coming out with the collection in shopping platforms, and TikTok so you just wait!

34th Philippine Travel Mart Slated This September

I know some of you haven't really had the time to go out and travel, but this is revenge travel year and the Philippine Tour Operators Association is about to.hold the 34th edition of Philippine Travel Mart at the SMX Convention Center in Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. The annual affair houses over 300 exhibitors from around the country (that's 17 regions) which consists of hotels, resorts, agencies, tour operators and offices on September 1-3, 2023. If you're raring to find deals and tour packages to travel in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, this is the place to be in and book it on the spot!

As you know, there's a very strong demand for tours in Baguio, Boracay, Cebu, Palawan and places like Zamboanga, Quirino, Soccskargen so you've got a lot of places to discover.

The President of PhilTOA Ms. Fe Abling-Yu says "Thank you and good afternoon, in spite of the rain and road conditions you are all here. Your presence here today underscores the importance of support we need in the tourism and hospitality efforts in these challenging times. Now with great excitement, I am delighted to share with you the 34th Philippine Travel Mart. It's time to connect, our direction is to help the government to uplift the  tourism industry. Our thanks to the DOT, all the 16 regional offices across the nation. With the help of TPB, you will see them there. This industry gave us life, an industry to earn, and we are happy to say even local government units are happy to accept us as guests in their respective regions. We hope you find ways to help us take the message across to satisfy the Filipinos wunderlist especially this year."

Ms. Fe adds "The first row of pavilions will be done by DOT regional offices, and the 34th Philippine Travel Mart is a place you could see affordable tickets,  and cooperation from the DOT, TPB. Emerging destinations last year included the colors of Mindanao, apart from that, there's Borongan Samar where PAL will be flying too soon. Also in our mind is Marinduque, Romblon, Masbate, tons of properties that needed to be discovered."

The very passionate Ms. Maria Margarita Nograles the COO of TPB also says "Guests, media friends, good afternoon. As we continue to navigate the challenges in tourism, and as borders open, it is crucial to support our local businesses to engage with partners and suppliers. The Philippines has delightful experiences, scenic spots and rich cuisine for everyone. 3 Million tourism arrivals, local tourism surge is happening right now (almost 7 times) versus the same period last year. It creates employment for thousands of Filipinos. Our country is rich, and the Philippine Travel Mart is helping our tourism sector bounce back stronger. The TPB is fully committed to develop our tourism portfolio for both local and international tourists and is setting bigger goals for years to come. Thank you so much for your help PHILTOA, here's to the continued success for the upcoming 34th Philippine Trave Mart!"

Ms. Mary Ann Ong the 1st VP of PHILTOA says "We have 17 regions participate in the program by presenting their local talents, do games, plus presentations of our partners lime Philippine Airlines, and some new players in the market like Chroma Hospitality, Hotel 101 group, Dusit Davao, and DOT's new call called "The Filipino Brand of Wellness" which will also be featured there."

She also talked about the new logo of Philippine Travel Mart which showcase the colors of the ASEAN. There are a lot of things lined up in the program and it will be announced a week or two before the date so stay tuned for that!

PHILTOA 2nd Vice President Arjun Shroff says "The annual Travel Mart has invigorated the industry. Hotels, airlines, tour agencies has taken advantage of servicing more Filipinos through this and this year is going to be bigger than ever before. From vibrant cities, activities, all designed to make people have unforgettable adventures, to offer something for everyone. 7600 ways to LOVE THE PHILIPPINES, to be wowed, have fun, and the best destinations will be offered on the event. Make sure you're there on September!"

The 34th Philippine Travel Mart media launch was also attended by PhilTOA stakeholders, board members, hoteliers, people from TPB, the Department of Tourism, Philippine Airlines, media outlets, bloggers and influencers. If you want to know more about the event, visit their official website philtravelmart.com and their social channels @philtravelmart on FB and IG. 

Tara travel na!

Asterra Condominium Rising in Promising Butuan

Butuan City for most have been a surprise in the Caraga region. It's classified as a 1st class and highly urbanized city in Agusan del Norte, nicely tucked in Mindanao. Progress has been happening and livable conclaves are rising, one of which is Asterra. Finding quality housing for families, those who need investments, or simple home buyers would certainly be in-love with this place, as it brings the promise of their other projects in other cities across the country.

 The location is going to be good, as it is right front and center. It's a place where economic gains have also been happening in the last few years. It is after all ranked 13th among most improved cities in the Philippines, and with good reason because it has experienced growth, has more cultural movements, and tons of history.  Seeing Asterra Butuan rise in this site would surely give a piece of modern living in one of the most promising place in Mindanao; especially for those who grew up there and have already called it home. From those starting a family, people who have done remarkably well in their profession, or those who are outside the country eager to find a home for themselves, their family or prefer to make it an investment. Just like condos in Manila, it can be rented out which is not a bad idea when increase in economic activity happens.

Aside from the usual residential fare, those who are also planning to  business would do good since it's in a good location. From food, clothing, entertainment, leisure, there's certainly a lot of possible commercial use you can do in the same area. If that happens, jobs could be generated and with the lovely warm people from Butuan, it could really flourish. Since you're in the center of it all, existing educational institutions, churches, markets, restaurants, and transportation can be easily accessed, life would be better.

Add to that the amenities that Asterra Butuan plans to include in the vicinity. You would probably have less reason to go out because everything will be there and more. This while keeping the price of it very reasonable because as their saying goes "affordable but quality" lives on in every home they create. It's a new era in Butuan and yes, Asterra will be part of that.

If this piqued your interest, go get info from them via asterra.com.ph or on AsterraOfficial on FB because it'll all be there!

What Does It Take To Own Your Own Home?

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to own your own home? That feeling when your build your dreams with your family? This seems to be a good day to assure you that yes, it can and has happened to thousands of people in the Philippines and it isn't rocket science.

Something You Can Afford

Find a home that fits your budget. Aside from not forgetting about your daily expenses, ask your agent about reservation fees, your down payment (would you save a lot if you pay more head on?) and the monthly amortization (will it not be a burden for you when you have to pay on a monthly basis?). Properties in BellaVita for example only cost Php 3,500 to Php 5,000 and depends on the actual model you choose. Their down payment scheme can also be arranged in 18 months, and you can also arrange funding from local banks or Pag-ibig (Government Office) and could really be affordable, easy to pay in the long run.

Take A Good Look at the Community


Location location location still holds true when choosing a home. Though you must know much of it is about the community. Is there a place for work? A place of worship? Maybe a good market to buy essentials or perhaps a school where you children can go to? If your chosen home isn't near establishments like these, you may find it difficult to function normally and live there for years. Like BellaVita communities, they have to be built in places that can be accessible by family and guests, but also these. It's what proper urban planning is essential like BellaVita properties in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. They have ones in Porac, Pampanga, Cabanatuan City in Nueva Ecija, or Capas in Tarlac, General Trias in CAvite, Alaminos, Pila or San Pablo in Laguna, or perhaps Lian, Rosario or Lipa City in Batangas. They also have one in Tayabas Quezon which people from the South should look into, there's some in Visayas and Mindanao too.

A Safe Home

It definitely doesn't stop at buying a house, you have to make sure the community is equally safe so when you are not around. Peace of mind is priceless, and your family's safety is a priority. On a gated and guarded community like BellaVita, you're assured to have that. There are also assigned tricycle terminals for ease of transport to and from a BellaVita home.

 

One That Lasts Years

The Philippines is under the ring of fire, we also encounter around 26-30 typhoons a year. Needless to say, you need a home that would withstand all of that and more. The quality of building a house should also be considered when choosing one. Aside from protecting yourselves from nature, amenities that is of equal quality would certainly be a plus on any homeowners book. Kids need to play in Basketball Courts, utilize Multipurpose Halls for special events and parties, and BellaVita has that. 

If you want a place of your own today, BellaVita would certainly be something that you should consider. If you want to reserve one, get in touch with them through 09178535937 or 09178269451. You may also visit their social channels at https://www.facebook.com/BellaVitaLandCorp/ on FB, https://www.instagram.com/bellavitalandcorp/ on IG, https://www.tiktok.com/@bellavitalandcorp on Tiktok or see more information via their YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/BellaVitaLandCorpBV.

 

 

 

The Future Looks Bright with BRIA Homes Projects in Davao

My personal trips in Davao always had me think about how fun it is to journey the countryside. It's full of lush tropical forests, mountains, a wonderful city center, tour spots, beaches, flora and fauna. Aside from that, they've got historic spots, places to hangout, some really good communities to raise a family.

BRIA Homes is expanding in this region which includes Tagum City, Panabo and Digos. I've had the pleasure of visiting these cities a couple of years ago especially Davao del Norte which is so abundant of fruits in season. Digos has Mount Apo Natural Park and world class beach resorts which would be perfect for settling down or easy living... expats included.

Ed Aguilar the Division Head of Bria Homes says "We are constantly offering BRIA Homes to those who are looking for a place to call home, invest in properties and spend years in these communities. This is also ideal for those who would want to retire."

Condo units in this side of the world are well built, comfortable to live in, all secured for locals, investors, OFW's and their families. With guards manning 24 hour duties at entrance and exit points, you would have peace of mind if you live here. If you choose to have a BRIA Home in Davao, it is possible to see it in www.bria.com.ph or their official Facebook page over at www.facebook.com/BriaHomesIncOfficial. If you choose to get one, you can reserve it via https://www.bria.com.ph/online-reservation/.

SKY FIBER Offers SWAK Internet Packages This 2022

Today was a good time for coffee together with the folks from SKY Fiber. The company is launching speed packages that is both fast and affordable.

James Dumlao of Sky Fiber's Programming and Airtime Group says "The past two years have been challenging. We're adapting to work from home, online shopping, doing videos online and connecting with loved ones. Good quality internet is a necessity and we at Sky Fiber want to commit our services for the market today at the Swak na Swak media launch. There are options out there, but the choosing the right plan is a little difficult to do. The SWAK PLAN brings value for our subscribers. Yumi and Philip of Davao Conyo will share their experiences and we look forward to see you our Sky Kapamilya in events soon."

Yumi says "For me, updating my friends seem normal and I post it online. My followers appreciate it and they recognize me in malls, so I felt someone is watching me and I feel glad seeing that. Back in 2018 I was just a bored teen looking for apps, I downloaded it and was surprised I could share short videos. I made content for it and it didn't blew up overnight, maybe my 5th one did. And I found an Oppa for me. Sharing content on Tiktok is something that I do regularly, and Sky Fiber makes it possible."

Davao Conyo's Philip Hernandez says "I'm an introvert but when I go to malls, I get noticed because of the content I put out. I don't feel super special, but everyone creates videos nowadays. The difference I think is the humor we put in it. I am gay and funny, so I really made and effort to perform. I made videos from commercials I've watched when I was a kid, it was like an experiment on Facebook and I was too shy to actually do that. I didn't appear in skits before, it was like just me and a voice. The one that blew up was my 4 Sisters and a Wedding in Bisaya. That went viral, and I knew then that it was what the public wanted. The unique narrative of having hollywood films in my lines was something that people looked forward to. I had to be really careful because of copyright stuff. You also need to be consistent, sometimes videos are daily. I need upload speeds that can cater that. For me, the WIFI Mesh solved so many of my problems because I am at the second floor of my home where it was usually dismal, but now Sky Fiber has it. and it's cute!"

Sky Fiber offers 999 per month for 20 Mbps, 30 Mbps for Php 1,299 per month. For heavy streaming they have 75mbps at 1699, 100Mbps for 2299 per month, with a generous 50Mbps boost until April this year. They also ahve bundled Cable and Broadband Plans for you at Php 1699 for 40Mbps. Now is the time to switch to Sky Fiber, with FREE Installation fees and Wifi Mesh packages included in the plan. The speed boost is available for plans 50Mbps and above. It's a treat for subscribers and they plan to extend its duration, you're better off getting one now!

Coca-Cola Foundation, Coca-Cola Philippines Help Typhoon Odette Hit Areas

When Typhoon Odette hit the Philippines, a lot of Filipinos lost their homes, livelihood, and capacity to earn a living. The philanthropic arm of the Coca-Cola Company has been helping in their own capacity, benefiting thousands of people across 6 provinces that have been affected by this natural disaster. To start off, a grant of USD 400,000 to CBCP Caritas Filipinas Foundation was made to support nine dioceses in Visayas and Mindanao operate several efforts for food, shelter, repair kits, solar lamps, hygiene kits,  to more than 4 thousand families in the region.

Coca Cola Foundation also has given Php 5.8 Million worth of food, hygiene kits, shelter or roof repair, drinking water and filters so they start picking up the pieces and start recovery early on. They worked with NGO partners Water and Life Philippines, WWF, Caritas Manila, Philippine Business for Social Progress, Gawad Kalinga, World Vision, Synergeia Foundation and Waves 4 Water. Saadia Madsbjerg the President of Coca-Cola Foundations says "This is the time we provide humanitarian aid for those who are in need and we know how these natural disasters especially during the pandemic affect so many people in communities that have limited resources."

Ms. Cecile Alcantara the President of the Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines adds "We and our trusted partners continue to serve Filipinos through different programs, waste management, water stewardship, education, youth and women empowerment including disaster relief. Although we know how resilient Filipinos are, we are here to support you one day at a time."

To date, they are still supplying over 70 thousand liters of Wilkins drinking water in affected areas, and employees through CCBPI have raised over Php 600K to help in Visayas and Mindanao. They are working with Mandaue City as well for mobile treatment machines that make water potable in the area. They are present in communities in Marawi, Davao del Sur and Bicol as well. 

LANDERS Superstore Calls for Donations

I've been struggling appreciating the holidays especially when several provinces in Visayas and Mindanao were hit by Typhoon Odette. Although I've helped in my own little way, there are still a lot of people suffering without food, water, electricity and even information because internet connection doesn't exist.

Good thing there are several private entities that are launching donation drives to help in making sure supplies are going to get there. Landers Superstore members and non members can now donate water, hygeine kits, clean clothes, pillows, blankets, and other non perishable items in all their branches nationwide. Aside from that, you can purchase things to donate on their website landers.ph/help-vismin and use the voucher code HELPVISMIN so delivery fees will not be charged, all of it will be picked up by the Philippine Army so they can get them to Typhoon Odette hit areas. As of now, they have a total of 12.5 Million pesos worth fo products delivered and 5 Million from their partner Deca Homes. They are also supplying tap water at the Grand Convention Center in Cebu during office hours, to hopefully not have anyone lacking water wherever in Cebu.

 

 

Go visit Landers Superstore branches nationwide and start sharing whatever you can for this cause.

Sanicare Mark PASCO in Three Island Groups

It's almost Christmas and I'm sure by this time, you've seen some products on the shelves that you don't know how it was made or where it came from. If you've seen Sanicare on the Bathroom Tissue, Baby Wipes and Paper Towel isle, then those actually come from SCPA (Sanitary Care Products Asia, Inc.). This year was tough for all of us including the employees of the said company, but they realized it was very important for them to still push through with their annual Christmas party so they can share blessings with their employees, and their families especially through these tough times. 

Instead of the usual physical events, they did it online for the safety of everyone. During the event, they got local recording artist, record producer and DJ Silverfilter to write an original song for the company these holidays called "PASCO". In it, they featured their  own products, a God centric theme as thanks to the creator. They held a music video competition and used this to showcase Filipino culture and hope for the communities they serve. 

SCPA Luzon:

SCPA Visayas:

SCPA Mindanao:

As you can see, they made a lot of effort in making these videos to showcase individual talent, their workplace, and regional fare. They also made these while observing health protocols which they also employ in their offices and plants. It's such a nice thing to do, not just to entertain their employees, but to see a sense of normalcy which soon, we hope to have in the whole country. 

Merry Christmas!

BRIA Homes Expands in Mindanao

More and more people are seeing the promised land in Mindanao, this includes stable giant BRIA Homes who leads the pack in mass housing development in the country. They however know it is wise to do this now and picked the second largest island in the Philippines to expand in places like Davao, tuna capital General Santos City, Kidapawan City, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon to name a few.

Right now, they’ve got BRIA Tagum in Brgy. La Filipina, BRIA Maco in Brgy. Pangi, BRIA Panabo and BRIA Carmen which sits very near Daang Maharlika National Highway. They’ve also got a Davao site in BRIA Digos located in Brgy. Matti at Upper Matti and BRIA Calinan, a 15-hectare community located in Brgy. Talomo-River. GenSan isn’t shortchanged though as they have BRIA Gran Europa, a 5.1-hectare subdivision located in Brgy. Lumbia, and BRIA Condo CDO, a four-storey, low-rise condominium. These are communities situated at Brgy. Kauswagan, accessible via Masterson Avenue. BRIA Gingoog, situated in Brgy. San Juan is a little far if you want a more remote place and BRIA Kidapawan too which will sits on 17 hectares of land at Magpet-Pangaoan Road, Brgy. Sudapin in Kidapawan City. If you want one in Misamis, there’s BRIA Balingasag and BRIA Gingoog. If you want BRIA Valencia or BRIA Manolo Fortich you can live in Brgy. Mailag, both places are accessible via Sayre Highway.

All of these come with very wide roads, village amenities so you can live comfortably even in the comforts of your own community. These are also strategically located near schools, hospitals, markets and highways so your family won’t have to go far, plus have opportunities of work nearby because businesses are opening in Mindanao, you’ll love it there! Professionals til now see this as a worthwhile investment too so if you’re into real estate, this might come handy before the boom happens. Government spending is at an all time high and they’re pouring billions for infrastructure in the promised land, you should see that to your advantage.

Affordable home in a modern setting, this is what BRIA homes has been delivering all these years. They also have easy payment schemes so no stress on the budget either. You wanna live here? You should!

Authentic Southern Cooking at PALM GRILL Tomas Morato

The Philippines is blessed with a rich culinary heritage and the rest of the world still has to discover what we are as a nation, our food included. Located at the corner of Scout Castor and Tomas Morato in Quezon City is a little known restaurant called PALM GRILL. I’ve been here a couple of times because of events by GMA and private companies - and I was happy because it’s in my neighborhood. I could literally walk from my house to there in just a few minutes.

I wanted to actually go on a solo adventure to Zamboanga and its neighboring provinces, but when I booked flights to that region I think I always get bumped off or got cancelled (twice) and security wise I was advised to tone down my looks and not look like an almost 6 foot lad with blond hair so I wouldn’t stand out from the crowd. I dreamt of doing street photography, to mostly people and even for once, maybe catch a glimpse of a real deal Vinta, a boat which can only be seen in that place. It never came true, so I was a little sad I couldn’t tick that off my bucketlist. Aside from that, when I went to Sabah Malaysia a couple years back, I got a glimpse of the food I wanted to have from that region. Apparently, most of their dishes are similar with what is served on a daily basis in the Southern part of the Philippines, which I have checked and confirmed. I knew I couldn’t live without trying the real thing, real Southern Philippine dishes that caught my eye.

I didn’t know that all along, this same restaurant a few minutes away from my house actually served the authentic southern Philippine dishes I was looking for. Owner Miggy Moreno says “All the dishes here are what I had during childhood, it’s made the same way with ingredients we’ve flown in from Zamboanga. It’s the reason why you’ll get the same taste as if you’re really there.”

The place can probably pack a little over a hundred people. It’s got two floors where you can also find your spot as it’s interiors are fit with flowers and leaves, which I find to be all instagrammable if there is such a word.

The top floor is like a loft, perfect for small functions or parties. They do accomodate that so if you’re looking for a good meal (with new food) this would be a nice place to book.

The second floor is just as pretty. I think they have spent a lot of time thinking about the interiors using wood, bold colors as base, and I think it works.

Now I mentioned I have dined here previously right? I remember having this Green Chicken that time so I wanted to have it again during this small luncheon. It did not dissappoint. The chicken wreaks of coconut their house spice base which reminded me a lot of Malaysian and Indonesian dishes I had in the past. I must admit this is my favorite. Imagine having this and piping hot white rice on a rainy afternoon, it’s like a different kind of comfort food.

The Green Chicken

Tiyula Itum

During our lunch, we were invited to try their newest item on the menu. They call this Tiyula Itum. It’s a Tausug dish similar to our local Bulalo, but it’s got this intense herby but mildly spicy beef flavor. They brought this here because they knew Tomas Morato was quite a competitive place for restaurants. This would defintely make them stand out. You can also ask them to adjust the spiciness of the dish if you prefer a spicier one (which I do by the way) and they would gladly do it for you. They serve this with a little flare, with a live torched bone marrow which you can scoop off and mix in with your rice and broth. If you’re like me who wants the perfect spoon, this is so sinful but so worth it. The broth was hot, has chunks of meat boiled for hours so it is ideal to have this while it’s hot.

The Knicker Iced Treat

This is their version of the Zamboanga Knickerbocker which they call Kinicker Iced Treat. Think of it as a Halo Halo on steroids because it’s got lots of local fruit pieces, ice cream too. I think this would be one of the things you should order to end the meal, especially if you’re a sweet tooth.

They have coffee

They also have a mean coffee. If you’re just around the area and looking for a place to chill, this could be a good place to start before you run amuck and spend the night clubbing.

The food is authentic as it gets because they source their ingredients from Zamboanga. They also have CURACHA with Zamboanga Sauce which I also suggest you get for your meal. Make sure to bring family and friends because the service is not intrusive (which I like) but you can talk to them casually, if you’re just having a drink, that can be done.

If you wish to know more about the place, check out their instagram account @palmgrillph and their social media channels, just search!

Call 3731688 or 545177. They are open everyday 11am to 11pm. Go start your Mindanao journey at Palm Grill.

I am obsessed with their Green Chicken!

Davao's Blue Posts Boiling Crabs and Shrimps Now in Manila

Davao has been genuinely a great place to do vacations, I've been there quite a number of times now. I think it's the charm of being laid back, the charming people, the fun places to go to and FOOD that makes every visit worthwhile. Although there are tons of Manila based restaurants opening down south, I haven't really seen brands from the south opening stores here in Metro Manila. Until today that is.

Blue Posts Boiling Crabs and Shrimps just opened shop at the 5th Floor of SM North Edsa's The Block and they've brought along a throng of the finest seafood catch, much like how they make it in Davao and into one of the biggest malls in the world to start their journey in Manila. This is the first franchise and the owners made it a point that all the crew and Chefs would be trained and exposed in Davao so they could replicate the experience of how it is in their original branch. They opened the first two in Davao's JP Laurel Branch and Lanang Business Park district, but felt Manilenos could really get some seafood love if this happened. Now they're making your dreams come true with a few food offerings that will surely make your mouth water, even if you're just looking at it.

First things first, you need to be armed by Spoons, Forks, the Crab shell cracker, the Mallet, and your own Boiling Crabs and Shrips official Bib so you don't really get messy... because this will be messy!

I had this drink first. It's either Four Seasons or Guava. Tasted like it. They have a couple more choices at the center of the restaurant which comes with the meal. Yes it's unlimited, and you can choose other flavors if you want to. That's really awesome, you can have them all in one visit LOL

For starters, this is their Calamares. It tasted fresh, it was crunchy, it was soft, and not overcooked. They also sprinkled something on top that made it a little spicy. Either Paprika or barbecue powder, pretty good!

I think this is their Crab Sticks. It wasn't much a hit on our table, but I felt it was okay. This would be good for kids who are fond of fried food, it'll feel like Chicken Fingers but it's got Crab instead.

For fish lovers, they've got Crispy Garlic Tuna Belly. I'm telling you, this is a garlic lover's dream! Those bits of golden brown garlic on top was just heavenly! It was a little oily, but the good type. This is probably rich in Omega 3, so it's good for your heart.

Meet my Kryptonite. Yes, you're looking at their piece de resistance, the lovely food that made them famous, the CRABS!

And by golly, the CRABS were so good that even if I had allergies I was still tempted to taste them all! They all laid on our table the Original Cajun Boiled Bag, the new Sambal Chili Crabs and my personal favorite the Crispy Garlic Crabs.

The Original Boiled Cajun Bag Crabs was heavenly, lightly seasoned, cooked in it's own life juices. It was sweet, flavorful, and you can even put the sauce on top of your hot steamed rice.

The Sambal Chili Crab was stuff for legends. The hot chili really complemented the crab flavor. It made the sauce thick, plus it was really good with the corn they mixed in the bag. It was like smoky, spicy, hot and really good with a cup of rice, unless of course you would have seconds, thirds or 4 more. I wouldn't be surprised. It is good, you'll forget your name a couple of times. You'll be prim and proper when you arrive, then find yourself in a total mess eating with your bare hands. Don't worry though as they have gloves for that. Don't forget the Crispy Garlic Crab too, my personal favorite. You could imagine, you would want to eat the whole crab (if it wasn't for the hard shell) plus the tons of garlic and light batter they used to cook this in. Honestly, the best Crab I've had in years.

For spice lovers, if you want to have that deep creole cooking done to a T, you've got that represented with their Gumbo. It's spicy, has that rich, deep and smoky flavor all mixed into one delectable soup that's super good to have while it's hot. It's like Aunt Jemima finally made this in Manila. Pretty authentic in my books, and it's made fresh everyday I think, must have been a chore to do for hours. I'd like to have a whole pot for my birthday!

For a more Davao feel, they also brought in Sinuglaw. A dish made of grilled Pork pieces, fresh Tuna, herbs and spices. It was good especially if you have it with beer. People settled with rice as beer probably ain't available in stores inside the mall.

This one wreaks of lemon grass and char grilled flavor. This is their Grilled Native Chicken, said to be the favorite of our current President Rodrigo Duterte. It was actually good, not that pretty to look at but if you ask the locals, they wouldn't trade this for the world. Best eaten when hot!

This I guess is just the tip of the iceberg. We still have a LOT of things to discover about this really good restaurant from Davao and why they have gambled to open a branch in Manila. For Davaoenos who miss home, this would probably be the best thing next to Mom's cooking. For Manileno's, this is just the start. There are hundreds of food establishments in the country that are waiting to be discovered. Soon, it's going to be easy to have them all because they'll probably be putting up branches like these around the country. This was a dream, look at them now! That just means it's not impossible, we just need more people to believe that the Filipino cuisine is ready for the local market... soon even the world!

Congratulations Blue Posts Boiling Crabs and Shrimps! Can't wait to go back there soon!

For more information about their food:

Blue Posts Boiling Crabs and Shrimps

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https://www.facebook.com/BluePostsBoiling