Baskin Robbins Opens at Bonifacio Global City

This, is stuff made of legends.

When I heard Baskin Robbins, I had to say yes immediately. It's name doesn't only mean ice cream.. but you would need to think about the flavors, the textures and varieties that comes with it. I can even say, that it takes a lifestyle to make heads and appreciate it. I was so glad to have heard of the news that they opened their first full blown store in the Philippines.

It's located at the mall found in the Central Square, Bonifacio Global City. I immediately peeked at the chest freezer and found my favorite flavors already there. Pistacho just sounds so good in my books.

Now you've got the chance to get your Milkshake, scoops and build your own sundaes! Nobody said you can't have 2 or 3 scoops in your freshly made wafer bowls too. Top it off with chocolate syrup, nuts, whipped cream and cherry on top... it's just made of dreams! Available flavors are: Jamoca, Mint Chocolate Chip, Jamoca Almond Fudge, Pistachio Almond, Pralines n Cream, Gold Medal Ribbon, Caramel Chocolate Crunch, Chocolate Mousse Royale, World Class Chocolate, Cookies n Cream, Green Tea, Coconut, Choc Chip Cookie Dough, Mango Tango (which I've tried), Chocolate, Peanut Butter n Choc, Chocolate Chip, Very Berry Strawberry, Rum Raisin, Macadamia Nuts n Cream, Vanilla, Love Potion #31 (which I also had), Hokey Pokey, Orange Sherbet, Rainbow Sherbet, Citrus Twist Ice, Chocolate Chip NSA, Caramel Turtle NSA, Cotton Candy, Blackberry Yogurt, Strawberry Yogurt, Mango Yogurt, Maui Brownie Madness... it was heaven on Earth!

They even have merchandise that's got Baskin Robbins all over it. I specifically love the bags and drink containers as seen above. I also love the cap I got from participating in one of Baskin Robbins' games during the launch. I battled it out with other bloggers in scooping ice cream in one cone. I think I did okay and of course I ate it all! :)

We also saw hunky Azkal Anton Del Rosario and wife Samantha Richelle - Del Rosario enjoying the sundaes with their super cute kid! He also remembered me since I have interviewed him in other presscons before. I love them. His wife was also so gorgeous in that classic 60's pinup-esque outfit. Don't they look adorable? :) They truly love Baskin Robbins!

When we almost thought the ice cream and chit chat was enough for the event, they went in and surprised us with a mob dance courtesy of The Philippine All Stars!

 These guys and gals also grabbed some of the kids on the sidelines so they can dance with them in the middle of the new mall. By the way, I've only seen SSI brands on this mall. I think this place is theirs. Although Baskin and Robbins is managed by a local company, things are imported as well. It was much of a happy day! 

  Congratulations Baskin Robbins! Welcome back! The decade you went away just made you surely missed! Their store is in the Upper Ground Floor of the mall in Central Plaza, Bonifacio Global City. Make sure you save some Very Berry Strawberry while you're there. :)

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Naughty Fun at Solaire with Macho Gwapita Concert

It was a naughty and nice afternoon to get to talk with the Comedy Concert Queen Aiai Delas Alas and the Total Entertainer Rico J. Puno as they bring to the Philippines their best concert series yet as seen in the US and Europe called MACHO GWAPITA. This is going to be seen on July 26, 2014 at Solaire Resort's Grand Ballroom.

A word of warning, this show isn't going to be for kids. They are not going to hold back on the green jokes which folks from Las Vegas also found so amusing when they did the shows there. If the US leg was successful, what's stopping it from being more fun if it's in the Philippines right? 

Rico J also mentioned some stories while they were doing the shows in Vegas, Aiai also remembered a drunk guy in the audience who was heckling and saying expletives in the beginning and almost forced them to kick him out of the venue... later on, he was laughing so hard and even enjoyed the show. Aside from the usual song numbers, you'll get the very best antics that only an Aiai can bring. I heard she'll pour in several of her skits as seen on her concerts and add in several new material that she wouldn't dare spill because she wants you to watch the show. 

Oh by the way, the gorgeous recording artist Rita De Guzman will also be part of the show. She'll be singing a few songs and probably her original "Bilang Ikaw". She was quite applauded that afternoon by the media and if she's opening the show on July 26th, that's even more reason to watch the show. :)

Oh by the way, Aiai was a little distraught about the Nora Aunor "National Artist" incident. She also said that if credit was due her, it should be given. She didn't hide her disappointment about President Noy. She also told us about Kris, but I'd rather leave the details on the tabloids and newspaper reporters who were there. Anyway, we're here to enjoy... and that's exactly what you're going to see when you get tickets to the show. Remember, Macho Gwapita with Aiai and Rico J will show on July 26, 2014 and will start at 8PM. A hilarious fun filled comedy and music night awaits you! Oh and yes, you'll help the foundation too! :)

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Solaire Resort

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Free Pizza on Greenwich Pizza Thins #CrackThat Day

Well, I haven't been able to see it but I'm planning to order one real soon. Apparently, while I was in Boracay my folks ate it all right after it got delivered at home (I didn't even get to have a photo of it!). The only thing I heard from them over skype was "It was so crunchy!"... so that's why they used the #CrackThat tagline on it. Amazing!

With the multitude of toppings to choose from, Greenwich brings you the "Thin Crust Pizza" experience to a whole different level. They've improved the Filipino favorite and made it even better by making it extra crispy, tasty, cheesy and meaty in every pizza slice! If you haven't decided what lunch, merienda or dinner is yet, make it a Greenwich pizza and stay at home this rainy day. If you are going out, Greenwich's #CrackThat day will be on July 16, 2014. Just go to select Greenwich Pizza branches nationwide and take a load of 10,000 boxes of PIZZA THINS! No joke! First 100 customers in these stores and pop up booths will enjoy this great treat!

Make sure you visit and like their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/greenwichpizza to get to know when and where they'll be doing this! #CrackThat Day is only brought to you by that Crispier, Tastier and Meatier Greenwich Pizza Thins! :)

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Greenwich Pizza

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NBA 3X 2014 and Smart Cares!

LA Lakers Forward Wesley Johnson and Toronto Raptors Guard DeMar DeRozan with their lovely wives are now in the Philippines for NBA 3X 201. Photo credits to NBA Philippines Facebook page.

An awesome day just happened at the Mall of Asia Arena when a local soft drink brand, in cooperation with the country's biggest network SMART Communications just held the NBA 3X 2014 Philippines. It caters to athletes in different age groups with male and female divisions but the best part is, they are holding Basketball Clinics, a Slam Dunk Contest, a Skills Challenge, a 3-Point Shootout, a Fast Feet Challenge, Autograph Session with the NBA greats LA Lakers Forward Wesley Johnson and Toronto Raptors Guard DeMar DeRozan and live performances.

A touching sight, special kids were taught the sport of basketball. Credits to Flow Galindez of angsawariko.com for this photo.

NBA players Wesley Johnson and DeMar DeRozan together with Toronto Raptors Cheer Squad with Atty. Adel Tamano and the special kids showing that NBA Cares.

A celebrity match was also done this afternoon where teams made up of Marco Alcaraz, Derek Ramsey, Ervic Vijandre, Rovilson Fernandez, Will DeVaughn, Jinno Rufino, Mong Alcaraz of Spongecola, Mark Zambrano, Bobby Yan, Robin DaRoza, Fabio Ide, Jose Sarasola, Eric Tai, Andy Smith, Luis Alandy, Coach Rio Dela Cruz, JayR, Vince Hizon, DJ Emel Rowe, Coach Alan Gregorio, Marco Benitez, Anton Roxas and Aljur Abrenica played for charity along with a small clinic for special children in the Philippines. Other celebrities like the Sacramento Kings mascot Slamson the Lion, Toronto Raptors cheer squad and the Raptors Dance Pak also joined in for this cause headed by NBA Cares.

DeMar DeRozan huddles with players from different age groups, giving them support to feed their love for the game of basketball. Photo from NBA 3X Asia page.

Team Alcaraz won the Championship for the Celebrity Challenge. It was a really tough round but these guys did great! Photo credits to NBA Philippines Facebook Page.

Smart Communications will surely be supporting all sports related activities in the country especially those which that have a cause. The kids were undoubtedly all smiles before and after the games and the NBA players had the pleasure of spending quality time with them. I hope I get to see the next ones soon. In the meantime I'll enjoy streaming my future NBA games through the NBA League Pass and Smart because they are the official partner in the Philippines. No matter where I am or whatever I'm doing, it'll save me and give HD quality videos through my smart phone. Awesome! 

Oh and before I forget, according to the NBA 3X 2014 organizers, some of the games will be moved to the PICC instead of the MOA Music Hall because of the weather and unforseen circumstances. Please like their Facebook page for more details about that. 

I'm so glad NBA and Smart Cares!

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Vigan Vies For 7 Wonder Cities of the World

One of the few places I've visited this year just became the talk of the town. Up north where there's a rustic, hispanic area and cobbled stone streets that probably spanned hundred or more years, the city of Vigan remains one of the few UNESCO world heritage sites that lives up to its name. The only place in Asia where a mix of Filipino and Spanish heritage exists, it truly is a sight to behold every time you get to see its streets and buildings that dates back to 16th century. I know, it ain't enough I guess, that just spells this city needs to be recognized... not just here, but worldwide!

 

Mayor Eva Marie Medina of the city of Vigan says "Being in the finals has added to our pride as residents of this small city with big dreams and hard earned achievements. Officials from Vigan are relentless in their continued efforts to make this city the “best” place. We hold on to our commitment to sustain our gains in heritage conservation and excellence in governance because these are the very instruments that ensure the well being of our people".

Vigan City has been included in the 28 finalists for 7 Wonder Cities of the world. There will be another round where only 21 will be left. Now is the time to vote for them as another national historic site takes the front seat. It's not only the places that can actually be the sole reason to see Vigan as one of the world's best. Just look at the things we've loved from this Ilocos city all these years!

From the crunchy Vigan Chichacorn, to pottery and small trinkets made from wood, to small mementos of the houses, to the weaved cloths and baskets, to Malunggay/Moringga pasta and cookies, to the famous Vigan longganisa that's so garlicky in every bite, to the super crunchy and sinful Bagnet... the city of Vigan has it all!

Now it's time for us to help them win this for the Philippines, how to vote? It's easy! Just go to www.n7w.com/en/cities and choose 7 entries, login with your social media accounts and it's a vote. Make sure though to always include VIGAN in your entries so they qualify for the next round. You can also vote by texting VIGAN to 29290777, it's that easy! VOTE NOW so you can get the city of VIGAN recognized as the world's best! It's VIGAN's time to shine!

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Vigan

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The Sofitel Manila Half Marathon 2014

Running enthusiasts, on the starting line!

The last time this happened was in 2008. It's one of the biggest runs in the Philippines that features 5k, 10k and 21k races which gave away prizes and surprises too. This year, on August 17 specifically... they are bringing to you the Sofitel Manila Half Marathon 2014 once again. Proceeds of this event will go to the care of street children of Manila through Virlanie Foundation. It's not just going to be a plain run and will become something that could help the plight of these kids to keep them in school, provide shelter or just overall help them go through life easy. 

One of the leading run organizers in the country Coach Rio Dela Cruz of Runrio says "By organizing the Sofitel Manila Half Marathon, we hope to one day become one of the world's most popular running event attracting both amateur and professional runners from all over the world to compete in Manila.  This marathon is dedicated to the children of Virlanie Foundation with the objective of contributing to a better future for the children of Manila". I've also seen some of the other things Coach Rio did before and a lot of people benefited from it. This is something different because I feel he's really doing it for the kids. Aside from the health benefits of the activity, people would be able to make a difference on the kids lives. That alone is something that could surely change them, to make them better members of the society.

Oh and they're keeping it a little green this time because runners are all advised to bring their own water bottles to be used on refilling stations throughout the race. They will not use paper or plastic cups because we've all seen what happened on races that had that all on the street right?! 

Registration for this race will start on June 27. Just go to Toby’s MOA, Toby’s SM North in The Block and also in Move on 30th Street in BGC. Before you decide on doing this, please checkout www.runrio.com for complete details of the race. Fees are Php 750 for the 5k, Php 850 for the 10k, and PHP 950 for the 21k. Every registered racer will receive the usual race bib, singlet, finisher loot bag and drinks so you won't get dehydrated. For the 21km runners, they will receive their own finishers medal and shirt. Isn't that neat?

The Sofitel Manila Half Marathon is also brought to you by Gatorade, Gold’s Gym, DOCOMO, StarXpo, DOLE, Delsan Office Systems,Canon Fashion Tailoring,10 Inch Lights and sounds, Dowi Hosiery, Delizio Fine Foods, Diversey, MJ Global, M Plus, Timex, Premier water and Nizoral. This also includes their media partners ANC, Business World, Fox International Channels, Manila Bulletin, Philippine Daily Inquirer and Radio High (where you'll probably see this advertised). For more information about the event, you can also check out the event page on Facebook here "The Sofitel Manila Half Marathon" or you can call (02)7031736 or (02)4634814 or email them at feedback@runrio.com.

I'll try and see if I can run on that day, even for fun! :)

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Spiral Manila

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Dreams Get Real for McJim's Three Winners!

Who would have known that in the end of grueling eliminations and auditions that three (3) talented performers would end up as Grand Champions of McJim Classic Leather's "Dreams Get Real: The Search for the Next OPM Star!". The finals ended with an epic twist at the Teatrino Promenade in Greenhills. Now, the band Fifth Dynamics, trio JBK and Neo Domingo will fully enjoy their win and get OPM back on track as their singles have been heavily appreciated by the public. It was a decision they had to make because now, McJim will be supporting them all as they embark on achieving their dreams as OPM artists. They all have received cash prizes, gift packs from the brand and a recording + management contract plus a chance to film and release their own music videos. Isn't that awesome?

Neo Domingo and composer Urie Tesorio on this shot upon receiving the DJ's choice award.

Fifth Dynamics accepting their Championship trophy

JBK proudly shows off their Critic's choice award and the Championship trophy too.

Neo Domingo, solo artist also got his own Championship trophy. A worthy winner.

This Filipino company only knows how much talent there is in the country and they are just barely scratching the surface. Chris Cahilig their adviser adds that he's so proud to see how they've already been able to encompass performing in small clubs and now they're being seen and heard even on tv and radio. They will soon have more and the guys were so thankful for the feat. This has opened so many doors and opportunities for them. They promised even better material and compositions too. I've heard they also have gotten great nods from Jim Paredes who has listened to some of their singles during this competition. 

Kalye Pop artists 1:43 has gotten thousands of fans and just like them, these guys would probably get more airplay and seen in TV stations. As we speak, 1:43 has been able to also get tapped by networks so their songs can be used in their home grown programs and shows too. You probably heard of "Hayop Sa Ganda" (Animalistic Beauty) which has been played countless times in stations here and other provinces. Some even topping the charts, pretty cool no?!

I can't wait to see these artists be appreciated with the material that they have and I say, I hope everyone would be able to appreciate what new kind of OPM music is out there. The public surely deserves the best!

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Mc JIM Classic Leather

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