Saranghaeyo #EwanKoSau Story Conference

We spent a quaint afternoon with the cast and crew of up coming film Saranghaeyo #EwanKoSau during their story conference at the Belleville Cafe in Scout Tobias in Quezon City. It's an independently produced film but will be released mainstream by Bagong Buwan Artist Collective (New Moon) and Directed by Roman Perez Jr. It's also written by Palanca Awardee En Villasis. 

As you can see, this one's pretty mixed. Artists from different channels like ABSCBN, GMA and TV5 comprise the stars of this movie and it's not often that this happens. Imagine Jon Lucas, Barbie Forteza, Francis Magundayao and Elisse Joson in one project, that just won't happen in normal circumstances but the stations were nice enough to allow them to do this and Director Roman Perez Jr. is really happy about the outcome of their dialogue with the networks. It was hard but when they told them the story and what they wanted to achieve the network wars didn't seem to be an issue at all. 

The producer herself says she is taking a gamble at this because she believes in the individual actors and the Director who has done projects for the different networks in the past. Aside from that, they are putting out a very current story and will delve more into the KPOP Fever that teens nowadays are crazy about and make the characters live in the moment but portray them differently so they can depart themselves with the goody two shoes role they used to see these stars on TV.

John Matthew Uy is also here. He's gone a long way from his Star Factor TV5 days and is juggling around appearances here and there. He was also in the highly successful She's Dating The Gangster movie with Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo. Joshua Rafael Davis the Yoyotricker and Ultimate Talentadong Pinoy isn't dishing out toys anymore. He's doing good in shows of TV5 and now he's doing this too with compatriots from other networks. He looks good and it seems that he's going to be part of the crew of John Lucas' character in the movie. Obviously we don't have any shortage of talent with this boy and we can only expect he'll be making this an interesting mix of personalities in the movie as Caloy.

Jon Lucas

Jon Lucas who played Dominic in the highly successful series Got To Believe in Magic and Michael in the longest running show Be Careful With My Heart (lol) will play the role of River Mondragon, a highschool hearthrob who's also an achiever and a student leader. He might grow the irk of Barbie Forteza's character later on, I'm sure it won't be helped.

Barbie Forteza

 I love Barbie Forteza in Half Sisters and I watch her everyday. I also have seen her best supporting actress performance in Mariquina that's been lauded by critics. Now that she's in this film, she's going to be very different from that kind cutesy role we often see her with because as she plays Calixta "Kai" Luna, an only daughter that's rich, but hungers for parental love. She's a hard core KPOP fan and falls for River (Jon Lucas' role). She's THE mean girl in school and she's going to make everyone's life miserable. She says this is going to be a challenge for her but says it's something that she wanted to do because she's always the good one on tv programs. She's welcoming the change and wants to see how they would be able to make the character as feared as she was reading it in the script. The character was that interesting so when her home station permitted her to play the character, she grabbed it. They were all hand picked by the way so just imagine this stellar cast on the silver screen soon.

Elisse Joson

I haven't seen her in person before before this event, but we've seen how she did "Bakit Hindi Ka Crush Ng Crush Mo" (Why aren't you the crush of your crush?) last year. I must say, she's really pretty. She also dresses well. Elisse is playing the role of Amanda "Mandy" Martinez. The character will be the best friend of Baste, but later on falls in love with him. We'll have to watch how her character gets beaten up by Kai (maybe) in the film. Will she also be the apple of the eye of Baste too? Well, we need to watch out for that.

Francis Magundayao

Francis Magundayao has worked for both GMA and ABSCBN. In the Kapamilya Network, he's doing several MMK episodes and Wansapanataym (read as Once Upon A Time) episodes. He's also in the hit series "Sana Bukas Pa ang Kahapon" (Wish Yesterday Was Tomorrow) as Sebastian Syquia. He's on that show with Bea Alonzo and Paulo Avelino. His successful projects makes him one of the most bankable young stars in the network and when the opportunity to work with different networks arrived, he said Yes right away. 

It was a no brainer because he always wanted to work with great people from other networks and lauds Barbie Forteza since he watched her shows and movies prior to this. He's also done an excellent job on his current projects and has amassed a good following even on social networks. In this movie, he's playing Sebastian "Baste" Agoncillo. He comes from a very big and happy family. Even if he's poor, he's doing good in school and wants to be a local Shakespeare in the making. 

 

Alwyn Uytingco, Nadine Samonte, Alice Dixson, Eric Quizon and a lot of other actors will also be in the film. These strong personalities and the different lives they make will surely be a great place to start telling the story. They also showed us a couple of locations that they will be shooting in. I sincerely hope they make more of these independently produced films and make the more commercial ones have a run for its money. It's also refreshing to see the combination of actors and actresses since they're not playing and operating in their own stables this time. Let's see how they play this modern day Romeo and Juliet in the Philippines. I'm sure with the tons of successful shows that they've had, it would be easy to make their fan base happy on this KPOP influenced film. Watch it on theaters soon!

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Chef Rosebud and Cheska Kramer Shares Tips On How To Save

I wrote about Electrolux a couple weeks ago about how to save electricity while washing clothes as part of the Electrolux Save & Share Blog Series. It's a campaign vent to have wives and people at home to save money and precious time by making household chores simple and carefree. We also got to interview their advocates Chef Rosebud Benitez and Cheska Garcia Kramer to help us and share their thoughts on saving.

You see, my Sister always had a hard time paying for electricity bills at home. The love we have for her always tells us to help her when she needs it. Our water bill looks a wee bit high too than the usual amount we pay for these past few months. This just means we have to take arrangements in using electricity and water at home. We asked how Chef Rosebud Benitez and Cheska Garcia Kramer about how they do it in their homes and this is what they've got to say.

We often use appliances at home,  sometimes we have a choice and sometimes we don't. How do we save on electricity? How do we save on water? How do we make sure that our utility bills won't spike up?

Chef Rosebud says "We've recently changed all our lights to LED to save on electricity and we make sure that we remove the plug of all appliances not in use. We also just had barrels installed that act as a rain saver to cut down on our water bill."

Cheska on the other hand says "I have a baby and my kids and they always use air conditioning. I’m not so strict with that. Although at night, I really do my rounds. I make sure all the lights are off, all the faucets are closed properly, there are no leaks, at the same time I do the washing of the clothes and ironing of the clothes on schedule. With that, we are able to monitor our electricity and water bill. I’m not the type of Mom that save utilities if it's for my kids. If they need air conditioning, I allow them to.Doug is the one who chooses our appliances but he always consults with me. In our family, we really practice him to be the head of the family. Big decision making and stuff like that, Doug is the one who does the research and at the same time, he will consult me. He’ll tell me “Hey honey, this is what we need to buy” then we’ll think about it.

Although he makes the big decisions, he also relies on my opinion. So when it comes to buying appliances, we always try to look for one that has the energy saving factor. So from our aircons to our refrigerator, because the refrigerator consumes more electricity right? - it has to be an energy saver. This goes the same for our washing machine. So we do really save a lot with our appliances because we consider that before purchasing anything."

It can be a challenging task to save when you have so many things to spend for at home. Why do you think is it important to save? Can you share tips on how people can do this?

For Chef Rosebud, it's quite easy. She says "It's very important to start saving for the rainy days. First thing one needs to do is to list down one's income and expenses, the essentials and non-essentials. Once you are clear about all the essential payments to be made, the next step you need to take is to manage all your expenses in an effective manner."

Cheska advises couples and says "Well for one, we cannot tell what the future holds, right. So that’s why my husband and I, we are really a team. We make decisions together and both our opinions matter so when it comes to saving, we are realistic also with our expenses. We are honest enough to say the exact time for us to buy, or it’s not time for us to be spending. So what we do is we make sure that, of course we have our monthly expenses and then we also set aside for our investment. So when we have enough money, we have the business. We put in in that business of ours and make sure that we are also able to save there to make our business grow. So the money for our business is only for our business. So whatever money that business makes, it only goes back to the business so that it will grow. We also invest in insurances for our children, for their education and health and that also goes for Doug and I. We also get our insurances, we also spoke to a financial planner and through our financial planner, they were able to see what we can set aside from our money so that we can be able to invest in our future and in our children’s future. So hand in hand, Doug and I talk about how else can we save, how else can we make sure that our children’s future is secured. We want Kendra, Scarlet, and Gavin’s future to be secured. So we’re very realistic with our spending. We’re very open to telling each other when time to spend and when it’s not. So that’s when our budget comes in. ‘Coz basically when you’re a married couple, you already know what your budget is. Like in one month, let’s say you probably need a sure amount of P20,000. On top of that, you have to know when to divide it, if it goes to our business or to our investment.

Both have to be realistic and both have to be open or honest to each other when it’s time to spend and not."

I think I can relate much more with Cheska because my Sister doesn't have savings or thought about investments. I think she lacks control over spending and doesn't even prioritize an exact amount when the time comes that they'd have to pay for utilities. She also decides with the people she loves and makes it a point to have specific budgets run on a monthly basis and still have more just for financial stability and freedom. Not to undermine Chef Rosebuds way, she gave us really cool ideas especially on itemizing and listing down expenses versus what we earn because that is as important as any other plan if we want to succeed and save on little things like utility. Those little things over time actually can be a big amount. It goes to show that it is achievable and possible to do it in a Philippine setting. I guess the next thing to do is talk to a financial planner and see how my Sister would be able to save and invest her hard earned money. 

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GMA Showcases 4 New Great Shows This September

Shows come and shows go, but there's definitely something really special about the lineup of programs that GMA has announced a few days ago during the September Blog Conference at the GMA Network Center.

First up is MP Sport Science which is hosted by the Congressman, World Champion Boxer and Professional Basketball Player and Coach Manny Pacquiao. He's going to delve into the world of sports and the science behind it. He'll also take time to explain every detail in our own mother tongue so that viewers would easily understand moves, rules and plays in different sports. It will be shown on primetime and only twice a month right after the Dennis Trillio and Bela Padilla starer "Sa Puso Ni Dok". He will also be joined by sexy siren Solenn Heussaff hosting the show. It's going to start this Sunday on GMA.

Another show that everyone should be excited about is "Don't Lose The Money", which just like its game show predecessors have really made waves in GMA night time viewing. In this show, two teams composed of four contestants will battle each other in various physical challenges. The team who will keep the most amount will get to have the money at the end of the program.This will premier on September 22 and hosted by good looking boy Tom Rodriguez. Now if that isn't going to make the ladies knees weak. Right?

The long awaited show of GMA's most diverse set of artists who did the hit show Tween Hearts is about to start a new series that will surely get teens and everybody else hooked. This is Strawberry Lane. The show stars Bea Binene, Sunshine Dizon, Sheryl Cruz, Jake Vargas, Kiko Estrada and Jeric Gonzales. The supporting cast also includes top caliber actors and actresses. Kim Rodriguez, Joyce Ching, Jhoana Marie Tan, Rita De Guzman, Katya Santos, Thea Tolentino, Lani Mercado, Alicia Mayer, Lauren Young, Christian Bautista, TJ Trinidad, Ms. Chanda Romero and Ms. Boots Anson Roa.

Solo x "Pugad Baboy" Collection

Pol Medina Jr.'s pretty much a staple in broadsheets for a long time. For those who doesn't know Pugad Baboy (Pig's Nest) then you must have been living under a rock. His comic strip pretty much symbolizes Filipino culture and makes it easily be understood, made fun of and realize to be something that can touch or destroy people's sanity; ultimately something real that you can see everyday touching on different quirks we have at home, politics, love and community. That alone makes him a great story teller, cartoonist and legend in this industry. This is why SOLO deemed it but another perfect opportunity to create the Solo x Pugad Baboy Collection.

The collection boasts of quite a colorful palette composed of nicely fit collared tees adorned in Polgas comic strip prints which is one of Pol Medina Jr.'s most prominent characters in the series. They have the primaries taken cared of, with blacks, white, pinks, yellow, blues and greens... it looked like a more colorful version of his best selling comic book series but doesn't veer away from the same reason he's related to the Filipino audience all these years. 

The characters also go into statement shirts, tops, sporty shirts and tees. Not only that, but they've got bags and accessories as well to make you love this collection even better. It's funky, it's fresh and you don't have to spend a fortune for products this good.

Aside from that, there's going to be a book tour with the main man himself Pol Medina. He can now sign your copies if you have it at home so please, rush to these branches on these dates.

September 13 - please go to The Row in Glorietta 1 at around 12:30-2:30pm. On September 20 you can see them in Solo at the Festival Mall from 12:30-2:30pm. The final day would be on September 27 at the Solo branch in Trinoma from 12:30-2:30pm. Please take time and rush to get the cute Pugad Baboy Collections only in Solo stores and meet Pol Medina Jr. in all three Saturdays of September. Who knows? You might just win his book too while you're at it!

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Now Available on Talk ’N Text: PisoNet

Image not mine. From Smart.com.ph's website.

It's funny to stumble upon something that would be important for students that I know in Smart's website. I went to college with a measly daily allowance but that didn't stop me from getting Internet connection when I needed it. Don't ask me when but even then I figured mobile data wasn't even existent at these speeds, let alone being used quite extensively for everyday activities. I envy them now.

It's because a new mobile platform has been developed by the people from Smart Communications Inc. Soon, they would be able to offer Internet access for as low as P 1.00. Crazy right? but it's real. They call it “PisoNet” and they will initially offer this to Talk ’N Text (TNT) subscribers. Upon subscription, they would be able to access to all applications and websites on smart phones at the rate of P 1.00 for every 10 minutes. You would however have the exception of video streaming sites and file-sharing activities which usually hog bandwidth. I think that's a fair deal if all you are after is research or small things for school. You can also use if for social networks or just when you want to talk and chat with your friends on this medium. It's way cheaper than the ordinary 5 pesos per 15 minute rate you usually are charged regularly. That means, they'll help more Filipinos who have mobile phones gain access to the Internet without breaking the bank. 

Charles A. Lim, EVP and Head of the Wireless Consumer Division at Smart says “Now, one peso is all you need to access the Internet. PisoNet thus brings the many benefits of the Internet to more Filipinos nationwide, especially those who are accessing the Internet for the first time using their phones."

They are also making this part of the PowerApp. It's Smart's own platform for mobile Internet packages. Users can purchase Internet bundles such as Social, Photo, Email, Chat and individual apps that you can get as low as P5 a day.

So go ahead and try PisoNet by texting PISONET to 5555. If you want to use Smart's PowerApp, check out their special offers at www.smart.com.ph/powerapp. It's that easy. Yes, this P 1.00 Internet rate has been studied quite well and might make mobile Internet connection in these segments as regular as buying shampoo sachets in neighborhood stores.

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UniSilverTime Campus Ambassadors of the Philippines 2014!

This lone microphone on center stage will ultimately make or break a person's life once that UnisilverTime finds their winner in the search for Campus Ambassador of the Philippines 2014. This search is for students currently enrolled this  2014-2015 school year, male and female 14 to 25 years old. Almost a hundred hopefuls tried out and only a handful got qualified. The grand finals held at SM Manila a few days ago left 20 contestants to vie for the title. Winning this would make them a part of the family of new endorsers for UnisilverTime along with celebrity Timebassadors from ABSCBN, GMA and TV5. 

We went backstage to take a look at some of the contestants. They did not disappoint with the costumes afaik!

UnisilverTime Executives including VP Willam Ong Co were in front to see the event. I'm sure they've had a hand in choosing some of the finalists in the preliminaries. They need to embody UnisilverTime's brand to become stylish, professional, efficient, precise but stay affordable to the masses. These guys and gals come from really good schools in Manila and nearby provinces. A couple or more of them come from Adamson University. I also saw the crowd rooting for them since the school is pretty close.

Judges were from TV5, UnisilverTime Executives, including this guy from Juan Direction, Martin Escudero (which I'm so glad he remembered me!) and actress Ritz Azul.

Twelve Cupcakes: Handmade with Love

I love cupcakes and I've probably seen them in various shapes, tastes and forms. I'm scared of the sugar though so in the times that I do get the chance to have a bite, I'd make sure that it has to be the best. In a quaint little shop at the Mall of Asia's left wing near the Music Hall, we visited the store named Twelve Cupcakes. It's a known brand in Singapore and they've finally set up shop in the Philippines through local franchise partners. Now, I always thought cupcakes would all be on the same level but these ones, are obviously premium. It's not like "just another cupcake". It's not like the ones you buy off the street corner bakery and you can tell the difference on your first bite. I'd have to warn you though, because these ones are a little addicting. You might need to come back once you get to taste it. You can quote me on that. Let's take a look on what they have to offer shall we?! 

Strawberry Chocolate, Cookies and Cream, Peanut Butter and Chocolate, and Red Velvet.

The 12 cakes name signify the permanent ones on their store. 12 flavors that makes up their best sellers since their inception. They initially had cream based ones but figured the Filipino palate wanted chocolate based cupcakes and it was easy for them to oblige. This first few cakes above were my favorite, the moist cupcake actually differs in flavor too, so it's not just the toppings that you should watch out for. I didn't know cupcakes of this caliber could exist in Manila. The one people are asking for more is the Red Velvet Cupcake because it's not too sweet, tangy and salty just the way we like it.

Nutella Banana, Mudslide, Espresso, and Mocha.

I highly recommend the Nutella Banana. It's fragrant banana smell just takes you away to a different world. The essence I think made the difference and the banana they use locally probably made it even sweeter. For a more chocolate fix, the mudslide would be perfect for you. It's a little playful but doesn't disappoint in the flavor department. The Espresso and Mocha tasted much like an intense coffee variant you often see in shops. I liked them a lot too.

Vanilla Chocolate, Salted Caramel Banana, Nutella, and Chocolate Chocolate

Soft fluffy cream on top of deep moist chocolate cake, anything better than that? How about Salted Caramel and Banana that's not so sweet but very fragrant. The Nutella is intense, just like taking a whole bottle of it on top of the cupcake. The Filipinos LOVE chocolate so much that they put this one on the number one spot on their best sellers. Yes, it's chocolate chocolate. It's deep milk chocolatey flavor and a few balls to crunch along was something really awesome. They also have a couple more cupcakes that they feature every week so you get to see a new one regularly on their store. You might be around SM Mall of Asia and happen to see this store on the left wing, I STRONGLY suggest you stop by and get one of these wondrous treats. I'm sure would even surpass your standards when it comes to cupcakes. I almost had myself into a trance after my first bite. Come inside, get a box or more and bring it home to your family, friends or just anybody special. It'll surely make them extra happy if it has the name twelve cupcakes on it.

They're at the Ground Floor North Entertainment Mall, Mall of Asia Complex Jose Diokno Boulevard, Pasay City. You can also try the one in Lucky Chinatown Mall on the Ground Floor LCTM-11D Reina Regente Street, Manila. There's definitely a good reason why they are the #1 Cupcake store in Singapore, Manila should definitely know better.

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