HOTEL JEN MANILA WELCOMES EDWARD KOLLMER AS THE NEW GENERAL MANAGER

Hotel Jen Manila (formerly Traders Hotel, Manila) is pleased to announce the appointment of Edward Kollmer as the hotel’s new General Manager. Mr. Kollmer is responsible for overseeing the entire hotel’s day-to-day operations. With a wealth of over a decade of hospitality experience, he brings a tactical approach to revenue management and operational excellence for the recently rebranded hotel.

His passion and drive to achieve excellence in operations and progress in business development continues to inspire the team to embrace the values and vision of Hotel Jen and live Jen’s dream for guests which is to start with anticipation and end on a high.

Prior to his appointment, Mr. Kollmer was the General Manager of Thistle Johor Bahru in Malaysia for three years. He also worked as a General Manager for Thistle the Royal Trafalgar Hotel, Grosvenor Hotel, Thistle Marble Arch in London and Holiday Inn Rochester UK.

An Irish national, Mr. Kollmer graduated from Shannon College of Hotel Management and completed his master’s degree from the University of Buckingham in the United Kingdom.

Located on Roxas Boulevard, Hotel Jen is just about 20 minutes away from the international and domestic airports and it’s 30 minutes away to the Makati Business District. Just next door are the country’s premier conference and exhibition facilities: the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Philippine International Convention Center, World Trade Center and SMX Convention Center. But life should never be all work and no play—Malate, the entertainment district is only a short walk away.

For inquiries, please call (632) 795 8888. Visit www.hoteljen.com/manila. In the social media channels, Hotel Jen Manila is on Facebook (/HotelJenManila), Twitter (@HotelJenManila) and Instagram (@hoteljenmanila).

Arnee Hidalgo shares her style secret: BYS

BYS, Autralia's fastest growing brands of cosmetics which continues to expand around the world is now here in the Philippines. BYS was established in 2004 and is found over 30 countries worldwide.It is a great value cosmetics that is good value for money. When I chanced upon BYS Minerals Naturale Foundation two years ago at SM North Edsa, and the rave was about Minerals loose powder then, I gave it a try, for about 5 months it let my skin breathe from all the powder foundation that I had been using all those years, because we have to rest our skin from the build up of applying 2 way powder foundation.  It is surprisingly a good substitute for Bare Minerals, another high end brand, which has the same quality, texture and amazing staying power at an affordable price. Needless, to say it has become one of my staple beauty product resting in between my powder foundation.

BYS recently launched its new ambassador singing sensation, R&B, the sultry Arnee Hidalgo from "The Voice of the Philippines" last April 28 at Resorts World Manila together with Jeffrey Hidalgo and iFace President, Tony Chua. A BYS Make-Up booth was installed for a free make up session to the public.

 "Bring Your Style for a beautiful, youthful, stunning You," encourages women to embrace their inner, fiercer fashionistas.  A devoted mother who actively pursues her dreams with great style, she is truly an inspiration to all Filipinas out there, and the perfect role model for such a campaign. When asked about her beauty routine, she never forget to cleanse, tone and moisturize in the morning and evening. It is one beauty must for her to keep her skin glowing and fresh all day. Her fashion icon is Victoria Beckham, she loves the way Beckham carries herself with her classic style.

Arnee Hidalgo sang the BYS theme which his brother Jeffrey Hidalgo, a seasoned composer and director composed exclusively for BYS.  Ickay Eusebio choreographed the upbeat and catchy song while John Lozano, a celebrity stylist helped them dressed/styled for the campaign.





Telling people everywhere to "Be brave" and "Be fearless," BYS caters to all from the young and wild to the confident and classy. Their artistic endeavor has shown everyone what it truly means to be diverse and have a great range (as big as their ever-expanding product line, available exclusively at The SM Store and selected Watson's store.

As part of this exciting campaign, Arnee will have a series of mall shows
nationwide, starting May 9 at SM Sta. Rosa and May 10 at SM Calamba to promote her latest single, with the perfect combo of makeup and zumba fitness sessions.


Be a part of the campaign today! Watch the music video on MYX and YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYblEVz8AU4

Make mom feel extra special at Hotel Jen

This May 10, 2015, express your love for the number one woman in your life with Latitude’s Mother’s Day Promo. 

Amaze her with a buffet that will make her feel extra special on her special day. To make it even more memorable, Latitude has prepared a line of festive dishes dedicated to satisfy any mother's fine taste. She also gets to witness a special cooking demo with our Executive Sous Chef, Dirk Fiedler and take home a complimentary memento.

For details and reservation, please call (632) 795 8888 or email food&beverage.hjm@hoteljen.com

Pru Life UK supports Manny Pacquiao by bringing live coverage of the ‘Fight of the Century’

 As the nation prepares for the ‘Fight of the Century’ between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather, Jr., life insurance giant Pru Life UK is saluting every Filipino fighter by bringing the world title fight live to many who have never before had such an opportunity, particularly those who are still recovering from typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan).

Pru Life UK is working with 10 communities in Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Batangas, Quezon, Albay, Aklan, and Northern Samar, as well as Bantayan Island in Cebu to bring live coverage of the match on May 3rd. On Bantayan Island, the match will be aired in three municipalities of Santa Fe, Madridejos, and Bantayan. The fight is to be aired live for Filipinos in 10 communities across the country

Through this initiative, Pru Life UK is continuing its long-term commitment to its rebuilding and recovery efforts in the central Philippines following super typhoon Yolanda in November 2013. On Bantayan Island, Pru Life UK and its charitable arm Prudence Foundation has helped rebuild houses and shelters and has provided new motorized fishing boats and pedicabs with nearly 250 staff and agent volunteers from 10 countries across Asia and the United Kingdom.

“As the country prepares for the ‘Fight of the Century’, we want to lift the spirits of those fighting to recover from typhoon Yolanda. We are excited about the fight, but more than that, we are inspired by every Filipino fighter from all walks of life. We saw the opportunity to bring the fight to those who do not have access to it, and we are overjoyed to be able to connect them to the rest of the world as we cheer on the ‘People’s Champ’,” said Antonio Manuel de Rosas, President and CEO of Pru Life UK.

“Seeing the Cebuanos in Bantayan Island get back on their feet has been a truly a remarkable experience for our staff and volunteers. Helping them rebuild their homes is just the first step. We hope that watching this fight live gives them the opportunity to set aside their daily struggles as they join in this national celebration,” he continued.

A TV commercial about this initiative was launched Tueday, April 28, which was shot on location in Bantayan Island as preparations for the live broadcast of the fight were being made. Pru Life UK is also providing the iconic red headbands shown in the commercial to communities across the Philippines to unite them in preparation for the fight.

The TV commercial will be aired on television, digital and social media, with a hashtag #ForEveryPinoyFighter

“How can we watch the fight if we don’t have electricity?” asked Santa Fe Mayor Jose Esgana. “We are delighted that Pru Life UK is bringing the fight to our island. Everyone is excited about the match, and we support Manny all the way to the end.”

Versailles Stay: High Concept for High Rise Living

Versailles Stay, a new property business concept by Capitarise Holdings Inc. and FPD Global, is set to change the face of rental property management in the Philippines.

At first glance, one may believe Versailles Stay to be much like a hotel, but its practice of offering temporary lodgings and amenities to guests is where the similarities end. The key difference lies in its unique business model: Versailles Stay is a rental management solution for fully furnished, high-quality residences, offering dependable property care for unit owners and developers, as well as value-for-money, convenient, and hospitable lodgings for guests and clients.


By acting as a bridge for foreign property investors and enabling them to access apartment suites from high-end condominium developers across the Metro, Versailles Stay breaks free of the limits that constrain most lodging businesses, to the benefit of property developers and unit owners. These units, the furnishing and maintenance of which are undertaken by Versailles Stay management, are then made available for travelers and stay-cationers looking for affordable yet high-class lodgings in the heart of the city.

This new business practice has turned out to be quite advantageous for everyone involved. Upon striking a deal with Versailles Stay, the first core market, comprised of high-end condominium developers, benefits by the direct sale of multiple units. They get to relinquish the responsibility of managing these units to Versailles Stay’s efficient staff. Because Versailles guests avail of the building’s amenities, these facilities receive extra support and maintenance from the company as well. The responsibility of association dues also falls within Versailles Stay’s purview, freeing the developers from the hassle of collecting them.

The second core market, the unit owners, reaps benefits as well from Versailles Stay’s handling of all the details regarding their investment. Versailles Stay takes care of furnishing and maintaining the units, as well as locating renters to occupy the rooms. All the unit owners have to do is sit back and wait for returns to come in.

Lastly, the final core market, comprised of the end-users who occupy the units as guests, is fortunate in the care with which Versailles Stay focuses on their comfort. By choosing Versailles Stay, they have an option for short to mid-term billeting in prime locations, complete with services and amenities that simulate a hotel stay, at affordable rates. For businessmen on corporate trips and families seeking fun and relaxing stay-cations, Versailles Stay makes for an ideal choice.
To find out more about Versailles Stay, visit www.VersaillesStay.com.

SAM PINTO GOES VAVAVOOM AT NISSAN GT ACADEMY EVENT

 Model-actress Sam Pinto was recently spotted trying her hand in virtual racing at the Nissan GT Academy event held at the SM North Edsa Skydome.

Sam took the wheel in one of the simulator pods and set pulse rates soaring among spectators and fellow racers alike, as she revved up her Nissan GT-R ride. She exuded confidence and determination as she concentrated on her driving, all in an effort to finish with a respectable lap time.

“I have never played Gran Turismo but I accepted Nissan’s invitation because I thought it would be fun to try,” the actress admitted. “I’m sure all the women drivers out there would enjoy the experience too, maybe one of them will even qualify for the Race Camp in the UK”.

With the GT Academy, any player who can prove their driving skills in the world of video games can compete in a real racetrack. From the time trials in the recruitment stage that will run until June, the 20 fastest gamers will advance to the National Finals in July, where they will shift to real cars. The top 6 drivers will join Asia’s best at the Race Camp Week in August at the prestigious Silverstone Racing Circuit in the UK where they will be tested on their strength, stamina, mental agility and of course, driving skills. The emerging winner will join others from the different regions in a series of rigorous training under the Driver Development Program.

“I actually love driving. I feel free and in control at the same time,” Sam related. “My mom’s driver taught me how to drive when I was about 16. I would drive myself to high school secretly and park really far so no one would see me driving. But I let my friends go on a ride with me after school hours,” she chuckled before adding that her school was only 15 minutes away from her house.

“I think of myself as a relaxed driver. Better safe than sorry, I don’t want any accidents. But in the Nissan GT Academy pods, I can drive as fast as I want, the rush is quite addictive,” shared the two-time winner of FHM’s Philippine Sexiest Woman in the World title and former housemate of the reality series Pinoy Big Brother. Sam started her career as a commercial model. Many recognize her for her role as Neneng B in the comedy TV show 'Bubble Gang' where she starred in the segment 'Pick-Up Lines Battle' which became a widespread hit and was adapted into the big screen.

For GT Academy updates and Live Event schedules, please visit Nissan Philippines Inc’s Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/NissanPhilippinesInc.

SandBar Beach Club is now the hottest daylight destination in Boracay!

The sun is at its peak, the sea is glistening and reflecting the bright blue skies, everyone looks fabulous in their bikinis and boardshorts – Boracay’s energy and marvelous beauty are best captured during daytime indeed! However, almost every place in this island gets a little crowded during the summer season.

Finally, there is a place where you can relax, hang out or even strut your bikini body in style, as Station 1 welcomes the hottest daylight destination for all ages, the SandBar Beach Club Boracay.

Set in the powdery white sand of Boracay is this exclusive chill-out place with 18 cozy beach beds for your ultimate comfort. While you can also relax in your hotel, chances are you’ll miss the fantastic outdoor sceneries of the paradise and all the fun that it has to offer.

At SandBar Beach Club Boracay, comfort doesn’t need to be boring. It combines good food, refreshing drinks, exciting water sports and entertainment into one fantastic place. Join the Saturday Shindig, a daytime beach party every Saturday from 11:00am to 4:00pm. For only PhP3,000 per person, you get unlimited Banana Boat and Fly Fish rides, sumptuous lunch and snacks, and bottomless specialty drinks.

Every Sunday, the club transforms into an ideal place for every family with its theme the Sunday Magic, a children's beach party from 11:00am to 4pm. For PhP3,000 per person, you get unlimited Banana Boat and Fly Fish rides, sumptuous lunch and snacks, bottomless specialty drinks plus a special magic show for the young and the young-at-heart.

Experience priceless daylight fun in the hottest summer destination of the country, and head to SandBar Beach Club Boracay for a weekend of fun, adventure, relaxation, and good food with family and friends.

Have a feast at Gerry's Plus on Mother's Day

Gerry's Plus is a new restaurant concept where classic dishes meet modern Filipino cuisine. Gerry's plus has recently launched its classic dishes with Italian-American favorites at UP Town Center last April 24. The ambiance is modern filipino and has a young vibe to it.  It presents some of the dishes I love from Sweet Chili and Gerrys.   True to its motto “You’d still rather be at Gerry’s”, treat your mom this coming Mother's day, go visit UP Town Center and have some quality time with her at Gerry's Plus.

“Now you don’t have to go to several restaurants when your family and friends have a hard time deciding where to eat. Think of it as a one-stop culinary spot that has everything for everyone – from soups to salads, appetizers, main dishes, drinks and desserts. We have expanded our menu to include new Filipino dishes as well as original Italian-American favorites,” says Gerry Apolinario,

Diners at Gerry’s Plus can look forward to hefty servings of mouth watering Filipino dishes straight out of Gerry’s list of favorites: Beef Kaldereta Bulalo, Spiced Chicken Salsa, Baby Back Ribs and Black Pasta among others. “Our dessert line which includes Lava Cake, Choco Chip Ala Mode and Pannacotta are guaranteed to make you forget your name,” says Gerry.

Gerrys Plus Crispy vegetable pocket

This is the modern version of "fried lumpia",  looks like "sipa"  the vegetable pocket is crunchy and is best to dip with their spicy vinegar. This is my personal favorite.

Stir Fry Chinese Veggies

If youre a vegetarian or a vegan, you will love their Stir Fry Chinese veggies. its fresh, delicious and healthy.

Chicken with Basil

This is what chicken should be. With just the right spices, cooked with sweet chili, and topped with basil. Delicious and appetizing.

Japanese tofu with Minced Chicken

If you are a fan of tofu just like me, treat yourself to this menu, its a good source of protein. The delicious sauce with chicken and soft tofu is tasty and filling. You can eat it on its own, and it smells delicious too. 

Tuna Pasta

If you are on a diet and wanted to try carbonara, this tuna pasta is the creamiest yet healthy pasta that you should try.

Lava Cake

If you have to try on Gerry desserts, you should order their Lava Cake, theirs is the most flavorful bursting with chocolate that I love most. I love it so much, that I finished the whole dessert myself.

Preparations are as important as the meals themselves and the freshest ingredients – quality meats, fish, vegetables and seasonings – are intricately prepared for a personal dining experience, said Gerry who himself does regular rounds of all their restaurants to ensure top quality of their menu items.

Gerry guarantees: “Dining experience at its best – that’s our credo. And that’s what we assure our guests.”

Plus and More 

A trailblazer among fast-casual diners, Gerry’s has been expanding its brands with much success with its diverse offers.

Gerry’s other brand concepts include Aresi which offers Italian-American menu, and Sweet Chili, which serves Thai food.

Aressi and Sweet Chili have both attracted solid following and still continue to pull in more satisfied guests, earning praise for their food’s authentic taste. Aressi is located at the Waterfront Road in Subic; and Sweet Chili is at the third level of Fisher Mall along Quezon Avenue in Quezon City.

Gerry’s ‘younger brand Kusina ng Gerry’s, meantime, is a delight to customers who enjoy mix-and-match meals that are not only filling but very affordable.

Slowly building its own customer base is Ramen Sora (Sora means “sky”) which originated in 2003 in Sapporo, considered the culinary capital of Japan that goes by the motto “No Ramen No Life”. Its maiden branch opened in Subic last December beside Aressi.

Ramen Sora had just opened its second branch in Cebu, along AS Fortuna Street, beside the newly-opened Gerry’s branch.

 A most awaited new restaurant is Yakitori Binchotan, which will be launched after Gerry’s Plus, named after a special kind of charcoal called Bincho-Tan used to prepare yakitori (skewered food, usually chicken). Its white charcoal produces high heat and does not emit smoke, so it allows the full flavor of the food to come out.

Yakitori Binchotan is expected to open next month. 

Citi Mastercard marks its 25 Years with "My Unforgettable Story" campaign

Citi Philippines recently celebrates its 25th year anniversary last April 27 at Fairmont Hotel. The show was hosted by Ms. Tessa Prieto Valdez and attended by Citi execs and media.

To mark its 25th year, the  country’s largest foreign bank  reward its loyal clients with the campaign ‘My Unforgettable Story’? Unforgettable Stories with Citi Cards launched in March and running until August 2015, the promotion presents Citi cardholders the chance to create new memories in some of the world’s most breathtaking places –by simply using their Citi credit card.

Bea Tan, who heads Citi’s consumer banking business in the country related: “In designing this promotion, we wanted to break the mold and ensure that our clients are truly engaged from day one.  We wanted to reward our loyal cardholders with delightful and unique experiences, and empower them with making the best choice from a list of impossible to resist selections according to their lifestyle and preferences.”

And ‘My Unforgettable Story’ certainly delivers all that and more.  A total of fifteen lucky cardholders will be chosen in three raffle draws, with five winners to be awarded in each set. The first set of winners can choose one of the Stories of Discovery prizes, including a gourmet food tour in Japan, journey to self-discovery in Bali, scuba diving in Palau, and China or Egypt exploration.

Meanwhile, 2nd raffle draw winners can have a spectacular celebration of love as they can choose one of the Stories of Romance prizes such as a honeymoon in Maldives, island escapade in Thailand and hot air balloon date in Dubai. Winners can also have their dream wedding gown designed by a top couturier, or make their most romantic proposal happen.

Things get more exciting as the third set of winners can revel in one of the Stories of Adventure prizes like a family ski adventure in Korea, US theme park getaway, Mediterranean cruise, African safari and the magical Aurora Borealis experience.

“It’s so easy to win – just use your card for any purchase, regardless of amount, and you will earn raffle entries.  And because we want all our cardholders to have a chance to win, we are awarding raffle entries for nearly every use of a Citi card: from using Citibank Online to charging with Citi PayLite, and even when you apply for a Personal Loan,” explained David Stoughton, Credit Payments Head of Citi Philippines.

To see the complete list of prizes and ways on how to qualify for the promotion, visit www.citibank.com.ph/mystory.