‘Siargao’ took home seven major awards in Metro Manila Film Festival 2017

Before Siargao was shown to the public on Christmas Day as an entry to MMFF 2017. I was able to watch the special block screening for the media on Dec 21, 2017 at Greenbelt 3, Makati.

I was drawn to Siargao because of their pristine beach. I heard so many things about this tourist destination from my partner who went there last year.

The beach indeed was superbly shot from all angles. From top view to the underwater scene,  catching its beautiful waves and sunset.   It simply took my breath away.  I knew right then and there that they will bag the Best Cinematography for this film.

Kudos to the actors who played their part well.  Jericho was a natural for his role as Diego, Jasmine Curtis as Abi was a revelation.  Erich as a vlogger was amusing and funny. Director Paul Soriano captured the best of Siargao, its beach, locals and the story fit the actors well.

I have never been to Siargao but right after the movie. I have been checking up affordable flight deals for a 5-day staycation. I am planning to take surf lessons too. The best part is I will try to travel solo just like Erich do in the movie.

"Siargao"held a Thanksgiving mini presscon on January 4 at Relish, Tomas Morato. Director Paul Soriano graced the presscon, thanking everyone and the social media for continuously promoting the movie thru tweets and instagram. He told that this is indeed the start of a Happy New Year for him.

‘Siargao’ bags seven major awards in Metro Manila Film Festival 2017
Paul Soriano’s first venture into the Metro Manila Film Festival has been more than rewarding as his film Siargao starring Jericho Rosales, Erich Gonzales and Jasmine Curtis-Smith ruled in the recently-concluded Gabi ng Parangal held at the KIA Theater last December 27.

The Ten17P director’s first foray into the romance-travel genre earned him and his team seven major awards, the most during that night, from the MMFF executive committee.

Siargao took home the coveted second Best Picture award while Soriano bagged his first ever Best Director trophy from the MMFF.

Curtis-Smith, meanwhile, took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her exceptional the environmentalist Abi who happens to be the former love interest of Diego, played by Jericho Rosales.

Siargao’s Mark Victor bagged the Best Editor trophy while the film was awarded Best Cinematography for perfectly capturing the Surfing Capital of the Philippines’ signature herculean, clear waves and its bright and picturesque island and locals.

Allowing the movie to sail further was it’s theme song “Alon” by local alternative rock band Hale, which also bagged the Best Original Theme song award. Not only that, the film was also awarded Best Sound during that night.
Soriano gratefully shared the award to his artists, staff and crew, as he noted that the awards that his film raked in made his debut in the festival memorable.
However, amid the awards, Paul was able to cull an important insight during the entire MMFF process.

“But if there’s one thing that this festival has really taught me is that not everybody is going to like what you make and not everyone is going to appreciate what you made,” he said.

“But there are people that get what I want to say and it’s because of those people that I will continue to tell stories, to continue to make films because this is what I love to do,” he said during his Best Director acceptance speech.

Paul Soriano’s Siargao starring Jericho Rosales, Erich Gonzales and Jasmine Curtis-Smith is still showing in selected cinemas nationwide as part of the Metro Manila Film Festival 2017.

“TRANSFORMERS” SPINOFF “BUMBLEBEE” REVEALS FIRST IMAGE

Paramount Pictures has revealed the first-look image of the action-adventure Bumblebee, the first spinoff of the Transformers franchise. The film is directed by Travis Knight and stars Hailee Steinfeld.


Check out the photo below and watch Bumblebee in Philippine cinemas soon.

On the run in the year 1987, Bumblebee finds refuge in a junkyard in a small Californian beach town. Charlie (Hailee Steinfeld), on the cusp of turning 18 and trying to find her place in the world, discovers Bumblebee, battle-scarred and broken. When Charlie revives him, she quickly learns this is no ordinary, yellow VW bug.


Bumblebee is produced by Transformers franchise veterans Lorenzo di Bonaventura and Michael Bay, along with executive producers Steven Spielberg, Brian Goldner and Mark Vahradian. Chris Brigham (Argo, Inception) will also executive produce. The screenplay is written by Christina Hodson.


Directed by Travis Knight (Kubo and the Two Strings, Coraline), the film stars Hailee Steinfeld (Edge of Seventeen, Pitch Perfect 2), Pamela Adlon (Better Things), John Cena (Daddy's Home 2, Trainwreck), Stephen Schneider (Comedy Central’s Broad City) and Jorge Lendeborg Jr. (Spider-Man: Homecoming).


Bumblebee is distributed by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.

Here’s how you can answer both your biggest New Year’s Resolutions with one solution

It’s that time of the year when everyone thinks of #Goals to make or break for the year. Before you get tempted to create a long list of to do’s and must haves for 2018, focus on must do’s. Simple resolutions can bring you a long way if they’re doable, feasible, and impactful.

On your new journey toward living better next year you may come across challenges. But with a strong and dependable partner to lend you a hand, ticking off the must do’s in your list will be an easier and more rewarding experience.

Two for one 

Research institute, StatisticBrain ranks healthy living and wiser financial decisions as the two resolutions that regularly top anyone's list, but Time Magazine says they are some of the most common ones to break throughout the year.

Regardless, the secret in successfully ticking off any item in your annual list of goals is to get help – a buddy for an extra boost to hit two targets with one swing!

Fitness and financial plans may be a challenge to keep, but BPI-Philam offers their latest Wellness Series to help you get started and encourage you to lead a life of total wellness. This takes care of both your financial and physical health through four personalized insurance products integrated with Philam Vitality, a science-backed wellness program that rewards your healthy choices.

Through the Wellness Series you get comprehensive life and health protection, and with Philam Vitality you get upfront 20% additional life coverage, and additional lifestyle rewards throughout your wellness journey. Philam Vitality empowers you to take consistent steps toward a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle – as you continuously do more healthy activities, your Vitality status increases and can give you additional life insurance coverage increase of up to 50%!

More rewards await you with every healthy decision you make! When you take steps to know and improve your health, you get exclusive discounts on services and exciting items like: screens from Hi Precision diagnostics and Makati Medical center, gym membership from Gold's Gym, and sports apparel from Garmin or Toby's Sports. Then, enjoy rewards like discounted air fare on your next Philippine Airlines trip, hotel room reservation at Seda or Marriot, or tickets to Enchanted Kingdom and SM Cinemas!


Which Wellness Series product is for you?

For your protection and insurance needs, choose among Life Ready Plus, Critical Care Plus, Critical Care Max, and Build Estate Plus--affordable solutions that secure your health and build your wealth.

While each of us may generally have similar health goals, we also have specific financial needs according to which of life’s key moments we are in.

For as low as P 2,100 a month, first jobbers and young professionals can build a protection fund for the future early on with Life Ready Plus. This plan also protects them for as long as needed by providing insurance coverage up to 360x their monthly premium.

Meanwhile, employees looking to maximize their health and life insurance to keep providing for their families, will find a fit with Critical Care Plus and Critical Care Max. Either policy gives them and their loved-ones peace of mind by providing cash benefits upon diagnosis or early stages of critical illness. It also builds a health fund that accumulates over time to support future health needs. This minimizes costly hospitalization and medical fees so they can focus on recovering and enjoying moments with their family.

Finally, people preparing for retirement and continually need protection for their assets can do so worry-free and with ease through Build Life Plus. With its life insurance benefit, estate taxes can be covered to secure their legacy, wellness, and their family’s future through health.

Every product also offers riders you can add to the policy to add peace of mind by maximizing protection and customize your cover to make sure it fits other needs you might have.

With your top two, yearly concerns efficiently out of the way, you can focus on accomplishing the things you love doing for the rest of the year without hassle or holding back.

Make nothing but the best life choices as you enter 2018 with BPI-Philam and get ready to live better and healthier not just for the new year but for the many fulfilling years to come.

Partner up with BPI-Philam in planning for a vibrant future today by visiting www.bpi-philam.com  or any BPI branch across the country. Want to know more? Send us your inquiries at  www.facebook.com/BPIPhilamOfficial .

Starbucks Treats for the Lunar New Year of the Earth Dog

Are your ready for Starbucks new exciting signature espresso mix whisks with Okinawa brown sugar from Japan?

The coffee brand hypes up the celebration for its 20th anniversary, with decadent servings of flavor and a variety of exciting items on the menu.

Starbucks is complementing its signature Espresso Roast with sophisticated flavors like salted caramel and Okinawa brown sugar, expertly crafted into an assortment of beverages.

Starting January 9, Starbucks mixes in one of Japan’s most popular culinary ingredients, the Okinawa Brown Sugar, to create Okinawa Brown Sugar Latté. The elegant drink highlights the hint of molasses found in the sugar and fuses in light caramel for a less sweet, coffee forward drink.

A returning favorite, the Salted Caramel Mocha Crumble, combines deep chocolate and espresso flavors with toffee nut syrup, layered with a delicious combination of whipped cream and caramel sauce. The beverage is topped with a blend of turbinado sugar and sea salt for a perfect sweet and savory taste.

 “We love to constantly surprise our customers with new flavor combinations. This season’s beverages complement our signature Starbucks Espresso and whisks in premium ingredients, like Okinawa brown sugar from Japan, for a modern twist.” said Keith Cole, head of marketing for Starbucks Philippines

Starbucks treats for the New Year
Apart from the double offer of flavor innovations, Starbucks also gives a preview of the fun that 2018 has to offer.

For one, the adorable barista bear collectible has two new looks for the upcoming season. The 20th Anniversary Bearista Bear wears the classic black apron with the 20th anniversary logo of Starbucks Philippines. The Bearista Bear also dons a Philippine Flag inspired Frappuccino® pin. On the other hand, the Bearista Bear Dog is all about the onset of the Lunar New Year.

Collectors will enjoy the pup illustrations on the Lunar New Year merchandise as it highlights this year’s Chinese zodiac which is the Earth Dog.  With these specially-designed tumblers, mugs, and Starbucks Card, coffee fans and dog lovers alike have something incredible to look forward to.

As 2018 is a special year for Starbucks Philippines, the coffee brand goes all out for its big 20th anniversary treats. Starbucks Kape Vinta Card holders will earn the chance to win one of the 20 Starbucks for a Month and 20 Starbucks for a Year, when they activate their card anytime in January. Winners of these big anniversary treats will be announced on January 22 for the Starbucks for a Month, and February 12 for the Starbucks for a Year.

Don’t miss out on the many, flavorful surprises from Starbucks. Grab their new signature espresso beverages in all Starbucks stores. Find out more on how to savor your coffee and the best of 2018 by visiting www.facebook.com/StarbucksPhilippines/.

Day 2: Dacara's Farm and Gardens

"Did you know that the ostrich is the largest and heaviest living bird? As its species name, camelus, suggests, the ostrich was once known as the “camel bird” because of its long neck, prominent eyes, and sweeping eyelashes, as well as its jolting walk. Like camels, the ostrich can tolerate high temperatures and go without water for long."

Now I didn't believe that description at first when I read it as I never saw an ostrich in real life and the only time I saw,  that wasnt a picture was in Adam Sandler's movie Blended where he and one of his sons actually rode it.

I knew it was big, I just didnt expect it to be really big.

After a blissful night of good sleep and delicious food from CamSur Watersports Complex.  We woke up feeling energized for our second farm tour in Pili,  Cam Sur in Dacara's Farm and Garden in Pili, Camarines Sur.


And one of their attractions there was--you guessed it--an Ostrich.

So if you're into bird watching (hello ostrich) and you happened to be in Cam Sur. you might want to drop by Dacara's Farm in Pili where you can pet and feed a real live ostrich.

Dacara's Farm is the 2nd farm we visited after Sonrisa Farm which is also located in Cam Sur as part of our Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) farm tour last September 16-18, 2017.

I have been to a zoo but I have never seen an ostrich up close--make that almost face to face . I used to laugh at my partner's fear of birds but now that i was near an ostrich , somehow I understood  how he feels.

At first I just thought we were just going to look at them from afar so we were all surprised when they took us to meet not just one but two of this BIG BIRDS!

Mrs. Angelita Luna Dacara

Dacara's Farm and Garden, is owned by Mrs. Angelita Luna Dacara or Nanay Ghie.

The talking birds and ostriches were raised alone by Nanay Ghie, she said these birds were given to her by DENR.

Nanay Ghie studied BS Agriculture Major in Agronomy at Camarines Sur State Agricultural College and a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education - BSAgEd. Major in Agronomy at Camarines Sur Agricultural College (now CBSUA).

Dacara's Farm and Garden is free for everyone to visit. Nanay Ghie does not collect or ask for an entrance fee. She told us that anyone can stay or visit her farm anytime of the day for free. She even offered the place to be used for retreat and recollection for the priests. She doesnt earn any profit or revenue from the farm.

Nanay Ghie buys bird feeds and maintains the farm by herself with the help of her 2 farmers. Her only means of income is her catering business. She told us that it was her advocacy to take care of the birds and the farm.

She loves raising Ostrich and other birds too. The good thing about raising an ostrich is that you can have its eggs and feathers without the need to slaughter the bird.

Another thing she loves about her ostriches are its  feathers.  One feather would cost P350 in the market. But she has no plans of selling the feathers. Instead she gives it out for free to her visitors.  She said its for good luck and protection. All of us went home with one each.


I learned that her ostriches only eats kangkong leaves. Nanay Ghie told us that you dont have to fear ostriches as long as you are facing the one having round beaks, but if you see an ostrich with a sharp pointy beak though, that is another story-- just know that you have to be very careful as they can kick or headbutt you if they feel threatened.

Dacara Farm and Garden also raises  pigs, and 6 colonies of stingless bees that produce organic honey aside from her plots of vegetables and herbs.

As for her farm she has a small plot of land where she cultivates organically grown vegetables like lettuce, sili ( a Bicolano Fave) and herbs.

Unlike the other places we visited Dacara's Farm was actually more of an animal farm which showed us how to properly take care of farm animals, not for profit but as companions.


Agricultural Training Institute
ATI Building, Elliptical Road, Diliman
Quezon City 1100 Philippines
Trunkline: +632 9298541 to 49

Follow ATI @
Facebook:  ATIinteractive
Twitter:      ATIinteractive
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Dacara's Farm and Gardens
St. Paul Subd., Palestina
Pili, Cam Sur

Visit https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dacaras-Farm-and-Gardens/377413972381549

Orange Blush Salon’s Hard to Resist Holiday Promos

‘Tis the season to be jolly and Orange Blush Salon (The Rebond Center) wants everyone to be merry, bright, and beautiful. Since it is a season of giving, OBS is giving clients exciting promos they cannot resist this December. 

 

For all OBS branches, there is a Magandang Pasko Sale where clients can avail affordable deals and services: Haircut (P99), Manicure (P119), Pedicure (P119), and Christmas Hair Rebond with Hair Color (P999). Para Maganda ka ngayong Pasko! Promo runs until January 10, 2018. Text 0917-566-4412 for details.  

Meanwhile, OBS SuperCut, the first pop-up salon in the country, has ongoing promos. It is a specialty salon booth that offers hassle-free and professional Haircutting and Manicure/Pedicure services. SuperCut is located at the Ground Floor Robinsons Townville, Cabanatuan City. For Services: Haircut (Drycut) with hair scalp massage (P99), Manicure (P119), and Pedicure (P119); Other Salon Services: Blow Drying (P119), Hair Flat Ironing (P200), Hair and Make-up (P599), and Eyebrow Shaving (P49); and OBS Hair Products: OBS After Conditioner Treatment (P350), OBS Leave-On Treatment (P350), and Wide Toothed Comb (P20). 

OBS After Conditioner Treatment and OBS Leave-On Hair Conditioner are especially formulated for salon-treated hair and are exclusively available at Orange Blush Salons and OBS SuperCut. You can now maintain healthy, soft, and shiny tresses with just the touch of your fingertips right at home.

OBS is one of the fastest growing chain of salons in the country with branches in North Luzon and Manila. It has recently opened its newest branch at Lipa The Uptown in Lipa, Batangas.

Clients are pampered like royalties and celebrities with its wide array of premium service including haircutting, hair treatments, hair rebonding, hair straightening, hair coloring, manicure and pedicure, foot spa, makeup, Power Dose Treatment, Brazillian Keratin Treatment, and Semi De Lino Treatment, among others.

Celebrity entrepreneur and owner Joby Linsangan-Moreno shares, “Our goal is to become the top-of-mind hair salon in the country. We want people to think of Orange Blush Salon when they want to have their hair cut or rebonded. We want them to feel that at OBS, you are being cared for and that our customers are our highest priority. Our mission is to make our customers feel loved, happy, hopeful, and beautiful.”

You can check out their website at www.orangeblushsalon.com or look them up on Facebook.

Bond With Your Kids This Holiday Season at the Zoobic Night Safari

This holiday season is the best time to try something new with family and friends! The Zoobic Night Safari is an awesome adventure that takes you through the exotic animal sanctuary, to get up close and personal with the park’s amazing animals against the backdrop of the night sky and the season’s chilly weather.

Walk through the Enchanting Forest at night with fully-trained and friendly Greyhound guides, to observe the nocturnal behaviors of your favorite wild animals that like to play at night.

The attraction is packed with thrill and excitement as you explore the grounds for a different kind of experience you visit Zoobic Safari’s classic attractions: the Serpentarium; a wild encounter with snakes, lizards and iguanas, Zoobic Park, a walk-through petting zoo, Tiger Safari, an enclosed safari jeep ride that will take you to the tigers’ natural habitat, and Croco Loco, a crocodile lair where you will have a chance to feed them.

Also included in Zoobic Safari’s amazing attractions are the Lion Safari, Zoobic Cave and Forbidden Cave. After the tour, gather your group to catch the show that is especially prepared for the night’s entertainment, with an explosive presentation is sure to leave you breathless.

Catch the last run of the Zoobic Night Safari on January 6, until it resumes in March 2018. Zoobic Safari is located in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone Group 1, Ilanin Forest, Subic Freeport Zone. 

Entrance fees for the Night Safari inclusive of dinner are P895 for Adults and P795 for Children 3 to 4 feet and below; without dinner, it is P695 for Adults and P595 for children 3 to 4 feet. Children 3ft below have free entrance. For inquiries, call 847-0413/8999595 loc 344/899-9828 or 24, text 0927-5899696 Email: info@zoomanity.com.ph or visit www.zoomanity.com.ph.

Drizzle and party all night with unlimited booze as F1 Hotel celebrates New Year 2018 with a Splash

The year is about to close and yet Bonifacio Global City’s F1 Hotel Manila doesn’t run out of surprises.

Make your way to 2018 by celebrating with F1 Hotel Manila’s New Year Splash Countdown. 

and be hyped with feel-good music from the featured DJ’s. Celebrate the upcoming year with a tropical-vibe within the city in the Canary Lounge, perfect place for the pool party. Standing tickets are at Php1,888 net, while VIP tables are also available. Doors are open at 10pm to 1am, in partnership with Stella Artois.

Be part of the new year countdown and stay in a Fort Suite for Php9,500 net. This package is inclusive of tickets to New Year Splash for two (2), and use of Play Zone and Kiddie room amenities for kids to enjoy. Have a blast in your first 2018 staycation as this promo comes with buffet breakfast for two (2) and a privilege of late check-out until 4pm (subject to availability). New Year Countdown Room Package is valid on December 31, 2017.



End the year just right and book your tickets now. For inquiries, call 908-7888.