TGIFridays launches the Double Duty Lunch Breaks’ “3+1” Weekday Lunch promo.

(Order 3 “Let’s do Lunch” items and get your fourth dish for free!)

 You could definitely use more Fridays, especially during lunch on weekdays!

TGIFridays has recently launched the Double Duty Lunch Breaks’ “3+1” Weekday Lunch promo. Order three items from the “Let’s Do Lunch” menu and get one dish for free weekdays from 11:00am to 4:00pm until March 9!
If you and your colleagues are a bunch of carnivores, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and grab the Grilled Blackened Chops. Nothing flimsy, these thick and perfectly-seasoned chops are served hot off the grill with its signature sauce and charred onions for only P325.

Does your team prefer something fried? TGIFridays’ Country Chicken Cutlet (P295) is just right for your taste.  It’s crispy on the outside but moist with every mouthful. This comes served with Fridays gravy and refreshing Asian slaw.
Now if you’re using your limited lunch break period to catch up with friends and you prefer something filling but light, look no further. TGIFridays offers Fish Queso (P295), a fresh-tasting fish chunk cooked in a special Fridays cheese sauce. The mild taste of fish, perfectly balances with the tangy, savory cheese base.

All three lunch specials are served with garlic rice.

(TGIFriday’s “3+1 Lunch promo” is ongoing until March 4, 2018, from 11AM-4PM in all TGIFridays branches nationwide. Free items (or the “+1|” dishes) covered in the promo should be equal or lesser value of the purchased item. Promo is for dine in only and cannot be combined with other promos and discounts.)

Going Keto? How Minola Premium Coconut Oil and the Ketogenic Diet can help you lose those excess pounds fast

I was at my heaviest at 145lbs, that was also the time I was at my worst. I know some of you would think I’m exaggerating, but standing at just 5’2 and being used to just 100lbs it made me feel really bad—and although I wasn’t complaining, I could feel that my knees certainly were.

I could hear my knees pop whenever I would sit for longer than an hour and would have difficulty standing up. I had difficulty of breathing climbing stairs going to work. My face became rounder, my legs ballooned, my feet were swollen.

I would pinch them every now and then back then I thought it was cute. That was a long time ago, back when there was no social media to destroy your self esteem, or internet to check if all the food I’ve been eating was still good for me.  Back then diet meal plans were scarce and only nutritionists and doctors had access to them.

I just relied on books and magazines. Although I was raised to a family who has been eating veggies, fish and fruits. All the healthy ones. But my diet changed when I got married and had kids.

After feeling all the fatigue and upsizing my wardrobe several times (from small to medium then large).  I decided to consult an orthopedic (because of leg pain), an endocrinologist (to give me a list of well-balanced food)  and a dermatologist (because my pimples were popping everywhere in my face) I admit, my eating habits during those times were killing me, slowly. I felt my heart was pumping like crazy. I felt sleepy all the time and worse I always lacked energy.

After the consultation and laboratory workups. My 3 physicians confirmed what I already knew—I really needed to change my diet and exercise. I was never given any meds except for leg pain.  I avoided soda until I could completely survive without them and just drank water.  I also steered clear of sugary food like cakes, donuts, white bread, ice cream and gave away the remaining powdered concentrate juices from our kitchen cabinet.  I also switched to brown sugar over refined white sugar and chose frying oil which was “good for the heart” with less cholesterol.

It was hard at first, but eventually I got my weight down to 108 lbs after months of dieting and exercise. Like I said, that was years ago, and eventually regained 12 more lbs, but I guess that's also because of my age.

I now weigh 120lbs about 5 lbs higher than my ideal weight, but shedding those 5 lbs has been very  tough and sometimes even if I skip meals and eat less and exercise I cant seem to shake off those remaining pounds.

So that’s why I’m still searching for a  diet that I could sustain  all the way to my senior years.

Recently, I attended an event about the Ketogenic Diet, which was sponsored by Minola Premium Coconut Oil.

The event was attended by guest speakers Dr. Fabian Dayrit, Professor of Chemistry from Ateneo de Manila, Theater Actress/Director Ms. Mae Paner aka Juana Change and Dr. Regina Banda from the Ketogenic Diet of the Philippines

Although I’ve read and heard a lot about the keto diet since its become the latest diet craze of celebrities, I never seriously considered it, until I listened to Mae Paner’s testimony. Mae aa as political activist Juana Change went from 275 lbs to 175 lbs, in a year. That is 100lbs off—the weight of an entire person—removed from her.




And if that doesn’t prove Keto’s effectivity, I don’t know what else will.

So now I’m slowly discovering a bunch of new foods (hello to more avocados) and getting ready for the 16 hour fasting to induce ketones on my body.

So what is Ketogenic diet and how it works?

Ketogenic diet is all about low-carb, moderate protein, high-fat diet that allows your body to burn fat for fuel rather than glucose. It means cutting out all sources of sugar and most carbohydrates and loading up on foods with high-fat contents.

Eat 10 percent of your calories from carbs, about 20 percent from protein, and 70 percent from healthy fats causes the liver to produce ketones, or byproducts of breaking down fat for energy, allowing your body to enter ketosis.

MCT Oil helps a lot and so does coconut oil from Minola Premium Cooking Oil. Because, Coconut Oil has zero transfat. 

Minola Premium Coconut Cooking Oil helps make the heart healthy and immune system stronger. It is cholesterol free and is rich with lauric oil, the same substance found in mother’s milk.

Studies show that coconut oil's high fat content makes it a staple for keto dieters. Whether you use it in a salad dressing, frying your fish, or to saute your favorite cut of steak, coconut oil is a ketogenic mainstay.

The key here is to enjoy what you are eating and consult your doctor if you are going to embark on a new diet. 

Insta Wave Automatic Curler and Wet Brush designs are available at Watsons stores

Everyone knows that women spend time, money and effort to make her hair,  her crowning glory, the center of attraction.  With the help of beauty tools available in the market. You can now blow dry, style your hair, curl it the way you want at the comfort of your home.

Wet Brush launched new designs of the world’s best detangler brush at the Center for Aesthetic Studies last Feb 21.  Hair & Make-up Master Lourd Ramos graced the event and demonstrate how easy to use the Wet brush and Kiss Insta Wave Automatic Curler.  Selected beauty bloggers graced the event.

Nowadays, it takes a lot to be beautiful. Beauty trends change rapidly, which makes it a struggle for beauty enthusiasts to keep up. Skin care routines, make-up techniques, and other beauty hacks from celebrities and make-up artists are what women read up on lately. But little did we know, we are making a grave mistake by forgetting to take care of our crowning glory -- our hair.

Hair is what stands out the most when seen at a glance. It boosts self-esteem and it speaks volumes as to how a woman will carry herself, to how she will go about her day, so a good way to start is with a great brush.  The new and improved brush design makes brushing your hair a breeze. It even has super cute designs, so you can’t help but keep a brush by your side at all times.

The brush itself isn’t just for show, it’s great for your hair as well. It has special bristles called Intelliflex® bristles, bristles so smart that it knows when it needs to be firm and when it needs to be flexible. So when the brush finds a knot in your hair, it will glide right through the knot, giving you a pain-free experience and leaves you with your hair on your scalp and not on your brush.

The new Wet Brush designs are available in selected Watsons stores and SM Department Stores nationwide.

For more information, follow @WetBrushPh on Facebook and Instagram. [][][]

Why you should never drive hungry

What do you store in your car aside from bottled water? We keep food that isn’t too messy, we have it in our plastic containers, like granola bars, crackers, nuts, seeds, cereal, and dried fruit. We keep food handy in case hunger strikes. We avoid junk food as much as possible.

Shell recently held an event "What Drives You" at White Space Manila on Feb 27  about Shell Driving Experiment study. The event was attended by Cleary Ahern, a Doctoral Researcher from Goldsmiths, University of London. Ahern was then joined by other panelists composed of subject matter experts including motoring enthusiast and actor Jericho Rosales, champion racer Michele Bumagarner, and health and diet guru Nadine Tengco. 

Hunger pangs are common for most of us, especially after toiling all day over a computer stuck behind a desk job. That moment when your stomach suddenly feels hollow and starts to gurgle tends to strike right when you’re in middle of the infamous Manila traffic on the way home. And when we’re hungry and craving, we do things we don’t normally and rationally do – like getting ‘hangry,’ for example. Considering the amount of time we spend on the road, it’s not too farfetched to say driving hungry is one of the reasons why we experience terrible and exhausting trips.

This is one of the things that Shell found out in the Shell Driving Experiment, a groundbreaking worldwide study that uses cutting-edge emotional intelligence technology, ChatBots, mobile apps, and weather and traffic information to uncover drivers’ food and drink preferences and driving performance during everyday rides. Shell worked with experts from Goldsmiths, University of London, to monitor the data points from over 2,000 participants worldwide in order to measure the driver performance score of each country and learn about the different factors that affect their performance.

The results of the study were revealed during the ‘What Drives You’ launch event on February 27, which featured interactive installations and a panel of specialists discussing the research findings.

Hunger drops driving performance and concentration
After Philippine participants across three key areas – Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao – logged in more than 1,700 journeys and 26,592 responses to the ChatBot about their physiological state of hunger, the Shell Driving Experiment uncovered several interesting findings about Filipino drivers.

The experiment showed that feeling hungry or thirsty can impact your driving performance, showing that drivers who crave food or hydration don’t perform as well on the road. This decreases the smoothness of a driver’s journey, negatively correlating to a smoother trip score.
Tengco, a famous health guru, shared her two cents on the results. She said, “Just like how you need to fuel up your car before going on a drive, our body needs our own fill as well. Driving while you’re hungry, especially in this heavy traffic, can really affect your mood and focus, which can have detrimental effects to your driving.”

Food for driving
Of course, the type and the amount of food that one consumes play an important role on one’s daily energy levels. In fact, did you know that turkey actually makes you sleepy?

 “Food rich in Omega-3 can enhance mood, relieve stress, and increase alertness. But many other nutrients and flavors are associated with increased wakefulness and alertness such as nuts, citruses, and dark chocolates. More than that, staying hydrated is important.” Tengco said.

The other factors that come into play
Family has always played a big part in the lives of Filipinos, and this was also apparent in the Shell Driving Experiment. Evidence linking the presence of children and additional passengers in the car to better driving performance was consistent throughout the study.

The Shell Driving Experiment also confirmed that stress is a constant emotion felt by Filipinos on the road. Destination is also another factor, with findings showing that drivers who are on their way to work are more stressed than those who are on the road for other purposes.

The study even busted the myth that driving performance is dictated by gender. The biggest indicator of how well a person performs behind the wheel is, in fact, their personality type – which was revealed as the two personality archetypes of the Modern Man and the Gamma Woman.

Giving importance to every ride
For over a hundred years, Pilipinas Shell has gone the extra mile for Filipino motorists – from taking care of their vehicles with the help of Shell quality fuels and services, to fueling drivers with delicious and convenient meals and beverages at Shell Select and Deli2Go. Shell’s constant pursuit of excellence for the sake of their customers continues through the Shell Driving Experiment.

“The Shell Driving Experiment is part of Shell’s efforts to understand the changing needs of our customers,” shares Anthony Lawrence Yam, Vice President for Retail at PIlipinas Shell. “This helps us create better products and services, such as developing new fuels like Shell V-Power with DYNAFLEX Technology and the expansion of our non-fuel offers at Shell Select, which are relevant in improving the driving experience of Filipinos. At the end of the day, our goal is making life’s journeys better for every Filipino on the road.”

By providing quality fuel products and services to motorists around the world, Shell gained its foothold as a global leader in power and energy. It pioneers next generation technology in developing new sources for a reliable energy mix, producing smarter products as well as promoting smarter use. Shell strives to build smarter infrastructure and provide energy efficient engineering solutions that promote clean and efficient transport and sustainable mobility.

Through finding out and understanding how Filipinos feel and what really matters most for Filipinos, Shell continues its mission to allow men and women to go well on the road, wherever they want to go.

Open your world to new experiences with special rates from Emirates

Emirates is inviting customers to go on an adventure and open their world to something new as the airline is offering special rates for flights from Manila, Cebu, and Clark, to destinations in Europe, the US, Africa, and the UAE from February 26 to March 07, 2018.

Book your flight online from February 26 to March 07 and enjoy rates for as low as $629 for Economy Class and $2149 for Business Class. 

Experience the rich history of the Western world through flights to France, Rome, Spain, Portugal, the UK, and the US. For adventure-seekers, the dynamic culture and golden scenery of Africa await. If you’re aiming for a wonderful experience that will last a lifetime, then Dubai is the place to be.

Travel period for Business Class is from March 05 to November 30, 2018, while travel period for Economy Class is from March 01 to November 30, 2018.

Business Class Fares
From Destination Fares from 
Clark Barcelona US$ 2,499
        Dubai         US$ 2,149
        Lisbon         US$ 2,599
        London         US$ 2,459
        Madrid         US$ 2,449
        New York         US$ 3,159
        Paris         US$ 2,279
        Rome         US$ 2,219
        Cape Town US$ 3,345
        Dubrovnik (flydubai) US$ 3,118

Economy Class Fares
From Destination Fares from
Clark Barcelona US$ 809
        Dubai         US$ 629
        Lisbon         US$ 849
        London         US$ 749
        Madrid         US$ 859
        New York         US$ 859
        Paris         US$ 709
        Rome         US$ 699
        Cape Town US$ 850
        Dubrovnik (flydubai) US$1,061

These rates are for flights from Clark. To view the special rates for flights from Manila and Cebu, please visit the Emirates website at www.emirates.com/ph.

Emirates offers the flexibility for customers to book flights to one city, and return from another city, allowing Filipino travellers to make the most of their holiday in Europe, for example. Furthermore, Emirates’ codeshare partnership with flydubai, removes the barriers to experience more cultures and go to more destinations.

Get the most out of your trips—and your money—with Emirates’ top-notch services and on-board offers. Discover new flavors with the airline’s exquisite in-flight meals, and be entertained with the airline’s award-winning inflight entertainment system ice Digital Widescreen, where you can access more than 3,000 channels, including Filipino content, for high-quality on-demand entertainment. Stay connected and in the loop with the free onboard Wi-FI.

With Emirates, every Mile counts with Skywards, the carrier’s award-winning frequent flyer program. Earn Miles each time you fly Emirates and spend them with Emirates and its wide network of partners.

Named the Best Airline in the World in the inaugural TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for Airlines, Emirates provides a seamless, smooth and comfortable travel experience.

Emirates currently operates 18 weekly flights from Manila to Dubai, as well as a daily service from Cebu and Clark to Dubai, connecting passengers to a wide number of destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. For more information about Emirates or to book tickets, please visit the website. Terms and conditions apply.

Go on a sweet escape to Cebu Pacific’s beautiful destinations

It’s always exciting to see and discover new places with your partner. This love month, there’s nothing more memorable than bringing your relationship to the next level as Cebu Pacific flies you both to some local romantic places to create beautiful experiences.

For adventure seeking couples: Siargao and Cagayan de Oro 
Some couples like to keep the element of fun and surprise in their relationship – the feeling of excitement and adrenaline pumping makes them do things they have never tried before. Are you and your partner looking for a new kind of adventure?

Surigao del Norte’s Siargao is a breath-taking destination that leaves people in awe of its crystal clear waters and active surfing scene. Start your romantic getaway with an island hopping tour around Siargao’s wonderful neighboring isles. Naked Island is a bare island with white sands and pristine waters that reflects the blue sky, making for a picture perfect moment. Lounge around the coconut tree-lined Guyam and Daku Islands and enjoy each other’s company while marveling at the beautiful sunset. You can also experience the barreling waves of the popular Cloud 9 surf beach or try skimboarding by riding the smaller waves of Pacifico in San Isidro town.

The adventure capital of the Philippines, Cagayan de Oro offers a plethora of exciting water activities. Have fun in the sun at the inviting sands and waters of Opol Beach. You can try whitewater rafting along the active rapids of Cagayan de Oro River. For a calmer yet still unforgettable experience, you can go canoeing or tubing and spend a relaxing time enjoying nature’s spectacular views. If you and your partner are up for a hike, you can go to Macahumbus Adventure Park and experience the fresh breeze of the local forests. You can even include a land trip to Bukidnon for more exciting escapades. 

For couples looking for a quiet retreat: Dumaguete, Coron, and Masbate 
How about taking a brief escape from reality to bask in seconds of serenity with your partner? Fortunately, Cebu Pacific can take you to Dumaguete, Tablas, and Masbate for a romantic retreat.

 

Dumaguete is home to numerous beach resorts, garden sanctuaries, and historic sites. Plan a day trip to Manjuyod White Sandbar which is often referred to as ‘The Maldives of the Philippines” because of its strikingly clear waters and cottages. Walk along the 400-hectare Talabong Mangrove Park and enjoy the sight of native birds flying around the canopy while hearing the delightful symphonies of their whistles and chirps. Head out to Tañon Strait in Bais and see the stunning sight of dolphins. Experience Dumaguete’s everyday life at Quezon Park where you can see the Belfry Tower and the Cathedral Church.


Located in one of the world’s best islands, Coron is the pride of Palawan with its tranquil and inviting environment. Reenergize when you soak in the therapeutic hot water pools of Maquinit Springs. You can also take a dip together in the hidden pond at Twin Lagoon and look at its rich wall of corals and marine life. If your partner is a history buff, you can explore the waters of Coron for World War II ruins of the Japanese ship Skeleton Wreck.

A small city in the Bicol region, Masbate is popular for its beaches, mountains, and natural parks. You can enjoy swimming in the pristine waters of Porta Vega Beach and Palani Beach. The two waterfronts also offer a stunning view of the sunset where you and your loved one can take picture perfect memories. Have a taste of tropical paradise at Halea Natural Park where you and your partner can go diving and immerse in Masbate’s rich underwater scene.

For nature loving partners: Tablas, Tagbilaran, and Batanes
Are you looking for a getaway to some of the country’s nature spots? If you are up for a trip to become one with nature, then you should check out Tablas, Tagbilaran, and Batanes.

 

Romblon’s Tablas Island is the perfect place for you and your partner to reconnect with nature. Explore the 48-hectare Looc Bay Marine Refuge and Sanctuary that is home to various fish, turtles, corals, and giant clams. Travel up Odiongan hill and discover Mainit Falls where you can swim in warm water and relax in the calming surrounding nature. You can also sign up for island hopping tours to see more undiscovered gems like rock formations in Paksi Cove, salt lake hidden in Tinagong Dagat, and secluded scenic white sand beach in Lapus-Lapus.

Bohol’s capital city, Tagbilaran is popular for its serene natural sights and historical landmarks. Schedule a day trip to The Botanical Garden and enjoy an environment surrounded by plants, flowers, and butterflies. You can also see Bohol’s famous tarsiers at the Tarsier Sanctuary or snap a photo of one of the wonders of the world, Chocolate Hills. Before leaving, be sure to have a glimpse of Bohol’s rich culture at Bohol Museum and Baclayon Museum.

Another majestic place that is perfect for nature loving couples is Batanes. Make your way down to Vayang Rolling Hills, sit on the green grass, and imagine a peaceful life in nature. You can also visit Chamantad Cove and Tiñan Viewpoint which is considered to be one of the most scenic spots in the province because of its stunning view of the ocean from up the hills. Explore the hills and dark caves of Torongan and enjoy amazing views of cliffs, coastlines, and stone boat-shaped burial markers. You can also climb antique lighthouses by the beaches where you and your partner can take beautiful pictures overlooking the sea. 

How to get there
Book your romantic getaway to any of these destinations with Cebu Pacific Air’s upcoming seat sale! Don’t miss it for a chance to spend a romantic vacation to the best local destinations in the country. And starting in March, Cebu Pacific can finally fly everyone to Batanes with new flights in and out of the province.