To live a life well-lived at Philippine Harvest: Sustainable Living, Food, and Travel fair

When I attended this event 2 days ago. I remember the farm tour that we had 2 years ago. (The 9th ATI OA Bloggers Trip). I learned so much from this trip, like if you’re seeing /eating a deformed guyabano, guava or any fruit for that matter. It is a sign that the fruit is organic or naturally grown. Organic fruits and vegetables taste good and sweet too, not to mention that they are free of pesticides. Since then, I have been checking on groceries and restaurants that support organic food. Then this event came up.

I have met cancer survivor owner Ms.Cherry Lo at her Sonrisa Farm booth. She was busy manning her booth with fresh organic produce during the event. I asked for a picture with her and she happily obliged.

I felt some kind of fulfillment when I attended event like these. My advocacy is that to help promote the farmers who are paving the way for a healthier generation of Filipinos by writing their stories.

I chanced upon this purple corn,  also known as "plant of remembrance" is packed with antioxidants. It fights obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure. Two more important antioxidants found in purple corn are lutein and zeaxathinin, which is good for the eyes.

Philippine Harvest at Central Square continues to celebrate and promote the richness of Philippine agriculture through a three-day food and travel fair dubbed “Philippine Harvest: Sustainable Living, Food, and Travel,” that highlights farm tourism, local food, and tourist destinations around the country. This is the second edition under the helm of the Department of Tourism which will once again be showcased at Central Square, Bonifacio High Street Central, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City from August 24 to 26, 2018. Central Square, the premiere lifestyle destination in the heart of the city, has been home to the Philippine Harvest series since 2016.

As an avenue where you can buy, bring home and enjoy organic, artisanal, natural, and indigenous products, the 1st edition themed “Philippine Harvest: Celebration of Philippine Food Destinations,” highlighted culinary destinations like Bicol, Negros Occidental, Cebu, and Davao. The four-day fair also served as an invitation to farmers, fisherfolk, and farm practitioners for an interactive dialogue and local food exhibition. Now on its 2nd run with the Department of Tourism, Philippine Harvest continues to celebrate good food and pay homage to the people that produce them.

“At the core of our programs and projects in the Department is our sustainable and responsible tourism advocacy which we aim to promote with this edition of Philippine Harvest,” shared DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.

SSI (Stores Specialists, Inc.) Group and Central Square in partnership with the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board have brought together DOT-accredited farm sites across the different regions together with selected travel agencies and thirty local food exhibitors.

The food and travel expo will also present mini-lectures on sustainable tourism and sustainable dining, organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines.

“We hope to develop sustainable farm tourism as a dependable source of income for Filipinos in line with implementation of the Farm Tourism Development Act of 2016, which serves as one of our strategies for countryside development,” added Secretary Romulo-Puyat.

Among the Luzon-based farm tour operators joining the cause are the Terra Verde Eco Farm from Maragondon Cavite, Layog Country Farm from Mountain Province, Amancio’s Dairy and Produce Farm from Cordon Isabela, Tam-An Eco-Tourism Farm from Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya, The FarmHouse by EDL from Capas, Tarlac, and Amadeo Nurture Farmacy from Cavite.

The Visayas and Mindanao contingents include Sonrisa Farm from Magarao, Camarines Sur, Ephrathah Farms Corp. from Iloilo, BinahonAgroforesty Farm from Lantapan, Bukidnon, and Mariano’s Blooming Agri-Tourism Park from Tupi, South Cotabato.

Local produce from the partner exhibitors will also be bannered in the food show. These include dried seafood, coffee, heirloom rice, chocolate, craft beers, fruit wines, fresh fruits, and local sausages, among others.

SSI Group President Anton Huang said, “As we continue to provide lifestyle offerings to our consumers, we at SSI are proud to, once again, showcase the best of what the Philippines has to offer—not only for our guests to appreciate the Philippines’ finest flavors, but also to create more awareness when it comes to how our travels impact our planet. Travel has become a big part of all of our lives and this is our way of practicing this advocacy here in our own backyard, and presenting Filipino travelers with options and ideas.”

SSI Group, 30 Years of the Curated Life
On its 30th year, the SSI Group partners with one of the world’s leading banks, Citibank, to bring the Curated Life to every Filipino with rewarding shopping experiences and perks. With a retail network of over 600 stores and various retail format offerings, the SSI Group continues to make an impact on the lifestyle values of its consumers, by inspiring, enabling, indulging, and rallying them to live a life well-lived—a life that’s well-curated.

“Aaron Carter LØVË Tour Live in Manila” on November 18, 2018

Kbeam Events officially announces the upcoming concert of 90’s teen sensation, Aaron Carter dubbed as “Aaron Carter LØVË Tour Live in Manila” on Sunday, November 18, 2018 at the Kia Theater in Araneta Center, Quezon City.

The singer, songwriter, and producer who has taken the 90’s and early 2000s by storm with hit singles “I Want Candy,” “I’m All About You,” and “Crush on You,” will be featuring his latest album release LØVË. One of his hit singles in the album “Sooner or Later” went Gold in several countries in Europe and is now enjoying multi-million streams on Spotify.


Now 30 years old, Aaron Carter, has been spending the year touring the US and UK headlining in his own shows, as well as joining his fellow 90’s greats like boyband O-town, Lance Bass from NSYNC, Ryan Cabrera, and Youtube sensation, Tyler Hilton.



Upon learning that he’s now back on tour, fans from the Philippines via Twitter started requesting the singer to come to Manila for a concert. The last time he was here was in 2002 and he was only 14 at the time when he performed at the Araneta Coliseum. Today, Aaron Carter heard his fans loud and clear and he is now schedule to perform at the Kia Theater at 8pm on Sunday, November 18, 2018. Aaron Carter will feature songs from the latest album LØVË, which is distributed by Sony Music.

Tickets to Aaron Carter Live in Manila are now on sale at all Ticketnet outlets (call 911-5555) and at Ticketnet.com.ph. Prices are at P5,830, P4,558, P2,756, P2,120. This concert is presented by Kbeam Events and the official residences Crowne Plaza Manila Ortigas and The Holiday Inn Manila Ortigas.

Starbucks Philippines Coffee Ambassador Steaven Bueno is set to compete in the 2018 Starbucks Asia Pacific Regional Barista Championships in Vietnam

When Steaven Bueno witnessed the first ever Starbucks Philippines Barista Championships a year ago, he had hoped someday to step on the same stage and share his love for coffee. Now, the young barista is the reigning Starbucks Philippines Coffee Ambassador and is set to compete in the 2018 Starbucks Asia Pacific Regional Barista Championships in Vietnam.

“It’s so far the best feeling I’ve ever felt,” Steaven shared when asked about the emotions he felt at that moment. “I’m overwhelmed but I’m very excited to represent Starbucks Philippines. And I had no idea I was going to end up here in my coffee journey.”



In his biggest competition yet, Steaven will be among 15 coffee masters from 15 Asian countries who will vie for the much-coveted title of Starbucks Asia Pacific Regional Barista Champion. The competition celebrates coffee artistry, expertise, and passion as it puts a spotlight on Starbucks partners (employees).



For Starbucks Global Coffee Masters like Steaven, the competition is a chance to showcase their coffee talent, further develop their skills, and to share their love for their craft and coffee. Aside from this, finalists stand a chance to win a trophy, state-of-the-art hand brewing equipment, and no less than a trip to Seattle for an immersion at the grand Starbucks Reserve Roastery.



Balancing books and beverages

Steaven’s journey with Starbucks would have been a short one. In 2015, he had applied as a part-time barista at Starbucks Paseo in Sta. Rosa, Laguna during his extended six-month vacation. However, things changed when he underwent the company’s three-month training program. Before he knew it, he had developed a passion for coffee and decided to continue to work as a Starbucks partner while studying at De La Salle University, Manila.



“When I was certified after the training program, it was then that I realized that I loved what I was doing - making the beverages and connecting with people. So I went ahead and continued it knowing that I could balance it with my studies.”



Steaven shared that there were many bumps along the way as he juggled his academics and his passion. But after three years of working at Starbucks, he has somehow found the perfect balance in life and in coffee, even sneaking in some studying in between shifts.



Brewing greatness

At last year’s competition, Starbucks Philippines Coffee Ambassador Rafael Miguel Bautista nabbed the top spot, making him the first Filipino coffee master to win the title. This 2018, Steaven hopes to make the Philippines proud and bring home the award once more. While the stakes may be high, he is hard at work with the help of Miguel and the company’s specialized group of coffee masters, the Coffee Leadership Team.



“Actually, after ni Miguel manalo sa competition last year, he was able to really guide us and share how he prepared for the competition. I’ll definitely apply everything I’ve learned from him and the rest of the Coffee Leadership Team.”



For the competition, baristas are judged based on their coffee knowledge and beverage mastery. In preparing for the championships, Steaven is focusing on the competition’s technicalities which include skills in latte art and pour-over brewing, practicing his overall presentation, and improving his own signature beverage.



Third Villaflor, Starbucks Philippines Coffee Ambassador 2013, proudly shared the strength of his young mentee. “Coming from the side of someone who is coaching the partners, we can only do so much. We can provide them with materials and suggestions but anyone can read it and so the expectation is that they would all be the same,” he said. “But with Steaven, it’s different. He likes to explore and for you to be better with coffee, you really have to experiment and taste everything. It takes extra effort to really learn and this is why he’s here now.”



Now with the competition fast approaching, Steaven looks back on his entire journey with a happy heart.

“I’m just grateful for this experience because I didn’t even see myself presenting to people, talking to fellow coffee enthusiasts. Before it was just a dream or a plan that would come after years but since I’m already here, I’m just enjoying and growing as well with the team. Being part of the company, I realized that Starbucks is not just a company that enabled people to become baristas and craft beverages. In Starbucks, you really understand the word ‘partner’ as they help you your growth even beyond coffee.”

Icon meets rising superstar

“A Lani Morissette – Musical Journey” is perhaps one of the most anticipated OPM concerts of the year bringing together two of the best singers in the country Asia’s Nightingale Lani Misalucha and one of the most talented young singers today Ms. Morisette Amon. That's two nights of guaranteed unforgetablle  performances happening on Sept 22 and 23 at The Theatre, Solaire.

During the press conference, the two gamely answered questions teasing probable duets and giving clues to what the audience can expect. But it suddenly became serious when Lani was asked to give her advice Morisette now that she is at the peak of her singing career. Like the gracious veteran that she is, Lani became a bit emotional as  she told the young singer to be grateful for everything, to make use of her talent wisely and to know her priorities.
                   
Two musical journeys will cross paths as they unfold at The Theatre at Solaire on September 22 and 23, 2018. Lani Misalucha and Morissette Amon are set to tell their stories in their concert entitled “A Lani Morissette – Musical Journey”, as they sing a medley of unexpected song choices that showcase their versatility, vocal range, and own style of performance.

Solaire, known for being a champion of Filipino artists, showcases the evolution of Original Pilipino Music (OPM). “Lani and Morissette are on different stages of their musical journey. Lani is at the pinnacle of her career while, Morissette is still venturing into hers.” says Audie Gemora, Solaire’s Director for Entertainment.

Asia’s Nightingale Lani Misalucha moved to the United States in 2000 and began performing in various Las Vegas hotel and casino properties, gaining the name “New Siren of the Strip”. The veteran singer, reaching the high point of her Philippine success, made the bold move to spread her wings wider to only shine brighter under the City of Lights. She is known by many for her high-octave vocal range, and iconic songs such as “Sana Dalawa Ang Puso Ko”, “Tunay na Mahal”, “Araw-Araw, Gabi-Gabi” and “Bukas Nalang Kita Mamahalin”.

She is back for a short while to visit family and to fulfill commitments here in the Philippines. “I immediately said yes when I was presented this concert with Morissette.” she shares. “For me, she’s one of the most talented young Filipino artists right now. Aside from that, she’s really a wonderful person and I’m excited to work with her and for this project.”

The young Morissette Amon started in Cebu and made it to Manila’s rigorous talent shows where big voices dominate and are always in fierce competition. After countless attempts at victory, she rose from the ashes like a phoenix to claim her rightful place. She recently reached a milestone with her first solo concert, “Morissette is Made” held at the Big Dome, and is now being toured around the world. She rose to stardom for her powerful vocal range catapulting her to become one of the country’s new generation of biriteras. “I wasn’t really sure what will happen after my concert, but I’m really grateful that I’ll be able to share the stage with Ms. Lani – one of the music icons I really look up to.” says Morissette. “I’m also very happy that we jive in so many ways. Not just in our singing style, but also our personalities.”

As for preparations, the two singers reveal where they are at in their respective careers. Being rather new under a bigger spotlight, Morissette admits that even though she has spent some time with Lani before, she still gets shy around her. “It’s important that when you’re collaborating with another artist, there is that rapport. I just tell myself that, ‘Sette, you can do this. Don’t be shy.’” Lani, on the other hand says that she will have to prepare physically to keep up with the 22-year old. “I don’t have the same stamina that I used to when I was younger, so I really need to prepare myself.”

Despite the contrasts between both artists, they are on the same page when it comes to what they want their fans to experience. “We want to give them a show they’ll enjoy and remember. We included songs that we usually sing but, we also chose ones that aren’t expected for that surprise factor.” says Morissette. “After the concert, we want our fans to leave feeling good, and with them is the message that we want to convey: We all go through different journeys in life, but if we focus on the plans that we have, we can achieve them.” Lani adds.

“A Lani Morissette – Musical Journey” proves to be a story of reinvention that will relate to an audience that have their own challenges to face, and to inspire them to make the decisions that they fear to take.

For tickets to “A Lani Morissette – Musical Journey”, you can call Ticketworld at 891-9999.

Celebrate Buwan ng Wika with Goldilocks Filipino dishes

As we continue to celebrate the country’s Buwan ng Wika, a designated time to highlight the beauty that is the Filipino people. We are reminded of all of the great contributions that made Filipinos who we are today.

From music, traditional customs, games, and the implementation and usage of the national language, the month-long event aims to reinvigorate the Filipino spirit as we continue to progress through an ever changing world.

Another must have during the celebration is the presence of Filipino food! With this in mind, Goldilocks, the country’s number one bakeshop is happy to highlight their Filipino favorites during this festive celebration.

Indulge yourself with classic Filipino dishes such as savory staples which include delicious Pancit Malabon and Palabok, and for those with a sweet tooth, Goldilocks’ Leche Flan w/ Ube Halaya and their Classic Puto boxes are a must have!

Celebrate Buwan ng Wika with these Filipino favorites at any Goldilocks Foodstore, nationwide. For more information, you may also follow Goldilocks on Twitter or Instagram at @GoldilocksPH, on the Goldilocks Facebook page, or at the official Goldilocks website at www.goldilocks.com.ph

Feeling overwhelmed and stressed out? Here's why you need some #MeTime

While browsing through my feed the other day, I came across an article that says that our 50’s will be the unhappiest time of our lives.



It scared me. Just when I thought I’ve found happiness, here’s something that’s telling me that I should enjoy it while I can.



I’ll be another year older in a couple of weeks so I was a bit affected by this study that’s telling me that I might be facing some really unhappy years ahead of me.



Its all about the “U-shaped” happiness life curve, the article said. Life starts out great, gets worse some time in your late 40s and early 50s, then gets better again.



So why are our 50s the low point? Its supposed to be the beginning of our golden years right and gold certainly puts a smile on anyone’s face.



For one, the researchers point out that middle-aged people are often at the peak of their careers, which causes a great deal of stress. Alternatively, people are at the point where they feel like they should be at the peak of their career and they’re not even close. Also, by your 40s and 50s parents have children coming of age to worry about. It seems the oft-joked-about “midlife crisis” is a reaction to a very real low point.



So I thought about it, and I honestly think it depends on how you’ve been living your life.



For me my 40s was the most difficult time. My kids were all in college and each of them had their own issues, which was normal, but if you have 3 college kids, you know what I mean.



Managing the household, coping with some financial challenges and trying to start a career in a new field wasn’t easy. I worked in a hospital for almost 16 years before I tried working in a few BPO companies.



I quit my job, and somehow I ended up blogging, which was a turning point for me.



That was 5 years ago.

When I was starting out I would attend almost 2 to 3 events a day a week, depending on invites. I felt excited again.



Blogging had rekindled my passion for writing and I found happiness whenever I would get invites to events. But as the years went on, I realized I was becoming even more busy than when I had a full time job.

I still love what I do but I think my age is starting to catch up. Sobrang pagoda na. There are times in life when it all just feels like too much.



That was the time I realized I also needed time for myself.

That's why, I always set aside time for weekends. To see my kids and grandkids and try to visit a spa for a mani/pedi or even a relaxing massage.



When you are a mom, we often feel that taking time out for ourselves is selfish. We have been taught that we must work hard to deserve health and happiness to prioritize our kids and our families. That kind of thinking puts pressure on ourselves to be perfect.



And that is exactly why we need some time alone for ourselves time to rest and make ourselves feel and look great once again.

Now before I go home, I always drop by Watsons whenever I can to replenish my vitamins. Right now, I just discovered that they are selling Cosmoskin GSE. I take it before I go to bed to prepare for another day. It helps me relax and it brightens my skin too. I noticed that it helps with dark spots.



I recently attended Watsons PH #MeTime campaign last Aug 16 at SM Aura, Taguig. The event was attended by Ms Shamcey Supsup Lee, Influencers Vern and Verniece Enciso,  Raiza Contawi,  Celebrities Kris Bernal, Thea Tolentino and others.

I have tried the Ponds booth with Skin Advisor App. You have to take your picture and the app will determine how old you are through your skin analysis. It read 36! Yey! Lakas maka good vibes. 

Make Time for #MeTime!
Whether you are a stay-at-home parent or a professional with a killer schedule, you need to pause, take a break, and make time for #MeTime. The reason is simple: You owe it to yourself and to those you care for to take time to recharge and be your beautiful and healthy best.

Watsons takes to heart this self-caring philosophy with the “Make Time for #MeTime” campaign.  This campaign inspires everyone to take time to take care of themselves with Watsons’ skin, beauty, hair, and health products plus a wide range of cosmetics that are perfect for a relaxing treat at home.

Pamper your skin
What better way to spend #MeTime than lavishing your neglected skin with love? Watsons’ range of products from Ponds, Olay, Neutrogena, St. Ives, Belo, Celeteque, Mediheal, Snow, and Garnier have all the skin-pampering love to keep your complexion fresh and radiant.

Revitalize your hair
The perfect place to spend some #MeTime effortlessly?  In the shower, of course!  Treat your strands to Watsons’ hair products from Creamsilk, Palmolive, Lauat Shampoo, Suave, Dove, and Moringa and give your locks a luxurious #MeTime treat.

Get gorgeous
Take some #MeTime to swipe on some lipstick or paint your nails!  Watsons’ extensive collection of cosmetics from Celeteque, Belle, and Chic Bobbie will get you gorgeous in no time.



Nourish from within
There’s no other way to put it: To be truly beautiful, you need to be healthy.  That’s why your #MeTime must also include taking care of yourself from within with Watsons’ range of supplements and health products from Enervon, Cosmo Skin, Poten-cee, MX3, and Salonpas.

Busy is the enemy of Health and Beauty
Are you too busy to be beautifully healthy? All it takes is a trip to Watsons to curate a set of health and beauty revitalizers and treat yourself to some well-deserved #MeTime! Plus, if you’re an SM Advantage Card holder and purchase at least P500 worth of products, you can even win an iPhone X while you’re at it!

Indeed, with Watsons, #MeTime is not only essential.  It is rewarding.

Less stress. More self-love.
At the end of the day, making time for #MeTime is all about stressing less and loving your beauty, health, and wellness more.  At a time when everyone is busy with bucket lists and to-do lists, don’t forget to make time for that one person who deserves all the extra TLC you pour out to everybody else: Yourself!

After all, when you love yourself, you can love others more. And when you do, you don’t only look good, but you also feel great!

Ms Shamcey Supsup Lee