When In Manila, it’s time to Rock Out with your Blog Out!

It’s Rockeoke night for the blogger friends of WhenInManila.com

We’re inviting out bloggers to come have a night of fun, food, drinks and rockeoke!

WhenInManila.com realizes how so much of our success comes from the blogosphere and the amazing blogger friends and mentors who have helped shape our site into what it is today!

With that said, we’re throwing a blogger night rockeoke party at Craft in the Fort Strip BGC on May 30, 2012, Wednesday at 8pm!

Free food, free drinks and all night rockeoke is in stored! Plus lots of raffles, prizes and surprises!

RSVP with Vince on Twitter.com/VinceGolangco

When In Manila, come out and party with your fellow bloggers! Just be sure to RSVP with us first so we can save you a spot.

Rockeoke Bloggers Night: Rock Out with your Blog Out

Craft Rock & Grill

Fort Strip BGC

Beside Amber and Scarlet

May 30, 2012 Wednesday

8pm

RSVP with Vince on Twitter.com/VinceGolangco

Rockeoke Bloggers Night at Craft: Thanking our Blogger Friends from WhenInManila.com

When In Manila and craving for a delicious and hearty breakfast meal, you definitely have to get it at Kanto Freestyle Breakfast!

Back in college, my friends and I usually go out of the dormitory during late nights to buy some food to eat while studying ( sometimes more on the eating part). There are many food establishments around our area which are open for 24 hours. Definitely convenient if you’re craving for tapsilog at 2AM in the morning, and I know I’m not the only one who experiences that!

Last May 14, I met up with my friend at 9 PM to have some late-night dinner. I only had coffee after work so I was really hungry. We decided to try Kanto Freestyle Breakfast. Well, it wasn’t an easy hunt in going there. Good thing the residents around the area were kind enough to tell us directions. My friend slowly drove and we peaked at San Joaquin St., he said “Looks like just residential houses to me.” “Yeah, seems like it. Where could it be?” I replied. We got lost for 30 minutes! After searching and searching, we finally found the place.

Finally found the way to Kanto Freestyle Breakfast! 

The place seems like the typical 24/7 eatery that we see at the streets with the usual roster of -silog meals in their menu. As the old cliche goes, “Looks can be deceiving.”  This is definitely not your typical eatery by the street.

The pictures at the tarpaulins outside already says “Hey, we have some good stuff here!” The pictures do not lie!

Now what should you eat at Kanto Freestyle Breakfast when its 10 PM and you are extremely hungry? After looking at the menu, everything I read sounded delicious!  They have a variety of meals and sandwiches to choose from. Well, here’s what we ate for dinner:

Strawberry and Blueberry Pancakes

I really loved the blueberry pancakes with maple syrup! It’s even yummier when you put some butter with it. I think I almost ate all the blueberry part of the pancakes. My friend like strawberries so he enjoyed the strawberry part. Yummy!  

Kanto Boy Breakfast Meal – Pampanga Tocino

We got to talk to one of Kanto Freestyle Breakfast’s owner, Vince Juanta. He said they only serve tocino from Pampanga. Same goes with their Beef  Tapa meal; they only serve those of from Batangas. Only the best for the breakfast meal-loving diners. Also, every rice meal comes with not one, but two eggs! Well, the highlight of this meal for me was the pesto tomato. I don’t usually eat tomatoes, I even remove them from some dishes that I eat but with this one, I wanted to take home a bucket of it. Really tasty! It converted me to some tomato-lovin’.

French Toast and Bacon with Two Eggs Freestyle

They definitely got how I liked my fried eggs: scrambled and fluffy! Reminds me of those Perfect Scrambled Eggs that Gordon Ramsay cooks on Youtube. The bacon strips were cooked perfectly! Not too crunchy but not under cooked. The French Toast drizzled with maple syrup and topped with butter gives a good balance to the saltiness of the scrambled eggs.

Eggs Benedict

The potato wedges were soft and chewy.The melted cheese and uncooked egg yolk of the sunny side up really went well! I was very surprised with that. The ham was good too. The bread would have been better if it was a little toasted for that breakfast-y feel but all in all, this was a good dish.

Hot Chocolate

Chugged down all those delicious food with some hot chocolate. I had coffee before going to Kanto Freestyle Breakfast so I opted for this one.

The cooks who concocted our dinner. Thanks guys!

When we got to chat more with Vincent, he told us that he was the one who conceptualized the menu. What he had in mind when thinking about it was “What breakfast meals would I always want to be available at our house?” Now if only this was the case at our home, then I would be one very happy camper!  Also, he told us about the freestyle option from the menu. Diners can mix and match breakfast food for their own customized rice meals. Mine would definitely include bacon and pesto tomato overload. You can view the Kanto Freestyle Breakfast menu here.

 Overall, I can say that getting lost to find Kanto Freestyle Breakfast was definitely worth it. The food was great. The place looked nice and safe even after the late hours of the night. The staff was nice. And also eating gourmet breakfast meals without the fuss of being in a fancy restaurant.

With one of the owners of Kanto Freestyle Breakfast, Vincent Juanta. 

Oh, and GREAT NEWS! Kanto Freestyle Breakfast will be celebrating its First Year Anniversary on May 21, 2012! They are having an UNLIMITED RICE PROMO on all rice meals from May 21 – May 28, 2012! Now that got me to think of going back again!

 So When In Manila, get your breakfast meal craving satisfied at Kanto Freestyle Breakfast!

 KANTO FREESTYLE BREAKFAST

549 San Joaquin St. Brgy. Plainview, 0550 Mandaluyong, Philippines

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kantofreestylebreakfast

Twitter: http://twitter.com/kantobfast

When In Manila, STOKEDinc Managing Director JV Borromeo proudly opened the first Rip Curl Concept Store in the Philippines at the Alabang Town Centre Mall (Garden Wing) with a rockin’ May 2012 summer party.

“Rip Curl’s vision is to be The Ultimate Surfing Company in all respects, so we put together a Rip Curl shop that is inspired by that wonderfiul sense of discovery we call The Search. It’s a shop that pulsates with adventure, travel, and youth,” says JV as he welcomes to the store a spirited group of action sports enthusiasts and ocean-loving guests.

STOKEDinc (the Philippines’ pioneer action sports retailer) and Rip Curl began their partnership in 2011. This saw the entry of Rip Curl products at all STOKEDinc shops in the Philippines. It’s an energetic partnership that fired on all cylinders in a short span of time. The rapid end result, within a compact 1-year time frame, is the first Rip Curl standalone shop in the Philippines.

“This 90 square-metre store is home to the finest apparel and gear whether you wanna surf, wake, skate, or look simply awesome enjoying the beach life,” says Lorraine Lapus, Rip Curl Philippines brand manager, “it’s also a great place to meet up and hang out with your friends, perhaps chat about surf and adventure. It’s engineered to immerse you in the beach life.”

Welcoming the guests and enjoying the festivities at the Rip Curl store were the Stoked Girls, an attractive group of athletic young women who advocate action sports, love and respect for the ocean, and a healthy positive lifestyle.

“A year ago, we conceptualised the Stoked Girls image with a clear mandate,” says JV Borromeo,  “we wanted to showcase modern active girls filled with a positive attitude, a sense of adventure, and youthful energy. And we wanted to break the flawed perception that surfing, wakeboarding, and skating were male-dominated action sports.”

JV continues, “We produced our own content from Stokedinc Lookbooks to videos. We leveraged the strength of social media to reach thousands, even millions, efficiently and in a cool way. With this fresh fast-changing platform, we highlighted the Stoked Girls ideal by placing them in a dynamic environment, living a healthy, adventurous, and fun lifestyle. The response has been epic. The Stoked Girls celebrate love of the water, from rivers and lakes to seas and oceans. With that, we hope they will inspire many.”

On hand to enjoy the Stokedinc & Rip Curl summer party were Stokedinc surf teamriders Lorraine Lapus & Carla Sebastian, wakeboarding champs Samantha Bermudez, JC Dy, JV Tanjangco, Chad Venadas, & C-Lo dela Torre, plus Philippine Surfing Academy’s Paolo Soler, Pinay Futbol founders Kristine Nolan & Amanda Fernandez with Erika Fernandez & Fiona Faulkner, artist Amanda Lapus, Jason Soong, British School Manila’s Erin Lane and Sai Villafuerte, Manila Surfers Association’s Tonet Jose, JP Ong, and Marky Mabanag, as well as Stokedinc brand ambassadors Rovilson Fernandez and Jeff Ortega, with young surf-enthusiasts Natalia, Julio, & Santi Ortega, Franky Rivilla, Bri Manglapus, Sofia Soler, Nicky Daez & Chabeli Bengzon.

Food and drinks were flowing courtesy of Tides Grill and Bistro, and a grand time was had by all. “It’s been an awesome surf season and all this is merely a glimpse of our continuing journey as we chase adventures and The Search with Rip Curl,” says JV Borromeo.

On that note, we look forward to the Stoked spirit spreading its wings across the 7,107 islands of the Philippines in the years to come.

When In Manila, Go ahead! Live the Search!

www.facebook.com/stokedinc
www.stokedinc.com.ph

written by: Joncy Sumulong
photo credit: Joncy Sumulong, Allen Aligam, Charlie Gomez

Manila is stoked as Rip Curl opens in the Philippines

GEAR UP 2K12 AUTO SHOW SET TO START!

Calling all CAR AFICIONADOS!  The much awaited auto show event entitled GEAR UP 2k12 will be held at SM Mall of Asia, SM by the Bay this May 27, 2012.

The show is designed to offer car enthusiasts a showcase of classic, modern, & concept cars and as well as to promote safety driving.

The proceeds of the Gear Up 2k12 Auto Show will support the Back to School program of Payatas School for the forthcoming school year 2012-2013.

Gear Up 2k12 Auto Show interested car enthusiasts/sponsors may contact us at 0927-5425083 / 0933-4009595or email at rac.chinatown@gmail.com

Manila Car Show: Gear Up 2k12 Auto Show for Car Enthusiasts

Scroll down to check out the photos we’ve taken during the fashion show at Prive

Koi Swimwear Owners Jade and Lace 

Spotted: Jade and Lace—tandem behind Koi Swimwear

Tricia Gosingtian and Patricia Prieto

The Plump Pinay

 The crowd surrounding the stage, patiently waiting for the fashion show to start.

Koi Swimwear Collection for Summer 2012 

 Plain and simple.

I love the colors in this set of swimwears!  

The uniquely designed swimwears. 

 All bandeau!

 Koi Swimwear Style Icon Designers

Tricia Gosingtian Designs 

The Plump Pinay Designs 

Patricia Prieto Designs 

The Koi Swimwear Fashion Show went well as expected. There were free drinks for the VIPs! The designs were very updated and stylish, sure to fit any body type! Congratulations Koi Swimwear!

So When In Manila, check out Koi Swimwear’s newest swimsuit designs! You’ll never miss out on the latest swimwear trend!

For more info,

you may check out their official Facebook Page

 or

drop by their website I LOVE KOI

Also, follow them at Twitter

Retail Partners:

The Ramp Crossings, Trinoma Republik, BTC Cebu

Koi Swimwear Fashion Show at Prive

Welcome to the shattered world of the brokenhearted !! ahuhuhuhuuhu waaaaaaaaahhhhhhh (hand me the blade!)

So here you are once again, brokenhearted, feeling as if the world is falling apart!

Your mind filled with so many “whys”  and with a chest ever so heavy with all the pain which seems unbearable! Scared about your future and the things to come. Thoughts of suicide and all other stupid things on your agenda hmmmmm….

Believe me, I have experienced them all!

But you see, it’s not all doom and gloom and I know you are pretty much curious about the title of this article which is why you bravely clicked on it in the first place! Your mind probably goes like, “Benefits of having a broken heart? You must be kidding me!”

—- impossible as it may seem but yes, there are benefits! You’re just not seeing the big picture because you are too focused on the pain of rejection!

Because I’m one of those rare species who make an effort to always find the good from where I stand, I’d like to share to you some of the good things which  happened to me after that agonizing phase.

Let’s jump 2 steps beyond and show you what you should be excited about!

1.  You get to know yourself more – It is so true that your character will be tested when you’re down. The question is—-Will you still be kind and forgiving despite all the pain and tears? All your ideals and beliefs will be tested at this stage and it’s really gonna be up to you on how to handle such hurdles. This is  the best time to reflect on things and tend to yourself more. Admit it or not, you have forgotten about yourself because you have given so much to your partner that you end up being empty. Perhaps that’s the reason… maybe YOU have given too much! No wonder you are also into so much pain right now! Eventually, in time, you will get to pick up the pieces and learn. You will eventually appreciate life’s important lessons. It’s all part of living! This is something to look forward to!

2. You get to lose weight and have a slimmer waist – Congratulations! You’re on your way to sexiness! With all that heartache, I’m sure you won’t have the appetite to eat a lot for a while! You gotta seize that moment and help your body lose that extra belly fat and say hello to a new and sexy you!!! The best revenge is to be beautiful and happy as ever!! Believe it or not, I lost around 20lbs in just 3 months! From overweight to normal weight! Saved me from being a candidate for diabetes!!!! Hoooray!

a photo of me 2 yrs ago while severely brokenhearted

3. You discover new things – You will be more busy!! Believe me, you have no choice!! The great thing about it is that… because of having more time for yourself, you will get to discover new things about you. You will have more time for family and friends… the very people worthy of your time! You will finally have the time to do the things you’ve always dreamed of. You might also discover a hidden talent which will lead you to new opportunities!! Pretty much like with what happened to me when I started learning photography 2 years ago. Who would ever think I’d grab the title as best food blogger this year because of this? Due to this willingness to learn and get out of my shell, I have created an entirely new and brighter future for me! =)

never thought I’d be a photographer and have the time of my life!

4. You become more positive and hopeful - Because of this new found strength and upgraded armor through successfully going trough all that pain, you end up being wiser! You will eventually become more positive and hopeful of things because you know at the back of your head, things are gonna be fine! Believing in the power of positive thinking greatly improved my health as well as on how I viewed life in general! Blessings started rolling in! Aside from greatly improving  my health, I also got a job promotion, won contests, met more loving people and experienced more joyful moments to cherish!

got myself a promotion along the way…

5. You are a step closer to the right person for you - Oh yes you are!! How can you meet Ms/Mr Right if you don’t get rid of the wrong person for you?! Make room for that person who will never make you cry! Who will always look after your welfare. Someone who will always make you feel secure and that person who will be worthy of you because he/she will always see your true value.

don’t be afraid to make those steps…

These things will come to you at the proper time…. patience my dear… more patience!
It’s never the end of the road for you! Have faith!

We all have to die a little in order to be re-born again! It is all up to  YOU! It’s gonna be about you making that sacred promise to yourself to improve for the better and start thinking about what’s best for YOU and nothing more!

No more thinking about getting even… it’s just a waste of time! As I mentioned a while ago, the BEST REVENGE is to be MORE BEAUTIFUL AND HAPPY!!!!

but if you feel like crying now, ok go on….. let it all out!

waaaaaaaaaahhhhh!!!

But remember this ——- Now that you’re down, there is no other way but UP!!!!

ALL WILL BE FINE!!!!!

For more yummy and inspirational stories, visit us at EATS-A-DATE!

*“Certified Emo of the Month” photo by Greg Valerio

 post processed by Yosh Stoner

special thanks to Frank Ruaya for the photos

5 Benefits of Having a Broken Heart…

Today X Future

Due to insistent public demand, I’d like to introduce to you all one of the best places to hang out in Quezon City when in Manila! If you aren’t familiar with Cubao Expo, then boy you are missing out on a lot!

I’ve been getting so many requests from my friends from the music scene as well as  readers recommending me to check out this place and have it featured on www.wheninmanila.com. Luckily, the wonderful people behind this hip spot were so easy to coordinate with and gladly agreed to our humble request!

whenever I’m at Cubao Expo, I noticed that the Today X Future  never runs out of people!

If you are looking for a really cool place to hang-out with your friends  not only during weekends but any day as you please, then the Today X Future  would definitely be one of the very few bars which your Ultimate Pinoy Food Blogger (ahem..ahem!) will recommend!

Aside from the very affordable toothsome treats and an array of not-your-ordinary cocktail concoctions, another thing I really love about the Today X Future  would be their super artsy chic boutique with really hip finds found at the 2nd floor! You gotta check this out!

Never a dull moment indeed! I’m sooooo sick and tired of those typical boring bars with overpriced food and eardrum damaging sounds and where people make so much effort just to be “in” and “be seen!” Borrrriiiinggg!!!!

Ok ok, let me show you what you should never miss when at Cubao Expo!!

 oh! it’s you!

 nice! nice!

 meet Mike and Herl!

 hats galore

 just had to buy this piece!

Night time came and so it was time for us to party!!! Today X Future has got a lot of colorful mixed concoctions to suite your every mood!

Cocktails: Vodka Cilantro, Fresh Love, My Shirota, Mango Rum, Cherry Bomb (Strong Ice + Cherry), Mersilissa Margarita — 100php each

Herl loving her Fresh Love 

voted as the best drink that night along with the Mango Rum

 Meet Yang! I heard she practically lives at the Today X Future because she’s there almost everyday!

 My personal pick–Mersilissa Margarita!

 Mango Rum- voted as one of the best drinks that night!!

Aside from the artsy hip ambiance, the  Today X Future also has a nice selection of appetizers  to keep your tummies full and yearning for more! Let’s check out their best sellers!!!

Nacho Dancers (200php)

 Crunchy nachos loaded with grated and melted cheese partnered with fresh salsa! MMmmmmmmm!!

Tofu Cigars (70php)

Deep fried to perfection! Perfect for tofu lovers like me!

Buffalo Wings (200php)

This was also a sure hit although I didn’t get to taste it! It tasted darn great it actually disappeared in an instant! LOL

The Pairs of Being Pure at Heart  (chicken heart wrapped in chicken skin) (120php)

I really felt guilty but what the heck!? It was damn good!

Grilled Pork Belly (160php)

 Now I was very impressed with this one! Really tasty! Must be a top secret marinade! Hmmm

Kula Sisig (180php)

I really must commend whoever their chef is, for doing a really great job with the dishes! Their Sisig passed my personal standard. I’m very picky when it comes to Sisig and believe me, I’ve tried a lot or versions! I believe it just lacked a bit of crunch!

 I can only say good things about this place and I don’t really need to write a novel-like review just to convince you to try it out. The fact that the Today X Future  is always packed with people is proof enough on how  great this place is! With all the other bars around, how nice it is to know that they got so many loyal patrons…there must be really something special about the Today X Future then…

… and it’s time for you to check it our yourself! See yah there!!!!

 Today X Future

31 Cubao X, General Romulo St. Cubao Quezon City

mobile: 0928 520 9102

email: todayxfuture@gmail.com

open EVERYDAY, from 5pm to 3am

Today X Future: Bringing You The Future Today!

When in Manila and we want to experience science in the coolest way possible, all we have to do is go straight to BGC Taguig and marvel at The Mind Museum.

This summer, The Mind Museum offers a one of a kind experience aside from its high-tech venue filled with awesome science stuff as it invites us this May 18 to a day of fun and excitement!

Let’s rock the remaining days of summer! Celebrate the International Museum Day at The Mind Museum! When in Manila, go grab your tickets now!

www.themindmuseum.org

The Mind Museum Celebrates International Museum Day

When In Manila: Liquid production presents : AQUA MARGARITA ” Sexy blue pool party” at the Hotel Intercontinental Manila on May 19, 4pm.

Presenting Best dj THE TRIO : Marshall White (from Ecuador), Lady Trinity (Princess of female DJ) and Matthew Carbonel (Manila’s Best) with The Roochies Reggae band. Watch Bottle Flair exhibition from Buddha Bar’s 2nd place Asia champion and with special guest David DiMuzio, American Singer/Songwriter.

This is a fund raising project that will help children who suffer spinal cord disorder. For Tickets and table reservation please contact 09052279882 or call 02 5862722. Add us in Facebook group : Liquid Beach Party Animals

AQUA MARGARITA: Sexy blue pool party at the Hotel Intercontinental Manila

Hunan Lutong Bahay: It’s here, no really!

When in Manila one must sometimes look past the sterile malls and palaces of commercial sameness to find true authenticity. Sometimes you have to look even harder, because there’s not even a sign. Sometimes you have to look, ask three guards for directions, make one U-turn and drive a quarter mile in reverse.

Welcome to Hunan Lutong Bahay, a humble eatery in an apartment building owned by a husband and wife team. In these walls décor does not exist but food is good and prices are reasonable. It’s not the easiest place to find, but if you ask around the Guards around Rockwell for Camia St. you’ll find it near the corner of Estrella and Gumamela.

Wouldn’t a velvet painting go great here?

This is one of those zero ambiance restaurants that only the Chinese can do so well. Serving the spicy dishes of Hunan, the attention is clearly centered on food and food alone. The air conditioning was turned off on an excruciatingly hot day but they still somehow managed to keep the dining room reasonably cool with the mounted fans on the walls.

Hunan Lutong Bahay - Hand-Rolled Fried Pork Dumplings

First to arrive were the Fried Dumplings. These were clearly hand-rolled, showing the small imperfections of form that are the hallmark of great homemade food. They were very flavorful, stuffed with pork and lots of fresh vegetables.

Hunan Lutong Bahay - Pork Spare Rib Hot Pot

Hunan Lutong Bahay - Spicy Shrimp

The hot pots are a favorite here and you would be remiss not to order one. We tried the Pork Spare Rib Hot Pot, which had a tasty slightly oily broth that was scented with star anise. The meat was braised to the perfect point where it was tender without falling right off the bone. The Mapo Tofu was very simple but good. We also ordered the Spicy Shrimp, which were rather spicy and otherwise unremarkable. Although I asked the server to go spicy on our food I don’t think my request was taken seriously enough. Next time I’ll grasp her by the nape when I say it.

Hunan Lutong Bahay - Mapo Tofu makes you happy every day

For value dining off the proverbial beaten path, one could scarcely do better When in Manila. I recommend going to this secret Chinese Restaurant, Hunan Lutong Bahay, with a group of four so you can enjoy the larger servings of hot pots on the menu.

Hunan Lutong Bahay

6404 Camia St.

Makati City.

0915 425 2972

 Super Secret Chinese Food Restaurant in Makati – Hunan Lutong Bahay

 Philippines food lovers visit Jeremy’s blog mrdelicious.ph

William Beckett Live In Manila, Together With Every Avenue and There For Tomorrow!

When In Manila, remember when we all cried when we heard the news that The Academy Is… broke up, but we saw a light shine through when William Beckett announced that he has a new EP coming out? Yes, this is another time to cheer up folks as your dream of ‘William Beckett live in Manila‘ has come to a reality! He will be rocking out together with There For Tomorrow and Every Avenue! Let your voices be heard and sing along with the hottest summer pop rock bands of this decade. Together on Independence day, everyone would celebrate a different taste of freedom that only music can bring. Don’t miss William Beckett Live In Manila, With Every Avenue and There For Tomorrow, your last summer concert before going back to school!

Who is your favorite among the three bands? What seats will you get for ‘William Beckett Live in Manila, with Every Avenue & There For Tomorrow‘? For sure, I’ll be paralyzed and drooling if I get to meet David Strauchman of Every Avenue! No kidding! Though I’m also a huge fan of William Beckett’s lyrical style, it just never gets old. As for There For Tomorrow, honestly speaking, I haven’t been listening to them as much anymore but upon watching their old videos again, their energy and form just brings a lot of power to its viewer. All three of them are part of my ‘must-watch bands’ list. Yes, I have a list. Haha! And I can scratch them off once I get to see William Beckett Live in Manila, with Every Avenue & There For Tomorrow!

William Beckett Live in Manila, with Every Avenue & There For Tomorrow, on June 12, 2012 at SM North EDSA Sky Dome

William Beckett Live in Manila, with Every Avenue & There For Tomorrow 

There For Tomorrow made their mark in the music industry following the release of their singles “No More Room to Breathe” and “A Little Faster”. This rock band from Orlando, Florida displayed impressive melodic hooks and strong vocal lines in their songs and exudes confidence in their performance. Hailed by most critics as “a promising band to watch out for”, There For Tomorrow showed even greater promise with the release of their album The Verge in 2011, where the incredibly catchy “Hunt Hunt Hunt” came from. (William Beckett Live In Manila, With Every Avenue and There For Tomorrow!)

Catch William Beckett Live in Manila, with Every Avenue & There For Tomorrow! 

Insanity for a Cause – a JCI Fort Bonifacio Taguig City Book Launch of Evolution of Insanity for the Benefit of Operation Smile and Myshelter Foundation

Junior Chamber International Fort Bonifacio Taguig City (JCI FBTC ), a non profit organization of young business professionals creating positive change; will be launching a fund raising project, “Insanity for a Cause” – a book launch of “Evolution of Insanity” by renowned author , Haresh Daswani. Proceeds from the book launching will go to the Benefit of Operation Smile and Myshelter Foundation. The project is also supported by Dasmarinas Royale Village together with its media partner, Wheninmanila.com

The project will also be hosting paintings from notable painters who will be auctioning their works based on the book for charity.

Insanity for a cause will also include a brief dissertation by the renowned Vivencio Talegon, as well as by special guests Judah Paolo and Carlos Celdrean.

The book launch will be held on May 26, 2012, Saturday at 7pm at 121 Restaurant, 2nd Floor Allegro Center, Pasong Tamo Ext., and Makati City.

Interested buyers may purchase a ticket for Php 850 to get exclusive access to the book launching cocktail event and get a signed copy of the book.

Tickets will be available at 121 Grille and Restaurant in Pasong Tamo Ext., Makati. More information on the book and the event can be found at http://insanitybook.weebly.com/insanity-for-a-cause.html

About the book, Evolution of Insanity

An author having a conversation with his fictional character, or losing control of his character, mind numbing points leading one twists and turns spinning the mind of the reader with hallucinogenic colours, concepts, and eurekas.

The short stories begin simplified, and walks together with the author as he takes a personal journey deep within the universe of his own consciousness, dwelling, prodding, dissecting, and creating…

This book is a play on different writing styles uniquely conjured by the writer from random inspiration and experimentation with poetry as prior experience. This is a chronological anthology spanning the imagination and sanity of the writer.

This book is a collection of humour, satire, and philosophy, with the most unique writing style and twists. This book evolves as one reads, from basic and simple stories of humour, to deeper and more profound satire best savored twice.

Evolution of Insanity has been well received by reviewers in USA for its satire and literary style. The author, Haresh Daswani, will be present for an open book discussion during the book launch.

For more information, visit http://insanitybook.weebly.com

About MyShelter Foundation

MyShelter Foundation was established by Illac Diaz to create a system of sustainability and reliability through its capability-building and employment-generating projects. Introducing groundbreaking social enterprise, appropriate technologies, and alternative construction in the Philippines, we have pioneered projects such as the Pier One Seafarer’s Dormitory, the Design Against the Elements (DAtE) competition, and the Bottle School Project.

About Isang Litrong Liwanag

Isang Litrong Liwanag (A Liter of Light), MyShelter Foundation’s latest venture, is a sustainable lighting project which aims to bring the eco-friendly Solar Bottle Bulb to disprivileged communities nationwide. Designed and developed by students from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the Solar Bottle Bulb is based on the principles of Appropriate Technologies – a concept that provides simple and easily replicable technologies that address basic needs in developing communities.

A Liter of Light is a program inspired by many innovations from around the world. Many cultures have used glass bottles to allow lighting through the roof, and Alfredo Moser from Brazil began pioneering methods of experimenting with plastic bottles. There has been modifications to the Philippine model, but what must be emphasized is the amount of people whose lives are being affected by this innovation.

For more information, visit http://isanglitrongliwanag.org/

About Operation Smile

Operation Smile is an international children’s medical charity that heals children’s smiles, forever changing their lives.

As a children’s charity, Operation Smile measure ourselves by the joy seen on all of the faces helped. Operation Smile is more than a charity. More than an NGO. Operation Smile is a mobilized force of medical professionals and caring hearts who provide safe, effective reconstructive surgery for children born with facial deformities such as cleft lip and cleft palate.

For more information, visit http://www.operationsmile.org/

About Junior Chamber International

JCI is a membership-based non-profit organization of 200,000 young people ages 18 to 40 in 5,000 communities and more than 100 countries around the world.

Each JCI Member shares the belief that in order to create lasting positive change, we must improve ourselves and the world around us.

JCI seeks targeted solutions to the unique problems in our communities to build a better world, creating global impact.

For more information, visit http://www.jci.cc.

When In Manila, you will often spot several Filipino Chinese people along the streets and in the malls. There are better known as the Fil-Chi community or simply put, the “CHINOYS”. I’m proud to be one of them.

The Philippines is full of Chinoys, in fact, 11.5% of the country’s population is composed of Chinoys! That’s around 9.5 million people! Woah!!  There’s a lot of us now aren’t there? From this realization came the first Filipino Chinese show in HD and the only Filipino Chinese program around the world, CHINOY TV.

Chinoy Tv on Net 25

Chinoy TV is aired from 10:30 to 11:30am on Saturdays and Sundays with replays every Tuesday and Thursday from 11 to 12pm. Basically, Chinoy TV is a lifestyle program that features different people, places, events, sports and more!

Last Saturday, May 5, 2012, Chinoy TV in partnership with John Robert Powers held a TV Hosting and Personality Development Workshop! Of course, it was not something I wanted to miss out on.

Chinoy TV: TV Hosting and Personality Development Workshop

The workshop was held at the Ramada Hotel in Ongpin. I never knew there was a beautiful hotel in the corner of Ongpin St. So anyway, the workshop began with TV 5 host and motivational speaker, Chinkee Tan.

Chinkee Tan on Personality Development

Sir Chinkee was really an inspiration to listen to. He shared personal stories of how he himself worked hard to get to where he was today. He shared how he used to live in the streets of Tondo and how he had always dreamed to get out of there. He shared how he never finished college but attended several workshops and seminars. Moreover, he shared how he was determined to earn his first million by the age of 25. Now, for most people in Chinkee’s situation, we’d probably say, “I have no money” and that line would automatically be our excuse as to why we were never able to pursue our dreams. However, as ANNOYING it may be to hear this again, we have to remember that IF THERE’S A WILL, THERE’S A WAY. It doesn’t matter how poor you are, what matters is you strive hard to follow your dream. So was Chinkee able to reach his dream? Obviously he was, else I’d be talking about some unknown bum right now! Not only that, but he was able to make much much more than what he dreamed.

My thoughts on his talk?  It’s not about the money, it’s about the dream.

Vince Golangco and Valerie Tan on TV Hosting and the Showbiz Industry

Wooohooo, WhenInManila’s very own creator and editor-in-chief Vince Golangco with schoolmate and TV host Valerie Tan led the open forum where guests were allowed to ask questions about life in showbiz. One of the questions I remember being asked was, “Do you still get nervous when you’re on air?” To which Vince answered, “Fake it ’till you make it.” He shared how he himself still gets nervous every day before going on air, but then he fakes it and pretends he isn’t. When someone asks, he says he’s fine. So by pretending, he eventually starts acting and behaving confidently until he really is. The more nervous or scared you act, the more you will also make yourself believe that you should be nervous and scared. So in short, “Fake it ’till you make it!”

Pocholo Gonzales of CreatiVoices was also around to promote more about his company and share the various accomplishments he had made throughout the years. A representative from the Confucius Institute at the Ateneo de Manila University also came to share about the benefits of learning Mandarin. So if you’re interested to learn voice training or Chinese skills, you should get in touch with these 2! Moreover, 2 representatives from the cast of Sound of Music came to give us a quick song number. They were brilliant!

John Robert Powers on TV Hosting and Personality Development

The last part of the workshop was a 3 to 4 hour workshop by John Robert Powers. We were taught about angles, poses and basically how to carry ourselves and stand out. We did a series of exercises that all prepared us for the Chinoy TV audition that afternoon.

When we deliver our lines, though we all say the same lines, we were asked to do something with it to make us stand out. Some ad libs, some in between jokes, or whatever to make you memorable. Ivy and I didn’t really want to audition but we thought, “Why not? Let’s go for it!” We were really really nervous but we gave it our best. Standing in a room with 5 or so “judges” watching us was really nerve wrecking! So let’s see what happens next!

Thanks Chinoy TV for this wonderful experience!

WHEN IN MANILA and still undecided whether you want to go to a Japanese restaurant or go with Western dishes, then MA MAISON is the perfect place for you!

Ma Maison offers a rustic homey ambiance – it feels like you’re dining at grandma’s house :)

We couldn’t help but adore the chandelier and cute “Tiffany” lamps!

Crunchy bread sticks! Yay for hungry tummies.

Escargots (Php 385)

Nice presentation –  served on a flaming plate of baked snails in garlic butter

Ma Maison’s escargot was sizzling hot. The large buttery snail was chewy yet tender – just the way we like it!

TIP: Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.

Chasoba Salad (Php 425)

Cold green tea soba, ham, egg, tomatoes and cucumber in Japanese mayo and sesame dressing topped with dried seaweeds.

Chicken Wings (Php 245)

Ma Maison’s deep fried chicken wings were very flavorful with a hint of sweetness to it. A must try :)

Squid Ink Spaghetti (Php 275)

Al dente spaghetti mixed in squid ink sauce with mushrooms and onions – yum!

Paella (Php 695)

This is Ma Maison’s Japanese version of baked saffron rice. I enjoyed the fresh seafoods that came with it – fresh mussels, sweet clams, prawns and squid.

Tonkatsu (Php 375)

This was amazing! Ma Maison’s crispy pork cutlets were so tender and the breading was light and perfect!

Best way to eat Ma Maison’s famous tonkatsu: Dab a bit of Japanese rock salt, dip in their yummy tonkatsu sauce and savor the flavors in your mouth. I am now salivating just remembering how it tastes like. *sigh* Oh, and don’t you dare miss out on the Japanese salad dressing, too – so good!!!

Aloe Vera Apple (Php 125) - An invigorating juice to refresh our palates

DOTENI Hamburger Steak (Php 395)

If you fancy hamburger steaks then Ma Maison’s juicy beef and pork burger patty will make you happy – topped with egg and Doteni sauce, which by the way are red miso beans stewed for 28 days!!! If this doesn’t satisfy you then I don’t know what else will.

Curry Udon (Php 325)

Sizzling thick curry udon noodle soup with beancurds, leeks and fish cakes – the soup was so rich and zesty, best paired with a bowl of white rice :)

Beef Stroganoff Butter Rice (Php 375)

The beef slices served on a bed of brown sauce were so tender, wonderfully paired with the buttered omelet rice. The serving is big enough for two to share.

Frozen Green Tea Brazo de Mercedes (Php 185)

Who could resist Ma Maison’s four-layered magical frozen dessert?! The egg meringue, green tea ice cream, custard cream and graham crust were made for each other! I shall go back for more!

White Chocolate Mixed Fruit Tart (Php 195)

My niece loved this the most – a sweet pastry crust filled with white chocolate cream topped with mandarin orange, kiwi and strawberry slices.

Service was superb in Ma Maison!  You can even text your comments and suggestions so that any concerns can immediately be addressed :) You’ll be surprised that they actually respond real time :)

My niece appreciated the service provided by Maris so she wrote a personal “Thank You” note :)

Outdoor seating is also available for guests who love dining al fresco.

WHEN IN MANILA, enjoy a memorable Japanese and Western dining experience at Ma Maison, Greenbelt.

MA MAISON

Ground Level, Greenbelt 2, Greenbelt

Paseo de Roxas cor. Legaspi St., Ayala Center

Makati City, Philippines

Phone Number: (+63 2) 729-9122

MENU: Ma Maison Restaurant Menu

Operating Hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 11AM – 12MN
Friday to Saturday: 11AM – 1AM

WhenInManila photos by JoTan23

Have a great Japanese-Western Dining Experience at Ma Maison

When In Manila, Bloggers United Strikes Three!

Third time’s the charm for the most anticipated fashion bloggers event in the country!

Bloggers United is staging their third bloggers bazaar this June 2 at the Grandview Events Place to once again gather Manila’s top fashion bloggers in one single venue outside of the World Wide Web. After holding two successful events last year, Bloggers United has easily become one of the most anticipated affairs for both fashion bloggers and readers in the metro. More than just a bazaar, Bloggers United also partners with charitable groups to use and channel their influence in a positive manner.

Through the overwhelming power of social media and blogs in today’s generation, the previous Bloggers United events have successfully joined forces with the likes of Laureen Uy, Patricia Prieto, and Camille Co to inspire their followers and to raise funds for various beneficiaries, namely KIDS Foundation and GMA Kapuso Foundation. This time around, the event will benefit Operation Smile Philippines.

Bloggers United Fashion Blogger Bazaar in partnership with Operation Smile

The event gets better and better every time! To make Bloggers United 3 even more momentous, top Indonesian fashion blogger Anastacia Siantar of The Brown Platform will also be selling alongside Cebu fashion bloggers and our very own top celebrities Divine Lee, Kryz Uy, Lissa Kahayon, and David Guison, among others. Even Sarah Meier will have her own booth at the event!

So, if you love blog-reading and blog-hopping, Bloggers United is sure to be the perfect end-of-summer bazaar for you. Not only will you be able to bump elbows with your favorite bloggers at the event, but you will also be able to snag some of their own stylish statement pieces as they open their closets to sell to the public. Stay-up-to-date with the biggest gathering of bloggers by following us on Twitter (twitter.com/bloggers_united) and Facebook (facebook.com/bloggersunitedph), and bookmarking our official webpage (bloggersunited.org).

Bloggers United Fashion Blogger Bazaar in partnership with Operation Smile

Summer Bazaar 2012

Bloggers United Bazaar (Part 3)
June 2, 2012 / Saturday
Grandview Events Place, Makati
11 AM – 9 PM

When In Manila, perfect wardrobe staples will be up for grabs just in time for your comeback to school, first day in the office or simply just another season ahead of you!

When in Manila this June, you might just meet one of the cutest, most talented and very much inspiring twins in the whole wide world. Jayesslee, the youtube wonder sisters, are finally coming to Manila! 

Janice and Sonya Lee of Jayesslee started to gain hits exponentially when they did a cover of Tamia’s “Officially Missing You.” 

Jayesslee have also done their own renditions of some of the greatest inspirational songs such as “Thank You” by Katinas  and “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban.

ABOUT JAYESSLEE

Thanks to the world of Youtube, world-class talents such as twin sisters Janice and Sonia Lee are now certified singing sensations.  Having garnered over 61,224,536 video views around the world, these sisters are showing the world that they’ve got a lot of talent and love to offer people who are willing to listen.

In 2008, the duo discovered the world of YouTube. Fascinated by the concept of connecting with an unseen audience all over the world, they created their first account under the name “Jayesslee”. The name was their attempt to be clever – fusing both of their initials and spelling it out.

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia to Korean parents, Janice and Sonia never thought that they would be touring the United States of America, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Canada and now – for the first time ever – the Philippines!

On June 21, 2012 (Thursday), JAYESSLEE will be stepping out of the virtual world and will be performing LIVE at 3/F Robinsons Forum (Pioneer) 7:30 in the evening with their inspiring, feel- good, and passionate music.

Catch them LIVE IN MANILA as they continue their Asian tour in the Philippines!

JAYESSLEE 2012 ASIA TOUR: PHILIPPINES

DATE & TIME:

June 21, 2012, 7:30PM

LOCATION:

3/F Robinsons Forum (Pioneer)

TICKET PRICES: 

SVIP (with Meet & Greet) 3,000 | VIP 2,500 | PATRON 2,000 | GOLD 1,800 | SILVER 1,500 | BRONZE 800

FOR TICKETS: 

Ticketworld — 891-999

https://www.ticketworld.com.ph

BMI Tickets — 910-5524

 https://www.beccamusic.com

QUANTUM CAFÉ
Quantum Café is a very unique café that not only serves great healthy foods (think thinly sliced soft mushrooms and sticky hot mozzarella cheese on moist wheat dough pizza) but also takes effort in bringing out the artist in you.   

Quantum Café is a stand-alone restaurant located in Kamagong corner Bagtikan street.  It’s a convenient and conducive place for artists (writers, actors, painters, musicians) to meet, to be trained and to flourish. 

Inside this spacious café are earth-colored walls and tables that make this cozy place very well your second home.  A chalk drawn menu-board adds a country feel.  And since Quantum Café is a café for artists, Quantum Cafe has a stage where (both experienced and neophyte) actors and comedians do what they love to do to keep the customers entertained on week nights.  The architecture is done for this purpose too. Beautifully designed lights are mounted on the ceiling.  While the tables are customized to be sound proof.

SCRIPT-WRITING CLASS: PROCESS

On the first day, my classmates and I were tasked to create a character beat.  A character beat is basically information about a character that includes how she should look like, in what setting she lives, what motivates her, and what her heart desires. If you’d like to try this at home, here’s a tip: Create characters that you may as well like because they will have to become your bestfriends throughout the whole script writing process. If you would like to read my character beat, go to Adventures of Princess Mitzi. 

Then, we created the beat sheet.  This is an outline of how the story will go.  If you would like to read more about this, here’s our instructor’s blog on it. 

On the next days, we read each other’s 5-page long scripts, gave constructive inputs and continued writing our scripts.  It’s interesting that even our script-writing instructor, Majar, did the assignment. 

THIS IS IT: THE CULMINATION

I was surprised that actual stage actors were invited to Quantum Café for our culmination afternoon. Five chairs were set onstage.  Each actor sat in one and wore an aura of the character they were playing. 

Thanks to Quantum Café, the story that was once in my head is now painted in words; and these words have been brought to life that Friday afternoon.

So, if you’d like to discover and hone the artist in you, be sure to visit Quantum Café.  I heard that they would be having a Food Writing class on June 1, 5 to 9pm.   “Like” Quantum Cafe’s Facebook page and watch out for more news!

QUANTUM CAFÉ

Location: 9590 Kamagong Cor. Bagtikan Street, 1293 Makati City

Tel: 519-0757

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/quantumcafeph

Lifehouse Manila Live at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on May 26, 2012.

Admit it: In 2005, some of you guys picked up your guitar, strummed the simple chords, and sang “You and Me” to your lover (or lover-to-be or not-to-be). I did. I’m a romantic.

When In Manila, Jason, Rick, Bryce, and Ben are coming back after four years for Lifehouse Manila 2012. I don’t know if it’s Jason Wade‘s husky, drowning voice, or the teary-eyed lyrics, or the soft instrumentation that climaxes at the bridge which made “You and Me” a perennial favorite among suitors, the courted, lovers, and romantics (hopeful and hopeless alike). When it comes to writing songs about relationships (be it with a special someone or Someone – most evident in their single “Everything”) and transforming them into a form that is easy to digest for everyone, Lifehouse is the master of their craft.

The band’s mammoth first single “Hanging by a Moment” was the Billboard Hot 100 most played song of 2001. Along with “Sick Cycle Carousel” and “Breathing”, their first album “No Name Face” reached double platinum in the US with 2.3 million copies sold. The band continued to remain relevant in 2005 with “You and Me” from their self-titled album and in 2007′s “First Time” from “Who We Are”. Their most recent album “Smoke and Mirrors” debuted #6 on the Billboard 200 and includes the singles “From Where You Are” and “Halfway Gone”.

When In Manila, Jason Wade and Lifehouse Manila will pluck your heartstrings once more as they play the Smart Araneta Coliseum this May 26, 2012. 

Lifehouse Manila is brought to you by Dayly Entertainment. Ticket prices are indicated in the poster above. Tickets are available at all Ticketnet outlets. Call 911-5555 for reservations.

Lifehouse Manila: Mushy Rock Anthems are Sweeter the Second Time Around

When In Manila, one of the best gifts you can give a mother is the gift of photography.  To be able to capture her smile & who she is right now.  A keepsake that everyone would treasure for years to come.

That’s why this whole month of May we give cheers  to the Most Glamorous Women We Know: Our Moms!

Imagine Nation Photography, one of the top wedding and lifestyle photography companies in the country, turns to bless these loving, hard-working women with a new lifestyle promo offered exclusively for them. It’s The Glam Shoot Project–a posh-and-pose experience wherein moms can get dolled-up and be like supermodels for a day!

The Glam Shoot Project is the ultimate mothers’ day treat, perfect for giving our amazing mommies their well-deserved day out. This two-hour glam session comes complete with hairstyling, make-up, and a fun photo shoot session with our Imagine Nation photographers.

This glam shoot package is easily affordable at P5,000 and is bundled with a (1)proof CD and an 8×10 print out of your most favorite shot. On top of that, mommies may also celebrate this experience with these special keepsake add-ons:

8 x 8 BRAGBOOK ALBUM, A handy coffee table book type of album with 10 spreads, 20 pages [40 images] – PHP 5, 000

10 X 10 BRAGBOOK ALBUM, A handy coffee table book type of album with 10 spreads, 20 pages [60 images] – PHP 6, 000

TOP TEN PACK, Pick out your top ten images from the proof CD and have them edited and emailed to you [ 10 images]– PHP1,500

8 X 10 PRINTS – PHP300.00 / PRINT

5 X 7 PRINTS – P150.00 / PRINT

And to make this deal even sweeter, our glamorous mommies will also get to take home fabulous goodies from Azta Urban Salon and Islas Aromatics!

When In Manila, allow us to bring out the captivating beauty of the most special women in your lives this month of May! Book now and lavish your mom and mommy friends with a glam shoot treat they will never forget!

For reservation inquiries, email us at life@imaginenationphoto.com or contact us through these numbers: (63) 713-7189 / 0917-5634685. Look for Lai.

Imagine Nation Photography

17Q G. Araneta Avenue, Quezon City

Website : http://imaginenationphoto.com

Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/Imaginenationphoto

Tel No : 713-7189

Email : life@imaginenationphoto.com

What do you look forward to in a vacation?

An unforgettable destination?

Good food?

A room with a view?

An abode?

The open water?

Rest and relaxation?

A place where time stands still?

Adventure?

Something new?

A choice?

Photo opportunities?

Time with your family…

Or each other?

Precious moments?

Or a little piece of heaven?

When In Manila, it just takes a two-and-a-half hour drive to Nasugbu, Batangas to reach an exclusively luxurious destination at Canyon Cove Residential Beach Resort.

It was my nephew’s first swim, and he absolutely enjoyed bathing in the beach as well as the warm pool. I never understood why any beachfront property needed a pool. But that’s just it: Having an expansive pool area beside the beach is luxury at its best. And though Canyon Cove is an exclusive resort, the price is not that absurd.

But don’t take my word for it. Call Canyon Cove and see what type of accommodation suits you. Summer might be coming to a close, but who says you can only have vacations during summer?

Canyon Cove Beach Resort

Far East Road, Piloto, Wawa

Nasugbu, Batangas

For reservations, call:

840 2204; 840 2365; 840 2327

www.canyoncove.com.ph

Canyon Cove Residential Beach Resort: Escape to the Lap of Luxury a Drive Away from Home