Monthly Archives

June 2023

Lifestyle, News

Juan Luna’s long-lost masterpiece is revealed in a new, multimedia show at the Ayala Museum

With the Juan Luna’s long-lost masterpiece

The long-lost Juan Luna artwork Hymen, oh Hyménée! was last viewed in public 132 years ago in Paris., the centerpiece of the newest exhibition at the Ayala Museum, Splendor: Juan Luna, Painter as Hero, was unveiled on Friday, June 9, to a limited group of guests for the first time ever in the Philippines. León Gallery is working to put up this exhibition.

Juan Luna’s house in Badoc, Ilocos Norte

As a Filipino, I am one of those people who is fortunate enough to see in person the painting of Juan Luna, and I take pride as Juan Luna is my townmate in Badoc, Ilocos Norte. As I reminisced before, when my dad was still the mayor in our place, one of his projects was to restore the family house of Juan Luna in our hometown since he was born here. And as I witnessed his paintings, I was so amazed by how great he is and how important this kind of museum is for everyone to see and appreciate the arts of our very own “kababayan.”

A national treasure of enormous importance

Juan Luna

Juan Luna’s golden years were from 1884 to 1889. Following the 1884 Exposición Nacional de Bellas Artes in Madrid, when his well-known work Spoliarium won a gold medal, he moved to Paris. It was a time of musical success, happiness, and love, which culminated in his original song Hymen, oh Hyménée! obtained a bronze medal at the prestigious Exposition Universelle in 1889, a forerunner of the post-Victorian new normal symbolized by the iconic Eiffel Tower.

It was also here that Luna reached the peak of his renown with this piece, since this triumph would catapult him indubitably into the league of ‘master painters’, cementing his standing in the world’s artistic capital.

Once again confirming his undeniable genius and artistry in the face of racial bias, Juan Luna’s victories, to quote historian Ambeth R. Ocampo, Ph.D., “produced a groundswell of pride in (his) countrymen that resonates to our times with Lea Salonga’s triumph on the West End and Broadway, Manny Pacquiao’s conquest of World Boxing and last but not the least, weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz bringing home the first Olympic Gold to a proud and grateful nation.”

Find of the century

The quest for Hymen, oh Hyménée! by art collector Jaime Ponce de Leon of León Gallery was first a dream, and then later an obsession, that found him following leads and clues across Europe for close to 10 years. The dream was fulfilled when he finally acquired the legendary artwork in 2014, but it sat in a crate in his storeroom waiting for the perfect moment for its revelation.

In 2022, thanks to extraordinary circumstances that led to an unprecedented long-term loan to Ayala Museum, that perfect time had come with the commemoration of the 125th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood in 2023.

Splendor: Juan Luna, Painter as Hero

It is uncommon to have an exhibition solely about an individual work of art. But a long-lost cultural treasure like Hymen, oh Hyménée! clearly has stories to tell about a time and place not our own.

Ayala Museum’s exhibition Splendor: Juan Luna, Painter as Hero, designed by scenographer Gino Gonzales, examines this single work of art around three themes: the world of 1889; Juan Luna, the painter, as hero; and the complex imagery in the painting inspired by a Roman wedding feast.

A substantive and handsome catalog with essays by historian Ambeth R. Ocampo, Ph.D., film director Martin Arnaldo and curators Ditas Samson, Tenten Mina, and Jei Ente captures this watershed moment in the artist’s life and, by implication, our nation’s history.

A documentary film by Martin Arnaldo traces the recovery of the artwork while at the same time captures the dilemma of the late 19th century Filipino diaspora for Juan Luna, which arguably is still true for his countrymen living and working abroad today. This film is showcased in the Samsung The Premiere Room that features an immersive 130″ screen and a soundbar that completes the theater experience within the exhibition space. The film will also be aired on CNN Philippines on July 8.

A video tour of Hymen, oh Hyménée!’s complex imagery, narrated by Ocampo, will also be available for viewing on Ayala Museum’s website.

Free admission on Independence Day

On June 12, 2023, the opening day of Splendor: Juan Luna, Painter as Hero, entry to the Ayala Museum will be free to the general public in observance of the 125th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood. After then, admission fees will be charged. Ayala Corporation, Ayala Land, Inc., and Insular Life (InLife) are co-presenting the show, which also receives significant backing from BPI and SMEG. The official audio-visual partner is Samsung. Up until December 31, 2023, Splendor is active.

June 13, 2023 by
Entertainment

This week is the two-day concert by Fra Lippo Lippi in the Philippines!

This week, Fra Lippo Lippi will perform a two-day concert at The Theatre at Solaire on Friday, June 16, 2023, and the Santa Rosa Sports Complex on Saturday, June 17, 2023. As we attended the press conference, I was so excited to hear his wonderful songs, as they are also relatable to me for the reason that they are all from the 1980s, and I’m so delighted meeting him in person as I look up to his wonderful music. Really looking forward to experiencing the much anticipated performances.

With Per Sorensen

The Norwegian pop group, led by keyboardist and lead vocalist Per Sorensen, performs once more in Manila and Laguna to reaffirm their status as one of the important figures in the new wave movement.

Per Sorensen of Fra Lippo Lippi made a special appearance on ABS-CBN’s Showtime earlier this month to advertise his upcoming two-day performance, which will be organized by DMC Philippines. During a private press conference held on June 12, 2023 at the Kingsford Hotel in Paranaque City, Metro Manila, he also expressed his gratitude to the Filipino fans for their undying love and support of his songs.

Taken during the presscon at Kingsford Hotel

“I’m always grateful to the Philippines for the warm welcome that they give me every time I visit the country to do a show,” the ‘80s pop icon shares. “I’m excited to grace the concert stage once again and perform some of the biggest hits of my career, along with some personal favorites.”

Fra Lippo Lippi is best known for their worldwide hits, including classics such as “Everytime I See You,” “Beauty and Madness,” “Stitches and Burns,” “Light and Shade,” “The Distance Between Us,” “Angel,” and more.

After bassist and founding co-member Rune Kristoffer decided to call it quits, Per Sorensen kept the band’s music alive through live concert tours all around the world, with the Philippines as one of its regular stops.

“Later,” a song by Per Sorensen and his band that topped the charts in Asia and the rest of Europe, was released in 2002. He even managed to work with Filipino R&B singer Kyla on the song “Wish We Were Two,” which received a lot of broadcast on several top 40 stations in Manila and other significant Philippine cities.

Steve Hovington of B-Movie, who will appear with Per Sorensen of Fra Lippo Lippi at both locations—the Theatre at Solaire on June 16, 2023, and the Santa Rosa Sports Complex on June 17, 2023—supports this event. The Rail, Maui & Sons, and New DMC Entertainment Production Management are in charge of organizing the event..

The event is presented by New DMC Entertainment Production Management, Maui & Sons, and The Rail.

June 13, 2023 by
Food

With Tatang’s Boneless Cebu Lechon, SAVOR the ORIGINAL Flavors of Cebu

Do you want Cebu lechon’s mouth watering flavor? Look no further because Tatang’s will fulfill your appetite! We take pride in offering you the authentic flavors of Cebu, including the well-known and adored Classic Lechon and the fiery and mouthwatering Spicy Lechon.

Tatang’s is committed to upholding the traditional methods that make Cebu lechon unique. Our skilled chefs carefully prepare each lechon, infusing it with a delicious concoction of flavorful herbs and spices that will transport your taste buds to the dazzling coastlines of Cebu. The final outcome? Lechon that is mouthwateringly crisp and tender and will leave you wanting more.

We’ve deliberately placed our branches in strategic areas to ensure that everyone may enjoy our lechon pleasures. From the busy Gilmore neighborhood, the bustling streets of BGC, the quaint Orion neighborhood, or the boisterous Reposo street, Tatang’s is just a stone’s throw away.

But it’s not only about the food; it’s also about the experience. Here at Tatang’s we believe in creating memorable experiences with every meal. Our friendly staff will make you feel right at home as you walk into our welcoming environment or place an order for delivery. We’re committed to supplying you with the best levels of taste and quality, so you may enjoy your favorite lechon recipes with a grin.

Tatang’s Boneless Cebu Lechon is the ideal option whether you’re organizing a birthday celebration, a family boodle fight, or simply treating yourself to a flavorful delight. Allow us to take you on a culinary journey where the flavors of Cebu are brought to life. Visit Tatang’s to enjoy the richness of our lechon and the warmth of our welcome.

Follow us right away on Instagram and Facebook at @tatangsreposo and Tatang’s Cebu Boneless Lechon – Reposo! Call us at 09167068223 or 09634732477 to make your delivery reservations right now.

June 10, 2023 by
Lifestyle, Travel

Award given to Banwa Private Island “The Philippines’ Best Beach, Island, or Upcountry Resort” in the 2023 Asia Pacific Travel & Leisure Luxury Awards

Banwa Private Island is proud to announce that it has won the esteemed prize for “The Philippines’ Best Beach, Island or Upcountry Resort” in the first Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023.


Peter Nilsson of Banwa Private Island accepting “The Philippines’ Best Beach, Island or Upcountry Resort” award in Bangkok.

Peter Nilsson of Banwa Private Island expressed his appreciation for the help and the accolades received from Travel + Leisure readers. “We are incredibly honored to earn this prestigious award,” he said. This recognition highlights the commitment and enthusiasm of our island staff members, who we amiably refer to as “Banwaites,” in delivering sustainable luxury and intuitive, seamless service, generating moving and unique experiences that win the hearts of affluent, seasoned guests.

Banwa Private Island, located in the center of Palawan, is a haven of peace and tranquillity surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Modern beachfront residences on the garden island guarantee seclusion and tranquility for discerning visitors. Banwa Private Island raises the bar for opulent hospitality in the area with its dedication to sustainable practices and experiential travel.

The Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023 are a distinguished forum for honoring and celebrating the absolute best in the region’s hospitality sector. The awards program, which is an outgrowth of the Travel & Leisure Asia’s Best Awards 2022, now recognizes excellence in 16 more nations and prize categories. Without the use of paid advertisements, a group of editors and knowledgeable contributors from across Asia Pacific chose the nominees.


Björn Rettig, CEO of BurdaLuxury with Jeninne Lee-St. John, Editor-in-Chief of Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Macau flanked Peter Nilsson.

The Park Hyatt Bangkok in Thailand is where the award was revealed on June 5.

For more information and enquiries, please contact the Reservations team through mobile/WhatsApp: +639178882864, send an email to [email protected], or visit www.banwaprivateisland.com.      

June 10, 2023 by
Lifestyle, News

Win high-quality devices in HP’s GCash “back-to-school” promotion and participate in the yearly HP tradition of earning up to P6,000 in cashback


Get ready and get learning. Gear up for success with HP and get GCash rewards up to Php 6,000 when you buy participating products. Don’t miss out so you can save on back-to-school essentials!
 
 

The HP GCash “back-to-school” promotion, an annual tradition widely awaited by both parents and students as the new school year approaches, was just introduced by HP. It’s understandable given the fantastic possibility for buyers to receive up to P6,000 in GCash cash back when they purchase specific HP Laptop PCs, including the potent and modern Victus 15 laptop.

HP has always understood how crucial it is to give children high-quality equipment as they get ready for a new school year. Families are able to spend their large cashback benefits from this special campaign into other necessary back-to-school supplies including textbooks, stationery, and uniforms. Victus 15, a cutting-edge laptop

At the heart of the promotion lies the state-of-the-art Victus 15 by HP laptop—a sleek and powerful device designed to tackle heavy academic workloads while delivering an exceptional gaming experience. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen™ processor and NVIDIA graphics, the Victus 15 by HP can effortlessly handle even the most demanding applications and games. Meanwhile, its large, high-quality display makes it perfect for educational videos, school projects, and occasional online classes.


Level up your back to school essentials with the Victus 15 by HP powered by AMD Ryzen™ processor. You will be able to handle your productivity on the go.

The Victus 15 by HP laptop offers more than just impressive hardware. It boasts a long-lasting battery, ensuring students can rely on it throughout the day. Its comfortable keyboard and trackpad are ideal for composing assignments and working on research papers. Additionally, the Victus 15 by HP provides a range of ports and connections, enabling seamless integration with other devices such as printers, external storage, and extra monitors.

Other HP laptop PCs on tap While the Victus 15 by HP takes center stage, the HP GCash Back-to-School Promo extends to a wide selection of other HP laptop PCs. Whether students require lightweight models for their on-the-go lifestyle or high-performance machines for graphics-intensive projects, HP has them covered. Some of the best-selling models of the HP Smart Tank printer are likewise included in the promotion, ensuring students can achieve seamless integration and maximize productivity throughout the new school year.

Those with an interest can check out the official HP website or go to approved HP outlets in neighboring malls to take part in the HP GCash Back-to-School Promo. The dedicated promotion website contains comprehensive information about the participating products, the redemption procedure, and the terms and conditions.

Please visit the HP Philippines Facebook page for more on this promotion. Promotional dates are May 25 through July 31, 2023. According to DTI Fair Trade Permit No. 2023’s FTEB-167737 Series.

June 9, 2023 by
Lifestyle

Independence Day Special at the Rizal Park Hotel: Stay One Night for 9,000 Pesos and Get a Second Night for Just 125 Pesos

In honor of the Philippines’ 125th Independence Day, Rizal Park Hotel, a renowned historic hotel in Manila, is pleased to offer its special room package. In honor of this important milestone, the Rizal Park Hotel welcomes visitors to enjoy a memorable stay and savor authentic Filipino cuisine at affordable prices.

From June 10 to 12, customers may take advantage of the special room package, which allows them to stay for one night for just 9,000 pesos and another night for just 125 pesos. Both domestic and foreign tourists have the chance to take advantage of this fantastic offer to visit the dynamic metropolis of Manila and fully experience the rich history and culture of the Philippines.

“Our team at Rizal Park Hotel is thrilled to commemorate the 125th Independence Day of the Philippines with our valued guests,” said Ms. Samantha Paz, Managing Director of Rizal Park Hotel. “We believe this special room package will not only provide an extraordinary experience but also allow guests to take part in celebrating our country’s heritage.” In addition to the enticing room package, Rizal Park Hotel is delighted to offer an array of delectable Filipino cuisine offerings for a remarkable price of only 125 pesos per bundle. Guests can savor the flavors of popular Filipino delicacies such as pancit bam-I and sapin-sapin,puto and dinuguan, turo and sago’t gulaman at tusok-tusok of kwek kwek, fish balls and squid balls. This unique culinary experience promises to be a true delight for food enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the traditional tastes of the Philippines.

The Rizal Park Hotel offers quick access to the city’s most important landmarks and tourist attractions thanks to its ideal position in the center of Manila. After a day of touring the city, the hotel’s exquisite and opulent suites provide a magnificent escape, guaranteeing guests a relaxing and enjoyable stay.

Please call 09176229280 for further information or to arrange a reservation.

Follow Rizal Park Hotel on Facebook and Instagram at rizalparkhotel1911 for more information about the hotel and its amenities.

June 9, 2023 by
Entertainment, Food

Ginebra organizes the White Party in honor of World Gin Day, The ‘Cool, Clear, and Versatile’ attribute of gin is highlighted by GSM

Ginebra San Miguel Inc. (GSMI), the company that produces the best-selling gin in the world, is celebrating World Gin Day (WGD) this year in a “cool, clear, and versatile” manner. June will be recognized as World Gin Month with a series of events beginning with a media introduction on June 8 at The Westin Manila in Ortigas. As I joined the blast during the much anticipated event, we really had fun and enjoyed everything, especially with all the flavors and GSM products they have offered and served. I also had the chance to meet the three personalities that grace the event of GSM, namely, Zanjo Marudo, Hipon Girl and Basel, who also make the event more alive and contagious. They also showcased the mixing of drinks and the different contests of their graduates as part of the fun-filled evening.

Selfie with the celebrities

WGD is a worldwide event celebrated on the second Saturday of June and is led in the Philippines by GSMI, which was also responsible for bringing the inaugural WGD celebrations to the Asia Pacific area in 2014. The main brand of GSMI, Ginebra San Miguel, celebrated its 180th anniversary in that year. Currently, gin lovers anticipate GSMI’s month-long events, which not only honor gin’s continuing impact on our drinking culture but also highlight its significance in festivals, fiestas, gatherings, and even our everyday victories.

Paolo Abrera, host and GSMI Marketing Manager Ron Molina

“We join gin enthusiasts worldwide in celebrating World Gin Day. As pioneers of this event in our country, we aspire to ignite the spirit of greater appreciation for more Filipinos to know gin’s outstanding qualities, as it is a drink that is ‘Cool, Clear, and Versatile,’” says GSMI Marketing Manager Ron Molina.

‘Cool, Clear, and Versatile’

This June 8, GSMI once again reinforces that “Gin Is In,” highlighting gin’s “Cool, Clear, and Versatile” qualities that elevate it from the rest.

Gin has been around since the 17th century, and remains popular to this day, especially in Europe, and of course, the Philippines. It is loved by many, and its popularity can be attributed to its taste—the flavor of Juniper and a variety of botanicals—allowing gin to exude that classic yet “Cool” vibe.

The gin’s “Clear,” pure quality is derived from a rigorous distillation process that brings out its best flavor. Since it is unpretentious – with nothing to hide – it is a drink known for its “Versatility,” as it can be enjoyed straight or mixed with other ingredients in a cocktail.  

In a new campaign supporting the appreciation for Gin, GSMI features three exciting and authentic personalities who perfectly embody these unique characteristics of gin.

The Three personalities: Basel Manadil, Herlene “Hipon Girl” Budol and Zanjoe Marudo

Gin Is Cool.

The actor and model Zanjoe Marudo likes the cool and refreshing gin experience to punctuate the day. For him, being cool is more than style and moves; it is being calm, too. “Alam niyo kung anong totoong COOL sakin? Yung pagiging kalmado ko (You know what’s truly cool for me? It is my being calm),” says Zanjoe.  His choice of gin is popular to this day – Ginebra San Miguel, which has been his favorite since his days growing up in Batangas.

Gin Is Clear.

Basel Manadil’s choice is GSM Premium Gin, a distilled gin made with natural ingredients and fine botanicals. Popularly known as “The Hungry Syrian,” the Syrian-born Filipino vlogger’s viral posts have made him a clear favorite among millions of netizens. As he would say, “always be CLEAR with your intentions no matter where you go. Because everything you do, can make an impact to others.”

Gin is Versatile.

Actress comedian Herlene “Hipon Girl” Budol likes her gin to be versatile, a drink she can enjoy in many ways. This love for versatility in drinks is something that she also carries in life. The fact that this comedian was able to transform herself into a serious pageant contender truly is outstanding and admirable. Herlene has won over Filipinos with her charming wit, down-to-earth personality, and of course, her remarkable versatility. “In life, dapat VERSATILE (In life, one should be versatile). If you are good at one thing, you can also be good at anything! Stay true while learning many things.”

The three of them – Zanjoe, Basel, and Herlene – will not only grace the WGD celebration but will also be present at various events of GSMI during “Gin Is In” celebrations starting in June.

“We are proud to say that they truly embody the best qualities of gin: Zanjoe is ‘Cool like Gin Is In.’ Basel is ‘Clear like Gin Is In,’ and Herlene is ‘Versatile like Gin Is In,’” Molina added.

The 3 Graduates of the GSM Bar Academy from left: Angela Felarca, Jhyrus Denver A. Domingo and JP Peñaflor

GSM Bar Academy graduates ‘mix’ back

One of the highlights of the WGD event is the presence of three mixologists who are scholar-graduates of the Ginebra San Miguel Bar Academy, a partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) that gives Filipinos a chance to change their lives through education – training students in bartending, flairtending, and basic entrepreneurship.

With the goal of producing globally-competitive and job-ready graduates, while elevating the quality of the bartending profession in the process, the GSM Bar Academy is proud to say that it has produced an astounding 100% immediate employability for all its graduates in 2022.

During WGD, three graduates of the GSM Bar Academy – Jhyrus Denver A. Domingo, Angela Felarca, and JP Peñaflor – who are all employed in top bars in Metro Manila, will showcase their mixology skills in a friendly competition with the theme, “Gin Is In, ” which will feature the world’s most popular and bestselling gin Ginebra San Miguel and other brands, GSM Blue and GSM Premium Distilled Gin.

The success of the GSM Bar Academy in transforming the lives not only of the students but also of their families and the community has not gone unnoticed. In fact, the program will be a recipient of the prestigious International CSR Excellence Award, to be formally awarded on June 16 in London, UK.

‘Gin Is In’ Nationwide

Part of the WGD celebration will be the launch of the second season of G-MIX Nation Online Series, hosted by Luis Manzano, which will be shown for the first time and will feature new cocktail recipes. Alongside is the Home Bar Kit that features Ginebra products and tools for mixing different kinds of cocktails, which is sold online and at select supermarkets.

To ensure gin enthusiasts across the country can partake in the “Gin Is In” festivity, Ginebra San Miguel Inc. will also host mini events in around 50 bars nationwide, including those in Pampanga, Naga, Cebu, and Cagayan De Oro. These bar activations will offer consumers exclusive promotions, raffle giveaways, and outlet merchandising, providing an opportunity for everyone to immerse themselves in the celebration.

To sustain the momentum of the “Gin Is In,” there will be various activities in hundreds on-premise outlets from July to December. Participating outlets will receive exclusive benefits, special “Gin Is In” stubs for consumers to support their patronage.

GSMI’s World Gin Day celebration is just the beginning of a series of exciting events, allowing enthusiasts to declare their love and support for the vibrant local gin culture. In the country, gin is synonymous with Ginebra San Miguel. It is the country’s pioneering gin and the oldest consumer brand still in the market, but still remains cool, clear and versatile, a timeless classic yet still in tune with the times.

Ginebra San Miguel bottles go through a meticulous production procedure to guarantee the highest quality. Variants like GSM Blue, GSM Blue Flavors, and Ginebra San Miguel Premium Gin have been produced to target various market niches as evidence of the brand’s strength. Since it was only introduced last year, its 1834 Premium Distilled Gin has gained popularity among people with discerning tastes who are attracted by its blend of traditional juniper berries with distinctive Philippine botanicals like Sampaguita and Calamansi.

The world’s best-selling gin, Ginebra San Miguel, is made by GSMI, according to renowned international beverage publication Drinks International. Other premium distilled spirits produced by GSMI include GSM Blue Light Gin, GSM Blue Mojito, GSM Blue Margarita, GSM Blue Gin Pomelo, GSM Premium Gin, 1834 Premium Distilled Gin, Antonov Vodka, Aejo Gold Rum, Primera Light Brandy, No. 1 Chinese wine Vino Kulafu in the Philippines, and the recently introduced G&T Ultralight Spirit Drink.

June 9, 2023 by
Entertainment, Lifestyle

Return of the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale to the Philippines Unlocks Incredible Metrobank Promotions


From (L-R): Big Bad Wolf Local Partner Carol Chuaying, Metrobank Head of Credit Cards Usage, Portfolio Management and Insurance Strategies Miko Beltran, and co-founder of Big Bad Wolf Jacqueline Ng.

It is with great excitement that Big Bad Wolf Book Sale announces its long-awaited return to the Philippines from June 23 to July 3, 2023, at the PICC Forum Tent in Pasay. This literary festival, with the motto “Bad Does Good,” presents a journey full of astonishing savings and exclusive incentives for everyone. I for one am excited for this big return of Big Bad Wolf to the Philippines as I am a huge fan of books and it helps me a lot to get easy access to my favorites. I am also thrilled to know that they partnered with my favorite bank, Metrobank, which for me is such a reliable companion, especially with my banking needs, and I am proud that I am a Metrobank cardholder.

With the
co-founder of Big Bad Wolf Jacqueline Ng

AMAZING Retail Experience

Visitors can find their favorite books for as little as Php20 to provide a unique experience, allowing them to stock up on a wide variety of genres without breaking the bank!

“We are thrilled to be returning to the Philippines after three years with the support of the Intellectual Property of the Philippines,” says Jacqueline Ng, co-founder of Big Bad Wolf Book Sale. “Our return shows the Filipino’s overwhelming support and passion for books. We are bringing an unmatched literary collection at unbelievably affordable prices.” 


Big Bad Wolf Local Partner Carol Chuaying together with Jacqueline Ng, co-founder of Big Bad Wolf.
 
The Big Bad Wolf Team

Exciting Partnerships 

To further enhance the readers’ experience, Big Bad Wolf is proud to announce its partnership with Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. as its first and official bank partner. Visitors can expect special offers and discounts when using their Metrobank credit and debit cards, making it even more rewarding to explore the vast collection of books:  

  • Metrobank Exclusive Payment Lanes – enjoy dedicated lanes during the sale; 
  • 0% installment – For a minimum purchase of P3,000, avail of 0% installment for 3 months;  
  • Up to 10% cashback – Purchases of P5,000 with Metrobank credit cards can score up to 10% cashback; and 
  • Metrobank VIP Lounge – Qualified World, Platinum Mastercard and Travel PlatinumVisa cardholders will have exclusive access to a special lounge where they can sit and spend time reading their latest book haul. 

“Metrobank is excited to be part of Big Bad Wolf’s return as its official bank partner. This tie-up allows us to inspire a reading culture among Filipinos that will help shape minds of the future,” said Gail Male, Metrobank Senior Vice President and Cards, Personal Loans, and Digital Channels Head. “Metrobank cardholders are definitely in for a rewarding and seamless book shopping experience filled with discounts, cashback, and special offers.” 

Anyone interested in applying for a Metrobank credit card can do so at the event’s special booth or online at https://apply.metrobank.com.ph/creditcard in advance to potentially take advantage of the card’s distinctive Metrobank features. For specific cards and quantities of accumulated spending, qualified applicants can receive either 120,000 welcome rewards points or no annual fees.

Visit https://bigbadwolfbooks.com/ for more details about Big Bad Wolf Books’ triumphant return to the Philippines.

June 9, 2023 by
Food

World Bicycle Day is observed by McDonald’s Philippines with their second Tour De McDo


McDonald’s Philippines President and CEO Kenneth S. Yang together with cycling participants at McDonald’s Quirino Mabini for its 2nd Tour de McDo last June 4.

McDonald’s Philippines presents its second community bike ride in honor of World Bicycle Day following the success of its first Tour de McDo.The most recent trip brought together a variety of cycling personalities and communities concurrently in Pampanga, Intramuros, and Tagaytay, three important cities across the nation.

The Tour de McDo is a multi-stage bike competition that was launched as part of McDonald’s Green and Good campaign, which is the fast-food giant’s commitment to improve its environmental performance by incorporating sustainable and alternative solutions into its operations and restaurants. With the help of Tour de McDo, McDonald’s promotes a better lifestyle to its patrons while also highlighting numerous scenic cycling routes that pass by McDonald’s locations with bike-friendly amenities.

Earlier this year, Tour de McDo’s first round highlighted McDonald’s fifth flagship Green and Good store–the McDonald’s Nuvali, Sta. Rosa branch. McDonald’s Nuvali, the QSR giant’s 700th store nationwide, boasts its bike-friendly features, utility-efficient solutions, and green building solutions. Aside from its sustainable restaurant innovations, the strategic location of the store makes it an ideal stop for the strong cycling community in Nuvali.

Celebrating World Bicycle Day with its second Tour de McDo

Following its success and strong demand from cycling communities, the sophomore ride now features three new scenic routes to cater to the different levels of cycling: Manila, Intramuros for the beginner route (20KM), Clark, Pampanga for the intermediate route (34KM), and Tagaytay for the advanced route (48KM).

Almost 100 participants joined the event and received Tour de McDo kits, which include an exclusive Tour de McDo Dri Fit shirt, Tour de McDo limited-edition stickers, and a McDonald’s breakfast meal, all for free.

“For a long time, our McDonald’s stores have played an integral role in many bike rides as a stopover or pit stop. This gave us an opportunity to find more ways to bring together the interests of our customers and care for the planet, under our Green and Good campaign. By promoting sustainable active mobility through Tour de McDo, we hope to encourage more people to get on a bike, so we can collectively do our part in lessening CO2 emissions,” shared McDonald’s Philippines President and CEO Kenneth S. Yang.

McDonald’s stores featured in the various routes were: McDonald’s Quirino Mabini, McDonald’s Clark CM Recto Pampanga, McDonald’s Porac Pampanga, McDonald’s Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, and McDonald’s Delos Reyes, Tagaytay all offer bike-friendly features such as a Bike & Dine facility, so that cyclists can dine in with the safety of their bikes. The stores also opened dedicated Bike Repair Stations that offer free use of tools for any basic repairs.

Introducing the Cyclists Meal for weekend bike rides this June

McDonald’s Philippines announces its Cyclists Meal, a unique McDonald’s App offer accessible for all weekends in June 2023, extending the celebration of World Bicycle Day over the entire month. Weekend cyclists can visit any McDonald’s location and show the Cyclists Meal voucher from the McDonald’s app to receive a Cheesy Eggdesal with Sausage and a Medium McCafe Iced Coffee Original for just 99 pesos.

For Android users and iOS users, the McDonald’s Promo App is free to download from the Google Play store and the Apple App store, respectively. Follow McDonald’s on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to learn more about the upcoming Tour de McDo and other cycling-related projects.

June 9, 2023 by
Lifestyle, News

Pulse oximeters are distributed to partner hospitals and organizations through Smile Train and Lifebox


Left photo: Distribution of Lifebox Pulse Oximeters to the Cranio Facial Foundation of the Philippines
Right photo: Distribution of Lifebox Pulse Oximeters to the Marikina St. Vincent General Hospital

40 pulse oximeters will be distributed to 24 healthcare facilities in the Philippines by Smile Train, the largest cleft organization in the world, and Lifebox, a global nonprofit that saves lives through safer surgery and anesthesia. This will result in 52,000 safer surgeries taking place in the Philippines over the course of the next year.

“Smile Train has worked with Lifebox for over a decade to equip hospitals with essential monitoring tools that are not only necessary for cleft surgery but can be used for other medical procedures and in treating COVID-19. While Smile Train is working toward expanding our reach in more communities, we are also looking for more ways to support and invest in our local healthcare partners,” says Kimmy Coseteng-Flaviano, Smile Train’s Vice President, South East Asia.

To assist healthcare practitioners around the world in responding to COVID-19, Smile Train and Lifebox launched the global Smile Train-Lifebox Safe Surgery and Anesthesia Initiative in 2020 and jointly distributed 8,800 pulse oximeters. In order to increase access to anesthetic monitoring and make 14 million surgeries safer, the two organizations introduced the Lifebox-Smile Train Pulse Oximeter in 2022. During anesthesia and in intensive care, pulse oximeters are necessary for monitoring patients since they measure the blood’s oxygen content.

A recent report released by Smile Train and Lifebox, “A Critical Gap: Pulse Oximetry in Low- and Middle-Income Countries,” highlighted that 15% of operating beds in low- and lower-middle-income countries lack a pulse oximeter, with 42% of recovery beds unable to provide vital monitoring after surgery.

In the Philippines, San Fernando Hospital in Pampanga, Allegiant Regional Care Hospital in Lapu-Lapu City, and Tebow CURE Hospital in Davao City have all received Lifebox-Smile Train Pulse Oximeters. In the upcoming months, more partner hospitals and organizations should start receiving the pulse oximeters. As part of the global Smile Train-Lifebox Safe Surgery and anesthesia Initiative, 1,000 pulse oximeters are now being supplied to Smile Train partner hospitals across the globe for safer anesthesia care.

In 2023, Smile Train Philippines will mark the accomplishment of doing more than 75,000 cleft operations. This incredible achievement is made possible by its committed network of partners, which includes Lifebox. Lifebox helps increase children’s access to surgery and offers countrywide complete care to patients with cleft palates.

“By partnering with Lifebox to support the medical communities that our local partners operate in, Smile Train is ensuring safer surgery for every child with a cleft across the globe,” said Flaviano. Aside from the Philippines, countries including Kenya, Somalia, and Honduras have also received these pulse oximeters.

June 8, 2023 by