The Philippine’s Largest Music Festival Is Returning To Clark This April 2023!

January 31, 2023


After the massive success of the inaugural Clark Aurora Music Festival last June 2022 that gathered more than 150,000 attendees, the Philippines’ largest music festival is bringing back its magic this year.

Looking to escape the summer heat while still enjoying a wonderful festival? EP!C Events is once again ready to bring you the BIGGEST names in the OPM scene, giving you nothing but awesome live music, breathtaking views, and sheer excitement.

The Clark Aurora Music Festival this coming April 15 and 16 2023 promises to be even more spectacular than ever. This year’s lineup consists of a combination of various genres, from rising stars to the most sought-after artists of today - Ben&Ben, December Avenue, Arthur Nery, Adie, MRLD, Lola Amour.

Moreover, Ely Buendia, Parokya ni Edgar, Kamikazee, Sponge Cola, Silent Sanctuary, and Mayonnaise are also expected to join the fun and bring superb and high-caliber music festival experience like no other.

Another thing worth looking for in this upcoming festival is the BIGGER and BRIGHTER batches of hot air balloons which will be displayed and light up Clark’s skyline, providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable weekend of music.

It’s going to be a huge weekend of music and a hot air balloon display, peeps! So, mark your
calendars and get your tickets for the Aurora Music Festival! This is one event you won’t want to miss! See you there!

Clark Aurora Music Festival is presented by EP!C EVENTS and EGGSTOP in cooperation with Clark
Global City, Clark Development Corporation and The Medical City Clark.

Tickets go on sale starting January 26, 2023.

Visit our website for tickets http://ticket.clarkaurorafest.com/
www.smtickets.com and all SM Tickets outlets and via Shopee https://shopee.ph/aurorafestival

Thanks to  Major Sponsors: Barenbliss, Aquaflask, San Miguel Brewery, Purefoods Tender Juicy Hotdog.

For inquiries, please call 09812390349 or message






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Smart and Maya unveil 'Power Savings' exclusive to Smart Postpaid subscribers

January 31, 2023

Enjoy up to 7% per annum on Maya Savings with your Smart Postpaid account.
 

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. has partnered with all-in-one money app, Maya, to launch 'Power Savings,' an exclusive promo that enables postpaid subscribers to grow their savings faster.
Under the exclusive promo running from Jan. 16 to Feb. 28, Smart Postpaid subscribers with Plan 999 and up, and who have upgraded their Maya Savings account, can earn an interest rate of up to 7% per annum credited daily - from the base interest rate of 4.5% — one of the highest in the market.

This gives qualified postpaid subscribers a unique opportunity to grow their money faster and extra cash daily to help them achieve their financial goals.

Moreover, subscribers can enjoy FREE InstaPay transactions when they transfer funds from other banks to Maya and switch to Maya Savings. To avail of Power Savings, eligible Smart Postpaid subscribers simply have to follow these steps:

First, join Maya and upgrade your account. First-time users can get up to PHP 60.00 Welcome Reward upon upgrade. 

Open a Maya Savings account and go to “Missions” in the app, look for “Smart Postpaid Exclusive” mission and enter the unique Smart Postpaid code (to be sent by Smart via SMS).  
Spend a minimum of PHP 999.00 using Maya on paying for your Smart Postpaid bill or any other bill, scanning to pay, paying with Maya card or shopping online. (Tip: Cash in at least PHP 1,500.00 via InstaPay and get a PHP 25.00 service fee cashback)

Enjoy the daily 7% saving interest rate (for up to PHP 100,000.00 end-of-day deposit balance)
All Maya Savings account holders may also avail of the FREE Maya Card, inside the app.  

Download the Maya App now  
Free to download and register, the Maya app packs a feature-rich e-wallet, an inclusive digital bank, and everything else you need to save, spend, grow, and manage your money—right from your smartphone.

The app is powered by its very own Maya Bank, a Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)-licensed and Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC)-insured bank to ensure that the money remains safe and secure. With its 99.9% uptime rate, users can expect their transactions to be seamless and with less downtimes. 

Maya was originally known as PayMaya, a leading e-wallet app in the Philippines. It recently rebranded to Maya as it evolved beyond payments with the launch of its own banking and crypto services. This makes Maya the Philippines’ first and only all-in-one money app as it brings together banking, crypto, and wallet features into a seamless customer experience. 
Register your Smart SIM 

Smart Postpaid’s exclusive partnership with Maya for subscribers is just one of the many ways the mobile services provider empowers customers with the best postpaid experience. 
On top of award-winning services, Smart Postpaid subscribers can expect more exclusive rewards and benefits this 2023.

To keep enjoying Smart's services and perks, postpaid subscribers are encouraged to complete their SIM Registration by confirming the personal information and IDs they submitted for their postpaid plan application. To do this confirmation, subscribers just need to text YES to 5858. They shall then receive a confirmation message from Smart upon successful SIM Registration and get FREE 3 GB data. 
Know the best Smart Signature Plan for your lifestyle at www.smart.com.ph/postpaid.
To know more about this exclusive offer, visit https://www.maya.ph/smartpostpaidoffers.

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OMO! White Skincare and Jaem Accessories: EMPOWERing lives

January 31, 2023



Empower is a 100% Filipino owned relationship marketing company that empowers its members to attain success and prosperity by harnessing the strength of the Filipino and combining this with the rewards of network marketing and high quality, innovative products.

It is truly the faith of the husband and wife team of Mr. Antonio B. Elicaño and Mrs. Josefina M. Elicaño in the Filipino’s entrepreneurial skills that gave birth to Empower.

The company, whose mission is to help fellow Filipinos by providing attractive, affordable and effective products with a viable income opportunity is embracing the Korean craze by introducing Korean
inspired accessories and skincare.


Mr. Antonio B. Elicaño 


Mrs. Josefina Elicaño 


Just recently, I got the privilege to be invited and cover Empower's Back to back launch of their newest line of products held at Holiday Inn & Suites, Makati City. 

In celebration of their 30th Anniversary, Empower has launched their very modern and lit items--- Omo! White Skincare and Jaem Fashion Jewelry




With my blogger/friends RM Marcelo and Gracee Bongolan 




OMO! White Skincare line is their Korean-inspired skincare brand that embraces the spirit of innovation by bringing the best and latest Korean skincare trends in an attractive but affordable package.  Omo! (which means Wow or OMG!)  White has 3 powerful Whitening Lines for every skincare need.


Intense Cleanse White is enriched with charcoal extract for deep cleansing and detoxifying action…. best for normal and combination skin. 


Intense Cleanse White 



AcneClear White is infused with bioactive proprietary Glycolic Acid - an acne-fighting acid, and Niacinamide, that helps improve fine
lines, lighten dark spots, and softens 
the skin is best for oily and acne-prone skin.

AcneClear White 



 Ooh-la-Light White is infused with bioactive brightening ingredients such as Glutathione and Lactic Acid, to soften and re-energize your skin, this line is good for everyone, but especially those with normal, dry, and sensitive skin.

Ohh-la-Light White 



Empower is also proud to present the rebirth of their Fashion Jewelry Collection... which today they tagged it as "Jaem Fashion Accessories." Jaem is a Korean word short for Jae-mi, meaning fun. And what makes the line even more fun are the unbelievably affordable prices that make dressing up your everyday look super easy and accessible.






The capsule collection initially has 10 gorgeous sparkly sets ranging from a trendy viva magenta ruby set to an understated and classy
two-tone selection. Jaem has quarterly line-ups that will surely excite the fashionista in you.

With Empower’s arsenal of products, it’s now that much easier to be
beautiful both inside and out.



Empower Moreishi Social Media Accounts: 

Instagram:

Tiktok:

Facebook:

Website:






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'A COMPLETE SUCCESS’; Face-to-face Dinagyang exceeded expectations

January 25, 2023



 Patawaran and Chef Tibong Jardeleza,Jr. 
  Hala Bira! Lifestyle columnist Tessa Prieto, TV Personality Tim Yap and broadcaster Karen Davila at the Dinagyang Exhibit with SM Supermalls president Steven Tan.

The special guests were seen enjoying the Ilomination night at SM City Iloilo with Mayor Jerry Treñas, SM’s SVP for Operations Bien Mateo, Talent Manager Jojie Dingcong, Youtube celebrity Small Laude,veteran broadcaster Karen Davila, SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, philanthropist and influencer Tessa Prieto, eventologist Tim Yap, Manila Bulletin’s Arnel



ILOILO City – With thousands of domestic and foreign visitors packing various festival activities, Dinagyang’s return to the city’s streets exceeded expectations, according to Mayor Jerry P. Treñas.

A “complete success” was how he described the festival’s return to a face-to-face celebration after two years of restrictions due to the coronavirus disease pandemic.

“Everyone wanted a strong comeback…It was a complete success and this showed that Dinagyang and our Sto. Niño are beyond politics,” added Treñas.

Conversation over Batchoy with Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas, SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, lifestyle columnist and philanthropist Tessa Prieto, TV personality Tim Yap, veteran broadcaster Karen Davila, Manila Bulletin’s Arnel Patawaran and renowned Iloilo Chef, Rafael "Tibong" Jardeleza Jr. 

Dinagyang Festival is known far and wide for its participants’ impressive choreography and striking costumes that reflect Ilonggo ingenuity, craftsmanship and artistry.
Treñas congratulated the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI), major co-presentor of Dinagyang 2023, the participating tribes and corporate sponsors, among others.

“I acknowledge all our sponsors from the private sector for their significant contributions in the success of Dinagyang. Of course, sa inyo tanan, mga pinalangga ko nga Ilonggo. Ang tanan nga ini bangud sa inyo kag para man sa inyo. Your strong support in all our activities played a meaningful role in the overall success of the festival,” said Treñas.

(From left to right) House Speaker Martin Romualdez, SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas during the Dinagyang Dance Competition at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand.


Darren Espanto wowed the audience with his song and dance performances



Youtube star Small Laude with Talent Manager Jojie Dingcong enjoying a bowl of Batchoy at SM City Iloilo



The festival’s top sponsor was SM City Iloilo; it also served as venue for many Dinagyang activities, including the first-ever Dinagyang Ilomination on Jan.21, Batchoy Festival, festival costumes exhibit, and concert of various performing artists including Asia’s Pop Heartthrob Darren Espanto, among others.
A number of celebrities, prominent government officials and foreign dignitaries also came over, including First Lady Liza Marcos, YouTube sensation Small Laude, broadcast journalist Karen Davila, lifestyle columnist and philanthropist Tessa Prieto Valdez, television presenter and entrepreneur Tim Yap, former senator Franklin Drilon, Sen. Risa Hontiveros, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez, among others. They were warmly welcomed by Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas and SM Supermalls president Steven Tan. 


Several dignitaries form foreign embassies attended the festivities as well: Romanian Ambassador to the Philippines HE Raduta Dana Matache with Mr. Constantin Matache ; Indonesian Ambassador to the Philippines HE Agus Widjojo and his wife, Mme. Ranny Agus Widjojo; Royal Thai Ambassador to the Philippines HE Tull Traisorat; Royal Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines HE Christian Halaas Lyster; Hungary Ambassador to the Philippines HE Titanilla Toth; Embassy of Polland Ambassador to the Philippines HE Jaroslaw Szczepankiewicz ; Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka Charge d'Affaires, a.i. Ms. P.G.P. Kaushalya; Consul General of Japan in Cebu Hideki Yamaji; and Embassy of the United States in the Philippines Chief Consuls Kristofer Graf and Leo Balantac.







Dinagyang is the Hiligaynon word for revelry or merrymaking. The festival is Iloilo City’s version of the Ati-atihan celebrations widely observed not only in Panay Island but also in other parts of the country.

Two of the many foreign dignitaries who graced the festival were full of praises.

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Nanyang brings "Singapore in Manila!"

January 21, 2023



Nanyang, literally known as the “Southern Ocean,” refers to the warm and fertile region of South China, otherwise known as “Southeast Asia.”

Nanyang is the perfect epitome of a fusion of the contemporary and nostalgic experience. One of its signatures, Nanyang Kopi, is rooted all the way back from the 60s and 70s. Recreating the typical breakfast scenario – the combination of a cup of Nanyang Kopi and a freshly toasted bread – with a modern twist. Nanyang will open its doors set in a present- time backdrop to accommodate both the old and young generations.


So is it true that Nanyang has brought "Singapore in Manila?" 

Hmmm... I'd like to believe so. :) Why? Oh well, after my dining experience at Nanyang (Level 2, Glorietta 2, Makati City), I can really attest to that and I find their  Singaporean food very authentic and a must try for everyone! 


Being a coffee-lover, I tried their Iced Kopi Melaka ... 

Iced Kopi Melaka Php120

Black coffee with condensed milk, which is a thick and sweetened milk

If you're not into so much of having too much sweetnesd in your beverages, need not worry my dearies, 'coz there's always "crushed ice" to rescue us! Hahaha yep! I did it and still even enjoyed and achieved the level of sugar that I desire. Love the blend though, a real brewed one! 


Prawn Noodle Soup Php268 

The broth is so rich! By just merely looking at this food porn, you'll be quick to judge how exciting and flavorful this dish was. And yes, that's absolutely correct! I can still imagine myself indulging into its prawns that had added sweetness to it's broth and those fish cakes--- super love it! Am I in Singapore? :)) 


Homemade Nasi Lemak Php248

The term"Nasi Lemak" (Malay) means 'rich rice'. The ‘rich’ refers not to wealth, but the coconut cream that makes it oh-so sinfully scrumptious.

This hearty meal  is a perfect mix of flavours: aromatic rice infused with coconut milk and pandan or sometimes banana leaves, eaten with deep-fried fish or chicken, otah (grilled fish paste, fried ikan bilis (local anchovies) and peanuts, eggs, cucumber slices, and sambal (spicy chilli paste).

Are you asking if I enjoyed it?! Well, I devoured myself into it! Just don't forget to miix all the ingredients with the rice or you may also put aside the chicken slices then you're all set! Truly, an Asian delight at its best! Hello?! 


Traditional Nonya Kaya Toast Php70
and Thick Toast Php Php70 

Kaya Toast is a classic Singaporean breakfast, especially when served alongside a cup of kopi and two soft-boiled eggs. 

What makes it very popular even until now? 

There is good reason for the sustained popularity of such a simple sandwich: the sweet, pandan flavours of kaya (coconut jam), salty pat of butter, and mouthfeel of white bread make quite an irresistible combination.

So one must really try Singapore's staple toast for breakfast to authenticate your Nanyang dining experience! 


Other Nanyang's Singaporean treats: 

Milo Dinosaur Php120


Curry Chicken (with rice or toast) Php248


Hainanese Chicken Rice Php268


Laksa (Prawn) Php268


Hainanese Fried Chicken Rice Php268




After all these gastrocnemius experience in Nanyang, I was swayed by the oozing flavors and spices of the Singaporean cuisine and savouring some of Asia's best treats too! Nanyang has truly brought "Singapore in Manila!" 

Please do watch my Nanyang Ph's 


I am also very thankful that aside from these Nanyang Ph's branches...


...they are now open and serving at the Level 2 of Glorietta 2 Mall in Makati City!!! Hooray! 


Nanyang Ph Level 2, Glorietta 2, Palm Drive, Makati City 

Looking forward for more of Nanyang Ph's food experience and Good luck to its expansion!!! 



Instagram: NanyangPh
TikTok: nanyangph






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Jollibee Opens First Store in Orlando, Florida: Marks Jollibee’s first-ever dual lane drive-thru in the U.S.

January 21, 2023



A SUNNY, JOLLY DAY IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA. Jollibee North America opens the year with its first-ever store in Orlando, Florida. It is also the brand’s first-ever dual drive-thru lane in the country, reflecting Jollibee’s commitment to innovation and improving customer experience.
FLORIDA, USA. 20 January 2023 – Homegrown restaurant chain Jollibee officially opened its first restaurant in Orlando, Florida on January 18—its first U.S. opening for the year and first-ever dual drive-thru lane store in the U.S. Known for its sunny climate and theme parks, Jollibee’s Orlando, Florida branch is primely situated at 11891 East Colonial Drive and is the brand’s 62nd store in the U.S.

“The strong reception of our Jollibee Orlando, Florida opening shows robust demand for our products in the U.S. market, especially with our growing American consumer base,” shared Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group President and CEO. “We are grateful for the continued support of our valued customers in the U.S., and we are committed to introducing more innovations such as the dual-lane drive-thru to further elevate their Jollibee experience."
Hundreds of hungry Floridians enjoyed the convenience of the dual drive-thru service as they picked up their Jollibee favorites, including the bestselling Chickenjoy fried chicken; Chicken Sandwich, and Peach Mango Pie. Similar to its Times Square location, Jollibee Orlando, Florida serves a new variety of sides and salads catered to the local taste, including Baked Cheddar Mac ‘n Cheese, Mandarin Orange Crispy Chicken Salad, and Biscuits.

Jollibee Orlando, Florida is the chain’s first-ever dual lane drive-thru store.


“We are ready to serve up the most delicious fried chicken here in Orlando, Florida,” said Maribeth Dela Cruz, President of Jollibee North America. “From the minute you walk through our doors–or line up at our dual lane drive-thru–to your very last bite, we are determined to make every experience at Jollibee Orlando a joyful one for our guests.”

Late last year, International food authority Eater.com named Jollibee as “the best chain fried chicken in America” after its bestselling Chickenjoy bested 14 global brands in four rounds of contests.

Jollibee is set to expand in more North America locations in 2023, with the goal to grow to 500 stores in the next 5-7 years. To know more about Jollibee U.S.’ upcoming store openings and other updates, follow @jollibeeus on Facebook, @jollibeeus on Instagram, and @jollibeeusa on TikTok. For more information on the Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com.


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Hop your way to luck this 2023 at SM Supermalls!

January 21, 2023



This 2023, say goodbye to the roaring tiger and usher in the spirited rabbit as you celebrate Chinese New Year at your favorite SM malls nationwide!

From January 9 to 22, SM Supermalls has lined up exciting activities and events for a prosperous Year of the Water Rabbit festivities. If you are up for some hoppin’ fun adventures, here are exclusive CNY deals for you to enjoy.


Share good luck over good food at SM
Chinese New Year will always be about family dining and spending time together. This month, indulge in a delicious dine-in experience at SM with the whole family and enjoy sumptuous Lucky Feast deals from participating tenants. 


Have a stroll at the Lucky Park
Don’t miss out on the fun of strolling around SM Supermalls’ Lucky Park. Snap a photo with the whole family at the Bunny Family Photo Spot, or take selfies at the magnificent Money Trees and the lighted rabbits. You can also read through your luck this year with the Zodiac Forecast Panels or put your A-game on at the Lucky Finds Pop-Ups in the area to win CNY exclusive deals.


Witness a Lion and Dragon Dance
Who would want to miss a signature lion dance during the Chinese New Year? At SM, lion and dragon dance performers will go around the mall to get all the lucky hanging hong baos. Catch them perform live from January 13 to 22!


Usher in good fortune this year with tips from a Feng Shui expert!
When it comes to Feng Shui, SM Supermalls knows how you can harness the positive energy that the new year brings. And with the help of Feng Shui expert, Ms. Marites Allen, you’ll surely discover what 2023 has in store for you.

Just present a minimum SM receipt worth Php 1,000 to get a chance to talk to her in person in the following malls:
 
January 14, 2PM - SM City Olongapo Central
January 15, 2PM - SM City San Lazaro
January 19, 2PM - SM City Fairview
January 20, 2PM - SM City Dasmariñas
January 20, 5PM - SM City Sta. Rosa
January 2 1, 2PM - SM Megamall
January 21, 5PM - SM City North EDSA
January 22, 2PM - SM City Bacoor
January 22, 5PM - SM Mall of Asia 































Scan and win amazing prizes in this AR hunt game

Test your luck at the Lucky Rabbit Hunt in SM malls! Join this AR hunt game by opening the app on your mobile device. Hunt for the triggers, scan the area, and catch lucky rabbits all around the mall with your family and friends.


As the Year of the Water Rabbit predicts hope this 2023, SM Supermalls wishes their shoppers longevity, peace, and prosperity this Chinese New Year. So, hop on luck and enjoy all these CNY-themed activities safely and conveniently at your favorite SM Mall!

For more updates, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on social media.



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