Japan

Japan is one of my dream destinations. So imagine my happiness when that dream finally came into reality!

The language barrier is real but because of the latest technology such as google lens translation everything went smoothly. 

Japan culture is very Filipino in my own opinion. At such a young age, Japanese kids are taught how to be prim and proper. Most of them if not all are very polite. They even go out of their way to show you the way to whatever it is that you asked them about.

For sure, we will be coming back for more. 

Merry Christmas everyone 

Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto Japan

Rokuon-ji which is better known as Kinkakuji 金閣寺 or Golden Pavilion is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. The golden temple was the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and according to his will it became a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect after his death in 1408. Kinkakuji was the inspiration for the similarly named Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), built by Yoshimitsu's grandson, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, on the other side of the city a few decades later.

Kinkakuji is an impressive structure built overlooking a large pond, and is the only building left of Yoshimitsu's former retirement complex. It has burned down numerous times throughout its history including twice during the Onin War, a civil war that destroyed much of Kyoto; and once again more recently in 1950 when it was set on fire by a fanatic monk. The present structure was rebuilt in 1955.

Part 2 of the “CAFarmer, CAFisher, Tayo ang Bida” TV Special to air this Sunday on PTV-4

Part 2 of the “CAFarmer, CAFisher, Tayo ang Bida” TV Special to air this Sunday on PTV-4

The second part of the “CAFarmer, CAFisher, Tayo ang Bida” TV Special airs this Sunday, October 22, 2023 from 10-11am on PTV-4.

In the episode, the documentary about the 2022 Census of Agriculture and Fisheries, will be shown, as it explains why data gathering is important, and how it could affect the lives of those in the agricultural and fisheries sector. In the said episode, to be shown are case studies – farmers and fisherfolks, success stories, LGUs, as well as government agencies that work hand-in-hand with the Philippine Statistics Authority to achieve one goal - to preserve and develop our agriculture and fisheries sector for the future generations to come.

Said TV Special will be hosted by award-winning journalist, Niña Corpuz, who will also be joined in the documentary by Philippine Statistics Authority’s Undersecretary, National Statistician and Civil Registrar General Claire Dennis Mapa, and PSA’s Deputy National Statistician for Censuses and Technical Coordination Office, Ms. Minerva Eloisa P. Esquivias.

The 2022 CAF TV Special is an opportunity for viewers to gain insight into the heart of the nation's agricultural and fisheries industry, and it is not only the celebration of the hardworking individuals in agriculture and fisheries, but also a call to action for sustainable practices in the said sector.

For more information and updates on the 2022 Census of Agriculture and Fisheries TV Special, please visit psa.gov.ph.

The TV Special will also be shown via livestream on PTV-4’s Facebook Page and YouTube Channel.

SABAH MALAYSIA

 

My brother and I went on a river cruise at Sabah in Malaysia. We were able to spot the proboscis Monkeys at their natural habitat. We learned that they eat leaves and fruits. Such a healthy lifestyle indeed. No wonder the male proboscis monkeys have several female partners because they live long and has up to 6 partners all at the same time. They live like a king.

Welcome Rotonda

 

I passes by this iconic landmark in Quezon City and España everyday.  This location is often labeled as Kilometer Zero because it is the gateway to the different parts of the Metro.  Pasig is a few minutes away, as well as Makati, Manila and other places.

SWISS INSPIRED HOUSE

Intricately designed Swiss inspired red house in Tagaytay Cavite City

ILIGAN BORACAY

I went to Ilig-Iligan Beach in Boracay ⛱️  They say this is how Boracay looks like in the 70's and 80's when Boracay  wasn't spoiled yet by commercialism.

Story soon in my you tube channel webmags

Crosswinds Tagaytay Lush Forest

 

Breathtaking view of a pine tree forest make Crosswinds Tagaytay one of the premier destinations in the South.

This A Swiss-inspired lifestyle can now be savored just a few hours away from the bustling heart — and intense heat — of Metro Manila. You don't need to board a long-haul flight to Switzerland; instead, all you have to do is drop by Tagaytay, where the enchanting Crosswinds Tagaytay beckons with its one-of-a-kind Swiss-inspired lifestyle.  This exclusive enclave is tucked away on the face of the lush, sweeping natural hills of Tagaytay. The cool breeze, crisp mountain air and earthy scent of pine trees makes us come back for more staycation. 

BORACAY BEAUTIFUL SUNSET

 Boracay has one of the most beautiful sunset in the Philippines.

Just like me, I bet that you'll never get tired visiting the island of Boracay in the Philippines no matter how many times you've visited already. Why? That's not entirely because of the island's powdery white sand but also because of the stunning view of sunrise and sunset at the white beach area especially at station one.

I love how the skyline at station one changes color from pink  to orange to yellow with the bluish of blue sky in the background.

God's work of art is stunning. 

WINDMILL TAGAYTAY

Windmill Lausanne Restaurant in Tagaytay is inspired by the famous landmark in Ilocos. 

 

 The beautiful Restaurant caters to everyone who visits Crosswinds in Tagaytay. 

CAFE YAMA

 

Café Yama has a stunning view.  This Japanese inspired

Café has a very nice view of the pine trees inside Crosswinds in Tagaytay. 

 

 

How to Get a PSA Birth Certificate at the PSA Branch in the Philippines

How to Get a PSA Birth Certificate at the PSA Branch of your choice in the Philippines?

As you all know, you and I almost always need an authenticated PSA issued birth certificate even once in our lifetime.

A PSA Birth Certificate is the official birth certificate issued and authenticated by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) to Filipino citizens documenting their live birth information including birthdate, place of birth, parents’ details, birth attendant, local civil registry number, and birth registration number.

PSA Birth Certificate Requirements in 2023:

• Application Form (this form is provided by the PSA)
• Certificate Fee (P155)
• Valid ID for both the owner and requester of document
• Authorization letter and ID of the document owner together with the ID of the requester are required if the requester is not the following: document owner, parent, spouse, direct descendant, legal guardian / institution in-charge, if minor

Procedures in Getting PSA Birth Certificate at the PSA Branch:

Update: Due to the pandemic, the PSA launched an online appointment system (CRS Online Appointment System). Hence, the procedures in getting a PSA birth certificate from any PSA branch will now require a confirmed appointment.

The good thing about getting a PSA Birth Certificate at the PSA branch is that you will be able to receive your authenticated PSA birth certificate without paying expensive fees.

The not so good thing about it is you might need to wait for a long queue because there are many applicants requesting for certificates every day. Likewise, the appointment system allocates slots on a first-come-first-served basis.

Step 1: Schedule an appointment through the PSA Online Appointment System

Make an online schedule to request your authenticated birth certificate through PSA Civil Registration Service Appointment System (PSA CRS). Prepare your valid email address and your active mobile number.

The Philippine Statistics Authority stated that minors are not allowed to book an appointment. If the requesting party is a duly authorized representative, the original copy of the authorization letter and valid ID must be presented.

photo credit: Philippine Statistics Authority

Step 2: Select your PSA outlet or PSA branch

Choose your PSA outlet where you want to set an appointment. Specify your region and PSA branch then click the “next” button.

Step 3: Provide your contact information for your appointment

Type your name (first, middle, last), email address, and mobile number on the online form. If you’re making a schedule for someone else, indicate their contact details and take note that all the reminders and requirements will then apply to them. If you’re requesting for someone else’s birth certificates, use your own personal information and contact details.

Step 4: Confirm your OTP

PSA CRS will send your OTP code to your email address to verify it’s yours. Type or copy the OTP number and proceed to the next step.

Step 5: Fill out your application form for birth certificate

• Fill out the application form by indicating your type of certificate request (in this case, Certificate of Live Birth). You may also add another certificate request. Proceed to the next field after you finished your document request.

Step 6: Choose your preferred date and time of appointment

The page will now display a calendar where you can set your preferred date and time of your appointment. The dark colored boxes will indicate some available slots. Clicking a date will show the specified time and available slots.

Step 7: Confirm the details of your appointment

The page will display the details of your birth certificate request and schedule. Take a moment to review the information of your appointment before you confirm your appointment. Be informed that your appointment is non-transferable.

Step 8: Keep a digital copy of your appointment slip

1. You will now receive your Civil Registration Service Appointment Slip containing your confirmed booking with QR code. Keep a digital copy or print it out because you’ll need it when you’ll attend your appointment.

Step 9: Attend your appointment at the PSA outlet

Present your CRS appointment slip and accomplish a Health Survey Form. Get your PSA birth certificate application form (AF) and queue ticket number (QTN)

Step 10: Pay the processing fee

Next step is you will have to pay the application fee at the cashier. The latest fee and price of getting a PSA birth certificate is P155 per copy.

Step 11: Receive your copy of birth certificate

Wait for your certificate to be released on the scheduled date set by your PSA branch. Present your valid ID and official receipt (OR) to the Releasing Section. Before you leave the vicinity, make sure you check your certificate for any correction or error.

Tierra De Maria in Tagaytay Cavite

Tierra De Maria in Tagaytay Cavite is located along the Tagaytay- Calamba road in Cavite.

Tierra De Maria is an intimate Catholic chapel and shrine featuring a colossal statue of the Virgin Mary and a panoramic deck.

 

POWDERY WHITE SAND OF BORACAY

 

 I love Boracay.   The amazing powder like white sand of Boracay  Island. Super fine and Super white.  Babalik balikan mo talaga.

My brother and I have been to different countries and Boracay still holds the record of being one of the most beautiful beach in the world. 

 

Crosswinds Tagaytay

 Our view from the balcony of a condo inside Crosswinds In Tagaytay

My Travel Essentials

Whenever I travel, I make sure to bring my "travel essentials" 

My number one travel essentials are medicines. I could not afford to get sick while traveling so I make sure to bring medicines made with love by one of my favorites and what comes to my mind when someone said "top pharmaceutical companies in the Philippines" Pascual Laboratories, Inc. (PascualLab)

PascualLab is now on its 77th year of delivering quality and family-friendly health and wellness products to the Filipino people.

Not resting on its laurels, Pascual Lab continue to spread #PascualLove, reaffirming its commitment to pursue its vision of Strong, Healthy Families.

Pioneering Innovations

Since it was founded in 1946 to help address the health needs of Filipinos during the post-war era, PascualLab has been constantly at the forefront of providing quality health innovations through its products. 

Among its purposeful innovations are Vitex negundo L. Lagundi Leaf (Ascof Lagundi)*, the first and the No. 1 Lagundi cough remedy in the market², and WellGreens, a line of premium organic supplements that go through a 13-step quality assurance process and that are certified pure organic by the EU and USDA, certified for Good Agricultural Practices by the Department of Agriculture, and Halal by the Islamic Da’wah Council of the Philippines. 

I remember, when I took a train from Bangkok to Hat Yai before the pandemic, I was coughing non-stop prompting a co-passenger to give me a face mask. I was really embarrassed.  Good thing, that I brought with me a small bottle of Ascof Lagundi!  Promise, it solves my "pesteng ehem".  A real life saver. Alagang #PascualLab yan!

PascualLab: Spreading #PascualLove For Over Seven Decades

Another travel essentials I love is PascualLab's Poten-Cee. 

Quality and Care At The Heart of their Service
Beyond purposeful innovations, quality and care have always been at the heart of PascualLab, creating health products that suit various health and lifestyle needs such as top adult Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) brand–Poten-Cee Vitamin C. 

Poten-Cee offers variants from adult to pedia as well as specific variants to suit people with sensitive stomachs, busy lifestyles, and those watching their blood sugar. One of Poten-Cee's newer variants include Poten-Cee Zn Advance (Ascorbic acid + Zinc + Cholecalciferol) that has the ideal combination of Vitamin C, Zinc, and Vitamin D, to help boost immunity.

This year, PascualLab is introducing Poten-Cee + Collagen’s (Poten-Cee + C’s) newest variant, Marine Collagen. Poten-Cee + C Marine Collagen has Sodium Ascorbate³ (Vitamin C in non-acidic format) and
Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen sourced from fish.

Vitamin C is essential for collagen production while Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen helps reduce wrinkles and improve skin hydration and firmness. 

Of course, I don't just brush my teeth, I also use Mouthwash! 

Making Health Easier From their family To Yours
Along the lines of oral health, PascualLab, is also one of the pioneers in introducing a mouthrinse with Stabilized Chlorine Dioxide, OraCare Mouth Rinse. OraCare Mouth Rinse helps keep the mouth healthy, along with brushing and flossing, with regular use. 

Now, OraCare Mouth rinse’s no sting formulation makes gargling easier, more affordable and available to family members*** with its’ ”Buy More, Save More”, Buy 1 Take 1 promo.****

#PascualLove

From purposeful innovations to quality products that support people with various lifestyle needs, PascualLab continues to spread #PascualLove, making being healthy easier and more natural for Filipinos.

For more information, visit www.pascuallab.com, follow us on IG and FB @PascualLaboratories, Inc.


*IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.

**"MAHALAGANG PAALALA: ANG POTEN-CEE + C AY HINDI GAMOT AT HINDI DAPAT GAMITING PANGGAMOT SA ANO MANG URI NG SAKIT"
***Mouthwash is not recommended for children less than 6 years old.
****Per DOH-FDA CCHUHSRR Permit No. 0307 s 2023, valid until November 10, 2023.


Reference:

¹IQVIA 2022 Data
²FDA-approved packaging

³Hiatt A, Ferruzi M, Taylor L, et al. Deliquescence Behavior and Chemical Stability of Vitamin C Forms (Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Ascorbate, and Calcium Ascorbate ) and Blends. International Journal of Food Properties. 2011; 14(6) 1330-1348. DOI: 10.1080/10942911003650338.

Vitamin C. Micronutrient Information Center. Linus Pauling Institute. Oregon State University Website. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-C. Updated: 2023. Accessed: March 8, 2023.

⁴Gelsea K, Poschl E, Aigner T. Collagens—structure, function, and biosynthesis. Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 2003; 55: 1531– 1546. DOI:10.1016/j.addr.2003.08.002

⁵Pullar J, Carr A, Vissers M. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. 2017; 9(8): 866. DOI: 10.3390/nu9080866

⁶.Campos P, Franco R, Kakuda L, et al. Oral Supplementation with Hydrolyzed Fish Cartilage Improves the Morphological and Structural Characteristics of the Skin: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study. Molecules. 2021; 26(4880): 1-15. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26164880

Complete List of New Lawyers in the Philippines 2023

Congratulations to all of our new lawyers in the Philippines 🎊 👏

The Supreme Court (SC) announced on Friday, April 14, 2023 that a total of 3,992 passed the 2022 Bar Examinations held on November 9, 13, 16, and 20, 2022. Complete List on our YouTube link below: https://youtu.be/cjnpfVu-feQ

LTO: Standardized Driving School Rates

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) standardized fees for driving courses and released new guidelines for the accreditation and management of driving schools.

The guidelines will be implemented starting April 15, 2023. It includes the standard way of teaching student drivers and those who plan to apply as a conductor.

According to the Memorandum Circular No. JMT- 2023-2390, released by the LTO, private driving institutions may set their theoretical driving (TDC) fee to 1,000. Meanwhile, they may charge 2,500 to 8,000 for practical driving courses (PDC). The PDC fees will depend on the type of car or license code.

In addition, it is also stated in the memorandum that applicants may complete their mandatory 15-hour theoretical driving course within two days. However, the applicants must accomplish their mandatory 15-hour TDC in one month. On the other hand, the practical driving course (PDC) should be completed in at least 8 hours per license code.

The memorandum specified that PDC for light and heavy vehicles should be at least two days. Meanwhile, the 8-hour PDC for motorcycles may be conducted for one day. However, the student driver should prove to have excellent knowledge about motorcycle driving according to their practical driving instructor’s assessment.

LTO also requires driving schools to register the biometrics and other details of their applicants to the LTO system through the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) Client ID. This is to determine the actual start of the applicant’s TDC.

To get a driving license in the Philippines, one must attend a pre-requisite TDC and PDC and pass the LTO driving test.

KURIMI CLOVERLEAF: Japan Genshin Impact Inspired 2D Theme Milk Tea Bar

Genshin Impact fans in the Philippines are in for a wonderful treat especially those bubble tea fans who are sick and tired of drinking in a boring 3D world. There’s a wonderful 2D shop featuring your favorite game called Kurimi. Kurimi 2D Milk Tea Bar in Ayala Malls Cloverleaf has a Japanese-Genshin Impact theme. I bet all the fans of Genshin Impact would all be giddy and happy looking for some of the characters hidden in the shop’s 2d drawings.

Insta-worthy Kurimi 2D milk tea bar's newest franchisees are a big fan of the game. The couple loves the game Genshin Impact so much that they decided to incorporate the popular characters of the game in their Kurimi branch located beside the cinema at the 4th floor of Ayala Malls Cloverleaf. 

Kurimi Ayala Malls Cloverleaf Franchisees 

From what I know, 2D cafes first started popping up in Korea and then made their way here in the Philippines. What caught my attention is the shop’s tables, chairs, windows, even a cabinet, painted in 2D style. It’s surreal to walk inside and so fun to take pictures. Kurimi Milk Tea Bar is fully decorated in two-dimensional decor, created by thick black lines drawn over an all-white walls and furnitures.

Kurimi Milk Tea Bar makes me feel like I've stepped into a world of black and white drawing. Every nook and corners of Kurimi is covered with substantial drawings.

How do you drink your milk tea?

I recommend that you shake your milk tea 15 times before consuming.

Oh, I love the scent of tea, Oreo cookies and sweet sugar as I puncture my bubble tea drink with a straw for my first sip!

Kurimi's crushed Oreo cookies blended in thick and creamy vanilla milk and mixed with tapioca pearls cooked in a house blend gives a satisfyingly chewy bite.

The milky concoction is so yummy that you would definitely want a second cup 🥤 

By the way, from March 18 to 31, all Kurimi stores nationwide have a March Madness Promo where you can get two (2) Large Kurimi signature drink- the brown sugar booba milk with pearl together with Kurimi classic milk tea with pearl for only Php199.

LA UNION GRAPES FARM

   

We pick some grapes and bought some grape wine at Gapuz GRAPES Farm.

CALAUAN LAGUNA: Acienda Del Cielo

📸 Cha Sy

I was greeted by the rustling leaves and swaying trees as I stepped inside Acienda Del Cielo in Calauan, Laguna. Thank you to all the angels I met along the way. Most notable is Calauan angel who I met inside the jeepney from Calamba to San Pablo via Calauan hi-way in my first ever commute since 2020 from Manila. You see, finding a spot like this along the highway isn’t easy especially at nighttime if you're like me who've never been to Calauan Laguna before.

The angel in the jeepney asked me to alight with her in front of the Rural Bank of Calauan where her husband fetched her. She then persuaded her husband to bring me to the gate of Acienda Del Cielo using their trike to ensure my safety because the jeepney driver said he doesn't know "Acienda del Cielo" nor its former name "Samland" located at 48J7+G6F, San Pablo Highway, Balayhangin, Calauan, Laguna. Again, thank you my 😇 angel 🙏 Because of you my FAITH IN HUMANITY WAS RESTORED.

Another encounter with angels on earth.

The good hearted guard told me to just wait for Ms. Inah of the design team and accounting to finish dressing up and put her make up on for the event that night, so I can come with her at the pavillion in their service e-trike so I would no longer walk in the narrow road alone.

📷 Leomy
First Impression

I thought the place is small because of the small gate and narrow road leading inside the property.

📷 Wazzup

Boy, was I surprised when we reached the pavillion and saw the spacious garden inside. Acienda del Cielo may look small from the outside but it is really huge inside.

📷 Wazzup

When we got to the pavilion, suddenly the terrain changes. It becomes hilly and the roads inside are wider than that at the entrance. And lo and behold, this is the highest point of this side directly facing Mt. Kalisungan. No wonder the place is called Acienda del Cielo, which literally means "Sky Estate".

📸 Cha Sy

Fresh air is what welcomed us, as Ms. Inah and I walked towards the pavillion, but what drew my attention was the large swimming pool, a few meters from the pavillion's side entrance. As you all know, a resort wouldn’t be complete without a pool, and the water was definitely enticing. If it weren’t for the cool weather when I visited, I would definitely have jumped at the chance to take a quick swim. Ha ha ha!

📸 Aileen De Leon

They have a huge Figure 8 Pool– good for both adults and kids, how I wish they have a jacuzzi too on the side. I think a poolside bar is also ideal where you can grab a mocktail while in the water just like in Manila Hotel ♥

📷 Cha Sy

Just a few hours away from Metro Manila.

Just like other people, my family and I usually take a respite from our busy schedules by having staycations in different hotels in the Metro, anywhere with good air conditioning and soundproofing to block out the rest of the city. But as time passes by, these offerings are not enough. Breathing positive ions is what you would wish for. Something you’d normally find from places that are a few hours away from the Metro like Tagaytay, Baguio, Batangas and Laguna.

Acienda del Cielo may be located in a remote and not a posh location but when you see their bridal house, their pavillion and twin house log cabin you can't help but say to yourself, “Today is going to be great”

WHAT IS IN THE NAME?

Acienda del Cielo was known among locals as "Samland Resorts". It was built in the ‘90s. About June last year, its previous owners sold the property and the new owner recently decided to renovate and rejuvenate the property. They decided to make it more aesthetically pleasing by painting their log cabins white. They finally reopened their doors to guests just over a few months ago.

📸 Fb of Acienda Del Cielo

Sitting at the highest peak of Calauan Laguna, it gives guests uninterrupted views of Mt. Kalisungan mountain range. The property’s layout and log cabin-inspired architecture also help create an intimate experience despite the largeness of the space.
The views and fresh air are just part of the experience. I can't help myself but touch the grass. Nature is really beautiful. Very refreshing to the soul.

The property is expansive enough to house several facilities without it feeling crowded, and there’s a court for some of the most popular sports in the Philippines. There’s a tennis/badminton court that can also be turned into a basketball court.

📸 Cha Sy

The property is very promising. I would l suggest for them to develope it into a team building facility complete with biking and running trail, camping, and, yes, wall climbing facility, maybe even a mini-golf academy as well with a certified instructor to boot to help guests practice their swings. They could also provide badminton and tennis rackets and a game table for table tennis.

They could also hold shooting range activities for gun or airsoft enthusiasts if there is no scheduled event. I remember in Singapore, my doctor friend relaxes by spending time playing airsoft after work every night.

And considering how exclusive and private the property feels, and how you’re not running into crowds of people, it definitely feels like it’s worth the commute.

Destination events are on the rise, but you don’t need to ship your whole conference over to Baguio or Boracay to feel the inspiration of being in a new place: there are hundreds of amazing and stimulating venues in Southern Luzon that will breath new life into your upcoming meeting or conference like Acienda del Cielo.

Celebrate your life's precious moments at Acienda del Cielo. Their air-conditioned pavillion are capable of holding up to 250 guests. They have both indoor (pavillion) and outdoor venues (Garden) that are perfect for that special event ranging from large scale corporate meetings, conferences and classes, trade shows, product launches, fundraisers, auctions, screenings and performances, to weddings, intimate receptions and private parties, yes, be it a debut, kiddie birthday party, engagement, wedding, baptism, graduation, team-building, talks, pop-up bazaar as well as other private events, and pre-nuptials photo and video shoots.

Book your dream intimate weddings and other events now through their websites and FB account.

DISCLAIMER: Not a sponsored paid blog but was invited to a Thanksgiving event inside the Acienda.

#upccxeunnieseventsmgtthanksgiving2023