HOW TO COMMUTE TO EASTWOOD FROM CUBAO

HOW TO COMMUTE TO EASTWOOD FROM CUBAO

Nearest MRT and LRT2 station to Eastwood would be the Cubao Station.

•  Alight in Cubao station. 
• Then walk towards General Romulo Avenue corner Aurora Boulevard, Cubao, Quezon City.  Yes, dear that's the street where the former C.O.D. displays were used to be shown. 
• That street at the corner of Aurora Boulevard where you will find a Mercury Drug Store is the street where the jeepneys coming from Cubao pass by going to Rosario, Pasig (and Antipolo area). The jeepneys pass through C-5. These jeepneys are the only ones plying through C-5. 
• Get down at the foot bridge just adjacent to Citibank Towers in Eastwood City.

Note: Commuting via jeepney might be inconvenient to some but you'll be able to save money. Fare is only Php10 to and from Eastwood.  If you have the budget then by all means take a cab but get ready to pay between Php90 to Php110 depending on the traffic situation in the area.

Happy commuting!  Stay safe!

BIANCA GONZALES: Placed 2nd at Shell Fuel Save Good Choice Driving Challenge

BIANCA GONZALES: Placed 2nd at Shell Fuel Save Good Choice Driving Challenge

TV host and model Bianca Gonzales (right) and her teammate Rio Umali, a blogger, placed second place at the recently concluded Shell Fuel Save Good Choice Driving Challenge held at Bonifacio Global City. 

iamsuperbianca It was a fun and steady road trip yesterday with my partner @rioumali for the Shell Driving Challenge! And to cap the day off with great news.. we won 2nd place!!!!  It may be hard to believe, but we got 30+ kilometres mileage per 1 liter of FuelSave from Batangas to Taguig! Amazinggggg. Anyone can really make the most of every drop of fuel with the right habits - click the hashtag #ShellFuelSaveGoodChoice to see more tips!

Photo Source: Instagram user iamsuperbianca

Professional FX drivers, TV Host / model, mommy and fashion bloggers, news correspondents and young professionals comprise the 14 participants of the #‎ShellFuelSaveGoodChoiceDrivingChallenge‬ who were divided into seven (7) teams. All teams drove a total distance of 240 kilometers in the all new keyless Ford EcoSport 1.5L Titanium from Bonifacio Global City in Taguig to Batangas and back.

In a dinner awarding held at Mango Tree Restaurant at Bonifacio Global City,  all three pairs of women bloggers swept the top three places with Michelle Aventajado, daughter-in-law of rally driver Robert Aventajado and her partner Sarah Irene Tirona taking first place with 61 points, followed by Bianca Gonzales and Rio Umali at 62 points and Jackie Go and Grace de Guzman in third with 68 points. #GirlPower

I believe that Bianca Gonzales had an edge over the other participants because she was named Shell FuelSave Celebrity Driver of the Year when she represented the Philippines and bested three other celebrities from Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand during the final leg of the Shell FuelSave Celebrity Driving Challenge in February this year.

Bianca Gonzales was delighted to be a part of the challenge since it showed that everyday drivers can also be fuel efficient.

“I am not a driving enthusiast so I am amazed to know that making simple adjustments to the way I drive – such as driving smoothly, avoiding high speeds and planning my trips carefully can go a long way in increasing my fuel efficiency.  Of course, what makes the difference is choosing the right fuel,”  Gonzalez  added.

The event was not a race but a test of efficient driving. The participants were given a total of 4 challenges that tested their fuel efficiency on the road. Two challenges were given on their way to Batangas and another two on their way back to Bonifacio Global City.

Shell Fuel Scientist Mae Ascan, the only Filipino among the over 200 Fuel Scientists in the world made the driving challenge more of a learning experience for the participants when she hold a special mentoring session on smarter driving behaviors and how to make good choices on and off road to help manage life’s daily pressures.

Among the practical tips given by Shell are the following:

•  using the correct oil and fuel
•  the importance of regular tune-ups
•  the right tire pressure at all times
•  smoothness of driving
•  using higher gears more often
•  conserving momentum
•  avoiding idling, excess weight, and over speeding, all relatively easy to do for motorists.

The Shell FuelSave Good Choice Driving Challenge served as a prelude to the results of the Shell FuelSave Good Choice Report –a nationwide study conducted by Pilipinas Shell to probe deeper into the range of decisions Filipino motorists make, the factors that affect these decisions, and how these impact the other aspect of their lives.

Filipino motorists on the average think of over 30 decisions per day and then spend long minutes on how to approach the decisions that they have decided. Small things like what route to take, what to eat later, when or where to fill up and price or quality of fuel occupy the minds of Filipino drivers. Trivial as it seems but according to the Shell FuelSave Good Choice Report, a nationwide study conducted by the company in helping everyday motorists balance decision making, Filipino motorists lose up to 4 days per month just by pondering what to do next.

“We recognize that our customers are very busy people and are pre-occupied with so many things that they need to do in their daily lives. In fact, 78 percent of Filipino motorists admit to having difficulty in making a decision when there are a lot of choices to choose from. Our mission, then, is to simplify this process by offering quality products that could make their lives a bit easier when they drive out of their homes,” said Anthony Lawrence Yam, Vice President of Retail of Pilipinas Shell.

It is because of these findings that Shell introduced Shell FuelSave, the company’s regular priced fuel that is designed to last longer. According to Yam, it simplifies decision-making by offering a quality product that makes peoples lives easier. Yam added that FuelSave has active efficiency ingredients that gives drivers a good choice that motorists don’t need to think about.

#‎ShellFuelSaveGoodChoiceDrivingChallenge‬ showcases how easy it is for everyday individuals to become advocates of fuel-saving and be rewarded when they practice the Shell FuelSave Tips coupled with the use of Shell FuelSave fuels, which are designed to last longer per tank.

Congratulations to all of the 14 participants!  ‪

NOISE POLLUTION: Violation of Clean Air Act & Article 55

NOISE POLLUTION: Violation of Clean Air Act & Article 55

In the past, whenever my neighbor hold their regular "magdamagan" videoke session, we hardly had enough sleep. I just don't want to sound negative that I don't write nor put this on my FB status before.

Apparently, our neighbor who lives just across us decided to convert their home into a church. They regularly hold processions with unknown people going in and out our subdivision in the past but after their procession they simply dismantle and stop. 

Yesterday morning, maybe not contented with their "boyahan" with the Black Nazarene image that they use during procession they now evolved and hold their vigil, novena prayers and rosary almost every hour with a microphone and loud sound system to boot since yesterday morning until now...NONSTOP! They even closed the road, put several tents and the image in the middle of the road and use it as a road block.

I don't know if I can still refrain myself from telling them that there is a place for worship, a place to sleep and lecture them about noise pollution. 

We have been suffering from the disturbance and inconvenience brought about by the conduct of the religious business of our next door neighbor in a residential area. While it is true that every person has the right to pursue his own religion, passion, business or profession, he may not do so to the extent of disparaging the rights of others.

These activities flout the standard of serenity and tranquility of a village community. I am considering on filing a formal complaint to the proper authorities. The recourse to administrative remedies through our subdivision homeowners board of directors proved to be futile in the past to stop their videoke activities.

I am not a lawyer but I believe that noise pollution Is a violation of the Clean Air Act and Article 55 of the Revised Penal Code (alarm and scandal.)

For now, I'll try to catch some zzzzz.

BEWARE OF NETWORKING SCAM

BEWARE OF NETWORKING SCAM

Yesterday, I went to a luncheon meeting with somebody who claims to be a pr/ senior marketing manager of a reputable bank. He said he got my contact information from a blogger friend whom I asked several times via private message if he really knows the guy who contacted me, unfortunately he did not answer my querry. 

Not thinking straight, or shall we say I got enticed and excited on what kind of job he'll be offering me, I went to the venue as agreed upon only to find out at the last minute that he moved the meeting to another location. When I arrived at the restaurant where he set the lunch meeting, he offered me the menu so I ordered lunch.  He then asked me to transfer to another table because he has two more friends who are coming. ( Not only once but twice! I find that weird.) On the second table he asked me what's my plan for the next 5 years, etc. and then showed me a presentation on his tab and left me at the table to go to his friends who had just arrived and was sitting at another table. 

After a while he asked me to moved to another table. When we settled down finally to a table by the window, he then showed me a brochure. We were interrupted when his girl friend asked him for the products she ordered.  He then opened his bag and gave her a pen and products so she could ask the guy she was meeting with to sign a contract.  After a while,  he called the waiter's attention, he then instructed him to put his tab to the table of his friends. The waiter came back with my chit and asked for my payment.  Buti na lang may pera ako, paano kung wala? Hugas plato ang peg?

I find it very unethical of him, allegedly a senior marketing manager of a very reputable bank who earn thousands if not million of pesos a year to offer me ( an unemployed Ruptured Brain Aneurysm survivor who should be applying for disability because of her health condition) a lunch invitation where I ended up paying for my overpriced lunch of tapa and overcooked egg with rice in very small portion with no drinks priced at Php240, you could have that very same meal at tapa king for only 88 pesos with drinks. Grrrraaabbeee!

He asked me not to disclose what transpired during the lunch meeting to my bf, husband or whoever. Ano ka hilo?  As a blogger, it is my responsibility to warn my readers of scams concocted by silly individuals. Damn you!  Does your bosses from the Ayala owned bank know that you are using company time to do your networking biz?

Money can be earned without sacrificing your dignity.

CANCER FAIR 2014: Life Despite Cancer

CANCER FAIR 2014: Life Despite Cancer

Attention: To all cancer patients and survivors plus their family members and caregivers

You are cordially invited to the 5th Cancer Fair: Life Despite Cancer to be held at the Henry Noble Gymnasium at the Trinity University of Asia in Quezon City on October 12, 2014. This is organized by Philippine Society of Medical Oncology (PSMO).  

The Philippine Society of Medical Oncology (PSMO) is a professional non-profit organization of board certified medical oncologist that aims to enhance the science and ethical and holistic practice of cancer care in the country.

There's still life even if you have cancer.  Since 1969, the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology (PSMO) has tried to stage a venue for cancer patients and caregivers to have fun. Now on its 5th Fair, PSMO's 2014 Cancer Fair is set to bring more fun to the involved and loved ones on October 12, 2014.  The cancer fair will be showcasing a wide range of companies dealing with food and nutrition, beauty products, wigs, hotels and more. 

The objective of the event is to offer the cancer patients together with their family and friends, a memorable moment together enjoying a day with fun, excitement and bond with other patients, nurses and doctors. A fun-filled day with games, sharing, performances and everything in between.

I've never talked about it, but I lost my dad, aunt and best friend from cancer and it was devastating. Had we known about this fun event, we could have at least let them join in the fun.  So, the least that I can do now is to share this event with you my dear readers, please do your share and let other people ( especially those with cancer and survivors as well as their caregivers) know about this upcoming event too.

The past cancer fairs that were held last 2001, 2003, 2006 and 2009 had several celebrity volunteers who participated in giving fun activities and treats to patients. 

This year, the organizers hope to bring more exciting exhibits, activities and kiosks to help cancer patients simply enjoy a day of fun. Fellows from PSMO and participating oncologists will be present during the event as well as some bloggers. Celebrities like Angel Aquino and Yay Yushkova of Yay Designs will also be present during the cancer fair.  The organizers are happy as more and more celebrities are expressing their commitment to the advocacy event. 

If you want to join in the fun or to have a booth ( For companies who might want to share their blessings) or for other inquiries please contact PSMO Cancer Fair 2014 by visiting www.psmo.org.ph and calling 723-0101 local 5318 or 721-9236 (telefax). You can also send an e-mail to the secretariat at psmo_secretariat@yahoo.com to register and inquire on how you can take part at this momentous event. 

See you there :).

TRANSCOSMOS ASIA PHILIPPINES, INCORPORATED: To Offer 2,000 Jobs

TRANSCOSMOS ASIA PHILIPPINES, INCORPORATED: To Offer 2,000 Jobs

Transcosmos Asia Philippines, Inc. (Transcosmos) was inaugurated on Thursday, October 2, 2014, during a press conference held at its office located at One Corporate Center, Ortigas Complex in Pasig City. 

Japan's number one BPO firm Transcosmos officially announced its 70th overseas location and the fourth in ASEAN, after Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

Transcosmos is a Japanese firm that offers the following services:

•  Information technology business processes outsourcing (IT-BPO) services
•  English contact center services
•  as well as development and operation services for smartphone Web sites and applications.  

“Our future aim is to also expand in such areas such as e-commerce one-stop services and analytics services, as we strive to develop services that help increase sales and reduce costs for our client companies " Transcosmos Philippines President Hideki Yamashita said during the press con.

Transcosmos Philippines is aiming for sales of ¥2 billion by fiscal 2018. Yamashita told members of the media that they are also looking for possible expansion in the country outside Metro Manila particularly in the top travel destinations - Cebu, Davao and Iloilo.

During the question and answer portion, I asked Transcosmos Philippines Country Head Hanna Supetran how many employees are they eyeing in the next 4 years, she told me that Transcosmos Philippines is set to offer 2,000 jobs for the Filipino people in the next four years. Cool! Yes! That is a piece of good news for us Filipinos. Domo arigato gozaimasu Transcosmos!

It is one of the coolest BPO events I've ever attended because for the very first time,  I witnessed a Kagami Biraki,(鏡開き), a Japanese traditional opening ceremony which literally translates to "Opening the Mirror."  Present during the event are Transcosmos Country Head Hanna Supetran, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Deputy Executive Director Monchito Ibrahim, Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Director General Lilia De Lima who emphasized that Japanese is one of the biggest investors in the country and said that Philippines is the best place to invest in Asia. Also present are Senator Bam Aquino, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Trade, Commerce, and Entrepreneurship Transcosmos President and COO Masataka Okuda and Transcosmos Executive Vice President Koichi Iwami.

Congratulations and welcome to the Philippines!

HOW TO COMMUTE FROM SM MEGAMALL TO GREENHILLS SHOPPING CENTER

HOW TO COMMUTE FROM SM MEGAMALL TO GREENHILLS SHOPPING CENTER

I recently discovered how to commute from SM Megamall to Greenhills Shopping Center via the Van Terminal located at the back of SM Megamall A.  It is located at the public parking lot of St. Francis Square just across the back exit of SM Mega A.  Think of National Bookstore, flower shop etc.

Fare is only Php20.00. I find it much more convenient than walking or riding a bus then crossing Edsa.

Have a safe trip! God bless us always!

PLANA'S PANTRY: Intimate Goodness of Home-Cooked Meals

PLANA'S PANTRY: Intimate Goodness of Home-Cooked Meals

Plana's Pantry is a bit of heaven in Mandaluyong City.  This newly-opened quaint restaurant is not easy to miss because it has a big signage outside and is strategically located just right across California Garden Square Condominium along Domingo M. Guevara St. (formerly Libertad St.) in Mandaluyong City. Parking could be difficult though because there's a limited number of cars that could park in front of the restaurant. 

The quote "If you are what you eat, then I only want to eat the good stuff" is from Remy, a determined young rat who dreams of becoming a renowned French chef in the hilarious movie, Ratatouille ( rat-a-too-ee). The handwriting you see on that big signage was done by the owners' 10-year old son. Cute, eh?

For a meat eater like me, there's nothing better than a big pile of pork ribs brushed with BBQ sauce and served piping hot in a homey environment that has bright lights and dainty designs.

A piece of heaven right in your plate!

The home-style, tender, fall-off-the-bone, smokin' hot Hickory Bbq ribs at Plana's Pantry are to die for. You have to personally try it. Six of us devoured this meaty goodness. Next time around, I'll order one all to myself. 

Hugged by smoke, licked by fire, and kissed by sauce, that’s how Plana's pantry does its Hickory bbq! 

For me, this is what a true barbecue is, and this is what Plana's Pantry brings to you every time you take a bite of its comfort food.  According to its owners, they only use choice cuts of ribs imported from Australia, marinated in sweet juices and rubbed with different herbs and spices. The secret though is how they cook their meat. Low and slow, using only prime grade charcoal and tender loving care that lend the ribs that great flavor. Plana's Pantry finishes it off with an amazing barbecue sauce to give it the perfect tang every good barbecue should have. Perfectly paired up with a corn side dish and a super delicious lemonade. 

The flavor exploded in my mouth the first time I took a bite. I can really taste the hickory smoke, very tasty, very juicy, solid meaty goodness. The meat falls off the bone, the sweet tangy sauce sticks into the tender meat.  I can say that Plana's Pantry is determined to satisfy its customers’ cravings for traditional home cooked meals fresh from the kitchen. 

Stellar home-made strawberry ice cream! This is really amazing. The taste is intense and delicious while the texture is unbelievable and like nothing I've ever had before. It was creamy and very rich in flavor. Just really good! Kudos to the owners who made the ice cream themselves with a little help from their eldest son.

Even though the restaurant is small, we spread out comfortably.  It was a hot night and the air-con was great.  I love locally-owned businesses that deliver perfect service. The owners are among the most humble and nicest people we've ever meet. 

Rachel said that Planas Pantry only prepares the freshest ingredients with no preservatives, much care is taken in order to make sure that every dish that comes out of its kitchen stimulates your palate and leaves you with a sense of comfort and satisfaction only good food can provide. Rachel further said that their recipes have been in their family for decades, ensuring that their food has been, and is continually being subjected to, the most discerning of tastes: their relatives' and friends'.

So the next time you want to eat out with your whole family, consider Plana's Pantry. Sit back and relax at its comfortable coach as you wait for your food to arrive. Decades of food tradition can’t be wrong. Fortunately, you don’t have to wait a lifetime to taste what Plana's Pantry have been concocting all these years.

We felt very happy with the experience and will surely be back even though it is quite a drive for us.

Terrific service and excellent food. While the restaurant is rather small and cozy, the dishes they serve open up your palate to a world of wonders.

Rating:

Plana's Pantry
50 Domingo M. Guevara St. (formerly Libertad St.) , 

Highway Hills, Mandaluyong City-