Dairy Queen Unveils the Dreamy Avocado Fest with Two Delicious Treats!

 

Get ready for a tastebud adventure as Dairy Queen (DQ) introduces its limited-time Avocado Fest! This exciting event brings two delightful offerings that perfectly blend the rich taste of avocado with your favorite DQ treats. Avocado is back! 

Indulge in the Perfect Match: Avocado Oreo Blizzard

Calling all avocado lovers with a sweet tooth! The Avocado Oreo Blizzard is a match made in dessert heaven. DQ's signature soft serve ice cream is swirled with creamy avocado chunks and studded with crunchy Oreo cookie pieces. This unique combination creates an explosion of textures and flavors, leaving you wanting more.

Cool Down with the Creamy Avocado Milkshake

Need a refreshing way to beat the heat? Look no further than the Avocado Milkshake! This hearty concoction blends DQ's signature soft-serve ice cream with real avocados, resulting in an irresistibly smooth and creamy beverage that's perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy the Avocado Fest Your Way

The Avocado Oreo Blizzard comes in Mini, Regular, Medium, and Large sizes, starting at P99. The Avocado Milkshake is available in a cool 12oz or a larger 16oz size, starting at P179.

No matter your preference, you can enjoy the Avocado Fest treats at any DQ store nationwide for dine-in or take-out orders. Craving a delicious delivery? Get them delivered straight to your doorstep by calling the 8911-1111 hotline, logging onto www.dairyqueen.com, or using Dairy Queen's official delivery partners GrabFood, foodpanda, and Pickaroo (prices may vary).

Don't miss out on this limited-time opportunity to experience the deliciousness of DQ's Avocado Fest! Head to your nearest DQ store today and indulge in the perfect blend of creamy avocados and your favorite DQ treats.

Follow and give DQ a like on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) so you won't miss out on the latest updates, offers, and deals!

Embark on a Culinary Adventure at Solaire Resorts with Solaire's Lifestyle Reward Cards

 

Solaire Rewards Lifestyle Card

Solaire Resort invites you to a world of unparalleled culinary delights at both its stunning locations: Solaire Resort Entertainment City in Paranaque and the new Solaire Resort North in Vertis North, Quezon City.

Solaire Resort Entertainment City invites you to embark on a delightful culinary journey. Indulge in a luxurious feast at Fresh, a haven for seafood enthusiasts. Savor an abundance of fresh lobsters, perfectly cooked to your preference. And to sweeten the deal, enjoy a 20% discount and rebate when you dine at Fresh with your Solaire Rewards Lifestyle Card.

Solaire Rewards Lifestyle Card

For a taste of Italian extravagance, elevate your dining experience with Finestra's "Tartufo Nero" set menu. This four-course culinary masterpiece features an array of dishes infused with the rich flavor of black truffle sauce. From roasted scallops and pork belly to homemade tortelli and king prawns, US angus beef tenderloin, and a decadent dessert, this is a true feast for the senses.

Craving authentic Japanese flavors? Look no further than Yakumi's luxurious brunch. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Japan as you explore eight live buffet stations overflowing with culinary delights.

For a heartwarming family-style meal, head over to Red Lantern. Their lavish spread boasts an impressive selection of dishes, including wok-fried Wagyu beef, melt-in-your-mouth "dong po" braised pork belly, and a unique braised grouper fish maw simmered in a flavorful broth.

Pool Café at Solaire Resort North

Looking for a taste of Singapore? Oasis Garden Café offers a delectable array of sumptuous dishes, featuring satay skewers, the fragrant nasi lemak, and the iconic chili crab bee hon.

With your Solaire Rewards Lifestyle Card, you can unlock exclusive savings at these restaurants. Enjoy a 10% discount and earn a 10% rebate on your bill, making your culinary adventure at Solaire even more rewarding.

Experience a sophistication of flavors at Solaire Resort North. Get utmost relaxation at the Pool Cafe and indulge in your favorite dishes like a luscious sausage platter, Solaire’s Signature angus burger as well as local favorites including lechon kawali, BBQ liempo, chicken or pork adobo, and more. With your Solaire Rewards Lifestyle Card, enjoy serenity by the pool and get 20% discount and 20% rebate. Savor Kapampangan delicacies with a modern twist like Sipo Egg or Morcon at Manyaman. Have an exquisite 4-course lunch at Finestra where you can savor Italian dishes featuring Carpaccio di Bresaola, Tagliolini al Ragu di Agnello, Pollo Al Matone, and Affogato.

Explore a wide range of unlimited dim sum including deep fried “Jiao Zi” pork dumpling, Siew mai steamed pork dumpling or Ha gao steamed shrimp dumpling at Red Lantern. Relish on authentic Japanese dishes at Yakumi including pan-grilled Japanese abalone or Patagonian toothfish teppanyaki. Get 10% discount and 10% rebate when you use your Solaire Lifestyle Card in these restaurants.

Sign up now to become a member by downloading the MySolaire App or scan the QR code at any F&B or participating resort outlets at Solaire Resort Entertainment City and Solaire Resort North. Make the most out of your 5-star experience and get access to unforgettable culinary experiences like no other.

Winging it at Bistro M: A Review of Miramar Hotel's Unlimited Wings, Fries and Rice

 

The art deco hotel built in 1932: Miramar Hotel in Roxas Boulevard

Craving a wing night out that won’t break the bank? Look no further than Bistro M at Miramar Hotel! For only P499 per person, you can indulge in an unlimited serving of their wings, fries and rice. But is it worth the price? Let’s find out!

Unlimited wings, fries and rice at Miramar Hotel's Bistro M

The Unlimited Wings:

Bistro M offers a variety of wing flavors to choose from, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of classic buffalo or something more adventurous, their menu has you covered. The key question is, how do the wings themselves hold up?  Here is an honest review based on my own preference.

While others rave about the wide selection of flavors, the portion size for me tends to be a bit smaller than what I was expecting. With regards to the taste, Buffalo is at the top of my list. It had that classic wing sauce, offering a sweet buttery spicy kick that grows with you. But it’s perfectly tolerable even for those who are not exactly fond of spicy foods.

Salted Egg flavor has a creamy and rich flavor with a touch of salinity. Take note, it’s not salty unlike other chicken with the same flavor.  The salted egg powder isn’t too overpowering. So you can still taste chicken with every bite despite the salty egg taste.

Garlic Parmesan has that cheesy and garlicky combination that’s sure to please even the most discriminating palate. Borrowing that phrase from another famous fast food, it’s finger-lickin good. Worry not, Bistro M has plastic gloves should you want to eat your wings and fries with your hands rather than use your cutlery.

Soy Sesame is our least favorite flavor. It’s a sweet and savory option with a hint of nuttiness. I would’ve preferred my soy sesame with some sweet soy honey glazed instead since the sauce tends to make the chicken ‘swim’ on its soy-based marinade or sauce. Maybe I’m not just fond of the saucy type of wings. But it’s still worth trying. Kids will surely love this.

To complement your wings, Bistro M also throws in three delectable dips:

• ·         Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic sauce for a flavorful punch.
• ·         Thousand Island: A classic dressing with a tangy sweetness
• ·         Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy dip that pairs well with both the wings and fries.

The Sides:

The fries are another point of contention. The fries are crispy and satisfying. It had none of that “transfats taste” and it's not greasy. The rice is a safe bet, a good neutral base to balance the potentially strong flavors of the wings. 

My verdict:

Purple Plum Fairy trying the unlimited wings

Overall, the unlimited wings, fries and rice at Bistro M offer a good value for money especially for those with a hearty appetite. The variety of wing flavors is a definite plus, and the fries and rice are decent accompaniments. However, be prepared for potentially inconsistent wing sizes and potentially limp fries (but if you’re lucky like I was, I’ve had crunchy fries during my visit).

The Bistro M's staff walks around for refills of wings, fries, and rice

Pros: Affordable, wide variety of wing flavors, good portion sizes.

Cons: Wings can be on the small side, and fries can possibly be limp.

Purple Plum Fairy and friends enjoying the weekend with Miramar Hotel's Bistro M's Unlimited wings, fries and rice

If you’re looking for a fun and affordable wing night out with family and friends, Bistro M’s unlimited wings promo at P499 nett per person is definitely worth trying. Just make sure to manage your expectations and come with a big appetite. Oh, and while you’re there, take advantage of ordering their coffee and signature iced teas (they really taste good but it’s not part of the unlimited promo though, you need to order them separately.)

My friends and purpleplumfairy

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this post. Opinions are 100% my own. 

Why Chicken versus Biryani King Food Review

 

Biryani King's Chicken Biryani

Why Chicken and Biryani King are two prominent names in the realm of chicken-centric dining. Both establishments have carved a niche for themselves, but how do they stack up against each other? Let's dive into a comparative taste test.

Chicken biryani is a traditional South Asian dish that is made by cooking marinated chicken with fragrant basmati rice and a blend of spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. On the other hand, why chicken is a Western dish that typically involves grilling or roasting chicken pieces with herbs and spices.

Why Chicken's Chicken Biryani 

In terms of flavor profile, chicken biryani has a rich and aromatic taste due to the use of various spices and herbs. In contrast, why chicken has a simpler flavor profile with the focus on the natural taste of the chicken itself.

Why Chicken's Chicken Biryani

Why Chicken has built a reputation on its unique flavor profiles. 

Strengths:

Bold and distinctive flavors

Often cited for its tender juicy roasted chicken

It is served with two different sauces: garlic white sauce and spicy red sauce

Weaknesses:

Some customers find the flavors too overpowering

Consistency in taste can vary across branches

Small chicken size with lesser Biryani rice

Quality can fluctuate based on location

Meanwhile, Biryani King offers a comprehensive menu featuring various chicken dishes. Their biryani, however, is the star attraction.

Strengths:

Delicious and aromatic biryani

Tender and flavorful chicken in biryani

Good value for money

Charred taste because it was grilled and not cooked via rotisserie

More variety of dishes to choose from

Weaknesses:

More expensive than Why Chicken (Why Chicken is sold at P300 nett while Biryani King is at P350 nett)

Chicken has dry and rough texture to the point that it has an unpleasantly dry, chalky texture.

The Verdict: A Matter of Taste

Choosing between Why Chicken and Biryani King ultimately depends on your personal preference. If you crave a diverse menu with bold flavors and a strong focus on chicken, Why Chicken might be your go-to. However, if you prioritize aromatic biryani and a satisfying rice-based meal, Biryani King could be the winner.

To make an informed decision, consider these factors:

• Flavor profile: Do you prefer bold, distinctive flavors or a more subtle taste?
• Menu variety: Are you looking for a wide range of chicken options or a more focused menu?
• Price point: Both restaurants offer different price ranges.
• Location: Check the nearest branch of each restaurant for convenience.

Have you tried both Why Chicken and Biryani King? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

While both dishes feature chicken as the star ingredient, they differ in terms of preparation methods, flavors, and cultural significance. Whether you prefer the bold flavors of chicken biryani or the simplicity of why chicken ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this blog post. Opinions expressed are 100% my own. 

Generika Drugstore Partners with Healthway Medical Network to Offer Exclusive Discounts to GeneriKard Loyalty Program Cardholde

Generika Drugstore loyalty card called GeneriKard can now avail special discounts at Healthway Medical Network

Generika Drugstore, the Philippines' leading drugstore chain known for its affordable and high-quality generic medicines, is pleased to announce a new partnership with Healthway Medical Network (HMN) to provide even more rewards to its loyal GeneriKard Loyalty Program cardholders.

Through this partnership, GeneriKard cardholders can now enjoy a special 5% discount on select healthcare services offered at Healthway Clinics, Healthway-QualiMed Hospitals, and the Healthway Cancer Care Hospital – the first comprehensive and dedicated cancer care facility in the Philippines.

This program builds upon Generika Drugstore's commitment to providing its customers with ginhawa (relief) by offering not just affordable generic medicines but also making basic healthcare services more accessible. This aligns with their existing Plus Services which include Libreng Konsulta program with partner doctors and free blood pressure monitoring.

Under the partnership with HMN, GeneriKard cardholders can avail of the 5% discount on the following services:

• Room and board in all HMN hospitals
• Imaging Services (CT scan, X-ray, General ultrasound, MRI)
• Laboratory Services (Blood tests, Biopsies, Antigen/Antibody tests, Microbial tests, Semen tests, Stool tests, Urine tests)

GeneriKard Loyalty Program members only need to present their physical card, their name and signature, and a valid ID at the HMN clinic or hospital to avail of the discount.  This special discount cannot be availed with other HMN promotions and government mandatory discounts.  The program runs until December 31, 2024.

GeneriKard is Generika Drugstore’s loyalty and rewards program where customers earn points for every purchase with no minimum amount required. Registration is free, while the physical card can be availed for only thirty pesos (P30.00) at any Generika Drugstore nationwide.

Generika Drugstore and Healthway Medical Network are part of Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc. (AC Health), a wholly owned subsidiary of Ayala Corporation, that aims to provide Filipinos access to affordable and quality healthcare. 

 

Manila Bridal Fair by Manila Prince Hotel: A Premier Wedding Showcase

 

The much-anticipated Manila Bridal Fair by Manila Prince Hotel is set to grace the Grand Ballroom on July 26 and 27, 2024. This prestigious event aims to bring together a curated selection of industry experts, offering soon-to-wed couples an unparalleled experience. Admission is free on both dates.

The line-up of over 20 exhibitors is set to impress, from Angeline Cakes, Audiolex Interactive Photobooth, Babaylan Coffee, Big Day by Charles and Co., Cakecologist, Cocktails Manila, Events by Thoffy, FYI Events, Flowers by Alvin, Lawrence Tapalla, MTC Events, Music Podium Entertainment, Myra Lorenzo, Myrtle Salvador, Paper Flowers Manila, Photoculture, Purple Mix Lights & Sounds, Sentimental Groove Music, The Artisan Cellar Door, and Winvih Mobile Bar – all dedicated to making each wedding truly memorable. Couples can consult with these professionals and book their services during the fair.

On July 26, the fair will open its doors at 12:00 noon and will run until 7:00 pm. In the evening, there will be a bridal fashion show putting the spotlight on ready-to-wear gowns and suits by partner designers Carina Canlas, Fatima Beltran, Ryan ChrisBaylen, plus members of Designers Circle Philippines.

On the second day, July 27, the fair will be open to attendees from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Additionally, partner designers will hold a trunk show at the presidential suites of Manila Prince Hotel. Couples can view the designers’ gown and suit ready-to-wear collection, try them on, and make purchases on the spot, ensuring a personalized and exclusive shopping experience. Moreover, Benz Co-Rana, the founder of Weddings at Work, will present a talk, offering her personal insights to couples and wedding suppliers.

During the 2-day bridal fair, Manila Prince Hotel will be transformed by the creative talents of none other than Amante Fleurs and Joyce Aguilar, at both the hotel lobby and the Grand Ballroom. Manila Prince Hotel will also showcase its signature themes: Classic, Opulent, and Oriental, providing attendees with a glimpse of the stunning settings that can make their special day unforgettable.

For more information about the event, call +63285256228, emailinfo@manilaprince.com, or visit. www.manilaprince.com.

Special thanks to event partners: Manila Bulletin, Wedding Essentials,The Manila Times, Wheninmanila.com, Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila, Mixcraft Lights and Sounds, Weddings at Work, and SM Store Manila.

Are you losing your balance?

 

Have you ever ridden a rollercoaster, had a bit too much to drink, or sailed over rough and choppy seas? Then you may have experienced a temporary loss of balance, that woozy, room-is-spinning feeling that leaves you staggering and holding on to support until you’ve regained your steadiness.

A loss of balance and its accompanying symptoms can also be the result of a medical issue. “Your ability to sit, stand, and walk without falling or swaying from side to side involves more than your muscles and bones,” says Franco Louie L.B. Abes, MD, of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “These actions also involve your eyes, inner ear, nerves, heart, brain, muscles, and blood vessels. Once one of these key organs doesn’t function as it should, it can impact your balance.”

According to MakatiMed, health-related balance problems can stem from one of three sources:

The vestibular system “is usually related to the inner ear. Certain medications, ear infections, calcium crystals that move to the wrong side of the inner ear, too much fluid in the inner ear (Meniere’s disease), or a benign tumor in the ear (acoustic neuroma) can affect your balance,” says Dr. Abes. “Common symptoms to look out for are dizziness, vertigo, unsteadiness, blurred vision, and even falling.”

The vascular system “controls the flow of blood to the brain. Poor circulation, standing up or sitting down too quickly (orthostatic hypotension), and stroke can manifest in the form of dizziness, lightheadedness, and the feeling of fainting,” Dr. Abes explains.

The nervous system, “which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and other nerves, can also be the cause of your imbalance issues,” Dr. Abes points out. “Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, cervical spondylosis, multiple sclerosis, as well as the presence of an infarct or a concussion are conditions that can result in a loss of balance.”

A thorough clinical examination and further diagnostic tests aid a physician in getting to the bottom of your balance problem. “You should likely see an otolaryngologist, who specializes in diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, neck, and throat,” says Dr. Abes. “If your loss of balance is due to dislodged crystals in your inner ear, then the doctor may do the Epley maneuver, which moves the calcium crystals back into their proper place. Steroids and vestibular rehabilitation therapy can address an inner ear infection and Meniere’s disease.”

Proper vestibular evaluation and imaging tests of your head and brain are recommended if initial examinations and treatments do not resolve the problem.

“The point is not to delay a consultation,” advises Dr. Abes. “An unsteady gait doesn’t just interfere with your daily activities. It could lead to more problems like falls that could result in fractures or head trauma. By addressing your loss of balance issue early, you save yourself from complications that could be more detrimental to your health.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email

mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and

Twitter.

Philippine Marketing Association Announces 2024 Agora Youth Awards Finalists, Empowering the Next Generation of Filipino Marketers

 

PMA Executives and partners

The Philippine Marketing Association (PMA), in cooperation with the Philippine Junior Marketing Association (PJMA), co-presented with AGC Power Holdings Corp., have announced the finalists for the 32nd Agora Youth Awards. Honoring the next generation of Filipino marketers, the awards feature two categories: individual students and junior marketing associations or school organizations involved in marketing.

The Agora Youth Awards is an annual search for the country’s top marketing students, recognizing excellence in academic performance, extracurricular achievements, and performance in the marketing plan competition.

This year's finalists from various colleges and universities nationwide have demonstrated significant marketing skills through diverse initiatives that highlight their ability to adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of the industry. These initiatives showcase their creativity, strategic thinking and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional marketing practices.

The finalists for the individual category came from Luzon, NCR, and Mindanao, namely Kristalyn Agustin from Central Luzon State University; Franco Gabrielle Delatina from Our Lady of Fatima University - Antipolo Campus; Ma. Alexandria Ogalinola from Bulacan State University-Main Campus; Kaye Liwag from Batangas State University - TNEU - Pablo Borbon; Xyrill Baltazar from National University-Fairview; Sharmaine Allen Bea, Mariel Flores, Raymart Mariano Jr. and Maica Stephamae Orenda from Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Manila &Taguig; Prince Olie Cacho from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila; Jarmila Cansancio from Colegio De San Juan De Letran- Manila; Mark Enriquez Cruz from San Beda University; Madelene Abapo from La Salle University - Ozamiz; Rayan Camid from Xavier University- Ateneo De Cagayan and Mike Ivan Siga from Mindanao State University - Main Campus, Marawi City.

Signing photo of PMA with Aseana City and Sequoia Hotel

The awards program, in cooperation with the PJMA also spotlights top student marketing associations with their programs and contributions to the advancement of their student marketing members.

In the Junior Marketing Association category, the finalists came from Luzon, NCR, Visayas, and Mindanao, including Cavite State University Junior Marketing Association; Central Luzon State University Junior Marketing Association; Bulacan State University Chamber of Young Business Leaders; Mariano Marcos State University Junior Marketing Advocates; De LaSalle University Manila Junior Entrepreneurs & Marketing Association; Polytechnic University of the Philippines Junior Marketing Executives; Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Taguig Junior Marketing Association; San Beda University Junior Marketing Association; Siliman University Junior Marketing Association and Xavier University Junior Marketing Association.

Leah Marie Ayeng, Director of Youth Academe at PMA, emphasized the broader impact of the awards. The Agora Youth Awards is a platform that looks at community impact beyond competence because that is what it takes to be a changemaker. Now in its 32nd year, PMA’s youth and academe initiatives will take on a new approach with more innovative and practical programs that will enrich our young marketers' experience and expose them to the pivotal changes in the industry.

The selection process involves multiple stages of assessment, including application reviews, academic record assessments, and evaluations of nominees; marketing plans and impacts. The judges for the individual category are Lea Aquino, Mikaela Manuel, Loise Jan Alvarado, and Bianca Cerdenia. For the JMA category, the judges are Donna Donato, Lloyd Genesiran, and Queen Dy Manly. All judges are past recipients of the Agora Youth Awards.

 The program focuses on five key areas: academic performance, extracurricular achievement, marketing acumen, values, and personality. Students demonstrate their capabilities by crafting real marketing plans that study real-life business cases, allowing them to apply marketing concepts and practices learned during their academic years. This thorough screening ensures transparency and fairness, subjecting each candidate to a comprehensive analysis to verify their accomplishments and assess their potential for future contributions.

Archie Carrasco, the CEO of AGC Power Holdings Corp. and a former recipient of the Agora Youth Award (formerly TOMAS Award) expressed his pride in being part of the awards again, this time as co-presenter and judge. "Being a part of the Agora Youth Awards is a full-circle moment for me. I was once a finalist in 2001, and now, two decades later, I have the honor of serving as a judge. This award has been a significant part of my career journey, and I’m honored to give back to this platform.”

The 32nd Agora Youth Awards is presented in partnership with Aseana Holdings Inc., Sequoia Hotel, AQAdvertising, and AIC Group of Companies Holdings Corporation. The Business Manual serves as the official media partner. Additionally, Shoppertainment Live, Zoe Broadcasting, Prestige Paper Products, Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, and Uniquecorn Strategies PR are supporting the event as creatives and PR partners. The awards ceremony will take place on July 31, 2024, at Sequoia Hotel Manila Bay in Parañaque City. During the press conference, the StratMark Student Conference was also announced, with representatives from the University of Santo Tomas, the venue partner, and Our Lady of Fatima University, the youth and academe partner, in attendance. StratMark is the annual convergence of marketing students, educators, and professionals, and is one of the flagship programs of the PMA.

CINEMALAYA BENTE: LOOB, LALIM, LAKAS’ EXPLORES THE DEPTHS OF PHILIPPINE CINEMATIC SOUL

 

Twenty years into navigating the cinematic imagination, the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival sets sail once more from August 2 to 11, guided by the Filipino people’s inner constellation, imagery, and creativity.

Embracing the theme “Cinemalaya Bente: Loob Lalim Lakas,” the pioneering independent film

festival returns with 10 compelling full-length and 10 captivating short films in competition. For its 20th edition, Cinemalaya promises top-tier visual storytelling that ignites imaginations while amplifying diverse voices in cinema.

Competing for the Best Film Balanghai Trophy in the Full-Length Category are: ALIPATO AT MUOG by JL Burgos; AN ERRAND by Dominic Bekaert and Sarge Lacuesta; TUMANDOK by Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay and Richard Jeroui Salvadico; BALOTA by Kip Oebanda; GULAY LANG MANONG (NO MORE THAN VEGGIES) by BC Amparado; KANTIL (TRENCH) by Joshua Caesar Medroso; KONO BASHO by Jaime Pacena II; LOVE CHILD by Jonathan Jurilla; THE HEARING by Lawrence Fajardo and Honee Alipio; and THE WEDDING DANCE by Julius Lumiqued.

Short Feature films in competition include: ABOGBAYBAY by P.R. Monencillo Patindol; ALL THIS WASTED SPACE by Cris Bringas; AMBOT WALA KO KABALO UNSAY I-TITLE INI by Rey Anthony Villaverde; CROSS MY HEART AND HOPE TO DIE by Sam Manasca; I WAS WALKING ON THE STREETS OF CHINATOWN by Ryan Capili; MAMA by Alexandra Brizuela; MARIPOSA by Melanie Faye Tampos; PAMALANDONG SA DANOW (REFLECTION IN THE MARSH) by Breech Asher Harani; PRIMETIME MOTHER by Sonny Calvento; and THE RED TRAILS (AN BAGA SA DALAN) by Mariel Ritchie Jolejole and Roniño Dolim.

Amidst ongoing rehabilitation of the CCP Main Building, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and the Cinemalaya Foundation, Inc. proudly bring this cinematic feast to Ayala Malls Manila Bay. For over two decades, Ayala Malls has steadfastly supported CCP and Cinemalaya as a valued partner.

During its 10-day run, Cinemalaya films in competition and exhibitions will be screened at Cinema 2, Cinema 8, Cinema 9, and Cinema 10. These screenings secure a safe space for independent filmmakers to tell their stories and share perspectives on issues shaping the nation, while propelling the Philippine cinema industry to new heights.

Festival fans and film enthusiasts continue to enjoy mainstays like: Retrospective, which brings back previous Cinemalaya winning films; Best of the Festivals, showcasing the best films from local festivals; Visions of Asia, featuring award-winning Asian and NETPAC films; Premieres, with never- before-screened films; Dokyu, showing award-winning documentaries; and Digital Classics, featuring newly-restored Filipino classic films.

Running concurrently is the 36th Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video, the longest- running independent film competition of its kind in Southeast Asia. Films compete in categories such as Short Feature/Narrative, Experimental, Documentary, and Animation. Pre-selected entries will be screened on August 3-6, 2024 at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, with the awards ceremony on August 10 at Cinema 2.

Now in its 20th year of unfettered exploration of truthful storytelling and imagery, Cinemalaya continues to discover, encourage, and support the cinematic works of upcoming and veteran Filipino filmmakers who boldly articulate and freely interpret the Philippine experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity.

Since 2005, Cinemalaya has supported and promoted the production of Filipino full-feature independent films and short films, many of which have won awards in local and I competitions and festivals. Through the annual festival, Cinemalaya has showcased over 1,000 works by independent filmmakers, including full-feature films, shorts, documentaries, Filipino film classics, and art films.

For more information, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya

website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and

Pizza Hut's Melt & Mix Combos: Solo Dining, Elevated

 

Sometimes, the best company you can keep is yourself. There’s something undeniably refreshing about spending quality time alone. It's a chance to recharge, reflect, and indulge in your own little world. And what better way to enhance your solo escapade than with a flavorful feast? Enter Pizza Hut's new Melts & Mix combos!

A Flavorful Solo Adventure

Pizza Hut has just leveled up solo dining with its exciting new Melts & Mix combos. Imagine this: crispy, cheesy Melts paired with your favorite Pizza Hut sides, all in one satisfying package. Starting at only P179, these combos are the perfect companions for your "me time."

Choose from four irresistible Melt flavors: Double Bacon, Meat Lovers, Hawaiian Supreme, or Four Cheese and Mushroom. Then, pick your preferred side from a tempting lineup: Cream of Mushroom Soup, Spaghetti Bolognese, Tater Tots, Regular Fries, Caesar Salad, Crab Salad Rolls, or WingStreet wings. And to quench your thirst, a refreshing glass of ice-cold Pepsi completes the combo.

Pizza Hut's Melts are a game-changer. With their perfectly thin and crispy outer crust and generous filling of cheese and toppings, they're a solo-snacking dream. Dip them in the provided marinara sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Indulge Solo, Every Day

Treat yourself to a Melts & Mix combo anytime, anywhere! These delectable offerings are available for dine-in all day, every day at Pizza Hut branches nationwide. So, the next time you crave some quality alone time, head to your nearest Pizza Hut and savor the perfect blend of flavor and solitude.

What's your favorite way to enjoy a solo dining experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Give Pizza Hut a like and a follow on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) so you won't miss out on the latest news, updates, and offers!

Kublai Millan Presents "Land of Premise" at The Art Gallery of The Manila Hotel

 

Acclaimed Filipino painter and sculptor Kublai Millan is set to unveil his latest exhibit, Land of Premise, at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery from August 1 to 31, 2024.

Born Rey Mudjahid Ponce Millan, Kublai Millan is a third-generation descendant of settlers from Ilocos, who grapples with this legacy through his art. Land of Premise seeks to reclaim the original promise of Mindanao—a land of peace, prosperity, and unity—while exploring the complex history and unfulfilled potential of the southernmost island of the Philippines.

"This exhibit is a call to action," says Kublai. "We must remember the premise on which Mindanao was built—its strengths, its unique identity, and its people. Words alone cannot build a future. Action and shared resources are what's needed."

Kublai Millan

Kublai emphasizes that this exhibit is about the entire Mindanao island and its unrealized potential. Land of Premise serves as a bridge, inviting viewers to learn about Mindanao, connect with its stories, and envision a future where the island lives up to its original promise. “I’m taking this chance as an artist to visualize Mindanao as a truly land of promise fulfilled. Inviting other people to learn, identify, connect, and commune with this blessed land. Words cannot build a future, only actions and resources can. Know the premise so we can conceive a fulfillable promise,” he added.

Land of Premise 1

Land of Premise, comprising a total of 14 paintings, promises to be a feast for the senses, featuring Millan’s signature blend of vibrant colors and intricate details that have captivated art enthusiasts worldwide. Known for his unique style that combines traditional Filipino motifs with contemporary techniques, Kublai 's work is a reflection of his deep connection to his cultural heritage and his relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. His paintings are not only visually stunning but also carry profound messages about identity, history, and social issues.

The exhibit will transport viewers to a captivating realm where imagination and reality converge. By delving into the sources of inspiration for his paintings, viewers can gain insight into the creative process that drives his work and the underlying messages he seeks to convey through his art.

Land of Premise 2

The Manila Hotel's Art Gallery provides the perfect backdrop for Kublai 's exhibit, offering a sophisticated and elegant setting that complements the beauty of his masterpieces. This collaboration between The Manila Hotel and Kublai Millan is sure to attract art enthusiasts from all walks of life.

Land of Premise will be showcased at the Art Gallery from August 1 to 31, 2024. Admission is free.

Private previews for collectors are available by appointment until July 30, 2024. To arrange, call Richard Lo at +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or email r.lo@themanilahotel.com.