Friday, January 19, 2024

Manila Prince Hotel's Marcelino Café: Buffet Feast Fit for the Family

I recently visited Marcelino Café at Manila Prince Hotel to try their dinner buffet. A friend of mine told me that the buffet was worth the price and since I had time to kill, I decided to go ahead and give it a try. 

Starting with the dinner experience, Marcelino Café continued to uphold its reputation for excellence during the evening hours. The buffet spread featured diverse global cuisines, including American, Korean, Japanese, Indian, Filipino, and Vietnamese delights. This culinary tapestry transformed the dining space into a haven for food enthusiasts, promising a delightful fusion of tastes and textures.

One particular highlight of the dinner buffet was the sashimi selection, showcasing lapulapu and tanigue. This departure from the usual sashimi choices brought a unique and exciting twist to the dining experience. These less common fish varieties added a layer of sophistication and adventure to the buffet, and was definitely a surprise to me. 

They also offer breakfast and lunch buffet. The breakfast spread, available from 6:00 am to 10:00 am, promised a sumptuous start to the day. With a rotating selection that included classics like corned beef and hotdogs, as well as more exotic options like Spanish sardines and danggit, guests were treated to a diverse range of breakfast delights. The addition of pancake and waffle stations, along with bread, cereal, salad, and a hot cup of coffee, ensured a well-rounded and satisfying morning meal.

For those looking to indulge in a heartier feast, the lunch buffet, served from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm, offered an array of options. Priced at Php 899 net per person during the promotional period (the regular rate at Php 1,500 net), the lunch buffet featured an international culinary journey. Pasta with a selection of sauces, a salad station with various dressings, sushi, sashimi, and a carving station presenting a rotation of succulent roasted meats created a gastronomic adventure that catered to diverse palates.

Apart from the impressive variety and quality of dishes, one aspect that stood out was the affordability of Marcelino Café's buffet offerings. With the promotional rate of Php 899 net for both lunch and dinner, diners could savor many global cuisines without straining their budget. This affordability, combined with the exceptional quality of the food, makes Marcelino Café a compelling choice for those seeking a memorable dining experience without breaking the bank. 




Marcelino Café at Manila Prince Hotel is definitely a hidden gem that will surely become a haven for food enthusiasts. With a budget that won't hurt your wallet, families can come here to celebrate and enjoy the many different choices they have. 

For inquiries and reservations:

+632 53282222 loc.1231

fnb@manilaprince.com 

5 Signs It's Time to Quit Your Job to Start Your Dream SME Venture

For most aspiring business owners, taking that incredible leap from employment to entrepreneurship takes courage and hard work. This is especially true if you have a family to support. However, there comes a moment when you just know that it’s time to make that transition from rank-and-file worker to small- or medium-sized enterprise (SME) or startup business owner.

Are you ready to finally quit your day job and pursue your dream business?  Entrepreneurs-in-the-making, take note of these five compelling indicators that could signify your readiness to take the plunge:

1) You Have a Clear Plan to Achieve Success

One of the first signs that you're ready to transition from a job to your dream small business is that you’ve readily come up with a well-defined plan. Your business plan serves as a roadmap for your new venture, outlining your goals, strategies, and milestones. If you’ve put together the major pieces by yourself, that means that you have a good grasp of how tangible your aspirations are and what you’re willing to do to put your dream in motion. 

Sharpen your business plan draft by setting SMART goals—or goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—so that you have a clear framework for success. Remember, a clear plan will not only chart your course, but also instill confidence in your potential investors and stakeholders.

2) You Are Prepared to Learn the Tools and Skills of the Trade

Entrepreneurship demands continuous learning and adaptability. Being prepared to learn the tools of the business is a crucial sign that you're ready to launch your small business. Start by identifying the specific skills and knowledge required for success in your industry, and draw up a rough budget for procuring the proper tools to practice them.

Take, for example, a payroll management system for properly compensating your future employees. Unless you have a background in accounting, it may take a while to learn how to navigate this complex process. Fortunately, if you’re based in that part of Southeast Asia, you can take advantage of an easy-to-use payroll system Philippines-based businesses also use. For payroll system software designed to fit the needs of SMEs and startups specifically, you can explore solutions like Maya Business’s Maya Disbursements. 

A payroll system is just one example among the many tools you need to learn about to steer your business to success. But remember that as an entrepreneur starting from scratch, you’ll also have to learn different roles and skills in the beginning. You’ll likely have to take care of operations, marketing, office admin, and more. Only if youhave the drive to continue learning will you be able to accomplish all these processes and put your new business on the path towards success.

3) You Have Multiple Products or Services to Offer

Diversification is a key strategy for ensuring the sustainability of your business. If you find yourself with multiple products or services in the pipeline, it could be a sign that you're ready to transition from the life of a regular employee to the life of a serious entrepreneur. 

Offering a range of products or services not only caters to a broader audience, but also provides a buffer against market fluctuations. Thanks to a well-thought-out business model with multiple revenue streams, you’ll be able to bolster your business's resilience from the get-go and set your own stage for long-term success.

Imagine, for example, starting your dream bakery business. Instead of simply selling ordinary bread products, you can prepare to diversify and capture the vegan market by offering vegan options. Another example is a nail salon that also offers foot spa services. If you have the initial knowledge and resources to branch out into several products and services at a time, you’ll be in a good position to start a profitable business. 

4) You Have Identified Your Market

An understanding of your target audience is a fundamental aspect of entrepreneurial success. Are you appealing to the eco-conscious Gen Z market? Then, your brand has to have sustainability built into its DNA. In addition, you have to establish a strong online presence and meet your market where they spend the most time—social media platforms. On the other hand, if your product is meant for older audiences, you may have to establish a physical store for your business. These demographics prefer to shop in person rather than online.

If you have a pretty clear idea of who you’ll want to reach out to—and if you already have an “in” with that particular demographic, for example as someone known in your field—then you may be ready to leave the working world for the entrepreneurial life. Just remember to do thorough market research to identify the demand for your products or services, and ensure that there’s a viable market for your venture. 

5) Your Initial Business Dealings Is Already Generating Income

What if you’re working and testing your business out on the side? While the journey to profitability may take time, you should notice if your sideline or “hustle” is already generating income. This early validation is a significant sign that you may be ready to pursue your SME venture full-time. 

Celebrate these initial successes as crucial milestones on your path to sustained growth, and develop strategies to scale and expand your income streams further. As a business owner, you can’t ever be complacent about how much money your business is going to make. Markets can easily shift at the drop of a hat, so you have to be ready for your next move, even while your present setup is already bringing in the profits.

So, do you have what it takes to become a small business owner? The answer may be yes. But as you take these indicators into account, remember that the path to success is unique for every entrepreneur. Take your initial readiness for what it is, and commit to further strengthening your abilities and your resilience as your dream to found a business becomes a reality.  

Thursday, January 4, 2024

Finding My Person

They say you must keep the flame alive, inside and outside the bedroom when married. This 14th, I will be 3 years married to my husband and I'm happy that we have managed to do this together. It's not just a one-sided thing too. My husband makes an equal effort to spend time with me and date me, even if it's just around our village. 

Today, we went out to watch a movie that I've wanted to watch. Normally, we watch movies he likes but not mine. I raised this with him and he promised to change this. When I asked if we could watch Rewind, he gladly said yes. 

Rewind is a family movie that every couple needs to watch. I was so glad that I wasn't able to relate to the situation because my husband and I still talk, kiss each other, make time for each other, and don't take each other for granted. 

We also seldom fight now. Occasionally, we would have a spat but most of the time, we can now talk things out. It wasn't always that way, especially at the beginning but six years down we have improved in our communication and in handling things. 


I love that our focus is making sure our marriage works so that our family works. I'm so happy that finally, I found my person and he has found me. 

Tuesday, January 2, 2024

Disney on Ice with the Fam

It has finally happened. I got to watch Disney on Ice in person and I got to watch it with my husband and kids. This is all thanks to my mother-in-law who sent money to buy the tickets as our Christmas gift. 


Day 1 of 2024 was amazing because we spent it watching Disney on Ice. I knew that it was going to be a magical experience but I didn't realize that it would have such an impact on me. 

To say that it was magical would be an understatement. 

It was transformative. I think the only downside that I had with it was I wasn't able to bring my Mom with us because she's still recovering from her sickness and might not be able to sit through a 2.5-hour show in a cramped seat. 

Hopefully, this year, I'll be able to bring her. I'm thinking we can spend Christmas Day watching Disney on Ice.

Here are some moments that I wanna remember most during the show.



I had tears during this scene. I realized that things I only dreamt about doing with my own Mom and Dad, I can do now with my own kids. That hit me very hard. 




Super love this though it's blurry and dark because both my sons are intensely watching the show and enjoying it. 



To cap it off, I even saw a really good friend of mine at the end of the show. God is really good! 


She became my friend 18 years ago and though we may not always talk, we know we have a friend in each other. 

So glad that Day 1 was spent watching Disney on Ice. No better way to start the year than with this. 


Thank you again Mamita! 

Monday, January 1, 2024

Bye 2023, Hello 2024

They say that with every ending comes a better beginning. This could not have been more true in my case for 2023. Relationships that I thought were forever and strong snapped, friendships that I thought were real proved lukewarm at best, and a near tragedy that happened mid-year sent me reeling but thankfully, we all survived. A little bit worn but still standing.

Unlike other bloggers or creators, I don't have a year summary. There are too many things that I want to remember to make it fit in a 15-second video or even a one-minute one. There are things that I would love to forget but know that I shouldn't.

There was a painful incident that really broke me but thankfully, my husband was there for me the whole time and he made sure that though there was a crack, I did not completely break. He held me and reminded me what truly mattered. 

My Mom got sick but with God's grace and everyone who rallied and prayed for her, she is on the road to recovery. She's not fully healed yet but she's getting better every day. 

I lost some friends and distanced myself from others. I realized that just because you were good for each other before does not guarantee that you will be good for each other now. Sometimes, friends are only there for a reason or a season. 

I lost my job, got "fired" from one, and then was absorbed by the most amazing employer that I have ever had. To say that it was a rollercoaster ride would be an understatement. 

I lost brands that I thought were my partners and cared for me but made me realize that when it comes to "brand partnerships" there is no such thing as authenticity. All you really have are your numbers, your value, and what you can offer. When they feel you are no longer useful, then off with your head. 

However, there was more good than bad. 

For the first time since the pandemic, I celebrated the holidays with my Mom and little sister. I definitely consider this a blessing. They were simple meals we shared. Nothing lavish but the love, the respect, and the care were there. 



I was able to get my dream family photo done. These photos are now framed in our living room and bedroom. I love that even my husband was excited about this and he had the photos blown up, framed, and put on display in our home. 

2023 wasn't bad. I would actually say that it was one of the most freeing years for me. 

I found myself when I learned to cut ties with people who I thought mattered and loved me. I learned to find my own voice, have my own thoughts, and push for myself instead of adhering to what others think I should be. 

I freed myself from friendships that were no longer serving me a purpose but kept the other party being served. 

I freed myself from the desire to seek other's approval. I've never been one to care about the opinion of others but for those people that I love, I tend to bend over backward, not realizing that I keep depriving myself of things that I deserve, want, or need. 

I freed myself from being that blogger who has to be in every event, who fears missing out, and who worries if my numbers are on par with others. I reminded myself why I started my blog. It definitely wasn't for the brands, the numbers, the PRs, or the followers. 

I freed myself from the hurt that I was used to and learned to embrace the love that was being given to me. My husband and I had a talk during our last date for the year and we both agreed that 2023 was the year that we finally got our flow. We almost didn't fight and we both got each other's jam so to speak. 


I prepared this 13 fruits and prosperity bowl not because I rely on it for our luck. These are what you call manifesting and attracting the good vibes. I know that it won't work by itself but this, coupled with the usual determination, perseverance, and good health, then opportunities will come knocking and I will be prepared to receive it. 

I don't know what 2024 has in store but I do know that I am ready to explore it with arms wide open and ready to receive all the amazing opportunities it will send my way.

PS. 

In the second hour of 2024, our dog got attacked by a wayward Belgian Malinois. Thank God our senior dog still had a few bites in him and he was able to defend himself.  I'm pretty upset about what happened but thankful that our Wacky is alive and kicking. 

Saturday, December 23, 2023

6 Imaginative Ways to Give Old Furniture New Life

Bringing home new furniture or decorative pieces can help liven up a space and make it more functional. However, not everyone has the budget to purchase a new piece or two. In this situation, repurposing an old piece of furniture might be considered. When you’re doing a furniture makeover, it can involve reupholstering, refinishing, or repainting the piece. The objective can be purely aesthetic, but in some instances, the result can be a complete functional transformation.

Aside from being a cost-efficient solution, transforming old furniture helps breathe new life into them. It adds a personal touch that store-bought items often lack. This kind of DIY project is also an eco-friendly alternative compared to throwing out the old piece and replacing it with a new one. 

If you’re looking into sprucing up old furniture, consider these creative ideas as inspiration.

But First, Assess Your Furniture Pieces

Before you rejuvenate an old piece, take a moment to assess your furniture's condition and style. Is it a sturdy piece with good bones, or does it need a bit of repair? It’s also a good idea to consider the piece’s design elements and let those influence the direction of your creative endeavor. 

At times, some furniture may have reached the end of their lifespans, and there’s no longer any practical means to repurpose them. In such a case, the next best thing to do is to find somewhere you can sell old furniture. Some online marketplaces also allow people to buy and sell pieces like bedroom furniture. There, someone who has more advanced skills might find interest in your old pieces which they might be able to repurpose or upcycle. Consequently, you can earn from the transaction and use the money to fund your other home improvement projects. 

1. Try Creative Painting Techniques

One of the simplest and most impactful ways to revive old furniture is through the transformative power of paint. Ombre, distressing, and stenciling are just a few techniques that can breathe new life into a tired, old piece. You can take that old wooden chair with peeling paint and give it a fresh coat of vibrant color using an ombre effect. This involves starting with a deep shade at the bottom and gradually fading to a lighter tone at the top. The result is a visually stunning, modernized chair that can become among the focal points of any room.

2. Explore Decoupage and Fabric Magic

For a touch of whimsy and personality, consider decoupage to give your furniture a new life. It involves decorating surfaces with paper cutouts and applying layers of adhesive. This technique works best on even surfaces like an old coffee table. Instead of discarding the furniture, revitalize the tabletop with a decoupage collage of vintage maps or magazine clippings. Then, apply a clear sealant for a glossy finish or varnish for a worn charm. Either way, the sealant protects the decoupage from wear and tear.

Another idea is to use fabric or wallpaper instead of paper cutouts. This helps add texture and visual interest to the piece. In the case of a simple wooden dresser, you can give it a chic makeover by covering the drawer fronts with a bold geometric-patterned wallpaper. This adds depth and style, transforming the dresser into a statement piece.

3. Create Functional Transformations

As mentioned previously, repurposing furniture isn't just about aesthetics. It can also be about functionality. For example, you can convert an old dresser into a charming kitchen island. Remove a few drawers and add a countertop. Then, apply a fresh coat of paint with a color that suits your kitchen design. This kind of furniture transformation not only enhances your kitchen but also provides additional storage and workspace.

Another creative idea is turning a discarded door into a unique headboard. This project requires sanding and painting the door to match your bedroom decor. Once you’re satisfied with its new look, mount the door behind your bed for a striking focal point.

4. Revive Furniture Upholstery 

If you have a chair or sofa with good bones but worn-out fabric, consider re-upholstering it. Simply choose fabrics that align with your current style. For instance, you can take a vintage armchair with faded upholstery and reupholster it in a vibrant, patterned fabric. Then, finish the upcycling process by adding a contrasting throw pillow for an extra pop of color. This decorative technique updates a beloved piece, so you can appreciate it even more.

5. Incorporate Personal Touches

One of the best things about repurposing old furniture is that you can infuse it with personal touches. Some ideas you can try include adding family photos to the back of a bookshelf or the inside panels of a cabinet. You can also incorporate your favorite quotes by stenciling them onto a repainted tabletop or chair seat. Adding these details makes the piece uniquely yours. At the same time, it contributes a sense of nostalgia and warmth to your home.

While it may take some time and creativity, repurposing old furniture allows you to turn them into cherished elements of your home. They also bring a fresh take to your interiors without costing too much. So, the next time you’re thinking of discarding furniture, consider repurposing it and trying out any of the ideas mentioned here. You might just be able to transform outdated pieces into something new, vibrant, and unique.   

Monday, December 11, 2023

Review of R Bistro Cafe inside BFRV, Las Pinas

It finally opened! We have been waiting for R Bistro Cafe to open for over a month now and finally, it has opened its doors to the public and the sight that greeted us was definitely a sight for sore eyes. 


I loved the interiors of the place. It was cozy. The place felt welcoming and the colors of the place were very relaxing. 





The upstairs of R Bistro Cafe is open to the public but only serves alcohol from 3pm onwards or so I was told. They have a private area that seats 8 people but can be used by anyone with a party of 8 if no earlier reservations are made. 

They also have an outdoor area that looks very pretty and instagrammable as well. 


We were lucky to have been seated immediately, maybe because we got there after the lunch rush hour. 


We ordered the salad, spam sandwich, chowder soup, and chicken masala. Sadly, they forgot our salad so we didn't get to try their Cobb Salad. 


The clam chowder was pretty good but I really felt like it needed a pinch of salt. I don't know why but I felt like there was just something missing. It was good, but it would have been great just with pinch more of salt in my opinion. 


The chicken masala of R Bistro Cafe was pretty good as well. I almost finished it except that the apple cider vinegar gummies I was taking had taken a toll on my appetite and it had shrunk significantly. 


This is the spam sandwich that comes with bacon, egg, lettuce, and fries. Pretty darn bang for buck if I may say so myself. 

The husband loved it!


We also ended up having coffee and cake to wrap things up. 


The marshmallow cake was really good! I could have eaten the entire cake all by myself. The creme brulee latte felt like it could be made better with a sprinkle of chocolate powder. 

Overall, it was a 7 out of 10 for me but I'd definitely come back because the place looked amazing and the service was great even if they forgot our salad and didn't offer any customer recovery. I still want to try the other food choices because maybe that would be better. 

So far, I am not blown away but I am intrigued. I think it can beat its stiffest competition inside the village for price point alone and service. 

Let's see in the coming months what's in store for R Bistro Cafe. 

Thursday, November 16, 2023

Discover Delight at Sugar Cafe Suki Mart Dasma

If you're on the lookout for a cozy spot that tantalizes your taste buds without burning a hole in your pocket, look no further than the newest Sugar Cafe nestled in Suki Mart Dasma. With a diverse menu offering an array of delectable treats, this café has quickly become a local favorite, and for good reason!

Location: A Sweet Escape in Dasmarinas City, Cavite

Situated in Suki Mart Dasmarinas, Brgy Zone 3, Amuntay Road, Dasmarinas City, Cavite, Sugar Cafe offers a delightful escape for those seeking a moment of tranquility amid the bustling city life.


Menu Variety

Sugar Cafe takes pride in its pretty diverse menu. From mouthwatering cakes to savory sandwiches, banana loaves, and satisfying pasta dishes, there's something for every craving.

Family-Friendly Favorites: A Kid's Seal of Approval

My son finished the entire baked mac in one sitting. It was that good. He loved it! 

Sip and Savor: Coffee and Tea Bliss

For caffeine enthusiasts, Sugar Cafe boasts a pretty good selection of coffee and tea beverages. Personal favorites include the Salted Caramel Latte and the Spanish Latte, while the Okinawa milk tea has proven to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or a tea aficionado, Sugar Cafe has you covered.

Sweet and Refreshing: Yoghurt Drinks Galore

You can also quench your thirst with Sugar Cafe's refreshing yogurt drinks, available in enticing flavors such as blueberry, strawberry, and lychee. These drinks provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making them a delightful choice for any time of day.


Affordable Indulgence: Bang for Buck

One of the most noteworthy aspects of Sugar Cafe is its affordability. Offering quality food and beverages at reasonable prices, it truly provides bang for your buck.

Connect and Share: Spread the Sweet Vibes

Stay connected with Sugar Cafe by checking out their Facebook page: Sugar Cafe Suki Mart Dasma. Don't forget to hit the like button and share the sweetness with your friends and family.

Visit and Delight: Experience Sugar Cafe Suki Mart Dasma

Indulge your senses and satisfy your cravings at Sugar Cafe Suki Mart Dasma. Whether you're seeking a quiet spot to work, catching up with friends, or treating your family to a delightful meal, Sugar Cafe is the perfect destination.

Hashtag to Share the Love: #sugarcafe #sukimartdasma #sugarcafesukimart

Experience the sweetness – come and visit Sugar Cafe Suki Mart Dasma today!  

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Cakefrost - Binan: A Sweet Haven in South City Homes

Nestled in the heart of South City Homes, Binan, Cakefrost has become the latest go-to destination for sweet enthusiasts and beverage aficionados alike. Recently opening its doors on San Pablo Street, this dessert haven stands proudly beside 9th Avenue Carwash, beckoning locals and visitors with its enticing array of treats.

Operating from 10 am to 7 pm every day, Cakefrost-Binan offers a delightful escape into the world of delectable desserts and refreshing drinks. The inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to hang out with friends, bond with family, or enjoy a simple date.

One of the highlights of Cakefrost's menu is its diverse selection of drinks, catering to a wide range of tastes. For those yearning for a taste of summer, the Mango Slushie is a must-try, promising to transport even the coldest winter months into a sun-soaked paradise.

However, the true stars of the show are the Halo-Halo de Leche and Ube Macapuno concoctions, each sip evoking the vibrant and joyful feeling of summer regardless of the season. These drinks, bursting with unique Filipino flavors, have quickly become customer favorites, adding a local touch to Cakefrost's international appeal.

For chocolate enthusiasts, Cakefrost-Binan boasts an impressive lineup of frappes that are sure to satisfy any chocoholic's cravings. From the rich and decadent Black Forest to the indulgent Choco Caramel, the menu also features the Ultimate Chocolate and Red Velvet Frappe, providing a symphony of flavors that will leave chocolate lovers giddy with happiness.

But the indulgence doesn't stop there. Cakefrost also offers a delightful Cookies and Cream concoction and the timeless classic, Butterscotch, adding more layers to the already diverse menu.

Beyond its delectable offerings, Cakefrost-Binan has quickly become a social hub for the community. Whether you're catching up with friends over a refreshing drink, enjoying quality time with family, or planning a simple yet sweet date, Cakefrost provides the ideal setting.

With its central location in South City Homes and a welcoming ambiance, Cakefrost-Binan is more than just a dessert destination; it's a place where memories are made, and sweet moments are shared. So, gather your loved ones and treat yourself to the delightful world of flavors that Cakefrost has to offer – a true gem in the heart of Binan. 

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

Unveiling the Power of Womanhood: Gayle Certeza's Journey in "A Woman Unboxed"

In a world filled with conventions and superstitions that often mold the self-esteem of women, Gayle Certeza emerges as a beacon of strength and resilience. Her book, "A Woman Unboxed and Other Stories of Growing Up," takes readers on a captivating journey through the joys and challenges of her upbringing in a small town in Mindanao, shedding light on the complexities of womanhood and the power of personal transformation.

Certeza's book is not just a literary endeavor; it is a heartfelt homage to her roots and a testament to her unyielding spirit. As she passionately describes, "This book journeys through wounds and hurts and comes out on the other side powered by hopes, dreams, and love." With each page, Certeza invites readers to explore the vivid tapestry of her life, woven with the threads of tradition, superstition, and self-discovery.

"A Woman Unboxed" delves deep into the intricacies of growing up in a conservative society where superstitions and old traditions often define a woman's path. Certeza's narrative is both deeply personal and universally relatable, touching on themes of identity, family, community, and the pursuit of one's dreams.

Through her vivid storytelling, Certeza captures the essence of transformation and empowerment, demonstrating that it's possible to break free from the constraints of tradition and embrace a new, more authentic self. Her experiences and reflections provide a valuable guide for women navigating their own journey of self-discovery, as well as an enlightening read for anyone interested in the human condition.

Certeza's eloquent prose and candid storytelling style make "A Woman Unboxed" a must-read, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of womanhood in a rapidly changing world. Gayle Certeza's powerful narrative promises to resonate with readers, leaving them inspired and motivated to embrace their own path of growth, transformation, and self-discovery. In a world where women's voices are increasingly vital, "A Woman Unboxed" stands as a testament to the strength and resilience that lies within every woman's heart.  

Thursday, November 2, 2023

5 Reasons Why You Need to Invest in a Memorial Lot

The word “death” is often euphemized in sentences, with people instead using the terms “no longer with us” or “passed away” to lighten the impact of loss. The COVID-19 pandemic has also raised anxiety surrounding death as the general public struggled to cope with grief.

But it is also a known fact that death is inevitable, and that early end-of-life planning remains crucial not only for an individual but for their loved ones as well. It is also a responsible move you can make today that will spare your family stress and burden in the future. 

Memorial service solutions you may be surprised to know about 

This is why Forest Lake, the Philippines’ largest total death care provider, makes it a point to ease the pain of loss by providing diverse memorial service solutions that cater to different needs and preferences. 

Libing Anywhere is a flexible memorial solution that adapts to changing circumstances by allowing you to use your lot in any Forest Lake park in the country. 

Libre Burol, on the other hand, gives Forest Lake lot owners complimentary body retrieval, embalming, casketing, and chapel viewing services as cost-effective solutions for dignified burials.

Financial and emotional benefits of investing in memorial lots now 

But before you and your family can benefit from these vital end-of-life services, the first step is to invest in a memorial lot. 

Here’s why it’s the best financial decision you can make:

Memorial lot values tend to appreciate steadily over time, allowing more financial stability. The earlier you invest in a memorial lot, the higher your chances of gaining large profit over the years, as the value of this type of asset does not easily depreciate.

If you’re a beginner investor, memorial lots can diversify your investment portfolio. This way, you can limit your risks, which are often associated with having only a single type of asset to your name, while ensuring investment returns.

Purchasing power also tends to decrease over time due to inflation. But with the historically steady appreciation of real estate prices—including memorial lots—it can act as a hedge against inflation.

This kind of investment is also a way of legacy planning. A memorial lot is a valuable financial asset to your name that can help future generations in need.

Apart from financial gains, memorial lot investments also provide high emotional value. Coping with loss sometimes includes having to search for an available lot with limited time. But if you have already invested in your own memorial lot early on, this gives peace of mind and a sense of belongingness to your loved ones left behind.

“Interment service providers such as Forest Lake do more than just offer coffins. We are an important after-death partner because we put a high premium on the legacy that an individual builds for themselves both in life and in death,” shares Forest Lake president Alfred Xerez-Burgos, Jr

For more information on how you can start end-of-life planning, you may visit the Forest Lake website.