5 Brands that I Use for Khali

Khali is now in nursery and since he now goes to school, there are certain things that I need to buy for him and use so that he will be comfortable in school. As a Mom, we all know the perils and stress when kids are at school and we want to make sure that we can keep them safe. 

So, how do I do this? 

1. Efficascent Oil 

This is what I put on my son's tummy, back, and head when he finishes taking a bath. I use this to make sure that he won't easily catch a cold. It's important because kids tend to run around and it's an added layer of protection. 

2. OFF Sakura-no-Hana Lotion 

I use this to protect him from mosquito bites. We all know that schools fumigate but there will always be wayward mosquitoes and since I am worried about dengue and itchy marks, I make sure to put this on him before he goes to school. It also doesn't smell like the usual OFF Lotion. 

3. Johnson's Baby Active Kids Shower

 We use this on Khali since he runs around a lot. He's very active and gets sweaty so we need to make sure that he won't smell. This shower gel is already good for his head and body so it's a 2in1. Since he started using this, he no longer smells like sweat or the sun even when he's been out running. 

4. Johnson's Baby Powder 

This is a staple in our home since he was a baby. I grew up with it, my first born used this, and Khali will definitely continue to use this. This is what we use after every bathtime, when he gets sweaty and needs to change clothes, and at night to make him feel more comfortable and have a good sleep. 

5. Cough Patch 

I discovered this in one of those videos and decided to give it a chance. Since then, I have made sure that I always have stocks in hand and the moment I hear him coughing, I put some on his chest and back to make sure that it doesn't get worse. So far, it has been effective in the last year since we started using this. 

This is not sponsored to be clear. I just wanted to share with you what I use for my kids because it might work for your kids too. Let me know if you have tried any of the items I listed. 

Flawless and Effortless: Dazzle Me's Makeup Must-Haves for the Working Gals

In today's fast-paced world, juggling multiple roles is a reality for many women. Whether you're a busy mom or a dynamic boss babe, finding makeup that not only enhances your beauty but also fits into your hectic schedule is crucial. Enter Dazzle Me's trio of game-changing products: the Maxnificent Essence Cushion, Fixed Loose Powder, and Double Way Two Way Cake. These products promise to keep you looking flawless and feeling fabulous all day long, with minimal effort.

Dazzle Me Maxnificent Essence Cushion

The Dazzle Me Maxnificent Essence Cushion is a true marvel in the world of makeup. This cushion foundation offers a 12-hour long wear and micro-fine coverage, ensuring your complexion remains flawless from morning to night. But what truly sets it apart is its skin-loving formula. Infused with Niacinamide, Vitamin E, Camellia Extract, Resveratrol, and Witch Hazel Water, this cushion not only perfects your skin but also nurtures it.

Benefits

12-Hour Long Wear: No need for midday touch-ups; this cushion stays put all day.

Micro-Fine Coverage: Achieve a natural, airbrushed finish without the heaviness.

Skin-Loving Ingredients: Niacinamide brightens, Vitamin E nourishes, Camellia Extract soothes, Resveratrol provides antioxidant protection, and Witch Hazel Water controls oil and reduces inflammation.

Flashback Proof: Perfect for photos, ensuring you always look your best.

For moms on the go and career-driven women, the Maxnificent Essence Cushion offers quick and easy application with impressive longevity. Plus, the added skincare benefits mean you're treating your skin to a little TLC every time you apply your makeup.

Dazzle Me Fixed Loose Powder

The Dazzle Me Fixed Loose Powder is your secret weapon for maintaining a flawless, matte complexion all day long. This powder offers a filter-like cover that blurs imperfections and provides an instant oil fix, making it a must-have in your makeup arsenal.

Benefits

12-Hour Long Wear: Keeps your makeup looking fresh and flawless.

Filter-Like Cover: Blurs imperfections, giving you a smooth, matte finish.

Instant Oil Fix: Controls shine and keeps you looking polished.

Skin-Loving Ingredients: With the same beneficial ingredients as the Essence Cushion, your skin receives continuous care.

For those who juggle multiple responsibilities, this powder is a lifesaver. It instantly fixes oil and sets your makeup, allowing you to quickly freshen up without fuss, perfect for maintaining your look throughout a busy day.

Dazzle Me Double Way Two Way Cake

Versatility is key with the Dazzle Me Double Way Two Way Cake. This dual-use product offers customizable coverage for all-day zero shine. Available in six shades ranging from C02 Light Pearl to W06 Deep Cocoa, it caters to a wide range of skin tones.

Benefits

Dual Use: This can be used wet for higher coverage or dry for a lighter finish.

All Day Zero Shine: Keeps skin matte and oil-free all day long.

Versatile Shades: Six shades ensure a perfect match for various skin tones.

The dual-use functionality of this product makes it incredibly convenient, allowing you to adjust your coverage depending on your needs. Its all-day zero shine feature ensures you stay fresh and matte, whether you're running errands or leading a meeting.

The Dazzle Me Maxnificent Essence Cushion, Fixed Loose Powder, and Double Way Two Way Cake are perfect companions for efficient, long-lasting makeup solutions. With their skin-loving ingredients and impressive performance, they cater to the needs of busy moms and dynamic boss babes alike. 

These products ensure you look polished and confident without spending too much time on your makeup routine, leaving you free to conquer your day with ease and elegance. 

Dazzle Me is available at SM and on your favorite online shops. 

Remembering Francine Pascal: The Creator of Sweet Valley

For many of us, Sweet Valley wasn't just a series of books; it was an essential part of growing up, filled with unforgettable moments and characters that felt like friends. For me, Sweet Valley was where I learned a lot of lessons about life and what I need to stay away from. 

It was also where my imagination was cultivated. The Magna Editions were the best in either making me feel whimsical or terrified out of my wits.  

I have read almost the entire series: Sweet Valley Kids, Sweet Valley Twins, Sweet Valley High, Sweet Valley Senior Year, Sweet Valley University, and Sweet Valley Confidential. 

Here are 10 reasons why I believe that teens today may still be able to relate to these books, or most parts of it. 

Relatable Character

The twin sisters, Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield, were the perfect balance of sweetness and sass. Elizabeth's responsible and caring nature contrasted beautifully with Jessica's adventurous and sometimes mischievous spirit. No matter who you were, there was always a character you could see yourself in.

Dramatic Storylines

Who could forget the heart-wrenching moment when Regina Morrow died in "On The Edge"? Regina's death was a stark reminder of the consequences of drug use, a powerful lesson wrapped in a compelling narrative.

Suspense and Mystery

The series wasn’t just about everyday life; it also included thrilling plots like when Elizabeth Wakefield was kidnapped in "Kidnapped!" The suspense kept us on the edge of our seats and made us appreciate the value of safety and trust.

Romantic Adventures

The Sweet Valley High series was filled with crushes, first loves, and heartbreaks. Whether it was Elizabeth's steady relationship with Todd Wilkins or Jessica's more tumultuous romances, there was always a love story to follow and swoon over.

Life Lessons

The books didn’t shy away from tackling serious issues. From dealing with peer pressure and bullying to exploring themes of honesty and integrity, Sweet Valley High was as much about learning as it was about entertainment.

Nostalgic Setting

Sweet Valley was the quintessential small town with sunny beaches and friendly neighbors. The setting was so vividly described that we could almost feel the California sun and hear the waves crashing as we read.

Family Dynamics

The Wakefields of Sweet Valley gave us a deeper understanding of the twins' family history, emphasizing how our backgrounds shape who we are. The series highlighted the importance of family bonds and the complexities of sibling relationships.

Friendship Goals

The friendships in Sweet Valley were aspirational. Whether it was the bond between the twins and their friends or the loyalty within their social circles, the series portrayed the importance of having a strong support system.

Fashion and Trends

For many of us, the books were a window into the world of teenage fashion and trends. Jessica's fashion-forward outfits and Elizabeth's classic style gave us plenty of inspiration for our own wardrobes.

Escapism

At its core, Sweet Valley High provided a much-needed escape from the pressures of school and family. It was a world where we could lose ourselves in the drama, romance, and adventures of the Wakefield twins.

As I reminisce about those days spent with a Sweet Valley book in hand, I am reminded of how Francine Pascal's stories shaped my tween years. Each book was a journey into the lives of characters who felt like friends, teaching us about life, love, and the importance of staying true to ourselves.

Francine Pascal's legacy lives on in the hearts of her readers. Through the ups and downs of Elizabeth and Jessica's lives, we learned to navigate our own challenges. As we say goodbye to the brilliant mind behind Sweet Valley, we celebrate the joy and lessons she brought into our lives. Thank you, Francine, for the memories and for making our tween years a little bit sweeter.

Prepping for School in 2024

Our kids are both going to school now. One is an incoming college student and the other is a nursery student. The age gap is amazing, I know. 

The budget allotted for things outside the tuition fee is mind blowing. This is something that a lot of parents need to remember. After all, any seasoned Mom or Dad knows that miscellaneous fees are more expensive than tuition fees. 

• Uniforms 
• Bags 
• Lunch Box 
• Thermal flask 
• Weekly Allowance
• Transportation or School Bus 
• Food for Baon 
• Projects 
• Costumes 
• School Parties 
• Gifts for Classmate's Birthday 
• Teachers Week 

There will be more things that need to be paid and it can be overwhelming. I sometimes wonder where I will get the money for it, but God has been so good in providing for our needs. When I was a single Mom, I was able to provide for B and now that I have a husband, I know that things will be better in providing for both B and K.

Today was K's first official school day. M took a leave of absence so that he could be there on K's first day. It may not mean anything to K for now but in the future, it will matter. 

To me, it mattered a lot because my own Dad was never there. I think the only times he was in attendance in my school was for my high school graduation and my college graduation. Two times in 18 years that I was in school.

Thank you, Lord for the gift of a complete family for my kids. 

Sadly, no photo with our college one because he needs to learn independence and I think it'll be weird if we bring him to school and send him off when he's already a freshman. Haha. 

Struggling to Grieve

Last May 31, 2024, my Mom died. 

It's been almost two months now and I still haven't properly grieved. I thought I was okay but apparently, I was just being delusional in this. 

I was in denial. 

I didn't realize you can be in denial even when something is right in front of your face. After all, I saw my Mom when she was gone. I touched her. I hugged her. I held her icy cold hands in my hand. I even kissed her forehead. 

I was there when she was taken out of the house. I was there when she was being prepped for cremation. I saw her body go inside the crematorium and I held her ashes in a ziploc bag when it was still hot. 

I have her ashes in locket on my neck and apparently, with all these, I am still in denial. 

This is the question in my head now. 

Why is it so hard for me? I already know for a fact that she is no longer here. Logically, I know that she is gone. Emotionally and mentally, it's a whole different ballgame. 

Sometimes, I find myself crying but the moment I realize that I am, I stop myself because I feel like there's other things that I need to do. I don't think I have spent more than 10 minutes of non-stop crying.

I just can't seem to do it. 

Maybe I'll just wait for that one thing that will make me snap. 

I know it's unhealthy but I really just don't know what to do. 

I need help.

How to Choose the Right Wholesale Soap for Your Business

Selecting the perfect wholesale soap for your business can be daunting, but it’s crucial for ensuring customer satisfaction and driving sales. With countless options available, making the right choice requires careful consideration. This guide will walk you through key factors to remember when choosing a wholesale soap supplier, ensuring you stock high-quality products that meet your customers’ needs and enhance your brand's reputation. Let's explore the essential steps to help you make an informed decision.

About Soap Sales Business

Soap is one of the bath items that many people use every day. That is why a soap business can be a promising investment. Soap sales can depend on several factors, including market, quality, demand, etc.

But since soap is a staple product, there will always be demand for it. We just have to make sure that the quality and price match the market demand. The profit margins of a soap business can vary widely.

You can expect a margin of 50%-80% but it can be more than that too. Factors to consider include branding, marketing, cost management, quality of ingredients, and pricing. Although this business is promising, you must make sure to choose the right supplier to ensure successful sales.

How to Choose Wholesale Soap Supplier?

To achieve soap business success, you need to choose the right soap wholesale supplier. To avoid choosing the wrong business partner, consider the following points:

1. Check About Supplier Credibility

For you to get professional services and quality products, make sure you choose a credible supplier. Not all of them can be relied on, you need to choose suppliers based on certain documents. The point is that you have to make sure the business is legal with the availability of business licenses, certificates, and so on.

You can also find out about a supplier's credibility from online reviews. If there are a lot of negative reviews, then the supplier may not be worthy of your choice. It would be better if they provided a guarantee both in terms of quality and delivery.

Verification like this may be a tricky thing, but you must run your business with peace of mind. Make sure the wholesale soaps you choose have a good reputation for the success of your company.

2. Choose The One That Suits Your Business Needs

Ordering soap products from suppliers usually comes with a minimum order requirement. Try to ask about this beforehand, including asking about maximum orders if there are any. Business is all about speed of supply, so make sure orders don't arrive late.

Another customization could be private labeling, the supplier may provide such services that you can utilize to be more efficient. Make sure the supplier can customize various aspects of the products to your needs.

3. Find Out The Specifications Of Your Wholesale Soap Products

One important step is understanding the specifications of your wholesale soap products. Many consumers avoid allergens and certain ingredients like parabens and SLS. It’s essential to thoroughly investigate the ingredients and production methods of the soaps you intend to sell. Fragrance components, in particular, can often be undisclosed by suppliers, so make sure to ask detailed questions. As a professional business owner, being meticulous about the ingredients will help you maintain a high standard for your products.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best supplier, ensuring your business runs smoothly and professionally. Remember, continual innovation and staying attuned to market trends are key to keeping your business relevant and successful. 

Always Incredible AI: ASUS Philippines Officially Launches ASUS Vivobook S 15, its First Copilot+ PC

Experience Next-Gen AI with the first-ever ASUS Copilot+ PC in the country, packed with incredible AI power and portability!

 

ASUS Philippines has launched a new era in AI-powered computing with the debut of the ASUS Vivobook S 15 (S5507). Powered by the Snapdragon X Elite, the device is the company’s first Copilot+ PC, with Windows AI features and a collection of exclusive ASUS AI apps. 

ASUS Philippines Business Development Manager Harrison Cheng shares, “As leaders of innovation, we are excited to introduce to our Filipino audience our first Copilot+ PC, the ASUS Vivobook S 15, designed in collaboration with Qualcomm and Microsoft. This AI PC aims to take users' lives to the next level, making them more secure, efficient, and personalized. AI connects users to endless possibilities, opening a new incredible way to work, study, play, and create, ultimately giving back valuable personal time to its users.”

The Vivobook S 15 is equipped with the efficient power and built-in AI engine of the Snapdragon X Elite Platform. Users can also enjoy incredible performance and efficiency as a result of the custom-integrated Qualcomm Oryon CPU. With up to 18 hours of battery life, enjoy uninterrupted productivity. It has a stunning 3K 120 Hz ASUS Lumina OLED display, Harman Kardon-certified audio, and a sleek 14.7 mm-thin, 1.42 kg-light body, so it's built for effortless mobility.

The Vivobook S 15 is backed up with the ASUS 4A Quality & Service – a two-year international warranty, a free Office Home & Student 2021 lifetime license, and a one-year Microsoft 365 Basic subscription.

All-new next-gen AI experience

Packed with the latest Windows AI tools and powered by the Snapdragon X Elite with built-in Qualcomm Hexagon NPU, the Vivobook S 15 boasts a 45 TOPS Neural engine for swift on-device AI processing. An ultrafast 1 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD and 16 GB of 8448 MHz LPDDR5X RAM are included for ample storage and memory.

Next-gen AI-powered enhancements include Windows Studio Effects and an ASUS AiSense IR camera. The camera's presence-detection capabilities enable Adaptive Dimming, which dims the screen when the user looks away, and Adaptive Lock, which locks the laptop when the user moves away and unlocks it upon return. The Vivobook S 15 is the first device to feature the exclusive AI app StoryCube, which uses AI to sort, edit, manage, and export digital assets.

Additional features include Windows Studio Effects for enhanced lighting and noise removal during video calls, Live Captions for real-time subtitles, and Cocreator to transform sketches into finished artwork. These technologies enhance security, privacy, and creativity.

By leveraging these advanced AI capabilities, the Vivobook S 15 not only enhances productivity and efficiency but also frees up valuable personal time. The AI-driven features streamline tasks and automate mundane activities, allowing users to focus on what truly matters to them, ensuring personal time is reclaimed and maximized.

Incredible AI on-the-go

Built for effortless portability, the Vivobook S 15 features a 14.7 mm ultra-slim and 1.42 kg all-metal design, blending minimalist aesthetics with strength and stability. The CNC-engraved logo adds a touch of class, while the 70 Wh battery provides up to 18 hours of productivity or entertainment, support for fast charging, and ASUS USB-C Easy Charge.

The premium styling includes a single-zone RGB backlit keyboard for personalized styles and a dedicated Copilot key for instant access to Windows AI tools. The large, smart touchpad offers effortless navigation and intuitive control for various tasks, enhancing the user experience.

Seamless connectivity

Equipped with a comprehensive set of I/O ports, the Vivobook S 15 ensures seamless on-the-go connectivity. It includes two USB4 Type-C ports supporting fast charging, 4K displays, and up to 40 Gbps data transfers, plus two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, a microSD card reader, and an audio combo jack.

With WiFi 7 enabled by the Qualcomm FastConnect 7800 system, the Vivobook S 15 delivers speeds up to 5.8 Gbps, outpacing WiFi 6 by 4.8 times. This ensures seamless streaming, effortless multitasking, and lightning-fast downloads.

Stunning audiovisuals

The Vivobook S 15 offers a premium audiovisual experience with a 15.6-inch 3K 120 Hz ASUS Lumina OLED display, providing vivid, true-to-life color, refined highlights, and extraordinary shadow detail. This display features an 89% screen-to-body ratio, 0.2 ms response time, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 600 certification. It also includes TÜV Rheinland-certified low blue-light levels for eye care and the ASUS OLED Care system to reduce burn-in risk. Complementing the display is a Harman Kardon-certified audio system with immersive Dolby Atmos sound.

Availability

The all-new ASUS Vivobook S 15 retails for PHP 84,995. Buy one today until August 15, 2024, to score fantastic bundles through the ASUS Cool for School Promo. Buyers can also avail of Home Credit’s 0% interest financing for up to 12 months. Visit the nearest store and experience next-level AI computing by ASUS.

 

Model	Specifications	SRP
Vivobook S 15 S5507QA-MA032WSM	Snapdragon X Elite X1E 78 100 Processor 3.4GHz / 3K (2880 x 1620) OLED 16:9 aspect ratio / 16GB LPDDR5X on board / 1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD / Qualcomm Adreno GPU / Qualcomm Hexagon NPU 45 TOPS / Windows 11 Home / Microsoft Office Home & Student 2021 + Microsoft 365 Basic One-Year Subscription / Cool Silver	PHP 84,995.00

  

Kumita ng Php50,000 Kada Buwan with the Sarisuki App

As a mom and a blogger, I'm always on the lookout for ways to streamline my life and find opportunities that benefit my family. Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the Sarisuki warehouse, and I was absolutely blown away by what I discovered. 

Sarisuki is not just a place; it's an online platform that allows anyone to start their own online grocery store with ease. I’m excited to share my experience and tell you how you too can become a Ka-Sari Community Leader and start earning.

Sarisuki offers a unique opportunity for everyone to create their own online grocery store without the hassle of registration fees, quotas, or minimum orders. With just a small amount of puhunan, pwede ka nang magsimiula ng online retail or online grocery business mo. Pinakapanalo? Mababa lang ang puhunan. YES! For as low as Php1,000, you can start selling. All it takes is a bit of diskarte to get your store up and running.

Here’s how you can get started:

Download the Sarisuki CL App: The first step is to download the Sarisuki CL App from either the Google Play Store or the App Store. The app is user-friendly and guides you through the setup process.

Set Up Your Store: Once you have the app, setting up your store is straightforward. You’ll get your own unique store link, such as store.sarisuki.com/biancas-store, which you can customize to your liking.

Share Your Store Link: Now, it’s time to share your store link. This is where your diskarte comes in. Use your social media platforms, message your friends and family, and spread the word about your new online store.

Start Earning: Your customers, or Ka-Suki, can order directly from your unique webstore link. Alternatively, you can place orders for them using the Sarisuki CL app. With deliveries made from Monday to Saturday, your customers will receive their orders promptly, ensuring a steady flow of business.

The earning potential with Sarisuki is impressive. You can earn up to Php50,000 per month* by running your online grocery store. This is a fantastic opportunity to generate significant income with minimal initial investment. Plus, the platform ensures high-quality products at affordable prices, making attracting and retaining customers easy.

To maximize your success with Sarisuki, I highly recommend attending one of their business orientations. These sessions are conducted via Zoom every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. You’ll learn valuable tips and strategies to grow your business during these orientations. To sign up, download the app and use my link to register for the Sarisuki Business Orientation.

Sarisuki provides an incredible opportunity for anyone looking to start their own online grocery store and earn a substantial income. With no registration fees, no sales quotas, and the flexibility to start with low funding, it's an accessible and practical option for many. So why wait? Download the Sarisuki CL App today, set up your store, and start your journey as a Ka-Sari Community Leader. Earn with Sarisuki and watch your business thrive.

Ready to start? Click here to download the app and register for our next business orientation. Join the Sarisuki community and take control of your financial future today! 

Review of Dazzle Me Ink Mattes Lip Cream

As a busy mom, I need makeup that's easy to apply and lasts through the day. Let’s see if these lip creams from Dazzle Me are as awesome as they sound!

First Impressions

Packaging: These lip creams come in sleek tubes with a handy applicator, making application a breeze. Plus, they're cute enough to toss in my bag without any fuss.

Shades: Dazzle Me offers a bunch of shades, from soft nudes to bold reds. For this review, I tried out Peach-Ink Peachy Blush (P01), Lush-Ink Muted Sunset (005), and Joy Ink Dusty Red (R08).

What’s to Love?

These lip creams are packed with some good stuff for your lips:

• Coconut Oil: Keeps your lips nourished and happy.
• Carrageenan Extract: Locks in moisture and fights off those pesky free radicals.
• 8D Sodium Hyaluronate: Fancy name, but it just means intense moisture for your lips.
• Avocado Fruit Butter: Soothes your lips and keeps them hydrated.
• Jojoba Seed Oil: Gives your lips some extra TLC.
• And the best part? They're alcohol-free and cruelty-free. So you can pucker up guilt-free!

Application and Formula

• Texture: These lip creams glide on like a dream. They're super lightweight, so you won't feel like you're wearing a ton of product.
• Pigmentation: One swipe and bam! You've got vibrant color that lasts.
• Drying Time: It takes a minute or so to set, but once it does, you've got a gorgeous matte finish without the dryness.

How to Use

• 12H Comfy Matte: These lip creams promise a matte finish that won't leave your lips feeling like the Sahara.
• One Swipe Full Coverage: Just one swipe for full-on color.
• Kissproof and Waterproof: Perfect for those mom moments when you need your lipstick to stay put!
• 4x Nourishing Boost: Thanks to all those fancy ingredients, your lips get a nourishing boost every time you wear it.

Wear Test

• Longevity: These lip creams held up like champs! Even after a busy day of mom duties, they were still going strong.
• Comfort: No dry, cracked lips here! These lip creams are comfy to wear all day long.
• Touch-Up Friendly: When they did start to fade, a quick touch-up was all it took to look fresh again.

Final Thoughts

The Dazzle Me Ink Matte Lip Creams are definitely a win in my book. They offer gorgeous color, long-lasting wear, and they're comfy on the lips. Whether you’re chasing after the kids or enjoying a night out, these lip creams have got you covered.

So go ahead, give 'em a try! Your lips will thank you. 

Review of Pampanga Food Festival at The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang

It has been a crazy time in my life and whenever I feel that things are out of hand, I turn to food and so when I received the invitation to review the Pampanga Food Festival at The Manila Hotel's Cafe Ilang-Ilang, I immediately said yes. 

I have never had the chance to really try Pampanga cuisine. I've always been curious because a lot of people have said that it's one of the best. 

The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang promises vibrant flavors that will take patrons to the culinary capital of the Philippines in just one bite with its Pampanga Food Festival. From May 16 to 31, 2024, Café Ilang-Ilang will showcase a selection of Kapampangan delicacies. Spearheaded by Executive Chef Konrad Walter, the culinary team will showcase both traditional and exotic dishes from the culinary capital of the Philippines. 

Diners can expect to indulge in an array of well-known Kapampangan dishes encompassing traditional favorites like Kalderetang Bibe, Ningnangang Hito at Dalag (grilled catfish and freshwater eel), Kapampangan Bringhe (Filipino style paella cooked in coconut milk), Tidtad Babi (Kapampangan version of dinuguan) with puto, Suam Mais, Sipo Egg, Saleng Manuk, Lengua, and the classic Sisig.

Other delectable dishes include Pako Salad (fern salad), Pizza with Sisig, Aligue Pasta (seafood pasta in crabfat sauce), sweets like Tibok Tibok (made from fresh carabao’s milk topped with latik), Kalame Duman (sticky rice cake), Sans Rival, Sasmuan Polvoron, Barquillas, Cashew Mazapan, Panecillos Cookies and Turrones de Casuy. 

Overall, I found the Pampanga Food Festival fascinating. My personal favorite was the adobong balut which was really tasty. It didn't have the chick inside so I really liked that aspect of the dish. 

Next was the sisig which was different from the usual sisig that I have had. If it wasn't too spicy for my taste, I would have eaten more. Overall, I'm glad that I gave this a try. It was definitely worth the experience. 

These dishes are part of the rotating selection at Café Ilang-Ilang’s lunch and dinner buffet. Alongside these offerings, diners can still enjoy Café Ilang-Ilang’s popular favorites which include a variety of cuisines such as Japanese, Korean, and Italian, among others.

“This is The Manila Hotel’s way to enlighten our guests about diverse culinary tastes. Being the culinary capital of the Philippines, these Kapampangan dishes rightly take center stage at Café Ilang-Ilang,” said EJ Yap, The Manila Hotel’s assistant director of food and beverage.

For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, or email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com

Ultimate Collector Series: the LEGO® Star Wars

As May approaches, excitement builds among Star Wars fans worldwide as they prepare to celebrate Star Wars Day. For LEGO Star Wars enthusiasts, this year promises a remarkable celebration as the iconic LEGO Star Wars™ franchise marks its 25th anniversary. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through a galaxy far, far away as the LEGO Group unveils new sets, exclusive freebies, and exciting discounts. And remember, may the 4th be with you!

Unveiling the Ultimate Collector Series: LEGO® Star Wars TIE Interceptor

Spark memories of classic Star Wars™ saga action with this LEGO® Star Wars Ultimate Collector Series buildable TIE Interceptor model. This meticulously crafted set reintroduces the beloved TIE Interceptor with meticulous attention to detail. Boasting intricate wings, a detailed cockpit interior, laser cannons, and a rear engine, this 1,931-piece set exemplifies the artistry of LEGO designers. Available starting May 1, this set also includes a display stand with an information plaque, a commemorative LEGO Star Wars 25th anniversary brick, and space for the included TIE Pilot LEGO Minifigure and LEGO mouse droid figure.

Celebrating 25 Years of LEGO Star Wars

Fans are also invited to be part of the 25th year anniversary celebration at Shangri-La Plaza Mall Grand Atrium main atrium on May 4 at 3 pm.

Prepare for an epic lightsaber showdown by the FightSaber Philippines Exhibition, where you will see skilled Jedi in action. Don't miss the chance to strike a pose at the LEGO Star Wars Mosaic, featuring the Darth Vader Throne – the iconic backdrop for stellar photos.

Meanwhile, young builders ages 4 to 14 can showcase their creativity in the LEGO Star Wars - My Own Creation challenge, with a chance to bring home P3,000.00 worth of LEGO sets!

Shopping beyond the bricks

From May 1st to 11th, 2024, patrons can indulge in exclusive offers and Gift with Purchase promotions available only at the LEGO Certified Store (LCS) at Shangri-La Mall event:

Get a special keychain. Elevate your LEGO experience with a FREE Exclusive LEGO Star Wars 25 Years Keychain, available with a single-receipt purchase of P3,000.00 in any LEGO Star Wars sets. 

Unlock exclusive gifts. With a single-receipt purchase of P5,000.00, alongside any LEGO Star Wars set, receive a FREE Exclusive LEGO Star Wars 25 Years Keychain & LEGO Star Wars 25 Years Notebook, adding a touch of galactic flair to your collection!

Claim the ultimate prize. For those seeking the ultimate reward, a single-receipt purchase of P15,000.00 in LEGO sets paired with any LEGO Star Wars set, opens the doors to a treasure trove of goodies! You may enjoy a FREE Exclusive LEGO Star Wars 25 Years Keychain, LEGO Star Wars 25 Years Notebook, LEGO® 40686 Star Wars Trade Federation Troop Carrier & LEGO® 30680 AAT Polybag. But hurry! Only a limited number of stocks will be up for grabs during the period of the event!

But the excitement doesn't stop there! LEGO fans can also take advantage of additional promotions, including:

FREE LEGO® 40686 Star Wars Trade Federation Troop Carrier: Receive this exclusive set with a single-receipt purchase worth P10,000.00 with any LEGO STAR WARS set. Go to the nearest LEGO Certified Store near you and inquire more on how to avail this promo.

LEGO May the 4th Big Deals: Explore exciting purchase-with-purchase promotions, including discounts of 10% on the 2nd selected item and 20% on the 3rd selected item from a range of LEGO Star Wars sets. Available for select outgoing & discontinued LEGO Star Wars sets from May 1st to 11th, 2024.

This May, drop by the LEGO Certified Store (Alabang Town Center, BGC, TriNoma, Shangri-La Plaza, UP Town Center) nearest you! You may also visit all leading toy stores or shop online through official LEGO stores such as bankeebricks.ph, Lazada, and Shopee.

To learn more about the LEGO Group, check out lego.com

The LEGO Group’s mission is to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow through the power of play. The LEGO System in Play, with its foundation in LEGO bricks, allows children and fans to build and rebuild anything they can imagine.

The LEGO Group was founded in Billund, Denmark in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, its name derived from the two Danish words Leg Godt, which means “Play Well”. Today, the LEGO Group remains a family-owned company headquartered in Billund. Its products are now sold in more than 130 countries worldwide. For more information: www.LEGO.com

Customers can enjoy a 20% discount on selected LEGO Star Wars D2C sets from May 1 to 11:

Product Details

The LEGO® Star Wars™ TIE Interceptor™ building set

Product No.: 75382

Price: SRP 15,999.00

The LEGO® Star Wars™ Clone Trooper™ & Battle Droid™ Battle Pack

Product No.: 75372

Price: SRP 2,199.00

The LEGO® Star Wars™ Millennium Falcon

Product No.: 75375

Price: SRP 5,999.00

The LEGO® Star Wars™ Tantive IV

Product No.: 75376

Price: SRP 5,999.00

The LEGO® Star Wars™ Invisible Hand™

Product No.: 75377 – ECOM exclusive.

Price: SRP 3,999.00

The LEGO® Star Wars™ BARC Speeder™ Escape

Product No.: 75378

Price: 75380 – 2,299

LEGO® Star Wars™: R2-D2

Product No.: 75379

Price: SRP 7,299.00

The LEGO® Star Wars™ Mos Espa Podrace™ Diorama

Product No.: 75380

Price: SRP 5,999.00

The LEGO® Star Wars™ Droideka™

Product No.: 75381

Price: SRP 4,799.00

The LEGO® Star Wars™ Darth Maul's Sith Infiltrator™

Product No.: 75383 – ECOM exclusive.

Price: SRP 5,499.00

The LEGO® Star Wars™ The Crimson Firehawk™

Product No.: 75384

Price: SRP 3,999.00

LEGO® Star Wars™ Boarding theTantive IV

Product No.: 75387

Price: SRP 3,999.00