ET CETERA

my 10 Emerging Influential Blogs 2010

2010-08-24T06:16:00.000-07:00

This year I have been active in blogging. And here are my top 10 Influential Blog List

Ganda Ever So Much (GESM) - this is a "talk show" Blog of the Gandaness ORMAN MANANSALA. He talks about anything and everything openly sharing informative and useful tips in life, hilarious situations, events of Gensan's Festivals and his opinions in showbiz and politics. He is my idol in blogging, business and event organizing. I even patterned my new blog from his use of "much" thus, kikaymuch was born.

Get Prettified - a fashion and beauty blog by BRENDEL BALAGA. She is my long lost sister I can be myself with her and share my "kakikayan" and I also learn a lot from her. I learn a lot of beauty and fashion things in this blog which helps me a lot in my own blog. She is one of my inspiration and she also pushed me to do a fashion and beauty blog. Thus, kikaymuch.me was born because she knew that "kakikayan" is in my nature.

Plurk Designs - from the guru LYLE SANTOS. He is my big brother in the blogging world. He patiently helps me in all my technical problems. As a plurk addict this blog helps me change and choose plurk themes in a breeze. He also makes plurk designs that tickles my addiction, The Twilight Saga.

Ako si Rabsky - a very intuitive blog about RABSKY VILLANUEVA's opinions, occurrence, and adventures as a I.T. student.

Alexis Chua - a personal blog of a very intelligent debater, tech savvy, and well opinionated the apple of Orman's eyes ALEXIS CHUA.

A Thousand Ships - a photo blog from Gensan Gazer owner and author ARMANDO NICOLAS. In this blog he shares photos which he took from his countless travels in all 5 continents with his very own life reflection with each photo.

A Scientist in the Kitchen - a food blog of a scientist and corn breeder GAY CARILLO. In this blog she shares her love for cooking and a step by step cooking process.

Kusina Maria - a very delicious blog from "the" RIA JOSE. A multi talented beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and everything in between blogger and columnist. One of my inspiration and mentor in my blogging career.

SCT Online Magazine - a South Cotabato Online News Magazine by Nanardxz Navarro.

Kikay Much - the blog of yours truly. My fashion and beauty blog where I share my knowledge in the beauty industry where I'm part of since I'm a Salon and Spa owner. I also share make-up tips and my adventures in becoming a make-up artist.

For more information about this emerging influential blogs check out Janet Toral's Guidelined HERE.

The Top Ten Influential Blog is brought to us by: Events and Corporate Video, Budget hotel in Makati, Pinoy Party Food, Copyediting Services, PR Agency Philippines, Budget Travel Philippines, Send Gifts to the Philippines, Black Friday Deals, Roomrent - units for rent, Search Profile Index, and Corporate Events Organizer.

MFAT (Mindanao Food Appreciation Tour) 2010

2010-06-06T02:44:00.000-07:00

The first ever Mindanao Food Appreciation Tour and Soccksargen Summer Safari gathered bloggers from Cagayan de Oro, Davao and Socksargen Area (Gensan & Kidapawan). I am a newbie in the blogosphere so for me this was the biggest gathering I saw and attended.

CDO Bloggers travelled 6 hours to Davao namely: Chiq, Mike, Richard, Edward, Robstroy, Eldie, Elva and Venus.

They had their hefty lunch at Ranchero Grill and met with the Davao Bloggers who is also joining the BIG event. Davao bloggers who came along were: Lyle Santos, Brendel Balaga, Ria Jose, Miah Laborte, George Kevin Paquet, Faust Principe and Dulce Lada.

(photo by Lyle Santos)

(photo by Chiq Montes)

Ranchero offers a wide variety of seafoods and steaks which the bloggers surely enjoyed. (kahit wala ako doon alam ko sarap na sarap sila kitang kita naman sa mga blog post nila, just click their names)

After that sumptuous lunch they headed for the 3 hour ride to Gensan where a series of events and food establishment awaits them thanks to the well organized efforts of Avel Manansala, Orman Manansala.

Their first stop was the ICE CASTLE EXPERIENCE owned by Mr. Rey Billena. Where they freshened up in the luxurious and cozy rooms. By the way the hotel is not yet open to the public.

Then a game of pool, appetizer and refreshments at the Pacman Sports Bar owned by no less than Jinky and Manny Pacquiao.

Then a full blast filipino food fair from LE JARDIN ARNEVELS they offer EAT ALL YOU CAN and catering services. They were greeted by the owner ate Nitz.

(photo by Lyle Santos)

(photo by Chiq Montes)

So you think after this dinner the bloggers already called it a night?? NAH!!! because a GRAND EYEBALL awaits them.

Gensan Bloggers patiently waited for the Davao and Cdo Bloggers at PIYESTA KTV & RESTOBAR. Some only know each other by their PLURK names. The early birds shyly introduced themselves as they arrived one by one. And then finally they arrived. WOHHHOOOO PIYESTA was full packed at their arrival. There were like more than 40 of us there. Laughter filled the room. Voices echoing. Imagine put 40 plus bloggers in one room? it is a chaotic, fun filled story telling and techie exchanging time plus plus photo ops.

We served the bloggers our new drinks the Jell-O SYRINGE shot, Gayuma Bucket (in test tubes) and ang Gayuma shot (in graduated cylinder) our Rhum Tea (which some of them thought it was just ice tea, hehehehe)

We also treated them to our best seller foods our KURA-STICK (chili stuffed with ground beef wrapped in lumpia wrapper) Tuna-Buntot, Tuna Cheese Rolls and Sizzling TUNGOL. And thank you to MAYOR PEDRO ACHARON for yet another LECHON.

The next day an early start for our adventure day. Breakfast at Dolores Farm Resort at Polomolok. Native Hot Chocolate, Bangus and Crispy Tilapia. After the quick breakfast we toured around their mini zoo where we found a very horny monkey (hehehehehehe).

(photo by Chiq Montes)

(photo by Lyle Santos)

The group headed for Lake Sebu for the thrilling 7 falls zipline.

(photo by Chiq Montes)

Flocks of other tourist was there already at the time we arrived. We opt to have our lunch first at Punta Isla Resort. Thank you to Zion Travels by Francis Sablon.

A snack followed there after at Merl Garden Resort. After lunch some cdo bloggers went back to experience the seven falls zipline and some proceeded to Merl Garden. They also have a zipline there.

After the thrilling experience we proceeded to Koronadal for coffee and refreshments at SA BALAI BISTRO. They served us Mulberry Tea, Coffee and Pandan Shake.

To Finish this epic Mindanao Foor Appreciation Tour and Socksargen Summer Safari a delicious dinner THE RED TENT style is just perfect. Thank you to the efforts of Sir Gilbert Tan for this one.

For pa "baon" thank you to Kakanin owned by Chito Bogayong.

For the rest of the story of how much fun we had watch the video made by GOMA.

(MFAT Summer Safari in Mindanao from goma on Vimeo.)

DfAT (Davao Food Appreciation Tour) DAY 3

2010-06-03T18:52:00.000-07:00

Everything has to end talaga, but before it did we had a grand island tour by ETOURS it was a whole day tour.

TAPS

Our day started with a pinoy breakfast at TAPS. It was our favorite place back when I was still in college because of their very affordable meals. They serve tapsilog all day long.

Sarap ng breakfast with the bloggers (tagal ko na kasing di nagigising ng ganito kaaga, hehehehehe) pero since eto ay lakwatsa si Donna Mae kahit gaano kaaga nagigising talaga, hehehehehehe. Hindi kami sabay-sabay dumating pero hinid na rin kami nag antayan pag dating namin nag order na kami agad at kumain. At nang natapos na kaming kumain lahat nag chikahan ulit.

Kami nila Chiq Montes, Dulce Lada at Doc Joanna nag bonding over our favorite book "TWILIGHT SERIES." At etong si doc Joanna ini encourage kaming magbasa ng "Vampire Academy, Series." Kaya ayun ngayon tapos ko na ang 4 na libro at nagustohan ko din eto ng sobra for this new addiction thank you doc Joanna, hehehehehehe.

ETOURS (Island Tour in Island Garden City of Samal aka IGACOS)

We were met by our tour guides oops!! I forgot their name sorry :( *I'm really bad with names but I never forget a FACE ay eto na naalala ko na JOJO name nya hehehehe. Anyways "highways" our guides from ETOURS are very knowledgeable when it comes to facts and trivia about Samal. It was my Nth time going to Samal but it was with them that I knew that the "GARDEN" do not literary means a plant or flower garden it meant the beautiful and wide-spread CORAL GARDEN all over Samal.

First stop namin is Maxima Aquafun meron silang giant water slide, canopy walk, diving board at water trampoline. Na amaze ako sa giant slide nila na galing sa cliff papuntang dagat!!! very thrilling experience talaga un. Ang daming tao kasi naman Sunday un we all decided na mga gamit namin iwan lang sa boat namin and doon na din kami nag lunch.

Etong photo ko taken by the staff ng Maxima ang bilis ng speed ng slide nahihirapan akong mag pose kaya yan ang resulta.

Pag abot ko sa dulo ng slide na feel ko para akong lumipad pag baksak ko sa dagat PLAK!!! ang sakit ng hita ko hehehehehehe pero swim ako agad out of the way may life guard naman na nandoon naka stay sa water to remind you to get out of the way to give space for the next slider. Safe naman doon lahat kami may life vest.

Ang galing talaga ng naka pag isip ng idea ng Maxima since ang property walang beach front kaya yun ginawa nilang isang malaking swimming pool ang dagat. Meron din doong water trampoline inantay naming umalis ang magbarkada na nandoon at nang umalis sila pina punta agad namin si Peter doon. Ang saya naming lahat doon para kaming mga batang talon ng talon!!! hahahahaha

We had our lunch sa boat, pack lunch by Lyle Santos's brother. Sarap ng lunch namin. Meron ding pina baon ang Dimsum Diner sa amin na assorted siopao.

After lunch umalis na kami sa Maxima Aquafun at nag tour sa iba pang island ng samal. Sa tour na un napag alaman ko na may 4 na hiwa-hiwalay na island ang Samal. Nadaanan namin ang Pearl Farm, Wishing Island at iba pang resort.

Nag stop kami sa Angels Cove and Babu Santa at nag swimming. Pupunta din kami sa coral garden at nag enjoy nag swimming at sa pag hahanap kay "nemo" hehehehe Na aliw kaming lahat ng naka kita kami ng madaming star fish.

ETOUR's Contact Numbers: +63917-7011882, +63916-4333199, + 63922-8674779, +6382-2861173, and +6382-2861645

Naka balik kami sa Davao by 4:00pm na. Si Joney Uy may hahabolin pa na flight. Si Ada after dinner pa flight nya. We decided to have dinner sa Picobello at Gaisano South Illustre. After dinner we decided to give bloggers from Manila a TASTE of DAVAO at un ang DURIAN. Pumunta kami sa Magsaysay Park at sa hilera ng mga fruit stands kumain kami doon ng durian. Ako ang pinaka matakaw kumain sa lahat hehehehehe.

After durian nag coffee kami sa Kopi Roti at tumawag si Ada na hindi sya naka sakay ng plane biglang iniba ng Cebu Pacific ang schedule nya.

Medyo pagod na ang lahat pero may isang malaking ngiti sa aming mga labi.

Thank you talaga sa AVATAR MEDIA for organizing this very successful event. Sa mga nag participate sa mga bago kong na meet at naging kaibigan salamat!!! see you all soon.

Thank you sa kay Ada Lajara, Andrew Dela Serna, Orman Manansala and Chiq MOntes for the photos!!! :)

DFAT (Davao Food Appreciation Tour) DAY 2

2010-06-02T23:14:00.000-07:00

NOTE: This post will be written in a way the author can freely express her thoughts so this means a mixture of english, tagalog, bisaya and char lingo will be used. (hahahahaha) If you want to proceed reading this go find yourself a translator (hahahaha)

Day 2 ng DFAT (Davao Food Appreciation Tour) excited ang lahat. Medyo napa sarap tulog ko at medyo na late ako sa pag sundo ng mga passengers ko. (hehehehehe) Very thoughtful naman itong si Ria Jose at text ng text kung saan na kami and updates and reminders ng itinerary namin tinext the night before nakakatulog pa kaya un sya sa kaka alala?? hehehehehe

So nagising ako naligo and readied myself for the days adventure trek and zipline experience with my "Innova Airlines" umalis ako ng bahay. Una kong sinundo si Sarah Cada sa bahay ng tita nya. Next si Jonel Uy na naka stay sa Viajeros Tourist Inn. At sa di kalauyan naman si Melo Villareal na naka stay sa Lisphere Inn. Silang tatlo ang super kong naka bonding sa 3 day na lakwatsang ito hehehehe. Usap-usap kami sa loob ng "innova airlines" never a dull moment talaga laging may pinag uusapan kung ano ano lang. Syempre si Ria text na kung saan na kami at kung ok lang kami hehehehehe medyo na late kasi ako sa pag sundo sa kanila.

OUTLAND ADVENTURE

Dumating din kami sa Outland Adventure Xcelerator nasa Diversion Road lang ito ang dali nitong makita nasa harap lang kasi ito ng GAP Farm. Hindi lang Zipline ang nandun meron din silang Rope Course at Traverse Line. Nag register na kami at nag pay ng P300 each for the zipline meron din waiver na pina permahan sa amin.

Nang matapos maka pag register at bayad ang lahat nag gear up na kami at nakinig sa briefing ng kuya sa safety and sa trek course na lalakarin, lulusungin at aakyatin namin. Para ma prepare ang sarili ko sa physical activity na ito kumain ako ng "potato rolls" na galing sa Mam Bebs Bakeshop at bumili ako ng inumin para bitbit ko sa paglalakad.

And pinaka mahirap sa lahat ay ang paakyat na trek grabe uber ka steep ng bukid bilis ko hiningal hehehehe buti na lang madaming naka kalat ng paalala "PLEASE GO AT YOUR OWN PACE" meaning wag mag madali makakarating din kayo hehehehehe

Isa isa na kaming nag zipline ang iba na super daring na experience ang gusto nag INVERTED!!! meaning nito nag zipline sila ng patiwarik hahahaha gaya ni kuya Andrew Dela Serna, Dulce Lada, Ada Lajara at Dokie Joanna.

And iba normal lang seating position sina Cai Abbas, Mica Rodriguez, Jonel Uy, Melo Villareal. Ako naman kasama si sir Orman Manansala at si Peter "Pilot" nag superman position kami.

Ang pinaka funny sa experience na ito ay ang reaction ni sir Orman panay ang pag sign of the cross at ang official soundtrack for that time ay ang "Come Holy Spirit, I need you." Deep inside uber ang tension ni sir Orman dinadala nya na lang ito sa tawa at pag papatawa sa amin pero kitang kita ko sa likod ng cute smile nya na uber ang tension ni gandaeversomcuh (hehehehehe) sabi pa nya deep inside pinapanalangin nya na mag over the weight limit daw sya, eh sa hindi un nangyari ng dahil na din sa DIET nya nag bawas na kaya sya ng timbang and super no choice na sya he needs to proceed dahil hindi nya na din kakayanin pa ang trek pa balik (hehehehehe) super sakit ng tyan ko sa kakatawa ng turn na si sir Orman at nag "DARNA" talaga sya hehehehehe kaya etong si Chattee ginawaan sya ng appropriate na edited photo hehehehe.

Second sa funny list ko ay itong si Ada ang lakas kasi ng loob na mag inverted ayun kabado din pala at sumisigaw na parang kinakatay na baboy hahahahaha saying______ ay hindi pwede bad word pala un hehehehehe

Ay muntik ko nang maka limotan si Kevin pala ang nasa 3rd funny list ko kasi naka strap na sya at lahat lahat kulang na lang release bigla pa namannag ask, "SAFE BAH ITO??" hehehehehehe

Contact Numbers ng Outland: +6382-2245855 and +6382-2716067

Ako naka ilang zipline experience na ako so hindi na masyado thrilling for me pero super talaga akong na enjoy sa panonood ko sa mga kasama kong blogger a really priceless expressions and experience ang kaligayan ng pinadama nyo sa akin hehehehehehe Thank you at muntik na akong nabulunan sa kakatawa hahahahahaha

hala ang haba na ng nasulat ko OUTLAND pa lang ito…. fast forward tayo….

LUNCH sa PENONG'S

Nag lunch kami sa Penong's Barbeque Seafoods and Grill na nasa Sta. Ana Avenue, Davao City tabi ng isang chinese school sa likod ng Gaisano Mall. As usual ang daming taong kumakain doon pero buti naman at mabait ung mga waiters at na asikaso kami ng mabuti ang dami namin. Dumating din at nag Hi! sa amin ung may-ari na si Jayvee Tyron Uy.

In a way i hate and love Penong's (o wag muna mag react!!!) kasi ganito yan let me explain Love ko dahil ang sarap at ang juicy ng chicken barbeque nila iba talaga kaysa sa ibang bbq house (eto na!) Hate ko sya dahil na BREAK ko promise ko sa sarili ko na NO RICE!!! :( dalawang buwan na akong walang RICE and PENONG'S lang ang nagpa RICE ulit sa akin ngayon nahihirapan nanaman akong mag diet hehehehehe (o clear na tayo doon ha sa hate and love ko ang PENONG'S ha??!!!)

After Lunch may naka schedule na Google Precint Mapping ang mga Davao Bloggers naki mapping na din ang ibang bloggers doon ulit sa tambayan ng bloggers ang Mam Bebs Bakeshop. Pero ng dahil nga sa sobrang chika chika namin sa "innova airlines" nitong si Sarah eh na kwento ko ang JAPANESE TUNNEL na nadaanan namin kanina from Outland Adventure kasi nasa Diversion Road din naman un eh. Kaya ayun kaysa mag mapping ako, Sarah, Jonel, Melo at Lyle ay nag decide na mag side trip sa JAPANESE TUNNEL dahil itong si Sarah na aaliw sa historical things hehehehehe. In fairness may mga natutunan din naman ako doon sa Japanese Tunnel ang galing ng engineering technique ng mga Hapon noh??!!!

and the most awaited portion of the day….

LACHI'S SANS RIVAL Atbp.

Our dinner for the night is at Lachi's Sans Rival Atbp. This is the favorite place of Davao bloggers to dine. It's a small place pero always puno para naman maka upo ka at maka eat magpa reserve ka muna, ganun ka busy doon. Ang bait talaga ng mga owners na sina Mike at Melvin Abiles kahit ganoon sila ka puno everyday na nakuha nilang ipa close for the night ang LACHI'S just to cater all the bloggers o dba??!!! ganun ka love ng Lachi's ang mga bloggers and I know that the feeling it mutual hehehehehe

nag serve sila ng house favorite ng mga bloggers ang Unforgettable Pork Ribs, Pork Marinara, Breaded Tofu in teriyaki sauce (eto favorite ko diet gud daw ko!! char!! ), Laing and and newest addition sa menu Caldereta sarap na sarap kaming lahat sa food pero at the back of our minds we have to leave a space for dessert!!! ay sus mag sisisi ka kung binusog mo agad ang sarili mo kasi HINDI dapat palampasin ang mga CAKES!!! (you will miss half of your life talaga!!)

cakes for the night are: Sans Rival, Durian Cheesecake, Blueberry Cheesecake, Cherry Cheesecake, Sylvannas, Symphony Torte, Regal Chocolate Torte, 5 Chocolate Torte, Roasted Walnut Chocolate Cake, Dark Chocolate Supreme, Cashew Mocha.

They are located at VAL Learning Village, Ruby Street, Marfori Heights, Davao City

Contact Number: +63916-9841183

Thank you to: Orman Manansala, Ada Lada, Andrew Dela Serna and Miah for the PHOTOS!!! :)

DFAT (Davao Food Appreciation Tour) DAY 1

2010-06-01T22:41:00.000-07:00

This is my first time join DFAT (Davao Food Appreciation Tour) this event is on it's 3rd year this year already.

April 30, 2010 day 1 of the 3 days food and adventure tour. Me as a first timer is really not excited that I went to Davao one day early (hehehehe). I met up with Davao bloggers Ria Jose, Lyle Santos, Brendel Balaga, and Andrew Dela Serna and Ria offered me to sit in the advance make-up workshop at FIDA. So my day started really early that day at 7am now this is really early for me. Ria and Me met up at ENVY ME by ADA DOLOSA so that I can go and observe the last day of the make-up workshop. After that we went to VIAJEROS where some of the DFATers from Manila stayed to pick-up Jonel Uy. We had lunch at Yellow Fin with Brendel, Lyle, Andrew and Ria. After lunch we pick up Melo Villareal at Lisphere Inn and Sarah Cada in her aunt's house.

We all convened at MAM BEBS BAKESHOP for our snacks and short briefing for what is in store for this 3 day event. Mam Bebs Bakeshop owner, Andre Dela Serna served us with their house specialties: Mango square, Potato rolls, Siopao and Tuna Palabok. My personal favorite is the mango square. We got to introduce ourselves and the rest of the bloggers from Manila was all there. I met Ada Laraja, Mica Rodriguez, Cai Abbass and Winston Almendras Dulce Lada,a Davao blogger was also there. Ria briefed us on the upcoming events that the AVATAR MEDIA has prepared for us.

(photo by Lyle Santos)

(photo by Mica Rodriguez)

Second stop for the day is the Zorb Park. Sarah and me are partners inside the zorb and boy we were in for the ride of our lives. It was a really exhilarating experience. At first we were shouting and towards the end we are both laughing already. Before they launch us from the top of the small mountain they advised me not to close my eyes and just scream, I did not listen to "manong" I got scared at first that i closed my eyes as a result i got dizzy. At the end of our zorb experience paparazzi bloggers are waiting for us to go out and took a quick photos of us in our "ngarag state." (hehehehehehe) Thank you kuya Andrew for taking a video of us. And thank you Mr. Sonny Dizon, owner of Zorb Park for the experience. Zorb Park is located Riverfront Corporate City, Diversion Road, Maa, Davao City. And it only cost P200.

(photo by sir Orman)

(photo by Ada Laraja)

(photo by sir Orman)

(photo by sir Lyle Santos)

After that thrilling experience in the Zorb i was sweating cold I got dizzy. Note to myself: "listen to advice of the "manongs" in the Zorb Park they know better." Gladly we still have enough time for a quick coffee before our fine dinning dinner at Pablos. My stomach needed something hot to calm it down. We had coffee at Davao Bloggers favorite tambayan place, Kangaroo Coffee. Kulitan and getting to know bloggers from Manila and chikka, chikka kami doon.

(my coffee)

(photo by Andrew)

By about 6:00pm it was time for us to have our dinner. We went to Pablos Steak for our fine dinning experience. And boy! we were up for a night of exquisite tasting and flavor blasting food prepared and dressed in a picture perfect way. It all really looked good but it's look is an understatement for its flavor-riched taste. Pablos Steaks & Crabs is a great place to dine with your better half or your special someone and there pop up that daring question men are scarred of and women are dying to hear because the place has it's romantic feel all the way. My personal favorite dish for the night was the "cream cheese stuffed chicken." Thank you for the gracious host Paulo Sunglao and Mike Sunglao (who is the chief) they are located at Metro Lifestyle Complex, Jacinto cor. F. Torres, Davao City Contact Number:+6382-222-0793.

(photo by Lyle Santos)

The last stop for the day was at Jose Rafael fine coffee to meet up with the rest of the Davao bloggers. We had the place all for ourselves "nag kukulitan ang iba" me and romarie and engrossed with our chikka ever ahem ng love life nya hehehehe. Other bloggers watched Mica's short films on her lappy others discussed their blogs and techy things while other picture picture and other pose pose hehehehe. It was a very heart warming experience being with persons with similar interest as you. I was in my natural habitat hehehehe with friends and new friends with kikay bloggers as me and with food and travel bloggers. This was really a life changing experience for me. I gained a lot of new friends and acquaintances and bonded with old friends. Thank you Jose Rafael for the very unique coffee and place for us to chit-chat. They are located at Door 2, Phase 1 Insular Village, Lanang, Davao City (Next to China Bank); Buhangin Branch Petron Complex, Airport View, Diversion Road, Davao City Contact Numbers: +6382-3055698 and +6382-2351647

SMI Discovery Tour

2010-03-16T05:51:00.000-07:00

This is a long past overdue post I have been doing a lot lately that I forgotten to make a blog post but this time I want to make a promise to myself that I have to blog at least once a week and catch on all my pending post for all the blogger events I have been through. So, here it goes…

March 6, 2010, Saturday I just had an hour of sleep because of my work at Piyesta Ktv & Restobar. Our call time was 6:00 am. We convened at City Hall it is just a few blocks away from where I reside so I decided to walk and drop by Dunkin Donuts for my brewed coffee to wake me up. Rabsky and sir Gilbert, with a plastic of Jollibee in hand, was already there. The very thoughtful sir Gilbert bought along coffee and hot choco for the early birds paired with hot pandesal. Then one by one bloggers arrived Rosalie, Arnel and Tammy. Next was Van and France then the Manansala sisters Orman & Avel and also Gensan Gazer's author Mandi and ate Jinky. SMI people with a caravan of 4x4 arrived at 7:00am to pick us up.

(coffee party sa side ng City Hall)

It was a fast and trilling ride from Gensan to Tampakan it was like the 10 4x4 cars are in a race. I rode with sir Orman and Peter "pilot" in his Ford Everest from Gensan to Tampakan.

First stop is the SMI Competence Center for our Security and Safety Briefing and boy these guys are not kidding when it comes to security and safety. We also had a cultural briefing, project overview, project updates and open forum. There I learned that SMI had NOT yet started the excavating the copper and gold they are still in the exploration stage where in they study the quality, the quantity and the depth of the copper. I daringly ask the speaker on what SMI are doing or will do to the environment during and after the mining process. And i had a good answer for that question. SMI really though things through they have a continuos rehabilitation plan which means they are now starting it even though the excavation had not yet started and they will continue doing it during and after the whole mining process.

(SMI briefing)

(merong short animation film ang presentation nila NICE!!)

After the briefing we went to the Core Farm where metallurgist, geologist and MS engineers study the sample stones and soil that are excavated by small drills in the site. In the same compound is the SMI Nursery where in hundreds and hundreds of tree seedling are being breed and grown and are all ready to be given away to organization who are going to use it for tree planting activity. They also have a butterfly garden, api culture shed house, vermiculture and automatic weather station. We had our sumptuous lunch there.

(Core Farm with SMI's metallurgist and geologist)

(tree seedlings)

(automatic weather station)

Then of we go for our nerve wracking 4x4 trail ride to Salnaong for our cultural exposure. We had fun watching their cultural presentation and talking to them.

(4x4 trek FUN FUN FUN)

(4x4 hi-lux and strada)

(Bariles wih chief of the tribe and his elder father)

(traditional dance)

(with the kids)

It was really true to its term a "discovery tour" i learned a lot from this SMI experience thank you SMI may your plans for the environment be beneficial for everyone.

(socks bloggers, SMI team and salnaong chief)

MYMP and Nathan of BAMBOO at PIYESTA!!!

2010-03-12T06:42:00.000-08:00

February 25, 2010 MYMP dined at PIYESTA. They were in town for the grand finals of Acoustic Band Competition of Gaisano Mall Gensan. This was a great opportunity to market Piyesta and get to meet celebrities.

MYMP is one of my acoustic band favorites but so sad that Juris left and decided to go solo. But Juliet on the other hand is also a great singer and a very gracious.

I joined them for dinner and they treated me as if we already know each other. Chin loved our "crispy tuna buntot." I made them my taste testers for our new dishes. We got 4 thumbs up and Chin said, serve mo na ito!! ang sarap. He loved all our food. I told him, and sarap mong pakainin Chin we just laughed.

It was an amazing experience for me to get to know famous artist that i really idolized.

It was just like old friends having dinner and chit chatting.

I got them to sign our wall.

The next day February 26, 2010 Bamboo Band was in town. They were also scheduled to dine at Piyesta. Sadly it was just Nathan their bassist who showed up. The rest of the band were dead tired from the series of concerts they had. But hey one is better than nothing right??

It was just a quick very late dinner.

I also got Nathan to sign our wall too.

KALILANGAN: Queen of Mindanao Festivals

2010-03-11T19:31:00.001-08:00

Febraury 26, 2010 the first Queen of Mindanao Festivals Pageant was done at Robinsons Place Gensan. This is a pageant not only of beauty queens but also the festival she represents.

I was one of the judges for this unique and colorful pageant together with Chattee Lara, Ria Jose, Dulce Lada, Romarie Cunanan, Johnny Abad and Avel Manansala.

Like i said this was no ordinary pageant. Beauty queen title holders from different festivals all over southern Mindanao are buying for this very first "Queen of Mindanao."

This was participated by Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, Saranggani, South Cotabato and General Santos. The pageant started with the festival attires. Each queen wore customs that best described the festivals they represent. A very colorful, rich in culture and lively attires. This caught the attention not only of the renowned designer Johnny Abad but also us, the judges and crowed who witnessed the event. Even though we live in Mindanao not all of us have the luxury of time and money to visit these festivals.

The festival director, Orman Manansala is the genius behind this unique event. A really great way to present a festival with in a festival. It is an eye opening event for me. It was like i went to (7) seven different festivals but only in one venue. It was perfectly coordinated and directed by Dino Veloso.

The atrium of Robinsons Place Gensan roared with the drum rolls of different kinds of drums and gongs when it was time to present different dance numbers for each festivals. Each queens performed a dance number.

Then it was time for the formal gown my most awaited portion. A back and white gown designed by Johnny Abad brought out the beauties of the queens.

They were serenaded by Gensan's Pop idol, Jun Jimenez.

A simple yet very informative question and answer was done. Each queens described and explained the respective festivals they represent.

And before i forget Noynoy Aquino dropped by together with Ruffy Biazon and Guingona.

This event also was televised through live streaming a genius work of Lyle Santos and Avel Manansala. Generals all over the world witnessed the event.

This was the first Queen of Mindanao Pageant and I hope this will be the beginning of a new era of festival and beauty pageant.

Crowned 2nd runner-up is Christina Bona Juanico of Sarmiento’s Buklod Festival.

Bagging the 1st runner-up is Petal Cagape of Tampakan representing Tamfaken Lum-a-lay Festival.

In the end the beauty of Gensan's Tuna Festival Queen, Madonna Galang stand out. And she was declared the first Queen of Mindanao Festivals.

(beauty queen judges hahahaha)

(Me, sir DINO and Romarie)

(Davao and Gensan Bloggers, Lakan at Lakambini finalist with MADONNA GALANG 1st Queen of Mindanao)

(wacky shoot!!!)

ALL PHOTOS courtesy of BRIAN DAN CONGSON

KALILANGAN: Lakan at Lakambini 2009

2010-03-11T05:14:00.000-08:00

(Photo by: Orman Manansala)

Kalilangan Festival will not be complete without choosing the Lakan and Lakambini.

(Ryan Reyes and Shane Lara LLK 2009, Photo by Chattee Lara)

I went to Gaisano to witness the event. Every year I'm looking forward for this pageant. I'm always looking forward for the gowns and the production numbers of the candidates. And indeed I was not dismayed, the modern filipiniana gowns designed by Johnny Abad, the President of Filipino Designers Association of the Philippines are epic. I can see the judges reactions when they saw the gowns and I think they want one also. (okey, okey i want one also hehehehe)

(photo by: OMAR GALLINERO)

Maureen Paulo and Jenel Labiana were 1st runners up and Dave Barbero and Sarashvati Sarkar bagged 2nd runner up.

(Caroline Lim Lakambini 2010 photo by OMAR GALLINERO)

And a new twist in showing of the candidates curves not with bikinis but with a PLAY SUITS a very interesting and colorful twist I may say. The shows choreography as expected was superb with sir Dino Veloso directing it.

(photo by: OMAR GALLINERO)

A close fight but in the end the wit, poise and intelligence of Caroline Lim and Gervic Romero bagged them the title of Lakan at Lakambini 2010.

(photo by: Orman Manansala)

(photo by: OMAR GALLINERO)

Mario Valentino and Romarie Cunana were the Masters of Ceremony.

(photo by: OMAR GALLINERO)

I had the chance to meet new blogger friends Ria Jose, Chattee Lara, Angel Abella and Dulce Lada . Lyle Santos and Brendel Balaga was tasked to judge the pageant.

(new friends Ria Jose, Chattee Lara and the master Leonard Pe)

One thing I love when ganda ever so much, Orman Manansala organize an event is that it's not boring. And every year their is always something new and exciting.

(Gensan & Davao Bloggers)

Fashion Show the Finale

2010-03-11T02:48:00.000-08:00

A Fashion Show for my events finale is perfect. I ask the ganda ever so much festival director, Orman Manansala to help me with this, and a 120% percent support was given.

Live music from Kuerdas Band was the models background.

The finalist for the Lakan at Lakambini 2010 modeled the collection of Robinsons Department Store. It was my first time to shop at Robinsons Dept Store and discovered that they have a wide variety of stylish wearable collections and believe me it is very affordable.

The collections of Aven & Claire for kids were modeled by my cute and very adorable "pamangkins. " And they were all a crowed pleaser knowingly it was all my relatives cheering for them. It was their first time to go on stage and they were perfectly behaved and they each delivered a stunning pose.

Hair & Make-up were done by ENVY ME SALON & SPA Robinsons Place Gensan Branch "creative team." A colorful and vibrant look was the theme for the fashion show.

Hair & Make-up Trends 2010

2010-03-02T07:10:00.000-08:00

Last February 15, after celebrating valentines and chinese new year my yearly event took place at Robinsons Place Gensan atrium. It is entitled Hair & Make-up Trends 2010. A Kalilangan event.

Filipino Hairdressers Cooperative (Fil-hair) is chaired by no other that Ricky Reyes, aims to uplifted the hairdressing industry by providing yearly seminars and updating to salon owners, hairdressers and students. As the Regional chairman of Fil-hair I do this yearly event in partnership with the local government. Aside from the updating and seminar we also want to present the creativity of hairdressers and make-up artist thus, the Hair & Make-up Competition.

It is a whole day event, seminar and updating for salon owners, students and hairdressers in the morning and a hair and make-up competition in the afternoon. A fashion show featuring the finalist for Lakan at Lakambini for the finale.

Indeed it was a successful event and base from other years turn out this year was our highest so far reaching to 180 seminar participants and 38 competitors. These records are only the ones who registered we have a lot of mall goers who watched and witnessed our event.

The competition has four categories Men Cut, Color & Style, Ladies Cut, Color & Style, Evening Make-up and Bridal Make-up.

For the men and ladies cut, color and style models hair are pre colored already. The cutting, styling and make-up are done on stage and competitors are only given 30 minutes to do that.

Judging is done right after. Our set of judges are national officers of Fil-hair base in Manila. They are Ivy Malagena (Ricky Reyes right hand), Peping Deguzman and Ruby.

(Men Cut, Color & Style CHAMPION)

(Ladies Cut, Color & Style CHAMPION)

(Evening Make-up CHAMPION)

(Bridal Make-up CHAMPION & OVER-ALL CHAMPION)

For the finale, we had the finalist for Lakan at Lakambini model the collections from Robinsons Department store and cute adorable kids modeled the collection from Aven & Claire. With live reggae music from the KUERDAS BAND. (i will make a different post for this)

(give aways from salon suppliers)

(Romarie, Me and Rob they were my MC's for the event)

The event was brought to us by 71st Kalilangan Festival 2010, GSC Chamber of Commerce, Robinsons Place Gensan, Envy Me Salon & CSP Digital Studio.

A big THANK YOU to Orman Manansala, Kalilangan Festival Director for the unending support.

We were graced by the presence of our honorable Vice Mayor Florentina Congson for the awarding of winners.

my PIYESTA valentines!

2010-02-10T03:37:00.000-08:00

Piyesta Ktv & Restobar Special February Menu. For couples a budget of P500 good for 2 already you will have your semi fine dinning treat from us with drink choices from piyesta beer, piyesta soda or our house WINE.

Plus a pianist and violinist will serenade you for a romantic night. And there's more, present your receipt for prof of purchase from any al fresco tenants to Robinsons Mall booth they will give away roses.

Try our GAYUMA! drinks made specially for this LOVE month!!

So, spend a day this LOVE month here at PIYESTA KTV & RESTOBAR.

We accept Table Reservations contact us at (083) 554-2139 or 09239289057

Gensan View Reosrt

2010-01-28T19:57:00.000-08:00

(panoramic view photo by kyaw)

(top view)

A new place to go out with the whole family to take a dip, have a picnic or just relax and smell fresh air. A perfect place to get away from the city stress with less than 10 minutes away from Robinsons Place Gensan.

(wide parking space)

Gensan View Resort is conveniently located at Nursery Road (after Sussana Homes) Lagao Gen. Santos City. You will never get lost because from the National Highway the road going to Davao a sign board is already there.

Entrance fee is at P50 pesos per person only for both children and adults. Small Huts are at P200 and Big Huts are at P300 only. Their huts are also well thought of there is a designated place on top where in you can put your bags therefore will not be seated in the tables or chairs. And also they have a space where in you can put your wet towels to dry it off.

If your in a very small group like a group of 4 they have a pavilion 100sq meter big you can rent out a table for just P100 with 4 chairs.

(the pavilion)

(common washing area)

They have a common area for grilling. Bringing of food is allowed. Beverages is at a very minimal corkage. But if I were you do not bring soft drinks because they selling it there at a very affordable convenience store type price.

(common grilling area)

A very important amenity that I always look for in every resort is there comfort rooms. And I was amazed to find that their comfort rooms are very clean, convenient and has a spa feeling. This is always my deciding factor whether to dip in or not and with this comfort room I will definitely dive into the pool right away.

(comfortable comfort rooms)

(shower area)

But before diving into the pool you must take a shower first.

(outside shower modelled by LITO ANTOQUE)

The owners are pushing in educating swimmers of the right swim wear. Bathing suits for the ladies, Trunks for men or short & shirt without button or zipper.

This is very important because their pool is equipped with filtration system and salt chlorinator. This means that they are not using the typical chemical chlorine other pools use. The salt chlorinator converts salt to chlorine therefore the water will not irritate your eyes unlike other pools.

They have a large adult pool with slide and fountain and a kiddie pool with slide and umbrella shower. Your children and you will really love it here.

It is owned by the very accommodating couple Mr. & Mrs. Joel Santos.

(bloggers interview with the owners)

Their family is also into Tuna Processing and the catfish you see at KCC Supermarket aquarium all came from their catfish and tilapia farm.

(boats)

(Lito modeling how to fish)

The catfish & tilapia farm are still there that's why the resort also offers boating & fishing. Fishing no fee, but if you caught something it is 95/ kilo and you can have it cooked for you. Their boating for kids is just P50/boat/hour good for 2-3 kids.

Do they offer night swimming? NO, it is because they offer the place for private parties at night from 5pm to 11pm (if maghangyo) up to 12mn. If so you can bring a long with you your videoke sets etc. You can have the whole place at P5,000 pesos only.

If you have a party in the morning or afternoon you can rent out the whole pavilion for P1,600 half pavilion at P800, but you will not have the whole place on your own.

For more information contact their manager, Lester at 0915-6474354 or 302-8237.

A lot of future plans are in store for this place by the owners I'm definitely going back soon.

(junior bloggers in one line meeting the owners)

(teleserye shoot GENSAN BLOGGERS photo by: kyaw)

The day will not be complete without our jump shoot. Superb photo by Kyawster.

Cafe Amoree & Gensan Mapping with Bloggers

2010-01-28T06:12:00.000-08:00

This is a long over due post thank you sir Avel for reminding me. (hehehehehe) Avel Manansala the author of Gensan's famous blog Gensan New Online Mag invited me to Cafe Amoree for our very first Gensan Mapping Activity.

This is also the first blogger activity that my boyfriend, Emman decided to tag along. And indeed he had a great time that it made him decide to blog also.

It was a very nice, cozy, modern designed and clean place. It's a perfect place to meet and talk with your business partners or just chill and enjoy their wide variety of coffee and non coffee selections.

I love the way they present their coffee blends in a high ball and very slick designed glass.

They also have a function room and restaurant.

It was a very FUN and INFORMATIVE day for us all. Mikko is very patient in answering all our questions and was a very great teacher. He really knows what he is doing or teaching us.

Basically what we did is that we located establishments here in our city and tagged them so that travelers can benefit by locating the places they need to go to here in our city. We also edited wrong names streets and establishments that are no longer there or has transferred. I found the activity very enjoyable it is like playing a game. After that mapping I was very keen in looking at stores and there locations. (hehehehehehe)

The Wifi connection of Cafe Amoree is great we were like 20 people each with his or her own laptop but still the connection was fast.

CAFE AMOREE a new place to have coffee.

Located at Dacera Commercial Complex along Mabuhay Road.

Owned by Ricky and Tess Almanzor

Contact them at 554-2173 and look for the Manager Maryvil Araniego.

(for all this information and PHOTOS credits to Orman Manansala's Ganda Ever So Much)

Isla Jardin del Mar (no need to go Boracay)

2010-01-23T19:02:00.000-08:00

January 23, 2010 the Opening of the newest Paradise Gumasa, Glan Saranganni has to offer. The ISLA JARDIN DEL MAR, owned and managed by fishing magnate Mr. Marfin Tan also the owner of Sydney Hotel and Isla Parilla.

(The Group Brendel and Lyle, Sheng and Kyaw, Arnel and Jinky, Bariles, Orman, Gilbert, Mandi, Mr. John, Me and the owner Mr Marfin Tan)

I was invited to join by Go Sarangani Travel & Tour's Michelle Solon and fellow bloggers. I got excited when i was informed that Davao Bloggers Lyle and Brendel are also coming.

We left Gensan at around 1:30 Michelle fetch us joining us were ate Sheng, sir Gilbert, kuya Arnel, Brendel and Mr. John Achaval (Michelle's friend). We were chit chatting and I enjoyed it that I didn't realized we were there already. As any other travels first thing you will look for when you land is the COMFORT ROOM. And Comfort Rooms are very important especially in resorts because that's the first thing I look at and this will be the deciding factor whether to bathe or not.(too bad i don't have photos of their WIDE and CLEAN comfort rooms)

(wide white beach sand front)

(one of the entries of their sculture competition)

A wide white sand beach front is their number one come on not to mention they also have a Lagoon unlike in Isla Parilla (a man made island) I think this lagoon comes with the property naturally.

(ate Sheng)

They have Jetskies, motor speed boats and I'm not sure if the ATV's are for rent or a guest brought it there.

(boat)

(jetskie, i hope they are for rent)

They have 10 aircon cottage rooms and 10 non aircon cottage rooms. They also have open cottages.

(cottages)

Each cottage has a banga full of water to wash away beach sands before entering the rooms. This is a small but critical things that the management really thought about and I commend them for it.

(sir Gilbert demonstrating)

We walked to the South end and their were skim boarders enthusiast enjoying the wave so i took photos.

(skim boarders)

At the other end a tall wall with small caves was our subject and background for our photos.

We also enjoyed our jump shoots. :)

For inquiries, please contact Ms. Wanchin Tan-Delfino

(083) 552-5479 - 81

Definitely a paradise worth going to especially this coming Summer.

Pacific Pensionne

2010-01-22T05:07:00.000-08:00

Pacific Pensionne was our home away from home while in Cebu. It is strategically located at the heart of Cebu's main street, Jones. Emman's friend Leilani, booked us here thinking that it will be very convenient for us since we went there for Sinulog. And she was not mistaken it was the perfect place to stay in while in Cebu for the Sinulog.

The place was quiet at night we do not hear the horns of cars in the streets. Foreigners are also staying there. It was also a safe place. And a lot of food station and carinderia near the place also near was Jollibee and Mc Donalds. And Crown Regency is just a walk away and Starbucks also.

They accept all major credit cards. They also have a 24 hour room service at a very reasonable price and we do not need to go out to have our early breakfast you can just call and friendly staff will bring it into your room.

Rooms are equipped with card lock system. It was safe to leave your valuable things behind like for me I leave my laptop there when going out.

They were currently renovating the building i think extending. They just do not have an elevator like us our room was on the 4th floor but it was ok the stairs are not that steep.

They also offer free WIFI but since we are in the 4th floor the wifi can not reach our room. I surf the net and check my emails at the lobby and sometimes in the coffee shop.

They have family rooms with 4 beds inside.

Rate: 8 out of 10

Ohh!!! BOHOL... i heart you!!!

2010-01-21T16:15:00.000-08:00

After the Sinulog Festival we have 2 more extra days. We decided (o actually i really planned this one, hehehe) to go to Bohol. I've done my research thru reading and searching blogs about Bohol. Tourist spots to go to, how to go there the fastest, ferries schedules and which pier to go to. I even used Google Maps (hehehehehehe) I'm not excited really I was just preparing (*wink*). Since we are leaving the next day and our flight is at 2 in the afternoon and plus plus plus we are in a tight budget already We decided NOT to stay overnight. So we went to the pier at 6:00 am hoping to hop on the 6:30 Ocean Jet trip. But sadly we didn't make it and the next trip is at 9:30 and it's also fully booked because flocks to tourists like us who after Sinulog planned to go Bohol already had their trip booked and Boholanoes who went to Cebu for Sinulog are also going home. So, (ready ka ba talaga donna mae??!!! ha??!!!) it didn't stop me palakasan ng loob I booked our ticket as chance passengers for the 9:30 trip (bahala na!!)

(huhuhu chance passenger lang kami)

And an angel appeared the security guard helped us he told me not to worry just book as chance and he gave us a priority number and it's #2 he said he was holding on to it to give to the right person. Their were a lot of chance passengers also for the 9:30 trip (lakas lang ng loob ko kunwari pero kinakabahan ako) We made a plan B if ever we do not make it to this trip we're going to Crown Regency to experience the Edge Coaster. The security guard let us stay inside the pre departure area and he told us to wait for our number to be called and he gave our tickets to the customers service in charge and (*winked*). We waited for over 2 hours and while waiting we called a van rental for our day tour in Bohol. Flocks and flocks of all sorts of people are coming in, Filipinos, Chinese, Americans and Koreans (the Korean INVASION!!!). They announced the arrival and boarding of the Ocean Jet, i told myself (patay!!! daghana nila oi mag kasya pa kaya ta??) Emman checked on our priority number and yey!!! our number was called first!!! woooohhhooooooo!!!!

(Yehey!!! naka sakay kami!!)

We arrived in Tagbilaran Port at about 11:30. And Emman's welcome party is already waiting outside holding a white paper with his name on it. Our tour guide/ driver is manong Marcelino. If you want a fast way around Bohol and tour a lot of tourist spots and have a very limited time to do so, call on manong Marcelino because he drives like an F1 racer.

(Tagbilaran Port)

(Emman's welcome party sign)

He said since it's about lunch time we better go directly to Loboc, River Cruise. I remembered Cesar Montano's "Panaghoy sa Suba." Along the way manong Marcelino already pointed us some of the tourist spots and said we will drop by on our way home. We really felt like a tourist that time we have a whole van all for ourselves.

(Luboc River Cruise)

(I'm enjoying my coconut while listening to manong singer)

(Our entertainer during the cruise)

We arrived at the Loboc Tourist Complex which serves as the port for the river cruise boats. Manong Marcelino already booked us a two sit for the cruise If he hadn't done that we couldn't have joined the cruise because it was also fully booked. In Our boat it was mixture of Filipinos, Americans, Chinese and also of course the Koreans. It was a buffet style. At first i thought we are just going to eat here and enjoy the scenery. I ate fast because i thought after that we are going to the next destination, but No the boat started to move. It was a mystical, clean and serene experience. To top it all we also have a live acoustic singer singing classic filipino novelty, english classic love songs, cebuano songs and local bol-anon songs. We stopped in an dock and instantly musicians and folk local dancers started to sing and dance. It was a refreshing sight to see and a great feeling that foreigners appreciate our local native dance and was amazed by it.

(Other boat)

(the long river of Luboc)

(locals entertained us with folk dance)

After the Loboc River lunch Cruise we went to Chocolate Hills which was the farthest. For manong Marcelino it was a 45 minuets drive which was supposedly a 1 hour 30 minuet ride. We were relaxing our legs from the extreme walkathon in Cebu but as we near Chocolate Hills he said it was a sight to see you just have to walk up 100+ stairway up (OHH MEN!!!! ang akonag varicose maluoy mo!!!).

(i want a chocolate hill)

(Chocolate Hills)

Chocolate Hills was also flocked with different tourists. We went up as fast as we can and took pictures then went down and bought an island tour t-shirt souvenir and hurry back to our van and off we go to the next destination….

(Man-made Forest)

(Successful Jump shoot hehehehe)

Along the way we pass by the Man-Made forest. Emman, being a nature lover was amazed and inspired because the trees that were planted as he said was mahogany tree and he also have planted mahogany in their farm and now is planning to plant more. The trees are closely planted thus, they raced their way up to get sunlight. Picture here, picture there and jump shoot here and jump shoot there then on to our F1 racer van.

(Hanging Bridge "scary")

(Hanging River)

(see it's just made of BAMBOO)

Next stop got my heart pumping and sweat dripping. The Hanging BAMBOO made bridge. It was a long hanging bridge. At first I was excited when I got to the center and realized that it was high and that the floor was just made up of bamboo i started to get scared. I was sleeping in the van and that experienced really woke me up. Although very scared i pushed on and hurried to get it over with. NEXT!!!…

Next was our mini photoshoot at Loboc Church and Museo de Loboc. We are huge fan of church architecture and old ruins.

Next my most awaited portion of the trip meeting my cousin TARSIER!!!! :) They are so adorable. Very tiny nocturnal animals. At first I had a hard time finding them in the trees. These tarsiers are exposed to people already and they are being fed with insects like crickets. The keeper told us that they feed them one by one. I took a lot of photos of this adorable little primate.

(I have bigger eyes than the Tarsier)

(the smiling tarsier)

(the scary tarsier)

"Where's next manong Marcelino?, the Baclayon Church day." Again photoshoot of the old church. And manong Marcelino took a photo of the wall post he said that their was an image in that post and truly there was.

(church bell tower)

(church doors)

(church Foundation was in 1595)

(look for the images)

And now the last stop the Sandugoan. It is where the blood compact between Datu Sikatuna and Don Miguel Lopez de Legaspi in 1565 took place to show Philippines and Spain treaty and friendship. (credits to http://travelmart.net/philippinesbohol/attractions.html)

As we arrived a group of tourist was also their and a shock to us that a lady went up to emman and ask us "taga Gensan kayo??" he said, YES she replied, KAMI DIN!!! hello!! una na kami hehehehe

That's it our 5 hour tour in Bohol. There are a lot of things we want to do and places to go. We are definitely going back! I heart BOHOL! i heart TARSIER! hehehehehe

Sinulog 2010 Experience

2010-01-19T04:36:00.000-08:00

Me and my family are a huge devotees of our little Christ or better known as "Senior Sto. Nino." We have been taking part of our annual fiesta in our baranggay, "Bula" for more than two decades now. It was a dream of mine to go to the place where it all started in Sugbu, Cebu City. I was planning this Sinulog trip for over 2 years now and my cousins who live in Cebu keep on inviting me to experience the ultimate in Sto. Nino devotion which is the "Sinulog." Thankfully I DID IT! this year. My mom bought me my ticket!

We were planning to meet up with Avel and Orman Manansala at Cebu but their Cebu Trip was suddenly cancelled but HEY!! still, sir Avel was with us during our flight. He was featured in the inflight Magazine of Cebu Pacific.

Anyways, We went to Cebu January 15, 2010 Friday. Our first day we spent it in Ayala to meet Leilani, Emman's friend . Thanks to her we got a good and cheep pension house to live while in Cebu. After we settled in our pension house we went back to Ayala and met Earl we had dinner at Sbarro and went to Outpost Bar for a night out. There we met old and new friends. Outpost is really a good place to chill. All the people who go there are friendly and they support the local bands and let them play their masterpieces their very own compositions. and Oh!! it was raining.

(Emman & Leilani)

(Ayala Active Zone)

(Earl, Me and Emman at Outpost)

(Earl's Friends)

(Carl on drums)

(Me, Carl & Emman)

January 16, 2010 Saturday. It was the day of the procession. We went to Tabuan first to buy Cebu's famous "bulad" dried fish. Than we went to Basilica de Sto. Nino and I was really overwhelmed with the huge crowd waiting to join the procession, going to mass or just passing through to light a candle. We decided not to join because 1. It is raining and we do not have an umbrella. 2. We do not know where to go there were people all around us. We were really close (as in cheek to cheek close) We kept on walking to see the basilica but decided to go to Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel otherwise known as Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral . I was amazed by its architecture of the church.

(Tabuan's "bulad" dried fish)

("BULAD")

(outside Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel)

(outside Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel)

(inside OurLady of Guadalupe Chapel)

January 17, 2010 The BIG DAY!! the day of the Grand Parade. We went to mass at 4:00 am the first mass thinking that lesser people will join that certain mass but, NO it was same large crowd. During the mass it rained, too bad we don't have an umbrella we just used our jackets to cover our heads from the rain. After the mass the roads are closed. We walked back to our pension house and decided to rest and wait for the parade to arrive near where we lived. When we heard the loud drum thumping it was our cue to go out the streets and watched the Grand Parade. I was glad that the weather condition changed the sun was up. And behold the colorful, festive, energetic and enthusiastic participants was dancing in front of us. And also adjacent to the street are the vendors and huge crowd of spectators and we are one of them. As the sun rose directly to us it was time for lunch. We ate at the carenderia near us. We walk and walk and walk Jones Street, Mango Street, Fuente Circle, back and fort, because aside from the participants i was also amazed by the flock of people who went out in the streets and doing the same thing as we do WALK (hehehehehehe). We saw floats, artist, politicians, giant mascots and also the whole barkada of JOLLIBEE (weeeeeeee, felt like a child agian hehehehehehe). The rain fell hard at about 5 in the afternoon. We went to Ayala Grounds to watch the Grand Fireworks Display. And it really live up to its title GRAND! it was the first time in my life that I have seen such big, colorful, long, and plenty of fireworks. I think it lasted over 30 minuets. It was really worth the wait and the LOOOOONG walk back and fort.

(Basilica de Sto. Nino crowd 1st mass 4:00am)

(Sinulog parade participant)

(Sinulog parade participant)

(Me and a participant)

(Sinulog parade participant)

Sinulog 2010 was a blast for me and I'm definitely coming back!!! Hopefully next year!! :)

ang bagong MENU ng piYESta

2010-01-07T07:31:00.001-08:00

What a great way to start a year!! January 1, 2010 Piyesta Ktv & Restobar released it's new MENU.... the menu cover features photos taken from the opening. In the photos are Socckssargen Bloggers, Friends, Family, Piyesta Staff, Gov. Migs of Saranganni and Beauty Queens of Gensan.

We are planning to change the Menu Cover every now and then and will feature PIYESTA CUSTOMERS who had a great time dinning, drinking and singing. So, the search is on for the nicest photo taken from PIYESTA KTV & RESTOBAR that embodies what "PIYESTA" means for us PINOY.

HOW to submit your photos?... First, dine at PIYESTA and take that photo. Then, be a FAN of PIYESTA KTV & RESTOBAR in FACEBOOK. Just type in the search engine PIYESTA KTV. Then, Upload your photo... you never know you and your family or barkada will be the next one featured in our MENU COVER...

(our MENU COVER)

I would like to take this opportunity to THANK kuya RIC a.k.a KYAWSTER for the AMAZING job of LAY-OUTING our MENU. And it was his brilliant idea to put a photo collage in the cover.

(Piyesta Meals good for 5 and more completo na para sa pamilya o barkada may 5 iba't ibang pares na pag pilian na)

(Piyesta para sa isa sa P99 completo na!!)

(mga Pampagana, Meryenda at Panghimagas)

(Ktv Room Rates & Inumin)

Ktv Room Rates now CONSUMABLE!!!

Madami na ang naka subok ng mga TOWER namin isa kaba sa kanila?? kung hindi dapat masubukan mo na ang BEER TOWER at COCKTAIL tower namin... talagang pang barkada!!!

(madami pang ulam na pwedeng pag pilian)

So, saan ka pa dito na PIYESTA!!!... tara na at maki PIYESTA!!!

May Live Acoustic Band din dito Friday & Saturday...

THE FARM (photo journalism workshop & socckssargen x-mas party)

2009-12-28T04:35:00.000-08:00

(Photo by RIC a.k.a KYAWSTER)

December 21, 2009 Photo Journalism Seminar and Socsksargen Bloggers X-mas Party.

The Photo Journalism Seminar was conducted by no less than the guru JOJIE ALCANTARA. She is a multi talented Davaoena. A photographer, artist, journalist, tv celebrity, a mom, a wife and many more. We were very honored by her presence and her willingness to impart her knowledge to us.

(photo by HECKY)

The workshop and x-mas party was made possible by: AVEL MANANSALA, ORMAN MANANSALA and for the place sir GILERT TAN.

(Photo by ME using my SONY Phone G900)

(photo by HECKY)

It was my first time to go to THE FARM. It was a very cozy, homey and relaxing place. Just like going to our farm (not the farm in facebook ha!) I remembered the time i went to EDEN Nature Park in Davao it was that same feeling the feeling of being one with nature but in a very comfortable way.

(photo by ME using my Sony Phone G900)

It was not just a day of learning for me but also a day of knowing new bloggers and plurkers thus adding my list of FRIENDS. yey!!

(The Socckssargen Bloggers, photo by HECKY)

The workshop was also a memorable day for me because it was the first time I loosen up and was not shy to pose for the camera. I was so lucky I brought my bubble gun I showed it around and when JOJIE saw it she said, "I'll take a photo of you later ha!!" WOOOHHHOOOO!!!! hurray for me instant photo opportunity by no less than the JOJIE ALCANTARA herself!!!! o yeah oh yeah... (i was so glad i didn't have enough sleep that time 'coz that means i was in my HYPER MODE sa bisaya pa BAGA NAWONG MODE hehehehe) i also met JOYCE MARISCAL and her partner BOGS SAN JUAN who also toke a photo of me.

(model daw kuno ko, Photo by JOYCE MARISCAL)

(photo by Joyce Mariscal)

After our delicious lunch sponsored by THE FARM we were given an hour to take photos of the place and put into action what we've learned from the workshop. And later that afternoon JOJIE made us choose our top 5 pictures which will be scrutinized by the "madlang people" (hehehehehehe) and to my surprise one of my photo was recognized by them and I won a shirt. yehey!!! This made me rekindle my love for photography.

(my winning PHOTO thank you sir ORMAN for lending me your LX3)

(photo by HECKY)

If you happen to be in Koronadal try dropping by THE FARM it's located along CARPENTER HILL it's just along the highway. Great food, close to nature and friendly staff.

ang PIYESTA!

2009-11-27T08:25:00.000-08:00

Ang PIYESTA! KTV & RESTOBAR ay narito upang magbigay ng kasayahan at lugar kung saan pwedeng pwedeng kumain, kumanta at mag inuman ang magpapamilya at magkaibingan.

Pi-yes-ta!
n. isang handaan; bangkete, piging, malaking salu-salo; masarap na kainan; anumang bagay na nagbibigay ng kasiyahan;
v.- magpahain (sa handaan); magpasasa, pasasain; kumain sa handaan; ipaghanda, ipagpista. (source from ANYTHING GOES)

sa PIYESTA may kainan may kantahan may kasayanahan yan din ang mga gusto naming gawin ng mga customers na pupunta sa PIYESTA! KTV & RESTOBAR. Eto ang iilan sa mga pagkain namin na pwede ninyong matikman sa PIYESTA! sana isang araw ay maka bisita kayo sa ROBINSONS PLACE GENSAN at kumain kayo at maki PIYESTA! sa amin.

my PIYESTA! life...

2009-11-11T05:31:00.000-08:00

OMG it has been 2 months since my last POST... it was a very busy month for me and my family... it is just now that i found the time to make a post... I'm just here outside PIYESTA! ktv and restobar listening to the playlist i made... so talking about my PIYESTA life... hmmmmmm hectic, stressful, sleepless nights but very very REWARDING...

It's a whole lot different thing if you put your heart to what you are doing. Although I may complain of the stress and sleepless nights ( i mean this literally i don't sleep at nights anymore) it makes me very happy to see my concept and ideas put into action and is accepted and patronize by customers, friends and relatives.

PIYESTA! ktv & restobar is just 1 month in the making from conceptualizing down to the menu and magically also the construction. It is located here at Robinsons Place Gensan. We offer a variety of Filipino dishes with a very homey and relaxing ambiance. I always acknowledge and put the credit to sir GILBERT YAP TAN because he was the one who suggested the name "PIYESTA!." It was so difficult before for me to find the right and fit name for my concept truly he is God's blessing to me.

We do not only cater to yuppies but family as well. We have 3 private FAMILY KTV rooms with a variety of songs to choose from the oldies down to the very famous song "NOBODY." And GOOD NEWS our room rates are all CONSUMABLE. We have room good for 10 which is at P500/ per and room good for 5 which is at P300 per hour. For reservations please call (083) 554-2139. Ti' my next post!!! tah tah!!!...

official trailer NEW MOON!!!!

2009-09-14T18:00:00.000-07:00

I've already watched a lot of trailers for NEW MOON. Some fan made some are videos from fans during Comic Cons but this trailer is what stuck with me until now. I can't wait for November 20!!!! I will be one of the people falling in line outside the cinemas hehehehehe. So, here it is....

unsay BAG-O sa TAAZ BAR

2009-08-20T08:20:00.000-07:00

An amazing surprise came along one day while i was browsing my Facebook account a friend of mine Catherine Balodo was featured in the August issue of the inflight magazine of Cebu Pacific "Smile." TAAZ BAR was also mentioned in the magazine which astounded me. This is such a great publicity for my young budding business. Thus, new menu and additional gigs will be implemented.

Additions to our MENU a must try "PREMIUM COCONUT REDWINE" which came straight from Leyte. And our very own unique "Pulutans" the KURA-STIK and our newest PINOY FRIES!!!

Also enjoy our LIVE ACOUSTIC BAND during Fridays and Saturdays... Jam, Sing-a-long and have a great time while enjoying the cool and fresh breeze here at TAAZ BAR...

EASY ROCK LAUNCHING @ TAAZ BAR

2009-07-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

July 8, 2009 EASY ROCK 94.3 "just the rite rock" launched their station here at TAAZ BAR it was a simultaneous event nationwide. TAAZ BAR is honored to have CENTERPOINT BAND and DATU PRINCE perform on their stage. Truly CENTERPOINT BAND is the pride of GENSAN we are really the home of the CHAMPIONS. They made that simple event GRANDEOUS.

So, GENSAN lets WELCOME EASY ROCK 94.3 to our radio dials "just the rite rock." EASY ROCK 94.3 is a sister company of K101 LOVE RADIO but caters to a different market.

here is a write up about CENTERPOINT BAND to those who don't know them yet.

Beats & String Acoustic Band Competition FINAL list of QUALIFIERS

2009-06-15T05:39:00.001-07:00

Taaz Bar "the newest party place" in Gensan is currently having an acoustic band competition dubbed as Beats & Strings Acoustic Band Competition for amateur bands that are locals here in Gensan. Taaz Bar main goal or reason for the event is to provide a venue for aspiring and budding generals that have talents. To my surprise their are growing numbers of acoustic bands here in our place. And they are all good.

We had our 1st elimination last June 6, 2009. We had 9 aspirants the judges chose 3 bands to qualify for the finals.

Congratulations to:

CAPTURED KJ14
TRIPSY
FALSE VOICE ACOUSTIC

The 2nd elimination was last June 13, 2009. This time the participants grew to 14 bands. Three bands made the cut to the finals:

Congratulations to:

AKITSUKA
RE-INVENTED
VINTAGE

To complete our 9 bands qualifiers

CONGRATULATIONS TO:

ZIEL BAND
D' CORPILLANS
BLACK SESSION

The GRAND FINALS will be on June 27, 2009.

This event is made possible by the help of our friendly DJ's and at K-101 LOVE FM (bisyo na ito!!!) Envy Me Salon & Spa and SMB

Photos By: BRIAN DAN CONGSON

DJ IA

DJ IA and DJ MATON

Paul Funte (one of the judges)

NEW MOON (twilight saga 2) Official Trailer

2009-06-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

I really can't help myself. I need to share this video to all you guys. To all Twilight Saga fans out there i share this video with you. Makes my heart pump and sometimes skip a beat. LOL Jacob Black's body is sooooo HOT but still and forever I'm team EDWARD. wooooohhhoooo seen him shirtless during Italy scene. I'm dying to see that scene. Makes me wana jump also right in front of him wishing I'm Bella. waahahaahhahahhahhaha

BEATS & STRINGS Acoustic Band Competition

2009-05-27T03:39:00.000-07:00

This coming month of June we welcome school back into our schedules. This also means reuniting with our friends, barkadas and classmates who we missed for two months during summer break. Taaz Bar gives us the chance to unwind and catch up with the summer stories of our friends. All SATURDAYS of June TAAZ BAR and K-101 FM in cooperation with SMB and Envy Me Salon & Spa presents BEATS & STRINGS Acoustic Band Competition. First elimination will be on June 6, 2009. And the Grand Finals will be on June 27, 2009. Interested Bands please get your application forms at TAAZ BAR and K-101 FM.

Here are the Mechanics & Requirements:

This will be an open category to all amateur acoustic bands within GENSAN.
Must be 16 to 25 years old.
Fill up the registration form available at TAAZ BAR & K-101FM. NO Registration Fee
Must compete in a group maximum of three (3)
Must sing (3) famous genres 1 RNB, 1 Love Song and 1 Alternative
Must complete and fill out registration forms together with your contact number and band member's name.
Bands may perform any songs of their choices as long as the song does not contain any vulgar languages and lyrics.
There will be four Saturdays of elimination starts on June 6, 2009 and Grand Finals will be on June 27, 2009 at TAAZ BAR, Pioneer Avenue at 7:00pm. Only 4 finalist will compete during Finals.
There will be 4 Finalist to compete during the Finals and each elimination winner will receive gift packs.
Bring your own musical instruments.
The verdict of the Board of Judges are Official.

Criteria for Judging:

Music & Vocal Harmony 50%

Choice of piece 20%

Stage presence 20%

Audience Impact 10%

TOTAL 100%

PRIZE- WINNER TAKE ALL

P 5,000

TAAZ BAR now WIFI HOT SPOT

2009-05-21T04:41:00.000-07:00

Taaz Bar Panoramic View

TAAZ BAR do not only offer the cheapest beer here in Gensan and it's wide variety of music choices NOW they added a new reason for you to climb UP here. We are now WIFI hot spot. Enjoy surfing the net while hanging out with friends or just spend time alone while enjoying the wonderful view of Sarangani Bay and the city lights of Gensan. And watch out because we will be offering you dinner so that we could also satisfy your palates.

Welcome (Catch your Breath & Ring the BELL)

View of Pioneer Ave

Afternoon Blue Sky

Night Lights of Makar Warf

Watch out for our up coming Acoustic Band Competition

We are also inviting Acoustic Bands who just want to hang out and *JAM* with us every SATURDAY

PLAYLIST @ TAAZ BAR

2009-05-20T01:36:00.000-07:00

This will give gensan night lovers a variety of music genre to choose from. Now gather your friends, choose your "TRIP" music and then decide which day to "TAMBAY" @ TAAZ BAR. Cheapest COLD BEER in town and a very accessible place at the heart of GENSAN Pioneer Avenue. Plus a bonus of MAGNIFICENT view of not only Makar lights but also Sarangani Bay and Gensan's Streets Lights.

In addition to the wide variety of genres for SOUND TRIP to choose from TAAZ BAR also present a variety of ACOUSTIC BANDS every SATURDAY. So you and your friends can enjoy good music while catching up with you exciting stories.

OUT LOUD GOES TO GENSAN

2009-05-11T21:05:00.000-07:00

Muzika del Sur's "Out Loud" Bar Tour will be coming here in Gensan they will visit the newest BAR in town the "TAAZ BAR." The party will be on May 16, 2009 Saturday. Tickets are sold at Php 75.00 only and that comes with one (1) beer. The Out Loud Bar tour is done in different Cities all over Mindanao collecting nominees for the prestigious Mindanao Music Awards. The event will be telecast at Channel 13 South Spot in Davao. This event is brought to us by SMB, Envy Me Salon & Spa and Taaz Bar. Hope to see you there.

Plurk Fiesta @ TAAZ BAR

2009-05-11T01:25:00.000-07:00

(plurkers and bloggers of GENSAN)

(me with my friends)

(TAAZ BAR logo)

(me, orman and leonard)

May 8, 2009 was the soft opening of TAAZ BAR plurkers and bloggers of Gensan was invited. Plenty came sorry I will not name you guys because i might forget someone i was really busy that time and sorry for the pictures taken only few of them. It was a really great night friends came new acquaintances was introduced. My favorite part was when i see the faces of my friends lit up when they see the *TRANSFORMATION* of the place. It was a priceless emotion when they appreciate what we did for the place.

Come and visit us.

TAAZ BAR the newest place to be

2009-05-11T00:32:00.000-07:00

Night life in Gensan is at it's peak. And i believe Generals will all agree when i say "it's about time!!!." TAAZ BAR is here to offer new experience to all you "night crawlers." It's ambiance is a combination of cultural handmade products and modern designs that's why its tag line is "where culture meets style." You can hang out and be cozy with friends and have a good time while enjoying the view of Sarangani bay and the city lights of Gensan. The place is decorated with indigenous materials and products found locally. We offer very cheap sets of beers and also our "pulutans." We are constantly enhancing and adding food into our menu and will soon offer dinner. We will also be having monthly events so please do watch out for it.

So if you want to just hang out and have fun either it be with friends or with just your better half come and visit us. We are located at the Rooftop of Citifront Lodge, Pioneer Avenue Gen. Santos City. Our Business hours are as follows: Monday to Thursday 6:00pm to 12:00 midnight Friday & Saturday 6:00pm to 2:00 am and we are close by Sundays.

( CATCH YOUR BREATH & RING THE BELL)

Style meets Culture

2009-04-18T16:16:00.001-07:00

Last April 16, 2009 we dropped by Lake Sebu to purchase cultural decorations for our bar. We are scheduled to deliver stocks that day to Tacurong, Isulan, Sto. Niño and Surallah we were ahead of our scheduled time so we decided to just have the side trip to Lake Sebu since it was just 20 kilometers from Surallah. We had a snack at Punta Isla and we went to their mini Museum. We purchased our decorations at the "Princess House" owned by cooperative of T'boli women there. The people there were very friendly and they offered their best products to us and also offering me to try on their traditional dress for picture taking. They were thankful to us for our plans in displaying and promoting their products in bar. We also bought the very famous "tinalak" it is a cloth which they weave themselves.

ET CETERA

my 10 Emerging Influential Blogs 2010

MFAT (Mindanao Food Appreciation Tour) 2010

DfAT (Davao Food Appreciation Tour) DAY 3

DFAT (Davao Food Appreciation Tour) DAY 2

DFAT (Davao Food Appreciation Tour) DAY 1

SMI Discovery Tour

MYMP and Nathan of BAMBOO at PIYESTA!!!

KALILANGAN: Queen of Mindanao Festivals

KALILANGAN: Lakan at Lakambini 2009

Fashion Show the Finale

Hair & Make-up Trends 2010

my PIYESTA valentines!

Gensan View Reosrt

Cafe Amoree & Gensan Mapping with Bloggers

Isla Jardin del Mar (no need to go Boracay)

Pacific Pensionne

Ohh!!! BOHOL... i heart you!!!

Sinulog 2010 Experience

ang bagong MENU ng piYESta

THE FARM (photo journalism workshop & socckssargen x-mas party)

ang PIYESTA!

my PIYESTA! life...

official trailer NEW MOON!!!!

unsay BAG-O sa TAAZ BAR

Additions to our MENU a must try "PREMIUM COCONUT REDWINE" which came straight from Leyte. And our very own unique "Pulutans" the KURA-STIK and our newest PINOY FRIES!!!

Also enjoy our LIVE ACOUSTIC BAND during Fridays and Saturdays... Jam, Sing-a-long and have a great time while enjoying the cool and fresh breeze here at TAAZ BAR...

EASY ROCK LAUNCHING @ TAAZ BAR

Beats & String Acoustic Band Competition FINAL list of QUALIFIERS

NEW MOON (twilight saga 2) Official Trailer

BEATS & STRINGS Acoustic Band Competition

TAAZ BAR now WIFI HOT SPOT

PLAYLIST @ TAAZ BAR

OUT LOUD GOES TO GENSAN

Plurk Fiesta @ TAAZ BAR

TAAZ BAR *the newest place to be*

Style meets Culture

TAAZ BAR the newest place to be