SAMSUNG: Introduces the Galaxy A-Series Smartphones

SAMSUNG: Introduces the Galaxy A-Series Smartphones 

Samsung introduces a new generation of smartphones with the all-new Samsung GALAXY A-Series. The Cutting-Edge A-Series phones were launched at the newest and hippest party place in town, Valkyrie, during the January 14, 2015 event hosted by MTV VJ Yassi Pressman. 

Geez, you could imagine my excitement when I got invited to witness the launching of the new Samsung Galaxy A-Series. 

Donning a Samsung unit, I had that VIP feel as I accessed #TheALife  entering through Valkyrie’s VIP lanes.

All eyes are on the slim and stylish Galaxy Alpha and its new brand ambassadors led by 

• Yassi Pressman
• Lauren Young
• Callum David
• Lissa Kahayon,
• Janina Manipol 
• and David Guison. 

Life is awesome when you are young and all the Samsung Brand Ambassadors for the Cutting-Edge Samsung Galaxy A-Series have good vibes aura. 

First Photo: The author with Adobo Magazine Account Manager Nicole Songco. Second Photo: Cha Sy with Yassi Pressman and Lauren Young, newest Samsung Galaxy A-series Ambassadors.

As part of the mobile crowd of this generation there’s nothing better than having access to the A life – an awesome lifestyle that lets you freely express yourself and have fun the way you want to. 

The A life means being able to experience life’s greatest moments and sharing them with your friends. 

Those who want to experience the A Life can make it happen with the Samsung Galaxy A-Series with its slim, stylish and full metal design. Samsung Galaxy A-Series is Samsung’s first full metal smartphone which features both a stylish design and powerful specs.It is stylishly crafted with a slim, full metal body. It gives you a true-to-life viewing experience with AMOLED technology and is packed with a wide range of selfie functions to play with.

Available in three variants:

• Galaxy A7
• Galaxy A5 
• and Galaxy A3

Yes, my dear the A series features a first full metal unibody device that comes in a variety of colors and sizes, and advanced features that bring the Samsung smartphone experience to a new level of functionality.

The Galaxy A Series is Samsung’s slimmest smartphones to date, making them the perfect accessory to go with any get-up. The Galaxy A7 stands at 6.3mm thin, while Galaxy A5 and Galaxy A3 comes at 6.7mm and 6.9mm, respectively. For the Galaxy A3, there will be Black and White colors. Black, White, Gold, and Silver will be available for Galaxy A5 while Galaxy A7 will come in Black, White, and Gold.

Sporting an advanced 5MP front-facing camera, it allows you to take better selfies with greater ease than ever—whether you’re bar hopping with friends, lounging at the beach, or exploring a new vacation getaway. Innovative photo-taking features, such as Wide Selfie, Voice and Palm Gestures Activation, Animated GIF, Beauty Face Features (Face Retouch, Eye Enlarge, and Slim Face), and Rear-cam Selfie, letusers take photos in high resolution by automatically detecting and focusing on a person’s face.

Since photos are meant to be shared, you can easily share photos of your A life with friends using your favorite social media channels with the device’s fast network speed of LTE Category 4 standard.

Vivid Display and Powerful Processor

Further, the A Series allows you to expand your entertainment options. Whether you want to play video games or watch films, you will surely love the Galaxy A series Super AMOLED display and Adaptive Display technology, which gives users a more exciting viewing experience. It delivers clearer images with deep contrast and better viewing angles for more vivid, colorful content in virtually any environment, even under bright sunlight.

To ensure that you always enjoy what technology has to offer in every facet of your life, the A Series was made for seamless multi-tasking and faster browsing experience. The A7 features an Octa Core (1.5GHz Quad Core and 1.0 GHz Quad Core) processor while A5 and A3 feature a Quad Core 1.2 GHz processor. In addition, the Galaxy A Series sports popular features exclusive to Galaxy devices, such as Ultra-Power Saving Mode, Private Mode and Multiscreen, as well as adjustable audio which intelligently adapts and enhances sound outputbased on the user’s surrounding environment.

The Galaxy A7 is priced at Php 24,990, Galaxy A5 at Php 19,990 and Galaxy A3 at Php 16,990.  It will be available in Samsung Experience Stores and authorized dealers beginning January 2015.

Not only that, since Samsung wanted you to Access the A life, it will have a promotion on Jan. 24 to 25. I am so excited for the mobile crowd because you'll get to enjoy P1,000 off from the price tag, a free Valkyrie VIP card, free Content and Services vouchers and zero-percent installment for 18 months. What are you waiting for? Hurry and enjoy the new Samsung A-series.

Samsung Galaxy A7 Products Specifications

	Galaxy A7
SRP	Php 24,990
Launch	February 2015
Design	Full Metal
Sim Type	Dual SIM active (Hybrid) Nano
Connectivity	Wi-Fi + LTE Ready
Display	5.5” Super Amoled Display
Processor	Octa Core (1.5GHz Quad Core + 1.0GHz Quad Core)
RAM	2GB
Memory	16GB
Camera	13MP AF w/ LED Flash + 5MP (F)
Dimension	150.9 x 75.9 x 6.3 mm
Battery	2,600mAh (Non removable)
OS	Android OS 4.4 KitKat
Colors	White, Black, and Gold
Others	Ultra Power Saving mode

Samsung Galaxy A5 Products Specifications

	Galaxy A5
SRP	Php 19,990
Launch	January 2015
Design	Full Metal
Sim Type	Nano SIM
Connectivity	Wi-Fi + LTE Ready
Display	5” Super Amoled Display
Processor	Quad Core 1.2GHz
RAM	2GB
Memory	16GB
Camera	13MP AF w/ LED Flash + 5MP (F)
Dimension	139.3 x 69.7 x 6.7 mm
Battery	2,300mAh (Non removable)
OS	Android OS 4.4 KitKat
Colors	White, Black, Gold, and Silver
Others	Ultra Power Saving mode

Samsung Galaxy A3 Products Specifications

	Galaxy A3
SRP	Php 16,990
Launch	January 2015
Design	Full Metal
Sim Type	Nano SIM
Connectivity	Wi-Fi + LTE Ready
Display	4.5” Super Amoled Display
Processor	Quad Core 1.2GHz
RAM	1GB
Memory	16GB
Camera	8MP AF w/ LED Flash + 5MP (F)
Dimension	130.1 x 65.5 x 6.9 mm
Battery	1,900mAh (Non removable)
OS	Android OS 4.4 KitKat
Colors	White and Black
Others	Ultra Power Saving mode

* Features and functions will vary by market.

* All functions, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities are subject to change without notice or obligation.

* User memory space may be less than the total memory space due to system files. User memory may differ by region, carrier, and supporting language, and may change after software upgrade.

You can ask the world to end your doubts and questions, but the answers to it all are within you. You are the Answer. 

#SamsungGalaxyASeries #Slim #Stylish #FullMetalAccess #theALife

DARREN ESPANTO: Tell The World Of His Love

DARREN ESPANTO: Tell The World Of His Love

Darren Espanto sang "Tell The World of His Love" at the conclusion of Pope Francis encounter with the youth held the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila Philippines earlier today, January 18 2014.

#PopeFrancisPh #PopeFrancis #PopeFrancisUST

12-year old asked Pope Francis: Why does God allow this to happen?

12-year old asked Pope Francis: Why does God allow this to happen?

12-year-old Glyzelle Palomar, dressed in a Filipiniana attire and was carrying a prepared speech to relate her life as a street kid to Pope Francis at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila (UST). She started by introducing herself as one who lives in the streets and who is exposed to all sorts of problems such as drugs and prostitution.

She then asked in Filipino "Why does God allow abuse and prostitution? Why does God allow this to happen?" and then she broke down and cried and stopped speaking. In a span of several seconds, this little girl's speech managed to make everyone cry.

Organizers had to console her before she and another street kid, 14-year-old Jun Chura, were brought to the Pope, who gave them a tight hug. 

The two are from the Tulay ng Kabataan foundation, which takes care of street children in Metro Manila. The Pope had an unscheduled visit with members of Tulay ng Kabataan on his second day in the Philippines, last Friday, January 13.

Because of what the 12-year old said, Pope Francis had to forego his prepared English homily.

"The reality that you have is more superior to the paper in front of me" quips Pope Francis.

He then spoke in Spanish ( his native tongue ) and based another extemporaneous homily to the 12-year old child and also Ricky, one of the volunteers who helped the Yolanda survivor. Amazing! You could feel that he talks from the heart and you can sense the rawness of it!

"Women have so much to tell us about the society. Women are able to pose questions that men are not able to understand,"

"Today's world lacks the capacity of knowing how to cry."

"Be courageous don't be afraid of crying. Let us learn how to weep, how to cry."

Have you ever ask yourself: " Have I learned to weep for someone who has suffered abuse?"

It's ok to cry...realities are seen through the tears of our eyes.

Rikki Macolor, an electronics engineer who invented the Solar Night Light for Yolanda victims, asked Pope Francis, "What more can the youth do? How can we, especially the youth, be agents of mercy and compassion?"

To Ricky who built solar lamps for Yolanda: You give but do you allow yourself to receive? "You lack only one thing. Become a beggar. To learn how to beg."

"Let yourselves to be loved. It is important to let yourselves be loved by Him."

"The most important subject you have to learn is how to love."

Real love is about loving and letting yourselves be loved. It is important to let yourselves be loved by Him. 

Use 3 languages: Mind, heart, hands that is to think, to feel, to do -Pope Francis

#PopeFrancisPh #Pope #PopeFrancis #DearPopeFrancis #PopeFrancisUST #overwhelm

I am so emotional since the @Pontifex arrived. Each of his quotable quotes makes me ponder and cry each and every time the Pope shows mercy and compassion. 

Photo credits to the rightful owner of the pictures.

NCR Banking Schedule During Papal Visit

NCR Banking Schedule During Papal Visit

Banks that are open during the 5-day Holiday in the National Capital Region

Several banks announced the selected branches that will be open from January 15 to 19, 2015, which were declared as non-working holidays in NCR due to Pope Francis' visit.

BDO

BDO Unibank said selected branches in the NCR will be open during the Papal visit from January 15 to 19. On these dates, selected non-mall branches will have regular opening hours until 3 p.m. while selected mall branches will be open until 4 p.m.

For the list of BDO branches open during the holiday, visit here.

Bank of the Philippine Islands

BPI said no NCR branches will be open on January 15 and 16. All mall-based branches and kiosks will be open on January 17 and 18.

On January 19, the bank said 55 BPI branches and 18 BPI Family Bank branches in NCR will be open.

Metrobank

Metrobank said key branches in Metro Manila will be open from January 15 to January 19. All branches outside of NCR will have regular banking hours.

January 15, 2015 (Thursday):
Open until 12:00 NN – Greenhills North, Greenhills - Eisenhower, Ermita, J.Nakpil - Taft Ave., Midtown - U.N. Ave., Paco-A.Linao, Quirino Ave. - Leon Guinto, Roxas Blvd.-Vito Cruz, Taft Ave. – P. Ocampo.

Open until 1:00 PM – Pureza-R.Magsaysay Blvd., Asuncion, Pasong Tamo-Javier, Pasong Tamo-Bagtikan, Sucat-Gatchalian, Alabang.

Open until 3:00 PM – Salcedo Village and Pasay-Baclaran.

Open until 4:30 PM – A. Lacson Ave. – Sampaloc, Morayta, N. Domingo – San Juan, V. Mapa, Annapolis-Greenhills, Greenhills-Promenade, Greenhills-Wilson Center, Sta. Cruz-Manila.

Other branches – Roosevelt branch will be open until 12:30 PM while ADB Branch will be open only until 4:00PM.

January 19, 2015 (Monday):
Open until 12:00 NN – C3-A.Mabini, Farmers Plaza, Commonwealth Ave., Raon, A. Maceda, Bustillos-Sampaloc, España, UST-España, Zurbaran, Escolta Tower, and Intramuros.

Open until 1:00 PM – Masangkay-Luzon, Lavezares, Nueva, Pasong Tamo-Buendia, Pasong Tamo-Metropolitan Ave., Head Office Center, Las Piñas-Pamplona and Madrigal Bus Park – Alabang.

Open until 4:30 PM – Evangelista-Quiapo, Quiapo, Ortigas-Xavier and Addition Hills.

Other branches – 999 Mall branch will be open until 2:00 PM, Sto. Cristo-C.M. Recto will be open until 3:00 PM, while ADB branch will be open until 5:00 PM.

Metrobank said all over-the-counter transactions will be accepted and processed by these selected branches on the said holidays, except for checks received which will be processed on the next banking day.

Maybank Philippines

Select Maybank branches in Metro Manila will be open during the Papal visit.

January 15
The following branches will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Main Office Branch, Binondo, Caloocan, Cubao, Tomas Morato, Greenhills, Marikina, Bel Air, Ayala Alabang, Las Pinas and Resorts World.

January 16
All Maybank Metro Manila branches will be closed

January 17
Resorts World branch will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., while the Main Office Branch will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

January 18
Resorts World branch will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

January 19
All Metro Manila branches will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., except for the Villamor; Legaspi Tower Center; and Newport branches.

Maybank said all provincial branches will observe regular banking hours during the Papal visit, except for Tacloban branch, which will be closed on January 15 and 16.

Asia United Bank

AUB said selected branches in NCR will be open during the Papal visit holiday.

On January 15, selected AUB branches in the NCR will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Provincial branches, except for Tacloban and Isabela, will be open on regular banking hours.

On January 16, AUB branches in NCR, Tacloban and Isabela will be closed. All other branches in the country will be open.

Regular banking operations will resume in all AUB branches on January 19.

EastWest Bank

EastWest Bank said it is opening at least 30 branches in the NCR on January 15 and 16. They will observe regular banking hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. All branches in NCR will be open on January 19.

The following branches will be open:

January 15
The Fort-Beaufort, Paseo-Philam Tower, Amorsolo-Aegis, Binondo, City Place Square, Gil Puyat-F.B. Harrison, Sampaloc-J. Figueras, Katipunan-St. Ignatius, Marikina-J.P. Rizal, Tandang Sora, Quezon Ave. - Banawe, Congressional Ave., Navotas-North Bay, Novaliches-Gulod, Grace Park-7th Ave., New Manila, Cubao-P. Tuazon, Tektite, Pasig-Kapasigan, Mandaluyong-Shaw Blvd., Alabang Madrigal, Sucat-Kabihasnan, Las Piñas-Marcos Alvarez, 168 Mall, 999 Shopping Mall, Baclaran, Greenhills Shopping Center, Greenhills-Promenade, Festival Mall Level 2 and Bicutan-East Service Road.

January 16
Evangelista, The Fort-Marajo Tower, Gil Puyat-Metro House, Chino Roces-Bagtikan, Binondo, City Place Square, Paco, Pasay-Libertad, Marikina-Concepcion, Loyola Heights-Katipunan, Regalado, Banawe-Scout Alcaraz, Visayas Avenue, Baesa Town Center, Valenzuela-Dalandanan, Grace Park-11th Ave., E. Rodriguez Ave.-Cubao, Tomas Morato, F. Ortigas Jr., Pasig-Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong-Shaw Blvd., Sucat-Evacom, Alabang-Commerce Ave., Las Piñas-Pamplona, 168 Mall, 999 Shopping Mall, Baclaran, Greenhills Shopping Center, Greenhills-Promenade, Festival Mall Level 2 and Bicutan-East Service Road.

EastWest Bank said mall-based branches and those with Saturday and/or Sunday banking will have regular banking operations during the holiday weekend. Branches outside Metro Manila will have regular banking operations.

PBCOM

PBCOM said all branches in Metro Manila will be closed from January 15 to 19.

Only the following branches will be open on January 19, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Quezon Avenue, Binondo Banking Center, Makati Banking Center, Meralco Avenue and Cubao.

All branches will resume normal banking hours on January 20.

China Bank

China Bank said all Metro Manila branches will be closed on January 15, while branches outside NCR will be open.

On January 16, selected Metro Manila mall branches (shortened hours) and branches outside Metro Manila are open. The Tacloban branch will be closed.

On January 17 and 18, all branches with Saturday and Sunday banking schedule will be open. All branches in Metro Manila and outside NCR will be open on January 19.

Security Bank

Security Bank said selected branches will be open on January 15, 16 and 19. For a complete list of these operational branches, visit the Security Bank Facebook or its website.

PSBank

PSBank said all branches in NCR will be closed on January 15 and 16, while provincial branches will have regular operations.

All PSBank branches in NCR and around the country will be open on January 19.

UCPB

Selected UCPB branches in NCR are open on January 15, 16 and 19.
Branches outside the NCR, including Rizal, Cavite, Laguna and Bulacan, are also open on the said dates.

FREE TWITTER

FREE TWITTER 

Good news o faithful! 

When I first heard about the free twitter, the first question that comes to my mind is, how?

And that is what I research on the net today, to know how to avail of the free twitter.  I learned that Smart, Sun and Talk ’N Text are partnering with Twitter and will offer FREE Twitter on mobile as a public service to the millions of Filipinos who wants to share their thoughts and experiences at the upcoming visit of Pope Francis on January 15 to 19, 2015.

Almost 69 million prepaid and postpaid subscribers of Smart, Sun Cellular and Talk ‘N Text may access Twitter without worrying about mobile data charges, allowing more Filipinos to follow the Pope’s Twitter account (@Pontifex), send wishes and prayers to the Pope using #DearPopeFrancis hashtag, and get real-time updates on the much anticipated apostolic and state visit of Pope Francis in the Philippines.

More details of the Pope’s visit, including #DearPopeFrancis Tweets, videos, stories and the Pope’s itinerary, can be found at dearpopefrancis.ph.

“With this collaboration, Smart and Twitter aim to allow more Filipinos to get involved and immerse in this historic experience with Pope Francis, who our Catholic nation hold very dear to our heart,” said Napoleon L. Nazareno, president and CEO, PLDT and Smart.

All you have to do is to just, text DEARPOPE to 9999 starting January 15. This is a one time registration for the free Twitter service.

We all now that Pope Francis has an official Twitter account @Pontifex, you can now have a FREE access and tweet your aspirations and messages to the beloved Pope using #DearPopeFrancis. 

Subscribers may also post real-time updates, upload photos, and even reach out to him through Twitter with no extra cost.

THE PAPAL VISIT 2015 ITINERARY

THE PAPAL VISIT 2015 ITINERARY

The official itinerary is as follows:

January 15, 2015

Arrival from Sri Lanka – Villamor Air Base
Motorcade to the Apostolic Nunciature – Taft Avenue, Manila

January 16, 2015

Welcome Ceremony – Malacañan Palace, Manila
Motorcade to the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Manila Cathedral)
Mass with Bishops, Priests, and Religious – Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Manila Cathedral)
Motorcade to the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay
Encounter with Families – Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay

January 17, 2015

Departure for Archdiocese of Palo – Villamor Air Base
Arrival at Tacloban Airport
Holy Mass – Tacloban Airport
Lunch with the Poor and Survivors of Calamities at Gonzagahaus (Residence of the Archbishop of Palo) – Palo, Leyte
Blessing of the Pope Francis Center for the Poor – Palo, Leyte
Meeting with the Priests and Religious at Cathedral of Our Lord’s Transfiguration (Palo Cathedral) – Palo, Leyte
Departure for Manila
Arrival at Manila – Villamor Air Base

January 18, 2015

Brief Meeting with the Religious Leaders and Encounter with the Youth – Pontifical University of Santo Tomas, España, Manila
Motorcade to Rizal Park, Manila
Concluding Mass, Rizal Park, Manila

January 19, 2015

Motorcade from the Apostolic Nunciature
Departure for Rome – Villamor Air Base

No copyright infringement intended. Credits to their rightful owners.

TERMINAL FEE: To be Included In Your Plane Ticket's Cost

TERMINAL FEE: To be Included In Your Plane Ticket's Cost 

Is this a good thing or a bad thing for all of you out there with itchy feet? MIAA general manager Jose Angel Honrado said in a memorandum to all the airlines and airport stakeholders that the integration of the terminal fee will finally proceed on February 1, 2015

The MIAA has deferred the integration which was supposed to take effect beginning Jan. 15 to give way to the papal visit on Jan. 15 to 19.

For me, this is a good thing because it means you and I, common people, don't have to line up and wait for our turn to pay for our terminal fee. It would facilitate smooth boarding. So, thumbs up for that.

The implementation of the memorandum circular seeking the integration of the terminal fees with the cost of plane tickets has likewise been delayed in September last year due to opposition mainly from groups of overseas Filipino workers who because of the new policy would need to pay the terminal fees and line up for refund afterward.

OFWs along with Muslim pilgrims, and Filipino athletes are exempted from paying the terminal fees.

To avail themselves of the exemption, workers have to present their exemption certificate while pilgrims and athletes must present airport authorities proof of the endorsement of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos and Philippine Sports Commission, respectively.

Those buying their tickets online and overseas may get a refund at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport afterward.

MALDIVES: Coleen Garcia's Vacation Photos

MALDIVES: Coleen Garcia's Vacation Photos

Velassaru Maldives is my ultimate dream vacation destination.  And local showbiz stars Coleen Garcia and her boyfriend Billy Joe Crawford spent 8 days frolicking in the sand of Maldives, said to be a paradise on earth.

Look at those beautiful stilt cottages, gentle waves, white powdery sand, pretty clouds and sunny skies.

Anyway, here is Coleen's mantra for this year 2015 which she wrote on her instagram account:

“Today I’ve decided to center my life on the things that really matter to me. I’ve realized that I have absolutely no time for negative emotions because I choose to focus on what makes me happy and on what makes me better. I choose to continue growing and learning. And appreciating. Fill yourself with gratitude, and there won’t be room for anything else that isn’t needed.” 


Go, girl! Happy New Year!

MRT 3 FARE MATRIX

MRT 3 FARE MATRIX

Wondering how much you will paying at your next MRT-3 ride? Please be guided accordingly and use the Fare Matrix above.


I hope MRT-3 will have better service. 

Happy New Year!

NO CLASSES ON JANUARY 9

NO CLASSES ON JANUARY 9

Yes! You read it right. There will be no classes in Manila on January 9, 2015, Friday, the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

In Executive Order No. 1 for 2015, Mayor Estrada said the suspension will cover public and private schools at all levels. 

"Classes for all levels in universities, colleges and schools in the City of Manila (are) suspended 09 January 2015, Friday," Estrada said in his order, which was posted on his Facebook account.

Devotees of the Black Nazarene are expected to flock to Quiapo this week for the yearly feast of their patron, whose image is believed to have miraculous powers.

 

Mayor Estrada also said work is suspended in all departments, offices and bureaus in the city government except those involved in:

 

• maintenance of peace and order;
• traffic enforcement;
• disaster and risk reduction management;
• health and sanitation; and
• issuance of business permits and collection of taxes.

 

But Estrada said the suspension of work in national government offices and private offices in the city "is left to the discretion of their heads of office."

FREE ENTRANCE AT NATIONAL MUSEUM

FREE ENTRANCE AT NATIONAL MUSEUM

The National Museum (NM) celebrates Rizal Day by offering free admission.

© Aissa Domingo and the National Museum of the Philippines (2014)

Come to the NM tomorrow, December 30, and view artworks for free by our national hero, Jose Rizal. One of the more important pieces in the National Fine Arts Collection is this terracotta sculpture "Mother's Revenge" by Rizal. It features a mother dog attacking a crocodile that harmed her pup. It is a National Cultural Treasure.

© The National Museum of the Philippines (2014)

National Museum of the Philippines wishes you all the best this holiday season

The management and staff is looking forward to your visit but remember besides December 25 & 26 and January 1 & 2, NM will also be closed on the two Mondays: December 29 and January 5 for its usual cleaning and maintenance days. Remember that admission is free on the public holidays which fall on Tuesday and Wednesday, December 30 and 31.

The National Art Gallery is part of the National Museum complex in Manila and is in the Old Legislative Building (along Padre Burgos Avenue). The complex also includes the Museum of the Filipino People (Old Finance Building), National Planetarium and the National Museum of Natural History (Old Tourism Building) which will open late 2015.

RIZAL DAY: December 30

RIZAL DAY: December 30

President Aquino will lead tomorrow's Rizal Day commemoration at the Rizal Park in Manila. 

Statement of Secretary Edwin Lacierda:

On the week of December 29, 2014 – January 2, 2015

[Released on December 29, 2014]

This week, President Aquino is set to commemorate the martyrdom of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Tomorrow, the President will be at the Rizal monument to preside over the flag raising and wreath laying ceremonies, in remembrance and recognition of Dr. Rizal’s staunch devotion to truth and justice in the face of the abuses of our colonizers, a devotion that led to incarceration, exile, and eventually, his execution.

As we welcome the New Year, it is an appropriate time to remember what Dr. Jose Rizal stood for: bravery, integrity, an undying love for country, and the firm belief that national progress requires good citizenship, recognizing that freedom carries with it responsibilities.  It is through embodying the values and lessons of civic consciousness that we have learned from Dr. Rizal that we can further accelerate our journey along the straight path to progress, and achieve our collective goal of a more inclusive and more prosperous Philippines.

FREE RIDES: MRT-3, LRT-1 and LRT-2 Commuters

FREE RIDES: MRT-3, LRT-1 and LRT-2 Commuters 

Rejoice commuters of MRT-3, LRT-1 and LRT-2. 

As a celebration of Rizal Day on December 30, 2014, MRT-3, LRT-1 and LRT-2 commuters will be treated for a free ride.

The offer is limited from 

7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. 

5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

It was announced by the government, in a tweet on its Official Gazette PH account.

OASIS GARDEN CAFE: Solaire's Sweets and Tea Time Haven

OASIS GARDEN CAFE: Solaire's Sweets and Tea Time Haven

I was enchanted by Oasis Garden Cafe the very first time I laid my eyes on its decadent-looking cakes, pastries and pralines plus its specialty teas by da.u.de (pronounced as da - you - deh) during our sneak peek of its world-class new wing called Sky Tower last November 21, 2014.

Add to it its refreshing, lush garden setting and calming effect brought about by its waterfalls installation and you'll definitely think you're in sweet heaven.

Oasis Garden Cafe is a refreshing centerpiece to the spacious Sky Tower atrium. This restaurant is highlighted by a transparent glass roof that brings life to a multihued backdrop of foliage, blooms, and cascading water features.

This is the main entrance of Oasis Garden Cafe.

Oasis Garden Cafe is embellished in elaborate bird’s nest interiors.

I was bedazzled with the wonderful world music played by the pianist.  The soothing voice of the pianist plus the beautiful music he plays on the piano guarantee a delightful experience both for your senses and tummy.

The Sky Tower features two new restaurants - Waterside Restobar and the other one is the Oasis Garden Cafe. A large cafe set against a relaxing garden setting overlooking two waterfalls where one can have a leisurely breakfast, a quick business lunch or cocktails under the stars.

From morning until early evening, Oasis Garden Cafe offers a wide selection of coffee, tea, traditional snacks, and artisanal finger sandwiches. By sundown, the vibe turns into that of a stylish lounge that offers a full complement of cocktails and drinks served with the usual Solaire panache.

 

So you can imagine my happiness when my brother and I got invited to a luxurious tea party at Oasis Cafe. Armed with our party hats, we trooped to Solaire and savored every bite of its delicious pastries.

It was an afternoon of wonderful conversations and gastronomic adventure like no other.

Every piece of food that was served was artistically hand-crafted. Each one was pleasing to the eyes and best of all, a real palate delight.

Delicious Chocolates.

Oasis even served us mini bibingka ! Yummy!

Enjoy your food in a relaxed atmosphere, dine at Oasis Garden Cafe.  

Smack right in the middle of Sky Tower is Oasis Garden Cafe. It has the perfect sophistication that could enchant almost everyone that sees its beauty.

Verdict: 

Oasis Garden Cafe
Solaire Resort Sky Tower Wing
1 Asean Avenue, Entertainment City, Tambo
Parañaque City, Metro Manila, Philippines
(02) 888-8888 

WATERSIDE RESTOBAR: Solaire's New Sky Tower International Dining Place

WATERSIDE RESTOBAR: Solaire's New Sky Tower International Dining Place

Waterside Restobar is Solaire's newest food haven on its new wing called the Sky Tower. It specializes in Latin American and Mediterranean cuisine with a Filipino twist. 

The W insignia at the entrance reminds me of the W insignia of W Hotel in Hong Kong.  

A beautiful lady welcomes every guest with a smile.

As explained in the video, the restaurant features a number of show kitchens like the paella cooking station, the churrascaria, the rotisserie, and the tapas bar all of which are perfect for dining and lounging against the backdrop of the magnificent Manila bay sunset.

Maximum seating capacity of the restaurant is 265. The Tapas Bar has 18 seats. Pool side can accomodate up to 40 people. Dining area 100. Continental breakfast starts at 6:30 in the morning. 

We were entertained with a wonderful Rondalla performance, a dramatic Flamenco (flaˈmeŋko) and Samba. Some of the bloggers even got a personal dance lesson.

We started off with the tapas (appetizers), like the freshly-baked bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, Sardanillas with olive oil, Asparagus salad with lemon and goat milk, Burritos with red onion pickle, Jabugo ham with pineapples and blue cheese, Chorizo with sweet melon and mint, Bruschetta with aubergine caviar and salsa Lucia, and Humita (sweet corn baked in husk), must-try is its Surf & Turf, a combination of jumbo prawns, best paired with Chimuchurri, Beef Brisket, Inihaw na Liempo and Crack-back chicken glazed with BBQ sauce. 

My super favorite and highly recommended dish is its house specialty Paella Valenciana, it taste so good I wish an angel will invite me again for another chance to eat at Waterside Restobar. Dessert is Pineapple ravioli with chili and sorbet and Chocolate Tart in Raspberry Jelly.

The place has a circular bar that showcases various wines from all over the world. It has a wide array of wines and spirits. Stylish, laid-back, and state-of-the-art are the words that best describe Solaire’s posh restaurant. Ideally located beside Solaire’s luxurious pool. This all-day dining restaurant is a delightful treat for families, friends, business partners and even to those who are out for a romantic night. 

It is luxuriously decorated with modern furnitures and art fixtures. It has a Latin-influenced table setting.  It is safe to say that Waterside exudes sophistication yet homey vibe while dining in style.

To end the wonderful event, we toasted and wished Oasis and Waterside the very best of luck and congratulated all the people behind the success of their grand opening.

For more informations and reservations, you can visit Solaire’s website @ http://solaireresort.com/dine

Operating Hours: 6:30 up to 12 midnight. Average Price is Php700 to Php800 per person.
Waterside Restobar at Solaire Resort is located on Aseana Ave, Parañaque City, Metro Manila. For inquiries and reservations to the Sky Tower, you can call (+632) 888-8888.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE

Thank you for visiting my blog year after year! May you truly feel the true essence of Christmas now and for always!

Happy birthday Jesus Christ.

BANK HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

BANK HOLIDAY SCHEDULE 

In this day and age of consumerism. Christmas becomes an expensive tradition. A trip to the bank to withdraw or to do other transactions becomes necessary. That is why you should learn about the limited banking hours during the holiday season. Each bank has its own schedule, so make sure to do all your banking transactions several days before your bank/s close/s for the holidays.

Here are some banks schedule for the coming holiday season:

BDO

Shortened hours in select branches: December 24, 26, 30, 31, and January 2

Regular banking day in weekend branches: December 27, 28, and January 3

Regular banking day: December 29


BPI

Shortened hours in select branches: December 24

Regular banking day in mall branches and kiosks: December 27 and 28

Regular banking day: December 29, December 30, and January 3


Chinabank

Shortened hours in select branches: December 24, 26, 30, 31, and January 2

Regular banking day in select branches: December 27, and January 3

Regular banking day: December 29


The banks will either be closed because it is a regular holiday or because it falls on a Saturday or Sunday so make sure to have the necessary Cash to tide you over until January,  Have a merry Christmas!

God bless us all!

WATER RATE HIKE EFFECTIVE JANUARY 5, 2015

WATER RATE HIKE EFFECTIVE JANUARY 5, 2015

It is not only the MRT, LRT 1, 2 that will have a price increase next year.  Water rates will also increase effective January 5, 2015.  Consumers will see it on their February billing next year.

Sad but true. We will all experience the price increase in the coming new year. Consumers of Manila Water and Maynilad will be met with an increase in water prices at the beginning of 2015, in line with change in peso value.

Manila Water will be posting a price hike of 0.36 per cubic meter by January, while Maynilad will increase its price by 0.38 per cubic meter.

This means an additional P1.19 in the bill of Maynilad's lifeline rate consumers, or those that consume 10 cubic meters and below per month.

The hike will add P4.45 to the bill of those that consume 20 cubic meters a month, and P9.12 for 30 cubic meters.

According to Manila Water and Maynilad, the increase comes in line with foreign currency differential adjustment, or the change of the value of the peso against other currencies.

Source: GMA TV

MRT, LRT Lines 1, 2 New Fares On January 4, 2015

MRT, LRT Lines 1, 2 New Fares On January 4, 2015

Fares on the Light Rail Transit Lines 1 and 2 and the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 are set to increase effective on January 4, 2015 according to the Department of Transportation and Communication.

DOTC Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya said the increase, which he called “a tough decision” had to be made. Metro Manila's rail lines, particularly the MRT-3, have been the subject of complaints from commuters because of congestion and frequent delays caused by glitches and breakdowns

The new base fare will be P11.00 from the current P10.00 with P1.00 charged per additional kilometer. I think this price increase is long overdue. So a one peso additional fare will be okay.

According to Abaya, the increased rates will bring improved services on the MRT and LRT lines.

The last fare increase for the LRT-1 was in 2003 while the LRT-2's rates have never been increased. MRT-3, on the other hand, lowered from P17 - P34 in 1999 to P12 - P20 in 2000. Fares were decreased further to the current P10 - P15.

“It's been several years since an increase was proposed. We delayed it's implementation one last time until after the Christmas season,” Abaya said.