KPop Republic 2013 review

Artists: Soomin of April Kiss,Crispy Crunch, Dal Shabet, EXO K  and  SHINee

Date: September 7, 2013

Location: Smart Araneta Coliseum

I remember hearing Migs listen to some Korean groups like SG wannabe & fly to the sky. I find it weird because I was never a fan of KPop until last Saturday. I don’t get the point why a lot of Filipinos go gaga over these KPop groups. They’re everywhere! Splattered in every corner of the Internet, the TV set, magazines, water bottles, snack pouches, etc. you name it, their faces are on it.

When we were invited to attend the KPop Republic’s presscon, we grabbed the opportunity so we could have a better grasp of what KPop has to offer. The presscon was held at Gateway Mall’s Cinema 5. Although the event started late, Jinri Park was game for some chit chats while waiting for the artists to arrive. The presscon started and ended well.

Soo-min and Crispy Crunch

Dal Shabet

EXO_K

SHINee

The concert was held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum , which is very accessible and has enough room for the concert goers. We even got a good spot near the stage for some photo ops.

At the concert hall, no time was wasted as the show started at exactly 7:30 PM. The audience were mostly teenagers having the time of their lives.

The event started with an act from Soomin of April Kiss and Crispy Crunch , followed by all female group Dal Shabet  who gave stuffed toys to the audience (note that the artists themselves carried the stuffed toys to the stage…no PA or whatsoever).

Third group to perform is the crowd favorite, EXO K . They even sang Yeng Constantino’s Hawak Kamay in accapela which we find cute! Although they are not complete, the fans gave their full support to this group. Final act is SHINee but sadly was missing a member, Min-ho due to a schedule conflict.

What we truly admire about these KPop artists is that they don’t need some additional back up dancers or booty shakers to keep the show going. Every artist owned the stage, danced and sang their hearts out like it’s their last performance! It’s evident that these Kpop groups are damn serious with their craft.

Maybe that’s one good reason why a lot of people (including my Mexican cholo looking husband) like them. Much respect to the performers.

In conclusion, the concert organizers did very well with KPop Republic. Security is good, ticket prizes are reasonable since you get to watch 4 Kpop groups and the venue is perfect.

If you weren’t a fan going in, there is a 99% chance that you will step out as a fan.

Happy weekend!

Migs and Alaine Alejandrino

OTJ movie review

A dark crime thriller, neo-noir with a gangster feel. Finally, a local film that is worth every Peso.

The film stars Gerald Anderson (Daniel) and Joel Torre (Tatang/Mario) who are jail inmates being released from time to time to eliminate “targets” as hired killers.

On the other hand, Joey Marquez (SP01 Acosta) and Piolo Pascual (NBI agent Coronel) are the good guys who plays as law enforcers.

The film has been said to be based on true to life events which we find very timely with all the issues that our country is facing as of the moment.

The actors gave justice to their given roles. Although Joel Torre, Piolo Pascual and Joey Marquez showcased their acting prowess as expected, we must say that Gerald Anderson deserves a big round of applause for dropping his boy next door image and man it out in this film. Every scene appears to be so realistic. The city streets, dialogues, expressions, and even the clothes worn by the actors. Kudos to the wardrobe team for making the characters look like the real deal, and not making them wear neat signature clothes (if you’ve watched some previous local films you’ll get what we’re sayin’).

It kind of reminded us of the film “The Departed” or “Infernal affairs“.

It was showed in Cannes early this year and received a two minute standing ovation . Joel Torre even took home the best actor award from a Korean award giving body. It is also said that there will be an American adaptation.

OTJ is a true work of art. This is the kind of movie that Filipinos should patronize and should be proud of.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30w2Fu_3hM0

Migs and Alaine Alejandrino

*photos from Google

Café Christina

We discovered Café Christina early 2012. This is where we usually meet our wedding suppliers. They have enough parking slots for their guests and they have a beautiful interior. Very cozy. This is our favorite café in the area.

At first, we thought it would be an average café. What a great surprise when the food was served! Delicious food, beautiful plating and hefty serving!  Price is reasonable. They also have a number of cakes that you can choose from to match your coffee or simply eat ’em for dessert.

Crispy Pork Binagoongan

Lechon Kawali

spicy chicken wings

The only downside for us is their restroom. You have to go out of the café to use the building’s restroom which they share with other tenants.

But still, Café Christina is definitely a notch above the other options in Antipolo.

Café Christina is located at Femar (FBM) Building, 166 M.L. Quezon Street, Antipolo City, Rizal, M. L. Quezon Ave, Antipolo City

Happy Sunday!

Migs and Alaine Alejandrino

M Cafe + Kabila (Late Post)

Hi guys!

We had a pleasant dinner experience here and I feel sorry that it took a while for me to share it with you. Too bad, I wasn’t able to take photos. The place is so chic.

M Cafe is perfectly located at the corner of Makati Ave and Dela Rosa St, Makati City.

The glass pannels and dim lights add to its elegant vibe. Perfect for dinner dates.
When we were seated, the waiter handed us the menus for M Cafe and Kabila.

Since we weren’t too hungry, we only ordered Sharks fin cilantro dumplings, Honey duck rolls,Kabila’s Pork Bagnet and fresh lemon juice.

I fell in love with their honey duck rolls. Beautifully plated and so delish.
Generous portions of mouth-watering goodness were served to us and our tummies thanked us. We were too full to even order for desserts!

Great food and excellent customer service.

We’re planning to try their Sunday Boutique Brunch soon!

Museum Cafe (M CAFE)
G/F Greenbelt 4, Makati Ave. cor. Dela Rosa St., Ayala Ctr., Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
(02) 757-3000

***photos from: http://www.raintreerestaurants.com/

XO,

Alaine Alejandrino

What we learned from the wrath of the monsoon

We are grateful that God blessed us with a home that is not affected by flood.

Being adversely affected by “Habagat” last year, we can already imagine the destruction and lost of properties (and even loved ones for some) caused by Typhoon Maring.

We want to share with you some of the things that we learned from the wrath of the monsoon.

Here is a list of the things that should be in your survival kit:

1. Non perishable food that can last for 3 days

2. Drinking Water

3. Can opener

4. Flash light and batteries

5. Fully charged mobile phone

6. Whistle

7. First aid kit

8. Garbage bags with rubber bands or tape

9. set of clothes or  blanket

10. emergency radio

Find high ground and be prepared to leave.

Make sure you find a good place to park your car so you can leave once you’ve gathered your family and grabbed your survival kit.

If you think it’s too late to save all your appliances, let go and save yourself first!

Do not swim in the flood water unless it is your only option to live.

If your house (or your neighbor’s house) has a second story,you will be safe there. Wait for rescue or until the flood recedes.

Here are some lifesaving numbers to remember and are worthy to be added to your contact list:

(from Google)

If you’re lucky enough not to be affected by flood, we encourage you to share your time and some of your treasure. You can look for the nearest evacuation centers in your area or click the link below for the list of Government and Private Groups who are accepting donations:

http://technology.inquirer.net/28407/govt-private-groups-turn-to-internet-for-aid-to-maring-victims

Stay safe and dry!

Migs and Alaine Alejandrino

Win a Customized Phone Case from Ishi’s Cyberstore – Blog Giveaway (CLOSED)

1. Like  Ishi’s Cyberstore on Facebook :https://www.facebook.com/IshisCyberstore

2. Follow Ishi’s Cyberstore on Instagram: ishiscyberstore

3. Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mrsalejandrino and tweet: I want to win a customized phone case from  #IshisCyberstore !

or

repost one of IshisCyberstore’s photos on  Instagram and caption with: I want to win a customized phone case from #IshisCyberstore !

4. Don’t forget to comment below with your name and Twitter or IG name for reference. Contest period is from August 15-30. Winner will be chosen at random on August 31, 2013.

We will be announcing the winner on Twitter so, stay tuned!

Good luck!

Migs and Alaine Alejandrino

*Open to all Philippine residents only.

Casa San Pablo: An art-lover’s paradise

We picked Casa San Pablo based on the good reviews that we’ve read about them and we are very happy with our choice.
When inn keeper, Ann confirmed our reservation, she attached other tourists destinations near Casa San Pablo along with our reminders and driving instructions (which we find very thoughtful).
We reached Casa San Pablo in less than 2 hours from Manila. We were welcomed by our wonderful attendant, Danica and was immediately guided to our room.

cardigan and washed denim shorts: ukay-ukay * bag: longchamp * 1pc swimsuit: H and M

Our room was clean and it’s true – it’s perfect for a honeymoon and can also be rented by a small family. The room was large enough to accommodate 4 guests and even opened towards the garden, giving us a wonderful view of Casa San Pablo.

It has a classic atmosphere reflecting a bygone era which added to it’s already romantic vibe. Paintings were beautifully hanged on the wall. It’s like being in a different world with very minimal travel time – highly recommended for people with hectic schedules like us.

dress: GAP* flip flops: Caribbean

A lot of work goes into making sure each meal are well-presented. We just had to say this: each meal is a bang for your buck. We were served food that are good for four people! Brewed coffee is overflowing! Our attendant is superb, she won’t leave us until we finish our meal…making sure that we got everything that we need. She somehow reminded us of Carrie Bradshaw’s room attendant in Sex and the City 2.

while waiting for dinner. bonnet: Ever department store* Tshirt: Hollister* Shorts: Kenneth Cole* shoes: Vibram

our first meal at CSP

CSP’s version of “big breakfast”

lunch!

Casa San Pablo can accommodate 120 guests. Each room has its own unique identity. They also have rooms with 18 bed bunks good for family reunions or team buildings.
Their lovely pool is also one of their attractions.

Junk Garden

rambutan!

with Danica, one of CSP’s treasures

Our overnight stay with 3 meals was on promotional rate when we booked two weeks ago! So don’t forget to check Casa San Pablo’s website to avail special discounts!
http://www.casasanpablo.com/

We’ll see you again, Casa San Pablo! 🙂

Migs and Alaine Alejandrino

KPOP Republic 2013

Mark your calendar for an epic show!KPOP Republic is happening on September 7, 2013 at the Smart Araneta Colliseum.

SHINee,one of the most sought after KPop groups in Asia returns to Manila tagging along with them two of South Korea’s hottest KPop groups, EXO-K and Dal Shabet.

Don’t forget to dress up the KPop way so you won’t be left out!

Tickets are available at www.ticketnet.com.ph and visit KPOPRepublic2013.weebly.com for more info.

See you there!

Migs and Alaine Alejandrino
*sponsored post

35 years of Wedded Bliss

In this day and age marriages often do not last that long, so I am proud to say that my parents are still happily married. They’ve made it this far, but not without trial and error. Commitment is hard work as my parents would always tell us.

We went to Baguio for another great visit and to celebrate another momentous event – our parents’ 35th Wedding anniversary and renewal of vows. Baguio is where we spent most of our weekends for two beautiful years and I just couldn’t even begin to describe it.

Horses, boat ride, beautiful flowers and delish food were only some of the things that we enjoyed. The flow of traffic along Session road 2 was overwhelming…but the trip was still enjoyable.

strawberry taho

Pablo and Atkins

We spent three days at Pages Hall (Teachers Camp) along with 30+ adults. If you’re going to Baguio in large group, staying at a transient house like Pages Hall will save you money. We only paid Php 187.00 per head (this is on a daily basis) compared to P1,500 to P5,000 per night in a hotel.  The rooms were clean as well as the restrooms. I guess the only bad thing is that we shared the restrooms with the other guests. For Php 187.00/night don’t expect any additional freebies…pillows and comforters will be provided though. You can also order food from the care takers (prices range from P60.00 – P70.00 depending on their menu).  As for me and my husband, we opted to eat at nearby Cafeterias and restaurants.

Pages Hall

Day two, we went to Burnham Park to visit some Ukay-ukay stores but we were surprised with the prices! The locals told us that if we wanted to score some cheap goods, we should go back at around 9PM. Thinking that parking may be an issue during that time – we just stayed at Pages Hall to watch movies while enjoying a hot cup of coffee.

Baguio will always be special to me. I will never get tired of visiting this beautiful City…and to my parents, I am and I will always be proud of you.

XO,

Mrs. Alejandrino

Canyon Cove Review

Last March 25, I called Canyon Cove Reservations office to book a room for April. The earliest date given to me was April 16 – 17. Since it was Tuesday and Wednesday, I had to ask my husband’s opinion. When I got a go signal from him, I immediately called Canyon Cove to confirm. But I kept on getting busy tones. So, I just opted to send an email to the address posted on their website. I didn’t know that their staff do not answer emails real time so, I had to call their reservations office again the following day. I asked the specialist if there are other dates available. I was offered April 15-16 which I grabbed. I got a confirmation number and marked my calendar.  Surprisingly, when I checked my email address, I received a response for my previous booking request. I was given a different set of confirmation number and a different date! I immediately replied to the email asking Angela (reservation specialist) to cancel my April 16-17 reservation and gave her my confirmation number for April 15-16. I waited for days, but no response was received…not even an acknowledgement.

A week before our visit to Canyon Cove, I called their reservations office and was transferred from one person to another.  They kept telling me that I was giving them a confirmation number with a missing digit. Someone even hung up on me. I was lucky to get hold of someone who is willing to help me on my fourth attempt. The confirmation number given to me was for a room reservation at Canyon woods! How did that happen? Well, that’s also my question that was never answered. I had to tell them several times that I already filed a vacation leave  for April 15 and 16 and that I could no longer extend my leave so they need to do something about my room reservation… and before the day ended, I got a call from Angela asking if I want to reschedule our visit to April 14-15… thinking that I have no choice, I said YES.

April 14 came and when we got to Canyon Cove, there were a lot of guests who are trying to get a parking slot and that includes us.  We were directed by the Security guard to a parking area near Canyon Cove’s kitchen. We even saw some kitchen personnel (four of them) having their break and watching guests as they enter the resort’s premises. There were many people walking around the lobby as expected. But the queuing at the check in counter was bearable.

As soon as we entered our room, I looked around trying to check if the place was safe for kids and for our belongings. And to my dismay. There was a cigarette butt on our veranda and a hotel key card holder on our TV rack from the previous guest. Towels are nowhere to found. For crying out loud, even the cheapest motels in the metro provide towels to their guests. Doors are also an issue.  We requested towels at around 4pm, an hour after we checked in.  At 8:45 PM we got the towels from a bell boy who after ringing our door bell, knocked on our door like a rock star. Yeah, talk about manners.

Our room.Walang WIFI. Dead spot for Sun Cellular.

Hello daw sabi ng mga alikabok. LOL

nakakatakot lumbas pag sira ang pinto 😦

When I took a shower, the water seemed to love the flooring and took a while before it got drained. Tooth paste and tooth brushes are also not provided. Good thing, we brought our own toiletries.

Food wasn’t exemplary. Buffet is Php600/head for adults and Php300/head for kids.

I never expected this. Canyon Cove claims that they are a  “premier resort” and boast their “deluxe amenities” on line. I expected more… a laudable customer service at least.

Alaine Alejandrino