by Penny Angeles-Tan | Dec 11, 2016 | Events
The spirit of Christmas is palpable at Filinvest City, the bustling Central Business District south of Metro Manila, as it provides the best holiday experience with an array of festive activities for everyone to enjoy.
Home to landmarks such as the Festival Supermall, Crimson Hotel, and the Festival Mall River Park, the pedestrian-friendly CBD will have something for everyone to feel the holiday celebrations – from festive decorations to Christmas shopping and gustatory delights.
Spreading the holiday cheer at Filinvest City are the Christmas decorations adorning the city’s streets, as well as the much-awaited Christmas Light Show at the River Park in Festival Mall which will run all throughout the holiday season.
Aside from the Christmas Light Show, visitors will also be treated to concerts and other family entertainment like Repertory Philippines’ Hansel and Gretel which will be staged at Festival Mall, Ballet Philippines Pas De Deux, The Voice of the South Grand Finals, and Yuletide Melodies at Westgate featuring award-winning chamber choir, Kammerchor.
You can also frolic and play the Eskimo way at Crimson Hotel’s Crimson Wonderland showcasing a giant Christmas tree and other holiday attractions.
Of course, the season is not complete without food. Families and friends gathering together to celebrate Christmas can enjoy a wide selection of yuletide fares at Filinvest City’s hotels such as Crimson, Acacia, and Bellevue. Filinvest City’s premier clubhouse, Palm’s Country Club is also opening The Continental for guests looking for an ultimate dining experience.
With Christmas being the busiest shopping season, Festival Mall can serve as your shopping destination for presents, holiday fashion, and other Christmas items to help you feel the holiday spirit.
“Christmas is once again upon us, and through the various holiday shows and activities at Filinvest City, we hope to bring everyone together to make the yuletide season even more memorable,” said Filinvest Executive Vice President Catherine A. Ilagan.
Indeed, more than the colorful lights, blinking decors, and gift-giving, Christmas becomes more meaningful as it gathers friends and families together to bond and create wonderful memories. And all that is happening at Filinvest City!
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Dec 9, 2016 | Product and Service Review
The end of the online revolution draws near but there is still time to get some great finds that could finish up your Christmas list. Here are a few that I spotted that I think you might enjoy, too. 🙂
Tuxun Mini Karaoke K068 Wireless Bluetooth Microphone with Mic Speaker (Gold)
Let’s admit it, Filipinos LOVE to sing … and Christmas parties (or any old party, for that matter) are just not complete without someone rocking the mic … preferably everyone. 😀
Now here is a common scenario … not enough mics to go around! Guess what? That is not a problem anymore if you have this baby … the Tuxun Mini Karaoke K068 Wireless Bluetooth Microphone. It comes in two (2) colors: gold and rose gold. I loved it so much that I bought one of each! 😀
This is what the description says:
- Built-in high-quality chipset, it produces excellent sound quality with reverberation (echo).
- No need to aim at the microphone, it can capture your voice with a pickup hole (translation: it is not unidirectional. It can pick up sound from the top and sides).
- the effect is much like KTV, you will feel liking being on the scene of karaoke.
- It supports almost all singing software no matter on the phone or on the computer (translation: it is compatible with most karaoke apps, whether for your tablet, phone, or computer).
- With a 3.5mm audio jack, it can connect with Android, iOS phone, etc. (translation: you can connect it to your Android or iOS device via an audio jack).
- Wireless Connection: You can connect with your phone with cable or Bluetooth (translation: you can connect either via wired (audio jack) or wireless (Bluetooth) connection).
- You can practice singing, listen to music, and record songs without going to KTV (it is a wireless mic so, really, you can practice anywhere).
Package contents:
- egg-like carrying case
- 3.5mm audio jack cable
- micro USB charging cable
- manual
The manual that comes with the package is in Chinese (I believe) and I could not understand a word of it so I searched for an English manual online. Click here to download the English manual.
My personal experience:
My nephew loves to invite friends over on the weekend to use my Major HD-10 Platinum Karaoke and we only have 1 (wired) mic. With the Tuxun Wireless Mic, I would sneak up on him and suddenly sing a duet. When he heard my voice magnified he was quite surprised because the sound came from behind him, not in front.
Take a look at the Tuxun Mini Karaoke K068 Wireless Bluetooth Microphone and you will notice something immediately … it has an unusual shape for a mic. As a matter of fact, the first time I saw it I thought it was a flashlight! Turns out the wide base is actually the speaker.
- The top switch-slide is the volume control.
- The middle switch-slide is the echo control.
- The bottom button is not only the power button, it is also the button you press for pairing the mic with your device via Bluetooth
Does it really pair with Karaoke software?
I’ll be honest with you … I have no idea. I tried to use it with Smule but I couldn’t get it to work the way I wanted to. But that does not mean it won’t work with others, it just means I haven’t tried it with others yet. 😀
Sanosan Products
For baby and for you.

Sanosan Lotion, Bath and Shampoo, and Oil
Anyone with children will tell you that babies have very sensitive skin. This means that we cannot use just any old product on her.
We’ve tried several brands, from the brands available in the local groceries to products that arrive from relatives who send over balikbayan boxes.
Lately, though, we have tried some brands we have not heard of before until now, and one of those brands is Sanosan. I must confess, though, that we do not believe in using lotion and oil on a baby’s skin … mostly because in most cases they do not really have any dry skin at that young age.
I used the Sanosan Baby Oil to remove my makeup and it works like a dream! The Sanosan Baby lotion I set aside for use later when it turns cold and we start to experience dry skin … yes, Bubu included.
Sanosan Baby Shampoo
Sanosan Baby shampoo has a mild scent and is very gentle on our Bubu’s delicate skin. It is a clear, colorless liquid that froths easily so we do not need to use much to get scalp and hair clean.
- Includes beneficial ingredients such as olive extract and lactoprotein
- Conditions the scalp
- Prevents dryness
- Clinically approved
- Colorant free
- Sanosan baby shampoo does not contain surfactants that impair the natural protective function of the eye
It comes in an attractive powder blue container designed with slip-proof grips on the side making it easier to hang on to the bottle even with wet hands.
Sanosan gives the baby the best possible care. It uses olive oil and hydrolyzed milk protein which are natural ingredients that provide optimum care, cleansing, and protection that nourishes your baby’s skin better.
All Sanosan products are hypoallergenic and free from parabens and dyes. Pamper yourself and your little sweetheart with Sanosan on a regular basis and experience the daily delights of unique, natural, and gentle care.
65 years of premium skincare, for you and for baby.
Scholl Velvet Smooth Express Pedi

Scholl Velvet Smooth Express Pedi

Scholl Velvet Smooth Express Pedi
For most of the day, our feet are trapped in shoes. For some of us, we spend most of our time on our feet. Our feet just go through so much punishment! Consequently, we find, later that our feet are covered in calluses and dry skin.
I am lucky enough that my feet are not in such bad shape but sometimes I would be surprised to find my heels snagging on my blanket and I realize that it is time for another foot spa.
Having a foot spa, when done often could turn out expensive so here is (what I think) is a better (more economical and more efficient) solution. And using it is easy, too! Watch this video below just to see how easy it is to use this product.
Veet Hair Removal Cream for Sensitive Skin

Veet Hair Removal Cream for Sensitive Skin
Most modern women (myself included) today worry about the unsightly hair growth in our armpits and other parts of the body (such as on the arms, legs, and face). Most either pluck or shave. One can be painful while the other causes the hair to grow back faster and thicker and tends to darken the skin.
The solutions we are often left with: laser treatment, threading, and waxing. These solutions are not cheap. So what solution is left? Depilatory creams or lotions like Veet.
I have used Veet in the past and it is so easy to use that it is often my go-to product when I don’t have time (or money) to go to the waxing salon.
- Wash and clean the area you want to remove hair from.
- Pat dry so that the area is no longer wet.
- Squeeze some Veet on the spatula and smooth over the area you want to depilate.
- Let it stay for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Use the spatula to remove the product from your skin. You will see the hairs come off with the cream.
- Use a soft sponge or washcloth to remove the cream if the spatula is too abrasive. I like to wet the sponge or cloth with warm water first.
- If needed, you can leave the cream on longer before fully removing it. Do not exceed 6 minutes, as your skin will likely become irritated and produce a painful burning sensation.
The result? Soft, smooth, hairless skin. No-fuss, no mess, no worries! Try it for yourself! One tube goes a long way. Depending on how many areas you want to depilate, one tube of Veet can last for several months.
- Works close to the root even on short hair
- Preparation: 5-10 minutes
- Enriched with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E
- Duration: smoothness for up to a week
- Softer hair regrowth
- Body Area: Legs, Bikini Line, Underarms, Arms
- FREE: Travel-size Veet Hair Removal Cream
Precious Products

Precious Mango Tango Massage Oil, Precious Blue Ginger Aroma Fragrance Mist, Precious VCO Goat’s Milk Soap, and Precious All Natural Pain-Away Pad
With the traffic situation we deal with daily. we often go home more tired than we should be. Here are some products that I got that helped me in relaxing at the end of the day.
Precious VCO Goat’s Milk Soap (with oatmeal and tea tree oil)

Precious VCO Goat’s Milk Soap (with oatmeal and tea tree oil)
A lot of the (beauty) soaps sold today are made overseas. Precious VCO Goat’s Milk Soap is proudly Philippine-made.
I tried this soap immediately and I was surprised at how soft and smooth my skin was after one use. I don’t know if it was the VCO or the goat’s milk that did it but I loved the effect.
According to the product page, this is what this product offers:
Anti-aging
By protecting you from free radicals that can damage skin, Virgin Coconut Oil helps to slow the aging process. The oil forms a barrier of defense on your skin, allowing you to absorb necessary nutrients while blocking the chemicals that can cause wrinkles.
Ultra-hydrating and moisturizing
Pure, Organic Virgin Coconut Oil deeply moisturizes the skin, making it smooth and supple. Our soap is the perfect defense against redness, flakes, itch, and common skin conditions like Eczema, Psoriasis, and Dermatitis.
Certified organic
Made in the PHILIPPINES with lots of LOVE: Our soap is handmade and contains organic plant-based ingredients. It’s 100% pure, vegan, and safe for all skin types. It contains no parabens, alcohol, petroleum, dyes, fragrances, animal fat, and preservatives.
Ultimate luxury
After a long, taxing day, treat yourself to the finest form of relaxation. A warm bath paired with our Virgin Coconut Oil Soap will melt away your stress while nourishing your skin. You’ll feel refreshed and ready to take on what comes next!
Precious Mango Tango Massage Oil

Precious Mango Tango Massage Oil and Precious Blue Ginger Aroma Fragrance Mist
My left shoulder to hand has been hurting like the dickens for days now. when this happens I usually just ignore it but occasionally I call on Ashley, my favorite therapist from Asian Massage to massage me instead.
They often use mineral oil when they give a massage but they usually ask for their clients’ preference also. Sometimes I use lotion but other times I provide my own oil. On her next visit (probably later tonight!) I will try the Precious Mango Tango Massage Oil. The mango scent is strong but not overpowering, which is good. I won’t smell like a fruit salad. D
- precious massage oil
- blend of essential oils
- refreshing and relaxing
- can bring emotional balance to the body
The Precious Blue Ginger Aroma Frangrance Mist will give the room that spa smell that will help me relax even more. That’s one of the missing elements when I have a home service massage … the spa smell. :). The only thing missing would be a waterfall or chime music playing in the background.
It not only makes the air smell good it also acts as a deodorizer, eliminating bad smells in the air.
- precious aroma fragrance mist
- refreshing and relaxing
- an elegant way of scenting environment
- contain odor neutralizing compound
Precious All Natural Pain-Away Pad
If you have ever injured yourself or suffered from intense shoulder pain then you (like I) have used hot and cold compress pads. I’ve used versions that had the metal “coin” you flip inside to activate the gel to make it hot. I’ve used the versions you either microwave (for hot) or stick in the freezer (for cold). The one thing common about all these is that they were just that … a hot pad or a cold pad.
Precious came up with a revolutionary product called the Precious all Natural Pain-Away Pad.

Precious All Natural Pain-Away Pad
Unlike other hot and cold compresses, this one comes filled with special herbs combined to give you much-needed pain relief. Even as I opened the package I could smell the eucalyptus that must be part of the mixed herbs.
- Hot and cold compress using your microwave or steamer at home
- Made of all-natural herbal seed and aromatic herbs
- 100% natural aromatherapy herbal heat pillow
- Moist heat therapy and dry cold therapy with aromatherapy
- Best for joint pains and spasms
- Helps remove stress
- Hot herbal pillow help relax stiff muscles
- Good for back pain and arthritis
How to use:
- To heat it up you could either put it (the green package that smells really nice) in the microwave or steam it. Directions could be found in the package.
- To freeze it, just place it in the freezer for a few hours.
- After you have either heated or frozen it to your needs place it in the cloth bag that comes with the package.
- Apply to the affected area (like your shoulder or neck) and just relax.
Easy, right? And best of all, it is available at Lazada at a very affordable price!
Lazada’s Online Revolution ends at 11:59 pm on December 12. Shop now for great discounts and great finds for you and your family and friends.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Nov 13, 2016 | Stories
Late night shoppers started very early to take advantage of Lazada’s 2016 Online Revolution. Customers looking for the best deals from trusted brands started coming in from 12 midnight today. As of 9am, www.lazada.com.ph recorded 100,000 items, 29% of which came from the health and beauty category, with electronics as a close second.

Shoppers relished in the choice of products available to them at amazing offers –all at up to 95% discount. The very first order came from a customer in Tarlac City, who ordered a KDS Beats-0022 100dB Stereo Subwoofer Over-the-Ear Headphones.

Inanc Balci, Lazada CEO
“Lazada’s Online Revolution excitement started much earlier this year,” said CEO Inanc Balci.
“We’ve had an exciting and long night, with crowds of late-night owls turning into early-bird shoppers snapping up the best deals from Samsung, L’Oreal, P&G, BUM, Starmobile, Mamy Poko, among many others. Watch out for more deals coming later today and in the next 4 weeks for your Christmas shopping.”
The Online Revolution sale continues until December 12. Following 11.11, and during the next 4 weeks leading up to 12.12, Lazada is focusing on satisfying its customers’ interests with a weekly curated selection of products for beauty fans, supermoms and families, techies and fashionistas.

Beauty Fanatics (November 14 to 19)

Family Superstars (November 20 to 24)

Trendsetters (December 3 to 6)

Techies (November 29 to December 2)
Be part of history as Lazada kicks off the Christmas shopping season with the best brands and wallet-friendly deals. Get a chance to win an Isuzu D-Max and Turkish Airlines international roundtrip tickets for all your shopping. Visit www.lazada.com.ph or download the Lazada mobile app for free.
About Lazada Online Revolution
The Lazada Online Revolution is the biggest online shopping and selling event in Southeast Asia bringing brands and retailers, and consumers together in six countries.
Lazada started the Online Revolution on 12 December 2012 (12.12) to educate consumers on online shopping and its conveniences. The one-day sale sparked a shopping frenzy that grew it into an annual month-long event.
Since then, Lazada Online Revolution has proven itself to be Southeast Asia’s busiest online retail event. In 2015, US$40 million in Gross Merchandize Value was recorded in its three-day finale.
Lazada Online Revolution 2016 will see big retail and marketing brands participate to create an unmatched assortment of popular, quality products, and the best deals for Southeast Asian consumers.
About Lazada Group
Lazada Group operates Lazada, Southeast Asia’s number one online shopping and selling destination, with presence in Indonesia (www.lazada.co.id), Malaysia (www.lazada.com.my), the Philippines (www.lazada.com.ph), Singapore (www.lazada.sg), Thailand (www.lazada.co.th) and Vietnam (www.lazada.vn).
Launched in March 2012, Lazada is pioneering eCommerce in the region by providing customers with an effortless shopping experience with multiple payment methods including cash-on-delivery, extensive customer care and easy returns. Lazada features a wide product offering in categories ranging from consumer electronics to household goods, toys, fashion and sports equipment.
Lazada offers brands and sellers a marketplace solution and an ecosystem of partners providing direct access to about 560 million consumers in six countries online.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Nov 9, 2016 | Food & Beverage
Philippine coffee (locally sourced coffee) can compete with coffees from other parts of the world … this is something that most people do not seem to be aware of. Most filipinos are aware of the barako coffee from Batangas, known for its kick and flavorful aroma. A few are familiar with the Bukidnon coffee grown by the trancendental monks.
And then there is Bo’s Coffee — a staunch supporter of homegrown coffee, this Christmas they are promoting the coffee of Benguet.
Christmas Treat at Bo’s Coffee
This Christmas season try out the Christmas offering of Bo’s Coffee.

The Benguet Minty Cold White Brew and the Queso de Bola cheesecake are the perfect pairing.

The Benguet Minty Cold White Brew and the Queso de Bola cheesecake are the perfect pairing.
The Christmas Beverage
Given a choice between hot or cold brewed coffee I often opt for the cold brew. My reason? I’ve burned my tongue more times than I can count when drinking freshly brewed hot coffee. 😀 I guess it is safe to say I’m not very patient, hehehe.
This made Bo’s Coffees Benguet Minty Cold White Brew the perfect drink for me. Benguet coffee is not very acidic and the sprig of mint made this iced beverage extra refreshing.
Iced coffees are often sickly sweet. In contrast, the Benguet Minty Cold Brew’s sweetness level was right on the money. As my cousin, Teddy Boy would have said when he was a kid … not to sweet, not too bitter, just right on the groove.
The Christmas Cake

The Queso de Bola Cheesecake
To the Filipino family Christmas = queso de bola. And most Christmas celebrations come with cheesecake. Therefore, it makes so much sense to make a cheesecake made with Queso de bola.
Queso de bola is a sharp, hard cheese, wrapped in red wax often served with ham at noche buena and other Christmas parties. Made into a cheesecake, this luscious dessert is tart and sweet at the same time.
In my personal opinion, the Queso de Bola Cheesecake could even be too sweet which is why it pairs up perfectly with the Benguet Minty Cold White Brew. Try it yourself and let me know what you think.
Introducing: The Bo’s Coffee Starter Kit


The Bo’s Coffee Starter Kit
The Bo’s Coffee starter kit contains the following:
- clear glass cup wrapped in a cosy
- V60 dripper
- paper filters
- booklet with recipes inside
- a small pouch of coffee grounds
- postcards
- gift bag made of indigenous material like a sack cloth with Bo’s logo stitched on it
It will be available for sale early next year. In the meantime, how can we avail of this kit?
Download the Bo’s Coffe app on the Appstore and Google Play.

The Bo’s Coffee app can be downloaded from both the appstore and on Google Play.
The app is akin to a stamp card or sticker book. With every visit where we purchase food or a drink worth P250 we show the app to the barista and they “shoot” the barcode to register the sale. Each registered sale is equivalent to one voucher used plus points!
On our 10th voucher we get a free Bo’s Coffee cup. On the 15th voucher we can get the Starter Kit … for free! Yey! Yes, I said free!
The stamp card concept is not new. Many establishments do this … from sandwiches, donuts, chinese restaurants … it is their way of tracking loyal customers.
Whether you are a loyal customer or just trying it out, make your way to Bo’s Coffee this holiday season and try out their holiday offerings.
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