JEFFREY MONDIA

They have a lot of pampering services you can choose from Nail Care, Foot Spa, Waxing, and Body Massages.

They recently renovated so the place feels new and the interior is much more soothing.

They even have a “Happy Hour” Promo! Get an hour whole body massage for only P250.00! If you visit from 1-5PM!

They are located at Juan Luna St, Poblacion District, Davao City, Davao del Sur, just behind Ateneo de Davao University fronting Star Bistro.

As the educational arm and flagship project of the PLDT-Smart Foundation, PLDT Gabay Guro focuses on upholding the vocation of teachers. Its tagline “building the nation one teacher at a time” highlights the valuable role of teachers in leading their students to the future and shaping the next generation of nation builders. Since its establishment in 2007, Gabay Guro has been able to grant over 1,100 scholarships in various state colleges and universities nationwide and train over 16,000 teachers across eight annual training programs. 2G also donated laptops and computers to schools and foundations, and built over 40 classrooms located in Cebu, Bohol, Leyte and Capiz.

The Davao leg of TeacherFest 2016 was graced by an exciting roster of Gabay Guro celebrity volunteers—Asia’s Songbird and PLDT Home ambassador Regine Velasquez, concert queen Pops Fernandez, international pop star Christian Bautista, multitalented performer Aicelle Santos, Miss Universe-Philippines 2014 MJ Lastimosa and Philippine Volcanoes rugby star Andrew Wolff. Top-caliber performers came together in one stage to entertain the teachers for free with their impressive stage acts. On top of being star-studded, the celebration was glittered by amazing raffle prizes ranging from cash to laptops with Smart Bro Pocket WiFi modems

“It is our honor to be able to bring this grand celebration to the deserving teachers of Davao,” PLDT Gabay Guro Chairman Chaye Cabal-Revilla said. “After the main event in Manila, we decided to bring the experience to our teachers from other areas, including Japan and now Davao. This is our way of rewarding as many teachers as possible for their valuable presence in our lives.”

“After nine years and counting, we look forward to giving our teachers more wonderful, memorable surprises as well as our full support for their mission of shaping our country’s future leaders,” PLDT VP and Home Marketing Director Gary Dujali added.

One of the recipients of the Foundation, a University School Teacher that sacrificed her life to feed homeless kids on her own every week as a help to the less fortunate.

The PLDT Gabay Guro Teacher Fest Davao 2016 was made possible with the help of the following partners: Bonamine, Flanax, Tempra, and many more.

Later in the afternoon, however, the Acer Academy partners will get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet Acer’s newest campaign ambassador, top inspirational speaker, newspaper columnist, author and award-winning business consultant Francis Kong. With its theme “Are you Kong-nected?,” Mr. Kong will provide an exclusive learning experience on teaching and community building. Among his other topics include getting connected to what teachers teach, defining gaps, connecting and what educators should do, and even the progress in being connected.

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Being one of the country’s most recognized inspirational speakers, Mr. Kong will also provide inspiring stories and his spot-on observation of all aspects of life and how it can be related to enrich one’s personal and professional being. He will also relate how technology plays in people’s everyday lives, particularly those in the academic community.

Also later during the day, Acer will hand out awards to some of the Platinum members of the Acer Academy program in Mindanao. Among the member-schools are Camiguin University, Xavier – Ateneo de Cagayan, St. Rita’s College of Balingasag, St. Mary’s College of Tagum, Our Lady of Fatima Academy, Brokenshire College, Ateneo de Davao, and University of Mindanao. Awards will also be given to the program’s newest members such as Jose Rizal Memorial State University and Davao Medical School while a Loyalty Award will be bestowed on Philippine Women’s College, a member since 2013.

The Acer Academy Program started in 2012. The membership now spans some of the most prestigious colleges and universities nationwide. Bulk of the membership is in Luzon, followed by Visayas, then Mindanao. As member-schools of the program, the school and students enjoy several benefits such as Acer’s sponsorship of school events and activities, free training for the school faculty and IT personnel, a campus kiosk, and participation in campus tours. Students of an Acer Academy program member are also prioritized under Acer’s internship program where they get first crack at on-the-job or even possible hiring opportunities.

From October 22 onwards, customers can already begin their Giving Journey as the collecting of stamps for the 2017 Giving Journal commences in all The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® stores.

Each stamp card consists of 12 circles with corresponding purchased drink assignments. All 12 stamps must be accumulated in one stamp card to claim the journal. A box of CBTL™ capsules earns the customer two stamps, while any CBTL™ Single Serve Beverage System purchase automatically allows a customer to claim the 2017 Giving Journal.

Available in 4 colors—rose, purple, gray, and turquoise, the Giving Journal is a useful planner and a medium for generosity where you can begin writing the beautiful story of your own Giving Journey.  

The Print and Digital Media had a first glimpse of the Giving Journal 2017 Planner and also learned more about it’s purpose and meaning behind the creation of the designs and the people that they help to give a better future. 

One such advocacy is the Real LIFE Foundation, an organization committed to serving the poor through education, character development, and community service. Centered on supporting Real LIFE’s hopeful mission, every Giving Journal redeemed throughout the holiday season will enable the dreams of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf®’s  scholars to take flight.

during the Launching of the Davao-leg of the Giving Journal 2017 Media Event, we had an activity where we were asked to design our own Christmas Cookies that were that day was to be given in the Children in the local orphanage in Davao. (Ignore my epic fail design lol #artist)

Vietnamese cuisine is characterized by sweet, sour, salty, and spicy tastes and combines meat, seafood, rice paper, noodles, vegetables, herbs, spices, and a special fish sauce to create unique gastronomic sensations. Among its well-known dishes is the noodle soup pho, which continues to experience a trendy popularity among foodies in Metro Manila. Other must-tries are the French-influenced banh mi, a healthy sandwich of baguette, veggies, and various fillings; and different spring rolls made with greens, meat, and seafood wrapped in rice paper. All of these are on Hanoi’s menu, just waiting to be sampled by discerning Davaoeño diners who want to experience a refreshing, exciting world cuisine—all without leaving the city.

No wonder esteemed celebrity chef Sandy Daza, following a visit to Davao City in 2014, wrote in his column in Philippine Daily Inquirer: “In the Philippines, I have never experienced Vietnamese cooking as authentic as this. Hanoi will be such a hit in Manila.”

With the goal of educating more diners about the unique flavors and delightful intricacies of this Asian cuisine, the team behind Hanoi, chef Christian De La Paz and his brother Raymond, introduced the media and blogger guests to a filling feast of Hanoi must-tries: Goi Cuon, Banh Cuon, Cha Nuong, Banh Khot, Banh Mi, Hu Tieu Tom Thit, Com Tay Cam Ga, the new dishes Cari Geo Heo and Vietnamese BBQ Platter, and the Hanoi favorite Garlic and Butter Crabs.

Hanoi Vietnamese Cuisine first opened its doors in September 2003 at J. Camus St. beside Tsuru Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar, a restaurant also owned by the De La Paz family. It is the first authentic Vietnamese restaurant in Davao City. and also In May 2011, a second branch opened at Abreeza Ayala Mall along JP Laurel Ave, coinciding with the grand opening of the first Ayala Mall in Mindanao. In 2014, Hanoi Vietnamese Cuisine won the Most Promising Retailer Award for Abreeza Mall at Ayala Malls’ annual Merchant Rewards program, which honors merchants in Ayala Malls nationwide that display excellence in different categories.

We the media feasted in all things viet for hours just to have a full experience of the culture event though we’re only in Davao.

Goi Cuon - Fresh spring rolls with shrimp, pork, herbs, and vegetables wrapped in rice paper and served with Hanoi's peanut sauce pan.

Cha Nuong - Vermicelli noodles, grilled pork barbeque, pickled carrots, radish, lettuce, cucumber slices, and basil leaves served with rice paper sheets and dipping sauce on the side P'o.

We we’re also taught how to wrap their Cha cuon.

Banh Mi - A healthy sandwich of baguette, mayonnaise, liver paste, fresh herbs, vegetables, and choices of flavorful meat. Choices: Grilled Chicken, Grilled Pork Barbecue, and Cold Cuts.

Hu Tieu Tom Thit - Shrimp, pork slices, squid, quail egg, and a variety of fresh vegetables served with vermicelli noodles in a richly flavored pork broth.

Com Tay Cam Ga – A hot pot of tender chicken slices, mushrooms, onions, snow peas, leeks, and rice.

Vietnamese BBQ Platter – A platter of Vietnamese grilled stuffed squid, pork, and chicken, marinated in flavorful herbs, spices, and lemongrass.

Garlic and Butter Crabs -  Crabs stir-fried in butter and minced golden-brown garlic.

Cari Gio Heo - Crispy pork knuckles in a flavorful curry sauce.

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Vietnamese Coffee – Drip brewed coffee sweetened with thick condensed milk.

So If you're ever in town or just craving for Viet Food! Hanoi is the place to be! Reasonable prices too!

When you enter the room, this is what you’ll notice first. The COMFY Beds (One of the reasons I always woke up late there lol)

Then you’ll see the Pool right outside our Window. Refreshing site to see to get your mind off the hustle and bustle of the City.

The Comfort Room was also nice, great features like the separate Toilet and Shower (so the floor won’t get wet when you use the toilet), Complete with Hair-dryer (Hair on Fleek), Mirror, Ring-Light (or Square light lol for that perfect Bathroom Selfie) and Toiletries.

The Best part of the trip was probably this. BUFFET BREAKFAST! I can’t stop thinking about the “Homemade Corned Beef” that we ate. Which was of course what I ate for two days stay lol

Thank you Novotel Manila Araneta Center for having us! til’ next time!

They are located at Building #3 Door 1 MS Land Commercial Complex  KM3 Mc Arthur Highway, Matina, Davao City, Philippines

Each sneaker has been treated to help tackle rainy weather while maintaining comfort and style. The Converse Counter Climate Shield Canvas sneakers have been given a DWR (durable water repellant) treatment, standing guard as the first line of defense against the rain.

For the holiday season, both new and time-honored styles endure the harsh elements with the Counter Climate Rubber collection. These rubber sneakers are winter-ready with water resistant material and heat retention.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II Rubber

Another iteration of the Chuck II will also be releasing this fall - the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II Rubber. By incorporating a transparent rubber overlay on the iconic Chuck II silhouette, this allows for the sneaker to breathe while repelling water and protecting feet from the elements. The sneaker includes all the features and benefits of the Chuck II such as a Lunarlon sockliner and a non-slip padded tongue, while adding a beautifully crafted dimensional canvas for breathability, micro-perforated leather lining for comfort, and a heat reflecting barrier at the footbed for warmth.

Converse Cons One Star Shield Canvas

This season, the Converse Cons Star also receives the Shield Canvas treatment, combining the enhanced comfort of a Lunarlon sockliner with a lightweight and breathable canvas that can also withstand the rain. Added features include a gusseted tongue and removed medial eyelets allowing the sneaker to tolerate wet environments. Traction rubber has also been incorporated to the outsole, providing additional grip.

Converse Jack Purcell Signature M-Series

This fall, Converse introduces a high top silhouette combined with Counter Climate Shield Canvas. Warm, durable and water-repellent, it delivers all-day, on-the-go comfort. The Shield Canvas complements features like Lunarlon insole cushioning, heat regulating mesh lining and a tri-color reflective heel tab for enhanced visibility in low light.

Converse Essentials

The collection features quality and durable everyday basics for your active, on-the-go lifestyle. Constructed for comfort and fit, the Converse Essentials collection will get softer with time. Each piece includes a natural color fade of fabric with long-term wear, durable stitching, and a managed shrinkage fit that remains the same throughout the lifespan. The collection includes the  Converse Essentials Tee, Converse Essentials Pullover Hoodie, Converse Essentials Full Zip Hoodie and Converse Essentials Jogger.

Available Colors: Black. Grey, Obsidian, Egret

The new Fall/Holiday 2016 Converse Counter Climate Footwear Collection and Essentials are now available at Converse stores nationwide.

The new Planners are Coffee and Mermaid inspired designs based on the Starbucks logo and of course their Coffee. A little something new rather than just the simple black or monochromatic colors that they usually have in the previous years.  

STARBUCKS CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS 2016 PROMO 

 TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

A customer can avail of a Starbucks®     Christmas Traditions Promo card from November 2, 2016 to January 8, 2017     with no purchase required.

One sticker is awarded for each Starbucks®     handcrafted beverage purchase.     Holder must accumulate a total of eighteen (18) stickers, to redeem     one (1) Limited Edition Starbucks Coffee 2017 Planner.

Customer must present the Starbucks® Christmas Traditions card to the barista upon purchase to get the corresponding number of stickers.  

In case any of the Holiday featured beverages are not available (ex. Toffee Nut Latte), customers can substitute it with any of the remaining holiday featured beverages (ex. Santa Hat Dark Mocha or Peppermint Mocha).  Should all     three (3) not be available, only then can customers substitute with any espresso-based or Frappuccino® blended beverage of their choice.

A customer must complete the required number of stickers to qualify for the redemption of one (1) Limited Edition Starbucks Coffee 2017 Planner. A combination of up to two (2) promo cards will be allowed, provided that the 9 featured plus 9 core beverages have been purchased. Excess stickers for combined cards will be forfeited.

Once all stickers are completed, customer must submit the Starbucks® Christmas Traditions Card/s to redeem one (1) Limited Edition Starbucks Coffee 2017 Planner from any Starbucks Coffee store in the Philippines.

Tampering with and/or transferring of stickers to obtain the required number of stickers will render all promo cards null and void.  

Every purchase of a handcrafted beverage (including Starbucks Signature Pairings bundled beverage) using a Starbucks Card will be awarded one (1) sticker and one (1) Beverage Star. Terms and conditions that apply to the Starbucks Card are available on www.starbucks.ph/card.

Single receipt bulk purchase of food and other retail items (merchandise, whole bean and Starbucks VIA®) worth at least ₱7,000 will entitle the customer to one (1) Limited Edition Starbucks Coffee 2017 Planner. Combination of receipts is not allowed.

Bulk purchase of gift certificates and Starbucks Card load/reload of at least ₱7,000 will not entitle the customer to a planner.

The following transactions and discounts are qualified for this promotion.

·         Senior Citizen discount

·         PWD discount

·         VAT Exempt

·         Personal Cup/Tumbler ₱5 discount  

The following coupons and discounts are disqualified for this promotion.

·         Service Recovery Coupon

·         Free Tall Beverage Coupon

·         Customer Voice Redemption

·         Starbucks Card Registration Treat  

·         Starbucks Card Beverage Treat Redemptio

Promotion starts on November 2, 2016. Stickers may be obtained from November 2, 2016 to January 8, 2017.

A Delightful Gathering of Flavors Savor the Christmas season with new favorites in their Menu!

CHICKEN AND TURKEY WITH CRANBERRY SAUCE ON CROISSANT BAGUETTE - Slow-cooked chicken and turkey marinated in  Christmas spices, thick cranberry sauce and sweet and salty apple stuffing on  a light and buttery croissant baguette. Best served warm.

CHOCOLATE CRUFFIN - Light chocolate cream makes a luscious filling for this muffin- shaped  croissant.  A sprinkling of cocoa  powder completes this delectable treat.

CHOCOLATE FUDGE CHEESECAKE - Dark chocolate cheesecake loaded with chocolate fudge bar, roasted walnuts and chocolate chips.

CRANBERRY BLISS BAR - This treat is as tasty as it is gorgeous. Made with sweet cream cheese icing, tart dried cranberries, chopped pistachio and then drizzled with white chocolate.

CROQUE MONSIEUR ON CROISSANT BAGUETTE - A flaky butter croissant baguette filled with  slow-roasted honey ham, Fontina and Emmental cheese then topped with béchamel  sauce and grated cheese. Best served warm.

SINGLE-ORIGIN CHOCOLATE CAKE  MADE WITH VENEZUELAN CACAO BEANS - Milky and  light vanilla sponge cake layered with creamy milk chocolate and finished  with milk chocolate frosting made with Venezuelan cacao beans. 

TRIPLE CHOCOLATE TRUFFLE  COOKIE - Delicious dark chocolate cookie that is crisp on the outside and gooey on the inside.

SANTA HAT DARK MOCHA FRAPPUCCINO® BLENDED BEVERAGE - Dark mocha topped with a crafted Santa Hat made with classic and Strawberry whipped cream, strawberry drizzle and a dollop of snowy white whipped cream on top.

HOLIDAY STARBUCKS CARDS

If you’re addictive to Starbucks Card too like me, Make sure to add these ones your Collection! The new holiday collection features warm and vibrant designs to usher the colors of the season. This year’s Snowman and Holiday Tree Cards have a backdrop of wintery scenes in a hand-painted finish, while the **Happy Holidays Card **decked with mistletoes and holiday holly will be offered for the first time here in the Philippines. 

Available for an initial consumable load amount of ₱300 per card Available starting** November 2, 2016!**

Magpie Memphis collection is a big leap from the clean, minimalist vibes of The Monast spring/summer 2016 collection. The neutral color palette that reflects the mood of The Monast transitioned to bright colors and exuberant prints of Magpie Memphis. The calm vibe has become busy. Memphis. The calm vibe has become busy. Yet, both collections share common denominators with their well-balanced scale and genre.

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Amazing selfies anytime, anywhere

The latest addition to OPPO’s F1 series captures vibrant selfies at any time of the day, thanks to its 16-megapixel front-facing camera that has a 1/3.1-inch sensor and a large f/2.0 aperture. The latest iteration of its beautification app, Beautify 4.0, also comes with an Auto Mode Screen Flash and eight filters for amazing selfies just the way users want them to be.

The phone’s panorama feature also makes it more convenient to take ‘groufies’ while the palm-activated shutter allows for easier and faster selfies.

The F1s is further equipped with an equally powerful 13-megapixel rear camera that has its own plug-ins such as the upgraded Expert Mode, Ultra-HD, GIF, and double exposure.

Powerful, speedy, beautiful

Just like its predecessor, the F1 plus, the F1s uses fingerprint recognition that can unlock the phone in 0.22 seconds. The phone’s fingerprint-activated app launch assigns fingerprints to up to five apps or contacts for quick access through the home button.

An octa-core processor backed by a 3GB RAM, 32 GB ROM, and the ColorOS 3.0, adds power to the phone’s hardware. Thanks to the power optimizations of the ColorOS combined with a 3075mAh battery, users can hope to use the phone all day.

The sleek metal body of the F1s has a 5.5-inch 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass 4 screen to create an exceptional gaming and movie experience for users.

Available at zero percent interest

Financial service provider Home Credit, OPPO’s longtime partner, is also offering the F1s at zero percent interest for six months. The promo kicked off on the first day of the F1s in stores.The smartphone’s suggested retail price is PhP12,990.

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Thank you Oppo Philippines for having us for Lunch with the Digital and Traditional Media.

They are open from Monday to Saturday from 11:00-8:00PM! Located at NDTC Centrum 2, National Highway, Tacurong City.

I also tried the Coffee Painting by some of the Premier Artists in Davao City was there to paint with the use of Coffee only. (Fun fact: Descallar was the artist behind the current Philippine President Rorigo R. Duterte, which is now posted in Malacanang)

Mechanics:

1. Follow me (@jeffreymondia) and My Skin Origins (@MySkinOrigins) on Instagram.

2. Regram the third photo above and caption “I Love My Skin Origins”, That’s it!

3. Don’t forget to use the Hashtags #MySkinOrigins + #JeffreyGiveaways

They are located at Bella Vie Building, Circumferential Rd, Davao City, Operating from Tuesday to Sunday 10AM–10PM.