Friday, January 24, 2025

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HCPH champions overall wellness with the upcoming Takbo #ParaSaLife fun run on Feb 16. To gear up for this event, HCPH hosts regular community runs in Bonifacio Global City, encouraging everyone to join in the fun and fitness.


Taguig City, Philippines—𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐭 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 (HCPH), the country's top consumer credit institution, is taking a significant step toward promoting fitness and community engagement with its inaugural fun run, 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗯𝗼 #𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗦𝗮𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲. This event, scheduled for February 16 in Parqal in Aseana City, welcomes Filipinos to begin the new year on a healthy and active note.


𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗯𝗼 #𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗦𝗮𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲, organized in collaboration with WeKenRun, a local running group founded by well-known marathon coach Ken Mendiola, is open to runners of all skill levels and offers race categories of 1K, 3K, 5K, and 10K.

With this program, HCPH reaffirms its commitment to encouraging Filipinos to live better lives. Beyond providing financial solutions, the organization aims to promote holistic well-being—which includes physical, mental, and emotional health—by bringing people together to choose a healthy lifestyle.


“Home Credit is committed to empowering Filipinos to live the life they deserve, and this extends beyond financial well-being. Beyond providing financial services, with this run we are encouraging Filipinos to improve their overall well-being, enabling them to do more #ParaSaLife,” Sheila Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of HCPH said.


𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗯𝗼 #𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗦𝗮𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 welcomes all participants, including HCPH employees, family, friends, customers, fitness aficionados, and those just starting out on their wellness path. Registration prices vary depending on race distance: PhP500 for the 1K, PhP900 for the 3K, PhP1,000 for the 5K, and PhP1,200 for the 10K. Depending on the distance chosen, each category comes with interesting incentives including an event shirt, finisher's medal, goodie bag, and bib holder.
 

 “This initiative is about more than just running. It is about building a community that supports one another in achieving better health and wellness. We hope this event will inspire individuals to build lasting, healthy habits that empower them to achieve more life goals,” Paul added.


All participants will receive freebies, and podium winners in the 10K, 5K, and 3K race categories will be awarded thrilling cash prizes. The winners of the 10K category will each get PhP10,000, with PhP8,000 going to second place and PhP6,000 to third. In the 5K category, the first place winner will receive PhP6,000, followed by PhP3,000 for second and PhP2,000 for third. In the 3K category, the winner will receive PhP3,000, while second and third place will receive PhP1,500 and PhP1,000, respectively.


Events like the 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗯𝗼 #𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗦𝗮𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 are more important than ever, especially in light of recent World Health Organization (WHO) figures that show a global increase in physical inactivity, a major risk factor for chronic diseases. The Philippines has one of the highest rates of physical inactivity, with 39.7 percent of the population affected.


Sign up for 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗯𝗼 #𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗦𝗮𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 today and step toward a healthier, more rewarding life! Visit this link to register and learn more about this exciting event.


To learn more about HCPH's latest updates, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You can also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. 


Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). 

 

Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!

-BENCH


Friday, January 10, 2025

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In Starbucks® stores in the Philippines starting Jan 3 - Feb 17.


Our daily routines can become monotonous and repetitive over time, which makes it simple to lose sight of the small things that make us happy. But just as the new year offers a chance for change, so do our new winter drinks.

Sunday, December 29, 2024

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𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞 by night.

If you're looking for a cozy place to unwind with friends or enjoy a quiet afternoon, 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞 is the spot for you. Located in Zone 1, Brgy. Gasi, Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental, this Japanese-inspired coffee shop is a hidden gem worth discovering. From traditional coffee brewing techniques to mouthwatering dishes, 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞 has something for everyone.


𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞 by day with Baby Xixi sipping her Strawberry Milk Treat at P145


A Unique Blend of Flavors

𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞 is more than just a coffee shop. It’s a place where the artistry of Japanese brewing meets the bold flavors of comfort food. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty burger, fluffy pancakes, or something sweet, their menu is packed with delicious options to satisfy your cravings.


Crispy Chicken Cheese Burger at P198
𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's signature burgers, pancakes and drinks
 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 Cheese Burger with Fries at P198


One of their must-try menu items is the Mango Caramel Brick Toast, my ultimate favorite. This sweet and savory delight is part of their sandwich menu and has quickly become a crowd favorite. The combination of buttery toast, rich caramel sauce, and fresh mango slices is a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more.


Mango Caramel Brick Toast at P165
Mango Caramel Brick Toast at P165


Coffee Done Right

At 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞, coffee is taken seriously. They use traditional brewing methods to ensure every cup is rich, aromatic, and full of character. Whether you prefer a classic black coffee or a creamy latte, each sip is carefully crafted.


Babyccino (Chocolate and Milk) at P125 (Hot) P145 (Iced)
Babyccino (Chocolate and Milk) at P125 (Hot) P145 (Iced)
𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's Brand Ambassadress, Miss Jam Ragandang
Mango Float Latte Signature Drink at P150
Cafe Matcha P135 (Hot) P145 (Iced)


Cozy Atmosphere

The cafe’s interior is inspired by Japanese aesthetics, creating a warm and inviting space. It’s perfect for catching up with friends, working on your laptop, or enjoying a quiet moment. Ask for the Wi-Fi password after you order.

𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's Restroom Area
𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's Restroom Area
𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's inside dining at night
𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's inside and outside dining by day


The exterior is equally charming, offering a peaceful and lush environment that’s perfect for a slow Sunday or any day in particular.


𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's peaceful facade at night
With 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's owner and manager Miss Jen, myself, Miss Jenne and Miss Jam
𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's Chritmas table 

Convenient Options

Can’t visit the cafe? No problem! 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞 offers food delivery within the vicinity. Just send them a message on their Facebook (𝗳𝗯.𝗰𝗼𝗺/𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗸𝗼𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗳𝗲) or Instagram (@𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗸𝗼𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗳𝗲), and they’ll bring your favorite treats right to your doorstep. See the menu below for reference. Just a note, pricing may change without prior notice.


𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's Beverage Menu
𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's Food and Snack Menu


Visit Horikohi Cafe


Huge shoutout to this amazing woman, Miss Jen, 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞's owner, manager, and barista as well. 

  • Location: Zone 1, Brgy. Gasi, Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental (few minutes to CGY Airport)
     [ 
    Google Maps Link ]

  • Store Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

  • Contact Number: 09359050382, call this number for directions as the cafe's location is a bit challenging. 


Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or a food lover, 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞 is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings. Stop by and experience the flavors and ambiance that make this cafe truly special!


Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!

-BENCH

Thursday, December 19, 2024

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The Davao Bloggers Society's 2024 year-end gala was undoubtedly enjoyable, unforgettable, and stunning. Members, visitors, and even onlookers were amazed at the celebration's elegance, significance, and extravagance.


The celebration, which took place at the Home Crest Hotel, showcased Filipino customs and culture while embracing modernity. Under the direction of DBS Special Events Director Jexx Hinggo, the venue was decorated with elegant Pinoy trinkets, decorations, and embellishments. The event space's exquisite decoration left everyone in awe. It was never too much for the entire DBS community, as it served as a means of expressing gratitude for another prosperous year and honoring the company's and its people's accomplishments and achievements.


Hosted by the ever-so-charismatic Kai del Corro, the program was packed with exciting activities, heartfelt moments, and of course, fortunes of raffled prizes. Now, let’s take a look at the highlights of the party.


Opening, Year-end Review, and Cheers Awards

With deep appreciation, DBS Treasurer Jade Factura led the DBS community in prayer to begin the celebration. The Bago Gallera Performing Arts Guild's inaugural Filipiniana performance then got things off to a great start. All of the DBS members, dressed in contemporary Filipiniana fashion, strode into the ballroom following the performance. Both the judges and the audience were impressed by the DBS members' outstanding performances, which included everything from fashionable gowns and modern costumes to elaborately embroidered barongs. As they competed for the Best Dressed Awards, they proudly displayed their ensembles.



With deep appreciation, DBS Treasurer Jade Factura led the DBS community in prayer to begin the celebration. The Bago Gallera Performing Arts Guild's inaugural Filipiniana performance then got things off to a great start. All of the DBS members, dressed in contemporary Filipiniana fashion, strode into the ballroom following the performance. Both the judges and the audience were impressed by the DBS members' outstanding performances, which included everything from fashionable gowns and modern costumes to elaborately embroidered barongs. As they competed for the Best Dressed Awards, they proudly displayed their ensembles.


The 2024 DBS Year-end Review, which looked back at the DBS milestones and recollections of the previous year, was then presented by Vice President for Internal Affairs Clea Banal. Everyone felt sentimental and proud of the incredible community they had created after seeing the video presentation. Six exceptional DBS members—Goin Pineda, Michael Cael, Near Chua, Glenn Magallano, Bench Payla, and James Anunciado—were honored for their steadfast commitment to the organization at the Cheers Awards, which came after. The essence of #DBStheBest is embodied by these members.


Watch the 2024 DBS Yearend Review here.


 The Best Dressed Awards

All members, including the officers and Board of Trustees, participated in the Pinoy Glam Gala, making the annual Best Dressed Award, Elegance in Tradition: A DBS Filipino Christmas Celebration, particularly memorable. Three members of the Sox Bloggers, who also judged the prize, were waiting to be summoned. 




Crewenna El Alid, who never shied away from showing off her accomplishments, won the Binibini ng Kariktan (Best Dressed Female) award. Her embellishments gave the entire ensemble a hint of glitz, while her form-fitting sheath dress highlighted her body. According to the judges, she presented herself in an extremely elegant manner that no one could ever surpass.

The DBS resident fashionista Brienne Tahodo received the Ginoo ng Kagandahan (Best Dressed Male) award for her striking all-black modern ensemble. He charmed the judges and audience with his androgynous appearance and a strong sense of personality while wearing a barong with butterfly sleeves. 

Rafael Romano, the Diwang Filipiniana (Ultimate Best Dressed of the Night) Award winner, exemplified ingenuity. Their entire ensemble was captivating. They used their imagination to embroider and adhere to each piece of feather and bayong in accordance with Filipino customs. However, their futuristic spectacles gave a contemporary touch, giving the entire dolly the appearance of an integration, which would be ideal for a steampunk movie or theatrical performance, Pinoy style.


Davao Blog Awards 2024: Nominees Who Shine Through Native Content

The following was the Davao Blog Awards (DBA) 2024, as is customary for DBS Christmas celebrations. The three sections of the DBA ceremony, which was co-presented by Cebu Pacific Air and foodpanda, each highlighted the candidates and recipients for providing the greatest content over the previous 12 months. In their presentation of the awards, the DBA Committee, Andrew dela Serna, NeP-C Ledesma, Pau Balayon, and Athina Inting-Angliongto stressed that the honor was bestowed upon bloggers and content producers who demonstrated their capacity to generate native and evergreen content, as well as the significance of regular native posting and niche relevance.




The Davao Blog Awardees are as follows: 

Cebu Pacific Air Davao Blogger of the Year: Jose Manuel Lim 

foodpanda Social Media Star of the Year: Rafael Romano



A Touching Closing


The Elegance in Tradition: A DBS Filipino Christmas Celebration wouldn’t be without the effort of the officers, headed by DBS President extraordinaire Gem Tadefa. Without a doubt, the president lives and breathes DBS. Hence, he was so touched that the event was a resounding success that he thanked all who had become part of it—from the sponsors, his fellow officers, to the guests and members who have contributed to what has become DBS today.

Visit DBS TV, the official YouTube channel to check the official highlights and full coverage of the event.


Supportive Sponsors 

No one who attended the event went home empty. The DBS year-end party has accumulated several raffle prizes with the support of the organization’s beloved sponsors.


Co-presentors: PLDT Home, foodpanda, and Cebu Pacific Air 


Gold Sponsor: Home Credit 


Silver Sponsor: Home Crest Hotel 


Bronze Sponsors: Maya, Power Mac Center, Ripple8, Smart Communications, and Xiaomi Philippines 


Contributors: ASUS PH and HONOR PH Donors: Centaur Marketing, Club Samal Resorts, Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises, DC Shoes, DM&A Co., HATASU, Malagos Garden Resort, Mang Inasal, Metrobank, NCCC Department Store, Red Planet Hotels Philippines, Seda Hotels, SM Supermalls, Travel Club, Uratex, Universal Robina Corporation, Apol ni Lola Delicacies, and YAMAHA.  


Donations: Barracks Barbers and Shaves, Bawk Bawk Chicken, iScreamery Davao, MySkin Origins, Rooftop Cafe Bar, and Starbucks Philippines. 


The Davao Bloggers Society thanks their sponsors, partners, and friends for being instrumental in helping shape the organization’s vision, mission, and core values. The year 2024 has been a fruitful year not only for DBS and its members but also for the other communities it has touched.


Stay tuned for more updates about DBS. There is so much more in store for next year.


For more information, please contact: 

 NepC Ledesma | Vice President for External Affairs 

Gem Tadefa | President 

Davao Bloggers Society:  pr@davaobloggers.org 

________________________________________


Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!

-BENCH


#DavaoBloggers #DBStheBest #DBSEleganceInTradition 



Saturday, December 14, 2024

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Manila, Philippines – As 2025 draws near, Kagay-anons, prepare to end the year with some excellent reading! With just a few weeks remaining in 2024, there is still time to start reading and reach your annual reading targets.


Do you want to finish your reading list or find a hidden treasure to help you reach your goal book count? Big Bad Wolf Books is prepared to assist you in achieving your objectives. Visit the Big Bad Wolf Cagayan de Oro Book Sale, located on the fifth level of SM CDO Downtown, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM every day till December 16 to get the best year-end books.

As you prepare to say “Goodbye, 2024” and “Hello, 2025,” Big Bad Wolf Books presents Wolfie’s playbook for the perfect hunt to help you catch up on your reading goals! 


Short, Powerful Reads

Wolfies who are a little behind on their goal book count may feel pressed for time as the new year approaches. But don't worry! Big Bad Wolf Books has put together an amazing selection of short but powerful books. You can find just what you need at the book sale, whether it's a self-help book that motivates you to make changes right now or a collection of short stories that offers profound insights in a few pages.

Mixed Genres
Even the most devoted readers may eventually experience a reading lull after being engrossed in innumerable fantastic tales. A change in genre could be the answer to rekindling your interest in reading and making it interesting before the year is out if you're in a slump. Big Bad Wolf Books guarantees that you will be able to locate books that will recharge your reading adventure with over 2 million titles from every genre imaginable available at the book sale. Try these books under P100 to get you started!














Wrap Up the Year with Exclusive Promos from Big Bad Wolf

In addition to marking the end of one chapter, the end of the year also signals the start of a new one! Now is the ideal moment to find books that will extend your horizons, stimulate your imagination, and motivate significant change if you're a Wolfie who is prepared to welcome new experiences and turn 2025 into a year of development and discovery. Big Bad Wolf Books will assist you in acquiring several new books that will set the tone for a successful year ahead, thanks to their incredible discounts and wide selection of books.

Take a final hurrah at the book sale to close out the year with a bang and start again. Metrobank is providing its credit cards with a special offer of 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases of at least P3,000 to assist Wolfies in securing all the stuff. Attendees may stock up on books to celebrate the holidays and start the new year with a new reading list thanks to this exclusive deal!

Don't pass up the Weekdays Special from Big Bad Wolf Books. Those who attend the book sale from December 9 to December 12 and on December 16 can purchase five books and receive the sixth one for free. Big Bad Wolf Volumes is giving away the cheapest book for free with every five volumes bought! Additionally, repeat customers will receive 10% off their subsequent purchases if they shop on or before December 16 and make a minimum purchase of P2,000. All they have to do is present their receipt for any purchases they bought between December 6 and December 16 to be eligible for the discount on their subsequent visit. For more information on these incredible offers, visit the social media pages of Big Bad Wolf Books.

For the last leg of Big Bad Wolf Books' goal to reach one million new readers this year, this is the last chance to purchase books. At the final Big Bad Wolf Book Sale of the year in Cagayan de Oro, Big Bad Wolf Books is prepared to welcome even more strangers to come discover the power of books. Many Wolfies have returned.

Big Bad Wolf Books is continuing to accept donations at its Red Readerhood counters in keeping with its goal of ensuring that books are available to everybody. Participants can select books to give to the Red Readerhood Program from the book sale. The DSWD will receive the collected books and distribute them to its recipients. By participating in this initiative, participants can join Big Bad Wolf Books in providing high-quality books to underserved communities, schools, and children.

There is no time to waste, Kagay-anons! The Big Bad Wolf Cagayan de Oro Book Sale offers an enormous range of books at unbelievable discounts and deals. End the year on a high note and start the next one off well. Visit the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale right now, which runs through December 16. For the most recent information and updates, follow Big Bad Wolf Books on social media.

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)  



Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!

-BENCH