Robinsons Supermarket invites everyone to “Explore Wellness”

Two years ago, there was an iconic hashtag statement that became popular among people who wish to achieve fitness, and that is #BalikAlindog tagline (English: Back-to-Body Beautiful). Netizens has been posting their physiques along with this hashtags statement telling everyone about their #BalikAlindog regimen all over the social media. After months and years of their #BalikAlindog adventures, some really made a big difference, but sadly, many weren’t able to go “back” to the ideal body they wish to gain back. Maybe because there weren’t any “Ideal-Body” or “Alindog-body” to go back to, since “plus-sizes” has been their physique all their lives. 

Ms. Angela Totanes, Marketing Manager, Robinson's Supermaret

 Maybe the #BalikAlinidog statement is not working for many, and now summer is already here, its time for a new hashtag. Welcome, #FitnessGoals! 

Ms. Ruth Floresca, of Write Breath Live blog, A life style and fitness blogger

 I think this make sense because realistically, the #BalikAlindog is a long-shot goal and the #FitnessGoals is more achievable target for those who want to be fit. Just a small reminder though, for those who are all fired-up hitting the gyms, it is important to check your health conditions and most importantly the lifestyle that brought you to the un-healthy state you’re in to begin with. So, here’s another hashtag for you - #DetoxifyThySelf. 

Ms. Angela Tatones with Dr. Raul lapitan of Phil. Heart Association, Coach Jim and Toni Saret, Explore Wellness fitness ambasadors

Setting a #FitnessGoal is easy, but actually doing it will take a lot of work and eating the right kinds of food makes the difference. To make sure your getting the right ones, Robinson’s Supermarket is placing a yellow-tag as guide for the food products that promotes healthy lifestyle. Every year, Robinsons Supermarket celebrates “Explore Wellness” season. From the month of March to April, Robinsons and its food and beverage wellness partners stage and roll-out a campaign to promote and guide people to explore the wellness side of fitness. 

Explore Wellness Campaign partners...

 As an incentive, Robinsons Supermarket allows everyone to avail a wellness passport which gives him or her a chance to receive discounts and freebies when you come across to an Explore to Wellness event at any Robinson’s Supermarket campaign pavilion. The passport entitles you to participate in their wellness activities where shoppers can avail healthy food products courtesy of Robinson’s wellness partners. 

Freebies from Explore Wellness Campaign partners

A customer can get a 3-style bag for free for a minimum single purchase of P3,000 inclusive of P500 worth of participating products from Unilever, Proctor & Gamble, Coca-Cola, Kojie San, Belo, Nestle, Selecta, CDO Foodspehre, Splash Corporation, Unilab and Cosmetic Asia. The 3-style bag can be used as shoulder bag, back-pack and cross-bag. It is also available in five colors: Pink, Gray, Purple, Army green and dark gray. Promo period is from March 1 to April 30, 2017. 

 

Fun and exciting activities at their Wellness pavilion

And as you journey to achieving your personal #FitnessGoals, bringing yourself to wellness state and a healthy body will guide you to a culmination of your effort. April 23, 2017 marks the Robinson’s Fit & Fab Wellness Run 2017, where every fitness enthusiasts are invited to participate to run either in a 3k, 5k or 10k buddy run category. This fun run is a sort of a fitness measurement to know where you are in your #FitnessGoals. 

Ms. Angela Tatones with Explore Wellness' Partner representatives...

But you’re the fitness adventure should not stop there. It’s a life long commitment to sustain the new healthy lifestyle you are in. And One #FitnessGoal achieved brings you to another fitness level target to be conquered.

To learn more about the Robinsons Supermarket “Rout to Wellness” Campaign, visit their FB page and their official website: www.robinsons-supermarket.com.ph. 

Paradise Dynasty: Home of the World-Famous Xiao Long Bao

FYI, foodies! A Chinese inspired cuisine dining haven that offers not just the best Chinese food but some of Asia’s delectable popular dishes is now in the Philippines! Paradise Dynasty is a Singapore original brand that serves quality Asian dishes in surprisingly very affordable prices. 

Visiting Paradise Dynasty at S Maison at Conrad Manila the other week was just the right time before I started to be in training mode for the NatGeo Earth Day Run 2017, where I will be running my second marathon for this year. I was amazed that the prices in the menu were lower than I expected given the location and the posh interior of the place. Certainly, diners will be tempted to order extras for their affordability.

One special dish in the menu is the Xiao Long Bao -- a dimsum with a special treat inside. However, one signature version of this that you can only find at Paradise Dynasty is the eight colored Xiao Long Bao. This dish is served inside a steam basket in different colors that represent flavorful fillings such as garlic, Ginseng, crab roe, cheese, truffle, Szechuan, and foie grass. 

Paradise Dynasty serves a variety of Asian fusion cuisine where something familiar is given a twist to make a new and flavorful dish. One appetizer, for instance, that makes a simple radish taste so delicious is the Radish Pastry. This cocktail delight is nothing but radish and fused with Asian spice. Even the wrap is made out of radish, which until now, makes me puzzled how they make them. 

Another choice of appetizer is the Steamed Glutinous Rice Stuffed in Red Dates. Personally, I’m not a fan of the fruit, but this dish is certainly an exception. I’m really quite curious how they mixed the rice and the fruit together. It’s a little bit sweet but it’s so nutritious and delicious as well. 

At first glance, the Steamed Egg White with Fish and Conpoy looks like porridge with raw egg on top. But, the white stuff is actually (dried) scallops which are full of protein. I think this is best as an post run meal to make the leg muscles heal and recover faster. This dish is also very filling and heavy on the belly. 

The next on the menu is the Spicy Szechuan Crispy Chicken. If you still crave for rice, this one goes well with it because for Pinoys, hot and spicy food is best taken with rice. The chicken is not so spicy but if you’re up to a more hotness, you can eat the chillies mixed with it. If you're not a fan of spicy food, go for the Stir Fried Beef with Kai Lan or Scallion made with thin slices of striploin beef that's stir fried with green scallion stalks. This one goes well with rice, too.  

Another delicacy that every Asian country seem to have its own version of are noodle dishes. Paradise Dynasty's Stir-fried La Mian with shredded pork and black fungus is really delicious. It’s a Chinese original added with a Singaporean touch. 

For dessert, there's Glutinous Rice Balls top with Grated Nuts, which is a close version to the Pinoy Buchi. But, instead of sesame seeds, these are rolled in grated peanuts. They are good in wrapping up a very gastronomical dinning experience. As to beverages, Paradise Dynasty offers a variety of fruit juices and soda drinks, but I highly recommend their Water Chestnut Drink. This is ideal in balancing all the hotness of the chili and the spiciness of the meal we ate. It also has a detoxifying ingredient that equalizes the digestive system.

Experience the nice ambiance and good food of Paradise Dynasty located at the 2nd floor of S Maison at the new Conrad Manila. Watch out for their upcoming exciting dishes and promos by liking their Facebook page. 

Converse Chuck Taylor Face-off

One of the most iconic shoe brands that has withstood the test of time is the Converse Chuck Taylor or simply “Chucks”. Designed by an All American Basketball League star player, Mr. Charles “Chuck” Taylor, these sneakers have pioneered the foundation of athletic shoes, worn not only for basketball but also for almost all sports disciplines in the Olympics during his time. Through the years, the immortal brand that would soon celebrate its centennial birthday in 2032 has expanded its use from outside sports right into the everyday lives of people all over the world.

Mr. Charles "Chuck" H. Taylor, Converse brand ambassador and Sales man

The classic design -- hard canvas body on zero-drop heel to toe differential of tough rubber sole with white toe-cap -- has never gone out of fashion and had been embraced by multiple cultures of people worldwide for almost 100 years. It is simply the most acceptable fashion statement that can be matched with practically any apparel for almost all occasions. The Chucks will always look cool and awesome with any clothes you can think of. 

1917 Converse Athletic shoes - The first of its kind

1921 Converse All Star Basketball Shoes

1936 Converse All Star Basketball Shoes. The first Converse that bares the name Chuck Taylor on the side patch logo

Recently, Inquirer Lifestyle partnered with Converse Philippines to showcase some of the country’s top fashion designers at a fashion show event held at the Atrium of Shangri-La Mall. Dubbed Face/Off OOTD, the event featured clothing designs from all ends of the spectrum, ranging from formal gowns to the most casual attire worn by everyday people.

Many of the designs were matched with various styles and colors of Chucks worn by top models and a few celebrities like Julie Ann San Jose, Benjamin Alves, beauty queen Maxine Medina, and the always vibrant Tessa Prieto-Valdes. Also present were popular personalities who have made significant contributions to our society like Reese Fernandez-Ruiz of Rags-to-Riches. 

Ms. Reese Fernandez-Ruiz of Rags-to-Riches

Apart from featuring versatile fashion that matches with Converse Chuck Taylor, the show also highlighted how these sneakers are bridging gaps in all social classes. Imagine, the Chucks worn by a CEO in a suit and the Chucks worn by an ordinary college student in worn-out jeans, both have the same price tag! How cool is that?!

All Black (low-cut) Converse Chucks redefines elegance

I remember buying my first Converse Chucks using my first paycheck while working in McDonald’s as a service crew back in the 80’s. While everyone went crazy getting the hottest Topsider shoes, I wore Chucks, not just because it’s the only brand of sneakers I can afford under my meager income as a fast food busboy, but because it had a stronger traction to my taste and style.

Another day at school or in the office, Chucks blends in whatever attire

Converse Chucks, for me, is a footwear befitting a character that signifies humility and simplicity. People who wear Chucks offer a statement that says, “I may not have a lot of money but I have more to offer in my heart and in my head” kind of thing.

Converse One-Star Pro-leather (white)

Over the years, with more than a dozens chucks that have already come and gone, my sense of sneaker fashion was somehow passed on to my sons, who are now also Converse sneakerheads. I don't recall telling them to like what I like but, somehow, they found their own way in liking and wearing the brand – it's a self discovery, I guess.

Converse All Star Chucks in black Canvas and brown gum-sole...

My Chucks and I have definitely come a long way. If only they could speak, some pairs will have a lot stories to tell about places I’ve been to such as during the Yolanda typhoon in the streets of Tacloban during relief operations, strolling the flooded alleys of Manila during monsoon season, and even those times I went to posh places where I was denied entry because I was wearing sneakers. All of these experiences of wearing Chucks taught me valuable life lessons and maybe that’s the kind of legacy I want to leave my kids with: that wearing a pair of Chucks is more of an expression than an impression.

Me on Converse Jack Purcell Leather. Taken at Converse PH Office...

And as we walk to whatever life’s journey we are still destined to tread, I know Chucks would continue to provide foot comfort and, at the same time, remind us to keep ourselves closer to Earth and keep our feet grounded. After all, that’s what Converse Chucks is all about -- it’s an expression of one's humility, simplicity, and freedom.

The URGe Store is now open at Greenbelt 1, Makati…

The URGe store is a men’s “brand-store” haven particularly catering to the “brand” needs of the metro-sexuals, who live on nothing but premium commodities, from bags to tech gadgets. Another URGe store opens at the second level of Greenbelt 1. 

URGe offers the latest line up of lifestyle brands for people who never compromise quality, durability and style. It stands for URBAN RUGGED GEAR (URGe) and it is the official distributor of famous brands such as OTTER BOX, GOAL ZERO, YURBUDS, LIFE PROOF, GOPRO, LEEFIBRIDGE AND B&O PLAY. They also offer brands like MISSION WORKSHOP, WATERSHOT, ETHNOTEK and DRIFTER. 

  

Last week I had the opportunity to be invited to its store opening. Together with other members of the media, we had the first dibs to check these premium items on display. Sales staff were very much accommodating as they explain the product’s quality construction and features. I had the chance to check the Mission Workshop back packs with its balance weight distribution on my shoulders. 

Although these packs are not meant for wilderness type of adventure, it sure feels it can withstand the punishment. The outer-shell is tough and can repel rain water. Its has multiple pockets and smaller pouches that can easily be detached as needed. Some pouches can be carried independently to carry urban trip tools like a short umbrella or a tablet with some few valuables like a smart phone and a wallet or a small note pad. 

“Back by the latest technology and world class standards, URGe’s brings you innovative products to take your active lifestyle to greater heights, “ says Mr. Jay Tengo, president of TenkieBox. 

  

Summer is fast approaching and as part of URGe’s official launch, the specialty store is holding the URGe Summer Blast Promo. Get a chance to win any of the following:  (1) Mission Workshop Messenger Bag Monty, (1) Ethnotek Back Pack – Raja, (1) OtterBox Case – Defender Sereis, (1) YurBuds Earphones, (1) lifeproof Case, and (1) B&O Play Headphones for every purchase of any URGe store or website (1- receipt = 1 raffle entry). Promo runs from February 15 – March 15, 2017. 

isit URGe Store in branches: Greenbelt 1, Ayala Center and 2nd floor, Theater Mall, Greenhills Shopping Center or Check out their website at www.urge.ph.   

National Geographic Partners with WWF to preserve Ipo Water Shed in the Earth Day Run 2017

Wow! It has been eight years already?!

I can still recall my first National Geographic Earth Day Run six years ago when I was just starting my running life style. I remember, that run was also my very first 10k race. From a few runners who ran that time now grew to multitudes of not just fitness enthusiasts but advocates of saving the environment as well.

Every year, Earth Day Run features an environmental issue which became a focus of where the proceeds of the run will go and World Wild Fund (WWF) has been its constant partner to spearhead the programs to address these environmental issues. 

This year, the thrust of the Earth Day Run will be in support to WWF’s efforts in preserving the Ipo water shed in Bulacan. Today, Ipo water shed provides 90% of the water source distributed in a big part of Metro Manila. But the water shed is now facing an impending problem of soil erosion because of the denuding trees that surrounds the shed. If this happens, soil will fill the water reservoir and the quality of water residence of Metro Manila will be greatly affected.

Presently, this problem is being experienced by people living in the southern part, particularly, cities of Muntinlupa, Las Pinas, Paranaque and some part of Cavite, where most of its water source is from Laguna lake. Currently, the lake is in a critical condition because of pollutant debris being dumped by people living around the area and the garbage carried by the Pasig River which is connected to the lake. At present, Maynilad, the distributing company covering the area is having difficulties maintaining a steady flow of water and they need to schedule water interruptions to this cities affected.

Laguna lake is a dying lake and it will take a huge concerted effort to revive and bring it back to its the vibrant life. However, Ipo water shed and Lamesa can still be saved by not just some “photo-op” tree planting activities by so-called cause oriented groups but wide scale and long range secondary reforestation programs. Thankfully, these programs are currently being implemented and everyone is encouraged to take part to fully restore the trees in Ipo, a life giving source of Metro Manila.

Bringing back the trees to ipo water shed and working towards a positive change is one effort, but an advocate can extend his or her support by taking part of the Nat Geo Earth Day Run 2017 this coming April 23, 2017. It will be held at the SM Mall of Asia grounds, where participants can join 5k, 10k, 21k, and 42k categories. As a special treat to all Eco-Warriors, organizers will provide LED shoelaces, serving as badge of pride and as safety precaution for runners during the night. 

As a special treat for those who have supported Earth Day Runs over the years, organizers will give loyalty perks. A priority placement will be given to regular Earth Day runners, offering spaces in the starting line and a VIP line is also given at the end of the race when they claim their loots and other freebies.

Earth Day Run 2017 aims to continue the tradition of being one of the biggest running events in the country, expecting scores of running enthusiasts and Eco warriors to register and run for the environment. This event will be held not only in Manila but simultaneously in the cities of Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore and Taichung, an initiative that was adopted last year and effectively spread the vision and advocacy of Earth Day Run across Asia.  

THE VOICE EXCLUSIVELY RETURNS TO STAR WORLD

PRESS RELEASE:
Star World, FOX Networks Group (FNG) Philippines’ number one female-oriented general            entertainment channel announced today the return of the well-loved and three-time Emmy      win-ning talent show, The Voice. The Voice Season 12 exclusively premieres in the Philippines on Febru-ary 28, 2017 (Tuesday) only on Star World with live telecasts every 2:00 PM and primetime replays at 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM respectively.

Exciting turn of events are in-store for the viewers on the latest season of The Voice as we continue on the search for the next best voice that will shake the music industry to the core. The season premiere of The Voice marks the sweet return of Gwen Stefani as she once again secures her judg-ing spot, rounding up the girl power action on the competition up against Adam Levine and once again reunited with her partner, Blake Shelton.

  

The latest season of The Voice boosts a bigger, better and more engaging experience than it has on its previous season by bringing in the biggest and most recognizable names in the music industry as adviser to the coaches, making everything a match made in heaven; Celine Dion joins Gwen Stefani as an adviser taking the femme fatal action to high roads. On the other corner of music, five-time winner of show, Blake Shelton is joined by Luke Bryan — a tandem easy on the eyes and easy on dynamics as the two have worked together before to co-host the Academy of Country Music Awards.

  

Adam Levine pairs up with a legend, John Legend that is. These swoon-worthy gents collaborate to take ordinary people to the next level while keeping their dapper in check. Running on her second season for The Voice, Alicia Keys, is all about winning as she teams up with award-winning hip hop artist DJ Khaled, and everyone sure knows, that all he does is win no matter what.

Posing with the band Johnnies. (Edwin Pastor on guitar, Russel on drums and Aze Pastor on bass)

With all these great additions to The Voice stage, the stakes get even higher and better as the sea-son presents extended Blind Auditions, making room for far more artists, far more voices and far more drama — leave it to host Carson Daly to make sure things don’t get out of hand. As the latest season steps up in more ways than one, Star World stays true to its promise of delivering only the best and premier content and immediately brings it fresh from the US!

About STAR World

STAR WORLD is the region’s No.1 general English entertainment channel guaranteeing exclusive first-runs of top-rated programming from the US and around the world. From all-time favorites to award-winning shows, STAR WORLD features a much more diverse choice of comedies, drama, reality & talent shows and live award events to appeal to entertainment lovers. Launched in 1997, STAR WORLD is currently available in 26 million homes across four services in                         In-dia/Pakistan, Southeast Asia/Greater China, the Philippines and the Middle East. 
For more information, please visit www.starworldasia.tv

About FOX Networks Group

FOX Networks Group (FNG) is a primary operating unit of 21st Century Fox (NASDAQ:FOXA). FNG consists of Fox Television Group, which includes Fox Broadcasting Company and 20th Century Fox Television; Fox Cable Networks, which includes FX Networks; Fox Sports Media Group, and National Geographic Partners. Together these units create, program and distribute on a worldwide basis much of America’s most popular entertainment, sports and nonfiction programming.