Tuesday, November 29, 2011

GMANetwork.com: The "All-in-One" Website for a Total Kapuso Experience

I used to log on to gmanews.tv whenever I needed to be updated on current events and watch clips from documentary shows I missed watching when they were aired like i-Witness or Reporter's Notebook. On the other hand, I would also sometimes visit igma.tv if I want to get the latest celebrity scoops that everyone seems to know about but I don't.

Good news! Beginning today, November 30, GMA Network will virtually connect millions of Filipino viewers here and abroad via its new, all-in-one website www.gmanetwork.com!

This new website integrates everything you need to know about GMA Network's shows and more. Not only will Kapuso viewers be updated with the latest in current events and entertainment, they will also have an all-access pass to the Network’s other businesses: television, radio, recording, films, talent development and investor relations "all in one roof", so to speak.

GMANetwork.com will further enable netizens to interact more easily with their favorite Kapuso stars via social media, engage in live chat, watch live streaming of special events, listen to GMA’s flagship AM radio station online, watch web-exclusive videos and many more.

If you're someone who always wants to be updated about your favorite Kapuso celebs, just click the Artist Center tab for an exclusive look inside the world of GMA’s talent development and management arm. There, you'll also be able to access profiles and regular updates available online about the activities of GMA’s roster of exclusive talents.

Then again, if you live outside the Philippines, you'll feel less homesick because the site brings the feel of "home" wherever you may be. Simply check out GMA’s international channels -- GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International -- via the GMA International page on GMANetwork.com for more information about the network's international offerings and to subscribe to its international channels.

GMA Network is one in heart with every Filipino, online, too! There, viewers will not only get to interact with their favorite celebrities but with other Kapusos as well to discuss various issues, programs and events. Simply browse through social media feeds, engage in interactive forums, and join the fun quizzes and promos.

As the first comprehensive media portal in the Philippines, GMANetwork.com is designed to bring you everything Kapuso right at your fingertips without jumping from one main URL to another.  Just log on to www.gmanetwork.com and start discovering a new Kapuso experience with other Kapusos worldwide.


NUVALI Hosts Dirt Weekend 2011

The biggest bicycle trail race is back for the third year as NUVALI hosted Dirt Weekend 2011 last November 26 and 27. This event aims to encourage people to embrace nature as well as adapt a healthier and more sustainable way of living through biking. 


An estimated number of 2,500 participants joined activities such as: 
-- The cross country event tests cyclists' endurance while traversing NUVALI's mountain bike trails, riding through single tracks, fire roads, and paved paths. 
-- The 24-hour race pushes riders to the limit as they brace themselves for strategy and endurance in addition to a lot of pedalling. Imagine cyclists traveling through NUVALI's bike course as the sun sets, rises, and sets again. Helping riders find their way are fireflies that light up the trail race at night along with a bonfire and base camp. Sounds exciting!
-- The four cross competition requires cyclists to fly, zip, and zing their way through jumps and berms as they pedal their way to the finish line.
-- In mountain bike orienteering, riders navigate through trails and complete the control points, while choosing their routes wisely.

Aside from all these, a concert featuring some of the country's best bands capped off the energetic weekend. 


Since NUVALI has a lot of wide-open spaces, fresh air, and lush green surroundings, it is a perfect venue for events such as the Dirt Bike Weekend.  I've been to NUVALI several times and it's really one of the places outside Metro Manila where residents and guests could really enjoy and appreciate nature and outdoor recreational activities to the fullest. 


Visit the place one weekend to see what I mean. Bring the kids and feed the thousands of koi fish in the river, go on a boat ride, shop at the weekend bazaars nearby, or simply stroll along the paths to enjoy some fresh air. For more info, please log on to www.nuvali.ph or call 0917-5-ASKNUV (275-688).

*Photos borrowed from Orange Magazine TV's Facebook album.


Monday, November 28, 2011

Movie Review: Happy Feet 2

Mumble, the master of tap who starred in Happy Feet, is back in a sequel that introduces more memorable characters.


In Happy Feet 2, Mumble's choreo-phobic young son, Erik (voiced by Ava Acres), refuses to go along with everyone else and dance because he can't find a good enough reason to do so. Tired of being embarrassed and laughed at, Erik runs away from Emperor Land with two friends and follows Ramon, another outcast, who decides to go back to his original home.

Please read the rest of my review at here.


Most Energy-Efficient Christmas Tree Now Sparkling Behind the Mall of Asia

‘Tis the season of power-consuming celebrations what with all the holiday displays and decorations that need electricity to run. No thanks to over-the-top lighting, Christmas has become one of the biggest carbon-emitting holidays of the year. Unfortunately, few consider the implications of all these on the environment.


Time and time again, we hear campaigns and pleas to cut our carbon emissions and yet, many are still not aware of how they can do their part. For the fourth year, Firefly Electric and Lighting Corporation (FELCO) sets an example by lighting up its energy-efficient Christmas tree at By the Bay, SM MOA to remind the public that celebrating the holidays can be done with greener and more sustainable lighting technologies. (You can read my blog post about last year's lighting event here).

FELCO’s Christmas tree is illuminated by more than 100,000 Firefly LED bulbs with the total energy consumption equivalent to two small window-type air conditioners at two horse powers each. According to Jhie Greenwood, FELCO Marketing Manager, Firefly’s LED Christmas tree uses the latest lighting technology which is five times more energy efficient compared to the regular incandescent bulb.


“A Firefly LED light bulb consumers around 24 pesos a month [which is] seven times less than what’s consumed by an incandescent bulb,” she reveals, adding that LED can actually save households up to P150 per bulb a month.

Aside from being energy efficient, LED is also suitable for green building projects because it contains no mercury components and is proven to withstand impact, vibrations, and disruptions. In addition, Firefly LED can last up to 30,000 hours or 6.8 years of continuous use as compared to the 1,000 hours of a regular incandescent bulb.


During the Christmas tree lighting event, guests were treated to a Yuletide concert featuring The CompanY, the Philippines’ most renowned vocal ensemble; the dance group Whiplash; and young theater artist Angia Laurel of Trumpets. They performed Christmas songs that made the celebration doubly fun. What I enjoyed the most though was when The CompanY sang a medley of their best songs (Now That I Have You, Muntik na Kitang Minahal, Everlasting Love) which all happen to be my personal favorites.

By adopting LED technology as a viable solution, FELCO hopes that Filipinos would take notice that there are greener options available. “Firefly believes that LED is the light source for the future [and that] using LED products will have a profound impact on energy-saving efforts and become a catalyst in our drive to save our planet for the next generation,” concludes Greenwood.

* Firefly’s eco-friendly Christmas tree will be showcased behind the Mall of Asia until January 2012. For more information about FELCO, visit www.fireflyelectric.com or contact (632) 2422060 to 65; (632) 2422070 to 72; (632) 2422074 to 75 locals 501 to 510.


Sunday, November 27, 2011

Pantene Hosts World-Class Hair Event with Barney Martin

Last November 24, celebrity stylist and Pantene Ambassador Barney Martin treated guests to an exclusive hair show and workshop at the Loft Manansala in Rockwell. The internationally-acclaimed hair master recreated timeless hairstyles on several models and shared the latest in hair trends straight from prominent international runways. Barney shared that achieving world-class hairstyles are only possible with a world-class conditioner.

rubbing elbows with Barney Martin
According to him, the new Pantene Intensive Conditioner makes it possible to achieve soft and smooth hair like what celebrities and models have. Tristan Patricio, Pantene Brand Manager, revealed what women around the world, including Filipinas, want. "We found out that even though women start their day with soft and smooth hair, it becomes dry, rough, and frizzy by the middle of the day. These women need a conditioner that will give them soft, smooth hair all day!"


Pantene Intensive Conditioners are described to have 80% more conditioning benefits so women can keep their soft and smooth hair down all day. "Pantene conditioner has a powerful combination of Pro-V science, which is exclusive to Pantene, and enhanced conditoning ingredients which create a protective layer for your hair. The result is soft and smooth hair that's truly world-class," illustrated Patricio.

Barney with Gretchen Barretto, host Sarah Meier, and fashion bloggers
Photo credit: Alex Dizon  
Barney Martin, who has already styled world-famous celebrities like Kate Moss and Drew Barrymore, added several Philippine fashion bloggers -- Camille Co, Kryz Uy, Laureen Uy, Patricia Prieto -- and Pantene Ambassador Gretchen Barretto to his long list of clients that night.

Like Gretchen and the bloggers, it is possible for every Filipina to get world-class hair and iconic hairstyles using the latest Pantene Intensive Conditioner. Trusted by international hair masters like Barney Martin, Pantene is said to help ladies achieve runway and red carpet-worthy 24-hour soft, smooth, and shiny hair all day.


Friday, November 25, 2011

Leyende's Real Benefits Campaign Features Inspired Gifts for the Holidays

Christmas means a lot of things for different people. But one thing's for sure, there will always be gifts exchanged by friends and families. However, it gets harder and harder each year to choose the best presents because of the thousands of items available on and off line.

Make it easier on yourself! This coming holiday season, instead of buying gadgets, toys, and accessories, consider giving meaningful gifts to the people you love instead. Leyende, maker of all-natural bath and body products, recently launched its Real Benefits Campaign that aims to help three charities through the sale of limited-edition items. Shopping for Christmas becomes a socially-relevant advocacy when you buy the following:


Clean Slate Multi-tasking Face Cleanser (limited edition packaging with crocheted waterdrop phone charm) 100mL - P450.00
Wash away ignorance! For every purchase of limited edition Clean Slate Multi-tasking Face Cleanser that cleanses skin without overdrying or stripping off natural oils, you donate P100 to the Project H.OU.S.E. College Fund, which is going to sponsor the education of at-risk, out-of-school youth who undergo work-study program with Messy Bessy worry-free, ecofriendly household cleaners.

Mother Butter Cocoa Butter Body Moisturizer (limited edition packaging with crocheted sleeve made from recycled plastic bags) 100mL - P450.00
Save a Mother, Save the Future! For every purchase of limited edition Mother Butter, you stave off stretchmarks and dry skin, and contribute P100 to help UNICEF's Maternal and Neonatal Healthcare Program reach more expectant women in need from remote areas.

Beach Bomb (limited edition packaging with crocheted wings lariat) 50mL - P450.00
The Sweet Scent of Freedom! For every purchase of limited-edition Beach Bomb cologne, the refreshing blend of aloe, vetiver and coconut essences lifts the spirits, knowing that P100 of it goes directly to the daily needs and rehabilitation costs of the residents of Marillac Shelter for Women.

Neva Talladen (left), Creator and Brand Director, with Leyende resellers
More information on Invisible Sisters Foundation (women who crocheted the accessories): Started three years ago by American artist Ann Wizer, INVISIBLE Sisters has grown to be a factory without walls—training and providing livelihood to poor women in Manila who transform waste plastic into fashion items such as tote bags. Working especially with crochet techniques, the dozens of INVISIBLE Sisters have recycled over one hundred thousand used shopping bags, turning them into more than 30,000 products including tote bags, coin purses, retail packaging, and clutch bags.

More information on Sharon See (designer for the crocheted accessories): Stylist and Production Designer, Sharon See, is also a known crafter and accessories designer. Her recent crochet projects are geared towards advocacies such as Invisible Sisters Foundation and other communities of disadvantaged women in Metro Manila. Recently, she has collaborated with Messy Bessy and Leyende to pioneer upcycling projects towards more sustainable packaging.

Please watch this video to learn more about Leyende's advocacy:




* Leyende Natural and Organic Products Inc. is located at  Unit 42-43 Matrinco Bldg 2178 Chino Roces Ave. (formerly Pasong Tamo), Makati City, Philippines. You can reach them at telefax: +63(2) 403-1859


HerWord.com Celebrates It's 10th Anniversary with a Special Day of Treats for Women

I can't recall at the moment how long I've been writing for HerWord.com because it's been quite a while now. But I continue to support and contribute articles there because it is a genuinely helpful site for women who are looking for information and inspiration. I, personally, have learned a lot of new things just by researching for and reading articles there.

Thanks to BusinessWorld, this website has been sharing stories on a wide variety of topics for the past 10 years. Based on the comments under the various articles I've read, I am positive that HerWord.com has touched the lives of many Filipina in more ways than its creators could ever imagine.

This coming November 30, join us as we celebrate HerWord.com's 10th Anniversary. Head on over to Eastwood's Central Plaza and take part in an exciting Day of Treats prepared just for us, ladies. It's a whole day affair filled with fun and freebies.

Visit this page for more info about the celebration and this page on how to get the passport and avail of all the things that make HerWord.com a real treat for women: food, fashion, beauty, wellness, entertainment and self-improvement. 

Don't forget to LIKE HerWord.com's Facebook page to get more updates. See you at the fair! :)

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Ariel Unveils First Ever Philippine 3D Commercial

Last month, I blogged about an event where we were introduced to the Ariel Stainlift powder with Deep Clean Technology. There, we got to see the facade of Microtel Mall of Asia be transformed into a seemingly breathing and moving surface via a 3D Projection Mapping Show. You can read that post and watch the awesome video of how 3D projection mapping looks like here.


This month, Ariel's newest TV commercial starts airing on local channels and it's in 3D format! You have to wear red-cyan 3D glasses to be able to fully appreciate this revolutionary creation. I don't have time to watch a lot of TV these days so I didn't know the commercial is already out.

Good thing Cathy Azanza-Dy (I featured her some months ago in HerWord.com; read about her here) messaged me via Facebook to share the link because she is so proud of what her director husband, Paolo, has accomplished, and rightly so! The commercial is really good and I'm pretty sure this latest Filipino accomplishment is something that will be remembered for years to come.

So, without further ado, watch our country's first 3D TV commercial ... with red-cyan glasses please! :)


Congratulations Paolo and team! Great job! :)


Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Nokia N9's Grand Launch at Prive BGC

The Nokia N9 was launched with a bang in a posh party at Prive in Bonifacio Global City. Guests got to see up close what the anticipation with this new smartphone was all about. For starters, the hosts led a couple of games, connected with the night's big question "What Can Your Finger Do?", and got several celebrity guests as contestants. 



Next, several models, each holding an N9, went around the venue to let attendees touch and explore the phones' features. Guests also got to "Stop Posing and Start Moving" at Flipped Manila's photo/video booth where we got to bring home Flipbooks -- these are small books with a series of pictures. When the pages are turned rapidly, the pictures animate the short video clip taken of an individual or group. Curious how it works? Here's a short video from Flipped Manila's Youtube channel:



I found this such a refreshing concept from the usual photo booths. Needless to say, my friends and I had so much fun having our short videos taken then transferred into flipbooks.  

Anyhow, back to the Nokia N9, this high-tech phone is now available in value-laden plans from Smart. For instance, you get the Nokia N9 for FREE if you subscribe to Smart's Unlimited Data Plan 2000 (16gb) and 3000 (64gb), and All-in-Plan 3500 (16gb). Or, you have the option to get the N9 (64gb) at All-in-Plan 3500 with P1,200 cash out.

With its stylish and modern look, the N9 is designed to provide fast access to essential things people need from a phone: using apps, staying up to date with notifications and social networks, and switching between activities with just a swipe. 

The Nokia N9 is said to carry the latest smartphone technology including a poly-carbonate body that allows superior antenna performance for better reception; an 8MP Carl Zeiss autofocus sensor, wide-angle lens, HD-quality video capture and large lens aperture; free turn-by-turn drive and walk navigation with voice guidance in Maps; video play in true 16:9 widescreen format and surround sound experience; and the Near Field Communication (NFC), which allows users to easily share images, videos, and music in between devices by touching them together.

If you want to be one of the first to own a bold, all-screen Nokia N9, visit any of the Smart Wireless Centers or Nokia Stores nationwide. The unit is available in black, cyan, and magenta. SRP for the 16gb is P24,990 while the 64gb sells for P29,450.

*Photos borrowed with permission from Orange Magazine TV's Facebook album

  

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Short Movie Review: Breaking Dawn

For someone who hasn't been able to watch all the previous Twilight movies in full (I only get to see bits and pieces when my kids watch them on cable TV), I was surprised to find myself liking Breaking Dawn Part 1

I barely know what's been going on between the Edward-Bella-Jacob love triangle but got to understand it more when I watched this latest installment. I think I would be looking for DVDs of the first three movies before Part 2 comes around so I'll be updated by then :p  

Anyhow, let me just say the wedding of the year was lovely, the honeymoon island was fantastic, and the special effects were really great especially in the scene just before the movie's ending which is a cliffhanger, by the way. I wonder how everything will end. I guess we all have to wait until next year to find out.

Thanks Jollibee for the movie screening invite and for the very nice Twilight tumblers! :)


Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Maxicare Intensifies Healthcare Program for the Filipino People

Maxicare Healthcare Corporation will be celebrating its 25th anniversary soon and it recently announced new developments in their business and service offerings to provide one of the best healthcare programs in the Philippines. 


The company was established in 1987 by an esteemed group of doctors and businessmen who visualized a better healthcare delivery system in the country. Today, Maxicare has more than 600,000 cardmembers and services 800 top corporations from various industries as well as over 1,700 SMEs, individuals and families. 

"We have achieved great success over the years and we want to ensure that we will continue to provide the best healthcare program to our current and prospective members,” pronounces Maxicare Healthcare Corporation President and CEO Jose Pastor Z. Puno.

For Maxicare, good healthcare is defined by its sustainability. Aside from partnering with more than 20,000 doctors and specialists, 3,500 dental providers, 950 hospitals, 11 Primary Care Centers and 7 Customer Care Centers, Maxicare also developed specific programs for member companies, SMEs and individuals to cater to their varying health needs and varied investment capabilities. As the number of clients grows, so does their vast medical network continue to expand.


On top of their usual HMO service for corporate clients, Maxicare has innovated Maxicare Plus for SMEs, MyMaxicare for families and individuals and Maxicare EReady, the first emergency card available in the HMO industry. To give members the flexibility to avail of the products, each service is customizable according to each member’s needs and financial capital. Puno assures that these programs "are designed to give almost anyone the capability to arm themselves with healthcare program – from corporate, SME and on the individual level."

In addition to its more comprehensive products, Maxicare also upgraded its facilities via their new tower that houses its more than 700 employees to further enhance its healthcare products and services to its current and future members.


“We see the new tower as the ultimate symbol of the company’s continued growth and strength as a business, its sustained leadership in the local HMO industry and strengthened commitment to provide our members with the best healthcare assistance program in the industry,” says Puno. 

To also guarantee their members' peace of mind in terms of healthcare benefits, Maxicare has made sure to be constantly financially stable and armed with the financial capital to pay its maturing obligations to its providers. Last year, Maxicare reported a stockholders equity of Php331 million and an earned membership fee of Php3.6 billion.

All these developments and innovations, shares Puno, are a great way to showcase Maxicare‘s leadership and credibility as an industry standard in the Philippine HMO industry. “As our 25th year in the industry comes near, we are optimistic that our organization will continue to work in order to help ensure that the Filipino community can arm themselves with the healthcare program that they need,” he concludes.


Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Café Monsee’s: Serving More Than Just Breads

Tucked along Katipunan Avenue near White Plains is a charming café that would be very hard to miss. Cafe Monsee’s has two bright red doors (sorry, the shot I took of the facade was not good enough to post) that beckon passersby to drop in and experience the charming ambience inside while feasting on yummy baked goodies and other tummy-filling dishes.


Monsee’s opened just a year ago on November 2010 but one of the owners, Atty. Marina Demeterio, has been selling desserts from her home since the ‘90s. The café was named after a monsignor friend, one of the establishment’s incorporators.


Several friends and I were invited to try out the different offerings at Monsee’s and we were all glad we did. Stepping inside one of the red doors was like visiting an old friend’s home. The interior is cozy and filled with the homey smell of freshly-baked bread. The furnishings are mostly white while some of the walls feature large, and very interesting, drawings made by Chef Marina’s son, Hildebrand


We found out later that the interior design was inspired by Meryl Streep’s bakery in her movie, “It’s Complicated”. We were also told that everything made there is a labor of love because things are done the traditional way; no shortcuts. Monsee’s hand roll their breadsticks and no preservatives are added. The prices are pretty reasonable as well.


Before we started on the main dishes, we got to try some of the café’s different flavored crunchy breadsticks which come in 15 variants! Choose from Garlic, Cheese, Italian Herb, Pesto, Pistachio, Almond, Choco Hazelnut, Milk & Butter, Wheat, Dill & Cheese, Onion & Sour Cream, Dill & Cheese, Flax Seed, Cheese Pimiento, and Basil. Prices range from P65.00 to P140.00 per pack.



 
Next, we sampled several freshly-baked creations like the foccacia, rye bread, and potato bread. They went very well with the mouth-watering Callos we were served next. This dish is only available by special order and costs P2000/pan, already good enough for 8 to 10 persons.


Atty. Charles Escolin, one of the people behind Monsee’s, presented us with two large pans of Cocido which, he says, isn’t actually served at the cafe but which they would like us to try. This dish is a complete meal in itself because it has veggies as well as pork, chicken, and beef. 



Atty. Charles taught us how to eat Cocido the Spanish way which was to drizzle vinegar and olive oil on a small serving and top it with a pinch of salt. This made the dish very, very tasty! It’s doubly satisfying to take each spoonful in between bites of the soft and aromatic breads.



Aside from the first three breads, we also got to try the Pan de Monsee and the Cheeserolls Petite with its creamy frosting and cheesy filling.




By then, my tummy was starting to protest that it’s near its tipping point but it was hard to resist the hot tsokolate drink I was given plus half each of three cupcakes that all tasted heavenly! The clincher was the sinfully delectable dessert that Chef Marina jokingly calls Cholesterol Special. It’s like leche flan with more texture because of the pieces of bread interspersed with the buttery base. It’s so good, I forgot to take note if its real name was even mentioned :p



Before we left, I took more pictures of the place and was fascinated at the meticulously made cake toppers that come in cute and colorful figures. There are even some that look like Louis Vuitton bags! My sister, who loves to bake, would probably be tempted to buy all the designs when she gets to visit Monsee’s and sees everything they have to offer.



My friends and I went home replete with all the good food and great company that early evening. Each of us was given a boxful of Monsee’s goodies to bring home to our loved ones (I woke up the next morning to see only a couple of items left!). Chef Marina also had their service vehicle drop us off the nearest mall. We all squeezed in inside and it felt just like going home from a children’s party where everyone had a wonderful time. The smiles, alone, already speak a thousand words. Such was the nice ending to a pleasant afternoon. 

*Monsee’s is located at 118 Katipunan Avenue, White Plains, Quezon City. Tel: 352.6721. It has free Wi-Fi and is open Mondays to Sundays from 7am to 9pm. Aside from the extensive selection of breads, you can order soups, salads, pasta, sandwiches, and even rice meals there.


Monday, November 14, 2011

A Call for Help for a Little Boy with Leukemia

Many of us know how devastating it is when a loved one is suddenly diagnosed with a serious medical condition. Last week, I found out that my five-year-old godson, RJ Betia, has been found to have leukemia. According to his dad there's a 70% chance of survival if RJ could undergo all the treatments and procedures needed for the next three years. RJ is currently confined at St. Lukes Medical Center in Quezon City.

The road to wellness may be long and difficult but we believe that everything is possible through God's grace and the generosity of people who care. Thus, I would like to appeal for your prayers as well as financial support if the Lord moves your heart to give. Contact details for donations are below.

He could be out playing ball or running with his dog ... But RJ will stay indoors undergoing intensive treatment for leukemia. It makes all the difference for a five year old but you can make a difference for him. Please contact +63908-4464701 or +639065754046 for donations if you are located in Los Banos, Laguna.

Also, here are the bank details of RJ's parents where monetary assistance can be deposited: BDO - Robert Paul Betia 2450037612 SM Cebu branch or BPI - Jovelyn Pejana 9139060528 SM Cebu branch. Please text RJ's dad at +630926-6256200 if you made a deposit so he can keep track where the donation/s came from.


SUPPORT and be part of RJ's battle. Thank you very much!


Saturday, November 12, 2011

Cafe Alfresco Opens at the Kartini Spa and Gardens

I've been going to the Alabang Town Center for years but didn't know there's an establishment just beside it that has become a neighborhood hub for lifestyle gardens, fresh flower arrangements, and a nature-inspired spa. Now, I've finally found Alabang's best kept secret!


Recently, the Kartini Spa and Gardens is joined by Kartini Cafe Alfresco, a very nice dining place that can be accessed through an exotic doorway entrance that leads to a beautiful landscaped garden. The dining area's interiors has a predominantly Asian motif with Balinese furniture and artworks on display. You can also view there the paintings and sculpture of National Artist Abdulmari Asia Imao which provide a good backdrop to an enjoyable meal.


Visit the place to experience Cafe Alfresco's diverse range of cuisine which is a creative fusion of flavorful and delectable dishes from Asia such as Roast Iberian Chicken flavored with herbs and spices, Chicken Satay in Peanut Sauce, Tonkatsu with Special Sesame Sauce, and Sole or Salmon baked or pan fried and made even more delicious with special spices and sauces.


There are more to choose from if you prefer short orders. They serve beef salpicao, gambas, croquettas, prawns tempura, Vietnamese spring roll, or fillet of sole in aioli sauce. 


More importantly, the menu showcases Kartini's distinct offering of herbs and health promoting plants that come freshly picked from the garden! Indulge in the healthy Organic Basil and Malunggay Pesto Pasta and Puttanesca Pasta. For salad, go for their signature Chef's Delight that features Kartini's own concoction of vinaigrette dressing made with olive oil, red peppers, and cranberries. As to beverages, discover how refreshing it is to try the fresh fruit juices and freshly brewed tea that will please customers' palates.


Celebrate and conduct various occasions and activities at Kartini Cafe Alfresco whether they are corporate functions, business meetings, Christmas parties, birthdays, graduation parties, bridal and baby showers, debut, anniversaries, and reunions. The venue is also a great place to stage a romantic dinner for two as you listen to the soothing sounds of its piano lounge every Thursdays and Saturdays.


* Kartini is located at the Alabang Town Center in front of Madrigal Parking. For appointments, please call 8074356, 8077578, or 09163815772. You can also log on to www.kartiniasia.com and www.kartinispa.com as well as like the Facebook accounts of Kartini Cafe Alfresco and Kartini Spa.

* Photos used with permission by Orange Magazine TV. For more pictures of the place, please click here.