Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Sun Life Presents 2017 Market Outlook, Foresees Continued Strength & Growth of Philippine Economy

So many things have happened these past months that had a lot of individual investors worried. However, as far as investing goes, it should be kept in mind that investments take time to earn so we should always think long term.

The good news is, according to Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc., the Philippine economy will continue to remain strong this 2017 and could even grow by 7%.

photo credit: Housing.com
During a press briefing at Shangri-La Makati last week, Sun Life Chief Investments Officer Michael Enriquez explained that with the increased consumer and government spending, the outlook remains fundamentally positive. He mentioned factors such as remittances from overseas Filipino workers, the BPO industry, and the large number of Filipinos who are of working age are among what's boosting our economy from the consumer's end. 

"On the other hand, the rise in government spending is bringing about more jobs and has also increased the demand for construction materials," added Enriquez. These positive developments, he said, have been offsetting the possible impact of recent events in the market, which include the weakening of the Philippine Peso against the US Dollar plus the drop in the Philippine Stock Exchange Index due to the shift of foreign funds to the US market.

"Stay the course and even boost your investments," advised Enriquez to investors. "With stock prices cheaper, it's a good time to buy so [you] can enjoy the greater gains once the market goes up."

Michael Enriquez says PH is still the fastest growing economy in Asia
How to take advantage of this scenario? One way is to invest in mutual funds such the Sun Life Prosperity Funds (read how I started mine, here) managed by Sun Life Asset Management Company, Inc. (SLAMCI). Amid the developments in the market, the funds have been performing strongly as of December 31, 2016. 

For instance, the Sun Life Prosperity Equity Fund yielded a five-year return of 39% and a 10-year return of 119% while the Sun Life Prosperity Balanced Fund marked a 28% and 89% growth in the five and ten-year returns respectively. Likewise, the Sun Life Prosperity Bond Fund lodged 12% and 44% returns for the same time periods.

SLAMCI President Valerie Pama expressed, "We're delighted that our investors are reaping the rewards of their commitment to invest for the long-term, and we hope to see more Filipinos treading the same path so they, too, can experience financial security."

the advantage of regular investingphoto credit: Sun Life Philippines
"We create wealth for our investors in the long term. [So,] investors should be more concerned about long term prospects rather than aim to make a quick buck," added Enriquez who advised that one should be patient enough to stay invested to see good payback.

To educate more Filipinos about the best ways to grow their money, Pama said SLAMCI will pursue this vision by championing financial inclusion and further boosting its financial literacy programs. The company also plans to strengthen distribution channels to reach new markets. 
  
"More partnerships with banks, brokers, and alternative channels will be launched and we will also enhance our online capability including the Money for Life e-Planner," she shared. (In relation to this, please read the recent partnership formed between Sun Life and USSChere.) 

Pama and Enriquez answer questions from the media
photo credit: Sun Life Philippines
SLAMCI will also be more aggressive in promoting its programs such as Sun RISE, wherein employees can invest a minimal amount regularly via salary deduction; and Auto-Invest, a regular investment program in cooperation with partner banks. Pama is also optimistic about a possible regulation from the Securities and Exchange Commission that may lower initial investment from P5,000 to P1,000. 

"The economy is strong but may not necessarily translate to a strong equity market this year," clarified Enriquez. However, "This is the best [time] now to get assets cheaper. It's a short term opportunity to rebalance your portfolio."

"Please start investing already. Do it regularly, be disciplined, and focus on your long term goals," concluded Pama.

  

Monday, January 30, 2017

Good Life Holds Flavors of Fortune Chinese New Year Grand Food Fest at Robinsons Place Manila

In the Philippines, sharing good food with family and friends is always something we all look forward to. I believe this is the same in many Asian countries where flavorful dishes are cooked every day. This past weekend, one of Asia's leading food brands, Good Life, held a two-day grand Chinese New Year festival for everyone who loves authentic Chinese cuisine and those who wish to bring in harmony, positive vibes, and prosperity in their lives this 2017.

these young people gave several impressive performances
during the opening ceremonies
Good Life's "Flavors of Fortune: Food Trip Down Chinatown," an auspicious celebration filled with colorful tradition and lavish festivities, was held at the Robinsons Place Manila Midtown Atrium. According to Ramon Daez, Fly Ace Corporation General Manager, "Good Life aims for a holistic festivity that promotes a fortune-filled life, which includes the fusion of good food, good relationships, and a good disposition in life. We want to joyfully share with the rest of the Filipinos the best of Chinese cuisine through our Asian food line."

ribbon cutting to formally open the festivities 
The event opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony graced by Fly Ace executives and distinguished guests. Afterwards, event attendees were treated to a dragon and lion dance as well as a cultural performance from Chiang Kai Shek College. In addition, Master Hanz Cua and Naneth Guinto each conducted a much-awaited Feng Shui Talk during the first and second day, respectively.  

a dragon and lion dance to usher in a prosperous year 
To commemorate this year’s Chinese Zodiac, Good Life held a Chinoy Dish Showdown highlighting modern Chinese-Filipino dishes. The culinary competition featured some of Manila’s finest hotels. Chefs from Hotel Kimberly, City Garden Hotel, Lotus Garden Hotel, Eurotel, Bayview Park Hotel, Amelie Hotel, and Best Western Hotel battled it out in a live cooking exposition to win the prize for the best Chinese dish.

featured dish by Hotel Kimberly
For a richer Year of the Fire Rooster experience, both days also featured the Good Life Chinoy Activity Strip, the Chinoy Food Strip, fortune telling, and other booths where guests got to learn Chinese arts and crafts like Chinese Calligraphy, Lantern-Making, and more. Of course, a Chinese New Year celebration will not be complete without generous gift-giving, surprise freebies and raffle prizes that were given away to lucky guests during several stage games. 

at the Chinese calligraphy booth
The Good Life Flavors of Fortune: Food Trip Down Chinatown 2017 was presented by Fly Ace Corporation, Good Life, City of Manila, and Robinsons Place Manila (official venue partner), with the support of event partners Cook magazine, Breakfast Magazine, Business Mirror, Malaya Business Insight, Manila Times, The Standard, Manila Bulletin, Mommy Blogger Philippines, ChinoyTV, Ermita-Malate Business Owners Association, Ateneo Confucius Institute, Fujidenzo, Whirlpool, Tecnogas, Whirlpool, Masflex, Franzia, and TaiChi Guyasteen.               

Kung Hei Fat Choi, everyone!
Fly Ace Corporation is one of the leading food and beverage consumer goods companies in the country today. Propelling limitless multiple-category growth by bringing the best of the world closer to Filipino consumers, Fly Ace Corporation’s portfolio of food and beverage products includes house brands and exclusively distributed brands. To learn more about Fly Ace, visit www.flyacecorp.com.

Good Life's Wall of Fame highlighted the brand's products
Good Life is a food brand that is exclusively distributed by Fly Ace Corporation in the Philippines. It offers a wide array of products that is perfect for Asian cuisine. For more information about Good Life, visit www.facebook.com/goodtastegoodlife.


Saturday, January 28, 2017

Bid on Personalized Converse Chucks by 2016 Miss Universe Candidates for a Good Cause!

"Confidently beautiful with a heart" -- a phrase popularized by ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach aptly describes what a beauty queen should be: a lady who represents "beauty with a purpose." 

a true beauty queen reigns with a purpose to do good
Prior to the coronation of the 2016 Miss Universe, 19 candidates spent time and harnessed their creativity to customize Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers to be auctioned for the Positive Action Foundation, which is supported by the Miss Universe organization. This advocacy is devoted to helping individuals living with HIV/AIDS and their families, particularly those who lost their jobs due to the stigma of their medical condition.

19 candidates = 19 personalized Chucks
Beauty pageant aficionados and Chucks collectors now have the chance to own a personalized Chucks by the following candidates: Ms. Angola – Luisa Baptista, Ms. Belgium – Stephanie Goldof, Ms. Belize – Rebecca Rath, Ms. Brazil – Raissa Santana, Ms. Bulgaria – Violina Ancheva, Ms. Cayman Islands – Monyque Brooks, Ms. Costa Rica – Carolina Duran, Ms. Germany – Johanna Acs, Ms. Guatemala – Virginia Argueta, Ms. Iceland – Hildur Maria, Ms. Mexico – Kristal Silva, Ms. Netherlands – Zoey Ivory, Ms. Nicaragua – Marina Jacoby, Ms. Panama – Keity Drenan, Ms. Paraguay – Andrea Melgarejo, Ms. Philippines – Maxine Medina, Ms. Russia – Yuliana Korolkova, Ms. Thailand – Chalita Suansane, and Ms. Uruguay – Magdalena Cohendent.

Through a silent bid auction, interested individuals are encouraged to give their bids, names, and contact details to the information officer in any of the mall exhibits of the shoes or thru a private message at the Converse Philippines Facebook page. Starting bid for all pairs is US$50.

be the lucky owner of one of these unique pieces -- bid now!
View the personalized pairs at the exhibits in the following dates and venues:
  • February 3-5: Robinsons Antipolo
  • February 10-12: Robinsons Bulacan and Marquee Pampanga
  • February 17-19: Robinsons Isabela and Robinsons Ilocos Norte
  • February 24-26: Robinsons Tacloban and Robinsons Cebu
  • March 3-5: Gaisano Mall of Davao City and Gaisano Mall of Digos
  • March 10-12: Gaisano Mall of Tagum and Gaisano Mall of Toril
  • March 17-19: Gaisano Mall of General Santos

Keep updated by liking Converse Philippines on Facebook. You can also join the conversation online by using and searching for the hashtag #ConversePHx65MissUniverse.


Sunday, January 22, 2017

Take the Perfect Selfie Using the Impressive Vivo V5 Plus, Endorsed by Stephen Curry

Who wants to look good in pictures? Of course, we all do! No wonder smartphone makers are constantly upping the ante when it comes to the latest in camera technology. This past weekend, Vivo Philippines unveiled the Vivo V5 Plus in a star-studded event at the SM Mall of Asia Atrium where everyone was impressed at the new phone's capabilities.

with my friend, Lou
love the bokeh effect of a blurred background without the need for editing!
In today's social media age where both millennials and adults enjoy taking and sharing beautifully-captured selfies online, Vivo responds to this need by launching its newest flagship model: the perfect selfie phone.

"We are excited to bring selfie to the next level. Our latest innovation not only provides high-quality audio but also gives the perfect selfie that everyone deserves," shared Vivo Vice President Hazel Bascon in her opening remarks. "Also, we are very proud to once again announce that Vivo is still the top five global smartphone manufacturer. This is for four consecutive quarters based on the International Data Corporation's 2016 Smartphone Tracker."

Vivo's Hazel Bascon
Vivo endorser, NBA superstar Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors, was quoted saying he believes in the brand's values -- energy, professionalism, and pleasure -- which are all embodied in the Vivo V5 Plus. Finally, after months of speculation, the most-awaited selfie phone's full specifications were revealed:

1) Vivo V5 Plus has the most advanced selfie-technology to date with the world's first-ever dual front-facing cameras. Co-engineered with top electronics company, Sony, the primary front camera is a 20MP IMX376 while the secondary 8MP camera was designed to collect depth-of-field information for that improved self-portrait quality.

FYI, the V5 Plus' 20MP camera is co-engineered with Sony
I was fascinated at the "bokeh" effect feature, a background-blurring photography filter that is complemented by Vivo's enhanced face beauty algorithm. Both allow users to take radiant selfies without any need for editing or correction after. In addition, there's the "selfie soft light" which makes selfie-taking possible even in poor lighting conditions.

2) Vivo V5 Plus' rear camera likewise features an impressive 1/2.8-inch 16MP sensor for ultra-clear and high-quality photos. I'd love to test drive that when I go on trips this year! I think I'll be able to take crisper and more colorful photos of my favorite sunsets and nature scenes.

taking the perfect selfie is now possible with the Vivo V5 Plus
3) Vivo V5 Plus boasts a superior sound system for heightened enjoyment of any kind of music. The AK4376 was perfected in over two years and is the same Hi-Fi system also found in Vivo's recent flagship models.  

4) Vivo V5 Plus is capable of performing multiple phone tasks in a speedy and efficient manner thanks to its 4GB RAM, 64GB ROM, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 processor. For a unique touch, this smartphone runs on Vivo's very own Funtouch 3.0 operating system, based on Android 6.0.

KZ Tandingan entertained guests with soulful music
5) Vivo V5 Plus also features an updated fingerprint recognition technology that allows users to unlock the phone in just 0.2 seconds. The phone also boasts of a fast-charging feature that I am sure heavy phone users would appreciate a lot.

6) Vivo V5 Plus is beautifully crafted and easy to hold. The ultra-slim bezel technology comes with a 5.5-inch large display made of 5th generation Corning Gorilla glass with enhanced resistance. Too, the dome-style, 1.8mm wide u-shaped antenna designed for better signal reception adds to the phone's stylish exterior design.

these two definitely made their fans go wild (my eardrums are still ringing!) 
The V5 Plus launch was graced by Vivo executives and partners as well as celebrities and members of the media. Singer KZ Tandingan and Pinoy Boyband Superstars' Tony Labrusca and James Ryan Cesena were present to entertain guests with musical performances.

According to Ms. Bascon, in their pursuit of innovation and perfection, "Vivo is now expanding our research and development centers to seven. Our latest R and D centers will be in Silicon Valley and San Diego and this direction is geared towards our desire to give the best and unique experiences to our consumers." 

Vivo V5 Plus is priced at P19,990

Ms. Bascon furthered pronounced, "We at Vivo Philippines are dedicated to the Filipino consumers and rest-assured that we will expand and continue to cover the entire country so that more will be able to experience the best technology for smartphone."

For more details about Vivo V5 Plus, please visit vivoglobal.ph and get updates via facebook.com/VivoPhil and follow @vivophil on Twitter and Instagram.


Saturday, January 21, 2017

Gringo: Where You Can Find Good Food and Have a Really Good Time

Filipinos love good food and enjoy cuisines from various parts of the world. If you haven't tried eating a Mexican-Latin feast yet, this is the best time to do so! Gringo, a highly-recommended restaurant by foodies like me, has now become the favorite dining place for family and friends who are craving for delectable dishes and a good time while enjoying a meal together.

good food and good time at Gringo with my favorite date ;)
Gringo is the perfect hangout that serves moist and flavorful chicken and ribs plus other mouthwatering treats. According to restaurateur Reagan Tan, Gringo is the friend we all wish to have because he hosts the best get-togethers along with his closest amigos and cooks up one mean Mexican-Latin feast. "It's always a festival of flavors at Gringo," describes Reagan. "And, at the center of it all, are our amigo's signature chicken and ribs."

Gringo Original Chicken, prices start at P148.00 
Diners can choose from two chicken varieties: Gringo Original Chicken is covered in traditional Mexican-Latin spices and then grilled to perfection while the Gringo Southern Spice Chicken comes with a distinctly Southern American blend of herbs and spices. As of this writing, I still can't decide which one I like better because both are really tasty!

Gringo half rack baby back ribs with two sides
prices start at P325.00
The Gringo Baby Back Ribs, too, are just as delicious. It has fall-off-the-bone juicy meat covered in lip-smacking barbecue sauce. Both dishes are perfect to pair with Gringo's signature sauces. I love, love, love the Lemon Herb sauce that serves as an all-around dip. It has a perfect mix of herbs and spices with a fruity lemony flavor.

a pitcher of Tropical Lemonade (P189.00, per glass is P89.00)
plus Gringo's famous sauces
My hubby, on the other hand, likes the Hot and Spicy sauce that is said to whet the appetite even more. It's described as being so spicy, you will sweat inside out (that's why I dare not try it LOL). Just as Gringo says, "It's hot, like me!"

flavorful Baked Mussels - P220.00 
This weekend, we had lunch at Gringo's newly-opened SM Megamall branch located at the 3rd floor Atrium. We loved everything we ordered especially the new items we were able to try for the first time! For instance, the Tropical Lemonade came as a delightful surprise because it turned out to have passion fruit, which is a personal favorite of mine.    

Clam Chowder - P185.00
We had Baked Mussels and Clam Chowder Soup for starters and both tasted really good! The flaky pastry on top of the soup was an additional yummy treat.    

a big serving of Crispy Catfish Salsa costs P365.00
While my ribs-aficionado hubby ordered his favorite Gringo dish, I opted to try the Crispy Catfish Salsa because it sounded interesting. Besides, I've always liked fried and grilled catfish so I was curious if I would also enjoy this variant. I did, very much! What surprised me further is that the fish was boneless. Anybody who also likes catfish should try this one. In addition, the serving is good enough for two so make sure to bring along someone to share it with. Oh, and don't forget to order two or more sides to complement your main dish. I had Garlic Rice and Garlic Mushroom to go with my catfish, which made my tummy really happy 

Mango Cream Sticky Rice - P165.00
(the ice cream melted because I was having a nice chat with a friend
and didn't get to take this photo sooner) 
For dessert, hubby and I shared a dish of Mango Cream Sticky Rice, a perfect way to cap off a great meal! On our next visit to Gringo, I'd love to try their other specialties like the Lemon Garlic Butter Crab, the famed Mucho Nachos, the interesting selection of Burritos and Tacos, and more of the Side Dishes

Nacho Grande - P265.00
it may be messy to eat but is muy delicioso!
According to Reagan, the menu concept is meant to capture the flavors and sassiness of Latin American cuisine while captivating the palates of Filipino diners. I think they have successfully done that. "Filipinos can be very adventurous with flavors. They like a little bit of everything on their plate -- sweet, spicy, salty, savory -- typical of any Pinoy fiesta where diversity rules," he pointed out. "That is why there is something for everyone."

a nice selection of side dishes with prices starting at P50.00
Apart from the great food, Gringo's interiors are homey and inviting. Its walls are lined with pop culture references that diners of all ages could relate to, which would keep you released and entertained throughout your stay. There's also music to keep the good vibes flowing.

Lemon Garlic Butter Crab - P155.00/100g
Discover good food by dropping by Gringo's branches located at SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, Legaspi Village, Makati, and at The Fort, Bonifacio Global City. Stay tuned for the next stores opening soon at the Mall of Asia Arena Annex and UP Town Center.

Keep updated by liking facebook.com/gringochickenribs and following @GringoPH on Instagram


Friday, January 20, 2017

Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila Welcomes the Lunar New Year with Great Deals

For people living in the South of Metro Manila, you need not go far to look for places where you can celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year in style! Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila located in Alabang, Muntinlupa is offering great deals with festive room packages and culinary offerings as it welcomes the Year of the Fire Rooster.

a unplanned reunion with former Business World colleagues at Crimson Hotel
photo credit: Joy Wong-Sy
Be part of the fun as Crimson Hotel comes alive with festive activities including an exhibit of artworks by artist Jevie Pagaguitan. His pieces has transformed The Gallery into a beautiful garden featuring prosperity trees made with upcycled materials. 

a fire rooster display made using upcycled materials
Take a good look at the rooster sculpture and you'll be amazed to find some household stuff incorporated in the design. The small prosperity trees with pink flowers? They're made out of the bottoms of soda bottles! You have to visit Crimson Hotel to better appreciate what I am telling you about.  

prosperity tree using upcycled materials
Guests can also engage in some shopping sprees as merchants selling feng shui items, paintings, and Chinese delicacies will also be there to create a Little Chinatown feel.

Chinese New Year merchandise
Be treated to a revelry of good fortune, great food, and live entertainment on January 29, 2017 as the hotel presents its Chine New Year Brunch Buffet celebration at The Grand Ballroom. For Php 1,588++ per person, you'll get to be entertained by troupes of colorful dragon dancers, traditional Chinese theater performances, and acrobats as well as meet Feng Shui Expert Joseph Chau as he leads the Chinese New Year ceremony at the ground Lobby prior to the luncheon upstairs.

(from left) Crimson Hotel's Executive Assistant Manager Michael Gapin,
Feng Shui expert Joseph Chan, and upcycle artist Jevie Pagaguitan
Diners who avail of the Chinese New Year Brunch are entitled to join the raffle where they can win an overnight stay in a Presidential Suite for four persons.

our lunch's menu was written in Chinese calligraphy!
From January 27 to February 4, 2017, guests can also look forward to a bounty of Chinese culinary favorites at Cafe Eight as guest Chef Adrian Lim creates sumptuous specialties such as Suckling Pig, Longevity Noodles, Jelly Fish, and assorted Dim Sum. This endless parade of Chinese dishes can be availed of for Php 1,238++ per person for lunch and Php 1,418++ per person for dinner. Buffet rates include free-flowing beverages such as wine, beer, juice, and sodas.

assorted dim sum
Thinking of a staycation during the Chinese New Year? Book direct and use the promo code CNY2017 to avail of the Lucky Rooster Room Package from January 28 to 29, 2017 for a special rate starting at Php 5,888++. This is inclusive of buffet breakfast for two, complimentary Feng Shui Guide for 2017 by Mr. Chau, complimentary tickets for two to the Chinese New Year Brunch celebration and late checkout at 6PM. This booking also entitles you for a chance to win an overnight stay for two in an Executive Club room.

an Executive Room at Crimson Hotel
For inquiries and bookings, visit their official website at http://www.crimsonhotel.com/manila/.

  

Thursday, January 19, 2017

Sun Life's Health Index Reveals Filipinos Rank High in Asia for Lack of Exercise

I used to dislike doing strenuous physical activities when I was younger. I thought ocassionally walking the whole length and breadth of a mall while window shopping or moving around the house doing chores every day were enough to keep me fit. 

overcome laziness and pursue active living!
photo credit: Sun Life HK
I was wrong and I honestly regret not starting my fitness journey earlier. I started running about three years ago and found how much it has improved my endurance as well as my body. I am now seldom sluggish and am no longer afraid of very long walks or climbing long flights of stairs. More importantly, it comforts me to know that I am taking concrete steps to be here longer for my family.

Having experienced the benefits of regularly working out, I really want to encourage people I care about to also be more mindful of their health as well as their diets. It's hard to backtrack when you're already diagnosed with lifestyle diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure but you can still do something to improve your fitness level. You just have to start NOW!

I have a lot of reasons why I want to remain fit and healthy; find yours!
Personally, I feel sad about the findings of this year's Sun Life Financial Asia Health Index because the Philippines, along with Thailand and Malaysia, topped the list of countries in the region where people don't exercise regularly. It's ironic that Filipino respondents were found to be the most optimistic about their state of health and yet 61% do not make a lot of effort to engage in physical activities! In addition, 30% feel less healthy than they did three years ago. 

Launched in 2014, the Sun Life Financial Asia Health Index is a periodic study of health trends in Asia. The research is based on the findings of an Ipsos survey conducted in August 2016 involving around 4,000 Asians from 25 to 60 years of age and with middle class incomes. Respondents from Mainland China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam were interviewed online about their attitudes towards healthy and active living, their health concerns for the future, and expectations on access to healthcare.

Sun Life Asia Health Index Media Briefing at Shangri-La Makati
from left: Ms. Lirio, Ms. Mylene, Ms. Riza, and Ms. Jaymie
According to Ms. Mylene Lopa, Sun Life Chief Marketing Officer who delivered the report, survey respondents identified several barriers from living a healthier life: 57% of Filipinos blamed it on their lack of time due to work, 47% admitted to "lack of personal motivation," and 47% said it's due to "distractions of modern life" which, I presume, include too much time on social media. Other key factors named were cost (45%) and lack of accessible venues to engage in sports and recreation (36%).

Let me tell you right now that IT IS POSSIBLE to exercise at home if you can't afford gym membership fees or don't have a place nearby where you can go running! Buy a jump rope or yoga mat (they are not as expensive as you think, promise!), watch YouTube videos you can follow, and you'll soon be on your way to developing a simple fitness regimen for starters. 

on days when I can't run, I do jump rope exercises at home 
Please don't remain part of the population dubbed as "Generation O" or people who are overweight, overworked, or overwhelmed. Last year's Health Index identified six health segments in the Philippines. Find out where you belong by reading my other blog post, here, and see where you need to make adjustments.

Sun Life President and CEO Ms. Riza Mantaring reminds, "With all the things that demand our time and attention, it's usually our health that suffers because it's relegated to the least of our priorities. However, this should not be the case. This is why we at Sun Life have been boosting our suite of wellness products and mounting events that would help Filipinos to pursue their health goals." 

a healthy lifestyle makes for a brighter life
photo credit: Sun Life Canada
FYI, despite her very busy schedule, Ms. Riza finds time to do practice runs every day and has finished marathons in various countries! "You just have to schedule exercise like any other activity," she advises. 

Speaking of wellness products, Sun Life recently launched SUN Fit and Well, which offers comprehensive life and health protection from childhood all the way to the golden years. While most products offer benefits only when an illness strikes, SUN Fit and Well covers policy holders' needs from prevention to diagnosis to treatment, all the way to rehabilitation

Be protected! Learn more about Sun Fit and Well today!
Ms. Lirio Torres, Sun Life Health and Accident Head, shares that this new generation wellness product covers 114 critical illnesses (major and minor) that encompass conditions across life stages. She describes, "SUN Fit and Well is comprehensive health protection and savings from childhood (starting at 30 days old) up until age 100." 

For prevention, SUN Fit and Well provides Gold membership access to GoWell, Sun Life's wellness program. Here, members can enjoy special privileges that will help them keep mind and body fit. According to GoWell advocate, Ms. Jaymie Pizarro, this includes easy access to health and wellness information, fitness and wellness events, advice from nutrition and health experts, and more.

fit and fab women of Sun Life
The good news is, even if you're not yet a SUN Fit and Well policy holder, you can still be a member of GoWell. Just log on to www.gowell.com.ph so you can pre-register and join activities like zumba and yoga sessionsrunning clinics, and more for free! "We make sure to cater to all people so that a vast majority of Filipinos could start exercising now, get fit, and have fun," assured Jaymie.

"Sun Life remains committed to helping Filipinos face a brighter tomorrow by being in the best of health," shares Ms. Riza. "The results of the Asia Health Index reiterate the need to promote a healthier lifestyle, and Sun Life wants to be the Filipinos' partner in pursuing the journey."

For those who need that extra push, I pray that after reading this, many of you would finally find time to exercise. However, if you have an existing medical condition, make sure to ask your doctor for advice first. Please do share with me in the comments section if I was able to encourage you. I'd love to hear your story! 😊


Wednesday, January 18, 2017

Beauty Collagen Hot Pot Now Available in Bijin Nabe by Tsukada Nojo at S Maison Conrad Manila

Anybody who's familiar with collagen knows that this protein helps keep skin look plumper, more hydrated, and younger. It's no wonder products containing collagen has become very popular in recent years. But, what does this have to do with food, you ask? Read on …

looking forward to trying a beauty collagen hot pot for the first time
photo credit: ARC Public Relations, Inc.
Bijin Nabe by Tsukada Nojo is a unique Japanese farm-to-table concept restaurant that became popular for its signature Beauty Collagen Hot Pot. Also known as Bijin Nabe, this dish uses the Golden Collagen Stock, a rich and exquisite broth that is imported directly from the Miyazaki Prefecture in Japan, home to the Jidori chicken.

the soup stock initially looks like white gelatin before it is heated
A special breed, Jidori is considered the "kobe beef of chicken" because it is meatier and more sinewy than its counterparts, making it tastier and richer in collagen. Jidori is grown in the only privately owned free range farm in Japan, under constant care and with a closely watched diet.

tender and tasty Jidori chicken in nabe
To produce the famous broth, Jidori chicken undergoes a delicate 18-hour stewing process until the essence of the bones and meat is completely dissolved into the stock. I was quite surprised when it was served on our table because it looked like white gelatin!

beautifully arranged ingredients on top of the soup stock
When heated, the stock slowly dissolves into its liquid form that is delicately milky and tastes very, very flavorful. My first sip from the tiny tasting cup was simply lip-smacking! Plus, the chicken meat that came with the broth was very tender and tasty.

condiments (from left): Layu, Leek Oil, Yuzukosho, and Shoyu
Of course, a hot pot wouldn't be complete without additional ingredients so we also enjoyed fresh vegetables, ground chicken meat, and seafood paired with a selection of four condiments: a light soy sauce called Shoyu, flavorful Leek Oil, the zesty spice of Yuzukosho, and the aromatic chili Layu sauce.

ready to make zosui
After the veggies and shrimp are consumed, diners have the option to use the remaining broth where one can add cooked rice and egg to make a tasty porridge called zosui, or request for a new bowl of nabe and add noodles instead of rice.

I like the dressing of this romaine lettuce salad, not too heavy
Before we started on the hot pot, my table companions and I also got to enjoy a Romaine Lettuce Caesar Salad with deliciously crisp greens, an interesting appetizer called Maximum Eggplant that surprisingly tasted really good, and Chicken Nanban made of boneless chicken that is moist and juicy beneath the breading.

the maximum eggplant -- crispy outside while soft and moist inside
We also got to sample different variants of Nikumaki -- rice wrapped with a thin layer of pork then rolled inside a lettuce leaf, which can already be a meal in itself. We capped off our amazing meal by sharing a plate of Sweet Potato with Vanilla Ice Cream. Yum!

like chicken fingers, I think this would be a hit with kids :)
Bijin Nabe is the brainchild of the Tsukada Nojo (Japanese for "Tsukada Farm"), a pioneering private farm located in Kyushu, Japan that is acclaimed for its high quality poultry raising methods. With its bona fide background, the Bijin Nabe by Tsukada Nojo branch in the Philippines guarantees a new kind of authentic Japanese culinary experience that's exactly the same as its overseas counterparts in Japan and Singapore.  

Nikumaki has four flavors: original, cheese, mayo, and spicy
Guests should also anticipate that when visiting this restaurant, they'll get a very personal dining experience as the service staff treats every bowl of nabe as a piece of art, giving it ceremonial respect aptly reserved for the most exquisite of Japanese cuisine. They are well-trained in guiding diners to make the Bijin Nabe experience as authentic as can be.

dessert for sharing to cap off a very filling meal
To give us an idea about the price, our server shared that a serving of Bijin Nabe per person costs P750. Visit Bijin Nabe by Tsukada Nojo at the second floor of S Maison in Conrad Manila. Learn more by visiting their official website at http://bijinnabe.ph. You may also follow @BijinNabePH on Facebook and Instagram as well as join the conversations online by using the hashtag #BijinNabePH