These days, saying "I Do" has become lavish affairs that couples thoroughly plan for to create a truly memorable event. In the Philippines, Conrad Manila is the latest wedding urban destination to provide soon-to-be husbands and wives with their dream weddings.

The idyllic venue brings to life dream nuptials with the help of its dedicated and inspired team of individuals who ensure that guests' needs are impeccably met and every detail immaculately executed. Conrad Manila further features pillar-less, high-ceilinged ballrooms and a spacious outdoor garden able to accommodate various kinds of affairs that range from intimate to big social celebrations.

But, aside from being conveniently located near the city's grandest churches, this hotel is also perfectly situated such that weddings and other important gatherings could have the romantic detail of the picturesque Manila Bay sunset vista as their breathtaking backdrop.

It's always a cause for celebration whenever a fellow Filipino's talents gets to be showcased in the international arena. After host Tyra Banks wore clothes crafted by Rajo Laurel in a recent ANTM: British Invasion episode, his fellow gifted fashion designer, Francis Libiran, also gets featured in another highly-anticipated episode that aired April 30th on the ETC channel.

I was invited to the viewing party held in Seventh High at the BGC last Monday night. Of course, the guests eagerly anticipated what kinds of clothes Francis would be designing for the show's hopefuls.

I was very impressed to see how he fashioned couture clothes from --- Hello Kitty items! From small items like ball pens and band aids to huge ones such as stuffed toys and metal lunch boxes, Francis was able to incorporate all those into one-of-a-kind dresses that many of the models were able to wear very well.

The show introduced Francis by showing photos of him and of Anne Curtis wearing his creations. Everything is soooo gorgeous and was modeled really well by Anne. The room, as expected, was all abuzz when the clips were shown. 

It was indeed another proud moment for the Philippines. Congratulations Mr. Libiran! :) 

Catch ANTM: British Invasion every Monday night at 8PM on the ETC channel.

Filipinos are known worldwide to be hardworking people. It isn't surprising why many of our fellowmen keep being recognized in various countries by different award-giving institutions for excellence in many fields.  

Unilever's Gina Lorenzana affirmed positive Filipino traits and successes

Indeed, our country's greatest asset is its people. Day after day, hardworking Pinoys take on multiple challenges while remaining optimistic as we all keep on dreaming and working towards a bright future for our loved ones as well as wishing for a better and more progressive Philippines. 

The positive qualities in Filipinos allow us to continue smiling and to go above and beyond the call of duty. These traits, along with the much-needed sense of national identity, created the New Pinoy Mover, a Filipino who recognizes that every move makes a difference and strives to inspire and empower others by serving as a good example.

Marc Nelson and Apples Aberin hosted the Rexona MotionSense and Pinoy Movers launch at the Marriott Grand Ballroom