Visayan Music Awards Reveals Top 10 Finalists

    The Visayan Music Awards (VizMA) has released its Top Ten (10) Finalists for its songwriting competition. Organized by the Sacred Heart School for Boys Batch 1985 Foundation Inc., and endorsed by the Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas, VizMA aims to recognize men and women who have played an important role in the promotion of the Visayan language, culture and music.

   The finalists are set to perform a live rendition of their song with the Cebu Philharmonic Orchestra at the inaugural Visayan Music Awards Finals Night on July 27, 7PM at the Oakridge Pavilion, Mandaue City. Artists Karencitta and Max Surban are also set to grace the event with host Giselle Sanchez.

    “We originally planned to select seven winners but eventually decided to increase the pool to 10 to recognize all the excellent composers who placed so much effort into the competition and best represent Visayan culture and music,” said VizMA Project Chairperson Barney Borja.

   “We had the best music arrangers and musicians in the country review each of the songs over several weeks. We also flew artists across the country to arrange and produce their songs. This year’s song finalists genuinely show the beauty, breadth and variety of Visayan music. We are all very happy with the outcome,” he added.

      Over 500 songs were submitted in VizMA’s pioneering year including entries from a Catholic priest, a court stenographer and a practicing lawyer. The Grand Prize winner will receive Php100,000; Php 75,000 and Php 50,000 for the Second and Third Placers, respectively; and Php 10,000 each for the Fourth to Tenth Placers. The finalists will also receive a scholarship worth Php 150,000 from Thames International's Innovation and Creative Enterprise Program (ICE).

 The composers and song interpreters of Top 10 VizMA finalists

Singer-Songwriter Ferdinand Aragon who wrote Matag Piraso delivered a soul-wrenching performance during VizMA’s Media night.

Dave Smith and Atty. George Laurente interpreted the Durados' Balitaw

Two of the creative minds behind VizMA - Mr. Barney Borja and Mr. Kenneth Cobunpue - both are successful members of Batch '85.

For tickets and questions about VizMA, visit its official Facebook account. See you at Oakridge this Saturday! 

Ginoong Pilipinas Cebu: Promoting Cebuano Male Beauty and Substance

     Cebu is enjoying a spotlight in and out of the beauty pageant arena in the Philippines. It’s no wonder why the place is producing a lot of formidable contenders in prestigious beauty pageants. One key evidence is the recent coronation of the Talisaynon beauty queen Gazini Ganados as Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2019.

     We witness Cebuana beauties and talents dominating local and international runways, big screens, and pageants. Now, it’s time for us to go full force and share the golden moment to male beauty pageants. 

     Recently, a unified team of Cebuano experts in various in the fields of fashion, entertainment, lifestyle, and social media hatched Ginoong Pilipinas Cebu – a male pageant in the Visayas highlighting modern-day heroism among other substantial advocacies. 

    Before its most awaited coronation night, Ginoong Pilipinas Cebu organizers and key sponsors presented Fusion – a two-part event consists of men’s wear fashion show and talents night. Fusion is hosted by beauty queen and singer Victoria Leslie Ingram of AD Models Philippines. The event's overall creative concept is a brainchild of Mr. Dexter Alazas for Stylefirm Cebu Fashion and Lifestyle.

      Held at the Events at Soltana in Lapu-Lapu City, 18 dashing male finalists set out to compete for the Best in Talent award. The gentlemen also donned the masterpieces of Cebu’s top designers Dexter Alazas, Rei Escario, Mike Yapching, Alejandro Godinez, Danny Booc, Mel Maria, and Brendon Cenon. 

    The well-groomed candidates showcased different talent performances as diverse as performing monologue and yoyo tricks. Candidates OJ, James, Kevin, Jose, Gedeon, Vengie, and Edbert serenaded the audience with a romantic song number. Candidates Joren, Jaron, Kensley, Lorenzo, and Erik got the audience all pumped up with their dances. 

Mr. Lorenzo Isip awarded by Ms. Mirza Daytia

    In the end, three young gentlemen were hailed as top 3 talents. The winner will be announced on the coronation night on September 21st. Among the top 3 talents is Mr. Lorenzo Isip who is also the current Mr.Tourism Cebu 2019. Lorenzo performed an interpretative dance number reflecting his personal advocacy which is Sports Tourism. Watch Lorenzo’s full performance HERE.
     I was also lucky enough to ask Lorenzo few questions in regards to his recent achievement. Here, we'll get to know him a little bit more.
-How did you feel when your name was announced as one of the top talents?
"I was shocked and happy at the same time because all our efforts paid off. I never thought that I would get that award, but thanks to my Kuya Jay, my mentor, for providing the concept. to Sir Marj [Salve] who choreographed my talent, and to my support crew Charles [Llanto] and Jomarey [Damolo]. All the late-night practices and sacrifices really paid off."
-What specific preparations did you do for your talent performance? What's the most challenging part about it?
"At first I had a hard time because im not used to dancing and we had a hard time finding a support crew who can dance with me with the same physique as mine, but Kuya Jay [Cavales] used to collaborate with the models who agreed to be my backup. We only had less than a week to prepare, but thankfully we pulled it off. We had three practice sessions to master my talent and it wasn't that easy. With God's help, we gave justice to the performance."
-Song and dance performances are the usual choices for beauty pageants. What made you decide to go for an interpretative dance?
"When we were brainstorming, we thought most of the guys would do song and dance numbers. We knew we had to tread a road that is less taken, and dance drama was the answer. The choice to interpret "Paglaum" was aimed at providing awareness of the ill effects of substance abuse. I'm a proud advocate of sport wellness tourism, so we thought of a concept that will emphasize my advocacy, and there, I was glad everybody loved my performance."

Mr.  Erik Viser and Mr. Lito Gruet

Mr. Francis Kenny Torrevillas and Mr. Eric Tan

    Erik Viser top 2 talent, followed by Francis Kenny Torrevillas. Viser performed an ethnic-cultural dance, while Torrevillas served a sexy song and dance number to the audience. 

    Mr. Lito Gruet, Ms. Mirza Daytia, Ms. Margarita Domingo Frasco, and Mr. Eric Gregor Tan served as the panel of judges during last night’s talent competition. 

Mr. Gerald Flores and Qatar-based fashion designer Niphert Kaindoy

    Minor awards were given to deserving candidates: JCI Mr. Social Entrepreneur Award is Mr. Lorenzo Isip, JCI Mr. Sociable (during the Inferno event) is Mr. Joren Chiva, Mr. Filipino Homes is Mr. Joren Chiva who was awarded by Ms. Myrza Dytia of Filipino Homes, Best in Runway is Mr. Gerald Flores. Flores is awarded by Qatar based fashion designer Niphert Kaindoy.

     Young models from the AD Models Philippines (New Breed 2020), as well as teens and kids for their modeling workshop at Admire Models Division, also graced last night's runway. All of which are wearing Dexter Alazas' Luxe Resort Collection.

    Last night is another testament of how talented Cebuanos are. More events await the candidates before their coronation night. Stay tuned for updates about Ginoong Pilipinas Cebu by following its official Facebook account and hashtag #GinoongPilipinasCebu 

Floor Length Bridal Gowns for a Registry Office Wedding

    We definitely do have our own idea of what our dream wedding is going to look like. That often depends on our preferences, our interest, and our culture. Weddings may also take in different locations too. The best wedding location for me is a garden wedding, but it may not be the same for you. 

      There are a million ways to celebrate weddings in so many places. These days though, some couple opts for a registry office wedding and just bring on the jewels at their reception. The best thing about a wedding held at a registry office is that the bride has the freedom to whichever wedding dress office registry her heart desires, regardless of the somewhat tricky dress codes which are such a big deal in the past. Luckily, these days, puffy and lengthy wedding dresses can be flounced by any bride at a registry office wedding. Whichever dress you'd like to go for, here are three floor-length bridal gowns suitable for a registry wedding. All of which hugs your curves and is ready to get you to feel extra sexy on your loveliest day.

     This chiffon-made bridal gown is perfect for its flowy effect. Its elegance is something that would look heavenly in any body figure making this a perfect choice for a memorable registry wedding ceremony.

     This sexy bodycon-ish bridal gown is perfect for the bride and fore very lady who is on the hunt for the best dress or any clothes for a wedding. How this dress was cut and sewn makes this a real stand out despite the absence of any appliques on this one. Plus, everybody looks fantastic in a mermaid dress so this is such a huge bonus.

    Who said you can't wear colored bridal gown? Break tradition and expectation on this lovely sofy blush wedding dress. This one is not only great for you as a bride, but you can also have this one as part of your bridemaid dresses. I don't know if I have mentioned it on my blog before, but I am also a huge fan of off-shoulder dresses. I feel like it's perfect for any body type and a great way to accentuate one's face.
   

     Are you going for a classic puffy bridal gown or for a tight hugging flor length wedding dress? I hope this finds you joy as you are choosing the latter. 

love lots,

Tin

Cebu Parklane International Hotel's Distinct 13th Anniversary Celebration

  Cebu Parklane International Hotel, a hotel in Cebu that stands for Cebu, celebrated its 13th anniversary last July 11, 2019, at the hotel's Victoria Hall. Celebrating its milestone, the hotel prepared a distinct way of celebrating its 13th year of existence. Guided by the theme Distinctly Local: Celebrating Arts and Culture, featuring Cebuano Food and Fashion, the hotel weaved together Cebuano food and fashion gracefully as it featured the works of fashion designer Dexter Alazas and the genius kitchen creations of Chef June Rhoses Alviola Fernandez. Parklane delivered rich and meaningful experiences to its guests all throughout the event with 3 parts (fashion show, Cebuano food fusion dinner, and special awarding ceremonies).

  Along with the introduction of its new tagline "Distinctly Local", Parklane introduced its wholesome lineup of ambassadors. The meticulously chosen men and women embody the different significant facets of promoting Cebu. The commendable individuals are as follows: Mr. Dexter Alazas for Fashion, Chef Richard Hao for Food, Madam Nelia Navarro for Cancer Awareness, Mr. Joselito "Boboi" Costas for Sustainable Tourism, Ms. Ethel Diane Ting for Fitness, and Sports, Mr. Gavin Sanson Bagares for Heritage, Mr. Ruel Rosello for Arts, Mr. Tony Galon for Environment, and Ms. Jack Chang for Music.

    The ambassadors who deeply embody the hotel's beliefs in promoting Cebu owned the ramp flaunting the Cebu Wear creations of Dexter Alazas.

     The night was ignited by the skilled performances of dancers from different municipalities of Cebu. Dancers from Aloguinsan, Catmon, and Liloan presented their festival dance, alongside the Oasis percussionists as Cebuano models killed it on the runway showcasing Cebu Wear by no other than Dexter Alazas.

       One of the main highlights of the event was the gastronomical experience headed by Chef June accentuating the diverse culinary history of Cebu. The distinctly local dinner which was divided into 6 fantastic parts featured the following on its menu: 

Starter: Brûléed Native Chicken Liver Pâté

    A brilliant work of Chef June turning the savory flavor of Cebu's native chicken into a delightful French pâté 😊

Soup: Dumanjug's Bisnok in Dumpling Soup with Green Papaya, Moringga Oil, and Ginseng
     This one is an instant crowd favorite. Definitely one for the books. I would say that this shows much of Chef June Rhoses Alviola Fernandez creativity and innovation in the kitchen. Hats off!

The Ocean: Pan-Fried Alonguinsan Kinsan Fish
   A personal favorite. I have tried Kinsan fish before but in another dish. Serving it pan-fried is a brilliant way of highlighting the fish's natural taste and texture.

The Harvest: Samboan Passion Fruit and Aloguinsan Dragon Fruit Sorbet 
     Who would have thought of combining passion fruit and dragon fruit into a sorbet? The sweetness of this one if just right and the fruits' flavor blends wonderfully.

The Land: Braised Beef Short Rib with Crispy Balbacua
    It's impossible to go home hungry with this crunchy and crispy gastronomical number. The soft and flavorful beef went so well with the nutritious millet zhuzhed up with local tomatoes and fried bolinao fish. How I wish I have devoured this using my hands!

Argao's Mango Wine Rose is a perfect pair for Cebu's premium cheese!

Cheese Board: Assorted Cebu Dried Fruits and Nuts with Bogo Arapal Goat Cheese, Danao Kiseo and Assorted Cheese with Thin Sticks Salvaro and Organic Honey
     Unlike its foreign counterparts, Cebu has awesome sweet and creamy cheese variety. Each tasted to well with the thin salvaro and dried fruits and nuts.

Sweets: Cassava Bibingka, Lilo-an Rosquillos, Masi Cheese Cake, and Carcar Ampao
    Everything on this sweets plate is heavenly, but the most celestial one would be the masi cheese cake. It's very innovative for the team to serve masi in a cheese cake form. 

     The celebration also served as a retrospection on how the hotel pondered on its humble beginnings as it looks forward with a grateful heart to bigger and bolder plans in fostering the all good things that make Cebu a worthwhile destination. Cebu Parklane General Manager Cenelyn Manguilimotan, on her speech, thanked Parklane's Board of Directors, the hotel's different departments, and everyone else who has been part of the hotel's success. The event was graced by officers from the Provincial Government, officials from the Department of Tourism 7, and media and corporate personnel.

    As a way of giving back to those who have taken its corporate journey with them, the hotel awarded their distinguished 2017 Top Corporate Accounts, Top Online Travel Agencies, and Top Travel Agencies with personalized plaques.

     To thank their loyal patrons, Parklane has an ongoing promo for the whole month of July. Dine in a group of 13 and have the 13th dine for free. Feast on their flagship restaurants: Manuel's Restaurant for Lunch or Dinner Buffet, and Kan-anan Restaurant's for Cebuano Buffet which includes Sutukil All-you-Can and Beandate's Merienda Cena.

For more details and inquiries, you may contact Cebu Parklane International Hotel at 234-7000 or 411-7000. Cebu Parklane International Hotel is located at the corner of Archbishop Reyes Avenue and Escario Street. For further information about Cebu Parklane International Hotel, visit http://www.parklanehotel.com.ph/ or their official Facebook account.

Charming Bridal Gowns Under US$100

    Shopping gowns can be so stressful especially for the brides. It's because it's definitely one of the highlights of any wedding regardless of the venue where the ceremony takes place. All eyes are going to be on the bride so that's very understandable. Heck, if I were to get married, I'll go gaga over what gowns should I wear too. Depending on the style and theme of the wedding itself, some bridal gowns could have skyrocketing prices which could break one's bank. That shouldn't be. One just has to be resourceful and creative enough to find ways and means of saving. I'm not telling anyone to become an extreme cheapskate, but everybody sure gets to benefit the price of being economical. In that sense, here are few bridal gowns under USD$100 which are not only affordable but charming as well. 

      I have said this for so many times and I'm going to say this again: I love lace dresses! Lace dresses look so romantic, and yes expensive, and they're just perfect for any dreamy occasion such as weddings. This one costs only $64USD and I would say that it would be a great score to have this one. The dress though is perfect for a boho themed wedding where it can translate a free-spirited bride.

      It must have something to do with our culture, but here in the Philippines most brides really wear long dresses regardless of styles. However, there are some brides who go for bold and more zhushed up options such as short bridal gown which are perfect for vintage-themed weddings. This sweetheart gown only costs USD$99 and I'm sure this could make one bride a really happy bride. 

      Your wedding is the best time for you to show your persona and style. For brides who are so beyond their times, I would see them wearing festive wedding dresses in so many styles and color. Black is a real stand out. I remember a friend saying that she would love to wear a black bridal gown and request everyone else to wear one. That sure is a brilliant way of standing out. This black mermaid dress costs only USD$69.98 and with its details, this is a real stand out a gown for a non-conventional bride. 

           What type of bridal gown would you like to wear at your wedding? Would you go for the traditional or for something modern and unconventional? 

love lots,

Tin