UNIQLO Spring/Summer 2021

This was my first physical event. Pretty nice seeing Uniqlo clothes again, inside the store, actually. Now since it's the launch of their Spring Summer 2021 collection, I am so stoked to see several things especially clothes with materials that are light and airy. Keeping cool during this season is of course, essential especially if we're all in the Philippines where it's sunny almost 90 percent of the year.

 What's good is that they were able to put this event together even if we had to have swab tests an hour before the event and we were separated into groups, into different times so we don't crowd up like in the past. Everyone followed regulations so we're all safe. 

This year, UNIQLO came out with really nice designs for their house collections like Uniqlo U. They've got futuristic workout clothes that are light and breezy, no heavy clumped stuff, so you can still have a good workout inside your homes. Aside from that, they've got wireless bras that have shape lift so women can still feel confident anytime of the day.

 They also have recent collaborations for Uniqlo UT like UNIQLO Hana Tajima (those Japanese prints), UNIQLO Jason Polan UT (the cartoony ones), and the new one with the Louvre Museum called UNIQLO Musee du Louvre. You'll see the Mona Lisa and some iconic pieces that are associated with the museum pieces that will be printed on your favorite UT shirts

The UNIQLO Ines dela Fressange felt so lady like, while the UNIQLO JW Anderson collection have more pieces that are into the great British outdoors, and I look good in them. Well, to get you into that mood, here's a video I made from the time I went to their Glorietta 5 UNIQLO Flagship Store in Makati. Enjoy!

Now all you gotta do is order them via their app, online store, or visit the Uniqlo stores that remain open despite the pandemic. You'll look good, feel good while wearing them even at home. That's good for your mental health too. :)

Maris, Kokoy and Marc Agrees "Stay In Love" Needs Second Season

It was fun, a riot to actually hear them tell their story. When we interviewed them before the show, they were trying to figure out each others personalities and yes, some of them were pretty nervous because they were going to work with them for the first time. 

These days, they're like family. They bonded over scenes, the things in between takes, and frankly, mostly food for lunch or dinner... which happens quite often. During the interview, I saw people who wouldn't want to leave the set, who looked forward to ride the van back to the hotel and talk some more, to spend hours chatting about the whole day and bond some more even if it means they'll lose sleep for the next day. Walls were put down, they got to know each other as actors, as ordinary people, not to mention the same things they did with the actual production team that made this all happen.

They all were a bit sad though when they realized that this will all end in a few days, but they were extremely happy to think that they started this because it was work, and didn't even realize they are earning lifetime friends because of STAY IN LOVE.

 

Although Kokoy blatantly admitted that there won't be real romance between him and Maris in real life, they've become really good friends in this project. I saw him smile several times (like in this photo) when either he or Maris remember a scene from the series which they both enjoyed. They're now the type of friends who can do a lot of horrible things with each other, do slapstick hits on the head but end up laughing it off because they're absolutely cool with each other.

 

Marc although new to the business, was lauded by the Director, the senior actors, telling us all that even if he doesn't know to put a part of the scene together, he just sits on it for a few minutes, asks the right questions and picks up everything VERY fast. He's very talented, good looking (heck I blurted out I envy his jawline) and he admits, he actually learned so much doing this series. The certain things like how to be on set on time, learning from veteran actors in the set, it's like a workshop happening real time and he's cherishing much of the time he's on set because of experience he's getting. People are still looking forward to see him together with the character of Maris called Diding, anything is still possible right?

Maris went all red when I asked the two guys about how she fared in the show. Kokoy and Marc didn't hold back, as they say she's got this natural flare for comedy. She sees the plight of Diding as something really serious, and she dedicated to all kasambahays which she felt she represented in the show. Now the only thing I think these two guys are being truthful about is the falling in love part for a girl like Maris (I kid), but she's gorgeous, and I think her character's story needs a little more time to develop. There's still a lot of story to tell aside from just falling in love and the usual family related conflicts they play around with. 

Aside from that, there's phenomenal fun they can still make with the characters of Welwel Silvestre, Elsa Droga (the neighborhood chismosas), Pooh (who plays a more serious, Charm Aranton, and Ashley Colet. Also, I asked Bobby Andrews (who is also paired and smooched by Ms. Ruffa Gutierrez) if it would reach the feat of him and Angelu's loveteam, and I think he kinda hinted they might if they worked hard for it. Now that's a challenge that Kokoy, Marc and Maris won't be backing out from... and I saw how eager they were in wanting a second season for STAY IN LOVE.

 

Direk Rod Marmol has high hopes this would be possible. You still have time to watch the last few episodes of STAY IN LOVE which airs Tuesdays 9:30PM on TV5 (and free to stream on Cignal Play). There is also a plan to have this show on streaming sites very soon, but before that happens, go and catch what you can on free to air TV. 

There's a ton of things they still haven't told us during the blogcon, and they assured us we'll like how it'll all end, or will it? :)

ALDEN RICHARDS For GMA Now

 

 Today is a good day as we all get to the launch of the new device GMA is launching officially, it's the new GMA NOW. It's a digital receiver made to make sure your GMA viewing is clearer, real time and  free! It's micro usb OTG powered and made for your Android mobile phones for the one time price of Php 649 only. This would be perfect for people on the go especially for those who would never want to miss a show from GMA Network, GMA News TV, Heart of Asia, Hallypop, DepEd TV and other free to air channels in the area. Best of all, they got the good looking man Alden Richards to be the face of this new device. He'll be appearing in different shows, materials, video and digital ads to make sure you're gonna get the new GMA NOW. "

Alden says "I was really surprised and happy to be the face of GMA Now, that trust still continues on my 10th year. We do have a conscious effort to deliver the message that GMA never gets tired to innovate, to adapt to the current times. I am excited for them to experience this especially for the Kapuso viewers. I have wished to do an international collab with a foreign artist around the world, I was supposed to do that in 2020, hopefully I can do it this year. To venture outside the country, gain knowledge as an actor. Before the old GMA way was Fanatxt. In the device, there is access to a community to connect with Kapuso stars and other Kapuso fans. It will feature an artist every month, as much as we want to watch local television, we want to also talk to the stars because of this. It's a different feature that only GMA Now has. GMA Now is available in gadget stores all over Metro Manila and be ordered on GMANetwork.com. For those who are mobile, or can't watch because they are at work, this can solve it. We have local shows, and it is affordable. 649 with no monthly fees, it is also available on Shopee and Lazada."

 

 

He adds "I have been watching a few KDramas but it might not be a hit with Filipinos because it's dark, but let's see if we can see more love stories. Who knows, we might have a movie in the works that would also be seen on channels which the GMA NOW can also get from digital signals in the country."

I'll have a separate post about how this performs and a short unboxing, so make sure you subscribe to my YouTube channel here too. YouTube.com/kumagcow, see you!

Valentines Day Ideas During the Pandemic

For me, this time is important. It's been almost a year since we've all got locked in our homes and of course Valentines day is fast approaching. What do you do in a situation like this? I've done the legwork of putting these things together of some really good stuff hotels and brands are dishing out this February 14. Truth be told, there are really good ones out there and if you ask me, it's okay to dine out just as long as you follow strict health protocols. You're not just helping yourself in the process but also the businesses and employees.

 Dining

 Sheraton Manila Bay

 

 Sheraton Manila Bay just recently opened their Pacific Lounge. If you want to celebrate Valentines day at home or this hotel, you can have a romantic fine dining dinner with you. They have "Love Picnic To Go" which costs Php 2,188 net. It's a 3-course Dinner package for your and your loved one. They also have a Valentines Grazing Box & Country Baguette which costs Php 2,488. You also get a complimentary bottle of wine with it, which is good considering that price. Call them via +632 5318 0788, 0917 583 7294,  0917 583 7326 for reservations. You can also email them via sh.mnlsb.fnb@sheraton.com. A 24 hour advance order is required so they can prepare it for you. If you opt for a romantic dinner under the gazebo, the 5 course dinner and wine with grazing box would be nice.That costs Php 9,888, but I love how exclusive it is so get that if you have money to spare.

 They also have a Pre-Dinner Cocktail Buffet for only Php 988 which includes house wine, local beer, chilled juices, fresh juices, iced tea or soda. It only happens every Friday, so take advantage of that if you can celebrate early.

Sofitel Manila

 

Sofitel's got your romantic date while the sun is going down, or covered while dining out under the stars. They have a new food truck which they aptly call The Food Truck by Sofitel. Aside from the usual international food they do so nicely, they've got aphrodisiac-ish items such as Foie Gras Sliders, Beef Brisket, Chicken Gyro, Sizzling Gambas and your hubby or boyfriend's favorite, unlimited beer! For the more classy ones, they also have wine and sparkling wine to make you a little woozy. It costs Php 4,000, but well worth it. You may inquire with this form https://bit.ly/VDayatTheFoodTruck. Make sure you also do reserve ahead of time so you can go there without hitches!

You can also opt for the romantic valentines day at home by ordering Spiral at Home. The best dishes, all well planned and thought about to make sure your special someone enjoys it for that occasion. They're serving Truffle Roasted Poulet Jaune, Burrata Salad, Cheese and Charcuterie, their Chef's Sushi Selection and a dessert treat of Framboise Chocolate Crunch Gateaux with macarons. That truffle dish is already making me salivate, plus the dessert OMG. Go and check the rates via this form and inquire about it https://bit.ly/RomanticDinneratHome.

 

Savoy Hotel

 

 

This is my personal favorite hotel to stay in when I'm going in and out of Manila. It sits right outside the Ninoy Aquino International Airport 3 and you can even walk there by foot from here. They currently have good breads including Ube Cheese Pan de Sal offered at the Savoy Cafe. They also have really good ala carte offers which is composed of Western and Asian dishes. They also have really mean salads and sandwiches too, so if you're up for a breakfast meet or snack, this would be a nice place to do it.

Belmont Hotel Manila

 Part of the Megaworld Group of hotels, Belmont Hotel Manila also has regular dining options. Aside from that, they've got a good bar that serves cocktails from their in house bar. I'd suggest you call (02) 5318-8887 or email dine@belmontmanila.com if you want to have a fun night with friends and close family, with health protocols observed of course as they have their own Stay Safe campaign. They even share their cocktail recipes via B Sessions which they post on their Facebook page. I'd like to have a dry Martini or frozen Margarita with a few ladies please!

 

Shopping at Shopee

 Since most of us can't go out or choose not to really be outside our homes, shopping must be done online. There are a few things in Shopee that are good for you or your loved one. We still need to remain active even at home right?

 

Track your workout efforts with this Xiaomi Mi Band 5. Know your heart rate, steps you take and the calories you burn. Get one here

https://shopee.prf.hn/l/7YEjaG9

For girlfriends that adore beauty products, Vice cosmetics has this Kavogue Everyday Palette. She will look pretty in this, and it's also on sale! Get it here

https://shopee.prf.hn/l/7DBebgw

Now celebrating valentines day need not just for parents, you can have your kids dressed up with these Sesame Street themed sleepwear. Too cute!

If your boyfriend always says he didn't have batteries and could not text you back, this signals you to buy this Pineng Powerbank. It's on sale too so better get this on your cart! Get it here

https://shopee.prf.hn/l/7oo1MBJ

If your boyfriend is muscular, or athletic, this Gun massager is used by NBA greats. You can use this on him for a night of relaxing massage without having to do it all by hand. Get one here

https://shopee.prf.hn/l/rpOlbNk

The day after, it's also nice to brush together. Get this Bamboo toothbrush. Cheap too! See it here

https://shopee.prf.hn/l/7Evk1O2

These Cowin Wireless Sweatproof Earphones would be good for those who run, buy two if you want to join in the fun!

Get it here https://shopee.prf.hn/l/7YELNa2

Wash up with this Cerave Renewing SA Cleanser. It pays to be clean! Check it here

https://shopee.prf.hn/l/KjL3lkB

For a fun desk, KDrama and KPop lovers should get this Bling Light 3D Night Light, because it doesn't need to be bright, on a romantic night hehe. Get one on this shop

https://shopee.prf.hn/l/rGEnkgO

Shopee also has some of these up to 90% discount, and free shipping too. You don't have to go out and buy stuff because almost everything is here!

Now don't worry about the pandemic, we're all going to be fine as long as you follow strict health guidelines set by experts and the government. Take time to make her feel special, your family, your friends, because at the end of the day, valentines day is all about LOVE and you are part of that. You have to still make it special and memorable for her, she deserves the nice things, you too. Get her a nice dinner, small gifts, and who knows, she might give you the same too.

 

Happy valentines day!