PLDT Home presents The Regine Series

A few months ago, I was honored to hear the Asia’s Songbird, herself, Regine Velasquez.

Uhm, disclaimer, this is a bit overdue. This has been in my drafts before I set off to the UK but I never had the chance to press the Post button. However, I just have to put this out to show my gratitude to PLDT, they’ve let me experience a breathtaking night, perfect for a music lover like me.

As part of the then ongoing tour for PLDT’s The Regine Series, the diva serenaded a hundred or so Cebuanos at SM City Cebu – Northwing.

There were a few contests and trivia before the songbird went on stage. But when it was time, the whole Northwing just erupted with screams of excitement and joy. As someone who grew up listening to Regine’s songs, it was overwhelmingly amazing.

You know a singer is really good if she’s belting songs while sitting. She was impeccable that night!

Regine serenaded us with a few chitchats in between songs but it was impressive how she can sing around 15 songs and still belt as good at the end as she did when the show started.

We were watching (and I was sitting behind) with a few celebrities. Regine’s beau, Ogie Alcasid, who shared a song with Regine on stage, everyone’s favorite Hanggang Ngayon; Anna Fegi, Medyo Maldito, Miss Universe Philippines 2016 Maxine Medina, Miss Universe 2014 Top 10 Finalist MJ Lastimosa. And seen on stage, Donna Cruz, who was Regine’s co-star in the 1996 film DoReMi. They shared a few intimate moments, just like how old friends see each other again and then both sang I Can, something that 90′s kids actually remember.

We were joined by Christian Bautista, himself. Goodness, he sounds just like his recorded songs. I was highly impressed by the way he handled the audience, going around the sitting area and hugging screaming fans. In fact, I could’ve grabbed him as he was an arm’s length away from me. But that would be entirely creepy.

One of my favorite parts of the evening was Regine singing Usahay without difficulty at all, not even the pronunciations.

During the finale, Regine was joined by the singing contestants held before the main event.

I wore denim with denim that day, I was quite pleased about it. But I’ll recreate this look and see if I can emphasize more about this trend.

Here’s something from PLDT Home, themselves:

Salamat kaayo, Cebu!

To thank Cebuanos for the unwavering support for and loyalty to PLDT Home, the highly anticipated Cebu leg of the Regine Concert Series was held at SM City Cebu where the one and only Asia’s Songbird and PLDT Home ambassador Regine Velasquez gave a world-class musical performance to a full house audience. The concert also featured impeccable musical direction by no less than Raul Mitra and supporting performances by world-class crooner and TV personality Christian Bautista, among other celebrity guests.

“PLDT Home has always been at the forefront of digital innovations and multimedia content offerings, and we want Cebu to be the first to experience the smart Home,” PLDT VP and Home Marketing Director Gary Dujali said. “This is our way of thanking them for their invaluable trust and for making us their number one choice for their broadband, digital and multimedia needs.”

For more information about their digital suite of products and services, visit pldthome.com.

MAS! More Music, Arts and Style by Style Origin

Previously on Ron Does Things… I had a full month in July, apologies for having blogged about this so late. And because of that, you only have until August 15 to enjoy Ayala Center Cebu’s shopping fest. Forgive me?

Their last few events will be:

From August 10 to 14 at the Activity Center, It’s a Kids Fair, big discounts await everything that all kids love!

On August 14, 2-5PM at the Activity Center and all around the mall, Kid’s Happy Day, an afternoon delight filled with activities and treats for the kids!

I was invited to witness Style Origin’s fashion show of over 30 brands showcasing the best of their bests. From fashion ensembles to travel suitcases to stylish footwear. From Rustan’s to Metro to Topshop and Dorothy Perkins, everyone favorite brands walked that night. These are some of my favorites:

Gingersnaps

GAP

Just G

Dorothy Perkins

Mango

Keds

Sperry

Topshop

My favorite model that night: Jessica Yang

A fun-filled night with a lot of music and style inspiration flowing around Ayala Terraces. I left wanting to curate my own pieces from each brands! Wish I had the funds, though? Ha!

With my fellow Cebu Fashion Bloggers, Marco of countocram.com, Doyzkie of www.doyzkie.com, yours truly, Katrina of keiseeeinthecity.wordpress.com, Jean of www.lifeonaflavoredrunway.com, Jesse Jake of www.jessejake.com, Ching of www.chingsadaya.com and Rabsin of www.burnthosefats.com.

For a full set of the fashion show, visit here and don’t forget to like my Facebook page while you’re there. ◕‿◕

Also, if you’d like discount coupons from Rustan’s F&F, Aeropostale, ladybag and Hobbiestock, do comment below, I can give it to you, no commitments required!

The Summer Wear I Never Got To Summer With: Spears and Prints

My last TSWINGTSW installment! In case you missed it, I started this series a few posts ago because I wanted to post these summer wear, still, despite the rainy season commencing here in the Philippines, already.

I bought this top thinking I’d be able to post around Coachella days. But you know, #adulting. Anyhow, alongside crochet tops, off shoulders are also back in season and not just for the summer! They’ve slowly waded through the muddy waters of fashion early this year, from ribbed off shoulders to those with ruffles, with pompoms to off shoulders with bows. Off shoulders that are cropped, that are hanging, that are actual dresses, even off shoulders that are body suits. Again, we’ve stepped back and took from fashion history (80′s? 90′s?) and made it better. It’s everywhere and it suits every one!

Off shoulders are best paired with chokers and statement necklaces. And if you have short hair like mine, you may want to look for chandelier earrings. When the shoulder area is rather blank, accessories up top can be as ‘noisy’ as you want.

To complete this festival look, I’d put on some boots, braid my hair and put on a black fedora.

How would you style yourself in a festival? Let me know in the comments below!

Ron wears…

H&M off shoulder, Forever 21 ripped shorts, choker, earrings.

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Nailaholics, Nail Salon & Spa

On a rainy Saturday, in between events, I got to pamper myself at Nailaholics Nail Salon & Spa in Ayala Centre Cebu. YAY.

I had nowhere to go and I usually don’t like spending time in public spaces unless if shopping is happening. So I went to Nailaholics to get my nails done, a foot scrub and well, generally avoid the public whilst I wait for my next event.

You enter the beach-themed salon, whites and blue tones everywhere, making you feel instantly relaxed. Being in a beautiful island within a mall of raging shopaholics is something I didn’t think I’d experience, but here it is.

The staff was very accommodating, giving me my own sofa, rolled up my jeans and soaked my feet in just minutes. If they are full, you are usually included in a waiting list and you’ll be notified via SMS if one of the staff is available by then.

This was my view. How cool? It was gorgeous inside, and I couldn’t stop thinking about that. They also give you numerous pillows, so you can snooze if you like and be comfortable whilst doing that!

Foot scrubbing commenced. Around a month ago, I had my foot scrubbed at their SM City Cebu branched (after a long time) and that girl had the worst end of the stick. Oof. This one didn’t get much as my feet weren’t as calloused so it tickled me lots, too. TMI! No worries though, they don’t go overboard, so no bleeding whatsoever.

After the foot filing bit, they’ll continue with a pumice stone and sea salt scrub. All over your legs and feet. Then a glorious foot massage, right after. I wish it didn’t end at all!

As my left leg was being scrubbed, my hands were soaked in warm water and my nail services started. As per usual, they clean off your previous nail polish, if any. Trim your nails by consulting you how (square, round) and your desired length of it. Jacky was gentle but efficient. I didn’t feel pain or discomfort as she worked on my nails. She asked me every now and then if I’m feeling okay especially during crucial parts, the bits where it might be painful. 

I learned a few things from Jacky, as well. They don’t use merthiolate in Nailaholics because it tends to destroy the nails. Instead, they use cuticle oil to moisturize especially those who often use merthiolate and have cracks and dryness to their nails and cuticles. I believe it has Vitamin E, too.

Their polish application is like science, or maybe I’m just not used to premium care. Before the polish, right after the cuticle oil is applied, Jacky gave me a wonderful hand massage that I, also, didn’t want to end. I could sleep right then and there, as it was very relaxing. After which, a base coat (colorless) was applied, then my chosen nail polish and then the top coat (colorless), and a quick drying solution to – you guessed it – help the polish dry quicker. It took less than 10 minutes and I could touch it again without me destroying it.

They offer gel nail polish for those who wants their polish to last a month. I think, it’s very handy for travelers and busy people who rarely get to touch up their nails.

Jacky and I having a great time, woohoo! Well, mostly me, I’m not sure about her. I hope she didn’t have a bad time with my hands and feet. Eek.

Jacky’s finished product! It looks very wet and gel-y but that’s just the quick drying solution trying to do its thing.

I didn’t choose any color for my toenails as I was wearing closed shoes and had to go to an event right after.

Look at these interiors. So lovely! I wish I had the chance to stay in one of their cabanas, it looks like a fun time in there. Nevertheless, I had a great time and I’m going to continue to have a great time at Nailaholics. It’s a comfort zone amidst the busy world of shopping and corporate meetings.

They have 60 branches all in all around the country. Their 60th branch just opened in SM City Ilo-ilo. In Cebu, they have it in SM City Cebu and Ayala Centre Cebu (across McDonalds).

Like their Facebook page here: Nailaholics Nail Salon & Spa

Complete list of their services with their prices: Services

The Summer Wear I Never Got To Summer With: Maid in Handmade

As I said in my first TSWINGTSW, crochet anything played a major role this summer. To no one’s surprise, really, since I think it’s always been a game player for summer wear. You get to have an endless number of unique patterns and designs that it doesn’t “get old” quickly.

This particular crochet top was handmade with love for me by my friend and officemate. I chose the color because grays go well with the rest of my wardrobe. It’s also one of the flexible colors, something that would work well in whatever style category you usually wear. I understand that this is quite a simple look but I can see anyone pull this off easily, no matter the body type. Even those who, like me, aren’t very gifted with chest and hips, can walk the talk with this ensemble.

Also, there are different way you can style this top. From prim and proper to sporty to edgy, this top can fit right in. Try it with mom jeans and a pink bomber jacket! Also, imagine this with black ripped shorts and military green jacket with those cute little patches. Ahh! This is definitely won’t be the last time I’d wear this top.

Lookit my love handles and me covering my tummy rolls while unintentionally being a diva. WOOHOO!

How to wear backless tops, you ask? I searched for those adhesive tops online, I got mine from White Label Intimates. Instead of the usual nipple tapes, they have bras that actually cover most of your breast. They also have padded ones for us who lack, uhm, support? Haha You know what I mean!

Ron wears…

Handmade crochet top (Thanks Ms. Caroline!), H&M skirt, Cotton On hat.

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KPub BBQ Meat-All-You-Can, Cebu | Bibimbap Lunch Set

KPub BBQ is introducing their newest offering, the Bibimbap Lunch Set! You buy any of the dishes below and get a free Bibimbap!

I’ve never been to KPub but I do know that they play Korean music videos all day long. And also, I was amazed by the KPop wardrobe their service staff wears! V modern! I love it. I felt like they were ready to pop some moves anytime. I mean, if they did, I’d join ‘em! I actually miss SNSD.. when they had Sica. Anywayyyyy. Before I get lost into KPop fangirling, here you go:

One of KPub’s private ‘rooms’.

Appetizers: kimchi, mashed sweet potato with corn kernels, spinach in sesame oil. Not in picture is the Korean version of Miso soup, or maybe it’s just Miso soup. This is already a part of the set meal.

Doen Jang Jjigae, P299. Seafood Soybean Stew. Oomph. I loveKkorean soups. My favorite is kimchi stew but this one’s just as amazing. It has squid, scallops and shrimp in it as well as tofu amongst other spices. 

Sundubu Jjigae, P299. Spicy Tofu Stew. I’d like to think it’s the spicier version of Doen Jang Jjigae but it seemed to have a different taste. Or maybe it’s overwhelmingly spicy that the savoury bits get overpowered. I prefer the other stew over this but this isn’t bad either, especially when you love spicy food.

Dak Bulgogi, P299. Sweet Soy Garlic Marinated Chicken. Oof. This one’s nice and familiar. It was tender and flavorful. 

Jeyouk Bokkum, P299. Spicy Pork. As with most Korean main dishes, this one’s marinated as well. Sweet and spicy thin strips of pork with cuts of vegetables, as well.

So Bulgogi, P299. Sweet Soy Garlic Marinated Beef. Another dish of the same variety and taste, just that, it’s beef. And when it’s beef, it’s great. Okay!

And of course the free Bibimbap that you get by purchasing one of those main dishes listed above! Great deal, isn’t it? This bibimbap was huuuuge as well, I couldn’t finish it. The veggies were fresh which made it all better. I love it when they’re not all soggy. The cucumber in particular was still crunchy.

“Bibimbap is a signature Korean dish. The word literally means “mixed rice”. Bibimbap is served as a bowl of warm white rice topped with namul and gochujang, soy sauce, or doenjang, a fermented soybean paste.” Thanks, Wikipedia, a non-trusted source by the academe but still the first resort of students.

The Bibimbap Lunch Set is available Mondays through Fridays during lunch only, at any KPub branch! In Cebu, it’s in Ayala Terraces, beside Fully Booked & Starbucks. Let me know if you’re going to try it! Tag KPub and I on Instagram or on any social media!

Follow me around the social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr, Pinterest, Twitter and Flickr.

With my fellow Cebu Fashion Bloggers, check them out: Jean of lifeonaflavoredrunway.com, Katrina of keiseeeinthecity.wordpress.com, Jesse Jake of jessejake.com and Sophia of iamsophiasanchez.com.

4th of July Celebrations at Waterfront Hotel and Casino, Cebu | Cafe Uno American Food Promotion

Waterfront Hotel and Casino in Lahug, Cebu has a series of activities surrounding and leading up to celebrating the American independence on 4th of July. I was invited to enjoy their buffet showcasing American’s best dishes.  

Here are the activities that you might want to experience:

Stars and stripes, red, blue and white, the eagle, Washington monument and Lady Liberty will welcome you to the Cafe Uno restaurant. If that doesn’t scream American, I don’t know what will. These are some of what they offer to promote American’s best.

Desserts were mostly in red, blue and white. And this peanut butter one above would be my favorite for the night!  

These are my picks below. I learned, even though I adore avocado, I’m not fond of guacamole. I’ve always associated avocado with sweetness so it’s always weird to have guacamole and get the salsa taste. Loved the ham, loved the beef burrito and loved loved loved the cheese sauce with nachos. Everything was a delight and it’s definitely worth the bucks. (That’s how they say money in America, right?)

I hope you enjoyed that photo diary of food because who doesn’t love food, amirite? If you have time and a way to get through the recent flood problems, do give Cafe Uno a visit and have more of those cheese sauce and peanut butter cake for me, please! Do scroll up again to see the activities and their when & where.

The Summer Wear I Never Got To Summer With: Lace Up and Scallops

In case you missed it, I posted one of the many summer outfits that I never got to summer with, a few days ago. It’s already wet season here in the Philippines and weekends are no longer a sure thing for a sunny beach day. Hence, instead of a beautiful azure backdrop, all I can afford now is a /summer/ OOTD in my bedroom.

Never thought I’d see the day where swimsuits will be worn casually far from the ocean. I’m not complaining, though! I love how they can be very flexible. Swimsuits, one piece, in particular, are superb with high waisted anything. From mom jeans, to ripped shorts, even palazzo pants and pleated skirts, a one piece can do wonders! You won’t even have to worry on keeping it tucked in since it will stay ‘tucked in’. The only con, as with rompers, is when ladies pee. Gotta take it all off.

When your shoulder and up area aren’t too noisy, dangling or big hoop earrings may neutralize it. Especially now that I’ve cut my hair (yet again), when I wear off shoulders or sleeveless tops, I often find myself reaching for big hoops.

As for my shoes, I never got on the gladiator sandals bandwagon, I think it just isn’t my style? Maybe, when I go warrior-ing in Rome. But when I saw these lace-up ones from Mango, I fell in love. They’re classy, chic and makes me feel like a ballerina. They easily go well with everything too, may it be shorts or pants. Of course, you’ll have to wear bottoms that won’t cover them because you gotta show off those pretty pumps.

How would you style a one piece swimsuit? Do you prefer gladiator sandals over lace up ones? Let me know in the comments below!

Ron wears…

Zalora (via Shapes & Curves) one piece, vintage ripped shirts, Mango lace up shoes, Forever 21 aviators and accessories.

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The Summer Wear I Never Got To Summer With: Crochet Play

As I write this, the grumpy clouds outside are crying with so much passion. That’s how I know, summer’s over. The thing is, I bought so much clothes to summer with, thinking I’d properly summer this year. (Disclaimer: Summer is not a verb.) Well, here I am, summer-less. I only got to spend a day at the beach once, at Crimson. I know, first world problems in a third world country. (Disclaimer II: You’re gonna experience semantic satiation with ‘summer’ by the end of this post.) But summer is almost the best season. Well, we only have two, so, obviously, we’d choose the lesser wet. It may be excruciatingly hot at times but admit it, everything is just beautiful under the sun versus a gloomy one.

So here it is, one of the summer wears I never got to summer with in the comforts of my lovely bedroom.

Crochet played a big part this summer. And since most of the designs are quite ‘see-through’, what’s inside is important, as well. Bikini tops would be great underneath, in fact, they’re the practical choice. But if you can’t find a good one, or you’re not a bikini-wearer like me, your good, artsy bra will do. You know, the one that we hide and bring out once a month or when the need arises. Yes, that one!

Ron wears…

Copper top, shorts; Forever 21 bra, H&M hat

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The Must-Visits of Bohol, All in One Day

Back in April this year, I got to visit Bohol again. I’ve luckily been a few times and it’s a place you don’t get enough of. I think, Bohol is one of the quick getaways Cebuanos choose, if they aren’t going up north or down south for some good beach escapades.

Floating Restaurant and Ati Tribe

The restaurant is ‘floating’ because you get to eat while cruising through the Loboc River. How clean and green the river is, is purely amazing. Kudos to the people of Bohol, they took care of the river and everything surrounding it. I’ve been to this cruise trip but I haven’t been to the Ati Tribe. Years ago, it would be a group of children dancing and singing to local songs. Now, we get to visit the Tribu Ati during the cruise. They have all sorts of ‘entertainment’ showcasing their culture.

Xzoctic (Exotic) Animal Park

Prony the Python was the largest python in captivity. Unfortunately, it died some years ago. A new animal park surfaced, it’s fairly new so this one’s a first for me, as well. As the name suggests, exotic animals can be observed and touch, if you’re brave enough.

Tarsier Conservation Area

Philippine Tarsier is one  of the smallest primates in the world and Bohol is known to house some of them. Before, they were kept in a small garden, but it apparently affected a lot of the Tarsiers that they have to move them to a bigger space to imitate their natural habitat. Tarsiers are sensitive and depressive. They commit suicide if taken away from their natural habitat, their eyes do not possess the most ideal vision despite the size and they’re not keen of being disturbed. Delicate creatures, they are!

Habitat (Butterfly Sanctuary)

A new one for me, as well, is the butterfly sanctuary. Before stepping down the bus, our tour guide emphasized to try their ice candy. And boy, was I in for a treat. Their ice candy is the best I’ve ever had. It’s almost as if it’s ice cream but creamier. I tried avocado and peanut, and I wish I could stay longer so I can taste every single one except chocolate. I loved both and the peanut one was so so so so (42 years later) so so good.

Moving on. The Habitat does not fall short from the awesomeness of the ice candy I just raved about. The experts were a lively bunch, explaining each phase of the enclosure. It was amazing when we finally entered the open area where butterflies were freely flying around, unafraid of humans. It was amazing to see them up close, just.. living life. Did you know butterflies mate for 24 hours? Well, that’s if I remembered it correctly. So don’t quote me!

After the butterfly enclosure, a lot of beautiful flowers will guide you to exit and back to the awesome land of good ice candies.

Chocolate Hills

Have you ever really been to Bohol if you haven’t seen the Chocolate Hills? Probably, yes, but yanno. Bohol is the home of the famous chocolate hills. They may be chocolate but I don’t hate them! The hills are alive and chocolatey during summer. The rest of the year, grass or shrubs grow on them but not any more than that. You’ll climb and get your cardio fix to have the best view of the hills but even at the foot of the stairs, you can already see a few of them real close.

Pasalubong

Pasalubong is the Filipino word for souvenir that you bring back home and give to your friends and family. Of course, you can’t visit a new (or not your usual) place without getting Pasalubong. Bohol is famous for their calamay, peanut kisses, and my favorite, peanut fingers. There are a lot of souvenir shops near a pier or the airport but gift shops like this one below are usually cheaper.

Views From The Side

Old and beautiful churches were once part of the itinerary. Unluckily, Bohol (and Cebu) suffered from a big earthquake a few years back that most of their old structures were destroyed. What you can see instead are scaffoldings and renovations. It’s really sad, especially since some of these churches date back in 1700′s such as the Baclayon Church.

Another side view that we get to enjoy, but didn’t get to stop at is this house built like a ship. It’s a private property owned by a seaman, apparently.

And that’s it. There’s more to Bohol than these. Their beaches are also amazing. In fact, I will be posting a second part to this. Hopefully, I’ll get to see you, then.