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Do You Keep Your Promises?



Relationships are built on promises: the promise to love, to care, to secure, to protect, and to provide. This is something that Piolo Pascual, Philippine actor, knows all too well, committed as he is to the promises he has made to his family as a son, a sibling, and a father.

But when financial troubles arise, bringing such promises to life becomes a challenge.

“Like any other person, I want to give my family the best life possible. I am a man of my word, that is why I work hard and seize every opportunity that comes my way,” Piolo said. “But more than just earning money, it’s how you manage your finances that makes a difference. Fortunately, I have the guidance and help of one very special lady: my very own sister, Chiqui Pascual-Gonzales, who also happens to be my Sun Life Advisor.”

According to Piolo, Chiqui has been instrumental in ensuring that his dreams for his family will all come true. “It’s a partnership through and through. With her help, I’ve been able to make it all happen while still pursuing my own passions and advocacies,” he said. Piolo and Chiqui’s story is but one of many in Sun Life Financial, where lifetime partnerships are developed and nurtured through the years. In fact, this has inspired Sun Life’s latest campaign, at the forefront of which is a new TV commercial highlighting Sun Life’s presence in a client’s life throughout the different stages of her life. It represents the many promises that Sun Life has helped bring into fruition for the past 123 years of its existence.

Sun Life hopes that the campaign, as well as Piolo’s own story, will inspire more people to take the same path in their financial journey. “As the longest-standing life insurance company in the Philippines, we have witnessed many promises being fulfilled throughout the years and have served generations of clients. It is an honor for us to serve all our clients and help them secure their future and those of their loved ones” Sun Life Chief Marketing Officer Mylene Lopa said.

“The promises we make to our loved ones are sacred, and Sun Life knows this. That’s why it’s committed to helping its clients achieve their goals, no matter what happens,” Piolo said. “You can’t ask for a better lifetime partner than that!”


About Sun Life Financial

Sun Life Financial Inc. ("SLF Inc.") is a leading international financial services  organization providing insurance, wealth and asset management solutions to individual and corporate Clients. Sun Life Financial has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of December 31, 2017, Sun Life Financial had total assets under management ("AUM") of $975 billion. For more information, please visit www.sunlife.com. Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF. 
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Girls Just Wanna Have FUNds


HUSSLE. Fail your way to success. The successful person has failed 10 times more than the unsuccessful one. Don't just be a dream girl. Be a dream, girl!
I used to wonder why money exists and why it is so important. Everyone uses it. We all want it, work for it and think about it. Its uses in our society is so established that many of us will go through our lives without questioning why those pieces of colorful coins and thick, sometimes tattered, papers have value. Why do they exist? While the creation and growth of money seems somewhat intangible, without a doubt, money is the way to get things we like and need. 

I am not here to discuss the theories and evolutions of money. The task of defining those belongs to the people who dedicate themselves to the discipline of economics. I am here to share some input about what to do with your money and where you can put it. I am not an expert financial advisor but I hope you can lear a thing or two based on these. I just think that imparting what I learned and experienced would help.  You see, money is a very important material thing on Earth and having an idea on how to properly grow it, use it and safeguard it is a crucial need everyone of us should be aware. 

How to manage funds without sacrificing the fun?
Saving has always been the advice of almost all the people around us. Well, it is true! My parents fed me the idea and importance of saving at an early stage of my life I think even when I was still in my mother’s womb, lol that could be the reason why I am very keen about my money. 

Saving funds in the bank sounds okay but we have to know that it will not grow abundantly. It will just sit there securely. You can of course save it all you like but you might as well consider investing it. I am currently investing some of my money to SunLife Financial and have attended quite a few talk events about managing funds and growing it.


Last Sunday, together with Cebu’s brightest personalities, I was invited to witness another gathering on how one can pursue his/her passion while also enjoying financial freedom in Let’s Have Some FUNds at the Ayala Center Cebu. Kathrynn Dawn S, an architect and Blind Clothing really inspired me. There were also raffle draws with equivalent awesome prizes including investment starter funds worth Php 5,000 and Ayala Cinema movie tickets.


1. Know the means. You must be good at something. Earn from your core gifts and use them with passion. Get paid by doing what you love and what you are good at. Start young, enlarge your skills, expand your network and don’t limit yourself within your territories. 

2. Be a goal digger. One of the best woman to date is the goal digger. (Raises my hand). She has an overview of what her life would be in the coming years and she is taking steps towards it. it will be difficult. But is that surprising? no. Nothing of great achievement comes easy.

3. Know how to manage. Raising your financial I.Q is very important because as what they say, financial ignorance is more expensive than any designer bag. If you are like me who only knows IT stuff, better get a trusted financial adviser. I currently have one and I usually bombard her with questions. She helped me a lot in areas that seem blurry to me.
Look for true mentors and books, avoid bad debt they way you avoid your ex’s ex, protect yourself adequately, automatically save 20% of your income and invest as early as you can.

4. Identify the discerning things. Do not believe in Madonna’s song, “We are living in a material world and I am a material girl.” – NOT! Know what to and what not to spend on. Live within your means. Period. Differentiate asset from liabilities.
Asset – when you buy things that put money in your pocket.
Liability – when you buy things that put money out of your pocket.
Reward yourself accordingly. Enjoy the fruits of your labor but hit your targets first so that you will spend without the guilt right after walking out the mall.
“Too many people spend money they haven’t earned, to buy things they don’t want, to impress people they don’t like.”
-Will Rogers

5. Accelerate. Ride something to wealth. Do not be limited with the bank, ride as many vehicles as you can. Earn even while you are sleeping through creating passive income. Since profits are better than wages, make your way to earn exponential income through investing your money with trusted records and reliable financial advisers. You will be amazed on how your money could grow instead of just putting it on the bank. Do not forget to network with people and build bridges.

How about you, what are your own ways of managing your funds while not compromising the fun?

Learning while having fun with Cebu friends.

Let’s Have Some FUNds is presented by Sun Life Financial as part of its celebration of Financial Independence Month this June. After Cebu, the event will also be mounted in Davao and Iloilo. Follow Sun Life (@SunLifePH) on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to know more. The event is also supported by BAI TV, Cebu Bloggers Society, Cebu Content Creators and Ayala Center Cebu.
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Island Hopping in Mactan, Philippines



It is said that “Go on island hopping in the many beautiful islands of the Philippines and return home with unforgettable memories and one of a kind experience!” So, together with my office friends, we went on an Island hopping. This is my 2nd time doing such activity and I still want more.

Philippines – a Southeast Asian country in the Western Pacific, consisting of about 7,641 islands, is a beautiful paradise where breathtaking beaches, mountains, rivers and waterfalls reside. This is the country where I am born. Filipino – that is what they call us as the citizens of the Philippines. Almost the entire islands in my country have beautiful nature spots one could ever imagine. I was born in Negros Island where astonishing waterfalls and mountains inhabit. I am now living in Cebu Island where you can find attractive beaches, mountains and rivers alike. Cebu’s neighboring island is called Mactan and it consists of teenie weenie islands called islets which are perfect for island hopping adventure.

If you live in Cebu Island just like me, there is no need for you to travel to other places just to experience island hopping. Mactan Island is just a few-minute-ride from the city. If you are outside Cebu and Mactan Islands, then why not book an adventure to this place? Promise it will really be worth it and a bunch of fun. Well, at least for my experience. So better be prepared. ;)

Pump boat. That morning was cloudy.

Why Island Hopping?

As you may not know yet, it has been only two months since I moved and started working in one of the companies here in IT Park, Cebu City, Philippines. My decision to move serves as a promotion to myself and my roles. From dealing with all IT-related issues and technicalities to IT-Security audits and assessments, this is a new challenge and I am totally excited for the new learning, knowledge and opportunity that this advances me.

With that being said, I am a new joiner to the IT Security team – a newbie. My colleagues were really thoughtful. They planned on throwing a team-bonding activity together with the other newbies as well. Majority of us chose island hopping so we pushed it!

Island Hopping is a travel from one island to another, especially in an area of small islands. Guess what, we chose Mactan Island and its incredible islets.

Finally, the day!

I was as if like a floating zombie on the day of our escapade. I just had 2 hours of sleep because we had a Christmas party the night before it together with my college classmates and co-scholars. We perfectly enjoyed the time of being together again after few months of being away from each other. We even didn’t notice the fast switch of time. We ended the fun at dawn already!

Okay, going back on track. After my 2 hour-nap, I went to Talamban City Time Square near Jess’ place (my colleague). This would serve as our meetup point and everybody would be there then headed to Mactan Island. Together with 2 other friends, we hitched into Jess’s car. Spice Girls and Britney Spears were our kind of jam that time. Little taste of heaven, wink!

Spice Girls and Britney Spears playing on the stereo. We are a fan! 
We took a 40-45 minute road trip going to Boyla, where the pump boat was waiting for us. Everybody was excited. Our faces below is the evidence. We hopped onto the banca (small manual-operated boat) going to the pump boat. We did this because pumpboats are not allowed in too shallow waters. We had lots of bagaggaes especially food packages. I haven’t took a picture though.

My hat steals the show. Richard carrying the roasted pig because tarungon jud ug gunit ang lechon besh.
Finally, we're in the pumpboat.

The kalog team! Ladies are the princesses. The rest are bodyguards. Nah, just kidding. :D

Now, the islands...

1st stop: Hilutungan
An enjoyable 30 minutes boat ride brought us to Hiluntungan Island, a snorkeling paradise as this site was declared as marine sanctuary for decades. This island has a triangular shape, but only once side is easily accessible due to the shallow waters around. Divers visiting Cebu will definitely dive here. Well, at least for me, I went snorkeling.

2nd stop: Nalusuan
10 minutes away from Hilutungan, stays the island of Nalusuan. It is another marine sanctuary with excellent marine life for snorkelers. The island can’t be mistaken with any other due to its long wooden pier crossing its shallow waters. During low tide, a beach appears on the opposite side, facing Cebu. I went snorkeling again and diving, too. Lol.

3rd stop: Caohagan
Kaowagan Island is about 45 min away from Fun and Sun. Some native huts are standing on a small beach and offer some pleasant shade where you can try out some of the island dish cooked a few meters away. There is a small fishermen village, you can decide to explore, probably guided by dozen of kids.

Wetwew. Hi chix :) Alona, me and Anj.

Expectations and Realizations

When going on an island hopping, you must bring your own snorkeling gears and fins in order to experience a total bunch of fun. Astonishing and beautiful ocean species just await for you to be seen just like colorful starfishes, nerve-wracking sea snakes, attractive corals and colorful fishes. They are magnificent! You may also rent snorkeling gears. Just be sure to thoroughly clean and wash them  with alcohol before using it.

It is a happy and peaceful place down the water. It really is! I always feel empowered when diving and swimming. I totally feel that I am in control of my life; that I hold the steering wheel of my life's journey and I can maneuver it to wherever I want to. How about a little bit of detours? Kidding.

There are still a lot of islands waiting to be ventured. I wish someday I get to visit some of them and hopefully work and schedule will permit me.

Sirena sa umaga; Prinsesa sa gabi.


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iLuvCebuInstameet 5.0


My version of "blogger pose" during  #iLuvCebuInstameet 5.0.
I am currently living in the heart of Cebu province – in Cebu City, a place where all things are possible for a millennial like me. You name it! Learn new courses, attend to one-of-a-kind events and activities, participate in hackathons/technology meetups, grow the network of friendship, build startup businesses and then there is Instameet.

I started living in this place since I was in college and I could still remember my introverted self few years ago.  Afraid to go out from my tiny little shell in order to venture what opportunities could offer; scared to say “hi” to people I met in the hope to gain new friends; reluctant to acquire things and learning needed to be my own kind of unique self now. It’s a little bit funny to think of these but a sigh of relief and gratitude as well thinking that somehow at some point I overcome these. Okay, enough with the drama. Let us go back to “Instameet”. What in the world does it mean and why I am I correlating this to my self-improvement particularly in the friendship aspect of my journey. 

What is Instameet and #iLuvCebuInstameet 5.0?

Instameet is literally an Instagram Meeting by instagrammers. If you have no clue what instagrammers are, these are literally users of Instagram application. In a nutshell, this is an event where people gather in a prearranged place and time to meet new friends, share stories and ideas, take photos and upload it to Instagram of course. That’s it really, growing the network of friendship both offline and online! Plus, you get to meet your favorite Instagrammers that you’ve been Insta-stalking forever.

#iLuvCebuInstameet 5.0 is an instameet specifically organized by Doyzkie of iLuvCebu.com with an aim to give an avenue for everyone especially millennials to meet up and share best social media practices. Held last 15th of October 2017 in The Glass House of Montebello Villa Hotel, it had the theme “We Meet Again” commemorating its fifth anniversary. The said event was supported by the country’s No. 1 Pizza Chain – Greenwich Pizza and Pasta.

Everything Greenwhich :)

What are the activities and what to expect?

 1. Meet new faces and gain friends. Making new friends can be intimidating especially when making your way to those that have unapproachable appeal individuals. I’ve been there, kinda scary but the trick is, just be an open-minded individual. If they’ll like you, they’ll respond. If not, then go find another. Let us not complicate things, shall we? Hehe. Nonetheless, I tell you, Instameet participants are very friendly - all of them. I usually instantly become friends with them. That's how feeling close (FC) I am, lol. Instagram influencers grew their network by gaining friends. So be prepared to meet new faces. There is no harm in talking funny and humorous topics along the conversation to spice up the conversation. Just don’t be too personal and keep it unobtrusive.

Unity in diversity, lol. Feeling close na kami agad even if we just meet. :)
2. Learn new ideas and techniques. Ever wondered how instagrammers manage their accounts, how they gain followers and how they curate/beautify their shots? Well, I learned it from this event. Broad number of Cebu influencers as speakers  of the event tackle different areas regarding such topics surely helped. Plus, multiple methods and tools to help us and a whole lot more. Who wouldn't want that? How to properly use Snapseed, VSCO and instagram filters were tackled.

3. Picture here, picture there, picture everywhere. iLuvCebuInstameet 5.0 was a half day of getting reaquainted with previous meets and newer participants. When I arrived at the venue, I could see people scattered everywhere taking photos. Such a good thing because I belong, lol! Well, you actually don’t have to be an amateur in photography when taking photos. Just be creative and unique. Find the best spot you could think of. Show yourself  through your pictures. Luckily, Montebello Villa Hotel, where the event was held, has picture perfect scene in every corner. I grabbed some few  friends and took pictures of each other. Voila! Some of my shots are here:






4. Raffles and prizes. Get a chance to win awesome prices and giveaways offered by the event. We participated in Best Barkada Shot (Group Award) and 5 Most Creative ILuvCebu Instameeter.

 5. Good food. The event was sponsored by the country’s No. 1 Pizza Chain – Greenwich Pizza and Pasta. Good food were served. Lucky for us it was saturday which meant "cheat day". Yas!

Lafang :)
6. It's all about promotion. Put yourself in the spotlight. It's yours!

Ako ang dyosa! :)

My #OOTD

…because it’s basically about Instagram drama, so why not pull off a unique OOTD (outfit of the day)?

On the bridge of the pond. "I wish there's a bridge I can take towards you." Genern!
I was happy to be one of the participants of iLuvCebuInstameet 5.0. Aside from I ditched my computer at home which basically is my prison, I had the chance to know and talk to awesome instagrammers of Cebu. I had relaxed my mind from the city noise. My blogger friends were also there making the experience extra special.

Blogger friends. She's the thorn among the roses, hahaha.

Love Instagram? Participate in iLuvCebuInstameet!
If you are interested to join the next events, you may follow iluvcebu.com in their official Facebook page and website.

See you in the next #iLuvCebuInstameet event!
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Lazada Online Revolution: Shop the Universe 2017


Yay, this stuff toy is so cuddly!

Lazada, the number one online shopping site which operates Southeast Asia (Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam), will cause a great a BANG this coming 11th of November (11.11) up to 12th of December (12.12) in the online shopping arena! Prepare yourself to shop the universe with countless products available on Lazada’s portal. As the Pioneering eCommerce in the region, it will provide customers great offers at discounted prices – up to 90%.

The Roadshow in Cebu City

I got an email from Lazada Philippines team that they’d be having Lazada’s Online Revolution Roadshow in Quest Hotel and Conference Building on November 6, 2017 in order to unveil and spread the good news. I got no conflicting appointment with it based on my calendar so I confirmed. Participated by Cebu influencers and content creators, the event was held in the hotel’s Henson Room in the 7th floor. It was spearheaded by Sydney, Aya and Kyru over a sumptuous dinner. A lot of awesome deals have been revealed ranging from fashion, appliances to electronics and gadgets that customers should surely be rejoicing at. Magnificent news has been announced, too. Alibaba Company invested US$1 billion thus owning 83% of Lazada’s stake and strengthening the financial security of the company. A new factory site has also been constructed making transactions even more convenient and faster for the buyers.

Outside the venue. What’s more fun way to do other than to take a picture? Haha!
A lot of giveaways and freebies had been given too in the course of the program.

I won hair conditioner, bracelet and pouch. Harhar.
Shopping the Universe

Known as the biggest and the grandest sale of the year, the Lazada Online Revolution is an event where shoppers can get hefty discounts on almost everything. This festivity is where you’ll most likely find all the great deals and massive discounted items from all the trusted brands in the industry. Expect to be blown away with their extensive range of fabulous and smashing products. So what are you waiting for, give yourself a treat and visit avail their Online Revolution offers.

Some of the brands and products to watch out for:
Why Shop at Lazada this coming November 11 to December 12?

1. Discounted Prices. Grab your favorite items and enjoy a discount up to 90%. More awesome deals await!
2. New Offers. Taobao Collection is now in Lazada. If you want authentic Chinese collections, you can now shop it here. There are more digital goods at your grasp, too.
3. Safe and Secure. Choose from broad secure payment options either through credit card or cash-on-delivery. Products quality and authenticity are assured to be genuine and not defective. If in case there are problems, simply return it within 7 days for a full refund under the Buyer Protection Program.
4. Easy and Accessible. No more traffic jams, crowds and long queues! Shop anytime, anywhere via your computer and mobile phone. It is just one click away.
With their quick and reliable delivery service, just sit back, relax and your package will come to you.

Let the online revolution begin!

How to make most of your online shopping especially during Lazada’s Online Revolution?

1. Create your wishlist now. Add products from their selection to your wishlist and get them at a discount on November. Big things coming your way at discounted prices.
2. Visit Official Stores. In order to really make sure you shop for authentic products, go to http://www.lazada.com.ph/official-stores/ and browse your heart out.
3. Take note of Product Reviews. Know what customers are saying about the product you chose. Avoid products with poor reviews.

For more details, visit Lazada now!

Got our cool packages. Happy faces!
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Live Brighter with Sun Life Financial




Financial Ignorance, Financial Literacy. Wait, what?

It's a well-known fact that financial ignorance is very common amongst my countrymen - the Filipinos. Compared to other people in other countries, finance matters serve as an off-topic and we usually correlate it to some sort of networking pyramid schemes so we tend to avoid it for good. This should not be the case. Finance literacy should be one of the main things that our brain must be fully equipped with.

Looking a little bit backward, it seems on of the main reasons why we think this way, is because of the  environment type we had when we were still children developing our minds. Filipino parents usually tell their children to study hard in order to have a good job someday when we grow up. I might be wrong but I have heard this from a lot of friends and even to my own parents as well. This is our culture and this is the truth. Even teachers and professionals agree with this. I have no intention to sound like questioning our parents and their parents. What they did is good but it would have been better if they also added the financial aspect. You know, exposing our young and developing minds to engaging ourselves into management and creation of any sort of business when we grow up will surely add a big difference rather than just planting this phrase to our brains “study hard to get a good work when we grow up”. Even our schools do not implement clear class subjects about this except for those who took Business Administration courses (which are just few by the way).

Welcome to a brighter life!

We cannot change what has been done. We cannot go back to our childhood days and demand for financial trainings or things similar to that, but we can move on forward and take trainings on our own. We are the in-charge of our own lives after all especially now that we are grown ups.

I was invited last last October 18, 2017 to a #LiveBrighter forum organized by Sun Life Philippines in Parklane International Hotel, Cebu City. The forum was a great portal for learning how a career in Sun Life as an advisor makes a difference. It was also a decent opportunity for me to listen various discussions from successful financial advisors as well as their success stories in the financial road. I was really moved since that time and until now.

Blogger friends with the Sun Life Financial Advisors.
Sunlife is giving Cebuanos an opportunity to become a Sun Life advisor and help fight financial ignorance once for all, ganern!  A high performing Sun Life advisor will be well-compensated and are granted opportunities to see the world. The company has been the number one and longest-standing life insurance company in the country.  It has survived the World War II. The company has been operating in the Philippines since 1895.

Live a Brighter Life now. Wink, wink.

1. Balance your time work and passion.
2. Get in the business of helping people.
3. Fulfill your dreams and look forward to a brighter future.
4. Be a Sun Life advisor.



Why Be a Sun Life Advisor?

1. Rewarding in compensation and generous in time. Earning potential is limitless. Enjoy time flexibility.
2. See the world. How about trips to the word as a reward for a job well done? Yes!
3. Noble and fulfilling profession. Make a positive difference in the lives of others by helping them fulfill their financial goals.
4. Professional agency with a bright legacy. Good company, good people. Sun Life is the longest-standing life insurance company in the Philippines.

"Embrace the Brighter Life. Be a Sun Life Advisor. Get an insurance that’s best for you."

Visit sunlife.com.ph to know more valuable information.
Call: (02) 849-9888 or 1800-10-SUNLIFE (PLDT domestic toll-free)
Email: Phil_AgencyRecruitment@sunlife.com
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Skin Day Out at KEVLO



How did I celebrate my birthday a few days ago? Well, I opted for a royal and relaxing facial treatment! Then an ice cream treat afterwards because who would not love that?

Together with some friends, my instagram buddy Rady invited me for a skin day out at Kevlo Skin Clinic on that special day of mine, my birthday.  I heard great things about their products online, so I was very keen to try it for myself. And I was in no way disappointed. In fact, my expectations were met.
And nope, he didn't know it was my birthday because I had these feelings he would post those awkwardly stolen pictures on my timeline and I just didn't want that to happen. Hahaha sorry Rady!

Kevlo Skin Clinic has 2 branches in Cebu City:
- 2nd level of Bonifacio District, F. Cabahug St., Panagdait (across Citi Park Hotel, the old Paseo) +63933 854 1347
- 2nd level of Orange Bldg., Gov. Cuenco Ave, Nasipit, Talamban (across the entrance of USC Engineering Bldg.) +63916 794 0456

We went to Panagdait branch. The clinic is new and has a very good ambiance which is perfect for instagram post if you'd like to. Their staff is super friendly. In fact one of them braided my hair and it was just so classy!

Before going on with the procedure, we had a chitchat with the owners of the skin clinic - Mr. Mark Phillip Geniston and his daughter Lovely Geniston. They narrated how they come up with the business and what were their products and services. They started as a distributor of skin care products in 2007 and now working on opening clinic branches in the city.

They also educated us about the five ways on how to care for our skin: Cleanse, Tone, Moisturize, Protect and Exfoliate.

1. Cleanse – Eliminate sweat and dusts on the skin by cleansing it with soap or any of your favorite cleansers. Remember to always be gentle on your skin.
2. Tone – For the face, close those pores by using a toner solution that is best for you.
3. Moisturize – Cleansing and toning processes eliminates the essential oils on the skin. Restore those and maintain skin's elasticity by applying moisturizer.
4. Protect  - UVA/UVB rays are the worst enemies of our skin that leads to aging and wrinkles. Block the harmful rays from entering inside by protecting your skin with sunblock. You will thank it forever.
5. Exfoliate – Human beings are shedding dead skin everyday. Make sure to exfoliate at least thrice a week to totally get rid of those which most of the times causes skin allergies and acne.

I had my Kevlo Signature Facial after then. It took almost an hour. Mind you, it was one of my fastest one hour ever. Maybe because I just didn’t want the facial treatment process to finish just yet. I wished time stopped that moment because it was so relaxing and I really felt I was pampered very well. The therapist who handled me was very polite and friendly. Her very soft hands go very well. We talked a lot of things that ranges from relationships, beauty and life in general.

Based on my experience, I can guarantee that their services exceed its equivalent payment. After all, they aim nothing less for the skin of their clients but all the best, glow and fairness. That is their mission and it is very soothing in the ears. They entrust our skin to their well-trained staff.

Here are the services they offered. Their services are affordable as you can see. A tip for you, visit them on a Monday and avail a 100 peso off on any of their services. Wink!

Get the glow with Kevlo. For more information and inquiry, visit them on Facebook and Instagram or call/dial the numbers stated above. Basta Cebu, KEVLO!

Oh by the way, here is my ice cream. Love, love!
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Sharing Kindness During Cebu Worldwide Instameet 15


All kids! Kids by age and kids by heart! (photo by @foureyedlaagan)

"Hitting two targets with just one stone." This is Cebu Worldwide Instameet 15 was all about - Outreach Activity and Instagrammers' Meetup.

Worldwide Instameet is bi-annual meetup event of Instagram users in order to connect and network with fellow users and participate in different activities related to a given theme. Instagrammers will have the chance to enjoy each other’s company, gain new friends and at the same time gather ideas and plans on what will be good and beneficial for the group.

The 15th Worldwide Instameet was held last March 26, 2017 at Brgy. Luz's Barangay Hall in Cebu City. It was organized by the Cebu Instagram Community. The event’s theme correlated the act of sharing kindness to the little children living in the said barangay.

It was my first time to join this. I never knew this existed until one blogger friend of mine shared the details to his wall. Upon reading the event description, I got interested so I signed up. It was perfect on my schedule as well because the date fell on a weekend, my rest day from corporate work. Few days before the event, the organizing team were looking for some volunteers in order to provide assistance on the actual day. You know me, yes, I volunteered myself. Volunteering is one of my ways not to get intimidated or feel awkward especially that this was my first time. The act of volunteerism gave me the feeling of "belongingness" to the group.

On the day of the event, my journey going to the venue was very funny and a little awkward, too. I almost wanted to go home because I was lost literally, lol! I’m not very good nor a master of directions and places of Cebu. Instead of going to the Barangay hall, I went straight to the school because that was the only place I was familiar with. It took me almost 15 minutes before finally able to hit the right place. Thanks to my friends who picked me (Iji and Ciji).

I saw many little, innocent kids as I entered the venue. I’ve never seen such plenty of kids for 5 years already. I guess that’s what happens when you plant your butt in the office and at home, hehe. Moving on, we started the program for the kids. We threw games to them that they surely enjoyed namely “Don’t Break the Fita”, “Heep Heep, Hooray!” and “Paint Me a Picture”. Through these, they’re able to work as a team and gave their best strategies to win…which are really good. We also provided them goodies as prizes. With the help and kindness of our sponsor, we were able to give them free lunch. Yay!



After the kids' activities, it’s time for the grown ups – us! Yay! We gathered a circle and started the getting-to-know each other session. Some of the instagrammers were already my friends (but not close though), some I just met online through social media and some I didn't know. We introduced ourselves and state a sentence or two about what we’re doing in life. The group was composed of bloggers, developers, entrepreneurs and more. Very cool because there’s a diversity of individuals at that time. We also ate together in one big table just like one big happy family and continued on discussing, might as well chitchatting, about our daily lives, activities and future plans.

This is one of the memorable events I have attended to so far because I met and greeted really lots of kids approximately 50 of them.  I was happy to see such innocent faces because I could think of my childhood days. I was once like them - innocent and vulnerable. Apart from that, I was able to gain new cool friends and got to talk a little bit of their life – work, likes and plans.

Yay, new friends! Follow us and we'll followback :)


Thanks to our generous sponsor - Virginia Food Inc. and Virginia Premium Hotdog for making this event possible. Thanks as well to Christopher John and the rest of the team for spearheading. Until next time, see you guys!
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Everything You Need To Know About Google Developers Group (GDG) Code Camp Cebu 2017



Something BIG is coming to Cebu! Yes, you read it right! The first ever Google Developers Group Code Camp in the Philippines to be participated by the Googlers (Google employees) will take place in Cebu, Philippines!

Cebu is one of the biggest cities of the Philippines that has the fastest rising economy. Are you searching for foods and restaurants, natural and scenic travel destinations, fashion locations, business sites? Anything really, name it and Cebu will definitely has it!

One of the booming sectors in this beautiful place is the field of Information Technology and Business. No wonder why most business owners and investors would choose Cebu than any other else. Most people here are also very competitive, dynamic and always hungry for improvement. I can attest to that because I am one of them including my friends/colleagues. And with that, we are very lucky and thankful to know that this something great, rare and one-of-a-kind big event, which is Google Developers Group Code, will take place in Cebu!

What is Google Developers Group (GDG) Cebu Code Camp?


Google Developers Group Cebu Code Camp is the first time special event ever in the Philippines that will be participated by the Googlers (Google employees) themselves, who will be flying in from South Korea, Japan, Singapore and the US. The main focus of this event is on essential technical topics for developers, along with updates on the current development trends. The topics will range from Machine Learning, Firebase, and the Cloud, to Material Design, Android, and 2017's Web Trends.

To be held at the IC3 (formerly known IEC) Convention Center Cebu, Pope John Paul II Ave., Cebu City on February 25, 2017 (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM), an estimated 1,000+ attendees that ranges from developers, tech enthusiasts, and students are expected to join.

The great thing about this is that attendees will have a great opportunity to learn about the latest technologies straight from Google’s experts. Yes! Additionally, developers from Cebu and around the Visayas will also get to meet and interact with one another, leading to sharing, possible collaboration and the enlivening of Cebu’s tech scene.

Who are eligible to Join?


The following are encouraged to join and participate. Don’t miss this very rare opportunity!
1. Senior Developers – Senior Working Developers with 3+ years experience in the industry
2. Experience Developers – Working Developers + Professionals
3. Beginner Developers – Student Developers – Entry-level Developers

The experience is not necessarily related to Google-related technology. What matters most is that you are a working developer or professional.

It is important for attendees to be in the right category to ensure that the activities that they will be participating in will be relevant and appropriate to the level of experience. The organizers have the right to deny entry if the rules and regulations are not properly followed.

Who are the speakers?

1. Erica Hanson – Developer Relations Ecosystem Program Manager, Google
She will talk abour learning Android.
Erica Hanson has been at Google for over 10 years and worked across different areas of the business and now works on the Developer Relations team based in the Google Singapore office. She is the Developer Relations country lead for Indonesia and is focused on helping startups and developers be more succussful. She is also managing the Google Business Groups (GBGs) global program, which is focused on helping entrepreneurs be more successful using Google technologies through communites.

2. Takuo Suzuki – Developer Relations Program Manager, Google
He will talk about Material Design.
Takuo is the lead of the Developer Relations team in Japan, Taiwan and ANZ. He has a keen focus on Android's Material Design. He further engages in UX reviews of apps and further facilitates various design sprints.

3. Manikanta Krishnamurthy – Developer Relations Community Manager, Google
He will share the power of firebase.
Mani comes with a strong background of Mobile Development in Apps & games, across a broad range of mobile platforms starting from the earliest Symbian phones. Mani joined Google Developer Relations team roughly a year back to strengthen the local Tech Ecosystem in Singapore.

4. Soonson Kwon  - Developer Relation Ecosystem Lead, Google
He will talk about Machine Learning and Tensorflow.
Soonson Kwon is the head of Developer Relations at APAC Ecosystem and is the Korea Regional Lead working on building strong ecosystem for developers. Back in 1996, he founded KLDP-- Korea's largest/oldest open source community.

5. Junho Choi  - Chief Architect/Co-founder, Neumob
He will talk about Designing Scalable Architecture with Cloud.
Junho is a Chief Architect/Co-founder of Neumob at Sunnyvale, CA. Worked on developing, deploying and performance optimization of mobile app acceleration, application/web acceleration and content delivery network more than 15 years. Previous committer (ports) of FreeBSD project and maintainer of kr.freebsd.org local mirror and user community.

6. Sami Kizilbash – Developer Relations Program Manager, Google
He will talk about Tango ang Daydream.
Sami oversees Google’s Developer Relations activities in South & Southeast Asia. He has led tech and media ventures at small startups and software giants alike.

7. Bok Thye Yeow – Developer Relations Ecosystem Program Manager, Google
He will talk about PWA and AMP.
Bok Thye Yeow is a Google Developer Relations Program Manager and has more than a decade of experience developing full stack software solutions across various industries including telco, banking, digital and creative advertising, retail, etc. During his free time, he likes to experiment with new technology or take his road bike out for a spin. He strongly believes we are only starting to scratch the surface of what's possible with technology in this era and is looking forward to the "next big thing" to come!

Event Program



The Organizers \ Committee Heads

Proudly achnowledging the ever hardworking team behind this event, the Google Developers Group (GDG) Cebu team:

Chelle Gray – Community Manager, APAC Developer Ecosystem Team, Google
Shad Roi Dela Cruz – GDG Cebu Community Manager
Maurice Jitty Villaester – Program Director
Rome Nicolas – Pres Con and Registration 
Emelie Diamante Anggoy – Logistics 
Maria Nicole Franchette Camoro - Marketing, Creatives and Social Media 
Arnelle Balane – Website Development
Carlo Saberon - Video Documentation
Francis Jigssy Codera Galua - Volunteers
Julia Menchavez – VIP In-charge
Rhodchel Lhuven Marie Española - Communications
Mark Win Panerio - Creatives
Kevin Calingacion – Technical 
Emmanual Lodovice – Technical 
All the awesome GDG Cebu Code Camp volunteers!

Google Developers Group (GDG) Cebu is an informal group of amateurs and professionals (technology users, specialists, and developers) who are independent from Google but are enthusiasts and daily users of Google technologies. Members meet and socialize on a regular basis.

The group was organized to provide an avenue for:
- Learning about up-to-date Google tools for personal and professional use (for free!)
- Networking opportunities
- Growing local and international connections
- Professionals to help others and share insights on cutting-edge technology
- Sharing success stories of individuals who have benefited from being a part of the group

GDG Cebu Awesome Core Team!

GDG Cebu Awesome Volunteers!
FAQs – please visit this link.

Code of Conduct - please visit this link.

Official website of the event here.

Special Thanks
GDG Cebu Code Camp is presented by Google and GDG Cebu.
Venue Partner: IEC Convention Center Cebu; 
Telco Partner: PLDT Innolab; 
Media Partner: PRWorks Inc.

See you at the event! Awesome!
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BLOG YOUR HEART OUT: Blogging Essentials and Tips


Who would have thought I could inspire a few people with my passion? This was the happy question I asked myself that one night after I received an invitation to be a speaker for Passerelles Numeriques Talk at University of San Carlos – Talamban Campus.

A newbie blogger.
I am a total beginner when it comes to blogging. I officially started writing last January 1, 2017 as part of my New Year’s Resolution - to stop procrastination whenever possible. That is equivalent to one month of experience as to this writing. Though I have written a few posts last year, those just served as a test or somehow like a glimpse for myself of what was the feeling to own a free blogspot site and explore some cool templates available in various styles.
I was a member of our school publication when I was in High School. I admit I didn't love writing that much because I just didn’t know how to express what I wanted to share.  I was very unproductive. There was one time that my article got published on one of the releases. I was happy (though it was located at the very end with a very small font, looked like it was not that eye-catching and important, lol.)
I created my this blogsite without the help of somebody but Google and Youtube. The process was just easy and self-explanatory. I chose blogspot because I felt I got to use this Google product, lol, after all, I worked at GDG Cebu so it would be appropriate to use it, nah just kidding. I've made some tweaks on the XML code and I enjoyed it a lot.

Why me?
Talks at PN is a monthly event initiated by Passerelles Numériques Philippines, where speakers from different backgrounds share their “PNspiring” knowledge, skills and experiences with students, staff, alumni and French volunteers. The overarching objective of this event is the convergence of ideas. 
Talks at PN enables various ideas to meet in order to have a high creative impact among the attendees. Thus, as side-effects they become “Inspired, Engaged & Enthusiastic” with their respective personal mission and ambition.
December 5, 2016 - sir Clark messaged me if I have a blogger friend who could do the “talk”. I said to him I would find one. It was holiday season and I was caught up with my busy schedule and other activities so I kind of forgot the request.
January 5, 2017 - He emailed me and this time he was asking if I can do the “talk”. I was really surprised!
Invitation email
I was hesitant at first because I’m a newbie. Nevertheless, I said Yes! because I wanted to do the talking :) ;) I have also attended trainings, online research and coaching sessions that helped me with my blogging passion. It would just be appropriate to share because I love the satisfaction I would feel out of it. Besides, one thing I learned from the movies I watched is to never say no to opportunities. And thinking that hopefully I could inspire others, so there's no reason to say “no”. It was a great way to start the year right!

The time has come for the “Talk” session.
January 28, 2017 at 8:00 A.M. was the moment of truth for me to burst my ideas on stage.  I arrived at the venue earlier than eight in the morning so that I could familiarize the place and eliminate the feeling of nervousness inside. I have also spoken to the crowd before in the exact place so I guess that helped me to calm down, too. My topic was about Blog Your Heart Out: Blogging Essentials and Tips.

Yay, early bird us

Rigney Hall - the venue :)

She is DJ (EMCEE). She welcomed and introduced me to the audience as if I won the lottery!
Duration of the talk: 1 hour  (discussion) and 15 minutes (question and answer).
Main agenda:
  • 1. What is a blog?
  • 2. Why do it?
  • 3. How to start?
  • 4. What are the keypoints to consider?
  • 5. The 5H characteristics to successful blogging. (credits to Mr. Lai for allowing me to include this.)
  • 6. When to start?

 Link of my powerpoint presentation here.

The questions (as far as I can remember).
I only included 4 questions in this post.
1. What free blog platforms do you recommend?
- I recommend 2 most known platforms which are Blogspot and Wordpress.com. There are also  other free platforms that you can choose if you want just like Weebly, Wix, etc.
2. Is it really necessary to buy a domain name for your blog?
- This depends on what your plan is. 
No, it is not necessary to buy a domain name for your blog  if you write occasionally.
Yes, it is necessary to buy a domain name if you really want to focus on blogging and if you want to make a name out there. Having  your own domain name is ‘professional’ in a sense that mostly, advertisers and brands will be so keen in partnering with you. Also, they do not take some time to type. Think: emelieempire.blogspot.com versus empireempire.com – the second one is better, right?
3. What was my inspiration to blog?
- First, this is part of my New Year's Resolution. Second, I love the idea that I have owned a collection of my memories online that I can browse/read when I get old. Imagine sitting in my balcony with my gray hair, sipping coffee while holding a tab on the  other hand and browsing the happy memories I had when I was young. I perhaps can share about how awesome my life was when i was younger to my grand kids!  Lastly, my breakup with my  ex motivated me to write. What can I do? I need to keep myself as busy as I can in order to smooth out my moving on process.
4. Is it necessary to create categories/Pages in your blog?
Yes, it is. In this way, you are tiding up your blog and it will be easy for your readers to navigate on which topic they want to read.
Giving of certificate. Oops, where am I looking?

The wonderful students and my sweet friends :*

Yay, groufie! :D


After the event, I toured myself in USC-TC's beautiful scenery. It's been a while since I've been there and there were lots of changes :)
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