Events

Events

My Takeaways from the FoundHer Summit 2025 held at SPACE at One Ayala

As a content creator, attending the FoundHer Summit was much more than covering “just another event,” it felt like a milestone in my journey and in the broader narrative of female-led entrepreneurship in the Philippines. Below are my reflections, the standout moments, and what this means moving forward. Setting the Scene The summit was held at SPACE at One Ayala on October 14, 2025.  Organized by FoundHer, it brought together hundreds of delegates: female founders, investors, startup ecosystem leaders, advocates, and allies, in what the organizers describe as the “biggest, boldest event galvanizing the startup community to champion Filipina founders and unlock the female-led economy.” Why It Resonated with Me As someone working in content creation who often feels the pressure to “shrink myself” to fit in or sound a certain way in male-dominated spaces, a session titled “Lead Like a Girl” really struck a chord. In that session I recognized parts of my story: When Ceej Tantengco‑Malolos (founder of Go Hard Girls) said “Don’t make the decision for them,” it lingered with me. It meant: don’t assume what others think, don’t decide your path just because you think of what they think of you, whether you’re a founder, an ally, a content creator covering their story. That line opened up a richer perspective for me. Standout Moments & Encounters Why It Matters in the Bigger Picture The FoundHer Summit is a signal. A few references: From my lens as a content creator, that means: the stories we tell matter. The platforms we give visibility to matter. And the shift from invisibility/undervaluation to prominence and voice is happening, and I’m excited I got to witness part of it. Final Thoughts Attending the summit reminded me that: If you’re reading this and you’re a content creator, a founder, an ally, or someone navigating your place in this ecosystem: I hope this encourages you to lean in. Show up fully. Tell the story that needs telling. Collaborate. Create. And above all: don’t leave your femininity or your authenticity behind.

My Takeaways from the FoundHer Summit 2025 held at SPACE at One Ayala Read Post »

Events, Featured Blog

Don’t Miss Big Bad Wolf Books’ Final Metro Manila Sale at Filinvest Tent

Big Bad Wolf Books Kicks Off the BER Months with a Massive Book Sale Adventure in Filinvest Tent, Don’t Miss the Last Leg in the Metro Kick off the festive season early with amazing deals to fill your shelves with new books! Metro Manila, Philippines (October 10, 2025) – The BER months are here, and Big Bad Wolf Books is giving readers a festive reason to celebrate early! Running until October 13, 2025, at The Filinvest Tent in Metro Manila, this massive book sale brings over two million titles to Metro Manila’s South. From bestsellers and TikTok favorites to timeless classics and inspiring reads, every book lover can find something to kick off the season of giving in the best way possible—with stories to share. Whether you’re starting your holiday shopping early or simply adding to your own collection, the Wolf is ready to help you hunt for the perfect reads and deals before the season rush begins. Start the BER Months with New Reads and Early Gifts As the Big Bad Wolf Books Sale enters its final days at the Filinvest Tent, now’s the time to get a head start on your BER-month book hunt. From TikTok-famous novels like the ‘The Friend Zone’ by Abby Jimenez to interactive children’s stories like ‘JJ’S Busy Day (Cocomelon)’ by Maria Le, Big Bad Wolf’s shelves are stacked high with titles to match the warmth and wonder of the season. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, laughter, or a spark of creativity, there’s a book waiting to set the tone for the months ahead. Every story is a small celebration — and every turn of the page brings the holidays a little closer. From thoughtful presents to personal goals, these last days are the perfect opportunity to fill your shelves and your gift lists with stories that inspire, entertain, and comfort. The season’s best book deals, from heartwarming novels and business bestsellers to children’s picture books and holiday-themed stories, are waiting to be discovered. Hunt, Shop, and Win Big in the Raffle! Shoppers can make their Big Bad Wolf Books Sale experience even more exciting with the limited-time raffle promo, where every P5,000 spent in a single receipt earns one raffle entry. Submit your receipt and entry at the Raffle Booth located in the Customer Service area. Prizes up for grabs: Winners will be announced on October 11, 2025, at 11:45 PM, so don’t miss your chance to hunt, shop, and win big before the Wolf howls goodbye! Sharing Stories to Change Lives Beyond the excitement of the sale, Big Bad Wolf Books continues its advocacy of promoting literacy and accessibility through its Red Readerhood Program. Caritas Manila, is one of the country’s largest non-profit organizations dedicated to alleviating poverty through education, livelihood, and social services. Through the Red Readerhood booth at the sale, visitors can donate books directly to Caritas Manila, helping bring the joy of reading to families and communities in need. Visitors can take part in this meaningful cause by purchasing any book at the Sale and donating it at the Red Readerhood Booth, located near the checkout counters. Shoppers simply select a book, pay and inform the cashier that it’s for donation, and drop it off at the booth where it will later be turned over to Caritas Manila. To help more people understand the cause, Caritas Manila also has a dedicated booth at the event, where guests can drop by to learn more about the organization’s advocacy and ongoing programs that uplift communities through education and social development. Through this simple yet powerful act, every visitor has the chance to share the joy of reading with families and communities in need. Each purchase and donation made at the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale fuels this shared mission of changing the world, one book at a time. Don’t Miss the Final Days of the Filinvest Sale Big Bad Wolf Books’ Alabang sale is roaring through its final stretch, and this is your last chance to start the BER months with books, bargains, and boundless fun. Admission is free, so bring your pack, bring your lists, and bring your holiday spirit — because the Wolf won’t be in town for long! For more information on upcoming sales and updates, visit Big Bad Wolf Books’ website or follow their official social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. ### About Big Bad Wolf Books The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of readers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone. One of the company’s best highlights is its book sales, which is popular among readers around the world. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them. Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has toured 17 countries and more than 50 cities. Among these include different cities in Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates and most recently, to Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

Don’t Miss Big Bad Wolf Books’ Final Metro Manila Sale at Filinvest Tent Read Post »

Community News, Events

SISID’s SALU-SALO 2: A Feast of Words, Stories, and Art in QC

Creativity takes center stage once again as SISID returns with SALU-SALO 2: Literature Festival, a three-day celebration of storytelling and artistic collaboration. This year’s festival invites writers, filmmakers, and creatives to share their works and insights through an exciting lineup of showcases and discussions spread across three weekends this October. The festival opens with the Playwriting Showcase on October 18 (4–7 PM) at Magdamag Market Café, followed by the Poetry and Prose Showcase on October 25 (5–8 PM) at Chapterhouse Creative Hub, and concludes with the Filmmaking Showcase on October 26 (6–10 PM) at Harong Café. Each event highlights readings, screenings, and craft lectures by some of today’s most compelling voices in the creative scene, including Sabrina Basilio, Jag Garcia, and Leandro Reyes, with performances by Francesca Dela Cruz and Leandro Reyes. SISID, founded in 2024 by Gerald Manuel, continues its mission to cultivate inclusive, artist-led spaces that encourage collaboration across disciplines — from theater and film to literature and visual arts. Through initiatives like Sketches & Ladders, Pira-Piraso Workshop Series, and ESPASHOW, the group has become a growing hub for emerging creators who value process as much as performance. Tickets for SALU-SALO 2 are available for ₱400 (Early Bird until October 12), ₱500 (Regular/Walk-ins), and ₱250 (Students, Seniors, PWDs). 🎫 Reserve your tickets here: https://forms.gle/ajcs4yFV3Hik191k9 Co-presented by Cognayan, Kislap Connect, and Primeluxe Travel and Tours, with venue partners Magdamag Market Café, Chapterhouse Creative Hub, and Harong, SISID’s SALU-SALO 2 promises three nights of community, creativity, and conversation , a true feast for the Filipino artistic spirit. See you around!

SISID’s SALU-SALO 2: A Feast of Words, Stories, and Art in QC Read Post »

Community News, Events, Lifestyle

Noel Bazaar Kicks Off 25th Anniversary at Filinvest Tent Alabang this October

The country’s most anticipated holiday shopping event is back — and it’s bigger, better, and more festive than ever! Noel Bazaar is officially kicking off its 25th anniversary celebration this October 17-19, 2025 at the Filinvest Tent Alabang, bringing with it a spectacular lineup of shopping, food, entertainment, and holiday fun. Shoppers can expect over 100+ curated brands, offering everything from fashion and accessories to home décor and unique gift finds perfect for every name on your holiday list. Whether you’re looking for handcrafted goods, local delicacies, or stylish statement pieces, Noel Bazaar has something for every kind of shopper. But it’s not just about the shopping! This year’s kick-off event transforms into a full-blown holiday destination featuring: A DIY Corner by MPB Crafts for hands-on, custom freebies Adding even more sparkle to the event, Noel Bazaar fans can look forward to live appearances from Kapuso celebrity ambassadors Skye Chua and AZ Martinez, who will be joining the celebration as part of the bazaar’s star-studded 25th year. “Noel Bazaar has always been more than just a shopping destination — it’s a place where holiday traditions begin,” shares event organizer Cut Unlimited Inc. “This year, we’re celebrating 25 years of bringing people together for a cause, and we’re pulling out all the stops to make it unforgettable.” Noel Bazaar is co-presented by GMA Network, for the benefit of the GMA Kapuso Foundation and the Inquirer Foundation. Cashless shopping is powered by BPI OneQR. Save the Date: 📩 For merchant inquiries, partnerships, and more information:Cut Unlimited, Inc. – Official Event Organizer Email: info@eventsbycut.com  Landline: (02) 8363 4900

Noel Bazaar Kicks Off 25th Anniversary at Filinvest Tent Alabang this October Read Post »

Community News, Events

Aninag Chapbook Series Brings Six Fresh Titles to the Manila International Book Fair

The Manila International Book Fair has long been a home for stories both grand and intimate, celebrated and undiscovered. This 2025, the Aninag Chapbook Series by Packing Sheets joins the country’s biggest book gathering, inviting readers to slow down, listen closely, and rediscover writing in its most personal form. Fresh from its sold-out launch at Museo de la Salle – DLSU Dasmariñas last August 24, the series now makes its way to the national stage of MIBF, bringing with it six chapbooks that hold voices as diverse as they are united by truth. Readers can meet the authors during a special book signing on September 13, 2:00–3:00 PM at the BOOx and Avenida booths. At hindi maitatangging ang mga kuwentong ito—naisulat man o hindi—ang bumubuo sa ating mundo. Lagi’t lagi, may tanong: matatagpuan ba natin ang ating hinahanap? Sa pagsusulat man o pagbabasa?Sa anim na akdang narito ngayon?Hindi natin alam. Ngunit isang bagay ang tiyak:magkakasama tayo ngayon. -Kit, Co-founder of Packing Sheets at the Aninag Chapbook Launch and Signing Each chapbook reflects a unique lens of Filipino experience: Together, these six works form the Aninag Chapbook Series, an exploration of the words unsaid by writers who always find their way back to writing. “Aninag,” after all, means to catch a glimpse, to see faintly yet clearly enough to understand. The Manila International Book Fair offers the perfect ground for this rediscovery. As visitors wander through rows of books, the Aninag Chapbook Series stands as a reminder that stories need not be long to be lasting, nor loud to be heard. Sometimes, it is in the thin volumes and folded pages, that we find the deepest reflections of who we are. Readers are warmly invited to visit the BOOx and Avenida booths at MIBF 2025, explore the chapbooks, and meet the writers on September 13, 2:00–3:00 PM. Whether through poetry, prose, or short fiction, the Aninag Chapbook Series opens a window to rediscover not only writing, but also the self mirrored in its many forms. Get your free ticket here. See you!

Aninag Chapbook Series Brings Six Fresh Titles to the Manila International Book Fair Read Post »

Events, Food

“ILOVE AUSSIE LAMB FEST” Kicks off in Metro Manila, Here’s What Happened

Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) brings the taste of Aussie Lamb to top restaurantsManila, Philippines — To celebrate and showcase the many delights of Aussie Lamb, the ILove Aussie Lamb Fest officially launches in Metro Manila. Building on the success of the Lambassador Program led by Chef Roby Goco, the country’s first Lambassador – the festival now widens its reach by partnering with more of the Philippines’ top restaurants. This growth reflects how Aussie Lamb is increasingly embraced by Filipino chefs and diners alike, who are discovering its premium quality, distinct flavor, and remarkable versatility. This year’s celebration showcases the diverse aspects of Filipino dining culture. Participating restaurants represent a wide spectrum of concepts-from fine dining establishments to family-style restaurants, casual dining favorites, and even a burger joint-all united in highlighting how Aussie Lamb can be adapted across cuisines, formats, and occasions. Diners can now enjoy inspired Aussie Lamb creations at I am Angus, Chesa Bianca, Cyma, Discovery Primea, Souv, Dr. Wine, Mamacita, Bondi & Bourke, Brothers Burger, Blackbird, Elaia, Hossein’s, Persia Grill, People’s Palace, and Sala. On Australian Lambs Australian lamb is winning over Filipino chefs and diners with its premium quality, distinct flavour,and incredible versatility.Raised on open pastures and nourished on natural grass, Aussie Lamb is naturally rich in protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome and nutritious choice. With a wide variety of cuts now available in thePhilippines,Aussie Lamb caters to both the foodservice industry and home cooks, making it easier than ever to prepare dishes that suit every cooking style and dining occasion.Whether grilled, roasted, stewed, or braised, it lends itself perfectly to Filipino favorites like kaldereta, adobo, and sinigang, as well as international dishes such as Mediterranean roasts, Middle Eastern kebabs, and Asian stir-fries. “Aussie Lamb has always been about premium quality, sustainability, and flavor that inspires chefs and delights diners. We’re delighted to see more of the Philippines’ leading restaurants – from fine dining to casual eateries-embracing Aussie Lamb and showcasing its versatility in truly innovative ways” shared Luisa Rust, Australian Senior Trade andInvestment Commissioner during the kick-off event for the festival. The I Love Aussie Lamb Fest not only highlights the outstanding taste of Australian lamb but also demonstrates how it is becoming a favorite among Filipinos. With more restaurants putting it on their menus and more diners discovering its natural goodness nutritional benefits, and world-class quality, Aussie Lamb continues to secure a strong place on Filipino tables.

“ILOVE AUSSIE LAMB FEST” Kicks off in Metro Manila, Here’s What Happened Read Post »

Blog, Community News, Events, Featured Community, Food

Tadhana sa Bukid: A Soulful 7-Course Pop-Up by Chef Frances Tariga

Michelin Guide Chef Frances Tariga brought her New York-based tasting menu Tadhana home — this time, not in city, but right in the quiet farmlands of Alfonso, Cavite. Held at Ellie’s Farm, Tadhana sa Bukid: A Contemporary Filipino Tasting Menu was a one-night-only pop-up, offering a seven-course meal inspired by Filipino flavors and ingredients. The tagline “An Ode to Chance” came to life in a warm, intimate setup. As someone from Cavite, it felt surreal to experience something created in New York, now served in my hometown. The evening felt personal, not just for Chef Frances, but for everyone seated around the table. A Familiar Story, Told Differently The menu celebrated Filipino food in creative ways. Each course had elements we knew: tinapa, calamansi, ginisang pako, but presented in a style you’d usually see in high-end restaurants in and out of the country. We started with Sinuglaw, featuring Esguerra Kurobuta pork with kasoy pinakurat, strong and sharp, like a welcome wake-up. Then came Penoy, a duck egg custard paired with ikura, kabute velouté, and atchara. It was savory, smooth, and comforting. I came here with a fellow content creator, Nini, and she loved it so much. According to her, the dish brought back memories of childhood and stories of her mom. The Ellie Farm Salad added a local touch, using ingredients fresh from the farm and topped with tinapa flakes and egg yolk jam. There’s something about it that makes me feel nostalgic but I can’t figure it out, I guess it’s so good it made me an emotional freak. A standout for me was the Piniritong Pugita, a crispy local octopus with calamansi sofrito and pili gremolata. Perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor, it was one of the most memorable bites I’ve ever had IN MY ENTIRE LIFE. Other dishes included Maya-Maya with ginisang pako and smoked kamatis, Kanin at Tutong with garlic and chives, and Inihaw na Kasim, a grilled pork with a sweet ketchup glaze and bold vinegar dip. The second-to-last course, Kaldereta at Ulang, mixed short rib and crayfish into a rich, flavorful puree. At this point I was so full but I can’t help but finish my plate. Hay! The meal ended with Ensaymada, reimagined with chèvre, vanilla fluff, and bukayo, a familiar Filipino pastry, but with a fresh twist. THIS IS THE BEST! I wasn’t expecting much for an ensaymada because I would have preferred a favorite from a local bakery but this was amazing. Just hands-down. A Moment for the Community This pop-up wasn’t just about the food. It was about gathering people, sharing stories, and creating space for Filipino cuisine to be seen in a new light. The setup was quiet and cozy, no fancy tablecloths or stiff formality, just real people sharing an incredible meal. The event was invite-only, but it didn’t feel exclusive. It felt intentional. It was Chef Frances’ way of introducing her work to the local community first, a gesture that made the experience feel even more special. Everyone left with the same reaction: excited, surprised, and deeply satisfied. It reminded us that Filipino food can be both traditional and elevated, something you crave and something you admire. What’s Next? There’s no official word yet on the next Tadhana sa Bukid date, but based on the response, it’s clear people are eager for more. If it returns, it’s definitely worth watching out for. In the meantime, this dinner served as a reminder: Filipino flavors have always had depth, beauty, and potential. Sometimes, all it takes is a chef like Frances Tariga — and a setting like Alfonso — to bring that to the surface.

Tadhana sa Bukid: A Soulful 7-Course Pop-Up by Chef Frances Tariga Read Post »

Events, Featured Blog, Featured Community, Food

Why You Shouldn’t Miss The Anzani Experience at Ville Sommet This July 20

On Sunday, July 20, Ville Sommet in Alfonso, Cavite will host The Anzani Experience, a thoughtfully curated event that brings together food, wine, art, and local hospitality. Led by Chef Marco Anzani, the experience features a five course lunch paired with a vertical wine tasting. The dishes are designed not just for flavor but for storytelling. I visited the venue ahead of the event and was able to try a few exquisite items from their menu. The Spinach Flatbread, topped with roasted garlic, mozzarella di buffalo, sun dried tomato, and black olive, was rich and well balanced. The Red Wine Porcini, with parmesan crisp, capes mushrooms, and Sangiovese reduction, was a personal favorite. I could easily enjoy another serving. I also had the opportunity to try the Tiramisu Delight; timely, given the current resurgence of tiramisu-inspired desserts. This rendition offered a more refined approach, combining cinnamon mascarpone, almond espresso liqueur, and dates, presented with precision and elegance. Another highlight was the Homemade Labneh Dip, served with pomegranate jus and coffee sourdough crisp. The combination of the tangy, creamy labneh with the subtle acidity of the pomegranate and the texture of the crisp created a balanced and memorable bite. It’s the kind of dish that lingers in the mind long after the meal. The Anzani Experience More than just a culinary event, The Anzani Experience brings something new to Alfonso. It offers something refined but accessible, encouraging locals to discover flavors that feel both rooted and transportive. The ambiance at Ville Sommet feels relaxed and welcoming, but there is also an understated elegance to the setting that makes the experience feel special without being distant. Guests can also enjoy coffee made with the Anzani Blend. I had a cappuccino during my visit and found it smooth, strong, and perfectly crafted. For cocktails, we sampled Italian Winter, Portofino, and a Vermouth cocktail, each offering distinct profiles that matched the overall mood of the place. Beyond the meal, there will be cake demonstrations, art sessions, and installations that add depth to the afternoon. DJ Brian Cua will provide music as part of the Sula Mixology launch, where guests can try different craft cocktails with a Cocktail Pass. Another highlight is the Chefs and Co. segment led by Chef Frances Tariga. This part of the event includes a walk around tasting with nine chefs including Aaron Isip, Cara Davis, Kevin Villarica, and Mikee Lopez, among others. Each brings a different style to the table, giving guests a wider view of contemporary food culture. A Culinary Legacy Rooted in Sustainability Established in 2008, Anzani is a celebration of over two decades of Chef Marco Anzani’s refined interpretation of New Mediterranean cuisine in the Philippines. The 2025 menu draws inspiration from time honored Mediterranean recipes while embracing Philippine ingredients. These were sourced from local farms, aquaculture, and ethical meat producers. Each dish is guided by values of sustainability, provenance, and traceability. Founded by Chef Marco and Kate Dychangco-Anzani, Anzani continues to evolve with intention. They chose Alfonso, Cavite as the next step in their journey, recognizing its agricultural zoning and potential to contribute meaningfully to the future of food sustainability in the country. The Anzani Experience signifies not only a significant milestone, but also a continued commitment to engaging local communities and advancing a meaningful legacy in culinary sustainability and innovation. The event will run from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM. With limited seating available, early reservation is recommended. See you around! For bookings, please message Anzani at Ville Sommet Tagaytay here.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss The Anzani Experience at Ville Sommet This July 20 Read Post »

Blog, Community News, Events, Featured Community

Here’s What Happened at the Light & Local Event in Studio Morii | Alfonso, Cavite

Studio Morii: There’s something about creative events in small towns that just hit differently. Maybe it’s the slower pace, the fresh air, or the way people show up with their bare hearts. I’ve always believed that the best stories aren’t just found in big cities, they’re in quiet corners, at weekend pop-ups, in handmade things. So when I heard about Light & Local at Studio Morii in Alfonso, Cavite, I knew I had to drop by. I didn’t expect anything grand, just a warm space, good food, and local makers doing what they love. And honestly? That’s exactly what I found. I arrived at Studio Morii around 3PM, with the kind of energy you only get after a peaceful solo lunch and a drive through the province. Before engaging with the event, I made a quick snack stop at Lime and Basil, one of those hidden gems tucked away in this part of Cavite. Their spring rolls were light and crispy, and the Pad Thai had that perfect sweet-savory balance, just enough to fuel me for the rest of the afternoon. Studio Morii’s Light & Local felt like a community love letter from the moment I walked in. Light & Local Happenings The space wasn’t overly crowded. It was just enough, enough booths to explore, enough conversations to hold, enough time to take it all in. I made my rounds slowly, weaving between refill stations, handmade pottery, watercolors, and textiles. Each merchant had something to share, not just about their product, but about their process. And that’s what I found most moving; this collective care for craft. While I missed the morning workshops, the energy in the late afternoon was energizing. Live music floated through the venue while people lingered, talked, and supported small businesses. There was no rush. No pressure. Just presence. Studio Morii pulled it all together beautifully. The layout felt intentional, the flow organic. It was the kind of event that didn’t need to be loud to leave an impression. As someone who lives for community-driven spaces and creative connection, this one felt special. A quiet reminder that sometimes, the best kind of day is one spent slowly: talking to strangers, supporting locals, and letting the hours unfold without a plan.

Here’s What Happened at the Light & Local Event in Studio Morii | Alfonso, Cavite Read Post »

Events, Featured Community, Speaking Engagements

Guest Speaker at The Basics Workshop by Christ Life Youth PH

Another milestone this month! I had the opportunity to share my passion for content creation and social media through my segment “BAWAL IYAKIN DITO: Social Media Responsibility in the AI Generation” at The Basics Workshop by Christ Life Youth PH. Maraming salamat po for trusting your tita, I am beyond happy to meet all of you. Sa uulitin. Eighty Media Yourtitaja Christ Life Youth PH Nagkakape, Ja

Guest Speaker at The Basics Workshop by Christ Life Youth PH Read Post »

Scroll to Top