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The GDC Octoberfest 2013

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I don't have much to say today because I'm tired so I'll post instead the photos taken at the recently concluded GDC Octoberfest. Big thanks to our sponsor San Miguel Corporation for the beers and, of course, to our team members and organizers for making the event a big success.
He definitely rocks! I'm now his number one fan. Haha! That's Kenneth performing at the Battle of the Bands. They were declared Champion. Congratulations!!
Our performance led by Lou and Aaron. In this photo: Aaron, Theresa, Lou, Lourdes, Mhel, Ces and Yours Truly. Hidden: Patty and Boss Twinkle. 
The Quality Team! In this photo: Lou, Mhel, Nelson, Lourdes, Theresa, Aaron, Ces, Jessa and Yours Truly. I'm pretty sure the QAs had fun. 
In this photo: Boss Twinkle, Boss Nadja, Boss Vida, Lester,  OM Glow and Boss Jeff. 
Big thanks to San Miguel Corporation for the beers! Till next year's October fest.
From the Special Services Group. In this photo: Glena, Pabs, Coach Chi, Joanne, Coach Leah and Marie. 
The Coaches from OM Jeff's Cluster: Ace, Ferdz, Josie, Oliver, Jmay, Brenda and Hubert. 
Big thanks to Patty and LM Vida for the photos. More photos to follow.

Paradiso Beach Resort in Aringay, La Union: Chill Out and Be Free

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My drowsiness quickly faded when our van reached the main entrance of Paradiso Beach Resort in Samara, Aringay, La Union. Finally, after one and a half hours of non-stop travel, we've reached our final destination. The cool breeze of the lowland and the hum of the sea from afar greeted us. We were all excited, and for some unknown reasons, I didn't feel tired at all. There's so much energy in me as I whisper to myself "Chill out and be free!" From where I quietly sit, I saw the big sign "Paradiso."

Paradiso means Paradise. That's me at the "Shower Area." Photo taken after swimming at the Resort's pool.

The dormitory type accommodation. "At Paradiso Beach Resort, you are assured of having the absolute value for the time and money spent for leisure." 

It's more fun in Paradiso Beach Resort. "Enjoy and feel the energy in Mayland" says the sign. 

The pool at Paradiso Beach Resort. In this photo: Lou, Theresa, Yours Truly, David, Patty, Jessa, Blair, Nelson, Arjay, Erl, Lourdes and Mhel.

At the beach. There's no entrance fee at the beach. Best time to go to beach is early in the morning and late afternoon. Perfect spot of sunrise and sunset.

That me with Russell of Paradiso Beach Resort. She's very accommodating and customer-friendly.

The Paradiso Hostel. We stayed here. We stayed at Rooms 14 and 13. 
Paradiso Beach Resort is located at Samara, Aringay, La Union. They can be contacted via phone @(6372) 603 0349, via fax @(6374) 446 2195 and via Mobile @ +63 9163099338. For more information about Paradiso, click here. Note: Photo courtesy of Theresa. 

Carrot Cake from Ebais Cafe and Pastry

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When my fellow Quality Analyst Lourdes invited me to join her at Ebais Cafe and Pastry a few days ago, I had only one thing in my head: to try their Carrot Cake. Aside from the fact that cakes are my "favorites," I was also informed that Carrot Cake is their best seller.

Carrot Cake costs Php65.00 at Ebais. Photo courtesy of Lourdes. Aside from Carrot Cake, I also tried Ebais' Sizzling Seafood in Special Sauce.
Ebais Cafe and Pastry is located at 151 Nardas Building, Upper Session Road, Baguio City. For inquiries and for more information about Ebais, please contact 074-304-4175.

Photos: Coach 201 With Sir Nani

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Here are some of the photos taken during our Coach 201 training under Sir Nani. Big thanks to Tucker for the photos.
Brainstorming about the benefits of diversity. In this photo: Yours truly, Ricky, Aaron, Sir Nani, Roma, Dennis, Jade. Unfortunately, I forgot the name of the other two ladies. 
Draw a house activity. 
Post test. No cheating please. Haha! Good thing all of us passed the post test. 
One of our activities re: core values. 
Another activity. One of the best things that I love about the leadership training is the activities. 
Earlier today, we received an email from Sir Nani, informing us about the "lunch out." I'm excited. I wish Tucker can join us too.

Payday Treat: Simon Sneakers from Hawk Footwear

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The pair of men's Simon Sneakers from Hawk Footwear comes with a canvas upper with a slip-on design. It features elastic gores on the side panels and a lightly padded collar. It also has a fabric-lined interior and rubber outer sole.
Hawk Footwear offers its take on a footwear classic with this pair of Simon Slip-on Sneakers. Slip them on with a suit for your version of smart casual or wear them with jeans or shorts on laid-back weekends.
In this world of high end fashion and Avant Garde clothing, there are times wherein people want to take a break from uncomfortable and unusual looking clothing. There are times wherein a person would like to kick back and relax in casually stylish apparel. Hawk Footwear offers a collection of stylish and comfortable shoes for both men and women. Fashionable people, even during their dressed down days, can look equally stylish and hip with the brand’s stylish and comfortable kicks.

Bad Experience With Zest Air (now Air Asia Zest)

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My bad experience with Zest Air (now Air Asia Zest) started on August 17, 2013, after we were informed via text message that our flight from Cebu to Manila was cancelled. My friends and I were happily chitchatting in our hotel room when I got the message around 11pm. We were shocked. We didn't expect the late notification and we didn’t expect that there’s no “flight transfer” to another airline.
In progress. Our refund status as of today, 7:17 am Manila Time. It's "in progress" for more than 60 days now.
Our Day 2 in Cebu was ruined because of the cancelled flight. Instead of “touring the city” as planned, we ended up in an internet café near our hotel to book with another airline. We searched for available seat sale on that day but we didn't find any. We booked with Cebu Pacific which, of course, was an added on cost on our end. We are not “high-earners” and such additional cost (Php2000+/head one way fare) is an added burden to us. On Zest Air’s part, we were offered a full refund.

08/16: My message to Zest Air after we got the flight cancellation message. PM sent in Cebu.
We waited for the refund. I couldn’t anymore recall how many times I messaged Air Asia Zest on Facebook and Twitter. I thought the refund process will only take maximum of fifteen days as stated on their Facebook message. Unfortunately, as of this writing, no refund has been credited to the credit card that we used despite Zest Air’s commitment to expedite the issue. I was informed, too, that the issue has been escalated. I also called their customer support several times but I didn't get any representative. All I got was a recorded voice saying that their “representatives are currently engaged in a call.” It was only on November 1st that I was able to talk to a representative named Chloe.

08/27: Please take note: "we have already escalated your refund with proper department."
During the call, Chloe informed me that they have technical issues/system update – reason why she will not be able to check the status of my refund. Because my friends and I have been patiently waiting for the refund, I asked for a supervisor. As a call center protocol, Chloe tried to deescalate. She informed me that her supervisors are unavailable because they are engaged in a call. I told her I will wait and she placed me on hold for more than 15 minutes. No “refresh” at all. When she went back to me, she asked for our booking number and when I gave it to her she told that that our refund has been forwarded to BDO. Chloe gave me a batch number which proves that refund has been endorsed to the bank. Chloe also informed me that the issue was forwarded on October 24th.

10/14: Our refund status is still in progress. 
On November 3, 2013, I called Air Asia Zest again to verify if I was given the correct information and, luckily, I was able to immediately get a representative. I spoke with Rain. Rain told me that the issue was “in progress” and she gave me the Batch number upon my request. Contrary to what Chloe told me, Rain informed me that my issue was forwarded on October 14th to the credit card provider. Rain further informed me that we should contact the bank and if the refund, which normally takes 30 days (well, it’s more than 60 days now), hasn’t been applied to the credit card yet, we can call Air Asia Zest again.

10/26: Unreachable. I called their CS phone number but to no avail. Refund is still in progress. 
On the November 4, 2013, we called BDO but we were informed that no refund has been applied to the credit card yet. I felt bad but BDO assured that once the reversal has been processed on Air Asia Zest’s end, then, the refund will reflect immediately. We were advised to call back the next day.
11/10: I attempted to follow-up my refund, however, I saw this message "You cannot reply to this conversation/ Either the recepients account was disabled or it's privacy settings don't allow replies."
On November 7, 2013, I called Air Asia Zest again around 9pm. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to talk to a live representative. All I got was a recording saying that their representatives are engaged in a call. Frustrated waiting, I dropped the call.

Knowing that I can n o longer send messages to the old FB page, I checked Air Asia's FB page. and sent them another message. No response yet as of this writing. 
On November 8, 2013, I called Air Asia Zest again and I talked to Eunice. She informed me that our refund has been escalated and forwarded to their finance department for processing. I complained to her that I felt sad and frustrated of what is going on. I told her that we have been waiting for the refund for more than sixty days. She apologized to me but I told her that it wasn't her fault. On the latter part of the call, Eunice gave me a reference number and she told me also that she will personally follow-up the issue.

I often visit Air Asia Zest’s website to check the status of our refund and during these visits I noticed their seat sales. It’s enticing but I didn’t mind booking with them again. Just like my friend who is also a frequent traveler, I’ve learned my lesson: Never fly with Air Asia Zest again. There are other airlines out there – PAL Express, Cebu Pacific and Tiger Airways – which offer a relatively better service than Zest Air.

Today is November 9th and we are still waiting for the refund. Air Asia Zest doesn’t even do call back to its customers to inform us of our refund status. I think I will wait forever. Calling the attention of Air Asia Zest Air’s management. (to be continued…)

A Place Called Pinky Travel Cafe

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"PNKY Travel Café in Baguio is part and parcel of PNKY Home not only because all accommodations include a full breakfast prepared by the cafe, but also because it aims to make you feel right at home by serving you comfort food prepared in a fresh and familiar way! Whether you're a guest at our B&B or a Baguio local... you're always welcome! Bon appetit!" (Photo credit: Patty.)

Lights on! Inside Pinky Travel Cafe with some of my fellow QAs. 
For dinner. Big thanks to the birthday celebrant for the treat. 
The invited! L-R: Blair, Mhel, Lourdes Yours Truly and a new found friend. We had fund at Pinky Travel Cafe. 
Inside the cafe. It feels great to visit a great cafe. 
The birthday celebrant (right)! Big thanks Ace for the treat! 
"PNKYHome and PNKYTravelCafé are perfect venues for weekend family getaways, reunions, birthdays, small weddings, company picnics or events. With a minimum of 12 people, you may host your own private dinner under the stars, throw a bonfire party for visiting relatives, or conduct a meeting in our cozy garden."

Run Like a Zombie: The Baguio Country Club Zombie Run 2013

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My initial reaction when I first saw the "Zombie Run" post at Laperal Building was "Aha, this is cool. I think I should join this."So I did. I haven't joined any Zombie run yet and I kinda find it cool to wear Zombie stuff and all while running. Yey! Anyway, Rolando and Joanne were not able to join so only Theresa and I joined. We joined 5K division. The run was presented and organized by the Baguio Country Club. Enjoy the photos below:

Zombie effect! Big thanks to Theresa for the "make up" and "face effects." Haha!

Theresa and I at Kneedler Street. Rumor has it that someone got himself killed in this area. Creepy, isn't it?

In this photo: Theresa and Yours Truly with some BCC staff. 

With the "pretty" ladies. Members of Baguio Country Club wearing their spookiest and most creative costume. 

That's Theresa with the "witch ladies." I owe her the photos and, of course, the make up. Right photo: That's me.

Photo shoot before the awarding ceremony.  

After the run. In this photo: Theresa.

That's me after the race. Back to "being human." Lol! 

Well, all I can say is I had fun at the run. I've been joining runs for quite some time now and my experience at BCC was kinda different. By the way, special awards were also given for Best in Customer, Top 3 Finishers and Youngest and Oldest Runners, male and female category.

"Touch The Philippines" by Steve Kuban

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Here's a song called "Touch The Philippines" performed by Steve Kuban. Steve Kuban is a composer, worship leader and prophetic musical evangelist whose mission is to take worship to the nations! He leads worship in many nations and writes songs that bring healing, victory and deliverance in the name of Jesus! Big thanks Mr. Kuban for the song.

The song lyrics goes this way: "Touch the Philippines with the power of your spirit...Touch the Philippines with the power of your wonder of your name...Touch the Philippines with the love of the father...Father of creation,,,hear the crying of our nation..."

Freebies from Quaker Oats Philippines and Tropicana Coco Quench

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Simply like their Facebook Fanpage and you'll get free Oat Cookies and Coco Quench! Not so difficult at all, right? Big thanks to Tropicana Coco Quench and Quaker Oats Philippines for the "freebies!"

That's Yours Truly and my fellow Quality Analyst (photo courtesy of QA Theresa.) Photo taken after our break. The Oat Cookies (Honey Nuts) tasted so good. It's 1/3 less fat and it has no artificial flavor. It has 0% trans fat as well. Tropicana's Coco Quench is also fantastic! It tasted like real coconut water! It's so quenching and refreshing!
"Tropicana Coco Quench brings the natural goodness of coconut water closer to local consumers, infusing “fun” and “freshness” into the lifestyle of Filipinos. Coconut water is known for containing electrolytes similar to the human plasma, making it naturally hydrating with less sugar and calories. Coconut water is also a rich source of iron, calcium and magnesium. It has 4 times higher potassium content than bananas. The regular drinking of this amazing juice from nature can significantly help reduce food cravings and flush out toxins to boost health and aid in weight loss." Click here to view source. Photo credit: click here
Absolutely free of charge cookies from Quaker. With whole grain goodness and real ingredients, it's a cookie you'll sure to love! Highly recommended to my dear readers!
Oat Cookies from Quaker! Crunchy, yummy, crunchy, yummy, crunchy, yummy, crunchy, yummy, crunchy, yummy! Oh, my apologies for repeating myself.
By the way, we will have an outreach program on November 30th at Pasdong Elementary School in Atok, Benguet. We have 102 beneficiaries aged 6-12. I think it's gonna be awesome if Quaker and Tropicana Coco Quench can "share" some of their blessings. Just thinking...:)

"...and the 3rd Place Award Goes to Runner #136...Aris Enconado"

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Find below is my photo taken at the recently concluded 2013 YMCA Fun Run. I didn't expect that I'll emerged 3rd place at the 5K Divison Men's Category (18-39 years old) which is why I was so "reddish" and "abot-tenga ang ngiti." Haha! Giving the award is YMCA President Richard Carino. The 5K Dvision started at the YMCA parking lot going up to Upper Session Road extension, to Military Cut-Off Rotunda going to South Drive then turn left going down to Napolcom headquarters at Teachers Camp up to Leonard Wood Road then back to YMCA parking lot. Big thanks to my fellow Quality Analyst Theresa for the photo.

The 2013 YMCA Fun Run was held on November 23, 2013 as part of its 72nd Foundation Day activity. The event is an annual activity of YMCA for its members and non-members to promote healthy lifestyle and camaraderie.

The 2013 YMCA Baguio Fun Run

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Following are some of the photos taken at the recently concluded 2013 YMCA Fun Fun. The event is an annual activity of YMCA for its members and non-members to promote healthy lifestyle and camaraderie. Medals and cash prize were awarded to top three winners per category while special awards and certificate of participation were also given to the participants.

Photo-shoot at YMCA Baguio: In this photo: Front:  Michelle, Jo-Ann, Theresa and Beverly. Back: Tere and Yours Truly. We joined 5K Division. The 5K Dvision started at the YMCA parking lot going up to Upper Session Road extension, to Military Cut-Off Rotunda going to South Drive then turn left going down to Napolcom headquarters at Teachers Camp up to Leonard Wood Road then back to YMCA parking lot 
With the lady runners. In this photo: Coach Mariel, Jo-Ann, Theresa, Wynn, Beverly and Michelle. All of us joined 5K Division. 
That's me with my bronze medal. I didn't expect that I'll make it in top three - 5K Division Male Category (18-39 years old). Giving the award is YMCA President Richard Carino.
That's yours truly with my finisher's certificate.
With our certs. In this photo: Michelle, Jo-Ann, Theresa, Coach Mariel, Beverly, Tere and Yours Truly. By the way, I love YMCA's shirt. 
A bit exhausted after the run. In this photo: Yours Truly with Coach Mariel. Photo credit: Coach Mariel.
Photo taken before the race: In this photo: Yours Truly, Coach Mariel, Jo-Ann, Beverly, Michelle, Tere and Wynn. 
The opening ceremony. Members of YMCA lighting the torch. Also included in this photo are the other participants at the race. 
The 2013 YMCA Fun Run was held on November 23, 2013 as part of its 72nd Foundation Day activity. The event is an annual activity of YMCA for its members and non-members to promote healthy lifestyle and camaraderie.(Photo credit: Theresa and Coach Mariel).

Launching of MDGs: “Universal Primary Education for All” in Barangay Pasdong, Atok, Benguet

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I don't have much time today to write about the outreach program that we conducted in Barangay Pasdong, Atok, Benguet almost two weeks ago so I will feature the article written by a promising member of the Cordillera Youth Network for Global Change (CYNCG). Her name is Janine Charlotte B. Diso and find below is here article called Launching of MDGs: “Universal Primary Education for All” in Barangay Pasdong, Atok, Benguet (I will have a separate article for the said outreach if I'm no longer "too busy.")

The facilitators with Atok Municipal Mayor Honorable Peter B. Alos.
"The Cordillera Youth Network for Global Change (CYNGC) in partnership with Saint Louis University- Kataas-taasang Sangunian ng mga Mag-aaral / Supreme Student Council, Prime Movers Society (SLU-PMS), Kings Colleges of the Philippines-Supreme Student Government (KCP-SSG), University of the Philippines Baguio-Gawad Kalinga (UPGK-Baguio) and the GDC Quality Assurance Department-SITEL Baguio conducted an Outreach Program at Barangay. Pasdong, Atok, Benguet with the theme “Launching of Millennium Development Goal: UNIVERSAL PRIMARY EDUCATION FOR ALL” on November 30, 2013.

"The said organizations assembled in the open gymnasium of Capitol, La Trinidad, Benguet at 5:00 in the morning and arrived at Brgy. Pasdong at 9:00 am. The vehicle used to convey the youth team for transportation from La Trinidad to Atok, Benguet was provided by the Municipality of Atok.

An "elf-ride" for almost three hours going to an isolated area is tiring but rewarding. 
"The community members led by their barangay officials welcomed the group with smiles their warm greetings and big smiles. The youth team were able to participate and witness the Community Assembly and the Turn Over Program, it started with an invocation followed by Pambansang Awit, Opening Remarks and recognition for the presence of the group by the Hon. Remejio F. Silug, the punong barangay of Pasdong, Atok.The CYNGC president, Debraliz Gabol was also given a part to introduce the organization to the community and explain our goal in this Outreach Program.

"After such, the students of Pasdong Elementary School gathered in the playground for the activities prepared for them. The first activity for them was the “Finding the Family” it is about making and creating an animal sound and finding their family sound with their eyes closed, 5 groups were created and through this, the creativity and wit of the kids and the facilitators was witnessed. The second game for all is called “Spider web” it is a getting to know activity using yarn. The yarn was being passed randomly through all the kids forming a web and the kids shouting their name whenever they catches the yarn, while holding the “spider web” the kids’ sang the Atok Hymn. This activity has been the symbolism of the unity of the community and their connections as students that they need each other for more learning experiences. The next activity was a separate game for Kinder to Grade 3 and Grade 4 to Grade6.

"Overall, the kids’ were very active, excited and very willing to give their best for the prizes waiting for them. The kids were able to adopt and follow the instructions from the facilitators. We have seen their enjoyment through their smiles and laughter. The games ended with an inspirational message from the facilitators for the kids followed by the awarding of gifts to the students awarded by Hon. Peter B. Alos , the Municipal Mayor of Atok, Benguet purely his presence was already a big gift for the students and for the community. The program ended at 3:00 in the afternoon.

"Hearing the kids say “Thank You” is music to our ears and seeing their beautiful smiles are now our inspiration in giving hope and joy to more kids that will be the future leaders and successors of their own communities and own country.

The facilitators: Tired but happy and fulfilled. 
"This Outreach Program is another successful activity for CYNGC but it will not be successful and meaningful without thefollowing organizations and people: SLU-KASAMA/SSC , SLU-PMS, KCP-SSG, UPGK- Baguio, GDC Quality Assurance Department-SITEL Baguio, Liezl Gano, Lynette Ateteo, Clint Labon, Marilyn Bango, Rojan Onangey ,Renz Tagle, Aris Enconado, Corazon Campoy and most especially the Municipality of Atok. They helped move our advocacy in attaining our goal of giving a “Universal Primary Education for All” to Pasdong Elementary School students.

"The Cordillera Youth Network for Global Change (CYNGC) keeps believing that “If we want Change, Let it begin with ourselves.”"

Photo Credit: Debraliz and Reymart.

Now Serving: Brunch Buffet Holiday Special at Tradisyon, Azalea Residences

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"Tradisyon" is Filipino term for tradition, and it is defined as "the transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation, or the fact of being passed on in this way." At Azalea Residences, Tradisyon is not about "transmission of beliefs." It’s all about Pinoy comfort food. It’s a haven and it is a must-visit place here in Baguio City not only for food enthusiasts and bloggers but also for tourists, travelers and vacationers. It is conceptualized to showcase Pinoy comfort food and to establish a dining experience that is absolutely unique and “worth dining for.”
Azalea Residences is the freshest addition to the flourishing hospitality industry in the Philippines, especially here in Baguio City.
This Holiday Season, there’s something that you should not miss at Tradisyon. Believing that holidays are best spent for leisure and festivity brunches with our loved ones, Tradisyon will showcase “Brunch Buffet Holiday Special” which will run from December 21-31 from 11am to 2pm. Buffet costs Php350.00 per adult and is free for 11 years old and below kids accompanied by a paying adult.
Special Holiday Grilling will also be available at Azalea's Garden from December 14-23 and December 26-30.
The Food Quest
Early morning of December 15th, I confirmed to Vince via text message that I will be joining the food quest at Azalea Residences. I have not joined any food hunt yet with other Baguio-based bloggers so I find his idea exciting, and it has always been my dream to meet other Baguio and Cordilleran bloggers. As usual, my fellow Quality Analyst and long-time travel, running and food buddy Theresa also joined the event which I find great considering the fact that she’s been helping me with my food reviews for quite some time now. We met at 11am, and we were warmly welcomed by Sir Alvin and Ma’am Jace of Azalea. After introducing ourselves to our fellow bloggers, we started the “food adventure.”

The food questors:  My fellow Quality Analyst and long-time travel, running and food buddy Theresa, Yours Truly, Zheyme, Kurt and Vince (wearing blue.)
The Food to Remember
Tradisyon offers brunch for the Holiday Special, and there you’ll find different cuisine ranging from your most-wanted Bolognese to your favorite Pinoy-style Corned Beef or Baguio Longganisa. What you will eat there will definitely give you comfort and ultimate satisfaction. I admit that I did not eat a lot because I was “full” when I left home (ouch…sorry to myself) so I missed the chance to taste all the food there. I contented myself with my all-time favorite Tiramisu, Blueberry Muffin and Mixed-fruit Jam while my fellow bloggers are enjoying those undeniably yummy and mouth-watering food. In fact, Theresa admitted that she loves Southern Chicken a lot, and she will absolutely recommend Tradisyon to her other friends and family members. In my case, I will highly recommend Tradisyon’s Blueberry Muffin and I plan to visit the place again and try everything that I missed there. I also want to try their Mongolian Buffet – hopefully with Theresa again and some of my fellow Quality Analysts at work. By the way, here’s what Tradisyon had for the Brunch Buffet Holiday Special when we checked the place (menu may vary):

Food is ready...and waiting.
Ham and Cheese Croquette. A croquette is a small "breadcrumbed" fried food roll containing, usually as main ingredients, mashed potatoes and/or ground meat (veal, beef, chicken, or turkey), shellfish, fish, cheese, vegetables and mixed with béchamel or brown sauce, and soaked white bread, egg, onion, spices and herbs, wine, milk, beer or any of the combination thereof, sometimes with a filling, e.g. sauteed onions or mushrooms, boiled eggs  
Bolognese.
Pizza. Perfect for die-hard pizza fanatics. 
Southern Fried Chicken. So far, this is Theresa's favorite. she told me that she liked it a lot. 
Pinoy-style corned beef.  
Baguio Longganisa. According to Inquirer, "this city’s longganisa (native sausage) is traditionally small, but it is big in history. And one business establishment that has lived up to its name as the maker of the city’s well-loved, bite-sized breakfast fare is the Enriquez Baguio Longganisa, a family-run enterprise that started in a meat stall in the city market about 60 years ago." 
Ham 
Sauted Vegetables
You're free to choose whichever kind of rice you want for brunch. 

My all-time favorite Tiramisu. I love Tradisyon's version of Tiramisu. 
Blueberry Muffins is also highly recommended. Perfect for dessert. 
Mixed-fruit Jam, Peanut Butter, Butter and Cereals. 
For the vegans and fruit-lovers. 
Coleslaw, Fruit Salad and Ruassian Potato Salad. 
Mustard Dressing and Thousand Island Dressing. 
Theresa's Jazmin Tea. 
My coffee. I prefer "no sugar."
The Place
I love the place. If you want to stay away from the busy city, Tradisyon is highly recommended. It is comfy and it offers a very relaxing atmosphere which can definitely kindle your mood for a good brunch and a family “get together.” It’s also undeniably perfect for team building, dates, birthday celebration and a lot more!
I love the ambiance of Tradisyonal. 
Theresa and Sheyme, also a blogger currently based in Baguio City.
The dining area overlooking the pine trees. 

Yours Truly with Sir Alvin, Marketing Manager from Azalea Residences.
The entrance of Tradisyon.
A view from the dining area. Fantastic, isn't it?
Indeed, it is a Pinoy tradition to gather and feast on special occasions like the Holiday Season and if you want this season to be extra-special with the most important persons in your life, try and indulge yourself into a unique dining experience only at Tradisyon. Tradisyon has come up with innovative ideas to give you comfort while satisfying your taste-buds.

Thank you Azalea Residences Baguio...
...and Tradisyon for the awesome "food adventure." 
Tradisyon is located at Azalea Residences Baguio at #7 Leonard Wood Loop, Bgy. M. Roxas Baguio City 2600. For inquiries and reservation, kindly contact 0917-861-1641, 0919-994-4141 or 074-424-8712 to 13. Click here to view how to go to Azalea Residences.

"White House of the Lord of Scents" by Joel Cruz in Baguio Camp John Hay

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Rumor has it that perfumer Joel Cruz has built his White House at the Camp John Hay here in Baguio City so when Theresa, Aggie and I dropped by Starbucks John Hay two days, I curiously took photos of the said mansion. Undeniably, the mansion looks great, and I'm pretty sure millions have been spent for that.

White House of the Lord of Scentsa at Camp John Hay Baguio  is owned by perfurmer Joel Cruz 
Close shot. 
That's yours Truly with my "signature pose." Haha! 
Aggie and Theresa after our Starbucks session. 
I don't have much to write to day so expect another blog update tomorrow. I'll be blogging about our recent "food hunt." Stay tuned and Happy New Year to all!

My New Year's Wish List 2014

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Instead of listing down my New Year’s Resolution like what I normally do every time a new year approaches, I will write instead a wish list. I did not create a wish list last Christmas so a New Year’s wish list is perhaps pretty timing. Just perhaps. Anyway, here are my top wishes for 2014:

My first "climb" for 2014 will be second week of January at Mount Bulusan in Bulusan, Sorsogon. Photo courtesy of Philippines Today.
…world peace, and a “better” Philippines. A “better” Philippines for me means: (1) fewer to no corrupt politicians, (2) economic growth, (3) lesser to no incidence of women and child abuse, (4) justice for the poor, the oppressed and the underprivileged, and more.

…a lucky and prosperous 2014. 2013 isn’t “that good” to me so I’m wishing for a “better” brand new year. My 2014 horoscope says “The love relationship for Tiger people in the year of Horse is pretty good. Earth is connected to money to Tiger people. So Tiger enters the land of money opportunity in 2014. Tiger people will be full of energy in the year of Wooden Horse year. And Tiger people will have a good mood.” The negative: "Your outdoor activities will increase. You might spend more time in travel. So you just need to watch the safety on the road. It's easy to get hurt on your arms or legs in 2014. Before you do exercise, you must do enough warm up to avoid injury. If you have trouble regarding to cardiovascular and digestion systems for a while, then it's time to visit your doctor to check it up."Click here to view source.

…to have more “food hunts” here in Baguio City so I can blog more. Thanks Xine of X Marks the Spot for Baguio Good Foods and DJ Krish of 96.7 Klite for inspiring me to blog more about food establishments here in the City of Pines. Big thanks also to Theresa and Leah for accompanying me in some of my food escapades! Happy New Year to you ladies!!!

…to visit at least five of the top tourist spots in the Philippines, preferably one in Luzon, two in the Visayas and two in Mindanao. We are only given ten paid vacation leaves at work so I think “five” is ideal. My 3-day VL for my Bicol escapade has been approved so this means that I only have 7 days VL left for the entire year. I need to make sure that my VLs are spent “wisely.” Well, it’s good that I decided to spend my first three VLs in my hometown with my family. I haven’t been home since March 2013.

…to have an awesome and “adventurous” climb at Mount Bulusan in Bulusan, Sorsogon come second week of January. Other places to visit Bicol: Dangkalan Beach in Gubat, Sorsogon, the century-old Barcelona Church in Barcelona, Sorsogon, Subic Island in Matnog, Sorsogon and Cagsawa Ruins/Mayon Volcano in Albay, Legazpi. Also wishing to visit Caramoan Islands (venue of Survivor USA) in Camarines Sur as well and Penafrancia Church in Naga City if time and money permit.

…to be healthy the entire year - healthy mind and healthy body to be precise. I rarely eat pork so I’m thinking to eliminate it from my diet again. I did it before for almost a year. Also wishing family members’ good health and safety.

…to join more runs, preferably “run-for-a-cause”, and community and/or outreach programs. I think the PMA annual Takbo Para sa Kalikasan will commence this January so I’m wishing I can join it. Hopefully, the Cordillera Youth for Network for Global Change will have another outreach program this January so I can join too.

…to finish reading Tale of Two Cities by my favorite Victorian novelist Charles Dickens. I bought the book approximately one year ago and I only read few chapters of it. I have been too busy these past few months which is why I didn’t finish reading the book. I wish I have enough time to read.

…to blog and blog and blog and blog and blog and blog. Blogging is definitely helping me improve my writing skills, and it’s my “de-stressor.” It’s also an avenue for me to interact with other bloggers all over the world - specifically Baguio-based and Cordillera-based bloggers.

This is it for now. A prosperous New Year to everyone! By the way, my blog will celebrate 10 years in the blogosphere come February 2014! Big thanks Blogger, Nuffnang Philippines, Infolinks, Google Adsense and GoDaddy for being part of my (mis)adventures!!! Big thanks too to Marocharim of UP, David Edward, Jim Paredes, Jessica Safra, Ko Kyi Lee and Rus for inspiring me to create my own blog and to continue blogging. You guys rule - wherever you are!!!

Rasa Pura Now Serving Authentic Singaporean Seafood in Baguio City

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I did not attend Singaporean classes back in my old UP days so I don't understand any of the "Singaporean dialect" but, thanks God we have Google. Otherwise, I will never learn what "Rasa Pura" means unless I ask someone who knows the dialect. According to my online resource, "Rasapura" literally means "City of Taste" and it reflects the evolution of Singapore's food culture. Here in Baguio City, if you are craving for Singaporean food, Rasa Pura is open to serve you. At Rasa Pura Baguio, it's all about authentic Singaporean food.

Rasa Pura has 20% discount weekly on selected seafood delights. Photo credit: Theresa.
Rasa Pura Baguio is located at 42 CM Recto corner Leonard Wood, Baguio City. They are open from Monday to Sunday from 10:30am to 10:30pm. For inquiries, you may contact them at 0998-984-8158, email them at rasapura.nav@gmail.com or check their Facebook Page.

Just Give Me A Reason by Pink and Nate Ruess Tops 96.7 Klite Year-end Countdown

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Curious what's the number song in 96.7 Klite's 2013 Year-end Countdown? See photo below:
Just Give Me A Reason by Pink featuring Nate Ruess of Fun tops 96.7 Klite's year-end countdown. Photo: Credit: 96.7 Klite.
96.7 Klite is the # 1 Hit Music Station in Baguio City and is, also, the Golden Dove People's Choice Best FM in Baguio City for two consecutive years (2009-2010). It is located at No. 3 Upper Market Subd.,Camp Alen, Baguio City and operates from 5:00 AM to 12:00 MN local time, Monday to Sunday. For your advertising needs, please call Klite at telephone # (074) 442-7694. Also, like their Facebook Fanpage.

On The Last Day of Bliss Cafe

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Yes, you read it right. Today is Bliss Cafe's last day after serving the City of Pines for nine and a half years. But you might wonder and ask "why?" Nope, it's not because cafe owner Jim Ward is relocating in the United States and, definitely, it's not because the business is losing. It's because...(I'm sorry I decided not to tell.) It's for you to find out! Why not drop by there and try their all day buffet for as low as Php95.00? (95 to signify their nine and half years of existence according to Jim. See the significance of Php95.00? We didn't have any idea about it until Jim told us.)


The food questors with Bliss Cafe owner Jim Ward. It's good to know the "other side" of Jim. He's friendly and nice, and we learned that he is a Buddhist. A Buddhist approach on happiness shared to us by Jim: "happiness is not always about getting yourself attached to anything or anyone."  Makes sense, right?
Bliss Cafe, named as "one of the top ten veggie cafes in the Philippines, had it's humble beginnings in 2004. 
We were the "first customers." In this photo: Patty, Yours Truly, Jo-anne and Theresa.  
All day buffet option 3: Pesto and bread for Php95.00. Unfortunately, Berek bread ain't available yet we we came so we had wheat bread instead. Bliss has been a pioneer in fine dining vegetarian since 2004. Big thanks to Chef Shanti for our food.
Bliss' Infamous Crepe was once featured by the Manila Bulletin, the leading newspaper in the Philippines.  
On our way back home. In this photo: Yours Truly, Theresa and Patty. Photo taken in front of Elizabeth Hotel here in Baguio City. 
By the way, we also spotted Sir Mylon, his wife and his cute daughter and former Site 3 Director Sheila at the cafe. More photos to follow. Internet connection is wonky. Happy Sunday everyone!!! Farewell Bliss Cafe!!!

The Search For Yamashita Japanese Food Restaurant

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When Theresa, Aaron and I first checked Yamashita Japanese Noodle House at General Luna here in Baguio a couple of weeks ago, it was closed. It was a failed food hunt which eventually came into reality earlier today but, unfortunately, Theresa was not able to join us.
Thank God Yamashita was open when we checked the place earlier. In this photo: Lourdes, Aaron, David and Yours Truly. Finally, we have "tasted Yamashita's hidden treasure." (Treasure = Food.)
Yamashita is now open not for "food hunting." Kangei! 
The agony of waiting. I'm just kidding. Good thing our food was served fast. We didn't wait "that long." I think it's because we were one of the first customers to checked the place. In this photo: David and Aaron. 
Oishikatta desu! Ginger Chicken with Regular Soup for Php110.00.  Oishikatta desu means "that was delicious!"My three companions decided to order this.   
One of Yamashita's best-seller. Ramen for Php120.00 regular size. This is Aaron's choice to lighten up his day after work. 
Kore wa watashi no monodesu: Set D: Small pork rice and Gyoza small for Php85.00.Kore wa watashi no monodesu means "this is mine." 
Hot Choco sold for Php35.00. This one tastes real good. 
Yamashita Japanese Noodle House is located at General Luna Road, Baguio City (beside 50's Diner.) They are open from 9:30am to 11:00pm. 
It's not a treasure. Its Yamashita. The chef-in-charge informed me that Yamashita Baguio is owned by a Japanese, and they started serving the public on August 2013.
Overall, we enjoyed our stay at Yamashita. The place is small but I like it's ambiance. The attendant and the chef-in-charge were also accommodating to us. It's highly recommended specially for those who love real Japanese food. One more thing...they don't have "service charge." Check it out!
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