Posts Tagged ‘philippines’

Annie Leibovitz in the Philippines

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009

Relax,  my fashion friends…She is not here now. LOL!  She used to live in here, and  in fact, her father wanted to her  attend The University of the Philippines!  OMG!  My friend & fashion designer Tippi Ocampo posted on her Facebook that the suuuuuuuper famous photographer Annie Leibovitz used to live in the Philippines.  So she sent me the link: http://nymag.com/fashion/09/fall/58346/

It’s actually quite a downer of an article because it’s all about her bankruptcy and all that.  However, you know me!  I always try to see the good things.  I was like excited to find out that she started tinkering with Photography when she lived here!  Imagine that?  Enjoy the read!

HUGS!
RAJO!

Check this out!

Saturday, October 3rd, 2009

I just received this in my Facebook account and I LOVED IT! It really brought a smile to my face, not to mention eased a bit of tension from all this weather situation! It’s a really cool way to promote the Philippines to a a younger demographic! Kudos to Apl d-ap (Is that how you spell his name?  LOL!) You make me so proud to be a Filipino!

Click here to see it!

HUGS!
RAJO!

Miss Teen Beauty Pageant!

Tuesday, April 28th, 2009

While I was in Dumaguete recently, I was asked to judge the Negros Oriental Miss Teen Philippines 2009 beauty pageant.  I did not hesitate, as I was already there and I thought that it would be fun.  I have been watching these things since I was like a child, so it seems almost integral to our culture.

I had a great time and I was really impressed by the organizers, as they were really polished and professional.  My only beef would be that the girls were acting too rigid and stiff – it was as if they were not teenagers anymore.  They all had this “trained” quality about them that they ended up like beautiful robotic androids.  However, I was really stunned by the beautiful young ladies of my mother’s hometown!  Congratulations to the winners and I know that you will do very well in the finals!

 The opening number!  The girls represent the various provinces in Negros Oriental. Like Tanjay, Bais, Guihulngan  and many more.  They actually held local pageants then sent them to Dumaguete for the regionals. Its quite a professional event. When the organizers were explaining it to me it sounded like an olympic sport! LOL!

The opening number! The girls represent the various provinces in Negros Oriental. Like Tanjay, Bais, Guihulngan and many more. They actually held local pageants then sent them to Dumaguete for the regionals. It's quite a professional event. When the organizers were explaining it to me, it sounded like an Olympic sport! LOL!

 This is my friend Angelo Villanueva!  Here he is wearing the shades I got for him in the UKAY-UKAY!  I knew that it would fit him perfectly!  He is a fashion stylist and a fantastic DJ.  His DJ name is SUPERMODEL DIVA!

This is my friend Angelo Villanueva! Here he is, wearing the shades I got for him in the UKAY-UKAY! I knew that it would fit him perfectly! He is a fashion stylist and a fantastic DJ. His DJ name is SUPERMODEL DIVA!

 These girls stood out in the start of the contes.

These girls stood out in the start of the contest.

 I found this girl really pretty!  She is what you call a classic mestiza.

I found this girl really pretty! She is what you call a classic mestiza.

  This girl is Kaye, she was quite tall almost 5 foot 8' !  This made me notice her immediately.

This girl is Kaye, she was quite tall almost 5 foot 8! This made me notice her immediately.

 I was super impressed by the computer set up, making the tabulation more efficient.

I was super impressed by the computer setup, making the tabulation more efficient.

The cup-cake inspired gowns.  I was like telling myself.....RAJO.....BE NICE!

The cupcake-inspired gowns. I was like telling myself.....RAJO.....BE NICE!

This is Kaye she eventually  won the top prize!  She is really smart and spoke extremely well!

This is Kaye, who eventually won the top prize! She is really smart and spoke extremely well!

 I  found this young lady NICY from Bais  really refreshing, she was the only one that really made me think that she was 16!  She reminded me of Judy Ann Santos!  She won 1st Runner up!  She will also be going to the nationals.

I found this young lady NICY from Bais really refreshing. She was the only one that really made me think that she was 16! She reminded me of Judy Ann Santos! She won 1st Runner up! She will also be going to the nationals.

 This was last years winner!  OH.....She is also the daughter of my first cousin!  LOL!

This was last year's winner! OH.....She is also the daughter of my first cousin! LOL!

HUGS!
RAJO!

FAME: Part 3!

Tuesday, April 21st, 2009

The most exciting thing for me about FAME is the Home Furnishing section!  In my humble opinion, we are one of the best home furnishing designers in the world!  I really get so inspired when I am able to walk around FAME and just soak all the beautiful designs around me.  I am the type of judge  that would rather give everyone an award! LOL!  I took a gazillion photos but I really think that all of these images will inspire you and make you swell with pride inside!

This lamp is from EVOLVE designs.  I was really digging their recycled theme and I really think that evolves designer is really a genius!

This lamp is from EVOLVE designs. I was really digging their recycled theme and I really think that Evolve's designer is really a genius!

 I love this chair!  It is made form layers of cheese cloth!  I sat on this chair and it was so comfortable, this is also from evolve designs and their designer Is MILO NAVA!  I think he is truly brilliant!  If you want this chair shoot an email to evolvephilippines@gmail.com

I love this chair! It is made from layers of cheese cloth! I sat on this chair and it was so comfortable. It's also from Evolve Designs by MILO NAVA! I think he is truly brilliant! If you want this chair, shoot an email to evolvephilippines@gmail.com

Evolve also did this bottle cap lamp base!  I LOVE IT!  It could be a do it yourself product.  Now if only I can find the time to do crafty things like this.

Evolve also did this bottle cap lamp base! I LOVE IT! It could be a do-it-yourself product. Now if only I can find the time to do crafty things like this.

 These pillows were designed by Maricris Brias!  She is  TADECO!  I love the pattern and the texture of these pillows!

These pillows were designed by Maricris Brias! She is TADECO! I love the pattern and the texture of these pillows!

Tadeco also translated the pillows into area carpets.  I imagine this as a really cool print for fabric.  Ideas....ideas!  You can see more of Maricris's work at www.tadeco-homedecor.com

Tadeco also translated the pillows into area carpets. I imagine this as a really cool print for fabric. Ideas....ideas! You can see more of Maricris's work at www.tadeco-homedecor.com

These fabulous sculptures/outdoor furniture is from the very talented Ann Pamintuan!  I love her stuff!  These are from her lotus series and I promise myself that if and when I have my own garden I will definitely have an Ann Pamintuan in it! PROMISE!

These fabulous sculptures/outdoor furniture pieces are from the very talented Ann Pamintuan! I love her stuff! These are from her Lotus series and I promise myself that if and when I have my own garden, I will definitely have an Ann Pamintuan in it! PROMISE!

 Ann Pamintuan also showed some modern verve by using some plastic tubing for some of her pieces!  I loved how this where like space creatures!  LOL!

Ann Pamintuan also showed some modern verve by using some plastic tubing for some of her pieces! I loved how these pieces were like space creatures! LOL!

 I loved this booth!  They create products made  from fine bone china!  The company is called CSM international!  I really found their items so delicate and romantic.  If you like to see more of them you can email them at csmicorp@smartbro.net

I loved this booth! They create products made from fine bone china! The company is called CSM International! I really found their items so delicate and romantic. If you'd like to see more of them, you can email them at csmicorp@smartbro.net

 The lady on the left is Tess Pasola!  I call her the PAPER PRINCESS!  She does the most amazing things with paper!  I mean can you imagine that all of those tables, vases, vessels and what not are all made from paper?  Well...They are!  She has won several design awards internationally for her amazing designs!  I AM A FAN!

The lady on the left is Tess Pasola. I call her the PAPER PRINCESS! She does the most amazing things with paper! I mean, can you imagine that all of those tables, vases, vessels and what not are all made from paper? Well...they are! She has won several design awards internationally for her amazing designs! I AM A FAN!

 In the center of home decor fair, Eric Paras created these amazing tableaus that showcased several products.  I love the how it was like a symphony of shapes and textures all so very pleasing to the eye and to the touch!  One word STUNNING!

In the center of home decor fair, Eric Paras created these amazing tableaus that showcased several products. I love how it was like a symphony of shapes and textures - all so very pleasing to the eye and to the touch! One word: STUNNING!

 Another Eric Paras tableau!  I want that lamp on the extreme right hand of the photo!  WAIT!  I want everything in this photo!  WAAAH!

Another Eric Paras tableau! I want that lamp on the extreme right hand of the photo! WAIT! I want everything in this photo! WAAAH!

 I was so scared to sit on this chair but I was assured by the designer that it was really safe!  It was beautiful.  I thought that it reminded me of a game I used to play as a child. The wood peg game called JANGO?

I was so scared to sit on this chair, but I was assured by the designer that it was really safe! It was beautiful. I thought that it reminded me of a game I used to play as a child: the wood peg game called JENGA?

 They had several artists creating murals in the fair as I was walking around. I was not sure where they would go but I love street art and I find watching artists paint mesmerizing.

They had several artists creating murals in the fair as I was walking around. I was not sure where they would go, but I love street art and I find watching artists paint mesmerizing.

 This was the Kalikasan Crafts booth!  I found there work so seamless!  I mean I know that they were made from Iron and all that but I could not figure out how they were attached together as the joints were so clean!  This made their products so outstanding!

This was the Kalikasan Crafts booth! I found their work so seamless! I mean, I know that they were made from iron and all, that but I could not figure out how they were attached together, as the joints were so clean! This made their products so outstanding!

 Love this lamp!  One of the judges asked how the pieces of metal were attached and they said it was top secret!  I would keep it a secret too because these items were fantastic!

Love this lamp! One of the judges asked how the pieces of metal were attached, and they said it was top secret! I would keep it a secret too because these items were fantastic!

 These lamps were also so beautiful.  They were also created by Kalikasan crafts you can see more of their work at www.kalikasancrafts.com

These lamps were also so beautiful. They were also created by Kalikasan Crafts. You can see more of their work at www.kalikasancrafts.com

 This amazing set of lamps won the KATHA awards last year!  They were designed and created by BON ACE!

This amazing set of lamps won the KATHA awards last year! They were designed and created by BON ACE!

These are also bon ace's products!  I loved their booth as they had a fringed veil around the booth that gave a sense of mystery and transparency to the whole area.

These are also Bon Ace's products! I loved their booth as they had a fringed veil around it that gave a sense of mystery and transparency to the whole area.

 These mirrors/wall sculptures are from MCCA industrial corporation.  I love how it was arranged, I also admire the delicate workmanship.

These mirrors/wall sculptures are from MCCA Industrial Corporation. I love how it was arranged, and I also admire the delicate workmanship.

 This KATHA 2009 award for best boot goes to MCCA!  I though it was really an intelligent use of space and it really highlighted the products.

This KATHA 2009 Award for Best Boot goes to MCCA! I though it was really an intelligent use of space and it really highlighted the products.

 Another view of the winning booth, it was so logical and so easy to appreciate their products.  You can get in touch with MCCA through mcca@comclark.com

Another view of the winning booth. It was so logical and so easy to appreciate their products. You can get in touch with MCCA through mcca@comclark.com

 A close up of the lamp I want!  Its so nice!

A close up of the lamp I want! It's so nice!

Another beautiful tableau by Eric Paras.

Another beautiful tableau by Eric Paras.

This is the booth of evolve!  I love the serenity of the place!  I can live in that booth!  LOL!

This is the booth of Evolve! I love the serenity of the place! I can live in that booth! LOL!

 This is made from paper! I found the texture so interesting.  I wonder if it will translate into fabric?  HMMM?

This is made from paper! I found the texture so interesting. I wonder if it will translate into fabric? HMMM?

 masaeco is the company that does this amazing things with paper.

Masaeco is the company that does these amazing things with paper.

 more of the products of Masaeco.

More of the products of Masaeco.

 This was the booth of the Locsin group.  They always show strong pieces and this year was no exception.

This was the booth of the Locsin group. They always show strong pieces and this year was no exception.

 This picture frame/chair is the winner for the 2009 KATHA award for best product design for best home decor.  We had a tough time choosing a winner with all of the judges having their own personal favorites. Although we all decided to give it to this piece because it was really whimsical and original.  I tried sitting on the chair and it was cozy!  Congratulations to MAZE!

This picture frame/chair is the winner for the 2009 KATHA Award for Best Product Design for Best Home Decor. We had a tough time choosing a winner with all of the judges having their own personal favorites. Although we all decided to give it to this piece because it was really whimsical and original. I tried sitting on the chair and it was cozy! Congratulations to MAZE!

 I personally loved this piece.  It is made from BULALO bones!  Bulalo is the shank of the cow!  Apparently the company that designed this would collect the bones from waiters of various restaurants around the metropolis then they would clean them up, treat them and then create outstanding products such as this!  This design really moved me as it inspired me somehow. I know that it was really difficult to do and its quite expensive.  I am making a mental note to buy this for my new house!  In the mean time save muna ako!

I personally loved this piece. It is made from BULALO bones! Bulalo is the shank of the cow! Apparently the company that designed this would collect the bones from waiters of various restaurants around the metropolis then they would clean them up, treat them and then create outstanding products such as this! This design really moved me as it inspired me somehow. I know that it was really difficult to do and it's quite expensive. I am making a mental note to buy this for my new house! In the meantime, save muna ako!

ENJOY!
RAJO!

FAME: Part 1!

Friday, April 17th, 2009

This is part one of my Manila FAME series. I decided to break it down into parts because I wanted to make my entries more cohesive.  There were so many fantastic items of display that if I were a woman, I would probably have had a nervous breakdown!  LOL!

To be honest , there were really only a few standout designs that really excited me, but these few were really exceptional!  Take a look and  be mesmerized!

 From the minute that I saw this piece I  was like WHOA!  Thats FABULOUS!  However I thought my GOD that must be heavy!  But as I picked it up I was really surprised at how light it was!  The details are just GORGEOUS!  I loved this piece in fact this was one of the nominees for the best fashion accessories award.

From the minute that I saw this piece, I was like, WHOA! That's FABULOUS! However, I thought, "My GOD, that must be heavy!" But as I picked it up, I was really surprised at how light it was! The details are just GORGEOUS! I loved this piece. In fact, this was one of the nominees for the best fashion accessories award. It was designed by Rene R. Simbajon of Austolia Jewelry arts. They are a Cebu based company, so you can get in touch with them through info@austolia.com

I love chunky cuffs!  I fell in love with these cuffs immediately!  I wonder if they would allow me to use them for my fashion shows?  HMMM....

I love chunky cuffs! I fell in love with these cuffs immediately! I wonder if they would allow me to use them for my fashion shows? HMMM....

 A selection of Austolia's outstanding designs!

A selection of Austolia's outstanding designs!

Austolia also had some cocktail rings on display.

Austolia also had some cocktail rings on display.

 I found the color of this sea snake clutch really beautiful!

I found the color of this sea snake clutch really beautiful!

 This neck piece is made from black nylon garter and crystals!  I originally thought that it was the straps of this gown but it was actually a neck piece.  I liked it!  I like how the industrial and the refined complemented each other. I found this at the Sebina booth.  They were showcasing  materials made from pine apple and bamboo!

This neck piece is made from black nylon garter and crystals! I originally thought that it was the straps of this gown, but it was actually a neck piece. I liked it! I like how the industrial and the refined complemented each other. I found this at the Sebina booth. They were showcasing materials made from pine apple and bamboo!

 I found the products of ISH fashion Accessories really promising!  I adored how the designer used computer chips or mother boards for her pieces. I automatically nominated them for the Eco-luxury category.  ISH is also a cubu based company with Ms. Mary Karen Woolbright as the chief designer.

I found the products of ISH fashion Accessories really promising! I adored how the designer used computer chips or mother boards for her pieces. I automatically nominated them for the Eco-Luxury category. ISH is also a Cebu-based company, with Ms. Mary Karen Woolbright as the chief designer.

This piece was too cute for words!  they were made from instant noodle wrappers!  LOL!  You can get in touch with ISH through karen@ishboutique.com

This piece was too cute for words! They were made from instant noodle wrappers! LOL! You can get in touch with ISH through karen@ishboutique.com

 I liked this bag!  Its a reworked basket with an attached canvas body/handle.  Its from Baguio and although simple I thought it had a really strong commercial appeal.  Its made by the Mayat-an handicrafts company.

I liked this bag! It's a reworked basket with an attached canvas body/handle. It's from Baguio, and although it's simple, I thought it had a really strong commercial appeal. It's made by the Mayat-an handicrafts company.

Citem asked a friend of mine to assist some of the companies as a consultant.  Fashion designer Robie Lolin created this neckpiece.  I liked the play on the blue colors with the wood base.  Very chic with a gentle nod to Marni.

Citem asked a friend of mine to assist some of the companies as a consultant. Fashion designer Robie Lolin created this neckpiece. I liked the play on the blue colors with the wood base. Very chic, with a gentle nod to Marni.

 I was so happy to bump into the great doyene of the jewelry world...non other than Jul Dizon!  This woman is really a design force!  Her jewelry designs are the best in the country!  I was so happy that she was there!  Her rutilated quartz necklace was to die for!

I was so happy to bump into the great doyene of the jewelry world...none other than Jul Dizon! This woman is really a design force! Her jewelry designs are the best in the country! I was so happy that she was there! Her rutilated quartz necklace was to die for!

 This was the most compelling fashion accessory in the show!  They  are eyeglass frames were just to die for!   I love how funky they were!  I thought that they were so special!  I am glad that this piece won the KATHA 2009 best product design for Fashion Accessories!  This was designed by Rene R. Simbajon or Austolia Jewelry Arts!  Congratulations!

This was the most compelling fashion accessory in the show! The eyeglass frames were just to die for! I love how funky they were! I thought that they were so special! I am glad that this piece won the KATHA 2009 best product design for Fashion Accessories! This was designed by Rene R. Simbajon or Austolia Jewelry Arts! Congratulations!

 This is the very talented Rene R.Simbajon.  I love how he really surprised me with his fun and quirky designs!  I am glad that he won!

This is the very talented Rene R.Simbajon. I love how he really surprised me with his fun and quirky designs! I am glad that he won!

HUGS!
RAJO!

Manila FAME!

Friday, April 17th, 2009

Every year I look forward to FAME!  FAME is short for Furnishing, Apparel, Manufacturers, Exchange.  It’s a trade show featuring the best designers from our Islands!  It’s a massive showcase of how talented Filipinos are.  It is the second year that the FAME is being held at the SMX convention center.  I was really impressed by the space of the convention center!  This year was extra special for me as they asked me to be a judge for the very prestigious KATHA awards.  It’s an award given by CITEM (Center for International Trade and Exposition Mission), the organizing body of FAME.

FAME is now on its 49th year of existence!  IMAGINE THAT?!
FAME is now on its 49th year of existence! IMAGINE THAT?!
 SMX convention centrer!  They had dancers on opening day.
SMX convention centrer! They had dancers on opening day.
 I found the convention center really cool!  I mean this is place was so big!  I think the space is really efficient and the aircon was so strong!  LOL!  Thank goodness because it was quite warm that day!
I found the convention center really cool! I mean this is place was so big! I think the space is really efficient and the aircon was so strong! LOL! Thank goodness because it was quite warm that day!
 I present you the Panel of Judges for the Katha awards!  Rajo, Kat, Ed, Tatum and Ogie!!!  Are we not a good looking bunch!  LOL!
I present you the Panel of Judges for the Katha awards: Rajo, Kat, Ed, Tatum and Ogie!!! Are we not a good-looking bunch? LOL!

Being a judge is not easy, as you have to really be fair and think of so many things before actually making a choice.  The judging period was very long!  It took us close to 4 hours to decide who would win the following awards.  Best product design for Home Furnishing, Fashion Accessories ,and Holiday Decor.  We then had to decide on who had the best booth, and finally, the Eco-Luxury Award.  This all sound easier said than done!  LOL!

 Here we are in the deliberation room!  Can you feel the tension?!  LOL!  I can almost feel it in this photo!
Here we are in the deliberation room! Can you feel the tension?! LOL! I can almost feel it in this photo!

After hours of deliberation, we finally got to choose our winners and I felt really proud to be a Filipino!  We’re a really talented country and in these challenging times, we really must band together and rally each other so that we can sail through this crisis.  I took so many photos from the fair that I have to break them up in several entries.  In the meantime, enjoy the photos!

We did a final walk through after the judging and Ed Calma gave me a nice smile!  He was the Chairman of the board of judges!  What a trooper!  I know how busy he is but he was there all the way through!
We did a final walk through after the judging and Ed Calma gave me a nice smile! He was the Chairman of the board of judges! What a trooper! I know how busy he is but he was there all the way through!
 I liked this section of the fair where they highlighted several local designers.  This chair was cool!

I liked this section of the fair where they highlighted several local designers. This chair was cool!

 I found this group interesting, they were using plastic tubes.

I found this group interesting. They were using plastic tubes.

One of my fave artists Eric Paras was intrumental in this years FAME as he was the head  consultant and over all design guru for the fair!  CONGRATULATIONS Eric!  It was SUPERB!
One of my fave artists Eric Paras was instrumental in this year’s FAME, as he was the head consultant and overall design guru for the fair! CONGRATULATIONS, Eric! It was SUPERB!

HUGS!
RAJO!

2009 National Artists Awards!

Friday, April 3rd, 2009

Something really cool happened to me today!  I was invited to be on the panel on the first deliberation to determine the nominees of who will become the National Artist for Fashion Design. I am not at liberty to tell you anything but I can show you photos!  LOL!

The meeting was held in Old Manila at the NCCA ( National Commission for Culture and the Arts)  building.

The meeting was held in Old Manila at the NCCA ( National Commission for Culture and the Arts) building.

 I love the fact that we have an entire building to make sure that our arts and culture are well taken cared of.  the building is quite impressive as it was spacious and well appointed.

I love the fact that we have an entire building to make sure that our arts and culture are well taken care of. The building is quite impressive as it was spacious and well appointed.

The meetings took up my entire morning, but I really did not care because I was so honored and humbled to be there.  When I entered the room, the energy was so strong. Imagine a room filled with the country’s most talented individuals from various artistic disciplines!  We were all asked to sit according to our respected field of expertise. The task at hand was to narrow the long list of nominees and create a short list.  The process in choosing the national artist is a long and complicated one, but I was just excited to be there!

The room was filled with so many respected artists that I was a bit overwhelmed.

The room was filled with so many respected artists that I was a bit overwhelmed.

I was like a child in awe of the great masters!  It was a really wonderful and educational experience!

 This was my table as Fashion design is under the allied arts category.

This was my table as Fashion Design is under the Allied Arts category.

Great National artists were there like Mr. Arturo Luz and  Mr. Ben Cabrera  "Bencab"

Great National artists were there like Mr. Arturo Luz and Mr. Ben Cabrera

 The fantastically svelte Jose Javier Reyes sat on the broadcasting and film panel.

The fantastically svelte Jose Javier Reyes sat on the broadcasting and film panel.

 We began the day with a beautiful speech by the NCAA executive director Cecille Guidote-Alvarez.  I was astounded by her eloquence, she gave the speech entirely in Filipino and it was if she was reciting a poem.

We began the day with a beautiful speech by the NCAA executive director Cecille Guidote-Alvarez. I was astounded by her eloquence - she gave the speech entirely in Filipino and it was if she was reciting a poem.

 I sat beside Mr. Ildefonso Santos Jr.  He is a national artist for Architecture.  He is a very famous landscape artist.

I sat beside Mr. Ildefonso Santos Jr. He is a national artist for Architecture and a very famous landscape artist.

here we are about to start our discussion with me is Thelma Saj Juan the most important lifestyle journalist in the country.  She is instrumental in pushing all of us fashion designers to reach greater heights. We were also joined by Arc. Melva  Java who hails from Cebu.

Here we are, about to start our discussion. With me is Thelma Saj Juan, the most important lifestyle journalist in the country. She is instrumental in pushing all of us fashion designers to reach greater heights. We were also joined by Arc. Melva Java who hails from Cebu.

 I had a very NAKS moment today!  I am so tickled pink!

I had a very NAKS moment today! I am so tickled pink!

HUGS!
RAJO!

FOOD PORN!

Thursday, April 2nd, 2009

As you may very well know, I enjoy my food!  I love food so much that when our TV is on, it’s usually on some food channel.  LOL!  This weekend was bordering on gluttony!  LOL!

We started our Sunday with Brunch at SPIRALS!  I still think it is the undisputed king of weekend hotel buffets in the country.  My friends and I were there and we had an incredible 4 hour lunch!  OMG!  (More about that later).  I was then invited for a food tasting by J Gamboa of Circulo.  Now this was no ordinary food tasting but a sampling of what is about to happen in Hong Kong in a few weeks….THE CULINARY OLYMPICS! ( Please forgive me as I forgot the real name of the competition. The food made me forget.  LOL!)

You see, last year the Philippine team won GOLD in the culinary Olympics.  This was no easy task, as they were battling it out with the finest chefs from around the world.  This year, the Philippines will be defending its Grand Champion status.  So you can just imagine my excitement when J gave me a text inviting me to the food tasting!

I wanted to get there early so that I can take photos of the beautiful food!  Trust me, they were works of art!  They tasted fabulous too!  Their theme this year was inspired by the seed.  It’s a simple concept that they beautifully executed.  I was so in awe of the talent of our Philippine team.  RIght after the first bite, it was as if my palette was doing a standing ovation!  LOL!

I know that they will do very well in the contest!  I want everyone reading this to send out positive energy and good vibes to our team!  CONGRATULATIONS GUYS!  So proud of all of you!

 The team Manager  Chef J Gamboa and assistant team Captain Chef Fernando Aracama.  Pose with the fantastic spread!
The team Manager Chef J Gamboa and assistant team Captain Chef Fernando Aracama pose with the fantastic spread!

Poetry on a plate!  A simple Wagyu beef rolled with decadent hollandaise.  I was not sure what the dark sauce was but it was sweet and nutty.
Poetry on a plate! A simple Wagyu beef rolled with decadent hollandaise. I was not sure what the dark sauce was, but it was sweet and nutty.

 I loved the delicate flavors of this Eel Escabeche!  you should have seen how perfect the orange carrot pearls swimming in the light soup!  It was sublme!
I loved the delicate flavors of this Eel Escabeche! You should have seen how perfectly the orange carrot pearls were swimming in the light soup. It was sublime!

 This is what I would call  food sculpture, created for a perfect bite so to speak.  Dungenese crab sandwich with the smallest  potato chips I have ever seen.  This chip was like the size of a penny.
This is what I would call food sculpture, created for a perfect bite so to speak. Dungenese crab sandwich with the smallest potato chips I have ever seen. This chip was like the size of a penny.

 I loved how ingenious the plating of this dish was.  A perfectly poached scallop and a shrimp that was encased in a lovely glass jar.  This is what I call beautiful eating!
I loved how ingenious the plating of this dish was. A perfectly poached scallop and a shrimp that was encased in a lovely glass jar. This is what I call beautiful eating!

 How perfect does this Salmon roulade look to you?
How perfect does this Salmon roulade look to you?

 This beauty is a take on a samosa but brought to haute couture level!
This beauty is a take on a samosa but brought to haute couture level!

 The breads were just too beautiful for words!
The bread was just too beautiful for words!

 These were goose liver (Foie gras) encased in cotton candy!  They were really decadent!  You had to share it as it was really RICH!  This was the most unusual dish that night.
These were goose liver (Foie gras) encased in cotton candy! They were really decadent! You had to share it as it was really RICH! This was the most unusual dish that night.

 I loved how this tasted, they are the most tender chicken wings with a savory dipping sauce.  I know it sounds so simple but these chefs cooked for almost 10 hours straight to give us a taste of their competition plates!
I loved how this tasted. They are the most tender chicken wings with a savory dipping sauce. I know it sounds so simple, but these chefs cooked for almost 10 hours straight to give us a taste of their competition plates!

LOBSTER ROLL PERFECTION!
LOBSTER ROLL PERFECTION!
 Here is J Gamboa with Chef Carlos Miguel .  Chef Carlos will be competing in Hong Kong but he will be doing the individual challenge!  Carlos is the chef of our favorite SALA restaurant!  GOOD LUCK BUDDY!
Here is J Gamboa with Chef Carlos Miguel. Chef Carlos will be competing in Hong Kong, but he will be doing the individual challenge! Carlos is the chef of our favorite SALA restaurant! GOOD LUCK BUDDY!
 I really enjoyed this simple salad of seared tuna and Feta cheese with micro greens, I could eat tis everyday!

I really enjoyed this simple salad of seared tuna and Feta cheese with micro greens. I could eat this everyday!

was so happy to bump into Gino and Nandy that evening.  Its been a long time since I had the chance to bond with them and last night gave us the chance to do so.  So happy to be able to enjoy the glorious food and wine with good friends around you.   That is what I call SERENDIPITY!

I was so happy to bump into Gino and Nandy that evening. It's been a long time since I had the chance to bond with them, and last night gave us the chance to do so. So happy to be able to enjoy the glorious food and wine with good friends around you. That is what I call SERENDIPITY!

HUGS!
RAJO!

Magayon Mayon!

Monday, March 23rd, 2009

In the Bicolano dialect, “magayon” means beautiful!   I was there for the weekend and had a really BEAUTIFUL experience!  It is not my first time in Legaspi. I have visited the place before.

Each time I would visit, I would do a couple of activities, as there is really a lot to see and do in this part of the Philippines.  Top of mind is whale shark swimming in Donsol.  (YOU ALL MUST DO THIS!) It is a really unforgetable sensation to be swimming with these gentle giants!  Another activity is to climb the majestic Mayon Volcano, where you can actually do an ATV ride and see the lava bubbling.  The region also has beautiful handicrafts and the basket weaving here is very impressive.

My only beef about Legaspi then was there was really no decent hotels for you to stay in.  I am happy to announce that things have changed!  I was so impressed and happy with my hotel in Legaspi that you all must come and visit!  The hotel is called VENEZIA.  (Lower those eyebrows.) I know the name is cheesy, but the service was just sublime!  The hotel was completely renovated and is now managed by the Rain Tree group, the same group who does Discovery Shores in Boracay and most of the Dicovery properties!  I stayed there only for a night as I had to visit another resort called MISIBIS BAY.  ( I will do an entry about that next. )

The breakfast buffet alone is already worth the visit!  I am a congee man!  I love congee and they had the best congee that I have ever had in a really long time!  Here is a pictionary of my visit!

 My flight arrived at 7:!5 am!  It only takes 45 minuts to get to Legaspi!  The Mayon volcano was very clear that morning.  Usually it is hidden by clouds.  I saw this as a good sign that I would having a great weekend get away!
My flight arrived at 7:!5 am. It only takes 45 minuts to get to Legaspi! The Mayon volcano was very clear that morning. Usually, it is hidden by clouds. I saw this as a good sign that I would having a great weekend getaway!

 HELLO MAYON!  It has this perfect cone shape that makes it so iconic.
HELLO MAYON! It has this perfect cone shape that makes it so iconic.

 The facade of VENEZIA hotel!  FInally a chic boutique hotel to make everyones stay more comfortable!
The facade of VENEZIA hotel! Finally, a chic boutique hotel to make everyone’s stay more comfortable!

 My room was simple and neat!   I loved the size of the bed, it is smaller than a queen but larger than a twin.  The sheets were very comfortable too!
My room was simple and neat! I loved the size of the bed, which was smaller than a queen but larger than a twin. The sheets were very comfortable too!

 The room was very compact but perfect for me as I was all alone, it would have been different if we were two.
The room was very compact, but perfect for me as I was all alone. It would have been different if we were two.
 The hotel has lots of paintings around and this Gus Albor caught my eye.
The hotel has lots of paintings around, and this Gus Albor caught my eye.

 We drove around town and I was happy because the weather was just wonderful!
We drove around town and I was happy because the weather was just wonderful!
This ferry would take us across the bay to take us to Misibis island.
This ferry would take us across the bay to take us to Misibis island.
 Wild flowers abound!  Yellow really makes me smile!
Wild flowers abound! Yellow really makes me smile!
 I am glad that I took that morning shot of the Mayon volcano because for the rest of my visit the clouds were hiding her.
I am glad that I took that morning shot of the Mayon volcano because for the rest of my visit, the clouds were hiding her.
This is the entire town of Legaspi!

This is the entire town of Legaspi!

HUGS!
RAJO!

Journey!

Tuesday, March 17th, 2009

I was given free tickets to watch the band Journey last Saturday!  I have a confession to make: I am the farthest thing from a rock and roller, and I kind of know the songs of Journey, but I was not really a fan.  My ’80s music was more of the New Vave variety, like The Cure and Siouxsie and The Banshees. LOL!

Being the “Kaladkarin” that I am, I was not going to pass up an opportunity of a free ticket!  LOL!  I also wanted to experience for myself the powerful voice of Arnel Pineda!  For all of you who do not know the fantastic story of Arnel Pineda, do not worry – a documentary is now in the works and the movie on his story will be out soon enough.  In the meantime, log on to YouTube and search for him to hear his amazing voice.  I had goose bumps the minute he started to perform!  Every inch of my body would tingle with pride when he would shout “para sa iyo ito, PILIPINAS!”  I wanted to be part of that momentous occasion.  Even if I didn’t know all the songs of Journey, I was still so ecstatic to be there!

My photos were not that great, so I lifted and borrowed these from my friends Cyrene de la Rosa and JJ Yulo!  They had better seats and better photos than me!  LOL!

So proud of this man!  Makes me really proud to be PINOY!
So proud of this man! Makes me really proud to be PINOY!

The weather was perfect and the audience were full to the perimeters!
The weather was perfect and the audience area was full to the perimeters!

The weather was perfect and the audience area was full to the perimeters!

HUGS!
RAJO!