URC Flour Division Celebrates 100 Years of Penafrancia with "First Pan de Bicol" Bread Contest

(NAGA CITY, CAMARINES SUR - PHILIPPINES) Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) Flour Division is excited to announce the launch of the "First Pan de Bicol" Bread Contest, a special event to commemorate the 100th year of the Penafrancia Festival. As the country’s leading provider of high-quality flour products, URC has invited creative and talented bakers, Bicol-wide, to showcase their skills and creativity in creating the ultimate Pan de Bicol recipe.

“We are thrilled to launch the 'First Pan de Bicol' Bread Contest as part of our celebration of the 100th year of the Penafrancia Festival,” said Naida Ebora, URC Flour’s Sales, Marketing and Distribution. “We believe that this contest will not only showcase the talent and creativity of our local bakers but also highlight the versatility and deliciousness of the finished product which is Pan de Bicol. Not only that, our support goes beyond the baking contest because the idea is to make the winning Pan de Bicol an official delicacy of the whole province of Bicol. Penafrancia’s 100th year festival will also be the birth of the region’s first ever Pan de Bicol. We encourage all baking enthusiasts to participate and share their unique creations” added Ebora.

The Penafrancia Festival, a grand religious and cultural event honoring the patron saint of Camarines Sur, has been a beloved tradition for centuries. The "First Pan de Bicol" Bread Contest aims to celebrate this iconic Filipino delicacy and highlight the versatility and quality of URC flour. URC’s sponsorship will involve various activities and initiatives aimed at enriching the experience of both devotees and visitors.

“We are very thankful for URC Flour’s support in this year’s Penafrancia Festival celebration. In behalf of the city of Naga, I am extending my GRATEFUL APPRECIATION to Univeral Robina Corporation Flour Division for partering with us, specifically giving an opportunity for our Bicol bakers to showcase their creativity and talent in making the first ever Pan de Bicol said Naga Mayor Nelson Legacion.

The First Pan de Bicol, “Sama Sama at Nagkakaisa sa Panlasa” is open to all amateur and professional bakers located in the Bicol area. Bakers and bakerioes who will join will be given URC flour as the primary ingredient in their Pan de Bicol recipe. As for the other items, the bakeries can explore their creativeness and gastronomical juices for them to impress the panel of judges.

Pan de Bicol breads will be judged based on taste, appearance and texture.  Winning bakeries will receive P 30,000.00 in cash and the distinct honor to represent and produce PAN DE BICOL.

The "First Pan de Bicol" Bread Contest is a unique opportunity for bakers to showcase their skills and contribute to the celebration of this beloved Filipino tradition. By using URC flour, participants can be assured of using a high-quality product that will help them create exceptional Pan de Bicol.

URC Flour Division’s sponsorship of the Penafrancia Festival is a reflection of its commitment to supporting local initiatives and promoting Filipino culture. By participating in this historic event, URC is not only showcasing its brand but also demonstrating its dedication to providing quality flour products and enriching the lives of Filipinos.

For more information please visit https://www.facebook.com/URCFlour.

Find your Forever Home in Cebu with Camella

 

Camella Carcar offers convenience and easy access to schools, recreational areas, and shopping centers-the ideal place to call home.

The gated 17-hectare Camella Bogo features the best of modern and rustic living with its Spanish-Mediterranean theme.

Find your Forever Home in Cebu with Camella

Cebu is undoubtedly a wonderful place to live in: it is vibrant and full of activities and destinations. It is no surprise that many are looking for the perfect home in Cebu, especially one that best fits their family. Fortunately, there are many choices for families to thrive and grow, including Camella communities in Cebu.

There is no better place to experience modern comforts without breaking the bank than Cebu City. A business district, hospitals, schools, and entertainment hubs are within minutes of each other. The Cebu IT Park is where multinational companies have built offices and run large-scale operations.

Because of the work and educational opportunities the city offers, Cebu is a hotspot for the most sought-after homes in the province, of which Camella properties are at the forefront. Camella has two family-friendly subdivisions with views of sloping hills and the sea within Talamban in Cebu: Riverdale and Riverfront.

Riverdale is a 13-hectare Southern American-themed community set against the panoramic peaks and clusters of pine trees while Riverfront is a residential enclave featuring the best-selling homes of Camella in an expanse of almost 10 hectares. This pine community features homes built on gently undulating terrain that fuses the efficiency of modern architecture with the natural contours of the land.

For those preferring a more laidback atmosphere yet still want the sensibilities of modern living, Camella in Talisay streamlines the search for the ideal home in Cebu. Linked to the city through the South Coastal Highway, Azienda sits atop the hills of Talisay and comprises five enclaves that stays true to its Italian theme.

Lapu-Lapu City is on Mactan Island, where the abundance of beach resorts and natural sites is what every family will appreciate. It is also where the Mactan-Cebu International Airport is located. Despite the increasing interest of homebuyers in the locale, Camella still guarantees a relaxing family lifestyle in the gated Camella Montserrat and Vittoria. Either development places families at the heart of a resort city, where beautiful beaches are just a stone’s throw away.

One of the frontrunners outside of Metro Cebu has to be Bogo City due to the rapid developments in the area. The best of modern and rustic living with the Spanish-Mediterranean architecture is found in the gated17-hectare Camella Bogo. The homes are perfect for those looking at starter homes or a place to put down roots for generations.

Carcar City has a tight knit community, preserving traditional Cebuano values. A home in Camella Carcar situates homeowners in the middle of this lively community, close to transportation routes and major centers. The 40-hectare Camella Carcar offers homes of modern charm with its Spanish- inspired architecture. It is conveniently connected to the city center through the South Road project, captivating prospective investors with its blend of the exciting urban rush and longed-for respite.

A family home is more than just the physical structure and a roof over one’s head. It should provide opportunities for growth and strengthen family ties. Camella in Cebu ensures that you get that and more with its line-up of developments.

For more information on Camella communities in Cebu, visit www.camella.com.ph and follow CamellaOfficial.

#CamellaInCebu #VistaLand Camella Cebu

PBA, still the country's undisputed sport

The recently concluded Philippine Cup finals has given the nation something to be ecstatic, with both live audience attendance and TV ratings reaching impressive heights.

More than 3.5 million viewers watched the exciting Game 6 between Meralco Bolts and San Miguel Beermen in RPTV. According to Philippine National TV Audience Measurement and National Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM) rankings, the championship game peaked at an impressive 4.7 percent, making it the highest rating sports event so far this year.

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial welcomed the latest ratings' result and mentioned the importance of reaching out to the fans in different platforms and give them action-packed PBA ball games they deserve. “We are very grateful ‘yung mga manonood natin ay patuloy tayong sinusundan, at nadagdagan pa sila noong mga nakatutok sa atin sa RPTV, sa ating carrying cable network at sa social media,”

The PBA is looking forward to an even vibrant season following the warm reception it generated from the viewership. PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial and the Board of Governors and Directors are ecstatic to what is in the pipeline for Asia's premiere basketball league.

The PBA numbers, as reported, have given the league the motivation to continuously innovate and offer new and exciting format for its fans as well as innovating the content in different platforms. “Maganda sa PBA at maganda sa fans. Malaking bagay dahil nabigyan natin ng wider reach ang PBA sa mga fans” said Marcial.

The game 6 between the Meralco Bolts and the San Miguel Beermen peaked at an impressive 4.7% with more than 3.5 million viewers.

Fans can expect better PBA as the league will revert to a three-conference format, with the Governors’ Cup serving as the first conference of the season. It will be followed by the Commissioner’s Cup, and the Philippine Cup will close out the year. The PBA will have a head start in the market, as the Governors’ Cup is slated to tip off in August.

This scheduling also ensures that the Philippine representatives to the East Asia Super League will have two imports who have already adjusted to their respective teams by the time the mini-tournament begins.

Starting the season with the import-laden conferences is intended to align Philippine basketball with international leagues, which have their imports signed from October to May.

The sports Gods from the heavens must be feeling extravagant as the Philippines gets to enjoy national sports in Volleyball and Basketball. Both enjoys loyal core of fans but the fact remains that our beloved Philippines is still is a basketball loving country.

Elevate Mother's Day with Effortless Filipino Flavors from Purefoods Ready-to-Eat

As Mother's Day approaches, many of us are searching for meaningful ways to celebrate the incredible women in our lives. This year, why not treat your mom to a special homemade meal without the hassle? With Purefoods Heat & Eat Viands, you can effortlessly create dishes like Bistek Tagalog and Chicken Meatballs, ensuring your mom feels extra loved and appreciated on her special day.

Remember those moments when your mom poured her love into every homecooked meal she served? Now, it's your turn to give back that same love through her favorite dishes. Imagine the joy of serving up slow-cooked, flavorful meals that require just minutes to prepare. Whether you're a busy parent juggling work and family responsibilities or simply want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying moments with loved ones, these convenient viands offer a solution that doesn't compromise on taste or quality.

 

Preparing a delicious meal with Purefoods H&E Viands is as easy as 1, 2, 3. Simply heat the dish over the stove or pop it in the microwave for 8-10 minutes, and you're ready to enjoy a hearty and wholesome feast. Add your favorite veggies to complement the flavors and elevate the dish to new heights of culinary delight. What's more, they offer a diverse range of ulam options, making meal planning a breeze. Whether your mom prefers traditional Filipino favorites or craves something a bit more adventurous, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Bring a delightful and surprising twist to classic Filipino dishes by following these recipes from the HomeFoodie website and create a Sweet and Sour Meatball or an elevated Bistek Stroganoff.

SWEET & SOUR MEATBALLS

Ingredients:

2 packs (250 g each) PUREFOODS HEAT & EAT CHICKEN MEATBALLS

2 cups cooking oil

Sauce:

1 pc (50 g) red onion, quartered

1 can (227 g) pineapple chunks, drained

1/2 cup cane vinegar

1 cup sugar

2 tbsp soy sauce

1/4 cup banana ketchup

2 tbsp cornstarch, dissolved in 1 cup water

1/2 tsp iodized fine salt

1/4 tsp pepper

Procedure:

Fry meatballs in a deep pan with hot oil for 2 minutes or until golden brown. Drain excess oil on paper towels and set aside. 

In a saucepan, add 2 tbsp used oil. Sauté onion, then add remaining ingredients. Stir continuously until mixture simmers and thickens. Adjust seasonings as needed. 

Add cooked meatballs and simmer once. 

Makes 4-5 servings

(Yield: 20-24 pc/4 pc per serving)

This Mother's Day, instead of spending hours in the kitchen, take the opportunity to savor quality time with your mom and family. With Purefoods Heat & Eat, you can focus on creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Available in leading supermarkets, groceries nationwide, and online through San Miguel Mart, Lazada, or Shopee, bringing a taste of home to your Mother's Day celebration has never been easier.

 

Celebrate the special women in your life with Purefoods Ready-to-Eat and make this Mother's Day one to remember. After all, when quality time is made easy, every moment becomes an opportunity to show your love and appreciation.

#HomeFoodie

#Madalicious

#SanMiguelFoods

#SanMiguelFoodsCulinaryCenter

#Purefoods

#PurefoodsHeat&Eat

#EasyMealPrep

#Ready-To-EatFoods

 

Fujifilm Expands Presence with New Office in Cebu City

 

 

In response to the surging demand for its products andservices, FUJIFILM Philippines Inc. (FFPH) and FUJIFILM Business Innovation Philippines Corp. (FUJIFILM BI PH) have announced the relocation of their offices to a larger space in Cebu City.

 

The new office, strategically situated at Mercedes Benz Tower, Mindanao Ave Cebu Business Park, Cebu City, marks a significant move for the global leaders in innovation. This expansion aims to strengthen Fujifilm's foothold in the region, enabling the brand to better cater to the local market and provide an enhanced experience for customers.

 

The Cebu City office will serve as a hub for after-sales support, featuring a local repair center for digital cameras and endoscopy products. Additionally, it will host a showroom showcasing advanced cameras, cutting-edge printing machines, and business software solutions, offering customers an interactive experience with Fujifilm's latest innovations in imaging and document management technology.

 

Mr. Masahiro Uehara, President of FFPH, expressed confidence in the strategic move, stating, "This relocation reinforces our commitment to swiftly expand our local operations, making our products and services more accessible to the southern part of the country."

 

Adding his perspective, Mr. Hideaki Kato, President of FUJIFILM BI PH, mentioned FUJIFILM BI PH has almost 60-years’ experience in the Philippines and continuously provides document process innovation for Cebu customers. He also highlighted the synergy between the two entities, stating, "We are proud to unveil this new office, bringing us closer to our customers in Cebu and emphasizing the collaboration between FUJIFILM Business Innovation Philippines and FUJIFILM Philippines."

 

Fujifilm, renowned for its relentless pursuit of technological advancements and customer-focused solutions, leverages its photographic industry expertise to push growth in healthcare, materials, and business innovation. The company's new group purpose, "Giving our world more smiles," underscores its commitment to creating a brighter future in society.

 

For more information, visit www.fujifilm.com/ph & www.fujifilm.com/fbph.

 

 

PHILIPPINE BALLET THEATRE ABLAZE WITH PASSION

 

The Philippine Ballet Theatre’s triumph over daunting obstacles and hardships is a celebration of the company; resolute spirit that continues the revolutionary fighting spirit of its founders. Bold, Brave, and Beautiful, the company, and all the people behind it, continue to dream and fight, striving to see their dreams come to reality.

In 2023, the Company celebrated its dramatic emergence from the pandemic. With the revolutionary fighting spirit of the Company and the solid vision of Artistic Director Ronilo Jaynario, the company proved that they have stayed at the forefront of the industry. They closed the season with a warmly embraced full Filipino ballet “Ibalon”, an electric tour in the United States of America and their crowd favorite, “The Nutcracker”. This 2024, their journey continues as they prepare to take flight.

The Philippine Ballet Theatre proudly announces its vibrant 38th season. This season, PBT embraces the theme “Ablaze”. They begin the season with another brand new Filipino ballet “Sarimanok”. This ballet is ready to soar unveiling the beautiful tapestry of our culture.

“Sarimanok” is a dance of culture and myth. “Sarimanok” is a bird in Filipino Mindanao mythology. The magical bird with its majestic colors is the center of a love story between a mortal and a moon goddess.

This mythical creature, renowned for its vibrant feathers and captivating presence, takes center stage in a ballet that transcends the boundaries of time and culture. The ballet will be choreographed by the same creative team of “Ibalon”. Artistic Director Ronilo Jaynario will be choreographing the ballet with the music of Paulo Zarate. It is slated to premiere in early July.

“Music in Motion”, PBT’s second offering will be a mixed bill program of neoclassical works by artistic director Ronilo Jaynario with the music of maestro Raul Sunico. It will be a blend of familiar Filipino music brought to life through Philippine Ballet Theatre’s exquisite dancing. A flurry of emotions and diverse movement all packed in one show. In a dinner and dance format, this season offering is set to be performed sometime in September.

PBT will end their season with their crowd pleaser. “Nutcracker” is a tradition that is hard to resist. It not only serves as a ballet that ushers in the holiday spirit, it also serves as PBT’s advocacy project. With a cast of 100 dancers, it is able to educate young dancers from different schools regarding the remarkable discipline of ballet.

With a renewed passion for their advocacy, PBT will try to keep their fire burning for their advocacies. As of date they are scheduled to go on a local tour including Legaspi, Bicol, and Bacolod. The number of tour dates are increasing in number as we speak. The Company is also scheduled to go on an international tour this coming October to select cities in the United States of America.

Much has been accomplished but more is to be achieved. PBT is excited to engage with a wider range of audiences this 2024. A RESIDENT COMPANY OF THE CULTURAL CENTER OFTHE PHILIPPINES

CONTACT : (02) 632 8848 | (0912) 945 5151 | (0949) 325 2545 | (0995) 158 0538 | secretariat@pbt.ph

Puerto Princesa: A Paradise and Sports Hub

Puerto Princesa City, which forms part of the Philippines’ Last Frontier, is first on the list of ideal destinations of travelers, adventure-seekers, and nature lovers. With a good number of sports tournaments being held in the city, it is now solidifying its status as the “Sports Capital of the Philippines.”

Unstoppable. Phenomenal. Unbreakable. That’s what Puerto Princesa is as it plays host to world-class sports activities such as marine events like kite-boarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, banana-boat ride, tube riding and hookah diving. The city also regularly hosts the “Motocross Masters of Asia.” the Philippine leg of the FIM UAM Asian Motocross Series, Puerto Princesa International Motocross Grand Prix, Thai Riders, Pinoy Riders, Mountain Bike XC Challenge, and Boxing Eve “Hamon sa Puerto Princesa”

Puerto Princesa understands that sports and tourism are interrelated and complementary driving forces for the promotion and sustainable economic development of the city as an attractive tourism destination. It continues to boost its tourist arrivals by hosting and organizing more sporting events.

The city is blessed with natural resources and landscape to hold excellent mass-participation events such as triathlons and marathons, mountain bike and motor cross races, beach volleyball, and other water sports competitions.

“Talagang naka-project na ang Puerto Princesa sa sports tourism. Syempre yung hinahabol nating sports tourism yung mayroong international flavor,” City Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron said.

Mega sports events such as Ironman and dragon boat festival can be catalysts for tourism development in Puerto Princesa if successfully leveraged in terms of destination branding, infrastructure development and other economic, cultural, and social benefits.

IRONMAN 70.3 PUERTO PRINCESA-ASIA TRI-CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP

The second year of the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa - Asia Tri-Club Championship, the ultimate test of endurance, strategy, and strength, capped off the Philippines' triathlon season. It was successfully held in Puerto Princesa on November 12.

A total of 523 foreign and Filipino triathletes from 38 countries participated in the amazing race. Satar Salem (4 hours, 22 minutes, and 25 seconds) and Leyann Ramo (5 hours, 2 minutes, and 56 seconds) both of Tri SND Barracuda dominated the top overall age group for the male and female categories, respectively.

China’s Junyu Cao finished the race in second place at 4:23.13 while Dutch Olympian Eric Van der Linden rounded off the top three finishers in the male category with 4:24.41. Ramo’s teammate Lyllian Grace Banzon trailed her at second place in 5:29.23 while American Catherine Wood completed the top three in the women’s side with the time of 5:36.26.

Tri SND Barracuda of Lanao del Norte netted the country’s top triathlon squad a whopping P500,000 purse put up by Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron.

The competition was divided into three segments: a 1.9-kilometer swim in Puerto Princesa Baywalk, a 90-kilometer bike ride through the city’s southern part, and a 21.1-kilometer run. The grueling course covered 113.0 kilometers, or 70.3 miles.

City Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron expressed his gratitude to the organizers, participants, and spectators for their support for Ironman 70.3. He also showed confidence that the competition will be successfully held again in the city next year as more local and foreign delegates are expected to attend.

THIRD LEGENDS RIDE 2023

The city understands that one of the most popular ways to experience a destination is through a sports event. It allows sports enthusiasts as well as tourists to better engage with local people, nature, and culture.

That happened when about 200 local and visiting riders participated in the 3rd Legends Ride 2023 held on November 18 in Puerto Princesa. The sports activity is part of the successful Subaraw Biodiversity Festival 2023.

From the starting point at Caltex Junction 3, the riders of different groups from all over the country, led by the Tamilok Motorcycle Group, marched together. The other participants were the Big Bikes, Palawan Street Monkeys, Himass Motorcycle Group/Hijos, United Sports Bike of Palawan (USP) and others on small bikes.

The route took the legend riders to Puerto Princesa landmarks such as the Montible Junction, Napsan at the Villa Francesca Resort in Simpocan, the Tala Beach Resort and straight to the Tennis Covered Court of the Ramon V. Mitra Sports Complex, inside Balayong People’s Park.

“Thank you very much for bringing the Legends Ride to our city. Because you enjoyed it, you will definitely come back here. You are always welcome here in Puerto Princesa City,” said City Mayor Bayron at the fellowship dinner at the Tennis Covered Court as he congratulated the organizers, riders, guests, and sponsors for the successful holding of the Legends Ride 2023.

Jun Diagono, president of the National Federation of Motorcycles said they are very happy with the success of Legends Ride 2023. He set two goals in going to Puerto Princesa City: first was to unite all the big bikes clubs in the Philippines; and second, to invite various groups to the National Motorcycle Convention on April 26-27, 2024, at the Subic Bay Convention Center.

Diagono also convinced Puerto Princesa City bike legend Edward Butch Chase to hold the national convention in the city next year. He also promised to bring LMFI’s 54-member bike clubs to participate in the upcoming event, including the Federation of Bikes Club based in Mindanao.

At the awarding, the youngest rider was Blu Andre Rausa, 19 years old; and the oldest rider was Bob Del Rosario, 74 years old. The Most Organized Group is Evo Riders Club Philippines and Biggest Group is Palawan Street Monkeys. A Special Citation was given to Philip Dulatas as the overall chair of the event, and a Certificate of Greatest Appreciation for the support of William Genato, Naj Abdul, and Elroy John “Clink: Hagedorn. The Living legend award was given to Edward Butch Chase.

The other participating groups were the Legends Ride are Binuang, GBC, Bandits, Baghawi Rider Club, Bundakan Motorcycle Club and Widows Son Masonic Riders Association.

2ND INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL 2023

The 2nd International Dragon Boat Festival 2023, held on November 19, attracted teams from Chinese Taipei, Manila, Cebu and Siargao which competed in the just-concluded 200-meter event. From this series of international activities, it has been proven that it is possible to raise the level of programs and activities in Puerto Princesa.

Strength, strategy, paddling speed, and teamwork were the advantages of the 'paddlers' who won the championship in the final competition. They showed the audience a breath-taking fight. Everyone wants to get away and no one wants to be left behind. So even on a sunny day, the applause and screams from the audience were loud and clear.

In the Women’s Category, the Alliance of Masters from Manila won the championship; 1st runner-up is the Philippine Titans – Manila; Fire Dragons A is 2nd runner-up – Manila; and Rampage is 3rd runner-up – Manila.

In the Men’s Category, Mr. Canoe from Chinese Taipei won the championship. Followed by Philippine Titans in second place, Dagun Pilipinas A in third place and Alliance of Masters in fourth place.

The battle in the Mixed Category was also uneventful where the Siargao Dragons from Surigao del Norte proved that they deserve to be champions. The Alliance of Masters placed second; Hongkong China Canoe took third place followed by SAG-1 from Manila in fourth place.

In the Masters Category where those aged 40 and above were given the opportunity to show their skills, the Sugbo Mighty Dragons from Cebu became champions; followed in second place by the Alliance of Masters; Rampage in third place; and Blue Phoenix from Manila in fourth place.

Praise and admiration were showered on the leadership of the Philippine Canoe Kayak Dragon Boat Federation, or PCKDF, for taking the lead in organizing the international sports event in the city.

Also heavily praised were the efforts shown by Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron in the tremendous success achieved by the municipal government for the competition.

“It was not easy but we know that we can win these big international events of ours. Of course with the support of department heads, city hall employees and the citizens who are there to support what we do. And even the organizations that trust us for big events. I am very grateful,” said City Mayor Bayron. “Please also expect that there are many more activities to look forward to that will definitely make the city recognized by the whole world not only for its eco-tourism wealth but also to become famous as the Sports Tourism Capital of the Philippines!”