Author: Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

I have been employed in the publishing industry for over two decades. My experience as an editor of entertainment-based publications, including song magazines and the entertainment magazine Funfare, which has since folded, as well as side projects of a similar nature, has enabled me to gain even greater experience. Additionally, under my employment, I have established relationships with prominent contacts in the entertainment industry. My initial foray outside of the office motivated me to explore freelance writing (on an assignment basis). I have since written for various music artists and managers, assisting them with public relations and other writing assignments. I also recently did PR work for a Filipino-owned, US-based LLC, Edren Entertainment, for the duo Sweetnotes, who just recently wrapped a round of performances in selected states in the United States this 2025. I have dabbled in graphic design (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator) and stayed informed about the latest technology, both during my tenure in the industry and after it ended. The industry I adore, which was once prosperous, may yet experience a resurgence.
City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Cafe Leonor: Where Marikina Celebrates with Food & Memories

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Rooted in heritage, love, and family, Café Leonor continues the legacy of Nanay Onor, the beloved grandmother and family matriarch, since 2022. Known to many as an exceptional cook, her culinary talent inspired the creation of this cozy café-restaurant, which also serves as an intimate events venue for all occasions.

 

Café Leonor’s dining room features wood and brick accents, a glass-enclosed entrance, and simple table settings that keep the space bright and versatile—perfect for everyday meals or more formal occasions. Even their staircase has a classic varnished look. The function room, located just inside the restaurant, is a library-like space where you can enjoy dining in a quiet atmosphere, fitting for a library but with more lively and colorful floral decor accents. The space is designed to accommodate special events without compromising its casual charm.

 

The restaurant is in its third year in 2025. It can accommodate 70-80 people, including the library function room.

 

Today, Café Leonor is a heartfelt tribute to not just delicious food and cherished memories, but also to Nanay Onor’s enduring legacy of love, warmth, and generosity. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a welcoming home where stories are exchanged, milestones are joyfully celebrated, and every guest feels like family.

 

What’s in a name?

Simply just a dedication to the resto’s family matriarch.

 

Ambiance:

Chic resto vibe with pipe-in jazz music. Esperanza’s, a classy restaurant in the 90s along Tomas Morato immediately comes to mind when you see and experience the place. It’s a mini-version of sorts. The establishment itself is a heritage site dedicated to Nanay Onor, as prominently displayed among other decors inside. Moreover, Café Leonor has the friendliest staff.

 

Resto Format:

Dine-in, Delivery, and Online: Grab. All-around events venue. Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

 

Quirk:

Cafe Leonor offers lower prices than other popular brunch spots in the city while providing a more complete “meal + coffee + venue” experience than many traditional cafes. That ideal combination—affordable main dishes and café beverages, and an excellent event venue for intimate weddings, corporate meetings, birthdays, and showers.

Key touches include:

  • Transformable décor (e.g., floral ceiling installations)
  • Private/VIP-style sections depending on setup
  • Booking options posted via their socials

If you want a “plug-and-play” intimate venue that doesn’t demand hotel-level budgets, this is precisely the lane they occupy.

Furthermore, Café Leonor is conveniently located on the second floor. It’s a good idea to wash up before heading to the main restaurant since its restrooms and lavatories are downstairs. Pet-friendly too.

 

 

Specialties
  • Lechon Kawali with a signature calamansi sauce—a bestseller the café spotlights often.
  • Chicken and pork plates, plus rice bowls for hearty, value-friendly meals.
  • Spaghetti Carbonara and other pasta plates appear frequently in diner photos and reviews. Portions are filling without breaking the bank—ideal for students, families, and office groups.
  • A long list of frappes (Matcha, Dark Belgian Choco, Salted Caramel, White Choco Mocha, and more) typically runs ₱115–₱175. It’s a crowd-pleasing drinks board to pair with savory plates or dessert.

 

For more options, check their Resto Menu…

Café Leonor Events Package Menus

 

“Had a wonderful time as they prepared their specialties for me to photograph and video. Everything looked temptingly scrumptious. I especially enjoyed their Butterfly Pea, a colorful drink concoction, and Chicken Cordon Bleu de Romeo, both of which were delicious.”

—VKP

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM—MARIKINA

City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Discover Why Heavenly Desserts Is Marikina’s Go-To Cake and Dessert Store

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

“Beautiful and tastes even better than it looks. Ingredients are very obviously high quality…”

 

Every concept begins with an idea, but as Chef Jeng’s story shows, it wasn’t that straightforward. As a college student, she didn’t develop a passion for baking and selling baked goods at a storefront until the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns hit years later. You see, Chef Jeng initially planned to pursue a career in physical therapy, but life had other plans, and she wasn’t accepted into that field. She eventually studied civil engineering, where she met her husband, who later partnered with her in several entrepreneurial ventures.

 

Ultimately, Jeng completed an advanced pastry and baking course at the Academy of Pastry Arts Philippines and continued her training in Malaysia, becoming the chef, she is recognized as today. With boredom setting in, the COVID-19 lockdowns greatly influenced her desire to explore and be creative. She rediscovered her passion for baking. By sharing baking videos on YouTube and social media, her creations quickly gained popularity and attention.

 

Encouraged by her friends, Chef Jeng started selling her cakes. It wasn’t long until orders began pouring in—sometimes as many as fifty inquiries daily—for a home-based operation. To manage orders, her home’s dining area, living room, and garage were converted into makeshift kitchens. Staff from her construction business who were temporarily out of work were trained to help bake and fulfill orders, offering them a continued livelihood.

 

As demand grew, especially from customers in the southern parts of Metro Manila, Chef Jeng opened a pickup location in Las Piñas after the lockdowns eased. Additionally, she sought financial support for expansion. With help from her Sun Life Financial advisor, she tapped into half a million pesos from her VUL policy to fund the new branch. That was where the story of Heavenly Desserts began and flourished.

 

Today, Heavenly Desserts has eleven  physical locations, including one in Makati, BGC (Taguig), Pasay, Quezon City, Ortigas, and its Marikina headquarters.

 

Business Resilience & Diversification
  • In 2022, Chef Jeng became a principal shareholder in District One Gastrolounge in BGC, joining friends in opening the restaurant. Despite the significant investment, the restaurant broke even by its third month.
  • She also concentrated on reducing risk through solid financial planning—such as evaluating Sun Life’s Business Owners Insurance Packages for extra security.

 

What’s in a name?

Cakes and desserts for the average person are mostly about taste and appetite, but for an aspiring connoisseur, it’s something more. There’s something about our taste buds that influences and impacts us differently as an experience, providing an out-of-this-world gratification to the whole being, to the soul, as you might say. Without saying outright, it’s ‘heaven on earth,’ which is why Heavenly Desserts was named as such.

 

Specialties:

Bread and Pastries. The brand highlights handcrafted, high-quality desserts, featuring offerings such as moist Belgian chocolate cakes, Basque burnt cheesecakes, fresh strawberry shortcakes, mini cake assortments, and Filipino-inspired flavors like ube-macapuno and langka pastillas.

 

Other item selections from The Online Menu of Heavenly Desserts, and Add-Ons

Pre-Order Now!

More options from the Resto Menu

 

Branch Location Details:

Marikina City

Main Branch: 34 Pikador St, Midtown Subd., Marikina City; +63 960 273 6307; Management: chefjeng.hd@gmail.com

FB – Heavenly Desserts by Chef Jeng Sy Flores
IG –@heavenlydesserts_chefjeng
Tiktok – @heavenly_desserts

 

District One, BGC

W Global Center, 9th Avenue; +63 945 172 4950

 

Ayala Malls The 30th

Meralco Avenue, Pasig City; +63 966 553 0037

 

SM Shell Residences

The Strip at Shell, EDSA; +63 956 175 5738

 

Lucky Chinatown Mall

Binondo Manila; +63 956 175 5740

 

SM Center Muntinlupa

Unit E – 107, Ground Floor; +63 956 175 5741

 

SM City Fairview

UG Annex; +63 995 179 7248

 

Las Piñas City

Order Via Website, Grab Food, or Food Panda; +63 917 816 5499.

 

Quezon City

116 Biak-na-Bato Barangay Siena; +63 945 536 0546

 

The Shops

The Columns Tower 3 Ayala; +63 917 158 3618

 

Grab Kitchen Commonwealth

Order Via Grab Food +63 953 156 084

 

Ambiance/Art Inspiration of Resto Interior:

Simply French.

 

Resto Format:

Dine-in, Delivery Website Grab & Food Panda

 

Price Range:

75 to 2,750 PhP

 

Quirk:

You might be a little confused about how to use their restroom. They have a very high-tech Japanese-style toilet bowl with all the whistles and buttons. Use the remote when flushing the toilet. Well, that’s something you don’t see every day.😁

 

What Customers Are Saying:

 

“Love their buttery croissant variants!”—VKP

 

“Yes! Heavenly talaga😁. Masarap ‘yung cakes nila. Parang it melts in the mouth.”

 

“Winner ‘yung Heavenly Moist Chocolate Cake. ‘Yun lagi kong binibigay ‘pag may friend akong magbi-birthday.”

 

“Others regard it as a splurge-worthy indulgence.”

 

“Tried the chocolate mousse with strawberries on top. It was worth it.”

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM—MARIKINA

 

City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Baliktanaw Café: Café, Family, and History in One!

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

 

Once a dental clinic, the location became a restaurant called Casaño. Rumor has it that Marcelo’s was once used as a fictional establishment name for it on TV, leading to confusion on Google Maps. However, the venture didn’t last long either, as the Reyes family later bought it for its vintage charm, which caught the eye of the eldest, Ms. Celeste Reyes, who has a fondness for vintage-style houses and furniture.

A little tidbit: A local from Marikina said that it was really “Casaño”. The name “Marcelo’s” was only used for a TV program at ABS-CBN before.

The family then considered renovating it without significantly changing its core design and maintaining its vintage appeal, mainly to serve as the Reyeses’ family home at first. But fate had other plans, as the youngest member of the family thought of turning the al fresco area of the house into a coffee shop. And so, it began. With the help of social media platforms, Baliktanaw Cafe grew and started offering indoor dining with something new—the pastas. Eventually, the owners decided to add an all-day breakfast, which began this May of 2025.

 

What’s in a name?

Baliktanaw, as a name, tells a meaningful story of history and family, reflecting on its past. The establishment is a place for reconnection and nostalgia for family. The owners are a family of four siblings; its name is inspired by the timeless act of family members enjoying each other’s company while eating at a dining table, reminiscing about their good old memories together, hence, “Baliktanaw.”

The people behind this are a family living in Marikina: Reynaldo De Guzman Reyes, father; Vivian Natividad Reyes, mother; and their children: Celeste Natividad Reyes, the eldest; Ronald Allan Natividad Reyes, the second; Ray Angelo Natividad Reyes, the third; and Camille Natividad Reyes, the youngest.

 

Ambiance/Art Inspiration of Resto Interior:

Inspired by the owner’s old-soul appreciation for vintage aesthetics, the cafe was carefully designed to feel like a cozy, nostalgic home where customers can gather and enjoy a meal as if it were their dining table, sharing company. Additionally, the owner selected all furnitures, from the lighting to the tables; even the most minor details are thoughtfully planned.

 

Resto Format:

The dine-in experience is currently available, but it will eventually shift to online deliveries.

 

Price Range:

100 to 400 PhP

 

Specialties:

One of their best-sellers is the Tapa series, which features different types of meat like horse, wild boar, and deer. These meats are local and come from a farm in Batangas. Baliktanaw Cafe also offers a selection of pastries, including the Biscoff Cheesecake, one of the cafe’s most popular items. They also serve Filipino dishes in a clay pot, accompanied by three cups of rice, called “Sikreto ni Ate.” The concept is that customers have to order it to discover the secret. For drinks, they offer classic coffee options like lattes and cappuccinos. Be sure to try their Takipsilim (Salted Caramel), Noong Araw (Spanish Latte), Kanela De Crema (Cinnamon Latte), and Fresa De Crema (Strawberry Milk).

 

Other item selections from The Menu of Baliktanaw Café!

 

Location:

Baliktanaw Café is at 172 J.P. Rizal St., Barangay San Roque, Marikina City 1801 (A few meters away from Our Lady of the Abandoned Church and Sunday’s Breakfast)

 

For details and queries, you may contact:

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM-MARIKINA
Entertainment & Currents

Dilaw Takes Us On A Journey Through Heartbreaks, Growth, and Life With First Full-length Album, “Rarara”

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

 

Listen to Black N’ White

 

After months of radio silence, Uhaw-hit makers Dilaw are back with their first-ever full-length album. Entitled RARARA, a play on the Filipino word tara, which means “let’s go”, the 10-track album is set to arrive on September 5, 2025. Select loyal fans of Dilaw were given an incredible opportunity to hear the whole album, which the band played live for the first time to a public audience in their hometown of Baguio, last August 9, 2025.

 

Pre-save RARARA Abum now!

 

Last March, the band released FLYING KISS, a song that reflects how some breakups can be peaceful, a calm break up anthem. The release of the song and the sudden radio silence created speculations and buzz among fans about what was happening with the band. Marking their return was the release of their follow up single last August 8. BLACK N’ WHITE tells the story of a monotonous world transforming into vibrant colors by someone special–only to realize it was just all a daydream during a road trip.

RARARA is the band’s storytelling of their journey through the highs and lows of life, a story of perseverance, growth, and finding strength in the pursuit of happiness. From the spontaneity of new adventures in SEYP to the quiet introspection in ! (TANDANG PADAMDAM), each track invites listeners to embrace the unexpected and find beauty in life’s unpredictability. Through heartbreaks in IKAW AT AKO AY and the realization of self-worth in ALL IN, the album highlights the importance of letting go and moving forward, reminding us that true healing comes from within. Shaped by heartbreaks and driven by their determination to overcome life’s challenges, Dilaw is taking us on a musical journey about learning, reflecting, growing, and celebrating the different paths taken, the lessons learned, and the people you meet along the way.

 

 

“Yes! May album na kami!” – Dilaw

With a desire to return to their roots, the album was written and produced in Baguio, where the band originated. The album not only reflects the origins of their musicality, but the accompanying creative photos and music videos will make you want to hop in your car and drive to enjoy the sights and sounds of cool and bustling Baguio.

Dilaw is set to have their first album concert on September 6, 2025, at Soundcheck Studios, Pasig. With opening acts like Novocrane, Kenaniah, and Kamikazee, fans are guaranteed to experience an incredible ride. Tickets are now available on https://www.xperto.live/events/dilaw-sa-pasig-sa-may-soundcheck-studios. The album concert will also serve as the kick-off for their upcoming album tour.

Dilaw has a lot in store for everyone in the coming weeks, so pack your bags, start the car, and get ready to play the ultimate road trip soundtrack.

RARARA tracklist:
ALL IN
SEYP
LAMYERDA
BLACK N’ WHITE!
IKAW AT AKO AY
FLYING KISS
H.O.Y (HANG OVER YOU)
RARARA
AMISTAD
Entertainment & Currents

Babyface Concert Live In Manila With Patti Austin As Special Guest

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Get ready, Manila! The legendary Babyface is set to light up the stage for a back-to-back concert with the award-winning R&B artist Patti Austin, who will add a soulful vibe at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on October 27, 2025.

 

Kenny Edmonds, also known as Babyface, is a 13-time GRAMMY Award-winning recording artist, songwriter, and the only producer to win the ‘Producer of the Year’ category four times, three of which were in consecutive years (1995-1997), a record he holds to this day. Kenny is also co-founder of the legendary record label LaFace, which launched the careers of artists like Usher, Toni Braxton, TLC, Outkast, and P!nk.

 

This iconic artist is one of the most celebrated forces in music history, having written and produced hits for artists like Bobby Brown, Boyz II Men, Eric Clapton, Madonna, Beyoncé, Bruno Mars, Ariana Grande, Mary J. Blige, Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin, George Michael, Michael Jackson, Justin Bieber, Phil Collins, Janet Jackson, NSYNC, Chaka Khan, Faith Evans, Stevie Wonder, John Mayer, Lionel Richie, Michael Bolton, Kenny G, Lil Wayne, Luther Vandross, Barbra Streisand, and countless others.

 

Patti Austin is a singer and songwriter and has done backup vocals and duets with artists such as Paul Simon, Billy Joel, and Michael Jackson. Her duet with James Ingram for “Baby, Come To Me” gave more spotlight to her name by becoming a No. 1 hit on the Billboard magazine pop chart. The song she wrote and sang, “Say You Love Me,” is much loved by Filipinos, along with her other hits, “All Behind Us Now,” “How Do You Keep The Music Playing,” “Stop Look Listen,” “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes,” “If I Believe,” “You Gotta Be,” “In My Life,” “It Might Be You” and “Rhythm Of the Streets.”

 

The back to back concert is presented by Ovation Productions with Blast TV as official media partners. Tickets for Babyface and Patti Austin in Manila are available at SM Ticket outlets and smtickets.com at PHP 8880, 8380, 7880, 6580, 6080, 4580, and 2580, inclusive of ticketing charges.

HASHTAGS:
#BABYFACEMNL2025
#OvationProductions
SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS TO TAGS:
FACEBOOK: @ovationproductions
TWITTER: @ovationprod
INSTAGRAM: @ovationprod
Entertainment & Currents

Lola Amour Release Sophomore Album ‘Love On A Loop’

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Fresh from a string of successful singles and international collaborations, beloved Filipino band Lola Amour has officially released their highly anticipated sophomore album Love On Loop, now available on all major streaming platforms. The album puts its focus on With You, a shimmering, heartfelt cut that captures the joy and vulnerability at the heart of the record. Across eight tracks, the album explores love in all its phases, from first crush to heartbreak to those inevitable romance relapses, blending stories that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable.

True to their growing global presence, Love On Loop features collaborations with New Zealand artist RIIKI REID (One Day Away) and Japanese collective KOKORO of Psychic Fever from EXILE TRIBE (The Moment), further expanding the band’s cross cultural reach while staying true to their Filipino roots. Produced in collaboration with international hitmakers Hyuk Shin and Cuurley, the album blends Lola Amour’s homegrown charm with global sensibilities.

The album also features the previously released singles Dance With My Mistakes, Misbehave, and The Moment (with KOKORO of Psychic Fever from EXILE TRIBE), alongside fresh new tracks like Did My Time, With You, and the title track Love On Loop. This new release sees Lola Amour experimenting more than ever, not just in sound but in the way they tell stories. While rooted in their trademark funk pop style, Love On Loop explores new genres and moods, capturing the fun, longing, hurt, and unforgettable moments that come with love.

To mark the release, the band will host an official Spotify Listening Party on August 15 at 8:00 PM (Philippine Time). The event marks a milestone for the band as they become only the second OPM artist to be featured in the platform’s interactive in-app experience, joining listeners from all over the world in real time as they play through the album and share stories behind each song.
Fans can RSVP and join here: https://party.spotify.com/event/16vfSb4GUj5eI0Ry0x2Exm

The celebrations continue with Love On Loop The Album Concert, a special concert on September 12 at One Ayala, giving fans the full album experience alongside Lola Amour’s biggest hits. Tickets are available via https://lolaamour.helixpay.ph/https://lolaamour.helixpay.ph/

With Love On Loop, Lola Amour cements their position as one of the Philippines’ most exciting bands, building on a year of viral moments, sold out shows, and collaborations that have brought them to audiences across Southeast Asia and beyond.
Stream Love On Loop now on all major platforms.
About Lola Amour

Since their formation in 2013, Lola Amour has grown into one of the Philippines’ most popular indie bands, celebrated for their distinctive fusion of indie pop, funk, and soul. Their recent international collaborations, festival appearances, and expanding listenership across Southeast Asia and other regions are evidence of their growing global presence. The release of Love On Loop marks the latest milestone in their journey, further establishing their widening reach.
For the latest updates on your favorite musicians, follow Warner Music Philippines:

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: OPM
Entertainment & Currents

Gloc-9 and Abaddon Share An Inspiring Message With Their Latest Release”BLGBGN”

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

(Glock-9 and Abaddon share an inspiring message with their latest release BLGBGN)

 

Award-winning artist and rap phenom Gloc-9 has just dropped his latest single, “BLGBGN,” featuring fellow rapper Abaddon. This new track continues Gloc-9’s impressive streak of monthly releases throughout the year, as he continues to share new music every month.

“BLGBGN” is an empowering song that encourages listeners to embrace life to the fullest. The track delivers the message that life is a journey filled with mistakes, challenges, and fears, but it’s essential to take chances and make the most of every moment. As the artists express, “Huwag kang matakot na magmahal at masaktan, isang beses lang ang buhay, wala nang balikan,” reminding us that we only live once and there are no do-overs.

In collaboration with Abaddon, Gloc-9 emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams. The lyrics inspire listeners to not take life too seriously, to reach for the clouds, and to navigate through the seas of life even without a predetermined destination. “Abutin mo and ulap, languyin mo and dagat, bumiyahe ng walang patutunguhan, simulan mong lumakad, balagbagin mo ang ‘yong istorya,” they declare, encouraging everyone to keep moving forward and to craft their own unique stories.

 

GLOC-9: Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

UNIVERSAL RECORDS PH: Facebook | X | Instagram | TikTok | Youtube

 

BLGBGN
by Gloc-9 featuring Abaddon

 

Abaddon verse

Gising na pare ko, anong oras na

Madami ka pang dapat unahin kesa mahiga

Huwag mong masiyadong isipin lalo kang mapapraning

Gawin mo’ng mga gusto mong gawin (whooo, let’s go)

 

Sige kanta kahit ika’y sintunado

Banat lang kahit na medyo delikado

Huwag kang mag-hintay ng tamang panahon

Itagay mo ng itagay, baka walang alak do’n

 

Huwag kang matakot na magmahal at masaktan

Isang beses lang ang buhay, wala nang balikan

‘Pag pinasahan kita, tol huwag kang mag-papass

Hithitin mo tapos ibuga mo pataas

 

Chorus

Abutin mo ang ulap

Languyin mo ang dagat

Bumiyahe na walang patutunguhan

Tara, simulan mong lumakad

Balagbagin mo ang yo’ng istorya

Tindihan ang babauning ala-ala

Para ‘pag kasama mo na, mga tropa mong nauna sa’yo

Ikaw ang may pinaka-solid na kwento

 

Gloc-9 verse

Tingalain mga tala (tingalain)

Tanawin ang mga ulap sa himpapawid

Iwas sa maling akala (at lasapin)

Walang maiiwanan lahat ay ihahatid

 

Sige sama ka lang, sa buhay ‘di ka dapat nag-aalangan

‘Pano natin ito mapag-aalaman kung hindi mo gagawin o babalatan

Subok lang ng subok kahit matusok, tibo sa’yong paanan

(Sa bawat yapak alam mo na)

 

Papalagan hamon ng mundo, kahit pa iniwan ka ng syota mo

Ika’y gulong-gulo, (say what?)

Kasi sabi niya’y problema mukha mo

 

Chorus

Abutin mo ang ulap

Languyin mo ang dagat

Bumiyahe na walang patutunguhan

Tara, simulan mong lumakad

 

Balagbagin mo ang yo’ng istorya

Tindihan ang babauning ala-ala

Para ‘pag kasama mo na, mga tropa mong nauna sa’yo

Ikaw ang may pinaka-solid na kwento

 

3rd verse

Lumangoy sa Balabac

Tumakbo sa Patapat tapos

Manapak sa labas ng maangas

Mang-hablot ng alahas (takbo)

 

Tumulay sa matalas

Mag-mahal kahit malas, bakas lang bro

Kagatin ang mansanas

Lasapin, tuklawin man ng ahas sa noo

 

Pare hawak mo ang manibela

Manalo, matalo wala nang kwenta

Isipin mo parang pelikula, ikaw ang bida

Lupitan mo ang ganapan kada eksena

 

Wala nito sa eskwela (wala)

‘Di rin ito binebenta, ‘di pwedeng marenta

Mag-ipon ng mga dalaw, balang araw ‘pag pumanaw

‘Di manakaw, umaapaw at the best ka

 

Chorus

Abutin mo ang ulap (Abutin mo ang ulap)

Languyin mo ang dagat

Bumiyahe na walang patutunguhan

Tara, simulan mong lumakad

 

Balagbagin mo ang yo’ng istorya

Tindihan ang babauning ala-ala

Para ‘pag kasama mo na, mga tropa mong nauna sa’yo

Ikaw ang may pinaka-solid na kwento

Pinaka-solid na kwento

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: LOCAL ACT; OPM
Entertainment & Currents

Babyface Concert Moved To October 27, Ticket Selling To Resume On July 21

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

The new date of Babyface in Manila has been officially rescheduled to 27 October 2025, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Tickets for the long-awaited return of Babyface to Manila will resume selling at SM Ticket outlets and smtickets.com at 12NN this July 21. Originally slated for this July, Babyface’s Southeast Asian tour adjustments led to a change in the date for the Manila stop.

Babyface is a 13-time GRAMMY Award-winning recording artist and songwriter and the only producer to win the ‘Producer of the Year’ category four times, three of which were in consecutive years (1995–1997), a record he holds to this day. Kenny is also co-founder of the legendary record label LaFace, which launched the careers of artists like Usher, Toni Braxton, TLC, Outkast, and P!nk.

This iconic artist is one of the most celebrated forces in music history, having written and produced hits for artists like Bobby Brown, Boyz II Men, Eric Clapton, Madonna, Beyoncé, Bruno Mars, Ariana Grande, Mary J. Blige, Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin, George Michael, Michael Jackson, Justin Bieber, Phil Collins, Janet Jackson, NSYNC, Chaka Khan, Faith Evans, Stevie Wonder, John Mayer, Lionel Richie, Michael Bolton, Kenny G, Lil Wayne, Luther Vandross, Barbra Streisand, and countless others.

Babyface is a prominent personality in the R&B scene with his 13th GRAMMY win for Best R&B Song for “Snooze” by SZA and nominations for two other categories: Best R&B Album (Girls Night Out) and Best Traditional R&B Performance (“Simple” by Babyface & Coco Jones off his Girls Night Out album).

Babyface’s concert at the SM Mall of Asia is presented by Ovation Productions with BlastTV as the official media partner.

Tickets  are priced at PHP 8880, 8380, 7880, 6580, 6080, 4580, and 2580, inclusive of ticketing charges.

#BABYFACEMNL2025

#OvationProductions

 

FACEBOOK: @ovationproductions
TWITTER: @ovationprod
INSTAGRAM: @ovationprod

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS; MUSIC CONCERT
Destination Pinas Establishments Technology

SmartHouse Prefabs: The Future of Sustainable Resorts and Homestays in the Philippines

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

In a nutshell, SmartHouse offers a modern alternative to traditional housing by addressing issues related to cost, speed, space, and environmental impact. Whether you’re a millennial aiming to invest early in property, an OFW building for your family, or an investor focusing on low-cost rentals, prefabricated homes provide durability, quick construction, and long-term value.

With the ability to fit on  small lots, remote land, or even penthouse floors, SmartHouse is changing how Filipinos view home ownership today. The possibilities are endless—from resorts, prefab gyms, commercial buildings, and apartments to residential hospitals, the sky is the limit with SmartHouse prefab.

Okay, it may seem odd and hard-sell to feature a Smarthouse prefab company on a travel and tourism website, but it will make sense once we start thinking creatively. The Philippines, like any country, needs revenue for its travel and tourism industries to thrive, so local government units support efforts to boost their cities, provinces, and municipalities to achieve these goals.

In the short term, travel and tourism can be boosted through increased visibility and engaging efforts through proper advertising, such as:

 

  1. Tactile & Immersive Pop-up Experiences
  • Travel fair booths & kiosks: Deploy foldable modular kiosks at tourism expos and fairs—stunning visuals, quick setup, reusable, and relocatable. Quick-deploy kiosks at airports, malls, or towns to distribute brochures and engage travelers in immersive experiences.
  • Tourism activation zones: Place branded pop-up structures in key tourist spots or even cities and municipal airports (e.g., Boracay, Vigan, El Nido), offering immersive previews or VIP lounges.
  1. On-Site Accommodation with a Marketing Edge
  • Showcase stay pods: Install sleek, branded container houses in destinations allowing travelers to “experience before they book”—e.g., airport preview units or in-lobby micro-lodging. Mini stay units showcasing specific destinations—e.g., mountain retreats, beach mini‑resorts—letting visitors tangibly feel the brand.
  • Event-specific housing: Use modular units as temporary lodging during festivals or conferences—integrate digital screens or brand storytelling within. Temporary lodging at fiestas, concerts, or conferences—dual-purpose branding and accommodation.
  1. Strategic Digital Signage Venues
  • Kiosks with integrated screens: Equip modular units with digital displays promoting local experiences, guided tours, or live social media feeds, leveraging interactive signage solutions popular in malls and public venues
  • Wayfinding & info booths: Deploy as touch-responsive, branded wayfinding stations at tourist hotspots, partnering with content providers for dynamic updates. Or maybe create Instagram-worthy modular zones tied to local attractions—e.g., “Pasalubong Pods” or “Photo Op Cabins.”
  1. Marketing as Added Value
  • Mobile brand showcases: Use movable prefab structures for roadshow marketing in satellite cities or provincial tourism centers—instant brand visibility where crowds naturally gather.
  • Co-marketing with LGUs: Collaborate with local governments to establish branded infospots or welcome centers using modular SmartHouse builds—maximizing foot traffic and partnership potential.

 

All in all, a fleet of foldable SmartHouse units that can be rotated across key locations for extended marketing visibility is a big help in advertising our tourist destinations all over the Philippines. With the assistance or even subsidy of the national or local governments for a one-time cost, this is a big possibility.

Furthermore, in the long run, local governments can improve their tourist attractions by developing more affordable Airbnb options and using less expensive resort accommodation alternatives. Smarthouse has gained a reputation for creating appealing and world-class units fit for resorts or micro accommodations.

 

Who These Initiatives Attract
  • Local Tourists & Urban Explorers: Engaged at malls, airports, and urban centers—drawn by interactive, immersive setups.
  • International Travelers: At entry points like airports or cruise terminals—small-scale accommodation previews make an impression.
  • Event-Goers & Locals in Destination Hubs: Engaged at festivals, exhibitions, or tourist numbers; modular lounges or stay units double as experience touchpoints.
  • Content Creators & Social Media Enthusiasts: Eye-catching modular setups easily become trending photo spots.
  • Local Partners & LGU Visitors: Branded, functional modular units strengthen government and tourism board partnerships, showcasing investment in visitor experience.

 

Strategic Tips for SmartHouse
  1. Collaborate with Tourism Boards & LGUs to co-brand and deploy modular structures at high-traffic zones—helping travel brands gain exposure and add value to destinations.
  2. Integrate Digital Signage Technology—partner with signage platforms to transform modular builds into dynamic promotional tools
  3. Offer Thematic Customization—e.g., tropical, heritage, mountain, fiesta themes that reflect local attractions; makes modules visually aligned with location branding.
  4. Emphasize Mobility & Efficiency—highlight quick set-up, fold-flat transport, and reusability—appealing to campaign-driven marketing budgets.
  5. Track Engagement—embed sensors or QR codes to monitor visitor interaction; provide clients with analytics on reach and dwell time.

 

SmartHouse Philippines stands at a strategic intersection of modular innovation and experiential marketing. By leveraging their customizable, resilient, and transportable prefab structures, they can revolutionize how tourism brands engage audiences—making every activation portable, memorable, and impactful.

Resources: YouTube; Carousel; Instagram; and Tiktok

For details call: Ms. Alezandra Brantley at (02) 8423-5817 or email at alezandra.brantley@smarthouseprefab.com.ph

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: ESTABLISHMENTS, TECHNOLOGY
Entertainment & Currents

Korean Actor Kim Ji Soo Turns Heads At The GMA Gala 2025

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

The GMA Gala 2025, held at the Manila Marriott Grand Ballroom, was a night to remember, and all eyes were on the dashing Korean actor Kim Ji Soo. Arriving in a handsome ensemble by renowned designer Randy Ortiz, Ji Soo looked perfect on the red carpet, ready for all the photographers.

No one can deny that Kim Ji Soo turned heads in his sleek black suit, making a striking impression at the black-tie event. His presence was highly anticipated, especially following his remarkable performances and projects in the local entertainment industry.

Ji Soo surprised everyone by making a cameo in the GMA action series Black Rider in 2024. After that, he continued to be involved in several notable TV projects, such as Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition, where he was a houseguest, and the recent travel show Be Cool, where he was one of the hosts.

Currently thrilling viewers as a villain in the exciting series Sanggang-Dikit FR, Ji Soo will also be part of the upcoming action series Never Say Die, together with Jillian Ward and David Licauco.

Booked and busy, Kim Ji Soo is a talented star who is becoming an increasingly beloved figure in the Philippine entertainment scene.

KIM JI SOO: Instagram | TikTok

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOREIGN MALE ARTIST, TV