Tag: 2025

City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Authentic Bicolano Comfort Food Café with Pastries and Coffee in Town

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

From Kamuning to Marikina, Ser & Nor have come a long way from their small home-bake startup in Kamuning, Quezon City, to the business they run now. Ser & Nor started with breads and pastries, such as cheese rolls and cookies, and delivered food trays to offices.

 

Through sheer goodwill and word of mouth, the siblings managed to make it work. Stephen Prestado, one of two brothers in the family, did a great job on the menu and restaurant aesthetics. At the same time, another sister, Frances Florence, handles the gastronomic side, and Joanna, the ever-gracious hostess of the family, manages the finances. Last year, in 2024, they established their base in Marikina, where they introduced Bicol delicacies like toasted siopao and pancit bato.

 

The establishment, as you know by now, is a family-run business that started from humble beginnings—Frances Florence, Joanna Joy, and Stephen Prestado each manage their respective roles. It also helped boost and diversify its products because one of its staff members formerly worked at a reputable restaurant and brought that experience. For potential customers visiting, the current facade is only a few months old, for your information. It debuted recently, on May 24, 2025.

 

And today, they continue to expand their offerings with beloved Bicolano specialties, including sinantolan, Bicol express, and Tinuktok—alongside breads, pastries, and drinks.

 

What’s in a name?

Ser & Nor is named after the parents Serapio and Norma, as it celebrates family, heritage, and the simple joys of sharing meals.

 

Additional Directions 

 

 

Ambiance:

A cozy, laid-back neighborhood spot with pipe-in music —warm wood, terracotta walls, natural light, and personal touches that make the space welcoming. Bookshelves filled with the owners’ personal collection enhance the inviting atmosphere. The design emphasizes both Marikina’s artisanal spirit and the owners’ Bicolano roots, blending homestyle comfort with modern café vibes.

 

Resto Format:

Dine-in, Delivery (Food Panda and direct orders), and Online available. Can accommodate 20 pax maximum at a time.

 

Price Range:

₱100 – ₱500

 

Quirk:

Based on Google Maps, Ser & Nor’s facade resembles a typical two-story house in a neighborhood without signage, which can cause some confusion. Google Maps hasn’t updated its visuals yet, so the facade looks really different when you visit. Be warned! Ser & Nor has a complete façade (now) with clear signage on its storefront and is fully air-conditioned.

 

Moreover, suspend your disbelief for a moment until you reach the main dining area. This space has an aesthetic that resembles an English-inspired pub interior, with framed photographs (hung), hanging bookshelves, vintage-looking steel chairs, and a darker wood color scheme, giving the place its natural classic charm and evoking a movie set.

 

Good Business Sense

Joanna Prestado, the family’s frontliner, might be the best customer profiler in the industry because she knows how to interpret what customers want and prefer. Customers will feel at home here since there are no aggressive sales tactics at Ser & Nor whatsoever. Wink-wink!

 

Regarding the presentation, Ser & Nor takes pride in making sure your order looks exactly like it does on the menu and guarantees that your taste buds will enjoy it too.

 

Specialties
  • Toasted Siopao (Chicken, Pork Asado, Pork Sisig)
  • Pancit Bato
  • Bicolano deli favorites: Laing, Sinantolan, Bicol Express, Tinuktok, Sambal Sauce
  • Fresh breads and pastries: Cheese Rolls, Ensaymadas, Cream Cheese Brownies
  • Signature Noodle Dishes: Laing Pesto Soba and Pancit Choca
  • Coffee drinks and specialty beverages

 

Check other options from their Resto Menu…

For events (corporate or family event packages…)

For casual order menu packages et al…

 

“Try their Pancit Choca, and Korean-Style Fried Chicken… you can never go wrong.” —VKP

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM—MARIKINA
City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Grill Reaper Barbecue House sa Malaya, your new Food Haven Begins Here

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

For a medium-sized grill spot that opened its first branch in Marikina just a few months ago, it’s admirable that it already aims to spark a revolution on a somewhat hidden street in Marikina, with plans to line it with restaurants, bars, cafes, and other venues. Although the establishment is tucked away in a suburb, its ambitions extend far beyond a simple plan. Grill Reaper Barbecue House managers hope to someday turn Malaya Street in Marikina into a popular food destination in Metro Manila, similar to Lilac, Matalino, and Gil Fernando Street.

 

Grill Reaper Barbecue House, a standalone restaurant in Antipolo and the first of its kind, was established in 2023. It offers an  all-you-can-eat barbecue concept that follows the Samgyupsal trend. Currently, they are reevaluating their strategies to add healthier options, such as a salad bar, in the near future for both branches. Just across from the Grill Reaper location in Marikina, they plan to open additional but related establishments to energize the stretch of Malaya Street without disturbing the peace of nearby residents.

 

The idea is straightforward. Follow the Samgyup trend but add more Pinoy ingredients, especially popular street food favorites. Adrian Gabriel and Enrico Noriega, food lovers, started Grill Reaper Barbecue House in February 2023 and tested the concept for eight months but saw limited success. So, they introduced unlimited chicken wings with the Grill Reaper Special flavor, made with Carolina Reaper hot sauce, which aligns with their brand. Now, they serve unlimited BBQ ribs.

 

Bryan Rey Rabor joined Adrian and Enrico in November 2023, completing the dynamic trio. They continued to innovate and brainstorm brand-boosting ideas. This led to a Pinoy-Style Korean barbecue that blends the best of both worlds.

 

Their perseverance paid off when they created the catchy phrase “Tara Samgy” in the second quarter of 2024. As customers entered, servers and staff eagerly let out this phrase, which became a hallmark of Grill Reaper Barbecue House.

 

What’s in a name?

The name was intended as a pun serving as a humorous tag for the establishment, according to the story. Its tagline? Tara Samgy!

 

Ambiance:

Trendy urban-industrial style with elements of a fun, casual, and social dining experience. Group food-trip vibe: A smoky yet aromatic environment; since Grill Reaper Barbecue House is located in a suburb, the atmosphere is fairly middle-class but can attract adventurous high-end clients.

The Grill Reaper Barbecue House is also pet-friendly, so if you find yourself in the area and unexpectedly become hungry, you can stop by and bring your pet with you!

 

Resto Format:

Dine-in, Delivery, and Online: Grab.

 

Price Range:

Php 180-Php 349

 

Quirk:

Don’t be fooled by the serving staff. They may seem serious while working, but they all participate in skits to promote their grill house. Watch their performances to see how talented they are. I personally observed how they create their skit segments. Keep in mind, these funny skits attract thousands of viewers on social media on any given day. It’s a clever gimmick. Imagine that!

 

“The last time I saw such a creative idea was when the singing cooks and waiters in Timog surprised the press with songs and dances.” —VKP

 

  • Where: 139 Malaya St., Malanday, Marikina City
  • Hours: Usually starting from 12:00 PM (noon), including late evenings and weekends, with “unli” (unlimited) promotions on specific days like Sunday, Friday, and Thursday. For the most accurate and current schedule for Grill Reaper Marikina, it’s best to contact them directly or visit their official Facebook page. 
  • Contact: 09625481618
  • Mail: grillreaperunlipinoybbq@gmail.com

 

Specialties:
  • Samgyupsal, Wings, and Ribs

Check other options from their Resto Menu…

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM—MARIKINA
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

 

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

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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