Chef Kirk Ngo Showcases Culinary Innovation at WoFex PH with Monin and Technolux

Chef Kirk Ngo Showcases Culinary Innovation at WoFex PH with Monin and Technolux

Thursday, March 27, 2025

Chef Kirk Ngo, the visionary behind Community Kitchen PH, recently captivated audiences on the inaugural day of the World Food Expo (WoFex) Philippines at the World Trade Center. In collaboration with Technolux and Monin Philippines, Chef Kirk showcased his culinary prowess through a series of innovative product demonstrations that highlighted his expertise and creativity.

During the event, Chef Kirk prepared two delectable dishes that seamlessly integrated Monin's premium syrups:

1. Maple Bacon Egg Sandwich – This dish featured Monin Maple Flavor Syrup, which was used to glaze the bacon, imparting a rich, sweet depth that elevated the classic breakfast sandwich.

2. Ham and Cheese Croissant with Mediterranean Salad – Chef Kirk crafted a Peach Dijon Spread using Monin Peach Fruit Mix, adding a fruity zest to the croissant. The accompanying Mediterranean salad was dressed with a Citrus Vinaigrette made from Monin Sweet and Sour Syrup, providing a refreshing and tangy complement.

These culinary creations were expertly baked using a Technolux Oven, underscoring the synergy between quality ingredients and state-of-the-art kitchen equipment.

Chef Kirk's culinary journey is both diverse and impressive. His professional experience includes a tenure in Singapore, where he honed his skills in a dynamic and multicultural food scene. Upon returning to the Philippines, he contributed significantly to the culinary landscape at Flatiron, a renowned establishment in Bonifacio Global City (BGC).

Beyond his roles in various kitchens, Chef Kirk is an innovative pastry chef. He gained acclaim for creating the Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie, a palm-sized delight that was honored as the Best Cookie of 2020. His inventive spirit also led to the development of the Cookie Cake, which blends the beloved textures of cookies and cake, and the Brazo de Mercedes Calamansi Cupcake, a fusion that marries traditional Filipino flavors with contemporary dessert techniques.

Chef Kirk's entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his establishment of Community Kitchen PH, a venture dedicated to delivering high-quality food crafted from the finest ingredients. This initiative reflects his commitment to fostering communal experiences through shared meals, embodying the philosophy that “great food is shared by a community.”

The collaboration with Monin Philippines and Technolux at WoFex PH highlights the mutual respect and trust between Chef Kirk and these esteemed brands. Monin, a globally recognized brand since 1912, is renowned for its premium flavorings used in cocktails, coffee, and culinary applications. Their partnership with Chef Kirk underscores their confidence in his ability to incorporate their products into his culinary creations. Similarly, Technolux, a leading provider of kitchen and laundry equipment, aligns with Chef Kirk's dedication to excellence, providing the advanced tools necessary to bring his gastronomic visions to life.

Chef Kirk Ngo's participation in WoFex PH, alongside industry leaders like Monin and Technolux, not only showcases his culinary talents but also reinforces his role as a trailblazer in the Philippine food scene. His relentless pursuit of innovation and quality continues to inspire both aspiring and seasoned chefs, solidifying his reputation as one of the country's most esteemed culinary figures.

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EastWest’s "Further For You" in Action: Spreading Hope and Empowering Dreams Through Young Focus

EastWest’s "Further For You" in Action: Spreading Hope and Empowering Dreams Through Young Focus

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Beyond banking, EastWest is committed to going further and making a meaningful impact in the communities it serves. This came to life through Cards of Hope, a heartfelt initiative that turned a simple holiday tradition into an opportunity to change lives.

EastWest employees and internal clubs—EastWest Milers, EastWest Click, and EastWest Voices—rallied together to support Young Focus, an organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through education. Instead of traditional holiday decorations, EastWest employees purchased intricately designed ornaments and postcard sets, knowing that every peso would go toward scholarships and essential learning resources for children from Smokey Mountain.

For EastWest, the partnership with Young Focus went beyond financial aid—it created opportunities that equip the next generation with the tools to shape their future. “Education reshapes destinies, creating pathways to a future filled with possibility,” said Martin Reyes, EastWest’s Head of Marketing. “Our support for Young Focus isn’t just about giving—it’s about equipping these children with the means to build a better life.”

A Walk of Dreams: Witnessing Resilience and Hope

EastWest volunteers joined the Walk of Dreams and visited various communities in Tondo to connect with residents and better understand their daily challenges. Experiencing the children’s struggles firsthand gave them a stronger perspective on the impact of their efforts.

“Coming from the visit, it was a lot to take in,” shared one volunteer. “But what struck me most was their tenacity—their unshaken drive to learn, to dream, and to push forward despite the odds. Their determination was both humbling and inspiring.”

The experience deepened the Bank’s belief that real change happens when communities come together—not just through financial aid, but through shared moments of kindness, learning, and connection.

Turning Generosity Into Action

As EastWest celebrates its 30th anniversary, initiatives like Cards of Hope exemplify the Bank’s enduring mission to go Further For You—beyond banking, beyond business, and into the heart of communities in need.

Through this initiative, EastWest employees proved that even the simplest gestures—a card, an ornament, a shared dream—can make a lasting difference. One child, one opportunity, and one future at a time, Cards of Hope is turning generosity into action, ensuring that the next 30 years are just as impactful as the first.

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Step Forward for Inclusion: Happy Walk 2025 Unites Communities Nationwide

Step Forward for Inclusion: Happy Walk 2025 Unites Communities Nationwide

This March 30, 2025, thousands of families, advocates, and supporters will come together to celebrate Happy Walk 2025, a nationwide movement dedicated to fostering awareness, inclusion, and empowerment for individuals with Down Syndrome.

Hosted by SM Cares in partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI), this year’s event will take place at SMX Convention Center – Manila with simultaneous celebrations at SM City Cebu, SM City Bacolod, and SM CDO Downtown Premier, making it a truly nationwide effort to highlight the abilities and aspirations of individuals with Down Syndrome.

More Than Just a Walk: A Movement for Inclusion

For more than two decades, Happy Walk has been more than an event—it is a powerful movement that highlights the strengths, talents, and contributions of individuals with Down Syndrome. It is a day of joy, unity, and acceptance, where communities come together to celebrate not just differences, but also shared dreams and aspirations.

“Happy Walk is not just about taking steps; it’s about making a difference. Every year, this event brings people together to reaffirm that individuals with Down Syndrome deserve the same opportunities, recognition, and support as everyone else. It is a celebration of abilities, not limitations,” said Nill Patrick Arroyo, DSAPI Board Member & Head, Happy Walk 2025.

A Nationwide Call for Participation

With the theme “321 & Beyond”, Happy Walk 2025 is expected to draw thousands of participants, from individuals with Down Syndrome and their families to volunteers, educators, corporate partners, and inclusivity advocates. The event will feature various activities, including performances, inspirational stories, and community-building initiatives that reinforce the importance of inclusivity in society.

“SM Cares has been a proud partner of Happy Walk for years because we believe in the importance of creating a society where everyone feels valued and included. This event is a reminder that inclusivity is not just an initiative—it is a responsibility we all share,” said Engr. Bien C. Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs.

Join the Movement: How to Be Part of Happy Walk 2025

Everyone is encouraged to take part in this inspiring event—whether by walking, volunteering, or simply showing support. 

To register, kindly visit the official Happy Walk 2025 registration page at: https://portal.dsapi.ph/dsapi/Register/RegParticipant. For more details on how to join, follow SM Cares’ social media pages.

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Beauty Blowout: Ever Bilena’s biggest buy 1, Take 1 sale is here

Beauty Blowout: Ever Bilena’s biggest buy 1, Take 1 sale is here

Monday, March 24, 2025

Ever Bilena, the country’s leading local cosmetics brand, is celebrating its birthday with an irresistible Buy 1, Take 1 sale happening from March 28 to 30, 2025 only.

Timed perfectly with Women’s Month and payday, this nationwide promo gives beauty lovers the chance to stock up on their favorite Ever Bilena products, including the brand’s latest viral launches like the EB Plus Moisture Boost Lipstick, EB Plus Serum Tinted Lip Oil (new shades), and the TikTok-favorite EB Pillow Pop Multipot among many others.

"Ever Bilena has always been about making beauty accessible to every Filipina. What better way to celebrate our birthday than by giving back to our loyal customers with our biggest sales of the year?" says Denice Sy, chief sales & marketing officer of Ever Bilena.

The promo is available in the following stores nationwide, including major department stores and beauty retailers:

· SM Beauty Department Store

· Watsons

· Robinsons Department Store

· Waltermart Department Store

· Waltermart Supermarket

· Gaisano Metro

· Gaisano Grand Department Store and Supermarket

· Gaisano Super Metro and Gaisano Fresh & Easy

· Prince Retail

· Alturas Chain (Bohol)

· Bohol Quality Mall

· Ever Department Store

Everything is on sale at Buy One Take One except for Face Powders, Nail Polish, and Accessories which are not included in the sale.

Shoppers should take advantage of this limited-time offer before stocks run out. For more details, visit Ever Bilena’s official social media pages @everbilenaofficial on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, and @everbilenaph on X (formerly Twitter).

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Waiian drops manifesto of authenticity and self-expression with third album, BACKSHOTS

Waiian drops manifesto of authenticity and self-expression with third album, BACKSHOTS

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Filipino rapper Waiian delivers a raw, unfiltered commentary on music and personal life with his highly anticipated third album, BACKSHOTS.

With the 9-track release, the acclaimed emcee takes a bold stand against the absurdity of the music establishment and trends, refusing to conform to social expectations, while reinforcing the importance of authenticity and staying true to one’s craft.

“BACKSHOTS serves as my testament to consistently speak my truth,” says the Solo Mission act. “The album is my rebelling against being known solely for motivational bars. Although I still believe in my roots, I also want to showcase my lighter side: the playful, humorous person who enjoys my life journey even as I pursue my rap career.”

Produced with Love and Rage

The album, produced by Kashira Music Prod and Pistolgrip, was shaped through a mix of love and raw emotion, challenging Waiian to rap over sonic experiments and eclectic beats. Throughout the project, the Makati City-based hip-hop artist credits his inspiration to artists who are not afraid to push the boundaries of songwriting, performance, and production.

“I drew inspiration from artists like Teezo Touchdown, Kanye West, Brockhampton, Kendrick Lamar, Denzel Curry and my past work, and more,” shares Waiian. “The 9-track album organically took shape, mirroring the cycle of life—its beginning and its inevitable end.”

A Journey of Growth and Reflection

BACKSHOTS offers a mix of seriousness and silliness, satire and sincerity, chaos and freedom. Lovingly layered with care and attention, the album takes listeners through unrefined thoughts and emotions, challenging and subverting traditional ideas of how music should be presented. With each track, Waiian blends confessional storytelling with unwavering commitment to his narrative, capturing both his growth as an artist and his reflections on career and life.

Key highlights from the album include “MAN IN THE MERROR,” the first track that he finished for this particular project, and “SI LODS NA ANG BAHALA,” which serves as a deep introspection of his life in a 3 minute and 32 second wav file. While he dedicates love, time, and focus to every single song in the record, making sure that each track possess its own distinct thought and direction, the aforementioned track reveals a splash of sentimentality that fits neatly alongside his earlier and current catalog.

He confides, “There is this one song that made me the most emotional when I came home from finishing it after several days of straight studio sessions. It’s SI LODS NA BAHALA, and I felt great being able to channel my life whereabouts in the confines of a song. It could be one of my favorite songs to perform from now.”

Music Video Releases

Waiian plans to accompany the release of the album with visuals featuring renowned collaborators and friends. The music video for “LODS NA BAHALA,” in particular, will have its own treatment, complete with archival imagery and locations from his formative years, including excerpts from the short films he made as a student and places he used to hang out at. “It’s about remembering my roots as a creative. These elements are blended with footage from my current life and experiences reflecting my artistic evolution.”

Additionally, the music video for “MAN IN THE MERROR,” which was directed Miguel Garcia from Madman Creative Solutions, will showcase his fun and goofy side, featuring places and people close to Waiian’s heart. He’s also in the pre-production stages of the music video of “SOFTIE,” which will highlight diverse couples representing various underrepresented identities in mainstream media, as well as a collaboration with Geloy Concepcion.

Live Performances and Upcoming Shows

Waiian will debut songs off BACKSHOTS live at the Wanderland Music and Arts Festival, where he’s meticulously planning and rehearsing every song for that special day to ensure a solid performance. Fans can expect a dynamic and energetic live set that captures the raw energy and emotional depth of his new album. He’s also set to co-headline the upcoming ALL OF THE NOISE music summit, along with Taiwanese band The Chairs, Singaporean rapper San The Wordsmith, and Thai indie pop collective KIKI.

Check out the track list:

(1) AUG27

(2) MALAKING BIRD

(3) MAN IN THE MERROR

(4) LOSE MY NUMBER

(5) SOFTIE

(6) MOTIVATIONAL QUOTES

(7) ASAN NA SI…

(8) SI LODS NA BAHALA

(9) BOUNCE NA KO MAN

Waiian’s new album, BACKSHOTS is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. The music video of “MAN IN THE MERROR” will premiere at 8 PM on YouTube this Friday, March 14, 2025.

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Shangri-La Plaza empowers women’s wellness this March

Shangri-La Plaza empowers women’s wellness this March

Thrive and Shine with activities that bring calm, joy, and inspiration this National Women’s Month

She is all the rage this March, as the country celebrates National Women’s Month. For all the ladies, it’s the best time to embrace the radiant feminine energy you bring to every space by carving out some time for your own well-being. Looking for a spot to decompress? Shangri-La Plaza empowers women to Thrive and Shine this special month with a selection of curated wellness experiences.

Start off a wellness marathon with a sampler of women-centric brands and services Shang has to offer at the Her Haven fair happening only until March 16 at the Grand Atrium. It features wellness companies like The Blanche Beauty Lounge that’s known for fab nail art as well as various body contouring and facial improvement procedures, and Swiss physiological footwear brand MBT Shoes designed to mimic the feel of walking barefoot, promising a host of physical benefits like better posture and reduced joint stress.

To make the fair even more experiential, Shangri-La Plaza has tapped wellness advocates to share their unique perspectives on holistic health and self-care. Actor and yoga and meditation teacher Maxene Magalona focuses on Wellness & Wisdom on March 15 at 3PM with her talk, A Journey Back Home to Your Heart, that covers topics like nurturing the whole self and cultivating inner wisdom. She’s also expected to share breathing control techniques, mindful chair meditation practices, and journal prompts.

On March 16 at 1PM, Mommy Mundo founder and mindful and well-being teacher Janice Villanueva leads the Bold & Brilliant panel that includes WeddingsAtWork Founder Benz Co-Rana and women’s life coach and licensed transformologist Rezza Custodio-Soriano. The discussion highlights the paths these Filipinas took to launch their careers and attain success, with the goal of uplifting and empowering others seeking their calling and purpose.

Catch a stunning visual narrative that celebrates the complexity, strength, and evolution of women with Stories & Strength - RFLXN: The Many Faces of a Woman, made possible in partnership with conceptual visual artist, photographer, and Creative Director of Project Headshot Clinic Niccolo Cosme. From March 20 to 30 at the East Wing, the campaign uses fracture mirrors to symbolize the multifaceted nature of womanhood—a reflection of identity, resilience, and self-discovery—through dynamic displays and interactive installations.

Want more action? Get those endorphins flowing at the boutique indoor cycling studio Ride Revolution that offers 45 minutes of full-body cardio session featuring curated music and friendly (and very motivational) instructors. Or try to bust a move at G-Force Dance Center, a go-to for its celebrity choreographers. Keep it fun with K-Pop and hip-hop classes or unleash your feminine power at the studio’s signature sexy dance classes.

Lighten your mental load at the longevity and wellness hub Travertine Longevity & Wellness that offers unique treatments like Lymphastim Compression Therapy that flushes out lymphatic fluids and reduces inflammation and Vital Dome that leverages the transformative power of infrared therapy, soothing sounds, and light healing to reduce stress and anxiety and achieve pain relief and muscle recovery.

Shangri-La Plaza encourages women to prioritize their wellness with this roster of brands and activities as a fitting celebration of National Women’s Month.

For updates and inquiries, follow Shangri-La Plaza on Facebook at www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficial and on Instagram @shangrilaplazaofficial.

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Smart powers the 2025 FCC Women’s Run PH

Smart powers the 2025 FCC Women’s Run PH

Sunday, March 9, 2025

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is joining the celebration of the International Women’s Month by powering the highly anticipated 2025 Filipina CEO Circle (FCC) Women’s Run PH on March 9, Sunday at SM Mall of Asia Complex.

Organized by RUNRIO and Femme Strides, the event is expected to draw over 8,000 participants in various categories, including the 1K kids dash, 5K, and 10K and 16K races.

“We are proud to be the official telco partner of 2025 FCC Women’s Run PH, which is one of the many ways we at Smart celebrate and pay tribute to Filipino women for their invaluable contribution to society,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, FVP at Smart.

FREE Smart Prepaid eSIM for participants

As the official telco partner of 2025 FCC Women’s Run PH, Smart is giving participants a FREE Smart Prepaid eSIM, which they can claim at Smart’s booth within the Race Village.

The digital version of the physical SIM card, the eSIM allows for a quick and hassle-free way for mobile users to enjoy local data, call, and text services without having to insert a physical SIM card into their devices.

Moreover, Smart Prepaid and Smart Postpaid subscribers can easily post and share their favorite race photos and videos at the event powered by Smart 5G.

Aside from the March 9 event, the 2025 Women’s Run PH will also hold a race in October to further celebrate women’s health, empowerment, and fitness.

To know more about the 2025 FCC Women’s Run PH, visit its official website at https://raceroster.com/events/2025/95194/fcc-womens-run-ph and its official Facebook account at https://www.facebook.com/womensrunph. 

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