Jul 13, 2017

National Retail Conference and Stores Asia Expo

The 24th National Retail Conference and Stores Asia Expo (NRCE) is all set to provide retailers with tips and solutions on how to prepare for the fast-changing digital age with this year’s theme “Future-Proofing Retail.” This project will be staged at the SM Mall of Asia Complex from August 10 to 11.

This will be the biggest and most important retail event in the country! The NRCE will feature talks and panel discussions from industry experts and personalities led by Leyte Representative and TV personality Lucy Torres-Gomez, Senator Sonny Angara, and Rustan Supercenters CEO Irwin Lee as keynote speakers for the two-day conference.

Topics of the conference will cover new trends in the retailing, branding design, future of shopping malls, creating niche in diverse market, online retailing, fashion retailing, impact of music in the marketplace, food retailing, and engaging the millennial consumers.

Confirmed speakers and presenters include FILSCAP Vice president and noted TV personality and musician Jim Paredes, Zalora CEO Paolo Campos, Google Philippines Marketing Manager Gabby Roxas, Springtime Design Limited Creative and Managing Director Chris Dingcong, and Organization Development Advisor Susan Grace Rivera.

Two panels composed of young and upcoming retailers such as Apartment 8 President Sheira Lim, Sunnies Café Finance Director Eric Dee Jr., and Genki Sushi Owner Eric Teng will discuss the new generation of retailers and food retail as mall anchors.

New for this year’s NRCE is the launch of the Supermarket Track dedicated to supermarkets and food retailers which will discuss modern retailing with a responsive Departement of Trade, spatial planning, and supermarket trends in Asia Pacific.

NRCE 2017 Overall Chairman Lorenzo Formoso says, “This year’s event aims to create a deepter understanding of modern retail as well as open more opportunities for partnerships and networking,”
Back to back with the conference is the only focused and dedicated retail suppliers’ expo showcasing the “tools for global retailing” from over 100 exhibitors offering products and solutions for the retail industry such as Retail Solutions, E-Commerce & M-Commerce, Shop Fittings & Store Designs, Digital Marketing, Commercial and Real Estate Developers, Web Developers, Non-traditional Advertising, Financial Services, Storage and Distribution, HR Solutions, and Billboard Locations among others.

Stores Asia Expo, which is the biggest in the Philippines and is one of the longest running retails suppliers’ expo in Asia, expects to draw more than 3,000 visitors and decision makers from the retail and related industries.

The NRCE 2017 is supported by The SM Store, PLDT Alpha, Wilcon Depot as Platinum sponsors; Robinsons Malls, Ayala Malls, Araneta Center Inc. --- Gold; Hitachi Solutions Phils.--- Silver; Bench, Celine, Penshoppe---Bronze;  Sportshouse, Shangri0la Plaza, Goldilocks, BMI Research ---Sponsors; Philippine Airline ---- Official carrier; Philippine Star---Official Newspaper; Business World----Official Media partner; ANC----Official Network; Re-set---Official Creative Agency; Crimsonberry---Official Social Media partner; Fascn8---Digital Advertising partner; Talkshop Asia @Radyo Inquirer---Multimedia partner; Philippine Daily Inquirer---Media partner; Rich Brand Graphix, Inc., and Heritage Multi Office Products, Inc. as expo sponsor, and WGSN as session sponsor.


For registration, sponsorship, and exhibit inquiries, please contact the PRA Executive Secretariat at 6874180, 6874181, 6874985, or email: marketing@philretailers.com, specialprojects@philretailers.com, or visit www.nrce-ph.com.



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Press release from Mae Sanchez of Primer Group of Companies
bride of the water god on iflix

To all K-Drama addicts out there, iflix is thrilled to announce that The Bride of Habaek is now available for streaming! New episodes will be available weekly every Thursday and Friday on iflix, within 24 hours of their television broadcast in Korea.

The Bride of Habaek is a South Korean television drama spin-off of the widely popular 2006 comic book series, Bride of the Water God by Yoon Mi-kyung. Directed by Kim Byung Soo and starring Korean heartthrobs Nam Joo-Hyuk, Shin Sae-Kyeong, Gong Myung and Krystal, the fantasy drama follows an unlikely romance between a human and a supernatural water god. Habaek (Nam Joo-Hyuk) descends down to Earth to meet his human bride, So-Ah (Shin Sae Kyeong) - a neuropsychiatrist who sacrifices herself as a bride for the sake of her village. Set in modern Seoul, the highly anticipated K-drama reimagines fantasy elements from the original manhwa. 


bride of the water god


The Bride of Habaek joins iflix’s extensive library of popular and highly-acclaimed Korean drama, including Secret GardenGoblinThe Legend of the Blue SeaScent of a WomanPrincess HoursPrince Hours and many more, making iflix the premiere destination for the best of Korean entertainment.

Now, K-drama fans can stay up to date with the latest K-drama craze, with new episodes uploaded on iflix weekly. Thanks iflix for bringing only the best and most highly anticipated shows for your subscribers!

For new subscribers, iflix offers a complimentary one-month trial with full access to its service, features and content. Go to www.iflix.com, or download the app from the Google Play or Apple App Store to register.

Jul 12, 2017

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's New Mexican Chocolate beverages

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is giving us a whole new chocolate experience with their newest selection of Mexican Chocolate beverages!

Experience a familiar warmth in the rich goodness of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf®’s Mexican Hot Chocolate (Small, Php 150; Regular, Php 165; Large Php 180), or enjoy it with premium espresso as Mexican Chocolate Latte (Small, Php 150; Regular, Php 165; Large Php 180). But for a true fiesta of flavors and textures, have it prepared in the way it was first created by the brand—as a Mexican Chocolate Ice Blended® beverage (Regular, Php 165; Large, Php 180).

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's New Mexican Chocolate beverages

These new drinks will be officially available at all The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® stores nationwide the following day on July 10, 2017.


For more information, LIKE The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® (Philippines) on Facebook, FOLLOW @CBTLPH @BREWPH on Instagram and Twitter, and SUBSCRIBE to brewyourbestyear.com. Indicated prices may vary in airport locations.

Jun 6, 2017


Are you stressed from work today? Let's take a break from the hassles of daily life and cool down at the nearest Starbucks store with their new Starbucks Frapuccino® flavors. Fall in love with their classic favorites that come with a new twist!

Starbucks introduces Banana Split Mocha Frappuccino® and Irish Cream Coffee Pudding Frappuccino®. Both flavors will be available starting June 6, 2017.



The Banana Split Mocha Frappuccino® is a rich mixture of Mocha Frappuccino® blended with banana puree which is then layered on top of strawberry whipped cream. This concoction is then finished with regular whipped cream, a drizzle of rich chocolate, and crunchy waffle cone pieces.


Meanwhile, coffee aficionados will surely be pleased with the new Irish Cream Coffee Pudding Frappuccino®, handcrafted with Starbucks signature Coffee Frappuccino® poured on top of creamy coffee pudding and then made even more delectable with espresso whipped cream and Turkish ground coffee sprinkles.


Coffee connoisseurs who are on a constant search for rare one-lot coffee will undoubtedly enjoy Starbucks Reserve® Rwanda Musasa and Starbucks Reserve® Nicaragua Maracaturra.  But for those who are looking for the perfect cold brew experience at home, Starbucks has also released its Cold Brew Pitcher Packs. This is a perfect blend of Latin American and African beans that are roasted to bring out their rich and dense flavor when brewed cold. Its flavor is balanced, smooth, and rich with subtle sweet chocolatey notes. To brew a perfect pitcher, simply steep the pitcher packs in your refrigerator overnight.




Starbucks also introduces their newest food choices that are perfect with the new Frappuccino® flavors.

The new Lime Torte Cake is a symphony of flavors and texture with its sweet and tangy flavor partnered with crunchy and crumbly cake.



For those looking for traditional Filipino flavors, the Mango Crunch Cake will surely delight you with smooth and creamy mousse with Philippine mangoes layered with crumbly and buttery graham and crunchy white almond.



Chocolate lovers will surely fall for the Chocolate Marshmallow Cake, a moist chocolate layer cake with smooth and creamy chocolate truffle and then frosted with marshmallow icing.



Another perfect complement to your coffee is the Whole Wheat Bagel made with linseeds, rye and soy grits, corn semolina, and oats. A more savory option is also available with the Bagel Bites filled with Cream Cheese, the mini herbed bagels are generously stuffed with cream cheese that will surely satisfy you with every bite.





Starbucks is also introducing three new designs for its Starbucks Cards. The three cards are the Chill Mini Card, Iced Coffee Card, and the Father's Day Card.

The Chill Mini Card and the Father's Day Card are available for a minimum activation fee of ₱500.



The Father's Day Card also comes with a free greeting card making it the perfect gift for your Dad on his special day.



Meanwhile, the Iced Coffee Card is available for a minimum activation fee of ₱1,000. 




Visit the nearest Starbucks store to experience these new treats and log on to http://www.starbucks.ph/ for more information. 

Thank you for dropping by and have a great day!



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About Starbucks Philippines 
December 4, 1997, the Philippines had its first taste of the Starbucks Experience with its very first branch at the 6750 Ayala Building in Makati City. Starbucks has since won the hearts of the Filipinos. The opening of the 6750 Ayala store marked an important milestone in our history – the Philippines became the third market to open outside North America. The tradition of warm hospitality, constant need for connection, and love for coffee – these are the qualities that make Starbucks Coffee and the Filipino people a great culture fit.

To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at www.starbucks.ph 

About Starbucks 
Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality Arabica coffee. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at www.starbucks.com 

May 9, 2017


It's back and we can't just stop screaming! The McDonald's Shake Shake Fries is made even more exciting with new flavors that we can enjoy our way. Starting May 2, you can order your flavorful snack at your nearest McDonald's store.

But there’s more—McDonald’s introduces two new delicious Shake Shake Fries flavors: Creamy Truffle and Cheddar & Sour Cream. Creamy Truffle is a rich and savory truffle flavor balanced with a hint of creamy cheese and chives that will keep you coming back for more. If you’re looking for a tasty creamy cheddar flavor blended with a light sour cream twist, then Cheddar & Sour Cream is the way to go! The Shake Shake Fries is also available in the classic BBQ flavor that has just the right spice.  

Get movin’ and shakin’ when you try out all three (3) exciting Shake Shake Fries flavors that are available for a limited time only! Shake Shake Fries comes free for every medium or large meal with Fries and drink. You can also pair it with a McFloat or Creamy McFreeze for a fun snack time experience!

Add flavor to your day with McDonald’s Shake Shake Fries when you dine in any time at McDonald’s restaurants nationwide. You can also enjoy it via Drive-Thru or McDelivery by dialing 86-2-36, visiting www.mcdelivery.com.ph, or using the McDo PH app.

Invite your friends and loved ones to shake up their day with the McDonald’s Shake Shake Fries! Share your photos on Facebook, facebook.com/McDo.ph or tag @McDo_PH on Twitter or Instagram.


Thanks for dropping by and have a great and flavorful day! - Jexx

Apr 18, 2017

Starbucks Pop'zel Coffee Frappuccino® Blended Beverage

Summer is already here and it's one of the best seasons to bond with friends and family! To make summer more exciting and refreshing, Starbucks is introducing a new Frappuccino® flavor and will bring back a well-loved flavor from last year.

A returning favorite, the Roasted Marshmallow S'mores Frappuccino® Blended Beverage is flavored with vanilla, layered with smooth marshmallow whipped cream, indulgent chocolate sauce, and graham crumble. This delicious concoction is then finished with whipped cream and more graham crumble on top.

Starbucks Roasted Marshmallow S'mores Frappuccino Blended Beverage

Get ready for an unexpected throwback as Starbucks brings together two of our childhood favorites—popcorn and pretzels—in one delectable drink. Pop'zel Coffee Frappuccino® Blended Beverage is blended with delicious popcorn and pretzel syrup and topped with real caramel popcorn and salted pretzel over whipped cream.

Pop'zel Coffee Frappuccino® Blended Beverage

Both flavors will be available for a limited time only starting April 18.

“This summer, the iconic Frappuccino® blended beverages are inspired by our customers’ personalities: fun, creative and bold,” said Keith Cole, marketing head for Starbucks Philippines. “We have created beverages that match customers’ summer moods, handcrafted with flavors that blend sweet with savory or delight with the most exciting toppings”.

Starbucks VIA® Iced Coffee is a new kind of refreshment that is perfect during summer at home. With its flavor profile defined by hints of citrus and a caramelly-smooth finish.


For an exotic coffee flavor, here's the Starbucks Reserve® Nicaragua La Roca.

Starbucks Reserve® Nicaragua La Roca

For their newest food offerings, they have Banana Chocolate Danish and Roast Beef Deli on Ciabatta Bread. Dig into this sandwich with slow-roasted beef, button mushrooms, tangy and sweet pickles, horseradish spread. It's a perfect sandwich if you need a fulfilling meal.

Starbucks Roast Beef Deli on Ciabatta Bread

If you want a sweet option, try the Banana Chocolate Danish. It's a baked pastry filled with chocolate and banana.

Starbucks Banana Chocolate Danish



Meanwhile, chocoholics out there will surely be pleased with the new 65% Dark Chocolate. This single-origin chocolate bar was sourced from the award-winning Malagos Chocolate from Davao. Every bar has 65% cocoa solids and has a distinct fruity flavor profile.


For My Starbucks Rewards® members, Starbucks Frappuccino® die-cut cards will be available in new colorways and can be bought for an initial activation fee of ₱1,000. Meanwhile, the new 'Stay Cool' card will be available for ₱300. Both will be in Starbucks stores starting April 18.


Starbucks Stay Cool Rewards Card

With summer already here, there are more and more reasons to keep refreshed and ready for whatever fun and adventure the season holds. And as temperatures continue to rise, Starbucks will be with you throughout summer to help you cool down and unwind.

Thank you, Starbucks Philippines for inviting us once again to your launch!


We won Starbucks cards! Woohoo! Me, Jeffrey Mondia, and Robert Villamor

For more news about Starbucks, visit their website (www.starbucks.ph) or check out their Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StarbucksPhilippines)


Thanks for dropping by and have a great day - Jexx

Apr 5, 2017

Watsons Make Your Summer Davao

There's no holding you back to enjoy summer because Watsons will help you create your perfect holiday adventure! Not even your fear of skin darkening or showing off your after-holiday tummy can stop you from conquering the sunny days. This year, Watsons says, make the summer yours.

Watsons’ #MakeYourSummer campaign wants you to stop hiding and create the perfect summer according to your rules. With all the products available in stores, Watsons surely has something for all the fun activities you’ve got planned so you’re free to do whatever you want without any worries.

Watsons Make Your Summer Davao

Watsons Make Your Summer Davao

Watsons Make Your Summer Davao

If you're in Davao, it's best to enjoy the city in the morning to get the full Dabawenyo experience.

Make your summer sexy by showing off some skin and wear a bikini when you visit the Garden City of Samal. Enjoy the pristine white sand beaches and exotic wildlife with friends and family.

Watsons Make Your Summer Davao
Photo credit - Jeffrey Mondia

Make your summer colorful and be fashion forward with all the vivid hair colors they have—from fabulous browns, fantastic blondes, to fiery reds. Show off your beauty like the amazing array of pearls found in the tranquil Pearl Farm.

Watsons Make Your Summer Davao
Photo credit - Jeffrey Mondia

Make your summer sun-proof and be confident to go anywhere! You can visit The Philippine Eagle Center and Malagos Garden Resort for some nature tripping. Use sunscreens to defend your skin from burning and sun damage like Nivea, Vaseline, Banana Boat, Beach Hut, Biore, Belo, Kojie San, Ponds and much more.

Watsons Make Your Summer Davao

Get a chance to explore the wonders of the Philippine islands with getaways for four to Batanes, Boracay, Cebu, Davao, and Palawan.  Just buy any participating products at Watsons and for every PHP500 single-receipt purchase, you get 1 e-raffle entry. This exclusive treat for SM Advantage Card members will be running from February 23 – April 26, 2017.

Watsons Make Your Summer Davao

Watsons has several stores in Davao so that they can always prioritize the health and personal care needs of Davaoenos. Have fun and make your summer perfect! Dali na, adto sa pinakaduol nga Watsons store!

Davao Bloggers at Watsons Make Your Summer Davao
Davao Bloggers @ Watsons SM Lanang Premier for Watsons Make Your Summer Event

Watsons SM Lanang Premier for Watsons Make Your Summer Event
Watsons Team and Brand Managers @ Watsons SM Lanang Premier for Watsons Make Your Summer Event


Thanks for dropping by and have a great day! - Jexx

@jexxhinggo