Eat Well. Travel Often

Apr 16, 2025

EastWest Dream Run 2025: Stories from Davao Runners

The EastWest Dream Run 2025 was held last Sunday, April 6, at Azuela Cove, R. Castillo Street, Davao City. As part of EastWest’s 30th Anniversary celebration, the event brought together runners, dreamers, and fitness communities from all over the country—uniting them in a morning of movement and motivation.

With race categories ranging from a fun 1K dog run to the intense 30K endurance challenge, the Dream Run offered something for everyone. Legendary race organizer Coach Rio de la Cruz helped bring this event to life, promising runners a world-class experience.

Several of my online friends in Davao joined the event and shared their experiences after the run. Here are some of their personal reflections:

Michael Anthony Martho

"I joined the EastWest Dream Run to push myself. I wasn’t feeling well and didn’t have proper training, but I always reminded myself to finish the race safe and strong.”

Rhea Mae Ortiz

“I joined the EastWest Run to challenge myself and see how far my endurance can take me.”

Jona Rollan

“Started my running era last year… going 40s na bya ta puhon. At least makatabang sa mga unhealthy eating habits. Samot nag mag crave-crave naaaaah… bawion sa dagan oi!”

Bryan Sarte

“As always, I went here with the only intention of enjoying and celebrating my ability to run with the growing running community. EastWest Run tested my limits—30km is not easy—but I thank God, who made it possible, for His strength and guidance. Proving to myself that discipline beats excuses.”

Their stories are a great reminder of the passion and dedication that fuels events like this one. Congratulations to everyone who ran at EastWest Dream Run Davao!

(Photos forwarded by the runners. Credit to the owner.)

Win P1M Cash, a Brand-New Car, and Free Broadband for Life with PLDT Home OMG Promo

Jexx Hinggo 2:30 AM lifestyle , pldt 0 Comments

Get ready for the most exciting promo of the year - PLDT Home’s OMG (One Mega Giveaway) is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever!

This year, PLDT Home is making your digital moments even more rewarding with an incredible prize pool that includes a brand-new 2025 Toyota Fortuner, P1 million in cash, free fiber broadband for life, and much more.

“We’re thrilled to bring back the ‘One Mega Giveaway’ for its second year. This time, we’re taking it to the next level,” said Patrick Tang, PLDT First Vice President and Head of Home Acquisition Marketing. “It’s our way of showing gratitude to our subscribers by giving them life-changing rewards that make everyday living even better with PLDT Home.”

Fuel Your Life Upgrade
From April 10 to July 31, 2025, new PLDT Home subscribers of Fiber plan 1399 and up are automatically eligible for raffle entries.

Check out the OMG-worthy prizes that are up for grabs:

Grand Prize: One lucky winner will drive home a brand-new 2025 Toyota Fortuner — a tough, stylish SUV that’s perfect for families and adventures.

Cash Winners: One subscriber will win P1 million in cash, and ten others will take home P100,000 each.

Free Fiber Broadband for Life: One winner will enjoy a Home Fiber subscription – Free for Life, and ten others will receive a year of free broadband.

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your ride, enjoy free internet, or stream endlessly - the OMG Promo is your ticket to a major lifestyle upgrade. PLDT Home designed this year’s One Mega Giveaway to help families live their best digital experiences.

Don’t miss out on your chance to win these mega prizes! Visit www.pldthome.com/internet for full promo mechanics and details.

Apr 12, 2025

Cebu Pacific Air Power Bank Usage and Guidelines

Jexx Hinggo 6:47 PM cebu pacific , travel 0 Comments

These days, a power bank is just as essential as your boarding pass. Whether you’re binge-watching your favorite series, editing travel content, or simply staying in touch with loved ones while in transit, a portable charger is a must-have. But before you pack one for your next flight, here’s a quick reminder from Cebu Pacific (CEB) on how to carry and use power banks safely—based on the guidelines from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

What kind of power banks are allowed on Cebu Pacific flights?

Passengers are welcome to bring power banks with a capacity of up to 100Wh—no need for extra clearance. This is the standard for most compact and travel-friendly chargers.

If yours is between 100Wh and 160Wh, it’s still allowed on board, but you’ll need to declare it at the check-in counter for approval. Anything above 160Wh won’t be allowed, so it’s best to check the label before heading to the airport.

Can I use or charge my power bank during the flight?

Short answer: no. For safety reasons, using or charging power banks while on the plane is not allowed. Even if your phone’s battery is running low, you’ll need to wait until you land. This is to prevent any possible overheating or electrical issues mid-flight.

Where should I pack my power bank?

Power banks should always be hand-carried, never checked in. You can store them in your pocket or in the seat pocket in front of you, but avoid placing them in the overhead bin or under your seat. These areas are harder to access quickly in case of an emergency.

Also, if you’re carrying spare lithium batteries, the same rule applies—they should be with you at all times and not in checked baggage.

Pack it properly

Make sure your power bank is packed securely to avoid any accidental activation or damage:

If possible, tape the terminals.
Use the original packaging, or place them in plastic pouches or small cases.
Keep them away from coins, keys, or anything metallic.

Cebu Pacific puts passenger safety above all. These rules aren’t just formalities—they’re here to protect everyone on board. So next time you’re packing for a flight, give your gadgets a quick check and follow these guidelines.

Need more details? Visit this link for the full FAQ: bit.ly/CEB-PowerbankFAQs

Apr 2, 2025

Starbucks x Peanuts: A Global Celebration of Kindness with Joe Kind Snoopy

Jexx Hinggo 1:43 AM food , starbucks 0 Comments

Starbucks and Peanuts have teamed up for a heartwarming global campaign celebrating kindness, coffee, and community. Beginning March 27, Starbucks stores worldwide will introduce an exclusive collection of Peanuts-inspired merchandise, beverages, and treats. At the heart of this collaboration is Joe Kind Snoopy, a special Snoopy persona created exclusively for Starbucks, embodying the power of small, everyday acts of kindness.

Spreading Kindness, One Cup at a Time

This partnership aligns with Peanuts’ core themes of friendship and compassion, as well as Starbucks’ dedication to making a meaningful impact in the communities it serves. Just like Joe Kind Snoopy, Starbucks believes that even the smallest gestures can create deep connections.

Lisa Silverman Meyers, Senior VP of International at Peanuts Worldwide, shared her excitement:

“It’s the perfect time to launch this phenomenal campaign with Starbucks, as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of Peanuts. Kindness and community have always been at the heart of our stories, and we love seeing that legacy continue.”

April also marks Starbucks’ Global Month of Good, where Starbucks partners (employees) worldwide volunteer with local non-profits, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to social impact. Joshua Fine, Starbucks’ VP of International Marketing, highlighted the synergy between the two brands: “This collaboration celebrates our shared values—kindness, community, and meaningful connections. As a global brand, we have the opportunity to use our reach for good, and Joe Kind Snoopy perfectly embodies that message.”

A Special Treat for Starbucks Philippines

Customers in the Philippines can look forward to exclusive beverages, limited-edition merchandise, and a collectible Starbucks Card featuring Peanuts designs. Fans can also join the #GlobalMonthofGood movement on social media, spreading kindness alongside Snoopy and the gang.

Exclusive Starbucks x Peanuts Merchandise

Embrace the joy of connection with this limited-edition Joe Kind Snoopy collection, featuring tumblers, mugs, bags, and more.

Drinkware Collection

Reusable Plastic Cup (16oz) – Joe Kind Snoopy | ₱295

A nostalgic nod to the first Starbucks x Peanuts collab, with Joe Kind Snoopy donning a green apron.

Stainless Steel Cold Cup (24oz) – Peanuts Friendship | ₱2,295

Joe Kind Snoopy delivers a cup of love to Charlie Brown and Lucy in a heartwarming design.

Plastic Cold Cup (24oz) – Peanuts Love | ₱1,375

Featuring Snoopy attentively listening to Woodstock’s story in bird language.

Stainless Steel Tumbler (16oz) – Peanuts Love | ₱2,395

Joe Kind Snoopy embraces Woodstock in a touching moment of friendship.

Stainless Steel Water Bottle (16oz) – Joe Kind Snoopy | ₱2,545

Keeps drinks hot for 6 hours or cold for 9, featuring Snoopy and Woodstock sharing kindness.

Plastic Water Bottle (24oz) – Peanuts Gratitude and Compassion | ₱1,025

Joe Kind Snoopy helps lift Woodstock’s spirits in this thoughtful design.

Ceramic Mug (14oz) – Peanuts Friendship | ₱1,295

A joyful depiction of the Peanuts gang bonding over coffee.

Accessories & Collectibles

Crossbody Bag – Peanuts Friendship (Available in select stores) | ₱2,975

Faux leather with debossed artwork and a Starbucks logo button.

Keychain – Joe Kind Snoopy (Available in select stores) | ₱1,275

A cute, stylish way to carry Snoopy with you wherever you go.

Cup Sleeve – Joe Kind Snoopy (Available in select stores) | ₱795

Keeps your beverage cozy while spreading kindness.

Online Exclusives

Stainless Steel Water Bottle (12oz) – Peanuts Joy and Happiness | ₱2,195

Features Joe Kind Snoopy sharing joy with Woodstock.

Tote Bag – Joe Kind Snoopy | ₱1,575

A cheerful design with uplifting messages, perfect for everyday use.

Plastic Water Bottle (16oz) – Peanuts Love | ₱1,295

Snoopy giving a heartfelt hug to his best friend, Woodstock.

Limited-Edition Starbucks Card & eGifts

Celebrate Global Month of Good with a special Peanuts-themed Starbucks Card, available with a minimum load of ₱500.

Indulge in the Joe Kind Snoopy Beverage Lineup

Joe Kind Snoopy Chocolate & Caramel Oatmilk Frappuccino®

A creamy blend of vanilla syrup, chocolate chips, chocolate and caramel sauces, topped with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and a special Snoopy chocolate topper.

Joe Kind Snoopy Chocolate & Caramel Oatmilk Latte

Espresso meets caramel and chocolate sauces, finished with whipped cream and a Snoopy topper. Available hot or iced.

Join the Movement: #GlobalMonthofGood

Starbucks and Peanuts invite you to celebrate kindness and connection with Joe Kind Snoopy. Visit your nearest Starbucks to grab these exclusive items and be part of a global movement that turns small acts of kindness into something extraordinary.

Mar 24, 2025

2025 EastWest Dream Run goes to Davao

Jexx Hinggo 10:23 PM eastwest , finance 0 Comments

The excitement is palpable as EastWest officially launches the EastWest Dream Run during a press conference in Davao on March 18, 2025. A highlight of its 30th Anniversary celebrations, this remarkable event is more than just a race—it's a tribute to fitness, community, and the pursuit of dreams.

Dream Run Takes Center Stage Across Cities

The EastWest Dream Run 2025 is breaking barriers and bringing the spirit of running to the vibrant communities of Cebu, Davao, and Manila. With the inspiring theme, “Chasing Dreams, Breaking Limits,” it features an engaging lineup of race categories tailored to every type of runner.

Whether you're a fur parent eager for the lively 1K Dog Run or an endurance athlete eyeing the challenge of the 30K race, this event is designed to celebrate the diverse dreams and aspirations of Filipinos.

“We envisioned the EastWest Dream Run to be a celebration that every Filipino can join, no matter where they are,” says Martin Reyes, EastWest’s Head of Marketing. “By bringing this event to Cebu and Davao—regions with a passionate running culture—we hope to see thousands of dreamers cross that finish line.”

A Race for All Types of Runners

The EastWest Dream Run truly has something for everyone. Whether you're a beginner, an experienced marathoner chasing a personal best, or just looking for quality time with loved ones, this event delivers unforgettable moments.

Among the standout features is the family-friendly 1K Dog Run, offering a unique chance to share the excitement with your furry friends. Imagine the pure joy of seeing paws and strides working in harmony—this race is a celebration of companionship and movement.

For the ultimate test of resilience, the 30K endurance challenge pushes participants to their limits, rewarding strength, strategy, and perseverance. Crossing the finish line in this grueling category is a true testament to determination and grit.

World-Class Expertise Meets Community Spirit

Legendary race organizer Coach Rio de la Cruz, renowned for his mastery of marathon planning, lends his expertise to ensure an unparalleled race experience. “Running is more than just a physical activity. It's about embracing the journey, challenging your limits, and discovering your rhythm,” says Coach Rio. “EastWest's commitment to expanding this experience to more cities is truly inspiring.”

Join the Movement

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic event. Registration is now open at the official website: www.eastwestbanker.com/dream-run2025. Take the leap, chase your dreams, and celebrate milestones at the EastWest Dream Run.