BMI Online Editor

Just desserts: The rise of East Asia’s pudding places

Oct 092015

To go with AFP story ‘Lifestyle-food-SEAsia-desserts’,FEATURE by Theo MerzIn this photograph taken on September 10, 2015, Jason Ho, co-owner of Atum Desserant, prepares a signature dessert in Hong Kong. From Champagne shaved ice to bamboo charcoal-flavoured ice cream, desserts in East Asia are coming into their own as ever-more inventive chefs look to satisfy the region’s increasingly adventurous diners. AFP PHOTO / Philippe Lopez (Hong Kong-AFP) – From Champagne shaved ice to bamboo charcoal-flavored ice cream, desserts in East Asia are coming into their own as ever-more inventive chefs look to satisfy the region’s increasingly adventurous diners. While Michelin-starred restaurants have long served the foodies of Tokyo, Seoul and Hong Kong, recent years have seen a boom in high-end eateries offering nothing but puddings. Add the ability to share snaps of dessert delights on social media, and you have a recipe for sugared success. “Hong Kong people like beautiful things and uploading photos of beautiful things to social media,” says Bong Kwok, owner of so-called “dessertaurant” ATUM which opened last year. “Desserts can be very refined, which encourages people to share them online.” Small, family-run cafes selling only traditional desserts like black sesame seed soup have been popular in the one-time British colony for decades. Where in many Western cities, diners might stay in one restaurant all evening, Hong Kong’s specialized venues and compact layout encourage customers to move around for their meals, says Kwok. “It might be a luxury but people are willing to pay a little bit for Read More …

43 stories by 43 women by former Theresians

Entertainment

Oct 092015

43 stories by 43 women by former Theresians

Los Angeles – A unique collection of personal essays titled Portal (Gateway to Adventure) will be launched on October 11, 2015, Sunday at 3 in the afternoon at the posh Del Rey Yacht Club in Marina del Rey, California. Forty-three stories by forty-three women who are all graduates of St. Theresa’s College, an exclusive girls’ school in the Philippines, once run by Belgian nuns, are contributors to this epic anthology. The stories of the 380-page tome carry one theme – a place, city or country that serves as a portal or gateway that triggers memories of events, epiphanies or victories. Some writers wrote of adventures of love, reconciliation, spiritual rebirth, forgiveness, achievements – even of mountains and birds. Half of the Portal writers reside in Manila, while the other half come from all parts of the USA, even Australia and Canada. One contributor is a nun, also a Theresian, but now based in Taiwan. There are 25 graduating batches from three branches of St. Theresa’s College – Manila, Quezon City and Cebu City – that are represented in Portal. A cross-section of the writers’ careers reveals the Theresian spirit to serve. Some writers are former judges, lawyers, doctors, nurses, government appointees, religious ministers and servant-leaders. Some continue to be writers, counselors, athletes and entrepreneurs. Portal (Gateway to Adventure) was collected and edited by Marily Orosa, a writer of creative non-fiction and founder and president of Studio 5 Designs, a pioneer in the field of graphic design in Manila. Apart from Portal, she has Read More …

Superstar bats for Alden

Entertainment

Oct 082015

Alden Richards (MNS Photo) Nora Aunor is happy Alden Richards has become even more popular these days. The Superstar admires the actor’s humility and considers him like a son. Nora gave Alden a piece of advice, “Huwag kang magbabago. Kung ano ka nu’ng araw na nakilala ka ng mga tao, lalong lalo na ’yung mga fans mo, ganu’n ka pa din dapat ngayon. Mahalin mo ’yung mga taong nagmamahal sa’yo.” Nora and Alden worked together prior in director Adolf Alix Jr’s “Kinabukasan.” In the film, Nora played a lesbian who had an affair with Alden’s character’s mom played by Rosanna Roces. Alden shared he enjoyed working with Nora. “(She’s) very down to earth, madaling lapitan so parang hindi masyadong nakaka -intimidate kausapin,” he related. Alden learned a lot from the multi-awarded actress, saying, “Epitome siya ng perfect acting eh. Siya ’yung epitome ng ‘as is’ acting, natural na natural.” Nora just finished working on the indie “Kabisera,” which did not make list in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). “Sayang kasi talagang ang intention nito ay mapasali sa Metro Manila Film Festival. Sana may awa ang Diyos na magkaroon ng himala na mapasali pa din sa MMFF,” she said. (MNS)

‘FASO Goes Pops!’ on Nov. 14 at Alex Theater

Entertainment

Oct 082015

‘FASO Goes Pops!’ on Nov. 14 at Alex Theater

http://www.alextheatre.org/ “FASO Goes Pops!” on November 14 continues the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra’s tradition of presenting quality, entertaining concerts. FASO, returning to the iconic Alex Theatre in Glendale where it earned cheers and praises for its very successful “FASOGoes Broadway” last April, tackles pop music this time. “If the audience enjoyed ‘FASO Goes Broadway,’ this one will bring them to another level of fun and excitement,” promised Robert “Bob” Shroder, the musical director and conductor of the only Filipino symphony orchestra outside of the Philippines. “We auditioned a set of incredibly talented young singers to join FASOfor this concert. You will be amazed to see young Pinoy kids perform covers of Michael Jackson and Bruno Mars and some of our favorite OPM (Original Pilipino Music) numbers.” “We are very excited about this show because it is the first time that we are featuring pop music – both mainstream and OPM,” added Luis “Louie” Ramos, FASO board vice president and arranger-in-residence. “We will be honoring iconic OPM composers in the show.” Shroder shared what’s in store for the audience: “We are opening the concert with an old school William Tell overture by Rossini. Then, we’ll kick it right off with mainstream pop music of the 1970s and 1980s. Wear your jersey shirts and blouses, bell bottom pants and platform shoes to dance to 70s tunes like those of the TSOP.” The acclaimed maestro stressed, “Of course, our sentimental OPM love songs, as performed by our talented featured singers, will also highlight the evening. We will also honor several Filipino Read More …

Aquino praises Tolentino as ‘firm advocate of Daang Matuwid’

Entertainment

Oct 082015

Aquino praises Tolentino as ‘firm advocate of Daang Matuwid’

President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Pagpupugay sa mga Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Iskolars at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City on Tuesday (October 06). The program aims to showcase the successful implementation of TESDA Scholarship Programs, celebrate the various achievements of scholars, and recognize the successful partnership of TESDA with various organizations. (MNS photo) MANILA, Oct 7 (Mabuhay) — President Benigno Aquino III on Wednesday personally confirmed the news that Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Francis Tolentino has withdrawn from the senate slate of the ruling Liberal Party. “Today, MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino spoke on the recent incident connected to him. He has accepted responsibility for it. With this, he has likewise decided to withdraw as a senatorial candidate of the Administration,” Aquino said in a statement, referring to reports that Tolentino hired a group of sexy dancers as a gift to Laguna Representative Benjamin Agarao. The group Playgirls performed a dance number, deemed lewd and inappropriate, during the birthday celebration of Agarao in Laguna and after an oath-taking event of the LP, which was attended by presidential candidate Manuel “Mar” Roxas II. Tolentino earlier denied the claim of the event emcee that the group was a “gift” from him. President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Pagpupugay sa mga Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Iskolars at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City on Tuesday (October 06). The program aims to showcase the successful implementation of Read More …

Complaint filed vs. MMDA chair Tolentino over Playgirls performance

Entertainment

Oct 082015

Complaint filed vs. MMDA chair Tolentino over Playgirls performance

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino and Freyssinet project manager Alexandre Gros on Monday inspect the seismic damper that will be attached beneath the Ayala Bridge to help strengthen its foundation. MMDA advised motorists to take alternative routes, as the bridge will remain closed until October 1. (MNS photo) MANILA, Oct 7 (Mabuhay) — At least 12 labor groups on Wednesday filed before the Office of the Ombudsman a joint criminal complaint against Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Francis Tolentino over the controversial dance performance of a girl group during the oath-taking of some members of the Liberal Party (LP) last week. In their 10-page complaint, leaders of various labor groups charged Tolentino with violation of Republic Act 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees and violation of the Magna Carta of Women. “Women, in the persons of the ‘Playgirls’ were completely discriminated by allowing them to portray obscene show in public, which is scandalous, contrary to good morals, good customs, public policy and public interest,” a copy of the complaint read. The complainants alleged that it was Tolentino, as the chairman of the MMDA, who should be held accountable over the incident as he has the power to stop the show. “Public officials and employees behaving with decency and in pursuing good morals, good customs and sensitivity, should not incite, encourage or tolerate acts that appeal to prurient interest or those that are deemed dirty and intended to arouse sexual cravings more particularly Read More …

Bongbong: I’m lucky to be a Marcos

Entertainment

Oct 082015

Freedom fighter Carolina ‘Bobbie’ Malay offers flowers at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani Memorial Center in Quezon City on Monday. Human rights activists and relatives gathered to remember their loved ones killed during the Martial Law years imposed by the late President Marcos. (MNS photo) MANILA (Mabuhay) – Amid the negative issues being linked to his name and family, Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday maintained that he is lucky to be a Marcos. “I’m thankful that I’m a Marcos. I congratulate myself for choosing my parents very well,” Bongbong said during a news forum in Quezon City when asked if he thinks that being a Marcos is a burden. He added that being a Marcos has given him an advantage. “Ang bait ng taumbayan sa amin. I think overall, I grew up to a privileged childhood because I am a Marcos. I was able to go to go to a good school because I’m a Marcos, I was able to enjoy the support of many people. It is all clear to me, it was a lucky thing to be born a Marcos,” he said. Asked if he does not regret being under the shadow of his father, the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos Sr., the senator said: “It is inevitable, he cast a very big shadow.” Human rights advocates hold a protest rally commemorating the 43rd anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law at the Mendiola Peace Arch on Monday. The protesters urged the government to uphold human rights and Read More …

Pacquiao: No more absences if I win

Entertainment

Oct 082015

Philippine boxing icon Manny Pacquiao (center) is assisted by medical personnel for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) on his injured right shoulder, at a hospital in Manila on Monday. The injury, which Pacquiao sustained in training before his fight with US boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr., was healing well. (MNS photo) MANILA (Mabuhay) – Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao said he will give his full focus on being a senator should he win in the 2016 elections. Pacquiao said he will work harder should he win, recognizing the much bigger responsibilities that a senator handles. “Kaya po ako natagalan magdesisyon is because of that. Kapag magdecide ako – although nag-decide na nga ako – ang inisip ko, kapag pumasok ako kailangan seryoso, walang absent, palaging papasok, dahil buong bansa ang responsibilidad mo,” the boxing champ said. Pacquiao’s announcement of his senatorial bid did not sit well with some of his fans, who believe he is not capable of handling the tasks of a lawmaker. His frequent absences at the House of Representatives is not helping him defend his track record as a politician. Pacquiao said despite his frequent absences, he never took his constituents for granted. “Nagkakataon na may fight ako, so nasa training ako. Kailangan 3 buwan training ko, so hindi ako nakakapasok,” he said. “Pagbalik ko may inaasikaso ako sa distrito, nag-aasikaso ng project. Kahit di pera ng gobyerno, sarili nating pera ang mga project doon. I’m sure ang Sarangani ang magpapatunay na marami tayong nagawa.” Pacquiao said he Read More …

Mon Confiado to portray Aguinaldo in 2 more films

Entertainment

Oct 082015

Mon Confiado to portray Aguinaldo in 2 more films

Mon Confiado (MNS photo) Following the success of “Heneral Luna”, actor Mon Confiado confirmed that he will once again take on the role of Emilio Aguinaldo in the next two movies of the film production outfit Artikulo Uno. “In fact, trilogy itong gagawin ng Luna team ng Artikulo Uno. After nito ay Gregorio del Pilar. And after that, Manuel L. Quezon. At ang common denominator ng trilogy ay si Aguinaldo,” Confiado said. “At sinabi ng aking direktor na si Jerrold Tarog na ako ang mag-a-Aguinaldo sa lahat ng films na ito sa grupo nila, sa team na ito,” he added. The actor said he is excited to be part of the two other historical films. “Mas interesting ‘yon dahil ‘yung Gregorio alam natin na involved din si Aguinaldo diyan, mas war picture ito. ‘Yung Manuel L. Quezon, alam natin na medyo political. Alam natin na si Manuel L. Quezon ang naging kalaban ni Aguinaldo sa eleksyon at natalo si Aguinaldo, so interesting,” he said. Confiado, who has been receiving praise for his performance as Aguinaldo in “Heneral Luna” starring John Arcilla, admitted that he is overwhelmed by the public’s support for the movie. “Talagang overwhelmed at ako ay naging parte ng ‘Heneral Luna’… Parang binago niya ang way of promoting a film, kasi Facebook ang bumuhay sa promotion niya, at ibang klase rin ‘yung reception ng mga tao. Kaya talagang nakakagulat, hindi namin ini-expect na magiging blockbuster siya sa ganoong paraan,” he said. He went on to note the different Read More …

Maja, Gerald finally in good terms after split?

Entertainment

Oct 082015

Maja, Gerald finally in good terms after split?

Maja Salvador (MNS photo) MANILA (Mabuhay) — All seems well between Maja Salvador and Gerald Anderson following their controversial break-up, which at one point was described by the former as devastating. The 26-year-old Salvador revealed that she ran into Anderson at the 9th Star Magic Ball. The “Ang Probinsyano” star shared that Anderson’s niece, Lyra, was the first one to approach her but was quickly followed by the actor. “Nakakatuwa kasi okay lahat,” said Salvador, who made headlines after she walked the red carpet at the prestigious ball sans a date. “Alangan naman maghatak ako bigla ng partner tapos kung sino dala ko, baka mabigla kayo, gawan niyo pa ng issue,” she quipped. The former couple first confirmed their split back in April. They were together for nearly two years. (MNS)

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