Book Feature: Mga Sulat na Para Sana Sa 'Yo + Exclusive Interview with Author Vanessa Cruz-Zapanta

Regret is one of the hardest emotions to deal with. It is more difficult because of the other negative emotions connected to it such as remorse, sadness, guilt, and the feeling of helplessness. Unfortunately, this happens to many of us. It happens to people from various walks of life and for varied reasons.

These are the things we should have done or the words that we wished we said. These are the feelings that we never got to show or express. Maybe because the circumstances were not favorable or maybe we got so busy and got caught with the daily grind. 

Perhaps we made unfortunate and bad decisions or many times we just don't know how to express ourselves and we simply can't find the right words to say.

Mga Sulat na Para Sana Sa'Yo (MSPSY) is a collection of letters in English and Tagalog left unsent. In this book, the author has given a voice to the people with stories of regret. She wrote letters for them that they could or would have given to their intended recipient. 

Even if these letters may be forever unsent because of certain circumstances like death or lost contact, the author hopes that putting their feelings into words and being able to read them can somehow give closure. 

This book can also help us process our thoughts and feelings for ourselves. It also reminds us that one is not alone. It shows us that there is someone out there who has felt exactly the same love, pain, and regret that we have. Just like how we find songs relatable. 

This 144-page masterpiece is written by Vanessa Cruz-Zapanta, NBDB registered author and writer from Bulacan. She is a Psychology graduate from the University of Santo Tomas and has a certification in interior design from New Zealand. 

She is a former psychometrician and a sales professional in one of the oldest pharmaceutical companies in the world. Today, we are grateful for this chance to have this exclusive interview with her.  

1. Can you share with us something about the book that isn't in the blurb?

No matter how much you have accomplished in life, there are grueling moments in one’s life that can make you quit. But during those falls, it is important to try to stand up and face life head-on. The struggles that we are going through will pass, it will pass out like a kidney stone, but it will.

Also, I am happy to share that MSPSY became LAZADA's top-selling literature and had been recognized as part of the trending and frequently bought books in literature. The book also received recognitions such as Filipino Reader's Choice Award (Top 4) and has been nominated and garnered the highest number of FB votes during the VP Choice Awards. 

2. What inspired the idea for your latest book?

I wrote my book and self-published it to tick it off my bucket list initially. I didn’t realize that a lot of people will be able to relate to it. The stories in the letters were real to them and it hit the right spot. 

Also, I wanted a title that will intrigue and pique the readers' interest and I think the book became as popular as it is because of the title. Many are drawn to the dramatic and the romantic, I guess. 

3. How long did it take you to complete the book?

It took me a year to finish writing, MSPSY.

4. What part of the book was most challenging to write and why?

The most challenging part was looking for the right person to edit the book. I even experienced being rejected but it was part of the process in which I learned. Starting to publish as well as finding the right team to help you are the hardest. It is a lot of hard work.

5. What do you hope your readers take away from this book?

It is never too late to do something that takes your breath away. It is always imperative that we learn to be brave and say what we want before it is too late. 

When I write, I am able to inspire people and instill the attitude of gratitude whatever your present circumstance is to people. This is what happened to my book, MGA SULAT NA PARA SANA SA ‘YO. The English and Filipino letters that I wrote gave closure to most people that read them and many were able to relate to the different situations.

6. If you’re planning a sequel or writing the next book, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?

There is a clamor for BOOK 2. But we’ll see. I will always be guided by my True North. I live it up to Him. "Unsent" or "Letter You Should Have Received" - Another book of letters like MSPSY

7. Where can they buy your books or find out more about you?

The book is now available online via 

Shopee: https://shope.ee/9KEUNGwQ3F

Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.ph/s.7aqs9?cc 

If you are near Manila, it is also available at the Solidaridad Bookshop located at 531 Padre Faura, Ermita. 

It is also available on Google Play or you can order directly from me. You may reach me on my official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Linkedin, and Youtube. 

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Thank you, Author Vanessa, for agreeing to this interview. We are happy to get to know you and your book and we look forward to more stories (a.k.a. letters) from you. 

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We love supporting authors! Do you want your book to be featured? 

Here's how: https://www.mymetrolifestyle.com/p/do-you-want-to-promote-your-book.html

Fictional Characters and Addresses: Who Lived Where?

Thank you for visiting our blog. Starting today, we will be having weekly fun quizzes or activities to test your knowledge about your favorite books and authors.

So, if you haven't been paying much attention to the small details when reading, then this is the sign you are looking for. 

Can you name the characters who lived in these fictional addresses?

 

Now, check your answers!!!

1. Christian Grey lives at the Escala which is a 31-story luxury apartment building located at 1920 Fourth Avenue Seattle, Washington.

2. The Dursleys were Harry Potter's last living relatives. To ensure Harry's safety, Albus Dumbledore placed him in the Dursleys' care when he was a baby.

3. You can find the Banks family and Mary Poppins at 17 Cherry Tree Lane, London, consisting of Mr. Banks, their children Jane and Michael, and baby twins John and Barbara.

4. The fictional Addams Family have listed their address as 001 Cemetery Lane.

5. Our favorite vampire family, The Cullens doesn't live inside a home with dark and thick walls but instead you can find their sleek glass house at 420 Woodcroft Ave, Forks, Washington. 

Trivia: The address was shown in Bella and Edward's wedding invitation.   

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That's it for now! Hope you had fun. :) 

Don't forget to get to go back to our FB post and tell us how many did you get correctly. 

Camella Celebrates 15 Formidable Years in Bacolod City

There is a reason why charming is the adjective often used to describe this verdant land. A place where the brightness of colorful masks is eclipsed only by the smiles of the people wearing them, where food is a party in every bite, and where clean and green is not a slogan but a way of life. It is no surprise that Bacolod has been ranked in the past as one of the Best Places to Live in the Philippines and is part of the list of Next Wave Cities.

Camella has been part of the city’s growth since 2008. Celebrating its quindecennial anniversary, Camella remains deeply ensconced in the heart of Bacolod City – providing the strategically located residential developments for the Negrense within its communities and vertical development.

Camella Bacolod North: Close to the Heart of the City

The property’s main entrance gate opens up to the Cordova-Buri Road. All it takes is one step and the throbbing city is laid out before one’s eyes. Camella Bacolod North is near the City Hall where major establishments are clustered. Also nearby are schools such as the University of St. La Salle-Bacolod, and Colegio de San Agustin-Bacolod, as well as hospitals, and churches. BPO hubs are within the vicinity. For leisurely pursuits, major malls are close by, including Vista Mall.

Its north entrance gate opens to the Bata circumferential road, enjoying additional access to the fastest routes in and out of Bacolod. The gate is situated close to the North Terminal where one can take public transport going to Silay, Talisay, and other key cities in Negros Occidental.

Camella Bacolod South: A Statement of Privilege

Camella Bacolod South is especially designed to emulate the Mediterranean feel in a master planned community. The development spans 44 hectares of prime development envisioned to be one of the important urban centers in Bacolod City.

With modern conveniences that complement an upbeat lifestyle, Camella Bacolod South is a statement of privilege, a graciousness of home and family inspired by the benevolent nature of the Negrenses. Mixing functionality with charm, model homes vary to suit the homeowners’ style preferences and resources.

Olvera by Vista Land: A Place of Distinction and a Prime Investment

This five-tower village takes full advantage of the dynamism and charm of Bacolod City. Perched on one-hectare property where the bustle of a booming city meets the gentle elegance the people of Bacolod is known for, Olvera has much to offer those looking for either ready-to-move-in homes or ready-to-run business places.

This mid-rise community comes replete with modern conveniences necessary to live the upbeat lifestyle the Negrenses have always aspired for.

The developments of Camella perfectly complement the urban lifestyle of modern Bacolod City. It offers a safe haven for starting families, young professionals, and empty-nesters. Designed with contemporary architecture and master planned to maximize open spaces, the projects aim to create communities that encourage neighborly interactions while still ensuring privacy.

It has been an amazing 15 years in Bacolod,” said Henny Elman, Marketing Head for Visayas. “It's been exciting to not merely stand as a witness but to contribute to the growth of the city into an urban hub by offering quality homes and vertical residences to a population that is evolving and taking its rightful place in the emerging modern economy. We look forward not only to the next 15 years but far beyond it.”

Learn about the Camella properties in Bacolod. Visit www.camella.com.ph and follow @CamellaOfficiial on social media.

Samsung Galaxy Z series returns, and there’s no escaping it

Samsung Electronics has released a new global film as part of the “Join the flip side” campaign, providing teasers for the next generation of Galaxy devices expected to launch later this month at Galaxy Unpacked 2023.

Building on the first ‘Join the flip side’ video released last September, the new campaign video continues the campaign theme, calling on people to lean into their fascination with innovation. In a fun and playful way, the videos showcase the unique ways foldables can be used and how they challenge everything consumers know about an ordinary smartphone.

The new campaign video highlights the perceived barriers people face when they consider stepping away from the status quo, despite seeing the compelling benefits on the other side. Through the campaign, Samsung invites consumers to defy the norm and to enjoy new and unique experiences on the flip side.

“The flip side itself is about more than just a device — it’s a way of thinking. A way of living. It’s a new and open world where better experiences are waiting for those willing to step beyond the boundaries of convention and try something new,” said Sonia Chang, Vice President of Brand Marketing Group of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “With the Galaxy Z series, Samsung provides innovation that defies the norms, redefining what a smartphone can do and stepping beyond conventional boundaries to open a new world of experiences.”

Join the Flip Side at Galaxy Unpacked 2023

Come along on our journey to discover an all-new Galaxy as Samsung is showcasing its latest technologies designed to open possibilities and transform lives.

Join Samsung Electronics on July 26 as they host the very first Unpacked in Seoul, Korea, a place where traditional culture and futuristic visions intersect to inspire global trends and game-changing innovation. The event will be streamed live on Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom, and Samsung’s YouTube channel beginning at 8:00 p.m. KST, 7:00 a.m. ET, 4:00 a.m. PT, and 12:00 p.m. BST.

In the meantime, check out the new ‘Join the flip side’ season 2 video uploaded on the Samsung Youtube channel and stay tuned to see how Samsung pushes the boundaries of innovation with the most carefully designed mobile experiences yet.

And as always, visit Samsung Newsroom for more upcoming teasers, trailers, and the latest updates!