Ex-PBB housemate, "Seamanluluto" grateful of opportunity to share financial knowledge during BDO Fiesta

Sipalay City—FORMER Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) housemate Bryan "Brx" Ruiz expressed his appreciation for being given the opportunity to share his financial knowledge to fellow Negrenses during the recent BDO mini-fiesta held at the Sipalay City Gymnasium.

Tapped to co-host the event, the 32-year old Ruiz—dubbed as Seamanluluto ng Bacolod during his PBB: Gen11 days—said his experience as a seafarer helped him cherish the value of having a saving account with a trusted financial institution like BDO Unibank which also provides multiple channels to access his account.

"I'm a seafarer for almost 13 years. I'm a chief cook in a general cargo vessel in an international shipping company that sails worldwide. I'll be back onboard next year," he said. "I've also been a Kabayan Savings client for four years. As a seafarer, it provides me with easy access to my bank account especially since BDO has an online banking app. I can withdraw anytime from any part of the world. It also helps me save for the future."

During his break from his seafaring duties, Ruiz found the time to audition to be one of the housemates in PBB, a popular reality TV show that airs in ABS-CBN.

"When I disembarked last April 20, I auditioned in Novaliches to be a housemate on April 27. Luckily, I got picked out of 37,000 others who auditioned. Unfortunately, I got evicted (Day 29) as the Big Night nears," shared Ruiz, with a tinge of sadness but still grateful for the unique opportunity.

What endeared him to BDO, Ruiz stressed, was the bank's security features which gave the Kabayan Savings account holder the assurance that his hard-earned money with BDO is safe.

"I feel my money is safe with banks because of its security features like (asking for) PIN and OTP," he said. "I also have no problem sending remittance (to my beneficiaries). It's fast."

For those wanting to follow his footsteps either as a seafarer or one who dabbled briefly in show business, Ruiz said to just follow one's passion.

"If it's your passion, go for it and do whatever it takes. I was the oldest housemate there (32). If you have dreams—joining PBB was my dream ever since high school—if you really want something, you can achieve it no matter what. If you have dedication and perseverance, you'll achieve your dreams," he said.

Finding ways for Negrenses. Negrenses flocked to the BDO mini-fiesta in Sipalay City

 to sign up for the different financial products, play games, and avail of freebies.

Warm welcome from Negrenses

BDO Network Bank (BDONB) First Vice President and Marketing Head Emmanuel Lee Esguerra said they received warm reception from the people of Sipalay during the opening salvo of the BDO mini-fiesta.

"The people realize that it's important to have a partner bank that they can go to, that they can talk to. They're always welcome to visit the branch especially when seeking financial advice. If they need help in their financial products and requirements for their business, we're just here for them. That's what they like, to have someone to talk to," he said. "The opening salvo has been great. We expect the reception from Negrenses to keep on getting better as we go along."

After Sipalay City, the next BDO mini-fiestas were held in San Enrique and Murcia Covered Court. Aside from games and prizes, members of the communities also enjoyed entertainment numbers, financial literacy tips, and different booths that depict each important step of a BDO customer’s financial journey, with BDO ready to assist them along the way.

PH Reading Crisis in Focus at the Country’s First Reading Advocates Conference

The National Alliance of Reading Advocates (NARA), an organization composed of over 100 reading advocacy organizations, educators, and change-makers across the Philippines, will hold its first conference at the National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila on Saturday, November 23, 2024.

The first NARA Conference, which carries the theme ”Pamitinan ng Lingkod-Mambabasa,” is convened by the National Book Development Board (NBDB) to address the challenges and seek out opportunities to help resolve the country’s reading crisis.

The conference’s theme, inspired by the limestone cave found in the foothills of the majestic Sierra Madre mountain range, represents the hope to spark a movement united for reading.

“We have gathered reading advocates from across the nation for a very important reason: We want them to talk and cooperate with each other. Our nation’s readership problem is multifaceted, which means it cannot be addressed by a single entity or the government alone. As secretariat of the NARA, we will exhaust all means to advance Philippine readership through collaboration and innovation,” according to NBDB Readership Development Division Chief Daniel Mariano.

The conference will look into the State of the Reading Nation, a showcase of innovative literacy programs, and networking opportunities. The alliance will also ratify and declare the NARA Agenda, a cornerstone document that details and highlights the areas and goals that will address the nation’s reading crisis.

”This is a groundbreaking move in advocating for our national readership. In a historic plenary of reading stewards, practical solutions and innovative strategies to advance the nation’s reading culture will be in focus. We look forward to seeing participants engage in discussions, workshops, and presentations centered on holistic approaches to readership development,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.

Membership to the NARA is open to reading advocates who are committed to help improve Philippine readership. For more information and details on how to register, visit bit.ly/joinnara or contact the NBDB Reading Campaigns Section at campaigns@books.gov.ph.

HUAWEI’s “Tech with Love” Event Captivates Over 20,000 Visitors at Bonifacio Global City in Manila!

HUAWEI transformed 5th avenue at Bonifacio Global City (BGC) into a vibrant hub of innovation and creativity with its “Tech with Love” pop-up event, which took place on November 9 and 10. Over 20,000 visitors flocked to the 2-day Pet Panda Wonderland pop-up, engaging with HUAWEI’s innovative device offerings including the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series, HUAWEI WATCH D2, and HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2”.

BGC was filled with stunning 3D Pet Panda installations, designed to uplift spirits and promote emotional well-being. Attendees had the chance to explore interactive stations dedicated to health, fitness, and artistic expression while enjoying the joyful ambiance created by HUAWEI’s playful Pet Panda, featured in the emotional wellbeing assistant of the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series.

Bringing Technology to Health, Fitness & Wellness

The “Tech with Love” event featured immersive stations where attendees could discover the powerful capabilities of HUAWEI’s latest innovations. At the forefront was the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series, which was loved by famed Filipino celebrities Sofia Andres and Jericho Rosales. The two stars shared their personal experiences with the device, emphasizing its vital role in enhancing their wellness routines and active lifestyles.

Combining high fashion, luxury craftsmanship and advanced technology, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series features the innovative HUAWEI TruSense System, providing accurate, fast and comprehensive health and fitness tracking. With industry-leading standards in vital sign monitoring – including heart rate, blood oxygen, and respiratory rate – users can receive personalized health insights directly from the smartwatch.

The smartwatch also introduces the Emotional Wellbeing Assistant feature that comes with the Pet Panda to give users a holistic approach to mind and body wellness. The Sleep Breathing Awareness feature on the watch detects interruptions in breathing during sleep, ensuring users rest well and recharge every night.

“I absolutely love how the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Pro keeps me connected. I can take calls or reply to messages, while also monitoring my health and tracking my workouts,” said Sofia Andres. “Having the cute Pet Panda reminding me to take breaks for my emotional wellbeing adds a fun touch to my day, too! The HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Pro is not only practical but also very stylish, perfect for my day-to-night outfits,” raved the actress.

Fitness tracking reaches new heights with pro-level workout modes. The smartwatch’s HUAWEI Sunflower Positioning System enhances positioning accuracy with an adaptive algorithm, offering an upgraded cycling and trail running experience that empowers users to go bolder and further. The HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Pro edition supports a professional Golf Course mode as well as Freediving mode with water resistance of up to 40 meters. In tandem with the Stay Fit calorie management app and over 100 workout modes, the Activity Rings feature helps users stay fit and achieve their fitness goals comprehensively.

“I think striking the perfect balance between health and style is essential for a smartwatch, and the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Pro offers the professional support I need for my sports activities,” said Jericho Rosales. “The watch is beneficial for both road and trail runners, with its Running Form Analysis feature optimizing running technique and preventing injury. And for divers, the pro Freediving mode provides added peace of mind while exploring underwater. With its sleek design and functional features, this smartwatch is perfect for those balancing fitness with style.”

HUAWEI aims to have the feature on all its smartwatches by November 15, while iOS users will get WATCH Pay by December 15.

Furthermore, guests connected with their emotions at the “The Only Emotion That Matters” interactive station. Attendees took a quick and fun mood assessment. Based on their responses, the Pet Panda reflected their emotional state.

At the “Let’s Light Up Our Rings Together” station, participants ignited their energy and stayed active by hopping on to stationary bicycles, cycling and connecting with fellow participants as they powered up the Activity Rings display. Pedaling on the stationary bicycles completed each ring, bringing guests closer to their fitness goals. This vibrant atmosphere nurtured a strong sense of community and motivation, making fitness not just a personal journey but a shared adventure.

Revolutionizing Wearable Tech: Huawei’s First ABPM Smartwatch

Guests also got to experience firsthand monitoring their blood pressure with the HUAWEI WATCH D2, HUAWEI’s first smartwatch with next-generation ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). HUAWEI WATCH D2 delivers 24-hour blood pressure monitoring to users’ wrists, made possible with the latest HUAWEI TruSense System. The watch is equipped with a mechanical airbag, to provide precise vitals and blood pressure measurements that don’t miss a beat.

On top of its advanced functionalities, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series is made even more convenient as HUAWEI officially announced the integration of the WATCH Pay feature. The Philippines’ first-ever GCash QR code payment on a smartwatch will also be featured in the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate and HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3. This feature lets HUAWEI users send and receive money, buy load, and pay for their online purchases using their smartwatches. The latest payment feature began rolling out on HUAWEI smartwatches on November 9.

At the “Every Heartbeat Makes TruSense” zone, attendees discovered the power of the HUAWEI TruSense technology. Guests sat back and strapped on the HUAWEI WATCH D2 to instantly measure their blood pressure. With just a tap, they generated a comprehensive Health Glance report covering nine key body indicators, including heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen, stress levels, skin temperature, ECG, and vascular elasticity. This interactive experience highlighted the watch's capabilities in monitoring health and providing personalized insights, giving users a greater understanding of their individual wellness.

Compact, Mighty Tablet that Offers More than PC Experience

Aside from the health and fitness devices, the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2” was also showcased at the pop-up event as the ultimate productivity tablet. With the world’s leading dual OLED PaperMatte display and more than PC-level performance, the tablet enables users to engage in creative projects, attend virtual meetings, or simply enjoy their favorite media on the go. The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2” supports multi-screen collaboration with other HUAWEI devices, allowing users to manage tasks efficiently and effortlessly. Its sleek design and versatility make it an essential tool for anyone seeking to balance work and leisure.

At the “Go Paint Your Imagination” station, attendees unleashed their creativity through art. Using the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2”, guests explored digital painting and using the comprehensive set of artistic tools on the GoPaint app, bringing their ideas to life with vibrant visuals.

Further encouraging creativity with the GoPaint app, HUAWEI invited Filipino creatives to send in their “Creative by Nature” themed entries for the GoPaint Worldwide Creating Activity 2024. The activity encourages creatives and digital artists from across the globe to showcase their graphic, visual, and poster design skills. Interested participants may send in entries for different categories including Sci-Fi Art, Design & Fashion, Narrative Art, Cutting Edge Paintings, and Digital Watercolor & Ink. Submission of entries is open through this link until December 31.

“The Mandalorian” and “Avatar: Way of the Water” Concept Artist John Park, Renowned Illustrator and Forbes Under 30 (Art and Style) Honoree Victo Ngai, “Avengers: Endgame” Senior Concept Artist Pablo Dominguez, and HUAWEI Milan Aesthetic Research Center Digital Creative Director Marco La Mantia, are part of this year’s jury panel who will select the top 20 Honourable Mentions. Each of the 20 winners will receive a $1,000 cash prize as well as a set of honorary incentives including art exhibition opportunities and media coverage. The winning entries will also be featured in HUAWEI apps such as Themes wallpaper, and on HUAWEI merchandise. The winners and the exhibition of winning artworks will be announced in 2025.

Unlock your health, wellness, and creativity with HUAWEI. For more information on these new tech horizons, visit HUAWEI Experience Stores near you. To learn more, visit HUAWEI’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

Bacolod Tay Tung set to defend crown in Rebisco Volleyball League National Finals

Visayas seeks to continue proving that the finest girls’ volleyball players in the Philippines are found in its major island group as two regional dynasties and another worthy champion look forward to fly to Manila for the Rebisco Volleyball League (RVL) National Finals from November 22 to 25 in Mandaluyong.

Defending national champion Bacolod Tay Tung High School will again represent Western Visayas, University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) for Central Visayas, and Linao National High School for Eastern Visayas. These teams are set to represent their respective regions after ruling the regional finals of the biggest 18-and-under women’s volleyball tournament in the country which attracted 480 schools from 10 regions this year.

All eyes are on the Bacolod Tay Tung Thunderbolts, the reigning national champions who seek to prove their victory last year was no fluke. To show how stacked Bacolod Tay Tung lineup is, the Thunderbolts bagged all but two of the individual regional awards.

Ann Francesca Hermosura stood tallest as she was named MVP and Second Best Middle Blocker. Rhea Mae Tomas was adjudged Best Libero, while Jan Rose Bulak was picked Best Setter. Tay Tung also occupied the Best Opposite Attacker and First Best Outside Hitter slots in Joenil Ann Ramos and Camila Amor Bartolome, respectively. St. John’s Institute standouts Eileen Yanson (Second Best Outside Hitter) and Cafra Celois (First Best Middle Blocker) were the two other awardees.

Meanwhile, USJ-R, which captured bronze in the last national finals, likewise went undefeated in this edition of the East Visayas prequalifiers. The Lady Jaguars beat Sumaliring High School, Central Visayan Institute Foundation, and Tanjay National High School in the group stage, took out Cabancalan National High School in the crossover Final Four, before overwhelming Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu in the prequalifying finale. The Lady Jaguars also bested seven other teams in the regional finals.

Rachel Ann Tecson led the way for the Lady Jaguars as she emerged as the regional MVP, while also getting sufficient support from teammates Mary Antoneth Cortes (Best Setter) and Angel Mae Almonia (Second Best Middle Blocker).

Last but not least, Linao National High School, for its part, displayed why it’s worthy to join Visayan powerhouses Bacolod Tay Tung and USJ-R in the national finals after coming out as the last team standing in Eastern Visayas.

In the prequalifiers, the Ormoc-based Linao team beat Liloan National Technical and Vocational High School, Granja Kalinawan National High School, and Calbayog City National High School in the group phase, Wright National High School in the crossover semis, before taking out Leyte National High School in the final. Linao did the same in the eight-team regional finals to become the best East Visayan team.

Mary Joy Aseo shone brightest for Linao, being named MVP as well as First Best Outside Hitter. While she carried the offensive load, teammate Leanah Monique Solis stood as the first line of defense to be named Second Best Middle Blocker.

“Sabi ko nga sa mga teams, especially public schools, ‘Don’t worry, you need not compete sa mga UAAP or NCAA. Meron na tayong Rebisco Volleyball League na instead na kayo ang pupunta, kami ang pupunta para sa inyo dyan. And then you can have a league that you can look forward to each year,” said Buenvenida, who was once a public school coach at Maximo Estrella elementary school for 10 years before moving up the ranks to become an international coach level 1.

RVL commissioner Ysay Marasigan agreed, saying he also wants other provincial teams to shine. “Ang ine-envision ko talaga is ayusin ang operations ng RVL hanggang sa mapalaki namin pa para mas maraming top teams ang makasali. And pag lumipad sila dito for the national finals, talagang magiging magandang laban yun. Makikita natin ang level ng provinces, nasaan yung level ng Manila,” Marasigan said.

“And we can also see kung ano pa yung kailangan i-improve for the lower levels sa Visayas and Mindanao para mapataas pa yung level nila para maging kapantay ng NCR,” the former Ateneo star and current Criss Cross King Crunchers team captain added.

Bacolod Tay Tung, USJ-R, and Linao National High School join Mindanao regional titlists Sto. Niño National High School, Corpus Christi School, and Notre Dame of Dadiangas University in the national finals, while four more spots are up for grabs in the ongoing Luzon regional leg.

About Rebisco Volleyball:

Republic Biscuit Corporation (Rebisco), through its sports marketing arm Action Republic Corporation, is dedicated to advancing volleyball in the Philippines. Through initiatives such as the Rebisco Volleyball League (RVL) and Rebisco Volleyball Academy (RVA), Action Republic supports the development of the sport across all levels—from grassroots and high school to college, professional, and the national team.

Since its establishment in 2009, RVL has served as a pivotal platform, offering young volleyball players opportunities for education and career advancement. Meanwhile, RVA focuses on nurturing volleyball coaches, playing a crucial role in the sport’s long-term growth in the country.

Rebisco proudly sponsors several volleyball teams, including the Philippine National Women’s Team, the men’s and women’s Beach Volleyball Teams, the Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) Blue Eagles (both men’s and women’s teams) via its Fudgee brand, and professional squads such as the Creamline Cool Smashers, Choco Mucho Flying Titans, and the Criss Cross King Crunchers.

Through its strong support of volleyball, Rebisco embodies its commitment to giving back to the community, promoting teamwork, discipline, camaraderie, resilience, and optimism, while fostering both physical and mental well-being.

DITO Telecommunity Brings Smiles and Connectivity to the 45th MassKara Festival

DITO Telecommunity joined the festivities of the 45th MassKara Festival for the second time, hosting a series of events that celebrated Bacolod’s dynamic spirit and rich heritage. Known for its Carnival-like street parades featuring performers in colorful masks and traditional attire, the festival serves as a tribute to Bacolod’s identity as the "City of Smiles." This year, this grand festival marked its Sapphire Anniversary with lively performances, competitions, and engaging events.

Ms. Carla Rodriguez, Regional Sales Director for Visayas, shared, “In collaboration with the City Government of Bacolod, DITO brought a lineup of activities to make this year’s MassKara Festival even more festive. We aimed to create smiles and lasting memories while strengthening connections with the local community.”

(L-R) Mr. Kenneth Jaum, Regional Sales Support Manager for Visayas, Ms. Carla Rodriguez, 

Regional Sales Director for Visayas, and Ms. Karen Grace Grecia, Area Sales Manager for Visayas

DITO invited local media to capture and share these special moments with Filipinos nationwide, extending the festival’s joy and excitement beyond Bacolod.

"Through our TODO Na DITO campaign, we aim to inspire Filipinos by creating a community where they can express themselves and pursue their passions. The MassKara Festival is an opportunity to showcase Bacolod’s vibrant spirit, and we’re thrilled to be part of this celebration. We’re dedicated to keeping the city connected so every smile and shared moment can be instantly shared online," said Ms. Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business.

Strengthening Network for Bacolodnons

DITO Cell Site on Wheels

To improve connectivity during the festival, DITO deployed a Cell Site on Wheels (COW), providing stable and reliable network coverage. This made it easy for festival-goers to share their experiences online and stay in touch with loved ones.

Event Highlights and Memorable Performances

DITO supported some of the most anticipated events of this year’s festival. The Miss Bacolod 2024 Coronation Night celebrated the city’s finest beauty and talent, with Princess Ella Olmilla being crowned Miss Bacolod MassKara 2024 and Cindy Valencia being awarded as Miss DITO Telecommunity at the USLS Coliseum on October 20, 2024.

(L-R) Zherwin Michaelf Reyes, Sales & Training Development; Peter Romanillos, Regional Trade Marketing Manager; 

Cindy Valencia, Miss DITO Telecommunity; Karen Grace Grecia, Area Sales Manager; 

Raymund Lajo, Territory Sales Specialist | Bacolod Yuhum Foundation

The festivities hyped up with the TODO Na DITO ElekTROIKA Divas and the MassKara Electric Float Parade on October 26, 2024. Noreen Palermo won the DITO MassKara Diva Choice Award as the “Best Diva Performer,” while Barangay Pahanocoy won the TODO Na DITO Best Float Award during the MassKara Electric Float Parade. These events filled the city with bright colors, cultural performances, and lively music, adding to the festival’s joyful atmosphere.

Noreen Palermo awarded with the DITO MassKara Diva Choice Award as the “Best Diva Performer”

Barangay Pahanocoy awarded with the TODO Na DITO Best Float Award

Barangay Granada emerged as champion for the third consecutive year in the MassKara Street Dance & Arena Competition last October 27, 2024. All contingents celebrated Bacolod’s rich cultural heritage in a unity dance to the tune of “TODO Na DITO” embodying the spirit of harmony and celebration that captured the essence of the "City of Smiles."

MassKara Street Dance contingents perform the Unity Dance to the TODO Na DITO Tune

The Excitement of DITO Days

DITO Experiential Hub

The DITO Days extravaganza at the DITO Corporate Block on Lacson Tourism Strip offered Bacolodnons an opportunity to experience DITO’s reliable connection through the activation booths and DITO Experiential Hub. Attendees enjoyed fun activities and received freebies with purchases of DITO products such as SIM starter packs, Level-Up Prepaid Packs, and FlexPlan Postpaid Plans. Many visitors also explored DITO Home products, including the newly launched DITO Home WOWFi—the world’s first 5G RedCap technology for home use.

 

  DITO Experiential Hub, DITO Level-Up, DITO Home, DITO FlexPlans Cafe

Where Talent Meets Excitement: TODO Na DITO Roadshow

TODO Kantahan Contestants

The TODO Na DITO Roadshow was a showcase of the Bacolod community's talent and spirit, featuring thrilling competitions in TODO Gaming, TODO Sayawan, and TODO Kantahan. The champions of these thrilling contests were 6D-HTV Tires Supply for TODO Gaming, Buklod for TODO Sayawan, and Abdurrahman Sultan for TODO Kantahan, captivating the crowd among many other competitors who delivered captivating performances. These events not only entertained everyone but also created a sense of unity among the participants.

A Night of Dance and Music with DITO

DJ Katsy Lee in TODO Na DITO Concert

The TODO Na DITO Concert kicked off with the amazing beats from DJ Katsy Lee on October 25, 2024, drawing enthusiastic crowds, and leaving festival-goers excited for the line-up of performances and festivities to follow.

Alamat in TODO Na DITO Concert

Alamat with Bacolodnons in TODO Na DITO Concert

On its second day, DITO hosted a memorable night featuring Alamat and Hev Abi. Alamat, the passionate P-Pop group, kicked things off with popular hits like "Maharani" and "Dayang," getting fans to sing and dance along. OPM rapper Hev Abi, followed with his songs "Babaero" and "Alam Mo Ba Girl," connecting with the audience through his lively stage presence. The energy and excitement in the air made it a night to remember. DITO’s concert was a fantastic celebration of culture showcasing the incredible talent in Filipino music.

Hev Abi in TODO Na DITO Concert

DJ Jimmy Nocon in TODO Na DITO Concert

DJ Jimmy Nocon brought the TODO Na DITO concert to a spectacular close with his beats that turned Lacson Avenue into a big dance floor.

DITO’s involvement in MassKara 2024 highlights its commitment to fostering meaningful connections and supporting local celebrations. Filipinos can look forward to more memorable experiences with DITO in the future as the brand continues to champion Filipino culture and connectivity. For more details about DITO Telecommunity, check out @DITOphofficial on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok or visit https://dito.ph/.

------------------- 

DITO Telecommunity Corporation is the newest major telecommunications provider in the Philippines after it was awarded a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity by the National Telecommunications Commission in 2019.

DITO commits to provide world class, fast, affordable, and secure telecommunications services that endeavors to connect and empower Filipino communities wherever they may be and aims to see a day where data access is no longer a privilege, but a right for everyone.

DITO is a Filipino company and is a consortium that includes Udenna Corporation and China Telecommunications Corporation.

Basta food, Panda! Your Guide to Feast and Fun this Masskara Festival

Savor Local Delicacies and Enjoy Delicious Food Without the Crowds—Delivered Right to Your Doorstep!

foodpanda has been the go-to at the Masskara Festival for years, and this year, they’re cranking up the excitement with their theme, “Subong nga Masskara, Basta food, Panda!” Get ready for delicious food deliveries that’ll keep your belly happy while you dive into the colorful festivities!

Amid all the fun, foodpanda’s got your back with a tasty lineup of Bacolod favorites! Whether you’re craving something sweet to wrap up the day or a savory feast to keep you going, they’ve got it covered. Plus, foodpanda is ready to swoop in and save the day, even during the busiest holiday or festival frenzy—delivering tasty bites so you can stay focused on the fun without missing a beat!

Check out these local shops in Bacolod for all your festival cravings:

1. Ribshack

Ribshack Spareribs

Known for satisfying those seeking rich, smoky flavors, Ribshack offers crowd-pleasers like perfectly grilled spareribs and juicy beef kebabs skewered with pineapple, tomato, onion, and bell pepper, delivering bursts of flavor in every bite.

Hungarian Sausage is also good and their pork BBQ meal is super sulit since the serving is just right. 

2. Mr. Kokio

Mr. Kokio Combo 1

Perfect for those sharing with friends or flying solo, Mr. Kokio’s Combo 1 features crispy chicken bites paired with potato bites, while their Korean-style Chicken Bites offer a flavorful, bite-sized experience for solo diners. 

This is perfect when you are on a movie marathon or binge-watching. 

3. L’Kaisei

L’Kaisei - Crazy California Maki

For those seeking a lighter meal, L'Kaisei offers fresh, healthy options like the L'Kaisei Salad, a mix of crisp vegetables with tender chicken and teriyaki drizzle. For a sushi twist, their Crazy California Maki rolls are packed with crab sticks, mango, cucumber, and topped with tobiko.

4. Lechon Haus

Lechon Haus - Busog Orig

Lechon lovers rejoice! The Busog Orig features juicy, tender lechon perfect for sharing, while the Halo-Halo is the ideal sweet, icy treat for cooling down in the festival heat, loaded with fruits, jellies, and creamy leche flan.

5. Avocadoria

Avocadoria - Avocado Lover

For avocado fans, Avocadoria’s creamy Avocado Lover soft serve, layered with biscuits, tapioca pearls, and avocado chunks, is a must-try. For dessert lovers, their Avocado Sansrival adds a nutty twist with avocado buttercream, cashew meringue, pistachios, and almonds.

6. Merzci

Merczi Palabok

Merzci delivers classic festival favorites, like savory palabok with rice noodles, shrimp sauce, and chicharrón. For a sweet twist, their Piaya Ube flatbreads filled with ube paste make for a perfect pasalubong to share.

Pianono, Banana Chips, and Napoleones are must tries too! 

7. Virginia

Assorted Virginia Products

Order Virginia Products straight from the factory outlet via Foodpanda. Virginia offers the Winner Sweet Ham, a party favorite with sweet and savory flavors perfect for gatherings, while their Virginia Pasta Spaghetti Gourmet is a fiesta hit among kids, making it a must-have for any celebration.

Gotta grab some essentials for the festivities? 7-Eleven has you covered with snacks, drinks, and goodies in one convenient stop. Stock up on health and beauty products from Watsons, and get your pharmacy needs from Southstar Drug, so you can enjoy the festival without a worry.

Savor these local delights and enjoy the convenience of foodpanda! Count on them to deliver your favorites, even during the festival rush. Don’t forget to use the voucher code MASSKARA for a special P100 off on your orders!

Keep an eye out for foodpanda and visit our booths for exciting activities and freebies! Check out the activation dates: October 24-28 for our mall activation at SM City Bacolod; October 25-27 at Lacson Street; and October 26 at Lunar Bar.

For more information about foodpanda and the incredible offers available, visit the official website at https://www.foodpanda.ph. Also like and follow the official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok and Youtube.

About foodpanda:

foodpanda is dedicated to bringing food lovers their favorite meals from curated local restaurants in the Philippines. Since its creation, the on-demand food and grocery marketplace has grown to more than 170,000 partner restaurants in more than 400 cities across 11 Asian markets. foodpanda Philippines currently operates in 150 cities and municipalities across the Philippines and is continuously expanding. foodpanda is a subsidiary under Delivery Hero, a worldwide leader of the food delivery industry. For more information, visit www.foodpanda.ph.

DITO Telecommunity Joins the Colorful Celebration of Bacolod’s 45th MassKara Festival

DITO Transforms Bacolod into a Vibrant Hub of Music, Culture, and Connectivity

DITO Telecommunity is back to bring smiles at this year’s MassKara Festival, one of the Philippines’ most anticipated cultural events. Now celebrating its Sapphire Anniversary in its 45th year, this month-long grand celebration of Bacolod’s rich culture and joyful spirit has earned the city the nickname “City of Smiles.” Known for its Carnival-esque street parades, featuring performers in colorful, ornamented masks and tribal wear, the festival is a vibrant reminder of Bacolod’s inauguration as a city.

Dedicated to connecting Filipinos and promoting local talent and festivities, DITO ensures to create meaningful connections in communities and strengthen Filipino culture through its advanced technology. In collaboration with the City Government of Bacolod, this year’s MassKara Festival is set to be even more thrilling with DITO’s vibrant lineup of activities.

The celebration kicked off with the MassKara Festival Grand Countdown Salubong last October 11, 2024. Get ready for the next few days as DITO brings special awards and cash prizes for various events. First, the Coronation Night for Miss Bacolod MassKara 2024 will take place on October 19, showcasing the city’s finest in beauty and talent. The Miss DITO Telecommunity 2024 special award will be given to the candidate who embodies confidence and passion for community-building. 

The TODO Na DITO sa MassKara ElekTROIKA Divas is a celebration of women in music, along with the TODO Na DITO sa MassKara Electric Float Parade on October 26. Bacolod’s Best Float of 2024 will be awarded to the parade’s most stunning display. This year's festival will wrap up with the exciting TODO Na DITO MassKara Street Dance & Arena Competition on October 27. The Unity Dance Segment will feature talented groups that will dance to the "TODO NA DITO" tune highlighting their creativity and the community's vibrant energy.

"At DITO, we believe our role as a telecommunications company goes beyond connectivity. We are here to empower communities, celebrate local heritage, and showcase Filipino talent. The MassKara Festival is the perfect platform to showcase Bacolod’s spirit, and we are thrilled to be part of this celebration of culture and creativity,” said Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business.

Experience the Excitement of DITO Days at MassKara 2024

DITO is set to bring a spectacular three-day celebration packed with excitement and entertainment at the DITO Corporate Block on Lacson Tourism Strip from October 25 to 27, 2024. 

Explore the vibrant and interactive DITO Experiential Hub featuring fun-filled and immersive activities, along with a cozy café for everyone to relax. Attendees can take home freebies with the purchase of DITO products, such as the Sim Starter and Level-Up mobile prepaid packs and FLEXPlan postpaid plans. They can also experience a home upgrade with the DITO Home 5G Postpaid WiFi, DITO Home 5G Prepaid WiFi, DITO Home Prepaid Starter Kit, and the newly launched DITO Home WOWFi, the world's first 5G RedCap technology for home use. With its affordable and accessible internet, this Home WiFi will truly make visitors say “WOW!”.

Bacolodnons can also look forward to the TODO Na DITO Contests on all DITO Days, where talented individuals will compete in the TODO Kantahan, TODO Sayawan, and TODO Gaming events. End each night with unforgettable memories as DITO brings the TODO Na DITO MassKara Concert. Enjoy amazing performances from popular artists, including Cup of Joe, known for their hit song “Tingin” on October 25, the dynamic P-pop group ALAMAT who sang “Maharani,” and the talented Hev Abi, popular for his song “Walang Alam,” both performing on October 26, along with other fantastic DJs and local artists, making it a celebration full of great music and energy.

As Bacolod gears up for the MassKara Festival, DITO is ready to power the city’s most awaited moments, keeping everyone connected as they celebrate the vibrancy and resilience of the Filipino spirit. For more details about DITO Telecommunity, check out @DITOphofficial on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok or visit https://dito.ph/.

About DITO Telecommunity

DITO Telecommunity Corporation, is the newest major telecommunications provider in the Philippines after it was awarded a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity by the National Telecommunications Commission in 2019.

DITO commits to provide world class, fast, affordable, and secure telecommunications services that endeavors to connect and empower Filipino communities wherever they may be and aims to see a day where data access is no longer a privilege, but a right for everyone.

DITO is a Filipino company and is a consortium that includes Udenna Corporation and China Telecommunications Corporation. 

Festival Guide: Tips on How to Enjoy the Masskara + Best Bacolod Hotel to Book

The Masskara Festival has finally kicked off!

Every October, Bacolod City celebrates this colorful festival featuring vibrant masks that symbolize joy, resilience, and unity among Bacolodnons and Negrenses. The highlights of the celebration include a parade full of colorful masks and costumes, street dancing, and an electric float competition. Of course, there are also many live concerts, sports events, food festivals, trade fairs, and shows in various venues throughout the city.

If you have been following our blog, you’ll know that Val and I are not originally from Bacolod. We moved here in 2015 from Metro Manila. In fact, it was during the Masskara Festival that we first visited Bacolod and immediately fell in love with the city. 

Now, we call it our home! 

Anyway, we’re sharing five tips on how you can enjoy the Masskara Festival this 2024.

1. Schedule Your Visit - The Masskara Festival is celebrated for almost a month, so planning your visit is key. The festivities kicked off last Friday, October 11, but the festival highlights will be on October 25-27, 2024. It’s best to schedule your trip during this time.

If you want a genuine festival experience, we suggest taking the time to watch the electric float parade, join in the street dancing, and engage with the performers. After all, the spirit of the festival is all about participation.

[Click here to view the Official Schedule of the Masskara Festival.]

2. Taste the Local Food - We fell in love with Bacolod because of the food. Aside from the usual chicken inasal and piaya, local delicacies such as cansi and napoleones are a must-try. Fresh seafood like shrimp, scallops, talaba, and blue marlin (locally called manumbok) is both affordable and delicious. There are many "paluto" restaurants in the city that are much cheaper than your regular dampa in Macapagal.

3. Enjoy the Coffee - If you love coffee, then you are in for a treat, as Bacolod has a vibrant and passionate coffee community. There are many homegrown coffee shops such as Coffee Culture, Mangkas Coffee Roasters, Origami (which won the first Citadines Coffee Championship Competition), Raechels Coffee Roasters, KapiPat Cafe, and Roastique that you might want to add to your itinerary.

Citadines Bacolod is also a great stop for coffee lovers to try their famous KapeSaba, an original concoction featuring the richness of local Negrense coffee, saba banana, cream cheese, and whipped cream. It comes with a piece of caramelized sugar inspired by our favorite Banana Q and Turon. It’s a revelation and a must-try! 

KapeSaba

4. Learn the History, Local Arts, and Culture - Understanding the background of the festival enhances the experience, especially if you also learn about the local arts and culture of the place you’re visiting. For me, there’s no better place to learn about the past and present stories of Negrense culture, history, and artistic practices than the Negros Museum. 

If you’re into street and contemporary art, make sure to visit the Art District in Mandalagan. The 6x3 meter art installation called BUGLAS at Citadines Bacolod is also a must-see. 

BUGLAS by NVC Foundation

You can also check out Bacolod WallStory, the longest mural in this City which was just completed yesterday (October 13) in celebration of this year's Masskara Festival. This is a 150-meter wall that forms the perimeter of the historic Hernaez Mansion along Mabini, Rizal, and Galo streets.

5. Prepare for Your Trip - When preparing for your trip, make sure to pack comfortable clothes and shoes. Expect to walk a lot and be outdoors. Bright and colorful attire is encouraged.

Be strategic when booking your land arrangements. For hotel bookings, location is key—not just the closest to the festivities, but one that is most accessible. Most main streets will be closed for the food festivals and concerts, so we prefer one that cars or taxis can still access. We don’t like being dropped off far from the hotel because cars are not allowed to enter anymore. 

Do we have any recommendations?

We recently had a staycation at Citadines Bacolod, and this is the hotel we recommend to our family and friends. It is just 20 minutes away from Bacolod Silay International Airport (around Php 350 if you take Grab) and near tourist spots like The Ruins - 3.6km away. 

This is also the newest and biggest hotel in Bacolod City, so expect it to be clean and have nice amenities and excellent customer service. Personally, I love Citadines for their flexibility and the availability of options for their hotel guests. Read more about it here. 

In terms of food options, the hotel's five different food and beverage restaurants including Tam-is which is a 24/7 Grab and Go counter. Most of the rooms are also equipped with a kitchenette that includes a full-size refrigerator, an induction cooker, a microwave, a water kettle, plates, and utensils. You also have the option to cook your favorite meals without restrictions. There’s even a can opener and corkscrew for your convenience. It’s just like bringing your home kitchen with you. I’m impressed with their attention to detail.

Fuego Bar & Lounge

If you just want a regular hotel room without the kitchenette, then their studio room is perfect for you. 

Anyway, watch our full review of their Studio Premier Suite and a walkthrough of the hotel's facilities here.

Nice, right? If you decide to stay at Citadines, allow us to share more tips (perhaps secret hacks!) to maximize your experience:

• They offer complimentary drinks/juices at the fitness center. Feel free to grab and go.

• Take the next floor higher when photographing the BUGLAS art installation for a better view.
• Their apartments have full-sized refrigerators, so you can bring ice cream. (This has been my concern with other hotels that only have personal refrigerators.) We also brought microwaveable popcorn for late-night movie-watching.
• Food from NAMIT can be served at the poolside. Just ask one of the waiters to set it up for you.
• If you can’t find plain rice during breakfast, it’s available upon request.
• Yoga mats are available at the fitness center. These are clean and sanitized each and every use. 

• Other toiletries, such as shavers and cotton buds, are also available upon request.
• If you are bringing a car, they have ample parking spaces available free of charge. 
• The hotel has several function rooms and meetings. You can check with the reception if they have public events and activities that you can join just like what they had during the International Coffee Week celebration. 
• Lastly, it’s best to book directly. We compared all the other hotel booking websites, and yes, it’s cheaper to book directly with Citadines. Not to mention, they also offer a price guarantee. This means that in the unlikely event that you find a lower rate through another booking website within 24 hours of your confirmed booking, Citadines will honor the lower rate and reward you with 10X ASR Points. Just go to this link: https://www.discoverasr.com/en/citadines/philippines/citadines-bacolod-city.

Citadines Bacolod City is located at Lacson St. Brgy. Bata, Bacolod City.

Phone: (034) 488 7160 or +639955388442 (Mobile, WhatsApp & Viber)

Email: frontoffice.cbc@the-ascott.com