Wanted: Yoshinoya 4th Gyudon Eating Contest Participants

Like gyudon? Do you eat like a construction worker or binge like a woman? Want to win cash and amazing prizes?

Listen up! Yoshinoya, the country’s most popular fast-food chain that specializes in all-time favorite Japanese culinary fare, has announced its fourth Gyudon Eating Contest and is looking for beef lovers who will chow down bowls of gyudon for cash prizes, free trip to Japan and, of course, bragging rights.

Yoshinoya President Timothy James Yang assured potential contenders that serious prizes await serious eaters. Based on the previous winners' record, a respectable finish might be 4-8 bowls in 5 minutes to qualify.

What is Gyudon? Well, I'm glad you asked. The signature Beef Bowl (Gyudon), comprises of precisely sliced beef simmered in a 100-year secret recipe broth of tasty herbs and spices. Gyudon, to me, has been the like of Chinese fast-food meal, only better; affordable, full of rice and meaty goodness and you'd be satisfied with it once you finished a bowl. It's so tasty that you won’t be able to stop. Which actually is a good thing since they’re holding a Gyudon Eating Contest, where you nom, nom, nom, the gyudon with as many beef bowls as you can. The aspirant who will finish the most number of bowls and have the least amount of leftover food in 5 minutes wins the challenge.

 Beef Yakiniku

Chicken Teriyaki

Beef Misono

My other personal favorites include Chicken Teriyaki, Beef Yakiniku, Beef Misono and Kani Salad. If there was ever a Kani salad eating contest, I would win by a landslide. Olympic record, right there. :)

Food bloggers gathered on the 4th Yoshinoya Gyudon Eating Contest Media Challenge, where we willingly accepted the five-minute eating challenge to devour as many bowls of the delicious, tasty gyudon we could. 

Ruel Umali devoured 4 and a half bowls with his cheeks puffed as he crammed rice and beef into his mouth and eventually reigned as the winner for the bloggers category. Ah-mazeballs! He will compete with the other representatives from TV, print and radio. Watch the five-minute chow-down below:
 

Qualifying rounds will be held in all Yoshinoya stores daily from Monday to Friday, from April 21 to May 30, 2014.

Catch all the gastronomic action (and have a great gyudon, too) Schedule is as follows:

    April 21, 22, 23, 24, 25
    April 28, 29, 30, May 1, 2
    May 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
    May 12, 13, 14, 15, 16
    May 19, 20, 21, 22, 23
    May 26, 26, 28, 29, 30

Mechanics:

You have to pay P199.00, submit a filled-up registration forms and sign a health and release waiver, aside from a valid ID. Take-out, deliveries, bulk orders are not included.

The Finals Match will be held on June 14, 2014 at 1 PM in the Activity Center at Glorietta, Makati City. The forty-two finalists will be competing by eating the most number of bowls in 15 minutes. Finalists should release a Health Release and Liability Waiver prior to the Final Match. Each Finalist is given ten (10) regular beef bowls, and is assigned with a marshal. Finalists should not be holding or touching the spoon m fork, or chopsticks before the timer starts. NO VOMITING is allowed for the duration of the contest and 15 minutes after the contest proper. In case of vomiting, contestant is automatically disqualified.

The timer will start upon the go-signal of the host. After 15 minutes is up, the finalist should raise both their hands and step back from the table. Marshals will weigh remaining contents in bowls.

The Top 3 winning Finalists with the most number of bowls and least weight of bowl contents will win the following prizes:

1st Place: Php 150,000 CASH and Trip to Japan Tickets c/o Cebu Pacific

2nd Place: Php 50,000

3rd Place: Php 25,000

Those not up to the challenge can still enjoy the steaming hot gyudon on a large bowl as they watch the pros compete.  For those who want to join, get the anaconda in your tummy ready or bring your appetite or lucky charm (or coin, or lucky shirt, or what have you) to make sure you win these amazing prizes.

For those of you that have never had a beef gyudon, I would definitely recommend stopping by Yoshinoya. Don't mistake these for simple Japanese rice bowls because they are very different and much better at very affordable prices. Beef misono, as well as gyudon, is my favorite. How about you? Let me know what's your fave rice bowl at Yoshinoya.

For more deets, like Yoshinoya's fan page here.

What's New with Century Tuna?

Summer is just around the corner, it’s once again time to get the perfect body -- toned and fit for this much-awaited season. And to help everyone get started on the road to fitness, Century Tuna has something new for everyone!

Here's what's new:

1.  A new website that features FREE daily diet and workout plan online, designed to show that everybody can be a Superbod.

Century Tuna has unveiled the My Road to Superbods website (http://www.centurytuna.ph/superbodschallenge), an online portal featuring a daily diet and workout plan, put together by two of the country’s most trusted and most popular fitness experts.

Developed for loyal consumers of Century Tuna, the website was created to guide everyone on the road to their personal transformation as Superbods.

“We all know that Century Tuna Superbods is one of the most awaited summer events in the country and this year, we’re making it even more exciting by enjoining our consumers to be part of the Superbods experience,” said Greg Banzon, General Manager of Century Pacific Food Inc.

He adds, “This year’s Century Tuna Superbods is all about Transformation. We believe that this event will become more meaningful if we can help transform our loyal consumers into Superbods themselves. With the My Road to Superbods website, we’re making it possible for them to work on becoming fit and healthy. It’s a huge effort for us – we’ve tapped two of the country’s most trusted fitness experts to put this website together – but it’s something worth doing as part of our commitment to promoting health and fitness among Filipinos.”

The website will have two main components – the Century Tuna Superbods Meal Plan by top dietitian Nadine Tengco, and the Century Tuna Superbods Workout Plan by Coach Jim Saret.

Nadine is a US-certified fitness nutritionist who designed the Detox-in-a-Bottle. Initially developed in 2009 for her celebrity clients, the program became hugely popular. The soups and juices had since been standardized and are now being prepared by her partners and distributors.

Meanwhile, Coach Jim is the founder and training director of APEX (Athletic Performance Enhancement) Sports Training. A former National Athlete, he completed his Master's Degree in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training at Brigham Young University in the United States. While in the US, he worked with elite olympic athletes, professional athletes, world-class sports science/sports medicine specialists and training centers.

On the Meal Plan page, Nadine will share recipes – some of which include Century Tuna products – that everyone can follow. Delicious and healthy, Century Tuna contains Omega 3, which helps burn body fat, shrink abdominal fat cells and stop certain genes that trigger inflammation on belly fat, in addition to promoting a healthy heart.

On the Workout Plan page, Coach Jim Saret will upload his 6-week workout challenge schedule, which combines aerobic, cardiovascular, weight training, and stretching exercises, among others.

2. A New Competition. Century Tuna Superbods Super Challenge, the hottest and most awaited summer event in the Philippines

The launch of the My Road to Superbods website is a run-up to the Century Tuna Superbods Super Challenge, the hottest and most awaited summer event in the Philippines. It will be held on April 25-27, 2014 in the country’s ultimate beach destination, Boracay.

For this competition, Century Tuna gathers males and females between 18 to 35 years old with a fit and healthy body and passion for healthy lifestyle. Celebrities also flock to the event, which promises fun activities, parties, freebies and treats for beach lovers.

3. A new endorser - John Lloyd Cruz

John Lloyd Cruz is finally on board as Century Tuna's new Superbod! You can join him in his road to fitness by joining  Century Tuna Workout Challenge. Learn more about this home-based program at www.centurytuna.ph/superbodschallenge 

Watch the new Century Tuna TVC featuring the always sexy Anne Curtis and Superbod to be John Lloyd Cruz!



Plus, let's not forget the new celebrity challengers, the charming boys of BoysNightOut, Slick Rick, Sam YG and DJ Tony Toni who are all ready to take the Superbods Super Challenge!

Here is a little video of myself with some media friends while we were breaking a sweat and doing the 4 minute workout for the first time. It was fun and very challenging, but you definitely get a great overall workout. Really effective! Try it! It will all be worth it in the end.

Also, I've been following the workout and diet plan in the website and already started doing Coach Jim Saret's Metafit 4 minute workout for a week now. And I'm loving it! My goal? To get closer to that highly coveted yet ever elusive abs-olutely toned & flat tummy. :)

Follow me on Instagram @r0ckstarm0mma 

So what are you waiting for? Check out the website and get your Superbod in 6 weeks! :)

Check out my new giveaway next week and get some love from Century Tuna! :)

 

Latest Presto Creams “Yakap” Campaign Unveils New PB&J Variant

Gestures of love and affection like hugs and kisses can have the power to transform a day from bad to better and good to great. Indeed, hugs can turn any day around as shown in the new campaign for Jack ‘n Jill’s Presto Creams Peanut Butter and Jelly-Filled Cookies.

  Experience the heartwarming effect of a hug with the Presto Creams Yakap campaign. 

Coming with a campaign for the iconic brand was admittedly a challenging task but Black Pencil’s Creative Director Kat Limchoc says the inspiration behind “Yakap” came from the cookie itself, “The product was like a hug—two delicious cookies hugging a yummy cream filling. Much like a hug, it was comforting and wonderful.”

Enjoy the comfort that Presto Creams bring with two cookies hugging a yummy filling.

With the addition of its latest variant, Peanut Butter and Jelly, the brand took the delight even further with a sweet kiss of grape-flavored jelly.

Inspired by the brand, the Presto Creams, “Yakap” campaign centers on how hugs have the power to make even the most ordinary days and smallest victories more meaningful.

The latest TVC for Presto Creams Peanut Butter and Jelly-Filled Cookies shows how hugs are sweeter when accompanied by a kiss.

To capture this, the creative team worked with Director Henry Frejas for its latest commercial which features different hugs that could be likened to Presto Creams.  “From the comforting to the sweet, to the delight brought by both familiar and surprise hugs—we created a world of hugs” adds Kat.

Coupled with a heartwarming theme song, the Yakap campaign truly tugs at heartstrings with the jingle’s rich folk sound and sentimental lyrics. Played in radios all over the metro, one can’t help but sing along and reminisce on the soothing effect a warm and sincere hug.

Sweet, familiar and comforting, the classic pairing of peanut butter and jelly now enjoyed in Presto Creams Peanut Butter and Jelly-Filled Cookies are just like hugs and kisses, ones that add a touch of warmth and love.

Coming in other variants such as Vanilla, Chocolate and Peanut Butter, Presto Creams is the kind of treat that brings comfort to those who receive them and joy to those who give them.

Follow me on Instagram @r0ckstarm0mma

Feel, share, and savor the love with Presto Creams Peanut Butter and Jelly-Filled Cookies, available in leading supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores nationwide.


 

FILA Supports the Arts

What happens when a young gay man falls in love with a woman? That’s the central conceit behind Red Turnip Theater’s second offering, COCK by Mike Bartlett. A sold-out hit when it first premiered in London in 2009 and subsequently during its off-Broadway run a year later, COCK revolves around a gay couple whose rocky relationship derails when one of them sleeps (and falls in love) with a woman. Debates over one’s sexual identity explode when all three decide to sit down and “duke it out” over dinner. Hilarity ensues when another unexpected guest turns up and loyalties are put to the test. As one character puts it, “It’s the ultimate bitch fight”.

The New York Times calls COCK “a terrific, tense little comedy” while The Huffington Post hails it as “a terrific contemporary play that puts much of other theatre to shame”. This critical darling is the perfect bookend to Red Turnip’s maiden season.

Fresh off the success of their critically-acclaimed CLOSER last October at Whitespace, Red Turnip promises another unique, in your face theatrical experience with COCK. The vision of five estab-lished actors (Ana Abad Santos, Topper Fabregas, Jenny Jamora, Cris Villonco and Rem Zamora), Red Turnip aims to engage theatergoers with the sort of material that seems to be in short supply in the country—the straight play.

Rem Zamora makes his directorial debut with COCK.“We’re excited to be back in Whitespace. A lot of people who came to CLOSER said they enjoyed the intimacy of the experience and the space. That was in Hall B. We’re going even more intimate this time in the smaller Hall A. COCK also plays in the round so it feels like you’re watching a fight in an arena—no frills: just words and pure conflict in the ring, and an intense involvement in the audience.”

Zamora has assembled a tight cast of theatrical heavyweights for COCK’s Manila premier: Topper Fabregas (Boeing Boeing, The Producers), Niccolo Manahan (Next Fall, Doubt), Jenny Jamora (Mind’s Eye, A Little Night Music), Audie Gemora (Sweeney Todd, Les Miserables) Fabregas is John, a young man caught between his gay lover and his growing attraction to an-other woman- W, played by Jamora.
Niccolo Manahan makes a theatrical comeback as M, John’s lover who isn’t about to let him go without a fight. “I feel ‘Cock’ will be a great experiment for me; an experiment in balancing my life with the things I enjoy doing, and an experiment in pushing my range. I don’t know where this ex-periment will lead but its an incredible opportunity that I’m thankful for.”

Rounding off this impressive cast is theatre stalwart Audie Gemora as F, M’s well-meaning father whose sudden appearance at dinner throws everyone for a loop. “The birth of a theater group is always exciting and eventful with fresh artistic vision and passion. I am thrilled to be part of Red Turnips 2nd offering, ‘Cock’. This is Rem Zamora's directorial debut and my first time to be acting opposite brilliant young actors Niccolo Manahan and Jenny Jamora, while Topper Fabregas takes on his most complex character yet. Together we jump into a crackling cock fight of personalities, emotions and words.”

COCK is a comedy… with bite. No props, scenery or furniture. Just actors, sharp dialogue and some clever staging. All essential. Absolutely Red Turnip.

COCK is supported by FILA through the kindness of its President and owner Cris Albert. Supporting the arts has become one of her numerous advocacies, a true testament to her gener-ous spirit and her commitment to giving back to the community.

Direction by Rem Zamora, technical direction and lighting design by John Batalla, set design by Denis Lagdameo and sound design by Jethro Joaquin.

Cock will be staged at Whitespace — 2314 Chino Roces Ave. Extension (formerly Pasong Tamo Extension), Makati — on March 7, 14, 21, 28 and April 4 (Friday, 9 p.m.); March 8, 15, 29 and April 5 (Saturday, 8 p.m.); April 5, Saturday at 4 p.m.; March 9, 16, 23 and April 6 (Sunday, 4 p.m.) and special closing gala on April 6, Sunday, 8 p.m. Tickets are available through TicketWorld (891-9999 or www.ticketworld.com.ph) Or Red Turnip Theater (redturniptheater@gmail.com or https://www.facebook.com/RedTurnipTheater)

A Fun Farm Visit to Paradizoo and Residence Inn

A day spent with my daughter is always a day well spent. Last weekend, we got the chance to explore what’s inside the Paradizoo farm and Residence Inn in Tagaytay. We had a farm-frenzied fun day! If you want to enjoy nature while spending leisure time with family and friends, these are the best destinations.

Check out our video: (A little shaky, no tripod. Apologies. I'm just using my iPhone and GoPro Hero3 cam )

Located in Mendez, Cavite, Paradizoo is ideal for picnics, educational field trips, outdoor and group outing programs. The place is full of rich gardens and animals. Some of those animals are roaming free, others are behind their fences.

We also had a chance to interact with different interesting animals like llama, camels, miniature horses, ostriches, greyhounds and labrador retrievers. Maia rode a pony and I heard you can also ride on a cart drawn by an albino carabao. Maia really enjoyed feeding the rabbits, horses and birds. Oh, and she loves Sexy, the dog. You'll see her at Paradizoo Cafe while you sip some welcome drinks which is a refreshing glass of lemongrass iced tea. We went to major attractions such as the sheep shearing area, goat and cow milking, farm animal area (very child-friendly), honey bee farm and the beautiful butterfly garden. Also, the animal parade was so fun to watch.

I was blown away by the beauty of this serene "Paradise” and we saw the gardens full of vegetables and floral designs.  I love the "Plant Me Home” experience, where you can select and pick vegetables and flowers from garden plots to take home. Indeed, it’s a destination for pleasure, learning and healthy living.

In celebration of the year of the International Family Farming, experience one of the most anticipated annual festivities in the field of agriculture as Paradizoo re-unfold “Power of Three" (floral, vegetable and agri-livestock fair). Join us from January 11 March 2 featuring an amazing Horse Parade, a gala for this year of the horse. See different breeds of horses from thorough breds to miniature horses, display their regal statures as they parade together with their colorful and magnificent carts.  Also develop and enjoy your understanding towards agriculture as you will learn the Best Practices in agriculture. They will exhibit and display farm produce, sale and auction of livestocks (imported breeds of goats for milk and meat, sheep, several pig breeds animal feed, and a lot more). There will be briefings, discussions on breeding programs and free seminar on flower, vegetable and livestock care.

 It is a fascinating paradise that showcases the beauty of flora and fauna. Have a taste of this magnificent theme farm with its latest attractions. Be part of the opening of Noah’s Ark, a comforting means of expressing a lasting tribute to your pet by selecting a burial vault and permanent marker in marble or granite. And have a glimpse of the Wedding Pavilion and Boot Camp a perfect location for different events.

At Residence Inn Zoo, experience attractions such as the Bird Thrill, Serpentarium, Horse Back Riding, Magic and Animal Shows. Enjoy an exciting Zing (Swing) ride at Residence Inn Zoo. Residence Inn Zoo and Paradizoo are just a stone throw away from each other and can be easily visited within a day trip.

This would be one fruitful experience you surely wouldn’t want to miss. So for those who yearn to have this wonderful experience, you can visit our website at www.zoomanity.com.ph for details or call us at telephone numbers 8999828 or 08.

Locations:
Residence Inn Zoo: Km. 65 Barrio Neogan, Tagaytay City, Cavite
Paradizoo Theme Farm: Km. 63 Panungyan, Mendez, Cavite

I'm giving away entrance tickets to Paradizoo for 6 + 50% off on entrance at Residence Inn! Who wants to win? Will pick winners after a week.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Oh, and don't forget to join my giveaway for the month of February. Click here or here to join! :) Spread the love.

 

The Surprising Health Benefits of Being In Love

One of the best feelings in the world is being in love. But did you know that aside from giving one that giddy, happy feeling, being in love also helps keep one healthy?

Indeed, love is in the air, and it can improve your health! Take a look and find out what's to love about being in love. Learn some of the surprising health benefits and various medically-proven health advantages that come with having a strong affection for someone special. MediCard, a leading health maintenance organization, celebrates the month of love by sharing with you the health benefits of being in love.

Reduces stress
Ever wonder why people who’ve been hit by Cupid’s arrow always have that grin on their face? That’s probably because when you’re love, your body produces lower levels of cortisol, a hormone that induces stress. That’s why those who are in love are most likely to be in the best mood – all smiles and laughs that makes them more optimistic and energized.

Helps maintain a healthy lifestyle
You will notice that having a loving partner inspires you look good. Women tend to stay longer in front of the mirror, fussing on their faces, skin and hair. Men, on the other hand, become more inspired to hit the gym and tone those muscles.   Plus, it’s a proven fact that people who are in love  are less likely to be depressed and rely on the bad habits of smoking or drinking which takes a toll on your health.

Lengthens life
A happy relationship lets you live a longer life. The feeling of “being loved” feeling also contributes in work of the body system. It increases your heart rate and enables a healthy circulation of the blood; the sense of touch that is handy in dealing with pain by the simple hugs and holding of hands.

Source: The Philippine Star @PhilippineStar

This Valentine’s Day, don’t forget to say how much you love the people around you and make their heart skip a beat. You can also encourage them to start a healthy lifestyle by simply eating the right food, getting regular exercise and going to the doctor for regular check up.

MediCard offers variety of services that can help you stay fit and healthy. For more information, just log on to www.medicardphils.com. You may also contact MediCard at 884-9999 or email inquiry@medicardphils.com.

Happy Heart's day, lovelies!

Oh, and don't forget to join my giveaway for the month of February. Click here or here to join! :) Spread the love.


 

Max's Brings Premium Seafood Spread with its Newest 4Sharing Meal

Holiday  festivities may not be over just yet as Max's Restaurant rolls out its newest 4Sharing Meal, an offering that highlights the Filipino's penchant for great food and fun, bonding moments with family and friends. Starting the year with an innovative and mouthwatering spread, Max's beckons its avid diners to bite into the freshest seafood catch and revel in a unique dining experience, the Max's way.

I tried Max’s latest 4Sharing Meal with my family. It is delectably satisfying to the palate and light on the budget.  We really enjoyed  Max’s Fish Fillet in Black Bean Sauce, a lightly breaded cream dory fillet with red bell pepper strips, spring onions, ginger strips in delectable black bean sauce. One word. Yummy.

Of course, I cannot miss to add my favorite Pancit canton and some desserts for a sweet ending. I love the sweetness and creaminess of the Ube Creame Decadence. One of the more popular Italian desserts (literally means "cooked cream"). It is a light, smooth, creamy egg-less custard with ube halaya (purple yam) filling served cold, and topped with ube cake crumbs. Perf.

For those craving for a sweet seafood twist, they may opt for Max's Sweet and Sour Fish Fillet, breaded fish in bite-size portions simmered in a delicious sweet and sour sauce. Foodies may choose between these two delightful dishes and pair it with one whole, regular, sarap-to-the-bones Fried Chicken. Of course, any Filipino meal will not be complete without steaming cups of white rice and cool glasses of iced tea or any Pepsi soft drink. This amazing offering is perfect for customers dining in groups of 4. Any food aficionado looking for a delicious and value-for-money offering may avail of this mouthwatering feast for only PhP 799. That's PhP221 worth of savings. Max's 4Sharing Meal offering will run from January 6 to February 26, 2014.

“With every wave of Max’s 4Sharing meal bundles, we seek to excite and satisfy our customers more and more with the most delicious dishes and affordable deals. Whether they are groups of teenagers hanging out together, young professionals meeting up for lunch, or seasoned Max’s customers craving for their favorite comfort dishes, they get the best of everything – delectable dishes that are signature to Max’s and the most budget-friendly price. As we welcome a very promising year, we want everybody to create new memories and enjoy our freshly- prepared dishes to their heart’s content,” shared Bobby Simborio, Corporate PR and Media Manager for Max’s Group of Companies.

Learn more about Max’s 4Sharing Meals by logging on to www.maxschicken.com. Visit www.facebook.com/maxsrestaurant and be the first to know about the most 'sarap-to-the-bones' offerings from the Filipino’s most loved brand.

Oh, and don't forget to join my giveaway for the month of February. Click here or here to join! :) Spread the love.