www.jbtabuzo.com

Wazer. Artist. Fiesta-goer, PH.

[jbtabuzo]

5 Things I learned from managing Coke Events

1. Work on mobile. If work has to bring you to places, work mobile. Times are changing. Docs, powerpoints and photos are easier seen on the phone than on your laptop nowadays.

Think fast. People are too tired to load their emails, but theyre always on viber naman right? ( Dont forget to send a smiley para kunyari pleasant. Lol. Jk)

2. Meetings can be an email or a phone call instead.

Its traffic. People have other priorities. While meetings are important to set the tone of the project, updates and developments can be made by viber, group email or a phone call instead. Onground Efficiency > usual team reporting. What is happening on ground is usually more important than whats happening inside the office.

3. Value processes

Processes are there to guide us. Its our manual to do things and how we deal with other people.

Still, never let a process hinder you from accomplishig things, it should be able to make things faster and better for everyone. No process is perfect. Always lobby for continuous improvement.

4. Learn who are your stakeholders. Then add value to them.

A lot of people will always be considered in your work. Agencies, consumers, brands, interns, sales and a lot more. your work must always add value to them. Learn to value them so they will always value you and your work.

5. get your personal life infused with work.

If work demands you to do work on weekends then blog about the things you did. Take photos and upload them on instagram.shop or watch a movie on your business trip.

Be friends with your coworkers and go for lunch outs. Bring your video games or load the latest movie for those constant long haul flights. Strut your ootd that friday jeans day.

Life happens with work. Not after. We are not dead while working right? 😒😫

Lastly,

6. Not all things are meant to be finished.

There is just so much you can do in 24 hours. Leave some work for tomorrow and let go of things beyond your influence, but always remember to do your best and do the most that you can.

If at the end of it there is still more, then just plan to work on it tomorrow or the day/s after.. Just note that you keep your projects/objectives in line with what is workable within your circle of influence.

[jbtabuzo]

[jbtabuzo]

[jbtabuzo]

Sunday gym and errands day. Running around today in makati, manila, and fort! Wearing my weekend usuals: Dri-fit shirt from @diadoraph Shorts from @speedo Shoes from @fila Watch from @velocitime

[jbtabuzo]

Color match with Crissey for TW Steel's ten years of big time photo exhibit last sat. On crissey: Top from Sferra On JB: Top from Topman / Pants fron Uniqlo

[jbtabuzo]

My New Workout Companion

Recently, I have discovered myself doing a lot of Physical activities. (Boxing, Yoga, Cycling, Swimming, Running, HIIT, and going to the gym). The feel of adrenaline is something I regularly look for after a busy day of working. 

Since I work with events - I have an erratic work schedule and even work locations. Most of the times I feel that I should always engage myself in physical activities even if I’m out of town. So I always make it a point to squeeze in timed trainings- even for just a 30 minute run or a quick HIIT!

Its very timely that Veloci launched their new Camo collection. I like the start and stop function that helps me time my activities and sprint back to work ASAP! 

The Veloci holiday Collection comes in two styles. Taking inspiration form their bestselling Pulse, the Camo contains the same power-packed features: with a dual-time display, stopwatch and alarm, illuminator, and water resist of up to 100 meters. Folks on the go can sport this watch to wherever their next getaway may be. 

For more adventurous ones, the Camo Active bears the features of the Pulse with a different look. This watch has a stainless steel top ring, inner ring, and 200 meter water resist. A mineral glass cover renders it anti-shock. Perfect for extreme sports enthusiast with a penchant for minimal accessorizing and maximum impact. 

The launch of this collection could not come at a better time. As everybody gears up for the holidays, these watches would be a sensible style staple for accessorizing the looks we are bound to see this season. Camouflage prints add edge to minimalist and somber fall outfits, while grounding sparkly party ensemble with a street-style vibe. Fashionable and functional, the Camo is another versatile Veloci timepiece you can wear from work to play.

[jbtabuzo]

/Penafrancia// Que Pasa?/

In naga, alone for Penafrancia - without acommodation! All I have was myself, my credit card, a couple of clothes and my phone! Going here for work, but since I wasn’t able to fix my itinerary in advance, all the hotels were booked :( I had no choice so I need to do what I do best - attack the unknown.

After meetings with the local team, I went around  the city and walked the streets of Naga. Eventually, I found myself in the city center that friday afternoon. 

A few blocks from the rotunda, I stopped by the Basilica where our Lady of Penafrancia resides. Stopped and prayed for a good amount of time and attended mass. It has been a long time since I had that prayer break.

This place is packed with Devotees. I was very amazed.

Now, right across this basilica, you won’t miss this haven for artists - Que Pasa.

Owned by a very good looking, hip couple, Que pasa is an instagrammer’s anthill - where food, art, and foodies literally meet. 

Nice right? This is my favorite wall from all the artsy walls in the resto :)

Ordered Aswangita after a long day! The bartneder said it’s their bestseller. Aswangita is a local flavored cocktail - with sili. You’ll feel the heat by middle of your drink. Tip: Try to avoid sipping the sili and don’t order more than 3 glasses, or else.. you’ll become the drink!

Que Pasa also has a nook where some artists sell their works. Wanted to buy this piece tho. I promise to get this one when I come back.

Sauce station!

Restroom for the QUEribels! haha

Got a chance encounter with Patti, a college friend. And ofcourse met with Dino, my college barkada who took care of me there, thankful he let me crash his place and drive around the city. Gracias Mi Amigo!

I cannot get over how nice Que pasa is! I can stay here the whole weekend.. lol

Forgot to tell you their food is customizable. Totally legit stuff for food bloggers. Zomato time!

Ended my Penafrancia experience with this beauty. I actually booked for the same fiesta last 2014, but the flight got cancelled because of a typhoon.Very thankful for the chance to visit the fiesta this year. A very brief but meaningful trip for me.

 Sharing some quick tips if you plan to visit Penafrancia next year:

1. BOOK accommodations and flights 4 - 6 months in advance. Unless you have a friend in Naga, I suggest you plan your trip well.

2. KNOW the routes. Traffic can become as crazy as manila, so plan where you will pass by. If possible, it’s best to travel by foot especially during fluvial procession and translacion.

3. WEAR light clothes. It’s going to be hot and the crowd can get as intimate as the black nazarene procession in manila. So keep cool.

4. EAT. When you get the chance, try all the local food. You’ll instantly distinguish local flavors of regular dishes from as compared to those found in Manila.

5. PRAY. It’s the best time to pray, hear mass and also confess. There’s so much priests there. Besides, everyone is in Penafrancia for the same purpose. Time to write them down and offer it up.

[jbtabuzo]

Tuna Festival

Tuna festival sounds like a sea of fresh dancing tunas waiting to be devoured. True enough, this fiesta is that and more! 

Tuna festival is celebrated annually by General Santos City every first week of September. It’s their way of celebrating their love for Tuna and at the same time open the doors for tourists to fall in love with this quaint but progressive city.

With the grand opening set every 1st of September, organizers have prepared a show for locals and tourists to cling on and look forward to every year. I can confidently say that the opening this 2015 of Tuna is the best one I’ve seen yet. A lot of things are simultaneously happening and cueing was well practiced. Your eyes will not get tired of watching fire dancers, stuntmen, cheer dancers and dancing chefs on stage- eventful indeed. Graced by Manny Pacquiao for the ceremonial cutting of the queen tuna, the opening salvo closed with generous fireworks lighting the sky, signalling the whole week of celebration.

Fresh seafood, charming locals, and active nightlife -- Tuna Festival in General santos is one for the books. Another one in your list of Philippine Fiestas to go to for 2016. I promise you, this will not disappoint.

[jbtabuzo]

Kadayawan sa Dabaw

As big as Sinulog, as colorful as Masskara - i think thats the best way I can describe Kadaywan sa Dabaw. If you have not heard about this fiesta then you’re definitely missing out. 

Kadayawan festival is a  thanksgiving fiesta for a bountiful harvest - that’s why flowers, fruits, and birds are paraded all around the city every August. During this time, tourists from all over the Philippines flock the streets of Davao to check on the concerts, night bazaar, and ofcourse, my favorite part - FOOD! I can say Davao food (and Gensan’s) is one of the best in the Philippines! Especially seafood! 

I got two shades darker from taking selfies on the parade! Make sure Kadayawan is in your 2016 list, you’re fiesta experience will not be complete without it!

[jbtabuzo]

HOLIDAY RUN. Up and early today to do quick errands. So happy to see the sunrise on a holiday and not drive to work! Sporting a no-iron get up this morning: Dri-fit Poloshirt (Nike) / Dri-fit shorts (Uniqlo)

[jbtabuzo]

Sangyaw Festival, one of the most anticipated fiestas in Tacloban, Leyte, is normally celebrated every June. As a tradition, the city holds pageants, food bazaars and concerts for the locals and tourists.

The word Sangyaw, means “to herald good news.” This 2015, Sangyaw is the bearer of good news - that years after the devastation of Typhoon Haiyan, Tacloban is now up and about!  And what we can all learn from this, is that there is no other way in this journey but to move forward.

I’m happy to be a witness of your strength, Tacloban.

[jbtabuzo]

4 Tips to Enjoy Lechon Festival in 2016

Lechon festival is held in a lot of places in the country. But the only town where they parade the Lechons and close down all roads for tourists, villagers, and different companies to flock is the one of Balayan, Batangas. And boy, it is an amazing fiesta indeed!

This palpable gathering of deliciuos pigs dressed to our delight is celebrated every 24th of June, on the feast day of St. John the Baptist. Now you ask me what is the correlation of Lechon to the catholic saint? After researching and asking the locals, they said that Lechons have long been part of our local tradition where Filipinos feast on after a gathering (i.e. Binyags, birthdays, etc.), so this feast is exactly that and more. 

Not only do they dress up and eat the lechons, but they wet everyone in the parade just like St. John the Baptist.

Exhibit A: Mighty pig

Exhibit B:  Water-proof pig

Crazy wet!! 

Exhibit C: Senyor Pig

If you want to witness these dressed up pigs, get wet and be drunk, here are my top tips for Lechon festival goers in 2016:

TIP #1:  Arrive early.

The parade starts between 9 to 10 in the morning every June 24. Since the roads will be closed, it is best to be there by 8 and park before the rotonda and church of Balayan.

How to get there: Just search Balayan, Batangas in Waze. You’ll know you’re there when you see buntings by the streets.

TIP #2: Be waterproof

Wear clothes that you wouldn’t mind getting wet and secure your gadgets with a plastic pouch. I had to learn this the hard way cause my Blackberry got fried after attempting to open it from the splash scene in the festival grounds. lol

After being wet, this kuya is now Chilled to perfection like Coke! Haha!

TIP #3: Make friends.

Fiestas are not for the loners. So grab a friend or make some new ones in Balayan. Everyone’s there for the booze and lechon anyway.

Say “Hi” then be sober together. lol

TIP #4: Get free Lechon from the locals

After the parade, go around and grab some Lechon from locals. They’re more than happy to give you all the Lechon you can eat!

hoho! Some of them are tipsy already and it was just 12nn then! 

Will definitely go back in 2016!

Lechon Festival Rating:

Flow of activties: 2/5

Crowd difficulty: 3/5

Lechon: 2/5 (it was so hard to hop around and grab wet lechon! haha!)

Wetness level: 5/5

Overall rating: 3/5

[jbtabuzo]

Minalungao National Park

Are you hungry for adventure but your current tolerance level is somewhere below Pinatubo or Anawangin? 

If you’re generally not up to the idea of a long mountain hike, but you feel the need to satisfy your adventurous self - I suggest you take the road less traveled (or should I say, less posted on facebook!), by taking a quick hike (or even walk/stroll for some) in Minalungao. 

Minalungao National Park is a vast natural park with caves, rivers and mountains. Located in General Tinio, Neuva Ecija, Minalungao is one of the nearest remaining preserved natural parks near Metro Manila.

Exploring Minalungao

1. How to get there: I recommend to charge your 3g smart phone - you will need it for Waze. This should be a no brainer (haha!). The distance from manila is a good 200km so gas up and take brief breaks, there are gas stations and restos along the road. 

Useful tip: Bring an SUV or 4x4 instead of a small car. For better manoeuvring in the rough roads of the park. Though you can rent a tricycle from the parking area near Minalungao, you will still need it because of the rough terrain.

Learning very late that small cars are really not for rough roads. #nochoice #ipontime

2. When is it best to visit : Morning is always a good idea. Since it’s a 3 to 4 hour drive (depending on your driving skills and traffic), it’s best leave by 6am so you get there between 9 - 10am. Try to visit on a friday (schedule a leave!) when there are less tourists and make sure it’s not raining so you can see the clear waters of the river. Locals suggest to visit between February to May and between November to December.

If you pass by this arc, it just means you’re in going the right direction and you are already near the site! I welcome you to Papaya town! How big kaya are their Papayas here? 

Upon getting to the entrance of the park, there will be a parking area for tourists. For a minimum fare, you can ride tricycle to get you down the steep slope, especially if your car is not powerful enough like mine.

3. What to wear: Keep it light, sporty and amphibious for a hot and wet day trip. What I’m wearing: cap, shirt and shoes from Addidas / Socks from Vamos / Shades and swim shorts from SM Store. 

Quick tip: if you’re a little bit carefree on adventures and don’t mind your shades falling, getting lost, or scratched, buy disposable and trendy shades from SM store (stress free for your wallet too!)

Love these socks from Vamos! They don’t easily stretch after so many washes. Will buy a new pair for my next adventure!

4. What to do there: There are three things you can do in Minalungao. Swim, climb, or hike. 

A. SWIM -  When finding your perfect spot to swim, ride a raft to take you in between the two mountains for Php 200 - Php 500. The cost depends and how the waiting time. It’s common courtesy to give them a little bit higher if you’re going to let them wait for you beyond the agreed time. Let’s support local tourism and give them their hard earned money!

Once you found a nice spot, then it’s time to Swim! The water should be clear during summer.

Unfortunately, there were just a lot of tourists who were swimming so the water is a little less clear. Water level is somewhere between 4 to 10 ft (or probably more) depending on the area.

B. CLIMB. Another option is to climb the mountain top cross. You need to climb 1,000 steps going there - so stay hydrated and bring food for the extra boost you will need.

Taking a break from the hike!

C. HIKE - Lastly, you can hike the mountains and explore the caves. Locals said there are a lot of caves here, but I’m okay with just checking out 1 cave! haha!

5. How much to budget

Toll fee (going there) - Php 133

Entrance fee - Php 30

Raft - Php 450

Gas (for a small car like mine) - Php 400 

Toll fee (going back) - Php 133

Total Spending is just Php 1,146!

Overall I can say the trip was pretty fine and easy. Don’t forget when driving back, it’s good that you can get a friend to switch drives with you especially if you’re legs become sore from all the hiking and climbing! 

Now, file your leaves and get adventures down your sleeves (pinilit yung rhyme!). Visit Minalungao this year before this becomes the next #wherebrokenheartsgo in your facebook feed (lol).

Drive terrain difficulty: 3/5

Hike and climb difficulty: 2/5

Now, Where should I go next?

[jbtabuzo]

Veloci Time White Pool Party

Italian-inspired watch brand Veloci, known for pieces that combine striking design, comfort and durability, made a splash as it launched its newest collection with an all-white pool party and fashion show held at no less than The Palace Pool Club, the first of its kind in the country. 

Showcasing the collection are top models Hideo Muroka and Catriona Gray, chosen to represent the brand and be among the first to show off their Veloci watches.

It’s no surprise that Hideo and Catriona were chosen as endorsers. Aside from being fans of Veloci ever since, both are more than their looks and attractive bodies, just like the brand.

As Veloci positions itself to keep up with the fashion trends and offer high quality watches at reasonable prices, they are introducing new timepieces that remain looking current and fresh, adventure after adventure.

For those who love to go deep, sail the world and quest their thirst for adventure and knowledge, the Voyager Collection is right for you. It features unidirectional rotating bezel and lavish dials with day-date display. 

For the active and those who value passion and self -expression, the Pulse collection is the perfect emobidment for you. It boasts of dual time display, stopwatch and alarm, equipped with an illuminator and a fuss-free rubber strap. It’s definitely a statement watch whose presence is felt with every pulse.

For the modern minimalist, the Cruise collection is your right pick! The collection comes in different punches of color, with integrated silicone straps. For a journey with no itinerary, these pieces are sure to let you Cruise through life and take you wherever you please. Just right for the jeans + shirt combo.

All white for the night.

I personally like this black and rose gold voyager watch! Cool right? Perfect couple gift idea too.

Veloci watches are available at the Veloci kiosks in SM Mall of Asia, SM San Lazaro, SM Clark, SM Pampanga, SM Manila, SM Fairview, SM Southmall, and Market! Market! and online at Zalora.com.ph/veloci.  It is also available in L Timestudio and Timegear  boutiques, Asprey kiosks, and select Department Stores of SM, Robinsons, Metro, Fisher Mall and Landmark.

Photo credits: Crissey Si (www.hellocrissey.com) and  Ramon Tan Mangila (www.pixrepublik.com.ph)

[jbtabuzo]

Outfit this saturday: shirt from zara / pants from bershka / shoes from flying dutchman Going for an on-the-go look for a busy saturday ocular and meetings with organizers and agency for an event tomorrow.

[jbtabuzo]

What I’m wearing: Polo from Flying Dutchman | Sweater from Massimo Dutti | Pants and Belt from Uniqlo | Watch from Emporio Armani

I’m wearing neutral colors today - with a little layering for the post-summer and pre-rainy season!

First OOTD shoot c/o Crissey and Maricel. Thank you so much! Legit ootd taking skills!

[jbtabuzo]

Shiseido Penthouse

Shiseido, one of the pioneers in Japanese cosmetics and skin care, held an exclusive event for VIPs, Press and Bloggers a few weeks back. They launched their AW2015 collection at the Penthouse of St. Francis - Shangri-la Place.

I was fortunate enough to have been given the opportunity to work with them as as engraver. 

Here’s one of the names of the attendees engraved in an exclusive Shiseido mirror shipped all the way from Japan! You cannot imagine how honoured I am to have been chosen for this project!

PS. the engraving double reflects in the mirror when I take the photo. 

The food served during the event were definitely scene stealers! 

Who would want to eat something as adorable as these? I know I’d ogle at them for minutes before taking my first bite!

If you’re wondering who’s behind the amazing food styling -- you can check out Periwinkle and Lace on Facebook.

Leave it to Periwinkle and Lace to make red velvet goodies look even more appetizing!

Elegance Elixer -- even the drinks at the event are guaranteed to make you look elegant. 

Eyes too full from looking at all the yummy food.

You can follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates. 

A massive thanks to the Shiseido team for trusting me with this project!