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News in the Philippines

Stay in the loop with your go-to source of blogs in the Philippines! Know the latest happenings and trending news in Manila and across the country.

JCB Deals: Exclusive 10% – 20% discount to all JCB Card Members!
December 28, 2015

JCB Deals: Exclusive 10% – 20% discount to all JCB Card Members!

The JCB Deals Promo is back! Check out Philippine Primer Magazine and save up to 20% discount every time you use your JCB card in all participating stores. Promo runs from April 1 to June 30, 2015.   Participating Merchants:  15% Discount at UCC Coffee – UCC Café Terraces – Forbes Town Center; Ayala Center Cebu; One Rockwell – West Tower; Westgate Alabang; SM Mall of Asia; Trinoma; Robinsons Ermita; Resorts World Manila; Paseo Center; Lukcy Chinatown; – UCC Park Café – Glorietta 3; Forbes Town Center; Shangri-La Mall; Dell Bldg (Eastwood Ave.); Robinsons Magnolia – UCC Mentore – SM Aura; Park Terraces (Makati) – UCC Park Express – Petron […]
Tamashii Convention 2015: Igniting the Japanese Spirit in You
December 28, 2015

Tamashii Convention 2015: Igniting the Japanese Spirit in You

Ladies in costume The Japanese culture is one of the most fascinating in the world and students from De La Salle University have definitely taken notice of this. What used to be an event solely for the purpose of promoting the Japanese culture has now become a true festival in every sense of the word. We’re talking about Nihon KenkyuuKai’s (日本研究会) Tamashii Convention! Organized by De La Salle University’s professional organization for Japanese Studies majors and other Japanese-culture loving students, the convention otherwise known as “TamaCon” is now on its third year of spreading Japanese culture to all Japanese culture fans! We’re not just talking about anime. We’re talking fashion […]
2015 Easter Egg Hunting Events
December 28, 2015

2015 Easter Egg Hunting Events

It’s that time of the year again to bring out your bunny ears and your hide-and-seek skills! Are you looking for activities for you and your little one this coming Easter? Primer has compiled highly-recommended Easter Egg Hunting Events happening in hotels, malls and other recreational venues for you! Hotels The Bellevue Manila, Alabang Details: Celebrate a fun, barnyard-themed Easter kiddie party at the Bellevue Manila! There will be an animal show, egg-hunting, face painting, glitter tattoo and many more activities! Registration opens at 11 AM. Program starts from 1 PM to 4 PM. Inclusive of snacks, buffet, entertainment, games, egg-hunting, games, and loot bag! Contact them at 771 8181 […]
Holy Week Mall Schedule 2015
April 28, 2015

Holy Week Mall Schedule 2015

Find out if your favorite malls are open today (Maundy Thursday), tomorrow (Good Friday) and on Black Saturday. SM Aura in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig Itching to dine out or shop today? Check first if your favorite mall is open! AYALA MALLS (Glorietta, Greenbelt, Trinoma, Market! Market!, Alabang Town Center, Fairview Terraces, Marquee mall, and Ayala Center Cebu). All are closed on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, although select dining establishments will be open in Bonifacio High Street. Regular mall hours resume on Black Saturday. SM SUPERMALLS. Except for the veranda restaurants at SM Mall of Asia and SM by the Bay, all malls are closed on Maundy Thursday and […]
Etihad Manila 10s: The Best Social Rugby Tournament in the World
December 28, 2015

Etihad Manila 10s: The Best Social Rugby Tournament in the World

PLAYERS get ready for the fight of their lives (this year). The Philippine Primer attended the recently concluded 26th Annual Manila 10s International Rugby Festival. It was the held last March 21 and 22 at the Nomad Sports Club in Paranaque. It started in 1989 as a way for the local (and then only) rugby club in the country, the Manila Nomads, to play rugby at a competitive level without having to tour regularly. The tournament kicked off with the Rugby Lunch at the Marriott Hotel Manila. It was graced by former England International David Trick, Australia Captain Nathan Sharpe and legendary British Lion John Bentley. Photo grabbed from Manila […]
Gout de France (A Review)
December 28, 2015

Gout de France (A Review)

Philippine Primer visited Lemuria Gourmet Restaurant and ate our way to the heart of France: their food. Nothing binds people together more than food can. This is true for Filipinos and yes, for the French, too. Hidden in the heart of Quezon City, Lemuria is a home turned into a lovely fine dining French restaurant that has a relaxing ambiance. It is an ideal choice for intimate parties and for couples who are celebrating special occasions. The staff is attentive and polite. Upon arriving, we were immediately directed to our seats and served our dishes after a few minutes. Lemuria Chicken Liver and Foie Gras Paté The amuse-bouche, Lemuria Chicken Liver […]
Flow House Manila Opens with a Splash!
December 29, 2015

Flow House Manila Opens with a Splash!

It’s summertime! The fun is here, the heat is here, but most importantly, #TheBreakIsHere! Last Saturday (March 28, 2015), Flow House Manila opened its doors to the media and revealed the best things this gem in Seasons Mall Cavite has to offer – delicious food, sweet cocktails, aqua sports gear and the main attraction, the FlowRider, a ride that generates a perfect ocean swell, which lets everyone experience the thrill of riding waves, all against a backdrop of the best chillout beats and some fireworks!  BUTTONS OVER RIBBONS. Executives from Flow House Manila, Southstream and their partners ceremoniously press the button together to turn on the FlowRider. The power of […]
Uncle Tetsu is Now at SM Megamall!
December 29, 2015

Uncle Tetsu is Now at SM Megamall!

Another branch in Ortigas opens its doors for all Japanese cheese cake enthusiasts! Everyone’s favorite Japanese cheese cake is now available at SM Megamall’s Building A, Upper Ground Floor (near SM Supermarket)! LIKE ALL ITS OTHER BRANCHES, Uncle Tetsu’s SM Megamall branch is a hit! Last March 26, the grand opening of Uncle Tetsu was celebrated by one and all. Gracing the event were celebrities Phoemela Barranda and Uncle Tetsu brand ambassador Heart Evangelista. UNCLE TETSU BRAND AMBASSADOR Heart Evangelista and franchise president Mr. Walter Co. “Uncle Tetsu Cheese Cake is just perfect,” Heart raves. “It’s totally delicious and filling but because it’s light and fluffy, it’s not heavy on the […]
Lawson Convenience Store Opens in Manila!
December 29, 2015

Lawson Convenience Store Opens in Manila!

The Philippines is home to popular convenience stores 7-11, Ministop and, two years ago, Family Mart. Joining this line up is Japan’s Lawson Convenience Store, which had their soft opening today, March 30, 2015. As of the moment, they haven’t had their grand opening yet as they are still doing market research on how they can cater to the needs of the Philippine market. They plan to have their grand opening in May or June. They also plan to open 50 more stores in this year and to have 500 stores in 2020. Lawson offers products that cannot be found in other stores, such as various bread and pastries made […]
Philippine Primer is looking for INTERNS!
July 14, 2015

Philippine Primer is looking for INTERNS!

—– We are looking for someone who can: 1. Write articles about food and restaurants, hotels, events and other lifestyle topics; 2. Take photos or assist in photo shoots; 3. Look for establishments and other businesses to be featured in all three publications; 4. Set appointments and join in meetings with clients; 6. Translate articles in Japanese to English; 7. Attend events on behalf of the company; and 8. Assist the editorial team in any other way Interested? Send in your resume together with three (3) article samples and three (3) photo samples to information@primer.ph —–
Nadai Fujisoba opens in Bonifacio High Street
April 28, 2015

Nadai Fujisoba opens in Bonifacio High Street

The much-awaited opening of Japan’s first soba noodle store, Nadai Fujiosba, has finally happened last March 28, 2015 at the Bonifacio High Street, Taguig. The opening seemed to have made a buzz because diners, who were mostly Japanese, immediately flocked the restaurant at 11:00 am. Soba means Japanese buckwheat noodle and Nadai Fujisoba became well-known by producing the best quality of soba noodle their country has to offer. Here are some items from their menu: Top: NIKU FUJISOBA (P260) Bottom: EBITEN MORI SOBA (P260) Top: EBI TENDON (P380) Bottom: CURRYDON (Large P190/ Small P100) Nadai Fujisoba first opened in Shibuya in 1966 and slowly expanded to some of the bustling […]
Mitsubishi: The All-new Strada
December 28, 2015

Mitsubishi: The All-new Strada

Say hello to Mitsubishi Motors’ newly improved bestseller A dynamic and sophisticated stance, improved bumper and headlamp designs, a distinctive “J-line,” a two-tone black/gray with silver accent center instrument panel, a handy and accessible feature with the touchscreen Multi-media system with dealer option GPS Navigation, Tire Pressure Monitoring System and Reverse camera display and more leg room – This is what Mitsubishi Motors’ all-new Strada promises the general public. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) unveils the 5th generation model of its bigger and better Strada. One of its global bestsellers, this sport utility truck combines the “functionality of a pickup truck, the comfort of a passenger car and the amenities […]
XO46 Heritage Bistro: Philippines on a Plate
April 28, 2015

XO46 Heritage Bistro: Philippines on a Plate

XO46 Heritage Bistro is a restaurant known for promoting traditional Filipino dishes locally and internationally. Five years since they opened, XO46 has uniquely presented Filipino tradition and culture to the foreign community – from the delectable and exquisite Pinoy foods to the customary yet stylish interiors and hospitable staff who talks to guests in Tagalog. Now, the well-awarded Filipino restaurant desires to bring out the best in Filipino dishes and gives the people more reasons to appreciate it. Owners Sandee and Andrew Marasigan have proudly come up with a degustaćion that highlights the sophistication and complexity of Philippine cuisine that goes way back from its roots thousands and thousands of years […]
Calbee Japanese Snack Products Now in the Philippines
December 28, 2015

Calbee Japanese Snack Products Now in the Philippines

Last March 13, leading Japanese snack manufacturer, Calbee, officially launched their products in the Philippines at the Glorietta Activity Center. In cooperation with Jack ‘n Jill, all-time favourite Calbee products Jagabee, Pizza Potato and Potato Chips will be available at local supermarkets like Landmark and SM Department Store. JAGABEE (P29 or P62, depending on the size) POTATO CHIPS are available in CLASSIC SALTED, WASABI FLAVOR, CHEDDAR & SOUR CREAM (28g/ P15. They also have 170g) PIZZA POTATO (28g/P17). POTTA stuffed toy (P3000). Potta is Calbee’s main mascot. Pouches (P500) and T-shirts (P600) were also available for purchase. Catch another event in Eastwood on March 20 -21, at Alabang Town Center […]
Food & Flair: A Food and Artisan Crafts Fair
December 28, 2015

Food & Flair: A Food and Artisan Crafts Fair

The Podium and curator Lori Baltazar let us appreciate living and eating through a one-of-a-kind food and crafts fair. “I’ve always been about championing home bakers”, enthused curator, Lori Baltazar. DESSERT COMES FIRST by curator Lori Baltazar’s is the highlight of that Saturday’s festivities. Food & Flair: A Food and Artisan Crafts Fair is a three-day fair that featured some of the country’s best and most promising dessert shops and craft stores. It was Lori’s first event with the Podium. “From home bakers, I moved on to savory things. Then, I also wanted to feature stores that sell things for the house, for the kitchen and for the table. Things […]
Quinoa: What You Need to Know
December 28, 2015

Quinoa: What You Need to Know

Let your love for this nutritious seed grow. Not in the mood for rice, bread or pasta? Looking for the best alternative for those carbohydrates? Grab some Quinoa! Quinoa (/ˈkiːnwɑː/, from Quechua: kinwa) is a grain crop that has edible seeds. It is high in fiber and Manganese. Fiber helps us digest food faster, which helps us maintain good health and lose weight when necessary. We’ve heard about Quinoa few years back but no one really paid attention to it except for a few food enthusiasts and those who seriously want to switch to a healthier diet. In 2012, Quinoa patties were introduced as an alternative to burger or meat […]
Brasilipinas Carnaval 2015: In Retrospect
December 28, 2015

Brasilipinas Carnaval 2015: In Retrospect

Drums that match the beat of your heart and your feet, dancing that makes you stay up and shake it all night long, laughter erupting from the four corners of the room and applause from an audience in awe. This is what Brasilipinas Carnaval 2015 looked like last February 27 at the Rockwell Tent. It felt like being in Brazil for one night. The night started with a mix by DJ Romeo Cavalcante who co-hosted the event with Luanne Pasinatto. Free drinks were provided by Havaianas, but guests also had the option to choose their own poison courtesy of bar booths from Palladium. Quitutes Brazil served local treats, such as carne […]
Project VOICE Live in Manila: Thank You for Stopping By, Sarah Kay and Phil Kaye
April 20, 2016

Project VOICE Live in Manila: Thank You for Stopping By, Sarah Kay and Phil Kaye

“Manila, you’re rowdy. I dig it.” These were some of the first few words that came out of renowned spoken word poet Sarah Kay last Sunday, March 1, 2015, when she and fellow spoken word poet (and partner-in-crime) Phil Kaye performed their poetry live in the Philippines for the first time ever. Known to be as “champions of vulnerability, cheerleaders for the unexpected and ruthless flashlights for all your heart’s nooks and crannies,” Sarah and Phil are co-directors of Project VOICE, an organization that aims to promote, empower and improve literacy. They have visited hundreds of schools in over 15 countries and offer not only live performances but also student […]
Teppanyaki Takes Center Stage at Akira
April 28, 2015

Teppanyaki Takes Center Stage at Akira

The fire and flair of teppanyaki is the highlight of the dining experience at Akira: The Art of Sushi and Teppanyaki, reintroducing the art of teppanyaki to the growing market of sophisticated diners in the metro. Like the mythical firebenders, Akira’s teppanyaki chefs are trained to show their mastery of the flame, not just to cook the food but to win the guests over as well, turning the personal dining experience into an art form. Teppanyaki refers to the Japanese style of cooking food over an iron griddle or a teppan. Preparations are as important as the meal itself, and the freshest ingredients – quality meats, vegetables and seasonings – […]
The Great British Festival Experience: Brits and Glamour
April 28, 2015

The Great British Festival Experience: Brits and Glamour

Now on its second year, the British Embassy’s Great British Festival fulfilled its promise to be bigger, better and greater. This three-day activity kicked off with a symbolic ribbon cutting by Her Majesty’s Ambassador for the Philippines Asif Anwar Ahmad together with Fil-Brit football stars James and Phil Younghusband. “This is a great celebration of Philippine-British partnerships [that] we have been building over the years,” said Ambassador Ahmad, “We wanted this festival to highlight the many aspects of British excellence.” He then cited few of these many milestones, one of them the increase in Phil-British partnerships, with fifty-eight (58) new companies joining the festival from the original twenty-four (24) last […]