Lakan Extra Premium Philippine Lambanog

Most Pinoys are familiar with Lambanog, a Filipino alcoholic beverage, described as coconut arrack. It’s neither wine, nor gin, nor vodka, but is something uniquely Filipino. I have fond (and not so fond) memories involving lambanog drinking sessions in college, when this was the most cost-effective alcoholic option for students. It’s a staple inuman drink in many provinces, available even in small sari-sari stores in sleepy towns in Quezon and other parts of Southern Luzon. I’ve also shared more than a few rounds of lambanog with friends and strangers during trips around the country.

Lambanog has long been considered a drink of the masses. But Lakan Extra Premium Philippine Lambanog aims to change all that.

lakan extra premium philippine lambanog bottle

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Events: Quezon City’s 75th Anniversary

This October, Quezon City celebrates its 75th year of cityhood. October 12, 2014 marks the city’s Diamond Jubilee, and it looks like all six districts of Quezon City are gearing up for a lot of festivities.

Aside from commemorative events, the city will play host to arts festivals, concerts, health and wellness outreach programs, religious activities, and sports/fitness programs. There are a LOT of events lined up, but here are a few of the highlights that might interest the general public:

October 11: Quezon City Food Festival (9 am-midnight; Maginhawa Street)

The very first Food Festival in Quezon City intends to showcase Maginhawa Street as a major food hub and tourist spot while celebrating with the fun and festivities of a provincial fiesta. As a resident of the area, I’ve seen the transformation of the street from just an alternative road to get to UP to a major foodie spot, with friends and readers of this blog coming over just to go on major food tripping sessions. For a list of most of the restaurants in the area, check out Maginhawa: The Eat Street.

quezon city food festival maginhawa

Food stalls will be set up along the street, and participating restaurants will open their doors to visitors. There’s no entrance fee, but 5,000 lucky visitors will be given special gift certificates and a commemorative plate which they can redeem at participating Maginhawa establishments. Take note that there are over 80 restaurants in the area and 120 exhibitors (and counting). Come hungry! :p

Here’s a handy FAQ prepared by the people behind the QC Food Festival. (Click image for larger view). For updates, like Quezon City Food Festival on Facebook.

FAQ QC Food Festival in Maginhawa

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70th Shinyo Maru Commemoration in Sindangan

On September 7, 1944, the Japanese warship SS Shinyo Maru was sailing for Manila. The vessel was one of the “Hell Ships” used by the Imperial Japanese Navy and Army to transport Allied prisoners from the Philippines to elsewhere in the Japanese empire. Unaware that it was carrying 750 prisoners of war, mostly American survivors, the American submarine USS Paddle SS263, which was tasked to search for the Japanese ship, attacked it. The US submarine torpedoed the Shinyo Maru about a mile or two away from Sindangan point in Zamboanga del Norte. Of the 83 prisoners of war who made it to the shore, one died after they came ashore and was buried on the hill of the town of Sindangan. The 82 remaining survivors were cared for by the locals of Sindangan.

70th shinyo maru commemoration 05

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Ford EcoSport Mystery Case Media Drive

Racing against the clock in the traffic-congested streets of Manila in the rain (during rush hour!) sounds like one of my worst nightmares. Especially in a scenario where I don’t own the vehicle and have just signed a waiver stating I will be liable for damages. The cryptic invitation for the Ford EcoSport Mystery Case had media racing around the city following clues ala Amazing Race. Though I drive a motorcycle and a (very old manual) car, I’m not exactly the racing type when it comes to SUVs.

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