A Scenic Drive from BGC to Ortigas via the Kalayaan Bridge.

Taking the drive from Bonifacio Global City (BGC) to Ortigas is no longer the traffic-filled ordeal it once was, thanks to the new Kalayaan Bridge. This elevated bridge has turned the once lengthy and congested journey into a scenic and pleasant experience, offering stunning views of the metro skyline as it spans the Pasig River. This route now brings commuters through a beautifully designed structure that showcases modern urban infrastructure with sweeping panoramic views. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, the drive itself feels like a brief but immersive city tour.

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As you cross the Kalayaan Bridge, the views of the city open up beautifully. The bridge sits high above the water, allowing drivers to see both the Makati and Ortigas skylines, especially stunning around sunrise or sunset. You can see Manila's vibrant cityscape sprawling on either side, with high-rises and buildings dotting the horizon. On a clear day, the reflections off the Pasig River add a natural charm that contrasts with the city’s bustling vibe. Many drivers have even taken to slowing down—safely, of course—to savor the view, making this one of Metro Manila's few drives that people genuinely look forward to.

This quick route not only improves traffic flow but also enhances the driving experience for those traveling between these business districts. For commuters who once dreaded the time-consuming detours, this bridge has become a game-changer, making travel more efficient and enjoyable. The route has transformed the journey between BGC and Ortigas from a simple commute into a scenic, memorable experience that captures the energy and vibrancy of Metro Manila.

Discovering Gogodak Korean Chicken Shaw Branch: A Flavorful Adventure

 RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

After we attended the Pride Parade on June 22,2024 , the said program was cut short due to heavy rain, my friend Joy Abarico and I decided to grab our dinner and we embarked on a culinary adventure to the Gogodak Korean Chicken Shaw Branch. Nestled in a bustling area along Shaw Blvd, San Antonio, Pasig City , this eatery has quickly become a favorite among locals for its delicious Korean cuisine. As soon as we arrived, we were greeted by the inviting aroma of various restaurants around the area. Aside from the rainy night, we managed to walk and locate the place. Our eyes were immediately drawn to the Friend Share combo on the menu, a delightful assortment of three flavorful Korean chicken varieties, pickled radish, and a small botle soft drink, all for the reasonable price of PHP 599. It was the perfect choice for our dining experience.

The Friend Share combo did not disappoint. Each chicken flavor was distinct and mouthwatering, providing a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and savory goodness. The pickled radish added a refreshing crunch that complemented the rich flavors of the chicken. I have tasted the three flavors - cheese , BBQ and sweet & sour.  The combo was more than enough for the two of us, making it a great value for money. We even divided it equally and got some to bring back home. To complete my meal, I ordered a side of rice for PHP 25 and decided to try the Egg Ramyun for PHP 139, hoping for a comforting bowl of soup to round out the meal. However, the Egg Ramyun tasted like an instant grocery-bought ramyun, lacking the depth and authenticity I had hoped for.

Despite the disappointing Egg Ramyun, our overall experience at Gogodak Korean Chicken Shaw Branch was incredibly satisfying. The Friend Share combo alone is worth a visit, offering a delicious and affordable taste of Korean cuisine. For those craving authentic flavors, this place is a must-try. I suggest to use food delivery service like Food Panda or Grab Food as the establishment have 2-3 available tables to occupy. Well, it is open 24 hours for delivery and dine in.  If you find yourself in the area, I highly recommend stopping by and indulging in their delectable chicken dishes since it is just 10 minutes walk from Crossing. Whether you're a Korean food enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Gogodak Korean Chicken is sure to leave your taste buds wanting more.

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Escapade in Cambridge Village, Pasig City (Ft. Jaymie Lee & Mikki Labastida)

 Last weekend, I had the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and dive into a refreshing adventure in Cambridge Village, Pasig City. My friends Jaymie Lee and I were invited by our officemate, Mikki Labastida, to his cozy condo unit, where we had the perfect getaway. The highlight of our day was undoubtedly the swimming pools. The serene environment and crystal-clear water offered the ideal setting for relaxation and fun. Whether we were floating lazily on the water or engaging in playful water games, the experience was rejuvenating and filled with joy.

Our escapade wasn't just about swimming; it was about creating memories with great company. As we lounged by the poolside, we shared stories, laughed heartily, and enjoyed the beautiful amenities Cambridge Village has to offer. The atmosphere was vibrant yet calming, making it the perfect spot for a quick city escape. This day reminded me of the importance of taking a break and spending quality time with friends. If you're looking for a hidden gem in Pasig City to unwind and have a great time, I highly recommend visiting Cambridge Village. It was truly a day well spent, and I can't wait for our next adventure!

🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

📌 How to Go to Tiendesitas, Pasig City and What To Expect There?

Tiendesitas sits on a 30,000 square meter area within Frontera Verde, which houses 12 Maranao architecture-inspired pavilions called "villages." Indigenous materials used in creative ways adorn these villages using chemically-treated cogon grass for roof, old kalesa wheels into chandelier frames to light the restrooms, and duyans (hammock) scattered around to allow shortbreaks amidst frenzied shopping activities. The result is a stylized and unique Filipino architecture. The design of the complex also gives attention to the needs of the disabled and the elderly.

Sizzling Tokwa, perfect as Pultutan.

At night, shoppers can be treated to acoustic and live band performances. There is also an area dedicated to special shows, exhibits, and unique Filipino presentations. Kids and adults can also enjoy riding the kalesa, which goes around Tiendesitas.

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Commuting Routes: courtesy of Ph-commute

🗺️From Makati:

🚙Route 1: MRT-Jeep 

1. Take the MRT to Shaw Boulevard station.
2. Walk to the Edsa Central jeep terminal.
3. Ride a jeep to Ugong, Pasig, and get off at Tiendesitas.

🚙Route 2: MRT-Jeep/FX

1. Take the MRT to Ortigas station.
2. Walk to Megamall.
3. Ride a jeep/FX or walk to Robinson's Galleria.
4. From the Ortigas entrance of Robinson's Galleria, ride a jeep to Rosario, and get off at IPI (Ortigas Avenue cor. Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue). Landmark is a flyover.
5. Walk along Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue (on the side of IPI), until you get to Tiendesitas. You will also pass by Republic Cement and Road C.

🚙Route 3: FX-Jeep

1. From Buendia, ride the FX to Robinson's Galleria.
2. From the Ortigas entrance of Robinson's Galleria, ride a jeep to Rosario, and get off at IPI (Ortigas Avenue cor. Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue). Landmark is a flyover.
3. Walk along Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue (on the side of IPI), until you get to Tiendesitas. You will also pass by Republic Cement and Road C.

🗺️From Mandaluyong/Pasig:

🚙Route 1: MRT-Jeep

1. Take the MRT to Shaw Boulevard station.
2. Walk to the Edsa Central jeep terminal.
3. Ride a jeep to Ugong, Pasig, and get off at Tiendesitas.

🚙Route 2: MRT-Jeep/FX-Jeep

1. Take the MRT to Ortigas station.
2. Walk to Megamall.
3. Ride a jeep/FX or walk to Robinson's Galleria.
4. From the Ortigas entrance of Robinson's Galleria, ride a jeep to Rosario, and get off at IPI (Ortigas Avenue cor. Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue). Landmark is a flyover.
5. Walk along Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue (on the side of IPI), until you get to Tiendesitas. You will also pass by Republic Cement and Road C.

🗺️From Manila:
🚙Route 1: LRT-1/LRT-2/Jeep-MRT-Jeep

1. Go to MRT-Shaw Boulevard station. In order to get there, either:
2. Take the LRT-1 to EDSA station, walk through the connecting bridge, and take the MRT to Shaw Boulevard station.
3. Take the LRT-2 to Araneta-Center Cubao station, walk through the connecting bridge, and take the MRT to Shaw Boulevard station.
4. From Divisoria/Recto, ride a jeep to San Juan, and get off at Vicente Cruz/Pureza. Ride an FX to SM Megamall, and get off at Shaw Boulevard station.
5. Walk to the Edsa Central jeep terminal.
6. Ride a jeep to Ugong, Pasig, and get off at Tiendesitas.

🚙Route 2: LRT-1/LRT-2/Jeep-MRT-Jeep/FX-Jeep

1. Go to MRT-Ortigas station. In order to get there, either:
2. Take the LRT-1 to EDSA station, walk through the connecting bridge, and take the MRT to Ortigas station.
3. Take the LRT-2 to Araneta-Center Cubao station, walk through the connecting bridge, and take the MRT to Ortigas station.
4. From Divisoria/Recto, ride a jeep to San Juan, and get off at Vicente Cruz/Pureza. Ride an FX to SM Megamall, and get off at Ortigas station.
5. Walk to Megamall.
6. Ride a jeep/FX or walk to Robinson's Galleria.
7. From the Ortigas entrance of Robinson's Galleria, ride a jeep to Rosario, and get off at IPI (Ortigas Avenue cor. Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue). Landmark is a flyover.
8. Walk along Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue (on the side of IPI), until you get to Tiendesitas. You will also pass by Republic Cement and Road C.

🚙Route 3: Jeep-FX-Jeep/FX-Jeep

1. From Divisoria/Recto, ride a jeep to San Juan, and get off at Vicente Cruz/Pureza. Ride an FX to SM Megamall, and get off at SM Megamall.
2. Ride a jeep/FX or walk to Robinson's Galleria.
3. From the Ortigas entrance of Robinson's Galleria, ride a jeep to Rosario, and get off at IPI (Ortigas Avenue cor. Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue). Landmark is a flyover.
4. Walk along Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue (on the side of IPI), until you get to Tiendesitas. You will also pass by Republic Cement and Road C.

🚙Route 4: LRT-2/LRT-1/Jeep/FX-Jeep

1. Go to Cubao. In order to get there, either:
2. Take the LRT-2 to Araneta Center-Cubao station.
3. Take the LRT-1 to Doroteo Jose station, walk through the connecting bridge, and take the LRT-2 to Araneta Center-Cubao station.
4. From Divisoria or Taft, ride a jeep/FX to Cubao, and get off at LRT-2-Araneta Center-Cubao station.
5. Walk past Isetann and Aurora Arcade, and turn right at Gen. Romulo Avenue.
6. Ride the jeep to Libis/Rosario/De Castro and get off at Tiendesitas.

🗺️From Pasay:

🚙Route 1: LRT-1-MRT-Jeep

1. Take the LRT-1 to EDSA station, walk through the connecting bridge, and take the MRT to Shaw Boulevard station.
2. Walk to the Edsa Central jeep terminal.
3. Ride a jeep to Ugong, Pasig, and get off at Tiendesitas.

🚙Route 2: LRT-1-Jeep/FX-Jeep

1. Take the LRT-1 to EDSA station, walk through the connecting bridge, and take the MRT to Ortigas station.
2. Walk to Megamall.
3. Ride a jeep/FX or walk to Robinson's Galleria.
4. From the Ortigas entrance of Robinson's Galleria, ride a jeep to Rosario, and get off at IPI (Ortigas Avenue cor. Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue). Landmark is a flyover.
5. Walk along Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Avenue (on the side of IPI), until you get to Tiendesitas. You will also pass by Republic Cement and Road C.

🗺️From Quezon City:

1. Take the LRT-2 to Araneta Center-Cubao station.
2. Walk past Isetann and Aurora Arcade, and turn right at Gen. Romulo Avenue.
3. Ride the jeep to Libis/Rosario/De Castro and get off at Tiendesitas.

🗺️From San Juan:
From Greenhills, ride the free shuttle to Tiendesitas. The shuttle service terminal is in front of Mercury Drug across Connecticut carpark. The shuttle leaves every hour from 2pm to 8pm (according to http://www.greenhills.com.ph).

👨‍🍳 A Formal Cooking Show Turns Into a Comedy Vlog.

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After we finished distributing the goods to the street children along Roxas Boulevard in Malate, Manila; we – the Pinoys Heart Britney together with yours truly- headed towards Ortigas , Pasig City as William Pombo booked an overnight  room for us at Oakwood Premier Joy- Nostalg Hotel.  The said overnight stay-cation is a celebration for the success of “Why Don’t You Do Somethin’?- Charity event.

We arrived at 10PM in the hotel; the others were assigned to buy stuff for our dinner and the other half were assigned to cook. It was agreed that we’re gonna cook our dinner just to feel the celebration (YUNG TIPONG NAGHAHANDA which is a Filipino Culture). Well, it was crazy as I took advantage of the clean and pleasant kitchen of the hotel. I came up an idea of filming the cooking session of ROY (one of the Britney Armies). Honestly, it was actually my first time to meet these guys during the event (except William Pombo since he is my office-mate); and truly, cooking is really the best way for bonding and knowing them personally.

In fact, the planned-party became a cooking show and later on, turned into a comical vlog. Originally, I was just planning to create a formal cooking show just like Erwan Heussaff ‘s Youtube Channel but sadly, it became a hilarious content as everyone is punching a joke. The others were even disturbing us while filming.

🎬WATCH THE VIDEO HERE-

Undeniably, I should say that I love the companion of these guys. We’re all diverse and has different upbringing but the overnight stay-cation with them runs harmoniously – full of laughter and joy. Thank you guys for the experience and merry Christmas.

🎄 A Memorable Year-End Party with YouTube Vloggers Philippines 🎥

Photo courtesy of Paola Mae Torres‎

On December 10, 2017, I had the privilege of joining the year-end/Christmas party of YouTube Vloggers Philippines (#YTVPH), a vibrant community of passionate Pinoy content creators. Held at The Exchange Regency Hotel, Meralco Avenue, Ortigas, Pasig City, the event brought together aspiring YouTubers from different walks of life, creating an atmosphere filled with energy, creativity, and camaraderie.

The party, which ran from 11 AM to 3 PM, required a small entrance fee: PHP 400 for professionals and working creators, and PHP 250 for students. Despite being categorized as "small-time YouTubers" with zero to a few thousand subscribers, the participants exuded immense passion for their craft, evident in their dedication to producing and sharing amazing content online.

Gab Jornacion, one of the event organizers, encapsulated the spirit of the gathering when he said, “The good thing with small-time YouTubers with zero to thousands of subscribers is that we help each other grow. I can see how they started and how they became confident in their craft.”

The four-hour event was packed with exciting activities. Attendees enjoyed a variety of performances from talented YouTubers, including violinists, guitarists, and singers. Generous sponsors provided raffle prizes and giveaways, adding thrill to the celebration. To my delight, I won a 3D-2N free travel package to Ilocos—what an unexpected treat! The event also featured an array of delicious food and drinks, which we indulged in from the very start of the party.

The highlight of the celebration for me was meeting and mingling with fellow content creators. It was fascinating to witness everyone confidently engaging with their cameras, sharing stories, and exchanging tips. The sense of belongingness was undeniable—this group of “crazy” yet incredibly talented individuals truly felt like home.

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Joining the #YTVPH Christmas Party reminded me of why I ventured into content creation: the community, the shared passion, and the joy of storytelling. If you're a budding content creator or simply someone looking for a supportive group to fuel your creative pursuits, I highly encourage you to find your tribe. This event wasn’t just a party—it was a celebration of dreams, collaboration, and endless possibilities.

Here’s to more creative adventures in the coming year! 🎉

🍔 B&B: Burgers and Brewskies at Capitol Commons, Pasig City Review

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐

FOODS ( We opted their best-seller)

"Call the Nurse"

Price PHP280

Spiced mustard aioli, B and B cheese sauce, 1 layer of seared Mac and Cheese, and H3 strips of honey Sriracha Bacon

Michael Dantes was able to eat the whole burger. "Call the nurse" is the small version of "Call the ER (1/3 of beef Patty, 2 layers of Mac and Cheese, for strips of Sriracha Bacon) ".

"Flipped"
Price 215
Spiced mustard aioli, B&B cheese sause, roasted tomatoes and fried onion strings.
With its price Php 215 , Jay-ar De Vera was not able to consume the whole burger.


" Masarap naman , kaso busog lang talaga ako" he said. Then he just took out the "half" of it. "Nakakaumay kasi", he added.

The appearance of the burger looks like good yet the fried union is too many and it overpowers the patty and the cheese.

Neat

Price :Php 250

Roasted garlic aioli , cheese sauce, and onion confit

Miss Fritzie removed the toppings which is the onion confit.


"It is not advisable to put onions  on the top  " she said. She just consumed 1/4 of it. She said that onion if not her preference .

Kandi
PHP :php 265

Roasted Garlic aioli, Cheese sauce, onion confit and spiced candied Bacon

I really like the candied bacon , the sweetness of the bacon gave a balance taste of the whole burger.  Candied bacon is caramelized solidly and in every bite of the burger - there is a crispiness when you masticate.

"I suggest you guys to buy this"

Chicharon Bacon 

Price:250

Freshly brined thin slices of Pork belly, dusted with starch and fried crispy. Served with a sweet spicy vinegar dip.

This is advisable past time while you are waiting for your order. For 250 - its not worth it, the taste is too common , as common as street foods.

Accessibility.

B&B: Burger and Brewskies is situated at Capitol Commons , Pasig City which is 10 mins ride from Pioneer St. ( if the street is not congested).

Thou the place is a few kilometres away from the MRT station, the accessibility of the area could sometimes be a bit difficult specially if your not familiar with the place.

From North EDSA, you can either ride the MRT going to South or BUS ride which stops and/or passes Shaw Boulevard/Crossing Ibabaw. If your riding the MRT, go down at Shaw Boulevard Station. Ride a Jeep with a signage “Pasig Palengke” or “San Joaquin”  at the terminal located at the side of WCC infront of Starmall EDSA, Shaw Boulevard. Go down at “Kapitolyo Circle”, Capitol Commons is located at the left side, 

Landmarks: Circle, near Ynares Sports Center

Ambiance 

• Design : Very westernized indoor design.
• Ventilation : Superb. 
• Music : Playlist is acceptable but not latest.
• Service : total price is subject of 10 percent service fee.

Instead of using buckets for the ice, their tables are customized - intended for beers and drinks. What a clever idea.

HERE IS THE MENU

It seemed that this restaurant loves bacon . They even have a bacon shake.

Click here to enlarge the Menu

Click here to enlarge the Menu

Cleanliness 

It is essential in every food establishment . And so, I checked the wash room. It is clean so far.

Team Lamon ( Foods courtesy of Ralph Fernandez)

(Standing from left to right ) Cathy Penamora, Ralph Fernandez, Miss Sharon, Miss Fritzie Pintor , Jonathan Orbuda.

(Sitting from left to right) Jay-ar De Vera, Michael Santos, 

What I love about this establishment is their 1/3 lb 100 percent U.S. beef patties which made fresh everyday and cooked medium to preserve its tenderness and distinct flavor.