Living on “Mount Urban Deca Tower EDSA”: When Home Becomes a Daily Climb

 

When Home Starts to Feel Like a Mountain

A day in my life at Urban Deca Tower EDSA—or as I jokingly call it now, Mount Urban Deca.

Since December 2025 until January 2026, residents have been forced to climb stairs every single day. Out of four fast elevators, only one is working. Imagine the reality: residents, guests, and Airbnb tenants spread across 42 floors, all struggling just to get home.

The “mount” part is a joke—but only because laughing is sometimes the only way to survive the frustration. In reality, this isn’t funny at all.

🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

A Problem That Keeps Coming Back

This elevator issue is not new.

I’ve lived here for almost 10 years, and this has become a repeating cycle. Different management companies come and go, but the same problem returns—broken elevators, long waits, and no permanent solution.

What makes it even harder to accept is this:

this condo doesn’t even have many amenities. No pool. No luxury extras. The elevator is one of the few essential services we actually pay monthly dues for—and yet it’s the one that constantly fails.

The Silence Is the Loudest Part

What hurts the most is the silence.

A new management came in, and still—no clear action plan, no transparency, just complaints piling up. It’s exhausting. It’s stressful. And over time, it makes you feel invisible as a resident.

Sometimes I find myself asking a painful question:

Do we really have to wait for a medical emergency before something changes?

Because that’s honestly where this situation is heading.

Fire Exits Are Not Stairways

If I were to report to work daily, I’d have to climb 15 floors up and down using the fire exit.

Anyone who understands building safety knows this:

fire exits are not designed for daily use.

• Poor ventilation
• Low oxygen
• Physically demanding, especially for the elderly, children, or people with medical conditions

Yet here we are—using them like normal stairways because we have no choice.

This Is No Longer Just an Inconvenience

This isn’t about being dramatic.

This isn’t about “arte lang.”

This is now a safety issue.

It’s physical exhaustion.

It’s emotional burnout.

It’s paying for a home that slowly turns into a daily test of patience and endurance.

I’m tired.

And I know I’m not the only one.

High-Rise Living Should Not Feel Like Punishment

Living in a high-rise condo should not feel like you’re being punished for going home.

Basic services should not feel like a privilege.

A home is supposed to give rest—not demand strength every single day.

Until then, welcome to Mount Urban Deca—where every return home feels like another climb.

Incense Burner Made From Bronze — Perfect for Rituals and Spiritual Awakening

 

As someone who constantly seeks balance, grounding, and spiritual connection—especially while living the micro-living lifestyle—I'm always on the lookout for tools that elevate my rituals. Recently, I added a new favorite to my collection: a Bronze Alloy Incense Burner that I bought from Shopee for only ₱259.

This beautifully crafted burner instantly caught my attention, not only because of its intricate design but also because it perfectly fits my small space. Living in a compact unit means I need items that are functional, sturdy, and space-efficient—and this one checks all the boxes.

🌿 Why I Bought It

I’ve always believed that incense burning is a powerful way to cleanse your energy, invite positivity, and awaken your spiritual senses. My old clay cauldron from Marinduque served me well, but I wanted something more durable and visually striking—something that looks mystical and feels intentional.

This bronze incense burner is exactly that. It’s perfect for burning incense coils, sticks, sandalwood powder, and even grains—making it a versatile addition to my cleansing tools.

⭐ Pros

• ✔ Sturdy & Long-lasting

Because it's made of zinc alloy, this burner feels solid and strong. It’s something that will last years, even with frequent spiritual use.

• ✔ Aesthetic & Mystical

The design is what truly captivated me. With detailed carvings and a metallic finish, it instantly adds a mystical vibe to any altar or corner of your home. It makes me feel more connected during my rituals—like my spiritual tools are truly extensions of my intentions.

• ✔ Perfect Size for Small Spaces

Not too big, not too small. It fits perfectly on my altar table without cluttering my micro-living setup.

⚠️ Cons

• ❗ It Heats Up Quickly

This is the biggest difference compared to my clay cauldron. Since the burner is made of metal, it becomes hot easily.

You cannot carry it with your bare hands to scatter the smoke—unless gusto mo masunog! I use a towel or cloth para safe. Unlike clay, metal conducts heat, so always be cautious.

• ❗ Some Sharp Edges

Because it’s zinc alloy, there might be sharp parts around the legs or edges. Handle with care when opening the lid or moving it around.

🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

🧘 My Takeaway

I might explore ceramic or clay incense burners again in the future, especially for usability. But for now, I’m completely in love with this bronze piece. It elevates the energy of my rituals, adds character to my altar, and makes me feel more grounded and connected.

For only ₱259, it’s definitely worth it.

🎇 Product Description (for your reference)

• Suitable for incense sticks, coils, sandalwood grains, and powders
• Best for incense coils with a diameter of 6.5–7 cm
• Includes fireproof cotton (silver side down, black side up) for safety
• Color and texture may vary slightly

CAUTION: Handle with care due to heat and potential sharp parts

If you also love cleansing rituals or want something that adds a spiritual touch to your home, this incense burner is a beautiful choice. Let me know if you want a review vlog about using it—I’d love to share more!

Where To Buy :

• Shopee
• Lazada
• Tiktok

✨ Namaste, Tansyong Lovers!

𝙑𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙧 : 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙏𝙤 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙮 𝙞𝙣 𝘽𝙖𝙡𝙞, 𝙄𝙣𝙙𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙖 ? - Pandawa Beach HomeStay

The hot swimming pool. 

 For today’s travel vlog, I’m bringing you along on a Villa Tour in the heart of Bali, Indonesia! 🌴✨ If you’re looking for a place that blends comfort, style, and the perfect tropical vibe, then Pandawa Beach Home Stay might just be your next dream stay.

This villa offers a cozy yet elegant escape, with a serene ambiance that lets you fully embrace the island life. Whether you’re here to relax by the pool, explore Bali’s stunning beaches, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings, this home stay has everything you need for a memorable getaway.

Stay tuned as I walk you through the villa’s interiors, amenities, and the overall experience of staying here in Bali. Perfect for couples, families, or even solo travelers who want both comfort and authenticity in their Bali adventure.

🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

From Denpasar Airport, I was picked up and brought to Pandawa Beach Homestay, which is about a 45–60 minute drive. Pandawa is located more in the countryside, away from Bali’s busy city proper, making it a much quieter and more peaceful place. Since I arrived at the airport around 1 AM from NAIA, I decided to book the car pickup service offered by the homestay for my safety. It cost me around ₱3,000, on top of my accommodation fee. While there are more affordable options like motorcycle-hailing apps such as Gojek, or even the motorcycle queue outside the airport, I opted for the more convenient and safer car pickup service.

When I arrived at Pandawa Beach Homestay, the area was already dark and quiet—most of the stores were closed, and there was no food available nearby. Good thing I had the GrabFood app installed, and I was relieved to discover that it also works in Indonesia. That night, my food was delivered right to the homestay, and it was my first time trying authentic Indonesian Mi Goreng. After that satisfying meal, I went straight to bed, though I only managed to sleep for about four hours before waking up early at 7 AM.

The accommodation included a free breakfast as part of my overnight stay. In the morning, I headed to their common dining area where guests could order food. My breakfast set came with bread, eggs, fruits, and coffee. Since I’m used to the Philippines where food servings have become noticeably smaller due to inflation, I decided to order extra—Nasi Goreng and a glass of fresh juice—on top of the free meal. To my surprise, the serving sizes were huge and very affordable! The Nasi Goreng was so generous that I couldn’t even finish it all. This was such a big difference compared to the portions back home. I ended up packing the leftovers and storing them in the fridge, which worked out perfectly because checkout wasn’t until 12 noon. That meant I still had delicious food to eat before leaving the homestay.

After finishing my breakfast, I headed to the pool to relax by the side, wander around, and soak in the serene atmosphere of Pandawa Beach Homestay. The place reminded me of the provinces in the Philippines, but with a unique tropical vibe that made the experience even more refreshing

They also offer motorbike rentals, giving you the freedom to explore Bali at your own pace. Just keep in mind that the rental fee covers only the bike, while fuel and other expenses will be on your account.

One of the staff from the accommodation suggested that I should at least make a quick visit to Pandawa Beach. She was kind enough to offer me a ride on a motorbike, since the beach is just a few minutes away from where I stayed

By the way, the word pintu in Bali is the same as pinto in Filipino—both mean ‘door.’ A fun little language connection I discovered during my stay!

Interestingly, the word buka in Bali also means ‘to open,’ which is the same in Filipino. It’s amazing how some words connect our languages despite the distance.

🍽️ Another Food Review: Tapsulit Pembo Branch Taguig – Filipino Comfort Food Delivered!

 If you’ve been craving classic Filipino food, this is for you! Recently, I discovered that Tapsulit—a well-loved Filipino food franchise—opened a new branch in Pembo, Taguig (Block 190 Lot 1 Hudyat St. Taguig 1630). Naturally, as a curious foodie, I couldn’t resist ordering a feast via GrabFood.

To make it even more exciting, I redeemed my BPI Rewards points—so everything came FREE. Talk about a perfect treat!

Let me share what I ordered and my honest impressions of each dish:

🥘 Crispy Liempo Kare-Kare – PHP 239

This was the star of my order. The crispy liempo was perfectly golden, with a satisfying crunch on every bite. Underneath, the rich, creamy peanut sauce hugged tender vegetables, creating that authentic kare-kare flavor we all grew up loving. Pro tip: don’t skip the bagoong on the side—it elevates every spoonful!

🐟 Bangus Belly Spanish Style – PHP 169

A true surprise. This Bangus Belly was soaked in a flavorful Spanish-style oil with garlic and herbs. The fish was tender and flaky, not greasy. I loved how the subtle spices balanced the natural richness of the bangus. A must-try for seafood lovers.

🥟 Shanghai Rolls (Pork Lumpia) – PHP 199

I’m always excited about lumpia Shanghai, and these didn’t disappoint. They were packed with finely minced pork, carrots, and seasonings, rolled in a crispy wrapper. Dipping them in the sweet chili sauce made them even more addictive. Perfect merienda , pulutan or ulam!

🍲 Papaitang Baka – PHP 169

This is for those who enjoy classic Ilocano flavors. The Papaitang Baka had a hearty, slightly bitter broth that paired beautifully with tender beef cuts and innards. It’s definitely an acquired taste—but if you appreciate authentic regional dishes, you’ll love this one.

🍳 Luncheon Silog – PHP 119

Who doesn’t love silog? This plate came with a slice of savory luncheon meat, garlic fried rice, and a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg. Simple, nostalgic, and budget-friendly—ideal for a quick breakfast or anytime comfort food.

💸 Verdict 

Overall, everything was flavorful, fresh, and packaged neatly for delivery. I also appreciate that the portions were generous—definitely sulit! If you’re in Taguig and want to enjoy comforting Filipino meals at home, I recommend giving Tapsulit Pembo Branch a try.

Plus, if you’re a BPI cardholder, don’t forget to check your rewards—you might have free food waiting for you too!

✨ Watch my full unboxing and taste test video on the blog!

📍 Tapsulit Pembo Branch – Block 190 Lot 1 Hudyat St., Taguig, 1630

📲 Ordered via GrabFood

🎉 FREE Korean & Japanese Food via BPI Rewards! | Seoul Chicken House, Boni Ave. Mandaluyong 🇰🇷

 Yes, you read that right—FREE food from one of my favorite Asian fusion spots in Mandaluyong, all thanks to my BPI Rewards points! If you're a foodie like me who loves scoring delicious meals without spending a peso, this one's for you.

🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

During one of my usual GrabFood scroll sessions, I stumbled upon Seoul Korean Chicken House, located at Paz Building, 705 Boni Ave., Mandaluyong City. I’ve heard good things about their Korean-Japanese fusion menu, so I figured—why not redeem my BPI points and treat myself?

Here’s what I ordered and my honest thoughts on each dish:

🍱 Chicken Katsudon – ₱200

Classic, comforting, and surprisingly authentic for a delivery order!

This dish features a crispy chicken cutlet topped with a soft egg and served over warm white rice. The sauce had that sweet and savory balance you’d expect from a good katsudon.

The chicken was cooked perfectly—crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and it still held its texture even after delivery. This one hit the spot, especially for fans of Japanese comfort food.

✅ Verdict: Worth every point. A filling, flavorful dish that makes a great lunch or dinner go-to!

🐙 Octobits Takoyaki (16 pcs) – ₱140

These bite-sized takoyaki balls were a fun surprise.

They were filled with tiny octopus bits, topped with bonito flakes, mayo, and that signature takoyaki sauce. I love that they served it in generous portions—16 pieces, perfect for sharing (or not!).

The flavor was on point—not too doughy, with a nice chewy center and crisp outer layer. Great for snacking while binge-watching your favorite K-dramas!

✅ Verdict: Delightful and addictive. If you love takoyaki, this is a must-try!

🍗 12 pcs Korean Wings – ₱410 (Premium Honey Butter )

Now this was the showstopper!

I ordered the Premium Honey Butter , and both flavors were absolutely mouthwatering.

The honey butter had that sweet, creamy flavor that coated each wing without being overly sticky. Meanwhile, the Louisiana BBQ was tangy, slightly spicy, and rich in flavor—think smoky with a kick!

These wings were crispy, juicy, and saucy, just the way Korean fried chicken should be.

✅ Verdict: Premium price, but premium taste. Totally worth redeeming your rewards for!

🧡  Food That’s Free and Flavorful!

I can’t believe I got all this amazing food for FREE—just by redeeming BPI Rewards points through GrabFood. This isn’t just a food haul, it’s a life hack for every BPI cardholder who hasn’t explored the rewards section yet.

Seoul Chicken House truly delivered on flavor, portion size, and presentation. Whether you're craving Korean fried chicken, takoyaki, or a comforting katsudon bowl, this place has it all—and it’s just along Boni Avenue!

• 📍 Location: Seoul Chicken House, Paz Building, 705 Boni Ave., Mandaluyong City
• 📱 Order via GrabFood
• 💳 Paid with BPI Rewards Points (aka Free Food!)

✅ Don’t Let Your BPI Points Expire—Use Them for Food Delivery!

If you’ve got BPI credit or debit cards, check your rewards balance now. You might be one redemption away from your next FREE meal!

FREE FOOD Using BPI Rewards! 😋 | GrabFood x Best Friends, Boni Ave. Mandaluyong 🇵🇭

Can you really enjoy your favorite Filipino comfort food without spending a single peso? The answer is a big YES—thanks to my unused BPI Rewards points, I was able to redeem delicious Pinoy dishes from Best Friends Diner along Boni Avenue, Mandaluyong, all delivered conveniently via GrabFood.  

 I was honestly just looking for something warm and comforting after a stressful workweek—and this experience turned out to be so much more than just a free meal. It brought back nostalgic feelings of home, of being welcomed by a home-cooked meal from someone who cares. Think: “Luto ni Lola” vibes in every bite. 🥹💖

  🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

Here’s a rundown of what I ordered and my honest review of each:

🍲 Sinigang na Baboy – ₱319

This was the true highlight of my meal. Priced reasonably at ₱319, I’d say this serving is good for at least three to four people.

The broth had that perfectly balanced asim-tamis flavor, with a slightly oily finish that I actually found comforting—it felt rich and indulgent. After a long, draining day, that first sip of the sabaw honestly melted my stress away.

The pork used in the Sinigang was liempo, layered with skin, fat, and tender meat, which made each bite incredibly satisfying. It was soft, melt-in-the-mouth, and clearly boiled to perfection. The vegetables were generously added too: kangkong (water spinach), eggplant, okra, and even some Chinese cabbage, giving the dish a nice earthy texture.

✅ VERDICT: A bowl of pure comfort. Perfect whether you're coming home from work or nursing a hangover. A must-try!

🍗 Whole Fried Chicken – ₱552

Next up is the Whole Fried Chicken, and let me just say—this isn’t your typical fried chicken. I asked them to have it pre-cut into bite-sized pieces, and it arrived hot and ready to eat.

The aroma when I opened the container immediately caught my attention—it smelled like it had been infused with lemongrass, star anise, and what I think might be banana blossoms. Very aromatic and uniquely Filipino.

It tasted like the chicken was first boiled or steamed, then deep-fried, which gave it a crispy skin without the excess oil. The meat inside was tender and juicy, and every bite was packed with flavor—not bland or over-fried.

✅ VERDICT: Flavorful, fragrant, and thoughtfully prepared. Worth the price for a whole chicken that feels festive and comforting.

🐟 Daing na Bangus – ₱138

To complete the meal, I added Daing na Bangus to the order. At ₱138, this was a budget-friendly addition that made the meal feel even more traditional.

The bangus was crispy on the outside, flavorful, and didn’t taste overly oily or salty. Just the way I like it—simple and very nostalgic. It reminded me of breakfasts at home during weekends growing up.

✅ VERDICT: Great value, great flavor. Simple but definitely soul-satisfying.

🏠 The Overall Experience: Food That Feels Like Home

Eating these dishes from Best Friends Diner was like stepping back into my childhood home. It reminded me of times when my grandmother would cook us hearty meals, the type that warms not just your stomach, but your soul.

If you’re like me and need a little break from the chaos of life—this kind of food brings comfort in a way no fast-food combo meal ever could. It’s perfect for when you’re stressed, tired, or just missing home.

And the best part? It didn’t cost me a thing.

I simply redeemed my BPI Rewards points through GrabFood, and boom—free delivery, free comfort food, and a heart full of warmth.

 Use Those Points, You Deserve It!

If you have BPI Rewards points just sitting in your account, don’t let them go to waste. Use them for food delivery and treat yourself to something that reminds you of home.

This is not just a budget hack, it's also a form of self-care. Good food, good memories, and zero guilt.

💻 Ergonomics Upgrade for My #WorkFromHome Setup | Laptop Arm Mount & Tray from Lazada

Working from home means spending long hours in front of a screen, and I realized my desk setup needed a serious ergonomics upgrade. In this episode of my vlog, I’m sharing my latest #WorkFromHome transformation—unboxing and installing the North Bayou F80 Monitor Desktop Mount and the True Vision Laptop Steel Bracket Holder that I purchased from Lazada. 

If you’re someone who sits for extended hours and wants to improve comfort, productivity, and posture, these affordable Lazada finds might just be the upgrade your home office needs .  

  🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

Why I Chose This Ergonomics Upgrade 

I’ve been using a standard laptop stand for months, but my neck and shoulders were starting to feel the strain. That’s when I decided to switch to a laptop arm mount and tray setup—not only does it save desk space, but it also helps me adjust my screen height to eye level, reducing unnecessary stress on my body.

What’s in the Box?

Here’s what I unboxed and reviewed in my video:

• North Bayou F80 Monitor Desktop Mount
• Supports 17-27” LCD monitors
• Full motion swivel, tilt, and rotation
• Heavy-duty gas spring design for smooth movement
• Perfect for creating a dual-monitor setup when paired with a laptop tray

True Vision Laptop Steel Bracket Holder

• Fits 10”-15.6” laptops
• Made of durable steel with anti-slip pads
• Easily attaches to the monitor arm, transforming it into a flexible laptop mount

Installation & First Impressions

The installation was straightforward thanks to the clear instructions included in the package. What I love most is the smooth motion and flexibility of the North Bayou F80. I can now adjust my monitor and laptop with just one hand, which makes switching between tasks effortless.

The True Vision laptop tray feels sturdy and gives me enough airflow underneath my laptop to prevent overheating—something I’ve always struggled with during long editing sessions.

Why This Upgrade is a Game-Changer

Ergonomics is not just about aesthetics—it’s about health, productivity, and efficiency. Since upgrading, I’ve noticed less tension in my neck and shoulders, and I feel more organized with the extra desk space.

Where to Buy These Lazada Finds?

If you’re ready to level up your home office setup, check these out:

• North Bayou F80 Monitor Desktop Mount (17-27” LCD Monitors) – [Available on Lazada]
• True Vision Laptop Steel Bracket Holder (10”-15.6” Laptops) – [Available on Lazada]

This simple yet powerful upgrade has completely transformed the way I work from home. If you’re planning a WFH desk makeover or just want to improve your posture and comfort, I highly recommend giving these Lazada products a try.

Don’t forget to watch my full video where I show the unboxing, installation process, and my honest review. And of course, hit like, comment, and subscribe for more tech unboxings, WFH tips, and Lazada finds!

Unboxing New 43L American Heritage Electric Convection Oven with Rotisserie | Lazada Philippines Haul

Welcome back to my #UnboxingVlog, Tansyong Lovers! Today, I’m super excited to share with you my latest kitchen upgrade—the American Heritage 43L Electric Convection Oven with Rotisserie. I purchased this amazing appliance from Lazada Philippines for only ₱3,200, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer for home cooking lovers like me!  

✅ Why I Decided to Get This Oven

During the pandemic, I discovered my passion for home cooking. From baking pastries to roasting chicken, I realized my small kitchen needed an upgrade. My old oven just wasn’t cutting it anymore—too small and limited in function. So, I started searching for something that would give me bigger capacity, multiple functions, and durability—without breaking the bank. That’s when I stumbled upon this 43L American Heritage Convection Oven on Lazada, and it checked all the boxes!

  🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

📦 Unboxing: What’s Inside the Box?

When I opened the box, here’s what I found:

• 43L Electric Oven with Rotisserie Function
• Rotisserie Fork (perfect for roasting whole chicken)
• Grill Rack and Baking Tray
• Pan Handle for easy removal
• Instruction Manual & Warranty Card

Everything was well-packed and secure, and I appreciated that it came with all the essentials to start cooking right away!

🔍 First Impressions & Design

The oven looks sleek and modern with its black powder-coated finish and tempered safety glass door. It’s sturdy yet stylish enough to sit beautifully on your countertop. I also love that it has easy-to-turn control knobs, making it user-friendly for beginners and pros alike.

🔑 Key Features That Stand Out

Here’s why I’m obsessed with this oven:

✔ 43-Liter Capacity – Big enough to fit two whole chickens at once, perfect for family gatherings.

✔ Three Heating Modes – Lower heating for bottom heat, upper heating for top heat, and dual heating for even cooking.

✔ Rotisserie Function – A must-have for crispy, evenly roasted meat.

✔ Up to 250°C Temperature – Ideal for baking cakes, pizzas, and roasting meat.

✔ 60-Minute Timer – With auto shut-off, so you can cook without worries.

✔ Energy-Saving Function – Helps reduce electricity consumption.

✔ Easy Cleaning – Comes with a removable tray and non-toxic, heat-resistant materials.

🍗 What I Plan to Cook

First on my list? Rotisserie Chicken—that’s a no-brainer! After that, I’ll definitely try baking bread, cookies, and even homemade pizza. This oven is perfect for baking, roasting, grilling, and even reheating food. So, expect more recipe vlogs coming soon!

• Price: ₱3,200
• Brand: American Heritage
• Model: AHOT-6099
• Power: 1600W | 230V ~ 60Hz

For its price point and features, the American Heritage 43L Electric Convection Oven with Rotisserie is absolutely worth it! It’s spacious, functional, and perfect for people living in condos or micro-living spaces who still want to enjoy cooking like a pro.

If you’re looking for an affordable yet high-quality convection oven in the Philippines, this is definitely a great option.

💡 TIP: Low-Cost Video Light for New Vloggers and YouTubers in the Philippines

Are you a new vlogger or aspiring YouTuber trying to step up your video quality without spending too much? You're not alone! When I started my own content creation journey, I used to rely on natural light or—let's be honest—my phone’s built-in flash. 😅 It worked okay at first, but I knew I had to improve my lighting setup to really make my content pop.

After doing a bit of research and testing different options, I finally found a budget-friendly video light that works surprisingly well, especially for beginners in the Philippines. Whether you're filming sit-down vlogs, unboxings, makeup tutorials, or even product reviews, proper lighting makes all the difference—and you don’t need to shell out thousands of pesos to get it right.

  🎥 WATCH THE VLOG

🔦 Why Lighting Matters

Good lighting:

• Makes your videos look more professional
• Helps highlight your facial expressions and products
• Reduces grain/noise in low-light shots
• Keeps your viewers more engaged

✅ My Recommendation: Affordable Video Light for Beginners

I personally picked up a USB-powered LED panel light from an online marketplace like Lazada or Shopee for under ₱500. Here’s why it works:

• Adjustable brightness and color temperature
• Compact and portable, perfect for micro-living setups
• Can be mounted on tripods, ring light stands, or even clipped onto a desk
• Great for indoor filming, even during nighttime or cloudy days

If you’re on a tight budget, you can also repurpose clip-on desk lamps with daylight bulbs as a DIY alternative!

💡 Pro Tip: Maximize What You Have

If you can’t invest in multiple lights just yet:

• Use reflective surfaces (like white foam boards or walls) to bounce light
• Position your light source in front of you (not behind) to avoid harsh shadows
• Film during daytime and use natural light by a window whenever possible

Starting your vlogging journey doesn’t have to cost a lot. With just a small investment in lighting, you can instantly elevate your video quality and make your content stand out. Remember, you don’t need the most expensive gear to be a great creator—you just need the right tools, smart tips, and a lot of passion.

✨ If this helped you, check out my vlog where I demonstrate how I use my new lighting setup at home—and don’t forget to like, comment your setup tips, and subscribe for more content creation hacks!

Review: "Liwanag sa Dilim" Musical – A Modern Twist on a Classic Tale

 

The Month of March 2025 shines bright with the debut of Liwanag sa Dilim Musical, an original Filipino production that was long delayed due to the pandemic. With years in the making, this musical features the iconic songs of Rico Blanco and is directed by Robbie Guevara, the artistic director of 9 Works Theatrical.

As a millennial, Rico Blanco's music holds a special place in my heart. His songs are deeply familiar, making it easy to connect with the musical’s narrative. While I found myself wanting to sing along, theater etiquette reminded me that silence is golden — a small but necessary sacrifice to fully appreciate the show.

🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

The Story

Liwanag sa Dilim follows the journey of Elesi, an orphan who embarks on a quest to uncover his past. Along the way, he befriends Cris, and together they champion the oppressed and underprivileged. While the plot draws inspiration from Noli Me Tangere, the clever modern twists kept me engaged and added surprising layers to the story.

Despite initial doubts when I noticed the Spanish colonial-era costumes — giving off "school play" vibes — I was pleasantly surprised. The adaptation modernized Rizal's themes, and Rico Blanco’s songs, including English classics like "You'll Be Safe Here" and "214", were integrated seamlessly without compromising the story’s authenticity.

Production and Design

In terms of production, expectations should be tempered. The show relies heavily on digital backdrops rather than elaborate stage designs. While some may prefer grand sets, I commend the digital editors for creating visual aids that effectively enhanced the storytelling. Scene transitions were rapid, typically lasting only a second or two, maintaining the show's fast-paced momentum. Although this minimalist approach contrasts starkly with immersive productions like Rak of Aegis, the simplicity still managed to deliver the narrative effectively.

The costume design, lighting, and sound played crucial roles in setting the tone. While not extravagant, they supported the story well and maintained a consistent aesthetic throughout the performance.

The Cast

The cast boasts notable talents such as Khalil Ramos, Anthony Rosaldo, Vien King, CJ Navato, Alexa Ilacad, and Nicole Omillo, among others. True to Filipino talent, their vocal performances were nothing short of impressive. The entire ensemble proved that musical prowess runs deep in Philippine culture, making each song emotionally charged and captivating.

A standout moment for me was an unexpected three-second scene featuring a real dog. While brief, this moment left a lasting impression — a small yet memorable touch that tied back beautifully to the storyline later on. It was an ingenious addition that added depth to the narrative.

The Experience

Due to budget constraints, my friends and I booked balcony seats priced at PHP 2,200 each. While more premium options ranged from PHP 3,400 to PHP 3,900, our seats still provided a good view of the stage. We purchased our tickets via ticket2me.net a month in advance.

On show night, we arrived early at the CPR Auditorium at RCBC Plaza in Makati City, a versatile venue that hosts musicals, operas, and business functions. The anticipation built as we posed for photos in front of the striking Liwanag sa Dilim backdrop before claiming our physical tickets from the booth.

TAKEAWAYS: 

Liwanag sa Dilim exceeded my initial expectations. What began with a "school play" impression evolved into a well-crafted production that blended historical themes with modern storytelling. The seamless integration of Rico Blanco’s songs, the clever use of a real dog for emotional impact, and the committed performances of the cast all contributed to a memorable experience.

While the production may lack immersive set designs seen in other Filipino musicals, its powerful storytelling and musical charm more than make up for it. Congratulations to 9 Works Theatrical, the cast, and the entire production team for delivering a heartfelt and impactful show.