‘Silog’ breakfast meals that are Pinoy favorites
Don’t you just miss waking up to the sound of your mom making breakfast? The smell of sinangag, fried eggs, and coffee wafting your senses as you rise from your sleep? Or the lively morning conversations with your family as you dine to the first full meal of the day? All of these remind most […] The post ‘Silog’ breakfast meals that are Pinoy favorites appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Marc Pingris dinenay na may ‘something’ sila ni Kim Rodriguez
PINABULAANAN ng basketbolista at tinaguriang “Pinoy Sakuragi” na si Marc Pingris ang mga kumakalat na balitang may namamagitan sa kanila ng aktres na si Kim Rodriguez. Sa kanyang Facebook page ay diretsahang sinagot ng asawa ni Danica Sotto ang mga intriga ibinabato laban sa kanya. “Walang katotohanan ang mga lumalabas na balita tungkol sa amin.....»»
No Pinoy hurt in Baltimore bridge collapse
The Philippine embassy in Washington has not received any report of Filipinos hurt in the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland on Tuesday......»»
Franki Russell dream come true ang maging Miss Universe New Zealand
SUPER grateful ang aktres at dating “Pinoy Big Brother” housemate na si Franki Russell sa pagiging representative ng New Zealand para sa prestihiyosong Miss Universe pageant. Sa kanyang Instagram page ay ibinandera niya ang mga larawan na kuha noong araw na italaga siya bilang Miss Universe New Zealand. “A new chapter. Where to begin?” panimula.....»»
Niña Jose nag-sorry, maraming natutunan matapos mag-viral
MARAMING natutunan ang dating “Pinoy Big Brother” housemate at alkalde ng Bayambang, Pangasinan na si Niña Jose matapos siyang mag-trending sa social media kamakailan. “The power of social media is so scary, we have to be truly careful sa mga binibitiwan nating salita,” ito ang natutunan niya tungkol sa viral video na kumalat tungkol sa.....»»
Airports and trains
Over breakfast some years back, in one of those times I had the opportunity to sit down with tycoon Ramon S. Ang or RSA, together with a small group of fellow journalists, he talked about the importance of having an airport express similar to Hong Kong’s much-touted MTR which connects the airport to the rest of the city. .....»»
Way Pinoy nga naangol sa pag-atake sa IS sa Russia
Way Pinoy nga naangol sa pag-atake sa IS sa Russia.....»»
Franki Russell itinalaga bilang Miss Universe New Zealand
RARAMPA ang aktres at dating “Pinoy Big Brother” housemate na si Franki Russell bilang representative ng New Zealand sa Miss Universe. Sa isang Instagram post na ibinahagi ng Dubai-based magazine na XPEDITION nitong Huwebes, March 21, ibinandera nito ang opisyal na kandidata ng New Zealand para sa Miss Universe ngayong taon. “This is her official.....»»
Pinoy booters bow to Iraqis
New-look Philippines put up its best effort against powerhouse home team Iraq but ended up empty-handed in a 0-1 defeat in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Thursday night in front of a 63,750-strong crowd at the Basra International Stadium......»»
Philippine wrestling chief confident of return to Olympics
Wrestling of the Philippines (WAP) president Alvin Aguilar has expressed confidence that the reforms implemented in the association will result in unwavering success for Pinoy wrestlers, including a return to the Olympics......»»
The Peninsula Manila’s power breakfast
The Peninsula Manila, it seems, is the second preferred power breakfast destination in Makati, especially for those who do not play golf......»»
Malls to stay open until 11 pm starting 13 November to ease holiday traffic
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority met with mall operators and other stakeholders on 25 October to discuss traffic management plans in preparation for the approaching holiday season. In a meeting led by MMDA Deputy Chairman Undersecretary Frisco San Juan Jr. and Traffic Discipline Office Director for Enforcement Atty. Victor Nuñez, shopping mall operators agreed to adjust their business hours starting 13 November, Monday, from 11 am to 11 pm, as one of the measures to address the expected traffic problems in the metropolis. "Due to the expected heavier traffic, we have decided to implement contingency measures," San Juan said. “Mall-wide sales will only be allowed during weekends while deliveries will only be permitted from 11 pm to 5 am, with the exception of perishable goods restaurants serving breakfast, and supermarkets.” Mall operators were also asked to submit their respective traffic management plans for their mall sales and promotional events two weeks before the scheduled date of such events. Shopping malls with government satellite offices are also allowed to open as early as 9 a.m. As part of the agency's traffic management plan this Christmas season, the duty of the traffic enforcers will be extended until 12 midnight to maximize their visibility on major roads. "We will deploy traffic enforcers until midnight every day to assist and manage the traffic flow in Metro Manila,” said San Juan Jr. The MMDA will be working with the Department of Transportation to discuss possible extensions of the public transport system's operating hours to accommodate late-night commuters and mall employees. Also, the MMDA and representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways and other concerned offices including the engineering district offices, local government units, utility companies and contractors, also met to discuss the temporary suspension of excavation activities on all Metro Manila roadways. All excavation works that will cause obstruction or will affect the smooth flow of traffic shall be temporarily suspended effective midnight of 13 November 2023 until midnight of 8 January 2024. Projects that are not covered by the moratorium: Flagship projects of the government DPWH bridge repair/construction flood interceptor catchment projects (box culvert) Asphalt overlay projects without re-blocking works Sidewalk improvement Drainage improvement projects along the sidewalk and not occupying any part of the roadway footbridge projects Emergency leak repair or breakage of water lines by Manila Water Co. and Maynilad Water Service Inc. New water service connection or electrical service connections Road activities without excavation (traffic clearance only) Meralco relocation/emergency works affecting major projects of government All concerned agencies are advised to take appropriate measures and ensure that all affected roads will remain passable, safe and serviceable to all types of vehicles and pedestrians amid the anticipated increase of vehicles on the roads. The post Malls to stay open until 11 pm starting 13 November to ease holiday traffic appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Young stars shine at SM Little Stars 2023 Grand Finals
Representatives from SM City San Pablo and SM City Dasmarinas were hailed as boy and girl Grand Prize winners of the recently concluded SM Little Stars 2023 Grand Finals held at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on 14 October 2023. [caption id="attachment_202093" align="aligncenter" width="935"] Grand Prize winners Aljon Christoff Banaira from SM City San Pablo (2nd from left) and Jourdanne Baldonido from SM City Dasmarinas (center) with, from left to right, 1st runner-up Eduardo Joson II from SM Megacenter Cabanatuan, 3rd runner-up Joachim Gale Olpindo from SM Center Muntinlupa, and 2nd runner-up Mara Hestia Caballero from SM City Cebu. Back row, left to right: National University Senior Director for Admissions Dr. Christina Corpuz, Goldilocks Bakeshop Head of Corporate Communications Ley Laksamana, Goldilocks Bakeshop Public Relations and Partnerships Associate Kyleth Paralejas, GMA Consulting Head for Talent Imaging and Marketing Lawrence Tan, SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin, SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President for Marketing Hanna Carinna Sy, and SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202094" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Grand Prize winners Aljon Christoff Banaira from SM City San Pablo (2nd from left) and Jourdanne Baldonido from SM City Dasmarinas (center) with, from left to right, 1st runner-up Eduardo Joson II from SM Megacenter Cabanatuan, 3rd runner-up Joachim Gale Olpindo from SM Center Muntinlupa, and 2nd runner-up Mara Hestia Caballero from SM City Cebu. Back row, left to right: Hosts Xian Lim and 2017 Girl Grand Winner Gaea Mischa, judges Teacher Georcelle Dapat-Sy of G-Force, Direk Joey Reyes, Sam Concepcion, 2013 3rd runner-up Esang de Torres, and 2013 Boy Grand Winner Nhikzy Calma[/caption] It was a night to remember for seven-year-olds Aljon Christoff Banaira and Jourdanne Baldonido, who emerged as winners among the 28 grand finalists in the competition. It was a fierce battle of talent, confidence, and personality, with every participant showcasing their skills in dancing, singing, acting, declaiming and playing instruments. With over P9 Million worth of prizes up for grabs, the two Grand Winners went home with a brand-new Suzuki S-presso Special Edition MT MC worth over P600,000, a one-year talent contract at Sparkle GMA Artist Center, a full college scholarship at National University, and a five-day and four-night trip for two to Hong Kong. Additional prizes include a total of P100,000 in cash and SM gift certificates (P50,000 in cash and P50,000 worth of SM gift certificates), P30,000 worth of Toy Kingdom gift cards, an annual pass certificate for unlimited bowling and skating valid for one year, 30 regular ride tickets at SM by the Bay Amusement Park / Sky Ranch, and gift vouchers for a two-night stay with breakfast for two at Radisson Blu Cebu. Completing the list of winners were SM Megacenter Cabanatuan's Eduardo Joson II (1st runner-up), SM City Cebu's Mara Hestia Caballero (2nd runner-up), SM Center Muntinlupa's Joachim Gale Olpindo (3rd runner-up), SM City Clark's Hayley Cairee Miclat (Top 6), SM City Masinag's Jayson De Paz, Jr. (Top 7), SM City Bicutan's Graciella Zahzih Flojo (Top 8), SM City Cebu's Karlyle Miguel Corbeta (Top 9), and SM City Batangas' Marrem Angel Martinez (Top 10). [caption id="attachment_202095" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] 2013 Boy Grand Winner Nhikzy Calma[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202096" align="aligncenter" width="400"] 2013 3rd runner-up Esang de Torres[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202097" align="aligncenter" width="394"] SM City Clark’s Hayley Cairee Miclat[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202098" align="aligncenter" width="342"] SM City Masinag’s Jayson De Paz Jr.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202099" align="aligncenter" width="377"] SM City Bicutan’s Graciella Zahzih Flojo[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202100" align="aligncenter" width="367"] SM City Cebu's Karlyle Miguel Corbeta[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202101" align="aligncenter" width="633"] SM City Batangas’ Marrem Angel Martinez[/caption] Now on its 14th year, the SM Little Stars is a celebration of young talent and a testament to the outstanding platform that SM provides for these budding stars. This year alone, the competition saw over 33,000 young individuals who shared their talents from 70 SM malls nationwide. [caption id="attachment_202102" align="aligncenter" width="1430"] The 28 grand finalists showcase their skills and talents.[/caption] To know more about SM Little Stars 2023, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM Supermalls on social media. .....»»
Hotel’s all-day dining outlet offers vegan, lactose-free and gluten-free options
Spectrum, Fairmont Makati’s all-day dining outlet, reopened its doors last month, featuring an upgraded and elegant look with an array of gastronomic delights. Spectrum continues to provide high-quality international buffet complemented with fresh additions and a green dining experience. [caption id="attachment_200866" align="aligncenter" width="548"] CRISPY Pork Belly.[/caption] Explore and rediscover Spectrum’s interactive buffet which brings back the favorites, such as the Australian Prime Beef and Crispy Pork Belly at the carving station, delightful varieties of sushi and sashimi and the much-celebrated Western Station featuring roasted snapper and baked Barramundi. The Seafood corner, Shawarma corner and ice cream teppanyaki are ready to captivate the senses once more. [caption id="attachment_200883" align="aligncenter" width="438"] BBQ Ribs.[/caption] Spectrum also offers as ala minute brick oven pizzas, a new Daily Highlights corner with Philly Cheesesteak and BBQ ribs, an enhanced Asian corner introducing Vietnamese spring roll, Beef Rendang and Laksa soup, plus a dedicated Korean corner with Kimchi rice, Japchae and Bulgogi. The BBQ station now offers a selection of marinates including the Smoky Adventure flavor, Thai-spiced and Italian. Spectrum also introduces the Wellbeing corner, a thoughtful inclusion offering vegan, lactose-free and gluten-free options. Fairmont Makati’s Spectrum all-day dining is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The weekend upgraded buffet has live music entertainment. Sunday lunch features Sabroso Lechon and an extensive charcuterie. For reservations, call 8555 9840 or email dining.makati@fairmont.com. The post Hotel’s all-day dining outlet offers vegan, lactose-free and gluten-free options appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Recipe: Power up with this homemade red juice
It is best if you do your juicing first thing in the morning, so you can drink it before breakfast, and the fiber goes right into the body and cleanses it even before you take complex food that needs longer digestion......»»
Shanghai’s five-star The Middle House
The location The Middle House is a five-star hotel in the heart of China’s bustling metropolis of Shanghai. It is the epicenter of the lively Jing’an District, yet it manages to strike the ideal balance between the contemporary and the traditional. The hotel is situated in a convenient location close to Nanjing Road, which is considered to be one of the best shopping avenues in Shanghai, as well as Jing’an Temple, which is a historical and cultural landmark. The aesthetic The Middle House, created by renowned Italian architect Piero Lissoni, exhibits a distinctive architectural style that effortlessly combines elegance and modern aesthetics. Lissoni incorporated various materials, such as bamboo, porcelain, ceramic and lacquered textures. The refined interiors skillfully blend Chinese history and craftsmanship with Italian ingenuity, resulting in a beautiful tribute to modern-day Shanghai. The hotel’s public spaces are filled with an abundance of natural light, which creates a warm and peaceful atmosphere that is welcoming to guests. The design of the hotel showcases a dedication to crafting a balanced atmosphere that incorporates the vibrant urban spirit of Shanghai and the peacefulness of a high-end getaway. [gallery size="full" columns="2" ids="190882,190878,190880,190881"] The room We stayed in a Studio 60 with floor-to-ceiling windows facing a bustling street. During the course of our stay, I would sit on the couch and watch people cross the street. I would sit outside the Starbucks Roastery at different times of the day. The view was exhilarating and relaxing at the same time. A similar design philosophy carries through to their luxurious dwellings and presents an amazing showcase of contemporary design and modern renditions of traditional Chinese elements. Guests staying in any room can enjoy features like a rain shower and free-standing bathtub, exclusive artisanal bath and body products, premium bathroom accessories, luxury down bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi, a state-of-the-art Bluetooth speaker and the use of Mr. Goodnight, the hotel’s signature blue tassel master light switch. A complimentary maxi bar and an espresso machine with a selection of beverages are also present for use. The breakfast As you step into Cafe Gray, you’ll be greeted by an elegant and modern interior, adorned with sleek furnishings and large windows that flood the space with natural light. The inviting atmosphere creates a sense of tranquility, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a leisurely morning meal. The breakfast menu at Cafe Gray is a culinary delight, boasting a wide array of options to suit both my palate and my husband’s. I went from Asian one day (Shanghai specialty xiao long bao and shen jian bao) to Western the next day (honey-glazed ham with hashbrown is a winner!), then back to Asian (the laksa is fantastic!). My husband Berg, on the other hand, indulged in fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup one day and waffles the next day. [caption id="attachment_190883" align="aligncenter" width="525"] View from Studio 60. The Middle House is located in the lively Jing’an District and is connected to the Taikoo Hui mall.[/caption] The art collection Entering the hotel takes you to a place with a flair for the dramatic. The space was designed by Lissoni with a deliberate emphasis on contrast. This was achieved by employing dark colors and striking jewel tones for the walls and furnishings, which served to accentuate the carefully selected art works from the hotel’s art collection titled I Dream of China, by both local Chinese and international artists, serving as a representation of the artistic intersection that characterizes the city of Shanghai. The installation Vases in a Steel Cage by Shanghai artist Liu Dao of the neighborhood art group Island6 creates a thought-provoking contrast between delicate porcelain vases and a rigid metal enclosure in one area of the property. The service When it comes to service at the Middle House, one word immediately comes to mind: dedicated. From the moment we arrived and stepped onto the property to our experiences at the various outlets, even while waiting outside for our ride back to the hotel, and throughout our check-out process, the service we received at every step of the way was truly dedicated. It is a testament to the art of hospitality at the Middle House. The commitment of the Middle House team to ensuring a memorable and seamless experience for each guest is remarkable. Shanghai, although both familiar and unfamiliar to us, has undergone significant changes in the past three years since the pandemic began. It has become a new place for us. Are the places we used to frequent still there? Most of our friends in Shanghai have left, but staying at the Middle House and engaging in conversations with the team provided us with answers, insights and new recommendations. This helped us appreciate the city even more. The post Shanghai’s five-star The Middle House appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Winford Café’s winning flavors
Situated in the vibrant capital city, Winford Resort & Casino Manila is known for entertainment and gaming. Now it is set to make a name as a dining destination. Winford Café, on the second floor, is the hotel’s first in-house coffee shop and casual diner. From Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 12 midnight, the cafe is set to redefine the coffee and culinary ambiance in Manila. In attendance during the grand opening were president and chief operating officer Jeff Evora, Hotel Operations director James Olivar, Food & Beverage manager Edmond de Jesus and Chef de Partie Fatima Libre. Winford Café is the ideal venue for a quick sip, light bite and full meal situated just outside the casino. [caption id="attachment_189644" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Seafood Pasta Negra.[/caption] “Nakuha ko itong concept na’to dahil sa panahon ngayon. Kailangan Instagrammable, maganda sa mata, maganda sa pang-amoy at masarap (I got this idea from the current times. It has to be Instagrammable, pleasing to the eyes, nice-smelling and delicious),” Libre shared to DAILY TRIBUNE. “Pagdating ng 9 o’clock, 50 percent po tayo (Come 9 p.m., everything’s 50 percent off),” Libre added. The cafe’s interior is a combination of modern and contemporary design with a seating capacity of 20. With a variety of dishes, coffee connoisseurs and diners can enjoy a gastronomic journey for breakfast, a leisurely brunch or decadent dinner. On the menu are sandwiches (Winford’s Triple Decker, Ham and Cheese Croque Monsieur with Fries, Grilled Cheese with Fries, French Toast with Honey and Butter), Signature Pasta (Seafood Pasta Negra, Alfredo, Pesto with Chicken, Mac & Cheese and Tuyo Pasta), All-Day Breakfast (Tenderloin Steak with Kimchi Fried Rice, English, Eggs Benedict, Corned Beef, Porksilog Adobo and Tapsilog with Pickled Onion and Fried Chicken and Waffles). The cafe also offers Ice Blended (Triple Dark Chocolate, Butter Cookies and Cream, Coffee Latte, and Caramel), Iced (Iced Cafe, Iced Spanish Bombon and Black Cold Brew), Specialty (Coffee Coretto and Irish Coffee) and delectable desserts and pastries to satisfy your sweet craving. The cafe can also customize cakes for special occasions. Whether you prefer Hot (Spanish Latte, Cappucino, Cafe Latte, Flat White, Macchiato, Americano, and Espresso Lungo or Tea English Breakfast), Green Tea and Chamomile the baristas will deliver the perfect cup of coffee or tea. “We assured that every day the food is fresh and brand new. A variety of comfort food is prepared fresh daily in our kitchen. Our best seller is seafood pasta negra and for the coffee, it’s the Iced Spanish Bombon,” Libre said. To enjoy a cup of coffee and tea and a delicious meal, Winford Cafe at Winford Resort & Casino Manila is a venue worth exploring. The post Winford Café’s winning flavors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Repossession of idle SBMA land backed
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito lauded Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Jonathan Tan for his efforts to repossess land underutilized by locators. Ejercito presided over a remote hearing of the Senate Finance Committee on the SBMA with the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan, the Philippine Center for Economic Development, and the Philippine Racing Commission. The senator lauded Tan for auditing the companies that had failed to pay their taxes or had not developed their properties, leaving the land idle. “I’m in and out there; I usually have breakfast, and ride my bike there. I can see idle lands and facilities that are going bad; what a waste,” he said, mainly in Filipino. The SBMA has repossessed 10 parcels of unused land, with 20 more lined up for repossession. Tan said the agency is conducting audits to ensure business vibrancy at the freeport. “That’s a good start on your incumbency, so hopefully you can turn Subic around again. Make it more vibrant again. It should be a prime destination, like way back in the 1990s. Subic Bay is really the place to go,” Ejercito said. The SBMA presented to the Senate committee its 2024 proposed projects, for which the Department of Budget and Management had allocated P661 million intended for road, port, maritime, and traffic control rehabilitation. Senior Deputy Administrator for Support Services Atty. Ramon Agregado asked the Senate for an additional budget of P936 million for future projects of the SBMA, including the construction of a smart city. Agregado said the additional funding will also be used to improve various aircraft movement area visual guides and auxiliaries at Subic Bay International Airport. “We’ll try to scrutinize the additional P936 million you requested,” Ejercito said. The post Repossession of idle SBMA land backed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Debunking Misconceptions: Sustainable living doesn’t have to be expensive
A sustainable lifestyle is often associated with exclusivity, as many say it comes with great expense. Yet Pacita “Chit” Juan, founder of the Echostore, a social enterprise and retail store carrying green, fair trade products, begs to differ. The Echostore was first conceptualized back in 2008, a time when sustainable living was not as widely known and given great importance as much as it is now, making Chit Juan, along with two other women who also founded the enterprise, pioneers to the green living trending the country — a fact she claims to be her biggest achievement in all 15 years of the Echostore. “Kailangan may mag-umpisa eh (There has to be someone who starts),” Chit says. Adopting a sustainable lifestyle requires choice and dedication as it does not happen overnight, much as Chit and her co-founders’ decision to launch their business at a time when consumers were still somewhat unfamiliar with the idea of sustainable living. It took them many years before the Echostore really took off, according to Chit. She even recalls how many detractors they had during the first few years of the enterprise, saying the Echostore would shut down immediately. Yet, she proudly declares that she is pleased that they were still successful in launching the business despite negativity. In fact, this month of September marks its 15th year. [caption id="attachment_186641" align="aligncenter" width="458"] Photograph courtesy of ECHOSTORE CULINARY Virgin Coconut Oil.[/caption] She really believed that when something is dedicated to a purpose, it will succeed. “‘Pag mission-driven kasi, it will always succeed (When something is mission driven, it will always succeed),” she says. Even the pandemic did not put the store into a halt. Chit in fact says that it paved a way to further boost their online sales. “Priorities lang talaga (It’s all a matter of priorities),” Chits ays. She argues that the notion of sustainable living being expensive is merely relative and a matter of whether the person is fully ready to shift and commit to that lifestyle.“Bakit ‘pag bumili ka ng large drink sa Starbucks, hindi mahal? (How come a large Starbucks drink doesn’t seem so expensive to you?)” she quips. However, Chit does not deny the fact that sustainable products are indeed significantly more expensive than ordinary ones, as she says that a big contributing element to this is the fact that sustainable products have not yet achieved a significant market scale. Yet, she contends that sustainable living does not necessarily have to be absolute. “You don’t have to be vegetarian all the way. Gusto mo Monday ka lang meatless, o kaya Friday (You don’t have to be vegetarian all the way. If you want, you can just skip meat on Mondays and Fridays).”Those two days spent not eating meat is already a big step in integrating a sustainable lifestyle. So is using a water bottle or a metal straw, adds Chit. “Baby steps,” she says. “Baby steps, and before you know it, it becomes part of your lifestyle.” It is all about knowing your options in the things you do every day, according to Chit. Whether it is what you eat for breakfast or how you get to work every day. Being a responsible consumer is, after all, what sustainable living is truly about, adds Chit. This is why she expresses her joy that the Echostore was able to be exposed to the Gen Z‘s, as she says they are the ones especially mindful of the environment and the importance of sustainable living. “I have great faith in Gen Z, kasi pinanganak sila sa challenges ng climatechange.It’s your generation now who will bring this to the mainstream (I have great faith in Gen Z because they were born into the challenges of climate change.It’s your generation now who will bring this to mainstream),” Chit says. The post Debunking Misconceptions: Sustainable living doesn’t have to be expensive appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Chinese youths trade city-living for ceramics
China's "Porcelain Capital" Jingdezhen is attracting droves of young people drawn to the city of artisans in search of an escape from the urban rat race among its ceramics workshops. The picturesque eastern city home to China's best-known porcelain has seen an influx of young professionals seeking to learn an ancient art taught there for more than a thousand years. Times are tough for young people in China, with youth unemployment at record highs, sluggish economic growth and, for many, the opportunities their parents' generation enjoyed are simply not attainable. But in Jingdezhen they find something different: low rent, a slower pace of life and a proximity to nature in a city of just 1.6 million inhabitants, very small by Chinese standards. From her one-bedroom apartment on the seventh floor, He Yun, a 28-year-old illustrator, enjoys a panoramic view of the surrounding green hills for just 500 yuan ($68) a month. She arrived in Jingdezhen in June after being laid off and found a place where she didn't feel "any pressure". "I came because on social media everyone was saying that it was a great place for craft fans, like me, and that there was a scent of freedom," she said. "When I lost my job, I stayed at home and got depressed. But once I arrived here, I found that it's super easy to make friends." "No more need to set the alarm in the morning," she smiled. "I have zero pressure now!" - 'Looking for meaning' - A typical day for He starts with a laid-back breakfast, before heading to a workshop to make her ceramic candle holders and necklaces, which are then fired in one of the city's many kilns. "At the end of the afternoon, we go to the surrounding villages and swim in the streams to relax," she said. "I put my work on Xiaohongshu" -- a Chinese app similar to Instagram -- "where people contact me to buy. But we mainly sell at the market," she said. Between trendy cafes, boutiques and stands offer glasses, bowls, cups, teapots, plates, necklaces or earrings. Chen Jia, 24 with dyed red hair, makes feminist pendants in the shape of sanitary napkins. A music graduate who arrived in June, her first jobs as a piano teacher and in a milk tea shop and cafe weren't to her liking. "I am looking for meaning in my life," she said. "Many young people today no longer want to clock in at work at a fixed time." China's transformative economic rise was built on the backs of a growing middle class, who were promised they could enjoy the trappings of prosperity and give their children a better life if they worked hard enough. But the country's millennials and Gen Z have faced altogether different prospects: youth unemployment has reached a record level, exceeding 20 percent according to official figures, and pay is low. It's in that context that the "tangping" counterculture has thrived. Literally meaning "lying flat", it's come to represent a general rejection of society's expectations, giving up a great career and money to concentrate on a simple life and pleasures. And Jingdezhen has become a haven for those seeking just that. At the Dashu pottery school, around 20 students work with clay on their pottery wheels or chat as they sip iced lattes. Training costs 4,500 yuan a month ($617), a very affordable price. "Many young people cannot find work" explained the 39-year-old director who calls herself Anna. "They come here to reduce their anxiety." "Ceramics are very accessible. In two weeks, they can produce simple works and sell them at markets." - 'New life' - One of them, Guo Yiyang, 27, resigned in March from a well-paid job as a computer programmer. After working overtime for years, he said he wanted to "take a breather". "In big cities... you just work. You don't have your own life," he said, adding he "never again" sees himself working that way. "The desire for another way of life" is also what motivated Xiao Fei, 27, a former interior designer who resigned and came to Jingdezhen in June. "I didn't have time for myself," she said. "I came home tired and I didn't want to talk to others." "I feel happier, more free and I meet people who have the same ideals." According to Chinese media, 30,000 young urbanites lived in Jingdezhen in 2022. Few stay long-term but Xiao already knows that she doesn't want to go back. "After tasting this new life, I don't want to go back to an office job at all." ehl-oho/je/mtp/sn/pbt © Agence France-Presse The post Chinese youths trade city-living for ceramics appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Win a Ford at Winford
Winford Resort and Casino Manila continues to give members and non-members alike plenty of reasons to visit this month of September with promos and a chance to win a brand-new 2024 Next Gen Ford Territory all in the mix. For this month’s Wheels for the Win A Ford car raffle, one lucky member will win P250,000 cash in the 16 September draw while another will drive home a brand new Ford Territory in the 30 September draw, plus a chance to win P200,000 cash in the special VIP raffle exclusive for Gold and Platinum members. To join, members must simply earn 30 points on slots or table games until 26 September. On the staycation front, WRCM introduces the Two Nights to Win room package wherein guests may avail of a deluxe room with breakfast for two which starts at just P6,300 nett per room, per night. For a truly winning experience, guests may book a two-night stay to enjoy instant perks, either one gift certificate for an overnight stay in a deluxe room with breakfast for two, or welcome treats, a Copa de Manila dining voucher worth P1,000, a Zabana Bar snack voucher good for one 10” square pizza with three cans of soda, and two Winford Café vouchers worth P500. The post Win a Ford at Winford appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»