JOLLIBEE

I've introduced a lot of new places to check out for my "Wine-&-Dine Wednesday". This time, I'd like to go back to an old favorite.

JOLLIBEE is an all time top choice of Filipinos when it comes to fast food. Kids go crazy over it and so do I even until now. It is the constant competition of McDonald's in the Philippines. Just put it this way, if America has McDonald's or KFC, Philippines got Jollibee. And so, am I glad to still be able to experience "Chickenjoy" even if I had moved here in Hong Kong for quite sometime now.

Located at Shop Z4, G/B Eurotrade Center, 13-14 Connaught Rd. Central, Hong Kong
Tel. No. (852) 2522 7930, (852) 2522 7553
Fax No. (852) 2854 1977
(MTR Exit A), Jollibee alongside with a lot of Filipino "carinderias" (food stalls), serve a lot of Filipino overseas workers here in Hong Kong, giving them a little of what "home" feels like. Culturally, Filipinos love eating altogether and because of the Spanish influence, they are used to varied spices that make their food aromatic and more than enjoyable to eat. You would have an idea of what I'm actually talking about if you go visit Jollibee on a Sunday as it draws the crowd with the aroma that their food gives out.

Besides its delicious array of fast food and desserts, it offers a must-try "Palabok" (rice noodle dish with shrimp sauce and topped with several ingredients such as cooked shrimp, boiled pork, crushed chicharon, tinapa flakes, fried tofu, scallions, and fried garlic) and Philippine-style-Spaghetti. Both come in meals with the fried chickenjoy.

My personal favorites would be Palabok Fiesta, Burger Steak, Chicken Joy and Peach Mango Pie (for dessert). The gravy together with Chicken Joy makes it zesty too. Jollibee cooks their chicken like no other. I'm surprised that KFCs here in Hong Kong don't come with their own gravy. In the Philippines, they had to do a marketing strategy of going "Unlimited serving for gravy" to beat Jollibee.

For burger lovers, I suggest you try the Amazing Aloha. All of these foods come with affordable price. You may be able to have a full stomach with HK$50 at hand.

Not only Hong Kong but also United States, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Brunei and United Arab Emirates are extended of these mouthwatering delicacies. May I share to you this video that was shot in the United States and was featured in CNN.



A lot of foreigners love Jollibee. My boyfriend always asks for it as a "pasalubong" whenever I come home from Central. And he loves the Iced Lemon Tea here too. The so-called Halo Halo actually is a famous Philippine dessert. Hopefully it gets offered here in Hong Kong but not for now.
I have a friend here in Hong Kong that aims to go to Jollibee every chance he could get. Lawlaw, together with Kelly, had gone with us in the Philippines and we all went there for dinner for them to experience the authentic Chickenjoy and Jollibee Spaghetti before we had to go clubbing. We had to take a photo to remember that fun night.

Jollibee has won many accolades. It has consistently been mentioned as one of the Philippines' and Asia's most admired companies in surveys conducted by publications such as Asian Business Magazine and The Asian Wall Street Journal and has received other plaudits from Euromoney and Asia Money. In 2008, it was also the recipient of the FMCG and F & B Asia Pacific Supply Chain Excellence Award at the SCM Logistics Excellence Awards.



-WIKIPEDIA

10 IMPORTANT THINGS I LEARNED IN ATTAINING FINANCIAL KNOWLEDGE

This year marks my decision to be financially literate.

It all started when I had attended a seminar held here in Hong Kong called, "Rich Dad Poor Dad". Like any other free meet-ups made available in most countries wherein finance is the name of the game, it was the usual 2 hour motivational lecture by this woman who had been into the deepest, darkest hole as a result of her bad decision making, lax prioritization and irresponsible lifestyle. Needless to say, it leaves her penniless, hopeless and desperate until she mentions attending the very same thing we (the audience) are attending. Her story touches all the necessary buttons to set us all into an awakening. To sum it all up, the story telling part resonates to most of the middle class (which to my estimate composes 65% of the attendees): continuously in a situation of being overworked and underpaid. Dramatic as it may sound, it set us off to a mode of action in just an hour.

With an expert knowledge about these people who go to seminars, the staff knows that one way or another, this 65% is in need of enlightenment from their own current financial situation. While the rest were dragged to attend because of their curiosity, including me, its motive was quite established with a pang.

Through the rest of the seminar, the lady introduced methods that she followed on how to get out of the draining misfortune. The one I attended focused on real estate. It encouraged all the way to invest the money they are saving. The clue was to look at the rate of return on investment as to which tool you'll embrace and work on.

May I say that in the end there was selling of the "help" that you should need but it was enveloped as a form of investment on education. As a writer, I continuously research. Included in reading books and studying statistics, I consider reviews, comments and forums concerning a specific topic that I need to know about before I write my own input. Because of that, I know there are a lot of free information in the Internet that I can hold of. This convinced me that right before I entered the room, I was just after the satisfaction I would get and the refresher on the methods I stubbornly keep up with. I just wanted to be aware further more. So, I have set myself to hold my credit card very well and to let the information settle before I make a move... or a swipe.

I was successful in not doing so.

But I came out from that free seminar, rich in resources. Books, links, inspiration. And the one that I benefited from the most were the books, "The Rich Man in Babylon" and "Think and Grow Rich".

Now reading these books had kind of made me learn 10 very important things:

• Set a S.M.A.R.T. goal. I know some may have come across this abbreviation a thousand times but just for the sake of reiteration, let me give you what this effective acronym stands for: 

              S - specific; M - measurable; A - attainable; R - realistic; T - time-bound
       
         These meanings are pretty self-explanatory. But there's one thing you need to do after coming up with one, you write it down and recite it as often as you can, stating it as if it happened already, claiming it and considering it as done. Mine was to have Php50,000 within a year, even declared it in front of my husband (despite the book's advice to just make a commitment with yourself) just to give myself a sense of stronger responsibility to live up to my word. He challenged me why not 50,000 Hong Kong Dollars? And so, I added it up.

• Never lay all your eggs in one basket when it comes to investments. - There are different investment tools and the more you are well versed on them, the more you'd be able to calculate the risks that come along with each.
• Understanding the concept of the 8th wonder of the world called "compounding interest", you may think that time is not your ally anymore. But think about the present learning as a gift and consider "now" as the best time. Countless years may have been wasted before but there's no other best time to start than today.
• Learn from those who had gone the path already. Easily put, if you want to be rich, learn from the rich, the experienced. There are a series of steps that are usually presented in books but the most important is, if it's feasible and if it is actually doable. The only way to find out is if there's somebody who had tested and did it themselves. Follow that person.
• Keep the three laws of money (save, invest and re-invest) intact in every financial decision you will have to make. Saving may be in a way of assets, bit coins, saving plans and is not limited to just keeping an amount of money safe in a bank.
• Emergency fund is necessary as your safety net as you level up into investing. Establish this first before anything else so that come what may, you will have a fall back.
• Never ever neglect paying yourself first. This is not through material stuff like buying yourself a new gadget, clothes or shoes come every payday. It is putting aside money for your retirement in the future. Paying yourself first is paying yourself for every non-working day you need to live for after retirement, keeping the same lifestyle like when you still had a job.
• Habit forming will be your weapon in keeping up with your financial goals. 
• In every investment you have to make, see to it that you separate your emotions from the very beginning. Because if you do, you're already 50% short on your ROI.
• Anything that you do, integrity is the key. If you want to come up with a business, word of mouth will always pave the way to your success. If you're hard to work with and trust unworthy, chances are, people will talk negatively of you. Whether you're a boss or an employee, treating your subordinates right and respecting your bosses, having the appropriate work ethics can send you high rocketing into success. From there, you'd be able to give your goal a check, leading you to the road to financial freedom.

Right now, I have been awakened. Having a family had pushed me into planning for my own financial freedom. Let's see if it works.

Related posts:

1. GET INVESTED IN STOCKS FOR A RICHER LIFE - One of the many form of investments I've tried doing. Believe me, I was scared shit less of the term 'stocks' alone. But I had turned the risks into a calculated one, and slowly, it pays off. Read on why you should at least invest on a sturdy one like Facebook, Disney or Jollibee.

2. JOLLIBEE - why it's worth buying its stocks.

3. HOW FINANCIALLY HEALTHY ARE YOU? - Here are 6 steps on how to assess your financial status.

2015 BEST PHOTOS

Every year, I see to it that I post a share of my yearly favourite photos. Be it because of art, experience or milestone. Last year, I had dedicated the entire line up to motherhood. Such milestone is a tick in my bucket list and I thought the delight would stop there.

This year, I had pondered on the greatest influence that happened to my life. When you have a budding family, you become protective and ambitious. And for 2015, I embraced financial freedom. 

Halfway thru the year of 2015, we had studied, researched, gotten involved in an advocacy that had built up beyond expectation. Because of my family, who is my life and my BIGGEST WHY, I got driven and I felt empowered in serving others like never before.

With that being said, I had a paradigm shift in understanding TIME. So many people had just let it pass not knowing that it is the most essential commodity known to work "for" mankind if you discover the skill of handling it well. Time is a huge factor in just about anything, and I mean ANYTHING! Relationships, investments, growth. We always think that we don't have enough of it but actually, we are given that much time that we need and we don't have to be burdened with what has to be finished up. We just need to be at the moment. We just need to live it. And that gives way to these wondrous array of "moments".

JANUARY

"DEVELOPMENT"

This was taken during Brave's first time

to hold her milk bottle. It was before I left for work.

Any form of reward doesn't come as more importantly

as compared to seeing your child's development.

The time that I get to spend with my family, most especially,

my daughter, is more precious above any precious stone,

expensive travel package or an entertainment showcase.

Seeing how she grows up and develops is surprisingly amusing.
And knowing that you are the reason behind it all?
My hands are up, it makes my heart fat.

I actually had a hard time before,
keeping up with my friends who talk about babies nonstop.

Now that I am a mom, I kind of understand why.

It's just surreal that something that came from you, that you had

created is moving, talking, bouncing and giggling!

It's addicting.

I thank God for the time I get to see her grow.

FEBRUARY

"SELFIE"

This is yet again, another moment that cracks me up every time I come across it.

My baby had been fond of seeing herself in the camera since the beginning.

And by 6 months, she expresses herself like no other.

MARCH

"VACATION"

Whenever time permits, take a vacation to replenish your soul.

Another plus to this is when your family is with you along with a good bunch of friends.

Last year, it was a first time for my little one to experience traveling with us.

Destination: MACAU

It doesn't matter where but knowing that they are with me

experiencing a memorable time is something that I'd go back to in a heartbeat if I could.

It was one of the best experiences because I

expected that it would be hard having a 6 month old baby on board.

But she was so cool and from that moment on,

my husband and I knew that she is the same with us

as far as being outgoing is concerned.

APRIL

"CELEBRATION"

This is my husband's birth month. When I asked him of what he wants

for his birthday, he had pointed to our daughter and said, "I got it already."

There was no fancy celebration but we dined out to celebrate my husband

and my daughter's christening over a dim sum breakfast.

With a Catholic name, "Gabrielle", Brave was baptised and was welcomed to the Christian world.

Besides the fact that I am fulfilling God's purpose of having our baby blessed,

as parents, we treasure this time of being able to celebrate with our good and long time friends.

Surprisingly, Brave didn't give us a hard time preparing as early as 7am

and didn't cry as she got startled upon the pouring of the holy water because it was cold.

As the priest had agreed to a last minute scheduling, some godparents weren't able to come.

We needed them to be there for the baptism to happen.

Also, it was a requirement that they are Catholics as well with a purpose

of having enough knowledge to impart if time would ever need them to.

Strict requirements were imposed, it almost didn't happen.

But it was good to be reminded to submit to God's will

and He will make it happen for you. With Him knowing the purest desires of your heart,

He will defy all odds that inhibit you from coming to Him.

As promised, He is the Way, the Truth and the Life.

April last year, God paved the way for Brave,
in God's perfect timing.

MAY

"BACK TO THE FUTURE"

It was a challenge for me to go back to my original size pre-Brave since I gained

50lbs then (ideal is 25-35 lbs. Yes! Condemn me.)

But I was able to at least, fit in the jungle costume by 9 months.

This photo above was taken on May 12, 2015.

(Proof is on FB in case you doubt my calculations.)

The times that I worked out had paid off.

Automatically, a sudden boost of self esteem and that sense of achievement

showered upon me. I am thankful for those efficient times in the gym.

It also made sense to me that as a woman, and as a mom,

if it took you 9 months to gain that much in taking care of a human

being inside of you, it usually takes 9 months to recover too.

So to those who are dealing with stressful weight gain because of pregnancy,

allow your body some time to get used to it and I promise you, once you've attained your goal,

your physical body will cry for that lifestyle of exercise and good diet.

It won't be a bitch anymore 'til then.
Just breath and keep moving forward.
Use your time well.

JUNE

"PARADIGM SHIFT"

This is the picture that started it all.
Together with the founder of COL Financial, Mr. Edward Lee,
we were blessed to have a portal to reaching to those who are in need.

Spearhead mission was given birth right at this very moment.

Spearhead mission aims to lead people into financial freedom out of an advocacy to serve.

This picture was taken when I took a free seminar tackling about investing on stocks.

at the Philippine consulate.

Before that, I had attended the Rich Dad, Poor Dad talk

which was the backbone of my pursuit to making investments.

This was the moment I decided that I want the BEST for my family

in terms of a good life.
Good life meaning, not depending on other people or any form of loan

for whatever emergencies may arise. I heeded becoming financially free.

JULY

"JOLLIBEE"

It was my dream when I was young to own a franchise of Jollibee.

But I've discovered a more affordable way to start owning it.

By being a stockholder, I take advantage of time to earn money from it.

July last year, I started with a little share.

Hopefully, it'd grow fast and strong.

AUGUST

"BRAVE AT 1"

By this time around, Brave is 11KG, can walk independently on her own,

can chew most of the solid foods I know (except peanuts),

loves to sing and was giving out preferences.

I can perceive her mood swings, excitement and longing as she turned one.

It truly was so fast that by this time, I vaguely remember

how I survived sleeping with the "fragile" Brave.

The next time after I was complaining about how demanding it was for my back as I carry her,

as I teach her how to walk up to lifting her up from every bath,

I am upfront a baby saying "no" all of a sudden,

a baby demanding a biscuit in the morning and a singer in the making.

She had grown so fast that she suddenly became not so baby anymore.

That time had passed and I'm blessed with its memories, experience and great stories

to black mail her with. Hahaha!!!!

SEPTEMBER

"CASHFLOW"

There's some letters of appreciation and acknowledgement from establishments
that I wrote about and it was beyond rewarding.
Free movie tickets came in too as an invitation as a critic.
All because of my writing, which had grown from a hobby way back 2006.
But this was the best that came in the mailbox because beyond the fact
that it's unexpected, I didn't know I could work for or even get linked to Google this way.
This saying, "What you do most of your time while procrastinating
should be the exact thing you should be actually doing."
makes sense after all.
I entitled this as "cashflow" to remind people out there
who thought there's no money behind doing your favourite thing.
Well, there is. Just be creative and use your time wisely.

OCTOBER
"BLESSED"

Now that I am rearing my baby, seeing illustrations like this make me cringe.
I am constantly thankful that we eat three times a day but I constantly ask God too.
How come there are people who are in this kind of lifestyle if we are all children of God?
I am not sure what is the exact answer to that. I don't believe in luck.
But being born out of the countries who are involved constantly in war,
or being born from parents who would never make me hold a gun,
or being born in a free country can already be considered lucky.
It is unfair to say I'm blessed and they're not.

This picture is actually one of the main reasons why I am sticking to our advocacy.
It is imperial to learning about financial freedom that we are taught of the ways
on how to fend for ourselves. This is one way to empower a person to be creative
with the tools God had given us. For us to be resourceful because nothing in this
world will be handed to you in a silver spoon.
We need to know how to THRIVE. And that's LIFE.
So if you can extend a helping hand during your free time, why not?

NOVEMBER

I have a tie for this month as God had blessed me in abundance during my birthmonth of November.

"GOOD TIMES"

My beautiful mom surprised me a week before my birthday that she'd be
flying over from America and it was truly an exciting time for me
because it will be her first time to meet my family.
FaceTime had always been there but meeting person to person is a different story.

My husband had gifted me leisure time by booking us Venetian Hotel
so that we ladies, can splurge on its exquisiteness and luxury for a weekend.
I maybe exaggerating because we were just blessed with good timing
since they have the best last minute deals.
(Otherwise, a fortune may have been spent)
but to stress out importance of time, I got to talk and spend time with my mom,
say I love you to her in person, because of the distance between us,
more than I have for the past years (3 to be exact).
She was my birthday package this year.
We had a great time.

"TWICE IN A ROW"

Now this second photo is a privilege that I consider.
It's time with loved ones and friends.
Time that you were able to spend your birthday with people twice in a row.

Year after year.

Life is too short not to appreciate the company you have,
the job you got that others would kill for,
and most especially, the time and ability for you to celebrate it all.
Time, we all know, talks about your presence and all.
But ability usually is taken for granted.
It doesn't require only time for you to give ultimate happiness to your family.
Realistically, you needed money to buy even a simple cake.
Don't get me wrong, I am happy having my mom over,
having my husband and daughter to celebrate with me.
And on top of that, are friends that care and support you, what more can I ask?
You might be whispering to yourself now, that is not enough for her yet?
Well, hear me out.
With that being said, I am thankful that I am able to provide
for what may add up to that sense of being together in terms of
a simple intimate dinner and gathering in the house.
Hence, this photo needed to be included because Angela,
who got me my cake that night, got me when I said giving out a message to all who came,
"Thank you for all for being able to celebrate with me,
twice in a row."

DECEMBER
"PASKONG PINOY"
(Philippine Christmas)

For the first time in so many years, Hong Kong Disneyland
had gifted Filipino workers (with their plus ones) who continuously are
spreading their light, sharing their talents and touching lives with their passion,
with a night of amusement, surprises and Filipino food!!!!
It was an early Christmas celebration.
For most of us who are away from home just to earn a living,
this one night of making us feel at home is much much appreciated.
Filipino entertainers came over, the tables were decorated with
the traditional Christmas lanterns (parol) and Filipino games highlighted the night.

10 years of bringing magic to guests, I am glad that in my own little way
and for the time that I am strong and able, I have been a part of it
More power to you Hong Kong Disneyland!

Related posts:

1. PARADIGM SHIFT - How my concept of time had changed.

2. JOLLIBEE - the fastest growing food chain in the Philippines, can be experienced in Hong Kong!

3. GET INVESTED IN STOCKS FOR A RICHER LIFE - here's why you should invest in stocks.

THURSDAYS would be my "NO-TEARS-DAY!"

Working overseas for nearly 6 years now had given me a lot of moments which (I am not really proud of to admit) had brought tears to my eyes. At first, it was all so distracting that it didn't sync in to me that you "need" to survive alone and "independently" (most of the time) whether you like it or not. As time passed, I've learned a lot, became mature in making decisions and prioritization and became strong in dealing with hurtful times. Each of us have our own struggles and so I've thought of helping out in my own little ways.

Ok! Since I was talking about working overseas, let me tell you the challenges I've encountered.

1. I have a very varied working environment, culture wise and it was pretty much interracial. I had dealt with different attitudes. I have met people who, as described by my friend Micah, could be superheroes because of the talent they got (if you're imaginative enough) - they can twirl, they can belt, they can eat fire. My point? I have to at least be educated of how they are as human beings having different backgrounds, growing differently from each other and observing their lifestyle. I should be able to communicate, adapt and most of all, work with them.

2. Once the day's work is done, I got lonely at times as instead of rice, Hong Kong people ate a lot of noodles. Taxi is way too much of a luxury. MTR is the best mode of transportation to go around. And there's just one Jollibee. VERY DIFFERENT FROM HOME.

But there's one thing that Hong Kong is reliable with, and it's the INTERNET. I learned where to go when it comes to being abreast with the latest TV series to keep me preoccupied and educated. And lately, here are the shows I want to share to you that you might find it hard to still feel lonely and clueless.

Besides making me feel good and making me laugh, these series helped me a lot in starting conversations with people. And talking about these series are far more better than just plainly gossiping and feeling negative. Some episodes make you even more driven for the next day at work - I often feel this when I watch Olivia Pope as an efficient fixer. Girl power! Hahaha! As my disclaimer would go, these are just little ways for you to be busy so that you won't have space and reasons for staying miserable. You might find it funny too!

A Step by Step Guide to Successful Stock Investing with the EIP COL Easy Investment Program

(To those who wishes to read this in your preferred language, there's a pull down button on the upper left of the site that would cater to your understanding.)

Have you ever dreamed of owning a franchise of Jollibee?
Have you ever dreamed of spending 24/7 with your family
rather than getting employed 24/7?
Are you interested in making your money earn
while you sleep?
You've been wanting to invest but you don't know
with who? where? and how?

My friend, here's a solution if all of these
questions are applicable to you.

START INVESTING YOUR HARD
EARNED MONEY TODAY!
Because if not now, when?
And if not you, who?

One way is to invest in the stock market.

But before you dodge the bullet, fear not, for there's a guide

you could use in learning about stocks as you earn dividends along the way

SAFELY.

Why I emphasised on that?

The reaction of the majority of the people hearing
about investing on stocks? Super scared
with how it operates that they repel from the idea.

I was like that before. But I chose to roll up my sleeves and

know a little about it until I got hooked.

Afterwards, I was thinking that it's not that scary after all. In fact, I have never felt so driven
when it comes to "investing" until I learned
about the Basic Laws of money.
I agree with Edward Lee as he believes

that all of us need to be educated financially.
This way, we would have the advantage of combining

what we know with the single most important commodity in the universe,

TIME.

Last week, I was blessed to be able to attend a seminar that gave me an insight of what I should learn before entering any form of investment. They've taught about how Philippine Stock Market
could help overseas foreign workers to save a portion of their income and make it grow
over time. After understanding how stocks work,
a safe platform by COL Financial Philippines was offered.

"COL Financial Group, Inc. is the leading online stockbroker in the Philippines established in 1999. It aims to be the most trusted wealth-building partner of every Philippine investor by providing value driven, innovative solutions and easily accessible financial tools to help investors achieve their financial goals.

To date, COL is the fastest growing online stockbroker with over 100,000 customers and PHP 55 billion in customer assets. COL is committed to help you build genuine wealth by providing client-focused products and services."

www. colfinancial.com

I have a basic understanding of money that I would like to share to you. Money is a very powerful tool that may aid you in your pursuit of happiness. If you read it carefully, money should be considered the "means" to be happy. It is NOT, per se what will make you happy. Our reason for happiness differ greatly. Mine is to be "truly" rich. And when I say "truly" rich, this means, NOT being wealthy because of money but being wealthy in how many people I've actually helped and empowered to attain financial freedom. As inspired by Edward Lee himself when he gave the talk in the "free" seminar I went to, it's because of his advocacy to help Filipinos to be financially educated, that's why I'm as well, freely giving out this information. Call me a dreamer but I think if every Filipino would take the Basic Laws of Money seriously, the Philippines could also be saved, economically speaking. It's been a long time. I thought with all honesty, Philippine economy is hopeless because of the corruption. But this is our light at the end of the tunnel.

Why is the COL EIP for me?

The COL Easy Investment Program is a convenient and easy investment plan that allows you to build personal wealth in the stock market over a period of time. You no longer need to monitor your investments daily and you can take advantage of the ups and downs of the market by applying the simple strategy of peso-cost averaging.

What is PESO-COST AVERAGING?

PESO-COST Averaging is a time-tested and reliable method of investing that is easy to understand and apply. It is a personal wealth building strategy that involves investing a fixed amount of money to buy shares of stock at regular intervals over a period of time as a passive, long-term investment in the stock market.

When preparing to invest successfully with the COL EIP, ask yourself 4 questions:

1. HOW MUCH DO I WANT TO INVEST (on a regular basis)?

"Our recommended investment amount is 20% of your SAVINGS."

2. HOW OFTEN would I like to invest?

"Choose an interval that you can commit to regularly invest your fixed amount of money - weekly, monthly or quarterly."

Note: There are no penalties if you skip a date, but try to maintain the discipline to invest regularly.

3. HOW LONG would I like to continue my investment plan?

"Tip: The longer your investment plan, the greater your potential returns given the power of compounding."

4. WHAT DO I BUY?

The COL Advantage? Because Peso-Cost Averaging only works when you're invested in good companies, COL provides a Premium Growth Stock List, evaluated by our experienced analysts for you to choose from.

It is imperative to know that Filipino Overseas Workers were placed as the highest contributors to the Philippine's GNP funding it roughly around 21%. Sad to say though, only 1% of that entire 21% are investing. Presented with this data, could you imagine if the other 20% are also investing and are earning while they sleep? I believe there'll be abundance in funds both personally and economically. The investor would gain adequate amount of money (perhaps more) because of the shares bought and since the power of compounding interest is so great, you'd go for long term investing that the Philippines would benefit from its reserves as well. My own personal knowledge is limited that's why COL Financial are putting out youtube videos out there because they believe ignorance of this kind of information is hindering the Filipinos from realising the beauty of investing. Not only that, the beauty of investing EARLY is the key.

Benefits of the EIP:

1. No need to monitor the stock market. Have time for your more important priorities while enjoying the benefits of your COL EIP at the same time.

2. Minimize your risk by investing in the long-term and maximise your potential returns.

3. You only need a small amount of capital to get started. Open a COL EIP account for a minimum investment of P5,0000.

4. All these benefits of a simple and easy reliable investment strategy at the lowest-allowable commission rate of 0.25% of the stock amount purchased.

Get Started!

COL Financial Group, Inc. is the leading online stockbroker in the Philippines established in 1999. It aims to be the most trusted wealth-building partner of every Philippine investor by providing value driven, innovative solutions and easily accessible financial tools to help investors achieve their financial goals.

To date, COL is the fastest growing online stockbroker with over 100,000 customers and PHP 55 billion in customer assets. COL is committed to help you build genuine wealth by providing client-focused products and services.

I would be posting further development in terms of my own investment sans the figures (I claim) I would make. But, if there are stocks that is not worth buying, I'd freely give out the info as given to me as well. For now, I'll establish my COL account first, give it time to earn some and then prove to you readers that it's real. Truth be told, we can all be "truly" rich altogether.

Our Thank God for Financial Literacy Crew with Mr. Edward Lee himself.
Founder and Chairman of COL Financial Philippines
June 4, 2015, Hong Kong

You can leave your comments below if you need clarifications and if you need additional information. The purpose of this post is to educate. To those who know me personally, we have a group called "Thank God for Financial Literacy" that are willing to give effort on how to assist you with further financial education. A couple of our members have already started their accounts and has started trading. Experience wise, it's better to ask those who have it already. Please let us know. There's also a chance for non-Filipinos to join. The potential is limitless. Just have the right mind set and dream with a purpose. God had given us talents and he wants us to use it in its maximum. 

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SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW CHEESE

In flight magazines work wonders. With each of their featured stories, I get hold of information from a lot of places in a jiffy without spending a penny. And as I went over Cebu Pacific's Smile Magazine today, I came across an article that featured the rainbow grilled cheese sandwich that had gone trending in instagram. And I knew I had to try it!

Slowly, I am getting fond of our new home here in Tsuen Wan. 10 minutes via shuttle bus to the train station leads to a wide array of great eateries, restaurants and noodle houses. And 5 minutes away from Exit A there's Kala situated at G/F, 4-6 Tsuen Hing Path, Tsuen Wan. 

KALA Toast is recently the most sought after foodie experience by a lot of tourists and local residents alike because of its unique presentation of their grilled cheese sandwiches. It comes in rainbow colours! How is this possible?

As I had experienced this rich grilled sandwich myself, called KALAful Toast, I have observed 4 colours blending in altogether. There's yellow, green, blue and pink/light purplish shade. So it made me curious how they are able to do this.

Four kinds of cheeses - mozzarella, cheddar, emmental and gruyere, are flavoured with basil (which makes a part green), lavender (which makes a part blue), tomato (for the pink part). When melted altogether, they make up the rainbow colours as seen below. These cheeses are directly sourced from Europe. Their toasted breads are crystallised with butter that's why most of the customers find it oily. Don't worry, there's paper to seep that oil in.

For a price of HK$42, it is worth a try. I must say the lavender flavour was really subtle considering the colour that it throws out in the sandwich. The basil was also barely there but the colour green is pretty set. The tomato neutralises everything giving it an aroma of a pizza. I suppose it's alright since I would prefer the original tasting grilled sandwich at all costs. Lavender and basil may alter it in certain ways that I may not like anyway. Besides the fact that it is delightful to the eyes, it's quite selfie worthy too. Other out-of-this world flavours are also available. Here are the recommended must-try's:

Choco-banana Snowman

Green Tea Sandwich

Fresh Durian and Cheese Sandwich

KALA Grilled Cheese Specialist is open from 12nn to 12mn. And can be contacted about its services thru 3706-5432. Sandwiches can be availed only by cash and octopus. Parking can be done at your own risk within the area. And wifi is available for customers.

I expected tables that I could dine in but they had to remove it since Tsuen Hing Path is technically owned by the government. So, it's illegal to actually consider it as a place for personal gains. I am truly hoping that they'd expand to a place where people can sit down and take time in eating their orders.

If you're around the area, pass by and give yourself the four sinful cheeses I know you crave for. Hong Kong Summer is hot and rainy but there's always a rainbow in a bursting grilled cheese sandwich here in Tsuen Wan!

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BUTAO

Before this year ends, include sipping the best bowl of Japanese ramen in your winter bucket list! This deliciously slow-cooked pork bone soup may be added of squid ink, pork meat and boiled egg for an experience like no other.

My Black King with a side dish of slices of shoulder butt
and 1 whole Japanese marinated boiled egg.

I've been longing to taste this quite famous Butao Ramen and this year marks my first time to do this. At first, I thought the name just sounded so funny. Seeing its odd "black" color from the Instagram photos and that of friends, I found it interesting. It heightened my curiosity on how it becomes most sought after as a night of drinking ends in Lan Kwai Fong. 

For a HK$95 a bowl, it's amazing to have a feel of putting together preferred spices, flavour, and type of noodles. Basically, here is a list of the add-ons and the price it comes with as you rediscover yourself listening to your own preferences to further enrich your soup.

I preferred Black King over all the choices because squid ink always gives this distinct flavour that makes anything naturally robust with seafood zest. It gives a sweet follow thru to a mouthful serving so it's an explosion and a fusion rolled into one. It came to a point that my soup ended a bit salty though after eating up the noodles so I didn't finish the rest of my soup anymore.

The shoulder butt gave my palate rest from the tangy consistency of the black soup and the marinated egg was boiled perfectly. It got a good lava flow as I opened the egg which smoothly folded into my soup. Ahhhh.... even thinking of it makes me miss it so much.

This is an amazing feel of Japan since they aimed to satisfy their customers not only thru their food but also thru the ambiance and the people. They greeted us in Niponggo and the interior had private booths where people may enjoy eating their ramen even if their alone comfortably. 

Located at 69 Wellington St., Central, it was the perfect place to get our stomachs filled before hitting the streets of Lan Kwai Fong for a drink instead of checking it out after.

This particular branch is quite smaller than the one in Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui so expect to be in line for a table. Parking available is just street parking and do know that you can only pay cash upfront. Tea and tap water comes free with your meal. Price range starts from HK$98-120 for every meal. Take Exit D2 as you reach Hong Kong/Central Station if you want to experience Butao Ramen. Walk up to Lan Kwai Fong but turn right to Wellington (it comes before Lan Kwai Fong St.). For further details directions wise, click here. It may be around 10-15 minutes walk from Exit D2. They are open from 11:00am to 11:00pm daily. More of the details about this restaurant in their website: www.butaoramen.com. 

Taken outside the restaurant...
So mark this look from the outside
as you search it along Wellington St.
It stands on the right side as you walk up
Wellington.

Trivia:

Here are some of the interesting information I stumbled upon as I researched about the Butao ramen.

1. “Japanese people are very particular about creating their own dishes, so each ramen shop has different soup, noodles and ingredients,” says Masaki Hirata, executive director of the Japan National. - http://www.scmp.com/magazines/48hrs/article/1218475/rockin-ramen

  - Read about this article further. It was written last 2013 when a ramen fiesta was held here in Hong Kong. It's very informative. 

2. The "Limited King", one of the Butao Ramenchoices is a limited special edition of their chefs which is just randomly put together within the day. It's for the daring and the adventurous foodies. - www.openrice.com

3. The Butao Ramen restaurant in Central only has 24 seats. - www.openrice.com

4. There's actually a ramen museum that was put up in Yokohama in 1994. - www.wikipedia.com

5. Nissin's Foods' founder and chairman was a Taiwanese-Japanese named Momofuku Ando who invented the instant noodles after the World War II. The noodle soup was introduced to Japan over a century ago from China. But ironically, the instant ramen had become the greatest Japanese invention of the 20th century according to the Japanese poll as it came in variety as far as being edible just by adding boiled water. - www.wikipedia.com

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CRISOSTOMO

Secondary school in the Philippines opens to a lot of discoveries. Biology, the Iliad and the Odyssey, Chemistry, Balagtasan (Poetic Competition), Citizen Army Training (CAT), Music, and Physics to name a few. These are some of the most memorable lessons I've learned during my time. But the most unforgettable one for me, was studying two of the greatest novels written by our national hero, Jose P. Rizal, entitled, "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo."

These two books were written to stir patriotism amongst the Filipino people to fight for their civil rights against the Spaniards when they colonised the Philippines. In their own homeland, Filipinos had become slaves and were called to become rebels against the white dominance because of the way they were mistreated. Religion and status were hailed. And all of these controversies were reflected thru these 2 books. "El Filibusterismo" ("The Filibustering", a.k.a "The Reign of Greed"), the sequel to "Noli Me Tangere" (Touch Me Not), was more aggressive of its pursuit of a revolution as compared to the romantic and hopeful attack of the latter book.

Both books' protagonist is Crisostomo Ibarra, only at the second book, he was in disguise to a name of Simoun. And because of this character's remarkable love for the country and admirable patriotism, fast forward to the new generation called "now", a restaurant had been put up to honour "Crisostomo".

Tinana ni Tiburcio
Tinana plus salted egg wrapped
by the crispy lumpia wrapper.

Coming from a holiday vacation from Pico De Loro Beach Resort and Country Club, we headed at Crisostomo for dinner. The restaurant featured that big space that you would see in ancient Spanish houses. Wooden staircase, molave dining tables and wooden floors. Walls are plain white and there is a dirty ice cream cart that is part of the dessert treat.

My family and I took over the whole second floor almost (we are a big family) and on the way up, a huge painting of a "Sisa" or "Maria Clara" faces the last flight. It almost looked scary but as you look closely, it's almost a sad young woman in the picture.

If you have read both novels, you would appreciate the dishes named after the characters in the stories. It is very creative that they had come up with a fusion of your lola's old recipes with the trending flavours and plating of today.

This is such a hype amongst Balikbayans since it offers a one-of-a-kind experience to its customers. It is basically the two novels come to life. And for a fair price these Filipino delicacies were offered in the menu:

Lengua Laruja (Braised ox tongue with mushroom gravy), Sinigang Gomez (Pork Ribs in Tamarin Soup), Corregidor (Dinuguan a la Crisostomo, a savoury stew of pig's blood, finger chilli and garlic and vinegar), Don Rafael (Classic Crispy Pata), Calamares ni Tales (Fried Golden Calamaris with Garlic Mayo and Sweet Chilli Sauce) and Maria Elena (Kangkong with Lechon Kawali Chips). These were some of the viands we tried. But the winner of the night was the Cervantes (Stir fried vermicelli with pork leg and chestnuts topped with quail eggs).

My daughter loved her fresh coconut juice. My lovely cousins and I ordered familiar Filipino drinks like Iced Tea but they made it with a touch of Pandan leaves. There's also one of my favourites, Sago Gulaman, Four Seasons and Pineapple Juice. Pineapple juice may sound ordinary but Philippine pineapple juice exudes a distinct flavourful freshness as you sip it.

It was yet another fun time with my family as I get together with them only during special occasions. It was one of my cousin's wedding that's why we went home to Manila. And this was the last night my daughter and I had to stay in my hometown. So, my auntie brought us to the Macapagal branch at the Blue Bay Walk, Macapagal Avenue Corner EDSA, Libertad, Pasay City, Metro Manila.

It was nice that Crisostomo makes every meal
memorable by making a momentous shot available
as a souvenir for their customers to avail when eating in their restaurant.

We reached the place at around 9pm and we felt perfectly catered to right before we needed to clear out by 11pm. (Restaurant hours are from 11am-11pm). As it gains attention from foodies, it gets crowded at lunch and dinner time. May I suggest that you make reservations by contacting these hotlines:

Landline: (63-2) 8326592

Mobile: +63917-8262535

Other branches stand at Alabang, Eastwood, Fairview, Katipunan, Newport and Nuvali, Laguna.

I highly recommend that if you're around these areas, take some time in enjoying a memorable meal at Crisostomo. I rate this restaurant 5 stars without hesitation and staff happily serves the customers. They are confident in recommending the best in the house and they are helpful in taking photos of your family for a good remembrance and Instagram post!

____________________________

Trivia: 

Crisostomo is one of Chef Florabel Co-Yatco's Restaurants. With an aim of making fine-dining non-intimidating to Filipinos with different wallet demands, she continuously seeks an enthusiastic team in making this happen. "Food makes people come together, therefore it should be pleasurable and enjoyed by all", according to her. Some of her must-try restaurants apart from Crisostomo are: Corazon, Elias, Felix, Sisa's Secret and her very first one, Florabel. She opened it in 2005 after working for Via Mare being an exclusive chef at a young age of 23.

Florabel started showing a promising career as a chef by baking and selling home made cookies to her classmates and families during her teenage years. Like any other successful entrepreneur, she pursued her dream by staying focused and believing in her craft.

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ALCHEMY

For a year and a half, I have hibernated from going out for drinks with girlfriends.

As my baby had been weaning and is more into solid foods now,

I have indulged on a night at ALCHEMY

where Buddha tears mixed up with liquor

certainly gave me a different impact.

Remember this clip in Sex and the City 2 movie?

Yes, when you're a mom, "sips" may be needed

just to keep you sane and reconnected to yourself.

When you're a mom, you start to think not only of yourself. There's always something that needs your attention and you constantly are worried if you missed a thing in terms of nurturing, feeding, bonding time and future concerns. Needless to say, you somehow neglect yourself willingly that it may be too late for you to realise that you've lost yourself in the process. Having said this, I'd like to encourage you with a reminder, "You had a kid, yes. But you didn't die."

It's important that you have a handful of mommies as friends for you to be understood because the "single-no-kids" ones wouldn't get where you're coming from. At one point, you may be feeling a little aloof towards them because your priorities are different now. Let me tell you that to this account, you're not alone and so many mothers have been there. My good friend Jane, who had her daughter 2 years ago was asking me how I felt in going out, if I felt awkward since it doesn't feel the same way as before when didn't have kids yet. And I said, it's pretty much new to me again. I wasn't knowledgeable about the new trends in drinks, the place was new to me and I felt a stronger emotion than feeling awkward.... honestly, it was GUILT.

fresh Irish oysters with vinegar, tomato salsa
and extra virgin olive oil

But I'm a wide reader. I had a lot of questions so, I had to research. To counter my fear of intoxicating my baby thru the drinks, I read that I need to drink a barrel or 10 bottles of absinthe or any hard liquor before I would. That's good to know. So, I didn't hesitate on ordering the Buddha Tears where part liquor is mixed in with coconut juice, lemon drops and something else that it was like I was drinking the word "SPA" and everything about it.

There's a taste of lavender, lots of zen greens and kind of soil extract. You may think it's gross but, the after taste was rejuvenating. That was one of the highly recommended but I was trying to feel any hit, there was none. Until I ordered a mojito then a SAUVIGNON BLANC. On the side, my girlfriends and I ordered the fresh Irish oysters that were over-the-top good. We were just really supposed to be there for drinks but we got envious of the other table ordering the fabulously laid oysters so we got them. In addition, the home cooked spicy treats (popcorn, peanuts, raisins and almonds with pepper) were soooo delicious. I am not a fan of spicy food but I found myself digging for some and all 3 of us were popping them in because they were just irresistible.

It was an honour to know some people who were friends with the Chef (Chef Pascal) so we met him and had said our praises for how satisfying the oysters were. A little moment later, we were delivered these cranberry macaroons that were like no other. I never loved desserts. More so, if they are chocolatey. So I was eager to taste it right away and we had licked the syrup even because it was so tasty. In the end, our bill was around HK$1400+. 9 drinks all in all, the oysters, the dessert (free of charge) and loads and loads of treats (free of charge) to complete the bill. 

-the best Cranberry Macaroons I've ever tasted-
The macaroons were home made.

I wanted the night to be spent smoothly in a way that I would be able to go out again after this one. So I asked to tag team with my husband to whom I owed a good night from, by being selfless and just wishing me a good time. My girlfriends and I headed home unexpectedly sober because we thought there was not that much alcohol in our drinks. We aren't alcoholic but just for your information about how we would critic the drinks. Food was great, be ready with around HK$400 in your pocket. Service charge was billed and since it is secluded from the chaotic Lan Kwai Fong, you could be assured of seats. A reservation is recommended though Thursdays all the way 'til the weekend.

I love these gals

Trivia about the place since we have met some of the chef's friends and had given us a background of who owns the place, all the French lounges and fine restaurants are owned by the same person. I had the chance to experience Le Budoir with my closest friends and boyfriend then (husband now) I think a little over 5 years ago, which is located on the left side of the street going up to Lan Kwai Fong (where the Cotton On is beside 7-11 and so forth), and it didn't disappoint. Actually, I loved that place.

When we visited Alchemy, it was a cold night that I had to buy a sweater. So I was so relieved that it was very warm inside. The ambiance was relaxing, homey as a matter of fact and for those who would love to have a good chat with mellow music, try having a drink here or two. I highly recommend it since it leads a way too to a dark dining restaurant that my friends and I are aiming to experience before one leaves for Dubai for good.

Here's a movie that features one dark dining restaurant that may ignite the curious in you. 

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