Fall in Love at First Crunch with Kangaroo Nuts at the World Food Expo!

Choose healthier and delicious snacks over junk food! Check out Kangaroo Nuts when you visit WOFEX this week!

Press Release:

The 16th run of the largest Philippine food expo is happening from August 3-6, 2016, from 10:00AM to 7:00PM, at the SMX Convention Center, and among this year’s exhibitors is maker of premium nut snacks, Kangaroo Nuts. Well-loved for its signature line-up of products, Kangaroo Nuts offers products that are made from freshly-harvested top quality nuts and seasoned using the finest ingredients.

When asked about why they decided to join this year’s World Food Expo, Kangaroo Nuts Philippines says that it’s all about making it easier for people to have access to healthier yet delicious snacks. A study conducted in 2015 reveals that a growing number of young individuals are embracing healthier eating options. The World Food Expo is known as the country’s largest food exhibit, with over 500 exhibitors and 15,000 customers attending the four-day event. Visit Kangaroo Nuts at Booth #1230.

About Kangaroo Nuts 

Kangaroo Nuts is a company that specializes in the production of premium snacks. Equally well-known and loved in the Philippines and abroad for both its classic and innovative flavors—which includes Maple Glazed Cashews, Teriyaki Cashews, Cheddar Cheese Almonds, Mocha Almonds, Rosemary Pistachios, Garlic Cashews, Honey Cashews, Salted Cashews, Salted Pistachios, Mixed Nuts, Sugar Coated Peanuts, Cracker Peanuts, Seaweed Nuts, Roasted Grams, Walnut Cranberry Mix, Black Soy Nut Mix and Goji Berry Nut Mix—the brand has amassed a strong following among people who are looking for a healthy yet fulfilling snack they can indulge in. 

In the Philippines, Kangaroo Nuts is available in Rustan’s Flowershop, Gaisano Country Mall, Fooda Saversmart Cebu, Gaisano Mall Davao, Gaisano Mall Cagayan, All Home, Gaisano Metro, NCCC, and Ayagold. For more information, FOLLOW Kangaroo Nuts Philippines on Facebook or LIKE @kangaroonutsph on Instagram. For wholesale orders, please call Tel: 6346467 or 6346475.

Shakey’s Monday Madness Returns!

Read this Shakey's SuperCard holders to know more about the good news!

Press Release:

Always finding ways to cater to its Guests, Shakey’s has grown to be a favorite hang out among Filipinos. From their mouth-watering Thin Crust pizzas to their all-time favorite Chicken ’N’ Mojos, their ever-dependable menu has evolved over the years to cater to every Guest’s craving.

As a place that Filipinos know that they can count on for good times and great memories, Shakey’s is giving their Guests a good reason to look forward to Mondays much, much more through their Chicken ’N' Mojos Monday Madness Promo. 

An exclusive offer for all SuperCard holders, the promo entitles card owners to discounts on all Chicken ’N’ Mojos packs on the following Mondays - July 25, 2016 and August 1, 8, 15, and 22, 2016. To be enjoyed alone or shared with family and friends, the Shakey’s Monday Madness promo is taking 40% off on the prices of the Solo (3pcs), Buddy (5pcs), Family (7pcs), Party (12pcs) and Blowout (20pcs) packs. 

Only available for dine-in transactions, Guests now have another reason to start their weekdays on a high note by planning their next Monday get-together at the nearest Shakey’s branch.

For more information on the Shakey's Monday Madness promo, LIKE Shakey’s Pizza on Facebook and FOLLOW @shakeysph on Instagram.

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Continues to Pour Happy Across the Archipelago

Heads up fellow CBTL fans! There are now more branches to serve us this 2016!

Press Release:

 The success of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® in a country known for having the nicest people in the world is no surprise.  A relationship-driven beverage company, the brand continues to serve up smiles through their handcrafted and premium coffee and tea.

CBTL MOA Arena Annex

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® only serves the best to its customers. Their quality coffee is sourced from no less than the top 1% of specialty grade A Arabica beans while their quality tea leaves are hand-plucked using only the top two leaves and a bud of each plant. Each bean & tea leaf is selected and prepared with such care that it is no wonder customers always return for their favorite drinks. Among these favorites are the famous Chai Tea Latte and the brand's original creation: the Original Ice Blended® drink. 

CBTL Ortigas

In the last 50 years, the brand has grown to up to 1,000 stores in 25 countries and has since made numerous milestones in the Philippines since it opened its first branch at Greenbelt 3 in 2003. Through the years they have launched the CBTL™ Single Serve Beverage System in 2010 and opened the brand's first restaurant concept, The 26th St. Bistro, and the first CBTL™ Coffee Bar in 2012.  

CBTL SM Southmall

Continuing its growth, in the first 6 months of 2016, the The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® has proudly opened six new branches, pouring happy in Circuit Lane and The Enterprise Center in Makati City, Robinsons Galleria in Cebu City, SM MOA Arena Annex (MAAX) in Pasay City, SM Southmall in Las Piñas, and U.P. Town Center in Quezon City. As  of the month of July, the brand has renovated its stores at TriNoma Mall in Quezon City and Ortigas Park in Pasig City. 

CBTL at The Enterprise Center

No doubt, the brand's expansion may be attributed to the fact that relationships remain at the heart of everything The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® does as it partners with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and REAL Life Foundation through the Caring Cup Global Charity Program, the brand's Corporate Social Responsibility arm. 

CBTL Trinoma

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf® also reaches out to its customers, through the Swirl Rewards Card program, the Giving Journal, and the Brew Your Best Year community, a home-grown initiative that was launched in 2014, making its local success reach beyond its quality coffee and tea.

For more information LIKE The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® (Philippines) on Facebook and FOLLOW @CBTLPH on Instagram.

Wingstop's Ambassadors Serve Flavor to the World

Recently, the Flavor Experts launched a digital exhibit of personalities to represent its 14 unique flavors. Know more about each of them below. In addition, there's a Flavor Invasion promo that you may want to check out so you can get Wingstop freebies! Read about that one, here.

Press Release:

Wingstop, the Flavor Company, is on a mission to serve flavor to the world. With a selection of 14 flavors designed to cure every kind of craving, Wingstop guarantees that no matter your personality or preference, there’s always something for everyone! 

Wingstop's Glorietta 2 branch

To amplify this, the brand launched a one-of-a-kind digital exhibit featuring some of the most influential individuals from a range of industries to represent their flavors. Wingstop selected ambassadors to match each one of its distinct flavors based on the conviction that every one of them is able to embody the hunger, hustle, and crave that their flavors represent. 

Yuki Tansengco is a multi-hyphenate millennial who is a fashion stylist, blogger and founder of the social enterprise White Elephant. She represents the brand's wildcard flavor Mango Habanero. For her, serving flavor to the world is to continuously surprise people with what she has to offer—just like the flavor's unexpected combination of sweet and heat. “I like reinventing myself, and changing things up. I like keeping things new and exciting for people.”

Yuki and Wil

To represent  Hot Buffalo, Wil Dasovich says that it’s all about taking risks. “My motto is to do something new every day that I've never done before.” As a Fil-Croatian Youtube sensation and actor, finding the hustle is how the comic video blogger keeps things hot and interesting. 

Travel and fashion blogger Camie Juan brings the Lemon Pepper flavor’s zest to life when she’s out discovering new places and hungering for adventure. “I say yes to opportuni-ties that I normally wouldn't have in my line of work. I try to step out of my comfort zone.” 

Camie and Ornusa

Renowned female DJ and model Ornusa Cadness knows exactly when to be spontaneous, both on the turntable and in her everyday life. Just like the Spicy Soy, she keeps things exciting, especially when it comes to her music. “I like to mix things up when I'm spinning for people. I like to keep them guessing.”

Representing the intense heat of the Atomic, Tricia Centenera is not afraid to be different. As a lifestyle blogger, dancer, and model, she fuels the fire that comes with the hottest flavor on the menu. “You need to act with conviction. Whatever you do, you have to do it for yourself, and not for anyone else.” 

Tricia and Ashley

Musician, gamer, cosplayer, and blogger Ashley Gosengfiao insists that flavor is all about being authentic and being real about who you are. As someone fascinated by Japanese culture, she represents Teriyaki, “I serve flavor to the world by being real. When I post online, what you see is what you get. I don't try to be anyone else.” 

Fashion blogger and positivity advocate Cher Lui Pio is all about keeping it real. “I serve flavor to the world by being the best version of my genuine self, spreading good vibrations all day, every day.” Representing the unique flavor Korean Soy, she tries to put a different twist to anything and everything she does. 

Cher and Jelito

Photographer Jelito de Leon says that when it comes to a good meal and doing good work, it’s all about keeping things simple. Just like the Garlic Parmesan, he strives to be versatile by using his creativity to turn something simple into something interesting. How does Jelito serve flavor to the world? By being fuss-free. “I go with anything. I’m easy and flexible.” 

For other ambassadors, it is about making connections with people. Musician and songwriter Gio Levy represents Cajun – a bold flavor with a lot of soul. As a performer, his goal is to bring his brand of flavor to people and bring happiness to the world. “Wherever I get on stage, I try my best to cater to the crowd.” 

Gio and Natalia

Fashion blogger and model Natalia Ortega wants to bring the same sweetness of the Honey Garlic flavor to every person that she encounters. Her goal is to spread positivity. Just like her flavor, she admits that she is as sweet as honey with a bit of spice. She sweetens her life by building solid relationships with her family, friends, clients, and colleagues. “I take care of my relationships by trying to be the same person with my family, my friends, and at work — I treat everybody the same way.” 

One of the country’s foremost male lifestyle fashion bloggers, Paul Chuapoco, channels his inner cowboy as the ambassador for Hickory Barbecue. For Paul, it's all about injecting fun wherever he goes, sharing positive energy and good vibes. Just like an easygoing ranchero, he shares, “I try to be good company, whoever I'm with, wherever I am.”

Paul and Reese

Reese Lansangan believes she serves flavor to the world through her diversity as an artist. “I feel like I offer a very different set of talents and skills in one package—I'm a musician, artist and author. I don't believe I have to be just one thing, and I think that’s what makes me different.” As a woman on a mission, she juggles her numerous roles by keeping her calm, just like Mild Buffalo. “I'm relaxed. I don't let stressful situations bother me. I find solutions instead of freaking out.”

Social media specialist and blogger Rhea Bue represents Honey Barbecue and is as interesting as this flavor combination. “I may look like I'm sweet on the outside, but on the inside I am pretty fierce.” She gives her work everything she's got. “I give my all to everything that I do. I never do anything half baked.”

Rhea and Tony

Radio DJ Tony Toni Bueno is the ambassador for Louisiana Rub—a flavor he describes as a party in your mouth. He chooses to celebrate life, no matter what. “I decided to change my mind set. When you decide to be grateful for what you have, that is when you can be happy and become a voice of inspiration and hope to others.”

Seize your own flavor at the Wingstop branch nearest you. For more information, LIKE Wingstop Philippines on Facebook and FOLLOW @wingstopph on Instagram.

There’s Play to Learn at Hope Christian High School‘s Pre-School Program

Why is preschool education important? Read this Moms and Dads!

Press Release:

We tend to think of pre-school education as nothing more than supervised play, but pre-school education has lasting effects. According to research done by W. Steven Barnett, Ph.D. at the National Institute for Early Education Research Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey in  2008: “Well-designed preschool education programs produce long-term improvements in school success, including higher achievement test scores, lower rates of grade repetition and special education, and higher educational attainment.” 

learning about plants and water

At Hope Christian High School’s Preschool, it’s more accurate to call it intelligent play.  Children learn cognitive skills and concepts through play activities.  Young children develop their big muscles and gross motor skills through indoor and outdoor play. Play experiences also allow children to learn cooperative play, sharing, taking turns, and to follow rules and instructions among others. Math and Science concepts are learned through manipulative materials, self-discovery and exploration of their environment. 

student drivers on the road

Educational Field Trips are also part of the curriculum and expose the children to learning and discovery outside the classroom. For example, children get to experience life at a farm and see farm animals up close.  Preschool programs should be designed to develop all aspects of a child’s social and emotional development.

farm tour

Hope Christian High School’s Pre-School puts a strong emphasis on Christian values and follows an international curriculum. They have seven learning centers that use both English and Chinese instruction. They keep the teacher-student ratio small to be able to attend to the needs of individual students. The school boasts of fully air-conditioned classrooms and facilities, an outdoor playground and an indoor playroom, a gymnasium, and a daycare program. 

collaborative building

Apart from acquiring the basic skills in reading, writing and arithmetic, the school believes it is never too early to teach values of love and respect for one’s parents, respect for the feelings of others, and to develop healthy habits.  

The foundation of a good education starts with play. 

planting together

Visit their facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Hope.Christian.High.School. For more details and information, please visit the website at http://www.hchs.edu.ph.

Hope Christian High School is located at 1242 Benavidez St., Sta. Cruz Manila. For inquiries, please contact at (+632) 310-8071 to 75.

Oishi Snacktacular 2016 is Happening this July!

If you missed last year's event (like I did, boo-hoo!), here's another chance to catch the bigger and better version! Don't forget to go to SM MOA this weekend!

Press Release:

Summer has winded down but this year is about to get even more exciting as we power up the return of Oishi Snacktacular! This fun-filled affair will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall this coming July 15-17 showcasing interactive booths, fan- favorite snacks, and Oishi’s iconic Team O members - Daniel Padilla, Kathryn Bernardo, Ramon Bautista, Alex Gonzaga, Slater Young, and Elmo Magalona. 

Now, it’s time to press play to see Oishi’s innovative booths make their comeback at this year’s 8-bit inspired event! Be as inventive and imaginative at the Make Your Own Snack Booth, O-Twirl, Snack Shack, and refreshing Slush C+. Crowd favorite Oishi Snack Catcher will be back as well. Get strapped up and guided to an enormous pool of Oishi snacks and grab all the treats you can take with your own hands! 

Apart from the return of some of the classic booths, get ready for new and exciting activities! Prepare yourself for Cuckoo Blaster: catch as many balls as possible with your Cuckoo suit on. 

This year’s Snacktacular is made even more exciting as we celebrate the 70th year of Liwayway Marketing Corporation, the company behind Oishi with the World of O,Wow booth! Get a glimpse of Oishi snacks that are unique to other countries such as Pillows Buko from Vietnam, Pods Manchurian Style from India, and more!

To turn up the O, Wow factor even more, Maine Mendoza, Oishi Ribbed Crackling’s endorser will be introduced as Team O’s newest member. With #OishiSnacktacular you’re sure to emerge a winner!

Trade Your Old Juicer for a New Hurom HA Series!

Got a busted slow juicer? Get a Hurom at a discounted price!

Press Release:

Get PhP5,000.00 off a new Hurom Slow Juicer HA Series if you trade in your old juicer of any brand.  Hurom elevates juicing to a new level. Hurom slow juicers gently squeeze fruits and vegetables, nuts and grains to preserve their natural taste and nutrition, color, and flavor. There are no sharp edges or whirring blades, just pure nutritious deliciousness. Unlike commercial juices, Hurom juice is full of live, digestive enzymes. Make it a habit to drink to health and grab a Hurom juicer now. 

This is the second (2nd) year in a row that Hurom is doing their Slow Juicer Trade-In Promo. Last year’s campaign was so successful that Hurom has decided to do it again. The public who missed out last year have a chance to take advantage of this deal.       

The customer can trade in any brand of juicer, in whatever condition, to any Hurom representative at participating stores:  Rustan’s, SM, Landmark, Anson’s, Abenson, True Value, SM Appliance Center. The customer will be given a PhP5,000.00 discount upon purchase of the Hurom Slow Juicer - HA series. Customers can trade in a maximum of three (3) units for the entire duration of the promo period. The trade-in promotion cannot be availed in conjunction with other Hurom promotions except where indicated. The trade in juicers and blenders are not convertible to cash.  Promo Period is from July 1-August 31, 2016. 

Hurom Slow Juicers are available in Abenson, Anson Link, Duty Free, Gourdo’s, Rustan’s, Landmark, Metro Gaisano, Royal Duty Free, S&R, SM Appliance, SM Home, True Value, and Western Appliances. 

To learn more about Hurom Slow Juicers, visit the official website at www.hurom.com and follow us on our social media accounts: (Facebook) http://www.facebook.com/huromphofficial, and (Twitter & Instagram) @HuromPHofficial. You may also directly contact hotlines (+632) 926-8038 / (+632) 926-8009.

Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands 2016: Recognizing The Consumers' Choice

Are the brands you trust included in the winners' list? 

Press Release:

For Filipinos, the issue of choice has always been matter of trust. From the brands we put in our shopping carts to the services we rely on, Filipino consumers have a strong sense of brand familiarity – and that belief weighs heavily on the decision-making process. 

RD Trusted Brands 2016 winners

Reader’s Digest (RD), one of the longest-running and most read print publications in the world, once again puts the spotlight on the companies we believe in at the RD Trusted Brands 2016 Awards ceremony held June 30, 2016 at the Marco Polo Hotel in Ortigas, Pasig.

The Trusted Brands Survey, identifies the brands and services Filipinos trust, above all others. It also honors the country’s most trusted TV news Presenter, Radio News Presenter, Entertainment/Variety Show Presenter and Sports Personality. 

Trust is an emotion that fuels our decision whether we are conscious of it or not. It is that intangible quality that conveys reliability and integrity. Whether it is a product or service, trust is what reassures us that we are making the right choice.

“For the past 18 years, we have been surveying the people of the Philippines and consumers in major markets across Asia, about which brands they depend on, believe in, and that they expect to provide premium value and exceptional service,” notes Walter Beyleveldt, Reader’s Digest Managing Director, Asia Pacific. 

“Every survey we ask thousands of people – both our readers and a representative sample of consumers in each market – to tell us which brands they consider worthy of their support, custom, and their trust. Not only have we learnt which brands consumers follow, we have discovered a lot about what trust means and how it wins the hearts of people across Asia.”

“Being included in this prestigious list is a huge endorsement and one the winners should be very proud of,” he added.

Beyleveldt and Ms. Sheron White, RD Group Advertising & Retail Sales Director, Asia Pacific flew in from Australia to personally award the trophies to the winners.

Renowned motivational speaker and business influencer, Ms. Anna Esperanza  served as keynote speaker.

Mr. Beyleveldt and Ms. White

For consumers, by the consumers 

Trust is a key component in the relationship between brands and their customers. 

It is built on – and it builds – loyalty. And loyal customers, as any successful brand knows, are key to getting – and remaining – in competitive times.

Trust is hard won – it is usually built up over many years. Trust goes hand-in-hand with a good reputation and delivery of customers’ expectations. It emerges out of the very best consumer experiences, and is achieved only by truly understanding your customers.

“Trust is an emotion that fuels our decisions whether we are conscious of it or not -- an intangible quality that signals reliability and integrity. Whether it is a product or service, trust is what reassures us that we are making the right choice,” said White. 

“A trusted brand has both international appeal but also upholds a strong local connection. It has individual relevance for all its consumers, just about anywhere and in any culture,” she added.

The Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand mark has become a recognizable symbol globally. And we are honored to announce the winners of the latest survey, who will now be able to use this badge of recognition for 2016 to help consumers make the right choices.

For the 2016 Trusted Brand Survey, Readers Digest commissioned global market research company CATALYST.  Approximately 8,000 individuals were selected across 5 of Asia’s key markets such as the Philippines, HongKong, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan.

The survey covers 44 categories of products and services across a wide range of industries.

Around 1000 respondents were surveyed in the Philippines.  Half were subscribers to Reader's Digest, while the remainder were selected to reflect the demographics of the general population.

The final ranking in each product category were obtained by multiplying the total number of votes for a brand with its average score for six qualitative characteristics. For statistical accuracy and to ensure results were compiled in an objective manner using proven methodology, the data was weighted to reflect the population distribution of participants.

RD Trusted Brands Platinum winners

Platinum, Gold and Asia Award

Platinum Trusted Brand Awards were given to brands that performed exceptionally, winning their category with a score that vastly outpolled their nearest competitor.

Platinum award winners included Baby Company (Baby Store); SM Supermalls (Shopping Center); ABSCBN (TV Network); Century Tuna (Canned Tuna); Monterey (Frozen Meat) Magnolia (Fresh/Frozen Poultry); Carrier (Air Conditioner); Uratex (Mattress); Boysen (Paint); Pilot (Pen); Executive Optical (Eye Center), and PLDT Home (Landline Phone Service).

Gold Trusted Brand Awards were given to brands that scored significantly higher than their rivals.

The Gold award winners are Healthway (Ambulatory Medical Services); Condura (Air Conditioner); PLDT Home DSL (Broadband Services); San Marino Corned Tuna (Canned Tuna); Baguio Oil (Cooking Oil); Citibank (Credit Card Issuing Bank); Asian Eye Institute (Eye Center); Ideal Vision (Eye Center); Medicard (Health Card); Acer (Personal Computer); Camella Homes (Property Developer); DMCI Homes (Property Developer); Condura (Refrigerator); GMA7 (TV Network); Panda (Pen); Sharp (Washing Machine) and Whirlpool (Washing Machine) to name a few.

Asia Trusted Brand Awards were given to a brand that wins Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand award in the same category for at least three countries surveyed.

Recipients of the Trusted Brand awards were given a Trophy and will be allowed to use the globally recognized Trusted Brand Logo in their marketing collaterals and merchandising materials.

more winners

Most Trusted Personalities

Another highlight of the night was the special awards given to the countries most trusted personalities. 

For the sixth consecutive year, Jessica Soho was named Most Trusted TV News Presenter. Mike Enriquez on the other hand was chosen as Most Trusted Radio Presenter. Toni Gonzaga won Most Trusted Entertainment/ Variety Show Presenter, while Filipino boxing champ and now Senator Manny Pacquiao is still the Philippines Most Trusted Sports Personality. 

“There are awards and there are awards, and the Reader’s Digest Survey, is in itself a trusted award. This is a result of a survey conducted among its readers and not an award that you can apply for,” says Enriquez. 

Mike Enriquez accepts his award

“They just write you one day to inform you that you have been chosen, and being named most Trusted Radio Presenter is definitely quite an honor.” 

Sanicare Introduces Portable Hygiene Kit

Moms and dads! Keep kids clean and dry this rainy season by bringing this along every time you go out of the house!

Press Release: 

As another school year starts, so does the beginning of the rainy season, which makes kids more vulnerable to common illnesses like colds and flu. According to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO), Filipino students in elementary and high school miss an average of one month per year because of sickness. To curb these cases, the health department encourages the maintenance of proper hygiene at home and in schools.

Sanitary Care Products Asia (SCPA) introduces the handy and affordable Sanicare Hygiene Kit to help mothers ensure that their children are clean and safe from germs and viruses that could affect their health. The Hygiene Kit contains a roll of two-ply Upsize Sanicare Bathroom Tissue, a pack of Cleansing Wipes with 15 paraben-free sheets, one pack of Toilet Seat Cover, and one pack of Sanicare Hankies. With 20 years of proven quality, SCPA gives mothers an advantage in maintaining holistic hygiene for the family anytime, anywhere. 

SCPA products are designed for a fuss-free experience. The classic two-ply Upsize Sanicare Bathroom Tissue, with its new embossed designs, absorbs liquids faster while retaining its durability. The cleansing wipes, on the other hand, has a sturdy, cloth-like texture that is perfect for thorough clean ups. Free from alcohol, chlorine and paraben, the cleansing wipes are gentle to children’s sensitive skin.

Securing a kit saves money and time, making it easier for mothers to equip their children with various personal care products without having to compile different items in one bag. As a back-to-school must-have, the Sanicare Hygiene Kit reminds students about the importance of observing proper hygiene in school. 

It can be bought in leading stores and supermarkets with a suggested retail price of Php 75.

“We recognize the importance of proper hygiene to the overall health of every Filipino,” SCPA President, Ven Sio noted. “Creating the Hygiene Kit is a reflection of our commitment to continuously offer safe and economical hygiene solutions to meet every Filipino households’ needs.” 

Daiso Japan Higlights Bento-Making At Yummy Eats Baon Blowout Event

I admire the dedication of moms who really spend time making beautiful bento boxes! If you're interested to try it yourself, here's sharing some sound tips from a bento mom and Daiso Japan ...

Press Release:

           

In Japan, meal preparation involves artistic flair. Beautifully plated and picture-perfect entrees and desserts are trademarks of Japanese cuisine.  The importance given to creative presentation is also common in bento-making which is now part of the Japanese kawaii culture.

Nikki Garcia; Kokeshi doll cosplayer Sloveene; 
and Bernice Jayne Chioa-Bunoan, Daiso Japan Marketing Services Manager

Bento is a single portion of home-packed or take-out meal that typically holds rice, fish or meat, with pickled or cooked vegetables. But bento-making has evolved from being a simple  meal in a box-shaped container. Moms and homemakers consider it an art and liken it to crafting a masterpiece on a blank canvas because the possibilities are endless. They prepare the food items creatively adding colorful and cute accessories that make the dishes more appealing, especially to kids.

Recognizing this, Daiso Japan, the only authorized and exclusive retailer of Daiso Industries Ltd. Japan that sells useful and cute items priced from P88, conducted a Bento-Making Demo at the recently conducted “Yummy Eats Baon Blowout” organized by Yummy Magazine.  Daiso Japan also had a booth within the Glorietta Activity Center where the event was held.

“Bento-holics” watched intently as mom, bento enthusiast and loyal Daiso Japan shopper Nikki Garcia demonstrated the basics of bento-making and showed them how to make a Kokeshi Doll Lunch using tools and accessories from Daiso Japan. 

Nikki in action

Here are some tips from Nikki and Daiso Japan to help moms out there make bento boxes that are a delight to eat:

*  Meals should be divided proportionally to ensure a well-balanced and nutritious baon that includes carbohydrates, protein, plus fruits, and vegetables.

*   Colors have to be bold to look more attractive and appetizing and can be represented by fruits and vegetables like carrots, tomato, bell pepper, grapes, berries, lemon, mushrooms, sesame seeds, and other colorful add-ons. Take advantage of the fun presentation and sneak in healthy vegetables.

*  Food should be packed tightly to prevent the food from shifting. The last thing you want is a messy-looking bento box.  Pack bulky or pre-shaped food first, then place more food with flexible shapes next. Finally, add some accent food like cherry tomatoes and broccoli to fill in the small gaps.

*  Food safety is of utmost importance.  Always wash your hands and use only clean utensils. Re-heat the food before packing and cool them down completely before closing the bento.

*  Separate wet food from dry food to keep them from getting soggy.  Use a different sauce container and pour the sauce when ready to eat.  Keep ice packs with the lunch pack if necessary to retain the freshness of the fruits or vegetables.

*  Plan ahead and make a list of your menu for the week.  A menu planner or a bento journal is recommended.

* Be creative with props and styling. Add dimension, contrast, and personality with accessories.

buy authentic Daiso merchandise only at Daiso Japan Philippines stores

More importantly, Nikki suggests getting kawaii bento tools and accessories from authentic Japanese sources like Daiso Japan to be assured of premium quality. From basic cookie cutters, nori sheets, scissors, to more intricate rice ball shaker, rice and egg molds, silicone barans, and carving knives, Daiso Japan has everything to make bento-making a breeze.  Nikki said it is every bento-holic’s paradise.

Sandwiches will light up by using Daiso Japan’s Toast Deco Stamp while rice molds, shapers, and nori sheets can turn into your kids’ favorite cartoon character. Knives can carve fruits and veggies into interesting shapes, while eggs can be turned into hearts and animal faces, making them worthy for all kids who love a baon that is all brightened up. There is no limit to what you can do and you’d be amazed at the result -  visually appealing (and delicious) food that kids would love!

find lots of affordable items at Daiso Japan starting at P88

Daiso Japan has 53 store nationwide through Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. which holds the exclusive sub-license to sell authentic Daiso merchandise from Japan and operates the legitimate Daiso Japan store concept in the Philippines. 

Get kawaii bento items and accessories from any Daiso Japan Philippines near you. Follow them on Facebook, at @DaisoJapanPH on Twitter, and @daisophilippines on Instagram.