#QuielleBaby

I have been a fan of local jewelry brand Quielle since 2018. Their quality pieces are made of either stainless steel or sterling silver, which are ideal for my acidic skin.

I love their newest personalized designs, which are the Old English name anklet and baybayin name necklace with pressed flower. I couldn’t resist them, and I ordered both of them. My pieces took a fortnight to make, and the wait was worth it. Both of them were beautiful and perfect for daily wear.

This is not a sponsored post. I am simply a fan of this local shop. With the pandemic still upon us, please consider supporting local SME’s. It would really boost our economy and help our country move forward amidst the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 virus.

Let personalized jewelry brighten up your day! God bless us all and stay safe, everyone!

Best Kept Secret of the South, the Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie by the Fet Boys

If you have ever wanted to know what it feels like to be hugged by a cookie, then you need to try the Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie created and baked by the Fet Boys. If you've never heard of them, it's because their cookies are so good, people don't want to share for fear of it being sold out which it almost always is. 

 The Fet Boys are twin brothers Karl and Kirk though Kirk is the one who bakes all the time. The Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie is his creation and this comes in GIANT and regular size. When I say it's a GIANT cookie, I mean it.

The Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie is made of chocolate chip goodness, walnuts, and chunky chewy cookie all rolled into one. People who don't like too much sweetness will enjoy this because it's not too sweet either. The sweetness is just right that even diabetics can eat a piece of this. 

People in Singapore love this and they are not fans of sweet so if they love the Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie by the Fet Boys, you know that the sweetness level is just right.  

 If you would like to experience being hugged by a warm cookie, message the Fet Boys on their Facebook Page. If you're not ready to take in the giant version, order the regular version. Make sure you order at least a dozen because everyone who ordered only 6 pieces ordered another dozen after just one bite.

text and photos from: the Fet Boys

The Overseas Fabulous Pinay: A Handbook for Independent Women

I just finished reading The Overseas Fabulous Pinay: A Modern Filipina’s Handbook on How to Thrive Abroad by Donna Avellana-Künzler. It was a joy to consume as it was written in the author’s humorous and tongue-in-cheek style. I appreciated that the book was divided in chapters which dealt with the essential matters on migrating to a foreign country, such as important documents and survival skills. These were balanced with light chapters on how to enjoy the expat life and making friends with different people.

Don’t get me wrong- I am not planning to move abroad anytime soon. However, I do know some female friends who are considering the big move someday. While the Internet is abound with resources on how to thrive aboard, this book uniquely targets Filipinas who want to not just integrate in another country, but to be fabulous while doing so. The book carefully lays out key strategies on making it overseas, beating homesickness, and balancing work and personal life.

Ms. Avellana-Künzler is a veteran in thriving overseas, as she has lived in three continents and wants to help Filipinas shine outside their comfort zones. She also wants to empower Filipinas by sharing her own life story so that others can learn from her wins and mistakes.

My favorite chapter was the last one, which was entitled Stay Fabulous. It helped me pinpoint what made me happy, how I reward myself, and what I would like to learn. Come to think of it, this book is not just for overseas Filipinas, but for every Filipina. This pandemic has made us all isolated to a certain extent, so conquering the outside world already feels like a major move in itself.

This book is a guide for Filipinas who want to transcend their own limits, whether its to move abroad or outside the home during Corona times.

I previously shared the press release for this book here.

The Overseas Fabulous Pinay: A Modern Filipina’s Guide on How to Thrive Abroad by Donna Avellana Künzler is available at major online book retailers Barnes & Noble, Kobo and Amazon for P750. Check www.ovfabpinay.com for announcements for book events and to get to know the author more through her blog. Be part of the #ovfabpinay Facebook community [www.facebook.com/ovfabpinay] and follow @ovfabpinay on Instagram [www.instagram.com/ovfabpinay] for more updates.

Stay safe and fabulous, everyone!

Nobody’s Home drops ‘80s-inspired anthem “12:00 (Midnight)”

Stream 12:00 (Midnight) here.

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino three-piece band Nobody’s Home reinvents ‘80s nostalgia with modern synth-pop sheen on their debut single “12:00 (Midnight)”—out today on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music.

Plumbing greater heights with pulsating synth melodies and cinematic flourishes, the indie rock trio’s maiden song evokes the hallmarks of a generation who grew up on Back To The Future and Dungeons and Dragons, while setting its sights on darker, more subdued production.  

According to Eon Buendia, the song revolves “around the idea of separation and someone comparing themselves, thinking they're nothing but a burden on their partner who seems to be of importance.”

Drummer and co-songwriter Moon Cairo Peralta also shares the reason behind their latest song: “It’s called ‘12:00 (Midnight)’ because midnight for us signifies that odd time between the day before and the next day to come. The time where everything around you seems calm which gives way to the anxiety that comes crawling in. It talks about starting may be right back where you started from or anew even if you have no idea it’s already started.”

“12:00 (Midnight)” started out as a gauzy instrumental piece produced by Moon Cairo Peralta. Cairo points out, “I was inspired by listening to a lot of the bands who used synths in the 80s. With writing Midnight in particular, I wanted to incorporate synths that’ll establish the overall mood and groove of the production.”

The young musician sent the track to Eon Buendia, who wrote the lyrics and melodies, and to Justin Punzalan, who added guitar lines that according to him, “were placed in a way that it would complement instead of overpower not just the vocals but the track itself.” 

The end result mirrors the three-piece collective’s thrilling retro-futurist experimentation, while careful not to sacrifice the incredible pop sensibilities that define their signature sound.

“12:00 (Midnight)” is their first single as an artist under Sony Music Philippines. Eon stresses that the band is very excited and looking forward to working with the major record label. “We feel that at this point in our lives, we should grab every opportunity for us to showcase our talent and message through a platform everyone is familiar with.”

Source: Nyou

Israel Donates Learning Equipment to Support Filipino Students Amid COVID-19

Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation – MASHAV donated learning equipment to the Department of Education (DepEd) of the Philippines to help with its continuous efforts in coping up with the COVID-19 pandemic and in providing distance learning to Filipino students.

Chargé d’Affaires (CDA a.i.) Ms. Yulia Rachinsky-Spivakov led the turnover ceremony of the learning equipment comprised of heavy-duty copiers, laptops, and office printers. DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones witnessed the ceremony virtually while Usec. Revsee Escobedo from DepEd and Dean Jason Arriola from the Department of Foreign Affairs Office of Middle East and African Affairs (DFA-OMMEA) graced the event with their presence.

“COVID-19 pandemic has put a stop to our regular way of transmitting education which is largely face-to-face. Since we are determined to continue the process of learning amidst the pandemic, we have turned to blended learning without the face-to-face component,” Sec. Briones said. “Thank you very much for these learning equipment that we could use for blended education. I have been thinking of how to select the lucky recipients of these gifts. We will prioritize those who need it the most,” she added.

Furthermore, DepEd Secretary Briones has expressed her appreciation towards Israeli achievements in Science and education and her willingness to develop the bilateral cooperation in these areas.

“We are very happy to give assistance to Filipino students. We are aware of the challenges that DepEd is facing in terms of the blended learning approach due to COVID-19. That’s why we decided to give support to the Filipino youth, teachers, and the DepEd,” Ms. Rachinsky-Spivakov said. She added in Tagalog, “Sobrang masaya kaming tumulong sa mga mag-aaral sa Pilipinas. Sana magamit ito ng maayos at marami ang makinabang.”

During the event, CDA a.i. Ms. Yulia Rachinsky-Spivakov, mentioned President Manuel Quezon who saved Jewish refugees during the Holocaust. “Israel will forever be grateful to the Philippines for that. This is one of our humble ways to pay back,” Ms. Rachinsky-Spivakov said.

The turnover ceremony took place at the Embassy of Israel in Manila on 13 August 2020.

Source: Embassy of the State of Israel, Manila

65 More for QC

I dispatched 65 earsavers to the swabbing personnel of the Quezon City Health Department. I finished this batch on my birthday, and it was sent out a day after I turned 34. I hope that the frontliners who will receive these earsavers will be spared from the Covid-19 virus, and that they will remain safe as they fulfill their duties.

Please join the Earsavers for Lifesavers PH Facebook group to volunteer as a crafter, materials sponsor, or delivery angel. Every bit of help counts as we continue to motivate our healthcare frontliners as they battle the corona virus.

Let us all stay safe and healthy!

100 for QC

I dispatched 100 earsavers to the frontliners of Quezon City Health Department District 6. This batch is close to my heart because I reside in this district. It is my own way of supporting the brave men and women who tirelessly work to fight Covid-19 in my area.

I am still volunteering for Earsavers for Lifesavers PH. I invite you to join our Facebook group to volunteer as a crafter, materials sponsor, or delivery angel.

Thank you and God bless us all!

The Itchyworms to launch quarantine-themed album with a virtual event

The Itchyworms will be hosting a virtual album launch to celebrate the release of their highly anticipated fifth album, Waiting For The End To Start. 

A few hours before the 9-track album drops on digital platforms worldwide, the acclaimed pop-rock outfit is set to debut the songs for the very first time through an online listening and live commentary party, which will be streamed live via The Itchyworms’ official Facebook page on August 17, (Monday), from 7:30 pm onwards. 

Expect a night of fun and entertainment as The Itchyworms perform select cuts from their upcoming release, and promise music listeners to deliver a riveting music experience like no other. 

About the album

The Itchyworms’ upcoming studio album, Waiting For The End To Start was conceptualized and recorded with the members of the band confined in their respective homes during the nationwide lockdown. 

Thematically, the songs are written as a reflection of their individual and collective experiences during the quarantine period. It also inhabits a more adventurous and relentless approach in terms of production and songwriting, which produced captivating end results that music fans will surely love.

As Chino Singson, the band’s lead guitarist and back-up vocalist, shares in a statement, “Like any collection of music, it is a record of its time: A snapshot of the artist's reaction to his or her circumstances. But it's a concept album in that our aim was to create art in the midst of a pandemic, to capture our emotions in the music we record, even with the limited recording gear we have at home. So you'll hear amp buzz and imperfect vocals, but for me that's part of the spirit of true rock.”

The Itchyworms’ “Waiting For The End To Start” virtual album launch is presented by Sony Music Philippines, GNN Entertainment, and Linya-Linya.

Source: Nyou

In Coffee Memory

We are still under Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ), and things have been pretty quiet for me in general. I am still crocheting earsavers for frontliners, and I have reached some hospitals in provincial locations. I focus on my workouts, books, and movies to stay sane during these uncertain times. Of course, my days would not be complete without my favorite beverage: coffee!

Luckily, my late father’s favorite Starbucks drink is on a bundle promo at the moment, so I was able to order a couple for me and my mom. It was delicious! The comforting drink cheered me up and energized me to continue making earsavers.

I am grateful for the chance to help others and enjoy coffee from home. Let us all stay safe and be kind to one another!

Zack Tabudlo takes charge of his fear and soars in love with latest single, “Nangangamba”

Singer-songwriter and producer Zack Tabudlo finds renewed perspective on time’s delicate role in shaping your own destiny, setting an ultimatum on fear with his newest single, “Nangangamba,” out this Friday, August 7, on digital platforms worldwide.

On his first release under Island Records Philippines, Zack urges listeners to take ownership of their own feelings: that inaction may shield you from pain, yes, but ultimately it’ll get you nowhere. He brings love songs up a notch, infusing pop and R&B elements to his powerful vocals—a testament to his ever-evolving songwriting and production style. But moreover, it signals a shift on his creative choices in keeping his individual artistry as dynamic as his growth in the music industry. “With these new tracks, I'm sure people who have experienced these would relate so much more… [the latest single] is very different, music-wise and in terms of maturity,” he shares.

Part of this artistic growth is Zack’s experience of writing “Nangangamba,” a song he wrote a year ago. He cites an earlier failed romance as the inspiration behind the song. “I wrote down some lyrics about the things I was going through at the time. I was in a situation where I felt like someone I liked was playing too hard to get, and the song pretty much circles around that idea: that sometimes when we play too hard to get, we lose people who really love us or people who [turn out to] feel the same way.” The process of writing the actual song didn’t take long once the idea set in. “It all started with a melody that popped into my head while I was in class. Every time melodies or ideas pop in my head, I always grab my phone to record them just to make sure I won't forget. But this time, I knew I needed at least a couple of chords on any instrument just to seal the idea. I recorded all the chords I needed using a ukulele. When I got home I went straight to my home studio and finished the production with my vocals and everything. Five to six hours later, ‘Nangangamba’ was born.”

Now finally set to be released, “Nangangamba” unintentionally—and fittingly—became a case of practicing what you preach, as he sings, “Ito na ang pagkakataon / Wala nang pipigil sa’yo / ‘Wag ka nang mahihiya / Sabihin na ang totoo.” In some ways, the lockdown allowed him to reprioritize. “I have a home studio and all the equipment I need. Having all the time in the world made me focus more and be motivated to write lots of songs compared to when I was also studying at the same time.” 

Acquiring skills over time also made it possible to avoid tremendous adjustments to recording and producing the single despite limitations during the quarantine. “Just like in my old tracks, I’ve worked on them from top to bottom. I'm the producer, writer, singer, arranger, as well as the mixing and mastering engineer. It was really fun experimenting with different genres and I really like the vibe of each and every song I've been making lately. There are samples I've worked on from scratch with these tracks and I really can't wait for everyone to hear it.” 

His latest career step as part of the brand-new Island Records roster excites the multi-disciplinary artist. “Everyone in MCA Music Philippines and Island Records Philippines are amazing… They've been very supportive and very creative when it comes to ideas or projects, and I know I have a very strong team behind me.” 

About Zack Tabudlo

Zack Tabudlo is a singer-songwriter and producer from Manila, Philippines. He joined The Voice Kids in 2014 and went on to establish his solo career, writing and performing his own music. His first single, “Stay Here,” was released in 2018 and was featured on several Spotify playlists, including “Men of OPM,” “Philippines Viral 50,” and “OPM Says Chillax.” His subsequent single, “Mahal O Biro,” was again included in “Men of OPM” and “Pinoy Love Ballads” playlists. Zack premiered his first single of 2020, the chill-pop track “This Is Love,” in February.  

He has also collaborated with several OPM artists, undertaking writer and producer roles. He’s most recently been credited in arranging and producing Carlo Aquino’s single “Balisong” and Sharlene San Pedro’s “Everything Will Be Alright” and “Pusong Naliligaw.”

Now on a fresh path in his career, Zack sets his sights to winning the hearts of his audience both locally and internationally as one of the bold new signees to Island Records Philippines.

Follow Zack on Facebook · Twitter · Instagram

Source: Nyou

Brewing Home Life

The Covid-19 pandemic has been challenging for all of us. Personally, I struggled during the first few weeks of staying at home because I was so used to going out almost everyday. One of my pastimes before was having a cup or two of coffee. I enjoyed crocheting while enjoying a cuppa at a cafe.

When the quarantine was imposed, I found myself at home with my stash of instant coffee. While I also have my own instant favorites, I craved for freshly brewed coffee as I was accustomed to. Luckily, I found Coffee Buddy online.

I initially purchased their Kalinga Dark Roast, Sagada Dark Roast, and french press. I learned to brew my own coffee, and it was definitely a game changer! It enhanced my quarantine experience as it brought back my coffee shop vibes. I also drastically cut down on my sugar intake, as I prefer enjoying my brewed coffee black.

I love Coffee Buddy’s local coffee selection so much, that I restocked from their shop yesterday. This time, I got Benguet Dark Roast and Espresso Dark Roast.

This is not a sponsored post. I am simply a fan of Coffee Buddy’s dark roast flavors. Learning to brew my own coffee has improved my home life, and has enabled me to enjoy my favorite beverage while on lockdown.

I hope that you will also find your perfect brew soon!

100 for Dagupan

As Metro Manila and some parts of the Philippines reverted back to Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ), I dispatched 100 earsavers to the frontliners of Villaflor Hospital at Dagupan, Pangasinan. I am delighted to still have the means to help our modern-day heroes in my own small way.

The pandemic has taught me to be resilient through crochet. I am grateful for the opportunity to use my skill to uplift our frontliners from home.

Please support Earsavers for Lifesavers Community PH by joining our Facebook page! We are still in need of crafters, delivery angels, and materals sponsors. Please support us and help our frontliners from home.

God bless us all!

Ben&Ben launches BBTV in celebration of 1M subscribers on YouTube

After reaching more than a million subscribers on YouTube, multi-awarded nine-piece collective Ben&Ben have heeded the call of fans for more exclusive content in the coming days.

The acclaimed band has recently announced the launch of their upcoming weekly series, BBTV on July 31, Friday to celebrate this important milestone in their career. 

“We've been making vlogs that showed our life behind the scenes, but eventually the band and its team came up with the idea,” vocalist and guitarist Miguel Benjamin shares. “Its primary goal is to simply find more ways to connect to people through more varied content.”

Extensive range of content

Aside from themed music performances and collaborations, expect an intimate look at the band’s more personal and entertaining side as they share their journey of living together under one roof.  “We decided to live together to eliminate or at least greatly lessen the risks involved with working outside,” says Miguel. “We always had the idea of living together in the future to create content and write music, but with the situation now we realized that now was the best time to actually give it a shot.”

Ben&Ben also revealed about their plans to drop a “head bang” version of their smash single “Pagtingin,” as well as cover select K-Pop songs in the future. 

The online series, which airs every Wednesday, will also feature a more extensive range of content for people to connect to, including but not limited to games, competitions, challenges and other forms of entertainment. 

Sophomore Album 

Ben&Ben are currently working on the follow-up to their platinum-selling debut album, Limasawa Street, which produced generation-defining songs such as “Pagtingin,” “Fall,” “Araw-Araw,” “War,” and more. 

Paolo confirms in a statement that one of the reasons for moving in was to start writing for their second album to be released under Sony Music. “We wanted the process to be as organic and as involved as possible, and we're so excited to see what we can come up with where distance and time isn't a hindrance.”

Source: Nyou

New episodes of BBTV will drop every Wednesday of the week on the Ben&Ben YouTube Channel, starting August 5, 2020.

Birthday Vibe

I recenly purchased a Love, Susie crescent ring in gold vermeil. I chose it because it is a) adjustable, b) locally handmade, and c) made to last as the base metal is sterling silver. Since Love, Susie is the sister brand of local handmade jewelry brand Pulseras by Kim, I am sure of the quality and craftsmanship behind this piece.

This is not a sponsored post. I am just a fan and happy customer! My ring came with free stud earrings as Pulseras by Kim is moving to a new physical store soon. I am happy that I was able to visit their Maginhawa space one last time. It was a special location for me, as it was right beside my alma mater, Holy Family School.

I am grateful to still have the luxury to enjoy handmade jewelry this pandemic. We are all struggling with the Covid-19 crisis, so it helps to have some sparkle in our lives right now.

I hope that you will also find a piece or two from Love, Susie to inspire you to stay positive during trying times.

Barbie Almalbis honors Filipino optimism with “Umagang Kay Ganda” music video

Filipina rock icon Barbie Almalbis hopes to encourage and inspire listeners to rise above the extraordinary times. 

With the official release of “Umagang Kay Ganda,” the third single of her upcoming new album under Sony Music Philippines, the Dahilan singer-songwriter uses her platform to pay tribute to the courage and optimism of the Filipino people. 

“The current situation has made so many of us experience such a profound sense of loss, and it has also given us a rare chance to stop and reassess our lives and consider the things that we really value,” the acclaimed pop-rock artist shares. “I hope Umagang Kay Ganda will be a blessing especially to our frontliners. It is our little way to say thank you for the selflessness that they have continually shown and the sacrifices that they have made to help us get through this together.”

With the help of constant collaborators, Barbie and her bandmates put a creative stamp in reimagining “Umagang Kay Ganda,” while making sure that its empowering message shines through the intricate arrangement. “Karel and I initially jammed it and he wrote lines for the instrumental section, then we arranged the rest with Nikko on keyboard and Jonard on drums. We were able to record the rhythm section just a few weeks before the lockdown.” As a result, the new version conveys the timeless appeal of the original, while exuding a warmer approach in terms of production details. 

Inspiring music video

The official release of Barbie Almalbis’ latest single comes with an accompanying music video that brings to light everyday stories of hope and love for the country amidst the global health crisis. 

Interspersed with scenes of the new normal, the visuals for “Umagang Kay Ganda” also showcase the heroic deeds of our frontliners and several acts of compassion and resilience from ordinary Filipino folks. 

Barbie adds, “Although some people consider music and visual arts as non-essentials these days, I’ve found that many are actually turning to the arts as a way of coping and feeling connected to others. We want to remind people of the real hope that we have and can hold on to, even as we confront the invisible enemy on a day to day basis. We’ll be able to stand above difficult situations and hurdle these atrocities with the gift of love and compassion.”

The music video is also part of Magnolia Dari Creme’s campaign reminding us that in extraordinary times as in the normal times, tomorrow always brings us new chances for a brighter day as long as we are with the ones we love. 

Source: Nyou

Sponge Cola signs to Sony Music, releases new song “Lumipas Ang Tag-Araw”

Sponge Cola has officially signed to Sony Music—the record label that released their debut album, Palabas.

To mark this return, the award-winning band drops a new song entitled “Lumipas Ang Tag-araw,” out today on all digital platforms worldwide. 

Capturing the essence of a belated summer anthem in less than four minutes, Sponge Cola’s latest single soars into the fast lane with verses that turn romantic yearning into an inescapable sing-along, and a power pop surge that packs a ton of punch. 

Connection in separation

The captivating and relatable lyrics echo the collective frustration of not being with the people we deeply care about and love. But on the other side of the narrative, the song presents an opportunity to weather the insurmountable odds through perseverance and resilience to get through life—thanks to the support and kindness of friends and family. “It's a story of connection in separation, and how we can be a source of comfort for each other during difficult times,” guitarist Armo Armovit adds.

Vocalist and guitarist Yael Yuzon fondly recalls the inspiration behind “Lumipas Ang Tag-araw” after driving his wife to work one morning under the new normal. He remembers becoming intensely emotional out of nowhere. “It was a strange feeling: a realization about everything that has or hasn’t happened since Covid-19, which yanked us away from our usual. And at that moment, this bright and happy melody just came to me, then some words and harmonies. When I got home, I fleshed everything out and recorded a demo within a few minutes. I guess I just needed to uplift myself, so I wrote something uplifting-- something that doesn't highlight the struggle everyone has been trying to deal with during the pandemic and the lockdown.” The creative and emotional surge led to writing the initial draft of “Lumipas Ang Tag-araw”—a love song that deals with the struggles of physical connection in the time of pandemic.

“Virtual” recording

The upbeat pop-rock tune is the first song that the band arranged and recorded in the comforts of their home, without being together in the same place. Armovit shares the challenging process that transpired during the preliminary stages of the recording. “We sent demos and voice memos to each other back and forth, tweaking parts, creating variations, until we all agreed on a final arrangement. Everyone then had to record their own parts at home and send it to a communal online drive for the producer, Angee Rozul, to bring everything together for the final track.”

Under normal circumstances, Sponge Cola would usually write the song, arrange it in a rehearsal space, and record it together in a studio. But due to the nationwide lockdown imposed in the previous months, the alternative rock quartet decided to use the time and resources available at their disposal to record individually at their own place. “There was a lot of self-editing because you're not being policed by your bandmates or a producer constantly keeping tabs on possible mistakes or improvements, at least in person,” says Yael Yuzon. “It was all about laying in your parts when the song was passed on to you, and you had the responsibility to keep things right and easy for the next guy to add on to.”

Music video

According to Armovit, the lockdown-inspired music video of “Lumipas ang Tag-Araw” takes an intimate look into the fictional and real-life character’s personal worlds—their bedrooms, living spaces, confined homes—and the routine that they’re up to, in hopes of coping with the situation under quarantine. “It was also our first time working under special conditions, where we had to film all the scenes ourselves with our own phones and cameras. I'm very thankful for the help and guidance from King Palisoc, our director, and the creative ideas from his team.”

The music video will be released on August 1, Saturday via the band’s official YouTube page.

Source: Nyou

30 For Bohol

I dispatched 30 earsavers to the frontliners of Imap Lying-In Clinic, Bohol. It was a joy to crochet this batch as it coincided with a rainy weekend and Taylor Swift’s Folklore drop. The dreamy combo enabled me to crochet with ease.

Volunteering for Earsavers for Lifesavers PH has been the highlight of my quarantine so far. To help us reach more frontliners, please search for our Facebook group. Thank you and God bless!

Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach interviews “candidates” seeking to join online ESL platform 51Talk

Pia Wurtzbach interviews candidates who wish to be part of online English platform 51Talk. The live stream, with hints of a reality and talent show, aims to attract 30,000 new online English teachers to join the platform. 

Manila, Philippines – 51Talk, together with their new Philippine brand ambassador, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, held its first-ever live stream interview via Facebook after hundreds of aspiring online English teachers signed-up to get a chance to be part of the show. The live stream is part of 51Talk’s campaign to invite qualified Filipinos who are interested to take advantage of the 30,000 home-based online teaching opportunities offered by 51Talk where people can teach, learn and most importantly – earn. 

Listed in the New York Stock Exchange, 51Talk is the leading online English education platform that connects thousands of Filipino teachers to foreign English language learners via an interactive virtual classroom.

More than 70,000 viewers tuned in and joined the fun and inspiring live stream which allowed them to learn more about the teach at home opportunity and acquainted them with the application process that can be completed in as fast as three days. Pia interviewed nine pre-selected candidates from different backgrounds who shared their heartwarming stories on how they found hope in 51Talk after losing their jobs or livelihood.

Several of the candidates expressed how the pandemic has affected their current livelihood, especially those who belong to the travel and events industries. 

Paula, a professional dancer and instructor who has been performing and teaching for 14 years, had a lot of her events and classes cancelled due to COVID-19. She came across the 51Talk online teaching opportunity and decided to give it a shot since she has teaching experience.

“I want to be able to translate my teaching skills from dance and performance arts into teaching English. I just love sharing what I know and see my students grow into the best versions of themselves,” shared Paula. 

Trina, a professional events host, found herself in the same boat as a lot of her hosting gigs were cancelled or postponed indefinitely. 

“While the situation we are in can be very disheartening, I decided to try out as a 51Talk teacher and I’m happy that I made it to this fun interview with no less than Miss Universe  Pia Wurtzbach!” exclaimed Trina. Trina gave the viewers a taste of her fun, entertaining energy as she sang songs both in English and Chinese

Pearl, another one of the candidates, candidly shared how the past few months have been very tough for those in the travel industry. She was about to return as a flight attendant after her maternity leave but her retraining was put on hold as travel restrictions are still in place. Having no income, Pearl said she had to find a stable and sustainable livelihood that would allow her to help her husband, especially now that they have their first child. 

“When I learned about the opportunity in 51Talk, it gave me hope and made me revisit my childhood dream of becoming an educator,” shared Pearl. “Even if I don’t have any teaching experience, I didn’t hesitate to sign-up. I borrowed my sister’s laptop just so I could apply. I’m very excited to start teaching in 51Talk.”

According to 51Talk teacher Angelo Lex who co-hosted the show, being an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher is very profitable as he gets to earn at the comfort and safety of his own home in his preferred schedule. He also shared his excitement when he learned of the platform’s recent announcement about the 20 million pesos incentive program exclusively for 51Talk teachers this month. 

Pia felt ecstatic and inspired since this is her first stint in interviewing candidates online. “It’s a humbling experience to interview such incredible candidates from all walks of life, to hear their unique stories and to witness how talented and passionate they all are,” shared Pia.

Towards the end of the show, Pia said she was moved after hearing the story of one of the candidates, Pearl, the flight attendant who borrowed her sister’s laptop just so she could sign-up to be a teacher at 51Talk. Pia surprised everyone as she decided to personally give Pearl a laptop to help her get started in her online teaching career. 

“We see your hard work and we’re very sorry for what you’re going through as a young mom. I find you very engaging and who has so much potential,” said Pia.

Aspiring online English teacher Pearl became emotional when Pia Wurtzbach surprisingly announced she would give Pearl a laptop so she can start earning from home to support her family. Pearl was a flight attendant who lost her job but found hope in 51Talk. 

“It’s such an honor to represent 51Talk as their brand ambassador and to be able to connect to thousands of Filipinos through this live stream. I hope it inspired them and gave them joy.” 

Pia considers empowering Filipinos as her top advocacy, now more than ever when thousands of Filipinos have lost their livelihood due to the pandemic.

“I am encouraging all qualified individuals to sign-up and to seize this wonderful livelihood opportunity. See you in our next live stream!” exclaimed Pia. 

Next month, 51Talk will be doing another round of interviews with a new set of candidates via their official Facebook page. To get a chance to be interviewed, showcase your talent, and have a #DateWithPiaAt51Talk, sign-up via 51Talk’s website at www.51Talk.ph.

100 for St. Luke’s QC

I dispatched 100 earsavers to the frontliners of the St. Luke’s Medical Center CT Scan Department yesterday. Finishing this batch was momentous for me as it marked my 2,000th earsaver this pandemic. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve during the quarantine, and to reach my personal goal of making 2,000 earsavers for frontliners was truly special.

If you also want to donate earsavers or help out with our cause to assist frontliners by easing their discomfort, please join the Earsavers for Lifesavers PH Community. We are still in need of crafters, materials sponsors, and delivery angels.

God bless us all!

Gratefully Uncertain

Yesterday, I visited the Padre Pio Chapel at Libis, Quezon City. The pandemic may have prevented me from hearing mass and visiting the churches that I frequent, but that does not mean that my faith has diminished. In fact, the prevalence of uncertainty has enabled me to cling to my faith and believe more in an unseen God.

I prayed, purchased dinner from Cucina di Francesco (their Italian sausage pizza and carbonara are both to die for!), and reflected on the number of ways that the pandemic has humbled me. I am still grateful to be able to do the things I enjoy. I am thankful for my family, friends, and loved ones. I am happy to still be thriving. And while there is fear at times, I know that I will be able to make it through this.

I hope that you will also find the faith that can save you during these difficult times. Take care, everyone!