My 35 Lessons

Today, I am thirty-five. I am grateful to be in good health and to be filled with love. I am aware that tomorrow is not promised, so I will live each day as if it were my last.

Here are the thirty-five lessons I have learned in the past thirty-five years:

1. Happiness starts with me

2. Happiness is a daily choice

3. Peace is more valuable than a fat paycheck

4. Health is always more important than a lucrative yet unsafe job

5. Education is the best investment

6. Writing is the best way to leave a legacy

7. Journaling works wonders

8. Reading books really elevates one’s imagination

9. Working out everyday is an essential form of happiness

10. Blogging is the best and easiest way to show the world how meaningful my life is

11. Good food is the beginning of wonderful memories

12. Travel is a timeless and priceless form of education

13. Being an only child should not be a source of shame

14. Knowing how to commute is an essential life skill

15. Self-care is a daily conscious effort

16. Prayer is the most pure form of manifestation

17. Blocking mean people is the start of inner-peace

18. I should never be guilty for buying books

19. I should never be guilty for joining workshops

20. Self-publishing my book is a testament to my own strength and resilience

21. Reading the Bible in one year will let you appreciate your faith in God more

22. Volunteering allows me to share my skills to uplift others

23. Life is too damn short

24. Done is always better than perfect

25. Vision boards do work!

26. Feeling good about myself is the best style statement

27. Life is not a race

28. Social media is a way for me to share my life, not to show off or feel insecure about myself

29. Dreams do come true!

30. Never give up

31. I am never too old to have an amazing life

32. Being kind is better than being nice

33. Never force yourself to people who do not believe in you

34. My book is just the beginning

35. I am going to have a bright future ahead of me!

Thank you to my family and friends for believing in me. Thank you to my partner, Lorenz, for never never giving up on us. Thank you, Lord, for still sustaining me.

Let’s go, thirty-five!

The Kid Laroi’s “Stay” tops Spotify and Apple Music charts in the Philippines

Australian rapper and singer The Kid Laroi continues to gain international success as “Stay,” his inescapable duet with Justin Bieber, rises to No. 1 on both Spotify and Apple Music charts in the Philippines.

To date, the synth-driven pop jam has reached the summit of several global music markets, including the United States, Canada, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, Sweden, and his home country, Australia. 

Aside from topping the streaming platforms in the Philippines, “Stay” lands prominent placements on several mainstream radio charts in Metro Manila such as Magic 89.9 (peak at No. 4), RX 93.1 (peak at No. 7), 99.5 Play FM (peak at No. 2), 87.5 REPUBLIKA FM1 (No. 18), and Barangay LS 97.1 (peak at No. 10).

Hitting the algorithmic sweet spot with a euphoric mix of new wave, Soundcloud rap, and electronic pop influences, “Stay” also owes its popularity to TikTok dance challenges all over the world. Among the content creators that recently jumped into the bandwagon is Manila-based social media influencer Vladimir Grand (@callmegrand, 11.7 million followers), who recently busted a move in various corners of the city using The Kid Laroi and Justin Bieber’s chart-topping smash. His video has racked up more than 10 million views in less than a week, giving the song a significant push, promotions-wise.

Released via Grade A Productions and Columbia Records, “Stay” is The Kid Laroi’s biggest global hit to date, and serves as the lead single off his recently reloaded mixtape, F*ck Love 3: Over You. The catchy track marks his second collaboration with Justin Bieber, following the latter’s infectious tune “Unstable” from the album, Justice—released in March 2021. Upon its release last month, “Stay” received glowing review from music publications, with HotNewHiphop calling it "a solid pop offering for the summer.” 

The Kid Laroi and Justin Bieber’s “Stay” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Columbia Records and Sony Music.

Source: Sony Music Philippines

Sando All

My family and I enjoyed our boxes of tamago sando or Japanese egg sandwiches from Katsu Sando PH. Their take on this popular convenience store staple captures the Japanese gooey style of cooking eggs, resulting in a creamy and filling treat. I am satisfied with this meal, and I highly recommend that you try it!

This is not a sponsored post. I am simply a satisfied customer. Do check out their Instagram page to order today!

Filipino hip-hop group Shockra returns with heist-themed video for new song “Operation 10-90”

Manila, Philippines; 11 August 2021 – After taking hiatus to focus on their booming individual careers, Filipino hip-hop supergroup Shockra returns with an epic banger inspired by the recent resurgence of heist-themed films.

Member rappers Abaddon, Crazymix, Flict-G, Tuglaks, Kial, Numerhus, Smugglaz, and Inozent One hop on a mythical beast of a track called “Operation 10-90,” which effortlessly blends their collective music influences with hard-hitting beats from Jan-C and Tha Black G. 

“It took us two years to find the perfect beat for our comeback single,” Flict-G shares in a statement. “After finally deciding on the overall direction for this particular song, we decided to discuss and go ahead with our plan. We’re inspired by ‘90s action films, and somehow, we wanted to incorporate that vibe in our brand of provocative hip-hop sound.”

Released under Sony Music Philippines, Shockra’s“Operation 10-90” comes with a big-budget music videohelmed by rising creative filmmaker REIKA (Aya ReikaMayani), who is responsible for the game-changing visuals of James Reid, syd hartha, Because and ALLMO$T—to name a few. For her part, REIKA reinterprets the hip-hop collective’s affinity for heist staples with a refreshing new spin. The young director also turns Abaddon’s concept into a cinematic but entertaining thriller, while taking into consideration the other group member’s suggestions.

“REIKA really respects our vision for the track,” Flict-G explains. “Unlike other directors, she’s very receptive to our opinions. I also admire her team’s professionalism and commitment to deliver a quality, timeless material that complements the music’s thematic bigness.”

The 10-minute short film features the individual members of Shockra as a gang of robbers trying to outwit the authorities in their bid to escape poverty and start a new life. With excellent ensemble performances and intensely choreographed action scenes, the music video of “Operation 10-90” sets the gold standard in hip-hop filmmaking, while making sure not to sacrifice the group’s crossover tendencies.

The music video of Shockra’s “Operation 10-90” is slated to drop at 7pm, today on YouTube. Shockra’s new singleis also available on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

Source: Nyou

ASEAN Music Showcase Festival 2021 Unveils Lineup

ASEAN Music Showcase Festival (AMS) shares its 2021 artist slate, representing the region’s best up-and-coming and established music acts alike, from the seven participating countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, with Cambodia and Vietnam joining this year.

Boasting genre-bending styles and multicultural artistic backgrounds, each country’s participating representatives were carefully selected to uphold the organizers’ common goal of placing ASEAN music on the world stage. “Part of our selection process is assessing the artists’ overall portfolio not just as recording artists but also as performers, which hopefully, through our combined backgrounds and experiences in our respective local industries, help artists gain opportunities regionally and globally,” shared AMS co-founder MC Galang, Creative Director and co-founder of Philippine-based live events organizer and online music publication The Rest Is Noise.

Meet AMS 2021’s artists

Joining the Indonesian showcase are indie-math rock quartet eleventwelfth, disco synth pop band Guernica Club, tropical pop duo Irama Pantai Selatan, and indie pop act Sunwich.

Malaysia leans in towards guitar- and electronica-heavy ensembles with two-piece experimental indie rock act LUST, punk band NO GOOD (featuring original members of indie mainstays Killeur Calculateur and Dirgahayu), neo-psychedelic pop/rock outfit Ramayan, and multihyphenate artist Shelhiel.

Hailing from the Philippines, instrumental rock solo artist Gabba, indie rock act Oh, Flamingo!, DJ-producer Pamcy, and live electronic music duo Tarsius will add further variety to the mix.

From Singapore, pop-alternative R&B trio brb., indie pop-rock band M1LDL1FE, and electronica duo .gif spotlight’s the city-state’s thriving indie scene—with one more to be announced soon.

Thailand’s lineup includes soul-R&B singer-songwriter Alec Orachi, Thai folk and pop fusion act ASIA7, hip-hop artist Réjizz, and “rave n’ roll” band S.O.L.E.

Cambodia’s premiere lineup this year sees the addition of multi-instrumentalist extraordinaire Vanthan featuring singer-songwriter and one of the country’s pioneers of the “original music revolution,” Laura Mam, electronic solo act Daniel Omens, soul-R&B singer-songwriter Sophia Kao, and local hip-hop superstar VannDa.

Last but not the least, joining from Vietnam are Ca Trù-centered electronic act Limebócx, indie electronica quartet Ngầm, ethereal/ambient electronic duo Tiny Giant, and rock band Những Đứa Trẻ (The Children).

The lineup was deliberated by co-organizers Fungjai, NYLON Thailand, and Bangkok Music City from Thailand; The Rest Is Noise PH from the Philippines; Steady State Records from Singapore; SRM from Indonesia; City Roars Festival from Malaysia; Baramey Production from Cambodia; and Monsoon Music Festival and Swan Zoo from Vietnam.

AMS 2021 will be held virtually via YouTube on September 11-12, 2021 (Saturday and Sunday). This year’s edition is co-presented by Malaysia’s Cultural Economy Development Agency (CENDANA); the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB); the National Arts Council, Singapore; US-based digital music distributor TuneCore; and Singaporean NPO that supports youth, talent and leadership development, *SCAPE.

The festival is also supported by Music Copyright (Thailand) Ltd. (MCT) and festival partners Global Toronto from Canada; Live at Heart from Sweden; Golden Melody Awards & Festival, LUCfest and ZAshare from Taiwan; Sound of the Xity from China; Trans Asia Music Meeting (TAMM) from Japan; and Victorian Music Development Office (VMDO)from Australia.

Source: Nyou

Your Feelings are Valid

Recently, I have been writing on my Your Feelings are Valid journal by Sincerely, Kristine.

It has helped me solve my worries and fears.

I was able to navigate through my emotions and deepest traumas.

I was also able to understand myself better.

I highly recommend this journal, especially now that we are facing many uncertainties. While I am not facing any mental struggle in my life, I must say that psychological first aid has been a valuable resource.

You may buy this journal here. Stay safe, everyone!

Life is Too Short

Today, I finished reading Wake Up, Dreamers by Filipina author AnakniRizal. I first discovered her on Youtube, and instantly became hooked on her vlogs. I enjoy watching her videos because she teaches writing. As someone who is currently in the process of self-publishing my book, I am really inspired by her techniques.

She teaches systems the she has personally tried and tested, and her success speaks for itself. And after reading two of her novels, I have observed that she inserts inspirational and motivational content in her works. Even though I am turning 35 in a few days, I still feel young after reading her books.

Here are some of the lessons that I have learned from reading So, This is Youth and Wake Up, Dreamers by AnakniRizal:

1. Life is too short

2. Life is full of possibilities

3. Education does not end upon graduation

4. Age is just a number. It is never too late to make things happen for you

5. Always believe in yourself even if no one else believes in you

6. Success is following your heart and taking action on your dreams

Please buy Wake Up, Dreamers here and access So, This is Youth here! You will definitely learn a thing or two from these novels and support an up and coming author in the process.

Happy reading!

Filipino hip-hop group 8 Ballin’ signs with Def Jam Philippines

Manila, Philippines — Hip-hop collective 8 Ballin’ has signed an exclusive contract with Def Jam Philippines as part of the label’s roster of esteemed music acts.

The promising newcomer was discovered by A&R Senior Manager of Def Jam Philippines Allan Mitchell “Daddy A” Silonga in 2020 when he was scouting for new music discoveries that have the potential to make it big. After several discussions with the group and their manager Schumi, 8 Ballin’ has finally agreed to join the international music label’s artist lineup.

“As a very young collective, we realized that we needed a lot of guidance in the industry and when we met the UMG/Def Jam team, not only are they the global number 1 label, but they have an amazing team with people we can trust. This is definitely life changing  and we can’t wait to further propel our career.” founding member PRAY shares in a statement.  

Aside from upcoming singles and possibly, an album or EP in the pipeline, 8 Ballin’ is slated to re-release their 8-song catalog with the help of Def Jam Philippines. They’re also planning to drop their highly anticipated single “Alon,” which the group describes as a “mid tempo song that deals with facing adversities in life, and looking past the challenges with renewed appreciation for true friends and family.”

Founded by rap artists PRAY and R!S in 2018, the Rizal-based group is composed of eclectic and widely talent rappers, producers, and musicians (Juan-E, cXy, Supboi K, Ya'akov, TEEN, Ego, and LvxIndomino), whose body of work comes from a place of real-life experiences and inspiring encounters in the city and beyond.

With the success of their viral single “KNOW ME,” 8 Ballin’ recently broke through the mainstream consciousness with more than 17 million streams on YouTube and Spotify combined, making them one of the Filipino artists to watch out for this 2021.

“KNOW ME” is out now on all streaming platforms worldwide via Def Jam Philippines and MCA Music Inc. The music video is available here.

About 8 Ballin'

Highschool friends Vincent, Harris, Cedric, Joesel, and Emmanuel (now more popularly known as PRAY, R!S, cXy, Supboi K, and Juan-E, respectively) often got together to enjoy music. Their love for Hip-Hop and R&B led the five friends to form a group in 2018. They called themselves 8 BALLIN’; ‘8’ came from PRAY’s birth date, July 8th, while ‘Ballin’’ is inspired by their favorite radio producer at that time, Metro Boomin. A year later, Albert, Jimm, Paolo, John, and Kurt (more known as Schumi, Ya’akov, ego, Lvx, and TEEN, respectively) joined the group when they met during senior high school. That time, these ten friends enjoyed their days making music, not realizing that they were creating something for the future.

It was August 2020 when Def Jam Philippines discovered the group’s genius after spotting them on YouTube. After several discussions with the group and their manager Shumi, fast forward to June 2021, 8 BALLIN’ has released their now-signature track, KNOW ME. With 7 million views in just one week since its release, the music video has been viral because of its earworm lyrics and beat. The experimental approach to the song is a combination of a West Coast beat and a rapping style called Slime that is often heard from the music of Young Thug, Gunna, Lil Keed, and other international artists.

This breakthrough has once again opened the deal with Def Jam Philippines. The group was offered a 360 artist deal and an eight-song catalogue that includes their trending song, KNOW ME.

“We usually create our songs on the spot. As a group, we tend to forget how our melodies sound, so we record it at the same time it was written. Any changes or additions will be set on another day.”

8 BALLIN’s sound is heavily inspired by hip-hop groups they look up to. Locally, they are big music heads for Ex-Battalion, 727 Clique, and Bawal Clan. Another influence driver for the group is music from international artists like Wu-Tang Clan, BROCKHAMPTON, Beast Coast, and YSL.

With exceptional rap and song writing skills, 8 BALLIN’ has the potential to be the next Ex-Battalion. Fans love their youthful and cool personalities that reflect in the creative energy they input into their songs. But what sets 8 BALLIN’ apart from other hip-hop groups is their bond--they are friends first before they are a musical ensemble.

Their solid friendship of more than ten years is rooted in the town where they came from and take pride in—Angono, Rizal. As artists from the Art Capital of the Philippines, it is 8 BALLIN’s dream for the town to be known for producing musical icons as well.

“8 Ballin' aims to change how hip-hop influences a whole nation. We want to be known as the game changers, risk-takers, a DIFFERENT BREED entirely. And we aim to use our sound as a language that we speak to move people's minds and hearts to inspire, because that's the best thing a human being can do.”

8 BALLIN’ promised their fans something “bigger than music.” In their own words, “they can expect that we will shake the culture anytime soon, so stay tuned!”

About Def Jam Recordings 

Founded in 1984, Def Jam Recordings began as a maverick independent label inspired by downtown New York City's vibrant street culture and the emerging sound of hip-hop. Def Jam has represented the very best in cutting-edge music for 35 years, pioneered by iconic stars like LL Cool J, Slick Rick, The Beastie Boys and Public Enemy. Over the following two decades, Def Jam established its dominance with superstar acts like Jay-Z, DMX, Ja Rule, Method Man & Redman, Ludacris, Rihanna, Jeezy, and the inimitable Kanye West. Now in its fourth decade, Def Jam's music and lifestyle has grown into a global brand – synonymous with creativity, quality and authenticity – encompassing a diverse roster of marquee and emerging stars like West, Justin Bieber, Alessia Cara, Logic, Pusha T, Jadakiss, Vince Staples, Jeremih, Big Sean, YG, 2 Chainz, Dave East, and Jhene Aiko, among others.

Follow 8 Ballin': Facebook |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  YouTube

Follow DefJam Recordings Philippines: Facebook |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  YouTube

Source: GNN Entertainment Productions

Juan Karlos Makes His Comeback In EDSA-Set Music Video

What could have been the view if you took a different route?

One afternoon in July, a pickup truck was seen strutting across the busy stretch of EDSA. Sitting at the back was a young man, strumming a guitar while singing a melody amidst the unruly noise of the urban traffic.

That is how Juan Karlos returns to the OPM scene. His comeback single, Boston, was released last week with a music video that uses a simple yet meaningful treatment to intricately capture its message.

Boston is about a past love--one that is outlined in bittersweet longing and reminiscence. The old memories, as well as the ‘what-could’ve-beens’, were carefully and honestly expressed through a narrative that is carried by Juan Karlos’ unique sound.

Directed by renowned photographer Shaira Luna, the music video used a guerrilla approach to show this faint yet lingering string of emotions. With EDSA as the setting, Juan Karlosplays his guitar and sings to the fragile folk-rock melody of his new masterpiece while on a moving yet unsteady journey to an undefined destination. 

Juan Karlos wholeheartedly sings every word of the song, only to be drowned by the overlapping noise of the metro. This is the reality told through this piece of music--the futile pouring of one’s heart to somebody who can no longer hear a single word that is uttered.

The rocky highway, the rapidly changing scenery, and the trail of endless vehicles paint a familiar picture of moving forward while aimlessly navigating a space that is unpredictable yet repetitive at the same time. This scene perfectly illustrates the story behind the song’s lyrics--that of an uncontrollable situation that led to a choice of letting go of what is now the source of longing.

Boston’s visual narrative is the brainchild of a passionate team headed by Otto Hernandez and Steven Victor, who are both in charge of its Overall Creative Direction.

About Juan Karlos

Juan Karlos is a Filipino band and six-time Platinum awardeesigned under MCA Music composed of JK Labajo on vocals and guitar, Jeriko Aguilar on guitar, Louise Bayas on bass, and Gian Hipolito on drums. Formed in 2018, the eponymous band went under several personnel changes and ultimately released their smash hit, “Buwan” in the same year. 

Frontman JK Labajo shared that his solo music career is currently inactive. Hailing from Cebu, he first gained recognition as a finalist on The Voice Kids Philippines and went on to pursue a career in music and acting. Following the release of his albums under MCA Music, JK (2015) and JKL (2017), he realized that he has to stop settling and commit to what he really wants: to write, produce, and perform his own songs the way he hears it in his head and heart and be part of a band. Juan Karlos aims to “dream big or go home” and to make a mark in OPM and globally. “I want to be able to make a change, a difference,” he said. I want to show people the importance and beauty of music. I'm in music for the art, to earn in order to fund my daily needs and dreams, and for recognition so I can have reach and to be heard.”

Follow Juan Karlos: Facebook |  Instagram

Follow MCA Music: Facebook |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  YouTube

Source: GNN Entertainment Productions

Dru Chen yearns for acceptance on indie pop single “Our Story”

Listen to ‘Our Story’ here

This August, Australian artist-producer Dru Chen will be dropping a 4-track EP containing 2 new tracks –‘Our Story’ and ‘Hold You,’ and 2 re-released tracks –‘Eiffel Tower’ and ‘Replay.’ The focus track, ‘Our Story,’ is an indie-pop song dealing with all facets of the human experience and the yearning for acceptance that we all seek. As Dru aptly puts it, “When the people have gone and left the party, and you’re all alone once again; how do you cope with the emptiness?”

At first listen, the track’s production portrays a kind of quiet joy - one that you feel when hanging out with friends you've known for years. With its cascading rhythm and sweet guitar chords, it’s difficult not to find yourself doing the signature TikTok hand-to-chest, head nod routine. However, when you give the lyrics a closer listen, we hear a deeper meaning - one about solitude and the introspection that comes along with it.

‘Our Story’ was written by Joel Tan, Paul McMurray and Dru Chen, and produced by the artist himself. As shown in this verse, “Drowning in sorrows / Is not for tomorrow / When laughter is borrowed / It’s no fun at all”, ‘Our Story’ is the answer to the truth and hurt you're seeking to overcome. With patience and understanding for the self, it is possible for us to reset on the mistakes we’ve made in the past. We can’t make sense of our breakdowns, but we can slow it down, let it ride and come back to ourselves.

“This song was my way of dealing with that feeling—that existential dread. It felt like therapy writing this song,” shares Dru, and we hear that clearly in the production. The distinct guitar chords and subtle percussion that punch through the hook helps listeners absorb the subject matter in a light-hearted way. It makes you feel like even when you're in your bedroom alone with the headphones on, you feel safe knowing you have the unconditional love and acceptance of your family, friends and community close to your heart.

More About Dru Chen

Dru Chen is an Australian singer/songwriter based in Singapore. In 2019, Dru started on strong footing with debut album ‘Mirror Work’. This impressed Warner Music so much that they signed him on the spot. His co-writing efforts with Tanya Chua and Ge Da Wei for Modern Brothers' Liu Yuning secured him an international publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group China. In October 2020, Dru co-wrote ‘Carnival’, a theme song for Riot Games’ best selling international game, League of Legends. In May 2021, Dru was shortlisted and won an award at Taiwan’s prestigious Fresh Music Awards (FMA) - clinching last year’s Top 10 Albums of the Year.

Following the success of ‘Mirror Work’ - an ode to 70’s music - the R&B/funk musician released ‘Who We R’, a nostalgic pop tune featuring a stellar cast of contributors such as Benjamin Kheng and Evanturetime. From hit singles ‘When I Look Into Your Eyes’, which was placed on Mediacorp Channel 5's 2019 campaign, to ‘Distant Memory’ - these tunes evoke a 60’s blues & folk vibe reminiscent of The Beatles.

In 2020/21, Dru released ‘Future Me + U’, ‘Givin’ It Up’ and ‘Replay’ - all of which garnered coverage all over SEA, such as ST Life!, Swee Lee, Bandwagon Asia and NME Asia to name a few. These newer tracks serve as a refreshing sound and an eclectic mesh of electropop, soul, nu-disco and R&B. While D’Angelo, Freddie Mercury and Jeff Buckley continue to be his main vocal inspirations, Dru also takes a more contemporary approach, drawing influences from artists such as DEON, Gentle Bones and Daniel Caesar.

Source: Nyou

Early Birthday Party

I had to advance my birthday celebration in order to allow my partner to drop by our residence before the ECQ will take effect. I ordered Taiwanese food to celebrate. We had chicken chops from Songshan Taipei Treats and spicy dan dan noodles from Pilya’s Kitchen.

This post is not sponsored, and I would like to highlight these two small businesses as their food became a source of enjoyment for my family during our celebration. Songshan will be closed during the ECQ, and their operations will resume once the lockdown has been lifted. Pilya’s Kitchen however, is continuously operating from The Grid Rockwell. I hope that you will continue to support them!

The lockdown can be a source of sadness and stress, so I hope that a hearty meal will get us through these trying times.

Stay safe, everyone!

The missing section of the city wall of Jerusalem that the Babylonians encountered in 586 BCE

Archaeological excavations in the City of David National Park have uncovered the remains of the city wall, which was built during the Iron Age - the days of the First Temple in the Kingdom of Judah, to protect Jerusalem from the east. The excavations are conducted at the City of David National Park on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority, in collaboration with the City of David Foundation, as part of the development of the National Park. 

Jar handle with concentric circle imprint. Photo Koby Harati, City of David

According to the directors of the excavation, Dr. Filip Vukosavović of the Ancient Jerusalem Research Center and Dr. Joe Uziel and Ortal Chalaf on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority: "The city wall protected Jerusalem from a number of attacks during the reign of the kings of Judah, until the arrival of the Babylonians who managed to break through it and conquer the city. The remains of the ruins can be seen in the archaeological excavations. However, not everything was destroyed, and parts of the walls, which stood and protected the city for decades and more, remain standing to this day. " 

The excavation directors are sitting on the remains of the wall. Photo Yaniv Berman, Israel Antiquities Authority

The new section that was exposed connects two sections that were previously excavated on the eastern slope. In the 1960s, British archaeologist Kathleen Kenyon uncovered a section of the wall in the northern part of the slope and dated it to the days of the Kingdom of Judah. About a decade later, archaeologist Yigal Shiloh uncovered a long section of the wall, in excavations in the southern part of the slope. Over the years, claims have been made that despite the impressive nature of the remains, these remnant stone structures should not be seen as wall remains. However, with the uncovering of this new section that connects with these past discoveries, it seems that the debate has been settled, and that this was unequivocally the eastern wall of ancient Jerusalem. 

Reconstruction of the sections that were dismantled during previous excavations in the early 20th century, makes it possible to trace almost another 30 meters of the surviving wall to a height of 2.5 meters and a width of up to 5 meters. In the book of 2 Kings, 25:10, there is a description of the conquest of the city by the Babylonians: “The whole Babylonian army under the commander of the imperial guard broke down the walls around Jerusalem.” However, it looks like the Babylonians did not destroy the eastern wall, possibly due to the sharp steepness of the eastern slope of the City of David, which slopes towards the Kidron Valley at over 30-degree angle. The findings of the destruction can be seen in the building that stood next to the wall and were exposed during the previous excavations: inside the building, rows of storage jars were discovered, which were smashed when the building burned and collapsed. The jars bear "rosette" stamped handles, in the shape of a rose, associated with the final years of the Kingdom of Judah. Near the wall, a Babylonian stamp seal made of stone was unveiled, depicting a figure standing in front of symbols of the two Babylonian gods Marduk and Nabu. Not far from there a bulla (a stamp seal impression made in clay) was found bearing a Judaean personal name "Tsafan". 

Source: ISRAEL MINISTRY OF TOURISM Philippine Office

SisigSaRada

I recently had park and dine lunch from SisigSaRada. I finally got to try their famous sisig meal (Php90). It was delicious! No wonder they had a huge following at their original Makati branch. I now get it. Their food is really good.

I also got their beef tapa meal (Php100) for dinner. It was also heavenly! Their tapa was made of quality beef. It was one of the best tapsilog meals I have ever had.

Do swing by SisigSaRada QC for your sisig or tapsilog fix! Promise, you won’t regret it!

Israeli Health Delegation Shares COVID-19 Best Practices to PH

The Israeli health delegation concluded their 5-day visit in Manila with recommendations to further improve systems and procedures in handling COVID patients and for efficient infection control protocols and hospital management.

The team of experts is composed of infectious diseases and COVID-19 specialist Dr. Guy Choshen; Shira Peleg, head nurse and nursing manager at the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center's Emergency Department; Eyad Jeries, trauma coordinator at Galilee Medical Center; and Chaim Markos Rafalowski, disaster management coordinator at Magen David Adom (MDA).

During the exit conference between the Israeli medical experts and their Philippine counterparts on Friday, July 30, Dr. Guy Choshen, noted some of the key factors that need to be considered in treating COVID-19 patients.

“I was highly impressed by their professionalism and I am sure that there are ways to improve the way you give healthcare to the cities,” head of the delegation Dr. Choshen said. He also commended the country’s health care workers for the professionalism they have shown in the face of the challenges caused by the pandemic.

According to Dr. Choshen, there are key factors that need to be considered in treating COVID-19 patients. These factors include the implementation of standard health care in DOH medical centers; the need to implement or articulate a patient’s discharge guidelines; allowing patients to be visited by their family visits in hospitals; and the implementation of critical patients’ restrictions, as well as infection control measures.

Dr. Choshen also stressed the importance of pushing up the vaccination campaign of the Philippines. “This is the main way we can mitigate the pandemic,” he explained.

Mr. Chaim Markos Rafalowski shared that in Israel, they have a “National daily health team evaluation” where they gather more than one hundred health professionals from different branches to discuss the current situation of their health care system.

“The objective of this is to understand the current situation and to identify the crisis and try to foresee where we are heading,” Mr. Rafalowski explained. 

“And the most important aspect is to set up priorities for immediate action for the short and long-term healthcare system with regards to COVID-19,” he added. 

For his part, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said: “One of the impacts that we hope to be able to achieve in our unified strategy management against this pandemic is to bring down mortality rate perhaps less than 1 percent, if not less than .5 percent, as much as we can.” 

Sec. Duque also thanked the Israel medical experts on behalf of the Philippine government. 

“I thank you once again for your generosity, for sharing your knowledge and expertise and I hope that this will be a continuing greatest achievement for the government of the Philippines and of Israel and our healthcare professionals, our whole society, medical doctors, our nurses, and learn as much as possible,” he said. 

National Task Force Against COVID-19 Chief Implementer and vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr, who was represented by Deputy Presidential Peace Adviser Undersecretary Isidro Purisima, said that the recommendations from the Israeli delegation will help the government scale up its health care system particularly its “policy direction.”

“Our countries may have similar approaches and practices in managing the pandemic. But this week-long exchange of learnings has made us realize that there is much to be done,” Galvez said in his message read by Purisima.

“Our meetings have also opened a lot of possibilities which our COVID-19 task force can explore in terms of policy direction,” he added. 

Mr. Nir Balzam, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines assured the Philippine government that Israel will continue to assist the country in its fight against COVID-19. “This is our second delegation, the first one focused on the vaccination rollout. We will continue the collaboration on a normal basis. We are working closely with the Philippine government,” he said. 

This second delegation of medical experts arrived in the Philippines on July 26. The first group, which focused on sharing Israel’s best practices in implementing a national vaccination campaign, completed their four-day mission to Manila in June.

Since the outbreak of the pandemic, Israel has granted significant assistance to the Philippines to help its fight against COVID-19. The Israeli government turned over several donations consisting of personal protective equipment to the Department of National Defense and the Philippine National Police for use of their frontliners. Education equipment were donated to the Department of Education to aid distance learning. Israel also continues to share its experience and knowledge in emergency and pandemic response with the Philippines through webinars, courses, and joint meetings.

Source: Embassy of the State of Israel

Cube Coffee

I recently visited Cube Coffee, a third wave cafe along E. Rodriguez Sr. Avenue, Quezon City. I was blown away by their Spanish Latte (Php165) which was one of the better lattes I’ve had in a while. I was struck by the fact that they put latte art on a to-go order.

Their place also has soul. There were books everywhere, and they had eco-friendly essentials made of bamboo for sale. They also had a small box of paintings and handmade earrings for sale. This place is magical.

If you are craving for strong coffee and a place with a heart, please swing by Cube Coffee!

Wake Up, Dreamers

I recently started watching Demi Abilon a.k.a. AnakniRizal’s writing vlogs on YouTube. I have been enjoying her informative videos on creative writing. Writing has been a hobby and source of income for me, and yet I believe it is essential to continue learning how to improve my craft. Demi’s YouTube channel apply entitled Tales of Demi has been inspiring me to write lately. I highly recommend it!

I also started reading Demi’s latest published novel Wake Up, Dreamers. It is about a group of college students from different backgrounds who unintentionally work together for a school project. They discover themselves and the meaning of life through the project’s various assignments that put them in situations that force them out of their comfort zones. You may purchase the book here.

I hope that Demi’s vlogs and latest novel will also inspire you to write and express yourself during the lockdown!

Flying House Ocho Pizza

Flying House is a small restaurant and bar that I frequent along Malingap Street, Quezon City. I love their homey vibe and delicious bar chow. Their Ocho Pizza has become an instant favorite for me and my partner. Its thin crust and generous supreme toppings brought back happy childhood memories. We highly recommend this!

Order from Flying House today by accessing this link. Enjoy!

Juan Karlos returns from hiatus with arresting folk-rock tune “Boston”

The comeback single comes with a music video shot in EDSA

https://juankarlos.lnk.to/MVBoston

After taking an indefinite hiatus from social media, acclaimed artist Juan Karlos returns with a new single that showcases a more laid-back, stripped-down approach in terms of songwriting and production.  

Released digitally, “Boston” revisits an old memory with a former flame, and runs with the fictional idea of “what could have been” if decisions in life were done differently. The song also documents that lingering bittersweet feeling of longing that, because of circumstances beyond control, cannot persist.

Going beyond his comfort zone, Juan Karlos recorded “Boston” alone in his home studio without his band. He tapped Dix Lucero for additional sax and flute parts and Noel De Brackinghe as his Recording, Mixing and Mastering Engineer, who made the material more intricately layered but tastefully sparse.

With subtle instrumentation that allows the sentiment of the song to soar and tug hearts, Juan Karlos’ latest single embraces his introspective side with creative whims and folk-rock sensibilities, while retaining a sense of hushed fragility.

“I’ve always wanted a simple treatment with a touch of complexity,” the young singer-songwriter shares in a statement. “Boston works in that vein, and it captures my personal vision as a musician.”

The song comes with a music video that features Juan Karlos performing in a moving pickup, with EDSA as his backdrop.The visual narrative shows the alt-pop artist singing with his guitar, as he traverses the sprawling urban stretch aimlessly, as if navigating places without a particular destination.

“Boston” is out now on all streaming platforms worldwide via Island Records Philippines and MCA Music Inc.

About Juan Karlos

Juan Karlos is a Filipino band and six-time Platinum awardee signed under MCA Music composed of JK Labajoon vocals and guitar, Jeriko Aguilar on guitar, Louise Bayas on bass, and Gian Hipolito on drums. Formed in 2018, the eponymous band went under several personnel changes and ultimately released their smash hit, “Buwan” in the same year. 

Frontman JK Labajo shared that his solo music career is currently inactive. Hailing from Cebu, he first gained recognition as a finalist on The Voice Kids Philippines and went on to pursue a career in music and acting. Following the release of his albums under MCA Music, JK (2015) and JKL (2017), he realized that he has to stop settling and commit to what he really wants: to write, produce, and perform his own songs the way he hears it in his head and heart and be part of a band. Juan Karlos aims to “dream big or go home” and to make a mark in OPM and globally. “I want to be able to make a change, a difference,” he said. I want to show people the importance and beauty of music. I'm in music for the art, to earn in order to fund my daily needs and dreams, and for recognition so I can have reach and to be heard.”

Follow Juan Karlos: Facebook |  Instagram

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 Source: GNN Entertainment Productions

Eve Alai reimagines Unscripted’ssignature hit “Sunscreen” into a club anthem

PRIVATE SONG PREVIEW 

Acclaimed electronic producer Eve Alai is turning up the groove once again with a reimagined version of Unscripted’s signature track “Sunscreen”—out this July 31 on all digital music platforms via Umami Records. The blissful number reinterprets the original with sun-soaked funkiness and classic house touch, taking on an entirely new persona with every ebb and flow. 

“The new material doesn’t follow the traditional four-on-the-floor thumper,” says Eve Alai. “Sure, it blends undeniable house grooves with upbeat funky vocals, but the drums don’t fit the norm: it’s actually more hip-hop inspired and rhythmic in a sense.” 

As a joyous ride to a perfect sundown, Eve Alai and Unscripted’s latest bop brings the dancefloor closer to our homes. Its sentiments are romantic and hopeful in tone, and encapsulate the mood that music listeners need right now in the time of isolation: anthemic pop music that surges with clubby production. 

When asked about what he loved the most about the track, acclaimed producer Eve Alai shares, “I honestly love the whole song, I don’t have a favorite moment.” 

He also emphasized how the lyrics are powerful enough to help people who are going through difficult situations in life to bounce back and persevere even at their own pace and time. “Things get better, it’s always good to be aware of patterns in one’s life. I think that’s key to coming back stronger,” the acclaimed musician points out.

Listen to “Sunscreen” via Umami Records: https://www.umamirecords.sg/sunscreen-reimagined/

About Eve Alai

Eve Alai is a producer and writer from Singapore. With a passion for dance music fused with timeless melodies, Eve Alai’s musical mission is to give listeners a sonic experience that moves them emotionally and physically.

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About Unscripted

Representing the West Side, Unscripted is a band from Colombo, Sri Lanka with their roots deeply embedded in Kotte (from now on being addressed to as K-Town). Unscripted specializes in Funk, Hip Hop & Dance. However, the band broadens their horizons into an Funk, Soul, Jazz and RnB sound as well. Unscripted comprises of Shamika Makalanda (producer / guitars), Saveen Makalanda (groove-bass) , Steven Shera (vocals), Charith Fernando (beats-drums), Malitha Dee (vocals / guitars) & Prashan Bastianz (trumpet / keyboard / vocals), simultaneously coming together to give out an experimental, ‘Unscripted’ sound.

About Umami Records

Umami Records is a Singapore-based indie record label founded in 2013. Much like the “5th taste” reputation of its namesake, the label strongly believes in discovering new, interesting sounds that run underground and away from the mainstream. The label’s tight-knit, curated roster includes releases from Linying, The Steve McQueens, brb., Evanturetime, CampFire, Martin Baltser, Phoria, Oriental Cravings, and more.

UmamiRecords.sg · Instagram · Facebook · Twitter · YouTube

Source: Nyou

Ben&Ben reunite with Moira on the confessional ballad “Pasalubong”

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, July 30, 2021 – After working together last year for the heartwarming ballad “Paalam,” which has reached more than 40 million streams on all combined music platforms, Ben&Ben and Moira are reuniting again for a song that captures the intensity of deep longing and persistent desire.

Their second collaborative single “Pasalubong” is a romantic confessional that drips with unapologetic sentimentality:  a song that is defenseless in its yearning and honesty, hoping that one’s profession of love will be received and reciprocated. 

According to Ben&Ben, the song was inspired by the double meaning behind the title, which is a term that is commonly used to refer to a gift, and a word that could also mean to meet. “The track is a play on both these meanings,” the acclaimed nine-piece outfit explains. 

Moira adds that the song’s impact radiates on a universal level, simply because it shows bravery and honesty despite the odds. “It isn’t so common anymore today to say what you mean,” the hitmaker says. “So I love that after a whole song of poetry, we end with the simplest but scariest lines to say…. Gusto Kita.”

Written and produced by the band and Moira, with arrangement from Ben&Ben’s very own percussionist Andrew De Pano, the folk-pop tune encapsulates the beauty in sparseness, and the magic in turning an outpour of emotion into a generation-defining anthem. 

Andrew reveals that he was tasked to oversee the production side of the material, relying heavily on the weight of the word as basis for the arrangement and the overall vibe. “A big immediate difference from the usual Ben&Ben sound is the way the guitars sound, and the absence of most of our usual elements in the beginning. There was a major effort to really embody and project emotions of waiting and uncertainty and longing, and the ‘bass drum’ sound that is present throughout the song is meant to symbolize those times we get so caught up deep in thought that we end up hearing our own heartbeat.”

For their part, multi-awarded singer-songwriter duo Moira and Jason Marvin Hernandez helped finish the lyrics and added lines that give the material its enduring pop appeal. “For Pasalubong, we built it from the original song and added elements to it while in the car on our way to the Ben&Ben house,” Moira shares. 

Together, both Ben&Ben and Moira interpreted the heart-wrenching nature of the material with precision and character. They made the song both timely and timeless, with every flow punctuated by unwavering vulnerability, and every word cutting deep and beautifully. 

“With Moira and Paolo’s evocative vocal performance and the band’s emotional execution of Andrew’s arrangement, Pasalubong is a song that will certainly bring up all kinds of feelings, and hopefully will give people comfort in knowing that they aren’t alone in their frustration and longing,” the band shares in a statement.

In terms of delivery, Moira is very particular with the tone being conversational, as if telling a friend about her day or sharing the story to a lover. She also commends Andrewfor being hands on in the studio, guiding her in every step of the way. “He has this crazy way of making something complicated, seem so simple. There’s this pitch where we used the 7th note for the last chorus which I thought was genius— that was all Andrew.”

“Pasalubong” is the third single off Ben&Ben upcoming sophomore full-length album to be released next month. The song is now available on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines. Watch out for the music video premiere on Ben&Ben’s official YouTube channel this July 30, 2021 at 6:00pm, Friday.

 Source: Sony Music Philippines