Yo! MC: The Next Jam!

08.31.2009 - The other designer toy I got was Kidrobot Super Mini Keychain, which I picked up during the preview night of STGCC 2009 (Singapore Toys, Games, & Comic Convention) as one of the two designer toys that was included in the media bag which was given by the organizers. The Super Mini Keychain is the fourthe series to be released by Kidrobot. Though unlike the Astronof PEECOL this one is packaged in a BLIND ASSORTMENT. Some call it mystery box, since the other boxes that came with the set where made identical. Like as mentioned before I'm not into Urban Vinyl toys or designer toys, but they really getting my interest in terms of its unique appearance. I met one of them durign STGCC, but only bought his book. The guy's name was Joe Ledbetter, but there will be more of Joe for now Kidrobot is one character to look at. (Please CLICK on the title for the full article)

08.30.2009 - I got Astronof PEECOL during the preview night of STGCC 2009 (Singapore Toys, Games, & Comic Convention) as one of the goodies in my media bag along with a KidRobot keychain. But more to Astronof than meets the eye is one interesting Designer Toy created by Eboy. Interesting enough the world of Designer Toys has picked up rapidly in Singapore and one of the most sought after collectibles in the recent STGCC 2009. Since Singapore has been into design and art altogether expect these to fly off the specialty store shelves. Astronof is one of the first limited editions that came out in 2007, and was fortunate to acquire such interesting figure. (Please CLICK on the title for the full article)

08.29.2009 - TV5 turns one year as we celebrate its anniversary last night a Glorietta Tent facing Gold's Gym. As bloggers gets a special invite to come and party with the celebrities, artists, muscians, and everyone in between.

Special thanks to Myk Kapalaran who enjoyed partying with the bloggers and media friends.

08.27.2009 - I got an email from National Bookstore for a blogger's early bird Cut-Price book ssale promo. Unfortunately I wasn't able to drop buy and check out what's up fro grabs. I was looking forward to checking the sci-fi books that's on sale. I haven't sink my teeth on any Star Trek books that maybe is being sold for half the price. You'll never know until you see one just like the last time I bought one.

Though bloggers gets a one day head start NBS is starting with this promo on the 28th. For those who wants to pick up a good book to read or anything they had to offer. Just drop by any selected branches namely Glorietta 5, Bestsellers SM North Edsa - Annex, Bestsellers Robinsons Ortigas, Trinoma, Quezon Avenue, SM Megamall, Rockwell, Superbranch-Cubao.

08.26.2009 - Special thanks to Warner Bros for this teaser of the upcoming movie by Chirstopher Nolan (The Dark Knight, Batman Begins). For more details here's a short detail about the movie...

Warner Bros. Pictures presents the teaser trailer for INCEPTION. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Marion Cotillard, Cillian Murphy, Ellen Page and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. The film started its principal photography in July and will hit theaters July, 2010. Directed by Christopher Nolan, the film is a contemporary sci-fi actioner set within the architecture of the mind.

08.23.2009 - thanks to Jori for forwarding this bit of trivial email from FHM Magazine. After arriving from Singapore a few days later I got this message (courtesy of Jori) from the FHM Online News Letter that I was caught in the scene with Paw Diaz being the man in the background. Its funny I didn't notice seeing myself to be surprised like that.

08.22.2009 - After a few days back from Manila I was invited by Level Up Games to see their latest online game to hit the country. It turns out to be Hello Kitty Online. It was actually a soft launch for media & bloggers. A special invitation to also celebrate Hello Kitty's anniversary. I actually have encountered this game before, but this was during the preview night at STGCC 2009 in Singapore. Though I didn't physically saw it in action, but there was a booth that offered to see the game. I was overwhelmed about STGCC I didn't notice the booth, that had feature the game on display. This was the other night at The Podium in Yaku Japanese Grill, where the launch of Hello Kitty Online game was introduced to the bloggers and media partners.

Mostly HKO (Hello Kitty Online) caters to younger kids, and girls who grew up with the famous cat from Japan. Not only you get to see Hello Kitty's virtual world, but also the characters Sanrio had established around the famed kitty. I haven't tried the game but looks promising for those who are into online gaming. They say its far better than facebook's FarmVille and based on the screen caps it does look colorful eye candy. So far what I've seen in the demo during the event the other night was quite interesting for a game, that has been played in Singapore for months now.

As press release goes the introduction was well received by those who got the chance to see the game and had played it. So go read their official press statement...

Hello Kitty and Friends comes to interactive life as a massively multiplayer online game! SanrioDigital and Typhoon Games has combined Sanrio's much-loved characters with new eye-catching graphics and the engaging gameplay of MMORPGs. Gamers and fans now have the opportunity to be a part of the Sanrio universe!



To make it short not to go through too much details if your looking forward to your favorite Sanrio characters, that can be played by everyone. Interact with Hello Kitty, Badtz-Maru, Pochacco, Keroppi, My Melody, and many more!

Overall the party was not only interactive with prizes during the launching. It was also an hour of fun, where everyone became a kid at heart. Either playing the demo games or having there photos and printed by Canon. The game has just entered its Founders Beta stage last August 17th. If you wish to try the game out as early as now, you can already sign-up for a free account at http://www.levelupgames.ph/hko. But the slots are limited so you'll need to hurry before it runs out.

For those who like playing at home, installers are available for download at the Hello Kitty Online Philippines site. While those who wish to play at a cafe may head on to any Netopia branch to access the game.

Special thanks to Level Up Games, Netopia, and powered by r-sun technology store supports the game.

08.21.2009 - Celebrating its 30th year bringing you the biggest book convention in the Philippines. The Manila International Book Fair is coming and this year's theme is Book Without Borders. Capturing everyone from all walks of life to celebrate not only its yearly show, but to promote reading books at the age of computer technology. We should not forget to read as most of the younger generations tend to be in front of the computer rather than enjoying the comfy good read of a book. So expect leading book shops to be there and share you the world of reading. This year's Manila Book Fair will be on September 16-20, 2009 which is open from 10AM to 8PM at the Exhibits Halls 1-4 of SMX Convention Center Mall of Asia, Pasay City, Philippines.

08.20.2009 - During my Singapore travel I haven't had the opportunity to try to local dishes, but had the chance to see the difference between the usual stuff we take for granted here in the Philippines. Namely the fast food restaurants that we everyday see isn't that common once you tried sampling what we don't have in their menu. Upon the arrival at Changi International Airport, and after getting lost to Terminal 2. It leaves a tired traveler something to hunger about, and it was good there was a McDonald's outlet located in the area. The first thing I looked at was the menu and saw the Wasabi Double Fish-O-Fillet meal for $4.60 SG Dollars. I had it up size it and added a few cents to get the large fries and drinks. It was actually my lunch while getting connected online.

On the same day when I'm all settled at Hotel 81: Bencoleen. I decided to head out and catch STGCC 2009 preview night since I was running late going out at 5PM. A first time traveler alone was really an exhausting one. I haven't totally had a serious rest, since I mostly slept on the plane. But after going to Suntec International Convention Centre and getting overwhelmed with the recent STGCC you tend to forget the hunger. Internet connection was really bad in the hotel upon my arrival and tried going online at a nearby Starbucks at Suntec, where a resident Filipino helped me get connected. Unfortunately to know avail connection still not established. So I decided to back up my files while enjoying a their version of coffee jelly.

Some have large servings and the only fast food that was slight off was Kentucky Fried Chicken. I bought the Ultimate Value Box meal for $6.80 SG Dollars, that only have a one piece chicke, a zinger, and a mashed potato that almost tasted like tofu. It was Friday when I had a late lunch upon arriving Suntec on foot with a broken pair of Air Jordans.

It was practically insane have walked from the hotel up to one of the biggest malls in Singapore. I had to go to the nearest Nike store for a pair, which had advice me to take a less expensive pair at Royal Sporting House just across the store. Turns out I enjoyed wearing normal sneakers as to the usual basketball wear.

By dinner time I went back to the basement where all the fast foods stores where located. I didn't stopped for Burger King, which was a definite fave on the list of sampling their Double Whopper Jr. meal.

Too bad they don't have Wifi access and they where a few minutes to closing time. So I was backing up files with limited update earlier in the morning. Towards the weekend I tried dinning Mint Toy Museum's cafe sampling Crab Linguine and then dinner atPizzeria Giardino with a Heineken on hand.



Though I spent like $25.54 SG Dollars at Mint's cafe for a pasta with a Raspberry tea which was a large serving as my brunch. I was running late going back to the convention on Saturday. So I decided to dine there instead and experience it just for once.

The night I hang out with Greg at Action City now eating at Pizzeria Giardino is class act located in Chimes.

No local was dinning at that place but mostly foreigners. Greg mentioned Chimes is a veritable upper class place and rarely a local dines at that place. We had a special pizza ordered and forgive the quality of the image.



On my last day Dash treated me along with his family at Segafredo, which back home is already one of the classy restaurant. I haven't tried the sandwiches but this one was no exception.



When I got to the Budget Terminal of Changi airport the only place is still McDonald's, where I had a Big Mac meal that had a little difference how it was served here. I just got to miss those condiments area at McDonald's they have pepper packets. Maybe next here hopefully I'll try the local food.

Singapore is one place you should try sampling the dishes its a definite.

08.19.2009 - The Mint Museum of Toys is one of the places you should see in Singapore if your into collecting. Appreciate the toys of the past as well as appreciation for the hobby. It is literally indeed a time capsule when I left a comment at a door before dining at there classy cafe.

The entrance to the museum will cost you $15.00 SG dollars, but I got to pay half only since the Singapore Toys, Games, & Comic Convention Event Guide had coupons in the back page which I cut out to use at that time.

The museum has five levels categorized in themes like Outerspace, Characters, Childhood Favorites, Collectibles, and the reception for Shop & Tickets where the souvenirs are sold. The basement offers a Cafe which also has collectibles in display. Though highly suggest to check your budget their Cafe is classy. The pasta is something for you to try.

I had Crab Linguini & Raspberry tea for my brunch. This was Saturday (August 15th) and I was on the way to the day two of STGCC 2009.

Though I didn't get to feature all the photos from the museum, since there was TOO MANY to share. It might take a while to completely see the collections. But more photos including the cafe in the basement will be up soon.

For now see the slide show of what's inside the Mint Toy Museum.

08.18.2009 - Singapore is a place not only for its vibrant and clean streets. They are more of into the passion of art and culture. So during my four days travel to this unique city I noticed a lot. How unique Singapore would make you want to come back for more. The buildings for once is a sight to behold, and its difference compared to how the buildings in the Philippines where designed. They put a lot of art in their architecture without any flair its one you don't see everyday. Mostly you'll notice how the vinyl toys or much known as the designer toys, where the "in" thing in the recent Singapore Toys, Games, & Comic Convention. Singapore is driven by art and culture no matter what genre, and that puts them in the map one of the best cities in the world. So if your traveling around the city try to walk and learn to appreciate the wonders of this city. (Please CLICK on the title for the full article)

08.17.2009 - Finally home from the airport. The trip back was quicker and unexpected to be a smoother one compared to going Singapore. I had more to kill time and stare at the blue sky. Unlike catching up with more sleeping time on the way back. Four days is not enough to roam around Singapore, since most of the time I was at Suntec City Mall at the International & Exhibition Centre doing a coverage for this year's recent Singapore Toys, Games, & Comic Convention. Though it was a short trip I met a few people along the away as well as meeting up with friend who are now based there.

The only places I was able to go is at the Mint Toy Museum and at Lucky Plaza to pick up a few souvenirs for colleagues at work back home. I took the train back with Dash to his place at Toah Payoh. This was late in the afternoon a few hours before I went to the airport. Saturday night I had dinner at Pizzeria Giardino with Greg who works at Action City I met at the convention. I had my first taste of Heineken and Giardino's out of this world pizza. I had the chance as well to check out some of the stores like HMV prior to having dinner at Chimes, where Pizzeria Giardino is located.

Last day of STGCC was a very hectic one, and was ot able to close out the coverage. Since I have to prepare my stuff going home that night.

The CosCon Finals was very much crowded after the online winners awarding, which I had little participation receiving my own award on stage. Then after that left Suntec went to China Square to meet up the local Transformers group in Singapore. I was able to see specialty toy stores at China Square which was a counterpart of Greenhills here in the Philippines, but way better than you'll never expect to see.

After that had afternoon meal at Segafredo with Dash's family. Late in the evening was the time we went to Lucky Plaza. Too many stuff happening during my last day and I haven't absorbed most of the experience. Probably in the next few days I would start missing how unique Singapore was.

Most of my last hours before boarding the plane was just hanging out at McDonalds. I had Big Mac Meal for a late dinner at Budget Terminal. I even had answered the customer service evaluation of the airport.

For now here's a few photos of my trip from the past few days...





This travel has left me tired but fulfilled. I was thinking of going back to work today, but decided to take this extra day to just relax. Until next year's trip hopefully has a few more days to explore Uniquely Singapore.

08.16.2009 - Today's the last day of this year's STGCC and the same time my stay in the country I barely knew. I have limited internet connection due to an unknown circumstances, and will be checking out of Hotel81: Bencoleen in less than an hour. So far things are stating to get hectic and its Sunday already when I just got here last Thursday. Time really flies when your very much exploring this country, and sadly four days is not enough to see Singapore. Most of my time here was at Suntec City Mall at the International Convention Centre making a coverage for Singapore Toys, Games, & Comic Con I'm already setting my sight for the next year... Hopefully.

Yesterday was mostly a hectic one trying to resolve net connection here in the hotel in just a few minutes and then it went off again. I went to the Mint Toy Museum, which Miko Livelo once mentioned to me on his trip here last year. Actually saw it by accident when I took a different route going to Suntec. I passed by the museum Friday morning, and was in a rush since my pair of Jordans gave out on me I didn't stay long. So I gave word I'll be passing by Saturday morning which turned to be late afternoon.

The day has so many stuff happening I still want to stay in my hotel room. But I have to keep moving since it was CosCon (Short term for Cosplay Contest). The second day was packed with more visitors. The place which was bigger than all three SM Megatrade Halls combined is now literally has no floor space to move around. The stage had become small with people watching the finalists for CosCon.

Basically was there there to take photos of the cosplayers outside the convention hall. Mostly all of them are showcasing their attractive and colorful costumes.

I meet-up with Dash B. who's based here in Singapore and toured around the convention floor. We moslty goofed around with TF.SG (a local TransFormers Fan group) members SP and Jo at the Rapid Culture booth.

Due to limited connection here's what happened on Saturday...





... Anyways I'm off to Dash B.'s place at Toah Payoh have to check out the hotel now. I'll be checking out China Square later but have to pick up my souvenir at the convention first.

Next blog update when I touch down Manila. Pleasant Sunday everyone. Bye For now.

08.15.2009 - The first day of the Singapore Toys, Games, and Comic Convention was opened to the public as kids, geeks, and fans trooped to Suntec City Mall. Its where the event is held on the 4th level at the Suntec International Convention Center. Suntec City Mall is the counterpart of the Philippines' SM Mall of Asia, but the convention center is housed inside. Its located in the second tower of Suntec City Mall at the E-Life section. If your not familiar of the place you'd get lost in the four towers. What I liked about the Suntec City Mall is the exterior/interior structure designs is an architectural art form to astonish.

On the way to the convention center my pair of Jordan XIV gave out on me. The sole lost its grip and it was almost separated from the shoe itself. I only have worn these shoes for this trip and has been kept in storage, since I bought it back in January 2006. Once I got to Suntec City Mall by foot I looked for the nearest Nike store, which was located in Tower two. Most of the displays they have are running and soccer shoes. There was no Air Jordan in sight.

The store clerk was nice enough to advice me to try, and check Royal Sporting House which was just across the Nike shop. Got a pair of Air Side Grind for $109 SG which was the last shoes on sale. I mostly walk around when I arrived Thursday morning. After that went to the food court, and dined at KFC. I had tried sampling the Ultimate Value Box which contains one zinger, one piece original chicken, a gravy, and a Pepsi for lunch.

Going to the first day was a breeze since I'm already familiar with the area except the redemption booth for the freebies. I missed getting the Titanium Star Wars vehicle at 2:30PM. I met the locals there and one Filipino was working at Action City. I mostly hang out at the Nintendo booth met two Wii Girls there. I mostly played the basketball three point shoot out using the Nintendo Wii. There are six stations, where you can play the games. There is a separate area for the DS Light games and another three Wii stations.

One highlight of the program was the Wacom Draw Shootout, and it was a battle of young artists (mostly ladies) in the Final Round. Too many events happening but this one ended a bit late. Before heading home I end up having dinner at Burger King sampling the Double Whopper Jr. Meal. Then walked back along Bras Basah Road. Stopped by 7 Eleven to buy mineral water. Tried to go online but really internet is not as what I expected. I just recharged the drained the batteries. I'll be off on my third day and try to check the other areas here.

08.14.2009 - Limited connection difficult situation. The good part is you see everything new to view and to experience. The sights and sound of Singapore is really vibrant. You could see how clean the streets can be. Imagine how a newly pair of shoes could still stay "new". On my way to the first day of Singapore Toys, Games & Comic Convention. Its going to be a long line of people for this event. Right now better grab brunch along the way towards the biggest event to happen. Catch you all later folks.

08.13.2009 - Arrived at Budget Terminal at the Changi International Airport, but wireless connection was very poor. It was like going on panic mode. Since its my first time to travel alone this was almost surreal. Though I arrived at exacly 9:40AM I was stuck for most of my hours like a scene from the move The Terminal. I took the T2 Bus (Terminal 2 Bus) which was the direction advised by someone from information counter to take if I'm going to avail myself of the Singapore tourist Pass. Eventually it was the most difficult part for me since the bus dropped me off at the basement of the airport. Too many signs and lots of numbers to memorize to take bring you to the city. When I already find out to get upstairs of the terminal 2 airport like I was in some science fiction movie. There was a very long hallway then going up the escalator.

When I got there I went immediately to the Singapore Tourism booth getting the information to a clerk named Hammadah. I got several maps and guide to the country at the Budget Terminal and all of them are FREE.

After getting my internet access to the airport went running to McDonald's and had a Wasabi Fish-O-Fillet Meal. I made a phone call to a friend based here and then paid for my shuttle service to bring me to my hotel. I just had to kill sometime to record this video blog.

08.10.2009 - FHM Magazine once again gives their readers what they want. This August features cover girl Paw Diaz, who had a recent autograph signing at the Robinsons Supermarket in Ermita, Manila. Lots of people lined up to see the stunner sign copies of the August issue. It was another funfilled event with the regular, and new readers of FHM. As Paw Diaz grace the cover and also had a photo opportunity for those who bought the latest copy. Many shoppers where there to witness the mini-event as the line trickle formed in snake like form... (Please CLICK on the title for the full article)

08.09.2009 - Let's Go Surfing! Soak the sun and have some fun on August 15 & 17, 2009. Let's Go Sago! is celebrating its first anniversary with a special charity project and by inviting you to go surfing. The charity surfing clinic for bloggers and beginner surfers is all set to have some fun at Billabong Surf School and San Juan Surf Resort in Urbiztondo Beach, San Juan, La Union. For further details read the full blog HERE!

08.09.2009 - It was just barely one week away from STGCC, and the event count down to the hottest convention in Singapore. An you thought they've been having this event for the past years when this is actually their second convention to be held again at sunny Suntec International Convention Centre. There will be events happening from opening the gates up to the last day. For more on the upcoming happenings check out the latest NEWSLETTER HERE!

08.08.2009 - Special thanks to TV5, Myk Kapalaran, and Azrael for the special screening invite of G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra last night at the Glorietta 4 in Cinema 2, which has a simultaneous screening also by Solar Entertainment in the other cinema. About The Movie G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra is a 2009 American live action film adaptation of the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero toy franchise. The film is directed by Stephen Sommers, produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura and written by Stuart Beattie based on a 1998 screenplay by John Paul Kay.

G.I. Joe features an ensemble cast based on the various characters of the franchise. Filming took place in Downey, California and Prague's Barrandov Studios. The film was released on August 7, 2009.

The Verdict

Action packed and no dull moment to see this movie. You don't need to be a fan of the original 80's cartoon to see it. Just treat the movie as one of the latest action films to come out this year.

With no comparison to TransFormers: Revenge of The Fallen as previously compared in recent reviews by critics. This one has something to just sit down and enjoy watching a military related flick.

G.I. Joe is the new TransFormers looking forward to see, but not as extravagant or as big as the robots in disguise. I highly suggest not to expect big things for this movie but just keep at as a good popcorn fun on a weekend movie to watch in the big screen.

Overall the movie plays out well expect toys, and comics to fly out the shelves to rekindle your childhood memories of playing the toys.

This one's Three Soldier Stars Out of Five on military levels.

08.07.2009 - FHM Magazine the hottest gloss on the stands is holding another monthly autograph signing for August Cover Girl Paw Diaz. Admission is free and bring your copy for her to sign. Better stand in line by tomorrow at 7PM as the queue is going to be a long one for this month. Catch her later at Robinsons Supermarket, Robinsons Mid-Town (Ermita). See you all tomorrow for the signing!

08.06.2009 - Thank you once again to Warner Bros. and Azrael for the exclusive press screening invite to see The Hangover. The movie will be shown in the Philippines on August 12, 2009 in selected theaters nation wide. Once again we take you on the inside look on what's the buzz about The Hangover. Although I mentioned there's no spoilers involved still keep reading, and thread carefully for something you might figure out about this movie. About The Movie The Hangover is a 2009 comedy film directed by Todd Phillips. The main plot follows four friends who travel to Las Vegas for a bachelor party, only to wake up the next morning not remembering a thing and missing the groom, whose wedding is scheduled to occur the next day. The film stars Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Justin Bartha, and Heather Graham. The film was released in North America on June 5, 2009 to critical praise and box office success. The Philippines will follow its release in the second week of August.

The Verdict

The humor had good timing and something different about this movie made it unique. It teaches you the simple lessons about friendship, camaraderie, and team spirit. I know it may sound corny, but it projects all aspects of bonding with friends. Not only about getting crazy in Vegas.

Though for a R-rated comedy it holds itself, and makes you ponder what happened after that night. For all its worth a good laugh out comedy suggest for a group of people to see.

Critics had given positive reviews, but some of the characters are pretty weak. But in the end overall this one gets A grade for AWESOME.

In case you want to see this get ready for the sequel to be shown on North American Memorial Day 2011 release.