Puerto Princesa in Pictures

Here are the rest of the pictures*, among hundreds, from that Palawan trip I'm still not over.

Hello Puerto Princesa! Our flight was delayed by an hour but fuck that.

My first meal at Royal Oberoi. They call it 'Kung Fu Chicken' not Kung Pao.

The girls decided to order more food. No dieting here.

I'm trying to show you our room, ok?

Breakfast. Love the oatmeal bread!

Our tour guide was late so... yeah.

Getting ready for Honda Bay.

One of us there is struggling. Guess who.

Thanks to Kuya for this shot.

Kuya's underwater photography using Nikki's cam.

One of the boatmen made this among other creatures.

Survivor or Temptation Island?

Starfish Island. We would have loved to hang here longer if we only we had more time.

Getting ready for the Puerto Princesa Underground River tour. And yeah, that's a public toilet.

Heading to the wonder of the world. Even the scenery on the way was beautiful.

These free roaming monitor lizards were behaving well.

And we're here. The entrance.

Inside the enchanting underground river.

Spot the holy family. This experience was mystifying, thrilling and creepy all at the same time---awesome, in short.

It started to pour by the time we were leaving the site.

Pool party until pruny.

Jireh hates the pool especially when there's an underwater cam. She despises it.

At Badjao's amazing footbridge leading to the entrance of the restaurant.

We almost missed our flight because of this meal but it was worth it.

Don't forget to get your overpriced souvenir! This trip was fun because of these people (Kuya included).

We should do this again.

*Some stolen from the Facebook albums of Nikki and Mads.

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Cover Story: Preview June 2012

Check out Preview's June 2012 cover. For their anniversary issue, five of the country's most bankable ladies in fashion and show business give serious face while clad in Balenciaga Spring/Summer 2012.

Based on this picture alone, it's a little underwhelming. You gather all these girls who are on top of their careers, all ravishing (not to mention friends with each other), so you expect fireworks; an explosive cover. I think it's the background.

Anyway, they all look gorgeous but Solenn is winning in this fierce-off.

Photo: Preview

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Doing Nothing in Puerto Princesa

Weeks before our trip, whenever I thought about Puerto Princesa, Palawan, I imagined it to be similar to Iloilo or Kalibo; predominantly rural but still with plenty of commercial structures and other tell-tale signs of urbanization. Puerto Princesa is, after all, a city. Then, while in the van going to the hotel, I realized that it's less developed than I thought what with some roads still in the process of being paved and the Robinsons mall still under construction. All thoughts of meeting someone there (in a bar perhaps?) seemed to have flown away with the dust cloud trailing our airport service.

So no, I didn't meet anyone in Palawan. I wasn't counting on it anyway after some "online research" prior to the trip. At first, I was quite disappointed about how there seemed nothing interesting to do in the city. Firefly watching? Nah. City tour? No time.

But it was from the lack of time and energy to do other things that I appreciated the sprawling hotel property which I really wasn't so crazy about in the beginning. I think it was more fun because of Nikki's underwater camera. Then we ordered food from the hotel restaurant and all plans of going out were forgotten. We gladly confined ourselves within the grounds of Royal Oberoi. A planned dinner elsewhere didn't materialize either because getting out of the pool and stopping the conversation proved to be too much so it was another sumptuous dinner in one of the open-air cabanas just a few steps away from our rooms.

Except for our whole-day Honda Bay and Underwater River combo tour and a very brief lunch at the lovely Badjao restaurant, we pretty much stayed in the hotel properties the rest of the time. Some may find it a waste of opportunity to explore the city but we all have different ideas of a good vacation. And at that time, I think it was what we all needed. Even I didn't realize that until it was over. The poolside breakfast, hours of talking and swimming until we were pruny, the underwater cam whoring, the hearty dinners; it was the beauty of doing almost nothing, that disconnection from the rest of the world that no tweet or status update could justify.

At the end of the day, it's good that I had wrong expectations. I was pleasantly surprised by how charming, and of course fun this trip turned out to be. Puerto Princesa's simplicity and warmth was a different experience compared to my past holidays. It's been a week since I've been back yet I can't help but mentally go back to when we were just there; no plans, no problem.

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Photo Dump: The Born This Way Ball (Manila)

Here's what it's like to watch the Lady Gaga concert from one of the VIP suites. Not as action-packed as the mosh pit but definitely a memorable experience just the same.

Thanks Sayat and Globe!

Sorry, couldn't help it.

The stage alone was a sight to behold.

Surprisingly, she opened the show with 'Government Hooker'.

Bloody Mary

One of my favorite parts, 'Bad Romance'.

I loved it that she also included tracks from her previous albums. 'Just Dance' and 'Poker Face' never get old.

'Hair' was very touching. She expressed a strong statement denouncing homophobia before singing the song.

Meaty. I was expecting more outrageous outfits but her energy filled that void.

Very 'Rythm Nation'.

The SM Mall of Asia Arena was a fantastic venue.

The place was packed even on the second night. Wow.

With my concert buddy for the night, Angel.

Couldn't help it again.

Our swanky suite.

Hey.

Say hi to our butler/server(?). He was very attentive and willing.

The bar complete with an espresso machine.

Go lang nang go!

We went to the after-party and the second floor. See that cute guy?

He gave us drink stubs.

Thank you Coors!

We were given more free drinks but didn't finish.

Spot the human porcupine.

Fun times.

It's too bad the Indonesia leg was cancelled. 'Til next time!

P.S.

Thanks to my sister for the camera she gave me! I'm loving it so far. It's just a regular point-and-shoot but the setting options are excellent and easy enough to use.-- So yeah, I got a lot of things for free that night.

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A Gaga Tuesday Night

I'm not even over my Palawan high yet then another memorable thing happens.

It was almost 7PM and I was still in the office when my good friend Sayat called me. Her boss gave her two VIP tickets to the Lady Gaga concert and goes to yours truly. I couldn't believe it. Disoriented, I hurriedly went home to grab a jacket, a watch, and a camera. I didn't have enough time to change so I headed out in my sneakers, jeans and plain white shirt. What a travesty I thought. I was also sweaty because I was literally running since the show starts at 8.

It turns out Sayat didn't want to watch so she's giving the other ticket to Angel, another close friend of ours. It all happened so fast. The next thing I know, Angel and I were inhaling our KFC in the cab on the way to the  Mall of Asia Arena.

I don't think I'm the same Gaga fan that I was back in 2009 in the same way that she's not the same Gaga now but it's still Gaga (in every sense of the word) and this concert, I feel, is one for the books. Also, the thought of seeing a live performance of 'Bad Romance' promises to be sick.

Now, I knew we had VIP tickets but I didn't realize it's VIP VIP until we walked into Suite 341, our designated area.

We got hooked up! It's crazy. The suite had its own bar, two private restrooms and I'm not sure that's what they call them but each suite also comes with a dedicated butler. We shared the swanky space with Sayat's colleagues from Globe.

As expected, the show was spectacular. The stage is insane, the wardrobe is outrageous and the choreography and theatrics were marvelous. Sadly, no flaming titties but this show is still hard to top here in Manila. Plus, the fact that the producers had to add another night (the one we went to) makes it historic methinks. What I loved about it is the energy, both from the crowd and from Gaga herself; it was contagious.

Here's one of the videos I took.

By the end of the concert, my throat was already hurting and my legs aching. There were certainly a lot of room for sitting for us but I chose to stand the entire time. It just seemed more appropriate and more fun that way.

It was a crazy night. Unbelievable.

Tomorrow, a tsunami of photos, natch.

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Palawan High

You know when you just got back from a vacation and you don't know how to go on with your life and it's like you no longer have a reason for living?

Thanks Sayat for this picture.

At around 8pm, I woke up from a 3-hour nap disappointed upon realizing that I'm back. Then I decided to do the laundry, ogling at the first batch of pictures uploaded on Facebook between cycles. What a memorable trip.

No, I didn't get laid but there's definitely so much pleasure and indulgence. I miss the place (including the hotel) and my friends already.

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Beaching

Summer is almost over but not quite.

I hope everything goes smoothly (read: good weather, no delays) because it's my first time to go to this destination. You know what's weird though? I can't say I'm extremely excited. Maybe because we're not staying at a hotel that I prefer or because the itinerary seems exhausting leaving us with not much time to do other things.

Damn, I sound like I need to get laid on this trip--badly.

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New Heights

My friend Rica and I met update each other about her trip to Vietnam, my trip to Boracay, and the usual gossip. When she decided we meet at MOA, I didn't complain despite the fact that it's a stretch for me. I took it as an opportunity to finally try Lugang Cafe which I've heard/good things about. I was particularly looking forward to having the soup dumplings or xiao long bao.

The dinner crowd occupied almost all the tables by the time we got there. The ambiance was more posh than I expected which was a welcome surprise. It's too bad we were seated at a bad table. We were sitting so close to the couple beside us I think they were eavesdropping on our conversation at some point.

As for the food, the xiao long bao was alright, the chicken was good and the shredded pork that I ordered was practically adobo with a hard-boiled egg at the bottom. My drink, lemon iced tea with mango jelly or something, was a little pricey at P130 but it was good. I'd come back but only to try the other dishes when I have an extra P400-P500 to shell out.

After dinner, we decided to stroll around. The next thing I know, we were lining up for the Ferris wheel at the bay side. It really looks pretty at night and it's a good attraction. I was slightly taken aback though upon finding out it costs P150 per head. I understand that each car(?) is air conditioned and equipped with a speaker and what looked like an emergency push-button but come on. That's a little too much I think especially since the amount is good for only one round. Yup. Better take all the pictures you can and enjoy the spectacular views from above while you're up there because unless you're willing to pay again for another round, that's your only chance.

Dessert followed our short ride. Rica's treat because I felt robbed for getting on that thing. No regrets though. It was a fun night of spontaneity and trying something new.

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Plumbing 102

Hallelujah! I finally fixed the leaky connection between the tap and my washing machine.

Today, I, once again, got in touch with my inner plumber out of necessity. Too much water (read: money) has been wasted for I don't even know how many months now because of the faulty connection in the laundry area. An uncle finally tried to remedy the problem yesterday but it didn't work. He did, however, figured out what the problem was so I pretty much knew what to do.

I successfully replaced the faucet last night but the connection still leaked even with the new hose. I tried it again this morning and finally ended an era of unwanted dripping water. It feels so good to finally do the laundry again without the need to constantly check on it. I can practically dump my dirty clothes, start the cycle and come back to it anytime I want and there won't be a mess or a shocking water bill.

Oh, home repairs. How you get me all worked up.

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Just Friday Night

It was supposed to be a fun Friday night out with a friend or two. Then plans changed and it turned into an uneventful, quiet night at home--until it wasn't.

It's been such a long while. I almost thought I've lost it. I was losing it. So *it happened.

Tall, fair, gray eyes, mixed race just as I suspected the very first time I saw the photos online many, many months ago. Finally, we meet, full names and all. Yes, including last names and even hometowns. No hang-ups, surprisingly.

The night ended a record-long streak of vacancy. I may still have it after all. It's not that the space needs that much renovation. It just hasn't been marketing itself enough I guess. Then again, some improvements here and there promise more opportunities.

It was simple, easy, drama-free; my place, my terms. Like a boss. Hah!

What the fuck. I obviously don't know what to make of this.

I just killed a roach and downed a glass of a self-concocted drink made of Yakult, melon juice and iced tea (yum).

Once again, it's just an uneventful, quiet night at home. Goodnight.

*not that

Someone came over. It's been so long since the last time that's happened. It was OK.

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My Take on The Met Gala 2012

Last year's exhibit, featuring the works of gone-too-soon visionary Alexander McQueen, was a smash hit.  'Savage Beauty' went on to break records. Its success commenced with a red carpet event that gathered designer feathery frocks and shiny dresses worn by a good mix of celebrities and citizens of the fashion industry.

This time around, the spotlight is on Miuccia Prada and the late Elsa Schiaparelli. To launch the exhibit, The Met is once again illuminated not only by bright lights but also by glitters, satin and mirrors as donned by Hollywood's and fashion's illustrious attendees.

Yes

Sofia Vergara does peplum right in this dress. She looks gorgeous. Gwyneth Paltrow is insanely sexy in this short Prada number showing off her gams. More on the risque side is Christina Ricci who is becoming one to watch out for on the red carpet. Say what you want about her in that Thakoon dress, I like it.

Debra Messing looks simple but still very stunning in a shimmering, chest-baring dress. Vogue's Sally Singer looks very interesting in a good way despite limiting color to her lips putting more emphasis on texture and structure. Claire Danes, who is usually in tight, long, shiny dresses shakes it up with J. Mendel seemingly channeling the mod era with her hair and makeup. Finally, Diane Kruger looks absolutely ravishing in this bright purple Prada gown adorned with feathers around the hem. With her casual elegance vibe, she's like this year's Jenna Lyons.

No

The silhouette, the color; I think everything about Cameron Diaz's Stella McCartney dress we've seen before so I find it boring. I don't know who this lady is swimming in that much fabric but that dress would be more appropriate for someone like Helen Mirren. What happened to Jaime King? She looks like she's suffering from extreme hair-loss and that red dress is far from the success of what Ginnifer Goodwin wore last year which was also from Topshop. Leighton Meester on the other hand looked like she's been hanging out with Snooki almost blending into the color of her Marchesa dress. Not good.

OMG

Ladies and gentlemen, Anja Rubik and Anja Rubik's pelvic bone--who needs to meet Angelina Jolie's leg. That Anthony Vaccarello dress is insane. M.I.A, sans the dirty finger this time, looks very young and cute but perhaps a little too casual in Stella McCartney. Somebody hand Bianca Brandolini D'Adda (Thanks Google!) an award for wearing the most sequins and having the balls to wear what seems to be the brightest number that night. From a sequin-overload Dolce and Gabbana dress to a mirror-happy Miu Miu ensemble. Chloe Sevigny provided the crazy at the Met red carpet this year and I'm not complaining.

Wait

Meanwhile, both Kate Bosworth and especially Karolina Korkova usually hit it right on the red carpet but they lose several points in my book for appearing like the second coming of two very memorable looks from the past. Kate looks like the twin of Sienna Miller on the cover of the Vogue September issue from a few years ago; from the feathered dress, to the bold lips and the hair. Karolina, on the other hand, wearing an ensemble from Rachel Zoe's clothing line, is very reminiscent of  Kate Moss at 2009's gala from the turban to the low back. Coincidence? Perhaps. Nonetheless, it begs the question 'Who wore it better?'

Photos: nymag.com

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Who's Coming?

Nuffnang sent this invite via email a couple of days ago.

Is anybody else here going to this event tomorrow? I want to go but not alone. Two days ago, I emailed to ask if I can bring a plus-one but no response yet. I've been alone to too many blog events.

Also, the dress code is killing me.

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Covers

Did anyone see this coming? I didn't. Ke$ha is on the cover of V magazine's 'The Americana Issue'.

Such prestigious break may understandably raise some eyebrows but come to think of it, isn't that what's so good about V? It's unpredictable and intriguing. And Ke$ha herself is not known conforming, always full of surprises. I personally like that she has her own thing going on with her all-American, unbathed glory.

Also challenging the norm is Rogue magazine. It has been pretty consistent in coming up with arresting covers shaking things up in the local scene.

This month, Rogue features Isabelle Daza in a bloody situation; yet another vision to grab all the attention at the stands.

The concept is great. It's daring and fresh. WhatI don't like about this is the shoes and for some reason, her legs look shortened in this picture. Her face, however, is another story. Stunning. She kills it, indeed.

Meanwhile, Madonna graces the latest issue of Vanity Fair Italy with an 'M' coming out of her puckers. Madge looks fit and Photoshop-pretty.

Me: Look at those arms!
Straight Guys: Look at those tatas!

I love covers that give something to talk about.

Source: V, Rogue, Madonna

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