As cliche as it sounds, "New Year is all about New Life and New YOU" and for most of us, we want to start a new year in the right way; you know, forget all the mistakes and wrong decisions we have made in the past year and continue thriving to become the better version of ourselves.


So how can you start a perfect year?

I personally made a list here and hopefully it can help you too.

1. Forgive yourself and let go of all the things that hurt you
   In order for you to achieve a breakthrough, you need to start the change in you. So start by saying "Thank You" to yourself because at the end of the day, you only have yourself. Even if you have a good support system, if it doesn't start within you- the support and the love, everything won't make any sense.
   
   I remember when I was on the process of healing, I go to church every Sunday and I just prayed so hard for an emotional freedom. I'm not a religious person, but strengthening the faith that you have with God (or whatever the name of your God is) is a beneficial step for you to strengthen your core. Soon enough, I woke up without any pain at all. I was happier, motivated and much clearer with my goal.
   
   Letting go of the hatred is a perfect feeling! It seems like a huge weight will be lifted from your shoulder. One of the best things you can do is write everything down and then burn it or throw it away.
   
   Personal healing is the key to achieve personal freedom because once you are healed, you can learn from all the pains and help you move forward.
   
2. Set a goal
   As old as it may sound but writing a New Year's Goal is a good way to start the year right. It's a motivation for you to achieve better than what you had in the past year. This will also keep you grounded with what you want to become.
   
   I remember I don't write my New Year's Resolution because I believed then to do it NOW but then on a side note, I realized that writing them down can be a good way to keep me reminded about the things I need to achieve. It may not be as big as "I'm going to buy a car" or whatever... no matter how big or small it is, write them down- remind yourself that you have a goal and you have a brighter future.
   
   To me, my New Year's Resolution consists of emotional control, organization and of course, budgeting and weight loss.
   
3. De-Clutter
   You may be as busy as you are but remember. This year, you will buy more stuff and if you don't give them room to place them, your space will tend to be messy which may affect your perspective in life.
   
   It's better to de-clutter your old junk and re-organize your life. Personally, it was a therapy to me. After I see how my space changed, it gives me a strong drive to work.
   
   Also, De-Cluttering can also be a good way for you to let go all of the past most especially if those moments are not meant to be treasured. Throw away your ex's gifts or give them to less fortunate, don't dwell to none sense things because in reality, you can have much better stuff than that.
   
4. Target your budget
   Ohh, here comes the budget. How many of you didn't meet their target budget for this year? We're the same.
   
   Which is why, targeting a certain budget for a certain period of time is a good way for you to have a spectacular new year and it will also give you more opportunity to save. Just remember, make your budget realistic!
   
   To me, working as a freelancer, my budget is not really fixed so I tend to be more flexible with my spending habits and focus more on saving.
    
5. Start a new hobby
   All new years are a signal for you to discover new things for yourself such as starting a new hobby but this is purely optional. You don't have to pressure yourself but it's will be beneficial for you to step up in your comfort zone.
   
   I have to admit, I didn't start a new hobby in 2019 because I realized that there's too much on my plate so I try to prioritize everything and lose some things in the process but 2020 will be much different, I'm planning to start home working out as my new hobby. Last December 27, I went to Generika to have a body scan (I forgot what it's called but it basically counting your body fat, metabolisim percentage, skeletal thing and so on) overall, my body is like a 44-year-old person already. Yeah, real shocker! Which is why, this 2020, I will try to be more active. 

Christmas is one of the biggest holidays in the Philippines. As they always say “Lahat ng tao may pera ngayong pasko” even though the life can be quite challenging for the entire year, it is fair enough to say that Filipinos are able to pull it off and survive in the most glorious day!

Most of the time, Filipinos would love to spend time with their loved ones but some would opt to be with their family and go to various places such as Kawit in Cavite which is one of the most sought-after historical sites in the country today and it is one that you should visit this Christmas Season.

Kawit, Cavite is home to some of the most historic sites in the Philippines. This is where the Aguinaldo Shrine is situated wherein the Philippine flag that we know of today was first waved publicly announcing our Independence by none other than the first Filipino President Emilio Aguinaldo. There’s also a lot to learn about our first president and how he has lived his life and times during the revolution era. Beyond the Shrine also are other sights to see including the “Museo ni Baldomero Aguinaldo” hailed towards the cousin of Emilio Aguinaldo and grandfather of Cesar Virata who as a prime minister in the 1980s.


Kawit also boasts rich crafts and delicacies including the Pandayan or the local blacksmithing shop. Blacksmithing is an endangered craft that needs to be promoted and preserved. The local Pandayan is still active and you can still buy handcrafted knives and bolos made the same way during the Revolutionary era. The Christmas specialty – Puto Bumbong or rice cake with shaved coconut and muscovado sugar is a staple food trip stop that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Kawit.


Kawit celebrates the Christmas season through a spectacular display of lights at the Aguinaldo Shrine and Freedom Park. The Christmas lighting event was held last December 14, 2019 and a number of distinguished guests and celebrities joined in celebration of the event. A fireworks display and lighting of the Christmas lights at the Freedom park was also held.


Make sure to visit Kawit Cavite this Christmas Season and enjoy the season filled with pride of our own heritage and historical sites in Kawit. The Municipality of Kawit welcomes everyone who wishes to visit Kawit during the Christmas season.

I know I have been on hiatus for a very long time, I know... and here's the reason why...

Lost motivation

This would be the first thing on my list why I was gone. Don't get me wrong, I was in a very good state of my blogging/vlogging career, brands and PRs are coming in and I have several commitments I need to fulfill. It was fun at first but then I came to a point wherein I got overwhelmed, exhausted and then lost focus.

I feel like since I am committed to them, I won't have the freedom to say whatever I want or work to whomever. I realized I can work better if I'm independent. I can give myself the freedom to work on my own pace, work with brands that I truly believe and stop whenever I needed.

Preoccupied work, studies, life balance problem

If you have been with me for a very long time, I know that you are aware of how much I put effort into everything I do. Now that I'm finally a graduating student and there are so many things on my plate, I need to sacrifice things to put more effort into the things that are more important. Don't get me wrong, blogging is very important to me. However, I need to put attention to balance my work (that one who gives me stable income), studies (I'm going to graduate next year), life (I cannot take aback to my responsibilities).

I just need to make a 180-degree term in my life and perspective.

I had to accept that I cannot handle many things all in one time.

With that, I need to let go of some things to allocate my energy to the ones who are more important today which is my studies, life, and my regular job. (Also, I have to be honest that during this process, I was able to build a business with my bestfriend which was pretty awesome)

Newly found love

Jerico, my one-year partner has been in most of my social media posts and I have a series of blogs with him in it. Tell you a little bit about him, he is a chef and he's working in a well-known restaurant in the Philippines. He was also a blogger and he was my follower way back my Tumblr days.

Meeting him was fate and with him in the picture now made me a new idea to rebrand my whole persona in my blog- Not your ordinary girl by Mhow so that is something that you need to look forward.

He's a very supportive guy and I couldn't thank him enough for all the love and support he has been giving me and Edmund; something that I didn't expect. Ever.

So what's next?

I want to end my year with something awesome! So hopefully, I can get my sht together and compose more blogs. What's different now is that my blogs have better substance compared to what I normally post. Expect that this will still have beauty blogs, reviews, features, and more travel blogs because Jerico and I loves to do a staycation, I will also do more blogs related to self-empowerment which is one of the things I am aiming to do but not implemented until now.

I'm excited about the future. ♥

You have read my Tagaytay Escapade happened last February and there's a little bit of our adventure that I didn't show there because I intentionally made a separate post, hence, this blog post.

My boyfriend and I are pet lovers (to be honest, it's more of him than me *lols*) and it has been my ultimate dream to try out a dog cafe but because of a hectic schedule, I haven't had a chance to visit and indulge myself with a fun day with doggos.

On our final day, we left early in our condo unit and since we're bumped that our vacation is almost ending, our friends decided to have a stroll and think of where we would be spending the remaining days before we go home.

While driving going down Tagaytay, we stumble upon a tarpaulin of a dog cafe and since we are simultaneous people, we decided to give it a go.


The long-run

Looking for the destination, we used the WAZE app to tell us where to go as soon as we got the photo of the tarpaulin, we pinned our drop off location and started driving. However, when the WAZE ended the trip because we "have reached" the destination, we saw an abandoned-like house. Curious because we didn't saw Tabby Town Cat Cafe & Corgi Club, we decided to call the number provided and my friend, Abby asked a bystander to find out that it usually happens- several tourists are looking for the same location but it seems that the address written on the tarpaulin was incorrect.


The Salvation

Good thing the number provided on the tarpaulin was working and we asked for the correct address which was the one we pinned on Waze and started driving. Ahh, Tagaytay air never fails to make me feel relaxed. I wish that I don't need to go home - really.


The Little Nook of Good Heavens

Tabby Town Cat Cafe & Corgi Club is a small cafe that offers drinks to guests in exchange for a free visit to the dogs and cats. They actually have three options: to visit the dog cafe only, to visit the cat cafe only or both cafes. Since I'm allergic to cats, of course, we don't have any choice but to visit the dog cafe.

As soon as we enter, corgis immediately said hello and I was really stunned since it was my first time to see a real-life corgi.


Their dog cafe has tons of dogs that you would surely love. My favorite was their two poms who are so sweet and picture friendly.



Overall, Tabby Town Cat Cafe is something that you look forward to when you like to just relax with the comfort of animals. To be honest, their price for a milkshake which is the only thing from their menu is something on the pricey side in my own opinion (maybe I'm just a cheapskate) but the experience with the dogs for over 2 hours is something that money can't buy.

If you may know me, I have been suffering from astigmatism ever since I was in high school which results in unbearable headaches and it makes me hard for me to be efficient. All the time, I've been dependent on Advil but as I age, my migraine attacks become worse and worse and it came to a point wherein Advils and other pain relievers don't work anymore.

So I am in desperate need of a migraine companion that will give me immediate results.

A Friend in Disguise

Jenni Wilson, a doTERRA mom for a decade introduced me to the world of Essential Oils. She studied Natural Medicine specializing in herbs and essential oils while her husband Mike is in the special field.

She sent me an Introductory Kit containing three (3) essential oils: Lavander, Lemon, and Peppermint.

What are Essential Oils?

Essential Oils (EO) generally comes from plants as they believed that it contains powerful compounds that are highly concentrated and potent. These compounds are the "oils" that gives plants the aroma and protect them from harsh environments.


It has also been a long-time tradition that steamed from many ancient civilizations. These are used as medicines, beauty aids, and food preparation.

doTERRA steps up the game of Essential Oils

Compared to other brands, their very own are carefully distilled from plants that have been harvested at the perfect moment by the skilled growers from around the world. Each oil was also carefully tested, following the Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade (CPTG) quality Control.


The Introductory Kit

The Introductory Kit as I have mentioned a while back comes with three (3) Essential Oils-- Lavander, Lemon, and Peppermint.

Lavender is good for Anti-infection, Anti-inflammatory, Burns, Cuts, Calms the Nerves, Relaxing Qualities, Sleep Aid, Anxiety, High Blood Pressure, PMS, Diaper Rash, Dandruff, Cramps, Tension, Insect Bites, Headaches

This is also called universal oil due to its wide effects

Lemon is for antifungal, antiseptic, PH Balance, Mucus, Respiratory Problems, Coughing. Heartburns. Ulcers, Allergies, Antioxidant, Acidosis, Kidney Stones, Gallstones, Strep, Immune Support, Purify Water, Mood Enhancer

Peppermint is for Anti-inflammatory, Respiratory Challenges, Arthritis, Joint and Muscle Discomfort, Lower Body Temparature, Stomach Problems, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Headaches, Circulation, Blood, Heartburn, Colds and Flu, Memory, Fevers, Liver Problems, Gout, Tendonitis, Ease Breathing


My Oil Bularyo Journey

When I first got it, I immediately experienced a migraine and without second thought, I decided not to drink any medicines instead, I applied the peppermint on the temples of my head, it might have made my eyes water because of the minty-flavor content of the peppermint, after 10 minutes, the pain was relieved and I was amazed by it.

Now, I always bring EO whenever I go, I even bring my very own mix of EOs with me. I placed it on a rollerball applicator with a good amount of Virgin Coconut Oil and EOs Peppermint, Lemon and Lavander content, I mixed it all together and I call it my very own "migraine companion"

I also diffuse every now and then (most especially if I'm in need of relaxation and while reading a good book, I smell a wonderful aroma brought by EOs) my current favorite is the Lemon and Peppermint for relaxation.

So call me an "oilbularyo" now!

With the fast pace of the makeup industry, many brands nowadays keep up with the current trend by releasing up-to-date products that will match the weather here in the Philippines and give the comfort to its users-- reducing the need of touch up, creating formulation that can stay on one's skin for a long time, giving a coverage, oil control features and such.


The Skin Bureau, one of the fast-rising cosmetic brand that provides skincare and beauty products for men & women. This brand promotes self-acceptance while in the process of self-discovery.

Last October 21, 2019, they have launched their 9th product from their line which is their BB Serum.

What's good?

BB Serum is a lightweight BB Cream that contains high-performance ingredients in the form of serum. This has a double action that penetrated moisture deeper to the skin and gives natural-looking coverage.

The BB Serum has a skin time adapt technology that makes it suitable for all skin color.


Lastly, it is infused with Sakura Extract which is essential fatty acids that repair the skin's natural barrier to promote smooth and suptle skin. It also has a Centella Asiatica that speeds up the healing of acne and helps prevent scarring.

The product has SPF 30 to protect the skin against the UVB/UVA rays.

Behold, the BB Serum

Looking at the packaging, it is really chic and sleek which fits your makeup bag without adding too much weight.

It has a pump applicator just like any other serums.


The container is a thick glass-like (for me) but I don't think it's fragile which means you can place it on your luggage when you want to go to the travel

In my next article regarding this, I will share with you my first impression and later on a full wear test of this product.

Stay tuned!

If you have been a follower on my Instagram, you would probably take a chance to see my post that I was hospitalized due to fatigue.

Back Story

I came from an errand and I was riding the Angkas as I normally would, after an hour of riding the motorcycle, I suddenly felt sleepy -- to me it was normal because I tend to feel sleepy but not to the point that I will sleep; take note, I have been riding motocycle ever since I was a teenager so I am always used to this feeling but I NEVER sleep while riding it. Suddenly, along Commonwealth Highway, I felt a little dizzy (thinking that it was because of the feeling of sleepiness I felt earlier, I didn't mind it at first) next thing I knew, I was sitting on the curbs of the Commonwealth Avenue becuase I couldn't ride the motorcycle anymore.

View this post on Instagram

Yesterday's turning point I was going home from an errand. I was riding angkas (as I normally would). Heading Commonwealth Ave. I suddently felt sleepy then turned dizzy. The last words I remembered saying to my angkas rider is "Kuya itabi mo, nahihilo po ako" next thing I knew I was sitting in the side of the sidewalk along Commonwealth. When I felt a little better I decided to wear the helmet again and try to ride the bicycle, however, I felt worse. God was just so great that I was near Diliman Doctor's Hospital so I told the angkas driver that I couldn't ride the motorcycle anymore and please rush me to the ER. I then realized that I need to give myself time to rest and recharge my batteries and most importantly, achieve a healthier lifestyle. Stay healthy, folks #notyourordinarygirlbymhow

A post shared by Ramona Jessica ✨ (@mhownai_) on Oct 4, 2019 at 5:10pm PDT

The Switch

After several minutes, as I regained my sanity, I asked my Angkas rider to rush me to Diliman Doctor's Hospital because I am not feeling well. I rushed myself to the Emergency room, the hospital personell did the necessary procedures and assisted me to lie down on one of the hospital beds.

I then said to myself "Mhow, you need to be healthy"

After that, I then decided to stop smoking and now reducing my cups of coffee and switching to tea whenever I need a hot beverage while working.

Now, I'm trying to cut down my cholesterol level and carbohydrate intake in order to lose weight.


The Hearty Bread

This is not your ordinary bakestore that sells bread with too much sugar or glutten or preservatives.

Hearty Bread is your one stop shop for breads that are Gluten, Sugar, Butter FREE and Water Friendly. Added to that, they don't have any preservatives or margarine which makes it healthier than other loaves of bread available in the market.

What makes it different from other brands is they cater specifically to different needs of patients with diabetes, renal failure and cancer.

Diabetic Cases
The Philippines is considered one of the diabetes “hot spots” in the Western Pacific region. It is estimated that 1 out of 5 Filipinos are diabetic. This statistic is very alarming and calls for attention of the general public. Several cause-oriented group has already started campaigns to spread awareness in the hope to help hinder the growth.
It was noted that unhealthy lifestyle habits of Filipinos is the main cause of diabetes. This was also tackled by World Health Organization and they also included sedentary lifestyles as major lifestyle risk factors, stating that 1 in 3 is overweight and 1 in 10 is obese.

Obesity 
Obesity cases is another red flag in the country. Those who consume excess of sugar and carbohydrate lead to accumulating that excess weight overtime. Per record, Philippines has estimated a staggering 18 million citizens who are either Obese or Overweight.

Cancer Cells feed on Sugar
To clarify, consuming sugar does not cause cancer. Studies have been conducted which proves that sugar essentially feeds tumors and encourages cancer growth. Hence, starving these cells from sugar may help cancer patients.

Photo Courtesy of Hearty Bread

What's on the menu?

Hearty Bread has 4 variants in their menu: Almond Loaf, Probiotic Loaf, Fruit Loaf and Specialties

Prices are as follows

Almond Loaf
Their Almond Loaves are made with pure raw materials that is sugar free, preservative free and margarine free.

• Ezekiel Almond Loaf - 100
• Cheesy Charcoal Almond Loaf - 180
• Coffee Cheesy Almond Loaf - 250
• Garlic Almond Bread Sticks - 90

Probiotic Loaf 
Their Probiotic Loaf are made with gluten-free flour fortified with lactobacillus protectus for optimum digestion

• Premium Sourdough Pandesal - 40
• Premium Sourdough Loaf - 105
• Multigrain Sourdough Loaf - 115
• Garlic Sourdough Bread Sticks - 80

Fruit Loaf
These loaves are made from real fruit such as their banana loaves are made in Saba which has lower sugar content and has more fiber, meanwhile, their pumpkin carrot loaves is a perfect source of Vitamin A that protects our eyes

• Banana (Saba) Sourdough Loaf - 200
• Bannoffee Walnut Sourdough Loaf - 280
• Pumpkin Carrot Sourdough Loaf - 280

Specialties 
Their Coconut Brownies are made with coconut flour with stevia as sugar substitute and you can enjoy the brownies with lactobacillus protectus and walnuts with Stevia as sugar

• Coconut Brownies - 50/piece or 300/box
• Walnut Sourdough Brownies - 50/piece or 300/box

I am not an avid fan of breakfast but when I got a chance to try these loaves, I immensely enjoy it. I fills my empty stomach, it makes me feel full and energized before I start my morning. Even if I only eat one to two pieces of breads every morning, I don't feel hungry immediately-- good for weight loss. The Probiotic Loaves are not my cup of tea because to me, they taste bland but you can easily spice it up with jams that would really improve the overall taste.


To me, this is a pefect alternative for people who wants to cut down their weight and my mom who was a Type 2 diabetic really enjoys it most especially the Banana Sourdough Loaf because she can enjoy the sweet taste of the banana without worrying about her sugar level.

Realizing that eating healthy is not a challenge if you have the perfect mindset and perfect partner.

You may get Hearty Bread on these following markets:

Rustan's Marketplace or Supermarket

• Santolan Town Plaza
• Shangrila Plaza Mall
• Glorietta 
• Paseo de Magallanes

Weekend Market (Friday to Sunday) 

• U.P. Town Center Acacia Lanes
• Eastwood Mall 2/F

Pharmacy Partners Hub

• Mediscount Del Monte
• Mediscount E. Rodriguez

Delivery Hub

• Alabang 
• Paranaque BF Homes
• Bonifacio Global City

You may also check Hearty Bread's website for more information www.heartybreadph.com
Or check their social media platforms
Instagram: https://instagram.com/heartybreadph
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartybreadph

Over the weekend, my partner, Eco and I decided to let down our hair and had a staycation. As we all know, I am working and studying at the same time and both of us are managing our businesses while him, on the other side is hustling to start his career in the culinary world which gives us less time for each other and on top of that, we have been more stressed than ever.

So he suggested to have an over night staycation so that we can bond as a family and we can also take a rest and refrain ourselves from thinking about anything related to our work and business and life.


Looking for a perfect place to hangout can be quite challenging-- more and more industries and condo owners have decided to rent their place for a short period of time giving more options for people who are craving for relaxation; which I have to admit since there are so many option.

On top of our list of options, here are the factors we need to take in consideration:

• Price
• Ambiance
• Accessibility
• Amenities
• Child Friendly

Finger foods has always been my companion during late night writing or studying. I have always been a fan of crisps to be exact, Nachos. I love Nachos because of it's aroma taste and savory cheese and salty beef.

Nacho King is one of my go-to places whenever I hang out with my friends or just want to lounge and do whatever-- reading, listening to music or watch a movie.


History

The birth of Nacho King started when Mike Singh and highschool friend Teddy Manotoc decided to bring Mexican dish in the Philippines as they launched their first outlet in April 1995 in SM North EDSA after returning home from college in the US in 1994.

Since then, their business flourished by expanding different branches. Currently, they have several hundred outlets nationwide. They have catered department stores, supermarkets and schools. Now, they even handle parties as we all know nachos can be a great party favor. Right?

My Favorite

The Nacho  King has a variation of nachos that you can choose from different size to different side dishes. My favorite has to be the Jumbo Loaded which retails for only 156 pesos. This variant has Jumbo Cheesy Nachos with 4 toppings- mushrooms, jalapeneos, salsa, signature beef, and cheese.



I can finish it with one seat. I don't even mind getting my fingers dirty with it's delicious cheese! and even though I'm not a big fan of spices, I can even eat the jalapeneos; it gives me a strong kick of spiciness that I can absolutely tolerate.

Nacho King is continuously growing and now offers franchise- Cart, Kisosk and Outlet Store at a very affordable price with guaranteed Return of Investment (ROI). To be honest, this is a great business idea most especially if you can find a good spot such as schools or locations that are heavily loaded with people.


If you are craving for Nachos at home and have no time to visit them, fear not because you can buy their nachos to go! They have various flavors- plain, cheese, barbeque and sour cream. Also for you to get the awesome savory cheese, you can also buy the powdered version, all you have to do is dissolve it in warm water, bring it to boil and simmer for a few minutes.

What's good about this is that you can choose whatever toppings you want to include! Awesome, right?

Drop by Nacho King now and experience #nachorap with #ilovenachoking

MANILA, SEPTEMBER 18, 2019 - TikTok, the leading destination for short-form mobile video, has partnered with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the world’s largest humanitarian network, to launch the #ForClimate challenge, injecting new vitality into IFRC’s #FacesOfClimateChange global initiative.

From September 16th to 30th, TikTok users can raise awareness of climate change by using three specially designed stickers depicting extreme weather conditions: Rainstorm, Snowstorm and Global Warming. 

In addition, TikTok users can also take part in an interactive quiz where they can test their knowledge on environmental protection and share actions they have done to help end the climate crisis. The quiz consists of 15 questions including “"Should plastic bags be banned?" “"Will you buy used goods?" and beyond.

Dr Jemilah Mahmood, IFRC’s Under Secretary General for Partnerships, said:

“TikTok’s social platform is perfect for getting a serious message across in a way that’s thrilling, inspiring, and energetic. We’re looking forward to seeing young people bring their stories to a global audience.”

Dr. Mahmood also shared her video #ForClimate on TikTok

The IFRC official account on TikTok has also released a series of official videos of global volunteers and staff.

#ForClimate is a global campaign and users from 100+ countries and regions, including United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Russia, Poland, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Brazil, Mexico, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and more can participate.

“TikTok's global community allows users to express their creative ideas through short videos. We’re thrilled to partner with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) on the #ForClimate challenge, which empowers our community to creatively show their commitment to climate change and raise awareness for the importance of protecting our planet,” said Helena Lersch, Director of Public Policy, TikTok.

By offering a home for creative expression and an experience that is genuine, joyful, and positive, TikTok is a great platform for driving initiatives on social responsibility. There has already been a series of “TikTok for Good” campaigns such as #SaveOurOceans demonstrating how TikTok users are taking action to protect the planet.

On 22 September, a TikTok representative will join hands with IFRC to present at the 2019 UN Climate Change Summit. Download or open the TikTok app to creatively express your support for #ForClimate.

About TikTok

TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video. Our mission is to inspire and enrich people’s lives by offering a home for creative expression and an experience that is genuine, joyful, and positive. TikTok has global offices including Los Angeles, New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, Jakarta, Seoul, and Tokyo. www.tiktok.com.

About IFRC

IFRC is the world’s largest humanitarian network, comprising 190 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies working to save lives and promote dignity around the world.

www.ifrc.org - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube

Makati City—June 03, 2019—Every year, roughly one-third of the food produced for human consumption—around 1.3 billion tons gets wasted, says a report released by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN). Of these food items, fruits, and vegetables, plus roots and tubers, have the highest wastage rates.



Similarly, food wastage is becoming a public concern in the Philippines, especially that every day, the country discards around 987,952 kg of rice, a staple in every Filipino meal, according to the latest PSA data.

To curb this pressing concern, Beko Philippines urges Filipinos to avoid food wastage, starting from simple habits to develop when preparing meals at home.

Following its goal to prioritize healthy living, Beko listed some clever habits to manage leftovers, while ensuring that you still provide all the nutrients needed by your family: 

Monitor Food Consumption 

Monitoring food consumption during meals can prevent having any leftovers. By doing so, you also promote a well-balanced diet by giving your family just the right portions of each food item that has essential nutrients needed by the body.



To make it easier, it pays to check out the “Pinggang Pinoy,” an easy-to-understand tool released by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). This visual food guide contains the recommended

food portions, aiming to lead Filipinos in consuming the right amount of food for a healthy and balanced diet daily.

Transforming Leftovers to Gourmet Dishes 

Despite trying to prepare just the right amount of food for your family, circumstances happen that leaves food on the table—this is where the fun begins. Whip up a better version of a recipe by mixing the right kind of remaining ingredients.



Keep it simple. Salads and soups are a popular way to manage leftovers. Mix favorite pieces of leftover meats, fish, and choice of crops. Aside from the flavor, these dishes contain nutrients, depending on the ingredients. Also, always remember that being creative in the kitchen doesn’t mean stressing yourself over a new creation.

Like the creation of new dishes, transforming leftovers makes for great appetizers. Kids often leave vegetables untouched because of its blandness. Present in a way that makes it appealing. Use tasteless stalks of leafy greens as a base for smoothies and such. You can also boost its nutritional content by adding black beans, lentils, and quinoa for a filling breakfast.


Store Fresh Produce Properly

You can never go wrong if you know how to store fresh produce in your fridge properly. Improper storage of produce leads to early spoilage. Certain organic compounds, like ethylene gas, contribute to the early maturity of fruits. This type of emission is common in fruits, such as bananas, strawberries, avocados, and mangoes.


You can cover the tips of bananas and keep strawberries in the fridge to slow down their ripening. It is also recommended to separate these types of fruits from the other ethylene-sensitive produce like potatoes and vegetables to avoid spoilage and food waste.

Follow the FIFO Method

Keep your fridge well-stocked but don’t go overboard. Organize your refrigerator to oversee the quality of fresh food and leftovers. You can also try the “First in, First Out” (FIFO) method to avoid food spoilage.

In addition, the features of your fridge can help you in storing leftovers properly. For instance, you can manage them through the Everfresh+® feature of RCNT415E50VZWB, a wooden black finish, bottom mount, inverter refrigerator by Beko Philippines. This refrigerator provides a decent space in its special crisper compartment for storing leftovers that can be used in the next meal plan. Beko’s EverFresh+® technology regulates and controls humidity inside the crisper compartment that aids to prolong the shelf life of the produces, thus preserving its fresh and crisp qualities for up to 30 days.



That’s why the crisper also has Beko Active Fresh Blue Light™ technology that promotes continuous photosynthesizing of your leafy vegetables, keeping it greener and crispier.

Leftovers may emit certain scents. The RCNT415E50VZWB with its IonGuard® technology removes odors in your fridge by circulating negative ions that remove bacteria and other odor-causing particles.

The refrigerator also features NeoFrost™ dual cooling technology that has two separate cooling systems, where you can maintain high humidity in the fridge while keeping the freezer dry, frozen and frost-free - retaining freshness and healthiness of the food.

Finally, RCNT415E50VZWB has Beko ProSmart™ Inverter Compressor. This technology enhances the cooling efficiency of the refrigerator to maintain an even temperature inside, which keeps produces fresher for longer without consuming much energy and electricity, while the compressor remains silently running.

Try developing these habits and, you might just realize that managing your leftovers could unleash the creative chef in you and may not be that big of a task after all!