Religious Finds At PJL Museum
September 22nd, 2008 | Posted by admin | Category: Art, Lifestyle | Tags: Art, catholic faith, exhibit, luncheon, museum opening, press launch, press preview, religion | No Comments
I went to Ayala Alabang Village last Sept 13, 2008 to attend the special press launch of the Philippe John Lhuillier Museum which I covered for Manila Standard Today. The eponymous museum was JPL’s way of sharing his extensive collection of religious pieces that he acquired for 45 years. From Byzantine paintings to reliquaries to crosses (crucifix), any art enthusiast or student can appreciate this European art showcase, Catholic or not. Ivory pieces abound, both the Indian and African kind, mostly crucifix, as well bas relief, depiction of Mary, Jesus and the Saints.
There was neither a “star” painting nor a “favorite” in the 3-tier museum fashioned after the colonial Bahay na Bato. Instead Ambassador Lhuillier (Philippines Ambassador to Italy) used passion as his guide in acquiring each piece. He didn’t believe in restoration either so eached screamed with its own history, wear and tear notwithstanding. My most favorite part of the museum was the basement where the Chapel of the Holy Eucharistic was located. Descending from the wooden stairs was gave me the feeling of being transported in time 400 years back.
The museum is free to the public but it’s by appointment only.
Circa 1636, believed to be miraculous Mother and Child bas relief greets every visitor so each may be blessed.
A Taste Of New York
July 20th, 2008 | Posted by admin | Category: Lifestyle, Press Launch, Restaurant | Tags: NY-inspired pizza, press launch, Yellow Cab | No Comments
Aside from the statue of Liberty one emblem that NYC is known for is the yellow cab. The city has a little of everything and a lot of attitude. Who wouldn’t want to be there and make it?
Here in the Philippines, the fascination for NY culture has spawned merchandise from shirts to bags to shoes to even food.
Yellow Cab Pizza Co. was inspired by NYC’s diversity. Thus, you can have a taste of New York with every slice.
A homegrown brand, it is going global just after six years of being in the Philippines. And why not? Ever since I came to learn about Yellow Cab, I never looked back. Part of our late night deadlines was the Yellow Cab calzone, pizza and pasta. I loved the dried chili that comes with every delivery. And well, the chicken was divine.
Recently, in its quest to continuously challenge Filipino taste buds, the Barbeque pizza flavor was launched in their Visayas Ave. branch.
With its signature warehouse looking stores, the media had a field day with every piece, every slice and every morsel of Yellow Cab.
We were greeted with appetizing treats: crunchy nachos, stuffed potato halves (oven-baked potato halves oozing with cheese and bacon) and unlimited iced tea. Aside from the food, a magician entertained us with his tricks (the card trick was a classic, hahaha) and games were enjoyable. I tried the shoot the coin but didn’t manage even one but well I had a grand time at the dart game (pop the balloon actually). I chose a nice chess game as a prize. I haven’t played chess in a while so I guess it was time to try it again.