Full speed ahead
“Self-knowledge is the beginning of self-improvement.” — Baltasar Gracián
January is starting to get busy! This new year has already brought about so many blessings and opportunities, with future travel plans coming up quick as well as more digital work for my new platform. Last year brought so much negative energy and chaos that it was difficult to jump-start my re-branding, so the platform I wanted to launch was on hold for the entire 2025.
With more clarity and vision, I have made headway with planning, and dedicated time and effort to propel the explosive start to my channel this month. I will feature exciting local resorts as well as workout programs for women my age. Travel will be a main section as I love to discover new destinations and, of course, shopping escapades.
For my first travel feature, it will be all about the beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and incredible food of Japan. My last two trips to Japan were totally stress-free because of my good friend and travel agent Glenda Tsuruoka, who owns Omakase Tsuruoka.
On my first trip with them, Glenda arranged a stretch Hammer van to pick us up. From the moment I arrived at the airport, everything was taken care of. With Omakase Tsuruoka Travel and Tours, your journey begins in comfort. Their in-coach roundtrip transfers bring you smoothly from the airport to your hotel and back again—all at a very affordable price. They have spent years taking care of big groups, especially those traveling with senior citizens and young children.
Comfort, safety, and convenience always come first because your satisfaction matters to them most. Whether it’s a large bus for 40+ passengers or a medium-sized van for families and smaller groups, they have the perfect ride for every journey.
For my family, Glenda’s tours are perfectly designed to be child-friendly and easy-paced for the seniors in our group. Everyone can relax and truly enjoy the experience. With my new partner who is a shopaholic like me, Omakase Tsuruoka can arrange a day trip to the nearby Gotemba Premium Outlets for the best deals in Tokyo.
No need to worry about booking hotels, planning daily itineraries, or searching for licensed vehicles; this travel agent sources the best options for visiting Japan all year round. Experience Japan in every beautiful season with their 4 Seasons Packages—from snowy winters and cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant summers and colorful autumn leaves.
Check out the amazing photos on their Instagram @omakase.tours and contact them at +63 960 811 3780; +63 966 8642465; +63 945 40776154; or tsuruokatravelandtours@gmail.com.
Smart fashion choices
After seeing the winter photos of my TropAfrica travel buddies Rajo Laurel and Nix Alanon, I can’t wait to visit Hokkaido and do some skiing in Niseko before the season is over.
Before I make this winter trip, I will head to My Closet Manager in Rockwell to rent some outfits. As an advocate of circular fashion, this sustainable clothing shop is leading the way in ethical and responsible fashion consumption. They have hundreds of imported and local designer gowns and clothes to choose from for special occasions and events. You can get full access without the hassle of ownership hassle.
Check out myclosetmanager.com to see all the fashion finds and rentals. I am so happy to know the fashionable owner Genevieve Jimenez-Yalung very well.
For last year’s Red Charity Gala, my daughter Jordan Prieto and niece Alexi Prieto-Tarvis wore designer gowns from My Closet Manager, and I got my after-party look from them, too. My digital girl Sophia Tan, who celebrated her birthday last week, also chose one from the shop.
For last month’s pocket event of Royal Gem, Genevieve helped me choose my cocktail dress by Rajo Laurel. I discovered later that the dress was pre-owned by my BFF Salome Uy. With more events lined up for this year, I will be visiting My Closet Manager a lot.
Light up
There were so many festivities last year, but one of the more notable ones was by Manila COD. The City Government of Cabuyao, under the leadership of Mayor Dennis “DENHA” Hain, formally inaugurated “Christmas on Display” at the Cabuyao Athletes Basic School (CABS) in Laguna, signaling the official start of the city’s holiday festivities last December 2025.
The program featured an animated presentation created by the renowned Manila COD team led by Maris Rosario and Jose Victor Rosario, paying tribute to the legacy of the late Jose Rosario while showcasing a contemporary Filipino Christmas experience. More than a ceremonial lighting, the event served as a celebration of Cabuyao’s continued growth, shared community spirit, and its vision for a progressive Bagong Cabuyao. Hopefully, I shall have time to see this year’s display.
Devotion through dance
Next weekend is the big festival of Cebu City: Sinulog. From processions to masses, Fiesta Señor events transform Cebu into a landscape of living faith and celebration. Devotees take to the streets and seas to honor the Santo Niño through centuries-old religious rituals.
A vibrant prelude to the Sinulog Festival was held last Jan. 7 at The Mezzanine, bringing the rich culture, cuisine, and festive spirit of Cebu to the heart of Bonifacio Global City.
The pre-Sinulog event featured a curated selection of traditional Cebuano food. Joel Del Prado’s Mezzanine, a restaurant in BGC known for its elevated French and Filipino cuisine, specially curated a Cebuano buffet spread that offered guests an authentic taste of local flavors while celebrating one of the Philippines’ most iconic festivals.
The evening was further enlivened by a dynamic performance from Sinulog dancers, whose rhythmic movements and colorful costumes captured the energy and devotion that define the annual celebration.
During the program, Ange Gomez, spokesperson for the Sinulog Foundation, delivered a message sharing key updates for Sinulog 2026. In her speech, she reminded guests of the festival’s upcoming activities and formally invited the public to take part in the celebrations in Cebu, emphasizing Sinulog’s continued role as a symbol of faith, culture, and unity.
The gathering served as a meaningful lead-up to the upcoming Sinulog festivities, fostering cultural appreciation, community, and celebration among guests ahead of the main events in Cebu.
This year feels like it’s starting off running full speed ahead, but in the best way possible. After reflecting on a challenging year and recharging with family over the holidays, I now feel ready to move ahead into brighter days.
