Dec 30, 2009

Trivia: Marikina Is In The Top 20

According to Wikipedia taken from a 2007 Census source, Marikina City is the 20th largest city in the Philippines. Its neighboring cities, Quezon City, Antipolo City and Pasig City are the 1st, 7th and 8th largest cities respectively.

Marikina City has an average population of 424,000.

Dec 27, 2009

Gil Fernando Avenue [Updated]


Formerly known as Angel Tuazon St, Gil Fernando Avenue's complete name is Mayor Gil Fernando Avenue. This is one of the main thoroghfares of Marikina City. The avenue connects starts at Marcos Highway leading in to the heart of Marikina City. One will find several establishments cruising along this avenue. There are several banks, restaurants, gas stations and automotive shops. In the evening, the avenue transforms into a series of bars and restaurants geared up for nightlife.

Its next main intersection is Sumulong Highway where you will find Bluewave Marquinton Mall and Robinsons Supermarket. Turnong right from Sumulong Highway will lead to Vista Valley subdivision, Marikina Valley Medical Center and the Katipunan Sumulong extension which is a shortcut leading to SSS Village, Marikina Heights and Parang. Turning left from Sumulong Highway leads to Bayan where City Hall, Marikina Sports Center, E Rodriguez Hospital, Marikina Riverpark and the City Market are within close range. Moving forward will lead to City Engineering Offices, Car Impound, Dog Pound, and streets heading towards Paliparan, Concepcion and several neighboorhoods such as Strip 70, Goodrich Village and Oro Vista Subdivision.

This main road is also the route of public transportation such as the Marikina Bus Line heading to San Mateo and the Cubao-Montalban jeeps and Tamaraw FXs headed to Montalban. Recently, the Fairview-Cainta jeep route also passes through Gil Fernando heading to the Batasan Road in San Mateo.

The story behind the Avenue's name is that Gil Fernando was a former mayor of Marikina City. In addition, he is also the father of former Marikina City Mayor Bayani Fernando.

Gil Fernando Avenue, one main artery of Marikina City.
Dec 24, 2009

Tarpaulin Printing Along Gil Fernando

Cynergy Inc. has been one of the long running printers in Marikina. Most of Bayani Fernando's tarpaulins are being printed here. They are just right beside Pan de Manila bakery, Shell Gas Station and Veterans bank along Gil Fernando St.

A newly opened printer has just set up shop in the new building directly facing Cynergy.

Their name is JPEC. And their services include indoor/outdoor tarpaulin, billboards, banners, panaflex and sticker printing. They have parking available in front.

Their address is 67 Gil Fernando St., Barangay San Roque. Since they're just across Cynergy, it makes your canbassing needs easier. Check them out.


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Dec 23, 2009

Marquinton Garden Residences Site Preparations

After the series of condos behind Bluewave Marquinton is a new set of buildings to arise called the Marquinton Garden Residences. This site will rise just beside the Marikina Valley Medical Center along Sumulong Highway. The gate has already been build and the ground has been flattened in preparations for the future multi-storey multi-building neighborhood.

You can check out their showroom located at the Bluewave Marquinton Parking lot beside Bluewave Mall or call 681-0111 for more information. You can check out the developer's website as well at thttp://www.federalproperties.net

Dec 21, 2009

Starbucks Bluewave Still Closed

Bluewave Marquinton mall was one of the directly affected buildings along Sumulong Highway during the Typhoon Ondoy floods. The mall was closed for a month afterwards to undergo repair. Soon after it reopened, the stores located on the ground floor one by one re-opened. A couple of stores though didn't reopen anymore like Mongkok, beside Watsons.

One of the high anticipated stores to reopen is Starbucks. There are only 2 starbucks branches in Marikina City and the one in Bluewave Marquinton in particular has been a popular place to hang out and have late night coffee until midnight.

Sadly though, there are no signs that the Bluewave branch is being renovated or cleaned up. It pretty much looks abandoned. Hopefully, they will reopen as its location is ideal for Marikenos who crave for their coffee products.

UPDATE: Last week, I learned that the owners of this Starbucks branch visited Bluewave Mall, probably for damage assessment or rebuilding plans. I heard that there are plans for this Starbucks branch to reopened soon. A lot of Marikenos are anxiously awaiting it.
Dec 19, 2009

Rey Electrical Shop

One of the most popular and in-demand electrical shop for automobiles is Rey Electrical shop. This is sister shop to its main shop along 15th Avenue in Cubao.

This branch is located along Gil Fernando Ave. corner Dragon St. and just across BDO bank and Biksa Coffee.

They have a large knowledgable and very skilled crew base who specialize in electrical repairs for all types of cars. They also carry a wide array of spare parts so having your vehicle get repaired here becomes a one-stop-shop. Becuase of this, even non-residents of Marikina come to Rey's shop to have their cars serviced.

I personally have my car serviced here as well. If your car may take some time to be repaired, they have a convenient waiting lounge with cable TV. In addition, just right beside Rey is Biksa Coffee where you can work while you wait. (They provide wifi).

For your car electrical needs, visit Rey Electrical Shop.


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Dec 18, 2009

Fuji Film Developing Center Resumes Operations at Bluewave

Fuji Developing Center just recently reopened its store at the ground floor of Bluewave Marquinton. The store took a while to be rebuilt from the damages caused by the floods of Typhoon Ondoy, but the store manager is happy to announce that they are back in service.

You can visit Fuji at the ground floor (left side from the front entrance) of Bluewave Mall. They offer film and digital photo services, studio photography and camera accessories.
Dec 17, 2009

Globelines Center Moves To SM City Marikina

Globe Telecom used to be located at the 2nd floor of Bluewave Marquinton mall. They accepted bills payment, inquiries, SIM and broadband sales, phone applications and all around customer services.

Recently this Globelines branch has transferred to the ground floor of SM City Marikina. You can visit them at their new location.

(Photo of Globelines closed branch in Bluewave)
Dec 16, 2009

Probest Yearly Christmas Sale

Yearly, Probest, the huge pink building along Katipunan Street in Brgy Concepcion Dos, uses its front parking lot to place their items up for sale. They sell shoes, slippers and shirts at factory prices. They open in the late afternoon til evenings.

Several people within the neighborhood usually just walk to the store. Car owners also stop to drop by since it's along the main road connecting Sumulong Highway and SSS Village/Marikina Heights.

If you have some last minute Christmas shopping to do, you can check them out. They're located across the corner of Tangerine St. and Katipunan St. along the side of Immaculate Concepcion Hospital.

Mariposa Budget Hotel Coming Soon

Riverbend Hotel and the Marikina Hotel are 2 full-fledged hotels in Marikina City which offer the complete line-up of services a standard multi-star hotel offers.

As for budget hotels who provide transients who look for shorter stays, hourly rates and quick check-ins, there aren't any yet in the city.

But lately, a new budget hotel is being erected along along the corner of Pangustura and Pambuli streets. Just behind Burger King along Marcos Highway is where a new Mariposa Budget Hotel will be established. A few months back, this lot was being cleared in preparations for construction which is now undergoing.

Their location is conveniently located near Marcos Highway and Felix Ave. in Cainta and is in front of an access road leading to Q-Plaza. For more inquiries, call 646-5522 or 646-5533.


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Bluewave Sunday Mass Advisory

After December 13, 2009 regular Holiday Sunday Mass at Bluewave Strip Mall will resume on July 3, 2010.

Sunday mass at Bluewave is held every Sundays from 4:00pm to 5:00pm at the 3rd Floor Activity Center.
Dec 15, 2009

Unang Hirit On Location at Pamilihang Bayan

Last December 14, a part of the GMA 7 morning show, Unang Hirit was seen broadcasting live at the park in front of City Hall. A stunning Regine Tolentino was featuring a segment on the Pamilihang Bayan of Marikina.

Several stalls at the park were being shown to televiewers as Regine interviewed stall owners about the items they had for sale.

Marikina Zip Codes

If you're not sure what zipcode you're sending mail to in Marikina City, you can use 1800 which is the Central zipcode for Marikina CPO (Central Post Office) and Sta. Elena /Sto. Nino.

However, if you wish to be more specific and accurate, here are the codes for each area in Marikina City.

  • 1820 - Bagong Nayon
  • 1803 - Barangka
  • 1820 - Cogeo
  • 1807 - Concepcion 1
  • 1811 - Concepcion 2
  • 1820 - Cupang
  • 1802 - Industrial Valley
  • 1804 - Jesus de La Pena
  • 1820 - Langhaya
  • 1805 - Malanday
  • 1820 - Mambagat
  • 1810 - Marikina Heights
  • 1820 - Mayamot
  • 1808 - Nangka
  • 1806 - North/West of Marikina River
  • 1809 - Parang
  • 1801 - San Roque / Calumpang
  • 1803 - Tanong

Dec 14, 2009

New Carwash at Marikina Badminton Center

Marikina Badminton Center just opened up a car wash and auto detailing service inside their parking lot. Have your car washed, shined or detailed while you play badminton or have a snack at their snack bar inside.

The carwash is located within the Marikina Badminton Center along Katipunan St. in Brgy. Concepcion Dos.

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Slippers and Shirts Bodega Sale

There is an ongoing bodega sale at Verbano Travel and Tours office. The bodega sale is located at the corner of Falcon St. and Flamingo St. in San Roque and near the Marikina Catholic High School and car wash. On sale are various t-shirts ranging from P50. to P200. and a wide range of slippers and shoes. They are open as early as 9am.
Dec 8, 2009
Nov 27, 2009

Free Livelihood Trainings

Marikina City is now offering free livelihood trainings in various fields.

The following courses are currently being offered:
waitering, bartending & dining preparation, basic massage therapy, basic beauty care, advanced beauty care, baking / pastry production, breadworks, food processing, quilting and cross stitching, upper-shoe making, dress making and bag making.

Short courses such as soap making, candle making and chocolate molding are also being offered.

Please visit the "Women Center" at the 2nd floor of the old MSP building near McDonalds or call 682-9574.

"Nagsimula sa Puso" Shooting Spoting

Coco Martin was seen at the Bluewave Marquinton Mall last Nov. 26 from morning till afternoon on location for shooting some scenes from the afternoon telenovela "Nagsimula Sa Puso" on ABS-CBN.

A morning shoot was taken in front of the mall at the parking lot with a red sports car as background. In the afternoon, scenes from the 2nd and 3rd floor of Bluewave (near the elevators) were taken. Some tenants and employees of Bluewave were even used as extras during the shoot.

Coco Martin was kind enough to mingle with some fans and bystanders while waiting for the shoot to resume.

Bluewave Marquinton mall has been used several times as an on-location venue for various ABS-CBN telenovelas.
Nov 25, 2009

Excess Mud

Typhoon Ondoy has not only brought floods to Marikina but a tremendous amount of mud as well. Mud was everywhere and anywhere floods were during the typhoon. When the floods subsided, the massive amount of mud was left.

The mud was cleaned and collected and eventually placed in designated areas. Weeks after the extensive city cleaning, the mud eventually hardened and turned into dirt and soil.

Now, the city has an excess of soil. One of the biggest designated areas where the soil was dumped was underneath the Marcos Highway bridge right beside the Diosdado Macapagal Bridge near SM City Marikina. The soil was compacted and neatly stacked in a way that it doesn't look like a sight for sore eyes. In fact, it looks a bit like Egyptian ruins.

The service roads from SM City Marikina leading to Marcos Highway are still closed to traffic as part of the roads are used to maintain the excess soil.
Nov 24, 2009

Johnny Delgado Passes Away

Award winning actor Johnny Delgado passed away last November 19 due to lymphoma. He is known for being a comedian, drama actor and have portrayed roles of both face and heel in various movies and TV series. He is also one of 4 in the comedic group in the 80's called Bad Bananas along with the late Jay Ilagan, Christopher de Leon and Edgar Mortiz.

Johnny Delgado was buried in Loyola Cemetery, Marikina this afternoon. His director wife Laurice Guillen with family and friends were at the memorial earlier to pay last respects to their loved one.
Nov 22, 2009

Marikina Christmas Festival '09 Now Open

Yearly, Marikina holds its holiday stores in tiangge fashion along the banks of the Marikina Riverpark. Stretching almost a kilometer long on both sides of the Marikina River are a series of shops, eateries and entertainment that starts as early as 5pm and goes on till past midnight and even till 2am as Christmas nears. There are a variety of items for sale good for the gift giving season.

This year, there is an additional Christmas Mechanical Display at the Marikina City Hall and Tiangge area nightly from 6:30pm to 11:00pm.

Come visit the Marikina Christmas Festival and enjoy shopping, dining and sight-seeing all in one.
Nov 20, 2009

Bangon Marikina

Bangon Marikina is a phrase which you'll find in various parts of Marikina City, denoting to the mishap the city has undergone during the Typhoon Ondoy floods.

The phrase also serves as motivation and optimism that the great city of Marikina will rise again after the devastation the city has undergone.

Nov 19, 2009

Toy Photography Contest at SM City Marikina

Are you a toy enthusiast ? Do you have an eye for photography ?
Then this is the best contest to come your way.

Join the Toy Photography Contest at SM City Marikina and get a chance to win SM Gift Certificates.

You can check out the mechanics at the SM City Marikina and Taytay blog at http://smcity.multiply.com
Deadline for entries is November 21, 2009.


Nov 18, 2009

Marikit Na Pasko Traffic Advisory


Starting November 10 to January 10, 2010, McDonalds Street (City Hall Service Road behind Marikina Sports Park) shall be closed to vehicular traffic from 6:00pm till 12:00 midnight to make way for the Animated Display entitled "Marikit Na Pasko".

Motorists can take Shoe Ave. from Sumulong Highway if heading to City Hall.
Nov 16, 2009

Marikina Sports Center Now Open


After almost 2 months of being closed to the public, Marikina Sports Center now reopens today, Monday, November 16, 2009. Marikina Sports Center was heavily flooded during Typhoon Ondoy which brought inches of mud to the sports grounds after the floods subsided.

During cleanup, the sports center was also used as a relief center for typhoon victims. The newly erected Sports Building was also used as storage for relief goods for Marikina typhoon victims.

The Sports Center resumes regular operations of 5:00am till 11:00pm daily. Entrance fee is P10. for children and adults. Senior citizens can enter for free.
Nov 12, 2009

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Visits Marikina City

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton visited Malanday National High School during her short trip to the Philippines. Malanday was one of the barangays severely hit by the floods brought about by Typhoon Ondoy.

Hillary Clinton, who has last visited the Philippines in 1996, wanted to see first hand the after effect of the typhoon to Marikina residents. As part of her visit, she announced that the US will be giving a $5.2 million donation as disaster aid.

Her Philippine trip is also in tandem with her presence at the APEC summit in Singapore where she will be assisting US president Barack Obama.
Oct 31, 2009

Undas Rerouting For Loyola Marikina

Yearly, traffic is diverted to avoid decongestion along A Bonifacio Ave. for people who intend to visit their departed loved ones at Loyola Memorial in Marikina City.

To avoid any inconveniences, please take note of the following rerouting areas:
From October 31 to November 1, A. Bonifacio from Marcos Highway leading to Barangka is one way headed all the way towards the Marikina Bridge leading to Bayan. If you wish to head out of Marikina, go to Bayan and take Gil Fernando St. towards Marcos Highway or Calumpang to Ligaya, Marcos Highway. Marcos Highway is not affected by rerouting and so both directions are passable.

If you're bringing a car, you can park at the Marikina Riverbanks area and walk to Loyola Marikina.

And also do prepare for muddy and damp memorial grounds due to the rains brought by the typhoon.

Be safe.
Oct 20, 2009

Real Property Tax Delinquency List Available at City Hall

The list of all delinquent accounts for real property tax can be checked at the City Hall. A printed list for all 15 barangays of Marikina is posted at the bulletin board in front of the cashier. Check out the folder of your respective barangay for the full list.

Bluewave Marquinton Reopens To The Public

Bluewave Marquinton Mall was affected by the recent floods brought about by Typhoon Ondoy. The floods along the Sumulong Highway area in front of Bluewave reached up to waist high, causing the stores and shops at the ground floors of both Bluewave Marquinton and Robinsons Supermarket to be flooded.

Bluewave Marquinton Main building has reopened to the public. Robinsons Supermarket though will reopen on October 23. Some of the stores located at ground level may resume at a later date depending on their respective management's orders.
Oct 19, 2009

Extended Deadlines For Marikina Taxpayers

Ordinance Nos. 113 and 114, S-2009 has extended deadlines for Taxpayers till the end of the month. The following tax schedules are as follows:
  • Real Property Tax (3rd Quarter) - originally Sept. 30 deadline
  • Business Tax (4th Quarter) - originally Oct. 20 deadline
  • Market Fixed Stall - originally Oct. 20 deadline
  • Supervision Fee (Linear) - originally Sept. 30 deadline
All tax payments filed at the Marikina City Hall before October 31, 2009 will be accepted without penalty.

LG Service Camp for Typhoon Victims

Due to the recent floods in Marikina, LG has put up a Service Camp to cater to city residents who may have any LG appliances that were submerged in flood waters. The LG Service Camp is located at the parking lot in front of the Main Post Office and will accept any LG appliances that require repair from October 19 to 31, 2009 from 9am - 6pm. For more inquiries, contact the LG customer service at 902-5542.
Oct 6, 2009

Garbage Disposal Problem Brought About By Typhoon

Typhoon Ondoy has destoryed several belongings of Marikina residents from the floods. SSS Village residents have cleaned up and placed all their respective garbage for disposal on the sidewalk for the garbage truck to collect. However, due to the huge volume of garbage the typhoon has spawned, MMDA, says the amount is 10 times more than the regular volume. And so even at full force and utilizing all the trucks and manpower the city has, it is still not enough to be able to collect all the garbage.

Here is footage from Tangerine and Aquamarine streets in SSS Village, near the Marikina Hotel.
Oct 5, 2009

Raging Marikina River During Typhoon Ondoy

At the height of Typhoon Ondoy, Marikina River had doubled in size and the immense water from the rains and dam had the river overflow to all the nearby areas.

This is one of the most disturbing and saddening videos captured during the storm. These people were literally in the middle of the river and staying alive only by standing on debris being swept by the river. The fast current was only a few feet before reaching the bridge. Unfortunately, not all of the people survived as the waters slammed into the lower part of the bridge.
Oct 3, 2009

Marikina Sports Center Temporarily Closed

The Marikina Sports Center is one of the most visited multipurpose centers in Marikina. As early as five in the morning, people of all ages come to jog around the olympic sized track and field. The field is also used for non-sports activities like concerts, religious meetings, anniversary celebrations and other various events as the bleachers alone can hold thousands of people.
Unfortunately, the Marikina Sports Center wasn't spared from the floods brought about by Typhoon Ondoy. Because of this, the center grounds have been filled with mud inches thick and need to be cleaned before the Sports Center can resume operations.
The new Sports Center Building of the Sports Complex facing the Marikina City Hall is currently being used as storage and delivery for relief goods for the city.

Sumulong Highway Serves As Temporary Garbage Site

Marikina City has suffered much from the floods brought by Typhoon Ondoy.

The floods have subsided in most of the affected areas. However, sanitation has proven to be one of the problems the typhoon has left.

Mud is prominent everywhere and garbage is at an all-time high. Due to the enormous amount of trash, the fields alongside Sumulong Highway has served as a temporary dumpsite until the garbage trucks can pick them up.

The heaps of garbage though causes a foul stench within the surrounding areas. Scavengers are also searching the garbage mounds for anything of worth they can salvage.



Oct 1, 2009

Bluewave Marquinton and Robinsons Flooded During Typhoon

Both Bluewave Marquinton and Bluewave Robinsons along Sumulong Highway were both submerged in water during the sudden floods brought about by Typhoon Ondoy. This is the first time that the mall and supermarket have been directly affected by floods.

Several stores located on the ground floor of both buildings were severely affected.
Bluewave Marquinton ground floor stores and restaurants include Max's Chicken, KFC, Yellow Cab, Starbucks, Shakeys, Jollibee, Ministop, Tapa King, Pan de Manila and Watsons.

Aside from the supermarket at Robinsons Bluewave, it also caters to Mercury Drug, Joey Pepperoni, Rai-Rai Ken, Binalot and Mr. Quickie.

The supermarket would have been a crucial place for Marikina residents to buy food and items needed after the typhoon. Unfortunately, the supermarket fell victim to the floods as well.

We're hoping that the Bluewave Marquinton mall resumes operations as soon as possible.
Sep 30, 2009

Photo: Garbage Is Opportunity

Kids in front of Kia Marikina pushing a cart filled with junk going towards the junk shop to exchange their items for money
Sep 29, 2009

Google Responds To Typhoon Ondoy Calamity

Here is a message from Google:

We are very saddened by the loss of life and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people in Metro Manila and nearby areas caused by Typhoon Ondoy. To increase awareness of how Filipinos at home and overseas can stay up to date and aid in relief efforts, dozens of Google volunteers around the world have been working throughout the weekend and today to compile information about the disaster on this site: www.google.com.ph/landing/typhoon-ondoy.html.


The site contains a volunteer-maintained map of flood updates and persons needing rescue, the latest news from local media sources, a list of verified donation sites and emergency hotlines. It is also linked from Google.com.ph to give easy access to the 25 million Internet users in the Philippines and many more around the world.

Our effort is but one of many being organized by countless individuals and organizations across the country in the spirit of bayanihan, to help those affected by this disaster as quickly and as comprehensively as possible.

Thanks

View Ondoy situation map for Metro Manila in a larger map
Sep 15, 2009

Cirma Street: New Road Opens in Sto. Nino

There is a new street which is set to be opened to the public soon.

Cirma Street lies within Sto. Nino and connects Toyota Street (beside Toyota Marikina) and Shoe Avenue (beside the old Rempson/Greendale complex). This 4-lane street extends the backroad of the Bluewave Marquinton compound and passes at the back of Metrobank Sumulong Highway and Greendale connecting to Shoe Avenue.

The road is expected to ease up congestion in nearby areas plus serve as additional routes for passing through the Bayan and Paliparan areas at one point and Sumulong Highway and Gil Fernando Ave. at the other point.

Currently, the closed road is being used as a temporary parking lot.
Sep 14, 2009

New Parish Priest For St Paul Of The Cross

The Passionists priests have long served St. Paul of the Cross Church in SSS Village, Concepcion Dos until February 2004 when the church was officially turned over to the Archdoicese of Antipolo.

Since then, Fr. Ric Eguia has been the 1st parish priest after the Passionists' service and guidance. He has been the parish priest for 5 years and 7 months. Under the leadership of Fr. Eguia, the parish has witnessed much progress during his service.

Last September 13 was the last Sunday mass Fr. Ric would celebrate as he is set to be transferred to Sta. Ursula Parish in Binangonan, Rizal and continue his mission there as parish priest.

Fr. Ric said in his homily that he considers this next mission as a challenging one. Coming from the current 24,000 population of Barangay Concepcion Dos that St. Paul of the Cross caters to, Sta. Ursula Parish will be catering to 40 barangays and approximately a community of 200,000 people.

The new parish priest for St. Paul of the Cross starting September 15 will be Fr. Eymard Balatbat, who came from Christ the King parish in Muzon, Taytay, Rizal also as parish priest.

We wish Fr. Ric Eguia all our thanks for his dedicated service to the parish and wish him all the blessings in his new endeavor. We also welcome Fr. Eymard Balatbat to the parish and may he continue the service and guidance St. Paul of the Cross has received for all these years.


Sep 8, 2009

SM City Marikina Celebrates 1st Year Anniversary

Last September 5, 2009 marked the 1st year anniversary of SM City Marikina.

Aside from the various sales the mall gave, John Lloyd was also the special guest of honor as he visited SM City Marikina that day. Exactly 1 year ago, when SM City Marikina inaugurated, the mall's special guest was Sarah Geronimo. What a coincidence !

Also Laila of ABS-CBN Games Update Live and 101.9 DJ also graced the event.

A celebration of fireworks lighted up the mall and the Marikina Riverbanks to commemorate 1 year of SM in the city of Marikina.

Happy anniversary SM City Marikina !
Aug 24, 2009

Lydia's Lechon Marikina Adds New Wing

Lydia's Lechon along Marcos Highway is famous for take-out due to its convenient location along the highway. People are bound to pass it along their way home to Marikina and Antipolo.

They do have a dine-in area though it is very small and usually full.

Recently though, they have expanded and took over the additional space facing the other side of Burger King. This new area can accommodate more customers and includes convenient parking in front of the new wing.

Lydia's Lechon also offers delivery services as they call it "LechOn Delivery". You can place your order by calling them at 682-8927 and 646-0871. For more information, visit their official website at http://lydias-lechon.com
Aug 23, 2009

Updated Bluewave Parking Guidelines

The Bluewave Parking lot just beside the Bluewave Marquinton Mall offers free parking for mall goers. However, recently, Bluewave management enforced additional guideline on the use of their parking lot.

The parking lot will now be open from 10:00am till 1:00am everyday. However, overnight parking is not permitted. And to enforce this, a hefty fine of P5,000. will be imposed to owners who leave their vehicle after said hours.

Since Jollibee, Tapa King and Starbucks all open and offer breakfast as early as 7:00am, parking is still available at the back and in front of the mall so it won't pose any problems as to finding a parking space.

Starbucks, Yellow Cab and the movie theaters close as late as around 12:00 - 1:00am. So just make sure you check the time if you happen to watch a movie and spend a late dinner or hang around for coffee. Around this time, you could always move your car from the side parking to the front.
Aug 22, 2009

Estancia Wellnes Spa

Need to relax ? Estancia Wellness Spa is right in the heart of Rancho Estate 3, Concepcion Dos.

They offer a variety of services such as half and full body massage, body scrub, foot spa, manicure and pedicure, hair spa and threading.

They're also introducing their very own Moxa Ventoza Therapy with a relaxing warm massage which you can indulge in for only P500.00

Visit them at 62 Panorama Street corner Waco Street, Rancho Estate 3, Concepcion Dos, Marikina City. They are open daily from 12 noon to 12 midnight. For appointments or home service, call 474-2466.
Aug 6, 2009

A High Rise Marikina River

Its no secret that when heavy rains pour over the Metro, Marikina River is usually part of the news updates on radio and TV. And since the Marikina River passes through several towns and cities, it is a concern to be alerted especially if you live near any stretch of the riverbanks.

And when Marikina River's level rises, the river doubles in width. All the bikelanes, walkways and roads on both sides of the River slowly get submerged.
It doesn't necessarily have to rain hard in Marikina City for the river to rise as the higher areas of Quezon City, the hills of San Mateo and Montalban mountains in Rodriguez, Rizal all contribute their rainfall to the Marikina River. What is usually a calm scenic route of a river becomes a raging river with waters speeding at faster rates.

As long as the rains aren't non-stop, the river goes back to its normal level in a day or two.

The Marikina River: a gentle river turning into a dangerous gush in stormy weather.

Aug 3, 2009

Meet and Greet John Lloyd at SM City Marikina

John Lloyd is scheduled for a meet and greet session at the Atrium of SM City Marikina on August 9, 2009 at 4:00pm.

All you need to do is buy a Star Studio Magazine and a SM Supermalls Greenbag at get a chance to win passes to Wowowee and ASAP Live.

Don't miss this great opportunity to meet one of the most popular Filipino actors live.
Jul 29, 2009

The Cordova Tower at The Marquinton Residences

Bluewave Marquinton Mall is one of the few malls in Marikina City and what's unique about this particular mall is that within its area is the Marquinton Residences. The first two towers are finished and residents have already occupied them.

The 3rd building which is currently being constructed behind the Bluewave Marquinton Mall is to be known as The Cordova Tower. Here is an audio-video presentation of the future tower.



Jul 19, 2009

"Gaano Kita Kamahal" Scenes in Bluewave Marquinton

Your Song Presents "Gaano Kita Kamahal" showed scenes taken from Bluewave Marquinton, namely, the benches at the 2nd floor facing Yellow Cab and Mendez, and the 3rd floor in front of Timezone and the cinemas.

Your Song Presents: Gaano Kita Kamahal is the tenth season of Your Song, a weekly series every Sunday aired at ABS-CBN after ASAP.

Maricar Reyes (Amy) and Sid Lucero (Obet) are seen in various parts of the mall searching for Obet's child, Quintin Alyana (Josh). Also in the series are Jodi Sta Maria as Carmela, Rey "PJ" Abellana as Leo, Bettina Carlos as Jessa Mae, Boom Labrusca , Aldred Gatchalian as Caloy and Regine Angeles.

Joey Pepperoni Now Open At Bluewave Marquinton

Joey Pepperoni is now open to serve you at Bluewave Marquinton Robinsons side. Located at the ground floor between Mercury Drug and Rai Rai Ken is the authentic pizza and pasta restaurant.

I was hinting before that it would occupy the former space of Super Bowl of China which recently closed. That's why it was a pleasant surprise to see them open just in front of the Robinsons Supermarket.

As a brackgrounder, Joey Pepperoni is the brain child of Mr. Joey Concepcion, President of RFM Corporation, which has a wide array of food and beverage brands. Now, Joey Pepperoni Pizzeria has engaged the culinary services and savvy of Chef Giorgio A. Bucciarelli, a Milan, Italy-raised Master Pizzaiolo-Italian Executive Chef who was formerly with Don Bosco Pizza, Pasta, Gelato and Culinary School.

One of their ongoing promos is Pasta All You Can ! All Day, Everyday. For only P150., you can get a free unlimited refill of pasta with 3 choices: carbonara, pesto or meat sauce.

Check out their numerous variation of tasty pizzas and delectable pastas.
Jul 18, 2009

Marikina River Rises due to Continued Rains

Typhoon "Isang" has caused heavy rains all over the Metro. Even though Metro Manila isn't directly affected by the storm as there is no storm signal over the National Capitol Region, the non-stop rains over the last few days has caused the Marikina river to rise beyond normal levels.

Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced that "Isang" was moving toward Hong Kong and southern China, with winds whipping at 95 kilometers per hour.

Residents near the river banks of San Mateo and Marikina have been heavily affected as waters have risen from knee-deep to chest-high. Affected families have been evacuated to the Nangka public school.

The Marikina RiverPark has doubled in width and the walkways on both sides of the river have been submerged. Floods and high waters are expected to subside as long as the rainfall decreases.
Jul 7, 2009

Burger King Marcos Highway Parking Updates

Burger King Marcos Highway has been a popular stop over for a quick meal at any time of the day being open 24 hours. They've added additional parking too at the side to accommodate to more customers.

Some customers (or non-customers) though have abused the parking lot which is why Burger King started implementing parking tickets for customers.

Parking is free for the first 2 hours as long as you have your ticket validated at the counter upon purchase. If you exceed 2 hours, a whopping P300. charge will be required. Tickets also without any validation will be charged a parking fee of P300.

The hefty fee serves as a prevent measure for motorists parking too long or worse, leaving their cars at the parking lot for personal use without dining or purchasing from Burger King.

Burger King Marcos Highway is located at Block 29, Lot 1, 2-A, 3 and 4 corner Pambuli St. Marcos Highway, Marikina City.
Jul 5, 2009

Maxim Autograph Signing at SM City Marikina

Jackie Rice visits SM City Marikina for a Maxim autograph signing on July 3, 2009 3pm at the Atrium. Get a copy of your magazine and have the beautiful Jackie Rice sign your copy today.
Jul 2, 2009

Katipunan Road - Victim of Flash Floods

Marikina City is a valley with with the elevated Antipolo, San Mateo and Quezon City all lying around its boundaries. Even with the presence of the Marikina River, it's not enough to handle the additional downpour of water from nearby areas when it rains and even if it doesn't heavily rain in Marikina City, some places could be subject to flooding due to rushing waters from the mountains.

One of the commonly flooded areas is the stretch of Katipunan Road in Concepcion Dos. This main artery serving as a shortcut from Sumulong Highway to Marikina Heights is subject to flash floods during the rainy season. The waters usually are knee-high during initial flash floods but could go up to waist level at its deepest during extreme weather conditions.


Katipunan Road has been a problem flooding area for decades. Two hospitals, namely, SDS Medical Center and Immaculate Concepcion Hospital, are right at the center of the flood which stretches from the corner of Tangerine St. to Rainbow St. The floods extend to Aquamarine St. and Russet St. rendering them virtually impassable to light vechicles.

The major improvement through the past years is that the flash flood easily disappears in 1-2 hours as soon as the rains stop. Being a main road though, it causes a major standstill as motorists park their cars at the Katipunan-Sumulong road while waiting for the waters to subside. Let's hope Marikina doesn't experience much flooding this rainy season.
Jun 28, 2009

MSI brings X340 to SM CyberZone, SM City Marikina

SM CyberZone, the most wide-spread and comprehensive IT center in the Philippines, will play host to MSI's latest and slimmest creation, the MSI X Slim X340.

In a series of roadshows spanning June and July of this year and covering both Luzon and Visayas, MSI will expose the X340 to geeks and gadgeteers, the gregarious and the merely fashion-conscious, with the help of SM CyberZone's various locations, including SM City Manila, SM City Marikina, SM City Cubao and SM City Cebu.

The X340 is an Intel CULV (Consumer Ultra-Low Voltage) toting, super-slim laptop which is only 6mm at its thinnest. Boasting of a 13" 16:9 widescreen display, GMA4500 graphics, a capacious 320GB hard drive, and a full connectivity suite that one-ups other slim-but-compromised products at a much-reduced cost, the MSI X Slim X340 is the latest entry in the designer portable races, and it can best be savored at the CyberZone nearest you.

The MSI X Slim Series CyberZone roadshows will be held according to the following schedule: June 26 to July 2 in SM City Manila and SM City Marikina; July 3 to 9 in SM City Cubao; and July 17 to 23 in SM City Cebu.

Various MSI products, most notably the MSI All-In-One AE1900 Touch Screen desktop system, will also be appearing alongside the X340. Check out the series of events and join us as we challenge the limits of ultra slim notebook technology.


About MSI X-Slim

After creating such an impression on the SEA media, end users will surely find the phenomenal MSI X Slim irresistible and affordable!

The X Slim embraces a simple and modern design concept and meanwhile features the most advanced multimedia and power saving technology for its size. Dubbed as the world's lightest and slimmest 13" notebook since its debut in CES in January 2009, the MSI X340 is 6 mm at its thinnest and 20 mm at its widest, weighing only 1.3 kilograms with battery.

The X340 has a 13" LCD display as opposed to the 12" or smaller sizes available in the competition. This provides more comfort in reading and during operation as well as having less of a weight constraint compared to the 14" models.

The X340 is also embedded with IEEE 802.16e WiMAX̢㢠wireless module (optional), which highly elevates the variety of wireless Internet service available to the X340 user, allowing online experience to be faster and more mobile.


Specs

Intel Centrino Processor Technology
- Intel Core™2 SU3500 ULV 1.4GHz Processor 3MB L2 Cache
- WLAN Intel Shirley Peak 1x2 (802.11agn)
Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium
13 " TFT-LCD Display
2GB DDR2-667/800Mhz
320GB Hard Disk Drive
1.3MP Webcam, Bluetooth, HDMI, 2 x High-quality Speakers
2-in-1 (SD/SDHC/MMC), 2 x USB 2.0
Mic-in / Headphone out, RJ45, D-Sub, LAN


Availability and Pricing

Estimated pricing for MSI X340 is Php 49,999.00, now available locally from MSI dealers and resellers. If you need more product information, please visit http://www.msi.com.tw or call NetEssentials, MSI Notebook's exclusive distributor in the Philippines at (02) 721-1981 to 83.

Jun 16, 2009

New Entrance To The Marikina Sports Center

If you're familiar with the Marikina Sports Center, you know that the entrance and exit gates are at the side of McDonalds St. facing McDonalds. Now, these gates are closed and a new entry-exit has been opened at the ground floor of the newly erected Sports Building. The new entrance now faces the back of City Hall.

Preparations within the last weeks have been speeded up to open the ground floor of the new building to connect to the inside of the Sports Center.

Entrance fee for the Sports Center is still P10.00 and free for senior citizens.
Jun 3, 2009

Bikini Challenge at Tamamangs

Tamamang's Grill and Restaurant presents Bikini Challenge '09.
The event will be hosted by Jhay Pimentel and Arnel K., and will also feature Precious and the Alpharat Band. Entrance fee is P150.

Tamamang's Grill and Restaurant is located along Gil Fernando Ave. near RCBC bank and Saint John the Baptist of Marikina Hospital.
Jun 2, 2009

Marikina Valley Medical Center

If you visit Marikina, you'll notice that there is an abundance of hospitals. I mentioned before that I noticed from Sumulong Highway, there are at least seven hospitals within a 2 kilometer radius.  Among those hospitals, Marikina Valley Medical Center is one of the newest ones.  
Marikina Valley Medical Center is located along Sumulong Highway, and walking distance to Bluewave Robinsons Supermarket and Bluewave Marquinton Mall.
It's a 7 storey twin stucture building.  Tagging their motto as Quality Health Care in the "Shoe Capital", they offer the following services: surgery and anesthesia, labaratory, radiology, physical therapy rehabilitation, opthalmology services, hemodialysis, dental services, pediatrics, ob-gynecology, emergency medicine and family medicine.  They have over 35 departments.  A long list of doctors, their specialties and their schedules can be found here.
Marikina Valley Medical Center is located along Sumulong Highway corner Aguinaldo St., 1800 Marikina City with telephone No.: 682-2222 connecting all departments  and 645-MVMC (Emergency Room).  Telefax No. is 682-3399.  
You can check them out online at https://www.marikinavalleymedicalcenter.com/
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Jun 1, 2009

Coming Soon At Bluewave Marquinton: Joey Pepperoni Pizzeria

Just as we said goodbye to Superbowl of China at the Bluewave Marquinton,  I just saw an ad of Joey Pepperoni Pizzeria that they will soon open a branch at Bluewave Marquinton.  That's great news !  Currently, there are two restaurants at Bluewave serving pizza, Shakeys and Yellow Cab. 

There's no news yet where in Bluewave will Joey Pepperoni be setting up, but right now, there are only 2 vacant spaces at the ground floor.  These are where Superbowl of China used to be (at the front between Starbucks and Shakeys) and the former lot where Pancake House used to be (in front of Petron gas station and beside Tapa King).

As a brackgrounder, Joey Pepperoni is the brain child of Mr. Joey Concepcion, President of RFM Corporation, which has a wide array of food and beverage brands. Now, Joey Pepperoni Pizzeria has engaged the culinary services and savvy of Chef Giorgio A. Bucciarelli, a Milan, Italy-raised Master Pizzaiolo-Italian Executive Chef who was formerly with Don Bosco Pizza, Pasta, Gelato and Culinary School.

I've dined before at their RFM Pioneer branch in Mandaluyong and having personally tasted their pizza, I have to say that I'm personally looking forward to their future home in Marikina.

They have an ongoing 50% off promo on all their pizzas from 2-6 p.m., everyday! For low prices starting at P133, you can have a full 12-inch pizza!   Check out their branches at RFM Pioneer, Salcedo Village, Level 4 Robinsons Place Manila, Foodstreet, SM Southmall, SM Mall Of asia, Fairways Tower at The Fort and SM Mezza Residences.

Sumulong Highway to Undergo Drainage and Road Improvement

For the past few days, heavy rainfall has poured due to a low pressure area.   Unfortunately, some roads in San Roque intersecting Gil Fernando Ave and some backroads in San Roque, have experienced partial flooding, inlcluding Redwood (near Metrobank), Dasdasan (near Biksa Coffee) and Bangkilya roads within the residential areas.

Sumulong Highway is also experiencing some flash flooding in front of the Marikina Valley Medical Center and in front of the area where Toledo Towers is soon to rise.  The flooding area incidentally is the same area which has just been asphalted a few months ago.

Fortunately, I've seen signs along that area with a picture of Congressman Marcy, stating that he will be spearheading a project to improve drainage and road condition of Sumulong Highway.   Let's hope that this can be done before the rainy season begins to avoid flash flooding along Sumulong Highway.
May 31, 2009

Villa Sto. Nino Resort

I live near Vista Valley and I had no idea there was a resort within the subdivision.  I'm talking about the Villa Sto. Nino resort which is located at the far end of Vista Valley Executive Village.

The resort has both recreational and sports facilities.   You can play billiards, basketball and go for a swim in their pool.   As for recreation, a sound system with videoke is available as well as 2 gazebos, a fountain and a garden good enough to fit receptions for birthdays, debuts and weddings.   

The have ample parking space and a standby generator.  Villa Sto. Nino also has 2 air-conditioned VIP lounges with a powder room for the celebrants use for retouching, dressing or photo and video coverage.  The garden has a huge semi-transparent green ceiling which makes it usable regardless of weather conditions.

For Marikenos, you don't have to go out of town just to go to a resort, and you don't have to go to hotel to hold an event.

Villa Sto. Nino is located at Lot 30, Block 4 Macapagal Street, Vista Valley Executive Village, Sto. Nino.  Visit http://villastonino.com for more details or contact them at (632) 682-5266 (632) 682-6448.
May 30, 2009

Twonhouses For Sale at Vista Valley

Crystal Homes is offering a house and lot for sale within Vista Valley along Sumulong Highway, Barangay Sto. Nino. 
The lot is located at the corner of  M.A. Roxas Cor. J.P. Laurel Sts., Phase 1 Vista Valley.  From the gate, go straight along the main road and turn right at the end.
You can check out more pics from the developer's website at http://crystaldevcorp.multiply.com/photos/album/5/5

May 29, 2009

Cordillera Coffee, Mountain Coffee in Marikina

Cordillera Coffee is another specialty coffee shop located at the Marikina Riverbanks.    Being named after the Cordillera mountain ridge leading up to the north, this cafe serves coffee grounded from beans harvested from the north Luzon region.


Aside from the regular, lattes, mochas and common blends, they also serve exotic beverages like Civet Coffee (D'kapetismusang) which is a rich chocolatey aroma in a one-of-a-kind brew.

The coffee shop goes further by offering full meals as well.   Their menu is also influenced by the Cordilleras.  Pancit Cordillera for example is pancit cabagan with vegetables, chicken liver and native longanisa topped with crispy garlic bits and chicharon.  Cordillera Risotto is served with mountain rice mixed with mushroom bechamel sauce and native longanisa bits, topped with mushrooms and parmesan cheese. 

They also serve cakes and cupcakes to complement your coffee.
May 28, 2009

World's Largest Shoes

The Largest Shoes in the World are located in Marikina City !

Officially recognized and certified by the Guinness Book Of World Records, the pair of shoes measurre 529 centimeter(5.29 meters)long measures 237 centimeters(2.37 meters)width and is made of genuine leather. The upper lining it took 77 days to finish(August 5, 2002 to October 21,2002).  Due to its sheer size, it was built at the Marikina Sports Center.   Upcon completion, the shoes were displayed at the entrance of the Sports Center, then later transferred to the Marikina Riverbanks where it is located until present.

The shoes can be worn by a person with a height of 125 feet can fit 30 people inside the shoes can produce 250 pairs of regular shoes from the materials used.

You can see the shoes for yourselves by visiting the Marikina Riverbanks Center.  It's at the far end of the mall and beside several shoes on display for sale.    There are also some souvenirs you can buy like t-shirts and keychains.
May 27, 2009

Pillars for Workers

Scattered around Marikina City are several pillars with statues placed above them.  Each pillar has a worker whether a profession or work-related activity.   The pillars reflect the hard working people of Marikina in all walks of life.  

Bayan-bayan Avenue has one of the most number of statues which are alternately placed on each sides of the avenue's stretch.  Some of them include a tricycle driver (with an actual tricycle statue) a gas boy, and a construction worker.

As you travel within the city roads, try to find one around the corner or along the road and guess what the statue's profession is.
May 26, 2009

World Of Butterflies

At the foot of one of the hills of Marikina Heights is the World Of Butterflies.   This elongated structure houses a botanical garden and breeding area for butterflies.   When you enter, you'll be greeted by butterflies freely roaming around the area.    A trail leads you to a landscaped garden where you can get a glimpse of butterflies flying from branch to branch and bush to bush.   If you're lucky, a butterfly may even land on your head or hand if you hold it out like a branch.   There are butterflies of different shapes, sizes and colors.

Aside from the full-grown butterflies, there are also several cages with catterpillars who are in different stages of their metaporphoses in eventually becoming a butterfly.  Here you'll see the catterpillars slowly crawling on leaves eating them as source of nutrition.

If you wish to learn more about the entire life cycle of a butterfly, there is a viewing room on the 2nd floor where you can watch an educational audio-video documentary of the butterfly.  

The place is also decorated with huge artificial butterflies placed on the walls and 2 lifesize butterfly mascots at the entrance.

The World of Butterflies is located at the corner of Champagnat and Gen. Ordonez Streets, Barangay Marikina Heights and right beside Marikina Heights National High School.  They're open every day from 8am-5pm (excluding holidays).  Entrance fee is P20. for Marikina residents and senior citizens and P40. for non-residents. For more info, call 941-3747. 

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May 25, 2009

Free Diagnostic Tests for E.nopi Math and English

E.nopi Math and English programs are now being offered at the 2nd floor of C & B Mall, at the Liwasang Kalayaan Road in Marikina Heights.

E.nopi Math cultivates student's basic computational, logical and analytical thinking skills through challenging word problems, spatial reasoning puzzles and other critical thinking activities.  This innovative curriculum is a balanced program that effectively develops the 9 areas of math (numbers, algebra, functions, patterns, measurement, geometry, statistics, reasoning and data analysis)

E.nopi English enhanced student's language and literay skills through listening, speaking, reading (comprehension) and writing (composition) exercises.

The primary aim of standard, school-based educational systems is to provide a general base of knowledge and skills that all students should possess. The E.nopi program supplements this fundamental learning experience by preparing students for school classes and helping them to achieve maximum benefit from their academic practices. E.nopi encourages students to acquire self-motivation, independence, and proactive learning methods by placing them at the center of all learning activities.

For more details, contact their office at 933-1102, 942-4984 and via mobile at 0920 817-9122.  For more information, you can visit their website at http://ph.enopi.com/Philippines
May 24, 2009

Colorful Beginnings of SSS Village

In 1969, former president Ferdinand Marcos spearheaded a project giving SSS members an opportunity to own their own houses with long-term but convenient plans.   The idea was to offer 500 SSS members a slot for the opportunity to avail of the low-cost housing via raffle.  The area where these houses would be located was to be known as SSS Village.

My mom, which was then looking for a house to own, joined the raffle and luckily won a slot.   And she, along with the other 499 lucky draws all became the first homeowners of this brand new village.

Since the village didn't have any street names to begin with, all the houses were addressed by lot and block numbers.  Since it was confusing, the homeowners association decided to hold a meeting and brainstorm for possible street name themes.  One of the proposed themes were Filipino song names, like Sarunbanggi.  Fortunately, it didn't receive such a favorable response due to its difficulty in coming up with several names not to mention difficult ones.

The theme which was finally agreed on were colors.  And so, up to this day, Phase 1 and 2 of SSS Village all comprise of colorful street names.  Aquamarine, Tangerine, Olive, Crimson, Peach, Gold, White, Purple, Azure, Scarlet and Russet are just a few of the names within SSS Village.

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Marikina Shoe Museum


It's just fitting that Marikina City, being popularly known as the shoe capital of the Philippines , houses the Shoe Museum.   Where else could you find an annual Sapatos Festival (Sept. 9), a fully motorized running high heel, giant shoes in the middle of the river and home of the world's largest shoes (Marikina Riverbanks) than in Marikina !


Located along JP. Rizal St. and just across the Our Lady of the Abandoned Church is the Shoe Museum.   The museum holds shoes of several famous people including a pair of shoes from each president of the Philippines in chronological order.   Other shoes note worthing are those of celebrities, ambassadors, political figures and even traditional shoes from several countries.   On the 2nd floor, you'll read history about shoe making including life-size mannequins depicting the art of shoemaking.  You'll also find some unusual shoe sizes like one being 3 feet long.   


The main bulk of shoes on display was contribued by former first lady of the Philippines Imelda Marcos... 749 pairs to be exact.   You'll see all different kinds of shoes she owned for different occasions.  Shoes both made in Marikina and made abroad with different brands, styles, shapes and colors are all on display.   A huge portrait of Imelda is also hanging above serving as a mini-shrine for her shoe collection below.

Entrace to the Museum is P20. for Marikina residents and P40. for non-residents.   Unfortunately, picture and video taking inside the museum is not allowed.  The museum is open from Mondays through Saturdays from 9am till 5pm.

Update: We've been informed that the new entrance fee is P50.
Update as of April 25, 2013: The Shoe Museum is open everyday Monday to Sunday from 8am to 5pm except holidays