Derek Ramsay Mixes Tanduay’s Halloween Cocktails

 If you’re looking for the perfect cocktails to serve for your upcoming Halloween party, look no further as Derek Ramsay shares his favorite Tanduay rhum concoctions that are sure to liven up your virtual get-together with family, colleagues, or friends.

“We’ve been through a tough year, and we are still doing our best to cope with the current situation. This is why it’s important to celebrate once in a while, to remind ourselves of the good things that we have in our life like our loved ones,” said the talented actor. 

The cocktails are easy to do, Derek assured, and can be made using ingredients that are available in stores. 

Tanduay Spooky Cocktail 

Ingredients 

Lychee Grapes 30 mL Tanduay Rhum 5 Years Ginger Ale 10 mL Simple Syrup Grenadine Syrup 

Procedure: 

1. Create frozen (fake) eyeballs by putting a piece of grape inside a lychee. Create as many as you want. Set aside and put inside the freezer. 

2. Now start creating your cocktail mix by pouring 30 mL Tanduay Rhum 5 Years in a glass. 

3. Top with ginger ale and drop your frozen eyeballs. 

4. Add the simple syrup next. 

5. Pour the grenadine syrup to create a blood effect. Hocus Pocus Cocktail 

Ingredients 

Orange zest 

15 mL Simple Syrup 

45 mL Cranberry Juice 

15 mL Orange Juice, Freshly Squeezed 

1 Prosecco or sparkling wine 

45 mL Tanduay Rhum 5 Years 

Procedure 

1. Start off by dipping the rim of your coupe or martini glass in the chilled simple syrup. Dip it very lightly. Now dip the rim of the same glass into some orange-colored sugar. Set this aside on the counter or in the freezer to set. 

To create your own colored sugar: Place sugar in a resealable plastic bag. Add a few drops of food coloring. Seal the bag and shake until the color has spread evenly. Allow sugar to dry in a flat surface for 15 to 20 minutes before using. 

2. In a shaker or mixing glass, add ice and combine cranberry juice, orange juice, simple syrup, orange zest, and Tanduay Rhum 5 Years in a cocktail shaker. Cover and shake until thoroughly chilled. 

3. Strain the mixture into your sugar rimmed cocktail glass. 

4. Top off with chilled Prosecco or sparkling wine and garnish with an orange twist. 

 Devil’s Brew (Good for 2) 

Ingredients 

• Thai Chili 40 mL 
• Triple Sec 60 mL 
• Tanduay Rhum 5 Years 
• Lime Juice 
• Ice 300 mL Cranberry Juice 
• Lime Kosher Salt and Chili Powder 

Procedure: 

1. Remove the seeds from the Thai chili and muddle (mash) it. 

2. In a mixing glass, add 40 mL triple sec. 

3. Pour the Tanduay Rhum 5 Years 

4. Put some lime juice and 300 mL cranberry juice. 

5. Add some ice and mix. 

6. Rub some lime, kosher salt and chili powder around the rim of a glass. Pour the cocktail you just made. Garnish with chili.

InLife Prioritizes Office Safety and Employee Wellness During the Pandemic

Health and safety are top priorities for the Philippines’ largest Filipino insurance company, Insular Life (InLife). Since the pandemic started, the company has strictly enforced the protocols mandated by the government and recommended by health organizations against COVID-19. 

From making sure that all its offices and facilities are cleaned and disinfected three times a day to seeing to its employees’ vaccination and mental health concerns -- InLife has been earnestly practicing and promoting measures to help the country in keeping COVID-19 from spreading. 

“InLife actively takes part in the government’s drive for national healing. We are thankful to our local government units (LGUs) for their vaccination program for workers. We also continue to do our share to ensure a safe environment for our employees as well as for our policyholders who visit our offices,” InLife Executive Chairperson Nina D. Aguas said. 

At InLife offices across the country, there is a daily health checklist and temperature scanning. Employees and visitors are asked to wear face masks and face shields, and observe physical distancing. 

Around 70 percent of its employees also continue to work safely from home through InLife’s strong digital infrastructure. To help them cope with the challenges of these trying times, InLife has also made mental health counseling available to them. 

When it comes to vaccination, InLife has achieved a 97 percent full vaccination rate against COVID-19 for its employees. The remaining 3 percent have also taken their first dose of the vaccine. They availed of their vaccination either through their respective LGUs or through the company’s vaccination program. 

InLife has purchased COVID-19 vaccines for its employees and household members, under the tripartite agreement between the national government, vaccine manufacturers and the private sector. 

Ms. Aguas shared company-purchased vaccines were also provided to Insular Health Care, InLife financial advisors and service providers. She added that InLife also plans to donate vaccines to the local government. 

About The Insular Life Assurance Company, Ltd Insular Life (InLife) is the first, largest, and only mutual Filipino life insurance company in the country with over 110 years of uninterrupted service. We apply over a hundred years of experience in financial protection, risk management, savings, and investment to help you make confident decisions for you and your loved ones. 

As a mutual life insurance company, our accountability is to our policyholders. They can be assured of being protected by a company that has an asset base of over P148 billion and net worth of P37 billion. We have a nationwide presence in 57 branches all over the country, and an expanded digital footprint to serve our customers, wherever and whenever they want. Our success is anchored on the growth and security of our partners, policyholders and beneficiaries, because we exist to offer a lifetime for good for everyone. For more information, visit www.insularlife.com.ph.

Embassy Whisky Endorsement Came at the Right Time for Alden Richards

 

After being in the entertainment industry for 10 years, Alden Richards is ready to take on more challenging roles. The actor, who has received praise for his movie and TV work, revealed that he is on the chapter in his career where he wants to portray more mature roles. 

This is why, he said, joining the Embassy Whisky family came at an opportune time. 

 “When you get an offer to work with a liquor brand, you don’t just say yes. You alsohave to weigh if it’s the time for you, and if you’re mature enough to handle andrepresent the brand,” Alden confessed. “Partnering with Embassy Whisky is one of mystepping stones in transitioning to a more mature Alden Richards.” 

 Chilling With Embassy Whisky 

Currently busy preparing for his role in the new GMA drama series, ‘The World Between Us’ and a return to his hosting duties on ‘Eat Bulaga’ and ‘All-Out Sundays’, Alden shared that he still finds time to relax and chill. He watches Netflix shows like ‘Money Heist’ and ‘It’s Okay to Not Be Okay’, plays and streams online games, and shares a round of Embassy Whisky with family and friends. 

“Since the taste of Embassy is very friendly, I get to really enjoy it more with people close to me, even with those who are new to whisky. It's very easy to like Embassy Whisky because of its smooth taste,” Alden said, saying further that you won’t notice how time has flown when you’re drinking Embassy because it tastes smooth. 

“Ganun siya ka chill,” he said, adding that it was an honor to be an endorser for Embassy Whisky. 

Alden revealed he likes his whisky “neat” so that he can fully taste its flavor without any mixture. 

“If I drink this way, I can appreciate the brand and hard work put into it just to satisfy us whisky drinkers,” Alden pointed out. 

He does enjoy it on the rocks sometimes when he wants something refreshing. 

“When I’m drinking with friends preferably. It’s nice to chill and relax with a glass of whisky while sharing stories or just having fun with your friends. We all want, of course, to actually drink with our friends, but, in our case now, we must learn to embrace casually drinking with your friends online, for the safety of everyone. There are also times that I want to take a shot or two after a long day to chill and relax on my own,” he shared. 

Looking Back and Being Grateful 

While he has yet to host his own e-numan with loved ones, Alden said that he was able to attend one back in June 2020. 

“I felt nostalgia the moment I was reunited with my former co-stars in ‘Twin Hearts.’ The experience was fun. It was nice to be able to be reunited with and talk to them virtually - reminisce our happy memories in the past and share our thoughts about the pandemic, especially when it happened during the height of the ECQ,” he said. 

Alden admitted that he experienced anxiety attacks during the first few months of the pandemic. He is thankful that he was still able to celebrate his 10th anniversary in show business. He even released a new single, ‘Crazy You’, under GMA Music last December 2020. 

“I also had a concert during the same month, ‘Alden’s Reality,’ the first-ever virtual reality concert in the Philippines produced by GMA Synergy. The show was then nominated for the 2021 New York Festivals. Lately, I have been busy with tapings and endorsement shoots. That’s why I am always grateful to God for blessing me with more than what I deserve,” he said. 

 Future Goals and Projects 

Alden further related that while he doesn’t want to stick to the usual characters he has played before, he will always be open to playing dramatic roles. He likes to play a psychopath in a movie or be in an action drama someday. 

“Drama is my comfort zone, and I really love portraying roles that involve different takes on life. Drama roles will never be out of my list as far as taking on projects,” he said. 

Among his current projects, Alden is most excited about his movie with Bea Alonzo. 

 “She’s one of the actresses that I really look up to, and I would love to be able to act with her and alongside the other cast members of the movie. Aside from that, it’s my first time doing a Korean movie/drama adaptation. The pressure is there because the movie has been a huge success in Korea, but we promise to give our best and a different take on it,” he continued. 

Alden is also looking forward to the day when he will work behind the camera. 

“I would really love to do this someday since I have a very clear picture of how it works and I’m quite familiar with the TV and movie industry, plus I’ve also done several projects already. Being behind the camera as a producer or director is a new experience that I really look forward to,” he further divulged.

In this journey, Alden said, Embassy Whisky has been his chill partner when he needs to step back and look at the big picture before he seizes the opportunities life presents him. 

“Clear you mind, chill with a glass of Embassy,” he concluded. 

Embassy Whisky is a product of Tanduay Distillers, Inc., one of the country’s largest and most-awarded spirits manufacturers.

Learn How to Make Pares Using the Hanabishi Pressure Cooker

 

Pares is one of the top comfort foods of many Filipinos, and you can easily prepare it using the Hanabishi Pressure Cooker. 

The top appliance brand recently teamed up with Mega Prime and The Bailiwick Academy for a cooking demonstration aired over Lazada, and the pares was one the dishes that the guest chefs prepared using Hanabishi’s pressure cooker. 

Available in four different sizes, the Hanabishi pressure cooker makes it easier for new and seasoned chefs alike to cook a variety of dishes. It has an aluminum body and cover, a self-locking system, and a built-in triple safety valve system. 

 “At Hanabishi, we want to make it easier and enjoyable for our customers to do their chores at home, and our pressure cooker is one of the items that most of them love. We have received good feedback on its reliability in the kitchen, especially from busy moms and food entrepreneurs,” said Hanabishi Appliances Vice President for Finance and Marketing Cherish Ong-Chua. 

Cooking the Pares

INGREDIENTS:

•  2 tbsp vegetable oil 
• 1 large onion (minced) 
• 6 cloves garlic (minced) 
• 1 tbsp ginger (grated) 
• 1 kg beef brisket (cubed) 
• 3 cups beef broth 
• 2-3 pieces star anise 
• 1/2 cup MEGA PRIME CHOICES oyster sauce 
•  1/4 cup brown sugar 
• 1 tsp freshly ground pepper 
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil 
• 1 tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 
• 2 tbsp water Salt and pepper to taste 
• Garnishing (Toasted sesame seeds, Fried Garlic,  Finely chopped spring onions or chives)

 PROCEDURE:

1. Heat the oil in the pressure cooker. Saute the onions, garlic, and ginger. 

2. Add the beef and keep sauteing until it is partly cooked. 

3. Pour in the broth and stir. 

4. Add the star anise and oyster sauce and continue stirring. 

5. Add the brown sugar, ground pepper, and sesame oil next. 

6. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and regularly check if the beef has already become tender. 

7. Let the beef simmer and then add in the cornstarch dissolved in water. 

8. Add salt and pepper to taste. 

9. Once cooked, transfer to a bowl or plate. Top with toasted sesame seeds, fried garlic, and spring onions when serving. 

To learn more about the Hanabishi pressure cooker and its other kitchen and home appliances, visit www.myhanabishi.com. Make sure you follow its official social media accounts to be updated on its latest product offerings, promos, and events. 

Hanabishi products are available through www.myhanabishi.com as well as in leading appliance stores nationwide and the Hanabishi Lazada Flagship Store. 

For more information about the product, visit: https://www.lazada.com.ph/products/i2348806595.html/        

*** About Hanabishi ***

Spanning more than three decades, Hanabishi has established its reputation as a provider of affordable yet quality home products that lasts, which paved the way for its tagline “Kapartner from Start to Forever.” Hanabishi Home Appliances are available at leading appliance stores nationwide. For more information about Hanabishi, please visit www.myhanabishi.com/shop/ and like them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MyHanabishiAppliances/

What to Eat Before and After a Workout: 8 Healthy Snacking Tips

 

Dana Ryan PhD, MBA, M.A. – Director, Sport Performance and Education, Herbalife Nutrition 

Healthy snacking is an important part of anyone’s diet. But for athletes and active individuals, snacking ensures adequate fuel for exercise, improves muscle recovery, boosts mental performance, and helps maintain healthy body composition. 

As a sports dietitian, athletes often ask me: What should I eat before and after a workout? What’s a good sports snack? These are great questions I’ll be happy to answer. 

 Healthy Snacking During Pre-Workout and Post-Workout 

Snacks are “mini-meals” between our main meals and are necessary to get the calories and nutrients our bodies need. The number and type of snacks should be determined by your hunger signals, as well as your work, academic, athletic, or sleep schedules. 

The key is to make smart snack choices to keep you on track with your nutrition and performance goals. Here are my top tips on healthy snacking: 

1. Combine Lean Protein with a Carbohydrate and/or Healthy Fat. 

In general, think of balance when looking for snacks to curb hunger. Pair protein-rich foods with a carbohydrate or healthy fat for a balanced snack. It is crucial to have lean protein at every meal and snack to support muscle growth and repair. Protein also promotes fullness, helping ward off hunger until your next meal. 

Carbohydrates provide both your body and your brain with energy. Choose whole grains, like whole-wheat bread or crackers or a high-fiber cereal, for long-lasting energy. Healthy fats, like nut butter or avocados, also provide energy with staying power. 

Examples of balanced snacks include Greek yogurt with granola, half a turkey sandwich, a fruit smoothie made with Greek yogurt, a banana with peanut butter, string cheese and fruit, and trail mix. 

 2. Don’t Ignore Your Hunger Cues. Listen to your body and pay attention to your hunger cues. Common signals include stomach rumbling or growling, fatigue, shakiness or dizziness, and poor concentration. 

If you have these symptoms, too many hours have passed without fuel. Being able to recognize these signals is crucial for athletic performance. You’ll need energy to perform your best. 

Typically, spacing meals and snacks out every 2-3 hours is adequate timing to avoid hunger pangs and to ensure your body has enough fuel. This amounts to 2-3 snacks in addition to three main meals per day. 

 3. Fuel Your Exercise with Pre-Workout Snacks. Carbohydrates are the preferred source of fuel for exercising muscles. Timing is important: prioritize easy-to-digest carbs in your pre-workout snack. 

A small amount of lean protein is okay, but limit or avoid fats, as they may cause digestive issues if eaten too close to the time of your workout. Timing will vary, but eating your snack one-hour pre-workout should allow enough time for digestion. 

Examples of pre-workout snacks include a fruit smoothie or applesauce, a handful of dried fruit plus whole-grain cereal, Greek yogurt with berries, a piece of fruit plus a carbohydrate-electrolyte beverage, and a piece of whole-grain toast with jam. 

4. Refuel, Repair, and Recover with Post-Workout Snacks. A good post-workout snack should have three components: protein, carbohydrates, and fluids. The goal after exercise is to replace the fuel that was burned, restore fluids lost through sweat, and provide protein to promote muscle repair. 

Aim for at least 20 grams of protein in your snack to prevent muscle breakdown and to promote muscle building. Eating your snack within the first hour after exercise is ideal for replenishment and rebuilding. 

Examples of good recovery snacks include low-fat chocolate milk, a protein shake, a fruit and Greek yogurt smoothie, trail mix with dried fruit, whole grain bread with nut butter, and banana plus low-fat milk. 

5. Snack Mindfully and Avoid Distractions. Munching mindlessly is an easy way to end up with your hand at the bottom of an empty bag of chips without knowing how it got there. 

First, make sure you chose a healthy snack that aligns with your performance and health goals. Then, stop what you’re doing for a few minutes – turn off the TV, put down your phone, and close your laptop – and eat your snack. 

Eating without distractions will help you feel more satisfied and you’ll be less likely to overeat.

6. Don’t Get Tricked by Treats. Distinguish a healthy snack from a treat. Healthy snacks are nutritious and satisfy hunger. Treats, such as sweets, fried foods, and chips lack useful nutrients and provide “empty” calories,” meaning they cannot help your body grow, recover or perform to the best of your ability. 

Treats might satisfy a craving, but they rarely satisfy hunger, leaving you to reach for something else soon after. Treats often lead to overeating, which could eventually lead to weight gain. Instead, choose a healthy snack that can satisfy your craving while making you feel full. 

7. Choose Healthy, Convenient Snacks to Fill Nutrition Gaps. Whether you’re fueling for exercise, replenishing energy losses, or building and repairing muscles, your body needs constant nutrition. In my experience, many athletes are consistently hungry and can’t seem to get enough calories throughout the day. 

When you’re on-the-go, choose a convenient snack such as a protein bar, fruit, or Greek yogurt. Snacking is a great way for active people to get the extra nutrition they need to achieve body composition and performance goals. 

8. Plan Ahead. Prepare healthy snacks at home to take with you to work, school, or training. Skip the vending machine and avoid buying snacks where healthy options are limited. 

You’ll not only save money, but you’ll also get a bigger bang for your nutritional buck by preparing healthy snacks ahead of time. Pack portable snacks in your backpack or sports bag. 

Planning ahead and knowing your schedule will keep you from missing your healthy snacks. 

*** About Herbalife Nutrition Ltd. Herbalife Nutrition (NYSE: HLF) ***

A global company that has been changing people's lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers high-quality, science-backed products, sold in over 90 countries by entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle. Through the Company's global campaign to eradicate hunger, Herbalife Nutrition is also committed to bringing nutrition and education to communities around the world. For more information, please visit IAmHerbalifeNutrition.com.