Lola Helen in Marikina gets listed in Michelin-selected restaurants in the Philippines!

In the recent announcement, Lola Helen Panciteria in Marikina is included in the 2026 Michelin-selected restaurants.

IG/locavore.eats

The website describes Lola Helen:

Noodle lovers! Don't miss this humble spot opened 20 years ago and known for Filipino-Chinese stir-fried noodles. Diners can choose from rice vermicelli, egg noodles, or a mix of both. With its moist, springy noodles and crispy pork, the aromatic bihon canton con litson deeply satisfies. Generous portions, fair prices, and a well-ventilated upstairs area – make it a constant favourite among locals.

Its name comes along with: 12/10, Abli, Aida's Chicken, Antonio's ATO-AH, Aurora, Automat, Aya, Benjarong, Blackbird, BUTCHER BOY, Cantabria By Chele Gonzalez, Canton Road, Carmelo's Steakhouse, Chie Chie's Pancit Batil Patung, China Blue, Cirkulo, COCO, Cru Steakhouse, Deo Gracias, DIP, El Poco Cantina (Malate), Ember, Enye By Chele Gonzalez, Esmeralda Kitchen, Fong Wei Wu, Fresca Trattoria, Ginza Nagaoka, Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill, Goxo, House of Lechon, Jai, Juniper, Kamakura, Kei, Kodawari (Salcedo), Lantaw (Compostela), Locavore (Taguig), Lore, Lusso (Legazpi), Mamacita, Man Ho, Maya, Metiz, Mireio, MODAN, Now Now, Oak & Smoke, Offbeat, Old Manila, Origine, Osteria Antica, Pablo, Papillon, Pares Pares (N. Escario Street), People's Palace, Ramen Ron, Sala, Seva, Sialo, Socarrat, Spices, Steak & Frice, Summer Palace, Super Uncle Claypot, Tandem, Taupe, Terraza Martinez, The Test Kitchen, Txanton, Uma Nota, Umu and Yamazato.

Chicken and Mushroom Claypot Rice from Super Uncle Claypot

More local restaurants have been included in the list with recipients of 2-Michelin Stars for HELM and 1-Michelin Star for the following restaurants:

Gallery by Chele

Celera

Hapag

Inato

Kasa Palma

Linamnam

Toyo Eatery

Asador Alfonso

The Bib Gourmand list includes:

Abaseria Deli & Cafe

Bolero

Brick Corner

Cabel

Cochi

Cur8

Em Ha Noi

Esmen

Halong

Kumba

La Pita

Lampara

Lasa

Los Tacos

Manam at the Triangle

Morning Sun Eatery

Palm Grill (Diliman)

Pares Batchoy Food House

Pilya's Kitchen

Sarsa

SOME THAI

Taqueria France

The Pig & Palm

The Underbelly

Your Local

It's a Proud Marikeno moment for Lola Helen and I'm so happy that I've already dined to another 4: Benjarong (Dusit Thani Manila), Spices (Peninsula Manila), Super Uncle Claypot and Gallery by Chele. Congratulations to the list and let's set our feet to these Michelin-recognized restaurants.

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KANTO FREESTYLE: Pinoy best breakfast all day

If you are looking for the best all-day breakfast in Marikina, Kanto Freestyle Breakfast is a spot you should not miss. I have passed by this restaurant countless times on my way to work, and finally, I got to try it. What I found was a casual yet elevated dining experience that takes well-loved Filipino breakfast classics and gives them a gourmet twist.

The interiors are cozy, with a relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to stay a little longer. We went during a quiet time, but staff mentioned that weekends usually draw the biggest crowds. Whether you choose al fresco or indoor dining, the place is a great spot for casual meals, family gatherings, or even a late-night food run.

 

interiors

al fresco dining

We started with the Lucban Longganisa, a true Filipino favorite. The longganisa was a satisfying mix of meaty and garlicky goodness, served with garlic rice, two sunny-side up eggs, and roasted tomatoes drizzled with pesto sauce. The modern plating added a nice touch, and while I wished for a bit more rice, the flavors were spot on, savory, comforting, and very satisfying.

Lucban Longganisa Kanto Boy Breakfast

Chocnut & Goya Ganache Pancake

To balance the savory flavors, we tried the Chocnut & Goya Ganache Pancake, a creative take on dessert that brings together two nostalgic Pinoy chocolate classics. The plate was beautifully styled with a brush of chocolate, and the pancake stack was topped with a generous dollop of ganache. It was as heavenly as it looked, rich yet familiar, and the perfect sweet ending to our meal.

What makes Kanto Freestyle Breakfast stand out is how it combines accessibility with a touch of gourmet. Despite the fancy plating and upgraded flavors, the dishes remain affordable and approachable. Whether you are craving silogs, pancakes, or sandwiches, this is a place where Filipino breakfast favorites are served with style all day, every day.

✅ Budget-friendly yet elevated
✅ Open any time of day
✅ Ideal for both solo diners and groups

If you are searching for a restaurant that serves the best Pinoy breakfast all day in Marikina, Kanto Freestyle Breakfast is definitely worth a visit. Come hungry and leave satisfied. Check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/kantofreestylebreakfast

📍 Location: Guerilla St., Sto. Niño, Marikina. They also have other locations in Mandaluyong, Kapitolyo, Makati, Morato, La Salle, BGC, USE, Angono, Alabang and Manila
🕒 Open 24/7: Perfect for early risers, night owls, or anyone craving breakfast comfort food any time of the day.
📋 Menu

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Shoelanders Unite: The 1st Shoelanders Grand Alumni Homecoming set on November 18, 2023

The Shoelanders’ Alumni Ad Hoc committee invites all graduates of the Marikina High School (MHS), Leodegario Victorino Memorial High School (LVMHS), Marikina School of Arts and Trade (MSAT), Marikina Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), and Marikina Science High School (MariSci), collectively known as “The Shoelanders” to the first-ever Shoelanders Grand Alumni Homecoming on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at the Marikina Sports Center.

Carrying the theme, “Shoelanders Unite: Baliktanaw at Pagpupugay sa Paaralang Mahal,” this homecoming event will bring together more than 70 batch years that includes its first graduates in 1950 up to the present 2023 batch. Considered a historic gathering of topnotch graduates from an illustrious secondary school in Marikina, it is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event one should not miss. This premiere alumni homecoming also sets to give awards and recognition to outstanding achievements of alumni in different categories as one of its highlights.

Reunion For A Common Cause
Through a Ceremonial Signing of “The Shoelanders Alumni Commitment Board”, this homecoming will also seal and make official the solid stand & unwavering support of the entire alumni membership across all batch years to all legislative initiatives and efforts or any activities all in the effort of preserving and restoring the persona and existence of the High School Alma Mater that carries profound history since its founding in 1947.

Mr. Joseph T. Santos, acting OIC of MariSci and from MIST Batch 1992, appeals to all, “We reach out to all alumni to help preserve our beloved school and bring back students to the campus they truly deserve.”

Ms. Fe Oaing-Doromal, Chairman of the Ad Hoc committee and MIST graduate from Batch 1992 is very optimistic about the support of all batches to this event. “It will be a memorable day for everyone and an opportunity to keep our school strong. This is our chance to give back to our alma mater which honed us to be achievers.” She also highlights that proceeds from this event can support in establishing a Shoelanders Foundation and provide for the educational needs of deserving scholars and other beneficial programs.

Marikina City Mayor Marcelino “Marcy” Teodoro, MIST Batch 1986 alumnus, expressed great support to the event offering the Marikina Sports Center as venue for the event. “It is my great joy to see my former classmates and teachers again. I am truly excited to reminisce about the times we had when I was studying in MIST. I know that the graduates are a great contribution of our school as their talents and knowledge are integral factors in nation-building.”

Countdown to the Big Day
Leading to the big day, the committee has lined-up series of fun and exciting activities to the enjoyment of the alumni. A motorcade kicked off last July that roamed along the streets of Marikina City. There are also mini sports tournaments like bowling, basketball, volleyball, billiards and a Bingo social. Details of events are announced in the official Facebook group The High School SHOELANDERS.

Registration is now ongoing. Early bird is priced at P500 until September 30, and P700 starting from October 1-30, 2023. You may register at https://tinyurl.com/Shoelanders or coordinate with your batch representatives. For volunteers, sponsorships, donations or business opportunities, interested parties may contact Ms. Lourdes Santos at 09566480645.

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brunch at RUSTIC MORNINGS

A bright Sunday morning when I immediately got out of bed and washed to catch the 11am meeting with friends in a place called Rustic Mornings in Marikina. A humble home converted into a restaurant with great ambiance with both al fresco and dine-in facilities that can accommodate small groups and families.

It was my very first visit to the restaurant and they jokingly asked how come I was never ever get to come to the place when I was the one most accessible to it. I just ignored and looked at the menu beside me and hailed the waiter for a blueberry pancake, some sliced kiwi and roasted almonds on the side.

As it arrived, butter melts down the pancake and the blueberry syrup drips down the side which made it look more appetizing. I thought that they are just toppings but the batter also has blueberries in it. I drizzled over the maple syrup and began to enjoy the rich and creamy pancake for my brunch. One slice of kiwi at a time and crunch on some toasted almonds made the blueberry pancake more interesting.

Finishing it with matcha latte and then I'm ready to take an afternoon nap.
 
RUSTIC MORNINGS is located at 11 I. Mendoza St., San Roque, Marikina City.

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Kutis Filipina's loyalty card

It may be too early for Christmas presents but you can give yourself and your friend or loved one the good things and experience wellness to maintain young-looking, stress-free skin from Kutis Filipina. And it's not just for Christmas, but you will benefit the whole year round.

Kutis Filipina's Loyalty membership card gives you access to their treatments and wellness procedures with discounts on your birthday for only Php 9,800. Members get a weekly Kutis Express Face care, which includes cleaning and clearing the pores through mechanical extraction and micro-exfoliation of the upper chest, neck and face; Once a month “Kutis Klassic Face Care” that includes cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and diamond peel. Once a month use of dermal infusion machine and 30 minutes use of PDT (red, blue, pink light).

If you think Php 9800 costs a lot for you, think about the benefits, aside from the weekly Classic Facial treatments, diamond peel, dermal infusion and PDT, members can also get 20% discount on regular services and products on their birthday. They also get to enjoy 5% discount on regular services and products all year round. The membership card is for one person only and is non-transferable.

You can also take care of your skin by availing Kutis Filipina soaps. I personally use the Tea Tree soap to dry out pimples easily.

Tea Tree soap has antibacterial properties from tea tree which clears out your skin from harmful bacteria found in the environment. The Moisturizing soap restores your skin's protection that is washed away from bathing and the Glutathione soap gives a fairer skin with regular use.

Prices:
Tea Tree Soap - P 250
Moisturizing Soap - P 280
Glutathione Soap - P 250

For more information, you can call telephone nos. +639175038784 or 6460807. The Kutis membership card is only available at the Mayor Gil Fernando branch, San Roque Marikina City.

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Gladecover

I visited the new lounge and coffee place beside Kutis Filipina in invitation by the owner, Dr. Laurence Tan. Though the place is in its soft opening, I enjoyed my stay sipping a cool blend of Java Chocolate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzled with chocolate syrup.

Other than enjoying your tall glass of blends, lattes or warm cups of coffee beverages, you may like to stay for longer while playing their in-house games which you can borrow for FREE when you order a beverage. I'll be bringing my friends for some games here soon.

They have lots of games and for starters and even advanced gamers. I'm considering myself a newbie again after not playing board games for a long time. Dr. Tan and I played Fold It and Animal upon Animal which took more than 3 tries to perfectly stack up all animal pieces on a stable tower.

 

The place is very cozy and would accommodate I think around 30-40 pax full. They also have very good internet and they can also accommodate corporate meetings.

Image from Gladecover Facebook Page

Gladecover is located just beside Kutis Filipina, above Omakase corner of Redwood St and Gil Fernando Ave in Marikina City. Call 0917 583 7586 for private party hosting reservations.

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Feed your skin with Dermal Infusion from Kutis Filipina

Did you know that when you wash your face with soap, you strip of its natural and outermost layer of protection from foreign objects in the environment? How about feeding your skin with nutrients that it needs that can give you a natural glow and moisturizer?

Kutis Filipina offers a great service that comes with the Kutis Classic treatment and it's called Dermal Infusion. It's a unique treatment for me and according to Dr. Laurence Tan of Kutis Filipina, it injects essential nutrients that were stripped off of your face in every washing. It is similar with the Diamond Peel but it is less abrasive, so it retains the young skin cells and at the same time, adds vitamins / minerals for your skin's natural glow.

Dermal Infusion machine

I have tried this twice already and during the first treatment, it nourished my face with Vitamin C and E and moisture. At the following treatment, we added Glutathione that is also a powerful antioxidant which can help prevent skin cancer which everybody is subject to especially when exposed to the sun. Glutathione is also a powerful ingredient in whitening for an even skin tone and erase dark spots on the face.

Dermal Infusion is also included in the annual promo of Kutis Filipina which you can avail for only Php 9,800. It covers regular facial treatments, diamond peel, radio frequency and Photo Dynamic Therapy which is more expensive when you avail individually.

Visit Kutis Filipina at Gil Fernando Avenue, San Roque, Marikina City (above Omakase) or call 0917 503 8784 or (02) 646 0807 for appointment.

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A more natural but effective skin care at Kutis Filipina

We've been accustomed to many skin care products but all seems not to really work for our covers. Worse, they consume our money, thanks to the brilliance of marketing that deceives us of the so-called "benefits" of using such items in the market. How would you like to save your skin naturally and your bank account without the harmful effects of chemicals found in each bottle or cream or cosmetics?

Dr. Laurence Mil Tan, aesthetic doctor of Kutis Filipina, believes that only washing with water can do the trick. He explained to me, backed up with research and first-hand observations, comparing the effects of just water to adding soap, cleansers, etc. may affect the skin's composition and its structure based upon frequent usage. Better is that how much will I able to save by putting out products which in fact are not really advisable.

But Dr Tan is offering something that can repair and clean our skin naturally and will not harm it. Since every body has a different skin type, he gives customized and friendly advise on how to return to a natural state of your skin. And guess what, it can erase all your consumption to the harmful chemicals found in beauty soaps, alcohol-based cleansers, cosmetics, etc.

He offers the Kutis Filipina Membership card which is only  Php 9,800 for the whole year. Each visit, you will undergo cleansing, facial treatment and something that you have to try: Photo Dynamic Therapy (PDT), silk peel and others, depending on your skin's needs. This membership is applicable to both men and women and can be used at the newly-renovated Kutis Filipina branch in Gil Fernando Ave, Marikina City. If you compare all your expenses with soaps, cleansers, moisturizers, facial treatments, etc, you'll be surprised of the difference in costs.

There are 3 types of PDT and each session lasts for only 15-30 mins, depending on your needs based on the assessment:

Red for Anti-Aging

Blue for Anti-Bacterial

Purple for Combination Treatment

I've also got to try the Dermal Infusion. This is a less-abrasive procedure than Diamond Peel and plus it injects vitamins that makes the skin recover from dullness and healthier with every use. You have to attend a weekly treatment for best results. Of course, you also have to do your part of washing your face regularly with water and do not let your face be exposed under the sun.

Dermal Infusion machine (Silk Peel)

All these are inclusive to the Php 9,800 membership card and for you who is a beauty enthusiast and a believer of naturally beautiful and healthy skin. Members can also get 20% discount on regular services and products on their birthday. They also get to enjoy 5% discount on regular services and products all year round. The membership card is for one person only and is not transferrable. For more information, you can call telephone nos. 0917 503 8784 or (02) 646 0807.

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Beeffalo by Hot Rocks

My first time at a new dining place which is surprisingly near to our house. Just located within 1km from my place and it's so easy to locate. The place is called Beeffalo -- the backyard grill by Hot Rocks. Owned by foodies, Louie Abad and wife, the idea and experience of putting up a business in Marikina is a surprise. They are not from Marikina and the risk of placing the business there is a blessing. Funny thing is that even the residents themselves don't know such place exist.

Unnoticeable at first, the cozy ambiance of Beeffalo is often mistaken as a humble bungalow with a nightly party and barbecue setup on weekends. Just like the old times, you can relax in the al fresco or enjoy the cool air-conditioned interiors. Go vintage with record labels and the Vespa motorcycle and have that Grease feel. The best of it, the place is guaranteed clean.

Beeffalo interiors

Beeffalo Barbecue Backyard

Serving originally American cuisine, the business expanded by adding Italian dishes like pasta and pizza. What's more amazing is that they added isaw to the list. Don't see it as a posh diner because the price list is so affordable. Click here for the menu: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.537101966392548.1073741844.107743755995040&type=1

Their best-selling Baby Back Ribs and Steak are really to dine for! The marinade is very tasty and it sinks in the meat. Side dishes are served fresh and soups are not too hot to slurp in. Enjoy it with their Java rice or bread and you'll be very satisfied. Louie also told us that one guest frequents the place and orders a huge slob of ribs for himself. I envy that guy.

Beeffalo is truly one great discovery in Marikina. Take Marikina Sports Park, along Sumulong Highway, as your starting point. Go straight and turn the first left to Gil Fernando Avenue. Move along until passing Marikina Engineering Dept, and find Beeffalo at your left. From Marcos Highway, take Gil Fernando Avenue. Go straight passing Blue Wave Mall (Marquinton) and Marikina Engineering Department.

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cruising at Lilac St in Marikina

It was an afternoon food tripping with Ana and Mark, and I've finally got to stroll along the famous Lilac street in Marikina City. We hopped at 2 food stops and they were unlike any food stalls that I've eaten to. They are just along the street and easy to find.

We had our first bite at Burrito Brothers. The place was just right for upto 20 people in an al fresco setting. I ordered Chimichanga as I found it as a good Foursquare tip. So might as well try it.

The fried burrito filled with chicken, tomatoes and cheese (I think) and the best to eat it is with the salsa. Served in straw basket with a paper napkin that doesn't tear so you won't worry about the mess. Price: Php 105 -- not too pricey for a big and filling burrito. Plus, it is not too hot so you can enjoy the taste more.

For dessert, just walk around 40-50 steps to Pink Chiffon. A small apartment where every thing is pink - the walls, tables and ceiling. If you want a good dessert with relaxing environment and if you want to get the Hello Kitty feels, this is the place to hangout. They said that Piolo Pascual's favorite cake came from here.

I got Oreo Cheesecake and I'm almost speechless when I tried it. Worth the waiting time for a cupcake made of cream cheese on Oreo crust topped with cream. Best to taste it when cold and it's not too sweet. Price: Php 50.

I still have a lot to try at Lilac st. Got any suggestions?

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FUN ROCKET SCIENCE for kids this summer

At least this is a rocket launching that I would support. Not only that they will help young kids to understand science, it is a fun activity too.

The Philippine Science Centrum and the SkyXplore invites you to join this exciting activity and will teach you and your partner (working as a team) how to make and launch a rocket made of plastic bottles and strips. With your rockets assembled, your team will compete with other teams for event competitions on ACCURACY and DISTANCE.

LAUNCH YOU ROCKET THIS APRIL
(Water Rocket Workshop & Competition)
Philippine Science Centrum & Riverbanks amphitheater
Riverbanks Center, Marikina City.
April 28-29, 2012.

What are you waiting for? Choose a buddy and register your team... 20 teams per category will be accommodated.

REGISTRATION FEE: Php. 250.00/participant inclusive of:
- Workshop materials
- Snacks and lunch for two (2) days
- Access to the Philippine Science Centrum
- Certificate of Participation
- A chance to win cash prizes and items to event competitions

Kindly download, accomplish and submit the REGISTRATION FORM at www.science-centrum.ph together with your payments to PFST Secretariat, Philippine Science Centrum, E-com Bldg., Riverbanks Center, Marikina City. For further details please call (02) 942-5091 and (02)942-4137 and look for Ms. Cheryl Mulat.

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Ohmski Birthday Triduum

everything went to my favor as i welcome my silver year. the events and things that i wanted to do on my birthday went smoothly as planned. first, i was able to attend the FHM Street Party at Eastwood City, Libis. the night was fun especially when you had sexiness overload on the side. i was with Joriben who became my companion throughout the event.

but before i went there, i purchased two items that i really wanted to have. one is the FHM May 2009 issue which is my ticket to enter the party. and second, D' Mas Nakakalurkei na Album by no other than the Tambalang Balasubas at Balahura of Love Radio 90.7.

it was really sexiness overload as FHM models strut the ramp. the event was hosted by Andrea del Rosario joined by the Kitty Girls, Paloma, Carlene Aguilar and lastly Bangs Garcia who is the current cover girl of FHM for May 2009. Itchyworms, one of my favorite OPM band, opened the show with their latest single "Gusto Ko Lamang sa Buhay." around the area were special booths that will raise the hell out of you with girls giving you a massage, treat you like a king, do a lapdance or even a pole dance.

after the party, jori and i went to McDonalds for our evening snack. then Azrael and Ronald found us and we did a little chitchat. but without my knowledge, since there is no TV available at McDonald's, here's what's happening on TV!


thanks to Flow who gave the video. i really didn't expect that my birthday would extend publicity upto the television. sadly, i haven't caught it when it aired.

next morning, though i was still a little sleepy,. i got up to get my itinerary done. i rushed to two radio stations and release the fanboy in my nerves. i first went to Love Radio at the CCP Complex to catch one of my favorite radio shows: the Tambalang Balasubas at Balahura. yeah, i was greeted on radio and had my copies of their albums signed. Nicole Hyala even gave me an experience of being a DJ for a moment. it was fun seeing them live and given the "Happy, happy, happy birth... day!" chant. but as every Tambalan experience, i was being mocked on air in a funny way. she said that my birthday would be corny if i haven't gone through that.

then i dropped by at the RX studios in Ortigas to catch another radio show. DJ Gelli and DJ Jude for The Ride. if i haven't introduced myself from the Manila Atlas event, she wouldn't remember me but she found me very familiar. also finding on location were Chico and Delamar who are hosts of The Morning Rush. also one of my favorite shows every morning.

after my radio station tour, it's time to get to the next part of my birthday tour. after being a fan, it became educational to roam around Marikina and visit exceptional spots that i haven't been before. i went through the Shoe Museum that houses Imelda Marcos's shoes and so with popular personalities. i wasn't able to take pictures inside for it was prohibited. i caught a little trivia that the late President Marcos's shoes were elevated because his wife stands taller than him.

then i went to the Miniature Museum that's takes only a little walk. inside were little artifacts made by Aleli Vengua since 1977. the museum showcases different types of home designs and figures depicting culture.

the entrance at both museums are only Php 50.

lastly, i went to the World of Butterflies also in Marikina. it's time to commune with nature and relieve myself from the stress that i acquired in the morning. i came back to the elementary days that we were studying the metamorphosis of butterflies. the World of Butterflies is caging 8 species for now for they are seasonal.

then i met mama by the block and we went home together. she surprised me that we are going to the Manila Ocean Park. i've always wanted to go there so i was very excited. after getting our stomachs full from the pancit that my brother prepared for my birthday, we freshened up and immediately went to Manila. however, we weren't able to get into the Ocean Park because we were late by almost an hour after the ticket sales closed. so we got home and returned the next day.

by that time, we went earlier to Manila Ocean Park. we really enjoyed walking around and learning more stuff about the marine life.

without any material gifts received for my birthday, i can say that my 25th birthday is the best!

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