The Island Pacific Blog

Don't wait in line... Phone in your fish orders today!

2012-02-24T15:22:00.003-08:00

This Lenten Season, you can now pre-order your fish and have it prepared at your nearest Island Pacific location.

Our friendly staff will gladly take your phone orders, choose your fish, and prepare it for you. When you are ready to pick them up, just head on to the Seafood Section and pick up your order.

To help us serve you better, please place your order 2-3 hours before your intended pick up time.

KOST 103.5 Street Team visits IP Panorama City

2012-02-09T16:58:00.000-08:00

KOST 103.5 Street team , Steven and Bucko was at Island Pacific Panorama parking lot Thursday (Feb 9) morning and gave away cool freebies such as movie tickets, Blu Ray DVDs, concert tickets, Gift Certificates from Island Pacific., Goldilocks and M Lhuillier Financial Services.

We got a couple of mentions along with Goldilocks and M Lhuillier at Mark and Kristen's Morning Show.

Kulinarya 2: Philippine Cuisine celebrated anew

2012-02-01T15:37:00.000-08:00

With an enthusiastic crowd, the 2nd Kulinarya Cooking Showdown Grand Finals, capping the Semi-Final round that was held on 22 October 2011 at the Seasons Marketplace in Milpitas, California, was held on Saturday, 21 January 2012 at San Francisco’s Carnelian by the Bay restaurant.

The 2nd Kulinarya: A Philippine Culinary Showdown is a continuing collaborative effort of the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco, its attached agencies, in partnership with the dynamic, distinguished members of the Filipino American community, to promote the Philippines through heightened appreciation of its cuisine, talented chefs, culinary destinations, and Filipino restaurants, food ingredients, and entrepreneurship in the Bay Area.

The event was also the platform to launch the new campaign of the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) “It’s more Fun in the Philippines” and likewise a feature event for the Philippine Pili Nut, a new Philippine food ingredient recently introduced to the US Market by the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Beginning with a Pili Nut Cook-off, the whole showdown unfolded to succeeding activities – highlighted by the on-site cooking competition held in two (2) divisions: Amateur and Professional. The competition was simultaneous with a food and beverage showcase and sampling area, as well as a bazaar of services and products from Sponsors.

At the Pili Nut cook-off, five (5) competitors presented their pre-prepared savory and sweet dishes, using the Philippine Pili Nut, to a distinct panel of judges as well as sampling plate for the public. The winning Pili Nut dish was Pili Nut Toffee Crunch prepared by Ms. Joy Sanchez, a member of the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District. The public was treated to a sampling of the contestants’ dishes. A presentation on the Philippine Pili Nut was conducted and a table sampling the variety of Pili Nut Snack Packs was available.

The main Kulinarya competition floor featured a cooking showdown of the Finalists who have qualified during the elimination round held in October 2011 to compete in the finals. Spectators excitingly watched the competition as contestants; first in the amateur division, followed by the professionals, inspiringly prepared on-site four required dishes – their own interpretation of popular and traditional Filipino food – they prepared appetizer, salad, or soup, an entrée, an adobo dish, and dessert.

The three finalists for the amateur division were Gloria Ramos, Jerrick Figueroa, and Arlene Nunez. Gloria is a "self-professed foodie" who loves to cook food for family and friends. She is a published author and an exhibited artist. Jerrick, a graduating student at the California Culinary Art School was born and raised in the US. He grew up eating Filipino food. Arlene is a Career Professional; with over 20 years of experience in Customer Service Management, has always had a passion for cooking.

Arlene Nunez won the Amateur Division and her recipes were Vegetarian Fresh Lumpia for starter, Authentic Filipino Kare-Kare for the 1st main course, Savory Adobo Banh Mi for the 2nd main course, and Taste of the Philippines Sampler Trio – Brazo de Mercedes Cupcake, Halo Halo Custard cake, and Coconut-Pandan Mini Sans Rival for dessert.

For the professional division, the three finalists were Kristela Nazario Mendoza, Tim Luym, and Albert Rivera. Kristela is a graduate of the California Culinary Academy and recipient of an Associate Degree at Le Cordon Bleu. She currently works at the Pyramid Brewery in Berkeley, California as the Executive Chef. Tim is a San Francisco Chronicle 3-Star Executive Chef /owner and a 2007 San Francisco Chronicle Rising Star Chef. He graduated from the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco. Now a restaurant consultant and consulting chef at the Attic Restaurant in San Mateo, he is also the principal behind the WOW Food and festivals in the Bay Area. Albert entered the Culinary Program at Contra Costa College and began his culinary career as an intern at Plouf in San Francisco. Albert’s passion for cooking was reignited with the kitchen of Va de Vi, one of SF Chronicle's Top 100 Restaurants. Currently, he is the Sous Chef at the sophisticated Metro Lafayette.

Albert Rivera won the Professional Division with a winning menu that consisted of Shrimp and Vegetable Ukoy with Calamansi Ponzu Dipping Sauce for the starter, Deconstructed Afritada for the 1st main course, Braised Pork Belly Adobo with Butter Beans and Gremolata for the 2nd main course, Deconstructed Halo-Halo for the dessert.

Five distinguished and accomplished judges from the culinary scene provided valuable expertise for the showdown. They were Joanne Boston, a food writer based in San Francisco, Lynne Bennett, staff writer and wine coordinator at the San Francisco Chronicle, Nancy Freeman, president of the Asian Culinary forum, Ron Bilaro, food columnist and successful private chef, and Rose Ravasco, an associate editor and a New York correspondent.

With sustained liveliness and wit, the whole event was hosted by well known emcee Franco Finn, a Filipino-American Emcee and TV host for the Golden State Warriors, SF Bay Area’s professional basketball team.

There was never a dull moment at the Food and Beverage Showcase and Sampling Area as lines of hungry samplers patiently waited to get a bite of the different Filipino dishes that were offered by various Filipino Restaurants and Establishments who participated.

The event had been a success with the support of our major sponsors like Western Union, Ramar Foods, Philippine Airlines, GMA TV, TFC International, San Francisco Examiner Datu Puti, LBC International and Mama Sita. Ingredients used by the finalists were sponsored by Seafood City and Island Pacific Supermarket.

The 2nd Kulinarya Cooking Showdown proves that Filipino food has emerged and continues to evolve into higher levels of cuisine for the mainstream and discriminating palates; aking us all aware and remember, when considering dining options, “Let’s Go Filipino!”

Click here for more photos:

- www.experiencephilippines.org

- Mario Mendoza

- Joey Montilla

Island Pacific Supermarket raises over $12K for Typhoon Sendong victims

2012-01-15T12:40:00.000-08:00

ON December 17, 2011 Typhoon Sendong ravaged the Southern part of the Philippines killing over 1500 people and displacing nearly 20,000 families.

In the spirit of bayanihan, Island Pacific Supermarket’s answered the call for support and started a fundraising initiative called Damayan drive last December 19.

Since then, customers from their nine (9) branches: Panorama City, Canoga, Cerritos, West Covina, North and South Vermont Los Angeles, Union City, Vallejo, and National City, managed to raise over $12,000.

The donation was reported to the Philippine Consulate in Los Angeles thru Deputy Consul General Daniel Espiritu and Vice Consul Mary Joy B. Ramirez.

Island Pacific will remit the amount directly to the Philippine National Red Cross ongoing relief operations for Typhoon Sendong Victims

Island Pacific's Fall TVC on TFC 2011

2011-11-29T22:24:00.000-08:00

Island Pacific Seafood Market National City now serving you

2011-11-04T18:26:00.000-07:00

The wait is over.

Island Pacific, known for its fresh and wide array of seafoods, meat products, vegetables, fruits and other Asian products, is now ready to serve National City.

The grand opening of Island Pacific Seafood Market marks a milestone in the historical city and its developing economy.

A whole new shopping experience awaits Island Pacific Seafood Market customers. Filipinos, who comprise more than 20% of the population in National City, along with Hispanics and Mexicans, would be in for a treat as Island Pacific offers the freshest and widest food selections in the city.

While Island Pacific is known to be a Filipino Supermarket, it aspires not only to promote Filipino cuisine and products to communities across United States but also to place it in the world culinary map.

We accomplish this by offering the finest and top of the line products in our stores because that’s what Filipino cooking is all about – you just never compromise with ingredients.

Located in the heart of National City along East Plaza Boulevard near the corner of South Euclid Avenue, Island Pacific Seafood Market will be conveniently accessible not only to National City but also to other communities in San Diego County including San Diego, Mira Mesa, Paradise Hills, Rancho Bernardo, La Jolla and Chula Vista.

At Island Pacific Seafood Market we assure you more CHOICES, better PRICES, and the best SERVICE.

An Evening with Ging Reyes

2011-01-27T12:51:00.000-08:00

PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Consulate General
447 Sutter St., San Francisco, CA 94108

415-433-6666 ext. 313 (public information section)

*www.philippineconsulate-sf.org

SFPCG -

24 January 2011.

Philippine Consulate General and the Filipino Community

honor outgoing ABS-CBN International

North America News Bureau Chief Regina “ Ging” Reyes

San Francisco, California -- The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco together with the Filipino American community honored outgoing ABS-CBN News Bureau Chief Regina “ Ging” Reyes with a reception called “ an Evening with Ging Reyes” on 24 January 2011 at the Social Hall of the Philippine Center Building.

Ms. Reyes is the first North American Bureau Chief of ABS-CBN who during an almost decade-long stint nurtured the Bureau to its high standards of service, as well as providing that vital communication and information link between the Filipino American Communities in North America and with the home country.

Philippine Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr. led the long list of personalities, groups and guests who paid tribute to Ms. Reyes and her numerous professional achievements and personal qualities

Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr, presenting a Certificate of Recognition to Ms. Ging Reyes, on behalf of the Philippine Foreign Service Missions in North America

In his remarks and in the Certification of Recognition he presented Ms. Reyes, Consul General Paynor cited the invaluable contribution she has given as ABS-CBN North America News Bureau, her strong and unwavering commitment to servicing the Filipino-American communities in North America and her continuous dedication to service and upholding the highest level of professionalism among her peers.

The evening event saw a gathering of a cross-section of Filipino American communities, colleagues and friends of the honoree.

Community group representatives pose with Honoree

Ms. Ging Reyes and Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr.

To name a few of the numerous community group representatives who paid tribute to Ms. Reyes were, Mr. Rodel Rodis and Ms. Charito Benipayo of US Pinoys for Good Governance, Ms. Ester Chavez, Philippine American Press Club, Mr. Joe Pecho, National Federation of Filipino American Associations, Mr. Rudy Asercion, WestBay Pilipino Multi-Service Center, Filipino Veterans group, Mr. Al Perez, Filipino American Arts Exposition and San Francisco Entertainment Commissioner, Ms. Marilyn Mondejar / Ms. Sonia Delen and other members of the Filipino Women’s Network, Ms. Marivic Bamba, San Francisco Filipino Cultural Center, Mr. Joseph Mojares, Philippine Nurses Association of Northern California, Atty. Rene Pascual, Integrated Bar of the Philippines- Northern California, Carmen Colet, San Francisco Filipino American Chamber of Commerce and San Francisco Art Commissioner, Ms. Yolanda Stern, of One World Institute, Ms. Melissa Apuya, representing Senator Leland Yee, US House of representative Jackie Spiers (Certificate of Appreciation read and presented on behalf of the Congresswoman by Deputy Consul General Wilfredo Santos) and California legislative Assemblywoman / Speaker Pro-Tempore Fiona Ma (Certificate of Appreciation read and presented on behalf of the Assemblywoman by Consul Alfonso Ver), Ms. Nerissa Hernandez, Head of Corporate Affairs.ABS-CBN and Mr. Dennis Normandy, San Francisco-Manila Sister City Council.

An added special tribute and appreciation was done by way of a special hors d’ouvres menu prepared solely for this event by Kulinarya 2010 Cooking Showdown winner Chef Ed Grajo, in coordination with food retailer Island Pacific which provided the ingredients.

Ms. Reyes in her response to all, humbly acknowledged the accolades given to her. She nostalgically recalled the early days and growth of the North America News Bureau interactions, her experiences with the Filipino American community and important remembrances of her almost decade-long stint as North America Bureau Chief. END

Island Pacific Supermarket at the Kulinarya: A Filipino Culinary Showdown

2010-12-08T16:45:00.000-08:00

Six (6) Finalists shopped for ingredients at the Island Pacific Union City

Island Pacific Supermarket participated in as one of the sponsors of the recently concluded Kulinarya : A Filipino Culinary Showdown held at the Metreon in San Francisco last December 4, 2010. Organized by the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco along with the various government agencies, namely, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Tourism, Department of Trade and Industry, and the Philippine National Police with the goal of increasing the awareness and appreciation of Northern California residents on Filipino cuisine.

Consul General Marciano Paynor Jr with the hardworking staff of the Philippine Department of Tourism San Francisco headed by Rene Delos Santos, Debbie Gallano and Gabby Agcaoili.

Kulinarya, which means culinary or cuisine in Tagalog, started in 2005 as a cultural tourism program of the Philippine Department of Tourism . Dubbed as Kulinarya Filipina, the program introduces Philippine flavors to domestic and international tourists to promote the country as a culinary destination. Travelers practically eat their way around the country as they visit destinations that are well-known for their food. There are Kulinarya tour packages that are being offered now to various parts of the country and each region has its own culinary treasure to boast.

-The 6 finalists shown here with Consul General Marciano Paynor, Jr along with the staff of the Department of Tourism San Francisco. Also shown in photo are the judges composed of notable chefs, food critics and foodies; and volunteer culinary students from CCA and USF.

Kulinarya : A Filipino Culinary Showdown was organized to discover and showcase the talents and expertise of Filipino chefs and foodies. A total of 6 finalists competed -- 3 in the Amateur Division and 3 in the Professional Division--- in cooking regular meal items that included an appetizer/salad, adobo and another Filipino entree, and a Filipino dessert. The judges consisted of notable culinary experts, professional chefs and food critic such as Chef Thomas Weibull-- an accomplished chef for over 25 years and who has worked in numerous three star restaurants in the Bay Area from One Market, Aqua, Rubicon and Plouf; Chef Kelly Degala--Executive Chef at the Academy Café at the California Academy of Sciences; Lynne Char Bennet- SF Chronicle Staff Writer and Food Critic; Nancy Freeman, President of the Asian Culinary Forum; June Belen-- writer for SFoodie, SF Weekly’s widely read food blog and has been featured at Saveur Magazine's "The Best of the Web"; and Mrs. Tess Paynor, wife of Consul General Marciano A. Paynor. Winners were selected according to the cohesiveness of menu, presentation, creativity; and taste/flavor.

The 8 gift baskets consisted of various Filipino food products

The six (6) finalists shopped for their ingredients at the Island Pacific Supermarket in Union City. Each finalists were given $100 Gift Certificate that they've used to purchase their ingredients needed for their recipes. On hand to assist them was, Arnel Macaspac, the store manager of Island Pacific Supermarket in Union City. Aside from the Gift Certificates, Island Pacific Supermarket also donated some food items for the gift baskets that were given as a token of appreciation to the seven (7) notable judges in the Culinary field and to Franco Finn, who hosted the competition. The food items consisted of VuQo Premiuim Vodka-- the first and only vodka in the world that is made of coconut--, Mama Sita sauces and cookbook; R & M dried mangoes and Magnolia Quezo De Bola courtesy of Asian Commodities, the largest food distributor of Asian products; and Simply Calamansi -- a bottled ready to drink calamansi juice.


The finalists after shopping at Island Pacific Supermarket Union City accompanied by two (2) staffs from the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco. Also shown in the photo are Arnel Macaspac, Store Manager of Island Pacific Supermarket Union City and Charina Carrera, Marketing & Communications Director of Island Pacific Supermarket.

Kulinarya: A Filipino Culinary showdown also featured some Filipino restaurants in the Bay area that showcased their dishes through a food sampling. Over all, Kulinarya was a huge success attended by over 500 people who came to witness the finals of the cook-off.

Island Pacific Supermarket will continue to support this type of undertakings that would help promote Filipino culture through its native cuisines. Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.Check out the website at www.islandpacificmarket.com. Stay connected with them on Facebook @island pacific market, follow them on Twitter @islandpacificUS and Blogger @island pacific market. Presyong Sulit... sa Island Pacific.

ISLA KULINARYA: The Ilocos Region's Native Cuisines

2010-11-08T19:05:00.000-08:00

The Ilocos Region's Native Cuisines

Featured Recipe: Dinakdakan

In the last issue, we featured the Ilocano dish Inabraw, a delicious bagoong based vegetable soup from Ilocos Norte, a province located in the northwestern region of Luzon. This week, we feature Dinakdakan, a native delicacy that originates from Ilocos Norte’s neighboring province, Ilocos Sur.

A trip to IIocos Sur’s capital city, Vigan, is like traveling to the past. As a United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) world heritage site, the city is one of the oldest surviving colonial cities in the country. The city is paved with cobblestone roads and lined with colonial style buildings. The buildings which are distinctly Filipino in design and construction, borrow elements from European colonial architecture to create a truly unique townscape.

The province sustains itself through agriculture and crafts and cottage production. Vegetables, animals, fish,rice, corn, tobacco, garlic, sugarcane, and cassava are examples of the many products that this region produces. Crafts and cottage industries include, broom making, pottery, jewelry making, and stone craft can also be purchased in Vigan.

Aside from the distinctive historical towns and agricultural economy, the pride of Ilocos Sur is a delicious delicacy called Dinakdakan. Dinakdakan is grilled pig ears, snout, tongue, and face. This hearty dish is similar to sisig and kilawen. However, what sets it apart from sisig and kilawen is that the grilled pig's face or head is marinated in pig’s brains.Serve this dish as an appetizer, or in tagalog, "pulutan" and partner it with your favorite alcoholic drinks or simply as a viand to enjoy with family and friends.

Isla Kulinarya is proud to present Dinakdakan.

Dinakdakan

Dinakdakan

Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Serves: 10

Ingredients:

2 pt Water
8 oz Pig’s ear
8 oz Pig tongue, surfaced layer removed
8 oz Pig’s liver
8 oz Pig’s snout
8 oz Pig’s cheek
8 oz Pork Tripe
8 oz Intestine
1/4 “ Ginger, chopped
2 pcs Bay leaves
1 tbsp Peppercorns, black
1 pc Onion, white, large, ½ is julienned, ½ is chopped
1 pc Onion, red, medium, julienne
2 cloves Garlic, sliced thin
4 tbsp Calamansi juice
1 tsp Salt
¼ tsp Pepper, black, ground
1 tbsp Mayonnaise (substitute to the pig’s brain)
2 stalks Green Onion, sliced across fine

Cooking Instructions:

In a stock pot, pour the water. Place all pig’s parts. Add ginger, bay
leaves, peppercorns, one chopped onion. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30
minutes.
In a colander, pour the entire contents of stock pot to strain & drain. Wash
thoroughly.
While still warm to touch, scrape off the top of the pig’s tongue. Rinse
well.
Grill all the meats until brown.
Slice all the meats in small bite size pieces, except the ear and the tongue
which should be julienned.
In a bowl, combine all the meats. Add the julienned onion, garlic, calamansi
juice, salt and pepper. Mix well.
Incorporate the mayonnaise and green onion. Allow to blend before service.

To Serve: Warm platter. Place sauce on a platter. Lay meats and glaze over
with a small portion of sauce on one side of the meats. Serve with hot
steamed rice.

Catch us again next week as we feature another Ilocano recipe, you'll surely love. Don't miss it! Mangan tayon!

Isla Kulinarya lets you explore the islands, taste the food, relive the memories -- all made possible by Island Pacific Supermarket. Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.Check out our website at www.islandpacificmarket.com. Stay connected with us-- like us on Facebook @ island pacific market, follow us on Twitter @ islandpacificUS and Blogger @ island pacific market. For your comments, suggestions and request for recipes that you want us to feature, please email info@islandpacificmarket.com. Presyong Sulit, sa Island Pacific!

ISLA KULINARYA: THANKSGIVING RECIPES

2010-11-03T17:58:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving Recipe:

Island Pacific House Salad with Honey-Mustard Dressing

For the month of November, Isla Kulinarya will be featuring special recipes for Thanksgiving, which is a very special holiday celebrated in America every last Thursday of November. Traditionally, it has been a time to give thanks for a bountiful harvest, but has since evolved as a holiday to express thankfulness, gratitude, and appreciation to God, family and friends. Since it is celebrated with a four-day weekend, families have time to visit and gather together for loving reunions and lots of feasting.

Now , we bring you Chef Ryan's creations starting off with appetizer and salad, that will surely be a hit on your Thanksgiving dinner.

ISLAND PACIFIC HOUSE SALAD W/ HONEY-MUSTARD DRESSING

ISLAND PACIFIC HOUSE SALAD W/ HONEY-MUSTARD DRESSING
SERVES 4
salad
1 head                        iceberg lettuce (cut into bite size)
2 ea                            roma tomatoes (sliced)
1 ea                            hothouse cucumber (sliced)
1 ea                            carrot (julienne)
1 ea                            red apple (sliced)
1 tsp                           sesame seeds (toasted)

dressing
½ ea                           shallots (minced)
½ cup                         dijon mustard
½ cup                         honey
½ cup                         cider vinegar
1 cup                          canola oil
to taste                       salt & pepper

PROCEDURE:
-Start with a big smile on your face before cooking.
-Cut or slice all the vegetables for the salad
-Place them in a serving bowl and decorate them beautifully and put aside
-Make the dressing by adding shallots, Dijon mustard, honey, and cider vinegar in a separate bowl
Slowly add the oil while whisking it until the dressing is well incorporated
-Taste. Season it with salt and pepper if necessary
-Drizzle the dressing on the salad
-Mix and serve

Join us again next week for another dish that you can prepare for your Thanksgiving dinner. Don't miss it!

Isla Kulinarya lets you explore the islands, taste the food, relive the memories -- all made possible by Island Pacific Supermarket. Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.Check out our website at www.islandpacificmarket.com. Stay connected with us-- find us on Facebook @island pacific market, follow us on Twitter @islandpacificUS and Blogger @island pacific market. For your comments, suggestions and request for recipes that you want us to feature, please email info@islandpacificmarket.com. Presyong Sulit... sa Island Pacific.

ISLA KULINARYA'S FEATURED CHEF FOR NOVEMBER, CHEF RYAN BERGUNIO

2010-11-03T16:33:00.000-07:00

CHEF RYAN BERGUNIO

Former Executive Chef & Pastry Chef, Lola's Restaurant in West Hollywood

Former Chef De Cuisine & Executive Pastry Chef at Kado Japanese Restaurant

Chef Ryan

For Isla Kulinarya’s November series,Island Pacific is proud and honored to feature delectable recipes from one of the best Filipino American chefs today, Chef Ryan Bergunio of Lola’s Restaurant in Hollywood. Known as a favorite hang-out of celebrities, Lola’s keeps attracting crowds because of its amazing food which has always enjoyed great reviews from its clientele, thanks to Executive Chef Ryan. Bergunio graduated from Le Cordon Blue, worked at Peninsula Beverly Hills, did an internship at Table 8 with Chef Armstrong, and was the Executive Chef at La Defence.

Dubbed by food connoisseurs as a world class chef, Ryan Bergunio was born in the Philippines, and was raised in the small town of New Milford, Connecticut. After high school, he decided to move to Los Angeles to pursue a medical profession, but ended up working at Moishe’s Restaurant and enrolling at the exemplary Culinary School of Le Cordon Bleu Program in North America. He immersed himself in the masterpieces of French Chef Herve Guillard, English Chef Alyson Cook, and Master Baker, Joshua Orlando. Ryan graduated with a Scholarship, in the President’s Honor Roll, and a Perfect Attendance Award.

After graduation, Ryan worked with Celebrity Chef Govind Armstrong at Table 8 Restaurant and at the Peninsula Beverly Hills Hotel, before becoming an Executive Pastry Chef at Kado Restaurant. After a year, Ryan was hired as an Executive Chef at La Defence Restaurant. Then Lola’s came calling, and since then, he has been wowing Hollywood clients to no end with his amazing creations.

Isla Kulinarya lets you explore the islands, taste the food, relive the memories -- all made possible by Island Pacific Supermarket. Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.Check out our website at www.islandpacificmarket.com. Stay connected with us-- find us on Facebook @island pacific market, follow us on Twitter @islandpacificUS and Blogger @island pacific market. For your comments, suggestions and request for recipes that you want us to feature, please email info@islandpacificmarket.com. Presyong Sulit... sa Island Pacific.

Isla Kulinarya: Thanksgiving Recipe

2010-11-03T13:40:00.000-07:00

WARM SHRIMP COCKTAIL W/ HORSERADISH COCKTAIL SAUCE

WARM SHRIMP COCKTAIL W/ HORSERADISH COCKTAIL SAUCE
Serves 4

2 lbs                            16-20 black tiger shrimp, shell on (deveined & cleaned)
1 cup                           unsalted butter

BRINE
4 cups                         water
2 tbsp                         salt
2 tbsp                         sugar
6 cups                       ice

HORSERADISH COCKTAIL SAUCE
1 cup                           ketchup
2 tbsp                         horseradish sauce
1 tsp                            worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp                         lemon juice
to taste                       salt & pepper

PROCEDURE
-start with a big smile on your face before cooking
-devein and clean the shrimp, put them in the refrigerator until ready to use

BRINE
-make the brine by mixing water, salt, sugar and ice in a bowl. make sure to taste the brine and make necessary adjustments (the brine has a little sweetness and saltiness to it)
-place the shrimp in the brine, and let it brine for at least 45 minutes.

HORSERADISH
-make the horseradish cocktail sauce by mixing the ketchup, horseradish sauce, worscestershire sauce, lemon juice using a whisk.
-taste the sauce, and make necessary adjustments with salt and pepper.
-store in the refrigerator until ready to serve with the shrimp

GRILL
-after the brining process, grill or sautee the shrimp. This would take about 2 minutes on each side to cook. Make sure to brush or baste them with butter as they cook.

ISLA KULINARYA: The Ilocos Region's Native Cuisines

2010-10-27T18:55:00.000-07:00

Featured Region: Region I-- The Ilocos Region

Featured Recipe: Dinengdeng

Welcome to Isla Kulinarya. We are on the last week of the month with our featured region--- the Ilocos Region. In the last issue, we have shared with you an exotic dish called Pinapaitan or Papaitanalong with some of the key facts about the province of La Union, also known as the "Surfing Capital of the North". This week, we bring you yet another interesting cuisine from this region called Dinengdeng. We will also be highlighting another province in the region known for its Milkfish-- the province of Pangasinan.

The province of Pangasinan, located 250 kilometers or roughly 156 miles north of Manila is bordered by the provinces of Zambales and Tarlac on the south, Nueva Vizcaya and Nueva Ecija to the east, La Union on the north and the Lingayen Gulf to the west. It's name was derived from the word "asin" or salt due to the vast salt making industry of the province. It has extensive areas devoted to salt making and aquaculture along the coasts of Lingayen Gulf and South China Sea. Other than the salt industry, the province is also a major producer of mangoes, rice, milkfish and bamboo handicrafts.

A trip to Pangasinan will not be complete without visiting the Hundred Islands National Park--- a marine park composed of a cluster of more than a hundred islands off the coast of Alaminos City in the Lingayen Gulf, most of which are small and uninhabited islands. Some of the bigger islands have beaches where visitors can spend the day or camp out for a picnic.

Some of the tourist attractions in Pangasinan include the following: the Cape Bolinao Lighthouse, Port Bolinao Lighthouse, the Tara waterfalls, and Bolinao Museum in the town of Bolinao; the pristine Balingasay river and Antong Falls in the town of Sison; the Urduja House in Lingayen; the Salasa Church in Bugallon; Mount Balungao in Balungao; Manleluag Spring National Park in Mangatarem; Sanctuario de Senor Divino Tesoro in Calasiao; Redeemer’s Cross, Agno Umbrella Rocks and the Lingayen Gulf War Museum in the town of Lingayen. The province is also home to several caves--- Cacupangan cave in the town of Mabini, Cindy’s cave in Bolinao and the 200 meter Villacorta Caves in the town of Villacorta with waterfalls, pools and rock formations. Furthermore, the coastline of Lingayen Gulf is blessed with numerous beaches for tourist and vacationers to explore.

If you are planning to visit the province during summer, you'll be up to a great treat as several feasts and festivals are celebrated in Pangasinan, including the Pistay Dayat or Sea Feast, the Bangus Festival, and the Mango and Bamboo festivals.

Now for our featured dish, we bring you another authentic Ilocano recipe called Dinengdeng which is a bagoong based soup dish that is similar to Inabraw. The ingredients which include a mixture of vegetables such as squash, okra, ampalaya, eggplant and camote are combined to make a healthy yet satisfying dish.

Here for the enjoyment of Filipino Americans is another Ilocano dish called,Dinengdeng, brought to you by Island Pacific’s Isla Kulinarya.

www.islandpacificmarket.com. Stay connected with us-- find us on Facebook @island pacific market, follow us on Twitter @islandpacificUS and Blogger @island pacific market. For your comments, suggestions and request for recipes that you want us to feature, please email info@islandpacificmarket.com. Presyong Sulit... sa Island Pacific.

Ilocano's Dinengdeng

Dinengdeng

Yield: 6
Preparation Time: 45 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

½ qt. Water
2 cloves Garlic, sliced thin
1 pc Onion, large, sliced 1/8” thick
½” Ginger, washed, peeled, chopped
6 Tomatoes, large , chopped
½ tbsp Fish Sauce (Bagoong Isda)
½ tbsp Shrimp Base (Sysco) or Knorr cubes
1 pc Jalapeno pepper, seeded, diced ¼”
1 pc Milk Fish (Bangus)
1 ½ lb lb. scaled, cut into 6 pieces, blackened over the grill
4 pcs Baby bitter gourd (Baby Ampalaya), cut into half, lengthwise, then cut
1 ½” slices
4 pcs Baby round Eggplant, sliced into halves
1 pc Kabucha (squash) , medium, skin on, diced 1 ½”
6 pc Okra, trimmed
4 oz Jute leaves (Saluyut)

Cooking Instructions:

In a large pot, pour water.Bring to a boil. Add garlic, onion, ginger and
tomatoes. Simmer for 3 minutes.
Add fish sauce (Bagoong Isda) and Shrimp base (Sysco) or Knorr Shrimp cube.
Cook for another 3 minutes
Add Jalapeno pepper, simmer for 3 minutes.
Add fish and simmer for another 3 minutes. Add the rest of the vegetables
and cook for 10 to 15 minutes.

Note: Do not stir with a spoon. To mix, shake and toss the pot vigorously.
Gently and carefully lift the fish from the pot. Serve.

To Serve: Place the vegetable and broth in a deep platter. Line the fish on
top of the vegetable. Pour broth over top.

Next week, in observance of Thanksgiving, we will be sharing with you our Thanksgiving recipes prepared and created by another talented Chef-- Chef Ryan Bergunio. Don't miss it!

Isla Kulinarya lets you explore the islands, taste the food, relive the memories -- all made possible by Island Pacific Supermarket. Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.Check out our website at

ISLA KULINARYA: The Ilocos Region's Native Cuisines

2010-10-20T11:30:00.000-07:00

Featured Region: Region I-- The Ilocos Region

Featured Recipe: Pinapaitan or Papaitan (Mixed Cow's Innards Soup)

In the last issue, Isla Kulinarya featured a delectable dish from Ilocos Sur called Dinakdakan --- grilled pigs head and face marinated in pigs brains. We have also briefly shared with you some interesting information about the province such as its geography, climate, culture, and economy.

This week, we highlight another province from this region which is La Union and we 'll share with you another exotic dish called Papaitan or Pinapaitan.

The province of La Union, which is 6 hours north of Manila, is bordered by Ilocos Sur in the north, Benguet to the east, Pangasinan in the south and the South China Sea in the West. It traces its origin back in 1854 when a Royal Decree was issued by Queen Isabella of Spain on April 18, 1854, creating this province.The name La Union was derived from the union of various towns from the different provinces such as the 9 towns of Pangasinan, 3 towns of Ilocos Sur and the villages of Eastern Pais del Igorotes that stand on both sides of the western foothills of the Cordilleras. La Union was already a bustling and important trading port, especially for gold, dominated by Chinese and Japanese merchants, long before the Spaniards came in 1572.

The province maintains itself through agriculture, manufacturing, and service industries. They produce products such as soft brooms, rice wines, dried fishes, and baskets. Visitors and natives of La Union expect the climate to be relatively dry from November to April and wet from October to May.

The province of La Union, is also known as the “Surfing Capital of the North”. It made a big splash in the local and international surfing community at it is now one of the favored surfing sites in the Philippines after Siargao in Mindanao. Surfers will concur that La Union beaches have decent surf breaks. On good days waves can reach up to 8 ft to 10 ft. San Juan, Tuboc, Bacnotan, and Darigayos are popular surf destinations in the province. Though the surf is inconsistent, on a good day, waves can be totally awesome!

Other than surfing, La Union also prides itself with Botanical Gardens found in San Fernando City. These Botanical gardens showcase different pavilions in a sprawling ten-hectare facility ---a Fernery, Palmery, Fragrance Garden, Sunken Garden, Evergreen Garden, Arid Paradise, and a Shade Garden – with flora and fauna that are indigenous only to the Philippines. Truly, La Union is a haven of paradise for the adventure-seeking and nature loving individuals.

Indeed , the Botanical Gardens and the beaches that boast of excellent world-class surf breaks offer a welcome respite from the humid and sometimes searing hot weather of the province.

Now for our featured dish, we bring you Pinapaitan or papaitan , which is an authentic Ilocano recipe.

Pinapaitan or Papaitan is said to be a product of the Ilocano’s resourcefulness, which traces its history back in 1800s when the Spanish friars at that time would get the best parts of the meat and the Filipinos would be given the left-over cuts. Being resourceful people that they are, Ilocanos are well-known for maximizing possible food sources for their cuisine, including, believe it or not, innards. Papaitan derives its name from "pait" meaning bitter and is made with either beef or goat and consists of internal organs such as liver, small intestine, tripe and lungs, plus papait or intestinal juice or apro or bile. Beef or goat innards are boiled , then seasoned with bile, fish sauce and other condiments.

Here for the enjoyment of Filipino Americans is an exotic dish called,Pinapaitan or Papaitan brought to you by Island Pacific’s Isla Kulinarya.

Papaitan or Mixed Cow's Innards Soup

PAPAITAN CARNE (Baboy/Baka/Kambing)

Yield: 8-12
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 43 minutes

Ingredients:

2 pt Water
1 pc Ginger, 1/2” chopped, ½” sliced
2 pcs Onion, 1 quartered, 1 chopped
4 cloves Garlic, 2 chopped, 2 sliced
2 pcs Bay leaves
1 tbsp Peppercorns, black
1 tsp Thyme (dried)
1 tsp Tarragon (dried)
1 lb Tripe
1 lb Intestine
1 lb Pig’s cheek and snout
1 lb Pig’s liver
1 lb Goat’s meat (kambing)
2 tbsp Cooking oil
1 cup Water
½ pkt Sinigang Mix (Sampaloc)
1 tsp Fish Sauce (Patis)
1 tsp Shrimp Base (Sysco)
1 tsp Chicken Base (Sysco)
2 pcs Bitter gourd (ampalaya), large, chopped
3 pcs Hot pepper (Siling labuyo)

Method:

Return to a low boil for 20 minutes
Add all the meats. Bring back to a boil, and simmer for 30 minutes to tenderize.
In a colander, pour all the contents of the pot to strain and drain.

Rinse thoroughly with warm faucet water. Slice all the meats to bite sizes. Put aside.
While timing the grilling procedure, place bitter gourd in a blender and puree (you can also use a stick blender). Strain juice.
Grill meats until golden brown
In a wok, pour oil. When heated, sauté sliced ginger, sliced onion and sliced garlic.

Saute until onion is translucent and the garlic lightly browned.
In the wok, sauté all the meats for 10 minutes. Add water, sinigang mix, fish sauce, shrimp base and chicken base. Cook for another 10 minutes until sauce is reduced.

Add hot pepper and the juice of the bitter gourd (ampalaya juice).

Saute for 3 minutes more.

Stir to get bitter result.

In a large stock pot, pour water. Bring to a boil. Add ginger (chopped), onion, garlic (chopped), bay leaves, peppercorns, thyme, and tarragon.

Catch us again next week as we feature another Ilocano recipe, you'll surely love. Don't miss it! Mangan tayon!

Isla Kulinarya lets you explore the islands, taste the food, relive the memories -- all made possible by Island Pacific Supermarket. Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.Check out our website at www.islandpacificmarket.com. Stay connected with us-- find us on Facebook @island pacific market, follow us on Twitter @islandpacificUS and Blogger @island pacific market. For your comments, suggestions and request for recipes that you want us to feature, please email info@islandpacificmarket.com. Presyong Sulit... sa Island Pacific.

Isla Kulinarya is now on YouTube!

2010-10-06T17:11:00.001-07:00

In line with the Filipino Heritage Month, Isla Kulinarya by Island Pacific Supermarket can now be seen on YouTube.
Isla Kulinarya, a weekly column in Asian Journal, features a specific region of the Philippines and showcases recipes of its distinct native cuisines. The column provides interesting informationabout the place, its history, culture, language, and famous landmarks that make the Philippines truly unique.
To accompany the column, videos of cooking demonstrations and cooking tips are available to the public online through the Island Pacific Supermarket's Youtube channel.
The videos, which will feature some of our best chefs, authors, homemakers and Philippine cuisine aficionados will not only teach viewers how to cook some of Filipinos’ favorite dishes but also give them tips to make their meals special and memorable.

Through ISLA KULINARYA, Island Pacific Supermarket aims to showcase and promote Filipino cuisine to the world.

Check out a new episode aired every Wednesdays on youtube atwww.youtube.com/user/islandpacificmarket.

Isla Kulinarya lets you explore the islands, taste the food, relive the memories -- all made possible by Island Pacific Supermarket. Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.Check out our website at www.islandpacificmarket.com. Stay connected with us-- like us on Facebook (island pacific market), follow us on Twitter (islandpacificUS) and Blogger (island pacific market).

Watch us on YouTube at www.youtube.com/user/islandpacificmarket. For your comments, suggestions and request for recipes that you want us to feature, please email info@islandpacificmarket.com. Presyong Sulit... sa Island Pacific. "

Chef Soc Inonog , the First Certified Culinary Educator by the American Culinary Federation

2010-10-06T17:05:00.000-07:00

Isla Kulinarya's featured Chef, Socrates Zaldivar-Inonog, the first Certified Culinary Educator by the American Culinary Federation. Read the article about this great Filipino Chef from Asian Journal.

http://www.ajdigitaledition.com/webpaper/webpapers/2010/aj100915/viewer_frame.html

ISLA KULINARYA: The Ilocos Region's native cuisines

2010-10-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

The Ilocos Region's Native Cuisines

Featured Recipe: Inabraw or Abraw

In the last issue, Isla Kulinarya featured an Ilocano dish composed of a medley of local vegetables called pinakbet. We have also shared with you some interesting information about the region. This week,once again, we focus our attention on another cuisine, Inabraw or Abraw from this northwestern section of Ilocos, which is noted for being the birthplace of former Philippine President, Ferdinand Edralin Marcos, who ruled the country for almost 20 years.

Ilocos Norte's main source of livelihood is agriculture, where all lands for cultivation can be planted with rice, corn, garlic, onion, sugarcane, tobacco, and cotton. Cloth weaving, pottery making, blacksmithing, woodcarving and furniture making abound in this province as well. For those wishing to visit this province, they should be prepared to weather the extreme climate, which is very dry from December to April and very wet for the rest of the year. May is the warmest month, with an average temperature of 83 deg F, and December is the coldest.

Now, for our featured dish, we will be sharing with you the recipe on Inabraw or Abraw.

Inabraw or Abraw is a vegetable soup dish that is marinated in a fish paste called "bagoong". "Bagoong" is the Philippines’ version of the French caviar and is used in a variety of ethnic dishes. Patiently fermented, anchovies are used to make bagoong and it provides a unique salty taste for the palate. Some say you are not a true blooded Ilocano if you do not like eating with bagoong.

Inabraw or Abraw

The vegetables used in this dish are garlic, onion, tomatoes, eggplant, and jute leaves. All of these vegetables are readilyavailable from every Ilocano’s backyard and a staple in many other local dishes including pinakbet. As in most Ilocano dishes, a generous
portion of garlic, onions and tomatoes are used in the making of inabraw. These vegetables are seasonings that are great for common cold, heart disease and a variety of illness.

On the other hand, Jute leaves or “saluyot”, popularly known in the medical field as the “wow vegetable”, is one of the most nutritious vegetables in the Philippines. It is known to give smooth, clear skin, and increases the immune system. Because of its fibrous
nature, it helps to maintain good intestinal health. Saluyot, onions, garlic,tomatoes and cut slices of eggplants or “talong”, a deeply purple glossy vegetable complete the making of Inabraw. A nightshade vegetable, eggplants contain great antioxidants that helps in controlling cancer and diabetis. Together, these assortment of green leafy and colofrul vegetables in inabraw has been known to be the secret behind the long life, good health and youthful looks among Ilokanos.

Abraw is considered a healthy dish because of the amount of vegetables that make up this beloved Ilokano dish.

Here for the enjoyment of Filipino Americans is a healthy recipe-- brought to you by Island Pacific’s Isla Kulinarya.

Catch us again next week as we feature another Ilocano recipe, you'll surely love. Don't miss it! Mangan tayon!

Isla Kulinarya lets you explore the islands, taste the food, relive the memories -- all made possible by Island Pacific Supermarket. Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.Check out our website at www.islandpacificmarket.com. Stay connected with us-- like us on Facebook (island pacific market), follow us on Twitter (islandpacificUS) and Blogger (island pacific market). For your comments, suggestions and request for recipes that you want us to feature, please email info@islandpacificmarket.com. Presyong Sulit... sa Island Pacific. Advertising Supplement.

ISLA KULINARYA: The Ilocos Region's native cuisines

2010-10-01T15:16:00.000-07:00

Featured Region: Region I -- the Ilocos Region
Featured Recipe: Pinakbet

For the whole month of October, Isla Kulinarya will bring you to a scenic region that is blessed with open highways and cobblestoned roads, old fashioned towns, and grand Spanish style architecture-- the Ilocos Region. Region 1 or Ilocos Region, which is wedged between the wild china sea and rugged Cordillera mountain range demonstrates a visually stimulating scene that boasts its splendor and magnificence. It consists of several provinces including: Abra, Benguet, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Mountain Province, and Pangasinan.

In addition, Ilocos is home to hardworking people who have cultivated the land to provide themselves with nourishment for thousands of years.

They say they’ll know you’re Ilokano if :
             *you're a spendthrift or a frugal person
             *you address your fellows as lakay.
             *you say “aysos” over 10 times a day
             *your family gathering includes an inevitable game of Pepito/Pusoy
             *your favorite expression is mangan tayon (let’s eat!) and
             *your favorite dish is pinakbet.

Pinakbet or pakbet is a popular Ilocano dish, from the northern regions of the Philippines, although it has become popular throughout the archipelago. The word is the contracted form of the Ilocano word pinakebbet, meaning "shrunk" or "shriveled".

Ilokano's pinakbet

The original Ilocano pinakbet uses bagoong, of fermented monamon or other fish, while further south, bagoong alamang is used. The basic vegetables used in this dish include native bitter melon, eggplant, tomato, ginger, okra, string beans, lima beans, chili peppers, parda and winged beans. A Tagalog version usually includes squash or kalabasa. Most of these vegetables are easily accessible, and are grown in backyards and gardens of most Ilocano households.

As its name suggests, pinakbet is usually cooked until almost dry and shriveled and the flavors of the vegetables are emphasized and accentuated by bagoong (shrimp paste). In some cases, lechon, chicharon, or other meats (most commonly pork), or shrimp are added.

Because pinakbet is a vegetable dish, it is considered a healthy dish. Here for the enjoyment of Filipino Americans is a great recipe for this beloved Ilokano dish- brought to you by Island Pacific’s Isla Kulinarya.

Catch us again next week as we feature another Ilocano recipe, you'll surely love. Don't miss it! Mangan tayon!

Isla Kulinarya lets you explore the islands, taste the food, relive the memories -- all made possible by Island Pacific Supermarket. Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.Check out our website at www.islandpacificmarket.com. Stay connected with us-- like us on Facebook (island pacific market), follow us on Twitter (islandpacificUS) and Blogger (island pacific market). For your comments, suggestions and request for recipes that you want us to feature, please email info@islandpacificmarket.com. Presyong Sulit... sa Island Pacific. "

Island Pacific Supermarket at Eat Bulaga Live in Anaheim!

2010-09-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

ISLAND Pacific Supermarket proudly supported Eat Bulaga show held recently at Heritage Forum in Anaheim. The formidable comic duo of Vic and Joey along with the Dabarkads and EB Babes wowed the crowd.

Concert goers received coupons from Island Pacific Supermarket

The crowd filled the Heritage Forum in Anaheim

Vic Sotto and Joey De Leon with the Dabarkads and EB Babes

Island Pacific endeavors to support Philippine artists who come to the US to provide entertainment to our fellow kababayans. Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California. Check out our website at www.islandpacificmarket.com. Stay connected with us --- Like us on Facebook (island pacific market), follow us on Twitter (islandpacificUS) and Blogger (island pacific market). Presyong Sulit... sa Island Pacific. "

Island Pacific supports Fall Ball Fun Fest 2010: A Basketball Exhibition Game

2010-09-21T12:22:00.000-07:00

Island Pacific Supermarket supports Fall Ball Fun Fest 2010, a basketball exhibition game featuring PBA Heroes such as Jerry Codinera, Jojo Lastimosa, Benjie Paras, Kenneth Duremdes and many more!

A family event with lots of food, pre-game event and performances. Come and join the fun on October 3, Sunday , 10 AM- 5PM, pre-game starts at 12:30 pm.

Island Pacific at the Jazzmopolitan: Filipino Gentlemen of Jazz

2010-09-17T14:48:00.000-07:00

Island Pacific Supermarket proudly supported Jazzmopolitan: Filipino Gentlemen of Jazz, held recently at the Ford Amphitheatre in Hollywood . It was truly an unforgettable evening where the crowd was treated to a finger-snapping, toe-tapping, betcha-never-heard-that-before music performed by some of the best Filipino and Filipino-American jazz instrumentalists and vocalists.

Enjoying the food at the VIP Reception were saxophonist, Ner De De Leon, singer Becca Godinez, and musical director Edward "Tateng" Katindig, and Charina Carrera from Island Pacific Supermarket.

The Filipino Gentlement of Jazz included saxman Michael Paulo, who has performed with AL Jarreau, James Ingram, Rick Braun, Peter White, Kenny Logins, Patti Austin, David Benoit and Kalapana; vocalist Mon David, champion of the 2006 London International Vocal Competition; saxophonist Ner de Leon, Berkelee School of Music alumnus and emerging contemporary jazz musician; Rafael "Raffy" Lopez, COO of ABS-CBN International, the largest Philippine-based global media network and a passionate guitarist; and musical director Edward "Tateng" Katindig, known affectionately as the Oscar Peterson of the Philippines. The evening's house band was composed of drummer Abe Lagrimas, Jr. ,bassist Dominic Thiroux , Myke Gonzaga and George Rossi. The jazz jamming had the crowd dancing to their feet!

Saxman Michael Paulo , shown here with ace comedian, Bernardo Bernardo

Jazzmopolitan is a part of the Ford 2010 Season, a multi-disciplinary arts series produced by the Los Angeles County Arts Commission in cooperation with Los Angeles County-based arts organizations. A portion of the show's proceeds were donated to Filipino American Library and Bantay Bata, a project of the ABS-CBN Foundation International, Inc.
Island Pacific endeavors to promote art, food and culture by actively supporting these types of events.

COO of ABS CBN International and passionate guitarist, Raffy Lopez with his family along with Gina Tabuena- Godinez and Charina Carrera of Island Pacific Supermarket.

Seen enjoying the show was another jazz singer, Louie Reyes , shown here with Mon David.

Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California. Check out our website at www.islandpacificmarket.com. Stay connected with us --- Like us on Facebook (island pacific market), follow us on Twitter (islandpacificUS). Presyong Sulit... sa Island Pacific. "

Isla Kulinarya's featured Chef: Chef Socrates Z. Inonog

2010-09-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Isla Kulinarya-- a gastronomic adventure that will take you from one culinary destination to the next, exploring the different cuisines that make each regions of the Philippines truly unique. Together with some of the best chefs and food authors as well as ordinary homemakers, Isla Kulinarya will share delicious recipes and introduce readers to the world of authentic flavors of the Islands Philippines.

For our opening salvo, we will showcase special recipes from the most celebrated Filipino chef in America - Chef Socrates Inonog. He’s the first chef to be bestowed as the Certified Culinary Educator in the US and has received a number of awards from his decades of culinary career.

The 79-year-old was the former Dean of Emeritus of Culinary Arts at Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. He served as a culinary professor, Department Chairman, Dean of Faculty, and Director of Operations before accepting the Dean Emeritus position at the Johnson and Wales University. One of his former students from the class of 1978 was none other than famous international chef Emeril Lagasse.

Inonog proudly promotes Philippine cuisine wherever he goes. "We should be proud of what we have," he said. "Our cuisine, it’s not simple, it’s a combination of so many cultures, Spaniards for 300 years, Japanese, Chinese, Malaya Polynesian we should be proud of our cuisine. To this day whenever I cook, although I know how to cook everything, they want my Filipino food. As a Filipino, love your cuisine, really promote it and love it. "

Catch us again next week as we bring you Chef Soc's Inonog's version of Adobo. Watch out for it!

Isla Kulinarya lets you explore the islands, taste the food, relive the memories -- all made possible by Island Pacific Supermarket. Go and visit an Island Pacifc near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vermont in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.

Check out our website at www.islandpacificmarket.com. Like us on Facebook (island pacific market), follow us on Twitter (islandpacificUS) and connect with us on Blogger (island pacific market). For your comments, suggestions and request for recipes that you want us to feature, please email info@islandpacificmarket.com.

Presyong Sulit... sa Island Pacific. "

Isla Kulinarya: Introduction to Philippine Cuisine

2010-09-08T12:35:00.000-07:00

Welcome to ISLA KULINARYA – Island Pacific’s regular column featuring Filipino culture through its varied cuisine. Starting today and every MDWK issue of the Asian Journal, we will feature free delicious recipes from chefs, culinary experts and ordinary Pinoys who just love to cook – from all-time Philippine favorites to local, unique fare from different regions. Enjoy new and traditional Filipino food recipes that are simple to cook and always a pleasure to serve and eat... dishes that are always welcome on the dining table.

Apritada, a Spanish influence dish

Like Philippine fiestas, Filipino recipes are rich in flavor & color. Philippine cuisine is as diverse as the different regions that make up the 7,000 islands. It is flavored by a rich variety of herbs and spices found all over the islands. Aside from the many tropical fruits and vegetables grown in the mountains and plains, seafood, meat and poultry are also a major part of the Filipino diet.

The Filipino culinary expertise has been greatly influenced by Spanish, Chinese, European, American, Arab and Asian cuisines. It is a fusion of various recipes adopted from earlier traders, Asian immigrants and former colonizers. Foreign trade brought in all kinds of spices and plants to the Philippines. And like the Filipino today, its cuisine is a gastronomic feast from different countries and cultures - from east to west.

Chicken Feet or most commonly referred to by the locals as "Adidas"

Filipinos have embraced as their own cuisines form other countries like the noodles from the Chinese, rice and meat dishes from the Spaniards, steak and burgers from the Americans and pasta from the Italians. All these now form part of the Philippine cuisine – made even better with the Filipino creativity.

Korean BBQ, Asian influence dish

Get to know the Philippines more through its culinary treats. Experience the tastes and colors of Philippine food. The cuisine is a gastronomic delight that has been savored through many generations. Discover and enjoy the free Filipino food recipes, only from Island Pacific’s Isla Kulinarya. Happy Cooking!

ANG GANDA, DIVA?! featuring Lani Misalucha and Vice Ganda

2010-09-07T10:38:00.000-07:00

Coming this Fall 2010, Starmedia brings to you yet another spectacular showcase featuring two of the hottest artists today -- Vegas' 2008 Entertainer of the Year, Ms. Lani Misalucha and the Philippines funniest, Vice Ganda together in ANG GANDA, DIVA?! Don't miss out on this fun event that will have you singing and laughing the night away!

Island Pacific Supermarket is a proud sponsor of Ang Ganda Diva?! Tickets are available at Island Pacific branches.

Eat Bulaga Live in Anaheim! Tickets are available at Island Pacific branches.

2010-09-07T09:41:00.000-07:00

Watch the trio of Tito, Vic, and Joey along with Dabarkads and EB Babes at EAT BULAGA LIVE in Anaheim, California

Be entertained by the funny antics of this formidable trio as they tickle your funny bones on Saturday, September 18, 2010 @ 7:30 pm at the Heritage Forum located at 201 E. Broadway Anaheim, CA 92805.

Tickets are available at Island Pacific branches.

Update on egg recall and how to avoid Salmonella - Charleston Motherhood | Examiner.com

2010-09-06T23:36:00.000-07:00

Update on egg recall and how to avoid Salmonella - Charleston Motherhood | Examiner.com

The egg recall affecting California, Colorado, and Minnesota at this time include Noodle Products. The FDC in cooperation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted investigations of over a thousand reported cases, in July of salmonella. Their efforts tracked the tainted eggs to Wright County Egg in Galt, Iowa. The supplier furnished eggs to multiple restaurants and grocery clusters in California, Colorado, and Minnesota. Hillandale Farmsh has been identified as another possible source of contaminated eggs.

To avoid salmonella from ingestion of eggs:

Do not eat recalled eggs, searchable database of products affected.
Wash hands and surfaces that come in contact with raw eggs, chicken and meat.
Cook eggs fully. Egg whites and yolks left runny or raw increase the chances of a person contracting salmonella, as the product has not sustained enough heat to kill the bacteria.
The elderly and infants are more susceptible and generally suffer more serious symptoms from salmonella. Be extremely careful when serving eggs to them in particular.
Stay clear of restaurants that serve foods prepared with raw or not fully cooked eggs such as hollandaise sauce.
Purchase pasteurized eggs and patron restaurants and grocers known to use and sell pasteurized eggs.

Special Note: Fresh eggs from the recalled farms are being diverted to USDA-Approved facilities for pasteurization.(CNN Eatocracy, August 2010.)

Signs and symptoms of Salmonella:

Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Fever
Chills
Headache
Muscle pains
Blood in the stool

Commonly caused by eating raw or undercooked eggs, meat, poultry, and egg products. If you suspect that you have salmonella poisoning, please see a doctor.

As always thank you for reading and please subscribe for free below for updates and relevant topics.

Statement of Egg Safety Center on Egg Recall by Wright County Egg

2010-09-06T23:31:00.000-07:00

Statement of Egg Safety Center on Egg Recall

ALPHARETTA, Ga., Aug. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Wright County Egg of Galt, Iowa, is voluntarily recalling specific Julian dates of shell eggs produced by their farms because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, a food-borne bacteria. The company is making this voluntary recall of products because testing at the company's farm showed some of the eggs may contain the bacteria.

Consumers should return the eggs in the original carton to the store where they were purchased for a full refund. Eggs affected by this recall were distributed to food wholesalers, distribution centers and foodservice companies in California, Illinois, Missouri, Colorado, Nebraska, Minnesota, WisconsinIowa. These companies distribute nationwide. and Eggs are packaged under the following brand names: Lucerne, Albertson, Mountain Dairy, Ralph's, Boomsma's, Sunshine, Hillandale, Trafficanda, Farm Fresh, Shoreland, Lund, Dutch Farms and Kemps. Eggs are packed in varying sizes of cartons (6-egg cartons, dozen egg cartons, 18-egg cartons) with Julian dates ranging from 136 to 225 and plant numbers 1026, 1413 and 1946. Dates and codes can be found stamped on the end of the egg carton. The plant number begins with the letter P and then the number. The Julian date follows the plant number, for example: P-1946 223.

Consumers are reminded that properly storing, handling and cooking eggs should help prevent food-borne illness. The Egg Safety Center and the Food and Drug Administration recommend that eggs should be fully cooked until both the yolks and the whites are firm, and consumers should not eat foods that may contain raw or undercooked eggs. For more information on proper handling and preparation of eggs and answers to other frequently asked questions, visit www.eggsafety.org.

The chance of an egg containing Salmonella Enteritidis is rare in the United States. Several years ago, it was estimated that 1 in 20,000 eggs might have been contaminated, which meant most consumers probably wouldn't come in contact with such an egg but 1 time in 84 years. Since that time most U.S. egg farmers have been employing tougher food safety measures to help protect against food-borne illness. Chief among these methods are modern, sanitary housing systems; stringent rodent control and bio-security controls; inoculation against Salmonella Enteritidis; cleaning and sanitization of poultry houses and farms; and testing.

About the Egg Safety Center

The Egg Safety Center provides scientifically accurate information on food safety issues related to eggs. We work with egg producers to provide them with the most up to date information available and are dedicated to educating consumers on proper food handling to reduce the incidence of food-borne illness. For more information on egg safety visit www.eggsafety.org.

Isla Kulinarya

2010-09-06T23:10:00.000-07:00

Our launching Press Release published at Asian Journal

Island Pacific Proudly Presents ISLA KULINARYA

2010-09-01T23:05:00.000-07:00

For Filipinos, no matter how many different cuisines they can enjoy in many places in the world, there’s nothing like the taste of Filipino cuisine. The Philippines with its 7,000 beautiful islands offers a wide array of culinary fare with each region having its own culinary specialties. Truly,the Pinoy culinary experience offers something to please every mood and palate.

Culinary traditions are important elements of our culture and history. Cuisine and the technology of its production show how people cope with food sources, vegetation, climate and the numerous other aspects of their environment. The Filipino's culinary expertise has become an important source of pride and livelihood. How the people of the Philippines transformed tropical ingredients into delicious meals and splendid edible fancies is a tribute to culinary creativity.

To celebrate the culinary distinctiveness of our Islands, the Island Pacific chain of supermarkets is launching its special ISLA KULINARYA. We will proudly showcase the story of our multifaceted culinary heritage not only in California, but to the rest of the world.

Island Pacific with its chain of supermarkets catering to the Filipino American community is the perfect vehicle to showcase the banquet of culinary creativity of the Filipinos. Isla Kulinarya will feature an array of distinctive regional dishes created with local ingredients with their very special flavors. These dishes reflect the influence of the various foreign cultures that impacted the Philippines for half a millennium. There’s the spicy hot dishes from Bicol, the sweet desserts and kakanins from Bulacan and Pampanga, the salty vegetable dishes from Ilocos or the unique herb-filled Lechon from Cebu. All so delicious, all distinctively Filipino.

Through ISLA KULINARYA, Island Pacific aims not only to celebrate our culinary expertise but also to educate and familiarize the second and third generation of Filipinos about our culture and food. As many chefs love to say, the way to know one's culture is through the stomach.

Each week, Isla Kulinarya will feature a special region of the Philippines, showcasing

important information about the place, the famous landmarks, and of course, recipes of its distinct native delicacies. Island Pacific has gathered together the best chefs and authors, as well as ordinary homemakers with delicious recipes to bring to you the world of authentic flavors of the Islands Philippines. Watch out for the Isla Kulinarya regular column at Asian Journal and on the Island Pacific website at www.islandpacificmarket.com

So, be prepared to engage in a rich tapestry of epicurean delight. There is so much to discover... so much to experience... so much to taste... thru ISLA KULINARYA!

Jazzmopolitan! Filipino Gentlemen of Jazz

2010-08-31T18:47:00.001-07:00

FILIPINO AND AMERICAN MUSICAL STYLES FUSE TO MAKE“JAZZMOPOLITAN” AN UNFORGETTABLE SHOW

Got sax?! American jazz meets Filipino “flavor” in an evening of culturally fused music when PAE Live! in association with RAS Music Group, TDRZ Productioins, Inc. and ABS-CBN’s The Filipino Channel (TFC) present “Jazzmopolitan: Filipino Gentlemen of Jazz” on Saturday, September 11 at the Ford Amphitheatre in Hollywood . It will be an evening of finger-snapping, toe-tapping, betcha-never-heard-that-before music that showcases some of the best Filipino and Filipino-American jazz instrumentalists and vocalists.

Headlining the concert is smooth jazz saxman Michael Paulo who makes a return to the Ford after a very long absence. One of the most versatile and cosmopolitan saxophonists in pop, soul and contemporary jazz for nearly 20 years, the Hawaiian born Paulo has added his distinct “saxpertise” to a virtual who's who of artists including Al Jarreau (Paulo's longest term touring association for over 10 years), James Ingram, trumpeter Rick Braun and guitarist Peter White, Oleta Adams, Kenny Loggins, Patti Austin, Jeffrey Osborne, Jeff Lorber, David Benoit, Carl Anderson, Bobby Caldwell, Johnny Mathis and more. Paulo grew up in a musical family (his father a pianist, his mother a singer, his siblings all playing instruments) and though he came upon the sax relatively late at age 15, he quickly became first horn player in his high school band and was playing professional gigs around the islands within a few years. He chose a more adventurous road by joining Hawaiian pop/rock band Kalapana, which had some success on the mainland but was most popular in Japan . As he says, "Music is always going to evolve, and it's up to the artist to respond gracefully to the changes. We don't know what the music will sound like years from now, but no matter what, it will be based on what the people in the audience feel."

Mon David, the only vocalist of the evening’s line up, makes his Ford debut at “Jazzmopolitan”. The seasoned performer and frequent guest performer at many of L.A.’s jazz hot spots is the champion of the 2006 London International Vocal Competition and has released a half dozen CDs which highlight his prowess as a true jazz singer. “I’ve always wanted to be a part of the ‘global tapestry in music’ and to explore the wonderful, rich and fertile musical playgrounds of the world” says David. “I am very proud to be Filipino and take joy when audiences from different cultures embrace this universal art form being created, performed and interpreted by an artist of Filipino descent.”

Saxophonist Ner de Leon, the Berkelee School of Music alumnus and emerging contemporary jazz musician, begins the evening with a tribute to some famous jazz musicians like Chuck Mangione and George Benson. Audience members will be surprised to learn that his versatility and musical prowess spans the genres of rock ‘n roll, R&B, pop and smooth jazz. “I take pride in that Filipinos are very musical and adapting jazz into its sound just adds another dimension to our musical complexities,” says de Leon.

“Music is not my primary profession, but it is my primary love”, says jazz guitarist Rafael “Raffy” Lopez. Indeed, when he is not busy being COO of ABS-CBN, the largest Philippine-based global media network, he “jams” with a San Francisco-based local jazz band. “When I was 6 years old, “explains Lopez, “my brother was taking guitar lessons. One day, he could not make it to his lesson and I took his place. It was love at first sight and I have been playing guitar ever since!”. Expect to hear Lopez perform bossa nova from Jobim, Lins and Gilberto infused with Filipino rhythms and beats.

A similar sentiment is expressed by musical director Edward “Tateng” Katindig, known affectionately as the Oscar Peterson of the Philippines . “Music is a universal language and jazz is music. My playing comes from soul!” beams Katindig who completes his trio with drummer Abe Lagrimas, Jr. and bassist Dominic Thiroux as the evening’s house band. “I don’t see myself doing anything else except music!” said the piano player.

A portion of the show’s proceeds will be donated to the Filipino American Library, a registered non-profit organization whose mission is to actively promote the history, culture and professional achievements of Filipino Americans through educational and cultural programming. “’PAE Live!’ believes in giving back to the community” says producer Rex Sampaga “which is why we are supporting the Library. They have always been an institution in the preservation of Filipino-American history and we want to support their goals, particularly in this unsteady economic period.”

Jazzmopolitan is proudly sponsored by ABS-CBN’s TFC (The Filipino Channel), Island Pacific Supermarkets, FUSICOLOGY and by media sponsors KSCI-TV Channel 18, radio station KJAZZ 88.1, The Asian Journal and Tribune U.S.A.

Tickets for “Jazzmopolitan” are $40.00 and $30.00 and are $12.00 for full-time students with ID and children 12 and under and can be purchased from the Ford box office at www.FordTheatres.org or 323-461-3673(for non-visual media 323-GO 1-FORD). Through the Ford’s early buyer incentive, adults who buy tickets on or before September 4 pay only $35.00 or $25.00. Special limited VIP tickets, which include a pre-concert reception at 6:30pm and premium seating, are available at $50.00, the net proceeds of which go to Bantay Banta, a project of the ABS-CBN Foundation International, Inc.

The Ford Amphitheatre is located at 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East , Hollywood , CA 90068 , just off the 101 Hollywood Freeway across from the Hollywood Bowl and south of Universal Studios. The grounds open two hours before show time for picnicking. The Ford offers a number of dining options but patrons are welcome to bring their own food and drink. The Ford is disabled accessible. Portable wireless listening devices are available upon request. On-site stacked parking costs $5 per vehicle for evening shows. FREE, non-stacked parking serviced by a FREE shuttle to the Ford is available at the Universal City Metro Station lot at Lankershim Blvd. and Campo de Cahuenga. The shuttle cycles every 15 – 20 minutes.

“Jazzmopolitan: The Filipino Gentlemen of Jazz”, produced by PAE Live!, is a part of the Ford 2010 Season, a multi-disciplinary arts series produced by the Los Angeles County Arts Commission in cooperation with Los Angeles County-based arts organizations. For a complete season schedule, directions to the theater and parking information, log on to www.FordTheatres.org.

PAE Live! in association with

RAS Music Group & TDRZ Productions, Inc.

ABS-CBN The Filipino Channel (TFC) and Island Pacific Supermarket

present

JAZZMOPOLITAN: The Filipino Gentlemen of Jazz

Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 8:00pm

John Anson Ford Amphitheater

2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, Hollywood, CA. 90068

Featuring Mon David, Ner de Leon, Raffy Lopez, & Michael Paulo

with Tateng Katindig, Abe Lagrimas, Jr., and Dominic Thiroux.

Tickets: $40.00/$30.00 Adults, $12.00 Students and Children

$50.00 VIP Tickets include pre-show reception at 6:30 and premium seating.

Early Buyer Incentive Before September 4: Adults - $35.00 / $25.00

No Discounts on VIP Tickets

Please visit www.fordtheatres.orgor call 323-461-3673 for more information.

Island Pacific at the 1st North America ANCOP Walk for the Poor

2010-08-30T18:51:00.000-07:00

Hundreds of people walked to support the cause of the Child Sponsorship Program

On Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th of August, dressed in their bright blue ANCOPWALK Shirts, Couples for Christ (CFC) members both in the USA and Canada together with their supporters like Island Pacific Supermarket and other groups from different sectors of society volunteered in various parks all across USA and Canada to walk for a very important cause, and that is for the Child Sponsorship Program.

The participants while hearing mass at the Bridgepoint Park, Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita Couples for Christ cluster

In the city of Valencia in Southern California where one of the events was held, Eric Villanueva, the National Director for CFCUSA said “My heart is overflowing with gratefulness for this very 1st North America ANCOP Walk for it marks an important milestone in the life and mission of CFC through its work for the poor program in ANCOP. This walk will have a lifetime effect on the lives of many young people by providing them with a future full of hope through education.”

The walk undertaken by hundreds of people all across the USA and Canada was extremely important to the future of under privileged kids who cannot afford to have proper education. He also mentioned that they were not alone on this effort and that 13 other states are conducting the same walk that same day and in some states like California, Maryland, and Florida, it was held on multiple sites.

Santa Clarita Couples for Christ Elders

Over 500 people converged at the Murphy Park in Milpitas to join the walk. The staging point in Milpitas was coordinated by Ding De Guzman while more than a couple of hundreds of people, trooped to Blue Rock Springs Park, Columbus Parkway in Vallejo and participated in the walk. The Vallejo staging point was coordinated by Rod Yumul.

Murphy Park, Milpitas

Vallejo staging point-- Blue Rock Springs Park, Columbus Parkway

Bert Araneta, who is one of the Chapter Leaders of Couples for Christ in the San Fernando Valley area, commented “It was most enjoyable! My top three things were being in the outdoors, doing something of value for someone else and seeing the results of a hard day’s labor.”

Filipino/Polish Olympian J.R. Celski with Malou Samson, CSP Regional Coordinator for Southern California, and Malou's daughter

Malou Samson, the CSP Regional Coordinator for Southern California spearheaded the volunteers and members of Couple for Christ So Cal together with Toffee Jeturian, Cris Kagahastian and Ricky Coronel, CFC-ANCOP leaders, as they marched through the green fields of Cross Roads Park (NORTH) in Chino Hills, simultaneous to the group in Valencia. Malou shared "it was so much fun walking side by side with J.R. Celski, the Filipino/Polish Olympic winner, knowing that for every step we make, a big change will happen in the lives of many poor children in the Philippines. We may be a world champion or we may be a nobody, it doesn't matter because we can be a sure winner when we support the cause of the Child Sponsorship Program. Inspiring words from Fr. James Moore, we are not giving a gift in a brown bag but we give the gift of love".

Eric Villanueva, Couples for Christ National Director

In Eric Villanueva’s opening remark he mentioned that in 2011, this will not be a North America event anymore, since other areas where inspired, together with ANCOP Manila, they will be planning for a Global event, an ANCOP Worlwide Walk for their Child Sponsorship Program.

Island Pacific Supermarket will endeavor to support the various communities it serves and continue to offer slashed down prices for our fellow Kababayans to enjoy.Go and visit an Island Pacific Supermarket near you! With locations at Canoga Park, Cerritos, North Vermont Los Angeles, South Vermont Los Angeles, Panorama City, West Covina in Southern California; Union city and Vallejo in Northern California. Check us out at www.islandpacificmarket.com

Island Pacific Supermarket Supports the 1st North America ANCOP Walk for the Poor

2010-08-20T18:49:00.000-07:00

The ANCOP Walk is faith in action!

Island Pacific Supermarket proudly supports the 1st North America ANCOP Walk for the Poor to be staged simultaneously in various parts of the US on Saturday, August 28 from 7am- 12nn. The 3-mile walk is being held to raise funds for ANCOP’s Child Sponsorship Program (CSP) --a project that sends poor Filipino children to elementary, high school or college level for free.

The ANCOP Walk brings together hundreds of participants across the U.S. and North America, walking together to help the poor in the Philippines and third world countries. The ANCOP Walk will happen simultaneously in Florida, North Carolina, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Texas, Massachusetts, Georgia and California. The four staging points in California are as follows: CHINO HILLS : Crossroads Park located at 14877 Eucalyptus Avenue, Chino Hills (Corner of Chino Hills Parkway); SANTA CLARITA : Bridgeport Park located at 23520 Bridgeport Ln., Santa Clarita CA 91355 ( corner of Mcbean Parkway and Newhall Ranch Rd.); MILPITAS: Murphy Park located at 1570 Olympic, Milpitas, CA, 95035; VALLEJO : Blue Rock Spring Park at 650 Columbus Parkway, Vallejo, CA 94591.

Formerly called ANCOP CAN Walk & GK Walk, the ANCOP Walk is an annual fundraising event that helps the poor in the Philippines and other third world countries by providing shelter, housing and child education programs for the poor living in slums and abject poverty.

The ANCOP approach is comprehensive, integrated and sustainable encompassing the many aspects that are essential to combat poverty. ANCOP programs are rooted in Christian values but without discrimination towards the race or religion of those in need. Since 2001 their shelter and child education programs have been helping the needy. Together with their donors and benefactors, ANCOP has been transforming many lives, and as of 2009 over 2,500 homes have been built and over 1,100 children have received education sponsorships from Canadian donors.

ANCOP Foundation USA Inc. is a Christian based organization founded by the Couples for Christ. It is a registered U.S. non-profit charity that provides Child Education Sponsorships and Shelter/Housing Programs for the poor. Their current projects focus on child education sponsorship programs and values formation.

The people’s participation and generosity in the ANCOP Walk will help provide quality education to children in poor communities. ANCOP serves the poor from all walks of life regardless of faith and denomination.

For more details about the ANCOP Walk and ANCOP USA please visit http://www.ancopwalk.us/ & www.ancopusa.org.

Get the Freshest Selections at the New Meat Section of Island Pacific Panorama

2010-08-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

Where Meat is Guaranteed Fresh… Always! Or Your Money Back!

Island Pacific has made shopping for fresh meats a superior experience by offering a money back guarantee on all its meat products at its Panorama City branch. The New Fresh Meat Section in Panorama is now equipped with brand new state-of-the-art freezers that maintain optimal freezing temperature to keep meat always fresh. So, you get the freshest selection of USDA Choice and Select grades of fresh meat -- Pinoy cuts of premium beef, tender pork, and choice chicken that have been carefully selected for your needs. All meats are guaranteed fresh, juicy and of the highest quality. Why do we offer a satisfaction guarantee? Simple. We offer this guarantee because we are confident in the freshness of our products and the precision of our customer service.

Our friendly butchers have years of experience and are ready to serve you with all your needs. Whether you would like your chicken cut into pieces, or your pork sliced for your favorite home recipes, they can do it! We also have marinated items that are ready to cook on the grill!

If you're on the rush, we have meats that are individually packaged--- Pinoy cuts for your favorite adobo, menudo or sinigang--- affording you to prepare your meals quickly thus giving you more time to spend with your family.

Our meat is always guaranteed fresh or your money back! If a customer is unhappy with the freshness or quality of our meat products, they can return the item and we will gladly give them their money back. Freshness is not just something the company states; it's a daily mission.

At Island Pacific, our utmost and primary responsibility is to our customers. We make sure that you, our valued customers, are getting the best quality products and low prices, giving you the best value for your money. Talagang Presyong Sulit...sa Island Pacific!

Island Pacific Supermarket provides the most complete line of seafood, meat, produce, and other Asian food products that satisfy the different needs of the Filipino community. It was opened to serve the increasing Filipino community as well as customers from different cultural backgrounds residing in and around California. Island Pacific offers a wide range of the freshest foods, grocery items and home essentials at very affordable prices. Come and visit an Island Pacific Supermarket near you! With branches at Cerritos, Canoga Park, Panorama City, North Vermont Los Angeles, South Vermont Los Angeles, West Covina, Union City and Vallejo. Visit our website at http://islandpacificmarket.com/

Historic Filipinotown 5K Run/Walk

2010-08-09T14:03:00.000-07:00

Island Pacific proudly supported the Annual 5K Run/Walk of Historic Filipinotown

The 5K Run/Walk kicked off the 8th celebration of the founding of Historic Filipinotown last Saturday, August 7. Over 400 people trooped to Historic Filipinotown to join the Hi-Fi Run/Walk that took place around 7:30 am at 1925 West Temple Street.

The run went through the heart of Historic Filipinotown headed west on Temple Street to Hoover, up past the 101 and back again. The participants had a glimpse of Historic Filipinotown's ethnic cafes such as Gigi's (Cuban Bakery), famous Brooklyn Bagels, Original Tommy’s Burger, Tribal Cafe or specialty Filipino restaurants namely Salakot, Kapistahan, Nanay Gloria’s, Bahay Kubo among others.

Community Partners included LAPD Rampart Division, Search to Involve Pilipino American (SIPA), Filipino American Service Group Inc. (FASGI),TWNDC, MOTHER Movement, Burlington School, Rotary Club of Historic Filipinotown. Primary Sponsors are the Office of LA Council President Eric Garcetti, Silverlake Medical Center and Island Pacific Supermarket.

Immediately after the run, a free film screening of “Little Manila” and sneak preview of “Delano Manongs: Forgotten Heroes of the United Farm Workers” by Emmy award winner Marissa Aroy were held at the SIPA Gateway Community Center at 3200 W. Temple Street.

Celebrities spotted shopping at Island Pacific Panorama City

2010-07-20T18:43:00.000-07:00

Platinum Prince of Soul , Jay-R shopping at Island Pacific Panorama with Bb. Pilipinas International 2010, Krista Kleiner. They found everything that they were looking for at Island Pacific. Come and visit an Island Pacific Supermarket near you because you'll never know who you'll gonna see next. For all your food shopping needs, make it a habit to shop at Island Pacific. Talagang Presyong Sulit ... sa Island Pacific. Check out Island Pacific branches near you-- Canoga Park, Panorama City, Cerritos, North Vermont and South Vermont in Los Angeles, West Covina ; Union CIty and Vallejo in Northern California. Visit us at http://www.islandpacificmarket.com/

Island Pacific Supports Boxer, Rodel Mayol

2010-07-10T18:36:00.000-07:00

ISLAND PACIFIC SUPERMARKET STEPS UP TO THE PLATE

By Ed de la Vega, DDS

PhilBoxing.com

With today’s slow economy and the lack of popularity or rather, recognition of Filipino boxers and boxing in general amongst mainstream Filipino businesses (except of course for Manny Pacquiao), it is heart-warming to know that there are Filipinos out there who appreciates the sacrifices of Filipino boxers and show it vividly by opening their pocketbooks to support boxers particularly, the lesser known.

Case in point:- Nino Lim, CEO of Island Pacific Supermarket in Los Angeles.

Boxer, Rodel Mayol

Team Mayol requested numerous Filipino-owned and Filipino oriented businesses to help Mayol’s quest to retain his title by providing “sponsorships” much like big multi-national corporations do for Manny Pacquiao.

Trainer Moray Quijano, Jesse Arevalo and cutman DrEd de la Vega

Mayol fights Omar Nino Romero of Mexico on June 19th at Queretaro, a city a couple of hours outside Mexico City. He will be defending his WBC World Junior Flyweight crown.

Of course the Team did not expect the Filipino companies to come up with what Pacquiao has been getting, just enough to help out as Mayol toils daily to shape up for his fight.

Not too many responded to the requests. The handful who did at least indicated because of the poor economy, they would not be able to help this time.

But not Lim, the CEO of the Island Pacific Supermarkets.

Lim is a well-known Filipino businessman who loves to help the community particularly Filipino boxers who fight for the glory of the country.

In fact, even Team Pacquiao gets help from Lim.

Lim supplies groceries from his markets for the consumption of Team Pacquiao and the people that visit him at the Palazzo Condo.

As for Mayol, Lim provided him a grant without strings attached.

He did not even ask Mayol to place his company logo on the Team Mayol uniforms.

He gave his share simply to help Mayol. And, what he gave is not exactly penny change.

What a class act!

Island Pacific therefore became Mayol’s sole sponsor. The Island Pacific logo will be placed in all the uniforms of the team including Mayols’s robe and fighting trunks.

Thank you, Island Pacific. Thank you Nino Lim for stepping up to the plate.

Hopefully, many more Filipino companies follow your lead!

Island Pacific Supermarket steps up to the plate

Published with permission from Mr. Ed de la Vega, DDS

The grp of 4 is Team Mayol:

Happy Fourth from Island Pacific Supermarket!

2010-07-02T18:55:00.000-07:00

Patriotism, parades, parties, picnics and pyrotechnics - 4th of July is a high intensity day of celebrations and national pride. We should be thankful for the country we live in and the freedom we have-- to think, feel and express our opinions. At the same time it's a great day to be with our families and friends to relax and enjoy another long weekend!

Are you having a cook out? A family get together? High School reunion? Camping perhaps? When planning your Fourth, make sure to stop by at Island Pacific Supermarket for all your food shooping!

Go and fire up your grill with Island Pacific's Meat specials! Beef Back Rib at 99 cents per pound, Pork Belly with Rib at $1.99 per pound, Pork Chop Skin on at $1.69 per pound. Don't forget to grab your grilling essentials-- Red and White Charcoal, 9 pound a pack at $2.99 per pack. Go ahead and grill some white corns too-- they are a steal at 4 pieces for $1.00! Go chill out with old buddies and grab a 12 pack San Miguel Beer at $10.99 per pack.

All these and other thousands of items are readily available at Island Pacific Supermarket. At Island Paciic, our utmost and primary responsibility is to our customers. We make sure that you, our valued customers, get the best bang for your buck! Talagang Presyong Sulit...sa Island Pacific! So, make it your habit, shop at Island Pacific!

Happy Fourth and have a great summer!

Celebrities at the Father's Day Celebration of Island Pacific Panorama

2010-06-26T18:27:00.000-07:00

Island Pacific Supermarket Panorama branch celebrated Father's Day last Saturday with a mini party held at the Kababayan Hall. The Father's Day Celebration was organized by Pinoy-Pinay, an organization for Filipino Americans based at the San Fernando Valley. Island Pacific Panorama donated 2 sacks of rice that were raffled off to the attendees of the event.

Jessica Rodriguez

Media personality Lhar Santiago from GMA's Unang Hirit and US based actress, Jessica Rodriguez made a surprise appearance late in the afternoon and gladly posed for pictures to the delight of the crowd.

Come and visit an Island Pacific Supermarket near you because you'll never know who you'll gonna see next. For all your food shopping needs, make it a habit to shop at Island Pacific. Talagang Presyong Sulit ... sa Island Pacific. Check out Island Pacific branches near you-- Canoga Park, Panorama City, Cerritos, North Vermont and South Vermont in Los Angeles, West Covina ; and Union CIty and Vallejo in Northern California.

Island Pacific at the Annual Festival of St. Joseph the Worker Parish, Winnetka, CA

2010-06-25T17:45:00.000-07:00

Island Pacific Supermarket continues to strenghten its ties with the community it serves . Just recently, Island Pacific Supermarket proudly supported the St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church Annual Festival held last June 25-27 at the school grounds.The annual festival is the biggest event and major fundraiser of the parish attended by over a thousand parishioners every year. The Filipino Chorale of St. Joseph the Worker Parish, serving at 11:30 am mass, every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month had a Filipino booth that served all Filipino cuisines.

The husband and wife team of Sonny and Lalyn Fernando were the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Filipino booth asissted by Efren Masangakay who was the booth's captain.Island Pacific Supermarket will endeavor to support the various communities it serves and continue to offer slashed down prices for our fellow Kababayans to enjoy. So make it a habit to shop at Island Pacific where you get the best bang for your buck and an unmatched customer service. Talagang Presyong Sulit...sa Island Pacific!

Some parishioners with Fr. Kevin Rettig, Pastor of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, Lalyn Fernando, Assistant Chair of the Filipino booth, Efren Masangkay, Filipino booth captain

Go and visit an Island Pacific Supermarket near you! With locations at Canoga Park, Cerritos, North Vermont in Los Angeles, South Vermont in Los Angeles,Panorama City, West Covina in Southern California; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California. Check us out at www.islandpacificmarket.com

Celebrating 112th Year of Philippine Independence

2010-06-14T18:38:00.000-07:00

Celebrating 112th Year of Philippine Independence
(Philippine Independence Day is June 12)

Island Pacific Supermarket participated in the celebration of the 112th year of Philippine Independence held at the City Hall last Friday, June 11. The Presentation of Resolution declaring June as Philippine Heritage Month in Los Angeles was presented by LA City Council President Eric Garcetti to Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo-Aragon. Eric Garcetti was joined by Fourteenth District City Councilman Jose Huizar along with members of the Los Angeles Filipino Association of City Employees (LAFACE) and officials from the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles. Luncheon reception and cultural performances immediately followed the proclamation.

LAFACE President, Cora Aragon Soriano & LAFACE members

112th Year of Philippine Independence, June 12

2010-06-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

Island Pacific Supermarket joins the Filipino Community and the entire nation in commemorating the 112th year of Philippine Independence on June 12, 2010

Nakikiisa ang Island Pacific Supermarket sa buong sambayanang Pilipino sa paggunita ng ikasandaan at labindalawalang taon ng araw ng kasarinlan!

Mabuhay ang bansang Pilipinas!

image taken from wikimedia.org

DID YOU KNOW?

One of the most significant dates in the Philippine's rich history is Independence Day. It marks the nation's independence from the Spanish rule on June 12, 1898. Since then, Filipinos celebrate it annually on June 12.

It was during the time of then President Diosdado Macapagal that the annual observance of Philippine Independence Day is observed on June 12. After signing the Republic Act No. 4166 on August 4,1964 , June 12 became a legal holiday. It is based on the Declaration of Independence made on June 12, 1898 by General Emilio Aguinaldo along with the Filipino revolutionary forces from the Spanish colonization. It was during this day that the Philippine's Flag was raised and its national anthem was played for the first time in 1898.

The Philippine Flag is symbolized by the following:

Royal blue field symbolizes peace, truth, and justice.

Scarlet red field symbolizes patriotism and valor.

White triangle stands for equality and brotherhood.

Three stars on the corners of the triangle represents the three main geographical regions of the country namely Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao.

The sun at the center of the triangle has eight rays representing the eight Philippine provinces that started the revolt against Spain.

The flag is seen in various places across towns and cities in the Philippines during the country's Independence Day.

Reference: Wikipedia, Philippine Declaration of Independence

Sizzling Summer Savings at Island Pacific Supermarkets

2010-06-10T18:56:00.000-07:00

With graduation parties happening around, Father's Day family celebrations, wedding parties every now and then--- there is no doubt that June is indeed one of the busiest month of the year!

No matter how busy we are in our day to day work load, most of us still make it a point to attend social gatherings-- be it our niece's graduation party, our bestfriend's wedding, or a simple family celebration for Dads--- we try our best to be there. What's common about all these celebrations--- other than picture taking-- - is the presence of food! Food is at the center of everything! So the next time you plan your party, stop by at Island Pacific Supermarket for all your food shopping needs!

Island Pacific Supermarket has everything you need for preparing gastronomic Filipino and Asian cuisines.

Come and shop at Island Pacific Supermarket where thousands of items are available at slashed down prices .At Island Pacific, our utmost and primary responsibility is to our customers. We make sure that you, our valued customers, get the best bang for your buck! Talagang Presyong Sulit.... sa Island Pacific!

So make it your habit, shop at Island Pacific!

Sing This Spring Promo, Magic Karaoke Weekly Winners, May 30 & June 6

2010-06-10T18:12:00.000-07:00

10 June 2010

Another valued shoppers of Island Pacific Supermarket Panorama City branch are the lucky winners of Magic Karaoke in our Sing This Spring Promo! The last two winners of Sing This Spring Promotion were drawn last May 30 and June 6. Harry Avellona from Santa Clarita and Louie Tanglao from Thousand Oaks were extremely excited about winning the Magic Karaoke. Harry and his wife are expecting a baby next month. The Magic Karaoke came just in time for his wife's baby shower, it will be his gift to her.

Harry Avelona from Santa Clarita who claimed the prize with his family in tow

Louie Tanglao couldn't believe it that he won in the raffle.It was also a perfect timing as he and his wife are planning to buy one to replace their conked out Magic Microphone.

Louie Tanglao fro mThousand Oaks shown here with his wife

As a way of saying thank you to its valued shoppers, Island Pacific Supermarket raffled off six Magic Karaoke weekly from April 24- June 5. For every $25 minimum purchase on single receipt, shoppers were entitled to a raffle coupon that gave them a chance to win a brand new Magic Karaoke.

Island Pacific Supermarket will continue to come up with exciting promotions and offer slashed down prices for our fellow Kababayans to enjoy. So make it a habit to shop at Island Pacific where you get the best bang for your buck and an unmatched customer service. Talagang Presyong Sulit...sa Island Pacific!

Go and visit an Island Pacific Supermarket near you! With locations at Canoga Park, Cerritos, North Vermont in Los Angeles, South Vermont in Los Angeles,Panorama City, West Covina in Southern California; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.

Congratulations to our Magic Karaoke Winners!

Sing This Spring Promotion Winners

2010-06-09T18:09:00.000-07:00

09 June 2010
Sing This Spring Promotion Winners

As a way of saying thank you to its valued shoppers, Island Pacific Supermarket raffled off six Magic Karaoke weekly from April 24- June 5. For every $25 minimum purchase on single receipt, shoppers were entitled to a raffle coupon that gave them a chance to win a brand new Magic Karaoke.

Island Pacific Supermarket will continue to come up with exciting promotions and offer slashed down prices for our fellow Kababayans to enjoy. So make it a habit to shop at Island Pacific where you get the best bang for your buck and an unmatched customer service. Talagang Presyong Sulit...sa Island Pacific!

Go and visit an Island Pacific Supermarket near you! With locations at Canoga Park, Cerritos, North Vermont in Los Angeles, South Vermont in Los Angeles,Panorama City, West Covina in Southern California; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California.

Congratulations to our 6 Magic Karaoke Winners!

Chef Reggie Torres

2010-06-05T16:44:00.000-07:00

Chef Reggie Torres has a long and distinguished career in the culinary arts industry. He has lived in Paris, France for three years and has mastered the French menu interpretation along with preparation of classical French cuisine and advance French pastries. He has traveled Europe learning and honing food design, Hors d'oeurves, theme buffet, tallow sculpture, meat and fish decorations. He has worked with Chinese instructor Kem Home, blending Eastern and Western influences and with Italian Chef Giovanni Leoni, mixing the northern and southern Italian cuisine.

Have a sizzling summer at Island Pacific

2010-06-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

With Weekly Specials that are sure to cool you down!

After your Memorial Day weekend escapades, bet you're looking forward to doing great stuff this summer! Don't you just love outdoor barbecues and picnics? Like a big backyard party with friends and family, a romantic picnic for two, or even a fun family outing with the kids?

Summer offers warm wonderful days that are perfect for picnics and parties outside. This is the time to go out and enjoy the sun! And whatever you decide to do this summer, stop by at Island Pacific Supermarket for all your food shopping needs!

Island Pacific Supermarket has everything you need for a fun, sizzling summer!

Are you in for another grillin' party at your backyard? Pork Belly Skin-On and Pork Chop Skin-onare perfect for that second round of grillin' party with your family and friends. Grab multiple packs for only $2.99 per pound! How about inviting friends over for breakfast and serving them your own version of Longsilog-- Longganisa, Sinangag, Itlog -- Philippine chorizo, Fried Rice and Fried Egg)? Island's Best Sweet Garlic Longganisa and Sweet Hamonado 12 oz are a steal at Buy One and Get One FREE! Thinking of an appetizer? Try experimenting on sizzling seafood with our Seafood Mix at $1.99 per pound!

Going on a road trip with your kids? Why not grab cupcakes to satisfy your kids hunger? Assorted cupcakes by Cupcakes and Company at $1.29 per piece!

For sure, the scorching sun will make you feel thirsty. Why not quench your thirst with ice cold water? Our Crystal Geyser or Springfield bottled water are on sale at 3 packs of 24 for only $10! Have you tasted Lipton Iced Tea?Go, try it and get a gallon for only $2.99!For the healthy buff, why not make yourself a freshly squeeze OJ? Our Navel Oranges are only 3 pounds for 99 cents! Remember to always keep yourself hydrated this summer!

Do you scream for Ice Cream? Stock up on our Magnolia Ice Cream 1.75 qtz only for $5.99 and Polar Dreams Ice Cream Assorted Flavors 4 pieces per pack for only $2.99 to cool you down!

All these and other thousands of items are readily available at Island Pacific. At Island Pacific, our utmost and primary responsibility is to our customers. We make sure that you, our valued customers, getthe best bang for your buck! Talagang Presyong Sulit...sa Island Pacific! So, make it your habit, shop at Island Pacific.

To get savings every week, subscribe now to our newsletter by sending us an email at marketing@islandpacificmarket.com or by joining our mailing list and we will email you the offers as they come out. Miss our newsletter and you may miss the offers!

Island Pacific Supermarket provides the most complete line of seafood, meat, produce, and other Asian food products that satisfy the different needs of the Filipino community. It was opened to serve the increasing Filipino community as well as customers from different cultural backgrounds residing in and around California. Island Pacific offers a wide range of the freshest foods, grocery items and home essentials at very affordable prices. Come and visit an Island Pacific Supermarket near you. Presyong Sulit.... sa Island Pacific! With branches at Cerritos, Canoga Park, Panorama City, North Vermont Los Angeles, South Vermont Los Angeles, West Covina, Union CIty and Vallejo. Visit our website at

http://www.islandpacificmarket.com/

Get Grillin' this Memorial Day Weekend

2010-05-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

28 May 2010

It's a long weekend! For sure, most of us are headed off somewhere this Memorial Day weekend for that much needed and anticipated weekend getaways!

Whatever you plan to do this weekend-- either a picnic at your favorite park, outdoor party with your old friends, camping with your buddies, patio dining with the whole family--- stop by at Island Pacific Supermarket for all your food shopping!

Island Pacific Supermarket has everything you need for a perfect Memorial Day weekend.

Get grillin' this weekend with our specials for the week! Grab multiple packs of our ready to cook marinated meat-- Pork Chop Skin-On and Pork Belly Skin-On only for $2.99 per pound. Why not add to your list, the FLC Quick Pinoy BBQ 12 oz for $4.99? Are you craving for the all time favorite--- Tocilog (Tocino, Sinangag, Itlog-- Marinated pork, Fried Rice and Fried Egg)? Go grab a pack of our Pork Tocino for only $2.99 per pound and Chicken Tocino for $1.99 per pound.

It will be sunny and warm this weekend, freshen up with ice cream and fruits. Stock up on our Magnolia Ice Cream 1.75 qtz only for $5.99, fresh Watermelon at 4 lbs for $1.00 and sweet Navel Orange at 3 lbs for 99 cents! Give your kids a treat-- go buy them packs of Maeda-En Mochi Ice Cream, assorted 12 oz for $3.69 and make them yummy dessert with our Saba Banana at 2 lbs for $1.00.

Hanging out with your friends this weekend? Go, chill out with your old buddies with our own San Miguel Beer/Red Horse beer assorted 6 pack for only $6.99! And don't forget to grab packs of Dirty Chips too, only for 99 cents, they go well with the beer.

All these and other thousands of items are readily available at Island Pacific. At Island Pacific, our utmost and primary responsibility is to our customers. We make sure that you, our valued customers, get the best bang for your buck! Talagang Presyong Sulit...sa Island Pacific!

So, make it your habit, shop at Island Pacific!

Sing This Spring Promo, Magic Karaoke Weekly Winners, May 16 & 23

2010-05-24T18:16:00.000-07:00

24 May 2010

Two happy shoppers from Island Pacific Canoga Park are the lucky winners of Magic Karaoke in our Sing This Spring Promo! Retzel Fabregas from North Hills and Catherine Padolina from West Hills are the winners for the week of May 16 and 23 respectively. Both of them are regular and valued shoppers of Island Pacific Canoga Park branch.They were so delighted to have won the Magic Karaoke and are so excited to use them this Memorial Day Weekend.

Catherine Padolina from West Hills

Retzel Fabregas from North Hills

Congratulations to our Magic Karaoke winners!

Sing This Spring Promo, Magic Karaoke Weekly Winners, May 2 & 9

2010-05-12T14:16:00.000-07:00

12 May 2010

Island Pacific's Sing This Spring Promo weekly winners included Analiza Ayuda from Oxnard and Desiree Munoz from North Hills.They are regular and valued shoppers of Island Pacific Panorama City branch. They were so happy to receive a call from Island Pacific Supermarket informing them that they are the lucky winners of Magic Karaoke for the week of May 2 and 9 drawings.

Desiree Munoz from North hills

Analiza Ayuda from Oxnard

Island Pacific Supermarket is raffling off 6 Magic Karaoke to its valued shoppers weekly. For every $25 minimum purchase on single receipt, shoppers will be entitled to a raffle coupon.Promotion period is from April 24- June 5.Continue shopping at Island Pacific Panorama and Canoga Park branches , enter the raffle for a chance to win a Magic Karaoke. There are 3 more remaining raffle drawings-- May 23, 30 and June 6. Hurry, shop now and increase your chances of winning!

Promo Mechanics:
Shop at Island Pacific Panorama and Canoga Park from April 24- June 5
Maximum four (4) raffle coupons will be given per shopper per day.
Customers must present the official receipt/s at the Customer Service Counter/Redemption Corner (for Panorama City branch) and to the Cashier/s for the (Canoga Park branch) to claim the raffle coupon/s.
Customers must fill-in the raffle coupon with his/her complete name, address, contact number/s, e-mail address, and drop at designated drop box of the store where purchase was made.
Weekly drawings will be held every Sunday at both branches. Deadline for the submission of entries is every Saturday at 9:00pm.
A customer can win only once.
Prizes are not convertible to cash.
Winners will be notified by phone call, mail or email and his/her name will be posted at the customer service counter of Island Pacific Supermarket.
Redemption of prizes shall be within sixty (30) days from receipt of notification; otherwise prize will be forfeited in favor of Island Pacific Supermarket.

Employees of Island Pacific Supermarket and its affiliate companies, their advertising, manpower and security agencies, their spouses and relatives up to second degree of consanguinity and affinity are disqualified from joining the promo.

Mother's Day celebration at Island Pacific Supermarket Panorama City

2010-05-10T18:18:00.000-07:00

10 May 2010

This year’s Mother’s Day Celebration kicked off the weekend festivities with full image makeovers, free haircuts and plenty of pizzazz

A mother of a good time was had by all this weekend as Island Pacific Supermarket Panorama kicked off two days of activities that celebrated that special woman in all of our lives, our mother. Island Pacific Panorama celebrated Mother’s Day with two days of activities that focused on giving thanks to all mothers. A call for entries on “Why My Mom is Special” yielded numerous essays for this year’s mother’s day contest.

Three winners were chosen and invited to attend a full makeover on Friday, May 7, 2010. Winners were treated to hair coloring, haircuts and make-up by Celebrity stylists team of Monet Lu’s Reflections Salon. Winning mothers included: Jennifer Red, Liza Miralles, and Patty Ramirez. The ladies were given classic “before and after” treatments with glamour-fabulous results.

Winning Moms-- Patty Ramirez, Jennifer Red, Liza Miralles

The Mommies who dropped by to have their hair cut

On Saturday May 8, Island Pacific Panorama transformed a cozy corner of the inside pavilion into the “Mommy Lounge”. The Mommy Lounge was host to Fanny Serrano Jewelry, Forever Youthful Skin Analysis and the creative team of Monet Lu’s Reflections Salon. Delicious baked goods from Goldilocks bakery and appetizers kept stomachs full in the mommy lounge. Island Pacific Panorama hosted 20 lucky mothers to free haircuts. Haircuts were performed by Reflections Salon stylists, Connie DeLeon, Jun Capistrano and James Pantangco. Beauty Guru Monet Lu led the team with flawless results for all the mothers. Besides the free haircut, each mommy received a complimentary goodie bag that featured items from Los Angeles Magazine, Neutrogena, Shoes for the Stars, Goldilocks and Island Pacific Supermarkets.

The freebies...

Monet Lu

Reflections Salon by Monet Lu has been a standard in the Fil-Am community for at least a decade. Monet Lu, a celebrated cultural figure and a celebrity in his own right has been a strong thread in the fabric of the Los Angeles Fil-Am community. His leadership, vision, talent and innovation built his versatile image as beauty queen maker, stylist impresario, events maestro, successful entrepreneur, and one of the Filipino-American community’s most outstanding citizens. He again has shown his generosity by helping Mommy’s get beautiful for Sunday’s big day.

Come and visit an Island Pacific Supermarket near you. Presyong Sulit sa Island Pacific!

Island Pacific Says Thank You Mom!

2010-05-07T18:16:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Her, Celebrate Mother’s Day at Island Pacific Panorama

Island Pacific Panorama wants to celebrate the mom in YOU! Come to Island Pacific Panorama and check out our Mommy Lounge on Saturday, May 8 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm for a fun-filled pampering day dedicated to Moms. Be part of the fun and excitement on Mother's Day as all moms are invited to enjoy cool beauty freebies. And who can say no to discounts that help stretch the family budget? There's nowhere else to go but at Island Pacific Panorama!

FREE hair cut from Monet Salon for the first 20 Moms
FREE Skin Analysis from Forever Youthful
FREE Gift from Forever Youthful
FREE Gift from Goldilocks
Discount on Fanny Serrano products from Forever Youthful
Forever Youthful Mother's Day Special for Island Pacific Shoppers--
Facial with Microdermabrasion, Get it ONLY for $50!
Discount on Monet Salon's Enlighten Products
$10 Off Discount Card from Monet Salon
Discount coupon from Shoes for the Stars in Melrose

Come and join the fun! Celebrate Her, Celebrate Mother’s Day at Island Pacific Panorama! See you there.

Celebrating Earth Day 2010

2010-04-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

26 April 2010

ISLAND PACIFIC SUPERMARKET EARTH DAY CELEBRATION (Discounts, Give Aways and Clean Up Day)

Panorama City - Last Saturday, Island Pacific Supermarket spearheaded a clean up of Panorama Plaza along Roscoe and Van Nuys. This was a joint undertaking of Island Pacific Supermarket with the following: City of Los Angeles Board of Public Works, Office of Community Beautification through its representative, Maria Sheets; the office of Councilmember Richard Alarcon, District 7 through its Field Representative, Eric Sugay; the Filipino Community of San Fernando Valley headed by its President, Leo Maranan, and the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce, San Fernando Valley (FACCSFV) headed by its current President, Rick Rolda.

A handful of volunteers from these organizations donated their time and came to support this clean up campaign. This event was also utilized as a community outreach of the United States Census Bureau through its partnership with the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce, San Fernando Valley (FACCSFV) where passers by and shoppers alike were handed out information pertaining to the Census 2010.

Entertainment columnist, Lou Sabas; Annabelle Espinosa fro Club Tarlakena;
Roy Taberrah; Vangie Taberrah; Mary Ann Omega, Vice President of FACCSFV; Maria Sheets -- Office of Community BeautificationCity of Los Angeles Board of Public Works; Leo Maranan, President of the Filipino Community of San Fernando Valley; and Eric Sugay from the office of Councilmember Richard Alarcon, District 7.

Willie Manacsa, FCSFV Secretary, Minet Manacsa, FCSFV Membership Co-Chair, Marissa Puno, Community Chair, and Nel Frias, P.R.O.

Tessie Stender, President Club Tarlakenian USA; Willie Manacsa, FCSFV Secretary

It was also a 'Bring Your Own Bag or B.Y.O.B" day at Island Pacific. A handful of Island Pacific shoppers brought their own reusable bags and they instantly received a 10% discount. Island Pacific also gave away reusable bags for every $30 worth of purchase.

Island Pacific is committed to getting involved and becoming connected with local communities it serve. By working closely with various organizations, it aims to contribute in ways that can improve and develop our communities.Earth Day campaign is just the beginning of a great partnership between Island Pacific and the local communities.

Island Pacific Celebrates Earth Day 2010

2010-04-23T18:17:00.000-07:00

23 April 2010

Clean Up and Bring Your Own Bag (B.Y.O.B) Day at Island Pacific Panorama City

Panorama City - Island Pacific Supermarket joins the rest of the world in celebrating "Earth Day" 2010 on April 24, Saturday. As a way to celebrate Earth Day, Island Pacific Supermarket will have a cleanup day from 9:00 am – 12:00 noon at its Panorama City location.

The cleanup day is a joint undertaking of Island Pacific Supermarket and the following: City of Los Angeles Board of Public Works, Office of Community Beautification through its representative, Maria Sheets; the office of Councilmember Richard Alarcon, District 7 through its Field Representative, Eric Sugay; the Filipino Community of San Fernando Valley headed by its President, Leo Maranan, and the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce, San Fernando Valley (FACCSFV) headed by its current President, Rick Rolda. Members of these organizations have volunteered to do their share in saving and protecting the environment with a simple deed of cleaning up the area surrounding the Island Pacific Plaza. Island Pacific Plaza is one of the five (5) staging areas between Panorama City and North Hills for multiple clean ups happening on that day, in observance of Earth Day. The other staging areas are : Valley Swap Indoor Swap Meet, 9261 Wakefield Avenue, Marson Park, Langdon Avenue & Columbus Avenue in North Hills.

Also on April 24, it’s a “Bring Your Own Bag or B.Y.O.B day at Island Pacific. Shoppers will automatically receive a 10% discount on non-sale items if they bring their own bag when they shop at Island Pacific Panorama on this day. Island Pacific will also be giving away FREE REUSABLE BAG for every $30 worth of purchase.

Now on its 40th year, Earth Day is the only event celebrated simultaneously around the globe by people of all backgrounds, faiths and nationalities. More than a billion people participate in Earth Day activities each year, which falls every 22nd of April. Earth Day began as a grassroots movement in the 1960s when over 20 million demonstrators and thousands of schools and local communities participated in bringing environmental issues to the forefront in American politics. Since then, activities and concerns have expanded over the entire globe with Earth Day celebrated in over 140 countries worldwide.

Earth Day is about getting involved and becoming connected with local communities that share similar interests in protecting and enhancing the environment. Island Pacific’s corporate responsibility involves caring for the communities in which we live and work. It aims to contribute in ways that can improve and develop our communities and making sure that its business processes do not exploit the environment.

People all over the world are doing something to make the Earth a cleaner, better place. Let us do our share in protecting the environment.

Island Pacific cares.

Bataan Day Commemoration at Island Pacific Panorama

2010-04-04T18:52:00.000-07:00

JFAV and the Island Pacific Supermarket at Panorama City Holds Bataan Day Commemoration On April 11

Panorama City—The Island Pacific Supermarket and the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) will hold the 68th Year Commemoration of Bataan Day and Book Signing of JFAV Book : Unrecognized American Veterans by Arturo P. Garcia

The Bataan Day commemoration will be held on Sunday, April 11, 2010 from 11;30 am to 1:00 pm at Island Pacific Supermarket at 8340 Van Nuys Blvd. in Panorama City, CA. The people of the San Fernando Valley and its environs are invited for this free event.

The Island Pacific Supermarket supports the Filipino World War II veterans and their widows and dependents struggle for rights and benefits. Some of the major supporters are Errol Santos, business development consultant for health care, People’s CORE, BANTAY PILIPINAS, AWARE and the KmB (Pro People Youth)

Remember Bataan. Fight for Justice

JFAV and AWARE will remember the 68th Fall of Bataan. On April9, 1942, the USAFFE surrendered to the Japanese Imperial Army, the largest US army garrison in the Pacific numbering 90,000 men. More than 30,000 US Army soldiers and 60, 000 Filipino soldiers of the Philippine Commonwealth surrendered after holding out for more than four months.

The crucial four months gave the allied forces to prepare a counter-offensive against the Japanese later in the Pacific Theater of War. After Bataan, more than 30,000 American and Filipino soidiers died during the infamous"Death March" from Bataan to Tarlac concentration camps.

Concurrently, this year's Bataan Day commemoration will also herald the launch of the grassroots campaign to support the lawsuit that JFAV and MHC Atty Arnedo Valera, Esq. will soon bring against the US Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) for the delayed claims of the veterans and benefits for the widows.

For more information please call JFAV at (213)241-0995 or (213)321-1787 or email at jfav_us@yahoo.com.

Island Pacific Supermarket led fans in welcoming Pacman at Atlantic Aviation in LAX.

2010-03-16T18:16:00.000-07:00

Manny Pacquiao’s After Fight Party, Victory Mass and Welcome Arrival

(Joshua Clottey fight in Texas)

MANNY PACQUIAO’S official After Fight Party was held at the third level of the Diamond Club at The Ballpark in Arlington. Manny arrived at around 1:30 a.m., staying all the way until 4 p.m. During the celebration, he belted out more than seven songs, seemingly not tired at all by the fight he just won over Joshua Clottey. Amazingly, he still had the energy to sing and jam all night with the likes of Madonna Decena, the Calsada band and even Arnel Pineda. Jinkee and her friends were also seen enjoying the massive celebration.

PacMan proudly waved the Philippine Flag upon his arrival in Los Angeles

Victory Mass

Last Sunday, March 14, around 300 people joined Manny Pacquiao for a 9:30 a.m. Victory Mass held at the Convention Center of the Gaylord Texan Hotel and Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas.

It was a very solemn mass, where Manny offered his special intention/thanksgiving during the Prayers of the Faithful. He thanked the Lord for giving him strength and for winning the fight, and for all the blessings that He is continuously showering upon him. He also prayed for a safe journey back to Los Angeles and the Philippines. Pacquiao sincerely recited the Prayer of the Faithful in his native Tagalog, and clearly he and his wife Jinkee were deep in prayer during the entire mass.

After the final blessings, he delivered a short speech thanking all the people who supported him – many who flew all the way to Texas just to watch the fight. He took off his trademark sunglasses and showed his face to the crowd – a sign of obvious sincerity.

Welcome Arrival

Island Pacific Supermarket led a group of fans in welcoming Pacman upon his arrival at Atlantic Aviation in LAX. Welcome leis and flower bouquet were arranged by “L.A.'s Celebrity Hair Stylist” Marlou Colina and Focal Point Flowers celebrity florist, Mhar Cabradilla.

*article written by Joseph Pimentel, Asian Journal

Island Pacific Sends Off Manny Pacquiao in Style!

2010-03-11T18:15:00.000-08:00

11 March 2010

IT was a meal fit for royalty.

What do you expect when you cater for the Pound-4-Pound King Manny Pacquiao and his guest of 170 people as they prepared to take off to Arlington, Texas, the site of Pacquiao’s next fight against Joshua Clottey this Saturday.

The chartered plane to Texas

At a private terminal near LAX, about two hundreds guests and the King Pacquiao himself ate trays of delicious Filipino food including Tinolang Manok with Malunggay Leaves & Green Papaya, Grilled Salmon Filet with Soymansi Glaze and washed down with signature cocktail drink that Chef Cecilia created called “PacPunch,” a mixture of VuQo Premium Vodka and cantaloupe.Chef Cecilia de Castro, her crew from ACE and with the ingredients provided by Island Pacific, “We wanted to send of Pacquiao in style,” said De Castro. “We all want Manny to win and we hope this food will fill him with nutrients to do so.”

Chef Cecilia De Castro with Manny Pacquiao's
personal cook, Nonoy

Chef de Castro and Pacquiao’s personal cook, Nonoy worked together for the sumptuous meals. The dishes were prepared according to the request and specifications of Nonoy, who is in charge with keeping Pacquiao in shape especially in this fight where the pound-4-pound king has to maintain his 147-pound frame. Nonoy instructed de Castro to serve Pacquiao a high protein diet, not to prepare any pork dishes and serve his favorite soup, Tinolang Manok.“When we received the instructions from Nonoy, we really wanted to get the best ingredients so we went to Island Pacific,” said de Castro.And the food came out great, with many of the guests at the send-off party coming up for second and third trips to the buffet banquet. The wonderful meals from de Castro and Island Pacific didn’t stop there. The lucky 150+ guests on board also were served personal meals for the two-hour trip to Arlington, Texas.About Island Pacific Island Pacific offers the most complete line of Filipino and Asian food.

Island Pacific has been a long time supporter of Manny Pacquiao everytime time he trains for a fight here in Los Angeles. Panalo talaga sa Island Pacific! A whole new shopping experience awaits Island Pacific Supermarket customers with the opening of its new branch in Canoga Park. Located at the western side of San Fernando Valley along Roscoe Blvd corner De Soto Avenue, Island Pacific offers a wide range of the freshest foods, grocery items and home essentials at very affordable prices. Presyong Sulit talaga! Island Pacific Supermarket now, has 9 branches to serve our kababayans: Union City, Vallejo, South Vermont and North Vermont in Los Angeles, West Covina, Cerritos, Panorama City and the newly opened one at Canoga Park.

Chef Cecilia De Castro and her team from the
Academy of Culinary Eduication

About Chef Cecilia De Castro
Chef Cecilia De Castro is an award winning chef and Filipino Culinary Expert and owner of the Academy of Culinary Education.For over 25 years, Chef Cecilia has collaborated with world renowned Chef Wolfgang Puck and was a culinary producer for the Emmy Award-winning Wolfgang Puck Show for 5 seasons at the Food Network. She continues to work with Chef Puck with his cookbook developments, product/recipe development for the Home Shopping Network and Spago, as well as food events such as the Oscar Awards Governor's Ball and American Food & Wine Festivals.

VuQo Premium Vodka and Haliya Lightfruit wine provided the cocktail drinks to the guests

Swirl's sumptuous cupcakes

Other sponsors for the send-off were Manila Town Restaurant and Goldilocks Bakeshop for the in flight food, Swirl's Desserts for the cupcakes, VuQo Premium Vodka, Haliya Light Fruit Wines, Jana Bottled Water, Roaring Lion Energy Drink and Bonada Juice Drinks.

Los Angeles MEGA MILLIONS ticket scores $215K win!

2010-02-24T18:21:00.000-08:00

Winning Ticket Purchased at Island Pacific South Vermont

California Lottery Press Release

SACRAMENTO, February 24--- A lucky California lottery player in Los Angeles definitely woke up on the right side of the bed this morning. That's because they matched five of six numbers in last night's MEGA millions draw, netting them a cool $ 215,488.

The winning ticket was purchased at Island Pacific Supermarket located at 225-229 South Vermont Avenue. The winning numbers on the ticket were 40,4, 16 ,53, 36 and the Mega number -- the only number the ticket did not match -- was 18.

MEGA Millions is a multi-state game , played in California and 34 other states. Players pick five numbers from 1 to 56 plus a MEGA number from 1 to 46. Draw times are Tuesdays and Fridays at 8:00 pm PST. Tickets are $1 and can be purchased from any of the more than 21,000 California Lottery retailers.Please visit the California Lottery 's MEGA Millions site for more information.

The California Lottery is celebrating 25 years of enhancing education and supporting local communities. More than 95 cents of every Lottery dollar is returned to the community in the form of contributions to education, prizes, and retail commissions. The California Lottery contributes at least 34 cents of every dollar that players spend on Lottery products to public education and returns more than 50 percent of sales to players in the form of prizes. Since the Lottery's inception in 1985, Lottery players have contributed more than $22 billion to California schools out of total sales of nearly $59 billion . REtailers benefit too , earning $3.8 billion in compensation since 1985.

Talagang panalo ka sa Island! Island Pacific is committed to serve the Filipino American community, wherever they are. Come and shop at Island Pacific Supermarket and enjoy tremendous savings-- presyong sulit talaga! Island Pacific, now with 9 branches in California to serve you.

It's a Grand Fiesta at Island Pacific Canoga Park!

2010-02-15T14:52:00.000-08:00

15 February 2010

World Boxing Champ Manny Pacquiao led the exciting grand opening fiesta of Island Pacific Seafood Market at Canoga Park last Friday, February 12, 2010. Over (More than) 1,500 eager guests and customers awaited the legendary hero’s mini concert with songwriter Lito Camo and his MP Band.The first lucky 150 customers received an autographed photo of Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao. And others received gift certificates and t-shirts being given away at the event.

Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao and Lito Camo

Fil-Am artists also came out to celebrate the grand opening. Filipino band pop icon, Introvoys with Paco Arespacochaga, Bambu, Jigger, Michelle Andria, Nikisha; Krizzy, Kim, Dezeree, Ilikea, collectively known as the Asian Dolls, also performed. Filipiono model-turned-actress Patricia Javier and Madonna Decena of Britain’s Got Talent sang a couple of songs with Manny.

Introvoys

Patricia Javier and the Asian Dolls

Bambu

Both non-Filipinos also came out to show support; not just for Pacquiao who has been dubbed the “Mexicutioner,” but also for the new Island Pacific market that holds the distinction of having the most complete and freshest selections of seafood in the area. Popular Spanish celebrity Mayra Berenice from the radio station El Gato 103.1 and the Folclorico Mariachi Band represented for the Hispanic community

To view more photos, please click this link

Traffic stood still as both Filipinos and Hispanics fans drove from as far as Temecula, Orange County, Long Beach, Palmdale, Lancaster and Carson to get a glimpse of the world-renowned boxing champ. The searchlights beaming in the sky attracted so much attention that the parking lot had to be closed down to accommodate thousands of supporters.

Manny Pacquiao – the 7-division boxing champ, arrived on time and signed boxing gloves, belts, and shirts to the delight of his fans. All this in support of Island Pacific who has been supporting him in return by giving him all his supermarket needs each time he trains for a fight here in Los Angeles.

Panalo talaga sa Island Pacific!

Circus artistes, stilt walkers, magic show, juggling and balloon twisting, kiddie jumpers and food sampling from various food distributors simply entertained the whole family especially the children. Patricia Javier and the Asian Dolls and former Southborder vocalist Vince Alaras continued to serenade the crowd last Saturday, Feb 13 and distributed free tickets of Philippine’s Comedy King Dolphy’s US movie premiere. Truly a fun-filled weekend fiesta for everyone!

A whole new shopping experience awaits Island Pacific Supermarket customers with the opening of its new branch in Canoga Park. Not only Filipinos but also Hispanics and Indians favor shopping at the fresh seafood section. Located at the western side of San Fernando Valley along Roscoe Blvd corner De Soto Avenue, Island Pacific offers a wide range of the freshest foods, grocery items and home essentials at very affordable prices. Presyong Sulit talaga!

Completing the superb shopping experience only Island Pacific Canoga Park can provide are its wide aisles, clean spaces and of course exciting promotions and excellent customer service. Watch out for the following conveniences!
• Philhouse Hot Food to Go – Take home delicious favorites like kare-kare,adobo,crispy pata,menudo, lechon kawali at marami pang iba!
• Fresh Seafood Cooked The Way You Like It- We will do it, ala Dampa-style in Manila,where you choose your seafood and we’ll cook it perfectly for you.
• Alas Kargo - Wala ng mumura pa
• Money Remittance Service

Island Pacific Canoga Park will be conveniently accessible not only to Canoga Park but also to other communities in West San Fernando Valley including Woodland Hills, Northridge, West Hills, Chatsworth, Topanga Canyon, Tarzana, and Reseda. It will open at 8am and close at 9pm everyday.

Manny Pacquiao Leads Celebrities in Island Pacific Canoga Park

2010-02-10T17:50:00.000-08:00

Grand Opening Weekend Celebration Feb 12-14

This coming Feb 12-14 promises to be an unforgettable weekend of exciting shows, music, dancing, fun & treats for all, during the Island Pacific Supermarket Canoga Park Grand Opening Weekend Celebration. No less than World Boxing Champ and legendary hero Manny Pacquiao will lead the exciting celebration in Island Pacific’s second store in San Fernando Valley.

The weekend celebration starts on February 12 Friday at 6:00 pm featuring Champ Manny Pacquiao w/ his MP band,Songwriter Lito Camo, Paco Arespacochaga & the Introvoys and Kababayan 18’s host, Janelle So. To reach out to the Latino community, there will be popular Spanish celebrity Mayra Berenice from radio station El Gato 103.1 and the Folclorico Mariachi Band. The first 150 will receive a 5 x 7 autographed photo of Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao.

Mayra Berenice from radio station El Gato 103.1

The following day, February 13, Saturday, another exciting show is lined up from 11:00 am- 2:00 pm, featuring Vince Alaras, the former Southborder lead vocalist, the Asian Dolls with Ms. Patricia Javier, and a Mariachi Band.

Patricia Javier with the Asian Dolls

On Valentine’s Day,February 14, Sunday, a fun-filled show for the whole family will be held from 11:00 am- 2:00 pm. Circus Artistes & Stilt Walkers will entertain the family and children will especially love the magic show, juggling, and balloon twisting.

Island Pacific is committed to serve the Filipino American community, wherever they are. Seeing that the Pinoy families living in the western side of San Fernando Valley has long been under-served, Island Pacific decided to put up another branch in the SF Valley, around 7 miles away from its first store in Panorama City. Located in the corner of De Soto Avenue, along Roscoe Blvd, the Island Pacific Canoga Park supermarket is part of a multi-store complex beside Carl’s Jr, Sam Ash Guitar Center, and De Soto Pharmacy, with a huge parking lot, where all the Grand Opening Weekend festivities will be held.

Island Pacific Canoga Park will be conveniently accessible not only to Canoga Park but also to other communities in West San Fernando Valley including Woodland Hills, Northridge, West Hills, Chatsworth, Topanga Canyon, Tarzana, and Reseda. It will open at 8am and close at 9pm everyday.

Come and celebrate with us at Island Pacific Canoga Park this week-end! You’ll not only love the great entertaining shows; you’ll also get the most complete line of seafood, meat, produce, and other Asian food products in West SF Valley – sa presyong sulit talaga!

Now with 2 stores to serve you in Los Angeles

2009-06-12T18:08:00.000-07:00

True to its goal of providing exceptional customer service to all its customers, Island Pacific had recently opened a second branch in Los Angeles. Now customers will find Island Pacific as the most accessible Filipino market in Los Angeles. Island Pacific opened its first location 3 years ago in Los Angeles at 627 North Vermont Avenue. Due to the success of that store and customer demand, Island Pacific recently opened another branch in Los Angeles at 229 South Vermont Avenue. Customers will find the freshest meat, seafood, and produce at everyday low prices. Island Pacific also boasts the most complete line of national brand Filipino products imported from Philippines.

Island Pacific S Vermont Los Angeles
229 South Vermont Avenue,Los Angeles, CA 90004

Most Accessible Store in Los Angeles
With the opening of its second location in Los Angeles, Island Pacific will be the most accessible Filipino store in Los Angeles. Whether they live closer to North Vermont Avenue or South Vermont Avenue, they will find an Island Pacific within walking distance. Not only will customers find Island Pacific very accessible but they will also enjoy the same low prices whichever Island Pacific they choose. All Grand Opening Sales available in the South Vermont Island Pacific will also be available in the existing North Vermont location. Whichever Island Pacific they choose to shop in Los Angeles, they will enjoy the same lowest price in meat, seafood, produce, and grocery selection.

Island Pacific N Vermont Los Angeles
627 North Vermont Street, Los Angeles, CA 90004.

Grand Opening Super Sale at Island Pacific in Los Angeles

To celebrate the opening of its new location in Los Angeles, Island Pacific will provide many items on reduced prices. The meat department will have many USDA-approved meat on sale. Some of the sales of the meat department are: Pork Butt (boneless) for $0.89 per pound, Beef Oxtail for $2.99 per pound, and Pork Meat with Bone (perfect for Sinigang) for only $0.99 per pound. For its huge Seafood Department, Island Pacific will have the following items on sale: Blue Crabs for $0.99 per pound, Jumbo White Shrimp H-On for $2.99 per pound, Striped Bass for $2.99 per pound, Headless Jumbo White Shrimp for $4.99 per pound, and imitation crab stick for $0.99. In its Fresh Produce Department, some of the items Island Pacific will have on sale are: Manila Mango for $6.99 per box, Chinese Eggplant at 3lbs for $0.99, and Bittermelon at 2lbs for $1. Island Pacific will also have countless number of Grocery items on sale. So when it comes to looking for the lowest price in town, there is no other place to shop but Island Pacific.

One Stop Shop
Island Pacific boasts a complete line of Meat, Seafood, Produce, and Grocery products which makes it a one-stop shop for all your grocery needs. The new Island Pacific location in South Vermont Street will also be a one-stop destination for all Filipino shoppers. Opened already beside Island Pacific’s new location are popular Filipino businesses such as: Manila Good-Ha, Goldilocks Bakeshop, Kowloon, Banco de Oro Remittance, RP Travel, and Johnny Air Cargo. With its lowest prices, exceptional service, wide selection, and one-stop shop location, there really is no reason to shop anywhere else in Los Angeles.

Tropical Atmosphere

When you enter Island Pacific, you will be greeted with the friendliest customer service. The Island Pacific difference that you will also notice is its spectacular Tropical ambiance. Island Pacific shopper Reggie Macalintal commented, “Parang nagbabakasyon ako sa Boracay pag namimili ako sa Island Pacific. Ang ganda nang tropical theme sa loob nang tindahan. Ang galing pa nang customer service dito. Bawat kanto nang tindahan may empleyado na bumabati at handang tumulong sa amin. Parang nakabakasyon kami sa isang high-end beach resort” Island Pacific is in the process of remodeling all other Island Pacific to make sure that the customers feel like they are on vacation and feel relaxed when they shop at any Island Pacific location. Shopping at Island Pacific is a great break from the stresses of work.

Island Pacific in Los Angeles is located at 229 South Vermont Street, Los Angeles, CA 90004 and 627 North Vermont Street, Los Angeles, CA 90004.

Other Island Pacific locations are in Panorama City, Cerritos, Vallejo, Union City, and West Covina.

Family Togetherness at the Supermarket

2008-01-10T18:17:00.000-08:00

Because of the very fast-paced lifestyle people lead here in America - working two or three or more jobs during the week, doing household chores and other errands on the weekend – people find it difficult to make time for themselves. And for kababayans who are used to a Pinoy value called “family togetherness,” it’s doubly harder to make time to get together with other members of the family.

Luckily, Island Pacific supermarket understands.
“Weekends are precious. Always very short but very important. We know that’s the time most of our patrons come to the market to buy their groceries and supply for the week. But we also know that it’s the only time kids are home from school and most parents are off from work so we think of ways to enable them to spend time together,” said Tracy Lim, Island Pacific Supermarket Advertising Manager

In their efforts to bring families closer together by giving them more time to spend with each other, island Pacific Supermarket in Panorama City, through the Kababayan Community Center located inside their establishment, is pioneering the concept of “market and more” for their consumers. What usually happens is that dads or sons drop off their moms to the market while they go and do other errands. After about an hour or two, they pick up the mom and help her load the groceries into the car. Or, the mom or sister would go to the salon while the dad or brother goes around the market to fulfill the family grocery list. But because of “market and more” concept, families are now able to enjoy the supermarket experience.

In the past, Island Pacific in Panorama City has staged a movie screening and free concert.

“I am a big fan of Juday. Kahit sa Pilipinas pa lang, hindi ko pinapalampas ‘yung mga palabas niya. So buti na lang nabalitaan ko na may palabas pala ng ‘Ploning’ sa Island last month. So nung namalengke ako, sinama ko ‘yung mga anak ko para makapanood kami ng sine. Sinamahan nila ako mamili. Tapos nanood kami ng sine. Libre pa. Isang punathan lang. Menos pa sa gas,” said Anabelle Gaddi of Northridge.

“Nakakatuwa nung nagkaroon ng concert dito si Marco Sison at si Patricia Javier. Nagpunta kaming mag-asawa dahil gusto ng misis ko mapanood si Marco. Ako naman, siyempre si Patricia,” said Efren Legazpi of Panorama City.
On January 17th and 18th, Island Pacific Panorama City – The one store that saves you more - gives people yet another reason to go to the supermarket as a family. Spend time with family members as you navigate the Food Booths inside the Kababayan Community Hall where vendors are giving free tastings and samplings of their products.

In addition to this, there will be free entertainment from a family of singers – world class Pinoy Jazz artist Mon David will be sharing the stage with his son and daughter – Carlo and Nicole David, in a very rare yet memorable moment not just for the audience, but also for the David family.

Mon David

Nicole and Carlo are Pinoy siblings to watch out for. Though both fresh in their twenties, the two don’t appear to be newcomers in the scene as they exhibit maturity and creativity in their music. Being middle children of acclaimed International Jazz singer Mon David, Nicole and Carlo have been immensely exposed to music since they were kids.

Carlo and Nicole David

Nicole started guesting in her dad’s shows at the age of 12, and has then been exploring various fields of the performing arts. She was a part of the Ateneo Glee Club, did several musicals, singing and hosting gigs, and was a student leader in high school. In 2007, she graduated cum laude from Ateneo de Manila, Philippines, with a degree in Communication Arts.

Carlo, on the other hand, knew from the start that music was going to be his life. He played the piano until his teens, and then moved on to drums and guitar. Eventually, his love for singing unfolded, which makes him a multi-faceted artist. He attended the University of the Philippines’ College of Music, majoring in Composition.
Nicole and Carlo have recently discovered their passion in collaborating and writing their own music and material. They have found music instrumental in expressing their heart’s desires and in connecting to their present and future audience. They formed a band in the Philippines and started gigging around the Metro in 2008. They are now busy cultivating their craft and preparing for recording of their debut album. This unstoppable young breed of talent is raring to make their presence felt, both in the Philippines and to rest of the world.

Catch them at Island Pacific Supermarket with their father, Mon David, on Sunday, January 18th 2008.

World Class Pinoy Talent at Island Pacific Supermarket

2008-01-10T12:15:00.000-08:00

First London International Jazz Competition for Vocalist 2006 Grand Prize Winner MON DAVID performs at Kababayan Hall in Island Pacific Panorama

From his Cabalen roots, he has traveled all over the world, reaching North America and winning awards and accolades in Europe; yet Mon David remains humble and always willing to reach out to the kababayan community here in Southern California, his home for the past few years now.

Grand Prize Winner- 2006 London Int’l Jazz Vocal Competition , 2006-07 Awit Awardee,
2004 Most Outstanding Kapampangan in Culture, Music & Arts

Siyempre maganda rin na paminsan-minsan ma-involve sa community events,” said Mon who has always been present in most Kapampangan Association events. “Gusto ko din makapag-perform sa Island Pacific kasi madalas naman ako talaga diyan. Para naman mabisita ‘yung mga kababayan natin diyan.”

This world class Pinoy pride is scheduled to display his brand of music at Island Pacific Supermarket in Panorama City - The one store that saves you more - on January 18th, 2009. This will be one of the highlights of the Food Festival happening at the store on January 17th and 18th.

"We have a lot of great Filipino products, products that are sometimes even better than their foreign counterparts. And we at Island Pacific thought it was about time we gathered all these vendors under one roof and introduce their proudly - Filipino grocery items to the public,” said Vermont Dy, Distribution Manager for Island Pacific supermarkets.

For two days, kababayans who will flock to the Kababayan Community Center at Island Pacific Supermarket in Panorama City will be treated to booths of vendors giving free product samples and tastings. But true to island Pacific’s commitment to serving the community, they are not stopping at the FREE Food Festival.

“What’s a fair without entertainment? We’re planning and organizing these kinds of events so we can take care of our patrons. We want to keep our kababayans always happy ‘cause they deserve to be treated well,” said Tracy Lim, Advertising Manager of Island Pacific. “Busy naman tayong lahat na mga Pinoy sa trabaho dito sa Amerika. Kaunti lang ang libangan. So we want to make sure that when they go to our store on the weekends, they will not only be able to fulfill their market chores; they will also have time for a little entertainment.”

But on January 17th and 18th the entertainment that Island Pacific management has prepared is not just “a little” because it involves a very accomplished jazz artist who’s also releasing an album this year under Freeham records, a mainstream American label.

Mon is recognized as one of the country’s most respected singers, as well as a remarkable musician, songwriter and record producer, Mon’s versatility knows no bounds. He was the drummer and vocal coach of the country’s most enduring pop icons Apo Hiking Society for seven years until he decided to pursue a solo career.

A product of the University of the Philippines College of Music and trained under Prof. Aurelio Estanislao and Elmo Makil, Mon has six albums to his name (Salamat sa mga Alaala, Soulitude, Abe Mu Ku, Life & Times, My One & Only Love, Keka Ku Kaku Ka Kaku Ka Keka Ku) and awards that include Best Local Jazz Recording, Best R & B Vocal Performance, Best Latin Recording &Best Traditional Vocal Performance, Best Vocal Arrangement. He has also shared the stage with jazz luminaries such as David Benoit, Eric Marienthal, Tina May, Lee Gibson, Bobby Enriquez, Boney James, Peter White, Pete Churchill Trio & Diane Schuur.

In the mid-90’s Mon formed the Philippines’ Jazz Fiesta with friend sax great Tots Tolentino and performed in various prestigious jazz events – 1st & 2nd ASEAN Jazz Festivals; Jakjazz Festival; North Sea Jazz Festival; 1st & 2nd Candid International Jazz Festivals and Manila Jazz Festivals. He was co-founder and member of the globe-trotting quartet “Ang Fourgettables” for five years.

Although best known for his wide vocal range, rich tone, mellifluous style and eclectic musicality, Mon is also known for his Kapampangan roots which he sings so proudly in almost all his gigs. And he attributes this reawakening to his participation in “Pamalsinta Quetang Milabas,” the first all-Kapampangan CD initiated and produced by Sapni ng Crissot Foundation where he sang “Hymno Ning Kapampangan,” “Malagung Palsintan,” and “Aro Katimyas Na Ning Dalaga.” This further inspired him to produce and record “Abe Mu Ku”, an all-Cabalen compilation with his originals “Abe Mu Ku,” “Masayang Kenaitan Keka,” and “Kabalen Tune Kang Malugud.” And because of his efforts and contributions to revive and re-introduce Kapampangan songs in the music mainstream, Mon was awarded “Most Outstanding Kapampangan in the Field of Arts, Music & Culture 2004.”

A firm believer in the music’s power to transcend borders and cultural differences, Mon bagged 2006 Awit Awards’ Best Jazz Recording for his own composition “Let Go” and Best Vocal Arrangement for the folk song “Atin Ku Pung Singsing,” both from his CD “Life & Times.”

With his latest outing “MY ONE & ONLY LOVE” (a compilation of jazz evergreens and Mon’s originals) released worldwide by Candid record, UK, First London International Jazz Competition for Vocalist 2006 Grand Prize Winner MON DAVID is all set to share with the whole world his unique artistry and his philosophy that indeed music that comes from the heart can heal, build, inspire & unite. After the competition, he was made to perform at JAGZ Jazz Club in Ascot, London and 606 Jazz Bar located in Chelsea, London.

In 2006, Mon headlined the 2nd FilAm Jazz Festival held at the Catalina Jazz Bar & Grill in Hollywood. In 2007, he was showcased at the Phil International Jazz & Arts Festival held at the Sofitel which was also participated in by international artists like Dianne Schuur , Flora Purim, Airto Moreira & other jazz icons. In the same year, Mon, aside from being nominated in the Best Male Recording Artist category, bagged 2007 AWIT Awards’ Best Inspirational Song for “I Had a Dream” and Best Performance by a Duet for “Alone Together” featuring Ms. Bituin Escalante, both from his latest CD “My One and Only Love”.

Recently, Mon has been getting rave reviews for his successful performance at one of his dream venues, Jazz Bakery in Culver City.

Catch him in a FREE concert at Island Pacific Supermarket in Panorama City on Sunday, January 18th 2008.