A rainy weekend did not dampen the spirit of thousands of Filipinos from Vancouver & Lower Mainland and Seattle to flock to Pacific National Exhibition (PNE). Obviously, they like to see, feel and taste the exciting offerings of the much awaited event dubbed as ‘Paskong Pinoy sa PNE’.
A two-day special event that featured exhibition of Filipino products, non-stop Pinoy entertainment shows on the center stage and Pinoy delicacies to munch-in while watching the show and looking around for ‘good deals’ holiday giveaways and treats or ‘freebies.’
First, let me start with the freebies. Definitely, product samplings of Glen’s Gardenia Trading featured Purefoods Corned Beef and Purefoods Luncheoon Meat is a big hit. For Filipino Vancouverites who were already planning of what to serve for their upcoming Noche Buena, Fiesta Pina Ham, a nice chunk of Filipino cured bone-in leg of ham that comes with pineapple sauce and glaze inside the box and Sweet and Juicy hotdogs were available for sale. The good news shared to us was these products are available in all Filipino stores in Vancouver and Lower Mainland.
Of course, something worth mentioning was a free hot chocolate at the booth being served by sporty young guys gave us a ‘boost’ of energy to last until we had a good glimpse of a heart throb for almost 2 decades, Mr. Debonair, Gabby Concepcion. Yes, a rosy cheek complexion and ala Fernando Poe Jr. style of ‘look’ and secretive yet meaningful smile while the camera was rolling during the interview, a ‘jaw dropper’ for lucky fans at the PNE VIP room.
Generally, shopping-wise, yes it was definitely a day to shop until we dropped. Affordable and trendy ladies’ purse and accessories were sold. Christmas giveaways sold by Goldilocks were a big hit! Of course, we were not worried about our hunger-pang, Josephine’s Restaurant’s Lutong Pinoy like Menudo, Guisadong Pancit, Adobo and hot steamed rice filled our appetite.
Incidentally, in one of our unusual afternoon brain-storming session with Mel Tobias, Josephine’s restaurant menu served us ‘lutong bahay’ dishes that energized our sluggish memory. Mel had the traditional dinner fare of Adobo and Pinakbet (with Okra and Shrimp paste). On the other hand, I enjoyed ‘Ukoy.’ It was crispy with good taste of shrimps when dipped in vinegar sauce. No wonder Josephine Restaurant is a popular after work destination among Filipinos who crave for ‘lutong bahay’ menu for dine-in; ‘balot-balot’ or take out foods and catering services. Josephine’s Restaurant is located at 2650 Main Street, Vancouver.
Happy Eating and Happy Holidays to all!
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