November 30, 2013

Metro Magazine Encourages Everyone to Give Back this Holiday

Recently, the country was hit by calamities that caused serious damage and devastation to our fellow Filipinos in central Visayas, Palawan, and Mindanao: The war in Zamboanga, the earthquake in Bohol and Cebu, and typhoon Yolanda, one of the strongest typhoons in world history.

It is in this light that Metro decided to bring together 10 personalities from the fields of entertainment, music, and sports—to inspire everyone to help out and make a difference in their own way.

Charice, James Younghusband, Iza Calzado, Karylle, Kim Chiu, Liza Soberano, Marc Abaya, Phil Younghusband, Richard Gomez, and Rico Blanco grace Metro’s very special and meaningful holiday issue cover this December, and share their thoughts on giving back and touching other people’s lives. Each of them has an inspiring story to share, which would motivate you even more to take part in helping rebuild the homes and the lives of those who have been affected by those calamities—they also give you concrete tips on how to help.

Celebrate the season in style with our holiday fashion and beauty advice, along with a wide array of products you can choose from to make this time of the year merrier. Don metallics for a truly festive feel, and learn the new take on workwear that would transcend you seasons. We’ve also got loads of beauty stocking stuffers for you and your loved ones, plus an exclusive interview with international superstar, Rihanna.

Rounding up Metro’s Holiday Issue is our list of exciting things to try now, from restaurants to fun photo booths.

Grab a copy of Metro’s December issue for only P150. Like Metro on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Metro.Magazine) and follow us on Twitter and Instagram (@MetroMagPH).

November 28, 2013

Wang Chung and Naked Eyes in Back2Back Throwback

Wang Chung and Naked Eyes will be having their first concert in the country entitled Back 2 Back

Throwback on December 5, 2013 (Thursday) 7pm at the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort and Casino for the benefit of the recent super typhoon victims thru Oplan Damayan Yolanda and for the kids of Gabay sa Landas Foundation.

Naked Eyes a British New Wave band that rose to prominence in the early 1980s and originally formed by two friends from Bath, England; Pete Bryne on vocals and Rob Fisher on keyboard. The duo is known largely for its four Top 40 singles. The first, a cover of the Burt Bacharach/Hal David standard "(There's)Always Something There to Remind Me"(Bacharach himself has cited the cover as a personal favorite).
 
The band had subsequent hits with their own compositions, "Promises, Promises" (the 12” mix of

which features vocals from Madonna), "When the Lights Go Out" and "(What) In the Name of Love” and a lot more.

Wang Chung is an English New Wave musical group formed in 1980. The name Wang Chung means "yellow bell" in Mandarin, and is the first note in the Chinese classical music scale. The duo is composed of Jack Hues(vocalist/guitarist) and Nick Feldman (bassist).The group found their greatest success in the United States, with five Top 40 hits in the US, all charting between 1983 and 1987, including "Dance Hall Days"(No. 16 In the summer of 1984), "Everybody Have Fun Tonight" (No. 2 in 1986),"Let's Go!"(No.9 in 1987) and another hit that made waves here in our country, “Hypnotize Me”.

The crowd will also enjoy good music from the Master, DJ Jon Tupaz, who’ll resurrect 80’s retro hits and get everyone on the dance floor as he brings back the good old days. Proceeds of the event will be given to street kids from as well as to the victims of the super typhoon thru Oplan Damayan Yolanda. Gabay sa Landas Foundation aims to help and rebuild the lives of abandoned and street kids by teaching them the Christian core values. Oplan Damayan is JCI Senate Manila’s disaster and relief operations program to help flood and storm victims.

As a new generation of much younger JCI Senators took the helm of the organization in the second decade of the millennium, the Manila Jaycee Senate leadership poised to rejuvenate a JCI Senate chapter which has seen better days. It changed its official name to JCI Senate Manila, in conformance to Junior Chamber International’s global branding standards. It actively led in the JCI Senate leg of the 60th JCI Asia-Pacific Conference held in Manila in 2011 and hosted two major fellowships that saw more than 200 JCI Senators and Members demonstrate a solid camaraderie under a common bond that transcends four generations of JCI members.

Indeed, for more than three decades, JCI Senate Manila has taken the lead beyond being a mere social club. It has transformed into a strong organization which has been adjudged the “Most Outstanding JCI Senate Chapter in the Philippines” and its succession of Senate Presidents, as the “Most Outstanding JCI Senate Chapter President in the Philippines.” Under the direction of a slew of competent leaders, JCI Senate Manila will continue to be remembered for its contribution of distinguished vanguards as they grace the pages of Philippine history and society.

The 80’s Benefit Dance Concert is presented by Solaire Resort and Casino together with JCI Senate Manila in cooperation with DMC Phils., JCI Manila, JCI Urduja, Crocs, Dr Kong, Curtin University, Maverick, Honda, Isuzu, Acer, Guevarras, Excess Super Club, Outland Steakhouse, Buffest 101 International Cuisine, YakiMix, Super Fuels Inc., Guevarras, Vantage Razors, Paper Tree, Alpha Digital, Chefs Garb, Mang Inasal, Our Awesome Planet, World Music Room Family KTV, Malate Bayview Mansion, SM Cinema, Digi Post, Snack Time, E-Plus,. Media Partners are ABS-CBN, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Business World, The Manila Times, Business Mirror, Discovery Channel, MYX, Sundance Channel, We TV, UNTV, Yes FM 101.1, 96.3 Easy Rock, Focalcast, 103.5 K Lite, Cross Over 105.5, 97.9 Home Radio, Star FM. 

For ticket inquiries call SM Tickets at 470-222 or visit www.smtickets.com.
#b2bthrowback
Username: back2backthrowback



November 27, 2013

Sitti’s “Bossa Love” Concert and Album Launch will be on January 18 (Saturday), 2014 Music Museum


MCA Music has decided to postpone Sitti’s “Bossa Love” Concert and Album Launch on November 28 at Music Museum to January 18 (Saturday), 2014, same venue. The change of schedule is in lieu of the ongoing efforts for the relief of the victims of Typhoon Yolanda which devastated thousands of people in the Visayas.
Those who already purchased their tickets via SM Tickets, Ticketworld and Music Museum may get their refund at the mentioned ticketing outlets. But tickets for bought for the November 28 show will still be honored during the January 18 show. For those who bought Orchestra tickets and wish to not have it refunded, they can claim their Sitti “Bossa Love” CD at MCA Music Inc. office, 34F Raffles Corporate Center, F. Ortigas Road, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. Just bring your ticket purchased.

Sitti’s brand new album however will still be released in record stores and digital downloads (iTunes and spinnr) this November 28. 

Tracks include late nineties to late 2000’s hits such as carrier single “Sunday Morning”, a cover of the song by Maroon 5, “It Wasn’t Me” by Shaggy, “Stickwithu” by the Pussycat Dolls, “Back To You” by John Mayer, “Smooth” by Santana, “Someday We’ll Know” by New Radicals, “My Favorite Mistake” by Sheryl Crow, “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys, “Yellow” by Coldplay, “Lost Without You” by Robin Thicke, “Don’t Know Why” by Norah Jones, “For You” by Kenny Lattimore, “Waterfalls” by TLC, and “Thank You” by Dido, all given Sitti’s signature bossa treatment. Bossa Love is produced by Marvin Querido. 

New ticket prices will be announced soon. Just contact SM Tickets at 4702222 or smtickets.com, Music Museum Ticketron at 7216726 or 
musicmuseum.com.ph, and Ticketworld at 8919999 or ticketworld.com.ph.

November 26, 2013

Pop, Hip-Hop and R&B Duo MKTO Live on December 14

Watch MKTO Live on December 14, 2013 (Sat.) at Eastwood Mall Open Park, 4pm and Venice Piazza at McKinley Hill, 7pm. 

It's a warm mid-summer day in sunny Southern California, and Malcolm Kelley, 20, and Tony Oller, 21, are indulging in lunch and banter outside of the Los Angeles studio where they record. Soon, they're playing tag with their manager's 3-year-old son, ping ponging to all corners of the studio. Initially, this time slot was allotted for an interview. 

The duo aren't dodging their scheduled sit down—now on hold for the last half hour—so much as they're just being themselves, reveling in their current circumstances. With their actions and music, Kelley and Oller enjoy themselves, and do it on their own terms. 

Recently signed to Columbia Records, the twosome offer a vibrant mix of pop, hip-hop and R&B, crafted in an undeniably organic way, which makes the music sound as fun to the listener as it was for the two to make--but there's an edge to it, too. It’s something that will be evident on their upcoming debut album, Role Models, as well as their lead single, “Thank You.”

“We're really happy with it,” says Houston-bred Oller of the single. “We’re still working on the rest of the album, but as of right now, I think we have most of what we're wanting to get across. We have ballads, really soft, ‘Someone Like You’ stuff. We have up tempo party songs. We're trying to do a lot of sounds.” And it’s not just the sounds, but also the content: The two discuss the ups and downs that go with adolescence and growing up, navigating a territory that anyone coming of age can find relatable.

“I think there's a lane for everything in music,” Oller continues. “If people like it, great, but if people don't, we made a record we're proud of.”

In addition to their sound, it’s this sort of comfort in their own skin that defines MKTO, and informs not just the content of their music, but also the origins of their name. “It's simple,” Oller says of the moniker, which not only represents their combined initials (Malcolm Kelley, Tony Oller), but something more. “It also stands for what our album kind of is: Misfit Kids and Total Outcasts—just like the kids we were in high school.”

“Whether we like it or not, some kids are still gonna look up to us, and if I can give them a good direction to go in, or be a positive factor, then I'll be that,” Kelley says proudly.

Both accomplished adolescent actors (Oller’s credits include starring in the Disney Series As The Bell Rings as well as the movie Beneath The Darkness, while Kelley had major roles on ABC’s hit Lost as well as in the film Antwone Fisher), the two first met while filming Gigantic, in 2010, in which they played best friends. It was there that they first bonded and realized their shared love of music.

“While acting, you got a lot of down time, so we would just crack open the computer and start making some music,” Kelley recalls. He had been rapping with his friends since he was in his early teens, but had finally found a companion to help pursue the passion seriously.

“We used Garage Band a lot on our Macs,” remembers Oller, who has played piano and sung since his adolescent years, and even appeared on Showtime at the Apollo and Star Search. “We didn't know at all how to record. We loved music for the simple pleasure of loving music. Not trying to do anything, just enjoy creating it.”

Before long, the savvy upstarts uploaded a handful of videos to YouTube, displaying the unique flavor they offered by rerecording other artists’ hits and giving them a fresh spin. With songs like “Made In America,” “Just The Way You Are,” and “Champion,” they’d post videos of themselves recording the cuts, with Oller’s vocals easily distinguishable from the original and Kelley’s rapped verses adding an otherwise unexpected but fitting twist.

In early 2012, MKTO signed to a new partnership between longtime musical collaborators Emanuel “Eman” Kiriakou and Evan “Kidd” Bogart. The two, who stumbled upon the guys’ video for “Champion” online, have been responsible for hits from Beyonce, Rihanna, Selena Gomez, Hot Chelle Rae, Sean Kingston, Jason Derulo and many more. MKTO felt that this formidable creative partnership was the perfect hit song breeding ground for their diverse song style.

Shortly after they initially linked up, the foursome headed to New York and took meetings with every major label, as MKTO wowed execs with their total package. In March, they signed with Columbia Records. “They showed us longevity in their artists,” Kelley compliments.

“When we worked on Gigantic, we always talked about what it would be like to do a show,” Oller reflects. “We had songs that we did and we'd sit in our trailers and have the mirror up and be like, ‘Dude, what if we f****in' walked out on stage and everyone started screaming?’ Everything we hoped for—three years laters, here we are. It's really just a dream come true for us.”

Watch MKTO Live on December 14, 2013 (Sat.) at Eastwood Mall Open Park, 4pm and Venice Piazza at McKinley Hill, 7pm. 

This is presented to you by Megaworld, Ivory Music & Video and Sony Music.

Happy Soles for Happy Souls

Tropical Retail Company, Inc.- All Flip-Flops, retailer of the well-loved quality footwear, Havaianas, in the Philippine donated 5,000 flip-flops to Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines, Inc. for the victims of super typhoon Yolanda. 

Seeing the flip-plops, everybody was naturally ecstatic. With its iconic cheerful colors and fun prints, every pair of Havaianas flip-flop is sure to transport a person into a happy state.
The Havaianas flip-flops, ranging from baby to adult sizes, was delivered by Chinnie Alpay, Executive Assistant and Administrative Coordinator and Candice See, Recruitment officer, at the Operation Blessing headquarters in Pasig City. The donation was received by Peter Kairuz, President and Chief Executive Officer of CBN Asia and Operation Blessing and Dr. Kim Pascual, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Operation Blessing.

“We are extremely grateful for this huge donation of Havaianas. This is a company with a really big heart. We assure you that these beautiful Havaianas flip-flops would bring smiles to the faces of the Yolanda survivors,” Peter said.

Chinnie said that it was only a couple of days ago when their Managing Director Geronimo Begre, informed them of the company’s intent to help the Yolanda victims through Operation Blessing and everyone in the company immediately went into action, completing the 5,000 flip-flops for donation in a matter of 3 days.

“We are blessed that we could be of help. Mr. Begre is so happy that all the employees worked together to make this happen. Nagkapit-bisig po talaga kami para dito. ,” Chinnie said.

She, likewise, informed the Operation Blessing team that this is the first major humanitarian donation of their company but they will explore more ways to partner with Operation Blessing Philippines in order to help more people.

Operation Blessing will distribute the 5,000 pairs of Havaianas flip-flops to Yolanda victims in Bantayan Island, Cebu coinciding with the screening of the Superbook animated series, trauma counseling, program intervention and healing art, as part of the rehabilitation process immediately following the relief efforts.

Air Asia Flies People to Lift a Life Well Lit

Crizal Transitions, the leading Photochromic lens in the world, wants us to “see life in a brighter light.” As such, they have organized the first-ever open-air music and movie festival, Cinemajam 
on November 30, 2013.

Live music from GraceNote, Moonstar 88, Itchyworms, Callalily, and a special performance by Bamboo will be filling the air and setting the mood for the day-to-night affair. On the other hand, movies Love, Actually and Limitless, the mystery thriller featuring Bradley Cooper ensures different angles on life and love.

To add to the festivities, major event sponsor, Air Asia, will be giving away round trip tickets for 3 people to either Seoul, Korea or Miri, Malaysia! Joining this contest is easy! First, “LIKE” the official Facebook page of Essilor Philippines. Second, upload a photo that answers the question: “What Lights Up Your Life?” Lastly, include a caption and be sure to tag Essilor Philippines.

All participants along with 5 of their friends will be invited to the Cinemajam outdoor movie & music festival happening on November 30. Photos will be judged according to creativity, number of shares and likes and announced during the program later in the night.

Tickets for Cinemajam 2013 can be purchased through any TicketWorld outlet with proceeds benefiting World Vision. For PhP1,350, ticket holders will enjoy discounts throughout the day at the various food stations and activities which include: bungee jumping, wall climbing, kite flying, carting, frisbee, basketball, skateboard, etc.

Additional food and activities brought to you by minor sponsors Chatime, Pao Express, Nisce Skin n’ Face, Toby’s, PLDT and Police sunglasses will also be available to make CinemaJam the most memorable event of the year!

About Essilor
The world’s leading ophthalmic lens company, Essilor designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of lenses to improve and protect eyesight. Its corporate mission is to enable everyone around the world to access lenses that meet his or her unique vision requirements. To support this mission, the company allocates around €150 million to research and development every year, in a commitment to continuously bring new, more effective products to the market. Essilor’s flagship brands are Varilux®, Crizal®, Crizal Transitions®, Xperio®, OptifogTM and Airwear®. 

It also develops and markets equipment, instruments and services for eyecare professionals. Essilor reported consolidated revenue of €4.2 billion in 2011 and employs around 48,700 people in some 100 countries. It operates 19 plants, a total of 390 prescription laboratories and edging facilities, as well as several research and development centers around the world.

For more information, please visit www.essilor.com.ph

RSF Yuletide Sale on December 4 - 8, 2013

The RSF Yuletide Sale opens on Wednesday, December 4 until Sunday December 8, 2013, from 10AM to 9PM, at the Megatrade Hall 1,  5th level of  SM Megamall.


The five-day event showcases well-known brands, both local and international, under one roof.

Shoppers from all walks of life will surely enjoy huge discounts on great selections from shoes, bags, men’s and ladies fashion, sporting goods, accessories and more. Participating companies and well-known brands will hold inventory sale for great bargains before the Christmas season sets in.

Over the years, RSF events have established a growing market of loyal shoppers, and have always been one of the most anticipated annual events. 

Shoppers will enjoy up to 81% discounts from the following participating brands: Reebok, Rockport, Daidora, Umbro, Calcie, Avia, And1, Babolat, Fila, Airwalk, Dunlop, GBX, Glagla, Gola, Levis, New Era, Oakley, Inov8, Outland, Reva, Ryka, Skechers, Sugar Free and Blue, Tribu Outdoors and many more.

BDO and Eastwest will be the official bank partners of RSF Yuletide Sale for this event; Credit cardholders of both will get 0% interest for up to 12 months. BDO cardholders will also enjoy the Buy Now Pay Next Year promo at 0% interest.

Mark Caguioa will also be present for the autograph signing on December 7, Saturday from 6PM to 7PM.

Admission is free

and all major credit cards are accepted. Before the Christmas Shopping RUSH begins, make your way to the RSF Yuletide Sale. You’ll be surprised that with the wide array of choices, you can find something that you’ll need long after the Christmas is long gone.

Special thanks to our media partners: WhenInManila.com, ManilaReviews.com, outoftownblog.com and Enjoying Wonderful World and Arts Travel & Music Magazine


For more information about the event, you may call RSH Marketing at telephone no. 5704100. 

You may also follow us through Facebook Fanpage:  Royal Sporting House Philippines, ReebokΔONE Philippines  and MCT Events Management for more updates on this event.

Resorts World Manila Reaches Out To Yolanda Survivors with “Kami Naman Ang Taya” Benefit Concert

Resorts World Manila’s benefit concert, dubbed as “Kami Naman Ang Taya,” with some of the biggest names in the local entertainment industry are set to headline a one-night-only benefit concert for the survivors of super typhoon Yolanda on December 3, 2013 at the country’s premier integrated resort, Resorts World Manila.

“Kami Naman Ang Taya,” will feature Concert King and Queen Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez, Asia’s Nightingale Lani Misalucha, and Asia’s Pop Idol Christian Bautista, among many other artists who are donating their time and talent for the cause.

The first grand winner of The Voice of the Philippines, Mitoy Yonting, will also be performing with his band Draybers.

Helmed by award-winning theater and concert director ‘Direk’ Freddie Santos, the “Kami Naman Ang Taya” concert will be staged at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila. Ticket prices start at PHP1,000.

All the proceeds of the concert will be coursed through charitable institutions Caritas Manila, Sagip Kapamilya, and the Philippine Red Cross to help fund the relief and rehabilitation efforts in the areas affected by typhoon Yolanda.

The concert follows the success of “1Tayo: Isa Tayo Sa Pagakalinga. Itayo ang Pag-asa”, the joint relief efforts of Resorts World Manila, Solaire Resort and Casino; and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). Through “1Tayo”, the country’s key players in the integrated resort industry were able to put together PHP50M worth of relief goods and transport these to the families in need of help.

Tickets to “Kami Naman ang Taya” are now on sale at the Resorts World Manila Box Office located at the main casino entrance, and in all TicketWorld and TicketNet outlets. 

For inquiries and reservations, call RWM Box Office at (02) 908-8000 local 7700, SM Tickets at (02) 470-2222, Ticket Net at (02) 891-9999 and Ticket World at (02) 912-1967.


For more information on events and activities of Resorts World Manila, visit www.rwmanila.com or call Visitors Hotline at (02) 908-8833.

National Geographic Channel will be broadcasting Comet Of The Century

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CHANNEL TURNS SPOTLIGHT ON “COMET OF THE CENTURY”

In anticipation of what could be one of the biggest astronomical events in our lifetime, National Geographic Channel will be broadcasting Comet Of The Century, a show that will introduce the world to Comet ISON as it passes near Earth by the end of the month of November this year. 

The special will combine CGI and breathtaking images captured by cutting-edge technology to show why the coming of Comet ISON is considered by many astronomers to be a once-in-a-lifetime cosmic event.

Comet ISON is bigger than Australia, its head measuring an impressive 4,900km across and dust trail extending more than 91,000km – more than twice the circumference of planet Earth! It is set to shoot by one of the harshest environments in our solar system, the sun, on November 28th, creating a solar slingshot by passing by Mars and Earth before going around the sun and whizzing back.
What makes this comet’s visit particularly interesting is the fact that our sun may rip it apart, a phenomenon that will provide viewers from Earth with a fantastic display of light. Alternatively, if Comet ISON survives its proximity to the sun, we will be seeing it blazing through our skies for some time after the event.

Comet ISON is over 4 billion years old and is hurtling through space at the speed of 684,000 kilometers per hour, allowing it to cover the distance between New York and Los Angeles in the US in under 20 seconds. It is brighter than other comets seen at the same distance. Besides giving the astronomers and stargazers alike an amazing illusion, Comet ISON is being watched by the most prestigious telescopes in the world in the hopes of providing scientists with crucial scientific data that could help them understand more about comets, the sun and the origin of our solar system.

Comet Of The Century will be featuring experts such as Adam McKay, one of the first astronomers to use spectroscopy with an earth-based telescope to observe the head of ISON, Karl Battams, a scientist from the British Naval Research Laboratory, and Gareth Williams, a scientist working with the Minor Planet Centre, which is responsible for keeping track of asteroids, comets and natural satellites. Scientists will be giving a historical perspective of Comet ISON along with greater insight into the nature of comets and how our understanding of intergalactic phenomena has developed throughout history. 

Comet ISON potentially carries a significant amount of information that may answer many questions, such as whether comets brought water to the newly born Earth, or if Comet ISON contains any organic molecules, which are the building blocks of our existence. Comet Of The Century explains these queries to viewers and draws them into the fascinating world of astronomy and how it links to musings on our very existence.

Catch the premiere on November 27, Wednesday at 10pm only on the National Geographic Channel!

November 25, 2013

“Call Center Girl” movie from Star Cinema


“Call Center Girl”, movie directed by Don Cuaresma and produced by Star Cinema as part of the 20th anniversary line-up of the ABS-CBN film production outfit. This stars with Pokwang, Enchong Dee, Jessy Mendiola, Jestoni Alarcon, Pooh, Ogie Diaz, Ejay Falcon, Chokoleit, K Brosas, Dianne Medina, Alex Castro, Aaron Villaflor and John “Sweet” Lapus.

“Call Center Girl” offers a moral lesson for the Filipino family. Call Center Girl gives a look into the plight of OFWs and how the absence of parents who are working abroad affect their families and children. This movie is set against the backdrop of the Philippines’ fast growing call center industry.

Pokwang said that she's very proud to be here in the movie, with great director, movie writers, and stars. She also said that they really been inspired of doing this movie. “Binigay ko na ng todo lahat dito. I’m sure mamahalin nila ang pelikulang ito kasi maganda ang kuwento. Yung director namin napakahusay. Proud ako dito.”

“I’m very, very proud of this crazy movie of ours,” added by Pokwang.



This Call Center Girl movie is the first collaboration with Don Cuaresma, who is known for his superb work in ABS-CBN’s top-rating soaps Ina, Kapatid, Anak, Maria La Barrio; Rubi, and 100 Days To Heaven and scriptwriter Kriz Gazmen who was part of the creative team behind Star Cinema’s blockbuster movies No Other Woman, Sisterakas, and Ang Tanging Ina Nyong Lahat.

She shared to us what the story about. “Isa akong dating OFW. Napalayo ako sa mga anak ko and then 'yung bunso ko, siya 'yung medyo lumayo ang loob sa akin. Pagbalik ko dito, gusto kong mabuo ulit ang pamilya ko kaya pinasok ko ang call center.”

The cast , director and writer of Call Center Girl during the blog conference held at the Star Cinema office, ABS-CBN, Nov 18. 2013

Pokwang, as Teresa, plays a call center agent who is still adjusting to her job. She chooses to endure the attitude of her mean team leader, played by Enchong Dee, for the sake of keeping her family whole. As a desperate race against time to unite her family and win back the affections of her estranged daughter Regina (Jessy Mendiola). By some twist of fate, Teresa (who worked in a cruise ship for 13 years) lands a job in a call center where her daughter Regina is also employed thus providing her with the perfect opportunity to rekindle her broken relationship with her daughter. 

In the process, Teresa encounters a diverse bunch of people from different walks of life, including their team leader Vince (Enchong Dee). She then gradually appreciates the concept of extended families and ultimately, Teresa, Regina, and even Vince learns the true value of family as they discover their individual purposes in life.

Jessy Mendiola, Pokwang and Enchong Dee (Photo:ABS-CBN)

Enchong once again showcases his very wide and impressive range as an actor,” Cuaresma said.
Jessy is also equally very brilliant in the film, she is a natural comedian. And Pokwang's comic timing is her flair for comedy never ceases to amaze me. It’s been quite a while since we saw Pokwang in a major comedic role in a full-length feature film,” Cuaresma added.

Ejay Falcon, from PBB said this is his first comedy movie. "I'm thankful to Star Cinema for giving me a chance to work with great director and cast.”

Enchong shared “It’s such a challenge to make other people laugh and I learned a lot from our director and my co-actors, I grew as an actor in making this film and it’s great to take a break from drama this time. It was so fun to play the vicious role of Vince. It’s exciting to see how his character will turn out in the movie.”

“Call Center Girl,” a riotous and has all the elements of a good and unforgettable family movie, set to hit the theaters nationwide on November 27.

For more updates, visit:


Following the devastation brought about by super typhoon “Yolanda,” comedienne Pokwang believes it is time for Filipinos to laugh again. Pokwang said she hopes her upcoming comedy “Call Center Girl” can boost the Filipino spirit after the typhoon battered the Visayas and left thousands of people dead. "Naiintinidihan naman po namin na may pinagdadaanan ang bansa natin pero ang pelikulang ito, nawa’y muling maghatid ng ngiti sa mga Pilipino," Pokwang added. 


November 24, 2013

The Clash in Cotai - Pacquiao vs Rios

Fighter of the Decade MANNY "PACMAN" PACQUIAO and former world champion BRANDON "BAM BAM" RIOS will fight in a 12-round welterweight rumble on Saturday, November 23, from The Venetian® Macao’s CotaiArena™, in Macao, China.


The Pacquiao vs. Rios weigh-in results :
Manny Pacquiao (145) vs. Brandon Rios (146.5)

In the main event, Pacquiao and Rios will have to make 147 pounds. The two fighters are clashing for the vacant WBO international welterweight title.

Pacquiao is reportedly guaranteed $18 million for the fight, while Rios will make $4 million.

Pacquiao vs Rios remaining tickets can be purchased online at TICKETNETWORK or order by phone at (855) 859-4045. Contact HBO PPV providers to watch the fight live from your home beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT.

Electrolux Digital Brand Ambassadors

Leading home appliance brand Electrolux introduces its new set of digital brand ambassadors to represent the latest Electrolux campaign, Wear Your Passion.

Celebrity mom Cheska Garcia-Kramer, celebrity chef Rosebud Benitez-Velasco, and mompreneur Janice Villanueva were chosen to be part of the new Electrolux campaign. “Their passion for their craft and credibility in their respective fields made them the perfect choice for Electrolux,” says Andrea Pionilla, Marketing Manager, Electrolux Philippines, Inc.

“The clothes we wear reflect the different hats we put on each day, but taking care of our clothes consume so much of our time and effort. With the help of the new Time Manager Washing Machine, you’ll have more time for your passions without worrying about your laundry,” says Pionilla. She adds, “Through the Electrolux Wear Your Passion campaign, we want to encourage every woman to make time for themselves and to pursue and flaunt their passions through the clothes that best represent them.”

“Being a mom is my ultimate passion in life. My family will always be my first priority,” says Cheska Garcia-Kramer. Having been in the entertainment industry for years, Cheska definitely knows how to balance work and family life. Despite her busy schedule, Cheska is a hands-on mom to her three lovely children, Kendra, Scarlet, and Gavin and a caring wife to PBA player , Doug Kramer.

Chef Rosebud Benitez-Velasco is very passionate about food and cooking. She spends most of her time in the kitchen creating delicious dishes but still makes sure to spend quality time with her children and husband. “Nothing is more rewarding than doing what I love most–being a chef, mother, and wife at home,” shares Chef Rosebud.

Janice Crisostomo-Villanueva joins Chef Rosebud and Cheska in the Wear Your Passion campaign. Janice is not only a entrepreneur but is also a passionate advocate of active parenting and breast-feeding. Janice is the founder of Mommy Mundo, an online portal of family-focused resources comprised of an active community of over 30,000 moms. Janice shares, “Sharing my passions with other moms and helping them in their roles in the family is what I love most about my job.”

“Our digital brand ambassadors will not only share what they are passionate about but also encourage everyone to have guilt-free time doing the things that they love to do with the help of Electrolux home appliances,” adds Pionilla.

For more news and updates about the Electrolux Wear Your Passion campaign, 
visit www.facebook.com/thelittlewhitebook 
or follow @ElectroluxPH on Twitter and Instagram.

November 23, 2013

Laguna Blogging Summit 2 with Social Revolutionists who conquered Laguna

The Socialist Revolutionaries were the most influential group around the world. And recently, Social Revolutionists conquered the hearts of Laguenos through the second social media summit known as 2LaBS last November 14 & 15, 2013.

The 2nd Laguna Social Media and Blogging Summit (#2LaBS) was held at the Cultural Center of Laguna with powerful speakers who were armed with their strong & revolutionary topics to share, empower & teach the participants about Online Marketing, Social Media Ethics, Passion, Responsibilities and on how to become a catalyst for change.

Congratulations to 2LaBS!



As the media activities, successful and powerful summit, will see the most explosive growth in the future. For this year, the event became bigger and louder. The participating students are from Laguna State Polytechnic University (LSPU), STI, AMA, University of the Philippines and De La Salle Zobel Ayala Alabang.

Here are some highlghts from the summit:


On the first day (November 14) the very punctual and energetic President of Laguna State Polytechnic University, Dr. Nestor De Vera as keynote speaker wowed the audience with his vision that Social Media and Online Marketing as the present and the future. 
Dr. Nestor De Vera
Thanks to very supportive Dr. De Vera who was also with the 1st Laguna Social Media and Blogging Summit (#1laBS) last year.

The lead organizer of #2LaBS Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas welcomed the participants and grateful with the different schools overwhelming support. She discussed the Ethics in Social Media that in order to win in a Blogosphere, one must know how to engage with her audience, practice respect, learn that Blogging is not private but for public consumption and not to engage with bashers.
Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas

Pastor Eyriche Cortez shared his power tips in Blogging.
Pastor Eyriche Cortez

TV5 show host and motivational speaker Chinkee Tan of Chink Positive wowed the audience with his wit and techniques for success and that in order to succeed, one must have a positive attitude and mindset, the participating students can’t help but to get his books after his talk to learn more the idea of positive thinking. 
Chinkee Tan

Engr. John Cueto who is writing about technology explained the idea about "Niche.” 

Rhodora Espiritu (DLSZ )  shared the importance of educational blogging. 

Dra. Tess Termulo discussed her advocacy that started on Facebook. She is a member of a community that spreads humanism in the Philippines and leverage the use of Social Media to promote peace and equality.
Dra. Tess Termulo 

Venzie Crisostomo, the chairman of Anakbayan and an active leader of Kabataan Partylist connected with the participants by sharing his advocacy online that leads him to do it offline too. He told everyone to be aware and concern about what’s happening in the Philippines and that each of us can do better if only we are united as one wherever we are online or in real world.

The 2nd day of the summit is also exciting with the speakers as follows with their topics;

Atty. Chris Lao- Anti Cyber Bullying and Cyber crime law

Ben Francia- Search Engine Optimization
Ben Francia

Director James Jimenez- Social Media in voters education

Pocholo De Leon Gonzales- Branding

Bert Guevarra- Environment awareness

Janette Toral- Branding and Bloggers as digital influencer
                    http://www.youtube.com/user/digitalfilipino?feature=watch


One of the co organizers of #2LaBS Ross Del Rosario also shared how to win in a blogosphere in a short period of time.


Cheers and congratulations to 2LaBS team and partners. With the different schools attended the event, the organizers are most certain that there will be another summit next year.

The organizers would like to thank the following sponsors:

Gardenia Bakers Philippines, Greenwich Pizza, Zoomanity Group, Elabram Systems Inc., 2GO Shipping, Globe Telecoms, Pro Friends, Air Asia, Havaianas. Oriang, 100 Miles Café, Province of Laguna, Tiago Progressive Cuisine, Hotel La Corona De Lipa, Mernels Cake, Microsoft, COMELEC, Sofitel, Asus.

Media Partners:

Kliping Times, The Tribune Post, Ronda Balita, Magic Expose, Royal Cable, wheninmanila.com, wazzuppilipinas.com, blog-ph.com, Webby Thoughts, Manila Channel.

Organizers:

Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas
Engr. John Cueto
Rod Magaru
Dianne Salonga
Pepi De Leon
Myrns Roman
JayL Aquino
Ivan Saldajeno
Florencio Jusay Jr. 
Rhodora Espiritu
Mac Vasquez
Katrina Capili
Odessa Escaler
Jojo Busayong
Ross del Rosario
Mark Acsay

Some photos by : Mac Movers

“King of the Gil” dance concert of the Philippine showbiz’s ‘Dougie King’ Enrique Gil

‘Dougie King’ Enrique Gil will teach how to dougie and more on this special first ever dance concert! 

Enrique Gil will prove his dancing prowess in his ‘King of the Gil’ dance concert on November 29 to be held at the Big Dome!

Enrique known as the "Dougie King" for his signature dance moves to the song "Teach Me How to Dougie". After dancing "Gentleman" by Psy at Vice Ganda's Concert, he is also now hailed as "Gentleman King."
He is now ready to conquer the Smart-Araneta Coliseum this November 29 as he brings his own swag and delight his supporters and fans at his first ever concert titled “King of the Gil” staged by Star Events and ABS-CBN.

This concert  will be joined by Enrique’s friends in showbiz - Vice Ganda, Angel Locsin, Toni Gonzaga, Kim Chiu, Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario and Young JV, Julia Montes.

Dance groups Streetboys and G-Force will further fire up the night with their killer choreography.

“I will do everything that will make them stand up, dance and enjoy the night. I will definitely teach you how to dougie and much much more!” promised by Enrique.

Don’t miss the “King of the Gil” concert at Smart-Araneta Coliseum on November 29 (Friday).

Tickets are now available at Ticketnet outlets and Ticketnet.com.ph.


For more updates about “King of the Gil,” visit Star Records’ Facebook fanpage at www.facebook.com/starrecordsphil 
or follow @starrecordsph on Twitter.
Enrique Gil during the bogcon held at the ABS-CBN

DOH formalized agreement with Pilipinas Go4Health partners

Pilipinas Go4Health, the nationwide healthy lifestyle movement spearheaded by the Department of Health (DOH) and with its partners, formalized its partnerships with a variety of institutions during a ceremonial memorandum of understanding (MOU) signing at the Department of Health Compound in Manila last November 20, 2013.


It aims to inform and encourage Filipinos from all walks of life to practice a healthy lifestyle by making a personal commitment to physical activity, proper nutrition, and the prevention or cessation of smoking and alcohol consumption. Through the movement, DOH and its partners work together to promote and establish a sustainable environment for healthy living.

The MOU signing ceremony was attended by GT Metro Foundation, UCPB Gen, Philips Electronics, PhilRice, Global Academy, Bikram Yoga Alabang, Asian Medical Students Association, Polytechnic University of the Philippines and Asian Hospital and Medical Center. DOH officials and representatives from the National Center for Health Promotion (NCHP) led the ceremony, where the efforts of the Pilipinas Go4Health partners were recognized.

“This is another exciting milestone for us because we know that we are all in this fight against non-communicable disease (NCDs) together,” said Health Secretary Enrique Ona. 

“From the moment we learned about the rise of non-communicable diseases or NCDs, it became our mission to avert its long-term impact on the lives of Filipinos, knowing that the new lifestyle is mostly sedentary. Data also indicate that we have a diet that is high in cholesterol and fat, and that we need to more about smoking and heavy drinking,” Secretary Ona stressed.



Health is Wealth. To maintain our good health, we should have light exercise, morning walk regularly, always take balanced and nutritious diet, we should always be away from the bad habits like smoking, drinking and drug addiction.

Pilipinas Go4Health is a healthy lifestyle movement that aims to encourage Filipinos to commit to living healthy with :

Go Sustansya
They say you are what you eat. Our fast-paced lifestyle has led to a reliance on instant meals and fast food restaurants. There’s no harm in wanting to make life a bit easier, but doing so at the cost of one’s health is a no-no. Typically, these “quick” meals are loaded with unhealthy ingredients for them to last longer or cook easier.

Healthy meals are always the best source of energy, vitamins and minerals that people need everyday. A healthy diet includes: whole grains, healthy protein, fish, vegetables, fruits, and dairy. Eating healthy is easy and need not be expensive. The first step is understanding better and healthier meal options. One also needs to establish a positive attitude about food, know how much calories is needed daily, must know the ‘good’ and ‘bad’ in terms of fats and carbs.

Go Sigla
Getting physical is one of the basic ways of keeping one’s self in tip-top shape. But with very busy schedules, people sometimes find it difficult to squeeze in workouts and exercises.
There are a lot of ways of being physically active. They can be simple things such as using the stairs when climbing up or going down a floor or two and walking to your destination when it’s a few blocks away. Even the simplest household tasks such as gardening and cleaning the house are considered exercise.

Different activities target specific parts of the body. There are endurance activities like brisk walking, dancing and biking, that strengthen the heart and lungs. Flexibility activities that strengthen the muscles include stretching, gardening, and doing various household chores. And there are strengthening activities that concentrate on the strength of bones and muscles, such as climbing up the stairs, lifting weights, and doing push-ups. Tai Chi, do heel-to-toe walk, and balancing on one foot help in maintaining balance.

Go Slow sa Tagay
For some, drinking is a way to relax and unwind. But when it comes to alcohol consumption, moderation is very important.  For men, two drinks are recommended, while women are urged to take one drink.

It also aims to promote safe and responsible driving, and lessen motor vehicle accidents. Under RA 10586, law enforcement can conduct random field sobriety tests, chemical and confirmatory tests on motorists suspected of driving under the influence.

Responsible drinking is the key. Moderate alcohol drinking may contribute in reducing one’s risk for: heart diseases, strokes, particularly is schemic stroke gall stones and diabetes.

Go Smoke-free
Smoking is a deadly habit. Ten Filipinos die every hour because of smoking. Across the globe, there are 1.1 billion smokers, and if current trends continues, the number of smokers will reach 1.6 billion by year 2025. In the Philippines, 28 percent, or 17.3 million Filipino adults aged 15 years and older are current tobacco smokers, according to 2009 data by the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS). But it is not only first-hand smoking that kills. Exposure to secondhand smoke is prevalent as well. 

 Smoking is associated with:
          (1) cardiovascular diseases (including heart diseases and stroke);
          (2) diabetes;
          (3) cancer; and
          (4) chronic respiratory diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) and asthma.

Countries are making efforts to reduce, if not eliminate, tobacco use. The World Health Organization (WHO) supports countries through the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). WHO also introduced the MPOWER measures, which aims to assist the implementation of programs to reduce tobacco demand.

Launched in June 2013, Pilipinas Go4Health is gaining a strong following among the public and private sectors, academe, local governments, and in online and social media.

Secretary Ona said that this milestone signals the start of bigger, more sustained actions toward a healthier Philippines. 

“With the help of our leaders, our employers, our schools, our families, and our champions, we will inspire every Filipino, from the young to the old, to embrace a healthy future. Because we owe it to ourselves to fight for that future,” Secretary Ona said. 

“We salute the work of our partners, who are making great strides against NCDs. If you and your organization share the same passion for building a stronger and healthier Philippines, be part of Pilipinas Go4Health by registering on the website, www.go4health.ph. We are urging everyone to share their time, ideas, and resources so we can succeed in making health a reality for every Filipino,” Secretary Ona adds.

Here's a videp taken during the DOH MOU with Pilipinas Go4Health Partners, lead by DOH Assistant Secretary Dr. Enrique Tayag.

CBN Asia's Operation Blessing Philippines brings back the smiles on children traumatized by #YolandaPH

Together with relief distribution, feeding and medical mission, Operation Blessing Philippines brings back the smiles on children traumatized by super typhoon Yolanda.

Through songs, stories and games, Operation Blessing has already brought back the smiles on the faces of children seriously affected by the trauma brought by the super typhoon.
Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines, the humanitarian arm of CBN Asia, is successfully changing the sentiments in areas devastated by super typhoon Yolanda from one of helplessness and despair to that of hope and a sense of well-being.

“Operation Blessing aims to help the children cope up with their current situation through fun activities and games which we do simultaneously with relief distribution, medical mission and feeding programs. It is truly heartwarming to hear these children laugh once more,” says Dr. Kim Pascual, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Operation Blessing.

Despite challenges in logistical requirements, five teams from Operation Blessing are continuously doing relief distributions, medical mission and feeding programs in Leyte, Samar, Palawan, Iloilo and Roxas and Northern Cebu.

In their ongoing relief efforts, Operation Blessing Philippines has already reached out to at least 15,530 people without food and at high risk of possible health care problems.

Relief packs distributed to affected families include fortified rice mix, rice, noodles, powdered milk, canned goods, bottled water and used clothes. In other areas, Operation Blessing distributed brand new shirts and towels. Hygiene kits have already been packed, ready to be transported and distributed.

Simultaneous Operation Blessing medical missions in five sites hardly reached by other local or international aid, have provided the much needed healthcare to close to 2,000 people.
In Coron, Palawan, Operation Blessing was able to feed 600 individuals with warm meals. The group also shared biscuits to at least 60 people in Guiuan, Eastern Samar, the town where Yolanda first landed.

As they distribute food, medicine and basic necessities to the survivors of this tragedy, Operation Blessing also brings to the people a sense of hope, strength and renewed faith.

“Let us continue to pray for our fellowmen that they will not lose faith and they will continue to hold on God’s love and faithfulness,” Dr. Kim said as he urged more donors to continue sharing their blessings so that Operation Blessing Philippines would be able to help out as many affected people as possible. 

For more details, please contact:
Gigi G. Endaya, RSW
Manager, Corporate Communications & Resource Development
477-78-02 to 04/ 477-78-06

November 21, 2013

“Designer to the Stars,” Francis Libiran is Metro Magazine’s latest Metrowear Icon.

In celebration of Metro Magazine’s 24th year, Metro has named Francis Libiran, the “designer to the stars,” its latest Metrowear Icon. This coincides with Francis Libiran’s 15 years in the fashion industry.

Libiran will be presenting 10 themed collections as a sneak peek of his 2014-2015 collection on November 25 at the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel. As a show of solidarity with fellow Filipinos in Eastern and Central Visayas affected by Typhoon Yolanda, Francis Libiran has decided to do a silent auction of 15 iconic pieces on one evening. All proceeds will be donated in support of relief operations for the storm’s victims.
Libiran has gained renown for his elegant style and great skill with draping fabrics and doing intricate beadwork. His creations have drawn the attention of fashionistas in both local and international circles. Among the stars that have been fortunate to wear his beautiful dresses and bespoke suits are the likes of Anne Curtis, Sam Milby, Shaina Magdayao, Billy Crawford, Xian Lim and Kim Chiu. For major events like the Star Magic Ball, the brightest (and most fashion-savvy) of stars look forward to wearing his creations. His latest fashion coup was creating the dresses and gowns wore by 2013 Miss World winner, Megan Young. His coral beaded evening won him raves all around.
A major career highlight for Libiran was when his whimsical creations – made using all kinds of Hello Kitty merchandise – was worn by the model-contestants for one of their photo shoots in the 18th season highly-rated program “America’s Next Top Model.” No less than host Tyra Banks wore one of his gowns when she attended the 4th Annual Blossom Ball in New York earlier this year.
It is because of his eye for detail, his timeless style that has led Metro magazine to select him as this year’s Metrowear Icon. Libiran's 10 themed collections as a sneak peek of his 2014-2015 collections are Victorian Gothic, Earth Colours, Edwardian Ash, Gemstones, Oriental, Deluxe and Royale.
As a favorite designer of the most beautiful celebrities in local entertainment, they are taking to the stage to model his pieces during the show. Among them are muses Anne Curtis and Kim Chiu; actresses Liza Soberano, Maricar Reyes, Coleen Garcia, and Karylle; celebrity models Kelly Misa, Wendy Tabusalla, Daniel Matsunaga, Fabio Ide, and Hideo Muraoka; beauty queens Shamcey Supsup, Venus Raj and Gwen Ruais; athletes Anthony and David Semerad; and actors Xian Lim, Christian Bautista, Jake Cuenca and Matt Evans,
For more of style embodied, grab a copy of Metro Magazine’s latest issue at bookstores and newsstands nationwide. For updates, visit Metro Magazine on Facebook (www.facebook.Metro.Magazine) or follow them on Twitter / Instagram @metromagph.

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