Happy New Year !

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Year's end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us.

Let’s celebrate Christmas in our hearts, we have the gift of faith, the blessing of hope and the peace of His love and try to keep it all the years.

Thanks God for giving me another lease of life. Thank you everyone for enriching my life this year again.

May God grant you the 9 Fruits of Holy Spirit. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22)

Wishing you all a year of peace, happiness, prosperity, good health, joy and love!

May God grant us all a blessed New Year !

Enjoy our wonderful world! Cheers!!!

Karylle wishes everyone ‘Sweet and Spicy’ New Year

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Happy. . . Sweet and Spicy New Year! Wearing Polka Dots during the celebration of New Year has been a tradition.

With the forthcoming celebration of the New Year, singer-actress-TV host Karylle gives a new twist to the tradition by coming up with a “Sweet and Spicy” twist to it. Karylle’s “Sweet and Spicy” underwear line for Bench highlights her different personas – the sweet Showtime host and the spicy underwear Bench endorser.

Karylle’s line of underwear is available at all Bench stores nationwide.

For more updates, please follow Karylle: On Twitter and Instagram: @anakarylle

Bruno Mars has been named Billboard’s 2013 “Artist of the Year”

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Bruno Mars Artist of the Year 2013

Singer-songwriter and record producer, Bruno Mars, 28-year-old “Treasure” singer is the first male artist to claim the coveted title since 2008.

Bruno for how he “grabbed hold of the album and single charts and never let go,” stated at Billboard’s  cover page magazine. His second album, ‘Unorthodox Jukebox,’ hit No. 1 on the charts and has sold almost 2 million copies.

“Bruno did well in touring and I think longevity does really well for him. His songs stuck around on multiple formats all year round,” Bill Werde, editorial director of Billboard magazine, told Reuters.

“He’s a powerhouse, and really keeps his focus on the music in a year where conversations have been dominated by (MTV’s Video Music Award) performances and PR cycles.”

In addition to having one of the best-selling albums of the year with “UNORTHODOX JUKEBOX,” Billboard announced today that Mars topped 8 of their 2013 Year-End charts, including “Hot 100 Artists” and “Top Overall Artists.” To celebrate these accolades, the GRAMMY®-winning superstar has unveiled the eagerly awaited next leg of his blockbuster “Moonshine Jungle World Tour.” The acclaimed trek will hit arenas and amphitheaters across North America beginning summer 2014 (see attached listing of cities). Full details – including dates, venues, and ticket information – will be announced soon. For up-to-the-minute news, please see www.brunomars.com/moonshinejungletour. 

 

In addition to topping the “Hot 100 Artists” and “Top Overall Artists” charts, Bruno also came in at No. 1 on the following Billboard year-end rankings: “Hot 100 Singles Airplay,” “Hot Digital Songs,” “Mainstream Top 40” and “Pop Digital Songs.” On top of the Billboard “Artist of the Year” honors, Mars was also just named among the top nominees for the upcoming 56th Annual GRAMMY Awards. “Locked Out Of Heaven,” the #1 smash single from his blockbuster second album, “UNORTHODOX JUKEBOX,” received nods as “Record Of The Year” and “Song of the Year.” What’s more, the multi-talented singer/songwriter/superstar received two further nominations: “Best Pop Solo Performance” for the chart-topping “When I Was Your Man,” and “Best Pop Vocal Album” for UNORTHODOX JUKEBOX.

With 120 million singles sold worldwide, the 18-time GRAMMY® Award nominee and winner has made music history more than once, including such milestones as scoring his first five Billboard “Hot 100” chart-toppers faster than any male solo artist since Elvis Presley. In addition to his two acclaimed multi-platinum albums – 2010’s “DOO-WOPS & HOOLIGANS” and 2012’s “UNORTHODOX JUKEBOX,” of which share a combined certification total of 60x platinum worldwide – Mars has logged an extraordinary catalogue spanning 22 “Hot 100” hits, marking his numerous gifts as singer, songwriter, musician, and producer. A charismatic and irresistible live performer, he recently concluded the epic 2013 leg of the “Moonshine Jungle World Tour,” having performed sold-out shows in over 90 cities around the globe.

 

Furthermore, Mars is one of the most acclaimed artists of this or any other era, with Billboard hailing his work as “boldly ambitious and gloriously irreverent.” “Bruno Mars is beginning to stake a claim as one of the most gifted songwriters of his generation,” declared GQ, while The Hollywood Reporter ranked him “among the best male vocalists that the music industry has to offer.” The New York Times summed it up: “(Bruno Mars) is the most formidable synthesizer of styles going in pop today.”

 

Bruno Mars will begin his North American leg of his “Moonshine Jungle World Tour” in 2014, and will also headline the Super Bowl half time show in February.

For more info and updates,  visit: www.brunomars.com, 

www.facebook.com/brunomars,

www.youtube.com/brunomars, 

and twitter.com/BRUNOMARS.  

 

Godzilla (2014)

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“Godzilla.”, the  science fiction monster film featuring the Japanese film monster of the same name and a reboot of the Godzilla film franchise.

This also will be the last collaboration between Warner Bros. Pictures and LegendaryPictures. The upcoming spectacular adventure,  “Godzilla”  is directed by Gareth Edwards and stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Elizabeth Olsen, Bryan Cranston, Juliette Binoche, David Strathairn, Sally Hawkins and Ken Watanabe.

This science fiction monster film featuring the Japanese film monster of the same name in a reboot of the Godzilla film franchise. It is the second Godzilla film to be fully filmed by an American studio, the first having been the 1998 film of the same name. The film retells the origin of Godzilla in contemporary times as a "terrifying force of nature".

"An epic rebirth to Toho’s iconic Godzilla, this spectacular adventure pits the world’s most famous monster against malevolent creatures who, bolstered by humanity’s scientific arrogance, threaten our very existence"—Legendary Pictures

The film is scheduled to be released on May 16, 2014 in 2D and 3D.

Avril Lavigne Live in Manila 2014

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Avril Lavigne, Canadian singer/rock icon is coming back to Manila for another major concert to be held on February 2014 at the Big Dome. 

"Avril Lavigne Live in Manila" will be her 4th concert in the Philippines, presented by Midas Promotions to be on February 17, 2014 - 8:00 pm at Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City.

Tickets available at Ticketnet outlets and at www.ticketnet.com.ph

Call 470-2222 for ticket inquiries.

TICKET PRICEs

PATRON VIP - Php 7,475(reserved seating)

PATRON REGULAR - Php 5,885(reserved seating)

LOWER BOX CENTER - Php 5,355(reserved seating)

LOWER BOX REGULAR - Php 4,825(reserved seating)

UPPER BOX A - Php 2,705(reserved seating)

UPPER BOX B - Php 1,645(free seating)

GENERAL ADMISSION - Php 905(free seating

Rock N Roll by Avril Lavigne

Visit : 

http://www.avrillavigne.com

https://www.facebook.com/avrillavigne

Here's To Never Growing Up by Avril Lavigne

Canadian recording artist Avril Lavigne has completed concert tours beginning with the "Try to Shut Me Up" Tour in 2002-03. This was followed by the 13-month "Bonez" Tour in 2004-05 and the "Best Damn Tour" in 2008, and the "Black Star" Tour, was completed in February 2012.

When Avril Lavigne first emerged on the music scene at age 17, she was known as a young, pop-punk tomboy who refused to resort to skin-baring come-ons, preferring to entice the record-buying public with her powerhouse voice, high-spirited melodies, and straight-talking lyrics. Staying steadfastly true to herself and putting music before image paid off both critically and commercially for the small-town girl from Napanee, Ontario. In 2002, Lavigne shot to international pop stardom with the 6x-platinum Let Go, followed by 2004’s 3x-platinum Under My Skin, 2007’s platinum The Best Damn Thing, and 2011’s Goodbye Lullaby, which sold more than two million copies worldwide. Over the course of her decade-plus career, Lavigne has scored a string of international hit singles, toured the globe on multiple sold-out tours, earned eight Grammy Award nominations, won eight Canadian Juno Awards, and sold more than 35 million albums and 20 million tracks worldwide.

A self-taught musician, who plays guitar, piano, and drums, and who writes on every one of her songs, Lavigne had already been singing and performing for several years before releasing Let Go, which featured the smash singles “Complicated” and “Sk8r Boi” and sold more than 16 million copies worldwide. Her second album, 2004’s Under My Skin, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200, and sold more than eight million copies worldwide fueled by the hit singles “Don’t Tell Me” and “My Happy Ending.” Four years later came The Best Damn Thing, which featured the No. 1 single “Girlfriend.” Lavigne’s biggest record to date, “Girlfriend” was the top digital track of 2007, selling more than 7.3 million downloads in eight languages. “Here’s To Never Growing Up,” the first single off her self-titled new album (released in November), debuted at No. 1 in 22 countries and was a Top 10 single in 44 countries.

National Museum declares the Rizal Monument as National Cultural Treasure

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On Rizal Day, December 30, the Rizal Monument will be formally declared as a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum and as a National Monument by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

Unveiled a century ago, the monument titled Motto Stella (Guiding Star) was created by Swiss artist Richard Kissling who placed second in a competition in 1907 but eventually was the design selected by the committee. It is a composite sculpture, comprising of cast bronze figures and granite obelisk and base.

Located on the spot in Luneta (now also known as Rizal Park) close to where Jose Rizal was executed by the Spaniards in 1896, the monument also holds his remains.

3 Cheers to the New Year !

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Welcome 2014 loud, lucky and merry in our much-awaited New Year countdown parties, happening at the same time in three different venues.

Everyone is invited to party with Yeng Constantino, The Dawn, Mitoy and the Draybers, and Banda Kawayan at the Newport Mall Plaza.

The Company, The Moments, and Mitoy and the Draybers will rock the stage at Bar 360.

And we’ve got Richard Poon and Class of Six to put on some fine entertainment at the Genting Club.

The celebration starts at 5PM onwards on December 31.

Details here : http://www.rwmanila.com/events/3-cheers-new-year

Eastwood City New Year Countdown to 2014!

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Welcome the New Year with hope and enjoy bedazzling performances at the Eastwood City New Year Countdown to 2014!

Megaworld Lifestyle Malls and Eastwood City usher in the New Year welcomes 2014 with hope and with a grand get-together featuring dazzling spectacles and spectacular performances from the country’s brightest music stars. 

Watch out for International singing sensation and American Idol Season 11 runner-up Jessica Sanchez, the Voice of the Philippines grand winner Mitoy Yonting with his band Draybers, award-winning band Up Dharma Down, Manila’s top party jock DJ Ace Ramos, OPM greats South Border, and one of the country’s premier vocalists and performers Bamboo. 

Hosting the event are VJ Joyce Pring and Boys Night Out’s Sam YG. 

This grand event aimed at bringing cheers and renewed hope for everyone this 2014.

Jessica Sanchez will be leading the Eastwood City New Year Countdown to 2014 on December 31 at the Eastwood Mall Open Park, where she is expected to dazzle and regale the fans with her songs including her upbeat debut single ‘Tonight’, the smash hit she recorded with R&B superstar Ne-Yo.

And at 12 midnight, guests can look forward to more glittering spectacles – the grand fireworks display that will follow the Dazzling Star Drop. Now on its third year, the Dazzling Star Drop is Eastwood City’s version of the world-famous Ball Drop in New York City’s Time Square and one of the most-awaited parts of its New Year Countdown.

Other than the bedazzling musical performances and must-see showcases, a moment of silence will also be held in honor of the victims of the recent calamities including the Bohol Earthquake and Typhoon Yolanda.

Guests who are looking to join the activity can buy commemorative glow sticks, proceeds of which will be donated to organizations currently involved in the Typhoon Yolanda rehabilitation efforts, at designated booths so they can join the simultaneous raising of these lights, which will coincide with the one-minute gesture.

“Our New Year countdown this year is really meant to bring hope and lift the spirit of our countrymen affected by recent calamities. It is through this gathering that we’d want to show the whole world that no natural disaster can dampen nor destroy Filipinos’ resiliency and indomitable spirit,” said Megaworld Corporation First Vice President and Commercial Division Head Kevin Tan.

Those looking to join the Eastwood City New Year Countdown to 2014 can drop by Eastwood Mall Open Park at 6PM. Unique and fun commemorative New Year memorabilia will also be available at different selling booths for those who want to get into the New Year vibe. 

For more information, please call the Megaworld Lifestyle Malls Concierge at 709-9888 

or 709-0888, 0917-8380111 or visit www.megaworldlifestylemalls.com.

Robin Padilla and 10000 wins at the Metro Manila Film Festival 2013

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Robin Padilla won Best Actor for his movie “10,000 Hours,” which also bagged the Best Picture award, in the 2013 Metro Manila Film Festival awards night December 27, held at the Meralco Theater. 

Maricel Soriano bagged the Best Actress trophy for her role in the Vice Ganda-starrer “Girl Boy Bakla Tomboy.” This Star Cinema and Viva Films co-production also won the 2nd Best Picture award and the citation for Most Gender Sensitive Film.

Ryzza Mae Dizon, of My Little Bossings won Best Child Performer.

Here is the complete list winners:

New Wave Student Short Film Special Jury Prize: No Filter , Mapua Institute of Technology
New Wave Short Film Best Picture: Ang Paglisan
Best Float Award: Boy Golden
Youth Choice Award: Pagpag
Best New Wave Film: Dukit by Armando Lao
Animation Jury Prize: Ang Lalong ni Kulakog
Animation Best Picture: Kaleh and Mbaki
Best New Wave Film Director: Armando Lao for Dukit
New Wave Best Actress: Agot Isidro
New Wave Best Actor: Bor Ocampo, Willy Layug, Bambalito Lacap for Dukit
New Wave Special Jury Prize: Mga Anino ng Kahapon
New Wave Best Picture: Dukit
Best Child Performer: Ryzza Mae Dizon, My Little Bossings
Best Festival Sound Recording: 10,000 Hours
Best Musical Score: 10,000 Hours
Best Original Theme Song: My Little Bossings
Best Makeup: Pagpag
Best Visual Effects: 10,000 Hours
Best Editing: 10,000 Hours
Best Cinematography: 10,000 Hours
Gender Sensitive Award - New Wave Student Category: Hintayin mo sa Seq. 24
Gender Sensitive Award Main Category: Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy
Gender Sensitive Award - New Wave: Island Dreams
Special Recognition Award: Ronnie Ricketts
FPJ Memorial Award for Film Excellence: 10,000 Hours
Mavshack Male Star of the Night: Daniel Padilla
Mavshack Female Star of the Night: Eugene Domingo
Best Original Story: 10,000 Hours
Best Screenplay: 10,000 Hours
Best Director: Joyce Bernal, 10,000 Hours
Best Supporting Actor: Pen Medina, 10,000 Hours
Best Supporting Actress, Aiza Seguerra, My Little Bossings
Gat Puno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award: 10,000 Hours
3rd Best Picture: My Little Bossings
2nd Best Picture: Girl, Boy, Bakla. Tomboy
Best Picture: 10,000 Hours
Best Actor: Robin Padilla, 10,000 Hours
Best Actress: Maricel Soriano, Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy

Boracay Island Water sends relief to communities in Aklan and Capiz affected by Yolanda

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Living its commitment to social responsibility, Boracay Island Water, together with Boracay Foundation, Inc. (BFI) and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)- Boracay, provided relief goods to victims of Typhoon Yolanda in Aklan and Capiz. Rice, canned goods, noodles, 3-in-1 coffee, biscuits, drinking water, clothes and toys were given to the towns of Libacao, Balete, and Batan in Aklan and Municipality of Pilar in Capiz. 

“It is our intent, together with BFI and PCCI- Boracay, to concentrate assistance efforts in communities all over the Island and those nearby that suffered the harsh impact of Yolanda”, say Ben Manosca, General Managaer of Boracay Island Water.

Boracay Island Water, subsidiary of East Zone water concessionaire Manila Water, was formed in 2009 through a joint venture agreement with the Tourism Infrastructure Authority and Enterprise Zone Authority or TIEZA (formerly known as Philippine Tourism Authority) to operate the water and wastewater services in the Island of Boracay, Malay, Aklan, particularly in its three barangays -- Manoc-Manoc, Balabag, and Yapak.

“Pagpag: Siyam na Buhay” as PG13

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“Pagpag: Siyam na Buhay” rated as PG13 by Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB). This means that people below 13 years old can still watch the film only with the supervision of an adult.

“Pagpag,” stars Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla and directed by Frasco Mortiz, is a co-production between Star Cinema and Regal Entertainment. It also stars Paulo Avelino, Shaina Magdayao, Matet de Leon, Miles Ocampo, Michelle Veto, CJ Navato, Dominic Roque, Clarence Delgado, Janus del Prado and many more.

This film tells the story of teenagers who violated a lot of pamahiin or funeral superstitions.

There has been a news circulating on social media that a certain girl was prevented entry to “Pagpag,” topbilled by teen loveteam Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla, by a cinema operator because she was below 18 years old, a clear violation of the PG13 rating of the movie. Nevertheless, this confusion did not hinder the film from becoming a blockbuster success; tickets were sold out from its first day of showing.

In fact, as of December 25, it raked in PhP 23.7 million making it the 3rd highest-grossing film during the MMFF’s first day. The other Star Cinema entry “Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy,” on the other hand, ranked 2nd with a total box-office gross of PhP 47.6 million during the first day of the festival.

Daniel Padilla, Diretor Frasco Mortiz and Kathryn Bernardo

For more updates on your favorite Star Cinema movies, continue to visit http://www.starcinema.com.ph/ 

Follow Daniel Padilla on:

Twitter: @imdanielpadilla

Instagram: @agentyellow

Follow Kathryn Bernardo on:

Twitter: @bernadokath

Instagram: @bernadokath

Follow Star Cinema

Twitter: @StarCinema

Solaire welcomes 2014 with a Toast!

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Solaire will hold an event called Toast! Solaire Countdown to 2014 on December 31, 2013 at the Grand Ballroom, Solaire Resort, Parañaque City.

Toast! Solaire Countdown to 2014 will feature the performances by Pops Fernandez, Joey G., Hotlegs, Puresound Band, The Marmalade & Anna Melissa.

Event Date: December 31, 2013/ 8PM

Event Venue: Grand Ballroom, Solaire Resort, Parañaque City, Philippines

Ticket Prices:

VVIP Reserved Seating: – P11,134.40

VIP Reserved Seating: – P7,264

VIP Standing: – P 5,090.40

Buy tickets to Toast! Solaire Countdown to 2014 

via online at www.ticketworld.com 

or you may call 891 9999 for other inquiries.

#CreateYourMoment at the Solaire Grand Ballroom as we countdown to 2014 !

“Home Sweetie Home” with John Lloyd and Toni

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John Lloyd Cruz and Toni Gonzaga will be starring in a their comeback as a duo with the launch of the all-new “Home Sweetie Home.”

As their first ever sitcom together in the Kapamilya network’s newest sitcom that’s set to make waves as the new year kicks off with blockbuster star John Lloyd and favorite multimedia sweetheart Toni.

The two have long been expressing their excitement for the project’s kick-off, which has been much anticipated over the past months as John Lloyd and Toni will finally be breaking even more barriers venturing into "Home Sweetie Home". 

Toni was especially surprised to hear the news that she was to be cast in this new hilarious sitcom, excited that her and John Lloyd will be taking on television together for the first time.

“This will be our first time together on TV, so I hope everyone will get to be a part of it. I hope they enjoy,” Toni said in a report with ABS-CBN News. The last time the two shared the screen was in their side-by-side stint in the movie “My Amnesia Girl” in 2010.

Four years after, in “Home Sweetie Home,” the two will be playing the a married couple and their extended family, leading to the silly things that could happen in that situation.

John Lloyd and Toni will also be joined by some of the country’s well-loved television stars, including Rico Puno, Sandy Andolong, Jayson Gainza, Miles Ocampo, Clarence Delgado, Joross Gamboa, Ketchup Eusebio, Eda Nolan, Ryan Bang, Eric Nicolas, and Mitoy Yonting.

Don’t miss out on the pilot episode of “Home Sweetie Home,”

airing on Sundays starting January 5 after "Goin' Bulilit".

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in many different languages!

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Christmas can be a season of great joy. It is a time of God showing His great love for us. It can be a time of healing and renewed strength.

Christmas is when we celebrate the birth of the Jesus Christ. God sent His Son, Jesus, into the world to be born. His birth brought great joy to the world.

Shepherds, wise men, and angels all shared in the excitement of knowing about this great event. They knew this was no ordinary baby. The prophets had told of His coming hundreds of years before. The star stopped over Bethlehem just to mark the way for those who were looking for this special child.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in many different languages!

Spanish: ¡Feliz Navidad y próspero año nuevo! 

Vietnamese: Chúc Giáng Sinh Vui Vẻ và Chúc Năm Mới Tốt Lành 

Korean: 메리 크리스마스 새해 복 많이 받으세요 (meli k'lisŭmasŭ saehae pog manhi patŭseyo) 

Indonesian: Selamat hari Natal

Iraqi:    Idah Saidan Wa Sanah Jadidah

Italian: Buon Natale e felice anno nuovo

Japanese: クリスマスと新年おめでとうございます (kurisumasu to shinnen omedetō gozaimasu)

Chinese (Cantonese):     聖誕節同新年快樂 (singdaanjit tùnhg sànnìhn faailohk) / 

                                   Seng Dan Fai Lok, Sang Nian Fai Lok

Chinese (Mandarin): 聖誕節和新年快樂 [圣诞节和新年快乐] (shèngdànjié hé xīnnián kuàilè) / Kung His Hsin Nien bing Chu Shen Tan

Chinese (Shanghainese): 圣诞节快乐 (sendaijiq kualoq) / 新年快乐 (sinni kualoq) 

German: Fröhliche Weihnachten und ein gutes Neues Jahr

Greek: Καλά Χριστούγεννα και Ευτυχισμένο το Νέο Ετος (Kala Khristougēnna kai Ēutukhismēno to Neo Ētos)

Romanian: Crăciun fericit şi un an nou fericit

Russian: С Рождеством Христовым и С наступающим Новым Годом (S Roždestvom Khristovym i S nastupayuščim Novym Godom) 

Polish: Wesołych Świąt i szczęśliwego Nowego Roku 

Portuguese: Feliz Natal e próspero ano novo / Boas Festas e um Feliz Ano Novo

Some from the Philippines : 

Pangasinan: Maabig ya Pasko / Maaligwas ya Balon Taon ed sikayon amin!

Pampango: Malugud Pascu at saca Masayang Bayung Banua!

Waray-Waray: Maupay nga Pasko ngan Mainuswagon nga Bag-ong Tuig ha iyo ngatanan

Ilokano: Naragsak a Paskua / Narang-ay a Baro a Tawen kadakayo amin!

Cebuano: Maayong Pasko / Mabungahong Bag-ong Tuig kaninyong tanan! / Malipayong Pasko ug Bulahang Bag-ong Tuig!

Bikol (Bicolano): Maogmang Pasko Mamura-way na Ba-gong Taon sa indo gabos! / Maugmang Capascuhan asin Masaganang Ba-gong Taon!

English : Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 

and in ( Philippines ) Filipino - "Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon"

Singapore Airlines Surprises Passengers in Manila with a Special Christmas Gifts from Santa

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Christmas is truly more fun in the Philippines! 

To add more color to this festive season, Singapore Airlines surprises its passengers with a special Christmas song and dance performance done by about fifty (50) of SIA’s airport crew and staff.

According to Ms Rita Dy, SIA Manager for Marketing Communications & Services, the staff and crew prepared their performances for almost six weeks.

Singapore Airlines gave surprises more! The passengers enjoyed the special Christmas dance performance and Santa's gift!

Passengers, young and old, Filipinos and foreigners and all around the Gate 6 of NAIA 1 really have fun and enjoy the Christmas spirit brought by Singapore Airlines in Manila.

Singapore Airlines always places its passengers first, even when it’s just about having fun.

I also enjoy the wonderful world of SIA! Thanks so much Singapore Airlines and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all !

Updates : Visit this video : 

Patti Austin Live in Manila for the Holidays

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As Filipinos celebrate the holiday season, it’s time for a fun-filled occasion that warms the heart, fills the soul, and looks forward to a better 2014 for The Philippines. 

Headliner Patti Austin will be joined by some of the Philippines’ most popular performers and a fantastic live band in a concert celebrating the New Year, commemorating the indomitable Filipino spirit, and contributing to a better future. 

Part of the proceeds will be donated to the victims Typhoon Haiyan for relief efforts. Patti Austin will personally lead a continuing effort to design and build houses in Tacloban through Habitat For Humanity. 

The overall tone of the event will be joyous and upbeat, signifying a “Brand New Day” in the Philippines as the country and the world join together in gestures of celebration, goodwill and support. Patti will perform the hit songs which have made her a huge star in the Philippines and worldwide.

Throughout the evening, pre-recorded messages from international singers and actors of greetings and hope will flow onto the Solaire ballroom’s large screens. 

Also, OPM Icons have pledged their support for the said concert which includes Richard Merk, Martin Nievera and Lea Salonga as her special guests during the night at the Solaire.

The promoters and producers are working to arrange for live telecast of portions of the event in the Philippines and countries in adjacent time zones. Viewers will have the opportunity to join the party via social media, and to contribute to this all-important cause. 

Another fund-raising performance will take place at the Fairmont Raffles Hotel (in Makati) on December 31, 2013 as Patti Austin celebrates New Year.

Tickets will be marketed and sold through Laurel Media outlets, the Solaire Casino and Resort (for the December 29, 2013 show) and Fairmont Raffles Hotel (for the December 31, 2013 show), and thru TicketWorld at 891-9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.

Songs For The Philippines On iTunes

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iTunes in aid of Typhoon Haiyan relief by releasing a benefit compilation album called "Songs for the Philippines." The recorded music industry is responding to the disastrous typhoon in the Philippines with a fundraising compilation which features the biggest names in the business.

The Beatles, Bob Dylan, U2, Eminem, One Direction and Katy Perry are among the superstars who have contributed tracks for the relief album, all proceeds from which will be donated to Philippine Red Cross.

All three major music companies are supporting the 39-track "Songs for the Philippines," which is available through iTunes' global network of digital stores at iTunes.com/Philippines. All the artists, record companies and music publishers working on the project have waived fees.

Songs for the Philippines features 39 songs:

1. “Across the Universe” (2009 Remaster) by The Beatles
2. “Shelter From the Storm” by Bob Dylan
3. “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” by Michael Bublé
4. “In a Little While” by U2
5. “Count On Me” by Bruno Mars
6. “I Was Here” by Beyoncé
7. “Stan” (Live at Radio 1) by Eminem
8. “Sirens” by Cher
9. “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele
10. “Unconditionally” (Johnson Somerset Remix) by Katy Perry
11. “Best Song Ever” by One Direction
12. “Carry On” by FUN.
13. “Born This Way” (The Country Road Version) by Lady Gaga
14. “Mirrors” by Justin Timberlake
15. “I Would” by Justin Bieber
16. “New Day” by Alicia Keys
17. “30 Lives” (Original Demo Version) by Imagine Dragons
18. “Like a Prayer” by Madonna
19. “Sober” by P!nk
20. “I Believe In You” by Kylie Minogue
21. “Hero” by Enrique Iglesias
22. “Factory of Faith” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
23. “Roads Untraveled” by Linkin Park
24. “Use Somebody” by Kings of Leon
25. “Explorers” by Muse
26. “The Love Club” by Lorde
27. “Brave” by Josh Groban
28. “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson
29. “Simple Things” by Paolo Nutini
30. “I Know You Care” by Ellie Goulding
31. “Carry You Home” by James Blunt
32. “Feel This Moment” (feat. Christina Aguilera) by Pitbull
33. “Sign On” (feat. Daniel McClain) by Earth, Wind & Fire
34. “Going Out” (feat. Damien Leroy) [Radio Mix] by apl.de.ap
35. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles
36. “Lead Me Home” by Jessica Sanchez
37. “Smile” by Lily Allen
38. “Love Don’t Die” by The Fray
39. “Let It Be” by The Beatles

Also featuring several artists of Filipino descent (Bruno Mars, Enrique Iglesias, apl.de.ap, and Jessica Sanchez), Songs for the Philippines will benefit the Philippine Red Cross, to which all proceeds of the album will be donated. 

Songs for the Philippines is one of the global music community’s ways of helping raise funds for the relief efforts for people who are most affected by Typhoon Haiyan.

"As the people of the Philippines recover and rebuild in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan’s devastation, some of music’s biggest names are brought together on this benefit album. Including songs from The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Beyoncé, Adele, U2, Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, Lorde, and Imagine Dragons, this brilliant collection is united by a message of hope and compassion."

Songs for the Philippines  is  Exclusively available on iTunes. 

Smart PowerApp gives free access to seven social apps this holiday season

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Wireless leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is giving its more than 56 million subscribers nationwide free mobile access to the latest social networking apps and sites through its revolutionary new service called PowerApp, a mobile application that brings the most affordable unlimited Internet bundles to users today.

By installing PowerApp on their phones, users can get free access to the app and mobile sites of Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, Google Plus, LinkedIn, Path and Waze until January 15, 2014. The service is initially available to prepaid and postpaid Smart and Talk 'N Text users in the Philippines.

PowerApp is the world's first mobile Internet storefront which gives users the ability to access their favorite mobile apps and sites without the need for a WiFi connection, making the experience truly mobile. 

Users no longer have to stay for several hours locked down to a table in a coffee shop or stay a little bit longer in the office to take advantage of the free WiFi connection. 

“A number of smartphone users today only use their smartphones for calling or texting, or wait till they reach their homes or offices to connect to the Internet. Through PowerApp and its affordable Internet bundles, subscribers can confidently keep posting, liking, or tweeting everywhere they go without the need for a WiFi connection,” said Michele Curran, Data and International Services Head at Smart.

Subscribers can now post their photos on Facebook anytime, anywhere; tweet their thoughts on Twitter real-time; check in on any location via Foursquare; share common interests in Google Plus; avoid the chaotic holiday traffic mayhem using Waze; get their dream job with the help LinkedIn; and stay connected with their closest friends via Path with the help of PowerApp.

To activate the free unlimited access to social apps and websites, subscribers simply have to download Smart’s PowerApp via Google Play or and register for the Free Social Package, originally priced at P20 for one day (Social20) or P10 for 3 hours (Social10). 

iOS and feature phone users can also text FREE SOCIAL to 5555 (for Smart Prepaid, Postpaid, Infinity and Talk ‘N Text) 9990 (for Smart Freedom Plan subscribers) or 7577 (for Smart Postpaid All-In users) to avail of the promotion.

“With PowerApp, users can continuously enjoy these 7 social networking apps and services absolutely free. PowerApp provides free and unlimited notifications so users can continue to receive updates from background apps without having to incur additional data charges,” Curran explained.

By installing PowerApp on their phones, subscribers can use these mobile apps with absolutely no hidden charges as they are notified every time they access a site or app that is outside their current package subscription. And with free unlimited notifications from running background apps, they are assured that they will not incur unexpected data charges while using the service.

Aside from the Social package, users can regularly subscribe to other bundles that include the Email, Chat, and Photo packages which are similarly available through the PowerApp mobile application.

For workaholics who cannot miss a single email, PowerApp’s Email package is available for P10 per day (Email10) or P5 for 3 hours (Email5). Available apps and mobile sites under this e-mail bundle are Gmail, Yahoo! Mail, Outlook.com and Exchange. 

Students who love to chat with their friends can now enjoy a wide-range of chat applications from PowerApp’s Chat package. For only P10 a day (Chat10) or P5 for three hours (Chat5), subscribers can have unlimited access to multiple chat applications such as Line, WeChat, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Oist!, Google Hangouts, Chikka Messenger, Viber, and KakaoTalk. 

Unlimited #Selfies, #ThrowbackThursdays and #OOTDs are also now possible through PowerApp’s Photo package for P20 for all-day access (Photo20) or P10 for three hours (Photo10). Included apps in the photo bundle are Instagram, Tumblr, Regram, Pinterest, Flickr and Imgur. 

For the multi-hyphenated all-around man, PowerApp also has an Unli package which gives them access to all mobile sites and mobile applications. For only P30 for 24 hours (Unli30) or P15 for three hours (Unli15), Powerapp users can enjoy unlimited browsing of all available apps and mobile sites.

While the app is initially available only on Android, iOS and feature phone users can send the corresponding keyword of their desired package to either 5555 (for Smart Prepaid, Postpaid, Infinity and Talk ‘N Text users), 9990 (For Smart Freedom Plan subscribers) or 7577 (For Smart Pospaid All-In users) to avail of the different packages.

“Subscribers can count on Smart to continue to bring these revolutionary mobile innovations to the public as the Internet becomes a vital resource of content and information that enrich their lives and allow them to live more,” Curran added.

For more information on PowerApp and other mobile Internet services and promos

users can go to http://go.smart.com.ph/internet

follow @SmartPromos on Twitter

or like Smart Communications, Inc. on Facebook

The Philippine Friendship Balloon Festival 2014

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The 19th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival will be on April 10 - 13, as Department of Tourism supported the colorful festival dubbed as "The Philippine Friendship Balloon Festival 2014.”

Department of Tourism Region III Director Ronnie Tiotuico revealed that DOT is spearheading the new hot air balloon festival and is set to feature more activities not only limited to aviation. In a planning session attended by tourism stakeholders, Tiotuico launched the hot air balloon festival as an answer to the public’s clamor for one of biggest aviation sports event in the Philippines.

This 2014 festival theme, “It’s more than just hot air. It’s a celebration of life in times of adversity”, and more colorful and inspirational, the proceeds will go to the rehabilitation of the Eastern Visayas region affected by the Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) and various charity missions.

The event is supported by Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr., and will be organized by Philippine Exhibits and Themeparks Corporation (PETCO). Tourism stakeholders and organizations expressed their support for the project.

Every year, Hot Air Ballon Festival is being held at the month of February, but as we recalled, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival (PIHBF) did not push through and decided to cancel the PIHBF that was set supposedly on February 2014.

DOT, the pioneer organizer of the ballooning event 18 years ago (1994) before it was transferred to another group, did not tethered flying and still pushed for a smaller scale event in Bayanihan Park to continue the legacy.

With the theme “It’s more than just hot air. It’s a celebration of life in times of adversity”, proceeds will go to the rehabilitation of the Eastern Visayas region affected by the Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) and various charity missions.

This three to four day hot air balloon event is considered as the biggest aviation sports event in the Philippines.

A very remarkable yearly event in Clark Airbase, Angeles, Pampanga. The PIHABF is the longest running balloon event in Asia. An estimated 60,000 visitors from the country and from around the world come annually to see the event.

The festival features hot air balloons from Philippines and other countries, aerial shows, and other exhibitions.  Ths is really another colorful and exciting festival. It's More Fun in The Philippines! Enthusiasts expect a more grandiose and bigger hot air balloon festival in 2014.

Photos : Exciting and Colorful 18th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta