Allphones inaugurates 50th store at Robinsons Galleria; gears up for Allphones Summer Fun Caravan

Allphones Philippines now welcomes customers at its recently inaugurated store in Robinsons Galleria—the 50th store for the company in less than a year. 

The inauguration of the store represents a milestone for the company as well as for the country’s mobile phone retail sector.

Allphones Ceremonial 50^th Store Opening, Robinsons Galleria, GF Digiworld

(L-R) Geoff A. Hester, Allphones , Phils. Chief Executive Advisor; Shaun Colligan Managing Director AMT Group/ Allphones Retail, Australia; Blue C. Avelino Allphones, Phils. COO & General Manager, Thomas E. Skidmore, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, GLENTEL Inc, Burnaby, BC; Julio “Jun” D. Sy, Jr; TAO Corporation President; Peter Bithos, Globe Telecom, Chief Operating Advisor.

Blue Avelino Allphones GM & COO, Thomas E. Skidmore, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, GLENTEL Inc, Burnaby, BC, Bianca Saldua, Ms.World Second Princess 2013, JP Cruz, Allphones Galleria Sales Consultant

“Allphones was really a dark horse when we came in the first quarter of 2013. We were the newest mobile phone retail store brand in the country and so many other stores inside the biggest malls were already well-established. Still, we were counting on the consumers themselves to realize that we were offering something different, something new in terms of customer retail experience,” said Allan Catli, Head of Brand Marketing of Allphones Philippines.

(L-R) Rene Marasigan, Advent.Com President; Allan Catli Allphones, Head of Brand Marketing. Allphones Mr. Doodle; Pia B Guest Host; Chris Guarin, Allphones Head of Trade Marketing.

What Allphones offers in all its 50 stores is a leveled-up mobile phone retail experience that is ultra-convenient, affordable, futuristic, and high-tech. Best of all, Allphones customers enjoy high value-for-money, affordable, and features-packed deals courtesy of the partnership between Allphones and Globe Telecom.

Allphones’ exclusive postpaid deals make owning a postpaid account more convenient and affordable. The advantages customers get from such deals include unlimited texting, unlimited voice calls to Globe mobile and landline numbers, and unlimited Internet surfing. The packaged features and services are also tailor-fit to a customer’s needs and lifestyle, thanks to Globe’s customizable plans.

Customers have also remarked on Allphones stores’ sleek, clean, efficiently designed interiors that make choosing a mobile phone easier. They can also do hands-on sampling of various live mobile phone units being offered, providing a better feel for which mobile phone suits their needs. 

Customers are also impressed by the high-tech and futuristic experience of processing postpaid applications at an Allphones store. Allphones is the first mobile phone retailer in the Philippines to offer digital, paperless transactions. A postpaid applicant no longer bothers with forms and photo-copies of documentary requirements; instead, he or she processes the application on an iPad. A military grade security system ensures the safety and privacy of the customer data. 

According to Catli, this leveled–up customer retail experience offered by Allphones will be brought to the hottest summer destinations in the country starting April, when the Allphones Summer Fun for All Caravan kicks off in Cebu. The caravan will hold events in Cebu; Davao; Puerto Princesa ; Cagayan de Oro ; Lucena; and Subic.

“We use our mobile phones to communicate to each other while traveling to a summer destination; we also use them to share images, words, thoughts, and feelings through social media. Sharing these happy moments, feelings, and images to family and friends while on vacation has become essential to our summer holiday. Through the Allphones Summer Fun for All Caravan, we will help vacationers get easier access to mobile phone services that will make summer even more enjoyable for them,” explained by Catli. 

Allphones Philippines was created through a partnership between Allphones Australia, TAO Corporation and Globe Telecom.

Allphones Australia began as a single store in Mile End, South Australia in 1989. It eventually expanded to 200 stores nationally and has become the largest independent telecommunications retailer in Australia.

For more information about Allphones Summer Fun for All Caravan and other exclusive, amazingly high value-for-money deals it offers, go to www.allphones.com.ph

Explore the adidas Originals x The Farm Company

Explore the collaborative collection between adidas Originals and The Farm Company.

Two of the world’s most evocative brands, adidas Originals‘ and Brazil´s The Farm Company, a partnership has developed that promises to blur the lines between sport and street style in an explosion of colour.

Taking iconic Styles from adidas Originals rich heritage and reworking them through a series of The Farm Company´s signature prints comes the result - an exclusive collection of feminine pieces that contemplate the Originals lifestyle with four different prints developed artistically by The Farm Company.

Translating the global energy and anticipation as the world turns towards Brazil with fresh eyes this year. The Farm Company have developed a range of four kaleidoscopic repeat graphics in eye watering colours. Highlighting the capital of Rio through playful imaginings of indigenous flora and fauna, Toucans and tropical flowers burst out of canvas, jersey, cottons and more, adding carnival fever to unmistakable urban classic silhouettes.

You can now reimagined through The Farm Company’s Tucanário, Borboflor, Frutaflor and Floralina prints, adidas Originals favourites emerge with fruity zest?

An adidas Originals classic since the 1970s, the Gazelle sneaker, gets a makeover in time for the ultimate tournament, soaking up the vibrancy of the equatorial jungle and re-emerging rich in flavor and hotter than ever.

From the celebrated Firebird tracksuit to the humble tank, iconic Originals styles spice it up for summer in the tropics, complemented by cascades of flowers and fruit adding a sexy, carefree vibe to a solid collection of classics. Even spilling across adidas Originals accessories line, The Farm Company spreads its bloom further over bags, purses and more.

The collaborative collection between adidas Originals and The Farm Company will be available in the Philippines on May 1 in select adidas stores.

DZMM Tulong Na, Tabang Na, Tayo Na, Takbo Na

DZMM continues to advocate or the education of the kids of typhoon Yolanda victims, with a fun 5K Color Run "Tulong Na, Tabang Na, Tayo Na, Takbo Na 2014." It’s open to all runners of all speed and of all ages happening on May 4, 2014 starts at 5:30 am at the Bonifacio Global City. 

"Sa bawat hakbang, sa bawat takbo, hatid ay edukasyon sa mga batang sinalanta ng bagyo.”

We all know how our country was devastated by Typhoon Yolanda. We’ve seen the goodness of mankind with the donations worldwide. We can say that the ground works of rebuilding is in place and next in line is on how to help people reestablish their lives once again. The chance at a better life is through education. In line with this comes a color run by DZMM whose beneficiaries would be the identified scholars from the victims of Typhoon Yolanda. Each stride would really brighten up the life of the chosen beneficiaries.

The race is organized by Runrio, Inc and we all know the excellence in execution that Runrio stands for. They value the cause so much that they are organizing this event free of charge as part of their corporate social responsibility and Coach Rio would really want to see the event to be a success that he’ll donate an additional P200,000 once we reach the target 10,000 runners for this event. It’s now our time to do our share in this endeavor and register.

Register and have a colorful day as we get splashed with all natural and safe color powders while enjoying the 5K distance with a lot of people united in a common cause. 

Runners are suggested to bring in shades or protective eye wear for this event. End up as colorful as you can be by the time you hit the finish line and as you get to receive a finisher towel and a cap, smile because you also added color the lives of selected scholars by giving them a chance at education.

This is the fourth time DZMM is organizing a run to advocate education, following “Takbo Para sa Karunungan” that was held from 2011 to 2013 and benefited scholars from Ondoy, Sendong, and Habagat-affected areas. 

DZMM started organizing fun runs in 1999, when it launched the “DZMM Takbo Para sa Kalikasan.” It was annually held until 2010 to support several campaigns for the environment, such as the continued rehabilitation of the La Mesa watershed and the Pasig Rehabilitation Project through ABS-CBN Foundation's “Bantay Kalikasan.” 

Date and Venue:

May 4, 2014, Bonifacio Global City, 5:30 am

Distance and Fees

5K

P550 – Early Bird (March 17 – April 4 only)

P630 – Regular Rate

Senior Citizens discounts apply

Inclusive of Race Kit (Singlet, Timing Chip, Bib Number B-tag)

Finishers will receive a Limited Edition Towel and Cap; Gatorade and Premier Water at the finish line

Registration

Online at www.dzmm.com.ph/takbo 

R.O.X. – Level 2 R.O.X. Bldg. Bonifacio High Street, Taguig City (12nn–8pm, Tel # 8564638)

Toby’s SM Mall of Asia – G/F Entertainment Mall, Roxas Blvd., Manila (12nn–8pm, Tel # 556-0445)

Toby’s SM North EDSA The Block

ABS-CBN Tulong Center (near Audience Entrance) 

The registration form may also be downloaded from dzmm.com.ph. To register, visit www.dzmm.com.ph. For inquiries, call the secretariat at 8876194 or 4152272 local 5603 and 5674.

Race Maps

The Best of Malunggay in LifeOil

Moringa oleifera (malunggay) has been around forever, used by our great grandparents to cure a myriad of illnesses. Considered a miracle plant, malunggay is also the most inexpensive medicine of all time, helping cure at least 300 diseases. 

According to The Tree of Life by Dr. Monica Marcu, malunggay is the richest and most complete source of essential nutrients among other plants. It contains natural vitamins, minerals, essential amino acids, phytonutrients and chlorophyll.Hundreds of published scientific studies all over the world have proven the numerous health benefits of malunggay (www.TFLJournal.org <http://www.tfljournal.org/>).

Though popular as an ingredient in cooking, heat in fact significantly reduces the nutrients in malunggay. And even with the commercialization of malunggay capsules, tea, powder, and others in the market, malunggay’s natural components are actually reduced through processing. The best way to get the nutrients from malunggay is to eat it fresh. 

However, humans have limitations on the consumption of leaves because of fiber overload. Many people also cannot tolerate the taste and texture of fresh malunggay leaves. 

Manila Nature’s Link Corporation, a unique alliance of key resources including a biotechnology company that utilizes on traditional and indigenous medical systems, plant-pharmaceutical labs and oil extraction facilities, has developed the Life Oil capsule, a pure moringa oleifera extract that is 100% natural, safe and potent. 

One Life Oil capsule is equivalent to 5 cups of fresh malunggay leaves, without the fiber. Life Oil is far more complete and potent than powdered malunggay leaves in a small hard capsule. Crushed or pulverized malunggay leaves, if harvested randomly, may contain sulfur from acid rain and carcinogens due to heavy metals like lead, chromium, and mercury.

Manila Nature’s Link engaged in an in-depth research and development and applied the strictest manufacturing standards in making Life Oil.A special cleaning process is used to ensure purity and safety because malunggay leaves have small pores that repel regular water. For consistent potency, the company identified and propagated a specific variety of malunggay and the extraction of oil is done immediately after harvestto keep its natural nutrient potency and freshness.

LifeOil does not contain moringa bark which has anti-nutritional content, and moringa flower, roots, and gum which can cause abortion. It is made of pure malunggay leaves and seeds extract that contains anti-oxidants, carotenoids, high energy, goiteren, iron, omega 3, protein, vitamins, minerals, and chlorophyll.

Life Oil contains potent chlorophyll, the green substance in plants that cleanses organs, delivers oxygen to all tissues and encourages the growth of good aerobic intestinal bacteria. Chlorophyll is the first to die when malunggay is heated or dried.

There are a variety of malunggay products in the market but the Philippine-manufactured Life Oil is the world’s first and only product developed from pure moringa oliefera seeds and leaves. Each soft gel capsule contains 500mg of combined oil extract, which is equivalent to 1,000 grams of malunggay leaves and seeds.Life Oil soft gel capsules capture the benefits of malunggayto increase energy, strengthen the immune system, manage sugar levels, lower cholesterol levels, control blood pressure, and fight cancer.

Malungai LifeOil, available in leading drugstores nationwide in 5ml soft gel capsules, is the best food supplement to make people cope and rise above with the demands of the fast-paced and stressful lifestyle of today.

Get the best of malunggay in LifeOil. 

‘Hearing Colors’ by Eyedress

Eyedress recently release his brand new mixtape ‘Hearing Colors’ and it features 12 brand new tracks recorded in his bedroom in Manila. It is the follow up to his debut EP ‘Supernatural’ (released last year).

Based in Quezon City, Manila, Eyedress is 23-year-old Filipino producer, Idris Vicuña. This album was recorded using Fruity Loops in his bedroom on a PC laptop handed down to him by his father. Since his emergence he has supported the likes of Jungle, Grimes and Mac DeMarco, and earned plaudits from the likes of I-D, The Observer and Dazed & Confused. Those who caught his debut UK live shows last month were captivated - with NME describing one as “far from the cliché of a bedroom producer as it’s possible to imagine – it’s punk as fuck, weird and utterly compelling.”

“Eyedress sounds like nobody but himself. Keep your eye on what he does next” – NME

“Set to do to Manila, what Arcade Fire did to Montreal and Pulp did to Sheffield” ~ Dazed

“Spacey songs by young Filipinos about nearly killing your girlfriend while hiking aren’t nearly common enough these days” – The Guardian

Eyedress will return to UK/Europe in May for a string of shows, including The Great Escape. 

LISTEN AND DOWNLOAD IT AT: http://eyedress.hearing-colors.com

Tracklisting:

Salaamin (Ft. Skint Eastwood)

Nature Trips 

My Hologram 

Biolumine (Ft. Skint Eastwood) 

Arhuaco (Ft. Skint Eastwood) 

Triduum (Ft. Skint Eastwood) 

Luna Llena (Ft. Skint Eastwood) 

White Lies 

Periastron (Ft. Skint Eastwood) 

Mountbatten 

Everything We Touch Turns Into Gold 

Don't Disappear

Super surreal feelings of MJ Lastimosa, Miss Universe Philippines 2014

North Cotabato beauty Mary Jean Lastimosa bested 39 other contestants in the coronation night and was crowned Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2014, now feels so much happiness and excitement.

Binibining Pilipinas, the country’s most prestigious beauty pageant, proclaimed its new queens for 2014 in a glamorous, highly-charged show at the Smart Araneta Coliseum last March 30.

And the 2014 Binibining Pilipinas Queens are now excited to kick off their respective reigns.

Mary Jean Lastimosa

Miss Universe Philippines 2014

After joining the pageant for the third time, new Miss Universe Philippines 2014 Mary Jean “MJ” Lastimosa finally won the coveted crown.

“Sobrang surreal yung feeling. Three years in the making ito for me. Sobrang taas ng level of happiness ko ngayon,” she exclaims. 

26 year old North Cotabato native Mary Jean Lastimosa is an entrepreneur. A personal advocate of staying fit, she successfully established her own slimming center in Davao.

Growing up in a war-torn province, she developed values of determination and courageousness, and this is something she brought to her personal life, her career and her journey to the Binibining Pilipinas crown.

Binibining Pilipinas’ Maricar Balagtas is her inspiration for joining the pageant again, because she joined three times before winning. Whenever she feels down, she looks up at her and thinks that if she was able to do it and so can she.

On her free time, she loves working out at the gym, travelling, modeling, dancing, and surfing social media websites.

Here's the question-and-answer portion with Lastimosa, asked by reigning Miss Universe Queen Gabriela Isler

Q: "What is the greatest advantage of being a woman?"

Lastimosa answered:

"The greatest advantage of being a woman is being able to compose herself. Just like here, we're standing in front of thousands of people, not knowing if you're going to cheer for us or boo us. But we try to compose ourselves. We keep the emotions and show the beauty that is in us and tonight thousands of people are standing here, celebrating the beauty of women."

The 2014 Binibining Pilipinas Queens are: 

Mary Jean Lastimosa, Miss Universe Philippines 2014

Mary Anne Bianca Guidotti, Binibining Pilipinas International 2014

Yvethe Marie Santiago, Binibining Pilipinas Supranational 2014

Kris Tiffany Janson, Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2014

Parul Shah, Binibining Pilipinas Tourism 2014

Laura Victoria Lehmann, Binibining Pilipinas 2014 1st Runner Up 

Hannah Ruth Sison, Binibining Pilipinas 2014 2nd Runner Up

Rounding up the Top 15 Semifinalists were Julian Aurine Flores, Joanna Angelica Romero, Pia Wurtzbach, Emma Mary Tiglao, Zahara Mae Soriano, Mae Liezel Ramos, Kenneth Santiago, and Nichole Marie Manalo. 

The pageant was a star-studded affair with the participation of Miss Universe 2013 Gabriela Isler and Russian singer-songwriter Emin. Gabriela led this year’s Board of Judges, while Emin serenaded the candidates with his best-selling hits. ABS-CBN stars Xian Lim and Anne Curtis, and beauty queens Shamcey Supsup, Venus Raj, and Janine Tugonon hosted the event. 

The Binibining Pilipinas 2014 pageant is presented by the Araneta Center, ABS-CBN, Cream Silk, PLDT Home, JAG Jeans, AVON, PAGCOR, Titan Watches—the official watch sponsor, PAGCOR, Manhattan Garden City, Pizza Hut, Lactacyd White Intimate, Philippine Airlines, Sofitel—the official residence, Manila Bulletin—the official print partner, David’s Salon, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Gold’s Gym, J.A.C. Motors, Picture City, Dale Carnegie Training Center, Entrepreneur School of Asia, Charter Ping An Insurance Corporation, and Raymond Saldaña Photography.

More BINIBINING PILIPINAS 2014 WINNERS’ PROFILES will be published here. 

Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta gears up for its 19th year

The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF),  gears up for its next staging of the established aviation event. The 19th fiesta is set on February 12 to 15, 2015, at the Philippine Air Force (PAF) ADAC Hangar in Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga.

Also known as “A Weekend of Everything that Flies”, PIHABF held yesterday, April 15, 2014 (Tuesday) the Signing of Memorandum Agreement by Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president Arnel Casanova, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president Arthur Tugade, Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) president and chief executive officer Victor Jose Luciano, and Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Foundation Inc. (PIHABF) president Capt. Joy Roa at the Asian Air Safari hangar in Pasay City.

The organizers of the longest running balloon event in Asia – the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF): “A Weekend of Everything that Flies,” maintains its decision not to hold the 19th PIHABF this year, but instead, prepare for a bigger event scheduled for February 12 - 15, 2015.

To explain its decision not to hold a balloon fiesta this year, the PIHABF Foundation issued an official statement to clarify its disassociation from another organization staging a balloon event in Lubao, Pampanga. (Official Statement of the PIHABF Organizing Committee)

“The decision not to hold a Fiesta this year was not undertaken lightly. From the perspective of the PIHABF organizers, our 2013 event (featuring more balloons than ever, the highly impressive Breilting Jet Acrobatic Team, and the myriad of other flying, ground and static events) would be a hard act to follow without allowing sufficient time to plan, prepare and book new and interesting activities.

We believe that by suspending the 2014 Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, allowing our organizing committee more time to secure a suitable venue for the fiesta and investing more time in planning, securing sponsorships and implementing enhancements, we can offer our spectators a truly safe and world-class event in 2015,” reads the statement.

Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta has been an extremely successful event that attracts thousands of spectators both local and international. Aside from the display of a plethora of multi-colored hot air balloons, the festival also features a number of expedition events such as aeromodelling demonstrations, ultralights, and fixed-wing aircraft competitions, kite-flying and more!

For this coming hot air balloon fiesta, there will be more breathtaking performances as PIHABF is a gathering of aviation’s finest from the Philippines and the world. Attendees next year can look forward to non-stop flying activities from kite flying to radio control fliers from electric to turbine jets coming from regions like Dumaguete, Bacolod and Davao. 

There will be paramotors from different parts of the world doing exhibition and formation flying. The public can also look forward to sky diving demonstrations and a chance to do tandem jumping. Ultralight and microlight aircraft will be performing formation flying and holding fun flying competitions. 

Just like cars, private airplanes and helicopters will also be doing a rally in the air to hone their flying and navigational skills.

An aerobatic formation team will once again be invited to demonstrate a heart-stopping aerobatic show.

There will also be a bigger display of local aviation schools for increased public awareness on aviation opportunities in the Philippines. 

The Aviator of the Year Award will once again be awarded to pilots who have made outstanding contributions in upgrading the standards of safety and aviation interests in their regions.

“We want to fuel the passion for aviation in the Philippines, and to showcase the endless possibilities in this field,” Roa said. 

Proceeds of the PIHABF is funneled to a scholarship program which helps underprivileged but deserving youth to pursue a career in aviation. Since 2008, fifteen young men and women have been recipients of the scholarship grant, enrolled in different aviation schools.

The Asian Air Safari hangar where the MOA signing was held is an aviation enthusiast’s dream. Parked in the hangar are different types of fixed wing and rotary aircraft. Displayed alongside the aircraft are radio-controlled aircraft models, balloon baskets, paramotors, as well as kites brought in by members of the organizing committee. 

The PIHABF, according to the organizers, was borne out of love for aviation. What began as a “passion project” has now evolved into the longest running balloon event in Asia flocked by aviation enthusiasts and professionals from all over the country and around the world.

Capt. Joy Roa introduced the members of the PIHABF organizing committee, many of whom have been volunteering since the first balloon fiestas held in Clark. Made up of highly experienced aviators in each of their fields, the committee has worked together to maintain a carefully planned and safety-oriented activity.

The organizers expressed that their longtime objective for the fiesta is to instill discipline in participating young pilots so they can develop into safe aviators, as well as to impart a spirit volunteerism and cooperation to the community.

PIHABF’s new poster for its 19th year was designed by no less than renowned Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor. The poster features colorful renditions of Filipino life and culture within a community setting. An internationally recognized artist known for being frequently featured in UNICEF cards, Baldemor specializes in simplified geometric forms with elements of folk art.

Ambassador Jose Zaide, a fiesta volunteer in charge of external affairs, says, “The fiesta is an opportunity to share and exchange cultures and traditions with visiting pilots from all over the world. They are given a taste of Filipino hospitality and the fiesta spirit, and the visiting pilots become contributors to chosen beneficiaries of the foundation.”

“By creating aviation awareness, educating the young about flying machines, teaching discipline to current and aspiring aviators, and encouraging people to work from the heart and do things with passion, we will strive to bring back the Philippine aviation industry’s good standing in the international community, ” Roa emphasizes.

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

(17th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2012)

The 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta will surely continue with these traditions.  

 (17th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2012!)

For more information and updates on the 19th PIHABF, visit www.philballoonfest.net.

(A weekend of everything that flies! (Hot Air Balloons 2010)

Other related Post : 
A Weekend of Everything that Flies at 17th International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2012

The 17th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival
Everything Flies ! Hot Air Balloons at Pampanga

Official Statement of PIHABF Organizing Committee

18th Philippine Intenational Hot Air Balloon

Musikalinga , A Benefit Concert

This Benefit concert is a collaboration project of loving, generous and supportive Homeschooling parents whose children, aged 7 to 15, are all under the tutelage of Teacher Ford Pundamiera. 

They comprise 6 different Orchestra groups, namely: Symphoenix Orchestra, Herald Orchestra, Catholic Filipino Academy (CFA) Grade School Ensemble (2 groups) and High School Ensemble (2 groups). Together, we have come up with this valuable fundraising project where all the talented homeschooled students of T.Ford would be able to not just showcase their musical talents but at the same time support a worthy cause.

As a continuing effort to heal and uplift the spirit of Typhoon Yolanda victims, particularly the young children, we will be donating the net proceeds from this Benefit Concert to their families. 

We aim to raise a considerable amount to buy 100 Recorders and personally teach the children how to play the same, as well as support the building of a Library in Leyte, among other charity programs as initiated by Start Again Project.

Guest Artists: 

Mr. George Tolentino Gabriel

Tahanan ng Pagmamahal Children’s Home, Inc. Orchestra

Tickets are at:

Php300.00 - Orchestra Center

Php250.00 - Orchestra left and right sides

Php200.00 - Balcony

Mega family event to be held in May

Outbox Media Production Agency, in cooperation with the Department of Social Welfare and Development and Philippine Pediatrics Society, will hold the 5th annual Baby Blast on Sunday, May 25, 2014 at Trinoma Activity Center, Quezon City.

Baby Blast “fun-o-lympics” seeks to spread awareness of Early Head Start (EHS) education, a comprehensive infant and toddler development program, using various games and activities for the entire family.

The event will also feature EHS experts who will give talks on parenting, health, and early education. 

“Enjoyable and unforced learning is critical in laying down the foundation for holistic development. Since 2010 we’ve been using Baby Blast as a platform to promote parent-child bonding, especially to families with children below three years old,” said Outbox Media Production Agency managing director Rossel Velasco Taberna.

Registration started on Thursday, April 10. Admission is free and the first 200 families to register will get a free loot bag.

For more details, log on to outboxmedia.com.ph or facebook.com/outboxmediaprod.

GrabTaxi secures additional funding from Vertex Venture Holdings

Number one mobile taxi booking app by downloads and bookings in Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, and The Philippines

The future of taxi booking is now, as more markets embrace mobile taxi booking in Southeast Asia.

GrabTaxi, an automated smartphone taxi booking platform, is poised to extend its leadership position and expand into new markets in the region.

Grab Taxi will be able to support an even larger number of taxi drivers and commuters, thanks to additional funding from investors including Vertex Venture Holdings, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Temasek Holdings.

Vertex Venture is the lead investor in additional funding into GrabTaxi, while another group of angel investors from Malaysia are providing financial support to this young start-up. CIMB, a leading ASEAN universal bank, headquartered in Malaysia has been appointed the main financier by GrabTaxi. 

The GrabTaxi concept was developed by two ex-Harvard Business School students back in 2011 to solve two main issues in the taxi industry – create safer and reliable rides for passengers and improve drivers’ livelihood.

GrabTaxi Founder and Group CEO Anthony Tan said, “From our humble beginnings, GrabTaxi has become the largest and most widely used taxi booking mobile app in the region. In fact, we have fifteen times more booking volume than our nearest competitors. Our own regional survey showed that we’re at the top of our consumer’s minds. More than 50 percent of them aren’t aware of any other service available except for GrabTaxi.”

“The additional investment will allow us to tap into new markets and cement our leadership position as the best and biggest taxi booking mobile app in the region. Our teams are growing and passionate about providing the best service to taxi drivers and commuters. We continue to invest in the best local talent in each market because we want to build a world class team that responds to local demands.”

Around the region

GrabTaxi is the clear industry leader in the five countries that it currently operates in. More than 250,000 people in the region use GrabTaxi at least once a month with the app already being downloaded onto more than one million mobile devices to date. There is a taxi booking through GrabTaxi every two seconds across the region.

As a humble for-profit social start-up, GrabTaxi believes that business and social value can be achieved in parallel. They believe that being a double bottom line company, which focuses on social good as well as economic benefit and enriching the lives of our two key stake holders – taxi drivers and passengers – have enabled us to come this far. 

GrabTaxi’s ‘Share your Ride’ function, which allows users to share their journey through social media or messaging apps with friends and family, has provided extra security for passengers that has never been available before. GrabTaxi also allows users to rate their drivers and view their information, giving users peace-of-mind when booking taxis. Drivers under the GrabTaxi network have experienced a 30% to 300% increase in revenue and our passengers feel safer with our service.

Tan was keen to point out that GrabTaxi takes all customer feedback seriously. 

“It is our policy to suspend any drivers and passengers found guilty of wrongdoings upon thorough investigation. Our stakeholders are always pleasantly surprised when we call them to say that action has been taken,” said Tan.

The funding

This additional investment is a testament to the effectiveness of GrabTaxi and how it has made a significant impact in the markets that they have entered. Vertex Venture funding has provided the impetus to ensure GrabTaxi moves ahead at a strong pace in each market. 

“GrabTaxi is a start-up that has shown tremendous potential and we’re confident that it will continue to dominate the taxi booking industry in the region. We invest in potential champions which have developed new technology platforms or business models that disrupt the incumbents and old inefficient ways of doing things. We clearly see GrabTaxi as one such champion in the making. We are very happy to be an investor in GrabTaxi and we will continue to provide strong support both financially and in strategic value-add to strengthen GrabTaxi leadership position in this region,” said Chua Kee Lock, Group President & CEO of Vertex Venture Holdings.

On being the proud financier of GrabTaxi, Dato' Lee Kok Kwan, CEO, Corporate Banking, Treasury and Markets, CIMB Group said, “From a home-grown start-up, to becoming a dominant Southeast Asia powerhouse in the taxi booking industry today in just 2 short years, this is a clear testament of GrabTaxi’s foresight and resolute tenacity. Similar to how CIMB had grown to become the leading ASEAN bank from our humble beginnings as a small Malaysia investment bank, we are glad to be able to support start-ups like GrabTaxi in achieving their greater aspirations.”

About GrabTaxi

GrabTaxi is a for-profit social start-up with a mission to revolutionise the taxi industry. GrabTaxi started in Kuala Lumpur and now has operations in Singapore, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. Runner-up in the 2011 Harvard Business School Business Plan Contest, its core product is a taxi-dispatch service with GPS-enhancements, allowing passengers to hail the nearest taxi with extreme ease. Since year 2012, tens of thousands of taxi drivers have been using the GrabTaxi smartphone-based technologies to receive bookings. 

Passengers can book taxis on their smartphones and tablets (tablets (iOS: http://bit.ly/myteksi-ios, Android: http://bit.ly/myteksi-android, Windows: http://bit.ly/myteksi-windows and Blackberry: http://bit.ly/myteksi-blackberry). with ease and great user experience.

As a humble start-up, GrabTaxi believes that business and social value can be achieved in parallel. It hopes to make a difference in Singapore’s public transportation, by making it easier, safer and more efficient to book taxis. For more information, please visit: http://www.grabtaxi.com. 

Wil Tower Construction on Schedule

Wil Tower, considered as the tallest mixed-use condominium development in Quezon City, gains momentum towards the completion of its first tower on December 2014. An anchor development of Vista Residences, the twin-tower complex has formally opened the four-story commercial atrium last year, ready to offer high-end retail, dining and leisure experiences to would-be residents and the public.

“By December 2014, the units—in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations—will be available for turnover to investors and residents,” says Elizabeth M. Kalaw, Vista Residences’ Division Head. “Because of Vista Residences’ solid track record in the real estate industry, the units are master planned and offered at prices that are fair to investors.

After the turnover of tower 1, tower 2 follows suit.

As soon as the first tower is turned over by December 2014, construction for Tower 2 will immediately follow suit. Investors can still look forward to the second tower which will be constructed immediately after the completion of the first tower. Just like its predecessor, Tower 2 will comprise of 42 stories, with the first four floors devoted to the commercial podium. Called Wil Tower Mall, this highlight of the development is the first of its kind in Quezon City to offer a multitude of retail choices—from upscale lifestyle brands to dining destinations such as Draft, Pho Hoa, My Thai Restaurant, Bench Fix, Starbucks and WBR (Wil Bar and Restaurant), among others.

In addition, prospective residents will also enjoy select amenities that include a swimming pool, a fully-fitted gym, a spa, an audio-video room, a game room and a day-care center.

Located along Eugenio Lopez Dr. in Quezon City, Wil Tower sits on the 3,000 sq.m. lot with an uninterrupted view of the surrounding vicinity. Aside from the amenities, the development boasts of an intelligent computer network that will manage and operate building features such as the elevators, security cameras, and fire and electrical systems. 

Designed by the US-based, international architectural firm RTKL, with Arch Haus Asia Consultants as local counterpart, Wil Tower is envisioned to combine elegance and modernity in one structure, a showstopper amid the glitz and glam of the area which is home to the two giant networks, ABS-CBN and GMA 7. The interiors gleam with high-class glamour, highlighted by the evocative chandelier by Kenneth Cobonpue located in the atrium lobby, which is comprised of acrylic-cast butterflies that change colors through an LED system and outfitted along lines of hand-hammered steel. This work of art sets Wil Tower's tone as an embodiment of imaginative sophistication in a city that is emerging as an artistic hub.

“Given the location, the design, and the prestige of the project, we knew that our prospective investors and residents would have high expectations,” said Kalaw. “We were able to address that by combining topnotch amenities and features within reasonable price points. Add to that, not too many developments can boast of a high-end mall which part and parcel of the project.”

Aside from the amenities, features and the full-fledged commercial component, Wil Tower boasts of the benefits of centralized location. As mentioned, it is in close proximity to leading broadcast networks as well as the well-appointed cafés and fine-dining restaurants of Timog Avenue and Tomas Morato. Wil Tower is mere minutes away from select malls (Trinoma, SM North Edsa, Gateway), hospitals (St. Luke’s Hospital and Capitol Medical Center) and institutions of learning (University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University and Miriam College).

For more information, contact 650-0753 or 0999-887-1705 or check out Vista Residences’ website at www.vistaresidences.com.ph.

Penumbral lunar eclipse visible today

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the eclipse will begin at 12:53 p.m. (Philippine Standard Time) and end at 6:37 p.m.

A penumbral lunar eclipse will occur today, the moon will rise in Manila at 6:12 p.m (April 15 ) and set at 5:26 a.m. the following day.

Penumbra refers to a partially shaded outer region of a shadow that an object casts. The moon turns coppery red during the eclipse as it passes through the Earth’s shadow.

A lunar eclipse occurs when the moon passes directly behind the Earth into its shadow (umbra) . This can occur only when the Sun, Earth, and Moon are aligned exactly, or very closely so, with the Earth in the middle. Hence, a lunar eclipse can only occur the night of a full moon. The type and length of an eclipse depend upon the Moon's location relative to its orbital nodes.( From Wikipedia)

When the Moon approaches closely enough to the Earth's shadow to cause an appreciable diminution of light though it does not directly touch it. 

“A penumbral eclipse occurs when the moon passes through the faint penumbral portion of the earth’s shadow,” PAGASA said.

According to the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Penumbral eclipses are so subtle and vaguely visible they go greatly unnoticed.

A total lunar eclipse will be observed in western Africa, western Europe, the Americas, Australasia and eastern Asia.

People in North and South America will be able to see the entire eclipse, while sky watchers in the western Pacific can catch only the last half, NASA said.

Explore the history of Middle Eastern Cuisine on Shane Delia's Spice Journey

Embark on a culinary pilgrimage with award-winning chef, restaurateur, author and TV personality Shane Delia as he takes viewers on a spice journey across the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East to explore his heritage and discover food traditions that go back thousands of years. 

Premiering 15 April, SHANE DELIA’S SPICE JOURNEY airs every Tuesday at 7:00 p.m (1900 hrs) SIN/HK. Encores every Wednesday and Sunday at 10:00 a.m. (1000 hrs).

For Shane, a second-generation Australian that hails from four generations of Maltese bakers, food is more than a meal; it’s a way of life. Middle Eastern food is his passion. Beginning in his homeland where his love for cooking was born, he traces the gastronomic roots of his family while broadening his horizons by experiencing new tastes, sensations and flavours during his travels. 

Over ten half-hour episodes, SHANE DELIA’S SPICE JOURNEY spans a distance of more than 2,000 kilometres and covers 2,000 years of culinary history. From the old Phoenician outpost of Malta, where the aromatics and spices of the Middle East mingle with the European traditions of the Mediterranean, he heads across the sea to Lebanon, the original Land of Milk and Honey and birthplace of contemporary Middle Eastern mezze. He then follows the time-worn caravan trails of the spice route to ancient Persia – Iran – which is home to saffron, pomegranate, rose water…and where some of the oldest surviving recipes on Earth can be found. 

Shane tastes his way around the region learning and seeking inspiration from medieval Arab and Persian recipes passed down through generations as well as rural and regional contemporary cuisines, then heads back to his Melbourne kitchen armed with this knowledge to put his unique twist on some of the world’s most ancient and influential culinary traditions by transforming these time-honored delicacies into modern dishes. 

From the busy souks to ancient ruins and from the mountains to the beaches, experience the rich and varied cuisines of Malta, Lebanon and Iran including the Persian version of candy floss (pashmak) and what Shane considers the original dude food, falalel. 

Saha (an Arabic “cheers”)! 

About Discovery Communications

Discovery Communications (Nasdaq: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK) is the world's #1 nonfiction media company reaching 2.5 billion cumulative subscribers in 224 countries and territories. Discovery is dedicated to satisfying curiosity through 190 worldwide television networks, led by Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, Science and Investigation Discovery, as well as U.S. joint venture networks OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, The Hub and 3net, the first 24-hour 3D network. Across the Nordic region, Discovery owns and operates SBS Discovery Media, a top-three portfolio of television brands that feature leading nonfiction content, as well as locally produced entertainment programs, sports and the best scripted series and movies from major studios. Discovery also is a leading provider of educational products and services to schools and owns and operates a diversified portfolio of digital media services, including Revision3, including an award-winning series of K-12 digital textbooks, and a digital leader with a diversified online portfolio, including Discovery Digital Networks. In Asia-Pacific, eight Discovery brands reach 590 million cumulative subscribers in 36 countries with programming customised in 15 languages and dialects.

About TLC 

TLC is a global lifestyle and entertainment destination, presenting non-scripted and scripted programming featuring real life stories and universal themes that resonate with viewers around the world. TLC's programming is told through the lens of larger than life characters and adaptable formats, celebrating everything from relationships and life stages, to makeover and transformation to food and travel. Launched in Asia-Pacific on September 1, 2010, TLC is currently distributed to over 139 million subscribers in the region. For more information, visit TLC at www.tlcasia.com.

Philips and Disney work together to light your child’s imagination

Philips and Disney discover a whole new world of inspiration, enchantment and magic through light!

As we all know, children sometimes feel restless and unable to sleep come bedtime. Parents always think of something that will help your child sleep through the night. When you provide lampshades, lights in the dark, will establish good sleep routines. It will ensure your child to comfortably sleep.

Parents know how active their children’s imaginations are and how important it is to create an environment that helps them feel safe and comforted while stimulating their minds.

That’s why Philips and Disney have teamed up to develop a range of inspiring, magical, and playful lighting products for children, parents, and everybody young-at-heart. The new Philips and Disney range of lighting products combines Philips’ groundbreaking innovation in lighting with the magic of Disney characters and story telling to transform a child’s bedroom into a more imaginative place for them to read, play, and sleep.

At Philips, we know that light can help enhance people’s mood, wake them more naturally, help them concentrate and perform better*, or simply make them feel happier.

The new Philips and Disney lighting range has been created to inspire children’s play and magical family moments as well as provide comfort to kids through Disney characters they know and love. Whether it’s helping little ones’ sleeping and waking rituals, making playtime as vivid as their imagination, or making story time more enchanted and immersive, there is a Philips and Disney solution for every moment or stage of their day.

The Monsters Inc. SoftPals is also a good nighttime companion with its feature to introduce just enough light to ensure they feel safe and comforted throughout the night. Or you can also help them create their magical make-believe during playtime with the new LivingColors Mini Mickey & Minnie with its wide range of colors to choose from that can transport your children into an imaginary world of their own creation.

The new range of Philips and Disney lighting products comes with child-friendly features. The Smart Philips LED technology keeps the lamps robust and kind to little hands by being cool to the touch. They even have the added bonus of having an extremely long lifespan as well. Each light is also designed to ensure that there are no small parts or sharp edges to worry about, and cables can be tidied away using velcro cable binders – part of the Philips design to keep little fingers safe.

“Philips and Disney believe in creating moments and environments that improve people’s wellbeing and happiness. By bringing our collective brand, knowledge and histories together, we have created a range of safe, innovative and dynamic lighting solutions for children, parents and everybody young-at-heart,” said Ms. Fabia Tetteroo-Bueno, Philips Country Manager and General Manager for Lighting.

“We want to inspire amazing memories through delivering exciting, interactive and innovative lighting that the whole family can trust and enjoy.”

Philips and Disney lighting range:

· Philips and Disney SoftPals in Sulley and Mike from Monsters Inc., classic Mickey and Minnie Mouse - the perfect night time friends are key for setting rituals such as story time and getting your children in to the habit of sleeping through the night.

· Philips and Disney LivingColors Micro lamps in Cars, and Princess - with 64 colors to choose from, they can transform almost any imagined playground.

Philips and Disney Softpals and LivingColors Micro lamps are available in select Toy Kingdom stores.