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December 13, 2014

New CyberPress officers to be inducted on December 19

The Information and Communications Technology Journalists Association of the Philippines, also known as CyperPress, are set to induct the newly elected officers on December 19, Friday, to be held in Makati City. 

As in the previous years, DOST undersecretary and ICT Office executive director Louis Casambre will administer the induction ceremony.


Elected officers for the year 2015 are Timothy James Dimacali, science and technology section editor of GMA News Online (President), Alma Anonas-Carpio, technology editor of Philippines Graphic (Vice-President for Externals), Jing Garcia, Infotek section editor of InterAksyon.com (Vice-President for Internals). Jason Domantay, segment producer of Asian Food Channel and mynameisbella.com (Secretary), Verns Joven, digital editor of the Philippine Star (Treasurer).

Also elected are Marlon Magtira, editor of Newsbytes.PH and techTV.ph (Membership Committee Head) and Melvin Calimag, executive editor of Newsbytes.PH (Constitutional Amendments Head).

Appointed as sectoral representatives are Raffy Pedrajita, editor of technology blog DigitalSpidey.com (for new media) and Paolo Luis Montecillo of the Philippine Daily Inquirer (for traditional media).

“For close to two decades, Cyberpress has followed the stellar -- some would say meteoric -- rise of Philippine IT, and continues to do so today even as the organization itself has seen much change over the years,” Dimacali shared with the ICT press corps.

“We look forward to 2015 with new goals and new horizons that, we hope, continue closely in step with the shifting tides of the industry we watch after,” Dimacali added.

The induction of the new Cyberpress officers, will also serve as the Christmas party of the organization.

DepEd, TESDA launch “Gulayan Cook-Off Challenge”

To promote nutrition among Filipino children, the Department of Education (DepEd) in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Association (TESDA), initiated the “Get Your Gulay On: Grand Gulay Cook-Off Challenge”, a contest that aims to encourage innovation in making healthy snacks made of vegetables from the Gulayan sa Paaralan Program in public schools.

“Ang gusto po naming gawin ngayong umaga ay ipakalat ang pagkain ng gulay sa mga kabataan at siguraduhin na kakain sila ng mga masusustansyang pagkain. Gusto rin nating gamitin ang mga gulay na tinanim natin sa mga paaralan bilang sangkap sa mga lulutuing pagkain,” said Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC. He emphasized the importance of proper nutrition in improving the performance of students in school.

Participants from TESDA training institutes prepared nutritious vegetable dishes for some 100 elementary students from Taguig and Pasay Cities invited as judges. Part of the criteria requires that the ingredients must not contain monosodium glutamate (MSG) – ready-made breading, soup stocks, liquid seasoning. 

TESDA Director-General Secretary Joel J. Villanueva explained that the program promotes the talents of TESDA cookery graduates, while helping develop nutritious recipes for students. “It is important that we not only provide nutritious meals to help our students Go, Grow, and Glow but also to give them the opportunity to be transformed—to transform their community, and even transform our beloved country,” he said.

Gulayan Cook-off winner Helen L. De Guzman of STI Computer College of Parañaque, Inc., coached by Rosela P. Ongkeko, garnered the most votes from the students for her “Kalalunggay Tart” recipe, with kalabasa and malunggay as the main ingredients. Their recipe will be verified by TESDA for nutritional benefits and may be included in the menu of public school canteens as snacks.

The two secretaries, pleased with the outcome of the launch, eyed a nationwide event for the coming months. “Because of the success of this pilot program, we plan to go around the country, one region per month come 2015,” said Luistro. He also shared that both DepEd and TESDA will “collect the recipes of the food made and post them on the website so that parents and teachers may be encouraged to eat more nutritious meals.”

Luistro then urged the participants to continue supporting the Gulayan sa Paaralan Program by DepEd. “Sana po maging inspirasyon itong programang ito para sa mga magulang, sa mga guro, at sa ating mga school canteen na gamitin ang mga gulay na itinatanim sa ating Gulayan,” he said.

As part of the directive by the President through Executive Order No. 26 entitled the Implementation of the National Greening Program, the Gulayan sa Paaralan Program was formed as a task force for all public schools to “establish vegetable gardens to serve as food basket and a main source of commodities to sustain supplementary feeding.”



December 12, 2014

Disney Beauty and the Beast Musical Manila 2015

The beautiful love story comes to life. Disney BEAUTY and the BEAST The Original Broadway Musical Spectacular from January 9 to 25, 2015 at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater), Pasay City.

“Beauty and the Beast” is the classic tale of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. The story goes that if the Beast can learn to love and be loved in return, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But if the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed forever.


The hit Broadway musical that drew record audiences during the past 20 years with its wonderful songs and music, spectacular production, fabulous costumes and superb acting will awe and enthrall Filipino music and theater enthusiasts when Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is staged in Manila in January, 2015.

The beautiful and timeless story of love and transformation behind one of the most-loved fairy tales of all time will hold fans spellbound when the original Broadway musical spectacular makes its debut on January 9-25, 2015 at the Main Theater (Nicanor Abelardo Hall) of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City.

Disney Theatrical Productions, NETworks, Broadway Entertainment Group are collaborating together with Ovation Productions in bringing to the country the Broadway musical as part of its ongoing 10-country first-ever international tour in celebration of its 20th anniversary on the stage.

After debuting in Istanbul (Turkey), the musical will play in Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates), Thessalonik (Greece), Trieste (Italy) and Milan (Italy) before heading to Manila (Philippines), Bangkok (Thailand), Singapore, Jakarta (Indonesia), Kazakhstan and, finally, Macau, marking the first time it will be seen in these areas.

The selection of Manila as part of the musical’s international tour is in recognition of the Philippines’ stature as a promising area in mounting huge productions of live entertainments, according to Liz Coops, producer for Broadway Entertainment Group.

“The Philippines is today’s premier Asian market in theater production,” she said, “that’s why our team have decided to make Manila the first stop in the Asian leg of the international tour of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.”

Renen de Guia of Ovation Productions, which is observing this year its 35th anniversary in music and entertainment promotion, expressed elation over the opportunity to handle the Manila staging of “Beauty and the Beast,” as he thanked Disney Theatrical Productions, NETworks and Broadway Entertainment Group for their trust and confidence in Ovation’s capability to mount the production.

“’Beauty and the Beast” is simply an incredible theatrical experience that will tug on everyone’s emotions,” De Guia said. “All the characters – from Lumiere, Gaston, Belle and the Beast – are spot on, captivating and brilliant in their roles.”

“The stage props are fabulous and as are all the colorful and cheery costumes. The music, the songs, the choreography are spectacular. Everything about it is mystical and magical and fun for both children and adults. It will have you want to watch the musical every night,” he added.

The international touring production is directed by Rob Roth and choreographed by Matt West. Completing the original Broadway creative team in the tour are Tony Award-winning Ann Hould-Ward, costume design; Natasha Katz, lighting design; Stanley A. Meyer, scenic design; John Petrafesa, Jr., sound design; and Michael Kosarin, music supervision.

Behind the music of the stage production is Alan Menken (“The Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin”, “Tangled”), with lyrics written by the late Howard Ashman (“The Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin”), additional songs with music by Menken and lyrics by Tim Rice (“The Lion King,” “Jesus Christ Superstar”).

The book is written by Linda Woolverton (screen writer of “The Lion King,” “Alice In Wonderland” and the upcoming “The Maleficent”).

Based on the 1991 Academy Award-winning animated feature film of the same title, Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” premiered on Broadway in 1994 and was nominated for nine prestigious Tony Awards and ran for 13 years. It still ranks as one of the longest-running and highest-grossing Broadway shows of all time.

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” presented by Disney Theatrical Productions, Inc., NETworks, Broadway Entertainment Group, MKFAE and Ovation Production.

Ticket Prices:

Price Zone 1 – P8,337.12
Price Zone 2 – P7,228.32
Price Zone 3 – P6,114.24
Price Zone 4 – P5,005.44
Price Zone 5 – P4,445.76
Price Zone 6 – P3,336.96
Price Zone 7 – P2,222.88


Brother Philippines President Glenn Hocson navigates company to new heights

Personality Profile 1: Brother Philippines President Glenn Hocson 

Glenn Hocson was recently appointed as the first Filipino President of Brother International Philippines Corporation (Brother Philippines), a premier provider of printing, imaging and multi-function centers for offices and homes. He graduated with a degree in aeronautical engineering from PATTS College of Aeronautics 20 years ago and placed eighth in the aeronautical engineer licensure examination.

His beginnings in the ICT industry

But as it turned out, his profession would not be in the aviation industry, but in the sales and marketing of ICT products and business unit management. He first worked as account executive at Philippine Fuji Xerox Corp., where he first gained his experience in sales.

After two years, he moved to another Japanese technology company, NEC Philippines, where he climbed the corporate ladder from staff level to department manager of the company’s Business Network Solutions Group, where he managed different product lines concurrently.

In this capacity, he was able to lead the roll out of rural telephony solutions in different parts of the country, as well as PABX systems in different hotels and other establishments nationwide. He was also involved in various infrastructure projects, among others is the roll out of point-of-sale (POS) terminals for a popular chain of 24/7 convenience stores nationwide.

“They (the convenience stores) still have the POS infrastructure in place to date,” he proudly shared.

Breaking barriers in Brother Philippines

It was in August 2005 when he would join Brother Philippines as Assistant General Manager for Sales, Marketing and Service, a position he held for three years, before being promoted as General Manager in 2009. As General Manager, Hocson contributed in the expansion of Brother’s service networks, and in strengthening Metro Manila and provincial sales channel networks.

As general manager, and later on as president in a sales oriented technology company, Glenn said that he is still able to apply what he learned in engineering.

“In engineering school, we learned the discipline of tackling a task or a problem step by step. The same thing with managing a technology company – it is highly technical as it is logical. So, when given a certain problem, we come up with a solution after considering the ‘givens’ and the requirements. It is basically the same process.”

It also helped that the soft-spoken chief executive also finished a master’s degree in Business Administration from the Ateneo de Manila University - Graduate School of Business.

Establishing market presence

When Glenn started his stint in the company, the Brother Philippines office was just five years old in the Philippines, and as such, was not yet that known in the local market. Thus the challenge that Glenn and the other Brother executives faced then was to promote the brand to both customers and partners. To do this, they first had to establish market presence.

In November 2005, Brother’s first extension office was established in Cebu. Subsequently, the next four years under Glenn’s watch would see more extension offices and channel networks being established in key provincial cities, namely, Davao and Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao, Naga in Southeastern Luzon, and Angeles in Central Luzon.

In mid-2012, he became the Country Manager, where he further promoted the Brother DNA of quality products and excellent service.

In April 2014, after the last Japanese President of Brother Philippines finished his term, Glenn assumed the position of President in the company, the first Filipino to ever hold the top position in the Philippine operations of Brother, and the second local executive to assume the post of President in Brother offices across the Asia Pacific.

The localization of management of Brother offices in the Asia Pacific and worldwide, said Glenn, is part of Brother Global’s thrust to achieve true globalization in its operations.

Upholding the Brother culture of putting customers first

As its chief executive, Glenn upholds Brother Philippines’ culture of ensuring technological innovations and excellent customer service. He said it has become the company’s mantra to be at the customers’ side always. Brother’s culture is after all, he said, very Filipino – very practical and service oriented.

He emphasizes, “We always put customers first, every time and everywhere, and that is aptly captured in the brand’s promise – ‘At your side’.”

After all, he says, if the customers are happy, they will keep on buying and even refer people to patronize the brand. It all starts with satisfied customers, he said.

Brother now has an extensive network of more than 170 service centers representing about 80 service partners from Aparri down to Zamboanga - one of the biggest service networks for any technology brand in the country. It truly supports Brother’s corporate mantra of customer first, where Brother is focused on attracting and retaining customers by providing value with excellent before and after sales services.

Indeed, since 2000, Brother Philippines has been very successful in making its customers happy – as reflected in the company’s ever increasing bottom line.

“Even during the 2008 Financial Crisis, we managed to achieve positive yearly growth rate,” he said, “And this is a clear proof of our customers’ loyal patronage as well as the local operation’s resiliency,” he said.

Taking care of Brother’s most valuable assets – its employees

Glenn’s management style is no secret: it is centered on open communication where he encourages all associates (employees) to participate in company meetings and dialogues to sound off suggestions and even concerns relating to the company’s day-to-day operations.

A measure of the success of this open communication approach is the fact that its employees understand the particular roles they play in Brother Philippines and are proud to belong to this company that makes it known to them that they are important stakeholders in the organization and that their contributions to its growth are truly appreciated.

“We recently ran an employee survey in which one of the goals is to know our associates’ engagement with their work. Results showed that 91 percent of them are engaged and know the role they play in the company. This tells management that, indeed, our employee programs and efforts to reach out have all been worth it. We were able to send out the message loud and clear that, like our customers, our associates comprise a big part of our success.”


December 11, 2014

YouTube lists top trending videos among Filipinos for 2014

Pop beats and children’s entertainment dominate PH charts




YouTube released this year’s local and global hottest trending videos, with Katy Perry’s chart-topping single “Dark Horse” settling at the number one spot for music video and Disney’s “Let It Go” sing-along leading the non-music video list in the Philippines.

The inclination of Pinoys for pop songs and hip hop beats is evident on the music videos list, which makes the sole OPM entry “Ikaw” by Yeng Constantino stand out as the only ballad tune.



Philippines: Top Trending YouTube Videos (music)
  1. Katy Perry - Dark Horse (Official) ft. Juicy J: Katy Perry plays Katy Pätra, a takeoff on Egyptian pharaoh Cleopatra, in the ancient Memphis, Egypt-themed music video. It received two nominations at the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards for Best Female Video and Best Collaboration, and won Best Video last November 4 at the 2014 MTV Europe Music Awards.
  2. Jason Derulo - "Wiggle" feat. Snoop Dogg (Official HD Music Video): The popular club hit is a wiggle-inducing trap-hip hop song which peaked at the US Billboard Hot 100 at number five.
  3. PSY - HANGOVER feat. Snoop Dogg M/V: South Korean musician PSY is no stranger to YouTube Rewind’s top ten list, topping 2012’s list with Gangnam Style. HANGOVER was filmed in South Korea during Snoop Dogg’s visit in January 2014.
  4. Taylor Swift - Shake It Off: The catchy pop song debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It features several talented dancers of hip hop, ballet, jazz and cheerleading styles, and references some of the world’s most popular musicians, such as Lady Gaga and Skrillex.
  5. Iggy Azalea - Fancy (Explicit) ft. Charli XCX: A homage to the 90’s cult classic Clueless starring Alicia Silverstone, this music video was nominated for Video of the Year, Best Female Video, Best Pop Video and Best Art Direction at the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards.
  6. YENG CONSTANTINO - Ikaw (Official Music Video): Pop-rocker Yeng Constantino has also been on this list before with Pag-Ibig. Now, her new romantic video features her fiance Victor Asuncion, lead vocalist of alternative rock band Indios.
  7. Meghan Trainor - All About That Bass: Bubblegum pop with influences from 50's retro R&B and hip hop, the song's catchy beat and lyrics were praised by critics all around. The music video features cute choreography complementing the song’s positive message on body acceptance.
  8. "Counting Stars" - OneRepublic (Alex Goot, Kurt Schneider, and Chrissy Costanza Cover): A collaboration between three musicians who found fame on YouTube, the music video is a cover performance of one of OneRepublic’s most successful singles.
  9. Chris Brown - Loyal (Explicit) ft. Lil Wayne, Tyga: Usher, Trey Songz, and Ty Dolla Sign make cameo appearances in the popular music video. The song peaked at number one in both the Official UK R&B Chart and the US Rhythmic chart.
  10. Nicki Minaj - Anaconda: Heavily sampling Sir Mix-a-Lot’s grammy-winning song Baby Got Back, Anaconda’s music video features a cameo appearance by rapper and labelmate Drake and a lot of twerking. The video broke Vevo’s 24-hour streaming record by accumulating 19.6 million views on its first day of release.

Music dominates even the most watched non-music video list in the Philippines. As a country with a knack for gaining international recognition for our golden voices, it’s no surprise that the sing-along version of “Let It Go” from Disney’s Frozen holds its first place. The song also makes another appearance as a cover by Sarah Geronimo as the fourth most popular non-music video.

Children’s songs and nursery rhymes make up a huge chunk of the list, suggesting that many parents turn to the video-sharing platform for educational entertainment for their kids. Unboxing Kinder Surprise Eggs is also popular, taking two places on the list featuring Play Doh and  Disney.

The adorable three-year-old Chinese kid with awesome dance moves received three thumbs up from the judges of reality show Awesome Chinese which includes film actor Jet Li. The viral video takes the fifth spot on the list.

Philippines: Top Trending YouTube Videos (non-music)



Visit the YouTube Rewind channel for the videos and channels that Pinoys checked out the most.

A viral video of a dog donning a spider costume and scaring random people tickled the funny bone of global netizens and made it to the top of global trending non-music videos, along with Katy Perry’s “Dark Horse” for the music video list.

Global: Top Trending YouTube Videos (non-music)

Krem-Top leads the #ChangefortheBetter campaign


Krem-Top coffee creamer launch a campaign to kindle and challenge individuals to exercise a habit of changing for the better.


Changing your life for the better is by finding the real you which is your inner purpose. And it’s our attitude that determines how much we succeed in life.

If you look around you, you will see that people with a positive attitude enjoy life more and are generally happier and can be more successful. 

Every year ends and we will soon be excited to welcome the new year, it will be another season and reason for us to reflect on our lives in the past year and plan for a better future. This is the time when we list our resolutions to start things right for the entry of the new year.

Dubbed as Change for the Better, the campaign that started in 2012 is a call to action for people to commit and sustain the change to become better individuals, not just during the turn of the year but all throughout the year and beyond.

The campaign has grown from being a personal call to change to being nationalistic as the mission is not just on one’s self anymore but on the entire nation as the Filipino spirit has been put into tests with the onslaught of recent calamities in the recent past. Krem Top’s Change for the Better campaign reminds us of the small distinctly Filipino traits that when rekindled can make our country better. This is coming from the idea that even small changes when put or done together can create a huge impact in the community. Change for the Better campaign reminds us of the innate Filipino traits that when practiced every day, can make our lives and country better.

This year, Krem-Top’s Change for the Better campaign looked at the values that are natural among Filipinos that will remind us of our identity and can strengthen our nationhood.

Dr. Mina Ramirez, PhD
President, Asian Social Institute
Krem-Top’s Change for the Better campaign, with the guidance of renowned phenomenological sociologist Dr. Mina Ramirez of the Asian Social Institute, identified Five Core Values that defines the Filipino people.

These core values make Filipinos different and stand out from the rest of the world and are vital for nation-building. Based on Dr. Ramirez’s study “The Filipino Worldview and Values” and her insights from decades of practice as a phenomenological sociologist, here are the Five Core Filipino Values based on the Basic Aspirations of a Filipino:

Mapagpasalamat 

This is based on Filipinos’ aspiration for “Pamumuhay” (Life) and “Pananalig sa Diyos at Kapwa” (Faith in God and people). Filipinos know how to enjoy life. We have many holidays, feasts, occasions, and reunions. Filipinos are cheerful and naturally sociable. We love to connect to people. We are a happy race. We wear smiles on our faces even in depressing situations. This is because we always look at the bright side of life. We always have a positive outlook because we always find things to be thankful for, even in the smallest things. We would always say “Salamat sa Diyos” (Thank God) whenever good things happen because Filipinos, from whatever religion, would attribute life’s blessings to the Higher Being. We also acknowledge the good deeds of other people towards us and we do our best to return the favor. 

Matatag 

Being in a country prone to natural disasters, Filipinos have adapted and learned to be strong in times of need and in hard situations life throws at us. We continue to stand up, be firm, and fight because we have our loved ones and life’s aspirations to be strong for. This strength is drawn from our love for our family and to the higher being we believe in. This is based on Filipino’s aspiration for “Kaayusan” (Order). In fact, Filipinos’ common expression is “Ayos Na”. When we are able to get through difficulties, we say “Ayos Na”. We, Filipinos long for “Kaayusan” and we will endure everything and be strong amidst hardships and challenges until we surpass the obstacles. 

Masigasig 

When Filipinos dream of something, we do everything possible to get it. We do it for our families and loved ones. This is based on Filipinos’ aspiration for “Kasaganaan” (Abundance) and “Ginhawa” (Relief). A Filipino aspires for abundance not for himself but for his family. The Filipino translation for Happy New Year is Masaganang Bagong Taon (Bountiful New Year) because we equate happiness and celebration with abundance. In Bisaya, “Ginhawa” means breath. And the smooth flow of breath is the smooth flow of life which we call “Ginhawa”. “Ginhawa” according to lay theologian Dr. Jose de Mesa is the feeling of well-being in a Filipino. An example would be Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who endure being away from home to give their families a good life – abundance and relief from hardships. 


Mapagmalasakit 

It is because of our love for the family extended to friends, neighbors and other people that make Filipinos naturally compassionate. This compassion enables us to help other people without asking for anything in return. This is based on Filipinos’ aspiration for “Loob at Damdamin” and “Kapwa” (Other People) as explained in Dr. Mina’s The Filipino Worldview and Values. “Loob” is the seat of Filipinos’ dignity. The personhood of Filipino is manifested in his “kalooban”. Filipinos tune in each other’s “kalooban” by checking on each other’s condition and chatting about each other’s lives. Filipinos reach out to other people. Due to our familistic culture, Filipinos use “kapwa” to refer not just to a stranger but to a relative, a next-door neighbor, a distant relative or a friend. Our “Mapagmalasakit” trait makes it easy for us to champion the Bayanihan spirit - to unite and help each other during calamities and celebrate together during special occasions. 


Magalang

The use of po, opo, and pagmamano (kissing of the hand) are distinct Filipino ways of respect. We say these words and use this gesture to show our respect and love for the elderly. The Filipinos’ respect is not just limited to the elderly but also to other people’s properties, emotions, and ideas. We are polite people. Our language itself is also respectful because it does not have any gender bias. Examples would be the words kapatid (brother / sister) or asawa (husband / wife) or biyenan (father-in-law / mother-in-law) or anak (son / daughter) which do not manifest differences in gender. These words are uniquely Filipino definitely respectful of the sexes. Our respect for other individuals is embedded in our culture and in our language. This is based on our aspiration for “Lakas ng Loob” or “Kagandahang Loob”. Malakas and Maganda, Filipinos’ original creation story brings dignity to both the Filipino and Filipina. Both the man and the woman sprang from the bamboo. The man bowed to the woman. They held hands and went off together. Dr. Ramirez said, “This is a very non-sexist indigenous version of the creation story.”

Dr. Mina Ramirez explained, “If you want to get to know the Filipino, learn the language. Most of our values are deeply rooted in how we express ourselves. The Five Core Filipino Values based on the Basic Aspirations of a Filipino are in Filipino language because there are no direct translations of these traits. The words are unique to us. Understanding these traits would mean dissecting the soul of a Filipino.”

“Filipinos may be hard pressed at times, but in general, we are rich. We are rich in natural resources; we are rich in our people. If we can just get to know more ourselves clearly and use our values to our advantage, we will become a better nation. It’s time to change for the better,” said Dr. Ramirez.

Alaska Milk Corporation’s Vice President for Marketing and Krem-Top Change for the Better campaign lead, Blen Fernando, is optimistic that this project will help create awareness about the need to keep or enrich or restore these core values of Filipinos.

“We hope that Krem-Top’s Change for the Better campaign will inspire us to be the better version of ourselves for the benefit of our families and our country. The public can count on our continued support to champion the Filipino spirit that will help make us a better and stronger nation.”

All the things that you have been through, all the people you have met and interacted with can have an impact on your attitude. To enjoy life, to live life to the fullest, there is no need to worry as there is always an opportunity for change. Change for the better. 

For more information about Krem-Top Change for the Better campaign, visit www.facebook.com/AlaskaKremTop or follow @kremtopPH on Twitter.








About Krem-Top

Krem-Top is a product of Alaska Milk Corporation, a leading company in consumer goods and was launched nationwide in 2012. It is a non-dairy coffee creamer that gives all the rich taste which best complements your coffee. Relish the creaminess and savour the wonderful aroma which will make your coffee experience more enjoyable.

December 9, 2014

Lenny Kravitz Rocks Manila in March 2015

Four-time GRAMMY Winner, Lenny Kravitz,  who gave us the hits “Again”, “It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over”, “Are You Gonna Go My Way”, “Fly Away and “American Woman” is set to rock the Philippines this coming March.


Lenny Kravitz, is regarded as one of the preeminent rock musicians of our time, and has successfully transcended genre, style, race and class into a 20-year musical career, one which revels in the rich influences of '60s and '70s soul, rock and funk.

MIDAS Promotions, the company responsible for sold-out concerts in the Philippines and the rest of Asia, is proud to present Lenny Kravitz LIVE in Manila this 24 March 2015 at the Globe Circuit Events Ground in Makati. 

Kravitz’s talents as a writer, producer and multi-instrumentalist have resonated through nine studio albums into a timeless catalog. Winning four consecutive GRAMMY Awards, he set a record for the most wins in the “Best Male Rock Vocal Performance” category. His appeal has also been recognized by his peers; his collaborative efforts are as varied as his own influences, having worked with Slash, Aerosmith, Jay-Z, N.E.R.D., Mick Jagger, P. Diddy and Alicia Keys. He also produced the song "Justify My Love" for Madonna, which he co-wrote with Ingrid Chavez. 

Having sold over 38 million albums worldwide, LennyKravitz’s musical success has afforded him many opportunities to fulfill his creative vision beyond the recording industry. The artist appeared in a supporting role in the critically-acclaimed film Precious, and the box office smash film The Hunger Games, as Cinna. He reprised this role in the second film which was released in Fall 2013. Lenny was also seen in Lee Daniels’ The Butler (The Weinstein Company) alongside Forest Whitaker and Oprah Winfrey.

In 2014, Lenny Kravitz debuted his 10th studio album, Strut. Kravitz is currently on an extensive world tour, and has chosen Manila as one of its stops. He will beperforming songs from Strut as well as from a distinguished career that has made him one of the most distinctive and successful recording artists of today.

Tickets will be on sale starting 9am, December 15th, 2014 atwww.ticketworld.com.ph or at any Ticket World Outlets. For inquiries, call 891-9999. Ticket prices are as follows:

Platinum (seated) – 13,000 | Diamond (seated) – 11,000 |Gold (seated) – 9,000 | Silver (standing) – 3,500 | Bronze (standing) 2,000

For further enquiries and information, please contact Grace Foronda (gracelomboyforonda@gmail.com), Mel Tyler (mel@midaspromotions.com) or log on to the following social media pages:

http://www.midaspromotions.com/
https://www.facebook.com/midaspromotionph
https://twitter.com/midasphofficial
http://instagram.com/midasphofficial

In The Lonely Hour Tour: Sam Smith Live in Manila

Sam Smith Live in Manila on May 10, 2015 at the Mall of Asia Arena. Sam Smith In The Lonely Hour Tour 2015 in Manila is brought to you by MMI Live.

English singer, Sam Smith, is coming to Manila for the very first time. He's one of the fastest rising superstars today. He rose to fame in October 2012 when he was featured on Disclosure's breakthrough single "Latch", which peaked at number 11 on the UK Singles Chart. His subsequent feature on Naughty Boy's "La La La" earned him his first number 1 single in May 2013.

Sam Smith Live in Manila 2015


In August 2014, Smith's single "Stay with Me" was named Variance Magazine's Song of Summer.

Ticket Prices:

Patron – 6,830
Lower Box – 4,730
Upper Box – 2,100
Gen Ad – 1,050

Tickets available starting December 16 at SM Ticket Outlets or visit smtickets.com


Stay With Me – Sam Smith




The Perfect Pint held the first CRAFT BEER and FOOD pairing SHOWDOWN

As the mantra of “local is the new premium” gains momentum in the food industry, The Perfect Pint gastro pub opened to give a strong push to the advocacy of promoting our local and artisanal craft beer by pairing it with complementary savory dishes. The bold move became popular that both its local and expat diners now look forward to ending their day with special one-day-only home brews or hard-to-find craft beers.

Inspired by the local acceptance of their craft beer and food pairing recommendations, The Perfect Pint launched the first craft beer and food pairing showdown called The PERFECT MATCH. The showdown is a fun and friendly interaction among peer groups of chefs, brewmasters and food editors/writers. Each submitted a recipe to pair with a specific craft beer. Starting mid-October, a sampler platter of four pairings was a special menu offering at The Perfect Pint. Patrons who ordered the platter were asked to rank which pairing they regarded a good, very good, great and perfect match. 

Culminating with thanksgiving cocktails last November 17, The Perfect Pint revealed the people’s choices to be Fish Cakes with Crab Fat Aioli paired with Sierra Madre Wheat Ale by Chef Gigi Angkaw, Jalapeno Taco Sticks paired with Ambog Brown Ale by Chef Bobby Abes, Blackened Chicken Breasts with Charred Cuban Corn Salsa with Sierra Madre Wheat Ale, by Chef Francis Oñate and Roast Herbed Chicken paired with Pivo Praha Dark Lager by Marilen Fontanilla. 

(L-R) Band of Brewmasters - Alec Tempongco, Kiyo Miura, Joey Viray, Chef Francis Onate, Morgan Kallefjord
“We are taking part and helping shape the craft beer industry while it is still in its infancy here in the Philippines. The best way to enjoy a fresh brew is to pair it with the right cuisine; and all of you have contributed to the first craft beer and food pairing endeavor here at The Perfect Pint”, said Noel Tempongco of The Perfect Pint. 

Others who shared in the excitement were Chef instructors and consultants Martin del Prado, Peachy Cebrero, Ojie Reloj and JA Ventura. Known for their respective specialty menus are Chefs Ernestine Abes and Waya Araos-Wijanco. Brewmasters included G-Point Craft Ale, represented by Morgan Kallefjord; Katipunan Craft Beer, represented by Kiyo Miura; and Chef Francis Onate represented Joe’s Brew. Editors-in-Chief Niña Daza-Puyat, Marilen Fontanilla, Nana Ozaeta and food writer and blogger Marie Pascual completed the first craft beer and food pairing showdown.

(L-R) Chef Bobby Abes, Chef Ernestine Abes, Nina Daza-Puyat, Marie Pascual, Nana Ozaeta, Marilen Fontanilla
(L-R) Chef Francis Onate, Joey Viray, Morgan Kallefjord, Chef Ojie Reloj, Chef Gigi Angkaw,
 Raffy Taruc, Chef JA Ventura
The Perfect Pint gastropub serves both bottled and fresh craft beer on tap, and fine food for pairing, and is located on the second floor of Crossroads Building, along 32nd street in Bonifacio Global City and is open everyday from 10AM to 2AM.

Connect with us:
(FB) The Perfect Pint: Craft Beer + Fine Food

#theperfectpintph
#theperfectmatchph

For comments/inquiries please email courageasia.pm@gmail.com or call 0917-8874293 (c/o Ms. Hazel Laigo-Aldaba) or call 0917-8562726 (c/o Ms. Alu Aluzan-Aran).

This event is powered by Courage Asia

Singapore Airlines offers 12 Days of Exceptional Fares This Christmas

Something awesome is happening this Christmas! In celebration of the holidays, Singapore Airlines is offering exceptional all-inclusive Economy Class fares to Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh, and Bali for sale from now until December 15, 2014. Fares are applicable for departures up until February 28, 2015.

All-inclusive Economy Class one-way fares start from USD 180. For round-trip Economy Class itineraries, travelers can avail of all-inclusive roundtrip fares to Bangkok at USD 270, USD 280 to Singapore, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and Saigon as well as USD 330 to Denpasar. 

Passengers traveling beyond Singapore can redeem a complimentary SGD20 Changi Dollar Voucher at the iShopChangi Collection Centre in Singapore Changi Airport Terminals 2 or 3. Also, passengers with at least five hours of transit in Singapore can avail of complimentary city tours that showcase the city’s prominent tourist landmarks. 

Customers flying on Singapore Airlines Economy Class are treated to a tantalizing selection of food, wine and beverages specially designed by a panel of world-renowned chefs and international wine masters. Each seat onboard the flight is furnished with its own KrisWorld entertainment system which offers a wide selection of entertainment options. These exceptional Economy Class fares also come with complimentary 30 kg baggage allowance and accruable KrisFlyers miles. 

For bookings and more details, visit www.singaporeair.com, or the SIA Mobile App. 
You can call the Reservations Office at 756-8888, or contact your travel agent.

December 8, 2014

The Penthouse… Live! Reunion with Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez

The Penthouse… Live! Reunion featuring Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez on December 12, 2014, 8pm at the PICC Plenary Hall, CCP Complex, Pasay City.

The Penthouse... Live! Reunion Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez




Ticket Prices:

Price Zone 1 = P7,111.65

Price Zone 2 = P6,564.60

Price Zone 3 = P4,923.45

Price Zone 4 = P4,376.40

Price Zone 5 = P2,735.25

Price Zone 6 = P1,641.15

Price Zone 7 = P875.28


The Penthouse… Live! Reunion featuring Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez is brought to you by DSL Events & Productions House, Inc.

Habitat for Humanity launches appeal to assist those affected by Typhoon Hagupit

Habitat for Humanity has launched an appeal to assist families affected by Typhoon Hagupit (called Ruby in the Philippines). The storm made first landfall on Samar, an island in the Visayas, Philippines, late in the evening of Saturday 6 December.

According to the Philippines National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, more than 146,000 families were evacuated in six regions of the Philippines.

“Habitat for Humanity is sheltering evacuated families in Leyte, Cebu and Surigao del Sur provinces of the Philippines. Staff and materials are positioned and we will begin to support affected families to repair their homes. The more funds we raise, the more families we can help,” said Rick Hathaway, Habitat for Humanity vice president for Asia-Pacific.

To donate, please visit habitat.org/giving/hagupit (global) or give2habitat.org/philippines/TyphoonHagupit (within the Philippines)

Habitat for Humanity is appealing for funds to assist families and help them rebuild their lives and gain access to decent shelter. Habitat staff are on the ground ready to assess the situation and coordinate with government agencies and other partners on the disaster response operations.


Typhoon Hagupit comes just 13 months after Typhoon Haiyan killed 6,300 people and damaged or destroyed more than one million homes, according to government figures. To date Habitat for Humanity Philippines has supported nearly 28,000 Haiyan-affected families with emergency shelter and shelter repair kits and begun construction of core houses at ten sites in Cebu and Leyte provinces.

Typhoon Hagupit is expected to continue moving across the Philippines.