List of nationwide holidays for 2015

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From the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office

The list of holidays for 2015, declared by virtue of Proclamation No. 831, s. 2014, unless otherwise specified.

January 1, 2015, Thursday – New Year’s Day (Regular holiday)

January 2, 2015, Friday – Additional special non-working day (Special non-working day)

February 19, 2015, Thursday – Chinese New Year (Special non-working day)

February 25, 2015, Wednesday – EDSA Revolution anniversary (Special holiday)

April 2, 2015, Thursday – Maundy Thursday (Regular holiday)

April 3, 2015, Friday – Good Friday (Regular holiday)

April 4, 2015, Saturday – Black Saturday (Special non-working day)

April 9, 2015, Thursday – Araw ng Kagitingan (Regular holiday)

May 1, 2015, Friday – Labor Day (Regular holiday)

June 12, 2015, Friday – Independence Day (Regular holiday)

August 21, 2015, Friday – Ninoy Aquino Day (Special non-working day)

August 31, 2015, last Monday of August – National Heroes Day (Regular holiday)

November 1, 2015, Sunday – All Saints Day (Special non-working day)

November 30, 2015, Monday – Bonifacio Day (Regular holiday)

December 24, 2015, Thursday – Additional special non-working day (Special non-working day)

December 25, 2015, Friday – Christmas Day (Regular holiday)

December 30, 2015, Wednesday – Rizal Day (Regular holiday)

December 31, 2015, Thursday – Last day of the year (Special non-working day)

Read Proclamation No. 831, s. 2014

Baker Entrepreneur Cynthia Patos wins Lifestyle Network's "The Clash"

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Baker entrepreneur Cynthia Patos clinches the coveted Great Dessert Master title in Lifestyle Network’s reality cooking competition show, “The Clash.”

Cynthia shares that “The Clash” was whipped up to test their limits and potential as bakers. Recalling the finale which aired on Lifestyle Network last December 5, Cynthia animatedly describes the experience of being hailed as “The Great Dessert Master.”

“The moment that they called my name, was one of those out-of-body experiences that happen rarely in life, and the funny part was, I could barely hear anything that was being said. All I could hear was the giant heartbeat sound effect that the producers had playing during the announcement,” said Cynthia.

After weeks of intense competition in the kitchen,  Cynthia also says that the best lesson she gained from Lifestyle Network’s “The Clash” was learning to trust her instincts – the lesson she is most grateful above all. Known as the clasher who has a lot of passions, Cynthia had to master the art of balancing her responsibilities as the owner and chief cake designer of her business, Cynfully Sweets while perfecting every challenge in “The Clash.”

Now that Cynthia has added another accomplishment in her achievements, she says that her future is looking bright.

“What is in store for me after? I would say the sky is the limit! I am setting no boundaries! I am seeing the stars, and you’ll just have to wait and see,” remarked The Great Dessert Master.

Lifestyle Network’s “The Clash: Search for the Next Great Dessert Master” finale last December 5 was judged by resident judges Chef Buddy Trinidad and Chef Jill Sandique together with guest judges March Ventosa, Head of ABS-CBN Narrowcast and DTT Channels, Nana Ozaeta, Editor-in-Chief of Food Magazine, Stephanie Benedito, Channel Head of Lifestyle Network, Amyline Ching, Managing Editor of Manila Bulletin, and CJ Juntereal, Columnist of Manila Bulletin.

For updates, visit the Lifestyle Network's official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/LifestyleNetwork) and for more details about the show, go to www.lifestylenetwork.com.ph.

Caroling for a Cause at Commercenter Alabang

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What better way to celebrate Christmas than by sharing love and Christmas cheer? Be an instrument of joy through “Caroling for a Cause” at Commercenter Alabang, the newest lifestyle center in the South. 

To be held on December 19, 2014, 6:00 p.m. at the atrium of Commercenter, the event, which is open to the public, will showcase the vocal talents of students from Woodrose Chorale, De La Salle Zobel Chorale and Virgo Maria Vocal Ensemble who will serenade the audience with well-loved Yuletide carols. 

The public is encouraged to share their blessings through the event which will also serve as a platform and opportunity to give donations in cash and in kind for the benefit of the victims of the recent typhoon. All donations and proceeds will be for the benefit of ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya.

In the spirit of giving and as a token of appreciation, Commercenter Alabang will also be raffling off gift certificates and cinema passes to the attendees.

Join us in the South this holiday season. Visit Commercenter Alabang at Commerce Avenue corner East Asia Drive, Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

Commercenter Alabang is the newest lifestyle center in the South designed to cater to one’s need for a more intimate, warm and cozy leisure experience. Located in the business and commercial district of Alabang, Commercenter Alabang is the go-to place for one to enjoy various dining, wellness and development, hobbies and specialty shop choices for every member of the family.

Stay updated on the latest events, promos and offerings at Commercenter via www.facebook.com/commercenter and follow us on instagram @Commercenter. 

Singapore Airlines to Launch First Class Seats for the Manila-Singapore Route

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Singapore Airlines, starting 12 January 2015, passengers flying from Manila to Singapore will have the option to fly in even greater comfort and luxury as Singapore Airlines launches its First Class cabin on its Manila to Singapore route. Singapore Airlines will be the only airline offering the First Class product on this sector.

Singapore Airlines offers four daily flights on the Boeing 777-200 and the Airbus A330-300 aircraft at present, but by next year, travelers from Manila will get to experience flying on the airline’s B777-300ER fleet which features the First Class product. Operating the SQ910 and SQ917 daily service, the B777-300ER will provide eight first class seats, 42 business class seats, and 228 economy seats. 

In First Class, each passenger is provided with a vanity corner complete with a mirror, a table that can be adjusted for height to suit individual preferences, and a 35-inch seat that can be converted to the largest fully flat bed in the sky.

First Class passengers are treated to the airline’s world gourmet cuisine created by its International Culinary Panel of world-renowned chefs accompanied by a tantalizing selection of wine and beverages specially designed to delight the discerning palate. 

With a large 23-inch LCD screen, passengers flying First Class also enjoy KrisWorld, Singapore Airlines’ state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system, which features carefully curated movies and music in several languages from around the world, as well as a wide selection of games that will surely entertain travelers of all ages.

Business Class passengers will also enjoy elevated luxury and convenience. Designed for the best travel experience, these Business Class seats can be converted to full-flat beds that are 75 inches long. To add to that, each passenger is not only given access to the all-in-one business panel that includes an in-seat power supply for laptops, they are also provided with 15-inch screens that gives access to Singapore Airlines’ top notch in-flight entertainment, KrisWorld.

Singapore Airlines flies from Manila to Singapore four times daily and now departs from NAIA Terminal 3. Flight SQ910 will leave Singapore at 9:35 am and will arrive in Manila at 1:10 pm. SQ917 will leave Manila at 2:15 pm and return to Singapore at 5:50 pm. 

For bookings, interested parties may visit www.singaporeair.com, the SIA Mobile App, call the SIA Reservations Office at 756-8888, or contact their preferred travel agents.

Eat Out Manila, PH's 1st restaurants app, now available on Android phones

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This is the most convenient way of eating out in Manila. 

Eat Out Manila, the Philippines' first restaurant reservations app, expands its reach even further with the Android version, and now brings its convenience to users of the two leading mobile operating systems. Launched on the iOS platform initially when it came to market just middle of 2014, Eat Out Manila is now available to all Android users via the Android app store. 

The premier restaurant reservations application in the Philippines is making eating out a more fun experience for Filipinos who love to dine out. Diners can now easily reserve seats at their favorite restaurant and even gain benefits from doing so as Eat Out Manila also offers exclusive deals including discounts, gift certificates, and freebies from its top-notch partner restaurants. 

“This app is borne out of our frustrations on our personal experiences with manual restaurant reservations. When we first came up with the app, our goal was to bring it to as many users as possible. We’re very happy to introduce it to Android users and see what they think,” said Iñaki Lamata, Co-Founder, Eat Out Manila 

Various F&B outlets around the metro have already signed up for the service to take Eat Out Manila's customer experience to the next level. Among the new members of the growing list include 22 Prime Discovery Suites, Beso, Black Olive, Donosti, Open Kitchen, and Rue Bourbon, bringing the number of partner restaurants to over a hundred. 

Let Eat Out Manila do the reserving for you by visiting www.eatoutmanila.com or downloading the app from Google Play or Apple app store. Updates on the latest Eat Out Manila promos may also be seen in its official Facebook page and Instagram account @EatOutManilaPH.

Hydrating healthily in life 24/7

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It is already a fact that we need water every day to keep our bodies healthy, functioning well and strong enough to withstand sickness. Yet we still go for drinks that quench our thirst and at the same time are flavorful and enjoyable to drink – juices and carbonated drinks are the usual suspects. They do taste good and give us some added nutrients; however, it is probable that some of them have chemicals that will not be as healthy as some minerals that are needed by the body.

Fortunately, Pocari Sweat, a health hydration drink by Otsuka Philippines Pharmaceutical Inc., brings hydration to a healthier but enjoyable level. Pocari Sweat is highly recommended to those who are

in need of immediate hydration, most especially those who have an active lifestyle and those who suffer from dehydration because of illness.

Pocari Sweat has a refreshing mild taste, even best when it’s cold, you won’t need another beverage to wash off a strong taste and flavor from your usual drink. Yet, children as young as one year old can safely drink it. It does not have artificial coloring, no preservatives, no caffeine, and no artificial sweetener, which then makes it safe for anyone who needs immediate hydration.

Especially now during these months when “ber-month” celebrations are close at hand, numerous parties will be held with family, friends, and co-workers from before the Christmas season until the New Year.

Alcohol will definitely flow and other fun activities will get you into that party mood that lasts up until the sun rises.

Those who love to go on a night out after work can get over hangover easily just by drinking Pocari Sweat before they turn in after their night cap. There is no fun in having those head-cracking hangovers.

When we drink alcoholic drinks like beer and cocktail, we get dehydrated easily because we tend to do a lot of restroom breaks.

Alcohol also drains the electrolytes that our bodies need to function that is why when we get drunk, we sometimes can’t get a hold of ourselves. Coffee and some warm soup may give us some relief for a time, but still, the best way to battle hangover is to replenish our body with enough electrolytes – something that a bottle of Pocari Sweat can give.

Pocari Sweat comes in 330ml can (Php 24.00), 350ml PET bottle (Php 24.00), 500ml PET bottle (Php 35.00), 2L PET bottle (Php 125.00). 

Pocari Sweat is available in major chain drugstores, supermarkets and convenience stores.

SM Global Pinoy gives tribute to our Modern Day Heroes

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SM Global Pinoy believes in the value of the family being together, especially during the holidays. For this Christmas, we pay tribute to an OFW who came home to spend this holiday season with her loved ones.

The SM Global Pinoy Program aims to give honor to the OFWs and their families. We show our appreciation by providing them with an exclusive lounge inside our SM malls nationwide and we also give them access to exclusive events, activities, perks and privileges.

The holiday season is the perfect time for SM Global Pinoy to give tribute to our Modern Day Heroes.

Check this video : 

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=918354498194376&set=vb.137438556285978&type=2&theater

This tribute video is our gift to them and their families and it is our way of saying ‘thank you’ for their hard work and support, not only for their families, but also to the program.

LG Mobile set to boost holiday craze with 3-day Christmas Rush Sale

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Those who are on the lookout for awesome gift gadgets this Christmas or are in search for a chic new smartphone to start 2015 afresh are in luck! Global technology innovator LG Electronics will be holding a three-day Christmas Rush Sale from December 19 to 21, 2014, featuring two of its recently launched mobile devices, the LG G3 Beat and the LG L Fino.

Purchasers of these models during the given period will be entitled to a special price cut. The LG G3 Beat, originally priced at P13,990, will be offered at P9,990—allowing valuable savings worth four thousand PHP, while the LG L Fino worth P7,990 will be available for only P6,990.

The LG G3 Beat, an offspring of the multi-award-winning smartphone LG G3, carries the best features of the highly-acclaimed flagship, allowing Filipino consumers to have the G3 experience at a more compact body and more affordable price. The LG G3 Beat comes with a 5.0-inch HD IPS display, a robust 2,540mAh battery, and an 8-megapixel shooter which features Touch & Shoot, Gesture Shot and Front Camera Light.

A compelling alternative to higher-priced smartphones, the L Fino features a blazing fast 1.2GHz Quad-Core processor, a 4.5-inch True IPS display, and a 1,900mAh long-lasting battery. Known for its “Designed for Funtography” philosophy, the L Fino combines fun with smartphone photography as it gives users quality, blur-free images with premium features built in its 8-megapixel camera. It is also the first L Series model to sport LG’s trademark Rear Key button.

The Christmas Rush Sale is available in selected LG dealer stores nationwide: LG Concept Lounge at SM Megamall; LG Concept Stores at SM North EDSA, SM Fairview, Greenhills, Marquee Mall Pampanga, Robinsons Mall Santiago, G Mall, SM Lanang, Lim Ket Kai Mall, Centrio Mall, and Marbel; Abenson Greenbelt; LG Concept Kiosk at SM Cebu, SM Bacolod, and SM GenSan; Aerophone at SM Cebu; Playtelcom at SM Iloilo; and Expression Mobile at Shoppers Mall Zamboanga.

For more details on the LG Mobile Christmas Rush Sale, visit http://www.lg.com/ph/inside-lg/3day-christmas-2014-rush-sale. For more information on LG Mobile’s innovative product line, visit www.lg.com/ph, www.lgblog.com.ph, or www.LGnewsroom.com; like LG Mobile’s official Facebook page ‘LG Mobile Philippines’; or follow @LGPhilippines on Twitter and Instagram.

Holiday Festival at Pan Pacific Manila

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Celebrate this year’s festive season with the first and finest Butler hotel in the Philippines.

Our very own Butler Chorale performs classic Christmas carols at the hotel lobby from 16 to 24 December 2014, every 5:30pm. 

Visit the Lobby Lounge and take a peek at the giant Gingerbread House filled with Christmas goodies. Choose from a wide variety of sweets such as Stollen Breads, Yule Log Cakes, Fruit Cakes, Muffins, Pralines, Butler Cakes, French Macarons and Sweet Holiday Hampers.

To celebration of the solemnity of the Christmas season, a Holy Mass will be held at the 21/F Pacific Lounge on Christmas Eve at 11:00pm. 

After the mass, a bountiful buffet spread of classic Christmas dishes will highlight the this year’s Noche Buena at the Pacific Lounge, available for only PhP 900 net per person. 

Wake up to an exquisite Christmas Day brunch at the Pacific Lounge on 25 December 2014 from 6:00am to 11:00 am for only PhP 1,200 net per person. A sumptuous three-course Yuletide dinner menu specially prepared by Chef Renato is also available on 24 & 25 December 2012 for only PhP 1,400 net per person.

Finally, Welcome the New Year with a bang and party to the upbeat and dancable tunes of the PureSound band. Enjoy a lavish spread of International dishes inclusive of one round of standard drink. Cheer for the coming year with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine on the rooftop coundown and fireworks display. Book your reservations now for the New Year’s Eve Countdown Party at Pan Pacific Manila for only PhP 2,950 net per person! Dinner starts at 7:00pm at the Pacific Lounge and countdown will follow at the Helipad at 11:30 pm.

For enquiries and reservations, email enquiry.ppmnl@panpacific.com or call 318-0788 and ask for the Butler, of course! For more information about our hotel, visit panpacific.com/manila.

Kim Chiu, SkinWhite's Ambassador at the #BetterMe Campaign Launch with Captivate Council Batch 2

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SkinWhite's The #BetterMe Campaign was launch with the Captivate Council Batch 2, and Skinwhite Ambassador ABS-CBN celebrity Kim Chiu, presented to the media and guests last December 12, 2014 held at  R. Space Events Venue, N. Garcia St. Bel Air Village, Makati City.

SkinWhite, the leading and pioneer skin whitening brand in the Philippines, aims to give young Filipinas the tools they need to improve who they are—both inside and out—through the #BetterMe campaign. “SkinWhite’s #BetterMe campaign inspires me a lot,” shares actress and SkinWhite ambassador, Kim Chiu. “It makes us girls look at the brighter side of life. I can now say I’m a #BetterMe [because of it.]” 

The Captivate Council

After its initial launch in 2013, the #BetterMe movement has become even bigger and better! To help inspire even more teens, SkinWhite held a casting call to scout for the loveliest and most inspiring girls for the second batch of the Captivate Council. Approximately 500 aspiring teens from some of the most prestigious college campuses in the country auditioned, but only 25 girls were handpicked. The basis for making this prestigious cut? Their accomplishments at school and ability to inspire others with their go-getting, stay confident attitude. 

Throughout the four-month campaign, the members of the Captivate Council can look forward to magazine features, multi-media exposure, and lots of fun events like the #BetterMe Ball. “We also included outreach activities and fitness parties because when it comes to becoming a #BetterMe, you need a more holistic approach. We want the members of the SkinWhite’s Captivate Council to lead by example,” shares Liz Caceres, assistant brand manager for SkinWhite. “It’s not just about looking good on the outside, but feeling good and doing good, too 

Outer Confidence Through Creating A #BetterLook

For November, it was all about teaching the Captivate Council to celebrate their own unique beauty. Each member was treated to a fashion and beauty makeover where they were taught how to enhance their own individual assets and body type. To look even more gorgeous during their makeover shoot, the girls prepped their skin from head to toe by trying out samples of the SkinWhite Power Whitening Face Cream Powder (to score a powdery fresh, white glow on their complexion) and SkinWhite Advanced Power Whitening Lotion (for instantly whiter, brighter skin upon application). 

“Being part of the Captivate Council helps me love myself more, says Chrissa Taleon, 20, a student at the University of Santo Tomas. “I also noticed that my self-confidence has grown the more I use the SkinWhite products. [Both these factors] motivate me to share and inspire other people—especially young girls.”

Spreading The #BetterMe Message

These days, it’s easy for teens to become lost in social media drama or engulfed in their #fomo—fear of missing out. Through the #BetterMe campaign and the Captivate Council, we want to remind them of what really matters and allow them to develop their own inner confidence, so they can be kinder to themselves and others. 

“What’s amazing is that these girls also have a wide network within their respective circles. So even if their classmates and friends aren’t part of the council, they can still share what they’ve learned through the monthly activities we’ve arranged for them,” says Caceres. 

“It’s a great way to spread the #BetterMe image and help more teens become empowered.”

Your Secret To Scoring Insta-White, Beautiful Skin

Get the SkinWhite that’s better for you! For blush white skin that’s guaranteed to make heads turn and make you the belle of the ball, try these get-pretty beauty finds:

Skinwhite Power Whitening Face Cream Powder, 

SRP P19 for 7g and SRP P69 for 20g.

It uses a unique technology that magically transform this moisturizing cream into a light, matte powder once it touches your skin. This product uses Synchronized Whitening action through multiple actives to ensure you achieve beautiful blush white skin. You’ll love the Vitanourish formula that effectively softens and hydrates your skin!

Available in White, Light Beige, Rose White, and Natural Beige shades. 

SkinWhite Advanced PowerWhitening Lotion, 

P71 for 50ml, P123.25 for 75ml, P235 for 200ml.

Want noticeably whiter skin instantly upon application? This lotion uses an exclusive Advanced Tripower Technology to whiten instantly and continuously to help reveal your whitest white. It also contains a Vitanourish formula that’s spiked with vitamins B3, B5 and E to give your skin intense moisturization and protects you from UV rays and further skin darkening with SPF20.

Jollibee kicks-off the earliest, longest Christmas season with 20th #MaagaAngPasko launch

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Jollibee celebrates the 20th year of Maaga ang Pasko, a merrier and longer Christmas happenings awaits kids across the country.

To set the early Christmas mood, Maaga ang Pasko caroling events were held in different Jollibee branches featuring celebrities and chorale groups to officially launch the campaign. 

The Christmas spirit was definitely in the air as Jolly Toy Scouts and customers trooped to the stores to listen to all-time favorite carols and drop their toy and book donations. 

The Voice Kids’ winner Lyca Gairanod, and finalists Darlene Vibares and Juan Karlos Labajo led the  Maaga ang Pasko donations at Jollibee Greenmeadows.

At Jollibee Greenmeadows in Quezon City, The Voice Kids Top 4 finalists Lyca Gairanod, Juan Karlos Labajo, and Darlene Vibares performed their trademark songs and joined the Singles for Christ choir in singing the Maaga ang Pasko jingle. The young talents were also introduced as the newest endorsers of the Jollibee Kids Club, together with their fellow finalist Darren Espanto. ( Jollibee Kicks off 20th Maaga ang Pasko with The Voice Kids winners )

Jollibee joins Nadine as the Cheesy Bacon Mushroom Yum ambassador drops her donation at the Maaga ang Pasko box in Jollibee Mabalacat.

At Jollibee Mabalacat in Pampanga, young sensation Nadine Lustre brought her own family to take part in the gift-giving campaign. “Our family has been supporting Maaga ang Pasko even before I became a Jollibee endorser. I feel blessed because as an official member of the Jollibee family, I can now do more and influence more people to share what they have and make kids happy this Christmas.” The actress also serenaded her fans with songs from her debut album, as well as joyful Christmas jingles with the Lumen Anima Chorale. 

Original Jolly Toy Scout Aga Muhlach makes his Christmas donation in the Maaga ang Pasko box during the launch in Jollibee Canlubang.

Jollibee then paid tribute to long-time ambassador and original Jolly Toy Scout Aga Muhlach at Jollibee Canlubang in a similar caroling activity. Together with members of the Jollibee marketing team, the seasoned actor gamely joined the Lumen Anima Chorale in a more upbeat rendition of the Maaga ang Pasko jingle. 

“Maaga ang Pasko came from a very simple idea but a genuine desire to make kids happy on Christmas time. No matter what they may be going through in life, a kid’s face lights up whenever you give them a toy. I approached Jollibee because I know they can help me expand that into something even bigger and more impactful,” shared Aga.

“I could not be any more grateful to Jollibee for bringing Maaga ang Pasko to where it is now, as the longest-running and biggest campaign of its kind in the country that has reached hundreds of thousands of children across the country.”

The celebrity guests each led the gift-giving ceremony by making their own toy and book donations together with members of the Jollibee Kids Club. Jollibee customers showed their support by lining up to drop their donations in the Maaga ang Pasko boxes. 

“For the 20th year of Maaga ang Pasko, we’re targeting to bring the magic of toys and books to the most number of children in the history of the campaign. We are once again counting on the support of kind-hearted Filipino families from all over the globe to make this year the ‘pinaka-maaga, pinakamahaba at pinakamalaking Pasko’ for our Filipino kids,” said Jollibee Vice-President for Marketing Harvey Ong. 

Aside from dropping donations in Maaga ang Pasko boxes in Jollibee stores nationwide, anyone can also take part in the campaign by making online donations at www.jollibee.com.ph/MaagaAngPasko.

Early Christmas shoppers can also buy and directly drop their donations in all Goodwill Bookstore and Toy Kingdom stores. 

Globe sets new standard in retail as it opens its Generation 3 flagship stores simultaneously in Manila and Cagayan de Oro

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Globe Telecom opens a wonderful era, as it sets new standard in retail with the opening of brand new Gen 3 stores in SM City North EDSA simultaneously with Limkatkai Mall in Cagayan de Oro City. 

With the new Gen 3 stores, Globe transforms the digital lifestyle of Filipinos who enjoy their favorite smartphone, tablet, and social media among others to get the best out of living. 

As I witnessed the Gen3 stores launch yesterday, December 15, 2014 at the Globe Telecom, 4th Floor, Annex Bldg, SM North City EDSA hosted by Bianca Gonzalez and in CDO, Matteo Guidicelli.

The very first live simulcast party featuring DJs Bad Kiss, Mars Miranda in Manila and DJ Callum David and Eric Capili in Cagayan de Oro.

Joe Caliro, Globe Head of Retail Transformation and Management, first shares an excitements for the #TheNextAct. “Exciting, unexpected, and experiential are the words to describe our GEN3 Stores. The concept and design of the GEN3 Stores have undergone intense research and consultation with the world’s top-notch designers and architecture experts. We are inviting customers to explore and be inspired by the stores’ four zones—music, entertainment, productivity, and life so they can fully enjoy a wonderful world,” said Joe Caliro.

“Globe is proud to bring to Filipino consumers another world-standard differentiated experience. Our passion for our customers inspires us to end the year on a high note by bringing innovation a notch higher in our stores, one of our key customer touch points, allowing us to truly empower our customers' digital lifestyles,” said Ernest Cu, Globe President and CEO. 

The Globe Gen3 stores will further engage and delight customers by fueling their passion in the areas of music, entertainment, productivity, and life. With the opening of the GEN3 Stores, Globe has topped some of the iconic stores in the US and around the world.

The Globe GEN3 stores are home to various lifestyle zones with stories and exciting features for customers to experience and enjoy. These zones feature latest trends in product, people and even in business. Various lifestyle vignettes illustrate mobile and broadband technologies as connected solutions—featuring the latest devices, apps, digital connectors gadgets and services that contribute to the total interactive customer experience

The lifestyle zones will also highlight the stories of brand ambassadors every quarter. The store is a platform for the introduction of must-watch personalities who are blazing new trails in their respective Art, Community and Technology spaces. For the first quarter of 2015, with Music as the main theme, Globe GEN3 will feature four of the coolest DJs of this generation: DJ Badkiss, Callum David, Mars Miranda, and Eric Capilli - who all have inspiring success stories in their chosen career. In the coming months, it will also feature the aspiring story of JR Dela Paz, a Globe myBusiness ambassador and owner of fast-rising restaurant chain Size Matters. 

The Globe GEN3 Store will also serve as a venue to introduce the latest products, devices, and services offered by Globe. To start, it is the first retailer in Asia to introduce and carry Google Cardboard, the fold-your-own virtual reality headset. Consumers can definitely expect more exciting products rolling out in the next quarters. 

Apart from reconfigured store displays, customers can also check out the Play Bar to explore the different featured apps and sit through one-on-one service consultations. Self-service tools are available that allow better interaction with customer representatives through a video hotline.

At SM North EDSA unveiling the new Gen 3 stores designed by renowned designer Tim Kobe.

The Globe GEN3 Stores are designed by Tim Kobe, founder and CEO of Eight, Inc. His most famous work is the Apple Store in New York.

On his design plan for GEN3, Tim Kobe shared:

“The space is dynamic. It changes with new stories and experiences that support different events and moments. We have elements that move and reconfigure, the way entertainment venues support great concerts or shows.”

Tim Kobe also shared the importance of functionality in the Globe GEN3 Stores, saying “Retail is one touch point where brands build relationships and sell products and services. It is important today to have a place to demonstrate what you stand for. More than 50% of the reason why someone engages with a brand comes from word of mouth. Interestingly, 80% of word of mouth comes from direct experience. Designing the experience is critical to building brand advocates.”

Leading up to the launch of the GEN3 Stores, Globe collaborated with homegrown Philippine artists who took part in one of the telco’s biggest transformation projects to better serve its customers. Led by multi-awarded artist Ross Capili, the artists turned their design inspirations into live art galleries, showcasing murals exhibiting Globe’s brilliant vision, complementing the look, feel, and experience of its GEN3 Stores.

By 2015, Globe is set to convert more of its existing stores into GEN3 Stores to bring the world-class telco retail experience to more Filipinos.

Pre-Fab Modular Homes can be stylish, energy-efficient and income-earning too

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Do you know “pre-fab homes”?

Pre-fab homes today are practically custom-built, beautifully designed, sturdy, long-lasting, energy-efficient, and ready to meet the challenges posed by the elements. Although built in quick time, no compromise has been made on its quality or integrity.

Some says "pre-fab" thought of soldiers’ barracks, temporary shelters or low-cost houses that the government put up for mass housing in the 60s and 70s. But prefabricated homes have come a long way. Whether its purpose is to be a family home, a vacation getaway, or a home that one can use for business, one can now find a trendy modular home to cherish and be proud of because it looks good and performs superbly as a dwelling unit too.

New homes that use this fast and flexible building technique have also been hailed for using sustainable, recycled, low-energy materials and fixtures that result in functional, space-efficient, eco-friendly design.

Aluform PreFab Construction and Consultancy, makers of office buildings and technoparks, has brought stylish modular housing to the Philippines to meet the needs of young families, investment-seekers and upwardly mobile professionals on the lookout for homes that are ready for occupancy within a shorter waiting time. The modular dwellings are convenient to construct, flexible in terms of space usage and cost much less than a conventionally built home.

Classy looking and stylish, Aluform Pre-Fabricated Homes come in two designs: Country and Zen. Both are airy, with their respective charm and appeal, are spacious and energy efficient, and make good use of available light and ventilation to lower energy bills by as much as 20%. The energy savings of up to 20% is due to good insulating roof and wall materials, plus sufficient air ventilation that keeps the stylish home in a comfortable 28 degrees Celsius zone at high noon!

The façade is made of wood-like planks of finished materials, while the actual panels are reinforced with pre-cast concrete filled with insulation materials for total thermal, moisture and acoustic protection. These give the homes their energy-saving properties.

Designed for both luxury and function, strategically placed windows and doors allow natural light to enter the home. The windows use a certified double-glazed system that insulates the house from external noise and other kinds of pollution. Louver features below the roof keep the ceiling well ventilated at all times.

The houses have a floor area of 135 square meters and have a multi-purpose Lanai, which is one of the best features of Aluform Pre-Fabricated Homes. The generous space opens up the home investment to many possibilities. The lanai area can be used to make a bigger dining room, if desired, an entertainment area, a bigger garage. Or even to open up a business space like a home office, a mini grocery, barber shop, parlor, snack shop, kitchenette, or other enterprise that can make the home earn additional income for its owners. 

Built to withstand the elements, Aluform Pre-Fabricated Homes are easier to put up than conventional on-site constructions. One can have a home built in 60 days or less that is immediately livable because furnishings are already in place within that period. Highly versatile, they are also good for export and are transferrable to other locations in the future, if desired.

“Aluform Pre-Fab Homes are highly desirable during these times when more and more families and individuals lead an active lifestyle and are discovering their entrepreneurial spirit. They can be lived in as simple residences, but can also make good home offices or the site of income generating ventures. Enterprising owners can make them places where they can “live and earn”. There are infinite possibilities,” says Ritchie Catalan, Marketing Officer of Aluform Industries, Inc.

Aluform Industries, Inc. supplies the materials for the homes but would-be owners can engage their own contractors if preferred. They can also avail of Aluform’s services for the house construction.

For more information and dealership inquiries, call (0917) 828-8189 and (0917) 891-1088. Or email modular.creation@gmail.com.

Edsa Shrine: Filipino legacy, faith continue to live on for 25 years

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Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue or popularly known as Edsa is a famous landmark that left an indelible mark in the Philippine history as a bastion of power that emanated from the people to oust an oppressive dictatorship.

At the heart of this cradle of heroism is a shrine that was consecrated and dedicated on December 15, 1989 to Our Lady, Queen of Peace, who miraculously interceded to bring down a tyrannical leadership and restore the country's democracy through the peaceful and bloodless People Power Revolution in 1986.

The Edsa Shrine that came into being since then has become a living monument of praise and pride for every Juan. 

"And that has developed from a small, thriving community into a full-grown, practically huge one that is not only serving the Church, but serving the people who come here to fulfill their spiritual needs," said Rev. Fr. Nilo Mangussad, rector of Edsa Shrine.

While others think of it as a parish, the priest reiterated that it's merely a "quasi-parish" welcoming individuals and families of faithful, forming 23 ministries and serving multitudes of people from different sectors. 

Simply, its vision and on-going mission is to become a vibrant community of Christian servant-leaders that advocates love, peace, truth and unity, inspired by Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of Edsa.

"So, it is indeed a conglomeration of a lot of different people from different dioceses," Fr. Nilo said. "Historically coming from then Cardinal Sin and Archbishop Socrates Villegas, it is trying to become a community that will show that unity is possible; prayer to love problems is possible; a community that loves, understands, forgives is possible; and that truth, freedom is possible not by powerful means or force, but by prayer."

Although the Shrine has constantly grown as a community for the last 25 years, he conceded that still it has been faced with a lot of challenges and yet "the essence of the spirit is continuing up to now that the community growing with that spirit is not only keeping to themselves, but going upwards to let the people experience it at the way we experience it here inside."

"The Shrine is growing bigger and bigger that the space is no longer enough to contain the organizations, the ministries, and the various groups that want to come here to experience it. And we are now exponentially going out," he stressed.

As the Edsa Shrine turns silver this year, it is but apt to relive its glory with a big bang revolving around its theme,"EDSA Shrine @ 25: Truly Alive!"

Kicking off the jubilee celebration was the unveiling of its logo last October, followed by the Bayanihan Clean-up activity by the different ministries of the EDSA Shrine last month, and a series of talks on the Art and Architecture of the EDSA Shrine. 

Leading to the inception date itself, Novena Masses to Our Lady, Queen of Peace are now ongoing until December 14, at 5:30 pm on weekdays and Saturdays and 6 pm on Sundays. Different bishops and beloved priests preside, among which, no less than His Eminence, Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Archbishop of Manila, who will celebrate with the community on the ninth day.

The ceremonial mass of the 25th Anniversary of EDSA Shrine will be on December 15 at 5:30 pm to be officiated by His Excellency, Socrates B. Villegas, Archbishop of Lingayen-Dagupan and incumbent CBCP president. 

A grand celebration concert dubbed "Edsa Shrine @ 25: Truly Alive!" shall follow at Meralco Theater at 8 pm. This free concert is produced and participated in by many volunteers of the Shrine to look back at its humble beginnings and where it is headed to. Performances from the various ministries and members of the community as well as surprise guest artists are lined up.

DepEd reiterates “No Collection Policy” in public schools

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The Department of Education (DepEd) reminded all public school authorities that collection of any fees for school activities and celebrations is strictly prohibited.

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said that contributions in public schools should be voluntary. He added that while Parents-Teachers Association may be authorized to collect financial contributions from its members to enable it to implement programs and projects (such as Christmas parties) for the benefit of the students, the fees should be voluntary and agreed upon by the members in a general assembly.

Luistro urged the PTAs to minimize the amount of contributions for ceremonies and extra-curricular activities in consideration of the many expenses that parents incur in sending their children to school.

He said, “The payment of such contributions shall not be made a requirement. Non-payment of voluntary school contributions shall not be made as a basis for non-admission, non-promotion, or non-issuance of clearance to a student—including the withholding of school cards.”

Luistro urged all schools to keep celebrations such as Christmas parties simple yet meaningful.