January 17, 2015

Pope Francis' Meeting with Families at MOA

Pope Francis met with Filipino families, including those representing OFWs and PWDs, at the “Meeting with Families” at the Mall of Asia Arena, his day 2 , January 16, 2015.

During his homily, he reminded the Catholic faithful to “protect the family”, and noted that economic challenges are tearing families apart as more people migrate in search of better employment. 

Pope Francis with the theme of his visit to the Philippines, "The Holy Family's Journey, The Pilgrimage of Every Family", as he calls for respect for life. Pope Francis quotes Saint John Paul II and says the future of humanity passes through the family. He calls for respect for life and reminds the audience of the sacredness of every human life from conception to natural death.

Pope Francis reminds listeners to make time to pray. He says we must make time to pray and that rest is essential for our spiritual health, so that we can better hear God's voice and understand His message.

Pope Francis reminds the crowd not to lose the capacity to dream. "When you lose the capacity to dream, you lose the capacity to love."

Below is the full text of the prepared speech of Pope Francis, which he delivered during the Meeting with Families at the Mall of Asia Arena

Below is the full text of the prepared speech of Pope Francis, which he delivered during the Meeting with Families at the Mall of Asia Arena, Friday, January 16.


Dear Families,

Dear Friends in Christ,

I am grateful for your presence here this evening and for the witness of your love for Jesus and his Church. I thank Bishop Reyes, Chairman of the Bishops’ Commission on Family and Life, for his words of welcome on your behalf. And, in a special way, I thank those who have presented testimonies and have shared their life of faith with us.

The Scriptures seldom speak of Saint Joseph, but when they do, we often find him resting, as an angel reveals God’s will to him in his dreams. In the Gospel passage we have just heard, we find Joseph resting not once, but twice. This evening I would like to rest in the Lord with all of you, and to reflect with you on the gift of the family.

Joseph’s rest revealed God’s will to him. In this moment of rest in the Lord, as we pause from our many daily obligations and activities, God is also speaking to us. He speaks to us in the reading we have just heard, in our prayer and witness, and in the quiet of our hearts. Let us reflect on what the Lord is saying to us, especially in this evening’s Gospel. There are three aspects of this passage which I would ask you to consider: resting in the Lord, rising with Jesus and Mary, and being a prophetic voice.

Resting in the Lord. Rest is so necessary for the health of our minds and bodies, and often so difficult to achieve due to the many demands placed on us. But rest is also essential for our spiritual health, so that we can hear God’s voice and understand what he asks of us. Joseph was chosen by God to be the foster father of Jesus and the husband of Mary. As Christians, you too are called, like Joseph, to make a home for Jesus. You make a home for him in your hearts, your families, your parishes and your communities.

To hear and accept God’s call, to make a home for Jesus, you must be able to rest in the Lord. You must make time each day for prayer. But you may say to me: Holy Father, I want to pray, but there is so much work to do! I must care for my children; I have chores in the home; I am too tired even to sleep well. This may be true, but if we do not pray, we will not know the most important thing of all: God’s will for us. And for all our activity, our busy-ness, without prayer we will accomplish very little.

Resting in prayer is especially important for families. It is in the family that we first learn how to pray. There we come to know God, to grow into men and women of faith, to see ourselves as members of God’s greater family, the Church. In the family we learn how to love, to forgive, to be generous and open, not closed and selfish. We learn to move beyond our own needs, to encounter others and share our lives with them. That is why it is so important to pray as a family! That is why families are so important in God’s plan for the Church!

Next, rising with Jesus and Mary. Those precious moments of repose, of resting with the Lord in prayer, are moments we might wish to prolong. But like Saint Joseph, once we have heard God’s voice, we must rise from our slumber; we must get up and act (cf. Rom 13:11). Faith does not remove us from the world, but draws us more deeply into it. Each of us, in fact, has a special role in preparing for the coming of God’s kingdom in our world.

Just as the gift of the Holy Family was entrusted to Saint Joseph, so the gift of the family and its place in God’s plan is entrusted to us. The angel of the Lord revealed to Joseph the dangers which threatened Jesus and Mary, forcing them to flee to Egypt and then to settle in Nazareth. So too, in our time, God calls upon us to recognize the dangers threatening our own families and to protect them from harm.

The pressures on family life today are many. Here in the Philippines, countless families are still suffering from the effects of natural disasters. The economic situation has caused families to be separated by migration and the search for employment, and financial problems strain many households. While all too many people live in dire poverty, others are caught up in materialism and lifestyles which are destructive of family life and the most basic demands of Christian morality. The family is also threatened by growing efforts on the part of some to redefine the very institution of marriage, by relativism, by the culture of the ephemeral, by a lack of openness to life.

Our world needs good and strong families to overcome these threats! The Philippines needs holy and loving families to protect the beauty and truth of the family in God’s plan and to be a support and example for other families. Every threat to the family is a threat to society itself. The future of humanity, as Saint John Paul II often said, passes through the family (cf. Familiaris Consortio, 85). So protect your families! See in them your country’s greatest treasure and nourish them always by prayer and the grace of the sacraments. Families will always have their trials, but may you never add to them! Instead, be living examples of love, forgiveness and care. Be sanctuaries of respect for life, proclaiming the sacredness of every human life from conception to natural death. What a gift this would be to society, if every Christian family lived fully its noble vocation! So rise with Jesus and Mary, and set out on the path the Lord traces for each of you.

Finally, the Gospel we have heard reminds us of our Christian duty to be prophetic voices in the midst of our communities. Joseph listened to the angel of the Lord and responded to God’s call to care for Jesus and Mary. In this way he played his part in God’s plan, and became a blessing not only for the Holy Family, but a blessing for all of humanity. With Mary, Joseph served as a model for the boy Jesus as he grew in wisdom, age and grace (cf. Lk 2:52). When families bring children into the world, train them in faith and sound values, and teach them to contribute to society, they become a blessing in our world. God’s love becomes present and active by the way we love and by the good works that we do. We extend Christ’s kingdom in this world. And in doing this, we prove faithful to the prophetic mission which we have received in baptism.

During this year which your bishops have set aside as the Year of the Poor, I would ask you, as families, to be especially mindful of our call to be missionary disciples of Jesus. This means being ready to go beyond your homes and to care for our brothers and sisters who are most in need. I ask you especially to show concern for those who do not have a family of their own, in particular those who are elderly and children without parents. Never let them feel isolated, alone and abandoned, but help them to know that God has not forgotten them. You may be poor yourselves in material ways, but you have an abundance of gifts to offer when you offer Christ and the community of his Church. Do not hide your faith, do not hide Jesus, but carry him into the world and offer the witness of your family life!

Dear friends in Christ, know that I pray for you always! I pray that the Lord may continue to deepen your love for him, and that this love may manifest itself in your love for one another and for the Church. Pray often and take the fruits of your prayer into the world, that all may know Jesus Christ and his merciful love. Please pray also for me, for I truly need your prayers and will depend on them always! 

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Singer Jamie Rivera ends the program at the Mall of Asia by singing We Are All God's Children. Pope Francis leaves the Mall of Asia Arena and heads to the Apostolic Nunciature to rest.

Philippine independent cinema has found its home at Teatrino at the Greenhills Shopping Center

Teatrino, the new home of Philippine independent cinema, screens “Sana Dati”, “Six Degrees of Separation from Lilia Cuntapay”, “Dagitab”and “Mayohan” this January.


Starting January 17, the biggest little theater in the metro’s busiest shopping hub, is bringing back The Teatrino Film Series (TFS) so Philippine ciema buffs can view or re-view acclaimed independent films that were shown on limited engagement only in commercial theaters.

Launched last year, TFS started September 13 and ran through November 29 for twelve Saturdays. Screening to a small but enthusiastic crowd, the series had a successful run that had movie audiences clamoring for more.

Giving in to insistent public demand, the Music Museum Group is running TFS again in 2015, starting with its choice movies for January – two movies per Saturday. On January 17, the Cinemalaya 2014 hit, “Dagitab” makes a comeback at 5 p.m., while “Six Degrees of Separation from Lilia Cuntapay”, the 2011 “mockumentary feature film starring Lilia Cuntapay and directed by Antoinette Jadaone, goes on at 7:30 p.m. This film won 6 awards in the Cinema One Originals Digital Film Festival, including a Best Actress award for Cuntapay.

On January 31, crowd favorite “Sana Dati” by Jerrold Tarog will be screened at 5 p.m. while “Mayohan”, a film about the May month celebrations in Infanta, Quezon starring Lovi Poe goes on screen at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are now available at P200 per film at all Greenhills Cinemas (Promenade and Theater Mall) or at Teatrino.

For more information, go to www.musicmuseum.com.ph.

Only You: An Evening of Romantic Hits

Get ready to be enthralled all over again by classic love songs like The Platters’ “Only You”, “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes”, “The Great Pretender”, “Harbor Lights”, “Twilight Time”, “Enchanted” and “My Prayer.” Relive the hits of Matt Monro as the junior pays tribute to the songs popularized by his dad such as “Portrait of My Love,” “Walk Away”, “Softly As I Leave You”, “Love Is A Many Splendored Thing”, “Born Free”, “If I Never Sing Another Song” and “From Russia With Love.”

Only You: An Evening of Romantic Hits”, a Valentine concert featuring Matt Monro, Jr. and The Fabulous Sounds of The Platters with renowned Filipino balladeer and Asian singing sensation Christian Bautista.


Christian Bautista will perform his own hit songs like “Colour Everywhere”, “Hands To Heaven”, the immensely popular song “The Way You Look at Me” that virtually launched Christian’s career in the Southeast Asian region when he started in the music biz years ago plus other hits from his award winning albums.

This will make the show a Valentine musical feast for all ages, proving that love, indeed, is an emotion that knows no space, time or age.

Love songs on a romantic evening at PICC Plenary Hall on February 14, 2015 at 8PM  and Newport Performing Arts Theater at Resorts World Manila on February 16, 2015 at 8pm.

Tickets are available at Ticketworld (891-9999), SM Tickets (470-222) and Ticketnet (911-5555).

January 16, 2015

Michael Bublé releases “To Be Loved – Asian Tour Edition”

Michael Bublé’s highly acclaimed studio album “To Be Loved” has been released with 5 new bonus tracks which is entitled “To Be Loved – Asian Tour Edition”. 



Bublé’s sixth studio album “To Be Loved” follows his “Christmas” CD which sold seven million copies internationally and was the number two biggest selling album of 2011 (after Adele).

“To Be Loved” produced by Bob Rock was recorded in Vancouver and Los Angeles and includes a mix of standards as well as four original songs all co-written by Bublé. “After All” one of the four originals was co-written and performed by fellow Canadian Bryan Adams. The new album also includes hits previously recorded by some of Buble’s musical heroes including the Bee Gees hit “To Love Somebody”, Dean Martin’s “Nevertheless (I’m In Love With You”), the Jackson 5 early ‘70’s smash “Who’s Loving You”, Jackie Wilson’s “To Be Loved” and the Elvis Presley classic “Have I Told You Lately”. Bublé is joined by actress Reese Witherspoon on the classic Frank and Nancy Sinatra duet “Something Stupid”. 

“My new record is about love, happiness, fun and yummy things. Getting to work with my friend and longtime collaborator Bob Rock (“Call Me Irresponsible”, “Crazy Love” and “Christmas”) who produced the entire album was very exciting. We’re a good team. I love the songs we selected this time out. It was also terrific working once again with my songwriting partners” commented Bublé. 

To commemorate Michael’s upcoming 2015 Tour in Asia, a deluxe Asian Tour Edition of To Be Loved has been released. Additional songs include, ‘Softly As I Leave You’, ‘Mack The Knife’, ‘These Foolish Things (Remind Me Of You)’ and more that has never been released in Asia.

Tracklist:

1. You Make Me Feel So Young

2. It's A Beautiful Day

3. To Love Sombody

4. Who's Lovin' You

5. Something Stupid (feat. Reese Witherspoon)

6. Come Dance With Me

7. Close Your Eyes

8. After All (feat. Bryan Adams)

9. Have I Told You Lately That I Love You (with Naturally 7)

10. To Be Loved

11. You've Got A Friend In Me

12. Nevertheless [I'm In Love With You] (feat. The Puppini Sisters)

13. I Got It Easy

14. Young At Heart

15. Be My Baby - Bonus Track

16. It's A Beautiful Day - Swing Mix

17. My Melancholy Baby - Bonus Track

18. Dream A Little Dream Of Me

19. Mack The Knife

20. Softly As I Leave You

21. I'm Beginning To See The Light

22. These Foolish Things [Remind Me Of You]


This 22 song Special Edition CD is available in Astroplus and Odyssey stores nationwide. Also available on iTunes and Spotify. To get the Close Your Eyes as your ringback tone, Text YOUREYES to 2447 for SMART and 2370 for GLOBE subscribers. Special thanks to 105.1 Crossover Radio. 


On January 31, Michael Bublé will sweep Manila off its feet. Catch the Canadian crooner at the Mall of Asia Arena, 8 PM, as Wilbros Live in cooperation with Dainty Group and FOX International Channels presents Michael Bublé LIVE in Manila. Tickets available at SM Tickets via smtickets.com or call 470-2222. Special thanks to Warner Music Philippines, ABS CBN, MYX, RX 93.1, Play FM 99.5, Natural 97.9, 103.5 KLite, Mellow 94.7, The Philippine Star, Business World, Business Mirror, HDI Admix Inc, Philstar.com, PEP.PH Inquirer.net, Philippine Concerts, SoundChecMNL and Manila Concert Scene. 







Samsung Introduces Galaxy A7 Octa Core Smartphone with LTE for Php 24,990

Samsung officially launched the  Galaxy A with full metal unibody design, it’s also the thinnest Samsung device only 6.3mm thin. Equipped with Octa-core processor, Dual-SIM slot, and LTE connection.
​The Galaxy A7 also supports the intuitive features and services offered by the Galaxy A5 and A3, with an advanced 5 Megapixel front-facing camera and advanced selfie features including ‘Ultra Wide Shot’ and ‘Auto Selfie’ modes, which make it possible to take a photograph using only a voice command or even a simple wave of the hand.
The device also features ‘Always Clear Voice Auto Control’ to reduce noise from the surrounding environment, as well as LTE Category 4 support for quick and easy photo and video uploads on any social network. In addition to these features, the Galaxy A7 offers a Private Mode, which adds an extra layer of security for important files and documents.
SM-A700F(SS)_009_Set1_Gold
The Galaxy A7 has 16GB of memory and 2GB of RAM to power all of a user’s favorite apps and media, and is supported by a long-lasting 2,600mAh battery.
Samsung Galaxy A7 Specifications:
  • Android 4.4 (KitKat)
  • 5.5”-inch HD Super AMOLED
  • 1.8GHz cortex Samsung Exynos 5433 octa-core processor
  • 2GB RAM + 16GB Storage
  • Expandable via microSD card up to 64GB
  • 13MP AF Rear Camera w/ LED Flash
  • 5.0MP Front Camera
  • Camera Features Wide Selfie, Rear-cam Selfie, Beauty Face Features
  • Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n
  • BT 4.0
  • A-GPS+GLONASS,
  • NFC
  • Dimations: 151 x 76.2 x 6.3 mm, 141g
  • 2600 mAh Battery
The Samsung Galaxy A7 is priced at Php 24,990, and its available in selective market in Pearl White, Midnight Black, and Champagne Gold.

January 15, 2015

People's Pope - Pope Francis Visit in the Philippines

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/10896965_10204354966447271_7168007492513846502_n.jpg?oh=91a38b5638037c00dc2a48a8f4fe9f36&oe=5525486C&__gda__=1428281985_44de3aa63a54f0d5d43a1fcf551d0140

Jorge Mario Bergoglio or Pope Francis is said to be of the most charismatic leader of the Catholic Church. His holiness is also known as the "People's Pope". 

Pope Francis will celebrate the Liturgy of the Word, which will involve a reading of the Holy Gospel, reflection, prayer, and blessings for all families present. 

According to Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, the said event will convene families who are faced with the "three most difficult challenges" present in the contemporary Philippine society: poverty, migration, and disability. 

The gathering will have the theme "The Holy Family's Journey is the Pilgrimage of Every Family" and will be the Pope's first time to lead an event of its kind.





Things about Pope Francis

Fr. Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born in Buenos Aires, the capital and largest city of Argentina,on December 17, 1936. 

From the moment he stepped into the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica upon his election to the papacy on March 13, 2013, His Holiness Pope Francis has captured the world’s attention for his simple message of God’s boundless love and mercy. 

Here are 10 things you need to know about His Holiness Pope Francis:

1. Pope Francis is a pope of many “firsts”.

2. Pope Francis sees himself as a sinner.

3. Pope Francis believes the Church should be more like a “field hospital after battle,” with bishops serving as true pastors and priests spending more time in confessionals, consoling wounded souls.

4. Pope Francis wants to keep it simple but “cannot live without people.”

5. Pope Francis only has the deepest of affections for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, his “brother” who now lives in a monastery at the Vatican.

6. Pope Francis is a reformer; he is not afraid to shake things up.

7. Pope Francis says “no” to an economy of exclusion.

8. Pope Francis warns Christians against falling into the trap of spiritual worldliness,” which is “self-centeredness cloaked in an outward religiosity bereft of God.

9. Pope Francis is a fervent devotee of the Blessed Mother.

10. Pope Francis is a son of the Church.


Selected Sources:
Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, November 24, 2013
“A Big Heart Open to God: The Exclusive Interview with Pope Francis” (America: The National Catholic Review), September 30, 2013
Press Conference of Pope Francis During the Return Flight from the Apostolic Journey to Rio de Janeiro on the Occasion of the XXVIII World Youth Day, July 28, 2013

SM's advisory on Pope's visit to MOA Arena


SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena management issues advisory reminding the public that its gates will open at 11 a.m. on Friday, January 16, during the visit of Pope Francis.

His Holiness Pope Francis is expected to arrive at the MOA Complex at 5:15 p.m. SM MOA Arena management said gates will be closed at 3:30 p.m. The South Open Parking will open at 9 a.m. and also close at 3:30 p.m.

Pope Francis will celebrate the Liturgy of the Word, which will involve a reading of the Holy Gospel, reflection, prayer, and blessings for all families present.

Dubbed “Encounter with the Families,” selected families will also be sharing testimonies on poverty, migration, and disability, with the Pope and the public. This event is expected to end at 7 p.m.

SM MOA management said all tickets are free and issued by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), which organized the event.

Local dioceses will also issue free tickets for the 16 cinemas that will show live streaming of the Pope’s MOA appearance, namely SM City North Edsa, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM City Manila, SM City Sta. Mesa, SM City San Lazaro, SM City Fairview, SM City Marikina, SM City Bacoor, SM City Dasmariñas, SM City Clark, SM City Pampanga, SM City Cebu, SM City Iloilo, SM City Davao, and SM City Lanang.

Those who are in the vicinity of the MOA Arena can also see the Pope during the motorcade, as well as the proceedings inside the MOA Arena through LED screens with speakers at the MOA complex.

SM management said the MOA Arena Annex building, located in front of MOA Arena, will open at 4 a.m. onwards (on a first come first served basis).

Only those who will present official Papal visit 2015 IDs and the red-colored Arena tickets (for the pre-seated delegates inside the MOA Arena) will be allowed entry, and white colored Arena tickets (for the seated delegates in the South Open Parking between MOA Arena & SMX).

Pope Francis arrives in Manila

Pope Francis arrived in the Philippines, on Thursday afternoon, the second and last stop in his week-long Asia tour for a state and pastoral visit from January 15 to 19 amid one of the biggest security operations in the country's history.

His Holiness Pope Francis visit to the Philippines is to send a message of mercy and compassion to millions of poor Filipinos, including those hit by one of the strongest typhoons to ever hit land.

Here are the beautiful photos I saw in many facebook pages, and some I screenshot in TV coverages during Pope Francis arrival. 


(Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
Pope Francis arrives at Villamor Airbase in Pasay City. 

(Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

All people cheered excitedly as the 78-year-old pontiff Pope Francis peered out several times from the window of a plane that brought him to Villamor Air Base in the Philippines.


Upon arrival, he was received by President Benigno S. Aquino III, and a papal delegation. (via @govPH)


The Pope was all smiles even as the wind blew away his skullcap after he stepped out of the plane.

(Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
(Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno Aquino III personally welcomed the Pope.


The two then stood on the ceremonial dais for the papal anthem and the Philippine national anthem.


His Holiness Pope Francis, accompanied by President Benigno S. Aquino III, receives a bouquet of flowers during the arrival ceremony at the 250th PAW of the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City for the State Visit and Apostolic Journey to the Republic of the Philippines on Thursday afternoon (January 15, 2015). (Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

After the playing of the Philippine and Vatican national anthems, the Pope greeted by 10-year-old orphan Mark Angelo Balbero and Lanie Ortilla, 9, Francis hugged hugged and blessed the two children, who gave him bouquets of white and yellow flowers.

Church officials, Cabinet members and two children were among the first people to greet Pope Francis upon his arrival in the Philippines Thursday.



Pope Francis shook hands with 12 members of the Aquino Cabinet and 12 leaders of the Catholic Church.


The Pope gladly meeting again, hugged and exchanged pleasantries with Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle who was part of the conclave that elected him Pope.

(Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

More than 1,200 devotees from the Diocese of Paranaque dancing outside the plane, and around 1,500 schoolchildren welcomed the Pope with lively dances, waving white cloths, and red, white and blue umbrellas to form the Philippine flag. Their shirts were printed with the message "Mabuhay (Welcome) Pope Francis!"

Pope Francis boards the "Popemobile." January 15, 2015 

His Holiness Pope Francis takes leave of President Benigno S. Aquino III and boards the Papal Mobile after the arrival ceremony at the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City for the State Visit and Apostolic Journey to the Republic of the Philippines on Thursday afternoon (January 15, 2015). (Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr./ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
The Nunciature where Pope Francis will be staying during his trip to Manila. (Photo by Jim Guiao Punzalan, Manila Bulletin)

Thousands of people lined the streets of the Manila on Thursday, waving flags, cheering, jumped, clapped and singing, greeted shout, cheer, shed tears of joy to welcome Pope Francis on his first visit to Asia's largest Catholic nation.

The Pope will bring a message of compassion to millions of poor Filipinos suffering from the effects of corruption and decades-old insurgencies, as well as the problems faced by millions of impoverished and the families of the 10 million-12 million Filipino migrant workers overseas.

He will visit the central province of Leyte, which is still struggling to recover from Typhoon Haiyan that killed 6,300 people in 2013. 

About two million people are expected to attend an open-air mass on Saturday at Tacloban City airport, almost completely destroyed by Haiyan.

On His first day here in the country, watching the TV coverages and seeing him smile and greet people, I feel the spirit of the Lord, I feel Jesus in Him - a true servant , with Mercy and Compassion.
Photo by Gil Nartea/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

Hail to Pope Francis for giving the Philippines his utmost attention!


Smart and Twitter give free access to social networking site for Pope’s visit

Smart, Sun and Talk ’N Text are partnering with Twitter and will offer FREE Twitter on mobile as a public service for the millions of Filipinos who wants to share their thoughts and experiences in the upcoming visit of Pope Francis on January 15 to 19.

As a public service to millions of Filipinos who want to share their Papal Visit experience online, Twitter and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) have teamed up to offer unlimited access to the popular social networking app on mobile phones for free from January 15 to 19, 2015.


Under the service, all 69 million prepaid and postpaid subscribers of Smart, Sun Cellular and Talk ‘N Text may take to Twitter without worrying about mobile data charges, allowing more Filipinos to follow the Pope’s Twitter account (@Pontifex), send wishes and prayers to the Pope using #DearPopeFrancis hashtag, and get real-time updates on the much anticipated apostolic and state visit of Pope Francis in the Philippines.

More details of the Pope’s visit, including #DearPopeFrancis Tweets, videos, stories and the Pope’s itinerary, can be found at dearpopefrancis.ph.

“With this collaboration, Smart and Twitter aim to allow more Filipinos to get involved and immerse in this historic experience with Pope Francis, who our Catholic nation hold very dear to our heart,” said Napoleon L. Nazareno, president and CEO, PLDT and Smart.

Text DEARPOPE to 9999 starting January 15

Starting January 15, Smart, Sun Cellular and Talk ‘N Text subscribers nationwide may start their one-time registration for the free Twitter service by simply texting DEARPOPE to 9999.

Once registered, subscribers may tweet their aspirations and messages to the beloved Pope using #DearPopeFrancis. Subscribers may also post real-time updates, upload photos, and even reach out to him through his official Twitter account @Pontifex on their mobile devices at no extra cost.

‘Digital footprint’ of Papal visit experience

“In the same way Pope Francis has embraced Twitter with his official account @Pontifex to reach out to more Catholics all over the world, Filipinos may use this very same platform on their mobile devices to see events unfold and join heartfelt conversations – whether they are physically present in the event or not.

“Nowhere is this service any more timely and suitable than during a momentous occasion in the world’s social media capital and Asia's largest Catholic country. Through this, we shall create and leave behind a digital footprint of our nation's Papal visit experience,” Nazareno added.

The Pope is the 2nd most followed world leader on Twitter today with over 17 million followers across his nine accounts in different languages. His Tweets are among the most popular on Twitter and are consistently retweeted several thousand times.

"Twitter is excited to partner with Smart to enable all Filipinos to get closer to the Pope and connect with the local community for this historic occasion – from expressing their hopes and prayers using Tweets with #DearPopeFrancis hashtag as well as getting real-time updates, photos and conversations in their Twitter timeline on Pope Francis’ first-ever visit to the Philippines. Most importantly, join the Twitter flock and sign up now to follow the Pope’s Twitter account (@Pontifex) during his visit, so that you can be one of the first to get the Pope’s Tweets via the Twitter app on your Smart mobile device,” said Arvinder Gujral, Director Business Development, India and SE Asia, Twitter.

With over 284 million monthly active users worldwide – 80 percent of which are on mobile – Twitter has become an essential social medium for netizens keeping an eye on real-time updates and social pulse on significant events and issues in the Philippines and around the world.

When the flock tweets

Upon successful registration, subscribers may either use the Twitter mobile app or access m.twitter.com on their mobile browser for the whole duration of the Papal visit. Subscribers have to maintain at least P1 load balance every day or be subscribed to any plan, promo or bundle to enjoy the free service.

Moreover, mobile users who are registered to the ongoing Smart Free Internet promo may enjoy the Free Twitter service on top of their 30 MB allocation.

Hordes of Filipino devotees are expected to flock to the scheduled gatherings with Pope Francis in the course of his five-day apostolic visit, the culmination of which is a big Eucharistic celebration on January 18 where over 5 million are estimated to show up and catch a glimpse of the Pope for the first time.

January 13, 2015

Pope Francis' Apostolic Visit to the Philippines - Message of President Aquino on the preparations for the visit of Pope Francis

The country prepares and getting ready for Pope Francis' Apostolic Visit to the Philippines on January 15 to 19, 2015.

President Aquino will meet His Holiness upon arrival and during a welcome ceremony at Malacañan Palace. On Saturday, Pope Francis will travel to Tacloban City, where he will meet with Typhoon Yolanda survivors.

In view of the visit of the Pope, the Head of State of the Vatican City, President Benigno S. Aquino III appeal to the public to cooperate with authorities to ensure His Holiness’ safety.

Yesterday, President Aquino addressed the nation regarding the government's preparations for the visit of Pope Francis.



Mensahe ng Kagalang-galang Benigno S. Aquino III Pangulo ng Pilipinas Hinggil sa pagbisita ng Santo Papa 

[Inihayag noong ika-12 ng Enero 2015]

Mga Boss, malaking karangalan po ang pagbisita ng Santo Papa sa ating bansa; kaakibat nito, humaharap din po tayo sa isang malaking hamon. Tingnan na lang po ninyo noong 1995 nang idinaos ang World Youth Day sa ating bansa, na pinamunuan ni Pope John Paul II. Punong-puno ang Luneta at dikit-dikit ang mga tao. Dagdag ko lang po: ganito na kapuno noon nang 68 million ang populasyon natin; ngayong 100 milyon na tayo, gaano karami pa kaya ang darating sa misa ni Pope Francis sa Luneta?

Siyempre po, lahat ng tao, gustong makita nang personal ang Santo Papa. Nariyan ang libo-libong mag-aabang sa convoy ng Santo Papa, at ang milyon-milyon na lalahok sa Luneta. Ang pagsisiksikan at pagkagigil na makalapit sa Santo Papa, maaaring maging mitsa para magkagulo. Isipin na lang po ninyo: Kapag maraming tao ang kumilos nang kahit isang pulgada paharap, malaking espasyo ang masasakop. Kung wala nang lugar na gagalawan, malamang ay may maiipit sa mga barikada. Nagsimula lang po ang lahat ng iyan sa kagustuhang makalapit sa Santo Papa.

Paano pa kaya kung magkahabulan dahil sa may mandurukot? O kaya may isang walang magawa at biglang magpaputok ng labintador? Pihadong magtatakbuhan at magkakatulakan, at nariyan ang potensiyal na marami ang masaktan.

Pansinin din po ninyo: disiplinado ang tao noong wala ang convoy; nang dumating po ang convoy, kanya-kanya na. Kung nagtagumpay ang mga nakaharang na makalapit sa Santo Papa, at tumigil ang convoy, ang dating moving target naging stationary target na. Isipin ninyo kung may nadaganan pa, o kaya naapakan dahil sa pag-uunahan. Di naman kailangang may mapahamak na sinuman.

Tingnan na rin po ninyo ang video na ito: inatake si Pope John Paul II sa loob mismo ng Vatican. Nariyan din ang insidente nang magmimisa si Pope Benedict XVI, nang sunggaban siya sa loob ng katedral; pati na rin ang paglundag ng mga tao patungo sa kanyang pope mobile.

Tandaan po natin: Pastoral visit ito, at layon ng Santo Papa na makahalubilo ang pinakamarami sa ating mga kababayan. Ang bawat pagtatagpo ay nagdadala ng panganib. Ang gusto natin: Bawasan ang mga panganib sa buhay ng Santo Papa, at balansehin ang seguridad ni Pope Francis at ang kanyang hangarin.

Walang duda na sa malaking pagtitipon tulad nito, posible ang gulo. Maski walang banta ng terorismo, at lalo na kung may planong magpasimula ng gulo, nagbabadya ang peligro na magdadala ng pinsala sa napakaraming lalahok.

Kaya naman, para maging makabuluhan ang pagdalaw ng Santo Papa, kailangan natin ng pagdadamayan at pagbabayanihan. Malinaw na napakalaki ng hamong dala ng pagbisita ni Pope Francis sa ating bansa; nakataya rito ang kaligtasan niya, ng nakaparaming dadalo sa kanyang mga gawain at mag-aabang sa kanya. Ang mismong karangalan ng ating bansa, malalagay sa alanganin. Ang tanong ko nga po: Gusto ba nating matala sa kasaysayan na nangyari sa Pilipinas ang isang trahedya na may kinalaman sa Santo Papa?

Obligasyon ng gobyerno ang inyong kaligtasan, at para magampanan ang tungkuling ito ay may obligasyon din kayo. Sa mga darating na araw, maglalabas ng mga paaalala hinggil sa patakarang panseguridad sina Secretary Mar Roxas at Undersecretary Manuel Bautista. Ang panawagan po namin: Makinig po tayo, at makiisa sa pagbabahagi ng impormasyon.

Pihado po: Malalaktawan natin ang napakalaking hamon na ito sa inyong pakikisama at pagbabayanihan.

Ipakita po natin ang pakikisama at pagtutulungan, nang matiyak nating magiging mataimtim at mapayapa ang pagbisita ni Pope Francis sa ating bansa.

Magandang gabi po, maraming salamat, at inaasahan ko ang pakikiisa ninyo.


SMART and Aquabest seal partnership agreement


​Smart and Aquabest have signed an agreement for Smart to provide communications solutions to Aquabest franchisees. Signing the agreement are (L to R) Paul Tan Aquabest AVP - Operations, Carson Tan Aquabest President/CEO, Ian Glen Asuzano Senior Manager Corporate Sales Acquisition, and Arwin Malimban Account Manager for SMART Retail Sales-NCR.

City of Dreams Manila Grand Opening with Concert of Dreams

A new era of entertainment is here. For those who seek the quintessential in luxury, City of Dreams Manila provides exhilarating gaming facilities, international standards of retail, world-class hospitality and other innovative lifestyle and entertainment offerings.


Witness an unforgettable night of luxury as City of Dreams Manila launches its Grand Opening with the Concert of Dreams, an exclusive night of celebration with Manila's very best.


Exciting performances and special surprises await our lucky dreamers as we unveil Entertainment City's newest integrated resort and casino.

Want to receive exclusive access to this year's grandest event? Simply do the following:

1. 'Like' City of Dreams Manila
2. Share this post (make sure it's set to public) 
3. Comment on this post and tag three (3) friends

150 lucky winners will receive four (4) exclusive tickets to the Concert of Dreams! Good luck!

Promo duration is from January 12 - 22. Winners will be announced on our Facebook Page on January 23.

City of Dreams Manila is located at the gateway of Entertainment City within the Manila Bay area. Find us at Asean Avenue corner Roxas Boulevard, Entertainment City, Parañaque 1701, Manila, Philippines. Three kilometers away from Ninoy Aquino International Airport and a 5-minute drive from SM Mall of Asia

"We Are All God's Children" - Official Theme Song for the 2015 Apostolic Visit of Pope Francis to the Philippines


Here is the Official Theme Song for the 2015 Apostolic Visit of Pope Francis to the Philippines.



Do you see these children on the streets?
Have you walked the pavements where they sleep?
Do you feel their hands when you give them alms?
Did you ever give them bread to eat?
Have you seen their homes washed by the floods?
While a mother tightly holds her child
Do you hear the wind of the raging storm?
Can you tell them where it’s coming from?
Let us show our love and mercy
With true kindness and humility
For the God loves the weak and the needy
Just like you and me
We are all God’s children we are all the same
He is calling us by name to help the poor and lame
And learn what life is really for
It’s to know and love and serve the Lord

Stand together and let’s do our part
Hear their voices mend their broken hearts
Choose to be brave fight for their rights
Give them back their honor and their pride
Please do not be blind and just leave them behind
To struggle in darkness or give them empty promises
We are all God’s children we are all the same
He is calling us by name to help the poor and lame
And learn what life is really for
It’s to know and love and serve the Lord
It’s to know and love and serve the Lord
It’s to know and love and serve the Lord

Lyrics written and sung by Jamie Rivera with The Hail Mary the Queen Children’s Choir.
Music composed and arranged by Noel Espenida
Directed by Eric Teotico
Produced by Starmusic and Ligaya ng Panginoon


Published by Star Songs, Inc.




“A little bit of mercy makes the world less cold and more just.” – Pope Francis



Golden Globe Awards 2015 Winners

“Transparent,” “The Affair,” “Boyhood” and “The Grand Budapest Hotel” emerged as the big winners at the 72nd edition of Golden Globe Awards held on January 11 at the Beverly Hills Hilton Hotel in California. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are program hosts.

Here is the complete list of winners:

Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture:
J.K. Simmons (Whiplash)

Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Mini-Series or TV Movie:
Joanne Froggatt (Downton Abbey)

Best TV Movie or Mini-Series:
Fargo

Best Actor in a Mini-Series or TV Movie:
Billy Bob Thornton (Fargo)


Best Actress in a TV Series, Musical or Comedy:
Gina Rodriguez (Jane The Virgin)

Best TV Series, Musical or Comedy:
Transparent

Best Original Score – Motion Picture:
Jóhann Jóhannsson (The Theory Of Everything)

Best Original Song – Motion Picture:
“Glory” from Selma

Best Supporting Actor in a Series, Mini-Series or TV Movie:
Matt Bomer (The Normal Heart)

Best Actress In A Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy:
Amy Adams (Big Eyes)

Best Animated Film:
How To Train Your Dragon 2

Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture:
Patricia Arquette (Boyhood)

Best Screenplay – Motion Picture:
Alejandro González Iñárritu, Nicolás Giacobone, Alexander Dinelaris, Armando Bo (Birdman)

Best Actor in a TV Series, Musical or Comedy:
Jeffrey Tambor (Transparent)

Best Foreign Language Film:
Leviathan

Best Actress in a Mini-Series or TV Movie:
Maggie Gyllenhaal (The Honorable Woman)

Best TV Series, Drama:
The Affair

Best Actor in a TV Series, Drama:
Kevin Spacey (House of Cards)

Cecil B. DeMille Award:
George Clooney

Best Director – Motion Picture:
Richard Linklater (Boyhood)

Best Actress in a TV Series, Drama:
Ruth Wilson (The Affair)

Best Actor in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy:
Michael Keaton (Birdman)

Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy:
The Grand Budapest Hotel

Best Actress in a Motion Picture, Drama:
Julianne Moore (Still Alice)

Best Actor in a Motion Picture, Drama:
Eddie Redmayne (The Theory of Everything)

Best Motion Picture, Drama:
Boyhood

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