DepEd: All systems go for Palaro 2015

The Department of Education (DepEd) has completed the preparations for the 58th Palarong Pambansa in Tagum City, Davao del Norte. The national sporting event’s original kick off date was moved to May 4, to support our boxing champion Manny Pacquiao in his fight against Floyd Mayweather Junior this coming Sunday.

DepEd Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC said that all necessary arrangements have been secured. “Every year, we aim to make the Palarong Pambansa a special event highlighting what the Filipino youth can showcase to the world in the field of sports,” Luistro said. 

Luistro also added that this year’s Palarong Pambansa will continue to be clean, green and high-tech. “More than the equipment we set up to showcase a high-tech Palaro, the sporting event will display Filipino core values such as honesty and fair play and will put equal emphasis on environmental concern.”

Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario assured DepEd that the province is ready to host the 2015 Palarong Pambansa, and implemented a gun ban in the province for the duration of the games. “We were able to secure the PNP’s order for a gun ban in the province from April 20 to May 10, 2015.”

All delegations from 17 regions have arrived and are now settled in their respective billeting quarters.

The Palarong Pambansa is DepEd’s way of promoting physical education and sports as an integral part of the Basic Education Curriculum and as an affirmation to its commitment to develop the potentials of the youth to become responsible and globally competitive citizens.

Assistant Secretary for Legal and Legislative Affairs Tonisito Umali, assisted by the Task Force on School Sports (TFSS), shall spearhead the event. The TFSS shall provide technical management, secretariat/staff and operational services.

The following activities are lined up for the 2015 Palarong Pambansa: 

May 3 –Governor’s Night at DavNor Sports & Tourism Complex (DNSTC); 

May 4 – Thanksgiving Mass with Gov. Del Rosario and Sec. Luistro at the RDR Gym & Cultural Center and the Opening Ceremonies to start in Government Center, Capitol Grounds to DNSTC; 

May 5 – Media Night at DNSTC Clubhouse; 

May 3-8 – Sports competition; 

May 6 – DepEd Night at DNSTC Clubhouse; and 

May 9 will be the closing ceremonies

Lyceum of the Philippines Culinary Institute Braves the 2015 HKICC with Fresh and Raw Talents

Lyceum of the Philippines Culinary Institute (LPUCI) sends off fresh and young talents to compete in one of Asia's toughest culinary competition, the Hong Kong International Culinary Classic. The esteemed culinary battle will be part of the 16th International Exhibition of Food & Drink, Hotel, Restaurant & Foodservice Equipment, and Supplies & Services known as HOFEX 2015. 

This year, LPUCI aims to bring home honor and a sense of pride to a new batch of LPUCI and LPU students. Chef Dan Basilio, the Culinary Director of LPUCI believes that the program they offer at LPUCI can mold students to be capable to challenge other culinary practitioners not only in Asia, but of the world. LPUCI integrate within their programs not only the latest information and techniques but also with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.

"Students at LPUCI are able to master the use of equipment used and facilitated worldwide," shared Chef Dan. "We believe by allowing the students to be exposed to these type of kitchen set-up where they can practice their techniques learned through lectures and seminars boosts their self-esteem in the process."

LPUCI will send Angelique Chua, Emareene Francisco, Ban Vill Villaruel, Janemar Gyle Gicana, Jolina Dela Cruz, and Paul Lyndon Fornoles bannered by Chef Winnie Wong, Chef Kazzie Sy and Chef Clyden San Pedro from the faculty pool to the 2015 HKICC with much confidence and regard. These students, however, do not take the competition very lightly. They had weeks and weeks of preparation and practice being supervised by a pool of LPUCI's well-regarded faculty of chefs. But most importantly, the representatives are given final briefing on how to take on tasks and be able to face even the most difficult challenges they may encounter in Hong Kong.

"We have to note the fact that these students are first-timers when it comes to culinary competitions abroad," Chef Dan admitted. "And their being 'fresh' is what makes them motivated and driven to win." It is in fact a tradition of LPUCI to send raw talents to culinary competitions such as the HKICC. This is to provide opportunities to as many students that show extraordinary talents, skills and performances.

But LPUCI along with Lyceum of the Philippines (LPU) as a team is not a fresh face to enter the competition though. In fact, back in 2013, four of the representatives sent off to compete were able to bring home awards and distinctions. These admired individuals were Bernard Mayo (Bronze; Hot Cooking U25 Apprentices: Beef Short Ribs), Redentor Agustin (Bronze; Display-Finger Food), and Carlo Licher Reyes (Silver; Professional Sous vide Cook - Chicken).

Today's food and hospitality industry has never been tougher. 

Aside from bachelor degree holders, culinary diploma holders are increasingly growing as the numbers of culinary schools are multiplying not only locally but internationally. Having a degree alone is not enough to compete with the increasing competitors, and most companies today are becoming more meticulous in hiring kitchen extraordinaire. Lyceum of the Philippines Culinary Institute (LPUCI) has been aware of this reality and as one of the leading culinary schools in the country, they are determined to develop internationally-competent chefs through their five pillars. 

LPUCI's Ingredients are varied, top-of-the-line and of topmost quality. A chef's supremacy is through their palates. Students of LPUCI are prepared and accustomed to use and be exposed to excellent ingredients which allows them to enjoy and master each taste and texture of each food up to the minute details.

LPUCI's Chef Instructors belong to a pool of distinguished and highly experienced culinary masters from highly-regarded restaurants, hotels and bakeshops. The instructors primary objective is to impart the knowledge, skills, techniques and ethics of working in one of the most sought-after kitchens of the country

LPUCI's Management, from its directors to its staff are all food-savvy and passionate about the world of culinary arts. The same attitude is what the institute shares to its students, to make food not only a career, but a lifestyle just like the members of the managements who themselves are practitioners and food-related business owners.

LPUCI's Facilities include state-of-the-art equipment which are used in top kitchens in the world. The students are able to hone their skills as they master the use of modern facilities. The mere knowledge and familiarization already provide the students with confidence and boost their self-esteem to compete in the international scene.

With LPUCI's five pillars, hospitality and culinary degree holders do not only get to land a job. They are also being developed to rise up a career ladderfrom chef to head chef. 

To learn more about LPUCI, you may visit their website at www.lpuculinary.edu.ph or visit their office and campus at Victoria corner Muralla Streets, Intramuros, Manila. For inquiries, contact +632 318 4000 or email info@lpuculinary.edu.ph or marketing@lpuculinary.edu.ph.

Photos: https://plus.google.com/photos/+MyrnzRoman/albums/6143577894009895665 (May 1, 2015)

10 Years of Customization with Havaianas - #MYOH2015

Hello Summer!!! Summer is still the Filipinos’ most awaited season despite the intense heat we experience every year. It’s the perfect time to go outdoors – while away your day at the beach, climb a mountain, take a walk at the park – whatever you want, your imagination is your limit.

The same goes for customization – another favorite of ours as a people. We always feel the need to communicate our individuality at every turn. Good for us, with summer comes the much-loved annual tradition where we get to personalize our very own flip-flops! Yes, it’s that time of the year again for Make Your Own Havaianas!

Express yourself through your flip-flops as we bring Make Your Own Havaianas from May 7 to 10 to the Glorietta Activity Center and select AFF branches and pop-up stores nationwide! 

Flaunt your artistic side as you mix and match everything, from the color of the soles and straps to our choices of limited edition pins. Dare to be different and create something that shows your unique and amazing personality! 

Expect a bigger and more festive Make Your Own Havaianas as we celebrate its 10th anniversary in a Hawaii-inspired theme for this year! “Havaianas means Hawaiians in Portuguese after all. And this becomes our way of continuously sharing the rich heritage of the brand to our customers,” according to Anne Gonzalez, Managing Director for Marketing of Havaianas Philippines. Hawaii has inspired the Brazilian brand since 1962. 

To make your own Havaianas, check out the following All Flip-Flops branches in Metro Manila: AFF Bonifacio High Street, AFF SM Manila, AFF SM Megamall, AFF SM Mall of Asia, AFF TriNoma. In the provinces you can visit: AFF Abreeza Davao, AFF SM Bacolod, AFF SM Bacoor, AFF SM Cagayan de Oro, AFF SM Iloilo, AFF SM Lipa, AFF SM Pampanga, AFF SM Tarlac, and the MYOH pop-up stores in Robinson's Ilocos Norte and SM City Cebu (from May 7 to 17).

For more details, follow Havaianas Philippines on Facebook and @Havaianasphils on Instagram and Twitter. You can register online and try out the many ways you can personalize your flip-flops through http://myoh.havaianasphilippines.com/. 

Feel free to share your Make Your Own Havaianas experiences with #MYOH2015!

DOH Encourages Public to Keep Vaccinations Complete and Up-to-date

Myths and misconceptions identified as threats to national health

Vaccinations save millions of lives worldwide on a yearly basis. Despite the progress of immunization efforts in the country, however, several factors remain to challenge the total success of such programs.

Based on the 2013 National Demographic and Health Survey, six of ten children 12‐23 months (62 percent) were fully immunized; that is, they received the seven basic vaccinations before their first birthday. More than 90 percent of the children received first doses each of vaccines - DPT (diphtheria-pertussis-tetnaus), polio and Hepa‐B. However, same children will not complete the succeeding second and third doses required for the full protection and only 78% finishes the measles vaccination at 9 months old. . .. Rather than problems on resources and reach, challenge of completion of such programs is being stunted by the myths and speculations surrounding immunization.

Dr. Beaver Tamesis, Rosa Maria Nancho MD, Angel Jacob, DOH Secretary Janette Garin and Benjamin Co

 “The emerging adversary of vaccination is not effectiveness—it is speculation,” said Dr. Benjamin Co, a Clinical Pharmacologist and Associate Member of the Pediatric Infectious Disease of the Philippines and Fellow of the Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS).

Dr. Co was a keynote speaker in a forum titled Usapang Bakuna held at Museum Café in Makati. He discussed vaccine myths and misconceptions alongside DOH Secretary Janette Garin and Society of Adolescent Medicine of the Philippines (SAMP) Adviser Dr. Rosa Maria Nancho.

The forum tackled vaccination myths and misconceptions as a nod to World Immunization Week, which runs from April 24 to 30. 

“Understandably, vaccine safety receives more attention than effectiveness,” said Dr. Co. “But vaccines have an excellent safety record. As a matter of fact, you could argue that they are as safe, if not or safer than therapeutic medicines.”

He continued: “Misguided concerns (which are not grounded on science and research) distract the general public from pressing preventable health threats. This is proving to be a major obstacle in creating a healthier nation.”

No link between measles vaccine and autism

A now-retracted study linking MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine) to autism has been discouraging the vaccine’s uptake. The British Medical Journal (BMJ) described the 1998 study as an ‘elaborate fraud’ that altered the medical histories of all 12 patients that formed its basis.

According to Dr. Co, “Wakefield’s study has done long-lasting damage to health. But we need to remain focused on why vaccines were discovered and balance the benefits and risks of the disease, especially among children and the vulnerable community. As stated by the Measles Rubella Initiative, Measles is a leading cause of death among children around the world, with 400 dying every day.”

Based on data from the World Health Organization (WHO), there is no scientific evidence to support claims that measles vaccination may be a risk factor for autism. Additionally, studies have shown that immunization does not lead to permanent neurological problems. 

Disproving the HPV stigma

HPV (Human Papillomavirus), a family of viruses, has two strains that are linked to 80 percent of cervical cancer cases. While there are two HPV vaccines (bivalent and quadrivalent) available in the market, their uptake is affected by existing stigma.

“Since HPV is a sexually transmitted disease, some parents do not consider vaccination as a necessity for their kids,” said Dr. Nancho. “But these vaccinations are recommended at a certain age (9 years old) because that is when they’re most effective.”

She added, “Pre-exposure vaccination (which means vaccination before the child is exposed) is a corner stone of successful immunization programs against the world’s cluster of preventable diseases.”

Other ‘Untruths’

Mercury content has also been raised as a safety concern in vaccines, since some of them are formulated with the mercury-containing preservative thiomersal. However, DOH Secretary Garin was quick to point out that there is no evidence to suggest that the amount of thiomersal used in vaccines poses any health risks.

It is likewise a mistake to assume that vaccines are no longer necessary, as vaccinable diseases have disappeared in recent decades. According to Garin, the spike of measles cases in the country quickly refutes this claim.

She concluded, “The biggest problem here is that decisions on health are being made based on perceived risks, not supported by evidence. We have a responsibility to rid ourselves of all these misconceptions, especially when we are making decisions for our children.”

First Rule of Virtual Reality - VR : Don’t Break the Presence!

Sasa Marinkovic, head of software marketing for the computing and graphics group at AMD

I’m standing on the roof of a tall building, looking down at the street hundreds of feet below as I catch my breath. The flag on the roof of the building next door is snapping in the strong wind, and I pull my toes away from the edge, before I lose my balance and fall to the street. I can hear my pursuers pounding up the stairwell to the roof, but a quick look around reveals no place to hide. The only option is to jump — to the rooftop next door. I quickly turn back to have one final look, and… pixel-lag artifacts smudge my world. The magic is gone. 

Virtual Reality — VR — one of the most hyped technologies over the past year, is poised to fundamentally transform personal entertainment as we know it, potentially delivering a long-term impact that may exceed today’s most “disruptive” new technologies. Strapping on a VR headset will catapult the user into a new realm of lifelike entertainment experiences that will seem believable — and very real, within seconds of putting them on. 

Traditional movie entertainment turns the viewer into an observer of the story, but today’s gaming technology make users active participants. VR technology takes everything a giant step further, creating the sense of the virtual world being just as real as the physical. But to achieve this, technology must become invisible, unnoticeable and undetectable. The moment that technology reveals itself by way of a difficult interface or unrealistic experience, the magic spell is broken — and the unconscious world of VR “presence” dissolves. 

Achieving a truly lifelike user experience with VR technology is now possible because of tremendous advancements in computer processing power, graphics, video, and display technologies. However, the magic ingredient is not only achieving but also maintaining the reality of the virtual reality presence. We call this rule: “Don’t break the presence.”

Understanding presence

Let’s back up a moment. “Don’t break the presence” requires knowing precisely what it is that we want to avoid breaking — and understanding the elements vital to achieving presence within a virtual environment.

VR presence is commonly equated with the concept of “immersion,” the perception of being physically present in a nonphysical world, or a state of consciousness where the VR user experiences a simulated experience that appears real, and thus feels real. Presence can be measured as the degree to which the virtual environment faithfully evokes a sense of reality that causes the user to suspend disbelief. The greater the suspension of disbelief, the greater the degree of presence achieved.

Researchers exploring virtual reality divide VR presence into three main subcategories: personal, social, and environmental. Personal presence refers to the user perceiving that they physically exist within a virtual world, social presence involves interactivity with other simulated or real entities within the virtual world, and environmental presence occurs when the virtual world seems aware of the VR user and reacts accordingly. 

VR developers describe achieving presence through implementing a broad array of technology advances and innovations, including adding a broad range of sensory inputs and user-controlled or manipulated elements within the virtual environment, and enhancing the speed and fluidity with which the virtual environment responds to those user controls or manipulations.

The role of technology: create and sustain the VR, but then stay away

Designing realistic virtual-reality environment requires tremendous computing power to render the virtual world with the best possible performance parameters. Yet, the technologies used must create and sustain the virtual environment to enable virtual presence — and then stay out of the way and be entirely inconsequential to the actual experience. 

VR technology requires faster graphics processing, high image resolutions, low latencies, and great visual quality, all while eliminating processing lag-times, graphics frame-dropping, or slow response to events or stimuli within the virtual world. The ultimate goal of VR technology is to maintain the all-important magic spell of immersive enchantment, the essential “presence” that is the core of a virtual reality experience. 

The VR user on the other hand requires only one thing to maximize their experience: make the technology disappears. The fastest personal computers of today are nearly up to the task. Those just around the corner will serve as a foundation to further perfect the art.

The only option is to jump — to the rooftop next door. I quickly turn back to have one final look, and… leap. It feels like I’m flying and then soft roll onto the rooftop. 

The pursuers are still coming. Ahead is a stairwell, and I run like the wind.

DDB Group Philippines, PCW shine the spotlight on the ‘bigger fight’ in society: violence against women

As the world awaits the “Fight of the Century” between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather, Jr., advocates of anti-violence against women wish to bring to light the “bigger fight” that is happening almost every day in Filipino homes – that of domestic violence.

DDB Group Philippines has collaborated with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) to shine the spotlight on violence against women to open everyone’s eyes on fights that have not been getting the kind of attention that they should be getting. 

The much anticipated square-off between two of the greatest fighters of this generation is deemed as the best time to create awareness and gather support for the different kinds of violence being committed by males versus women. Not to mention that Pacquiao’s nemesis, Mayweather, has a record of committing this kind of offenses.

DDB Group Philippines and its subsidiary Tribal Worldwide, have come up with a campaign that will ride on the May 3 super fight to help the Philippine Commission on Women to create awareness on the often neglected plight of women under their abusive fathers, husbands, male relatives or boyfriends.

In a series of posters shared online and on-ground, in bus ads and newspapers, and strategically placed side-by-side with Pacquiao vs. Mayweather promotional materials, DDB Group Philippines brings this issue out of the shadows and gets people talking, so they can prevent domestic violence from happening.

DDB Group Philippines Chairman Gil G. Chua said, “As a group, we at DDB Philippines always try to do our share in making the world a better place, and supporting the fight against domestic violence is just one of our ways to achieve this. We live by our founder Bill Bernbach’s words that ‘All of us who professionally use the mass media are the shapers of society. We can vulgarize that society. We can brutalize it. Or we can help lift it onto a higher level’.” 

For her part, PCW Executive Director Emmeline Verzosa said, “Violence against women cuts across all race, religion, age, social demographics and sexuality. It threatens the security of half of humanity and is rooted in men’s desire for ultimate power and control over women. We must put a stop to it.”

Statistics have shown that one in five women ages 15-49 have or are continuing to suffer from domestic violence and intimate relationship violence since age 15. In 2010, cases of VAW reported to the Philippine National Police (PNP) rose to 59 percent, with majority of the victims knowing their attackers.

May is Star Wars month on TV5's MovieMax5

The Force is Strong With This One! 

TV5 spreads "the force" as MovieMax5 features the Tagalized versions of the hit Star Wars Saga for the whole month of May.

A brainchild of Star Wars creator George Lucas, the epic space opera franchise made a mark in the movie industry by creating a pop culture phenomenon that captured the hearts of moviegoers worldwide. The film series did not just break box office records but also garnered numerous nominations and awards from prestigious award-giving bodies. Through TV5's Star Wars month on MovieMax5 this May, Star Wars fanatics and film lovers alike will now be able to re-live the legendary Star Wars saga and experience once again the battle between the Jedi and the Sith.

Mark your calendars this May as the Star Wars movie series airs on TV5's MovieMax5, 7pm – 9pm, starting with The Phantom Menace (May 4), Attack of Clones (May 11), Revenge of Sith (May 19), Empire Strikes Back (May 25), and Return of the Jedi (June 1).

Tune in to MovieMax5 everyday on TV5, the home of happy Tagalized movies.

Here are 7 Reasons Why You Should Get LG P7

LG P7 Music Flow Portable Speakers, This Summer’s Perfect Gadget 

Make the most of your summer! There are so many new things to do, places to see, and memories to create. Nothing makes experiences more enjoyable than being in the company of great friends and even greater music.

Home entertainment trailblazer LG Electronics dishes out exciting ways to amp up your summer trips with the new LG Music Flow P7. This compact but powerful portable speaker boasts unique features for the ultimate hassle-free barkada bonding.

1- Music anytime, anywhere 

Its impressive long-lasting battery enables the gang to enjoy continuous music for up to 10 hours. Whether you are out in the sea or up in the mountains, the LG Music Flow P7 delivers nonstop listening pleasure.

2- Go with the ‘Flow’ 

The super sleek LG Music Flow P7 is extremely lightweight and comfortably fits in any carry-on luggage; making it the perfect companion for beach trips and out-of-town vacations.

3- Make it loud with your crowd 

Even with its compact design, the LG Music Flow P7 is capable of playing music in full, crystal clear quality with its outstanding 20W audio output, currently the best in the market. 

Fire up the grill, host your own outdoor summer soiree and after sunset, watch a movie under the stars with just a blanket and a projector—with the sounds amplified by your own Music Flow, of course!

4- Music-sharing made easy 

Partying with your best buds made even more fun with LG Music Flow P7’s Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities. Shuffle and stream music right from your mobile phone! The barkada can also get in on the fun with its unique feature that allows up to three Bluetooth-capable phones to connect at the same time.

5- Double the Music Flow, double the fun 

You and your friends can connect two LG Music Flow P7s to one Bluetooth-ready device at the same time for a fun and louder summer trip. Fill every corner with quality tunes wherever you go!

The LG Music Flow is the perfect companion to make summer getaways more awesome than usual.

6- Relax, go do it 

Staycations will never be the same again! Cozy up with your favourite blanket and catch up on your series at home by connecting up to two LG Music Flow P7s to a compatible LG TV and enjoy the full LG experience with immersive surround sound. 

Keep fun on replay with the LG Music Flow’s long battery life. Enjoy up to 10 straight hours, crystal clear 20W, non-stop music sharing with your whole barkada.

7- Keep fit with the beat! 

Getting that beach body ready doesn’t have to be a struggle. Stretch, jump, and crunch (not munch) to the beat that’s blasting from your Music Flow P7s. Or you could hold your favourite yoga poses with soothing ambient sounds thanks to your Music Flow.

“Whether you are planning for a weekend trip or simply staying in with the family, the LG Music Flow P7, the smallest and newest addition to the LG Music Flow WiFi Series, is the ideal companion for that unforgettable listening experience,” said Hoony Bae, vice president of LG Philippines Home Entertainment. 

Make the most of your summer by getting your own LG Music Flow P7 for only PHP 6,890 at participating LG dealer stores nationwide: Robinson’s Lipa, Robinson’s Novaliches, Robinson’s Pampanga, Robinson’s Bacolod, Robinson’s Dasmarinas, Robinson’s Pioneer, Robinson’s MetroEast, Robinson’s Ilocos, Robinson’s Ermita, and Robinson’s Galleria.

To learn more about LG’s Music Flow Wi-Fi Series, visit www.lg.com/ph; like LG Philippines’ Facebook page; or follow @LGPhilippines on Twitter and Instagram.

EPSON supports SMEs through DTI's SME Roving Academy

In its continuing support for small and medium enterprises in the country, digital imaging leader Epson Philippines is collaborating with the Department of Trade and Industry-Rizal (DTI) for its SME Roving Academy.

DTI’s SME Roving Academy (SMERA) is a learning program designed for the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the goal of helping them become competitive in domestic and international markets. The program’s main strategies are comprised of the integration of business development services for SMEs at the national and local levels, and the establishment of provincial, regional, and national entrepreneurship development networks.

Epson supported the initiative by sharing its expertise in the textile and signage industries and gave advice on how entrepreneurs can maximize their profitability. In particular, the printing leader discussed the basics of dye sublimation and its various applications, efficiency analysis versus silkscreen printing, and business cost analysis. The company also provided live training with Epson equipment to familiarize the entrepreneurs with the best available technology in the market.

“Our goal is to bring eco-friendly, high precision, world-class technologies to the Filipino,” said Pamela Albar, Epson’s Head for Commercial and Industrial printers. “For Filipino entrepreneurs, we give special attention to maximizing the return on their investments. We want to help them by offering them solutions that give the most value,” she added.

Epson’s support for DTI’s SME Roving Academy started last March 2015. The company plans to continue collaborating with DTI and helping entrepreneurs near PEZA areas in Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, and Cebu.

SandBar Beach Club is now the hottest daylight destination in Boracay!

The sun is at its peak, the sea is glistening and reflecting the bright blue skies, everyone looks fabulous in their bikinis and boardshorts – Boracay’s energy and marvelous beauty are best captured during daytime indeed! However, almost every place in this island gets a little crowded during the summer season. 

Finally, there is a place where you can relax, hang out or even strut your bikini body in style, as Station 1 welcomes the hottest daylight destination for all ages, the SandBar Beach Club Boracay.

Set in the powdery white sand of Boracay is this exclusive chill-out place with 18 cozy beach beds for your ultimate comfort. While you can also relax in your hotel, chances are you’ll miss the fantastic outdoor sceneries of the paradise and all the fun that it has to offer. 

At SandBar Beach Club Boracay, comfort doesn’t need to be boring. It combines good food, refreshing drinks, exciting water sports and entertainment into one fantastic place. Join the Saturday Shindig, a daytime beach party every Saturday from 11:00am to 4:00pm. For only PhP3,000 per person, you get unlimited Banana Boat and Fly Fish rides, sumptuous lunch and snacks, and bottomless specialty drinks.

Every Sunday, the club transforms into an ideal place for every family with its theme the Sunday Magic, a children's beach party from 11:00am to 4pm. For PhP3,000 per person, you get unlimited Banana Boat and Fly Fish rides, sumptuous lunch and snacks, bottomless specialty drinks plus a special magic show for the young and the young-at-heart.

Experience priceless daylight fun in the hottest summer destination of the country, and head to SandBar Beach Club Boracay for a weekend of fun, adventure, relaxation, and good food with family and friends. 

“COSMIC”: Samsung Launches The New SUHD TV

Samsung new TV sets a new standard in premium UHD (Ultra High Definition) content and elevates the viewing experience to new heights.

What makes Samsung such an innovative company?

For many people using Samsung always feel the difference the real life’s rich colors that Samsung make to each scene as SUHD TV displays a wider spectrum of nature’s colors. Through Samsung innovation and technology, these colors are reproduced more accurately so that images look life-like on the screen.

Samsung is a global leader in screen technology, TVs, batteries, and chip design.

And now, Samsung reinforces TV and innovation leadership with New SUHD TVs and New Audio Solutions.

SUHD TV and expansive range of audio products open a new era for immersive viewing and sound.

The leader in TV for nine consecutive years, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., introduced an extensive range of SUHD TV at its 2015 TV Roadshow, the official launching of SUHD with a “COSMIC” theme. It showcased Samsung’s expansive line-up of Audio products including Omni-Directional 360 Audio and Curved Soundbars which complement and enhance the home entertainment experience with immersive and crystal clear sound.

Raul Macatangay, AV Product Marketing Head said “We are proud to introduce a new advancement in our line of products. Samsung continues to be the leader in providing picture quality to push the boundaries of home entertainment experience.”

“We will never stop with our commitment to consistently giving superior home entertainment experience,” Macatangay said yesterday at the The New SUHD TV launched held at the SMX Conference Room, SM Aura, Taguig City.

Samsung Premium “S” TV: The New SUHD TV

Samsung reserves the “S” identification for the most premium, flagship product that signifies a true leap forward in technology. As the leader in the TV industry, Samsung is excited to extend the prestigious “S” identification to its newest TV line, the SUHD TV. The SUHD TV is designed to excite all of the senses, with sensational picture quality, seamless interaction and stylish design.

Introducing Unmatched Picture Quality

Samsung SUHD TVs demonstrate groundbreaking advances in contrast, brightness, color reproduction and detail to deliver a superior picture quality experience. They utilize proprietary, eco-friendly nano-crystal technology and include an intelligent SUHD re-mastering picture quality engine.

The SUHD TV’s nano-crystal technology transmits different colors of light depending on their size to produce the highest color purity and light efficiency available today, which produces a wide range of more accurate colors, providing the viewers with 64 times more color expression than conventional TVs. The intelligent SUHD re-mastering engine has optimized all content to match the color and brightness reproduction of the SUHD TV. It automatically analyses the brightness of images to minimize additional power consumption, while also producing ultimate contrast levels, showcasing images with much darker blacks and an elevated level of brightness that’s more than 2.5 times brighter than conventional UHD TVs.

Samsung is working with leaders in the industry to promote secure and steady growth of a comprehensive UHD ecosystem. In order to establish premium UHD quality standards, Samsung has announced the UHD alliance – a coalition of companies united to set the bar for next generation video entertainment that will implement new standards supporting innovation in video technologies including 4K and higher resolution, high dynamic range, wide color gamut and immersive 3D audio.

Samsung’s SUHD TV’s use environmental-friendly technology to deliver best-in-class energy efficiency and reliability. Moreover, Samsung will offer three new series of SUHD TVs – JS9500, JS9000 and JS8500 – from 55 to 88 inches, so consumers have the flexibility to purchase perfect TV that fits their style and taste.

Sophisticated and Improved Curved Designs

The newly announced Samsung SUHD TV J9500 features a chamfer bezel design, adding more depth to the TV screen, and the elegant frame makes the display look like a piece of art mounted on the wall. The SUHD TV JS9000 also has a soft, textured shirring design on the rear of the display giving TV a premium look and stylish edge when viewed from any angle.

With the increase on consumer demand for curved TVs, Samsung will continue to add new models to its product portfolio to complement every unique viewing environment.

Samsung Introduces Features for the Philippines

To meet the needs of consumers in the Philippines, Samsung is introducing a number of features tailored to match unique lifestyle of users in the region through Samsung Seasons. It allows customers to enjoy handpicked selection of popular international TV shows, wherein users can watch the first episode free, and rent the full season of a show for 30 days to enjoy on their smart TV, or on a Samsung tablet or phone.

Customers will also be able to enjoy Family TV 2.0, which further enhances the overall viewing experience. Maintaining the features of last year’s popular family TV feature, Family TV 2.0 allows customers to save and send photos and sound bites of their favorite TV moments. The feature now has a Story Replay, which can record sill photos with the audio of TV programs.

Customers can enjoy Sports mode, which allows quick access to sport matches on Samsung Smart TVs. Sport Mode is designed specifically for the thrilling basketball or boxing experience. Three points and punches will be highlighted, and users will be able to playback top moments from the game so they can relive the action.

Samsung Omni-directional 360 Audio – A New Era in Premium Sound 

Designed with style and elegance to harmonize any home interior and developed in Samsung’s new state-of-the-art Audio Lab in California, the WAM 7500/6500 speakers are  Samsung incorporated its proprietary ring radio technology which allows sound to flow in 360 degrees radius that provides rich-bodied sound, unlike conventional speakers that project sound in a single direction.

The WAM7500/6500 also features a simple and hassle-free setup with plug-and-play installation – users simply connect the speaker to a router and plug the unit in.

Samsung Curved Soundbar – Curved Design to Surround Users’ Senses

Samsung is introducing the Curved Soundbar that features a sleek and clean design. It complements Samsung Curved TVs from 48 inches to 78 inches, providing premium audio solution.

The newly introduced 8500 series also offers enhanced sound quality with 9.1 channel audio, featuring a central speaker and side speakers on each end—added to further intensify the immersive experience by delivering a more equalized surround sound experience.

With its patented Multi-Air gap speaker unit at its subwoofer, the Soundbar will feature deeper bass than conventional audio offerings. It allows users to stream music through its multiroom functionality, and has a wireless connection to the TV through TV SoundConnect via Bluetooth.

Samsung, a leader in innovation, brings you the right to own a premium and unmatched picture quality that is perfectly stylish with its sophisticated and improved curved design and has put its efforts high in bringing you a new era in premium sound. 

The Samsung TV and audio visual solutions surely uphold their leadership by truly redefining picture quality with superior brightness and the widest color spectrum available.

Citi Philippines Celebrates 25 Years of Leadership in Credit Cards with the campaign ‘My Unforgettable Story'

Everything in life revolves around money. And here's finding the simplest possible way of making payments, in many situations wherever we are. Also when abroad is safer on a card than by paying with cash. You don’t need to have the cash readily available if you have credit card.

Shopping or just buying whatever you need using a credit card is an easy and secure way to pay for goods - in many places around the globe and even online.

Credit cards provide a fast and efficient way of paying for goods and services, but they also allow us to build up our credit history.

Citi Philippines, the country’s largest foreign bank celebrates another milestone as it marks its 25th year of providing world class credit card products and services to the Filipino consumer.

Celebrity SocialiteTessa Prieto-Valdez hosting the Citi Philippines 25th Anniversary Celebrations held at the Fairmont Hotel, April 27, 2015.

It was in 1990 when Citi Philippines introduced the Citibank MasterCard, marking the global bank’s entry into the Philippine credit card market. Back then, Citi was also credited for changing the payment landscape, when it lowered the minimum income requirement to own a credit card, and turned what was once a financial tool only for the elite, into a payment product that empowered middle income Filipino cardholders.

“We are extremely proud of our legacy of success here in the Philippines, particularly in our consumer banking business led by our credit cards,” shared CEO Batara Sianturi in his speech at the celebratory event. “As the world’s largest issuer of credit cards, we bring our experience and expertise across the globe in providing and anticipating the credit payment needs of our clients here in the country with the help of our partners like MasterCard.”

Today, Citi remains the acknowledged industry leader, with an enviable track record of innovations and best-in-market offers and promotions, making many unforgettable stories possible for its Filipino customers. And what would be a better way to celebrate its 25th year than to reward its loyal clients with the campaign ‘My Unforgettable Story’?

Unforgettable Stories with Citi Cards

Launched in March and running until August 2015, the promotion presents Citi cardholders the chance to create new memories in some of the world’s most breathtaking places –by simply using their Citi credit card.

Bea Tan, who heads Citi’s consumer banking business in the country related: “In designing this promotion, we wanted to break the mold and ensure that our clients are truly engaged from day one. We wanted to reward our loyal cardholders with delightful and unique experiences, and empower them with making the best choice from a list of impossible to resist selections according to their lifestyle and preferences.”

And ‘My Unforgettable Story’ certainly delivers all that and more. A total of fifteen lucky cardholders will be chosen in three raffle draws, with five winners to be awarded in each set. The first set of winners can choose one of the Stories of Discovery prizes, including a gourmet food tour in Japan, journey to self-discovery in Bali, scuba diving in Palau, and China or Egypt exploration.

Meanwhile, 2nd raffle draw winners can have a spectacular celebration of love as they can choose one of the Stories of Romance prizes such as a honeymoon in Maldives, island escapade in Thailand and hot air balloon date in Dubai. Winners can also have their dream wedding gown designed by a top couturier, or make their most romantic proposal happen.

Things get more exciting as the third set of winners can revel in one of the Stories of Adventure prizes like a family ski adventure in Korea, US theme park getaway, Mediterranean cruise, African safari and the magical Aurora Borealis experience. 

“It’s so easy to win – just use your card for any purchase, regardless of amount, and you will earn raffle entries. And because we want all our cardholders to have a chance to win, we are awarding raffle entries for nearly every use of a Citi card: from using Citibank Online to charging with Citi PayLite, and even when you apply for a Personal Loan,” explained David Stoughton, Credit Payments Head of Citi Philippines.

To see the complete list of prizes and ways on how to qualify for the promotion, visit www.citibank.com.ph/mystory.

25 Years of Making Fantastic Plastics

“Beyond putting a Citi Card into Filipinos’ wallets, we also opened up a host of world class services and set new benchmarks for the industry,” recalled Tan. “Those were very exciting first years as we unveiled one product or service after the other, and saw not just our market share grow by leaps and bounds, but also competitors sit up and take notice. What was most satisfying is that the Filipino consumer is the real winner here.”

One of Citi’s game changing programs was the launch of Citi Rewards; Citi was the first credit card to introduce a loyalty program – offering rewards points to fuel rebates to air miles to shopping credits – for every spend made on the card. “It begs to be said that when we launched the program, it was so well designed that it set the bar, and we have not needed to make any changes to it since,” narrates Tan.

Indeed, Citi’s Rewards Program has become so successful that today, clients think of three options when they pay: credit card, points or cash? 

“In this day and age when consumer trends and preferences change as fast as news travels, it’s a real challenge to keep track of what customers want and to make sure these are met – and at Citi, we strive to meet this challenge each day,” said Tan.

The Road ahead…is Digital

Looking ahead to the future, its loyal cardholders can expect Citi and MasterCard to continue to invest in the digital payments space and leverage on technology to transform the way in which it serves clients. 

“At Citi, we strongly believe the future is digital. Around the world, we actively promote the transition to digital money. We are a global company doing business in 160 countries and jurisdictions, deeply embedded in over 700 cities and serving about 200 million customer accounts with hundreds of products and services,” declared Sianturi. 

In Asia, Citi has over 7 million digital banking registered users. Nearly 98% of all transactions in this region now take place outside the branch, or via non-branch channels. That’s roughly 20 million digital banking transactions a month in Asia – and the trend is expected to double in five years.

Closer to home, 47% of its customers in the Philippines are registered users of digital banking. Over the last decade, Citi has seen consistent growth in terms of the number of users of both the Citibank Online and Citibank Mobile Banking platforms year on year. 

“Indeed, we have seen an increasing shift to mobile usage, with customers using our Mobile App and mobile browsers to make Funds Transfers and Bills Payment on their mobile devices,” says Tan. “At Citi, we want our clients to have a remarkable experience each and every time they choose to pay with our credit cards. Our investments in the digital space, and partnership with trusted payment solutions provider MasterCard, afford us the opportunity to deliver again and again on this promise.”

About Citi

Citi, the leadng global bank, has approximately 200 million customer accounts and does business in more than 160 countries and jurisdictions. Citi provides consumers, corporations, governments and institutions with a broad range of financial products and services, including consumer banking and credit, corporate and investment banking, securities brokerage, transaction services, and wealth management. 

Additional information may be found at : 

Website:  www.citigroup.com 

Twitter: @Citi 

YouTube: www.youtube.com/citi 

Blog: http://blog.citigroup.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/citi 

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/citi

Story and Photo by Janet Marie Caducio (Arts Travel Magazine)

Arielle Orella, Most outstanding athlete from NCR all geared up for Palaro 2015

Armed with clubs, hoops, ribbons and a ball, the Rhythmic Gymnastics team of the National Capital Region (NCR) rigorously trains at the gymnasium of Jose Abad Santos High School. Amidst them is a soft-spoken girl who has been the crown jewel of the team after bagging the title of “Most Outstanding Athlete” in last year’s Palarong Pambansa.

Arielle Orella, 16-year old NCR Rhythmic Gymnastics athlete, is all set to compete in the 2015 Palarong Pambansa."

Meet Arielle Nichole G. Orella - a girl whose demure façade is not to be underestimated since she is a frequent in the first place-winners platform in every Palaro that she has competed in. At the age of seven, Arielle was enticed to enter the world of rhythmic gymnastics after watching older girls in her elementary school perform the graceful sport. 

It takes Arielle three (3) months of intensive training to perfect a routine. “If we don’t have any classes, our training starts from morning until afternoon, 7am to 4pm. When there were still classes, training starts from 3pm to 6pm. Our only rest day is every Sunday, but when there is an upcoming competition, there is no such thing as a ‘rest day’,” she said. 

Through the capable hands of her coaches, the dedication and determination that she has been giving out in her trainings, Arielle has been reaping gold after gold in the hopes of one day becoming the Philippine representative in international competitions. “I want to be part of the National team because I want to compete again internationally to represent our country.” said Arielle, referring to her experience in the recent ASEAN School Games.

In college, Arielle wants to take up Physical Education in preparation for a coaching career. “Gusto ko rin pong magturo din ng Gymnastics at mag-coach ng mga batang athletes. That is my dream.”

The champ’s message for inspiring gymnasts out there? - “Never be afraid to try the craft you really want, don't ever think of giving up and lastly, strive for your higher dreams to be an inspiration to others.”

She and the NCR team will be competing next week in the 2015 Palarong Pambansa in Tagum, Davao del Norte.

As continuing journey to enable the Filipino digital lifestyle, Globe partners with WhatsApp !

Globe partners with WhatsApp, offers free access with a prepaid promo or postpaid plan subscription

In another revolutionary move to sustain its leadership in the mobile data business, Globe Telecom has forged a partnership with WhatsApp to allow customers to enjoy free access to the mobile messaging app with a prepaid promo or postpaid plan subscription.

Available to prepaid and postpaid customers, free WhatsApp enables users to enjoy real-time messaging and voice calling without data charges on any Globe prepaid promo or myLifestyle Plan subscription starting April 30, 2015. 

Prepaid customers registered to any of their favorite text, call or surf promos such as GoSakto, GoUnli25, GoUnli20, and GoSurf as well as postpaid customers on myLifestyle Plan can avail of free access to WhatsApp. With free WhatsApp, Globe customers can exchange text and video messages, create messaging groups, and send each other unlimited images without having to pay any extra amount on top of their current prepaid promos or monthly service fees (MSF).

Simultaneous to the launch of the partnership, WhatsApp also recently introduced its WhatsApp Calling feature that allows users to make and accept calls, decline or respond to calls with a message, use a speakerphone and mute the microphone feature. 

“At Globe, we are proud to be partnering with global companies to give our customers the best digital experiences on their devices. WhatsApp is a leading global messaging company, and we are very excited to announce our partnership with them, which coincides with the global introduction of the new WhatsApp calling feature,” says Dan Horan, Senior Advisor for Consumer Business Group at Globe.

“As part of our continuing journey to enable the Filipino digital lifestyle, we have collaborated with WhatsApp to let our customers enjoy free access to one of the world’s leading messaging apps with a prepaid promo registration or postpaid plan subscription. With WhatsApp, users can enjoy free calls, texts and photo sharing with other WhatsApp users anywhere in the world without worrying about their data charges or the need to look for Wi-Fi spots. Just register to your favorite prepaid promo or get a myLifestyle Plan and avail of free WhatsApp only from Globe,” says Issa Cabreira, Globe Senior Vice President for Consumer Mobile Marketing.

“With the new WhatsApp Calling feature, our 800 million users can easily call their friends all over the world,” said Brian Acton, Co-Founder of WhatsApp. “We’re excited to be partnering with Globe to enrich everyday communications for Filipinos in the Philippines and abroad.” 

WhatsApp is a cross-platform, real-time mobile messaging application that allows millions of people around the world to stay connected with their friends and family. To access free WhatsApp, customers can just download the app and use it free of data charges instantly.

Aside from free WhatsApp, prepaid and postpaid customers can also enjoy free access to Facebook by subscribing to their favorite Globe promos. 

In 2014, Globe led the industry in mobile data business with revenues and data traffic growing faster than competition, on the back of its partnerships with global players and better network experience to provide compelling content that enrich the Filipino digital lifestyle. 

Mobile browsing and other data revenues reached P14.3 billion in 2014, up 23% from P11.6 billion in the previous year, giving Globe a clear edge over competition with 64% revenue market share. 

The Globe network also carried significantly higher data traffic at 87,000 terabytes of data, increasing 270% from the previous year because of a significant surge in mobile browsing activity and higher smartphone adoption among its customers. With its network modernization, Globe has greater capacity for data traffic that translates to better experience for its customers.