Globe boosts your favorite promos with the Free Facebook and Viber

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(L-R) Globe Vice President for Prepaid Brand and Portfolio Management Raymond Policarpio, Globe Director for TM Brand and Portfolio Management Trina Sebastian, Globe Vice President for Content Jil Go, and Globe Senior Advisor for Consumer Business Daniel Horan.

The country’s number 1 mobile brand Globe Telecom continues its drive to position the Philippines as the Digital Lifestyle Capital of the World by giving customers free access to Facebook and Viber with their favorite Globe call, text, and surf promos. 

Starting September 1, 2015, all Globe Postpaid, Prepaid, TM and Tattoo customers can enjoy free access to Facebook and Viber when subscribed to promos including GoSURF variants and other existing call and text promos such as GOUNLI, ALLNETCOMBO and TMSULITXT, among others without the need for a Wi-Fi connection.

​FULL FREE FACEBOOK EXPERIENCE​
As the only telco in the country to offer a free full Facebook experience, customers will be able to view photos, stream videos uploaded on Facebook, as well as post, like, share and make comments on the social networking site. Globe Prepaid and TM customers subscribed to their promos will automatically get free access Facebook. Postpaid customers on the other hand can opt-in by texting FREE FB ON to 8888.

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​VAST VIBER FUN
Alongside Facebook, the browsing experience is made even better with free access to Viber. Customers can enjoy sending stickers, chatting with friends and groups, and staying connected with other Viber users around the world. Those registered to a Globe text promo can get Free Viber chat, which includes sending and receiving messages, as well as stickers, doodles, and photos. Exploring public chat is also free. When registered to a call or surf promo, customers can enjoy Free Viber chat, complete with voice and video calls. Postpaid customers can instantly enjoy Free Viber call and chat for the entire promo duration.

​MOBILE DATA LEADERSHIP
Globe continued to dominate the country’s mobile data segment after posting mobile browsing and other data revenues of P9.5 billion in the first six months of the year, a 53% growth from previous year’s level at P6.2 billion. On a quarterly basis, second quarter 2015 revenues reached P5.1 billion, up 16% from previous quarter at P4.4 billion.

This achievement brought the contribution of mobile data revenues to total mobile revenues by 23% as of 1st half of 2015, coming from 16% the previous year.

With mobile data business growing at a rapid pace, data users from overall Globe mobile customer base have grown to 37% during the same period, a substantial increase from previous year’s 17%. Wireless data traffic on the Globe network has also increased by 82% year-on-year with the growing number of smartphone users and applications that leverage the internet.

To support the growing demand for bandwidth-heavy services such as broadband and data, Globe spent around P11.4 billion in capital expenditures in the first half of 2015.

For more information on Free Facebook, text FREE FB HELP or FREE FB STATUS to 8888 or visit www.globe.com.ph. 

To know more about accessing Viber for free, visit www.globe.com.ph/freeviber.

The Medical City Liver Center Launches LIGTAS

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Imelda Guzman, the mother of a liver transplant recipient, says she has a strong desire to meet and bond with families who, like them, have a loved one in need of or have undergone a liver transplant operation.

When she and daughter Marilda went to Manila for a vacation last April, they took time to visit four-year-old Aga Fulgencio who was then recovering from his liver transplant operation performed on February 17, 2015 at The Medical City (TMC). Marilda underwent the same operation in 2013 also at TMC.

“In my own way, I would like to offer our support and share our experiences with Aga’s family,” says Guzman.

Waiting for or living with liver transplant can be difficult. Thus, having support from family and friends can be very helpful. 

“The patient and his family may also benefit from joining a support group of people who understand what the patient is going through,” says Dr. Vanessa de Villa, head of TMC’s Center for Liver Disease Management and Transplantation (CLDMT).

With this in mind, CLDMT in coordination with TMC’s Center for Patient Partnership (CPP) is launching the Liver Transplant Information and Guidance Through Awareness and Support or LIGTAS support group.

LIGTAS is designed to offer support and education to liver transplant recipients, candidates, caregivers and family members. It provides a forum for sharing information and experiences and helps patients and their loved ones better understand and cope with the issues and concerns associated with liver transplant. 

The support group uses a multidisciplinary approach in providing social and wellness support and education on liver health and disease to its members. LIGTAS is facilitated by a set of professionals engaged in allied medical, administrative and support services. 

“All liver transplant candidates, recipients and their families are eligible to join LIGTAS. They just need to fill up an application form which can be secured from the CLDMT office at TMC Ortigas,” says Dr. De Villa.

Dr. De Villa, a liver transplant surgeon, has worked in some of the best transplant centers in the world and plays a lead role in the development of liver transplant in the country. Since 2011, CLDMT under her leadership has done eight liver transplant operations.

In January 2011, TMC performed the first successful pediatric liver transplant in the country with three-year-old Catherine Erica Buenaventura as patient. Erica then had a living donor, her 17-year-old uncle.

Marilda and Aga were TMC’s third and 7th liver transplant recipients respectively. 

“We have proven again that we can do successful liver transplants here at The Medical City. The expertise is here, the technology, the system and all the auxiliary services are ready. We can offer our patients in the Philippines the same world-class quality healthcare that overseas liver centers provide,” says Dr. De Villa.

Dr. De Villa is also thankful for the generous support of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) led by its General Manager Jose Ferdinand Rojas II. The PCSO, through a formal partnership with TMC, has been very committed in giving liver transplant patients financial assistance.

Aside from the generous financial aid, Rojas also makes it a point to personally visit these patients, to talk to them and provide moral support.

“We at CLDMT and the PCSO will further strengthen our partnership as we seek to reach out to more patients in dire need of liver transplantation,” adds Dr. De Villa. 

The CLDMT is a specialty unit that offers a comprehensive array of diagnostic and therapeutic options for patients with liver diseases and liver tumors through an integrated and highly skilled multidisciplinary, patient-partnership approach. 

It is otherwise known as The Medical City Liver Center and may be reached through 9887000 local 6506.

At least 3,000 highest need PHS students in MM receive STEM equipment, materials from Caltex Fuel Your School

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Manila, Philippines – About 3,000 students from the highest-need, senior-ready public high schools in Metro Manila are now learning science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with the help of brand new equipment received recently from the Caltex Fuel Your School (FYS) program of Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), marketer of high-quality brand of Caltex fuels and lubricants.

A global Chevron social investment program that was first introduced in the country this year, Caltex FYS involved motorists and the public who supported the said campaign during the donation period wherein every 4-liter fuel purchase in any of the 153 Caltex stations in Metro Manila, Rizal, and Cavite generated one peso donation to fund the projects.

Chevron aims to reach a P5M donation fund or at least P150,000 per target beneficiary school. This amount was met during the fuel-up drive and social media campaign from June 15 to July 15, 2015. This funded the 28 STEM classroom proposals that were shortlisted by program partner American Chamber Foundation as submitted by 27 of the 33 schools pre-selected by DepEd as schools most in need of support in Metro Manila. 

The delivery of the STEM teaching tools such as laboratory equipment, engineering kits, scientific calculators, laptops, tablets and multi-media projectors to the schools were received with both delight and tears by the teacher-proponents, most of whom were still having a hard time believing their wishes had come true.

Kalayaan High School in Pasay City, teacher/project proponent Reynaldo Cordova said that “[These] brand new electronics and technical apparatus will help realize the dreams of the poorest of the poor students [of Kalayaan High School] of becoming free from poverty”. In Pasay City South High School, on the other hand, teacher/project proponent Jonalyn Suzara requested 303 units of brand new scientific calculators. “I can vividly remember how my students use palengke-style calculators in computing. They were complaining, ‘Ma’am, we cannot make logarithmic computations here.’ That will not be a problem anymore with these scientific calculators,” added Suzara.

Some of the teachers got emotional upon receiving their requested STEM equipment and materials. In Carlos L. Albert High School in Quezon City where most students have limited or no access to the Internet, teachers vouched that the state-of-the-art multimedia materials from Caltex FYS will help students learn faster through interactive participation. Said a teary-eyed Cecilia Biapo, the school’s science department head, “In the past, storms and typhoons forms were discussed through ‘MP3’ or ‘Manila Paper 1, 2, 3’. Now, we have 48-inch flat screen TV! Who wouldn’t want to see animations of cyclogenesis with that?” she relayed. 

Other schools took a step closer to their specific academic visions after receiving the STEM equipment. Imelda Quiban, the STEM department head of Pitogo High School in Makati City, shared, “To craft the finest biochemistry research, our student-researchers used to rent an autoclave – or sterilizer machine in a university in Laguna for PhP5,000. But now, we have our own! Whereas we were forced to use ‘vintage’ equipment, now our autoclave is shiny and brand new. Thanks to Caltex, our school will soon be the ‘center of science research’ in Makati.” 

To help spread awareness and thus enable more people to donate and like the projects posted in the FYS website, the Caltex campaign also ran a Facebook component, prompting several of the schools to devise gimmicks and strategies to rack up votes. Caloocan National Science and Technology High School, the smallest school among the shortlisted schools in terms of student population, emerged as the victor after getting the most number of votes. Teacher/project proponent Fel Rose Ignacio despite their relatively small school population campaigned to the students through a daily “Facebook voting hour” and had the students view the instructional video she and her co-teachers created exclusively for Caltex FYS. She recalled, “We uploaded this video and shared the link to the dedicated Facebook page in which all of our students were members, then they utilized the ‘web-of-mouth’ strategy and shared with their network.”

Also in the top three based on the Facebook voting rank are Culiat High School in Quezon City and Pasay City East High School. All three schools received a new laptop each as a bonus prize in addition to the STEM materials they asked for, for the untiring but fruitful campaigning both in social media and fuel-up drive.

Motorists and the social media community played a significant role in the Caltex FYS program. Entrepreneur Mich Mori said, “I supported the campaign because I wanted to do my part in helping these kids have a bright future. Who would’ve thought that a portion of my weekly gas expense can turn into something beneficial?” Blogger Andy Nieva meanwhile relayed, “When you see, read, and like the [Caltex FYS] projects on Facebook, you somehow turn a leisure [activity] into valuable support for the beneficiary children. In this little way, I fueled up the dreams of these students to become a reality.”

According to Olivia Dagdag, the principal of Camp Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo High School in Quezon City, “I set the direction of our school and that is to achieve our Caltex FYS project. Unity is the key to success. That is why I believe the Caltex FYS program became successful not only because of our school initiative, but also with the collaboration of the motorists, the community, and the private sector.” 

Raissa Bautista, manager for CPI’s Policy, Government, and Public Affairs, explained that the company believes that “Education is the greatest equalizer. The combination of quality school equipment provided by Caltex FYS, passionate teachers, and motivated students will make education a very powerful tool for economic growth and sustainability.” 

Caltex Fuel Your School is part of CPI’s Energy for Learning Initiative which supports educational programs that create opportunities for individuals to acquire new knowledge, gain new skills, and be exposed to different ways of thinking. To find out more about the STEM projects of the beneficiary schools, go to www.CaltexFuelYourSchoolPH.com.

Jardine showcases various home protection products at ICONEX 2015

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Jardine Distribution Inc. joins one of Iloilo City’s most popular construction expos, ICONEX 2015, last June 22 to 28 at SM City Iloilo.

Supporting the continuous growth of construction industry by participating in different expos across the country, Jardine Distribution Inc. (JDI) recently joined the Iloilo Construction Expo 2015 (ICONEX) from June 22 to 28 at SM City Iloilo.

Jardine Distribution Inc. receives a certificate of participation from one of Iloilo City’s most popular construction expos, ICONEX 2015, last June 22 to 28 at SM City Iloilo.

Now on its third year, Iconex is organized by a group of local architects and engineers to showcase different construction materials that ensure better and more durable houses for Filipino homeowners. The event likewise allows people engaged in the construction industry to connect with each other, opening doors of opportunity for them.

Through the years, Iloilo has witnessed quiet yet constant changes in its structure. The physical manifestations of these changes can be seen in different building and rebuilding construction works in the city. Positioning itself as one of the major cities in Visayas, Iloilo’s construction industry is booming resulting in the city’s economic growth.

JDI’s booth at the annual ICONEX construction draws scores of people, including architects, contractors, engineers, and homeowners. 

“We will never miss this one because Iloilo City is booming and we support the city all the way!” said Peachy Tiu, Marketing Manager “We are present in different construction expos to enlighten everyone on the latest trends in home protection. We innovate and add new products from time to time to offer better ways to protect our prized investment, which is our home.” 

During the expo, JDI highlighted its total waterproofing solutions just in time for the start of the rainy season. The company offers a wide array of home protection products such as Sureseal Elastomeric Sealant, Super Thoroseal, Optimum Flex, and Waterplug.

Jardine Distribution, Inc. (JDI) is engaged in the marketing and distribution of leading agricultural products, applied construction materials, and home pest solutions. Wholly owned by Jardine Matheson Holdings Limited, JDI operates within the framework of Hong Kong-based Jardine Engineering Corporation.

JDI, which joined the expo for the first time, highlighted its total waterproofing solutions just in time for the start of the rainy season.

For more information on Jardine Home Protection Products, visit http://jardinedistribution.com/. 

PLDT through PLDT SME Nation partner with Microsoft launched Digital Campus Suite

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The nation’s leading telecommunication and multi-media service provider Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), through its business unit PLDT SME Nation, and partnered with Global IT giant Microsoft Philippines, had launched the "Digital Campus Suite" a new service package that will enable students, academe and even their parents access to online learning programs and to earn  Information Technology certification for critical IT skills that are now in demand in today’s digitally driven industries.

Through the Digital Campus Suite, schools and universities will have high-speed connectivity with PLDT myDSL Biz or iGate, an online access to training courses of the Microsoft IT Academy Program.

PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan

Last Wednesday, August 26, 2015, during the Digital Campus Suite launched held at the Makati Shangri-la Hotel, PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan shared “We at PLDT are confident that this partnership can significantly contribute to enriching the digital content of Philippine education. By enabling schools through these programs, we are helping them, both educator and student, to gain new critical skills and lean IT courses with globally competitive technology programs that have become essential in today’s digital workplace.”

Though the Digital Campus Suite, schools will have high-speed connectivity with PLDT myDSL Biz or iGate and online access to training courses of the Microsoft IT Academy Program. 

Schools will receive licenses to Microsoft Office 365 to help students and teachers interact and teach using Cloud tools and platforms.

Educators and students will have access to the digital curriculum and earn IT certifications in the Microsoft IT Academy Program for fundamental technology skills, as well as courses that enable students to become more competitive for employment.

The suite also includes laptops, tablets, and WiFi access points in campus to enhance the overall digital education experience.

PLDT SME Nation, Microsoft and COCOPEA have joined forces for a digital innovation that will help change the landscape of Philippine education. In photo, from left, are: PLDT EVP and ePLDT President and CEO Eric Alberto, PLDT Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, COCOPEA Chair Bro. Jun Erguiza, FSC, Ed. D, Microsoft Philippines Country Manager Karrie Ilagan, PLDT President and CEO Napoleon L. Nazareno, PLDT SME Nation FVP and Head of SME Business Kat Luna-Abelarde and APAC Education Partner Director Rani Burchmore.

A study conducted by International Data Corporation (IDC) revealed that increased spending on IT cloud services will open up an estimated 14-million new jobs worldwide. The same report also noted that there was an apparent “widening ICT professional skills gap” and a “shortage of skills” in the Asia-Pacific region.

PLDT is very active in partnering with schools and learning institutions to built their technology and connectivity resources in support of the education sector’s need to improve ICT learning among the students and academe.

Kat Luna-Abelarde

PLDT FVP and head of SME Business Kat Luna-Abelarde said “This initiative fully aligns with PLDT SME Nation’s efforts to empower the future generation with an ICT-enabled education system. ICT skills are no longer just added value to employment but are now necessities in today’s business and entrepreneurial landscape.” 

“An educated population is what we need to build a progressive Philippine economy, but we can’t educate tomorrow’s leaders with tools from the past. The increasingly competitive workplace is being driven by technology and digital literacy, and the Digital Campus Suite gives educators and students access to tools that will build their capability to excel in that environment. Our partnership with PLDT SME Nation helps us create a bigger impact on all aspects of education,” said Microsoft Philippines General Manager Karrie Ilagan.

Photos: Arts & Travel Magazine

Scarvivors keep stories with hope and courage, not scars

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A scar is a permanent patch of skin that grows over a wound. It forms when your body heals itself after a cut, scrape, burn, or sore. Scars usually fade over time but never go away completely. Although scars are permanent, they can fade over a period of up to two years. It is unlikely they will fade any more after this time.

Scarring can be very distressing, can lead to feelings of depression and affecting their daily activities.

Scars may be a reminder of pain and personal tragedy. However, scars are also a sign of healing wounds. They are a testament to an individual’s courage and resilience. Scars mean closure on whatever pain and tragedy has happened, and it is something that can be visually improved as part of the healing process. 

Scarvivor, is an advocacy from the country’s leading scar management brand Contractubex (Extractum Cepae + Heparin + Allantoin), in support of the burn centers of the Philippines, and the Philippine Association of Plastic Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeons (PAPRAS) mission. As part of the advocacy, Contractubex proudly shares inspirational and life-changing stories from 6 courageous SCARvivors.

Nikoy de Guzman

“There were issues with those big scars, particularly after my first modified radical mastectomy when I was just 28. Then, I realized It’s about getting well. What you went through. And getting over that,” says Nikoy de Guzman, who has undergone a double mastectomy.

Sherilyn Bruan

“Hindi ka lang scarred physically. Pati yung self-esteem mo natamaan. Nung time na yun, I didn’t want people looking at my scars. Ngayon, I know there’s more about me than my scars,” shares Sherilyn Bruan, a survivor of the Ozone Disco fire.

Giboy Billena

“My scars are very big and my left leg was deformed. It was a very difficult experience, but with the help of many loving people especially my Mom and Dad, I am now on my road to complete recovery,” says Giboy Billena, a 13-year- old bone cancer survivor.

Rubylyn Cua Rodel

“Dahil sa scars, dati binubully ako. Sinusulatan yung libro ko ng sunog. Ganun. Pero hindi ko hinayaang masira ang buhay ko,” says Rubylyn Cua Rodel, who got burned in an accident.

Dwight Bayona

“My experience has been a painful struggle. But I didn’t let it hinder me from doing the things I wanted to do. I want others to know that you can be so much more than your scars. Just trust yourself and your will to fight,” shares Dwight Bayona, a racer who lost his leg in an accident. 

Richard Tagapan

“Ang mahalaga, muli akong makabalik sa aking tungkulin. Dala ng paninilbihan ang sugat na ito, nagbibigay sa akin ng lakas ng loob,” according to Richard Tagapan, a PNP SAF officer injured in the line of duty.

The Scarvivors event press launch on August 27, 2015, 10 am at Amici Restaurant, features talks from Dr Jose Joven Cruz, President of PAPRAS; Dr. Dorothy Dy Ching Bing, Burn Rehabilitation Consultant on burn centers in the Philippines; and Nikoy De Guzman, one of the SCARvivors, for the closing remarks. 

The SCARvivor exhibit at Exhibit Space 3, UGF Building A, SM Megamall runs from August 27, 2015 to September 2, 2015. 

We encourage you to be part of the advocacy by visiting the exhibit and extending your support to other SCARvivors out there.

You can also support the SCARvivor advocacy by purchasing Contractubex. For every Contractubex purchased, patients from selected burn centers will be given their own SCARvivor Kit. This is in line with the commitment of Contractubex to helping patients manage scars, so that someday, being SCARvivors themselves, only their stories of hope and courage remain.

Photos: Arts & Travel Magazine

MIIS students win top prize at the International Science Enterprise Challenge

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(From left) Miranda Bernadette Panaguiton, Alannah Kirsten Mitra, Sabine Chiongbian, Mathena Rain Rodas, Gianina Marie Gabrielle Reyes, Francine Mae Mamba, and Glenn Angelo Joven

High school students from the Multiple Intelligence International School (MIIS) bagged the top prize at the International Science Enterprise Challenge (ISEC) 2015 held recently, besting other schools from Singapore, Japan, Russia, Guam, Indonesia, Mongolia, Thailand, and Turkey. Kaisei High School in Japan was second place

The MIIS students who competed were Sabine Chiongbian, Glenn Angelo Joven, Francine Mae Mamba, Alannah Kirsten Mitra, Miranda Bernadette Panaguiton, Gianina Marie Gabrielle Reyes, and Mathena Rain Rodas.

A 24-hour competition for high school students from all over the world, ISEC challenges the participants’ knowledge and skills in both science and business to come up with a sustainable solution to a particular problem. The challenge is announced the same day to teams composed of three to nine members. Within 24 hours, the students have to come up with prototype, a business plan and a 3-minute video to be presented to an international board of judges. The Surya Institute and United in Diversity in Indonesia, together with the Young Entrepreneur Center in Singapore, started ISEC (then called ASEAN Science Enterprise Challenge) in 2009.

The MI students with their winning entry BioBox. (From left) Miranda Bernadette Panaguiton, Gianina Marie Gabrielle Reyes, Glenn Angelo Joven, Sabine Chiongbian, Mathena Rain Rodas, Francine Mae Mamba, and Alannah Kirsten Mitra.

For their winning entry, the MIIS students submitted a BioBox, which provides an easy, efficient way to conserve and save water, money and space. It utilizes and combines the concepts of vertical farming, terrariums, dome collectors, and water tables. Terrariums simulate the water cycle, thus making it a self-sufficient ecosystem that recycles and reuses water as well. Dome collectors gather and store rainwater for uses such as drinking, bathing, washing, watering, and the likes. Water tables collect excess water that seeps into the ground from rain and runoff. By combining all these concepts together, BioBox creates an efficient use of water while creating an organic, natural, and eco-friendly way to farm. Some crops that can be farmed in the BioBox are cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, garden cress, bok choy, brocolli, brussel sprouts, and similar green leafy vegetables.

“We are thankful and very proud of our students for bringing another honor to MIIS. This is truly a testament to what the MI school has been initiating to help prepare Filipino kids to be globally competitive and future ready. By using their multiple intelligences, our youth indeed has what it takes to engage the international community with their innovative, creative, and socially relevant ideas,” says Joy Canon-Abaquin, Founding Directress of the Multiple Intelligence International School.

Early this year, MIIS won Global 3rd place in the 14th Global Enterprise Challenge. The MIIS team competed against 28 teams from 13 countries from the US, Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.

DepEd Region I conducts career guidance for incoming SHS students in 2016

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To further strengthen the goal of K to 12 Program in producing graduates equipped with skills that will prepared them for higher education, employment and entrepreneurship, the Department of Education (DepEd) Region I and Grade 10 students of Pangasinan participated in the 2015 Regional Career Guidance Info Blitz held recently.

DepEd Region I Education Program Supervisor (EPS) of the Curriculum and Learning Management Division (CLMD) Dr. Arlene A. Niro highlighted the benefits of the K to 12 program in the pursuit of career advancement and opportunities, saying that the K to12 Basic Education Curriculum “will be sufficient to prepare students for work and slowly erase the common thinking that college is the only route for success and gainful employment.”

Niro added that through the program, students are given the opportunity to acquire Certificates of Competency (COC’s) and National Certificates (NC’s) in accordance with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) training regulations, allowing graduates to have middle-level skills which will offer them better opportunities to be gainfully employed. 

Niro also mentioned that there will be school-industry partnership for the technical-vocational (tech-voc) track to allow students to gain work experience while studying, and offer opportunity to be absorbed by the companies.

The said event is part of the Career Guidance Advocacy Program (CGAP), which aims to provide students with relevant labor market information and career guidance to assist them in choosing their career path. The CGAP is composed of technical working groups - the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) as the Chair, with DepEd, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), TESDA, and Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) as members. The CGAP shall be implemented nationwide through a series of activities set to help students in choosing their Senior High School track.

Among the high schools that participated in the Career Guidance Info Blitz were Buenlag National High School (NHS), Doyong-Malabago NHS, and Lasip NHS in Calasiao; Banaoang NHS and Matic-Matic NHS in Sta. Barbara; Bonuan Boquig NHS, Federico N. Ceralde Integrated School (IS), and Judge Jose de Venecia, Sr. MNHS in Dagupan City; Domalandan Center IS, Estanza NHS and Malawa IS in Lingayen; Bugallon IS, Portic IS and Salomague NHS in Bugallon; Real NHS and Galarin NHS in Urbiztondo; Labrador NHS and Ramon Magsaysay IS in Labrador; Camaley NHS, Dulag NHS and Parayao NHS in Binmaley; Sanlibo NHS and Tococ NHS in Bayambang; Guelew IS, Libas NHS, Bacnar NHS, and Lilimasan NHS in San Carlos.

Leon Gallery's Magnificent September Auction 2015 highlights early works with fascinating histories; Rare finds, Objet d'art, and Contemporary pieces

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Early works with fascinating histories; Rare finds, Objet d'art, and Contemporary pieces highlight Leon Gallery's Magnificent September Auction 2015.

For the Magnificent September Auction 2015 of Leon Gallery located at the G/F, Eurovilla 1, Rufino corner Legazpi Streets, Legazpi Village, Makati City, happening on Saturday, September 12, 2015, at 2 PM, art pieces with fascinating histories, early works from first solo-exhibitions, Objet d'art, and cutting-edge contemporary works highlight this much-awaited sale.

Two artworks from the respective early shows of Anita Magsaysay-Ho – “Boti! Garapa!” circa 1946 – and Benedicto Cabrera – “Scavenger” from 1966 – each with fascinating histories and back stories, are sure to delight discriminating collectors.

As part of the post-war rehabilitation efforts of the Commonwealth government of President Sergio Osmena, with the aim to reconstruct our damaged cultural institutions and the “renascent vigor of Philippine culture,” an exhibition of paintings of Anita Magsaysay-Ho – 47 artworks in all, including the oil on wood work “Boti! Garapa!” – was held at the United States Information Library in Intramuros on February 23 to March 10, 1946 with First Lady Esperanza Osmena as Guest of Honor during the opening reception. 

Galo B. Ocampo, who at that time was the Chief of the Art Section, Office of the President, and incidentally, her classmate at UP, described the choice of Anita thus: “In the paintings of Miss Magsaysay, one sees an exceptionally gifted artist who will go on hurdling the obstacles that stand on the way.”

Meanwhile in 1966, all of 24 years old, Benedicto Cabrera – or Bencab as the artist is more popularly known – together with his brother Salvador and friends Bibsy Carballo and Francisco Navarro, opened the Indigo Gallery in Mabini with his first solo show of some sixteen artworks, including this piece “Scavenger”. 

Debuting as well at this juncture was "Sabel" – the most recognized subject to appear in Bencab's canvas, a real life vagabond who used to roam around Bambang district in Sampaloc where the artist grew up. 

It is fascinating to note that Magsaysay-Ho's “Boti! Garapa!” was retrieved from a garage sale for the trifling sum of 20 US dollars and Bencab's “Scavenger” was found at a Salvation Army sale for 4.99 US dollars! 

An untitled work by Juan Luna – signed and dated 1884, oil on canvas – and featuring a comely European lady depicted in full figure in the formal dress of the time, bares importance. It was acquired by National Artist Carlos Quirino, then the aid-de-camp of President Elpidio Quirino, during the latters State Visit to Spain in 1951.

Two pieces by Romulo Olazo, preeminent modernist master, from his Diaphanous series, whose recent passing surprised the art word, stand as testaments to his indomitable commitment and devotion to his craft. 

“Sin Titulo”, Fernando Zobel's stunning oil on canvas work from 1963 is one of the largest and more complex art pieces by Zobel to come out of this period. The resulting work presents a totally different approach to canvas, all the more ethereal and sophisticated. 

A pair of silver Paliteras (Palilleras) from the Suarez-Joven family of Bacolor Pampanga, harkens to bygone, halcyon era – the 1850's – of refined and elegant living. 

Capping our survey is a powerful round-up of contemporary art pieces led by Ronald Ventura with his untitled work from 2010 and a series in mixed media from 2005 and 2006. Jigger Cruz's “Wandering Carnival” signed and dated 2015 bares his trademark agitated, viscous style of deliberate defacement. 

Rodel Tapaya with his “The Fairy's Flower Garden” is a powerful narrative where his vivid renditions give to form what we ourselves imagine. 

Truly, regardless of appreciation, inclination, and persuasion, there are artworks and pieces certain to delight various collectors in our Magnificent September Auction 2015.

The Leon Gallery Magnificent September Auction 2015 will be held on September 12, 2015, Saturday, 2 PM at the G/F, Eurovilla 1, Rufino corner Legazpi Streets, Legazpi Village, Makati City. For more details, visit http://leon-gallery.com/ | info@leon-gallery.com | +632 856 2781

Some Photos : Arts & Travel Magazine

Latest Abs-Cbn's Romantic Drama with a Twist "All Of Me" with JM de Guzman, Yen Santos and Albert Martinez

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Loving with a twist - to find someone very attractive but unique and difficult to decsribe why there's something different, to be completely captivated by someone and feel immense joy and to love someone truly with all your heart and soul - with all of you! 

ABS-CBN’s latest romantic drama masterpiece, “All of Me,” is the newest addition to the Kapamilya Gold block that highlights second chances at love with a twist in time beginning Monday (August 31).

The romantic drama teleserye revolves around Manuel, a 50-year-old man who defies time just to have his last shot at love after he transforms back to his younger self.

JM de Guzman

"All of Me" also marks Kapamilya actor JM de Guzman's major TV comeback after his breakthrough film, "That Thing Called Tadhana" earlier this year. 

Joining JM in the latest Kapamilya Gold teleserye are veteran actor Albert Martinez, Kapamilya hunk actor Aaron Villaflor, and rising young actress Yen Santos, who will be doing her first daring role as JM’s love interest.

In the story, Manuel (Albert Martinez) a devoted doctor, decides to leave his flourishing career behind by living in an island after his wife dies. He meets Lena (Yen Santos), a young woman who boldly challenges him to embrace life again and despite the age gap, they find themselves in love.

Yen Santos and Albert Martinez

During their honeymoon in the island, a hired killer tries to kill Manuel, but he escapes death when he stumbles upon a magic portal that transforms him back to his younger self. Now, a younger Manuel (JM de Guzman) who discovers that time has advanced faces another big challenge in his life – to seek revenge and win back Lena who is now happily married to his former protégé, Dr. Henry Nieves (Aaron Villaflor) or forget her entirely and start a brand new chapter of his life.

Albert Martinez, Yen Santos, JM de Guzman and Aaron Villaflor

How far will Manuel be willing to go for his true love?

“All of Me” directed by Dondon Santos, is the highly anticipated teleserye that shows viewers love’s great power in pushing boundaries and even, defying time.

This romantic drama series also feature Angel Aquino, Ina Raymundo, Neri Naig, Ana Capri, Micah Munoz, Jordan Herrera, Sue Ann Ramirez, and Akira Morishita.

Don’t miss the premiere of “All of Me” on Monday (August 31) after “It’s Showtime” on ABS-CBN’s Kapamilya Gold.

For updates, follow All of Me on Facebook (All of Me TV), Twitter (@AllOfMeTV), and Instagram (@AllOfMeTV).

Beauty Bound Asia: The hunt for the top creator in Asia has begun

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Luxury skin care brand SK-II presents Beauty Bound Asia on YouTube – the region’s first digital search and creator cultivation program for emerging online beauty talent. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact and learn from the world’s best beauty creators, beauty brands, and digital experts.

With exciting time-based challenges, mentorship programs and workshops curated and led by top beauty influencers in Asia and industry experts, Beauty Bound Asia is a ground-breaking initiative designed to help discover and cultivate the next generation of online beauty experts. 

“SK-II recognizes the fast paced landscape of modern beauty and the growing importance of digital beauty influencers. As part of our brand’s #changedestiny philosophy, we’re proud to be part of this opportunity to support, empower and grow the creator community further, and authentically engage with the next generation of beauty experts.” - Seth Sandeep, Marketing Director, SK-II Global.

Beauty Bound Asia will be open to all legal residents of 11 cities where the contest is taking place including Tokyo, Seoul, Osaka, Taipei, Hong Kong, Manila, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Jakarta, and Sydney. As part of this program, YouTube and top YouTube stars will be supporting this initiative by offering skill-building workshops for Beauty Bound Asia finalists.

“At YouTube we’re always looking to find new ways to empower people to create, broadcast, and share. By offering YouTube workshops for Beauty Bound Asia, we hope to inspire and support the next wave of online beauty and fashion creators across Asia.” – David Powell, Director, YouTube Online Partner Development, Asia Pacific.

Coaches include the original beauty YouTuber Michelle Phan, with over 7.8 million followers on YouTube and over 1.9 million on Instagram. Michelle has always been a passionate supporter of the global beauty creator community. In addition to co-founding ipsy, the world’s largest online beauty focused community, she has also been a huge creative force for Beauty Bound; personally designing a number of the beauty creator challenges, and mentoring and judging the finalists from each city in the Tokyo program finale.

The rest of the region’s top beauty creators have also extended their support as coaches, with talented beauty gurus like Sasaki Asahi (Japan), Calary Girl (Korea), Momay (Thailand), and Wengie (Australia) amongst many others.

Who is Eligible?

If you… 

• Are over 21

• Are passionate about and have beauty expertise to share

• Are creative and have original ideas

• Have or want to grow your video creation skills 

• A legal resident of any of these 11 cities – Tokyo, Seoul, Osaka, Taipei, Hong Kong, Manila, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Jakarta, and Sydney

Then you are eligible to join, no prior experience necessary!

What is in it for Creators?

Competition Timeline

Giving Back Never Goes out of Style

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“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Convergys aims to do just that by way of its nationwide campaign – Give a Bag of Hope.

As a Convergys community relations pillar which is to improve quality of life, this employee-driven project addresses the shortage of basic school supplies. For every Convergys new hire, a Bag of Hope is donated in their name, benefiting a student in a partner public school. The new employee also receives an exclusive Convergys jacket. Each of the company’s 60,000 current employees can also donate bags of hope, containing essential school supplies such as pencils, erasers, sharpeners, crayons, pad papers, and notebooks. 

The Convergys bags of hope and exclusive apparel made their debut on the runway through the “Styled to Give” Fashion Show held in SM City Clark. Brand ambassadors Mark McMahon and Gabriel Samulde, as well as one of the country’s hottest leading men Joseph Marco, strutted the catwalk with select Convergys employees. The main highlight of the night though was the parade of Aeta students down the stage wearing their brand new backpacks. The children are among the beneficiaries from partner schools of Convergys Clark.

The event was in part a celebration of the launch of a new Convergys site in the city, and a showcase for the Give a Bag of Hope campaign.

From its original site in Clarkfield, Convergys has moved to a new and bigger home in SM City Clark, enabling further growth. “This expansion is representative of our commitment to investing in our people and communities. Convergys Philippines continues to be a critical part of our global operations, and an important service destination for our clients,” says Convergys Chief Operating Officer Marge Connelly.

Convergys Philippines Country Manager Ivic Mueco adds that along with the Clark site’s continued growth, the company also becomes a stronger partner in building the community. “The 40% increase to 700 employees over the past year is significant, and we are excited to continue to grow. As we launch our new site, we also take pride in our Clark team strengthening their service to the community,” Mueco adds.

Department of Education Region 3 Director Rizalino Jose T. Rosales commends the campaign that aids in their ‘mission to provide quality, equitable, culture-based, and complete basic education to all our learners’. “Give A Bag of Hope allows Filipino schoolchildren to have a better chance to pursue their education by addressing a major cause of school dropout due to the lack of school supplies,” Rosales shares.

Earlier on the same day, Convergys Clark’s new site launch, employees visited and distributed Bags of Hope to Aeta students of Nabuclod and Camachile elementary schools in Floridablanca, Pampanga. Convergys Clark Site Director Soc Bautista says that employees volunteer in the Convergys Community Action Network to create a bigger impact in the places where they live and work. He also shares that the distribution of the bags and the time spent with the Aeta children were humbling experiences for the Convergys team.

The outpouring of support for the highly attended event only shows that helping out never goes out of style. The smiles on the schoolchildren’s faces and the hope it has sparked in them make the campaign a complete success. 

For more details, watch Convergys’ #GiveaBagofHope on Youtube. 

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