Celebrating Iloilo’s heritage online with Google; Iloilo heritage joins Google Cultural Institute collection

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Google has collaborated with the University of the Philippines Western Visayas to launch Iloilo’s rich collection of heritage structures on Google Cultural Institute, an online platform that helps to make the world’s culture accessible and available to anyone. The collection shows off Iloilo’s rich cultural backdrop, dating back from the pre-colonial period up to the 20th century.

“This collection is set to make Iloilo join the growing list of historic cities featured on the Cultural Institute. It highlights the significance and importance of preserving culture, history and heritage among the Filipinos,” said Joyce Christine Colon, University Research Associate II of UP Visayas.

The exhibits describe Iloilo’s transformation into one of the leading provinces in the country. With the Cultural Institute, viewers can zoom in to appreciate the unique details and diverse influences on the architecture of religious landmarks such as the Miagao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Jaro Cathedral, and the Molo Church. The Cultural Institute also makes it possible to view structures such as the Miagao Church over time, by enabling users to place old and new photographs side by side. 

A comparison of Miag-ao Church then and today

On the left: Miagao Church (undated) and on the right: Miagao Church (2015), both from the CWVS Collection, University of the Philippines - Center for West Visayan Studies

Iloilo’s prosperity resulting from the textile and sugar export trades can be seen in its grandiose ancestral homes, and in the construction of a number of public buildings also featured on the Cultural Institute. Prime examples include Iloilo’s first City Hall and the Baluarte Elementary School, the first public school in the Philippines established in 1905. 

The history of Iloilo’s City Hall, which was later donated to the University of the Philippines and declared a National Historical Landmark, can also be traced in a special exhibit. Old photographs and documents tell the story behind its transition from city hall, to a garrison during World War II, to a university. 

Another exhibit on the River Esplanade also puts the spotlight on the importance of Iloilo River in history and the government’s bid to protect it and promote environmental consciousness among Ilonggos.

“The Philippines has such a rich culture to be proud of. Every city and every province has something to show off and the Cultural Institute aims to make all these available to everyone in a format most accessible to them ---- digital. This is our effort to educate and inspire future generations,” said Dennis Dizon, Google Cultural Institute Program Manager.

Top most in demand car features that buyers want

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Technology plays an important role in society today. It spurs up the growth of the business and creates new opportunities. 

Carmakers are investing billions of dollars to add new technologies that, it turns out, are not being utilized by many of the owners of those vehicles. In fact, the survey finds that at least 20-percent of new-vehicle owners have never used 16 of the 33 technology features measured. 

Carmudi has analyzed data based on hundreds and thousands of global listings uploaded to the company’s car classifieds website to determine the most in-demand features worldwide. 

The Philippines is the only country where tinted windows made the list of in-demand car features. Twenty-seven percent cars sold on its site have tinted windows and forty-five percent of cars in the site are equipped with advanced entertainment systems, followed by Indonesia at 36-percent and Vietnam at 34-percent.

One car feature that varied in terms of popularity worldwide was the alarm system. Indonesia posted the highest number with 57-percent users, followed by 48-percent in the Philippines. In Bangladesh and Pakistan, only 7-percent of vehicles sold on the site featured an alarm system. 

Subir Lohani, managing director of Carmudi Philippines, said: “Technology has transformed the driving experience of every motorists. Motorists nowadays are looking for vehicles that are smarter and innovative.”

“The growth is due to the demand of needs of car buyers who are looking for cars that will change how they drive ,” adds Lohani.

Log on at www.carmudi.com.ph

Goldilocks raises the level of rice toppings

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Rice has always been a staple in the Filipino diet. No matter where you are in the Philippines – regardless of your age or social status – at least one meal a day is composed of a delicious viand and a heaping serving of hot rice. 

It is this love for rice that has inspired Goldilocks Foodshop to come up with their latest line of pork rice topping dishes, which are affordably priced and prepared in the way that only Goldilocks can. The new pork rice topping menu comes in delicious variants including pork gravy rice toppings, the pork teriyaki rice topping, and the sweet & spicy pork rice topping meals. All of these are conveniently priced at under P100 per order.

The good news is that these delectable pork dishes are part of the ongoing Buena Mano Monday promo of Goldilocks Foodshop. 

Every Monday of this month, customers who order any of the pork topping meals will receive a free 12 oz. coke. Try the new Goldilocks Pork Rice Toppings today and taste what it truly is to be Pinoy! 

Follow Goldilocks on Twitter or Instagram at @GoldiclocksPH, on the Goldilocks Facebook page, or at the official Goldilocks website at www.goldilocks.com.ph

Philippines and Portugal Sign two Agreements to Strengthen Relations

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Portuguese Republic in Lisbon, Portugal, Ambassador Philippe J. Lhuillier of the Philippine Embassy in Lisbon signed on behalf of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs a Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of a Bilateral Consultation Mechanism and a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Diplomatic Training and Exchange of Information and documentation,  October 7, 2015.

Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of a Bilateral Consultation Mechanism and a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Diplomatic Training and Exchange of Information and documentation at the Portuguese Foreign Ministry on 07 October 2015 by Ambassador Philippe J. Lhuillier (left) and Portuguese Foreign Ministry Secretary General, Ambassador Ana Martinho (right).

Signing for the Portuguese Foreign Ministry was its Secretary General, Ambassador Ana Martinho. The signing was witnessed by the Foreign Ministry’s Chief of State Protocol, the Director of the Diplomatic Institute and the Director for Asia and Oceana. 

Ambassador Lhuillier noted the significance of occasion in the sense that the signing of these two Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) institutionalizes formal mechanisms for having more dynamic and closer engagement and bilateral relations between thePhilippines and Portugal.

He said, “The Philippines and Portugal stand to benefit from closer cooperation and relations considering that both countries serve as ideal gateways to each other’s regional markets. Establishing a regular consultation mechanism will allow both countries to develop a roadmap for activities and initiatives aimed at broadening the scope of current engagement in vital areas such as trade, investment, culture, tourism, defense and security.” 

Ambassador Lhuillier further noted that the last two bilateral consultations were held back in 2000 and 2002. He said, “It is high time that the Philippines and Portugal start to more regularly sit down at the table in order to revitalize the bilateral relationship so that both countries can work together in pursuit of common interests and benefits.” 

Regarding the MOU on cooperation in diplomatic training, The Ambassador remarked that this will facilitate interaction between the two countries’ diplomatic training institutes. 

He notes that this will allow Filipino and Portuguese diplomats to learn from each other and exchange views and insights concerning global and regional developments and issues. With the signing of the MOUs concluded, both sides are now looking to hold bilateral consultations by next year.

#QCBlogventure : Historical travel and adventure is available right here in Quezon City

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Enjoying the wonderful world of Quezon City as it celebrates this month of October its 75th Diamond Jubillee Anniversary.

It’s always more fun in the Philippines and traveling within the city I think is a must and discovering good spots in Quezon City is a journey. And here's a part of our historical and fun experience in this years #QCBlogventure to celebrate Quezon City’s 75th Diamond Jubillee Anniversary.

I am one of the bloggers in the group that assigned to journey with the nature and arts in QC.

The first adventure is at the Ecopark at La Mesa Dam La Mesa Ecopark and La Mesa Watershed Nature Reserve.

The Ecopark at La Mesa Dam, what used to be the virgin forest beside the road has been adopted by ABS-CBN Foundation and was lately given a new facelift, converted into an Ecopark.

Now open to the public, undeniably, the most complete family-oriented Nature Park in Metro Manila.

The Ecopark offers a lot of family-oriented activities like Boating Lagoon, Bicycle rides, Swimming Pool, Fitness Trek, Fishing Pond, Camping Ground, Open Amphitheater.

ABS-CBN Foundation's Bantay Kalikasan (Nature Watch) Project collaborated with Metropolitan Waterworks & Sewerage System (MWSS, the government agency that owned La Mesa Watershed) and the Quezon City government to stop illegal settling, poaching and logging through a proactive Bantay Kalikasan Project that aims to rehabilitate, reforest, preserve and protect the area. The Adopt/Protect-A-Tree/Hectare Program was so successful that out of the 1,500 hectares that needed reforestation, only about 158 hectares remain to be planted, providing children and adults with experiential learning about environmental and biodiversity conservation.

La Mesa Ecopark has become a center for Bantay Kalikasan's environmental advocacies and causes. La Mesa Ecopark continues to be a venue for both recreation and raising environmental awareness.

We were lucky and I am really glad that our next adventure is for the first time to see one living hub and nerve center of the arts within a place in Quezon City.

Erehwon Center for the Arts 

The Erehwon Center for the Arts devoted to the Arts, aims to bring together artistic energies of the Filipino here and around the globe, and create a new brilliant rebirth of the arts, which the opportunity of working together with both traditional and modern concepts, media, tools and resources will inspire. This is a living hub and nerve center of the arts in the Philippines and in the region as a whole.

According to Erehwon Chairman and CEO Mr. Rafael Benitez, "it is a space which will provide a multi-sided colloquium of artists eager to advance art to a new and higher level in our world and to strengthen art as a means of communication and understanding among people throughout our contemporary world."

To achieve this, the Center opens a project of space residency for working together in a non-formal education program, exhibiting in large and small shows, as well as storing and documenting artists’ works. 

The Center hopes to stimulate and invigorate art-making in the region, and will give the needed boosts to artists and to their role in the contexts and in the region as a whole.

The company, Erehwon Artworld Corporation is a business enterprise offers integrated publishing, design and modern printing services.

The Erehwon Center for the Arts Building is located #1 Don Francisco Street, Villa Beatriz Subdivision, Barangay Old Balara, Quezon City.

After the journey at the arts, we just had a quick sneek at the Ninoy Aquino Parks & Wildlife Center.

Ninoy Aquino Parks & Wildlife Center, a 64.58-hectare (159.6-acre) zoological and botanical garden located in Diliman, Quezon City. It was named after Benigno S. "Ninoy" Aquino, Jr. The Ninoy Aquino Parks & Wildlife Center has a lagoon, an aquarium, a playground, botanical garden and a Wildlife Rescue Center, which the Department of Environment and Natural Resources uses as a temporary shelter where confiscated, retrieved, donated, sick, abandoned, and injured wild animals are placed to be taken care of. The park houses several indigenous plants and animals such as crab-eating macaques, water monitors, Philippine deer,binturongs, Palawan bearded pigs and several varieties of birds.(Wikipedia)

Quezon City is really one of my comfort places in the country. As the final bloggers adventure is the foodtrip, food journey with side trips to some of the attractions in the vicinity.

We had our snack time or early dinner at Kenny Rogers Roasters at the Matalino St., Brgy. Central, Quezon City.

Kenny Rogers a casual dining restaurant that offers friendly service in a comfortable setting of serving home-style family foods. Kenny Rogers Roasters is well known as "the favourite place for rotisserie roasted chicken.” And it also makes healthy lifestyle choices.

Known for all-time favorites, like Round-up Platter, a medley of 3 side dishes complemented with 1 Kenny's Home-made Muffin.

We also witnessed the Grand Parade of Lights at the Quezon City Hall where we started and ended up the #QCBlogventure this October 10, 2015.

The whole Saturday is not enough to do blogdventure around Quezon City to celebrate the city's 75th anniversary. And on Sunday, I joined the Concert and parade of lights held at the Quezon City Memorial Circle with celebrities and Mayor Herbert Bautista. (Watch out for more updates in the coming stories here)

There are many places worth visiting in Quezon City, Quezon Memorial Circle, a national park and a national shrine, Quezon Memorial Shrine, an entertainment capital and media houses TV and radio buildings, education as UP in Diliman, Ateneo and more.. a shopping destination too, a health and wellness center and hospitals, like Heart Center and many places of government operations, places or restaurants, streets where people can take their foodtrip and festivals… and more.

#QCBlogventure Bloggers group at the rooftop of Erehwon Center of the Arts Building with Erehwon Head and staff (photo: Martin Andrade)

With all these happenings and celebrations, I agree to Quezon City Mayor Herbert M. Bautista as he said in one of the events before:

“The 75th Diamond Jubilee of cityhood gives us the perfect opportunity to show off what Quezon City has to offer not only to the country but also to the world, and this can only be achieved successfully if we work hand in hand.”

This is one fun and awesome historical adventure and educational trip! We have seen some and experienced what Quezon City achieved. More great opportunities, travel and adventure is available right here in Quezon City.

Thank you very much to the organizer of ‪#‎QC75‬ ‪#‎QCRocks75‬ #QCBlogventure #‎QuezonCity75thJubileeAnniversary who invited us bloggers to become part of Quezon City’s celebrations.

Happy 75th Anniversary Quezon City!

DepEd opens application for Senior High School teachers

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The Department of Education (DepEd) calls on interested teachers, professionals, practitioners, and experts to apply for full-time and part-time teaching positions for Grades 11 and 12 for the School Year (SY) 2016-2017.

Applicants must be interested in teaching the core curriculum and/or applied and specialized subjects under the four Senior High School (SHS) tracks. 

Interested applicants should be a Filipino citizen. Mandatory requirements for all applicants include letter of intent which shall indicate the statement of purpose or expression of interest, track(s)/stand(s)/subject(s) applying for, and preferred school(s), if any; CSC Form 212, revised 2005 (Personal Data Sheet) in two copies with the latest 2x2 ID picture; certified photocopy of certificates of relevant trainings, if any; certified copy of voter’s ID and/or any proof of residency; National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearance; and omnibus certification of authenticity and veracity of all documents submitted and signed by the applicant. 

Expression of intent should be submitted on or before October 30 to their local DepEd Schools Division Office (SDO) with all the mandatory requirements for all applicants and/or additional requirements for permanent full-time positions, for TVL, Arts and Design and Sports Tracks teacher-applicants, and additional requirements for HEI/TVI faculty. 

Expected salaries will range from P19,940 to P39,493. 

Candidates will be ranked according to the DepEd’s criteria for evaluation and selection process. DepEd will also follow general guidelines for the hiring and placement of successful applicants. 

For more information, visit http://www.deped.gov.ph/k-to-12/shs/bulletin.

#TeamCahilig strengthens talent pool

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#TeamCahilig, the emerging talent pool of music and film producer and public relations entrepreneur Chris Cahilig, is fast becoming the hottest artists for corporate events, festivals, and mall and campus shows today.

Each performer or group offers the total package and brings something unique to the table, so to speak. Swoon-worthy all, the incredibly talented young men aren't only certified crowd-drawers; they likewise enjoy a formidable following on social media.

OPM pop heartthrobs 1:43. The most popular and successful Filipino boy band today, multi-awarded 1:43 (pronounced as “one forty-three”). The hunky heartthrobs of 1:43—Anjo Resurreccion, Gold Aquino, Yheen Valero and Yuki Sakamoto—are the voices behind the iconic song "Sa Isang Sulyap Mo,” which was popularized by “PBB Teens” and “Juan dela Cruz” in ABS-CBN.

OPM pop heartthrobs 1:43

The most popular and successful Filipino boy band today, multi-awarded 1:43 (pronounced as “one forty-three”) has seamlessly morphed from teenyboppers to serious musical idols.

The hunky heartthrobs of 1:43—Anjo Resurreccion, Gold Aquino, Yheen Valero and Yuki Sakamoto—are the voices behind the iconic song "Sa Isang Sulyap Mo,” which was popularized by “PBB Teens” and “Juan dela Cruz” in ABS-CBN. The Youtube videos of the song have collectively garnered over 70 million views so far and the song is continuously being used as soundtrack for various TV shows, including “Eat Bulaga” and “Showtime.” 

Likewise, 1:43’s family-oriented song “Ang Saya-Saya” became the official song of “Ismol Family” in GMA 7, while "Hayop sa Ganda" has a cult following among the LGBT audience.

Fresh from performing in a series of shows in Singapore for BellaVita Land Corp., 1:43 is scheduled to fly to the United Arab Emirates, Italy, and Spain for more shows. The boy band also continues to be a staple in corporate events of biggie clients like Coca-Cola, Great Taste, Talk 'N Text, Levi's, and BellaVita in various parts of the archipelago.

Finally, the members of 1:43 have jump-started their acting careers—they’ll all be launched in the horror-comedy flick “Echorsis” with John Lapus, Kean Cipriano, and Alex Medina. Meanwhile, Gold is starring in the independent film “Water Lemon,” an entry to the upcoming Quezon City International Film Festival by director Lem Lorca.

JBK: music with style. Exceptionally talented Filipino boy band JBK composed of Joshua Bulot, Bryan del Rosario, and Kim Lawrenz Ordonio became popular on Facebook for their a cappella cover videos of OPM, Indonesian, and Malaysian songs.

JBK: music with style

Exceptionally talented Filipino boy band JBK composed of Joshua Bulot, Bryan del Rosario, and Kim Lawrenz Ordonio became popular on Facebook for their a cappella cover videos of OPM, Indonesian, and Malaysian songs.

Usually done in a condominium’s fire exit—and constantly getting into trouble with the security guards for it—JBK gained the moniker #FireExitBoys.

JBK was discovered after the group won the McJim Classic Leather’s “Dreams Get Real” Season 1 talent search. It has since launched a string of successful singles including the radio hits “Anong Meron Ka” and the viral song “Damang-Dama,” which has so far gained over 1.2 million views on Facebook. “Damang-Dama” later on became the official single of Camella Homes. 

This October, the boy band will release their self-titled album “JBK” featuring five original songs.

The talented Neo Domingo. Singer Neo Domingo is an actor, musician, dancer and songwriter; Neo was a member of the erstwhile boy band Take Off—a finalist in X-Factor Philippines and one of the grand champions of Dreams Get Real.

The talented Neo Domingo

Singer Neo Domingo is the voice behind the hit “Pagbigyan Mo Na.” Together with Fifth Dynamics, he started the dance craze “Kaching-Kaching” for Lumina Homes.

Neo, who will soon release his debut album "Ano Tayo?," wields strong influence on social media. With his wonderful voice, Neo is easily a crowd favorite during corporate shows, bar gigs, and other special events.

An actor, musician, dancer and songwriter, Neo was a member of the erstwhile boy band Take Off—a finalist in X-Factor Philippines and one of the grand champions of Dreams Get Real.

Fifth Dynamics: the Happy Band. Fifth Dynamics is bound to leave a mark in Filipino pop culture with their playful type of music and certified hits in "Anyare" and “Pogi Kame.” Composed of Mark Cordovales (vocals), Peter Leyva (lead guitar), Kelvin Bendijo (bass guitar), Wence Escabas (rhythm guitar), and Aldrin Condat (drums), the band will soon release its debut album “Pogi Kame.”

Fifth Dynamics: the Happy Band

Fifth Dynamics is bound to leave a mark in Filipino pop culture with their playful type of music and certified hits in "Anyare" and “Pogi Kame.”

Composed of Mark Cordovales (vocals), Peter Leyva (lead guitar), Kelvin Bendijo (bass guitar), Wence Escabas (rhythm guitar), and Aldrin Condat (drums), the band will soon release its debut album “Pogi Kame.”

Totally cool, unpretentious, and relatable, Fifth Dynamics aspires to bring the fun back into Pinoy music in the tradition of Eraserheads, Kamikazee, and Parokya Ni Edgar. 

#SuperCutey Boys! Boys! Boys! Celebrity all-male dance group Boys! Boys! Boys! is a show-stopping blend of good looks and talent. The five multi-racial members—Chinoys Roppie Eusebio and Gio Hinahon, Filipino-Portuguese Jojo Casimiro, Filipino-American Jason Allen, and Filipino-German Sky Cornejo—have already ignited fire on social media.

#SuperCutey Boys! Boys! Boys!

And it's not only about singing at #TeamCahilig. 

Celebrity all-male dance group Boys! Boys! Boys! is a show-stopping blend of good looks and talent. The five multi-racial members—Chinoys Roppie Eusebio and Gio Hinahon, Filipino-Portuguese Jojo Casimiro, Filipino-American Jason Allen, and Filipino-German Sky Cornejo—have already ignited fire on social media.

Trained by celebrity choreographer Mich Garong, Boys! Boys! Boys! aims to take over the pop dance scene just like Universal Motion Dancers (UMD) and StreetBoys in the ’90s.

#TeamCahilig talents are available for local and international shows. For bookings and inquiries, please contact chriscahilig2011@gmail.com or call 0917-4180808.

Health: Hypertension need not lead to strokes

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More than 1.56 billion people worldwide are expected to have hypertension by 2025, making the disease more alarming to healthcare providers. However, most people diagnosed with the condition have no signs nor symptoms of the disease until they reach its life-threatening stages.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in every five adults with high blood pressure—a more general term for hypertension—is unaware of his or her disease, making prevention to deadly consequences such as stroke more difficult than ever.

“Hypertensive patients may experience frequent headaches, shortness of breath or nosebleeds, but these signs won’t occur until their blood pressure rises to its peak,” said Dr. Amado Nazal, medical director of Pharex HealthCorp. “When left untreated, their high blood pressure may cause them serious health problems, including heart attack and stroke.”

About eight out of ten people who had their first stroke are diagnosed with hypertension, which is responsible for worsening the quality of lives of some 14 million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

“You can have high blood pressure for many years without symptoms surfacing every now and then—what people don’t know is that the disease comes like a thief in the night,” Dr. Nazal said.

He added, “This makes regular monitoring of blood pressure all the more important. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important whether you are already hypertensive or not; the challenge comes recognizing the disease and taking action before it leads to stroke.”

Uncontrolled high blood pressure may trigger excessive pressure on a person’s artery walls, damaging the blood vessels and the body’s organs. This is why Pharex HealthCorp., the most prescribed unibranded generics, emphasizes the vital role of lifestyle change in keeping high blood pressure at bay.

Dr. Nazal said, “The first step to achieving lifestyle change is to set an appointment with your healthcare provider. If you suspect that you have hypertension, nothing comes more important than having your blood pressure checked to address it immediately.”

Furthermore, prioritizing lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking and staying physically active will go a long way in preventing high blood pressure and its complications.

“Hypertension is both preventable and treatable, only if you follow the right treatment procedures as prescribed by your doctor,” he said. “When you’re at home, it is best to cut down on salt, eat a balanced diet, and avoid harmful use of alcohol. More importantly, taking your medication to curb hypertension will help you minimize it.”

For hypertensive adults, there is an abundance of high-quality medicines at very low prices that they need to adhere to. If patients will not comply with their medication, Dr. Nazal said that “their quality of life will pay the price.”

He concluded, “Non-compliance to your therapy will cost so much more. Once hypertensive patients learn how to control their blood pressure, it will be easier for them to go back to their normal lives without the fear of having stroke or other chronic diseases.”

Living Redefined: Amaia Steps Parkway Nuvali Upcycling Challenge

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The first-ever Upcycling Challenge where teams of amateur and professional designers and upcycling enthusiasts will gather and compete for the best design and execution.

TURN TRASH INTO CASH! Join the first Amaia Steps Parkway Nuvali Upcycling Challenge and get a chance to win P100,000 in cash!

Activity Description:

The Upcycling Challenge is a whole day activity at Amaia Parkway Nuvali that aims to promote the brand’s advocacy for environmental awareness. The participants will each be given 24-hours to create marketable and practical home products using a selected material and will be reviewed by a panel of judges upon completion.

Theme:  “Living Redefined”

Display Dates:

Upcycled products will be displayed on October 18 but will remain open for public viewing until removed by Amaia Land Corp.

Mechanics:

WHO CAN JOIN:

1. This contest is open to Filipino professional artists and students who are at least 15 years old.

2. Participants must form a team composed of two to three (2-3) members only to qualify.

REGISTRATION & SUBMISSION OF ENTRIES: 

1. Interested participants must first submit a soft copy of their registration forms and design proposal to the contest secretariat via email to upcycleamaia@gmail.com in JPEG or PDF format only. The design proposal must provide a comprehensive execution plan of a home product using PLASTIC SOFTDRINK BOTTLES as raw material. The email must also include the following: 

A. Group Name

B. Names of all the members

C. Title of the Piece

D. Type of Home Product

2. Submitted design proposals must be products that are useful for Amaia homeowners and consistent to the theme “Living Redefined.”

3. The submitted design proposals will first be reviewed by Amaia’s designated panel of judges who will then make a short-list. The 10 short-listed designs will be considered as official finalists of the contest.

4. Deadline of submission of design proposals is on October 15 at 8PM.

5. The finalists will be announced on October 16 at 12NN.

CONTEST PROPER:

1. Contestants will be notified through text and email if their design proposals are short-listed and are part of finalists of the contest.

2. The finalists will then be invited to the Amaia Parkway Nuvali Grounds where they will execute their respective designs. Amaia Land Corp. will provide the 10 finalists with P3,000 for raw materials and supplies and transportation to the site. New materials will be allowed to be incorporated, however, the entry must contain at least 75% of the required upcycling raw material (plastic softdrink bottle). 

3. All entries must be made on the spot from scratch. The session will begin on October 17 at 10AM and will end on October 18 at 10AM. Failure to show up during the scheduled date of the design painting will mean forfeiture of the slot given to them.

4. The organizers reserve the right to add teams on the following reasons:

a. Ties in the selection of proposals

b. Replacement for teams who backed out

5. Upon completion of their pieces, the panel of judges will then review finalists’ works and name the winners on October 18 at 11AM. 

FACEBOOK CONTEST

1. All chosen finalists’ works will be displayed in Amaia Land Corp.’s official Facebook page.

2. The artwork with the most number of “likes” will win a special prize from Amaia Land Corp. apart from the regular prizes to be won in the regular contest proper.

I. PANEL OF JUDGES

1 Retail Specialist

1 Art Critic or Upcycling Expert

1 Representative from Amaia Land Corp.

II. CRITERIA FOR JUDGING

40% Creativity, Execution and Level of Difficulty 

30% Marketability

30% Retail Value

III. PRIZES

CHAMPION: Glass Trophy, P100,000 Cash

2ND PLACE: Glass Trophy, P50,000 Cash

3RD PLACE: Glass Trophy, P25,000 Cash

FACEBOOK MOST LIKED: Glass Trophy, P10,000 Cash

CONTEST GUIDELINES:

1. The judges’ decision is final and unappealable.

2. All finalists’ entries shall be considered properties of Amaia Land Corp. and may be used by the company for exhibit and promotional purposes (ie. PR, Collaterals, Print, Point of Sale Materials, Merchandising Materials, website) with due credits to the owner.

3. Employees, family members, and relatives up to the third consanguinity of Amaia Land Corp. are prohibited from joining the contest.

4. Entries that do not conform to the above requirements shall be disqualified from the contest.

Sarong Banggi, Ballet Philippines’ tribute to Filipino music and dance on October 16-18

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Rediscover local musical treasures in a new ballet about the Filipino family. Ballet Philippines’ Sarong Banggi features new works by six exciting Filipino choreographers set to classic folk songs from around the country, arranged and orchestrated by Ryan Cayabyab, the country’s best-loved composer. This show is co-presented by the Province of Albay.

The show features choreography by Carissa Adea, Ronelson Yadao, Cyril Aran Fallar, Paul Alexander Morales, Nonoy Froilan, and Carlo Pacis. Each choreographer brings to the stage his/her unique impression of the Filipino family in a new contemporary ballet with the cast led by Jean Marc Cordero, Earl John Arisola, Rita Angela Winder, and Monica Amanda Gana.

“Sarong Banggi will tug at the audience’s heartstrings with its nostalgic music and earnest look at traditional Filipino values,” says Ballet Philippines Artistic Director Paul Alexander Morales”. “It will be interesting to see these choreographers’ different takes on familiar themes; love, loss and reconciliation that cements the Filipino family”

When asked by Morales to create two pieces for the show, Hong Kong-based choreographer Carlo Pacis was thrilled at the chance to come home and work with Ballet Philippines again. “As a Filipino living overseas, I felt that it was my responsibility to give back.” Pacis, former soloist of the Hong Kong Ballet is a two-time awardee for Outstanding Choreography at the Philstage Gawad Buhay Awards.

Sarong Banggi’s opening night on October 16 is a Filipiniana Gala featuring the live performance of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Cayabyab himself.

The music of the show was recently created by the Cultural Center of the Philippines in the special Collector’s Edition CD entitled “Serenata: Well-loved Philippine Folk Songs and Melodies”. Included in the album are the Kapampangan “Atin cu Pung Singsing”, the Hiligaynon “Ay Kalisud”, and the Tagalog “Dalagang Pilipina” and “Saranggola ni Pepe”, among others.

Sarong Banggi’s libretto is by Dennis Marasigan, lighting design by Meliton Roxas Jr., sets by Ohm David, and costume design by Rajo Laurel.

Sarong Banggi will be performed from October 16 to 18 at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater). For inquiries, visit www.ballet.ph, send an email to info@ballet.ph, or call Ballet Philippines at 551-1003. For tickets and reservations, call the CCP Box Office at 832-3704 or Ticketworld at 891-9999.

Major sponsors of Ballet Philippines’ 46th Season include Globe Platinum, San Miguel Corporation, and Belle Corporation.

Connect to Ballet Philippines online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/balletphilippines

Twitter: @balletph

Instagram: @balletphilippines

YouTube: balletph

To join in the Ballet Philippines conversation, use our official hashtags: #balletph, #dancespring, #sarongbanggi

Britain’s Finest : The Complete Beatles Experience

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Speaking of nostalgia, take a nostalgic tip to Solaire on the 17th of October 2015 and let’s bring the 60s back to life with a Britain’s Finest concert and hop the night away with The Beatles tribute.

“The fab four” – when you hear that phrase only one band comes to mind: The Beatles. The Beatlemania of the 60s are the embodiment of the ideals shared by the era’s sociocultural revolutions and as the band steadily grew in reputation and popularity, armed with the growing sophistication of their songs, the British invasion begun. 

Hit song after hit song and with multiple Grammy, Academy and Ivor Novello awards, this awesome British band has been catapulted to legendary icon status as one of the most influential people and in 2004 Rolling Stones magazine declared The Beatles as the ”greatest artists of all time.”

Now take a trip with me forward from the 60s and into this glorious place we call Now. Straight from Southern California and considered as the “most authentic” tribute band to the Beatles legend, Britain’s Finest takes centerstage bringing to life once again songs like “Hey Jude”, “I Want To Hold Your Hand”, “She Loves You”, “A Hard Day’s Night”, and “Twist and Shout” with their hauntingly accurate rendition, complete with costume changes to show their precise attention to detail, immaculately emulating The Beatles’ career. The high, positive energy of the band and the witty banter demonstrates the youthful enthusiasm the Beatles had during their several live performances in the 60s. 

As the “closest thing to The Beatles since The Beatles” Benjamin Chadwick (Paul), Tyson Kelly (John), Robert Bielma (George), and Luis Renteria (Ringo) are all incredible musicians in their own right and note for note, Britain’s Finest hits the spot accurately every time with such precise vocals conveying a vibe that will have us leaping to our feet and bobbing our heads to the ghosts of comb-overs with sporting sideburns much like it was during the beatlemania days. Now if we can only make them show themselves in black and white, that would certainly bring it straight home because this tribute band can definitely stir up a kind of fresh, energetic rawness that only the original Beatles have managed to bring us in the past. Talk about an actual spiritual take over! McCartney and Ringo must be in nostalgia heaven. 

Living up to its name, Britain’s Finest gives one of the most exceptional tribute concerts to The Beatles this generation. With their uncanny dead-on vocals, endearing persona, undeniable good looks, and witty onstage banter, this group of Southern California musicians effectively takes on the stage personas of John, Paul, George, and Ringo with every performance.

You wouldn’t want to miss this! Catch this band perform at The Theatre and find out for yourself why this group continues to win the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Britain’s Finest- The Complete Beatles Experience is another Boardwork’s production.

Buy your tickets now! Call TicketWorld at (+632) 891-9999 or visit ticketworld.com.ph.

BRITAIN’S FINEST: THE COMPLETE BEATLES EXPERIENCE

October 17, 2015 ● Saturday ● 8:00 PM

The Theatre at Solaire

Buddha-Bar Manila brings back “Sushi Disco Night: REMIX” this October

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Saturday night fever continues at the most posh party destination in the metro. 

Buddha-Bar Manila brings back by popular demand “Sushi Disco Night” all Saturdays of October for partyphiles to enjoy. Originally a concept from Buddha-Bar Baku in Azerbaijan, “Sushi Disco Night” hit Manila by storm from July 25 to August 29. “Sushi Disco Night: REMIX” #buddhabarmanila2015 #sushidisconightremix allows Manila’s glamorous set to swing and groove to well-loved retro music and eat lots of delightful sushi.

For Php599 net, the “Eat-All-You-Can Sushi Creations” promo can be enjoyed from 6 pm to 9 pm. The “buy 1, take 1” promo of selected sushi creations is from 9:01 p.m. to 2 a.m. Customers can avail of five bottles of local beer at Php 499 net, from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Get your dancing shoes ready as well since to add more pleasure to your sushi indulgence, the best disco music from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and early ‘90s will be played. Setting the disco and sushi-loving mood even further are some of Manila’s finest DJs namely Pablo Javier “DJ Ouch” Guzman, Manolet “DJ Papi” Santos, Frankie Cortes, Gerald Henson and BoyetSison. 

Only dine-in customers can avail of the promo. Walk-in guests will be seated on a first-come, first served basis.

Buddha-Bar Manila, a franchise of Buddha-Bar Paris, is located at Picar Place, Kalayaan Avenue, Makati City. For reservations, call +632 8566859, +632 8566719 and 0998-983-3918. 

You may also reach them at info@buddhabarmanila.com or like and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @BuddhaBarMNL.

ATC Brighten Years Campaign (with Kim Chiu, Carla Abellana, Nikki Gil, ATC endorsers) : First of the Many Decades to Come

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Through the  BrighTEN Years campaign, ATC Healthcare wishes to acknowledge and welcome the support and patronage of all those involved in making it the Pinoy’s trusted life ally.

In recognition of past accomplishments and in anticipation of more years to serve the Filipino people, ATC Healthcare is elated to share this milestone with everyone on October 10, 2015 at the Isabela Ballroom, Makati Shangri-La.

Kim Chiu (Fatout Endorser)

ATC Healthcare International Corporation firmly believes in the value of health. It is their mission to empower all Filipinos to live life to the fullest by being their trusted life ally in all things health-related. And it seems the public appreciates their efforts as they continue to support ATC’s tenth year of providing products such as Robust, FatOut, Vita-E, Strike and many others.

Amy Perez (Strike Endorser) as host of the night together with Papa Jack, and Jackie Rice (Robust Endorser)

Starting modestly in 2005, ATC Healthcare has grown to become one of the leading healthcare providers in the country.

Mr. Derick Wong and Ms. Nikki Gil (Reducin Endorser)

Carla Abellana (Vita-E Endorser)

Today, ATC Healthcare continues to progress with their unfailing will to provide safe, effective and innovative products to their Life Ally, the Filipino people.

The Voice Season 9 with Fil-Am stunner Amy Vachal joins team Pharerel

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“You can win this whole thing” expressed Adam Levine who had a full team and was unable to bid for Fil Am stunner Amy Vachal. All three other judges Pharrell, Gwen Stefani and Blake Sheldon took only seconds to turn as Amy sang the classic Dream a Little Dream of Me.

The 26-yr old from Brooklyn, New York is also into painting. Musical talent runs in the blood, as her father used to be a member of a Grateful Dead cover band. Val picked a Pharrell to be her mentor – the same judge who produced last season’s winner.

After a standing ovation from the judges; Stefani gushed that that Val was a “princess” and “angel-like.” And Sheldon stated “I’m looking at a superstar”

But it was Pharrell who will get to further refine and enhance this talent and hopefully bring her to superstardom. If their initial exchange was an indication, the viewers can expect a hybrid of soulful, classic style blended with a shot modern hipness from this pretty and talented hopeful.

Last year’s winner, Sawyer Fredericks (Team Pharrell), set a show record by posting nine top ten iTunes singles for six straight weeks. This is a feat that this year’s winner should look forward to matching (if not surpassing).

The Voice Season 9 airs Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 7:50PM, within 12 hours of US broadcast. First and exclusive on AXN. 

AXN is seen on Cable Link Channel 38, Cignal Digital TV Channel 61, Global Destiny Cable Channel 61, Dream Channel 20, Gsat Channel 12, SKYCable Channel 49.

www.AXN-Asia.com

Ang Dating Daan Chorale sets New Guinness World Record's as the Largest Gospel Choir

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Ang Dating Daan (ADD) Chorale has set a new world record for the Largest Gospel Choir, with 8,688 choristers officially counted by the Guinness World Records, held at at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum on October 12, 2015. 

Guinness adjudicator Ms. Fortuna Burke Melhem represented Guinness in the record-breaking attempt during Ang Dating Daan‘s anniversary celebration, gets teary-eyed after witnessing a spectacular performance from the Ang Dating Daan Chorale.

MCGI Assistant Overall Servant, Daniel Razon receives the award for the Largest Gospel Choir from Guinness World Records.

“The record for the largest gospel choir was 4,745. Today you have the grand new Guinness World Record title,” Ms. Melhem officially announced. “It takes an organization that’s very special, very talented and it takes the best in the world to get a Guinness World Records title,” she added.

"Welcome to the Guinness World Record Family, Ang Dating Daan!" Guinness Adjudicator Fortuna Burke Milhem said.

The Members Church of God International’s (MCGI) official Bible-based religious program Ang Dating Daan (ADD) commemorates its 35th year on Philippine airwaves with an official attempt to break world record with the largest gospel choir. Ang Dating Daan choristers jam-pack the Smart-Araneta Coliseum and sets the world record as the grandest and largest gospel choir in world history.

The event was highlighted by the presence of Persons with Disabilities (PWD), on which the whole gathering was dedicated to , giving the best seats in the house for them to enjoy the offering of songs and thanksgiving to God.

The Ang Dating Daan gave financial assistance worth Php 10,000 to 30 persons with disabilities (selected via raffle draw). The program also doled out Php 100,000 to each of the 11 PWD groups.

The Ang Dating Daan, also called as The Old Path, airs both on UNTVLifeChannel 37 andover at UNTV-Radio La Verdad 1350 khz. 

UNTVLifeChannel 37 and UNTV-Radio La Verdad 1350 and Wish 107.5 served as the official media partners of the event. 

Lifestyle introduces “The Green Mind” and “Sweet Talk” on Wellness, Creativity

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Lifestyle, under Creative Programs, Inc. (CPI), a subsidiary of ABS-CBN now introduces two exciting new original shows for the last quarter of 2015 that will inspire every Filipino to start a healthy lifestyle and harness their creativity this October.

“The Green Mind,” a half-hour wellness magazine show is hosted by model and health and wellness advocate Marco Lobregat, while “Sweet Talk,” a show focusing on dessert styling, craft making, and baking will be hosted by dessert master and “The Clash” season 2 winner Cynthia Patos.

With an eight episode order for its debut season, “The Green Mind” showcases various healthy and sustainable products and services, as well as environmental advocacies. In the show, Marco explores and introduces the latest in food, fitness, and fashion to help viewers achieve an active and healthy lifestyle.

In its first two episodes that premiered a few weeks back, “The Green Mind” introduced the concept of green living and featured personalities who have been “going green” for the past few years. Marco also featured a roster of organizations and movements that are promoting the green living.

Meanwhile, “Sweet Talk” which will premiere on October 25, will feature creative solutions in making DIY projects and present easy-to-make recipes and Cynthia’s personal tips in the art of baking.

Its debut episode is expected to showcase Cynthia’s take on mouthwatering desserts perfect for Sunday brunch including a quick and easy guide on how to make funnel cake and an almond pear tart, among others. Cynthia will also feature a special episode on baking for kids that will showcase top kid dessert choices with a twist that anyone will enjoy making. 

“The Green Mind” and “Sweet Talk” are two new original productions of Lifestyle this year.

Lifestyle is the premiere cable channel and must-go lifestyle hub of modern and young Filipinos. To date, the cable channel has produced successful original programs such as “Listed,” “Curiosity Got the Chef,” “Food Prints,” and “A Pinch of Portia.”

Lifestyle is available on channel 52 in both Sky Cable and Destiny Cable and belongs to the family of cable channels under Creative Programs, Inc. (CPI), a subsidiary of ABS-CBN.