HOOQ up with Metro Manila Film Festival’s indie entries for the very first time

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This 2015 Metro Manila Film Festival in partnership with HOOQ, Asia’s largest video-on-demand service, presents the entries under the New Wave category and will be simultaneously available in theaters and online, exclusively through HOOQ.

For the first time in the 41-year history of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), and now the exclusive presenter for the 41st, MMFF New Wave category has a new Short Film Competition for amateur and professional filmmakers.

It's open-themed and for films ten-minute films. The Metro Manila Film Festival New Wave category features progressive works of independent and student filmmakers to express themselves through the powerful medium of film.

“Some of the most inventive techniques are shown in short films,” said Jane Walker, HOOQ Philippines Country Manager. “We’re very proud to showcase this and the creativity and talent of Filipino filmmakers.”

A partnership geared towards promoting quality Philippine entertainment, HOOQ and MMFF to address the growing needs of the digital natives to consume content at their own time; through streaming and download of the finalists’ animation and short film entries.

The MMFF New Wave category has been around since 2010 to give the opportunity to independent filmmakers to showcase their entries and the chance to take home prize money that could potentially be used to fund future film projects.  

This year’s finalists were selected by a jury out of hundreds of national submissions which was then trimmed down to five finalists each. 

There are five finalists from the short-film medium and another five from the animated genre. 

The complete list of entries are listed below.

Short-film finalists:

Daisy (Bryan Reyes of Colegio De San Lorenzo)

Ding Mangasyas (Justine Emmanuel Dizon of Kayumanggi Pictures)

Lapis (Maricel Cariaga of Center Stage Productions)

Momento (Jan-Kyle Nieva of UP Film Institute

Mumu (Jean Cheryl Tagyamon of UP Diliman)

These entries for short film feature:

Daisy, a story about a wife and mother Barbara who orders a Proxy Daisy robot to take care of household duties, only for Barbara to have a growing realization that there may be something very wrong with the robot that she has let into her families’ lives.  Written and directed by Bryan Reyes of Colegio de San Lorenzo, this is his first film competition that he joined on a whim and shot two days prior to the contest deadline.

Ding Mangasyas

Ding Mangasyas (Tough Guys) centers on 2 brothers who have had a lifelong love-hate relationship filled with violence. They’re faced with the emotional reality of separation as one of them packs up to work in the US. The film was directed by Justine Emmanuel Dizon and written by Jason Paul Laxamana of Kayumanggi Pictures, who was initially discouraged by the rejection of this same film in another competition. This is his first national competition, and he is proud to show off the “homegrown” talents of his team who are from Pampanga like him.

Lapis 

Lapis follows the career shift of a pencil artist in his 50s as he applies for a job as a graphic artist only to be confronted by the realization that his medium of expertise is defunct in a modern world.  This moving film that addresses the conflict of analog vs. digital artistry was inspired by real stories of unemployment in the country.  Written and directed by Maricel Cariaga of Center Stage Productions, this is her third competition after UP POV 11 and Sinkwento International Film Festival, wherein she placed top 3 for both.

Momento

Momento features an ageing couple, Teresita and Ronaldo, as they celebrate their 50^th wedding anniversary--despite Teresita having made a terrible discovery earlier in the film that “marks the darkest hour of their relationship.”  Written and directed by Jan-Kyle Nieva of the UP Film Institute, Nieva states that he enjoys disturbing films and made this film to challenge himself into delving into a genre that he has not previously explored.

Mumu

Mumu is about a fresh grad named Kara who resists pursuing a nursing career despite her nagging mother and pressure from witnessing the success of her friends.  She also finds herself being haunted by a ghost – a character she had played in a blockbuster horror film. Mumu is directed by Cheryl Tagyamon from UP Diliman, who also wrote the film.  Mumu has thus far won 3rd place in the National Digital Arts Awards 2014 Motion Graphics Category for Students, and in the UP Film Institute’s Black Beret Film Festival it won the Audience Choice Award, Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, and Best Performance.

The short films and animations under the 2015 Metro Manila Film Festival’s New Wave category will be shown simultaneously on the country’s biggest subscription video-on-demand platform. Anyone with a HOOQ subscription can watch the shorts on just about any screen they own, on the same day the films are being shown in theaters.

Each film is under 10 minutes  and screened started December 17 and up to 24 at Glorietta 4, Robinsons Movie World Ermita and SM Megamall.  All ten entries will be available on HOOQ from December 18.

HOOQ has the largest collection of Pinoy movies and TV series, which includes close to a hundred winners and finalists of the Metro Manila Film Festival such as “Baler”, “Tanging Yaman”, “Mulawin the Movie, “Pedro Penduko” and many more.

New users can enjoy a 30-day trial by signing up at www.HOOQ.tv.  

Monthly subscription is available at only  P149 and can be charged on your Globe mobile bill or via credit card, or it comes free with Globe Home Broadband plans P1,299 and up.

Catch these Animation finalists too! 

Animation finalists:

8 (Johanna Kaye Boncodin of Ateneo De Naga)

Geo (John Arthur Mercader of Puppeteer Animation Studio)

Little Lights (Rivelle Mallari)

Buttons (Marvel Obemio, Francis Ramirez, Jared Garcia of De La Salle College of St. Benilde)

Marvino’s League of Superheroes (Ja Marti Escandor of Ateneo De Naga)

Francis Kong shares tips to financial freedom at Avida’s Homepossible: Live Free! Conference

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Most hard-working millennials today aspire to grow their savings and achieve financial independence, if only to prepare for a better future and to quickly realize their dreams such as building their early retirement fund, starting their own business, or simply buying their own house and other investments.

Avida Land recently held the Homepossible: Live Free! conference at the Grand Ballroom of Fairmont Hotel in Makati City to inspire millennials to take charge of their finances and achieve financial freedom.

Financial management wizard, published writer and thought leader Francis Kong made the seminar more meaningful as he shared valuable insights on how to develop the right perspective when it comes to savings as well as how to cultivate discipline and control cash flow, towards becoming debt-free.

“The way you spend your money, time and energy is reflective of the way you spend your life, and your future depends on how you manage these,” Kong said as he reminded the audience of mostly single millennials and young parents on the importance of keeping track of money, time and energy spent on everyday things. To help change their financial perspective, Kong challenged the participants to replace “spending” with “investing”.

Kong talked about the different concepts of money to provide the audience a deeper understanding of how to appreciate its value.

Francis Kong

“Money is just an idea that represents a tool for exchange. When you exchange money for the things that you consume, those things represent value. Price is what you pay for, value is what you experience,” said the financial guru, illustrating another example closer to home.

“Our friends from Avida are offering different beautiful units, you pay for it and you experience it because of its value.”

Kong also warned about another nature of money that can become a hindrance to achieving financial freedom. “Mysteriously, expenses always rises up to the level of your income. Kung kelan lumalaki ngayon ‘yung kinikita mo, sumasabay naman ang expenses mo.”

The financial consultant also stressed the importance of developing discipline in managing finances.

“When we master the basics such as saving money and tracking our expenses, and we discipline ourselves, the moment when we are faced with emergencies and crises, we don’t have to bother with the financial basics anymore because it has become second nature. We only have to focus on coming up with creative financial solutions.”

During the conference co-presented by The Philippine Star, in partnership with Cinema1, Kong also shared a financial advice especially for those who want to make their dream homepossible. “Live within your means but improve your means by increasing your income.”

The financial guru also addressed concerns about having debts. “Not all debts are bad. There are also good debts (which you incur) when you buy something that increases in value.” Kong said these could include investments such as houses, lots and other properties.

As part of Avida’s Homepossible series, Homepossible: Live Free! conference gave participants a better understanding of how to take back control of their finances towards achieving financial independence, and how to finally make their dream homes a reality. 

Watch out for details of upcoming Homepossible events from Avida.

Disney On Ice presents Magical Ice Festival at Araneta

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Celebrate Christmas with your family and Disney favorites Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy, together with Ariel, Belle, Rapunzel, and sisters Anna and Elsa in the enchanting world of Disney on Ice presents Magical Ice Festival at Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City.

For everyone, young and old, kids and kids at heart, Christmas is never complete without the colorful, magical show that makes Christmas dreams and fantasies come to life —Disney on Ice. And this holiday season, the awe-inspiring Disney On Ice returns for another spectacular performance on ice. 

Now on its 33rd show worldwide, Disney On Ice presents Magical Ice Festival will once again capture the hearts of the Filipino fans, both parents and their children, who will watch the show at the Big Dome.

This year’s grand production will wow viewers as it features Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Tangled, Beauty and the Beast, and – for the first time – the Academy Award winning and number one animated feature film of all time, Frozen!

“We are taking a fresh new spin on how we’re presenting the Disney stories. We are weaving together the four worlds of royal sisters Anna and Elsa, Ariel, Belle and Rapunzel as they each embark on their own epic journey,” says producer Juliette Feld.

Disney on Ice presents Magical Ice Festival showcases a medley of splendid set elements, impressive light display and costume pieces, along with show-stopping performances by a cast of world-class skaters!

Sure to amaze and delight kids and young at heart, Disney On Ice will take you to an unforgettable magical journey as you get whisked away into the wintry world of Disney movie’s Frozen! 

“Everyone will be in awe as they watch Ariel slowly pulled upwards and then rapidly twirl above the ice. This is the first time that we’ve captured her transformation like this in a production. That’s what makes Magical Ice Festival different, we selected scenes we’ve never done before and then took our time on the details to make them truly special,” says director Patty Vincent. 

“In our more than 30 years of producing Disney On Ice shows, Feld Entertainment has been waiting for a film like Frozen,” says producer Nicole Feld.

“By pulling together moments from classic Disney stories to the newest feature film sensation Frozen and combining them with elements of comedy and music, we developed a truly unique way to re-tell each fairytale,” says producer Juliette Feld.

The show runs from December 25 to January 3. Tickets are now on sale. 

For more information, visit TicketNet website or call 911-5555.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens at Gateway Dolby Atmos Cinema

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The biggest Dolby Atmos Cinema in the country located at Gateway Mall, Araneta Center was launched last Wednesday December 17, the perfect time with the advanced screening of perfect movie “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”

Featuring a revolutionary audio platform that creates powerful, moving audio using audio objects and overhead speakers, Gateway Mall’s Dolby Atmos Cinema boasts of sounds that come from all directions, the dialogue and music of the onscreen story move all around the audience in three-dimensional space, transporting them into the scenes and putting them in the middle of the action. Definitely the most suitable venue for the much-awaited movie, Star Wars: The Force Awakens. 

Araneta Group CEO Jorge Araneta shared that this will definitely be a fantastic and world-class movie experience not just for Star Wars fans but for the whole family.

“We are very excited to screen Star Wars: The Force Awakens at Gateway Dolby Atmos Cinema 5. With its revolutionary sound technology, the theatre will be filled with breathtaking audio and the audience will feel like they are inside the Star Wars universe. This will definitely be a fantastic and world-class movie experience not just for Star Wars fans but for the whole family,” says Araneta.

Compared to regular theatres, Dolby Atmos Cinema has the most number of speakers with a 53.5 sound system (53 individual surround channels and 5 subwoofers). Each speaker is powered independently and gets its own separate audio feed. In effect, the movement of every sound in the scene is reproduced in all three dimensions.

The Dolby Atmos technology gives content creators unprecedented control of the placement and movement of sound within the movie theatre. Sounds can be placed and moved anywhere in the cinema’s three-dimensional space. The Dolby Atmos Cinema processor then determines which of a cinema’s huge array of front, back, side, and overhead speakers it will use to recreate this lifelike movement. 

With sounds coming from all directions, the cinema is filled with astonishing clarity, richness, detail, and depth. This creates a multidimensional sound system that makes audiences feel as if they are inside the film and not just watching it.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens is the seventh installment in the Star Wars film series and the first to be directed by J.J. Abrams.

Thirty years after the defeat of the Galactic Empire, the galaxy faces a new threat from the evil Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) and the First Order. When a defector named Finn crash-lands on a desert planet, he meets Rey (Daisy Ridley), a tough scavenger whose droid contains a top-secret map. Together, the young duo joins forces with Han Solo (Harrison Ford) to make sure the Resistance receives the intelligence concerning the whereabouts of Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), the last of the Jedi Knights.

Set around 30 years after the events of Return of the Jedi, the sequel follows the adventures of new lead characters Finn (John Boyega), Rey (Daisy Ridley) and Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) as they join forces with original characters Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), and Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew) to fight Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) and his broadsword lightsaber. The film also features Gwendoline Christie as Captain Phasma, Domhnall Gleeson as General Hux, Andy Serkis as Supreme Leader Snoke, and Lupita Nyong’o as Maz Kanata.

The Force Awakens is the first film in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, announced after The Walt Disney Company's acquisition of Lucas film in October 2012. The film is produced by Lucas film president Kathleen Kennedy, Abrams, and his long-time collaborator Bryan Burk.

Don’t miss the chance to have a 360-degree experience of the glorious Star Wars saga.

Catch Star Wars: The Force Awakens at Gateway Mall’s Dolby Atmos Cinema!

For more details and the latest updates from Araneta Center, visit their official website at www.aranetacenter.net and Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AranetaCenter.

Build Hope this Christmas with Habitat’s “Pamaskong Handog”

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This Christmas, thousands of families will be celebrating in evacuation sites and temporary shelters because of recent calamities that struck the country. Amidst the busyness of the holiday season, Habitat for Humanity Philippines (Habitat) is committed to building their homes and bringing hope in disaster affected communities.

Habitat’s annual Christmas program “Pamaskong Handog” (Christmas offering) inspires the public to give back to our fellow Filipinos in need during this season of giving. Companies and organizations can set aside some funds from their Christmas party budget, or gather voluntary contribution among members which will help ongoing rehabilitation efforts in various areas nationwide. In appreciation of their generosity, Habitat will match every P1000 donation with a Noche Buena pack to be shared with its assisted family under the donor’s name.

“This season is the best opportunity to show that a little help goes a long way for a family who would like Christmas a bit more special.” Charlie Ayco, CEO and Managing Director of Habitat explains. 

More than just giving Noche Buena packs, Pamaskong Handog is really about rekindling hope among numerous families’ who slowly rebuild and improve their lives when they move to their new home. 

“Like Jesus Christ who was born in a humble shelter, he was able to inspire hope to a vast majority of people. Together with our donors, would also like to lead by example and demonstrate the love of Christ through this program”, Ayco adds. 

For more information on how to partner, kindly contact our Mass Marketing Unit at 846-2177 or email donorservices@habitat.org.ph. 

You may also visit www. www.give2habitat.org/philippines/pamaskonghandog and learn more about the on-going program.

How Cebuana Lhuillier helps micro entrepreneurs grow

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Most Filipinos dream of becoming an entrepreneur someday and they start early – the student who sells candies or pad paper to his classmates, or the girl who sells stationery paper to her peers. Then the entrepreneurial dream grows bigger to include home-baked goodies, a sari-sari store or small grocery, a fleet of tricycles, and other small-scale businesses.

The country’s leading microfinancial institution, Cebuana Lhuillier, recognizes this potential and aims to help strengthen the chances of Filipinos succeeding in entrepreneurship through a financial literacy campaign that showcases the available support for micro entrepreneurs today.

There are Cebuana Lhuillier products that provide for the needs and protect the resources of micro entrepreneurs – from micro insurance products to immediate financial assistance.

Keeping small businesses safe

One of Cebuana Lhuillier’s micro insurance products is the Alagang Cebuana Plus which offers affordable personal accident and fire insurance. For only P25, the holder is covered from accidental death, dismemberment, and disablement for P20,000, with an additional P5,000 coverage from fire. The coverage is valid for four (4) months.

There are other Cebuana Lhuillier micro insurance products that help micro entrepreneurs protect their investments and resources against various risks.

Banking without the bank

Nowadays, payment options available for businesses, no matter how small, include transactions that do not go through the banks. Social networking platforms have become the new marketplace that offers products ranging from home-baked goodies, imported candies and chocolates, second hand clothes and bags, and almost anything under the sun.

Micro entrepreneurs are taking advantage of this to grow and reach a wider market. With the help of Cebuana Lhuillier’s 24/7 Pera Padala nationwide operations, they are able to receive payments sent from across the country, in real time, hassle-free and without the need to open an account.

Easy-Access Funds

No matter how small the business, it is integral to have easy access to funds in the course of the operations. Cebuana Lhuillier offers a nationwide pawning service that can address the need for funds for sudden business expenses. Its high appraisal rates, low interest rates, flexible terms, hassle-free transactions and 24/7 operations for select branches, make Cebuana Lhuillier’s pawning services the perfect partner for micro entrepreneurs.

Becoming an entrepreneur can be a challenging task, but with the right support from microfinance institutions like Cebuana Lhuillier, it can be a sweet success.

Watch the ‘Epson Spectacular Christmas 3D Projection Mapping Show’, join the #Selfietacular Contest and win an Epson home projector

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Leading digital imaging company Epson Philippines Corporation (EPC) invites the public to watch the ‘Epson Spectacular Christmas 3D Projection Mapping Show’, join the "Selfietacular Contest and win an Epson 3D home projector.

Ed Bonoan, Epson’s Head of Marketing Division shared that “since this is the first Christmas 3D projection mapping show in the country, we want as many people as possible to experience it – and to remember it.

People who watched the show can take a photo of themselves with the show in the background, post it on their Facebook, use the hashtags #selfietacular and #epsongivesback, and tag the Epson Philippines FB page to get a chance to win an Epson EH-TW570 home projector.” 

The Epson EH-TW570 is a highly affordable 3D home theatre projector that delivers quality entertainment and immersive gaming experience. Through Epson’s bright 480Hz drive technology, a stunning level of 3D brightness is made possible. The 480Hz drive technology minimizes the “blackout time” of the projector when 3D images are transitioning from frame to frame, giving viewers the smoothest 3D movie or gaming experience.

Epson’s Spectacular Christmas 3D Projection Mapping Show was made possible in partnership with Ortigas & Company. The show is held from 7pm to 12 midnight at the Capitol Commons Park in Ortigas Center, Pasig every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from December 11, 2015 until January 3, 2016.

Epson is a global technology leader dedicated to driving innovations and exceeding customer expectations in printing, visual communications, quality of life and manufacturing. Epson’s lineup ranges from inkjet printers, printing systems and 3LCD projectors to industrial robots, smart glasses and sensing systems and is based on original compact, energy-saving, and high-precision technologies.

If it's Noche Buena preparation time, try more hassle-free with GLAD

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When I think of Noche Buena, it’s always a feast, a buffet table filled with special food and super yummy treats that is shared with family and friends.

Noche Buena is a tradition that families all around the world enjoy and look forward to during the Yuletide season.

Preparing for Noche Buena and thinking of gifts for your loved ones this coming holiday season can be a very daunting task, indeed. But more than the stress of finding the best Christmas present, homemakers often become hard pressed to find the perfect recipes fit to be called “a meal-to-remember” during the Christmas Eve celebration. Noche Buena gatherings often stand out more than the others because the menu details have been well thought out.

For moms who don’t want to spend more than their budget would allow and also for those who don’t like eating out in crowded dining places during this busy season, now will be a good time to put their creativity to the test -- in the kitchen.

To help you accomplish this, GLAD, a trusted brand in food protection and kitchen management, has come up with the following hassle-free Noche Buena recipes developed by chef and food stylist Eugene Raymundo.

The first dish is a very easy and no-fail recipe for a meat loaf that doesn’t take long to prepare, while the second recipe is a fudge treat for dessert that uses walnuts and maraschino cherries. To prepare these meals, all you need are essential kitchen partners such as Glad Non-Stick Aluminum Foil, which has a special coating that ensures food does not stick to the foil and makes dishes look more presentable and enticing. Then there’s also GLAD Cook ‘n’ Bake paper whose special non-stick coating eliminates the need for fats and oil. It is also economical because you can use it up to 5 times for simple baking! 

Try these simple recipes and make this Christmas extra special for your loved ones with these holiday treats.

Madman Meatloaf

Madman Meatloaf


Ingredients:

500 gms ground pork

500 gms ground beef

½ cup chopped carrots

½ cup chopped green bell pepper

½ cup chopped red bell pepper

2/3 cup chopped mushrooms

1 tbsp minced garlic

2/3 cup minced onions

250 gms chopped ham

100 gms chopped pepperoni

100 gms chopped bacon

½ cup dried cranberries

100 gms diced cheese

½ tsp cumin

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp chili powder

½ tsp dried rosemary

½ tsp dried sage

1 tbsp salt

1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

1 tbsp Tabasco

1/8 tsp pepper

1 egg

2 egg yolks

2 tbsp flour

Procedure:

1. Pre-heat oven to 350oF.

2. Place all ingredients in a large GLAD FREEZER ZIPPER BAG.

3. Seal and massage ingredients to blend well.

4. Place mixture in a GLAD OVENWARE 9 x 12.

5. Cover with GLAD NON-STICK ALUMINUM FOIL.

6. Bake for 35 minutes.

7. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes.

8. Let cool before slicing.

Chunky Cherry-Walnut Fudge

Chunky Cherry-Walnut Fudge

Ingredients:

¾ cup butter

1 ½ cups sugar

¾ cup cocoa powder

4 eggs

½ tsp salt

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup chopped dark chocolate

1 cup maraschino cherries, quartered

½ cup chopped walnuts

Procedure:

1. Pre-heat oven to 325oF.

2. Line an 8”x 8” brownie pan with GLAD COOK ‘n’ BAKE.

3. Melt margarine over medium heat in a saucepan.

4. Add in cocoa powder and sugar and cook until cocoa powder is dissolved.

5. Remove from heat and whisk in eggs, salt, and flour until well blended.

6. Fold in half of cherries, chocolate and nuts.

7. Pour into prepared pan.

8. Top with remaining add-ons and bake for 45 minutes.

9. Let cool and chill before slicing.

Paseo Verde at Real holds Topping Off Ceremony

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First Units Almost Ready For Occupancy

LEED Inc’s Paseo Verde at Real, the developer’s first green community project in Pulang Lupa Uno, Las Pinas, enters a new phase in their development as they top off the first tower of the three-building development.

Reggie Dela Cruz, Project Director of Paseo Verde

“The topping off ceremony is symbolic of our promise to deliver the new homes of our clients. We promised them that they will have their units in two years’ time, and this signifies the fruition of that promise,” said Reggie Dela Cruz, Project Director of LEED.

With the topping off event, this means that clients who were the first to buy units of Paseo Verde, will be able to move in their new units early or mid next year. 

The ceremony, which was witnessed by partner realtors and Paseo Verde homeowners, was celebrated with various activities to make the event more unforgettable. 

Additional Floors

The topping off ceremony wasn’t the only milestone being celebrated. LEED Inc. also got approval to add another floor onto their three towers. This means new owners will be able to enjoy an unobstructed view of the Makati and Alabang Skyline, with picturesque vista of Laguna De Bay. 

The approval came from HLURB after LEED Inc., was able to pass the stringent test of the government’s housing arm. 

Online presence

Aside from these, Mr. Dela Cruz also shared that they have recently become active in promoting their presence online, partnering with realtors via the internet to further reach out to more people who wants to have a home they can call their own. 

This means that LEED Inc., has also considered partnering with reputable Real Estate groups who would be able to offer the valuable product of Paseo Verde, especially to OFWs.

About Paseo Verde

Paseo Verde at Real is a 1.1 Hectare mid-rise condominium development which boasts to set a green standard of living for its owners. It offers 12 exceptional Green Features that define the whole project. These are amenities that focus on their groundbreaking green architecture and puts emphasis to the company’s three environment focus: Climate Change, the Clean Air Act, and the Safety and Health of its Residents.

Part of these features include a rain cistern which was conceptualized to catch rain water to be used for ground upkeep of the whole community. The most unique feature of Paseo Verde at Real is the bike facilities that will be made available upon construction. Aside from bike lanes, there will be permanent bike racks where lovers of the activity can park their equipment safely.

Biking will definitely be promoted by the project as they also put charging stations for e-bikes – a mode of transportation that will be encouraged for older residents.

Also at the groundbreaking site are Paseo Verde’s model units for viewing: 24.70sqm and 29.5sqm studio units; 38.25 one-bedroom; 51.13 two-bedroom, and a 66.55 three-bedroom, all of which depict an eco-friendly way of life for its future residents.

Paseo Verde at Real is accredited by the Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence (BERDE) and a member of the Philippine Green Building Council for its steps towards promoting a sustainable community. The first tower turnover is scheduled in October, 2016. 

For more information, please call 854-1652.

‘Christmas for Generations’ takes root in Greenfield District

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Christmas is just around the corner. Yuletide festivities have just become more meaningful for fun-loving Filipino families as Greenfield Development Corporation (GDC) merges cherished holiday traditions with fast-paced city living at Greenfield District, the developer’s masterplanned mixed-use township in Mandaluyong City.

Greenfield District is the newest emerging residential, commercial and business hub right in the heart of Metro Manila, strategically located on the corner of EDSA and Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong City. 

Photo shows executives of GDC led by Jeffrey Campos (center), president and chairman; Atty. Duane A.X. Santos (left), executive vice president and general manager; and Michael Andan (right), assistant vice president and the head of corporate planning, during the ceremonial lighting of a 40-foot Christmas tree. Right photo shows a colourful fireworks display after the ceremony. 

A special series of activities and events dubbed “A Christmas for Generations” was recently unveiled, beginning with the ceremonial lighting of a giant Christmas tree at the heart of Greenfield District’s open-air promenade located along Mayflower Street fronting The Hub mall. Top executives of Greenfield led the ceremony, headed by president and chairman Jeffrey Campos, executive vice president and general manager Atty. Duane A.X. Santos, and assistant vice president and head of corporate planning Michael Andan. 

A colorful fireworks display and live Christmas carols from a university youth choir followed the lighting of the 40-foot Christmas tree, signaling the start of the holiday edition of the famed Greenfield Weekend Market. Food stalls that offer Japanese, Thai, Chinese, Persian and other well-known cuisine were decorated in holiday themes to add a more festive touch to the occasion. 

Dog lovers also participated in a unique canine costume parade that showed off the most imaginative Christmas outfits for pets. 

Kids and the young-at-heart enjoy fun games in one of Greenfield District’s wide open spaces 

“We are beginning a tradition this year to help Filipinos keep the simple but meaningful joys of family togetherness especially during the Christmas season,” beamed Atty. Santos. “It's a holiday activity that is being made in line with Greenfield’s vision of keeping the spirit of the family alive in all aspects of living.” 

Some of the stalls that competed in the vendor decor competitions which vied for the awards for “most adorable,” “most original” and “most creative” stalls 

As pioneers of a new kind of family Christmas tradition in the metro’s Greenfield District, Greenfield is hoping that the event could become part of a family tradition during the holidays that can offer one of the most sought-after experiences for Filipinos of all ages.

“Christmas for Generations” is seen to become the holiday centerpiece of Greenfield District’s open-air promenade that offers activities suited for every member of the family. These activities will be ongoing every weekend until the end of December.

Greenfield District deliberately designed to support 21st century city living with fiber-optic telecommunications connectivity, Greenfield District also aims to preserve the traditions of family and love for nature.

Manila Doctors Hospital Holds New Tower Lobby Blessing

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(L-R) Dr. Antonio S. Abacan Jr., Chairman and Acting President of Manila Medical Services Incorporated; Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada; Dr. George S.K. Ty, Group Chairman of Metrobank Group of Companies; and Augusto Palisoc Jr., President and CEO of the Metro Pacific hospital group, grace the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the MDH New Tower Grand Lobby. 

Gearing towards major expansion, Manila Doctors Hospital (MDH) formally introduced the new medical tower named after the father of MDHs benefactor Dr. George S.K. Ty, with Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada leading the ribbon-cutting and blessing on December 8.

Located along T.M. Kalaw Street and overlooking Rizal Park, Norberto Ty Medical Tower will function as the new home of more specialty centers, patient rooms and clinics.

The formal blessing for the grand lobby was succeeded by the unveiling of Don Norberto Ty’s bust. Mayor Estrada praised the Hospital's record of service under the stewardship of philanthropist-tycoon Metrobank Group Chairman Dr. George S.K. Ty. He also stressed his advocacy in innovating health systems to provide quality health assistance to the marginalized sector.

Present during the ceremony with Dr. Ty’s family were MDH administrators led by Board Chairman and Acting President Dr. Antonio S. Abacan, Jr., and Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings, Inc. President and Chief and Executive Officer Augusto P. Palisoc Jr.

The new building is expected to increase MDH’s capacity from 300 to 500 beds and will add 160 parking slots. It will also house an additional 64 doctors’ clinics, offices, and more medical, diagnostic services and specialty centers. With the completion of 18-storey medical tower, targeted in 2016, the hospital is poised to become one of leading provider of advanced but affordable healthcare services. 

Manila Doctors Hospital, one of the leading centers of health and wellness in the Philippines, is a private tertiary hospital which is currently expanding its services with the construction of its new medical tower. Owned by Manila Medical Services Inc., MDH is the healthcare affiliate of Metrobank Foundation Inc, the corporate social responsibility arm of the Metrobank Group. MDH is an ISO 9001-2008 accredited institution and is recognized by Accreditation Canada International and is a reporting member of the United Nations Global Compact.

5 good reasons why investing in Tagaytay Highlands is a smart move

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When looking for a “home away from home,” making a smart choice becomes even more crucial. Factors like accessibility, amenities, safety and privacy, and health-friendly environs must be carefully considered.

Tagaytay Highlands has exclusive themed residential communities—the Highlands, Midlands, and Greenlands—that were master planned by reputable design teams and maintained through excellent after-sales and property management. 

Purchasing a home is one of the most important investments a person could make in his entire life so choosing the best option for his needs or those of his family is a critical step.

The urban landscape in this country is currently in a constant flux—thanks to the real estate boom we are experiencing right now. Mid-rise and high-rise condominium buildings are simultaneously being built in key cities all over the country. 

Tagaytay Highlands is country’s most exclusive leisure-residential mountain resort with an upscale membership base. 

This positive trend in the local real estate industry means that people looking to own a piece of the action now have a multitude of choices and, therefore, will need to make smart decisions when investing their money in a piece of property. 

Just outside Metro Manila, Tagaytay Highlands, a one-of-a-kind, mountain-resort-type property, sprawls across Tagaytay’s scenic mountain ridges, offering upscale amenities that are at par with vacation homes abroad. While the SM Group-developed Tagaytay Highlands properties are offered for a premium price, the superb facilities make these worthwhile investments, especially for those who are in it for the long haul. 

Here are five good reasons why investing in a property at Tagaytay Highlands is a smart move:

• The name. 

The brand is all about the country’s most exclusive leisure-residential mountain resort with an upscale membership base. Tagaytay Highlands is backed by the financial strength and solid business reputation of the SM Group, one of Asia’s largest corporations. Having been in operation for 20 years now, the property has established itself to be the best of its kind in the country.

• The idyllic location, the elevation, and the weather. 

Located in the heart of Tagaytay City, the property is the only one of its kind and scale, occupying a land area of approximately 1,290 hectares and straddling three provinces—Cavite, Laguna, and Batangas. At 2,000 feet above sea level, it offers the most striking views of Taal Lake and Volcano, the enchanted Mt. Makiling, the Canlubang Valley, and Laguna de Bay.

Tagaytay Highlands is just a quick 50-kilometer drive from the Makati Central Business District, making it a favored weekend destination for Metro Manila’s elite. Its proximity to the country’s major international airports and its multiple access roads like Sta. Rosa Exit (SLEX), Emilio Aguinaldo Highway in Cavite, Batino-Calamba-Tagaytay Road, and Silangan-Casile Road in Laguna strategically place Tagaytay Highlands in the midst of emerging tourist hotspots in the National Capital Region.

Tagaytay Highlands is a one-of-a-kind, mountain-resort-type property that sprawls across Tagaytay’s scenic mountain ridges, offering upscale amenities that are at par with vacation homes abroad. 

One of Tagaytay Highlands’ best come-ons is the cool, misty weather all year round, with an average daily temperature of 22° C—a great relief for those who want to escape the heat and humidity in the city.

• Amenities and lifestyle. 

Tagaytay Highlands boasts a legion of “firsts” in the country: the first cable cars, the first 48-seater Swiss funicular train, the first 45-hole golfing resort in the whole of Tagaytay City, and the first to have The Peak Bar with a 360-degree view of two lakes, Taal volcano, five mountains, and four cities.

It is a self-contained leisure community that offers tight 24-hour security and exclusive membership to four Clubs—complete with basic utilities, world-class amenities, 16 F&B outlets, a variety of sports and recreational facilities, 24/7 medical and emergency support services, and uninterrupted water and power supply. 

Located in the heart of Tagaytay City, the property is the only one of its kind and scale, occupying a land area of approximately 1,290 hectares and straddling three provinces—Cavite, Laguna, and Batangas. 

• The environs. Tagaytay Highlands is the perfect second home. 

Located in one of the top tourist destinations in the country, it is ideally situated near hospitals, academic centers, shopping establishments, industrial and technological parks, churches, banks, and gasoline stations.

• The premier homes. 

Tagaytay Highlands has exclusive themed residential communities—the Highlands, Midlands, and Greenlands—that were master planned by reputable design teams and maintained through excellent after-sales and property management. Residents can choose from different types of developments such as condo units, log cabins, themed houses and lot that have varying sizes depending on each owner’s preference. All communities are gated with 24/7 security service, with homes that enjoy a view of surrounding landscapes.

All told, one has to visit Tagaytay Highlands or have a weekend stay in the place to understand why its 2,980 homeowners and 6,118 active members relish the good life the mountain resort offers. 

Tagaytay Highlands is just a quick 50-kilometer drive from the Makati Central Business District, making it a favored weekend destination for Metro Manila’s elite. 

Tagaytay Highlands is a symbol of innovation and Philippine ingenuity—having met the seemingly insurmountable challenge of transforming Tagaytay’s best mountain ridges into a world-class residential mountain resort community. 

Today, Tagaytay Highlands may be a wonderful place for fortifying family ties, but owning property in it is also deemed a smart investment as Tagaytay City is now a top weekend destination for people seeking to unwind from the stresses of corporate life.