Brand New Bear Grylls Adventure-Reality Series, Mission Survive to Air First and Exclusive on RTL CBS Extreme HD

Bear Grylls stars in a new adrenaline-fuelled series in which the adventurer takes eight celebrities into the depths of one of the most unforgiving Central American rainforests, where they will be compete in an epic 12‐day survival mission. Bear Grylls: Mission Survive premieres on RTL CBS Extreme HD on 20 February and airs Saturdays and Sundays at 8:40pm (7:40pm JKT/BKK).

“We’re happy to bring the new Bear Grylls series to audiences in Asia. The series is a great addition to our formidable line-up on RTL CBS Extreme HD, our male-skewed action entertainment channel,” says Jennifer Batty, EVP Programming, RTL CBS Asia Entertainment Network. 

In Bear Grylls: Mission Survive the celebrity expedition team will be pushed to their physical and emotional limits. Issued daily mission briefings by Bear, they will have to navigate treacherous obstacles and journey through dangerous dense jungles, testing their ability to adapt, improvise and overcome in one of the world’s most hostile environments. Joining Bear are actors Emilia Fox and Laurence Fox, singer and actor Max George, double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes, TV presenter and singer Jamelia, comedy actor Tom Rosenthal; DJ, model and presenter Vogue Williams and former England International rugby player Mike Tindall. Testing the celebrities at every turn on the fundamental principles of survival: shelter, water, fire and food, the celebrities have to abseil down ferocious waterfalls, cross perilous rapids, trudge through swamps and negotiate razor-sharp vines, not to mention contending with scorpions, snakes and sand flies.

The winner will have to show a resilience and ability to endure hardships unlike anything they’ve experienced before. 

At the end of every episode Bear will eliminate one person. And at the end of the series, there will be three finalists and ultimately just one Mission Survivor.

Twitter: @RTLCBSExtreme

Facebook: RTLCBSExtreme

New Adrenaline-Fuelled Series Premieres 20 February, 

Saturdays and Sundays at 8:40pm (7:40pm JKT/BKK) 

Choose art this Valentine’s Day with Ballet Philippines’ Opera

As a special Valentine’s treat, young professionals aged 30 and below may avail of a 30% discount on the 6pm shows of Ballet Philippines’ Opera - February 13 and 14 at the CCP Main Theater. Tickets may be purchased with this discount at the CCP Open House, the Pasinaya Festival on February 7, the Ballet Philippines office or through BP at 5511013.

Ballet Philippines “Opera” is choreographed by French dance maker Redha based on Gabriel Barredo’s acclaimed installation of the same title. The unique show seamlessly merges contemporary art and dance into a new groundbreaking production.

“Opera is a special production for lovers of contemporary art and dance, it breaks many barriers and transcends our expectations of a dance show” muses BP’s Artistic Director, Paul Alexander Morales. “We are offering this special promotion for the young art loving generation to give them a special option for Valentine’s”. 

The original “Opera” exhibition was first presented at Silverlens Galleries in January 2015, and was recently toured to Singapore last November in time with the opening celebrations of the National Gallery Singapore. For the ballet, Barredo is creating a staggering array of new sculptures, which will comprise the production’s set design. 

Redha

Redha’s choreography will guide us along a journey into a new experience of art. Envisioning his dancers on bare feet, pointe shoes, and stilettos, he is set to present a work that is stimulating, sensual, and groundbreaking.

Presented by Ballet Philippines with Silverlens, “Opera” features a libretto by Yvette Tan and Erwin Romulo, original music by Malek Lopez, lighting design by John Batalla, costumes by James Reyes, and videos by Pabrika. This production is in cooperation with the Embassy of France.

“Opera” will be staged at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater) on February 13 & 14 at 1:00PM and 6:00PM, with a Fundraising Gala on February 16 at 8:00PM. 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, #operaballetph

First Wish 107.5 Music Awards: A Triumphant Night of Music and Charity

John Lesaca with Darren Espanto and Darrentics which won Most WIshful Fandom

The first Wish 107.5 Music Awards (WMA) staged on January 26, 2016 at the SMART Araneta Coliseum was a huge success as thousands of Wishers and music lovers gathered to witness a spectacular evening celebrating Filipino music.

Gerald Santos

Gerald Santos kicked off the program with his live performance of the Wish 107.5 Jingle. This was followed by a jaw-dropping pop-rock medley of Elvis Presley, Queen, and The Beatles hit songs performed by The Voysing, Jek Manuel, Sassa Dagdag, Juan Karlos Labajo, and Darren Espanto. 

Darren Espanto and Morissette 

The audience was further pumped up as Morissette and Darren Espanto shared the stage to sing a duet of Sia’s “Chandelier”. They had previously performed the song individually inside the Wish 107.5 bus, both of which were widely recognized and adored by fans and listeners.

Singing classic love songs such as “Almost Paradise”, “Perfect Combination”, “Always”, and “Way Back into Love” – Leah Patricio, Maki Ricafort, Daryl Ong, Morissette, Paolo Onesa, and Beverly Caimen took the stage for a stunning duets’ medley. 

Marlo Mortel, Jason Fernandez, Brad Go and Nyoy Volante for acoustic medley

Another medley followed, with Marlo Mortel, Jason Fernandez, Brad Go, and Nyoy Volante crooning acoustic classics such as “Sound of Silence”, “Dust in the Wind”, “Tears in Heaven”, “More than Words”, and “Be With You”. Jessica Reynoso and Maki Ricafort also shared a duet of RNB/Motown hits. 

Capping off the performances were Leah Patricio and Beverly Caimen’s powerful duet of Beyonce’s “Listen”.

A total of P1.1 million was given to six different beneficiaries personally chosen by the winners of the major award categories in the WMA.

Darren Espanto

World Vision, the chosen beneficiary of Darren Espanto, who won four major awards namely Best WISHclusive Performance by a Young Artist for “Chandelier”, Wish Ballad Song of the Year for “I Believe In Me”, Wish Original Song of the Year for “Stuck”, and Wish Young Artist of the Year, received a total of P 400, 000.

Food for the Hungry Philippines received P300, 000 as Jason Dy’s selected beneificiary. Dy won three major awards – Wish Urban Song of the Year for “Milagro”, Best WISHclusive Performance by a Male Artist for “Stay With Me/See You Again” mash-up, and Wish Male Artist of the Year.

5th Gen for Best Wishclusive performance by a group

Upcoming power vocal group 5th Gen’s beneficiary, the Divine Mercy Mobile Center of Music and Arts Therapy was granted a financial assistance worth P100, 000. 5th Gen took home the award Best WISHclusive Performance by a Group for their single “Contagious”. 

The wish-granting station also donated Php 100,000 to I Fight Against Human Trafficking, the chosen charitable institution of Yeng Constantino. The OPM star won the Best Wishclusive Performance by a Female Artist for “Ikaw.”

Another Php 100,000 cash assistance was extended to each of the chosen beneficiaries of Sponge Cola and Morissette – Child Haus and Home for the Angels, Sta. Ana Manila, respectively. 

Sponge Cola’s hit single, “Move On” was hailed as the Wish Alternative Song of the Year. Meanwhile, Morissette was named as the Wish Female Artist of the Year.

The presenters of the awards were the very own Wish 107.5 jocks - Faye, Jelly Kiss, Ray Holiday, Flynn Rider,Alice, and Princess Leigh – accompanied by some members of the panel of judges, Mr. Isah Red, Ms. Sylvia , Ms. Cory Quirino, and Mr. Andre Alvarez. 

Robi Domingo and Gretchen Ho

Real-life couple Robi Domingo and Gretchen Ho served as the hosts of the event.

From the spectacular performances and announcing of the winners, to the granting of checks to charities - the first Wish 107.5 Music Awards was indeed not just an ordinary awards night, but a triumphant evening of celebrating the “coolest musical experience” with great song performances and granting of wishes.

WINNERS – WISH 107.5 MUSIC AWARDS

1. Wish Promising Artist - Jensen and the Flips

2. Best Wish Cover - Darren Espanto - In Love Ako Sa’yo

3. Wishclusive Viral Video of the Year - Darren Espanto - Chandelier

4. Most Wishful Fandom - Darrenatics

5. Wishers’ Choice – Young Artist of the Year - Maris Racal

6. Wishers’ Choice – Female Artist of the Year - Morissette

7. Wishers’ Choice – Male Artist of the Year - Jason Dy

8. Wishers’ Choice – Wishclusive Performance of the Year - Don’t Know Why by Maris Racal

9. Best Wishclusive Performance by a Young Artist - Darren Espanto - Chandelier

Beneficiary: World Vision

10. Best Wishclusive Performance by a Group - 5th Gen - Contagious

Beneficiary: Divine Mercy Mobile Center of Music and Arts Therapy 

11. Best Wishclusive Performance by a Female Artist - Yeng Constantino–Ikaw

Beneficiary: I Fight Against Human Trafficking

12. Best Wishclusive Performance by a Male Artist - Jason Dy - Stay With Me/See You Again Mash-up 

Beneficiary: Food for the Hungry Philippines

13. Wish Urban Song of the Year - Milagro by Jason Dy

Beneficiary: Food for the Hungry Philippines

14. Wish Alternative Song of the Year - Move On by Sponge Cola

Beneficiary: Child Haus

15. Wish Ballad Song of the Year - I Believe In Me by Darren Espanto

Beneficiary: World Vision

16. Wish Original Song of the Year - Stuck by Darren Espanto

Beneficiary: World Vision

17. Wish Young Artist of the Year - Darren Espanto

Beneficiary: World Vision

18. Wish Female Artist of the Year - Morissette

Beneficiary: Home for the Angels, Sta. Ana, Manila

19. Wish Male Artist of the Year - Jason Dy

Beneficiary: Food for the Hungry Philippines

Edward Benosa To Guest In Lani Misalucha’s Concert this Valentine's Day

This Valentine’s Day—on February 14 and 15, 2016 singer and recording artist Edward Benosa gets the biggest break of his career when he guests in the show of Lani Misalucha.

Edward Benosa

The show is titled “Love Catcher” and will be held at Resorts World Manila’s Newport Performing Arts Theatre for the benefit of the Cancer Alleviation Network on Care, Education and Rehabilitation (CANCER). It is directed by Frank Lloyd Mamaril (who has also worked with and directed Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli in their respective concerts) and will also feature the female trio Baihana with the world-famous Philippine Madrigal Singers. Mamaril directed Edward’s music video for “Di Man Lang Nagpaalam” which was nominated as Music Video of the Year in the Star Awards for Music last year.

Edward will be performing two songs: his hit “Di Man Lang Nagpaalam” and another OPM number. He doesn’t have a duet with Lani, but the mere honor of sharing the same stage with her is already a major thing for an upcoming artist like Edward. For him to be included in the concert lineup is definitely a big break.

“Malaking bagay po talaga,” acknowledges Edward. “Wala akong duet with her, pero sobrang sarap ng feeling na I’ll be on the same stage as The Nightingale. Para sa akin, isa siya sa pinakamagaling na babaeng singer. I’m really honored na makapag-perform sa concert niya. Di ko na-expect na now, sa ganito ka-early na stage ng career ko, na makapag-perform ako sa ganito kalaking singer natin.”

Edward first met Lani, who’s a label-mate in Star Music, when they performed in a show featuring Star Music talents at 19 East. Lani, being the biggest star, was the finale number. Edward recalls how starstruck he was when he met her backstage, in the dressing room. He couldn’t even say anything. All he could manage was to ask to have a picture taken with her.

Edward recalls how that first meeting went. “Starstruck ako. Tulala. Wala akong nasabi,” he laughs. “Na-intimidate at na-overwhelm ako, na ang saya. Isa siya (Lani) sa mga tinitingala ko. Sobrang blessed ako na makita siya, ma-meet at ngayon makasama sa concert. Sa ginagalawan namin na mundo, sobrang na-a-appreciate namin na mga baguhan ang tinitingala namin na artists at ang work na ginagawa nila.”

Newcomers like himself automatically become better artists when they work with people like Lani, which is why he is looking forward to sharing the stage with her this February. In the future, he hopes they will get the chance to do a duet, but until then, he will take what he can get and continue to improve himself so that when that big break comes, he will be ready.

For now, you can catch more of Edward and his music by following him on social media, at facebook.com/realedwardbenosa, @realbenosa on Twitter and realbenosa on Instagram.

Epson's PaperLab promises to revolutionize office recycling by securely destroying documents and turning them into office paper using a dry process

PaperLab

Seiko Epson Corporation (SEC) has developed what it believes to be the world's first compact office papermaking system capable of producing new paper from securely shredded waste paper without the use of water. 

Epson plans to put the new "PaperLab" into commercial production in Japan in 2016, with sales in other regions to be decided at a later date. Businesses and government offices that install a PaperLab in a backyard area will be able to produce paper of various sizes, thicknesses, and types, from office paper and business card paper to paper that is colored and scented.

A developmental prototype of the PaperLab was demonstrated at the Epson booth at the Eco-Products 2015, an environmental exhibition that took place at the Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Center) last December 10 to 12.

The enduring universal appeal of paper lies in its simplicity as a communication tool. Information on the highly portable and always convenient medium of paper is easy to read, easy to digest, and easy to remember. On the other hand, this essential tool is also produced from a limited resource. As a leading company in the world of printing, Epson has been deeply involved with paper used for its printer products. With this in mind, the company set out to develop technology that would change the paper cycle. With PaperLab, Epson aims to give new value to paper and stimulate recycling.

PaperLab Features

1. Office-based recycling process

Ordinarily, paper is recycled in an extensive process that typically involves transporting waste paper from the office to a papermaking (recycling) facility. With PaperLab, Epson is looking to shorten and localize a new recycling process in the office.

2. Secure destruction of confidential documents

Until now enterprise has had to hire contractors to handle the disposal of confidential documents or has shredded them themselves. With a PaperLab, however, enterprise will be able to safely dispose of documents onsite instead of handing them over to a contractor. PaperLab breaks documents down into paper fibers, so the information on them is completely destroyed.

3. High-speed production of various types of paper

PaperLab produces the first new sheet of paper in about three minutes of having loaded it with waste paper and pressing the Start button. The system can produce about 14 A4 sheets per minute and 6,720 sheets in an eight-hour day.

Users can produce a variety of types of paper to meet their needs, from A4 and A3 office paper of various thicknesses to paper for business cards, color paper and even scented paper.

4. Environmental performance

PaperLab makes paper without the use of water. Ordinarily it takes about a cup of water to make a single A4 sheet of paper. Given that water is a precious global resource, Epson felt a dry process was needed.

In addition, recycling paper onsite in the office shrinks and simplifies the recycling loop. Users can expect to purchase less new paper and reduce their transport CO₂ emissions.

PaperLab technology

Epson's foundation of compact, energy-saving and high-precision technologies enables the company to achieve small, energy-efficient products that offer outstanding accuracy and performance. With printer business operations spanning the consumer, office, commercial and industrial sectors, Epson has an immense storehouse of ink and media expertise, as well as the ability to produce reliable, durable systems that will operate stably.

In addition to these, Epson has developed Dry Fiber Technology without water, a new group of technologies for the PaperLab.

Dry Fiber Technology consists of three separate technologies: fiberizing, binding, and forming.

Fiberizing

Using an original mechanism, waste paper is transformed into long, thin cottony, fibers. This process immediately and completely destroys confidential documents. Since the PaperLab does not use water, it does not require plumbing facilities. That, plus its compact size, makes it easy to install in the backyard of an office.

Binding

A variety of different binders can be added to the fiberized material to increase the binding strength or whiteness of the paper or to add color, fragrance, flame resistance, or other properties needed for a given application.

Forming

Users can produce sheets of A4 or A3 office paper and even paper for business cards thanks to forming technology that allows them to control the density, thickness, and size of paper.

Epson aims to help customers increase operational efficiency by providing high-speed, low-power business inkjet printers that deliver images of amazing quality at a low cost per print. And by employing PaperLab to convert used paper into new, the company believes that offices of all types will fundamentally change the way they think about paper.

1st Philippine Environment Summit : “Greening Together, Growing Better”

The 1st Philippine Environment Summit, a celebration of the Philippine environmental movement, will be held on Feb 9 to 11 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia. The 3-day event will showcase programs and projects, as well as breakthroughs and innovations that contribute to the social and economic advancement, while protecting the environment. There will also be an exhibit area featuring eco-friendly products and services.

With “Greening Together, Growing Better” as theme, the summit will feature renowned leaders of government, the church, environment, civic organizations and academia as plenary and resource speakers in breakout sessions and as exhibitors. Also attending the event are lead members of environmental civil society organizations, leaders of government and business, as well as individual and institutional environmentalists.

President Benigno Aquino III, Luis Cardinal Tagle, former SC Justice Reynato Puno, and internationally renowned environmental activists Dr. David Suzuki and Dr. Vandana Shiva are some of the invited speakers, while leading Presidential aspirants in the coming national elections will be asked to present their environmental agendas. 

The Summit is co-organized by the Green Convergence -- a large coalition of environmental and developmental organizations, networks, faith-based groups and individuals -- with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources(DENR). Also supporting the event are the Energy Development Corporation, Tourism Promotions Board, Foundation of the Philippine Environment, PTFCF and Trans-Asia Renewable Energy.

The main objectives of the Summit are to disseminate information to the public on the developments, achievements, challenges, programs and projects in relation to food safety, environment and natural resource protection and conservation and sustainable economy; strengthen and energize networking between and within the public and private sector and within and across various sectors and groups, formulate policy recommendations; and showcase convergence initiatives between and /or among government, civil society, business, and other sectors of society.

“In celebrating the advancements in environmental protection achieved through private and public initiatives, we hope to create an opportunity for all sectors to unite and collaborate,” says Green Convergence president Dr. Angelina Galang. “The 1st Philippine Environment Summit is a call to government and the Filipino people to unite in accelerating the drive towards national sustainable development.” 

The Summit will be plenary sessions in the morning and breakout sessions in the afternoon, and a simultaneous three-day exhibit. Another highlight of the event is an awards ceremony recognizing LGU eco-champions. It concludes with the environment movement’s resolution for specific desired actions by the most influential sectors – government and business - that will protect the environment in pursuit of sustainable development in the Philippines.

To register for participation, join the exhibits, or know more about the 1st Philippine Environment Summit, call 225 7330 or visit greenconvergencephil on Facebook.

5 reasons why ASUS’ best value smartphone, ZenFone Go

Go Everywhere with the ASUS ZenFone Go! 

Here are 5 reasons why ASUS’ best value smartphone, ZenFone Go, is this season’s perfect must-have travel companion.

Now, more than ever, it is undeniable that smartphones have truly become the centerpiece of our traveling lifestyle. Whether one considers himself to be an adventurous soul, an aimless wanderer, or perhaps simply an explorer-at-heart, every aspect of our travels is made even more fun with our handy smartphone there with us in every step of our journey.

While it seems that choosing the right kind of smartphone may be as challenging as planning your next travel destination, one actually need not look no further than the trailblazing ASUS ZenFone smartphone series, which since its launch last July 2014, has literally taken over the world by storm. And just like the bucket lists and itineraries we are all so accustomed in preparing for a brand new adventure, allow us to list down some of the top reasons why in particular the value-for-money ASUS ZenFone Go (ZC500TG) would be the perfect smartphone to have with you during your road trips and vacations this season.

The Price is Right: Your Best Bet for a Budget-Friendly, High-Value Smartphone

For a retail price of just PHP 5,995.00, the ASUS ZenFone Go is a sure hit for millennial travelers who are always on the look-out for items that will not only be useful to have wherever they go, but will also be ‘easy on the pocket’ for their budget travels. With its key features and main selling points (read on below), the ZenFone Go will really suit the lifestyles of both road warriors and vacationers alike.

Without a doubt, this smartphone’s very affordable pricing allows you to enjoy new experiences and destinations without having to break the bank.

Every Traveler’s Delight: It’s Compact, Elegant and very Light

They say that the secret to a stress-free travel is to simply pack light, and this could not be any more true for the ZenFone Go. With its light and compact built (weighing only 135 grams), the ZC500TG ensures travelers that you reduce space, weight, and any additional cost for your baggage. Moreover, at is slimmest point, the ZenFone Go is only 5.2mm – ultimately making it comfortable to hold and travel-friendly enough to be placed in your pocket anywhere you go.

And because what is traveling, if not in style, the ZenFone Go also displays the iconic ASUS spin cut-effect, with the concentric lines providing a magnificent visual effect. 

For added aesthetic, the ZenFone Go comes in three stylish colors of your choice: White, Black or Red.

The Need for Speed: Instant Touching Response

More often than not, nothing says “travel buzzkill” more than having to encounter speed bumps, detours and long waits along the way, most especially if you are in a hurry.

You will definitely not encounter these with the ZenFone Go what with its unmatched instant touching response: The ZC500TG is equipped with a super sensitive and instant 67ms touch response time that keeps up with all your needs even when you are on the go, or in a rush – making this the perfect travel gear for multitaskers and globetrotters.

Loud and Clear: An Audio Experience Like No Other

The ZenFone Go also offers you added entertainment at the palm of your hands as you go about in your travels. The ZC500TG benefits from ASUS-exclusive SonicMaster technology for exceptional mobile-audio experiences. In fact, the smartphone’s ingenuous amplifier design enables the ZC500TG to deliver an output voltage that is up to 25% greater than competing smartphones.

Going the Extra Mile: But Wait, There’s More!

Photo enthusiasts and social media- savvy travelers can also enjoy the ZenFone Go’s camera functions, what with its two built-in cameras, with the main camera having an 8MP, f/2.0 lens. 

On top of these, the ASUS ZenFone Go keeps the fun rolling with a high-capacity battery that provides almost 30 hours of 3G talk time and over 10 days on standby. 

The ZC500TG also packs a powerful 1.3GHz quad core processor for superior everyday performance, and includes intelligent dual SIM, dual-active technology that lets users both deal with and switch seamlessly between business and personal needs.

Enjoy the wonderful world! Go everywhere with the ASUS ZenFone Go!

“A day of smiles” - Alden Richards imparts values to Habitat Community

Alden Richards, Habitat for Humanity Philippines Ambassador, spent time with home partner children to teach them values formation through a storytelling activity dubbed, “A day of smiles”. 

Last January 29 with Alden, full of smiles it was with the children surprised and overwhelmed with joy to see their admired celebrity spend time with them despite his busy schedule. 

One fortunate Habitat home partner family was even personally visited by Alden himself in their home; sharing stories and time about their previous living conditions and how their life has improved since moving into their new home. 

“More than an obligation, it’s what I want to do, especially every January, during my birthday. It’s a way of giving back to the people,” Alden explains. 

 “I feel happy every time I get an opportunity to help others. Nandito kasi heart ko, whenever I help sa mga nangangailangan.” 

“It’s my first time to do storytelling... [When you see] The kids listening and see them smile, in the midst of all the stress of every day, it’s the least that we can do to give them a light moment (Sic),” he adds. 

When asked what he gets out of it, he said that “It makes me more of a person, the real Alden, a real human being (Sic). It’s a break from all the showbiz and our busy schedule. At least an hour or two with the Habitat families, nakaka-eject ako for [a while]. I can be a volunteer, I can help people.”

Adding more delight to the community and making them feel more loved, Alden treated the children and their parents to McDonald’s meals. 

The Habitat community known as “Bistekville 1” in Bgy. Payatas, Quezon City, is home to more than 250 families who were previously living in unsafe informal settlements and doubling-up in rental housing. 

This time last year, Alden also held his “Birthday Build” in the same community to celebrate by sharing with others – volunteering his time to build homes.

“Alden’s support to our advocacy is truly admirable. He has dedicated time, energy and resources to helping his fellow Filipino brothers and sisters in need,” Charlie Ayco, Managing Director and CEO of Habitat Philippines said.

“His generosity is an example to all of us in how we can help build a better Philippines.”

LG Electronics (LG) today released its first-ever Super Bowl commercial featuring blockbuster actor Liam Neeson and its new LG SIGNATURE OLED TV.

LIAM NEESON TRANSPORTS TV TECHNOLOGY FROM THE FUTURE IN LG’S FIRST-EVER SUPER BOWL COMMERCIAL

With Powerhouse Filmmakers Ridley and Jake Scott at the Helm,

LG’s Super Bowl 50 Spot Delivers LG OLED TV as New Era in TV Technology

In advance of the big game, LG Electronics (LG) today released its first-ever Super Bowl commercial featuring blockbuster actor Liam Neeson and its new LG SIGNATURE OLED TV.

The commercial — father-son collaboration with Ridley Scott, executive producer, and Jake Scott, director — showcases LG’s commitment to bringing the future of television to consumers today.

The spot will focus on how LG brings future-forward home entertainment innovations to consumers today with LG’s revolutionary OLED TV technology. 

It is centered on LG’s newest flagship OLED TV, which delivers OLED technology’s superior picture quality with perfect blacks, unparalleled contrast and more colors on an elegant, stunningly slim glass panel. The uniquePicture-on-Glass design aesthetic is only possible with OLED technology.

“It’s a dynamic short film,” said renowned director and the commercial’s executive producer, Sir Ridley Scott. “It’s about the race to be on the vanguard of innovation and to be able to create tomorrow’s technology.”

Neeson’s character is “the man from the future” and is tasked with releasing the future of television to the world for the masses to enjoy today, much like LG has continued to do through its pioneering innovation in the OLED TV category.

“My character is an enigmatic man from the future who has traveled back to the present day on a very important mission,” said Neeson. “He represents that inner appeal, that curiosity we have to find out about the future.”

“The objective was to create a world you’ve never seen before or a world that was unique and specific to the OLED,” said Jake Scott, who directed the LG commercial.

LG’s commercial draws upon the expertise and creativity of two Hollywood heavy-hitters, Ridley and Jake Scott, who aren’t just known for their award-winning films but also their acclaimed commercials. Each has already left their mark on the big game with previous successes including Ridley’s iconic 1984 commercial for Macintosh and Jake’s top performing ad, Budweiser’s Lost Dog.

Adding to his ever-growing resume of entertainment gold, this will be Neeson’s second Super Bowl commercial following his famous Clash of Clans spot from last season, which was named the most viewed Super Bowl ad on YouTube. Neeson and Ridley Scott last worked together in the action-packed 2005 film, Kingdom of Heaven, and the latest LG commercial is promising to be just as electric.

“Ridley and Jake are an amazing creative team,” said Neeson. “You know you’re in good hands.”

The award-winning LG SIGNATURE OLED TV, which was recently named Best TV Product by theOfficial Best of CES® 2016 Awards presented by Engadget, is defined not only by its amazing picture quality, but also its aesthetic design. With a sophisticated OLED panel featuring an impossibly thin depth (measuring about one-tenth of an inch) with a translucent glass back and a powerful, forward-facing sound bar speaker system, it is an outstanding feat of modern engineering and design.

“At first I was struck by its form. It’s just beautifully thin, clean and simple and elegant,” said Ridley Scott.

The flagship 77- and 65-inch class LG SIGNATURE OLED TVs feature exceptional contrast and color as well as 4K Ultra HD resolution and high dynamic range (HDR) capability. Certified as UHD Premium by the UHD Alliance, the series supports the industry-standard HDR formats established by the world’s leading broadcasters, film studios and consumer electronics manufacturers, including HDR10 and DolbyVision™ technology, making them among the first to be compatible with all formats.

Unlike LCD displays where the LED backlight can only locally dim sections of the screen, each pixel on an OLED panel can switch on and off independently. As a result, OLED TVs render crisp, vibrant colors and rich shadow details, even when bright objects are directly next to deep, dark areas — unlike LCD TVs which have a halo effect from light bleeding.

Led by the dramatic new LG SIGNATURE models featured in the commercial, LG’s 2016 OLED TV lineup features four series with eight total models, each with LG’s new webOS 3.0 smart TV platform, featuring advanced new features that make finding and switching between LG’s expanded content options — including broadcast TV, streaming services and external devices – simple and fast.

For more information about LG home entertainment products, please visit http://www.lg.com/common.

​​Power Mac Center presents ‘Cinemansanas’

Announces call for entries to digital short competition.

Power Mac Center call for entries to 'Cinemansanas,' a digital short film competition using Apple devices.​

Power Mac Center's Pixelworx 'Cinemansanas​' will also​ feature a ​series of workshops ​from​ four award-winning experts in the Philippine cinema ​that include Erik Matti, ​​Yam Laranas, Ricky Lee, Mario Cornejo and Monster Jimenez. 

Premier Apple reseller Power Mac Center launches Cinemansanas, a campaign for aspiring and established artists who have a vision in storytelling through film in the digital age. Cinemansanas is the second installment of Pixelworx, Power Mac Center’s advocacy of recognizing artists who break the standards of the art scene. It is celebrated with a series of workshops, live demos, and an ultimate art challenge.

This year, Cinemansanas dares artists to defy convention and create a short film using Apple devices. The digital short competition calls for short film entries with the theme “Designing for a Bold New World.” Entries may be executed in any form, i.e.,documentary, narrative fiction, and the like as long as they are original and shot and edited using Apple devices.

The contest has two main categories. The Student Category is open to all officially enrolled High School and College/University students while the Professional Category is for local residents. All finalists in the Student and Professional categories will qualify to win the People’s Choice Award.

Power Mac Center aims to honor the brightest and best local talents in contemporary creativity further by participating at the Adobo Design Awards Asia (ADAA) Open/Theme category: Digital Short Film. Student entries are automatically eligible to win the much coveted ADAA recognition (Student category) while professionals will have to pay a nominal fee of Php500 for their category.

“Power Mac Center challenges everyone to reconnect with their inner artist. We need a new breed of storytellers now and with the amazing things you can do on the iPad and iPhone, the only limit is your creativity,” said Joey Alvarez, Marketing Director of Power Mac Center.

The Student Category Diamond Award winner will receive Php30,000 worth of Power Mac Center Gift Cards, while the Professional Category Diamond Award winner will take home Php50,000 worth of Power Mac Center Gift Cards. Runners-up in both categories will get Power Mac Center Gift Cards and products as well. Meanwhile, special prizes await winners of the Adobo Design Award for Digital Short (Student and Professional categories) and the People’s Choice Award.

The deadline for submission of entries is on March 20, 2016. For the registration form and full contest mechanics, visit www.powermaccenter.com.

As in the previous year, Pixelworx Cinemansanas will feature a series of workshops led by brand ambassadors, as well as live demo sessions in select Power Mac Center stores. This year’s workshops will showcase some of the country’s premier figures in the film industry.

The chosen Pixelworx ambassadors are Erik Matti for Direction, Yam Laranas for Cinematography, Ricky Lee for Scriptwriting, and Mario Cornejo and Monster Jimenez for Film Production. It is a rare opportunity to have these distinguished film artists share their unconventional way of visual storytelling to equip participants with valuable skills that can help in their own filmmaking.

Apart from the workshops, also scheduled are in-store activities featuring live demonstrations of apps used for filmmaking. Topics include Digital Filmmaking with iMovie, Musical Scoring with GarageBand, and Final Cut Pro X for Mac OS. This will show how Apple devices can be used as instruments in crafting in any chosen medium, particularly in creating film masterpieces.

Interested participants may check the Power Mac Center social media accounts for the online registration announcement.

For more information, visit any Power Mac Center branch, or go towww.powermaccenter.com or call 855-8888.

Open Call Auditions in Manila for Miss Saigon

Cameron Mackintosh announces Open Call Auditions in Manila for various upcoming global productions of Miss Saigon, the record breaking production that is taking London by storm and opens on Broadway in 2017. Auditions will be represented and facilitated in Manila by Bobby Garcia and Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group (ATEG) and held at the Opera Haus (3657 Bautista St., Makati City), in March. 

“Miss Saigon’s producing and creative team will be flying in from London to hold auditions for various upcoming global productions of the hit musical. I look forward to working with them in discovering a new generation of Filipino talent to shine on the international stage in Miss Saigon the way Lea Salonga, Joanna Ampil, JonJon Briones and Rachelle Ann Go, among many others, have in the past.” says Garcia.,who was also an Associate Director for Miss Saigon.

“We are searching for Kim, The Engineer, Thuy, Gigi and all Asian Roles in the musical. From leads to ensemble, from singers to acrobatic dancers, we encourage performers throughout the Asian region to come to Manila and audition for Miss Saigon.” added Garcia.

Trevor Jackson, Head of Casting for Cameron Mackintosh, said "Since casting for Miss Saigon began in the mid 1980's the Philippines has been integral to the show as a place to find exceptional Asian performers of World Class ability. Our teams have been returning regularly ever since. Filipino artists are the heart and soul of this show.”

"Miss Saigon,” a sung-through musical, features music by "Les Misérables" collaborators Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil, and lyrics by Boublil and "Closer Than Ever's" Richard Maltby, Jr. with additional lyrics by Michael Mahler, based on Giacomo Puccini's popular opera "Madame Butterfly.”

Audition requirements will be announced soon.

For more information contact (0995) 534-8371 or like the MISS SAIGON 2016 AUDITIONS page on Facebook.

Having an All-in-One mindset

Having a home base business, (on-line marketing, service provider, and others) makes HP Desk Jet Ink Advantage 3635 All-in-One Printer a convenient partner with its wireless connection. 

You can print anytime, while doing some of your business and household chores.

Desk Jet Ink Advantage 3635 All-in-One Printer is low cost and multi-purpose printing. It is a good choice for small businesses and home offices. A value for money, a good investment for all your printing and paperwork needs.

With HP, mothers like me who are always busy attending business and personal events, can make sure that all my printing needs (business correspondents, business proposals, and personal letters) are conveniently met with low-cost cartridges, seamless printing with the quiet mode, instant access through wireless connection at the comfort of your home. 

They are also protecting their own gadgets (USB/hard drive) against viruses that can be present in computer shops. Most shops also close around dinner time, since the ones that offer a 24/7 service are usually only gaming hubs. Thus, last-minute printing late at night can be a problem. 

Having a printer at home also encourages kids to be more creative as most of the home works nowadays entail internet reference and various formats that need to be manipulated with ease using your own machines. Mom’s can also save money on ink since having to control the settings with your own printer (draft mode) can be more beneficial compared to a shop’s standard and more expensive printing costs. 

HP Desk Jet Ink Advantage 3635 All-in-One printer, basically is your one-stop-convenient companion for all your printing, scanning, and copying requirements. 

It is a 24/7 printing service right there in your home. convenient companion for all your printing, scanning, and copying requirements.