Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Company Launches Green Footprints Movement

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Leading air conditioning and refrigeration solutions provider Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC), through its subsidiary Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Company (CCAC), has launched the Green Footprints Movement, in line with its thrust to drive the conversation about climate change,

The Green Footprints Movements, CIC's advocacy aims to galvanize the general public into action towards reducing their environment footprint.

CIC Chief Executive Officer Raul Joseph Concepcion

“As the most encompassing environmental issue facing us today, climate change must be everyone’s agenda” said CIC Chief Executive Officer Raul Joseph Concepcion.

“For CIC, we aim to strengthen our commitment to a sustainable future by driving greater awareness and understanding of climate change and global warming among consumers and other stakeholders, and enabling access to green choices that will enable consumers to reduce their environmental footprint.”

The Green Footprints Movement launched held at the Blackbird, Neilson Tower, Makati City, March 10, 2016. 

A call for green advocates

CCAC’s Green Footprints Movement serves as a clarion call to the public to become green advocates.

Harold Pernikar, Jr., CCAC Director and Head of the Consumer Solutions Group. 

“We want the public to be able to connect their everyday actions and decisions with its environmental impact,” shared Harold Pernikar, Jr., CCAC Director and Head of the Consumer Solutions Group.

“This consciousness, we believe, will lead them to make environmental impact an important consideration and value in everything they do or use.”

Central to the Green Footprints Movement is creating awareness through consumer education, with the campaign focused on making information on environmental impact reduction available to a wider audience.

“Our goal is to provide the public with the knowledge of how they can make small, practical changes that will have significant effect on their own footprints, such as the responsible use of electricity and even making more sensible selections when it comes to the products they use in their homes,” said Pernikar.

A long-standing commitment to the environment

The Green Footprints Movement is a testament to CIC’s long-standing commitment to the environment, having led its industry in exercising responsible stewardship by employing best green practices and conducting their operations in a manner that safeguards the environment.

“Environmental health and safety is and has always been a key core value of CIC, and this is evident in the way we manage our business,” stated Concepcion, who noted how the company has leveraged on technology to create green facilities. “A crucial first step is cultivating a culture of sustainability within the company itself, which is why we have always been mindful of our own environmental impact, looking at our own performance in terms of recycling, water and waste consumption, and setting goals to reduce our footprint year after year.”

CCAC also recognizes that the public must have greater access to environment-friendly products so that they can make greener choices. It was the first Philippine manufacturer to convert its refrigerators to use environment-friendly refrigerants back in 1995, and is once again leading the industry for its air conditioning solutions.

“Ninety-six percent of our air conditioning products have already been converted to using environmentally responsive refrigerants, and we expect to make a 100% product conversion within the year,” said Pernikar, who also shared that the switch is being made ahead of the global deadlines set by the Montreal Protocol, which established a timeline for the eventual elimination of ozone-depleting substances.

“Part of the private sector’s responsibility goes beyond compliance with standards and regulations -- it’s in rising to the challenge of offering practical, green products through constant innovation and investment,” Pernikar added.

Advocates Marc Nelson and Christine Dychiao  share their example and some steps on how people can take to help save the environment.

By enabling the public to become more aware that each and every action they make today can have lasting effects on the planet’s future, CIC and CCAC aspire to empower the public to make smarter and greener choices. 

“As we enjoin people to commit to reducing their collective environmental footprint through the Green Footprints Movement,” said Concepcion, "we believe we can create a significant impact towards creating a better, safer environment for the next generations.

"Look out for our badge. Look out for our promise. Today represents our big start,." Pernikar, Jr.said.

Let's save our Earth, Save our Mother Nature. Be Responsible....Be an advocate. Through our own efforts, no matter how big or small, we can help save the environment. - @Myrns.Roman

Home Credit keeps its momentum going

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Different shoppers have different spending habits. If you’re the type to prefer managed spending through installments but do not have or do not want to use a credit card, this may be the perfect solution for you. Now more Filipinos can purchase the gadgets, appliances and other electronics that they need to make life more convenient at affordable installments through Home Credit Philippines. 

Following its success in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces in Luzon, Home Credit Philippines, an international consumer finance company, heeded the demand from customers and partners, and recently expanded its operations to Cebu City and Pampanga to make its financing services available to more consumers.

“At Home Credit, our aim is to allow consumers to afford the things that they need to live a better life. While some of these products may seem heavy on the pocket at the onset, we offer affordable installment plans that will allow them to make a purchase and take home the goods right then and there. One of the best things about it, aside from the no-fuss process, is that there is no need for a credit card,” said David Minol, CEO of Home Credit Philippines.

Availing of Home Credit Installment is easy, simple and fast. Everyone can apply by presenting at least two valid IDs, completing an application form, and paying the downpayment. Applications are then processed within 30 minutes, after which, shoppers can leave the store with their purchased goods.

“Our expansion to Cebu and Pampanga is a huge milestone for us as we’ve always identified these areas as key destinations where we think our financing services will be of great advantage. We’re very excited now that we’re able to help more customers with their purchases,” Minol added.

First established in the country in 2013, Home Credit has already served close to 200,000 customers who have purchased different products including tablets, flat screen TVs, mobile phones, and home appliances such as air conditioners and refrigerators at varying installment arrangements. 

As part of the expansion, Home Credit began its operations in Cebu City on January 20, 2016 in Ayala Center Cebu and later expanded to SM Cebu with SM Appliances, Automatic Centre, MemoXpress and Rulls as its initial partners among others.

Meanwhile, Home Credit began its operations in Pampanga on January 25, 2016 in SM Pampanga with its partner retailers including Samsung, MemoXpress, Asianic, Robinson Appliances, SM Appliances, 

Silicon Valley and Rulls. Now, Home Credit is also available in SM San Fernando Downtown, SM Clark, Robinson StarMills, Robinson’s Angeles, and Marque Mall Angeles.

In Metro Manila, Home Credit has retail partners in almost all major malls including Ali Mall, Cash and Carry, Eastwood, Fairview Terraces, Festival Mall, Fisher Mall, Gateway Mall, Glorietta, Market Market, Pure Gold, Robinsons, SM Malls, Starmall, Trinoma and Vira Mall among others. Partners include Acer, Automatic Centre, Lenovo, MemoXpress, MyPhone, Oppo, Samsung, Silicon Valley, SM Appliance, Robinsons Appliances, and many more.

Now present in close to a thousand retail stores in the Philippines, Home Credit is gearing up for further expansion to other areas in the Philippines. To know more about Home Credit and find a list of partner retail stores nearest to you, please visit www.homecredit.ph.

Now available in more locations nationwide, 

Home Credit helps you get the things you need at affordable installments

Healthy lifestyles: The doctor is always in with MediCard’s My Pocket Doctor

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Let your health top your 2016 priority. 

MediCard, a leading health maintenance organization (HMO) provider, gives a time-saving and convenient option to get medical consultations anytime, anywhere with the My Pocket Doctor. 

Dr. Nicky Montoya, president of MediCard Philippines, says:

“My Pocket Doctor is definitely a game changer especially in the medical field. It is also our way of using modernized technology to make medical consultations handy for everyone. With less waiting time, patients can now get in touch easily with a medical doctor and get consultations instantly, at the comfort of their homes or offices.”

To use My Pocket Doctor, simply register on the My Pocket Doctor website (mypocketdoctor.com) or via the app through the App Store or Google Play Store and wait for an activation link with username and password.  

Users can also register via text by sending their email address and cellphone number to 29290DOCTOR (or 2929036-2867) and wait for a call from a nurse to complete their one-time registration. 

After registration, a nurse will call the member for assessment to schedule the consultation with one of their doctors. A medical doctor will call the patient for a check-up and give prescriptions or instructions. Video call via webcam can also be done during medical consultation for cases that need visual assessment such as skin rashes. 

My Pocket Doctor has highly competent, well-trained and unbiased medical doctors from Europe and Philippines who can cover up to 70% of all health issues in a consultation and are available 24/7, ensuring members an accessible and credible medical service. 

The MediCard My Pocket Doctor Card is for sale at P450 at select MediCard free-standing clinics. Soon, the card will be also sold online through MediCard’s online store.

Always be healthy, be wise.

Award winning Filipino dance troop to perform at World Culture Festival

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The multi-awarded dancers from Leyte’s Buyogan festival to perform at world’s largest gathering for global peace and The Art of Living Foundation’s 35th year Anniversary

Over a hundred cultural performers from the multi-award Buyogan Festival from Leyte have been invited to perform at the upcoming World Culture Festival. 

The World Culture Festival is the largest gathering the world has ever seen, attracting millions from different cultures, nations and faiths uniting under the resounding message of One World Family. The group’s attendance will mark the first time that a representative from the Philippines will grace the global event which will be held on March 11-13, 2016 in New Delhi, India.

The Buyogan Festival is a group of cultural performers from Leyte, which was critically impacted by Typhoon Yolanda three years ago. They have won several championships at the Sinulog Festival and are proud to represent the nation in this historic event.

They have choreographed a special performance which is a tribute to the world for their help after Typhoon Hayien and also showing the resilience of the Filipinos moving from devastation to rehabilitation and to celebration.

The WCF is part of the 35^th anniversary celebration of The Art of Living, a global movement founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

Speaking on this grand celebration, World Culture Festival 2016, The Art of Living founder, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said, "We are a part of one humanity and we express ourselves differently through music, art and food. Celebrating our diverse cultures binds us together and expands our perspectives. The World Culture Festival emphasizes on co-existence, demonstrating the power of peace by bringing millions of people together. It is an opportunity for world leaders from cultural, social, political, business fields to come together to rekindle human values in the pursuit of happiness and peace."

​​The Art of Living is looking for generous benefactors and sponsors who would like to contribute and make the dream of the award-winning Buyogan Festival cultural performers to travel to India a reality.

The Buyogan Festival is a fiesta that is celebrated in the coastal town of Abuyong in Leyte, where the local buyog or bees take the spotlight as vibrant bee dancers perform during a grand parade. No doubt, it would be a shining moment for Tacloban—an area that has been reeling from challenges in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda—its people, and our nation as we showcase the best of the Philippines to the world.

‘World Culture Festival' (WCF) is expected to host millions of people from over 155 countries in New Delhi. The event is supported by the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Tourism and the Government of India.

 The 3-day grand festival will have a massive 7-acre stage to seat thousands of artists, dignitaries and guests as they witness the staging of a most impressive variety of music, dances and other art forms from India and across the globe, with the vision of preserving them for future generations. On all three days of the festival, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will lead a ‘Peace Meditation’ which would be joined by millions from across the globe.  

Individuals and organizations who wish to know more on how they can support may call Kim Hartman at 0917 8480063. 

More info can be found at The Art of Living Philppines Facebook page, #wcf2016 #worldculturefestival. 

Help fund the initiative online at www.tinyurl.com/BuyoganToWCF. Learn more about the Art of Living at: www.artofliving.org or call 0917-840-0049  (02) 622-2566 for inquiries.

Several graduates of the Art of Living programs as well as those who are simply interested to be part of a Global Peace effort are also making plans to represent the Philippines and attend this historic event. Filipinos who have been keen to visit India may also see this as a great opportunity. The Art of Living Foundation can help with tour packages and travel arrangements.

About The Art of Living:

The Art of Living Foundation, founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in 1981, is a global movement, rekindling human values in the pursuit of happiness and peace. It works to bring peace at the level of the individual, society, nation and the world as a whole. Its areas of work cover conflict resolution, disaster and trauma relief, poverty alleviation, empowerment of women, prisoner rehabilitation, education for all, campaigns against female foeticide and environment sustainability. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is a universally revered spiritual and humanitarian leader. His vision of a violence-free, stress-free society through the reawakening of human values has inspired millions to broaden their spheres of responsibility and work towards the betterment of the world. 

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is engaged in peace negotiations and counselling in conflict zones around the world. His peace initiatives in Sri Lanka, Iraq, the Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Kashmir and Bihar have been widely acknowledged.  Present in 155​ countries, The Art of Living formulates and implements lasting solutions to conflicts and issues faced by individuals, communities and nations.  Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has reached out to an estimated 370 million people worldwide through personal interactions, public events, teachings, Art of Living workshops and humanitarian initiatives.

Learn more about this amazing event at www.worldculturefestival.com or call Kim Hartman at 0917 8480063 or 0917 8105990 for more info on how to join the Philippine delegation traveling to India.

Website: www.worldculturefestival.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/wcf2016

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheWorldCultureFestival

Health : Five simple ways to love your lungs

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Lung cancer is not just a smoker’s disease

(An educational article sponsored by MSD.)

Though the World Health Organization (WHO) has identified tobacco use as the cause of 70 percent of lung cancer deaths, those who do not smoke are equally at risk of developing the disease. A study conducted on Asian patients with advanced adenocarcinoma affecting the lungs has even shown that non-smokers have a higher chance of forming tumors compared with regular smokers.1

According to the WHO, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide.2The same is true in the Philippines where it is the top cancer killer among Filipino men, and the second most common cancer killer among Filipino women.3 Aside from tobacco use, lung cancer may develop due to family history, exposure to industrial and chemical carcinogens, as well as indoor and outdoor air pollution. The WHO also identifies unhealthy habits as a leading cause of cancer.4

“There is a popular notion that lung cancer is a smoker’s disease, but even those who are already leading healthy and active lifestyles may still be exposed to its other risk factors,” said Dr. Ena Ang of MSD Oncology. “That is why vigilance is necessary to protect ourselves against lung cancer.”

For smokers, quitting is the necessary first step to avoiding cancer. As for non-smokers, certain habits and practices can help minimize risk for the disease. Below are just some of these to ensure good lung health:

1. Avoid heavily polluted areas

Increased exposure to particulate matter and air pollution increases the likelihood of lung cancer, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Particulate matter (PM) refers to a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air, emitted from sources such as construction sites, power plants, industries, automobiles, and fireworks.5

If you work in or near areas that emit large volumes of PM, wearing protective equipment is advised. If you can’t avoid going to heavily polluted areas, you can wear a mask recommended or provided by your doctor.6

2. Keep indoor air clean

Indoor air pollution from solid fuels like wood, charcoal, and coal used for cooking causes approximately 17 percent of annual premature lung cancer deaths in adults, according to the WHO.7Households can reduce this risk by switching to cooking technologies that are safer to human health. Because homes are also susceptible to outdoor particulate matter due to air leaks, air purifiers are recommended to improve indoor air quality.8

3. Eat more fruit and vegetables

Diet plays a central role in keeping the body healthy against diseases, including cancer. Fruits and vegetables contain fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help fight off cancer, while diets heavy in protein and fat increase the risk for the disease.9Regular exercise, as well as abstinence from tobacco and alcohol, maximizes the benefits of a healthy diet.

4. Exercise more

According to the National Cancer Institute of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, physically active individuals have a lower chance of developing lung cancer by up to 20 percent.10If you already exercise regularly, it’s important to avoid working out in or near heavily polluted areas to keep your lungs safe and healthy.

5. Seek medical assistance for symptoms

In many cases, lung cancer is already in the advanced stages by the time it is diagnosed as the symptoms are often mistaken for common illnesses. An early symptom of the disease can be as simple as a cough. When you experience shortness of breath, chest pains, fatigue, and loss of weight and appetite, see a doctor right away. Coughing up blood is already a serious sign that could indicate advanced lung cancer.

Immediate diagnosis could prompt early action especially if the cancer is still in its early stages. This does not mean, however, that the disease is no longer manageable once it is already advanced. At this point, advanced treatment options are available to help in managing Stage 4 lung cancer to increase the rate of survival.

1 A Prospective, Molecular Epidemiology Study of EGFR Mutations in Asian Patients with Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer of Adenocarcinoma Histology (2014)http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4132036/ Accessed January 28 2016.

2 World Health Organization http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs297/en/ Accessed January 28, 2016

3 Globocan 2012 http://globocan.iarc.fr/Pages/fact_sheets_population.aspx Accessed January 28, 2016

4 World Health Organization http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs297/en/Accessed January 28, 2016

5 United States Environmental Protection Agency http://www3.epa.gov/airquality/particlepollution/basic.html Accessed January 28, 2016

6 Cleveland Clinichttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases_conditions/hic_Understanding_COPD/hic_Preventing_Respiratory_Infection_and_Avoiding_IrritantsAccessed January 28, 2016

7 World Health Organizationhttp://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs292/en/ Accessed January 28, 2016

8 Vijayan, V. K., Paramesh, H., Salvi, S. S., & Dalal, A. A. K. (2015). Enhancing indoor air quality –The air filter advantage. Lung India : Official Organ of Indian Chest Society, 32(5), 473–479. http://doi.org/10.4103/0970-2113.164174

9 Healwithfood.org http://www.healwithfood.org/lungcancer/diet.php Accessed January 28,2016

10 National Cancer Institute http://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/obesity/physical-activity-fact-sheet#q7Accessed January 28, 2016

The Voice Season 10 welcomes the return of Judge Cristina Aguilera

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Sweet and feisty Cristina Aguilera returns to one of the chairs for the tenth season of the Voice. Staying put also are its male judges: Blake Shelton, Adam Levine and Pharrell Williams.

Flying high from fantastic ratings from Season 9, this latest installment promises to once again keep its audience at the edge of their seats as it showcases the best singing talent across the USA. Watch as each judge take tips from their own phenomenal careers and use them to mentor every competitor in the show.

Still known to be the show that revolutionized singing competitions across the globe, The Voice enjoys critical acclaim and a loyal worldwide following.

The All New Season 10 airing every Tuesday and Wednesday 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

Celebrate National Flip-Flops Day with Havaianas!

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Check this out! Havaianas is officially opening summer as we celebrate National Flip-Flops Day on March 11.

It's hot in the Philippines most of the time but there's still something about summer that makes it a season to look forward to. The backdrop is more vibrant and the skies appear to be bluer.

Summer also has another meaning for every Havaianatico - National Flip-Flops Day is coming! Every year, Havaianas is front and center in officially welcoming the most beautiful season. On March 11, 2016, everyone is invited to join in the fun of wearing Havaianas wherever you're headed to! 

As we say hello to brighter and more laid back days, Havaianas is treating you to a full day of festivities and special offers: 

20% OFF!!!

Life is truly better in flip-flops and Havaianas is giving you a sweet deal so you can grab a new pair for the summer season. All flip-flop styles are on a 20% discount just for one day at select participating retailers nationwide. Too busy to go out? Get your flip-flop fix at shophavaianas.ph. Free shipping on all orders just on National Flip-Flops Day. 

Havaianas Foot Truck

This year's National Flip-Flops Day promises to be more exciting as we bring you the Havaianas Foot Truck! Touring around some parts of the Metro, this truck will surely bring new levels of Havaianas joy! Receive a complimentary flip-float just by taking an individual or group selfie by the Havaianas Foot Truck and uploading it on Instagram with the hashtag #NationalFlipFlopsDayPH. Simply visit the truck and get to cool down with a Havaianas popsicle! Talk about great deals on wheels!

In-store treats

Sweet treats are also up for grabs through-out the day at selected All Flip-Flops stores and Havaianas retailers. To get the celebration going, a complimentary milkshake from Cupcakes by Sonja will be distributed in All Flip-Flops Trinoma, Megamall and BHS. The sweet treats don't stop there, shoppers who will pass by later in the day will get complimentary LED cotton candy sticks. 

Summer Getaway Bag

This summer, it's time to chase your adventures with Havaianas! For 2 regular-priced pairs or Php 1,500.00 worth of Havaianas merchandise, customers can avail of the bag for only Php 395.00. 

Selfeet contest 

Upload your most creative selfeet on Instagram and be 1 of the lucky 5 winners to receive a special prize from Havaianas. 

For the full mechanics and updates regarding National Flip-Flops Day, check out HavaianasPhilippines on facebook, and @havaianasphils on Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat with the #nationalflipflopsdayph hashtag. To shop online, visit www.shophavaianas.ph.

Fine Japan’s Premium HyC150 formulation wins the 2015 Monde Selection International High Quality Award

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 Premium HyC150, touted as the country’s modern-day “fountain of youth,” recently showcased its world-class quality formula of Hyaluron & Collagen + Ubiquinol by winning the International High Quality Trophy under the Diet and Health selection during the Monde Selection Quality Awards for 2015.

Fine Japan’s Premium HyC150 sold only in the Philippine market

The International High Quality Trophy is awarded to a product after having achieved three consecutive years of high level of quality and a grand gold and/or gold award, which HyC150 already achieved since its introduction in the Philippines. HyC150’s superior “lifting” formula regains youthful vitality in your skin by renewing its elasticity and firmness. As Fine’s newest conceptualization, its lifting supplement aims to incorporate skin and body beauty into your daily lifestyle effortlessly and effectively. 

Fine Japan’s Hyaluron, Collagen+Ubiqui

HyC150 also won the prestigious Monde Selection Gold Award in 2014. Monde Selection, created in 1961, is an annual non-competitive award open to food and drink products. It is run by the commercial company, International Institute for Quality Selections, based in Brussels, Belgium. Consumer products are tasted and tested in order to grant them a quality label. Monde Selection states that “this bronze, silver, gold or grand gold quality label can be compared to the quality stars of a hotel or those of the Michelin Guide.”

The award thus highlighted HyC150’s proven effectiveness in improving overall health and restoring undeniable youthfulness that emanates from within.

HyC150, manufactured by FINE Japan Co., Ltd., has since become the Filipina woman’s secret weapon when it comes to looking young and vibrant, living a physically fit life, and a “feel good and confident” mentality overall. It provides the modern Filipina of today the ability to stay beautiful inside and out, and the vigor and vivacity to help her get through a busy and challenging day whether at work or at home.

Potent supplement drink HyC 150 contains three youth-inducing elements to achieve overall health and vitality: Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, and Ubiquinol, plus other active ingredients such as Vitamin C, Biotin, Elastin and Pearl Coix.

Collagen, one of the plentiful proteins in the body, is found in the skin, muscle, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and bones and keeps the body structurally sound since 70 percent of our skin is composed of collagen.

Hyaluronic Acid, on the other hand, is nature’s moisturizer. It nourishes and hydrates the skin so it looks younger than ever, plus lubricates joints and eye tissues, regenerates healthy gums, plus supports, nourishes and hydrates the scalp for healthy and glistening hair. It even aids in the absorption of nutrients in the body and helps regulate protein for better wound healing.

Finally, Ubiquinol is the body’s natural protector and fighter against harmful environmental toxins that may enter the body. It also helps keep the body’s vessel walls, nerve tissue and organ linings from weakening due to physical stress, pollution, poor diet and the usual physical “wear-and-tear” due to advancing age.

This unique supplement drink is thus far the only beverage that excellently fuses together these three potent ingredients to give unmatched benefits to the body. According to clinical studies done in Japan, North America, and Europe, around 93 percent of users stated marked improvements in their bodies when it comes to their hair, nails and skin with continued use.

HyC150 is manufactured by FINE Japan Co. Ltd. and is distributed in the Philippines by Bright Ray Enterprises. For more information, visit our website at www.HyC150.com; “Like” us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/HyC150); follow us on Twitter (#HyC150) or Instagram (@HyC150), or call (02) 5467297, 09177750779. HyC150 is available at selected Watsons stores nationwide and online at Lazada (www.lazada.com.ph). 

"Mahalagang Paalala: Ang HyC150 ay hindi gamot at hindi dapat gamiting panggamot sa anumang uri ng sakit."

Singapore Airlines first to introduce 'Companion App' for Inflight Entertainment System

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Singapore Airlines is raising the travel experience to an exciting new level with the introduction of a first-of-its-kind mobile application that offers customers greater control over their in-flight entertainment (IFE) experience - even before boarding the aircraft.

The companion app, which was developed for Singapore Airlines by Mobile Travel Technologies (MTT) in conjunction with Panasonic Avionics, enables customers to review the IFE video and audio content that will be available on their flight, create pre-selected favourites lists, and control the seat-back IFE system – all using their personal electronic devices. The app is now available on iOS and Android tablets, with availability on iOS and Android mobile phones in the second quarter of 2016.

Sample Screenshots of How to Access Companion App

To make use of the app, customers can install the SingaporeAir tablet application on their device prior to the aircraft’s departure. Once on board, they can link their device to the IFE system using the aircraft’s in-flight WiFi network. Connecting to KrisWorld, the Airline’s award-winning IFE system, will then allow for movies, TV shows or music to be launched on the seat monitor, directly from their list of favourites or from the entire media list. 

Linking the app to the IFE system also enables the personal device to be used as a remote control, to pause, play, or skip through media content. SIA will be the first airline in the world to enable this on a Panasonic in-flight entertainment system. Customers will be able to multi-task, thereby maximising their experience of KrisWorld, such as by browsing through the index of KrisWorld content on their device while watching a movie on the seat monitor. Customers can even access real-time information on the flight progress and flight path without interrupting their movie viewing.

Current features of the companion app will initially be available on the Airline’s new fleet of Airbus A350-900s, with plans to progressively roll it out to the Boeing 777-300ERs and other aircraft in future.

“With the proliferation of personal mobile devices and the arrival of our new Airbus A350 fleet, this latest innovation will help enhance the in-flight entertainment experience for our customers,” said Singapore Airlines Senior Vice President Product and Services, Mr Tan Pee Teck. 

“It offers more information and greater control both on the ground and in-flight, and we are excited to be the first airline in the world to offer such an application to our customers.”

Singapore Airlines’ KrisWorld IFE system offers up to 295 movies, over 470 TV programmes and more than 450 CD albums each month.

Western Digital Expands its Hard Drives and External Storage Solutions to 8TB

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New Line of Storage Solutions Feature HelioSeal Technology for Optimal Performance, High Capacity and Added Reliability for NAS, Surveillance

and Personal Storage

Western Digital Corporation, a world leader in storage solutions, today announced the expansion of its award-winning portfolio of performance storage solutions with 8TB capacity drives for NAS, video surveillance and desktop external applications. Increasingly centralized, rich-content, which continues to grow in popularity among enterprises, small business and consumers alike, is driving demand for greater storage capacities. 

Launching throughout the first half of 2016, My Cloud® personal storage devices (My Cloud, My Cloud Mirror, My Cloud EX2 Ultra), My Book® external hard drives (My Book, My Book for Mac, My Book Duo and My Book Pro), WD Red®, WD Red Pro and WD Purple™ hard drives will all be designed with the new high-capacity configuration. Each storage solution offers purpose-driven engineering and HelioSeal™ helium-technology with the new 8TB drives for maximum and efficient performance in the applications for which each model is designed.

“We are committed to integrating high-performance, high-capacity and high-quality drives into all of our solutions,” said Brendan Collins, vice president of product marketing, Western Digital Corporation. “No matter what market or application, we have a solution - whether it’s for small businesses, channel partners, enterprises or end-users. Our goal is to deliver the best and most competitive solutions on the market.”

The increase to 8TB or 16TB (with two 8TB drives in RAID 0) capacity applies to the following WD products:

External Hard Drives

• My Book/My Book for Mac -– An external hard drive solution that provides complete backup and storage with USB connectivity.
• My Book Duo/My Book Pro – Dual-drive external hard drive solutions which provide ultra-fast storage in RAID-0 and complete backup and storage with USB and/or Thunderbolt connectivity and up to 16TB capacity.
• My Cloud/My Cloud Mirror – A personal storage device that plugs into your router at home to provide consumers with their very own private cloud.
• My Cloud EX2 Ultra – As part of the creative professional series of My Cloud products, the My Cloud EX2 Ultra provides high-performance two-bay network attached storage.

Internal Hard Drives

• WD Purple – Engineered for 24/7, always-on, high-definition surveillance security systems that use up to eight hard drives and up to 32 cameras
• WD Red – Optimized for personal, home and small business NAS (network attached storage) systems
• WD Red Pro – Optimized for small business and enterprise class NAS systems with high performance and reliability.

Availability and Pricing

My Book 8TB will be available in March at select retailers and distributors in the Philippines. Manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the My Book 8TB (model #: WDBFJK0080HBK) is Php 15,900.

My Cloud, My Book for Mac, My Book Duo, My Book Pro, WD Red and WD Purple 8TB configurations will be available during the first half of 2016. More information about the WD product line, 8TB capacity, and terms of the limited warranty may be found on the company website at www.wdc.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements, including statements relating to the approximate price and estimated availability later this year of the My Cloud, My Book for Mac, My Book Duo, My Book Pro, WD Red and WD Purple 8TB configurations and the growth of storage capacity needs. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, risks that would impact the estimated availability of products and other risks detailed from time-to-time in our Securities and Exchange Commission filings and reports, including, but not limited to, our most recent annual report on Form 10-K to which your attention is directed. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak as of the date hereof, and WD undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

About Western Digital

Founded in 1970, Western Digital Corp. (NASDAQ: WDC), Irvine, Calif., is an industry-leading developer and manufacturer of storage solutions that enable people to create, manage, experience and preserve digital content. It is a long-time innovator in the storage industry. Western Digital Corporation is responding to changing market needs by providing a full portfolio of compelling, high-quality storage products with effective technology deployment, high efficiency, flexibility and speed. Its products are marketed under the HGST and WD brands to OEMs, distributors, resellers, cloud infrastructure providers and consumers. Financial and investor information is available on the company’s Investor Relations website at investor.wdc.com.

Get the best out of the new Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge with the Globe myLifestyle Plan

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Globe customers get it first via the portal now up and ready to take pre-orders

Coming from the recent Philippine launch of the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, the undisputed leader in postpaid, Globe, is now gearing up to welcome the newest smartphone models that will be available through its innovative and customizable myLifestyle postpaid plans. 

Sustaining its leadership in the digital lifestyle, Globe has fired up its pre-order portal to serve new and existing postpaid customers via http://globe.com.ph/S7. Within the site, customers can already pre-order their preferred Samsung smartphone model, along with their name, mobile number, and e-mail address. This way, Globe can already process in advance upon completion of requirements, and release the new phones as early as March 14, 2016 for those renewing their postpaid plans. 

“The new Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 edge exemplify how a smartphone truly becomes a part of one’s everyday life. The Galaxy S7 and S7 edge with groundbreaking form and features are designed to be the perfect device for any adventure. Paired with the myLifestyle Plans’ customizable content bundles, customers will be able to fully maximize and enjoy what these 2 new smartphones have to offer,” shares Globe Vice President for Postpaid Business Erli Magtubo-Valdez. 

On the Globe myLifestyle plan, customers can get a hold of the Galaxy S7 on Plan 1499 with a P500 monthly cash-out and the Galaxy S7 edge on Plan 1999 with a P600 monthly cash-out, both on a 24-month contract period. 

Customers can stream faster, share more, and surf longer, with an upgraded 10 GB of mobile data for both plans alongside free Facebook, Viber and Instagram for 24 months and free 3-month access to Spotify Premium, HOOQ, and select mobile games such as Clash of Clans, Candy Crush Pop, and Hay Day. One can also stay connected 24/7 with the built-in unlimited calls and texts to Globe and TM. 

Wonderful surprises also await customers renewing their plans. At Plan 2499 they get the Samsung Galaxy S7 for FREE! The Samsung in-ear headphones are also free exclusively for those who will renew their postpaid plan. 

The new Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 edge are ideal for exciting and extreme adventures, both being IP68 water and dust resistant in up to 1.5 meters of water and for up to 30 minutes protection against dust ingress. Both have a DSLR like Real Pixel Camera that is the world’s 1st dual photodiode sensor (2PD) in mobile that provides superfast autofocus. The new models also promise brighter and clearer images with f/1.7 lens and faster shutter speed that minimizes motion blur. 

Available in Black Onyx and Gold, each have an expandable memory up to 200GB and faster processor, smoother graphics, 4GB RAM and a larger battery and faster charging. The S7 edge also enhanced its Dual edge display with the all new task edge that provides shortcuts to the most used functions. 

Finally the new smartphones allow users to experience an expanded Galaxy Ecosystem with Gear VR compatibility for a virtual reality experience and Gear S2 compatibility for on-the-go convenience. 

With different passions and varying digital lifestyles, customers can create their own myLifestyle Plan through various lifestyle packs that are attuned to diverse needs whether for work or play. Customers can choose from a variety of lifestyle packs ranging from Entertainment, Music, Life, Productivity and Social bundles that allow access to an assortment of all-time favorite apps. 

The new Samsung Smartphones will be available in Globe stores nationwide starting March 19, 2016. To know more about how you can create your own myLifestyle plan visit www.globe.com.ph/postpaid/mylifestyleplan

Honour From Opportunity: A Scholar’s Journey

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Recently, a Civil Engineering student from Adamson University here in Manila, John Daryl Pitcheller was given the honour of presenting his ground-breaking research on PVC Waste at the International Conference on the Environmental Quality Concern (EQC) in the National Kaohsiung Marine University, Taiwan. 

In his presentation, entitled Waste Polyvinyl Chloride as Tensile Reinforcement to Asphalt Pavement, John Daryl proposed that instead of throwing away waste PVC materials, these should be recycled and used as an additive to asphalt to improve the tensile strength of pavements.

The conference panel, and delegates—from all over South East Asia—were impressed. Meanwhile John Daryl came back to the Philippines carrying new knowledge and experiences, not to mention new ambitions. 

"I was inspired to make a difference.” said John Daryl.

A recent university graduate, before attending Adamson University, John Daryl was a beneficiary of a British School Manila run scholarship programme which he views as being instrumental in giving him a chance to pursue his studies. 

“The British Education Inc.'s Scholarship Programme (BEI), run by volunteers from the British School Manila (BSM), really opens the door to a lot of opportunities to students like me,” he said.

BSM usually only supports scholars until they graduate college, but the school will often go one step further if they see an opportunity for one of their scholars to shine. 

"I did not know that the BEI programme would continue to support me attending this international event,” John said. 

“I was in my final semester when the conference took place and I had actually already graduated [last March 2015]. So I had little hope that Mr. Egan would approve my request, because this was not initially part of the contract. But eureka – the trip was all expenses paid!”

The ‘Mr. Egan’ that John refers to is the Vice Chair of the British School Manila Board of Governors, Mr Brendan Egan, who along with a handful of local staff volunteers from BSM run the BEI Scholarship Programme. The initiative, which is 100% funded by the British School Manila helps graduate students from Taguig's public schools reach their dream of graduating college, through the provision of a full scholarship to the college and course of their choice.

“A BEI scholarship covers full tuition for any specified course, at any specified college in Metro Manila,” said Mr. Egan when questioned. “All necessary books are paid for upon presentation of an official receipt, as is any required uniform. An allowance is also provided for snacks and transportation,” he continued.

John Daryl received the BEI scholarship after a rigorous selection process managed by volunteer staff from BSM. 

Volunteers from the school, such as Erwin Adevoso help candidates through the pre-screening process. "To get on the short list and be interviewed by the Committee, candidates are selected based on their credentials," says Erwin. "But we also want these young people to be able to communicate well with us." Erwin continues, "This is where I get involved, sitting down with each one, in an effort to calm their nerves and help them feel comfortable and ready to share their personal stories and why they need the scholarship, in some detail."

Before being accepted onto the BEI scholarship programme, John Daryl was hesitant to continue his tertiary education studies, as he was concerned about his parents' financial ability to send him to the college of his choice. He is an only child, but his parents also provide financial assistance to other relatives in the family.

John said, "When I was chosen for the BEI scholarship programme, it was a big help since it provided for everything. So I didn't have to do anything, except study. I just had to do my best." 

The BEI scholarship also entitled him to be given a fully-equipped desktop PC, so he did not have to rent computers to work on school requirements.

“It’s more than manna from heaven, because it isn't just a grant that comes to you monthly,” he said, recalling how the scholarship influenced his life. “I hope that BEI Inc. and the British School Manila will continue this kind of support for their scholars because it can impact them in ways a four-walled classroom can never do.

John Daryl graduated with Academic Merit last year, and recently passed the Civil Engineering Board Exams. He is currently happily employed.

Goldilocks initiates widespread recycling project, in partnership with Bantay Kalikasan

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In line with its ongoing commitment towards more environment-friendly operations, Goldilocks recently established a partnership with Bantay Kalikasan, the environmental arm of ABS-CBN Linkod Kapamilya Foundation, Inc. (ALKFI)

Under the banner of “Bantay Baterya at Bantay Langis”, the country’s number one bakeshop will donate waste materials on a daily basis, including used oil, acid batteries, egg shells, and even fluorescent bulbs. ALKFI partners Genetron and Motolite will then handle the recycling process, the proceeds of which will be used for various advocacy projects throughout the country.

“Each member of the Goldilocks family is well acquainted with the ‘4R’ principle, which is to Reuse, Reduce, Recycle, and Respect the environment,” noted Goldilocks Supply Chain and Technical Director Lawrence H. Chin. 

“As an industry leader, we have a responsibility to set a good example and take an active role in streamlining our operations for the good of our ecosystem,” he added.

Environmental Conservation is one of the four pillar advocacies of Goldilocks, and as such, the company has a number of future projects lined up with ALKFI. 

“We are currently finalizing plans to establish bakeries located at the various eco-tourism sites of ALKFI,” Chin explained. “This will provide livelihood and income generating opportunities to these communities, and hopefully create a number of positive ripple effects.”

The first of these bakeries is set to open in Lobo, Batangas, with Calapitan City in Oriental Mindoro, Kiamba in General Santos, Romblon, and Saranggani as the most likely areas for the succeeding locations. 

“We are so honored to be working with Goldilocks on our various projects, and we are so optimistic about growth prospects of our partnership,” said ALKFI Managing Director Susan B. Afan. 

“It is heartening to see that corporate social responsibility is deeply embedded in their company culture, and we hope that this encouraging trend continues,” she concluded.