“Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” Stars Kick-Off Promo Tour in Beijing

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Director Zack Snyder recently teamed up with Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill, bringing their new film “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” to China’s capital city, Beijing.

Speaking at the promotion event, Ben Affleck says it was “daunting” to play the iconic Batman in this superhero film.

“The biggest challenge going into was the sort of daunting aspect of playing a character who’s got such a fixed place in people’s minds already. You know people’s expectations. I think that was the biggest challenge. I didn’t get to create the character. I had to sort of recreate something and hope that it fit into people’s, our idea of who Batman was already and hope that they would accept my nuances on it.”

And Henry Cavill returns to the role of Superman after pulling on the red cape in the 2013 reboot ‘Man of Steel.’

The 32-year-old actor admits, the new film brought a more physical kind of challenge for him.

“Mostly, with a lot of imagination. The idea behind Superman, for me, in preparation, doesn’t really change from movie to movie. But with this one particular, it was having to work doubly hard in the gym, because I knew I was going up against Ben, and Batman. And so with that, I just, I had to make sure that I was a fair match.”

Director Snyder says he hopes to cheer fans by gathering Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman together in one place for his movie.

Beijing is the first stop of the superhero film’s global promotion tour.

Opening across the Philippines in IMAX, Dolby Cinema, 3D and 2D theaters on Black Saturday, March 26, “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

NESTEA Love the Beach: A Call to Chillax Responsibly

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NESTEA is partnering with Boracay Foundation Inc. (BFI), launches this summer’s most anticipated event in Boracay,  "NESTEA Love the Beach!"

NESTEA raises the bar by giving back to the beach we love as it launches the NESTEA Love the Beach campaign on March 15 at the Palace Pool Club.

On its 19th year, NESTEA Love the Beach takes the lead in preserving Boracay’s shores through responsible tourism and various activities that keep the island clean.

To make the advocacy bigger and more sustainable this year, NESTEA is partnering with Boracay Foundation Inc. (BFI), a non-profit organization composed of over 150 members representing Boracay’s leading establishments, residents, and expatriates, which aims to bolster the island’s environmental, business, and social needs.

Together with BFI and NESTEA brand ambassadors Jessy Mendiola, Tom Taus, Joyce Pring, Sam YG and Arisse De Santos, NESTEA is enjoining everyone to take part in coral rescue & replanting and shore & underwater cleanups.

“With the NESTEA Love the Beach campaign, NESTEA aims to encourage everyone to chillax responsibly—that is, to instill that sense of accountability and stewardship that is required of partygoers, tourists, locals, and consumers alike to keep Boracay one of the most beautiful and loved beaches in the world, while still setting the bar for fun, refreshing, and relaxing experiences.”, says Sherilla Bayona, Business Executive Manager for the Beverages Business Unit.

Everyone is given a chance to have fun with NESTEA ambassadors while giving back to the beach by signing up with the NESTEA Love the Beach squad of their choice assigned on each day of the three-part shore cleanup sessions. Interested volunteers can log on to www.nestealovethebeach.com.ph, powered by PLDT ALPHA Enterprise & SMART, to register and get more information.

Further championing its love for the beach, a portion of the proceeds from the NESTEA pitcher and merchandise selling will be donated to the Boracay Foundation Inc. to fund a beach cleaning machine that will help keep Boracay clean not only during summer but all year round.

NESTEA Kiwi Lemon

To make this year’s NESTEA Love the Beach a more chillaxing experience, NESTEA launches its newest variant and ultimate summer drink, the refreshingly exotic NESTEA Kiwi Lemon Blend. Made from real tea leaves and light at only 19 calories, this is NESTEA with a kiss of kiwi—the perfect thirst-quencher for a refreshing and relaxing summer. 

Leanne Jacinto, AVP Consumer Marketing for NESTEA, shares, “NESTEA is a brand that draws inspiration from the energy & youth of our consumers and wants to be at the forefront of always providing innovative, healthy and relaxing beverages.”True to its mission of being a delicious and relaxing drink that is light on the belly, NESTEA presents its brand new Kiwi Lemon variant that is the perfect company at the beach this summer.”

L-R) Michelle Gumabao, Ella De Jesus, Coach Ottie Camagian, Leanne Jacinto, Melissa Gohing, Cha Cruz during the launch of "Nestea Love the Beach' held at the Palace Pool Club, March 15, 2016.

19th NESTEA Beach Volleyball Tournament

On April 26, NESTEA opens the weeklong summer event with a 2-day volleyball clinic for the local youth in Boracay. NESTEA Love the Beach, in partnership with Mikasa, the official volleyball of the 19th NESTEA Beach Volleyball Tournament, also promises an exciting time for volleyball fans and players alike with the return of its iconic intercollegiate beach volleyball competition on April 28. The country’s biggest volleyball belles Abigail Marano, Ella De Jesus, Melissa Gohing, Jovelyn Gonzaga, Rachel Anne Daquis, Michelle Gumabao, Cha Cruz, and Sheila Pineda will also be facing each other in the ultimate beach volleyball showdown in the 2nd NESTEA Fantasy Volleyball Match on April 29-30.

Summer Party Plunge

Finally, in the tradition of hosting the best and most anticipated LaBoracay parties, NESTEA partners with ZoukOut to bring international DJ Kaskade, electronic duo DVBBS, and the country’s hottest DJs to this year’s epic beach party on April 30 and May 1 on Boracay shores. You may get your tickets at SM TICKETS [https://smtickets.com/events/view/4158], Valkyrie, and The Palace Pool Club.

NESTEA ove the Beach Ambassadors (L-R) Tom Taus, Arisse de Santos, Sam YG and Joyce Pring during the launch of "Nestea Love the Beach' held at the Palace Pool Club, March 15, 2016.

NESTEA Love the Beach Ambassadors

The NESTEA Love the Beach Ambassadors are carefully chosen based on their clout and influence among Filipino young adults. They represent different fields in the radio and online community and also represent the cool, positive, and sexy personality of the brand. 

Arisse de Santos

Arisse is one of the standouts in today’s generation of lifestyle & beauty bloggers. This recent Marketing Management graduate is always raring to go out, have new experiences, & meet new people from different walks of life. 

Joyce Pring

Joyce is a TV & radio host, a musician, an artist of all sorts, & an online influencer all rolled in one. She thrives in a creative environment, and is always interested in growing her passion for travel, music, the arts, literature, and life in general. 

Sam YG

Samir Gogna, or more famously known as Sam YG, is a Filipino radio DJ, host, entrepreneur & all-around online personality. A third of famous DJ trio Boys Night Out with Tony Toni & Slick Rick, funny guy Sam always knows how to have fun, making everyday Manila traffic a lot more bearable for Filipinos on the road. 

Tom Taus

Former child actor Tom Taus is now back in the Philippines after more than a decade in the United States. Now known as DJ Tommy T, he has been making a name for himself in Hollywood as an international DJ.

Enjoying the wonderful world of NESTEA Love the Beach! See you at the Boracay!  

Hotel 101 celebrates Earth Hour

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Hotel 101, the newest Filipino-owned and managed hotel group of Mr. Edgar “Injap” Sia, joins the worldwide Earth Hour celebrations this March 19, 2016. 

“We are proud to participate in the global call to change climate change, and own up to our actions in lessening our carbon footprint,” Hotel 101 General Manager Lei Policarpio explains.

“All our hotels, Hotel 101 Manila, Jinjiang Inn Ortigas, Jinjiang Inn Makati, and Injap Tower Hotel in Iloilo, will simultaneously switch off non-essential hotel lights for an hour, which will start at 08:30 in the evening,” she says. 

“Similarly, we have a turn down invitation encouraging our guests to switch off room lights and switch on to social media and join us during this year’s Earth Hour celebration,” Policarpio adds.

Hotel 101 manages several hotels in the Philippines, which includes Injap Tower Hotel, a 194-room hotel in the heart of the Iloilo Business District, Jinjiang Inn Makati and Jinjiang Inn Ortigas, with 59 and 95 business rooms and suites respectively, and Hotel 101 – Manila with 518 rooms in the Mall of Asia Complex. 

Hotel 101 is a subsidiary of Hotel of Asia, Inc., which envisions having a total of 5,000-room inventory by 2020. 

For inquiries you may contact Hotel 101 - Manila at +632 553 1111 or manila@hotel101.com.ph, Jinjiang Inn – Makati at +632 5768557 or makati@jinjianginn.com.ph, Jinjiang Inn – Ortigas at +632 638 1111 or ortigas@jinjianginn.com.ph, and Injap Tower Hotel at +63977 815 1374 or Iloilo@injaptowerhotel.com.ph

UNIQLO Collaboration with Liberty London

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UNIQLO announces its highly anticipated collaboration with Liberty London, launching on March 28th 2016. The quintessentially British brand, Liberty London and UNIQLO jointly creates a unique line that marries over a hundred years of history with modernUNIQLO LifeWear philosophy of Simple Made Better.

The Liberty London for UNIQLO collection is based on a selection of prints from the iconic London store’s archives, fusing Liberty’s signature heritage florals with a variety ofUNIQLO items. This unique melding of past and future creates a brave new fashion style perfect for the present.

Liberty London has collected ornaments, fabrics, and artworks from Japan and throughout Asia, offering the world printed designs and products inspired from the 42,000 images in its print archives. Dresses and textiles created from Liberty prints have been collected by The Victoria and Albert Museum, which specializes in art and design, and continue to exert a huge influence on culture, art, and fashion. 

Liberty London, which has assimilated culture from Japan, East Asia, and the entire world over its 140 year history, has teamed up with UNIQLO who are enriching peoples’ lives through clothing, to create a new collection fusing tradition and innovation. Beautiful Liberty prints in a variety of patterns have been combined by UNIQLO to create a collection to delight and present to customers around the world.

This will be available on March 28 in all UNIQLO stores nationwide. The range features T-shirts, dresses, tunic and tank tops, camisoles, full zip hoodie and RELACO shorts for women and kids; premium linen long sleeve shirts and printed short sleeve shirts for men; bodysuits, mini dresses and leggings for babies; and room shoes and accessories with pattern and color variations available. Price ranges from P390 to P1,690.

For more updates, you may visit UNIQLO Philippines’ website at www.uniqlo.com/ph.

Baskin-Robbins’ March flavor of the month rekindles the classic Belgian Waffle

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Do you love waffles? Are you an ice cream fanatic? 

Here’s an exciting treat from Baskin-Robbins that combines these two well-loved treats in one delicious offering for the sunny month of March. 

The world’s favourite ice cream brand is offering the classic ice cream flavor that brings back that warm, happy feeling of indulging in a rich, golden Belgian waffle. Baskin-Robbins’ flavour of the month is truly waffily good as it meldsmaple praline flavored ice cream with Belgian waffle pieces, praline pecans and a creme caramel ribbon. It has the authentic taste and texture of a real belgian waffleand is best paired with the classic Baskin-Robbins ice cream flavor, Pralines ‘n Cream. 

For the whole month of March, ice cream lovers can indulge in this luscious frozen treat from Baskin-Robbins in a cone, cup, or as a milkshake. It can also be relished as a 2-Scoop Sundae by mixing two scoops of Belgian Waffle Ice Cream, topped with Caramel Praline sauce, whipped cream, almonds and a cherry, served in a freshly baked waffle bowl or cup.

Get a taste of this limited edition delicious ice cream flavor by visitingBaskin-Robbins shops at the Central Square and SM Aura in Bonifacio Global City; Greenbelt 5 and Glorietta 5 in Makati; Fairview Terraces and Trinoma Mall in Quezon City; SM Southmall in Las Pinas; and Solenad in Sta Rosa, Laguna. For more information, log on to www.baskinrobbins.ph or check out their accounts: facebook.com/baskinrobbinsph, Twitter, and Instagram @baskinrobbinsph.

Filipina transgender Bemz Benedito Receives NY Award

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Many people have never heard of or don't understand things. Being transgender is something some people feel uncomfortable thinking or talking about. Transgender, the realization that they feel different from others also can be very difficult. They may face rejection, discrimination, and even anger from people who don't understand transgender identity, and it can be a challenge to deal with others' reactions. 

Life is a beautiful chance given to all to make the best of it, to learn and to provide others the best  of us. 

One blessed Filipina transgender Bemz Benedito was honored by a US organization with an award as one of four Global Transgender Heroes in celebration of International Women’s Day this March.

The award was given by the True Colors Fund, an LGBT organization based in New York. True Colors, co-founded by international pop star Cyndi Lauper, “is working to end homelessness among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth by creating systemic change”.

Benedito learned about the award when an article appeared on the True Colors website (https://truecolorsfund.org) announcing conferment of it on her and three other global transgender heroes: Lohana Berkins of Argentina (who passed away last February 5) Cecilia Chung of the US and Hong Kong, and Liesl Theron of South Africa.

The award’s primary criteria was how a certain individual challenged the status quo and as well as the ways and means of stereotypical boxes for the LGBT. Next to that, says Benedito, is how the awardee struggled to uplift the condition of her community to be recognized and respected.

The award made this year’s International Women’s Day more significant for her, says Benedito, “because I was affirmed as a woman and my small contribution for equality in my country was recognized”.

To be hailed a Transgender Hero is a very humbling experience.

“Just like what I always say in my interviews, I am not the best and there are others who are doing better than I do, but please be it remembered that there was a transgender woman who worked hard fearlessly in her little ways to represent the Filipino LGBT community as one sector fighting for equal rights."

The recognition, says Benedito, is a reminder to her that despite being elected into public office in 2010 and 2013, “the ray of light comes shining like it never was before, to continue with fight and to keep up with the challenges that cripples our dignity as human beings and citizens of our country.”

The award does not come with any monetary recognition, but according to the LGBT activist, it is more than enough for her and others working to advance the cause of LGBTs and keep them in the thick of the fight despite sometimes feeling that they are doing a thankless job and in the long run allowing even personal relationships and personal ambitions suffer.

“We owe it to the next generation that being LGBT must be kinder and dignified.”

In her own case, the award is encouragement to keep pursuing equal rights and recognition not just for other transgendered women, but for all members of the LGBT community.

“We (LGBTs) are only tolerated and our dream and our goal is to be accepted,” says Benedito. 

“Because if we are indeed accepted, policies and laws must be present to protect and uplift us. Hindi na sana second-class citizens ang tingin sa amin at sana may kinatawan na rin sa Kongreso ang sektor ng mga Pilipinong LGBT. At higit sa lahat wala na sanang mambabatas at boxing superstar na hahamakin kami at tatawaging mas masahol pa sa hayop. We are not exaggerating our struggles, we are here giving a face and voice to the oppression that dehumanizes us every day of our lives while living the truth in our being.”

Their biggest goal is the basic right to self-determination. 

“Then there is our common fight with our lesbian, gay and bisexual brothers and sisters for the passage of the anti-discrimination bill that has languished in Congress for 18 years. Imagine a human rights bill, the only one for that matter, that will protect LGBT Filipinos ay nabubulok sa Kongreso habang naghihirap ang maraming LGBTs sa diskriminasyon at opresyon. In an egalitarian society that has passed the Magna Carta for Women, Indigenous Peoples Rights Act, Violence Against Women and Children, the LGBT community is ignored and discriminated.”

Benedito recalls what the struggle was like for her as a transgendered woman.

“It was difficult especially for me growing up in my province in Abra, which is laid-back, backward-thinking and conservative. While growing up, I would cry whenever I would see my naked body as a young child in the mirror because my anatomy was incongruent to what I thought and felt about myself. It took me a long time to realize that I am not a simple case of a girl trapped in a man's body. I found out about transgender people when I did my research during my college days. It was then that I found out that I am not an effeminate gay or thepa-girl na bakla but I am a transgendered woman. That is why, as in all journeys, the wrong has to be righted, the flaw corrected. In my mind, in my heart and in my soul, I am a woman, a Transpinay, the other Filipina.”

Finally, says Benedito, if there is a message that she, as a transgendered woman, would like to put out there, it would be this: 

“Stereotypes are like cardboard cut-outs; they do not form the complete picture. Not even a fragment of who we are. Our genitalia should not be the basis of one's right to self-determination and gender identity. We should not be defined by our bodies nor our sexual orientation and gender identity defined our capabilities, skills and strengths.”

The Newest Romantic Pop Balladeer Edward Benosa to stage birthday concert, with Morisette Amon, DJ Chacha and surprise guests

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Edward Benosa during the media conference held at the Cerchio Restaurant and Lounge,  Quezon City March 17, 2016

Edward Benosa, The Romantic Pop Balladeer  marks an important milestone when he stages a birthday concert at the Teatrino in Greenhills on April 16, 2016.

The concert will be directed by Frank Lloyd Mamaril, with Marvin Querido as Musical Director. Edward’s special guests will be Morisette Amon and DJ Chacha of MOR 101.9.

This will be another major step forward in his career and his bid to be known as a legitimate, full-fledged pop artist.

Edward will perform a repertoire of mostly love songs, but will also showcase the other side of him when he takes on rock songs and musical genres he doesn’t usually perform. 

Director Frank promises “a very intimate show” that will be a culmination and celebration of all the good things that have happened to Edward’s career in the past year.

On his first concert,  Edward is nervous, but he’s ready to step into the spotlight. He knows it’s a big challenge, but he’s taking it on because he knows that if he succeeds in pulling it off.

“Grabe ang pressure. Siyempre may pressure at kabado kasi first. First year ko in showbiz, tapos first concert. Pero pag natawid ko ito, ibang self-confidence ang makukuha ko dito.”

Stage and TV and indie film actor Arnold Cruz Reyes, as Edward’s manager,  says they had been planning the show for some time, and that it was really part of their wish list for the Star Awards for Music 2015 Best New Artist. They spent several months planning and conceptualizing the show and fine-tuning the repertoire so they would have a show that they were sure the audience will enjoy.

 Arnold Cruz Reyes

Director Franc, who also directed the recent concerts of Matteo Guidicelli and Lani Misalucha, talks about their concept for the show.

Teatrino is the perfect venue for concert shows, as "where some of the best artists started and built their careers. So we want to place him in a venue kung saan siya symbolically pwede mag-start in the concert scene. We know he can pull it off.”

“When we talked about the show, we wanted a follow through on Edward’s career. A lot of things have been happening to him for the last year and in that year, it has to have a culmination, which is this show. It’s all about what he can bring to the table in the industry. "

Director Franc believes that Edward is the complete package and thus, the time is ripe for him to have a solo concert.

Director Frank Lloyd Mamaril

“He is the artist na complete package. He has looks, can sing, can act. That’s rare. ‘Yun ang nakikita ko, that’s why we need this concert to happen. The success of Edward is the success of everyone.”

While preparing for the concert, they met people—both old and new supporters of Edward who were very excited about the show and couldn’t wait for it to happen.

Everyone behind the concert is confident all their hard work and preparation will come together on the show date—and they know Edward has what it takes to make it work.

And there are a lot of people who’ve been asking for Edward to have a show. Now is the right time, which explains why the concert is titled “Most Requested”.

“When we thought of the title, o sige, si Edward honestly di pa kilalang-kilala, but when you check social media, and listen to radio stations, ‘Ay siya pala ‘yon’. May gano’ng reaction. Every time I introduce Edward, “Ah siya pala yung nasa parang pelikula na video’ or ‘Siya pala ‘yung kumanta ng ‘Di Man Lang Nagpaalam’. Kaya nasabi namin, ‘Sige na, gawin na natin ito.’”

Edward is also getting a lot of support from his recording company, Star Music, his sponsors (like Dannon Clothing), his supporters and his management.

The concert is brought to you by Dannon Clothing. In participation with Projects Unlimited Phil Inc., Spring Oil, Villa Victoria Inc.,JBC Food Corporation, and Multymedia Printers Inc. Special thanks to Fragrancia De Italia, Novu Hair, Cerchio Grill And Lounge, and Lancer's Hardware. Media partners are Mor 101.9 and Starstudio Magazine.

For inquiries, please call Ranjo Isip at 0917-882-2773. 

You call also reach Edward thru:

Facebook :   facebook.com/realedwardbenosa

Twitter: @realbenosa

Instagram: realbenosa

The RE/MAX difference

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RE/MAX is the world’s largest real estate network with almost 100,000 agents in nearly 100 countries with over 7,000 offices.

Looking for a property to buy or lease is tedious from going over brochures to making a decision. You’d have to deal with a lot of people and go through tons of paperwork. Don’t you wish someone would take care of these details for you?

It’s important to find an agent who can get the job done. Your brother's former classmate may dabble in real estate but he may not be the person most qualified to help you buy or sell your home. Personal referrals are okay but not all the time.

If you are looking for a professional with experience, education and a proven track record of successful closings, RE/MAX is a good place to start the search. Nobody in the world sells more real estate than RE/MAX.

RE/MAX, the world's largest real estate network with almost 100,000 agents in nearly 100 countries with over 7,000 offices, can help you with your concerns.

Don't hesitate to ask questions. Your RE/MAX agent will be happy to answer them. Here is a tip for buyers from RE/MAX: Tell the agent your price range from the start, along with the types of properties and neighborhoods you'd like to look at (even those you'd like to avoid). This will help your agent select properties for you. RE/MAX targets and attracts winning agents and provides them the power of on-demand education and training so they will be the best in the industry.

No one in the business sells more properties than RE/MAX and the company has the numbers to back it up.

RE/MAX agents will provide you with the highest standard of care and extreme loyalty to you as the client; understand your specific needs and wants and locate appropriate properties; and assist you in determining how much you can afford. are equipped with live training events, 24/7 online continuing education programs and necessary tools to stay on top of the industry. Many buyers choose to have a RE/MAX agent represent their interests in a real estate transaction. This means the RE/MAX agent you hire is legally bound to represent your interests.

RE/MAX Philippines head office is located at 25/F Citibank Tower, 8741 Paseo de Roxas St., Makati City. For more information, call us at 511-1429 to 30 or email us at info@remax.ph or visit remax.ph. Like us on Facebook at REMAX-Philippines. Follow us on Twitter @officialREMAXPH.

Stay young and happy ! Be positive and drink HyC 150

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Laughter is really good medicine. Laughter has many psychological benefits, harmlessly release negative emotions such as anger, sadness, and fear. It does have a positive effect because it releases endorphins and makes you feel good inside.

While we are living life to the fullest, and working at surviving, laughter can help us maintain our perspective. It also has the power to turn almost any situation around.

The Power of Positive Thinking 

Overall, it’s about keeping a positive mindset, being optimistic, affirmative and upbeat, seeing one’s life as a glass half full ready to be filled in. What the mind dictates, the body translates in a youthful-looking appearance with a positive aura full of life.

In an article entitled written by Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Michael Roizen for www.youbeauty.com entitled “The Power of Positive Thinking on Your Health,” they cited a study made in a Denmark hospital that involved more than 600 patients. They found that “patients whose moods were overall more positive were 58 percent more likely to live at least another five years.”

So how does one acquire a positive outlook or mindset? The two doctors suggested injecting humor into our lives by watching TV shows or reading stuff like books or reading blogs that induce laughter, or simply hang out with friends for some mood-boosting time. You can even go to the park with your dog or play dress up with the kids. One study that was cited involved helping others to help put oneself in a positive mood. They said “volunteering is a great way to give as much as you get and get as much as you give.”

It is a positive cycle, they added, that “The more you do it, the easier it gets—and the younger you’ll feel and look.”

Aside from positivity, it is also good as well to supplement your positive affirmations with a powerful and potent food supplement that’s proven enough by many generations—Premium HyC150!

2015 Gold Award Winner of Monde Selection for Diet and Health products, Premium HyC 150 is effective for both men and women because youth and great skin are among the things anyone value the most.

Premium HyC 150 stands above the other anti-aging food supplements in the market because of its potency and nutrional value. It is packed with Vitamin C together with the winning combination of Hyaluron, Collagen and Ubiquinol, helps achieve glowing beauty and youthful energy all throughout—and you can do it anytime, even at the comfort of your own home.

How powerful is HyC150? 

In one small sachet, get the power of 7 active and youth-inducing ingredients for that healthy body and beauteous skin. There’s 5,250mg of Collagen, one of HyC 150’s two main ingredients. Collagen is a “lifting” supplement, an age-defying factor that delays the aging process. Your skin turns elastic and smooth since it stops early ageing indicators like wrinkles and age pores, and even helps the skin counter any negative effects brought about by too much exposure to the sun and pollution.

The 150mg of Hyaluron, meanwhile, helps keep you active and hydrates the skin to make it young looking. It lubricates the bones for stress-free mobility. Its gel-like composition functions as space filler and cushioning agent, lubricates the joints and eye tissues and helps keep healthy gums. Hyaluron also helps the scalp to grow healthy and glossy hair, plus aids in better and faster wound healing.

With 15mg in every sachet, Elastin is a highly elastic protein found in the body’s connective tissue that maintains skin flexibility and elasticity despite poking and pinching while Pearl Coix lightens the skin to make it more radiant and gleaming. To complete the benefits of HyC150, it has Vitamin C to fight against infection and Biotin to stimulate hair growth and nourishes the scalp.

Think positive, get a good laugh and be less stressed; think happy thoughts and surround yourself with delightful and joyful friends. And don’t forget your daily dose of Premium HyC150. You’ll never regret creating a new and happy you.

Premium HyC 150 is manufactured by FINE Japan Co. Ltd. and available at selected Watsons stores nationwide, online at Lazada (www.lazada.com.ph) and at the website www.HyC150.com. 

Visit and "like" the Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/HyC150); follow  on Twitter (#HyC150) or Instagram (@HyC150), or call (02) 5467297, 09177750779 for more information. 

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

Levi’s PH rocks the colorful Dinagyang Festival

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Levi’s holds a celebratory sale at Robinson’s Iloilo during the weeklong festival as a fun treat for all Levi’s lovers in the city. 

Vibrant costumes, lively dances, and high-adrenaline revelers marked this year’s Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City. Held annually in late January in honor of the Sto. Niño, the Dinagyang featured a week of festivities that had kaleidoscopic hues matching the wildly celebratory mood of the city. 

Still, an all-too-familiar color stood out in the midst of the frenzied activities—Levi’s denim blue.

To add star power to one of the country’s most popular festivals, Levi’s Philippines flew in international singer Charice Pempengo and DJ Ron Poe for Levi’s Night, a lively party held at the Prism Night Life last Jan. 23.

International singer Charice Pempengco adds star power to Dinagyang Festival as she performs a slew of hit cover songs during Levi’s Night last Jan. 23. 

The crowd went crazy when Charice performed her covers of a slew of hit songs. Meanwhile, DJ Ron revved up the energy that night as everyone danced to his beat, letting the party end on a high note.

Levi’s likewise held a celebratory sale at Robinson’s Iloilo during the weeklong festival as a fun treat for all Levi’s lovers in the city. To top it all, Levi’s fans with a Php2,500 single receipt purchase were given two free passes for the Levi’s Night party.

Levi’s Philippines makes Dinagyang Festival extra festive by bringing in international singer Charice and DJ Ron Poe during Levi’s Night at the Prism Night Life last Jan. 23. 

“We certainly couldn’t miss one of the biggest festivals in the country and we made sure that the Dinagyang was made extra special for all Levi’s lovers in Iloilo,” said Kaths Laudit, Levi’s Philippines Marketing head. “Levi’s decided to extend its ‘thank you’ to all loyal Levi’s fans in the Visayas by treating them to an epic Levi’s Night and a big sale.”

 DJ Ron Poe revved up the energy during the Levi’s Night during Dinagyang Festival as everyone danced to his beat, letting the party end on a high note. 

The brand’s attendance at Iloilo’s premier festival was only the first of the many high-profile events, concerts, and fashion shows in 2016 as Laudit promises a year full of surprises—from the launch of new collections to the holding of big sales.

“The Dinagyang was just our first salvo. Expect bigger events and much bigger sales for the rest of the year,” Laudit enthusiastically declared.

Solignum awarded Superbrand status anew

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Solignum, the leading wood preservative brand, was recently awarded Superbrand status for the fourth time.

“We are extremely honored to be conferred this award again. This validates our continued efforts to provide houseowners quality products for wood preservation and protection,” said Ms. Peachy Tiu, Marketing Manager, Jardine Distribution, Inc, upon receiving the award last December 9, 2015 at the Crown Regency Hotel.

Solignum, which now boasts more eco-friendly variants, was among the list of awardees during 2014-2015—the 9thVolume of Superbrands awardees.

Superbrands, an independent global arbiter in branding, confers awards on the strongest and most trusted brands in the country. It came to the Philippines in 1997, giving the worldwide seal for the first time in Asia.

L-R Mr. Kenneth Prieto, Marketing Director Superbrands Marketing International, Inc., Mr. Karl McLean, Chairman, Superbrand Marketing International, Inc., Ms. Chanda Velardo, Marketing Officer, Jardine Distribution, Inc., Ms. Peachy Tiu, Marketing Manager, Jardine Distribution, Inc., Mr. Harry Tambuatco, President & CEO, Superbrand International, Inc., Atty. Sara Suguitan, Corporate legal Council, Superbrands Marketing International, Inc.

The award-giving body confers the award on brands or companies that meet the following criteria: market dominance, consumer loyalty, market acceptability, goodwill, and longevity. Superbrands likerwise serves as an effective communication tool for consumer education.

True to its to its commitment of caring for the Filipino homes, Jardine Distribution Inc (JDI) recently added Solignum Exterior to its growing list of variants, allowing Jardine to meet the demand for more environment-friendly treatments. Considered as the most advanced of its kind in the market, Solignum Exterior and is made with the least amount of chemicals without sacrificing product efficacy.

Moreover, Solignum Exterior is formulated using the micro-emulsion technology, which allows the liquid component to more effectively penetrate the wood and do its job of preserving it — a technology not found in other brands.

Solignum Exterior has both termiticide and fungicide that protect the wood against termites, wood borers, and fungi.

Solignum products, can be applied by using a brush , using the three-coat process. Meantime, a Solignum Aerosol is available for spraying on hard-to-reach areas.

Jardine’s Solignum is available in leading hardware stores and Do it Yourself stores nationwide. For more information, go to www.jardinedistribution.com.

TFC Presents’ “JaDine in Love The World Tour” Gets Ready for Doha & London Live Press Cons

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When the widely read Philippine Star ran the headline, “JaDine Fever Will Never End”, many die hard fans literally believed it, because for them, the story of Clark and Leah (played by reel-to-real couple, James Reid and Nadine Lustre) on the phenomenalABS-CBN TFC teleserye, “On The Wings of Love” (OTWOL) has become a special part of their lives.

Indeed, JaDine Fever lives on. After their wildly successful “On The Wings of Love Kapamilya Fans Day” last January in Sacramento, California, the couple now officially and truly in love embarks on a series of live concerts via ABS-CBN TFC’s “JaDine in Love The World Tour” that will take them to Doha, Qatar on March 18, Dubai, UAE onMarch 19 (SOLD OUT), London, UK on March 26 and Milan, Italy on March 27. Joining them are Philippine Pop Rock Princess Yeng Constantino, R&B Prince Jay-R and comedienne Tart Carlos.

JaDine Live Press Cons: “We are ready. Are you REID-y NA din?” 

ABS-CBN Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Managing Director Kai V. Rodriguez, who actively engages on social media with real fans of JaDine, expressed excitement on two new ABS-CBN Global milestones that are about to transpire related to the “JaDine in Love The World Tour”.

“We’re very pleased to announce that we are providing a platform for global JaDine fans to take part in not one, but two live press conferences,” Rodriguez said. “The first is happening on March 17, Thursday, at 3pm in Doha (12 noon in UK, 8pm Manila), a day before their show at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center on March 18. 

The next one is on March 24, Thursday, at 4pm London time, just two days before their show at ExCel London on March 26. 

How to join?

Just register on emea.kapamilya.com (http://emea.kapamilya.com/community/announcements/jadine-in-love-me-eu-press-conference ). 

This is a must-see, must-join experience for all JaDine fans! And it’s FREE!”

ABS-CBN TFC EMEA is pulling out all the stops to make sure fans get the best experience when Reid and Lustre visit Middle East and Europe for their tour.

“This is important to JaDine fans and we want to honor that,” said Rodriguez. “There are stories that you never want to stop telling and sharing because they give joy, hope and good feelings. JaDine’s journey is one of those. JaDine in Love The World Tour’ is our way of saying with the fans that, yes, ‘JaDine is Forever’.”

To get ticket info on “JaDine in Love The World Tour”, visit http://emea.kapamilya.com/home

Food giant Jollibee appoints new PR agency

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Ripple8 wins competitive bid

Jollibee Foods Corporation, the largest fast food chain and dominant Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) market leader in the Philippines, recently appointed Ripple8, Inc. as its public relations agency-on-record for its Brand PR initiatives beginning 2016. This was after the agency emerged as the top scorer in a competitive pitch with three other PR agencies.

Jollibee Brand CMO and Jollibee Philippines Marketing Head Francis E. Flores (L) selected Ripple8, Inc. headed by Managing Director Timmy Jayme (R), as one of its new PR agency partners.

Global Brand Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Marketing of Jollibee Philippines Francis E. Flores said, “We are looking forward with great excitement to working with the team as Jollibee welcomes the year with bigger opportunities to bring joy to Filipino families in the country and worldwide.”

Flores furthered that Jollibee chose Ripple8 on the strength of its fresh, innovative ideas and integrated communications approach presented during the competitive bid.

Ripple8 managing director Timmy M. Jayme said the team is eager to implement “its winning strategies for transformative PR that will empower its trailblazer client to achieve the changes in consumer beliefs and behavior they work and aspire for.” 

Jayme added that the agency aims to make a difference for Jollibee by offering “evolved PR thriving in the high-tech, digital and social landscape to create the ripple effects of positive change.”

Strategic Works, Inc., Jollibee’s other PR agency for over 10 years, will continue to oversee the food company’s public relations for corporate affairs.

Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group Looking for new “Miss Saigon” cast

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Miss Saigon put Filipino talent on the map and showed the world how good Pinoy performers are.

Now, years after the first batch of Filipino talent made its mark in London’s West End—and all over the world—a new group of Filipino talent is out to replicate that success when the Miss Saigon company returns to the country to seek out local artists to join the musical.

Lea Salonga, who was the musical’s first Kim (and who went on to great success on Broadway and elsewhere in the theater world) says that if there’s anything Miss Saigon has done, it’s show to the world that the Filipino artist is one that is reliable, dependable, and able to interpret musical theater with the best of them.

“We are artistically right up there, and it makes me proud when any one of us gets that moment in the sun on the international stage. To see many of my friends in the West End and on Broadway makes my heart feel full,” says Lea, who went on to win major awards for her performance.

Singer and stage actress Isay Alvarez played the original Gigi to Lea’s Kim. She too, is grateful that Miss Saigonpaved the way for Pinoy artists to be recognized all over the world.

Being in the musical was both fun and challenging, says Isay. One of the hardest things was learning to work with the sheet music.

“Our counterparts read notes. They were sight readers. But the Pinoys were ingenious,” laughs Isay. “We brought our trusted tape recorders. In terms of adjustments (that we had to make), I’d say it was understanding the ways of our co-actors and production staff. Coming from a different culture was one thing, but they were understanding and Miss Saigon was a very mixed cast anyway.”

The auditions were also fun, but nerve-wracking. It was the first big test they all had to face.

“I was quite nervous, but during that time I was young and eager and my dreams were bursting out of my pores,” recalls Isay. “And to have the Cameron Mackintosh group in the audience was very exciting. They were very professional, and the English are proper anyway, and not intimidating at all. I should say they were very accommodating and I think they were really impressed that they found a mine of talents. They went to many cities and realized that Manila has what they need.” 

However, Carla Guevara-Laforteza says that passing the auditions was just the beginning.

“When we passed, we became scholars of the ‘Saigon School’ wherein we were pre-taught the songs and the choreography of the show. From there, we were handpicked on who would be assigned to go to what production (UK, Australia, Germany, and so on). Those chosen for Germany were required to learn the show in German.”

Of course, adjusting to a whole new lifestyle was part of the deal.

Lea had to give up her ‘sheltered’ life to be able to do the things she did there. “The toughest adjustment was just living a less-than-sheltered life. In Manila, all I had to worry about was school and whatever work I happened to be doing. Now, I had to learn how to take public transportation, and write checks for the monthly utilities, in addition to study my music, dialogue, and figure out how to do kissing scenes with a romantic opposite for the first time. 

Now, #TeamMissSaigon is back and looking for new talent. Auditions are presently ongoing with Atlantis Productions helping to coordinate the search.

Lea, Isay, Carla and other Miss Saigon alumni have words of encouragement and advice for those considering trying out for the musical.

The first thing, says Pinky Amador, is to realize that sure, it’s fun and it’s an honor to be chosen from among so many artists, but it’s also all about hard work and dedication from the moment one sets foot on the audition stage.

Her advice is to keep in mind that it just isn’t the best singers who make it.

“I have always maintained that in the end, the choices aren't just all about the best voices. They are about the best WORKERS. Remember, you will be working far away from home and facing many personal and artistic challenges. So they need to know that they can trust you. Be professional in every way. Show them they can invest you. Look at everyone they chose: they’re all people with high standards, all exacting and all with impeccable work ethic.”

As always, Lea’s advice is to be professional, even when one is just auditioning.

“First and foremost, show up prepared. Second, show up BEFORE your appointed time. Third, have fun! Enjoy the experience for what it’s worth. You may or may not get the job, but at least you can say you sang for some of the best creative forces in the world. That’s a pretty huge deal in and of itself.”

"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.”

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

"Clean and honest election for our children, our next generation of leaders and citizens" -- Senator Gringo Honasan

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We spend most time of our days on social media, login in from network to network, checking all the emails, updates and notification, planning ahead, and performing the sundry tasks and share important information to be of help to all.

The media plays a major role in keeping the citizenry abreast of current events and raising awareness of various issues.

“Social media has become a very powerful tool and it has also become a very irresponsible tool. When you’re behind that screen, you can say and do anything, and hide,” Senator Gringo Honasan said.

He ask for media/bloggers’ help to propagate idealism, sense of duty, and love of country to those who are willing to listen. 

Recently, with other bloggers, and I for the first time, met the most senior and experienced vice presidential candidate this coming election - Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan II.

Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan II, a family man, a 4-time senator, ex-military man, former coup plotter, soldier for 17 years prior to his 7 years stint as a rebel, and 18 years as senator. . . United Nationalist Alliance's vice presidential bet in 2016. He’s actually planning to retire on 2019. “But I think God wants to punish me some more and put me into this interesting situation,” he said.

“Ill put my 42 years of public service on the line and tell the people what makes me different, the strength, courage of my convictions and the audacity to make things happen. I will help solve crimes or die trying."

'I have always been a good soldier'.

As a solider, he saw action in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao and earned a number of medals, awards, decorations and commendations for gallantry in action including three Distinguished Conduct Stars, Gold Cross medals and Wounded Personnel Medals sustained in combat. 

Honasan became famous for his role in the 1986 EDSA Revolution. 

As a senator, his main advocacies include environmental, military, police, and agrarian reform issues. 

Honasan is the sponsor of the POGI bill, also known as the Freedom of Information or People’s Ownership of Government Information Act of 2012.

Some of the bills he authored and co-authored include the Clean Air Act of 1999, Clean Water Act, National Security Policy, Disaster Risk Reduction Management Act of 2009, and Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

On Election 2016

Senator Gringo Honasan is looking forward for a clean and honest election “I hope walang dayaan dahil.” We will create more problems than solutions. It will divide our country some more. I keep on looking for the other candidates so we can talk seriously while things are uncertain. 

“This country with all its problems is still so blessed. The interesting part, all we need to do is to wake up every morning and continue breathing.”

“Is another EDSA possible? The answer to election fraud is not a protest. The answer to a malicious prosecution is not a motion for reconsideration. The malicious prosecution is not a motion for reconsideration. Honasan stressed that the answer, which we found 30 years ago, is in our hearts. As he place his hands in his chest pointing to his heart. 

Hope springs eternal. I think we’ll weather this. We’ll survive this. Eleksyon lang ito, di ba? To what cost? More institution being damaged? Pati ba naman ang eleksyon ay mada-damage beyond repair? Yung judiciary, yung mga kandidato, yung siraan, personalan, di ba? Yun ba ang price ng clean and honest elections? Where is now our sense of nationhood? I cannot imagine myself allowing any of my children to go and look for another country. Aapihin lang sila roon. Dito na lang tayong lahat. But let’s fix naman our own backyard,” as Sen. Honasan opined on the coming election. 

What constitute our national interest? 

When you talk about a policy where we have a vacuum, we don’t have a clear economic policy, foreign policy, security policy, and everything emanates from there. 

The problem really is we don’t have clear definition of what constitutes our national interests. 

"We have failed to realize that our most precious, strategic, and renewable are our children, our next generation of leaders and citizens. The job of our generation is to help make the next generation of leaders and citizens smarter, healthier, stronger, happier, and safer – much needed formula for national development, long term development. "

"He (VP Jojo Binay) keeps on telling all audiences that I’m going to be his anti-crime czar. I will have to clear this up with him because I want to know exactly what it means,” Honasan said. 

“If you’re talking about anti-crime, I’d rather deal with it in a generic sense. Like peace and order, it’s not something that you relegate to policemen and soldiers only. Security, safety, protection, it has to be in compassing,” he said. 

Sen. Honasan wants to achieve is to bring back our OFWs by generating more job opportunities that will not require for them to leave our country anymore. "There are 14 million scattered in 200 countries all over the world,” he added. 

On security and fixing the nation

“Nobody is safe anymore. That’s my take. But to me, crime is not the problem. The idea of crime is the problem. Sino ba ang gustong maging kriminal? Given a choice, bigyan ka ng trabaho, assuming hindi ka tamad, sino ang gustong maging rebelde, maging terrorist?” Honasan asked. Unfortunately, because of poverty, crime has become a lucrative idea. Crime solved in 6 months? Sen. Honasan admits that he has serious doubts with anybody who can promise that. 

“Unless you are given super emergency powers and your national security adviser is Iron Man, Superman, or other superheroes. But that’s a good campaign and then that’s just a promise,” Sen. Honasan added.

"This is not going to be a quick fix. We are not going to do this overnight," he said after one blogger asked on fixing the nation.

There will be more on knowing candidates for the Election 2016.

Social media's basic role is to enlighten and educate the public and act as a neutral, objective platform for all points of view.