Smart offers Samsung Galaxy Note 7, registration for the much-anticipated gadget starts on August 6

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Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) unveils its unbeatable offers for the much-anticipated Samsung Galaxy Note 7. Beginning August 6, pre-registration links are up for both Smart Postpaid and Smart Infinity. 

For Postpaid, leading mobile services provider, Smart offers the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 at Surf Plus Plan 999, with a monthly cash-out of P1,200 for 24 months, for a total of just P2,199 a month. With Surf Plus Plan 999, subscribers can enjoy the new Samsung Galaxy Note 7 with supersized 5GB data for all their surfing needs, 30 call minutes and 100 texts to all networks, plus free data access for the app of their choice every month—be it Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube, among many others.

Approved postpaid pre-orders from August 6 to 19 will also receive a free Samsung battery pack and clear case. This is for the following Smart Wireless and Business Centers: SM Megamall, Rockwell Powerplant Mall, SM Aura, SM North EDSA, SM Baguio, SM Clark, Festival Mall, Molito, SM Cebu, SM Davao, and the Smart Online Store. Those who pre-order and get their applications approved via the Smart Online Store can get their Note 7 units as early as August 17.

For Smart Infinity, two Galaxy Note 7 devices may be enjoyed with the Roaming Plan 8000 (24 months) or a Galaxy Note 7 and a Galaxy S7 for the Roaming Plan 5000 (30 months). Members may experience their new devices with discounted outbound roaming rates, 15GB data allocation and a hefty monthly consumable allocation. New Plan 5000 and Plan 8000 members from August 6 to Aug 19 will also receive a complimentary Level Box Pro speaker.

To know more about Smart Infinity’s exclusive offers, existing members may contact their Infinity Relationship Officer or the Infinity dedicated hotline *800. For new membership, call 848 8806.

“Smart Infinity ensures our members enjoy the latest gadgets and fast mobile data that they deserve. The Galaxy Note 7 coupled with Smart's ultra-fast LTE technology is definitely a worthy addition to our line-up,” said Julie C. Carceller, Head of Smart Infinity.

Smart’s announcement followed Samsung’s simultaneous launch events for Unpacked 2016 in New York , Rio de Janiero and London on Aug. 2, with new groundbreaking features that push the boundaries of mobile productivity and security.

“Like Smart’s thrust towards breaking barriers, the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 shatters the limits of smartphone technology with its newest features. We are very excited to welcome the Samsung’s latest flagship to our portfolio and offer it to subscribers with our supersized data plans,” said Kathy C. Carag, Smart Mobile Business Head.

“Time and again, Samsung has surprised us with stylish innovations in its Galaxy Note series, which allows users to be more creative and productive with an easy swipe of a finger or a slide of the S-Pen. We can’t wait to see and experience the groundbreaking features in this latest device, which subscribers can surely optimize especially now that we are beefing up our LTE network across the country,” she added.

Galaxy Note 7 carries the latest innovation—the first ever Iris scanner for added security, alongside the enhanced S-Pen with higher precision and responsiveness. Note 7 is also the world’s first mobile HDR video that can take footage in sharper colors and with high dynamic range. It also carries superior DSLR like Real Pixel Camera with the first ever dual photodiode sensor (2PD) in mobile, providing superfast autofocus and brighter and clearer images with f/1.7 lens that is excellent for low light. It is water and dust resistant, has an expandable memory up to 256GB and runs on an Octa-core processor for smoother graphics.

Be among the first to own Note 7, visit smart.com.ph/note7 or smart.com.ph/infinity/samsungnote7 to register.

Secrets to a perfect selfie? Here's how OPPO’s F1 series gave us the ultimate selfie experience

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There are many people love taking selfies nowadays. Why do people crazy about taking their selfie and posting? I think taking selfies focus on people's ability to collaborate and share information Everyone wants to brag how awesome their life is.

The invention of the compact camera in 20th century gave people a portable and fairly cost-effective way to capture and preserve memorable parts of their lives. With the meteoric rise of the smartphone and current ubiquity of social networking, people now have more ways to highlight and share these unforgettable moments. 

The relative ease of documenting oneself has led to the rise of the selfie on social media, and it doesn't look like the phenomenon will simmer down any time soon.

‘The perfect selfie’

Cameras have come to be a notable consideration for most people's smartphone purchases. After all, you do need the perfect camera phone for the perfect selfie.

A number of things go into perfect selfie: resolution, light, processing, and even a bit of personal context behind the person taking the photo. The best selfies need to have a perfect balance of well-designed software, and the hardware needed to run it on.

“When choosing their smartphones, people look for attractive design, powerful hardware, long battery life, and of course, cameras that take beautiful photos anytime wherever you are,” said OPPO Philippines Brand Marketing Manager Stephen Cheng. 

“These are the qualities we had in mind when we developed the F1 series,” he added. 

Selfies anytime, anywhere 

Last February, OPPO introduced the first in the F1 series. Dubbed the “selfie expert,” the F1’s 8-megapixel front camera has an 84-degree-wide angle camera lens with an f/2.0 aperture, and a ¼-inch sensor that allows 40 percent more light to enter.

With the F1, users can say hello to brighter skin and bid blemishes goodbye. Thanks to the phone’s Beautify 3.0+ image processing, users can touch photos up on the fly. The F1, while itself considerably solid, only gets better.

The F1 Plus was launched in April, bringing the F1’s selfie capability to the next level. The F1 Plus’ 16-megapixel front camera captures clear, vivid photos even in low-light situations, making it ideal for night photography. This upmarket model runs Beautify 4.0, which improves on OPPO's highly-regarded imaging software. 

It also features a front-facing Screen Flash and a fun Selfie Panorama feature which makes it easier to take group photos.

Innovating with smartphones

On top of outstanding selfie specs, beautiful design is a hallmark of OPPO’s phones. The F1’s back cover, for example, has a velvet-like smoothness to its machined metal frame. 

Ultra-thin 1.66-mm bezels make the F1 plus look like a smaller 5.2-inch phone though it has a 5.5-inch AMOLED display with 4th Generation Gorilla Glass. 

With a non-slippery metal surface that gives users a comfortable grip, the F1 plus is a light, thin device with great hand feel.

The F1 plus is also the first phone to feature the all-new Color OS 3.0 which gives it a friendly, warm and approachable interface with increased speed and efficiency.

Battery life and charging time are other advantages of the F1 plus, making it ideal for people on the go. The phone's VOCC Flash Charge feature allows it to reach 75 percent capacity after only 30 minutes of charging. The phone’s battery can also last up to 14 hours and five minutes of constant use.

According to Cheng, OPPO will continue developing smartphones that give users the best possible experience. 

“Through our commitment to innovation, we will keep giving users the best possible tools that let them capture, share, and store priceless moments. This year, OPPO will be releasing a new smartphone under the F1 series that’s sure to offer the best selfie experience yet,” he said.

#PHforPokemonGO campaign ! Smart to Welcome Pokemon GO in the Philippines with Free Access for Subscribers

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Welcome Pokemon GO! 

One with the legions of Filipinos excited for the arrival of Pokemon GO in the country, leading mobile services provider Smart Communications has announced that it will give subscribers 7 days of free data access to Pokemon GO upon the launch of the hit game in the Philippines. This offer is available on both Android and iOS users.

Smart and TNT subscribers who are using iPhones or Android smartphones can enjoy 7 days free data access to Pokemon GO upon accessing the game and start playing without data charges for 7 days upon the launch of the game in the country.

A worldwide phenomenon

A location-based augmented reality mobile game, Pokemon GO lets players assume the role of a trainer who discovers and catches Pokemon or “pocket monsters” as if in real life using the GPS and camera of their smartphones.

Players level up their Pokemon and battle other trainers to gain Pokécoins that can be spent on in-game items.

Developed by Niantic Labs in partnership with Nintendo affiliate The Pokemon Company, Pokemon GO has swept gamers since it was first launched in the USA, Australia and New Zealand on July 6. The game is now available in over 30 countries, including Japan, where the original Pokemon game and anime series originated.

#PHforPokemonGO campaign

“Smart is one with the whole nation in waiting for Pokemon GO to finally go live in the Philippines, and we are very excited to welcome the game in our own big way,” said Kathy C. Carag, Smart Mobile Business Head.

“Smart subscribers nationwide can look forward to more special treats and promos that will allow them to make the most of their Pokemon GO experience.”

Drumming up the excitement among millions of Filipino fans, Smart joined the rally for #PHForPokemonGO on social media since the game was released in select markets last July 6. On Twitter alone, the anticipation and clamor for the game reached more than 14 million impressions on over the last couple of weeks for Smart and Pokemon Go.

Leveled-up Pokemon GO experience

Smart and TNT subscribers can easily level up their gameplay via convenient and secure Pokemon Go in-app purchases even without a credit card.

With Smart’s Google Direct Carrier Billing for Android users, subscribers can easily purchase Pokecoins, Pokemon Go’s currency mainly used for buying items that will help gamers catch Pokemons – directly charged to their prepaid load or postpaid account. 

Smart Postpaid subscribers who are iPhone users can also conveniently buy Pokecoins, charged to their monthly billing, through Smart’s Pay-With-Mobile service.

Catch the latest updates on Pokemon GO by following Smart’s official accounts on Facebook (www.facebook.com/SmartCommunications), Snapchat (LiveSmartPH), Twitter and Instagram (@LiveSmart).

Top 6 finalists of AirAsia Travel Photographer 2016 contest revealed

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Top 6 finalists of AirAsia Travel Photographer 2016 contest - (L-R) Dave Poblete (Makati); Daniel Magbanua (Quezon City); Neil Michael Cardano (Puerto Princesa); Atty. Eliseo Zuniga (Taguig); Kimberly Pauig (Pasig) and Mithilaya Miclat (Davao).

From over 500 participants in this year’s search for AirAsia Travel Photographer, six young aspiring photographers have been selected and presented to media and bloggers, Thursday, August 4 at Casa Italia, Burgos Park Bldg. Burgos Circle at Forbes Town Center in Fort Bonifacio. They are Dave Poblete (Makati); Daniel Magbanua (Quezon City); Neil Michael Cardano (Puerto Princesa); Atty. Eliseo Zuniga (Taguig); Kimberly Pauig (Pasig) and Mithilaya Miclat (Davao).

On its second-year, the photo contest is part of AirAsia’s continuous effort to inspire, engage and empower the youth to pursue their goals by traveling and sharing their stories through stunning images and photographs.    

The six finalists went through rounds of judging and were selected based on their personality, creativity, content, originality and technical or visual presentation.

(L-R) Tracy Abad of  Mellow 94.7;  Wawi Navarrosa of Thousandfold;  Nachi Ugarte of GRID magazine;  Rudy Kaw of AirAsia Group and David Viray, Brand Manager of AirAsia

The panel of judges consists of young leaders and veterans in the field of photography, branding and visual arts. Nachi Ugarte, creative director of GRID magazine; Jacob Maentz, documentary photographer; Wawi Navarrosa, artist/photographer, founder of Thousandfold; and Rudy Kaw, AirAsia Group’s head of branding, all shared their thoughts and advice to participants during the selection process held at Café Italia in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. 

The six finalists will be traveling to an AirAsia international destination this August for the final leg of the competition which includes series of challenges in landscape, portrait and food photography. The Grand Winner will be declared as ‘AirAsia Travel Photographer of the Year” and will receive 200,000 AirAsia BIG Points, surprise vacation package and more prizes from partner brands including GRID magazine and Flight 001.

Visit www.airasiatp.com for the webisodes featuring the journey of the six finalists or follow the hashtag #AirAsiaTP2016 #AirAsiaTravelPhotograper on other social media channels such as Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsiaPhilippines) and Twitter (twitter.com/AirAsiaPH) including updates about the contest from Mellow 94.7’s Mad House radio show featuring Chris, Stan, and Tracy. 

The AirAsia Travel Photographer 2016 is also brought to you by AirAsia BIG Loyalty Programme, Mellow 94.7, Grid Magazine and Flight 001 Philippines.




For more updates, visit : 

http://enjoyingwonderfulworld.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/msmyrnz

http://instagram.com/msmyrnz

Vina Morales takes center stage in Casino Filipino's shows this August

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Singer-actress Vina Morales brings a delightful musical treat to Casino Filipino (CF) patrons as she tours various CF branches and satellites for a concert tour this August. 

With CF’s monthly entertainment theme “Agosto Mo, Agosto Ko, Panalo!”, Vina is set to captivate the hearts of CF guests with her hit songs like “Hindi Ko Kaya”, “Sala sa Init, Sala sa Lamig”, “Sa Puso Ko”, “Kung Ako na Lang Sana”, and many more. 

The multi-awarded singer-actress who is celebrating her 30th year in show business this year will perform at CF’s branches in Pavilion (August 4), Angeles (August 6), Malabon Satellite (August 11), Cebu (August 13), Olongapo (August 25), and Tagaytay (August 27).

Vina says performing in Casino Filipino has always been an exhilarating for her. “I always enjoy performing in Casino Filipino and I am looking forward to do more shows with you all. Thank you for always including my name on your list of artists.”

The singer-actress said that her CF concert show will not be complete if her audience won’t get to sing and dance with her. 

“I will be singing familiar songs for the CF audience…and of course, my own songs which they always request. I always look forward to doing more shows at CF. Thank you for your never-ending support,” she said.

Aside from Vina, CF’s other featured artists this August include Joey G. (August 3 at CF Angeles); Wency Cornejo (August 4 at CF Olongapo and August 12 at Madison Satellite); Norman Mitchell (August 4 at Binondo Satellite and August 13 at Crown Regency Satellite); Klarisse de Guzman (August 5 at Mimosa Satellite and August 25 at Mactan Satellite); Jam Morales (August 5 at CF-Davao, August 12 at CF Pavilion, August 19 at Malabon Satellite, August 20 at CF Cebu, August 26 at Mimosa Satellite and August 27 at 365 Plaza Satellite); and Lloyd Zaragosa (August 6 at Tagum Satellite).

The acoustic band MYMP will also be seen at CF Tagaytay on August 6 and CF Iloilo on August 17 while Luke Mejares will serenade casino patrons on August 18 at the Manila Grand Opera Satellite and on August 26 at the Talisay Satellite.

Meanwhile, Cebuana singer and theater actress Dulce will also serenade CF Bacolod guests on August 8 and August 13 (with Jun Polistico at CF Angeles) while singer-comedian Andrew E. will entertain at Mactan Satellite on August 11. 

CF guests will likewise be treated to nights full of laughter as some of the country’s sought-after comedians perform in several branches. Among them are Tuesday Vargas (August 12 at Ronquillo Satellite and August 26 at CF Pavilion); Kim Idol (August 12 at CF-Davao and August 26 at CF Pavilion); and Norman Mitchell (August 13, Crown Regency Satellite).

OPM legend Freddie Aguilar will also be entertaining CF Tagaytay guests on August 13 while singer-composer Aiza Seguerra will be at CF Olongapoon August 17. 

Among other artists who will perform during the second half of August are Frenchie Dy (August 17 at Parkmall Satellite); Randy Santiago (August 18 at Binondo Satellite); Aegis (August 19 at CF Pavilion); Edgar Allan Guzman (August 22 at CF Bacolod); Nyoy Volante and Luke Mejares (August 24 at CF Angeles); Dingdong Avanzado (August 26 at Malabon Satellite); Maui Taylor (August 26 at Iligan Satellite); Giselle Sanchez (August 27 at CF Cebu); and Kakai Bautista (August 27 at CF Tagaytay).

For more details, please call the PAGCOR Entertainment Department at (02) 708-20-46 or (02) 526-0337 local 2401 to 2403 or visit www.facebook.com/casinofilipino, www.facebook.com/pagcor.artists or http://www.twitter.com/casinofilipino /  www.twitter.com/casinofilipino.

Samsung releases all-new Galaxy Note 7, Globe to accept pre-orders starting August 6, 2016

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Smartphone giant Samsung finally unveiled its all-new Galaxy Note 7 at its unpacking event in New York City, and its features are set to the bar yet again in mobile technology and innovation. Philippines’ #1 mobile brand Globe Telecom is gearing up to take pre-orders starting August 6, 2016 via globe.com.ph/note7.

Maximizing a connected lifestyle, Globe complements the new Galaxy Note 7 with its customizable Globe myLifestyle plans.

The myLifestyle postpaid plans provide a personalized online experience through its variety of lifestyle packs designed for different interests ranging from entertainment, music, fashion, to travel, among others.

“Globe Postpaid always ensures we give our loyal customers access to the latest devices in the market. We are thrilled to finally have the new Galaxy Note 7 with its groundbreaking features that elevate the Filipino digital lifestyle. Best enjoyed on our myLifestyle postpaid plans, each one of our customers will be able to customize and maximize all the Note 7 features attuned to their passions and interests – from the basic services of calls, texts, and mobile data to exclusive content,” said Globe SVP for Consumer Mobile Business Issa Cabreira.

Samsung CEO D.J. Kho led the unboxing in New York City, unveiling Galaxy Note 7’s latest features. Galaxy Note 7 carries the latest innovation – the first ever Iris scanner for added security, alongside the enhanced S-Pen with higher precision and responsiveness.

Note 7 is also the world’s first mobile HDR video that can take footage in sharper colors and with high dynamic range. It also carries superior DSLR like Real Pixel Camera with the first ever dual photodiode sensor (2PD) in mobile, providing superfast autofocus and brighter and clearer images with f/1.7 lens that is excellent for low light. It is water and dust resistant, has an expandable memory up to 256GB and runs on an Octacore processor for smoother graphics.

To learn more about the perfect myLifestyle plan for you, you can visit www.globe.com.ph or visit the nearest store to you. 

Customers can follow Globe Telecom on Facebook www.Facebook.com/GlobePH and @enjoyGlobe on Twitter and Instagram for updates on pre-orders.

Globe keeps growth momentum in 1H; posts double-digit growth in revenues

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Globe Telecom sustained its growth momentum in the first half of the year, delivering a double-digit hike in revenues, reaching a total P59.6 billion, up 11% from P53.8 billion a year earlier. Despite heightened competitive intensity, the robust revenue growth was underpinned by the rise in data-related service revenues across mobile, home broadband and corporate data, driven by efforts in providing market-relevant data offers and the sustained investments in the company’s data network.

Globe recorded net income of close to P9.0 billion, up by 3% against the P8.7 billion reported in the same period of 2015. Core net income, which excludes the impact of nonrecurring charges, foreign exchange gains and mark-to-market charges, stood at P8.8 billion, higher by 2% year-on-year. EBITDA stood at P25.6 billion for the first six months of the year, a robust 13% increase from the P22.7 billion reported a year ago. Total operating expenses and subsidy grew by 9% year-on-year to P34.0 billion from P31.1 billion last year, to support the growing customer base and the expansion of the data network. EBITDA margin stood at 43%, slightly higher than last year’s margin of 42% and in line with the full-year guidance of 40%.

“We are proud that the company’s overall results in the first half remained robust amidst the heightened competitive intensity and the unique challenges and opportunities posed by increasing levels of smartphone penetration and mobile postpaid ownership in the market.” Globe President & CEO Ernest L. Cu said. “We believe that with the aid of the additional frequencies that we have recently acquired, Globe Telecom’s leadership as the preferred brand for Filipinos’ digital lifestyle choices will be strengthened moving forward. Our commitment in making continuous investments and the aggressive expansion of our network capacities are all geared towards addressing the public’s clamor for better internet service and creating wonderful experiences for our valued customers and shareholders.” Cu added.

Globe Telecom’s mobile revenues grew by 3% year-on-year, reaching P45.7 billion for the first half of 2016 from the P44.5 billion reported a year ago, driven by strong revenue performances of Globe’s prepaid brands. TM, the company’s mass-market brand, increased revenues by 5% year-on-year while Globe Prepaid revenues posted a solid year-on-year growth of 3%. Complementing the growth of the prepaid segment, Globe Postpaid revenues posted a 2% growth from the same period of 2015.

From a product perspective, the growth in mobile revenues was spurred by the sustained rise in mobile data service revenues, which grew to P17.8 billion in the first half of 2016, 46% higher than the P12.2 billion reported a year ago. The robust revenue growth was driven by the rise in smartphone penetration, on the back of increasing affordability and range of devices, and the popularity of Globe’s data-driven products and applications as more customers shift towards digital lifestyles. The growth in mobile data services offset the declines in mobile voice (-11%) and mobile SMS revenues (-16%), which are consistent with the trends in other telecom companies in the region and worldwide. Mobile data services comprised 39% of total mobile revenues, up from 27% in the first six months of 2015.

The company’s home broadband business likewise sustained its growth trajectory, significantly increasing both in revenues (+49% year-on-year) and subscriber base (+38% year-on-year). Total home broadband service revenues reached P7.0 billion for the six months just ended, with total subscriber base now reaching 1.14 million customers. The growth in revenues was driven by subscriber expansion in both fixed wireless and wired broadband solutions, due to the continued rise in demand for internet and data connectivity and the popularity of entertainment and other content-driven applications, such as HOOQ and NBA League Pass, among others.

Globe Telecom’s corporate data business surged by 55% to P4.9 billion for the first six months of 2016, from the P3.1 billion in the same period a year ago. This was primarily driven by the sustained demand for digital services across Philippine enterprises given the strong take-up of various data connectivity solutions, managed services, mobility solutions and cloud-based services. Traditional fixed line voice revenues likewise posted a 29% increase year-on-year to P1.9 billion as of the end of June 2016 from P1.5 billion a year ago following the growth of bundled home broadband plans.

PLDT opens premier VITRO Data Center in Makati

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Leading telecoms and digital services provider PLDT has opened the country’s biggest data center at Makati City, the country’s premier business district, to serve a wide range of organizations, particularly those handling vital data such as banks, business process outsourcing (BPO) firms, IT and content providers and government institutions.

VITRO, set up by PLDT subsidiary ePLDT,  is a network of world-class data centers, guaranteeing continuous business operations for enterprise organizations. Highly robust, secure and scalable infrastructure, unparalleled connectivity, and 24×7 technical support capabilities, allowing you to focus on your core competencies.

(L-R) Opening of VITRO Data Center Makati with Jovy Hernandez, FVP; Eric Alberto, PLDT EVP & ePLDT President and CEO; Nerrisa Ramos, Chief Operating Officer; and David Simon, Chief Technology Officer & Service Delivery & Operations Group Head.

The newest VITRO Data Center sits on a nearly two-hectare property with 3,600-rack capacity. It is equipped with systems and facilities to guarantee continuous operations, ensuring that businesses can utilize robust and scalable digital infrastructure, as well as world-class 24/7 technical support capabilities.

“PLDT is investing heavily in our VITRO data centers as we believe that these facilities are one of the basic building blocks of the country’s digital economy. This data center will be a vital resource for companies as they ramp up their own digital services,” said PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan.

The new earthquake-resistant, purpose-built data center in Makati is built on solid ground without seismic faults within its proximity. In addition, special architectural techniques and materials planning were implemented to provide the data center with fire-rated concrete walls and flood-protected design.

VITRO Makati is rated to withstand earthquakes up to intensity eight in the Richter scale. The data center is also compliant with global design standards.

“PLDT recognizes how vital it is for enterprises to ensure stable operations despite changes in the external environment. The need for scalable and secure hosting facilities to house and manage critical platforms is also growing in importance as the enterprise becomes more data-driven as a result of continuous digital transformation initiatives,” said PLDT Executive Vice President and ePLDT President and CEO Eric R. Alberto.

VITRO Makati offers one of the most secure and impenetrable structures in the Philippines with an eight-layer security design, guaranteeing that data and applications will always be protected and secured 

Each major component of the facility is configured with redundant counterparts in place that seamlessly operate to anticipate adverse events, including power generators and Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) units, among others. 

As part of the VITRO network of data centers, VITRO Makati also serves as a carrier-neutral Internet Exchange facility that provides numerous IP peering services, enabling access to local and international content.

VITRO Makati is also a Nexcenter-certified facility, allowing its clients to use globally standardized Nexcenter services of world leader NTT Com at some 140 locations in 84 cities of 19 countries, in addition to NTT Com’s Arcstar Universal One private-network service, which is already available in the Philippines and which is largely used by the country’s BPO industry.

“As the world becomes even more digitally connected, Filipino enterprises must leverage on new technologies to ensure the security and resilience of their operations. PLDT’s digital platforms can enable enterprises to take advantage of disruptive technologies, secure their operations, and promote growth in their businesses,” said Alberto.

The PLDT Group now operates seven data centers all over the country with a total rack capacity of nearly 7,000 to serve the needs of small, medium, and large enterprises across various industries, including banking, financial services, outsourcing, telecoms, and gaming.

Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) lends a helping hand

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The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) recently visited Leyte, as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) program to help the province recover from the aftermath of the disastrous typhoon Yolanda that hit the country in 2013. 

Leyte was one of the hard-hit areas in Visayas. It was engulfed by a deadly storm surge and hundreds of families were badly affected, especially those living along the coastlines. Even after three years, the province is still recovering from the disaster as thousands lost everything – their shelter, livelihood and families.

TPB started their outreach program by bringing cheer to the orphaned and underprivileged children from the Social City Welfare, as well as the elderly from the Pope Francis Complex Center for the Poor. TPB employees donated school supplies, toys, books, canned goods, toiletries and clothes to children and elderly.

To help in protecting the coasts of Leyte from another fortuitous event, TPB employees also planted mangroves along the shores. 

To cap off their charitable mission, the employees visited some of Leyte’s tourist attractions, such as the Sto. Niño Church, Palo Church, Sto. Niño Shrine and Museum, San Juanico Bridge, MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park and the Leyte Provincial Capitol. They also visited M/V Eva Jocelyn, one of 17 cargo ships that was washed ashore by the storm surge during typhoon Yolanda from the waters of the Port of Tacloban City to a side of a hill in Barangay 37 which was turned into a monument and a mini-park; and the Tzu Chi Great Love Village in Palo, a Taiwanese Buddhist foundation which provides livelihood and shelter for the victims of the typhoon. 

“Apart from promoting the country’s wonderful tourist spots, we, at TPB, are also committed to help communities and preserve the environment. We hope that in our humble efforts, we not only protect our natural wonders, but more importantly, uplift the spirits of our fellow Filipinos,” says TPB Chief Operating Officer (COO) Domingo Ramon Enerio III.

TPB’s visit to Leyte is the 2nd leg of its CSR program this year, which started in Occidental Mindoro and will conclude in Palawan. They also had similar activities in Boracay, Bohol and Camiguin last year. By setting an example, TPB’s charitable works hope to inspire not just its employees, but also other agencies and the general public to help the country in restoring its beauty and making the Philippines more fun.

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Pedro Morelli's ZOOM

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ZOOM is a multi-dimensional interface between a comic book artist, a novelist, and a film director. Each lives in a separate reality but authors a story about one of the others.

Directed by  Pedro Morelli, a  fast-paced, pop-art inspired, multi-plot contemporary comedy, Zoom film consists of three seemingly separate but ultimately interlinked storylines about a comic book artist, a novelist, and a film director. Each character lives in a separate world but authors a story about the life of another.

The comic book artist, Emma, works by day at an artificial love doll factory, and is hoping to undergo a secret cosmetic procedure. Emma’s comic tells the story of Edward, a cocky film director with a debilitating secret about his anatomy. The director, Edward, creates a film that features Michelle, an aspiring novelist who escapes to Brazil and abandons her former life as a model. Michelle, pens a novel that tells the tale of Emma, who works at an artificial love doll factory … And so it goes ...

Stars are Gael García Bernal, Alison Pill, Mariana Ximenes and Jason Priestley, screenplayed by  Matt Hansen, ZOOM is released by Solar Pictures.

Who’s zooming who?

The Three Realities of ZOOM 

From the crazy mind of Pedro Morelli, written for the screen by Matt Hansen, and produced by Niv Fichman, these three creative geniuses collaborated to create the distinct universes of ZOOM. Hansen explains that “originally, the film was similar to INCEPTION in that it started with one reality point and went further into one’s consciousness. This changed when I suggested that we do the film Escher staircase style where we would have different worlds affecting one another. Conceptually, this idea sounded really cool, but we soon realized that realistically the idea was fairly complicated. We then decided cut the film down to three stories, which led us to create ZOOM.”

Emma The Cartoonist

Emma works in a factory that makes love dolls. But when she looks in the mirror, Emma tends to compare herself to the dolls and becomes dissatisfied with her own flawed body. And so, she decides to invest her savings in breast implant surgery. The surgery endows Emma with enormous breasts, just like the dolls. But she has a hard time getting used to their presence and begins to feel like a stranger in her own body. Emma questions her decision and ultimately tries to get the implants removed. Unfortunately, she doesn't have enough money left for the surgical reversal.

“The thing about Emma is that a lot of people know a girl like this,” says writer Matt Hansen. “She’s nerdy but not in a pejorative kind of way. She’s caught up in this society of perfect appearances, but unable to see her own inner beauty.” Emma’s inner beauty captivated producer Niv Fichman as well. “Emma is someone who I would love to meet,” says Fichman.“She’s a secret artist, she draws really well. I feel sorry for her because she has this problem where she is not as confident as she looks and wants to be augmented. But this unrealistic image of beauty is something society has imposed on all of us and that is one of the main themes of the film.”

In her free time, Emma likes to draw cartoons and creates a comic book about the life of a filmmaker named Edward.

Edward The Filmmaker

Edward is designed by Emma to be the perfect man. Charming, handsome and sexy, he is a successful action film director. Immersed in a world of fame, fortune and vanity, he craves to be recognized for his artistic sensibility. Edward's problems begin when his penis dramatically shrinks overnight - the result of a derisive practical joke by his creator Emma, who holds his destiny in her hands. This sudden and senseless mutation leaves Edward in despair.

The character of Edward is far too familiar to those in the film industry. “Edward’s a caricature of a variety of directors in movies that both Niv and I have come across over the years, in that he’s a commercial guy who is trying to make something meaningful or arty,” says Hansen. “He’s a parody of that type of filmmaker, the process of making a film as well as having various people influencing the work, for better or worse.”

Edward's latest project is a movie about a successful Brazilian fashion model who strives to be a novelist.

Michelle The Novelist

Michelle is a Brazilian fashion model living in Toronto. She dreams of becoming a novelist despite the discouragement of her manager (and boyfriend) Dale. But when Michelle shows an incomplete manuscript to a respected publisher, he thinks it has great potential and encourages her to complete it. In order to concentrate on finishing the book, Michelle escapes to Brazil so she can focus exclusively on her work.

Michelle’s character was created around the concept that one should not judge a book by its cover. “Michelle is that kind of girl who people think is just beautiful,” says Hansen. “She has all these advantages in life: she goes to the front of the line; she can get what average people can’t and she sees the benefits and disadvantages to that---one of them being that she is not taken seriously as a writer because she’s only seen as beautiful.”

Throughout her story, Michelle is writing a book about Emma, an insecure woman who works in a factory that makes love dolls. 

And this closes the circle between the three realities of ZOOM.

3rd SEASON OF FOOD HERO SET TO RAISE THE BAR IN 2016! : Be the next food host on Asian Food Channel and Food Network Asia!

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Asian Food Channel and Food Network’s hunt for the next food host is expected to draw fierce competition across Asia-Pacific.  Now looking for a great host with a passion for food and travel, who also has outstanding skills in the kitchen.

The digitally-enabled competition expects to surpass past seasons’ participation numbers and increase engagement among food lovers in the region

Food Hero is a digitally-enabled campaign by Asian Food Channel and Food Network Asia to looking for talent that is passionate about food and travel, and aspire to be on television! Interested participants can download the Food Hero mobile app from either the App Store (on Apple) and Google Play (on Android) to submit their entries for selection. All you need to do is to shoot a 3-minute video of yourself either cooking or introducing a dish and upload it onto the Food Hero mobile app. Submissions close August 21. Share your food story today! 

The search for the region’s best home cook and host kicks off in Asia as Food Hero returns in its third season. Building upon the momentum and success from previous seasons, the digitally-enabled competition will look to crown one winner who will go on to host his or her own Asian Food Channel and/or Food Network programme. 

“As the leader in lifestyle programming with two dedicated regional channels focused on food, we are always looking to grow our pool of on-air and digital talent. Continuing the Food Hero competition is not only a great platform to uncover fresh talent, it is also a great way for our viewers to connect over the common passion point around the love for food,” said Carl Zuzarte, Senior Vice President of Programming and Production at Scripps Networks Interactive, Asia-Pacific.

Food Hero 2016 – 5 Simple Steps to Participate! 

1- Interested participants can download the Food Hero mobile app from either App Store (on Apple) or Google Play (on Android).  

2- After downloading, participants will be prompted to register their information to sign in. 

3- The mobile app provides instructional videos and tips on how to shoot and submit a winning entry. Participants can also draw inspiration from various recipes from past contestants and watch previous Food Hero winners share their food story.  

4- Participants can record their entry that best demonstrates their cooking and hosting skills.  

5- They can then upload their video entry and also view submissions by other participants. 

Upon closing of competition on 21st August (three months period to submit entries), a panel comprising of production and creative experts will evaluate the entries based on the participant’s personality, on-screen appeal and their creativity in producing original and engaging content. Top entries will be shortlisted to participate in a series of culinary and travel-related challenges to better evaluate them in ‘live’ scenarios. 

Last year, Ili Sulaiman from Malaysia and Debbie Wong from Hong Kong overcame fierce competition and was crowned Food Hero 2015 champions, joining the likes of TV hosts Sarah Benjamin (Singapore) and Michele Lean (Malaysia) who won the first edition of the competition. 

“The moment I realized I wanted to make a career out of food was probably when I saw Martin Yan on TV and I remember thinking that’s exactly what I want to be. Someone who’s passionate about food and sharing their food story with the world,” said Wong, who has since hosted a number of Food Network productions like Food Wars Asia Season 2 and Kitchen Quickies.

“I took part the first time around and I didn’t get through but being the winner for Food Hero last year has opened many doors for me and given me the confidence to host my own shows and better run my own establishment,” said Sulaiman who owns ‘DISH by Ili’, a food delivery service providing wholesome and nutritious meals in Malaysia.

Starting today, interested participants can visit www.foodhero.asia and sign up for the Food Hero mailing list to receive the latest updates and exclusive content leading up to the competition.

www.asianfoodchannel.com 

www.facebook.com/asianfoodchannel

www.foodnetworkasia.com 

www.facebook.com/foodnetworkasia

Globe Telecom submits 3-year coverage rollout plan to NTC

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95% of cities, municipalities to have mobile services by end of 2018

Globe Telecom submitted its 3-year coverage rollout plan to the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and committed to provide mobile services, including voice, SMS and data, to 95% of municipalities and cities in the country by the end of 2018, using the additional spectrum it acquired from San Miguel.

The rollout plan is one of the conditions set by the NTC in approving the co-use agreement covering the spectrum resources that Globe acquired from the joint buy out of San Miguel Corp.’s telco assets.

In a letter, dated July 29, 2016, addressed to NTC Commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba, Globe General Counsel Froilan Castelo said Globe started to implement the rollout plan in June and will be deploying about 4,500 multiband, multimode software defined radio base station equipment and capacity upgrades to improve overall customer experience in terms of speed and reliability of its mobile services.

Currently, Globe provides mobile broadband services across its entire network, having fully upgraded to 100% 4G network while more than 60% of its sites are now equipped with LTE for mobile broadband services, Castelo said. Just after two months of gaining access to the spectrum assets, Globe has already upgraded over 25 cell sites with LTE 700 megahertz and more than 600 cell sites with additional 2600 MHz spectrum and about 1,500 cell sites with additional 1800 MHz spectrum as part of the company’s commitment to improve mobile internet speeds within 1 year.

Castelo explained the 3-year coverage rollout plan took into consideration certain conditions that include priority areas with substantial existing demand and high traffic growth trends; key development areas to further promote the country’s overall economic development; maximum use of Globe assigned frequencies for the 700 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2300 MHz and 2600 MHz. By yearend, the company expects that about 2,200 of the company’s existing cell sites representing over 30% if its network nationwide would be upgraded using the additional spectrum from the co-use agreement, Castelo said.

“We would like to assure the commission that we are utilizing all available resources and doing all we can to improve the mobile experience of our customers. We are committed to pursue our aggressive mobile broadband coverage and capacity expansion programs in order to meet mobile data traffic growth and increasing demand for mobile connectivity. We are confident that our strategy of combining new site builds with efficient use of spectrum resources and adopting new broadband wireless technologies such as LTE-Advanced will allow us to satisfy the changing needs of our mobile customers,” Castelo said.

Globe is also pursuing its fixed broadband expansion program to propel the Philippine internet index to a comparative level within the region, he said, adding that the company is committed to provide ultra fast internet in 2 million households over 20,000 barangays by 2020.

Anker launches its top of the lne producs at Power Mac Center

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Anker, one of the emerging industry leaders in support devices and mobile power, is keen on making the smart life easier with its affordable but high quality products.

Anker’s extensive line of products is exclusively launched by Power Mac Center and is available at select branches nationwide. 

With the Anker – Power Mac Center Partnership last July 28, Anker officially launch their new and existing products at Power Mac Center,  The Cyberzone, SM City North EDSA – The Annex Activity Area.

Now available in select branches of Power Mac Center, the top charging brand aims to create a world where mobile means mobile, where you spend less time charging your devices. 

Fast-Charging Features 

Standard chargers are hard-wired with one charging protocol. Anker’s PowerIQ™ technology debunks the conventional as it dynamically detects and replicates the charging protocol of device’s original charger, enabling it to charge at full speed. Anker also has VoltageBoost™ features that detect cable resistance and makes up for it with slight increases in voltage. 

Product Line

This year, Anker marks its official debut with an extensive line of external batteries, cables, and portable hubs. 

Nylon Braided Lightning Cable 

The Nylon Braided Lightning Cable enables you to sync and charge your iPhone and iPad with speed up to 20% faster than non-certified cables. Available in silver, black, and gold color, each cable contains a unique, verifiable serial number and an authorization chip issued by Apple to ensure 100% compatibility with any Lightning device. It’s incredibly durable and only uses premium nylon fabric. SRP is at PHP 1,150.

Powerport 60W 6 Port Wall Charger 

For full speed charging for all of your devices, Powerport 6 is your reliable power saver. Built with industry grade materials and premium circuitry, it is recently awarded the highest energy efficiency rating (DOE 6) by the US Department of Energy. It runs 60 watts of power through 6 ports—that’s enough to charge all your devices in the fast lane. SRP is at PHP 1,950.

PowerCore Series

If you need high capacity power to keep you going for days, the PowerCore series redefine charging speed with style and portability. You don’t have to worry about battery life again with PowerCore 10,400, PowerCore 15,600 and PowerCore 20,100. Not only does it simultaneously charge any combination of devices at full speed, it also packs enough power to keep your mobile devices charged all week.

The Medical City presents the winners of “TMC for Kids: Healthy Eating Plate" poster-making contest on good nutrition

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L-R: 3rd place Jason Oliver Bacas from Lourdes School, 1st Isabella R. Hilario from St. Paul College and Patrice Sebastien M. Olaguera, Lourdes School

“TMC for Kids: Healthy Eating Plate – A poster-making contest on good nutrition” winners were awarded last July 27, 2016 at the TMC Auditorium.

Winners received plaques, gift certificates and gift bags, while a special prize given to the entry with most likes on The Medical City’s Facebook page. The winning designs were used by The Medical City for internal posters and educational materials.

Advocating proper nutrition through arts, the Medical City raises awareness on proper nutrition through a poster making contest dubbed as "TMC for Kids: Healthy Eating Plate."

The Medical City Nutrition Management Services, together with the Center for Developmental Pediatrics, have taken heed of this concern by launching a poster-making contest dubbed “TMC for Kids: Healthy Eating Plate – A poster-making contest on good nutrition.” 

This project is also in line with the “Pinggang Pinoy” campaign of the Department of Health (DOH) in celebration of the National Nutrition Month 2016. The contest was opened to all Grade 5 students and each school sent their five best entries. A total of 25 posters have already been entered into the competition. 

“We are glad of the turnout and the number of entries that we received, which means more and more people are now realizing the fact and the dangers of unhealthy eating, especially among kids. We are happy as well that people responded to this contest, which is aligned with the DOH’s National Nutrition Month campaign and serves as a vital part of the hospital’s advocacy on healthy eating that should start at an early age,” declares Dr. Marianna Sy-Quia Sioson, Head of the Nutrition Management Department of The Medical City.

The impact of good nutrition early in life can reach far into the future.

The right nutrition in the first 1,000 days between a woman’s pregnancy and her child’s second birthday builds the foundation for the child’s ability to grow, learn and thrive.

However, recent surveys showed a significant rise in malnutrition among Filipino children, making the situation truly alarming. Without a doubt, undernutrition still exists and remains a national priority but pediatric overweight and obesity have both become a growing concern among medical practitioners and should be of importance to mothers and would-be mothers.

The Medical City (TMC) is a world-class hospital healthcare organization with 48 years of experience in hospital operation and administration. With its main facility located along Ortigas Avenue, TMC boasts of experienced and esteemed medical experts of various fields with modern facilities that offer the highest standard of healthcare quality as accredited by the Joint Commission International, a prestigious accrediting body for international healthcare organizations.