City of Dreams Manila's Security Operations team leads coastal cleanup activity along Manila bay

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City of Dreams Manila’s security personnel volunteered for the coastal cleanup of Manila bay

City of Dreams Manila focuses on environmental conservation in its employee volunteer program, as it undertakes coastal cleanup of Manila Bay with various organizations, such as the Philippine Coast Guard.

Over a 100 volunteers from its Security Operations team recently partnered with about 70 coast guards of the 107th squadron of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and initiated a coastal cleanup activity along Manila Bay area, clearing debris and rubbish. Starting from early morning, the volunteers covered a shore-to-bay distance of roughly ten meters by a shoreline distance of close to 100 meters. The efforts yielded hundreds of kilos of rubbish which were moved off the water’s edge and later on collected by the local city government.

City of Dreams Manila’s security team and Philippine Coast Guard initiated the Manila bay coastal cleanup

They will again participate in the Annual International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) program at the Manila Bay area on September 17 spearheaded by the International Coastal Cleanup Philippines.

In last year’s ICC activity, more than 60 volunteer employees from various units of City of Dreams Manila participated in clearing garbage from the coastal area fronting the Senate Building in Jose Diokno and Diosdado Macapagal avenues in Pasay.

City of Dreams Manila’s security team and Philippine Coast Guard worked together for the Manila bay coastal cleanup

Manila Bay is one of the targeted coastal cleanup sites in the country, which runs through the Philippines’ capital and neighboring cities with a total shoreline distance of 190 kilometers. Industrialization and a constant rise in population surrounding the bay have largely contributed to the deterioration of its water quality and waste matter content, and several local and international environmental groups have dedicated their efforts in rehabilitating and restoring life to the bay’s coastal and marine habitats. ICC continues to raise environmental awareness and provide information gathered from the collected trash; to guide and influence governments, corporations and industries, in developing smart solutions addressing marine debris problem.

City of Dreams Manila’s security team and Philippine Coast Guard volunteers teamed up for the Manila bay coastal cleanup

In keeping with their continuing commitment to the property’s corporate social responsibility program, more volunteers from City of Dreams Manila are anticipated to take part in this year’s ICC activity together with private and public sector volunteers. Besides the coastal cleanup, employees of City of Dreams Manila are also currently engaged in a tree-planting program in Caluan Laguna, in coordination with DENR in support of environmental conservation.

Road-trip ready vehicles in Wheels : Toyota FJ Cruiser transforms into a capable off-roader

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Is your automobile adventure-ready? 

This week in Wheels, join the audacious team of motoring journalists Matteo Guidicelli, Kap Maceda Aguila, Manny Delos Reyes, Ulysses Ang and Angel Rivero as they take some of the country’s road trip and off-road vehicles for a spin.

First, Matteo learns how to transform the stunning Toyota FJ Cruiser into a capable off-roader. He will also show how to make the adventure vehicle look even tougher and more ready for action outdoors. 

Meanwhile, the entire Philippine STAR team goes on a food trip in the country’s culinary capital, Pampanga, aboard the all-new Toyota Innova. Witness the car’s power and superior performance on the road and find out why it is the perfect vehicle for road trips. 

For car racers, join Uly as he visits Crossfit MNL and tries to get fit like a racing driver. He will also share tips on how to prepare your body to prevent injuries while racing. 

It’s all these and more on the fourth season of Wheels, your guide to life on the fast lane. 

Catch it every Thursdays, 10:30 p.m., on ABS-CBN Sports + Action Channel. For firsthand info on the latest happenings in motoring, like and follow Wheels on facebook.com/PhilStarWheels, @PhilStar_Wheels on Twitter and @PhilStarTV_Wheels on Instagram.

Experience top notch mobile camera technology with the new Huawei P9

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Enjoyed best with Globe myLifestyle plan 1499

Smartphone photography takes on a whole new level as Huawei introduces one of the most impressive camera phones to date - Huawei P9.

Featuring Leica dual-lens cameras and Huawei’s ultra-clear 5.2-inch screen, it gives ultra-sharp image capture and vivid display. Powered by Globe myLifestyle postpaid plans, customers can get it for free on Plan 1499.

On Globe myLifestyle Plan 1499, the connected experience is made even better as it comes with 5 GB of data, plus unlimited calls and texts to Globe/TM. Customers can also enjoy FREE 1GB Spotify Premium or HOOQ for 3 months, choice of Navigation Pack, Explore Pack, or Fitness Pack for 1 month, 1 month Gadget Care, 1GB Globe Cloud, and free shipping as well.

Boasting of detailed engineering, the Huawei P9’s Leica lens has clever optical engineering with dual-lens cameras that feature two sensors: one for RGB, and one for monochrome. Combining these two technologies, the Huawei P9 lets you capture vibrant colors with unparalleled detail, as well as appealing black and white images.

Its camera quality is as powerful as a DSLR yet portable and packed with dual 12MP rear cameras and an 8MP front camera that produces images in stunning high-resolution. It is also equipped with creative shooting modes that inspire one to produce great photos with the use ofIMAGEsmart 5.0 technology, Hybrid Focus, and Picture Quality algorithm. This allows users to shoot crisp, clear, and optimized photos in any condition. Various shooting modes are also available such as film, professional, time lapse, and wide aperture among others.

Rounding up its powerful features is its premium and elegant design from diamond-cut edges, rounded curves, and beautiful aluminum body—all coated in a stunning gold shade. Huawei P9 specs the latest Kirin 955 ultra-fast octa core processor, a massive 3GB RAM, long-lasting 3,000mAh battery, and a reliable triple antenna—all working like clockwork for a fast and seamless performance.

To know more about how you can create your own myLifestyle plan visitwww.globe.com.ph/postpaid/mylifestyleplan.

ANATHOMISM : A Synthesis of Anatomy, Thomism and Animism

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 PATRON OF HOPE, 3X4FT OIL ON PAPER 2016 (MIKE GARCIA)

 In his search for the sacred, Mike Garcia deconstructs spirituality, rituals and age-old beliefs in his first one-man show in Manila entitled ANATHOMISM.

This exhibit, which opens on September 7 at the Kulay-Diwa Gallery of Philippine Contemporary Art in Sucat, Parañaque, is a window into Garcia’s personal faith journey, with animism and Thomism emerging as core concepts.

GEOMANCER, 3X4FT OIL ON PAPER 2016 (MIKE GARCIA)

Animism, the world’s most primitive belief, has shaped countless religions to varying degrees. Derived from the Latin word anima, which means “breath” or “soul,” it attributes a spiritual essence to animals, plants and inanimate objects—non-human entities that affect human interests and affairs, and whose spirits may be malevolent, benevolent or neutral. In most religions, powerful supernatural beings in the forms of nature deities, or gods or goddesses, are worshipped as well and are called on in times of need.

EMANCIPATOR-VISUAL LIBERATOR, 3X4FT OIL ON PAPER 2016 (MIKE GARCIA)

Thomism, a school of thought inspired by St. Thomas Aquinas, influenced Garcia’s spirituality to a great extent. Garcia hailed from University of Santo Tomas, where he was introduced to and started following the teachings of Aquinas, such as the doctrine of the Trinity, in which the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit according to Aquinas represent relationships that occur within God.  

Garcia ties in both animism and Thomism with anatomy by building his creations around human and animal forms. This flesh-and-bones style reflects the careful study that goes into the rendering of every principle (and its internal structure) depicted in the collection.

The exhibit features graphite and oil on paper artworks. It dissects spiritual beliefs and principles of local and universal communities in a bold and insightful approach.

Garcia hails from Palawan, and is one of the first Palaweño artists to have won as a regional winner for Luzon in the recent Philippine Art Awards.

For more information:

Contact Person: Roberto San Agustin Nolasco

Email: bobbit@kulay-diwa.com

Landline/Fax: PLDT (632)8260574

Landline (mobile Globe Duo): (632)6244344

Kulay-Diwa Gallery 25 Lopez Avenue, Lopez Village, Sucat, Paranaque City

A celebration of wonderful this September for all Globe customers nationwide

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This September, all Globe customers nationwide are in for an exciting line-up of events, treats and exclusive deals from shopping to food and travel.

“We have gone through an inspiring and exciting journey with our customers – from milestone services to network upgrades - all bringing us to where we are today. We are grateful to our millions of customers for staying with us and making us as part of their lives. With this 917 celebration, we look forward to sharing with our customers, partners, and employees delightful treats to make wonderful Globe moments with us. We will continue to be inspired by our stakeholders to provide Filipinos reliable services and fast mobile internet and make their digital lifestyle truly wonderful, “says Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu.

The signature Globe prefix 917 always had a special bond to most of the company's customers, especially those who are loyal to the service for over 10 years. Brought to life through the actual date, September 17, this month serves as the perfect time to set a wonderful celebration nationwide. 

Through delightful and rewarding experiences, Globe expresses its gratitude to all its customers for their continued patronage, making it the country’s leading mobile brand. 

From September 1-17, 2016, Globe customers will enjoy double the value of their Globe Rewards points when redeeming at KFC, Marks and Spencer, SM Cinema and Bench as well as avail of exclusive items and discounts from online shopping sites such as deals as low as P917 for Zalora and P150 discount for a minimum purchase of P1,000 for Lazada. Globe Stores will also offer special discounts for select digital connectors.

On the most special day of the month, September 17 (0917), Globe brings the celebration to life with a full day event open to all customers at the Globe ICONIC entertainment zone at BGC Central. Fun activities, prizes, surprises and exclusive on-site deals from the company's various brands await all guests!

At the same time, customers nationwide can enjoy exclusive one-day deals such as buy one take one special Globe flavored ice cream from Bono Gelato and free pastry treats from Figaro Coffee. Those on the move can also avail of P9.17 Grab Car rides and holidaymakers will get to enjoy AirAsia’s P917 All-in Fare to domestic destinations! One lucky Globe customer will also win a trip for two to Singapore via Singapore Airlines with free accommodation in Fairmont Hotel. Customers also get a chance to win freebies such as Netflix subscriptions, Globe Rewards points and free data.

Globe is also giving customers a chance to give back and support entrepreneurs on September 16-17 by donating $25 Kiva Gift codes. Kiva Microfunds is non-profit organization that aids low income entrepreneurs. Customers just need to text KIVA to 2158.

The special treats will continue to delight Globe customers from September 18-30 as the company strengthens its relationship-building efforts to create delightful and wonderful moments and surprises for its customers.

Catch Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu live on Globe Telecom's Facebook page www.facebook.com/globeph with a special announcement of a month-long celebration exclusive for Globe customers.

For more details, customers will be receiving updates via text or they can tune in on Globe Telecom’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts.

#TatakSigurado : Empower Your Neighborhood Business by Becoming a Bayad Center Partner

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Paying for household electricity, water, cable, and telephone bills is every homemaker's dilemma. The worsening traffic, higher fares, and longer queues from one payment office to another, all contribute to the hassle and stress of every paying consumers has to withstand every month. 

Every Filipino are acquainted to paying their bills at the last minute for various reasons, most can be attributed to cash flow --either they want to stretch their budget or they simply do not have the money yet. This Pinoy behavior often results to scrambling to beat the clock in order to avoid disconnection. Wouldn't it be nice if your neighborhood store can be turned into a one-stop shop for all your bills payment and loading needs? 

Fret not. Bayad Center just made our lives a lot easier. Understanding every bill payor's tiring journey, they introduced the Bayad Center Retail Machine. This will enable any small neighborhood establishment to transform into a multi-payment channel. Talk about accessibility and convenience. 

Bayad Center Retail Machine carries Meralco's seal of service and integrity to the equation, enabling you to solve all your bills payment woes. You can be assured of #TatakSigurado.

Applying for the Retail Machine franchise is just as easy. With a minimal investment of P60,000, Small and Medium businesses such as your ever reliable sari-sari stores, neighborhood carwash centers, and even PUV terminals into more than just a loading center. 

This gives you a much higher earning potential if that's what you're looking for. 

The Retail Machine franchise carries with it the use of the Bayad Center brand and system, which is already a household name for bills payment in the Philippines. 

Aside from bills payment, the Retail Machine also offers e-loading service, and soon, airline ticketing and remittance services. 

For more information about the franchise, contact at 09257146961 or email at franchising@bayadcenter.com. www.bayadcenter.com.

Health News: Unmasking Melasma: Dark-skinned women more at risk

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Women of color are more prone to dark patches on the face called melasma.

Also called the “mask of pregnancy,” melasma was considered a pregnancy- and contraceptive-related disorder. But new research showed that even men may suffer from the chronic disorder,possibly for decades, Dr. Claudia Aguirre, neuroscientist and skincare expert, wrote in an article on the International Dermal Institute (IDI).

From the Greek word “melas” meaning black, melasma is prevalent among people with brown or darker skin. It is estimated to affect 8.8 percent of Hispanic females in the United States and about 40 percent of Southeast Asian women, Aguirre added in the same article.

In tropical countries like the Philippines, melasma is common as constant sun exposure stimulates the melanocytes to produce more melanin.

Aging and hormonal fluctuations

Melasma was among the top ten reasons for seeking consultation at the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) and among the top ten diseases at the Dermatology Outpatient Department of the Opsital ng Manila Medical Center (OMMC), the 2004-2008 census in the respective hospitals showed.

It recurs throughout middle age and menopause as hormonal fluctuations trigger the disease but picosecond laser treatment can help reduce the unwanted pigmentation. 

In the “Cynosure Asia Pacific (APAC) Forum” last month, Dr. Carl Cheng, a certified dermatologist in Taiwan, introduced “picotuning” to “fine tune” the picosecond treatment protocol to the needs of patients with melasma.

While conventional laser devices rely on heat energy, picosecond laser technology induces collagen and elastin to rejuvenate skin, and works on targeted areas within trillionths of a second. 

Safer than conventional laser machines

Over a dozen peer-reviewed clinical studies on PicoSure, the world’s first picosecond laser, showed that its side effects were milder compared to older laser machines that caused burning, scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved PicoSure® for treating unwanted tattoos and benign pigmented lesions in 2012, and then acne scars, and wrinkles in 2014.

Cynosure, the leading manufacturer in aesthetic laser devices, spent 13 years to develop PicoSure®.

As the American company celebrated its 25th anniversary this year, it vowed to “continue to build everything on science” and “to expand the variety of products” to address the “rising demand for aesthetic lasers in Asia.”

Haier’s inverter tech brings energy savings beyond standards

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Inverter technology has revolutionized home appliances, bringing greater energy efficiencies that translate to more savings.

How much can you really save on an inverter ref?

In particular, refrigerators—which traditionally consume almost 1,800kwh/year—are now being designed with digital inverter compressors that cut down electricity consumption from about 500 to 380kwh/year.

Digital inverters are fast becoming the standard for modern home refrigerators. However, innovations are pushing the limits of what inverters can do to help households enjoy real savings from their appliances.

Greater efficiency, less power

Inverter compressors adapt to the cooling needs of refrigerators. Unlike conventional counterparts that consume the same amount of energy whether the fridge is frequently used or not, inverter compressors “slow down” when they don’t need to actively decrease the temperature, such as at night. This lessens energy consumption while reducing wear and tear on the compressor.

Haier takes the technology a step further with its FICA Ref Series.

“Our FICA Ref Series is equipped with an FD-Plus inverter compressor, which is integrated into a single conversion chip for better reliability compared with other inverter compressors,” said Haier's Senior Product Manager for Refrigerators and Air Conditioners, Jennifer Samson.

Previous compressors from the brand had frequency plates that consumed 0.6W on standby power. The newer FD-Plus inverter compressor cuts this down further to less than 0.1W when idle—the lowest in the refrigerator industry.

“The chip also runs on a 32-bit operating system, unlike typical digital inverters that run on a 16-bit OS. This greatly enhances cooling performance for better food storage and cost efficiency," Samson added.

All in all, the FD-Plus inverter consumes power from 245 to 310kwh/year.

“The cost of electricity is often a major setback when it comes to modern conveniences like refrigerators,” Samson said. “This is a challenge that Haier wants to address to help families enjoy life at home without the high cost.”

These benefits come on top of other features such as a 360-degree duct that allows pervasive cooling air flow, a brighter LED lamp that saves more energy, tempered glass shelving that can load up to 120kg of food, and anti-odor and anti-bacterial deodorizer that helps preserve food quality.

Haier’s two-door top-mount FICA refrigerators are available in three different sizes: 8.5, 9.3, and 11.1 cubic feet. The suggested retail price for each is P20,998, P23,598, and P26,598 respectively.

All FICA refrigerators come with a two-year warranty on parts and labor, as well as a ten-year warranty for the compressor.

“Home appliances should be designed to enhance the lifestyle of the consumer. That’s why for the Filipino market, Haier combines good quality, affordable cost, and excellent after-sales service to provide every family with the comfort they deserve,” Samson said.

For more details, visit www.haier.com/ph.

Protecting the Future: A Parent's Guide to Getting an Education Plan

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One of the most important things a parent should do is to ensure that their children receive the best education that money can buy. As parents, we must make sure that we are financially stable enough to put our children through school. And we must also acknowledge that our children's dream university or college might be more expensive than we’d expect, especially since education costs have been rising every year. Hence, planning ahead and making investments for our children's education, through an education plan, is very crucial.

As such, getting your children (or your future children) an education plan should be one of the first things parents should aim for, aside from being able to provide for the family. However, before getting one, parents must know and understand the features and benefits of an education plan, as well as the expenses that go along with it.

Every education plan, offered by many different companies, has a different set of benefits. This means that you have many things to consider while shopping for an education plan that fits your budget and your future goals. Do you get the pay-out benefits as soon as your child enters high school? Or is it for a college fund? How much do you need, and how much can the education plan give you? 

Here are some helpful tips on getting the right education plan for your kid: 

• Always make sure that the benefits of the plan you are looking at are aligned with your needs. Better if there are additional features included like life or accident insurance so your children are still guaranteed to receive the education plan benefits in case something happens to you. 

• Research on the companies offering education plans. You’ll want to make sure that the company you are getting an education plan from is financially strong, trustworthy, reliable, and capable of keeping its promises. You want to be assured that you will receive the benefits on-time and in full, without having to worry about the company going bankrupt. 

• Save early: Start saving as early as possible so that you can be sure that you are financially stable enough to pay for your child’s education plan. 

• Find other sources to fund your child's education savings by exploring other resources of growing your money, such as investments, having passive income, and so forth. 

• Divide financial tasks between the two parents. Having mutual spending decisions, and constant communication about money is very important. 

Education plans are something everyone should have for their children. Sometimes, the education we want for our children will cost more than an arm and a leg. A plan helps make that education more affordable. 

Now that you know what kind of education plan you are looking for, you are ready to send your child to their dream university-- even before they've graduated high school.

To know more on how to plan for your child’s education, visit www.philamlife.com

About Philam Life 

The Philippine American Life and General Insurance Company (Philam Life) is the country’s premier life insurance company. Established on 21 June 1947, Philam Life has earned the trust of customers for its financial strength, strong brand name, and ability to deliver on its promises. 

Philam Life has PHP236.4 billion in total assets as of 31 December 2015 and has delivered timely payouts of over PHP10 billion in education benefits (2004-2015) and over PHP131 billion in insurance benefits (1950-2015), while serving close to 600,000 individual policyholders and over 2 million insured group members. 

Philam Life understands the real life needs of its customers and provides the right plans and the right solutions including life protection, health insurance, savings, education, retirement, investment, group and credit life insurance. It also offers bancassurance and fund management products and services through its subsidiaries  – BPI Philam Life Assurance Company (BPI-Philam) and Philam Asset Management Inc. (PAMI). 

Philam Life is a member of AIA Group Limited, the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group.

About AIA 

AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively “AIA” or the “Group”) comprise the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group. It has a presence in 18 markets in Asia-Pacific – wholly-owned branches and subsidiaries in Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, China, Korea, the Philippines, Australia, Indonesia, Taiwan, Vietnam, New Zealand, Macau, Brunei, a 97 per cent subsidiary in Sri Lanka, a 49 per cent joint venture in India and representative offices in Myanmar and Cambodia.

The business that is now AIA was first established in Shanghai almost a century ago. It is a market leader in the Asia-Pacific region (ex-Japan) based on life insurance premiums and holds leading positions across the majority of its markets. It had total assets of US$181 billion as of 31 May 2016. 

AIA meets the long-term savings and protection needs of individuals by offering a range of products and services including life insurance, accident and health insurance and savings plans. The Group also provides employee benefits, credit life and pension services to corporate clients. Through an extensive network of agents, partners and employees across Asia-Pacific, AIA serves the holders of more than 29 million individual policies and over 16 million participating members of group insurance schemes.

AIA Group Limited is listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited under the stock code “1299” with American Depositary Receipts (Level 1) traded on the over-the-counter market (ticker symbol: “AAGIY”).

Elementary School Students Use Moverio Smart Glasses as Class Communication Tool

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“Let’s make healthy forests!” and used Epson’s Moverio* smart glasses as a communication tool to make school work even more engaging. 

(Japan) - Takashima Elementary School in Nagano, Japan, has introduced a unique extracurricular activity in which each class decides what to study every year. 

Epson engineers began their activities with the children a year ago (Stargazing using Moverio) with the aim of making learning fun. 

Using the help of the same engineers, the children, who had been studying forests, wanted to communicate using leading-edge information products to ensure that people could understand the importance of nature.

On July 7, the children were divided into nine groups. Based on themes decided through discussions with the engineers, they uploaded to the Moverio photos and videos that they had taken themselves of the forest alongside materials they prepared on a PC.

Using an application on a tablet device, the same images were displayed on multiple Moverio units. With this feature, each group could share their thoughts about the forest among the entire group. The presenting group had created a quiz, and the children wearing Moverio all cheered when the slide appeared before their eyes, as if it were floating on a big screen in front of them.

By participating in the activity, the children clearly identified who they wanted to communicate to, with comments like, “I want my grandparents to enjoy these images of the forest since they can’t go themselves.” They plan to make some changes to the content, and improve the quality of their presentation using the ‘magic glasses.’

*Worn like glasses, Moverio smart glasses offer users the ability to enjoy crystal clear video entertainment, games, music, and web content, anytime and anywhere. It displays what appears as large semi-transparent images floating against the surrounding background. 

The Moverio BT-200 is intended for ages from junior high school and older, but for these extracurricular lessons, our engineers were present to ensure safety, and time limits were set for use of the glasses.

Health News: HCCA changes name to Shearwater Health, relocates to new offices

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HCCA International and HCCA Health Connections (collectively known as HCCA) have consolidated all of their business operations under the Shearwater Health name.

Shearwater Health Executives. From left: Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer Tom Kendrot, Chief Executive Officer David Bartholomew, SVP & Country Manager PH Anshum Sinha, and Chief Strategy Officer Ted Merhoff.

“We have truly evolved as a company, and we felt it was time to express that with a new brand,” said David Bartholomew, President and Chief Executive Officer of Shearwater Health. 

“We offer a much more comprehensive suite of services than we did just a few years ago.”

Additionally, the company moved to its new 6,450-square-meter headquarters at the Net Park building in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

“Philippines continues to be the location of choice for Shearwater Health, and with the expansion to Net Park in Metro Manila, the company will have the capability of approximately 1,400 concurrent seats,”said Anshum Sinha, Country Manager and Senior Vice President for Philippines Operations of Shearwater Health. 

“Shearwater Health is looking at adding another 600 jobs to its existing employee base of over 1,500 in the next 12 months. This will provide an excellent opportunity for nurses and medical coders in Metro Manila and Metro Cebu.”

HCCA International has been recruiting and deploying highly experienced nurses and other medical professionals from the Philippines to hospitals and healthcare organizations in the U.S. since 2002. During this time, HCCA International has placed more than 1,000 nurses in over 100 U.S. hospitals.

HCCA Health Connections also offers a full spectrum of URAC-accredited Clinical Process Outsourcing (CPOSM) services to clients in the United States, improving results and efficiency through medical management services, medical coding, and other healthcare-related support services. These services are provided by clinical and administrative support professionals working in the Philippines and the United States.

“We help clients improve outcomes and reduce unnecessary spending while freeing up clinical professionals and administrative staff to focus on objectives that maximize their talents. Plus, our approach is fully scalable—we can grow our relationship with customers as their business grows,”  said Bartholomew.

The new office readily accommodates Shearwater Health’s rapid growth. “Our new operating center is more than 40 percent larger than our previous Manila offices,” said Mr. Sinha. “We are now well-positioned to match the growth of the company while providing a comfortable, state-of-the-art work environment for all of our employees.”

A 48-story corporate tower, Net Park was awarded 5-Star Best Commercial High-Rise Development at the International Property Awards. It was designed by Chad Oppenheim, a Miami-based architect who specializes in green buildings. Net Park is slated to receive a BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence Program) certification from the Philippine Green Building Council.

ASUS Ph Presents Zenfone 3 Series Brand Ambassadors : Jason Magbanua, Gab Valenciano and Alodia Gosiengfiao

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ASUS Philippines unveils the three local brand ambassadors of the Zenfone 3 series that perfectly represents each passion points of the premium and powerful flagship smartphones

Jason Magbanua, Gab Valenciano and  Alodia Gosiengfiao

After weeks of anticipation, ASUS Philippines finally unveiled its premium, powerful and game-changing line-up of Zenfone 3 smartphones in the recently concluded Zenvolution local event – led by ASUS global and local executives and the newly launched Zenfone 3 brand ambassadors, master storyteller, Jason Magbanua, ultimate performer, Gab Valenciano and cosplay queen, Alodia Gosiengfiao.

In a grand spectacle, ASUS officially launched its flagship smartphones namely ASUS Zenfone 3 Deluxe, Zenfone 3 Ultra and the exceptional Zenfone 3 to an excited crowd of around 500 fans, 300 media and 200 trade partners, during the Zenvolution local launch held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza. ASUS likewise unveiled the new ZenBook3 and Transformer 3 which are both considered powerful, elegant and compact machines. The event was attended by top ASUS global executives led by ASUS Global Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jerry Shen.

‘Staying true to the core of the brand, we believe that industry movers such as Jason, Gab and Alodia best embody the passion points of the premium and powerful Zenfone 3 series.

We have full confidence that our ambassadors are a perfect fit with the brand to demonstrate the power, elegance and versatility of our new flagship smartphones, said ASUS Marketing Manager, Christian Jamolod.

Jamolod likewise emphasized that the three personalities are the ultimate persona of power, agility, clarity, and innovation.

“We knew exactly the personalities that would best represent each phone, it was match made in heaven. We are so happy to have three industry leaders on-board as our Zenfone 3 ambassadors,” Jamolod added.

Zenfone 3 Local Brand Ambassadors, Jason Magbanua, Gab Valenciano and Alodia Gosiengfiao at the ASUS Zenvolution Center Stage.

The top-of-the-line Zenfone 3 Deluxe which is the ultimate expression of the ASUS smartphone technology was personified by Jason Magbanua, a celebrated wedding videographer who epitomizes the same unparalleled class of the ZenFone 3 Deluxe.

Newly launched brand ambassadors shares their experience about Zenfone 3

“I nicknamed this phone Sexy Beast, it’s sexy and powerful. And as a profession, I document other people’s events but I also love to document mine, my family, friends, and my travels, and I’m able to take excellent pictures with this camera,” says Magbanua.

The 5.7-inch ZenFone 3 Deluxe is a fusion of premium aesthetics, being the world’s first full-metal smartphone combined with exceptional performance, and on top-off that is an astounding camera that raises the bar for mobile photography with its incredible 23MP camera featuring the latest Sony IMX318 image sensor and the ability to shoot steady 4K UHD videos, which will make anyone madly in love with the ZenFone 3 Deluxe.

Master Storyteller, Jason Magbanua shares his experience using the newly launched Zenfone 3 Deluxe.

The gigantic 6.8-inch Zenfone 3 Ultra was meantime embodied by Gab Valenciano, the master entertainer especially in choreography. A fitting representation of the Zenfone 3 Ultra designed for multimedia and entertainment lovers.

“Sometimes size doesn’t matter, it’s the performance but why not both? And that’s one of the biggest thing that I love about this premium phone. It has an amazing camera, a full HD screen, and the sound is very superb, and watching videos in something this big is quite amazing,” says Valenciano.

Ultimate entertainer and performer, Gab Valenciano tells the crowd how amazing the new Zenfone 3 Ultra is. 

The ZenFone 3 Ultra is the world’s first smartphone to have the ASUS-exclusive Tru2Life+ video-enhancement technology that allows a fervent visual experience; that is complimented with two new powerful five-magnet stereo speakers and a NXP smart amplifier that provides a crystal clear defined sound. It’s also the world’s first smartphone with virtual 7.1-channel surround-sound with DTS Headphone:X™ that’s more than enough to electrify anyone seeking for an incredible multimedia experience.

The feature-packed smartphone ZenFone 3 which boasts premium design and an empowering performance for all walks of life was personified by Alodia Gosingfiao, the reputed cosplay goddess and certified gamer, a fitting embodiment of the ZenFone 3 which radiates agility, beauty, and clarity.

Cosplay queen, Alodia Gosiengfiao shares her insights on why the new Zenfone 3 is the perfect smartphone for gaming, photography and overall entertainment.

“I brought my Zenfone 3 to Japan a few days ago and played Pokemon Go, I was playing the whole day but what I didn’t realize is that I didn’t charge my phone. The battery life was amazing, it lasted the whole day and I got lots of Pokemon!” says Gosingfiao.

The 5.5-inch ZenFone 3 is a gorgeous phone with an amazing performance that delivers an incredible visual experience that makes any apps, videos, and games look their best. It boasts a narrow bezel that provides a 77.3% screen-to-body ratio for a maximized viewing area in a slim and compact body. Apart from that is a sleek 16MP camera that can achieve precise focus in just 0.03 seconds. It’s the world’s first smartphone worldwide to be powered by the new Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 625 octa-core processor – the first Snapdragon 600 series processor with 14nm s FinFET process technology. It also has a PC-grade graphics and up to 4GB ram that delivers an amazing mobile performance. True enough, the Zenfone 3 just doesn’t look and feels twice its price, but it also makes everything exponentially better.

A premium additional to the Zenfone 3 series family

Besides these were also the reveal of the ASUS Zenfone 3 Laser that has an ultra-fast 0.03second laser auto focus which sports a 13MP camera with Sony IMX214 sensor and color correction that delivers stunning photos. Another eye-catching smartphone that was revealed during the launch is the ASUS ZenFone 3 Max, a premium smartphone with an unmatched battery life designed to help users get through the day without worrying about charging in the middle of the day. Its battery capability is so massive to the extent that it can also double up as a power bank to charge other mobile devices.

Once again, ASUS proves its mastery of its craft, a solid proof that its middle name is, and will always be — innovation.

Amaia Steps Bicutan partners with BAGA Manila for exciting weekend cookouts

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Amaia Land partnered with Barbecuers and Grillers Association (BAGA Manila) to set up weekend with bright lights, happy vibes, and a friendly gathering of foodies and families laughing and bonding over delicious dishes.

These grilled cookouts can now be experienced  for homeowners, potential buyers, and shoppers who are in the area at Amaia Steps Bicutan every Thursdays to Sundays.

Walking its talk about providing convenience and a fun lifestyle to its residents, Amaia Steps Bicutan offers its carpark and retail area as venues for this fun weekend event—which began last August 18, and will last all the way to January 2017. 

Retail shops will likewise be to provide prospective homeowners with entertainment and shopping opportunities.

BAGA Manila is a well-known association of food stall vendors that serve good barbecues, grilled specialties, and quality regional dishes and delicacies. The group is a fixture at different gastronomic events and at leading weekend and night markets in the metro.

PSMG Geo Head Rodney Reyes describes the event as a simple treat for Amaia Steps’ homeowners that also serves to showcase the vibrant lifestyle Amaia offers its community. 

Reyes likewise points out, “Occasions like this promote stronger family ties and better kinship among the residents. So what better way to sustain the goodwill than organizing such activities all the time?”

During this open-for-all weekend activity, potential homeowners and guests can view Amaia Steps Bicutan’s model units, retail area, and amenities. Units in this mid-rise residential project range in size from 23 to 44 square meters—or from studio to deluxe and premier, innovatively and uniquely designed. 

Located along West Service Road cor. Sun Valley Drive, Brgy. Sun Valley in Parañaque, this mid-rise residential project is strategically located close to establishments like SM City Bicutan, Bicutan Public Market and Robinson’s Supermarket. The property also has a terminal for tricycles and jeepneys, providing easy access to public transport. 

While it lies close to several commercial establishments, residents need not venture too far as they can enjoy fun dining, quick errands, and bonding activities in Amaia Steps Bicutan’s retail area.

Homeowners may likewise enjoy the property’s recreational facilities such as a swimming pool, reading nooks, retail shops, lush central courtyard, basketball court, jogging loop and children’s playground. 

Finally, as in all of its properties, Amaia assures quality, safety, security and easy-on-the pocket payment options. 

For inquiries about Amaia Steps Bicutan, please visit www.amaialand.com or www.facebook.com/AmaiaLand.

Electrolux, Over 100 years of Vacuum Expertise and Innovations

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Electrolux, since 1912,  has been revolutionizing the cleaning industry with well-thought designs and efficient technologies that offer the ultimate cleaning experience for homes across the globe. 

Lux 1

Considered a visionary and sales genius, company founder Axel Wenner-Gren saw the potential of adapting the industrial vacuum cleaner for use in homes, marking the beginning of the end for brooms in the modern home. Enter the Lux 1 in 1912, the world’s first home vacuum cleaner - affordable, efficient and smaller than its industrial counterparts (though still weighing a hefty 14 kg!).   

Model V

Only nine years later, the next vacuum cleaner, Model V was introduced. Model V was a perfect example of how Electrolux pioneered innovative thinking. The new vacuum was completely different than the relatively heavy and immobile Lux 1.

The Model V was the first vacuum turned sideways and it was equipped with runners also making it the first truly mobile vacuum cleaner. The Model V was such a success that Swedish maids protested when it was launched. 

Another of Wenner-Gren’s pioneering moves was the introduction of home sales. 

The sales representatives would show-case the new product, while at the same time meet with the decision maker who would eventually approve the investment, as well as gain valuable insights on how consumers actually used the products. In the Philippines, children of the ‘80s would surely remember the Electrolux man and his famous “Knock on your door” jingle as he sold vacuum cleaners from door to door. 

Through the years, Electrolux also pioneered other firsts such as the first robotic vacuum cleaner and the Ergorapido, the first cordless stick cleaner that complimented the trend of grab-and-go cleaning.

Backed up by 100 years of heritage, Electrolux has since proven its understanding and knowledge on consumer needs leading to insightful and inspiring innovations. 

In recognition of its design and innovations, Electrolux vacuum cleaners have received numerous acknowledgements and remarkable awards including; the Swedish ‘Good Design’ Award, the ‘Red Dot’ Design Award, the ‘iF Design’ Award, the ‘Plus X’ Award for ‘high quality, design and ease of use.’ and the ‘European Excellence & Eurobest’ Award for outstanding European PR communications.

Electrolux ErgoClean ZVE4110FL

ErgoClean ZVE4110FL is the perfect balance between performance and design. Understanding that space is a premium in urban homes, ErgoClean addresses the need for convenience and flexibility - its compact body ensures easy storage and its 4G cyclonic technology that provides powerful suctioning for optimal cleaning.

Electrolux Flexio II Z931

In addition to bringing cleaning performance to every corner of your home, the Electrolux Flexio II Z931 wet and dry vacuum cleaner ensures superior suction power for excellent dust pick-up with its large drum capacity. Flexio II also features an effective filtration system that traps dust and airborne particles, resulting in a more hygienic cleaning process. 

Live free of dust and leave cleaning in the hands of Electrolux.

For more ideas on home care and healthy living, please visit electrolux.com.ph and follow instagram.com/electroluxph, and facebook.com/ElectroluxPhilippines.

Brother P-Touch: Your industrial labeling partner

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Users can create a series of labels with automatically increasing alpha or numeric identifiers to make identifying equipment and inventory items easier

Stay on top of safer, more efficient electrical and data systems with attractive, industrial-grade labels

Disorganized, mislabeled wires, panels, and boards can slow down an electrician, engineer, or IT professional during instances when rebooting systems as quickly as possible is critical. Creating efficient, safe, and more organized electrical and data systems is as easy as a press of a single button with the Brother P-Touch line of professional labeling machines and TZe industrial-grade tapes.

Reliable innovation

The P-Touch labeling machines are built with Brother’s unique printing technology to create labeling solutions that make a huge difference in organizing systems.

Labels can be printed vertically or continuously to wrap around cables and pipes, and with multiple lines or frames. The Auto Cutter Function allows users to create labels according to specific sizes and to reduce wasted tape.

Users can create a series of labels with automatically increasing alpha or numeric identifiers to make identifying equipment and inventory items easier. For maximum efficiency, the Brother P-Touch machines can also print multiple copies unattended while the user performs other tasks.

Different fonts, drawing tools, clip art, special characters, and bar code symbols are built into the P-Touch software, allowing users to create labels that fit their organization needs

User-friendly software

At the core of the Brother P-Touch product range is a user-friendly software innovation that allows users to intuitively learn how to design, edit, and print professional labels in a couple of simple steps. Different fonts, drawing tools, clip art, special characters, and bar code symbols are built into the P-Touch software, allowing users to create labels that fit their organization needs right after taking the machine out of the box.

TZe tapes to allow users to produce durable laminated labels specifically designed for extreme environments

Tale of the tape

To complement the P-Touch hardware and software, Brother developed the TZe tapes to allow users to produce durable laminated labels specifically designed for extreme environments. These tapes come in a wide assortment of sizes and colors, and can withstand extreme temperatures, high pressure, and sunlight, as well as constant exposure to water, moisture, grease and other lubricants, harsh chemicals, and even industrial solvents without losing their strong adhesive properties.

The applications of this technology in the field of electrical engineering and data communications are countless—Brother TZe tapes can function as faceplates for flat surfaces, cable wraps and flags, and to create an easy-to-read patch panel labeling system. 

“We strive to deliver innovation even in the smallest aspects of personal, professional, and industrial lives,” said Glenn Hocson, Brother Philippines President. 

“Brother’s innovations, including the P-Touch system, truly shine in situations where details matter the most.”

To find out more about the Brother P-Touch machines and TZe industrial-grade tapes, visit www.brother.com.phor call (02) 581-9888.