Join the "Be a Wall" campaign : Vaccination drive against dengue #WallAgainstDengue

The “Be a Wall” campaign  and Vaccination drive against dengue, launch by Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccine division of multinational pharmaceutical company and industry leader, Sanofi. 

Dengue remains to be one of the fastest-growing mosquito-borne diseases in the world.

The “Be a Wall” campaign to mobilize the citizenry in a nation-wide campaign against the spread of dengue was launched  aims to build awareness among Filipinos parents and inform them how they can better protect themselves and their loved ones against the fastest-growing mosquito borne disease. 

It also aims to educate them about the multi-pronged ways to prevent dengue infection – vector-control, disease information and vaccination.

The Be a Wall campaign engage Filipinos by inviting them to connect, share their experience, ask questions, and join a community that’s building the nation’s resistance against dengue. 

It aims to remind them of their role to step up the fight against the disease and to get involved by taking an active part in health matters that affect them and their families. 

Dengvaxia is the world’s first dengue vaccine. It provides protection against all four virus serotypes. It has been approved for people belonging to the age group 9-45 years.

Celebrities, doctors and medical people, media and bloggers and advocates were at the "Be a Wall" campaign launch held at the Novotel Hotel, Araneta, Cubao Quezon City on October 25, 2016. 

Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan, Christine Bersola-Babao, Paolo Abrera, Mommy Mel and her daughter Rika with Dr. Rubi Dizon who is the Medical Director of Sanofi and Dr. Lulu Bravo President of the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination, stand out to to build a wall against Dengue.

Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan, Multi-awarded Actress, Columnist, Award-winning Author and Triathlete, share her experience on dengue as she had twice. The first was when she was six years old and the second time when she was already married.

“As responsible Filipino moms, let our voices be heard to raise awareness on dengue and let’s spread the good news that it is now a vaccine preventable disease. Each of us can now be a wall against dengue,” Maricel said.

Paolo Abrera, sports and public affairs host, share his own story as when he got the virus, he was down and out for a number of days and this surprised him as it hit him at the peak of his health when he was so active in sports.

“It’s great news that there is a dengue vaccine now available in the market. As a public affairs anchor, I’m on top of the news everyday and it’s very alarming to note the rising dengue cases from different regions of our country. It’s definitely a relief for Filipino parents out there especially a father like me to be able to visit our doctors today and have our kids vaccinated,” Paulo said.

Christine Bersola-Babao, Celebrity mom,  shared she had dengue three times! She also expresses her support for the dengue vaccine.

“I am a mother of two and I want my kids (family) to be safe from life-threatening diseases like dengue. Aside from the vector control measures that we have been doing, we really need a new tool that will help us in fighting the epidemic and vaccination is the answer. I encourage other Filipino moms to ask their doctors about dengue vaccination today,” she shared.

The Philippines ranks among the top-three countries affected by Dengue.

Cebu City, for example, has just declared a state of calamity with over 5,821 dengue cases recorded as of October 2016. Other areas considered as the most infected hotspots include Metro Manila or NCR, Region IV-A or CALABARZON, Northern Mindanao, SOCCSKSARGEN, Central Luzon, and Western Visayas.

Join “Be a Wall” campaign for the health of our families and love ones and all. Get vaccinated too.  Visit your doctor to know what you can do so we can all be a #WallAgainstDengue.

The Music RunTM by Philam Vitality brings the party back to Manila

ASIA'S MOST EXCITING RUN IS ABOUT TO GET EVEN LOUDER THIS YEAR

The ultimate 5k running and music festival drew nearly ten thousand runners when it first made waves in the Philippines last year. 

This year, The Music RunTM by Philam Vitality returns to amp up an equally large—or even larger—crowd with everyone’s favorite hits playing on 120 concert-quality speakers across McKinley West in Taguig City.

In partnership with music streaming service Spotify, The Music RunTM by Philam Vitality will rock Manila on December 3. Last call for registration is on November 25.

Philam Life has been at the forefront of leading innovations in the life insurance industry to change the general perception about insurance. Insurance is about living life to the fullest without worry and being healthy to pursue one’s passion and achieve one’s goals.

“This is the second time that Philam Life is partnering with The Music RunTM. We want to send a strong message that being healthy can also be fun and engaging,” Deputy Head of Philam Vitality Kats Cajucom said.

“One of our company’s main thrusts is healthy living through our Philam Vitality program, which is the first of its kind in the Philippines. It is a full-scale wellness program where members get rewarded for making healthy choices. Through Philam Vitality, we are taking active steps to positively transform the lives of Filipinos by helping them live longer, healthier, and better lives,” Cajucom added.

“While most fun runs originate from the US, The Music RunTM started in Asia and expanded throughout the region before crossing over to Europe and the US in the last two years,” said Martin Capstick, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Exceed Sports and Entertainment who is organizing the run.

“The reason for its massive success is its winning formula that combines music with the ever- growing fitness craze into the ultimate running and music festival that also puts control of the run’s soundtrack in the hands of our Music RunnersTM,” he added.

The five-kilometer run will include five music-themed zones playing rock, pop, old school, hip hop, and dance. Using the live Spotify Music Voting App on www.themusicrun.com.ph, participants can vote up to five songs per playlist every day to build the official soundtrack for each zone.

The ultimate after-run music festival includes world class DJs, live bands, dancers, laser lights, LED screens, fireworks, chill out zones, giveaways - and plenty more!

Rock Star, Pop Star or Dance Floor Demon, register now and come LIVE THE BEAT!

The event will kick off with a pre-run performance by up and coming local alternative band Sud, while the after-run music festival will feature Australian radio house DJ Sam Withers.

Music RunnersTM can select from two event packs—the Standard Pack for P850 and the Rock Star Pack for P1,400. The Standard Pack comes with a T-shirt, bag, beat band, sticker, and temporary tattoo. Those who would like to party with the Rock Star Pack will also receive a towel, water bottle, and cap.

Late registration for The Music RunTM by Philam Vitality starts on November 1. Standard and Rock Star Packs for late registrants are priced at P950 and P1,600 respectively. Children less than five years old can join the run for free.

For last call registrations starting on November 21, the Standard and Rock Star Packs will cost P1,050 and P1,800 respectively.

Registrants can collect their event packs at Glorietta 5 in Makati from November 26 to 28.

The Music RunTM first took place in Kuala Lumpur in 2014. Since then, it has drawn more than 100,000 runners across 12 events and nine countries.

For more information on The Music RunTM by Philam Vitality, please visit the official website, Facebook page, or YouTube Channel.

Register your interest now for the #SmartiPhone7!

SMART offers the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, the best, most advanced iPhone ever, on Friday, November 11, 2016. The new iPhone 7 features new advanced camera systems, the best battery life on an iPhone, and they are now water and dust resistant. 

You can register your interest for the #SmartiPhone7 and #SmartiPhone7Plus beginning this Friday, October 28, 2016 at http://smart.com.ph/iPhone7. 

Radha, Frenchie and Bituin sing about their journeys in “The Big Big Show” !

Finally! Radha, Frenchie and Bituin in one show: Three talented musical talents sing about their journeys as women in “The Big Big Show” on December 3, 8 PM at The Theatre at Solaire.

Reward yourselves with an early Yuletide gift. a good twenty-two days before Christmas. Reserve a seat or two for “The Big Big Show” -  a guaranteed fun --- no, make that stunning --- show that celebrates three women with big voices, big talents, and big hearts. 

You might think that it’s already been done but “The Big Big Show” marks the first time that three powerhouse songstresses Radha, Frenchie Dy, and Bituin Escalante are joining forces for one unforgettable night of music, stories, reminiscences and lessons all presented through lovely, impactful songs. 

Frenchie says that the three of them have appeared in corporate shows and musical variety shows and individually have performed as front act for other artists but they have never shared the concert stage together with them as the main headliners. 

“We have rapport and chemistry. Totoo ‘yung closeness namin. Sa stage, hindi kami magsasapawan kundi magbibigayan,” she adds.

“We all love music,” gushes Radha. “We all love performing.” Now that the three versatile singers are together in one meticulously conceptualized show, expect magic, excitement, fireworks, and even sexiness.

All three --- Radha, Frenchie, and Bituin ---- have proven their musical chops in previous shows, forming a sort of sisterhood with their similarities. 

“Kaming tatlo,” explains Bituin, “we are all storytellers. We are seasoned. Pinanday ng buhay at mga karanasan.”

When “The Big Big Show” comes to town on December 3, be sure not to miss a show unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Watch Radha, Frenchie Dy and Bituin Escalante as they lead us to uncharted musical territories, singing songs both unfamiliar and familiar, a joy to hear once again and a delight to discover for the first time. 

Three women. Three storytellers. Three musical marvels. Three best examples of the powerful feminine. Three Pinays that make all of us filled with yabang Pinoy in a wonderful way.

“The Big Big Show” is produce by Fullhouse Asia Production Studios with Musical Director  Mell Villena.

Tickets for “The Big Big Show” are available at Ticketworld. 

Call 891.9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph

ASOP Music Festival Grand Finals Set To Echo At Smart Araneta on Nov. 7

On its 5th year, A Song of Praise (ASOP), the only gospel music songwriting competition in the Philippines, holds its Grand Finals on November 7 at 7 PM at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Inspiring hymns will once again fill the Big Dome as UNTV’s A Song of Praise (ASOP) Music Festival will present the 12 New Songs of Praise and will vie for “Song of the Year”. Winners will receive a total of more than a million in cash prizes at stake.

Composers and interpreters are ready to render their respective entries in the grand finals night of the A Song of Praise Music Festival Year 5 on November 7.

Twelve masterpieces from monthly winners beginning November 2015, will vie for the “Song of the Year” grand title.

At the ASOP 5 press conference held last October 25, hosts were Richard Reynoso and Toni Rose Gayda . They will be the hosts of the Grand Finals on November.

Now on its fifth year, the grand champion will receive Php500,000 cash prize while non-winning entries will each receive Php20,000.

The Best Interpreter Award comes with a P50,000 cash prize and the People’s Choice Award with Php50,000.

Here is a full line-up of this year’s grand finalists: 

God Will Always Make a Way - Composition and Lyrics by Glenn Bawa and Ronald Calpis, which was interpreted by Bugoy Drilon

Tapat Mong Pangako - Composition and Lyrics by Gulliver Enverga, which was performed by The Voysing

Ikaw Lamang - Composition and Lyrics by Jonathan Sta. Rita, which Tim Pavino performed

Ikaw Pala - Composition and Lyrics by Wilfredo Gaspar, performed by Ima Castro

Tanging Ligaya - Composition and Lyrics by Angelica Soriano, which was interpreted by Zendee

Ang Iyong Pangalan - Composition and Lyrics by Romarico Mendiola Jr., which was performed by Jovit Baldovino

Patawarin Mo Ako - Composition and Lyrics by Fernando Gardon, which Kris Lawrence performed

JBK

Araw at Ulan - Composition and Lyrics by Joselito Caleon, which Sitti performed

Pag-ibig Ka, Oh Dios - Composition and Lyrics by LJ Manzano, performed by JBK

Mula sa Aking Puso - Composition and Lyrics by Joseph Ponce, and performed by Carlo David

Kumapit Ka Lang - Composition and Lyrics by Noemi Ocio, with the performance of Mela 

You Stood By Me - Composition and Lyrics by Vincent Labating, with the performance of Jason Fernandez.

Sponsored by Kuya Daniel and Bro. Eli Soriano of the Members Church of God International (MCGI) or more commonly known for its religious program “Ang Dating Daan" (The Old Path), the ASOP Music Festival aims at encouraging amateur and professional songwriters to write and share songs for the glory of God.

Last year’s ASOP Music Festival awarded the “Song of the Year” prize to Christian Malinias who composed “Kung Pag-ibigMo’y Ulan.” Malinias took home the Php500,000 cash prize. His song entry’s interpreter, Ms. Leah Patricio, received the Best Interpreter award, which came with a Php50,000 cash prize. 

Created for television by Breakthrough and Milestones Production, Inc.-UNTV Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kuya Daniel Razon, the ASOP Music Festival has been in search for half a decade now of original compositions proclaiming the power and greatness of the Lord Almighty.

For more information about ASOP Music Festival, visit its official website at https://www.asoptv.com. You can follow ASOP on Facebook via facebook.com/asop.untv and Twitter at twitter.com/asoptv.

You can also vote for your choice of song in https://www.asoptv.com/pollfor the People’s Choice Award and support Original Pilipino Praise Music by subscribing to our official YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/asoptv .

All twelve songs are now being played on Wish FM 107.5.

Showbiz aspirant Kristof Garcia is the new Cherub endorser

 Kristof Garcia 

Recently, Cherub Baby Care officially introduced and signs up aspiring artist Kristof Garcia as its product endorser.

Ms. Aileen Choi-Go, Marketing VP of Megasoft Hygienic Products Inc. , Kristof Garcia  and Jerry Telan at the signing of contract held at Ka Tunying's Cafe, Timog Quezon City , October 18,2016.

Kristof Garcia, up-and-coming artist who is known as one of the young talents of the late-night GMA variety show Walang Tulugan with the late Master Showman German Moreno. Kristof was at GMA Network’s “Protege: The Battle for the Big Artist Break” in 2012.

Kristof, graduate of Hotel and Restaurant Management, worked in Dubai as a butler at the Arabian Courtyard Hotel and Spa. but he decided to return home to pursue his childhood dream of becoming an artist. 

From Pampanga and he is now the breadwinner of the family. Kristof knows it would take a lot of hardwork, patience, talent and help from people in the industry to enter show business.

“My inspiration is my family, especially my mom who has given me full love and support despite the little means that she has. so god willing, sana magtuloy-tuloy ang pagkakataon na makapagpasaya pa ako ng mga tao, para maparamdam ko rin ang kaginhawaan sa pamilya ko. i’m very thankful to my new cherub family for believing in me”, Kristoff says.

"Kristof personifies cherub qualities," according to Ms. Aileen Choi-Go, Marketing VP of Megasoft Hygienic Products Inc.  

“He is fresh, exudes enthusiam and energy. talentwise, he has a lot to offer, god-fearing and driven by his love for family. Cherub is happy to be with him in the realization of his dream.”

Megasoft Hygienic Products Inc. - makers of Cherub Baby Care products - Cherub Baby Cologne, baby powder, baby soap and baby wipes. 

Kristof continues to better himself by going to workshops - singing sessions with teacher Annie Quintos of The Company and dancing lessons with teacher Nesh Janiola of Hotlegs. He also attended introductory acting class that teaches the Chubbuck technique of hollywood Acting Coach Ivana Chubbuck. it was handled by director Rahyan Carlos of Abs-Cbn workshops, where Kristoff was given a recommendation to take up advance acting. 

Kristof Gracia with Blogger Rain Ferdinand during interview. 

He is currently being managed by Jerry Telan. Talks are also underway for a possible recording album with a major label.

His performing skills were recently tested in it’s showtime. He played “Mr. Pakipot” in Myrtle Sarrosa’s production number with the Hotlegs. Myrtle, sisters sanitary napkins ambassadress and fellow Megasoft endorser, was awarded gold for her “Now Playing Myrtle” album. 

Kristoff went to Zamboanga city on October 1 to serenade the fans during the Hermosa Festival. He also went to Imus City, Cavite last Oct. 14 to grace the founding anniversary of the city.

Judging from the loud screams and applause he received from the audience, one can say that he passed the initial test with flying colors. Not to mention the sudden increase in followers and numerous friend requests in his social media accounts @kristof_garcia and Kristof Garcia Facebook page after the said guestings. 

Here's Kristof provincial shows : 

Ormoc City - Oct. 20, 

Lal-lo Cagayan - Oct 24, 

Pacific Mall Legaspi Albay - Oct. 28

Bagumbayan Sultan Kudarat - Nov. 7

Robinson Dumaguete - Nov. 12

Isulan Sultan Kudarat - Nov. 14

Davao - Nov. 15

Bohol -  Nov. 24

Gaisano Grand Mall Catarman Samar - Nov. 25

and Ororama Cagayan de Oro City -  Nov. 30

According to Ms Aileen “Megasoft supports the youth, their hopes and dreams. we continue to support Myrtle with her aspirations of being a cumlaude."

 "Now, it’s Kristof, as he pursues his dream to be an artista. Cherub is happy and proud to be part in making the youth’s dream come true. the success of our youth is the success of our country.” 

Kristof said that he brings Cherub Baby Cologne, Baby Powder, Baby Soap and Baby Wipes in all his gigs and guestings and in happy, sky and sweet angel variants to keep himself looking fresh, smelling good and feeling great while on his way to achieving his dream.

Adhering to its slogan, Cherub Baby Care products are not just good for babies, great for you too!

Visit Facebook for more photos.

Redefining smartphone experience : Flash PH rolls out longer-lasting, high-end smartphones at the most competitive price yet!

Smartphones have evolved as one of the most indispensable innovations of digitalization. Over the years, it has revolutionized the way people live given its evolving capabilities in enabling how people live, play and work.

However, as the demand for these gadgets continues to grow, experts say that nowadays, smartphone users consider buying devices that are long-lasting. In a recent survey, global environmental organization, Greenpeace Philippines, noted that nine out of 10 Filipinos believe that the durability is an important aspect they look for in smartphones. Also, 98 percent of the 1,000 respondents also consider battery life of smartphones as another important feature.

In response to this demand, Flash Philippines—one of Asia’s rising developers of lifestyle and smart devices—rolls out its flagship phone, the Flash Plus 2, with superior and highly durable built-in features valued at the lowest price of Php 6,190.

“Flash Plus 2 received positive reviews from its users as we first introduced it in the country earlier this year. This model is developed to bring out superior functions while giving a more efficient and durable smartphone unit for the users,” Sheree Gayas, Flash Philippines’ marketing manager.

Among the pioneering features of Flash Plus 2 include its sleek metal case, a fast-charging battery, fingerprint recognition, high definition phone camera, and Hi-Fi audio capacity. 

These attributes allow for more durability, efficiency, and convenience.

Sleek and durable metal case

Flash Plus 2 is made more durable with its aluminum case, which is crafted employing several kinds of metal polishing processes. The case’s sides are treated with Bead Blasting textures, allowing for a stylish side view. Meanwhile, the back panel is treated with high density hairline metal drawing processes for excellent grip and added protection against scratching.

High performance and fast-charging battery

Flash Plus 2 is equipped with fast charging battery technologies—TI BQ25896 chip and 9V/1.67A battery—to achieve a mere 30-minute charging time for a 50 percent battery level. However, when fully charged, this phone guarantees a reliable capacity that lasts up to 10 hours of continuous calls.

The smartphone also highlights its Helio P10 processor, which ensures low energy consumption while providing high performance. This feature, hence, allows for maximizing entertainment needs without worrying about speedy battery drain.

Next-gen security feature

When it comes to security, Flash Plus 2 integrates a next-generation front-facing fingerprint module. This feature allows the user optimum convenience in phone unlocking because of a 3600 accuracy level that responds in half a second. It can also safeguard all the apps and private folders by assigning specific fingerprint or mark to access them.

For instance, the user can assign his thumb to open Facebook, index finger to send an e-mail, among others.

High definition phone camera

In keeping with the superior photography DNA of all Flash products, Flash Plus 2 gives better images through its built-in high definition camera with a 13-megapixel rear lens. It also adopts PDAF and contrast focusing features, which allows the user to capture fleeting moments with its 0.1 second focal alignment capability.

The camera phone also has built-in rear dual color flash lamp, RealTone, and front LED flash with Color Rendering Index that make shooting clear images even under dim light. These specs can also produce as many as 64 different lighting combinations that produce much more vivid and natural color images.

Immersive, Hi-Fi music experience

Flash Plus 2 also boasts its high-fidelity amplifying functionality. It has a quality-retaining earphone acoustics, high sound volume effects, and MIX music production essential in producing an immersive sound experience.

These are made possible through the independent AKM4375 audio decoding chip coupled with state-of-the-art IRD sound digital filter, with value-retaining signal output measuring up to high-fidelity acoustic effects. The music can also be amplified to reach 3.6 watts—eight times greater than the volume of average smartphones—using its NXP980 power amplification chip and built-in DSP algorithm.

Flash Plus 2 is now available in two color options, Luna Silver and Venus Gold, which is now available in Lazada.

For more details, please visit the website at http://www.flash3c.com/ph.

Kylie Verzosa was crowned 2016 Miss International

Miss Philippines Kylie Verzosa was crowned 2016 Miss International in the coronation held at Tokyo Dome City Hall in Tokyo, Japan on Thursday. 

Versoza is the sixth Miss International crown for the Philippines.

Winners are the following : 

4th Runner up – Miss USA

3rd Runner up – Miss Nicaragua

2nd runner up – Miss Indonesia

1st runner up – Miss Australia

"If I become Miss International 2016, I will devote myself to cultural understanding and international understanding because I believe that it is in developing in each of us sensitivity to other cultures that we expand our horizons, tolerate difference and appreciate diversity," she said in her speech after the announcement of the top 15 finalists. 

Verzosa thanked all those who joined her in her journey.

"I cannot believe this moment right now, and I am ecstatic and happy. Thank you so much to my family, to the Philippines, to everyone who supported me. I did not go through this journey alone, but I had a lot of help from the people who love me. I deeply appreciate this. This moment has only happened in my dreams. Thank you so much, Japan. Thank you, Miss International," she said.

Aside from the big winners, other contestants also received special awards:

Miss International ASIA - Hong Kong

Miss International EUROPE - Netherlands

Miss International AMERICA - Ecuador

Miss International AFRICA - Sierra Leone

Miss International OCEANIA - Hawaii

Top 15 were: 

Finland

Mexico

Japan

El Salvador

Canada

Dominican Republic

Argentina

Russia

Thailand

Poland

Special Awards : 

National costume   -   Miss Nicaragua 

Miss Best Dresser   -  Miss Indonesia

Miss Perfect Body -   Miss Moldova

Binibining Pilipinas took to Facebook to congratulate Verzosa.

"Congratulations to the new Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa, besting over 69 other candidates in the pageant held in Tokyo, Japan. Your journey of finding true beauty and strength is an inspiration to every Filipina; and your advocacy is a shining example of selflessness and true humanity that many should emulate. BPCI is proud to have supported you every step of the way."

Here’s a full text of Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa

"Three things come to mind when I think of Miss International – Culture, education and international understanding. These three works together to make the brand of the Miss International beauty pageant relevant to the global community and to our time.
If I become Miss International 2016, I will devote myself to cultural understanding and international understanding because I believe that it is with developing in each of us sensitivity to other cultures that we expand our horizons, tolerate difference, and appreciate diversity. 

All these enable us to achieve international understanding. And I believe I'm prepared to take on this responsibility. 

Domo arigatou gozaimasu."

#MissInternational2016

#ForThePhilippines

Bryan Adams coming to Manila for GET UP World tour

Wilbros Live is thrilled to announce that Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Bryan Adams is finally coming to Manila on January 18, 2017 at the Araneta Coliseum for his GET UP World tour.

Known for his raspy and strong signature vocals, Adams has churned out multiple chart-topping hits including Summer of 69, Heaven, Straight from the Heart, Cuts Like a Knife, Run To You, Please Forgive Me, All For Love, Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman, I Finally Found Someone, and (Everything I Do) I Do It For You – which holds the record for the longest run at number one in the charts in British music history.

Recognized as one of the world’s best selling artists of all time, Bryan Adams has been making musical history for more than 30 years and has sold more than 100 million records worldwide. With 21 top ten hits, seven number one singles and topping the charts in more than 40 countries around the world, it is no wonder that Adams is touted as Canada’s ambassador to the world.

As one of the biggest rock superstars of our time, Adams has been the recipient of the Order of British Columbia and the Order of Canada; been nominated for three Academy Awards and five Golden Globes; and received 18 Juno Awards, an American Music Award and five ASCAP Film and Television Music Awards.

Besides his repertoire of his greatest hits, the concert tour will also feature tunes from his thirteenth studio album GET UP, made up of up-tempo tracks such as Brand New Day, You Belong To Me and Thunderbolt, to the gentler songs such as Don’t Even Try and We Did It All.

Please Forgive Me

Straight from the Heart

(Everything I Do) I Do It For You

With his unique ability to fuse rock anthems and power ballads, Filipino fans can expect a night full of fun and entertainment.

Tickets to Bryan Adams’ concert in Manila will be on-sale beginning October 1st via TicketNet Online (www.ticketnet.com.ph) or call the hotlines 911-5555 or 374-9999.

For more concert updates, check out Bryan Adams’ official website and social media accounts: Facebook page /@BryanAdamsOfficial, IG & Twitter: @BryanAdams or check out Wilbros Live’s official website or follow @wilbroslive on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Don't miss the icon and all his smash hits. Book now at TicketNet.com,ph!

Official hashtags:

#BryanAdamsMNL

#BryanAdamsGetUp

Philippine Homeschool Conference Expo (PHC) : Securing a Child’s Future through Education

The sixth annual Philippine Homeschool Conference Expo (PHC) held at the SMX Convention Center, SM Aura Premier in Taguig City on October 22, 2016.

With this year’s theme “From roots to wings”, PHC hopes to nourish the firm foundation that they have with parents by continuing to equip them with knowledge and virtues that would help them soar together. The event, led by the Homeschooling Association of the Philippine Islands (HAPI) gathered some of the country’s experts on homeschooling to share their insights on the importance and implications of homeschooling.

Among them was Eric Nicdao, District Manager of Philam Life. Nicdao explained that while there are distinct advantages to homeschooling, it is never without a challenge. 

“The cost of education for homeschooling a child is not inexpensive as others perceive it to be”, said Mr. Nicdao.

He further explained that this is because homeschooling entails the presence of one of the parents at home which will potentially reduce the family’s overall income. With the increasing costs of college education, it will be very daunting to have only one breadwinner. Mr. Nicdao also shared why it is important to plan early for the child’s education.

“As a parent myself, I understand the real-life struggles that parents go through to give the best to their children. It is, therefore, wise and even necessary to invest in a plan with guaranteed education benefits even if school-going children are still quite young. Plans like this should have the potential to grow to cope adequately with annual tuition fee hikes.” Nicdao added. 

“More to the point, a parent and a child should not have to guess what the future brings. There are too many uncertainties already and having something secure and reliable allows a family to focus on learning and academic excellence rather than trying to make sure that there is a school they can afford.”

To help address these concerns, Philam Life launched a new education product, Future Scholar.

Future Scholar offers guaranteed education benefits and long term growth potential through access to expertly-managed funds. The plan will continue without the need to pay future payments should the payor pass away or suffer total and permanent disability.It is to these concerns that Philam Life’s Future Scholar plan focuses with its guaranteed educational benefits and unique features available like making life insurance coverage for parents or premium adjustments in times of great need.

To learn more about Future Scholar, please visit http://www.philamlife.com.

PALSCON, other groups unite to end “Contractualization,” “ENDO,” “5-5-5”

The Philippine Association of Legitimate Service Contractors (PALSCON), linked up with other groups with the hopes of sending a united voice to end the illegal employment practice of “contractualization” or “End of Contract,” more popularly known as “ENDO” and “5-5-5.”

During its recent General Membership Meeting held in this city, PALSCON invited various employers’ groups and other associations such as the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), the Makati Business Club (MBC), the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries of the Philippines, Inc. (SEIPI) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), to name a few, for a dialogue on the issue. 

The objective of the historic dialogue between PALSCON and the associations was to unite and find winnable solutions to end “ENDO” and “5-5-5.” Many from the government and labor groups are clamoring for an end to these illegal labor practices that they see as detrimental to the economy and the growth of the Filipino labor force. 

In light of this important meeting, PALSCON already came up with a draft manifesto and provided it to all the groups, who promised to look and review said manifesto. As soon as all issues are thoroughly discussed, PALSCON and the groups will issue a joint statement regarding the result of their discussion.

ECOP President Donald Dee said they welcomed the invitation of PALSCON to dialogue regarding the issue. “We are glad that PALSCON invited us to sit down with them together with other concerned groups and hopefully, we can resolve this together very soon.”

The Board of Trustees of the Philippine Association of Legitimate Service Contractors (PALSCON) are shown in photo together with Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) President Donald Dee (6th from left) and PALSCON National President Ms. Rhoda Caliwara (5th from right).

Others in photo are (left to right) Jojo Jabines, PALSCON Treasurer, Henry Nuqui, PALSCON Vice President, Sarah Deloraya, PALSCON past President, Fermin Cunanan, PALSCON past President, Lea Soriano, PALSCON Auditor, PALSCON past President Butch Guerrero, and Armand Gutierrez Jr. and Agnes Escalona, PALSCON Directors.

George Barcelon, President of PCCI, for his part, said that they fully support PALSCON and the call to end “ENDO” and “5-5-5”once and for all.

Both acknowledged that PALSCON’s draft manifesto is a good step to have the voice of the service contractors be heard and promised that they will both study its contents.

“Time and again, PALSCON is at the forefront of combating illegal labor practices. ‘Service contracting’ is already a globally accepted labor trend. Our objective is to help educate the public and our Filipino workers and of course the government regarding service contracting and hopefully, we will reach our objective together with our partners here today,” declares Rhoda Caliwara, President of PALSCON.

Caliwara said service contracting cannot be banned since it is already an accepted labor practice with many benefits among major countries such as the United States, China, Japan and in many countries in Europe, and that most workers are satisfied under an “agency” setup. “Agency work is the first to adjust to major market fluctuations, and most of all provides flexibility to corporations,” says Caliwara. 

She said in the Philippines, service contracting is allowed under Articles 106 to 109 of the Labor Code. In 2011, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) passed Department Order (DO) 18-A which raised the standards of service contracting to include higher capitalization in order to prevent “labor-only” contracting. The DOLE pegged a minimum capitalization requirement of P3 million for agencies, a registration fee of from a measly P100 to P25,000, and a minimum administrative fee of 10% to prevent cut-throat competition in the industry.

DO 18-A’s stringent requirements, according to Caliwara, also helped PALSCON police its ranks and reduced the number of service contractors from more than 16,000 to only more than 5,000 in 2015 to eliminate the so-called “fly-by-night contractors.” 

“We hope the government should inspect first these ‘fly-by-night’ agencies rather than the registered contractors who are the ones complying with the law.” 

Be informed of the latest issues in ending "ENDO" and "5-5-5". Attend the PALSCON 6th National Forum happening on November 14, 2016 (8am to 5pm) at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Ortigas Center, Quezon City. Don't be left behind! Limited Slots only!

Register now and be a part of the biggest gathering of Service Contractors.

For inquiries, email palscon_6thnationalforum@yahoo.com.

Acer Academy honored new and loyal members at awards night

From left to right: Acer Philippines Sales and Marketing Manager Sue Ong-Lim; Acer Philippines Managing Director Manuel Wong; St. Dominic College of Asia President Dr. Greg Andaman and wife; Joselito Dominguez and Fritz Agapito of Metro Manila College; Ivar Nelson Bingcang and Jenald Rodelas of Adventist University of the Philippines; Raul Acapulco of Immaculada Concepcion College; Fr. Uly Rimabawa and Rodelio Barcenas of Don Dosco Technical College; Carlo Anthony Nakpil and Ana Niguidula of Holistic Development Center; Acer Commercial Channel Sales Manager Carren Garcia

Local IT giant Acer Philippines, Inc. recently honored members of its Acer Academy program during the awards night held at the Manila Ocean Park.

Acer introduced the new members of its growing Acer Academy program. The event also served as a platform to showcase its continuing efforts in strengthening its partnership with the academe in setting new benchmarks in the education sphere.

Loyalty awards were also given to schools that were part of the program for no less than 3 years. Benefits included rewards based on purchases where points are earned and can be converted into training opportunities, free devices for the school, discounts and freebies. For walk-in purchases at the Acer Concept Store, the faculty will be awarded with outright discounts upon showing of their school ID and upon availing of the Extended Faculty Purchase Program from the loyalty program. This offer is good for one year only.

The new members for Luzon include Metro Manila College, St. Dominic College of Asia, Adventist University of the Philippines, Immaculada Concepcion College, Don Bosco Technical College, Holistic and Development Center, and Faith Academy. The Loyalty awardees are Saint Pedro Poveda College, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, and Holy Angel University.

Acer also showcased its various impressive new products for the education sector, particularly its latest desktops, laptops, tablets, projectors and other modern teaching equipment for today’s 21st Century classrooms during the event, themed “Dive into Discovery: Experience the world of innovation.”

From left to right: Sue Ong-Lim, Acer Philippines Sales and Marketing Director; Manuel Wong, Acer Philippines Managing Director; Carlo Anthony Nakpil and Ana Niguidula of Holistic Development Center; Acer Philippines Sales Manager for Business Development Alexis De Guzman; Acer Philippines Commercial Channel Sales Manager Carren Garcia.

Major event highlights include the inspirational talks from two of Acer’s latest brand ambassadors. Francis Kong, an award-winning business columnist and speaker, talked about the challenges he faced early on in his career and how he aspired for greater goals in order to succeed. Megan Young, Miss World 2013, on the other hand, talked about how her aspirations to succeed pushed her to achieve her goals through hard work and determination.

Prior to the Acer brand ambassadors’ speeches, an exciting “Mermaid Show” was performed by the Manila Ocean Park Mermaid team. Later in the evening, a thrilling treat was provided by Acer Philippines where member-schools toured the Manila Ocean Park and visited some of its most notable attractions like the “Oceanarium,” “Fish Spa” and “Trails to Antarctica.”

Carren Garcia, Channel Sales Manager, Acer Philippines, also provided updates regarding the program, which now has 97 members, a far cry from only 11 member-schools when the program started several years back. “The target was to grow the membership to 100 schools by year-end. Definitely we are on target of surpassing that number,” she pointed out.

The Acer Academy Program started in 2012. The membership now includes colleges and universities nationwide, with the biggest coming from Luzon, followed by Mindanao and then the Visayas. As member-schools of the program, the school and students enjoy several benefits such as Acer’s sponsorship of school events and activities, free training for the school faculty and IT personnel, participation in campus tours, and students of an Acer Academy program member are prioritized under Acer’s internship program where they get first crack at on-the-job or even possible hiring opportunities.

Garcia also announced that they are looking at growing the number of the program’s member-schools. More importantly, however, she said it is all about retaining more member-schools for it to be able to serve the academe. “Our plan next year is to engage even the students of member-schools and not just the faculty. We are also looking at creating an annual programming and design skills competition using Acer devices, technology and other gadgets. The mechanics is already being crafted. Initially, we’re looking at senior high school to college students as participants.”

From left to right: Sue Ong-Lim, Acer Philippines Sales and Marketing Director; Manuel Wong, Acer Philippines Managing Director, Raul Acapulco of Immaculada Concepcion College; Acer Philippines Sales Manager for Business Development Alexis De Guzman; Acer Philippines Commercial Channel Sales Manager Carren Garcia.

Other plans, Garcia said, include the launching of the “Acer Cloud Professor,” which will utilize software programming and robotics, plus conducting outreach programs where Acer will seek the help of member-schools in identifying certain indigent communities by helping share technologies and other CSR-related activities.

From left to right: Acer Philippines Sales and Marketing Director Sue Ong-Lim; Acer Philippines Managing Director Manuel Wong; Jenal Rodelas and Ivar Nelson Bingcang of Adventist University of the Philippines; Acer Philippines Sales Manager for Business Development Alexis De Guzman; Acer Philippines Commercial Channel Sales Manager Carren Garcia.

From left to right: Acer Philippines Sales and Marketing Director Sue Ong-Lim; Acer Philippines Managing Director Manuel Wong; Fritz Agapito and Joselito Dominguez of Metro Manila College; Acer Philippines Sales Manager for Business Development Alexis De Guzman; Acer Philippines Commercial Channel Sales Manager Carren Garcia.

For more about the Acer Academy Program, go to www.acer.com.ph, follow Acer via Twitter (twitter.com/acerphils) or www.Facebook.com/AcerPH.