February 18, 2017

Jollibee welcomes Anne Curtis as the new member of Jollibee family

(L-R) Standing with Jollibee to welcome Anne Curtis to the Jollibee family are Jollibee’s Brand Manager for Rice Meals Kat Silvoza, Core Category Marketing Director Cath Capati, and Brand Communications Director and Head of Kids Marketing Arline Adeva.
Jollibee, the country’s number one fast-food chain, is proud to welcome another star to its ever-growing family of celebrity endorsers. Actress, TV host, and all-around performer Anne Curtis is the newest Jollibee endorser. Last February 15, 2017, Anne revealed the joyful discovery.

“I’ve come full circle with this endorsement,” says the Fil-Australian actress

Anne’s first project for the homegrown QSR brand is an ad campaign featuring the best-selling Burger Steak, which premiered last February 12, 2017.



At the press conference, Anne was also surprised with a birthday greeting from Jollibee – her birthday is on February 17. And more joyful story, Anne recalls Erwan Heussaff's romantic wedding proposal.



Jollibee’s Burger Steak is “love at first bite” according to Anne Curtis. For her, its beefy patty and savory signature mushroom gravy sauce is the Filipino version of steak and always reminds her of home.


“Anne is dynamic and talented, and her cheerful demeanor brings joy to everyone around her,” said Francis E. Flores, Jollibee Global Chief Marketing Officer and Philippines Head of Marketing. “We hope the nation shares our excitement over Anne being the newest endorser of one of Jollibee’s most popular products, the Burger Steak.”


A joyful discovery

2017 marks Anne’s 20thyear in Philippine show business, where she had made waves through a slew of TV shows, critically acclaimed blockbuster hits, and in recent years, sold-out concerts at some of the country’s most prestigious event venues.

Her journey to stardom began exactly twenty years ago, at a Jollibee store along Boni Avenue in Mandaluyong City.

“Jollibee brings me so much joy,” she said. “At a young age, my mother introduced me to the Filipino treat that is Jollibee. This is where I got to taste the sweet Jolly Spaghetti, the joys of Chickenjoy, and of course, the Filipino version of steak, the Burger Steak with rice! It started my life here in the Philippines,”
A 12-year-old balikbayan visiting relatives from her mother’s side, Anne was discovered by a talent scout while she was enjoying Jollibee’s signature treats.

“I remember having Chickenjoy and Jolly Spaghetti,” said Anne, who excitedly recounted her ‘discovery’ story. “I wouldn’t be the star I am today if I was not eating at Jollibee 20 years ago. It’s just one of the reasons why Jollibee has a special place in my heart.”

“It is such an amazing story,” added Flores. “Anne just proves how instrumental Jollibee is in introducing relatives and friends from abroad to the Pinoy experience.”

“With Jollibee, there’s always a treat to look forward to, from mainstays like Burger Steak and limited time offers like the Tuna Pie. You’ll never get tired of eating at Jollibee, because there’s so many treats to choose from. The food really brings me so much joy!,” said Anne.

With a truly joyful discovery story, Anne believes that her Jollibee endorsement could not have come at a better time.
“I’ve always come so near, yet so far, there were plans before, but they never pushed through. Finally the time has come and it’s really a big dream come true for me. I feel like I’ve come full circle in my career,” she said.
Witness Anne find her beefy ever after with the latest Jollibee Burger Steak TVC, which began airing in the Philippines last February 12, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

“I’ve come full circle in my career,” says actress-host Anne Curtis as she joins Jollibee’s ever-growing family of celebrity endorsers. On her 20th year in show business, the Fil-Australian actress recounts how she was first discovered by a talent scout in a Jollibee branch in Mandaluyong.”



February 17, 2017

“Sister Act” the musical in Manila

Music enthusiasts will be thrilled and dazzled by the exhilarating song numbers and hilarious scenes from a much-acclaimed Broadway musical comedy when “Sister Act” premieres on June 27, 2017 at The Theatre at Solaire, Entertainment City, Pasay City.

The show opens the two-week Philippine run of the hit Broadway musical that is part of the Asian leg of the American production’s Asian tour for 2017. The musical will run for only two weeks with no extension.

Touted as America’s new musical comedy classic, “Sister Act” brings to the musical theater scene a stage re-creation of the music and general story of the hit 1992 film comedy of the same title, but with an all-original score and script and spectacular production design.

The play will leave the audience breathless as it they follow for two-and-a-half delightful hours the funny adventures of Deloris Van Cartier, a wannabe diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a crime and the cops hide her in the last place anyone would think to look – a convent.

Under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly re-discovers her own.

The musical features original music and score with a big Broadway sound written by the most acclaimed composer of our time, 8-time Oscar winner Alan Menken (“Beauty and the Beast,” “”The Little Mermaid,” “Little Shop of Horrors”), with lyrics by Glenn Slater. The story was written by Bill and Cheri Steinkellner with additional book material by Douglas. Carter Beane. 

It had its world premiere at the Pasadena Playhouse in the Fall of 2006, followed by a production at Alliance Theatre in Atlanta on the Winter of 2007. The West End production began previews at the Palladium Theatre in London on May 7, 2009, while the Broadway production began preview performances on March 24, 2011 and officially opened on April 20, 2011 at the Broadway Theatre.2

Seen by over 6 million theater-goers across the globe, “Sister Act” has been performed worldwide in Milan, Vienna, Paris, Germany, The Netherlands, Japan and on tour throughout the United States and the United Kingdom. It has also been played in Canada, Ireland, South Africa and Spain.

The musical received five Tony Awards nominations in 2011: Best Musical, Best Original Score (Alan Menken-music/Glenn Slater-lyrics), Best Book of a Musical (Cheri and Bill Steinkellner and Douglas Carter Beane), Best Actress in a Musical (Patricia Miller) and Best Featured Actress in a Musical (Victoria Clark) 

It was also nominated for four Olivier Awards in 2010, including Best Musical.

The musical has drawn widespread critical acclaim for being a “fun, funny and feel good” act, with The New York Post describing it as “ridiculously fun” and The Huffington Post lauding it for providing fans “an unbridled joy.”

Sister Act is Ovation Productions’ second Broadway musical presentation; with Disney’s Beauty and the Beast 2 years ago at the Cultural Center of the Philippines as it’s first.

Media partners are Fox, Philippine Star, Manila Bulletin, Philippine Daily Inquirer, and BusinessWorld. Produced by Ovation Productions in cooperation with Broadway Entertainment Group, and Troika. Tickets at P6500, 5500, 4500, 3500, 1500 available online at www.ticketworld.com.ph or call (02) 981-9999. Avail of 10% Early Bird Discount from February 12 -28, 2017.

The Epson Solutions &Technology Convention 2017: Helping Local Businesses Be Future Ready

Epson, a world leader in digital imaging and printing solutions, showcased its winning products and solutions in the Epson Solutions & Technology Convention 2017. Held at the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, the convention aims to support local businesses to be competitive amidst economic uncertainties, controlled labor market conditions and increased foreign competition.


The one-day event showcases Epson’s intelligent and innovative solutions that will help the business community meet the demands of the future through the integration of self-service, augmented reality, interactive projection and other technologies. It showcases Epson’s solutions across print, projection, label and smart glasses in an enterprise setting; as well as showcases Epson’s latest products in the pipeline. Invited guests include partners, reseller base, media and select customers and end-users from various industries.

Mr. Cris Sanchez, Sales Division Head, Epson Philippines

“The Epson story has always been about creating Inspirational Technology for a Better Future. Always at the heart of these developments is our deep commitment to understand the changing needs of customers. Epson owns innovative technologies that are continually exceeding their expectations,” explains Mr. Cris Sanchez, Sales Division Head, Epson Philippines.
The Epson convention will demonstrate how the adoption of the company’s print, scan, label and projection solutions will strengthen Philippine businesses in facing the challenges of the future. During the program, Epson experts will provide insights on how to develop a holistic strategy when investing in technology. This integration across devices will help drive cost savings, process improvement and realize gains in productivity.



A guided Solutions Tour will feature several booths on various solutions and applications for every business department including Customer Service, Marketing, Training, Finance and Logistics and Warehouse. Some of the innovation products to be unveiled are the Moverio smart glasses in the Customer Service booth, Epson’s interactive projectors and large format printers in the Training Department and Marketing Department booths. Epson’s Moverio smart glasses will be used to let guests appreciate the immersive Customer Service experience that the Moverio smart glasses can offer while the interactive projectors and large format printers will be used to show guests the convenience and efficiency of the solutions offered by Epson.


Mr. Ed Bonoan, Senior General Manager and Head of Marketing, Epson Philippines
“In the past few years, Epson Philippines has gained the leading market share in its key categories, a testimony to the successful product designs and solutions that the company has created and offered to our customers. We hope that through this convention and our other undertakings for the corporate segment, we can help boost the successful integration of technology to Philippine businesses. This way, Epson can be a partner in making Filipino business owners pursue a global approach that will help them flourish, even with stiff competition from local and foreign providers,” concludes Mr. Ed Bonoan, Senior General Manager and Head of Marketing, Epson Philippines. 
For local businesses who would want to have an in-depth consultation on their technology requirements, they may reach out to Ms. Sheinne Padilla of Epson Philippines through sheinnep@epc.epson.com.ph




Estela Belen: The Sweetest Success

ARP 2016 with my manager Rick Jared Belen, VIP client Susana M. Ipapo, and my secretary James Y. Sunico

When faced with challenging circumstances or seemingly impossible choices, there are only two categorical responses: fight or flight. Almost every person in the world has experienced being at such a decisive moment. For Estela Belen, it was when her husband of 25 years suddenly died. She was 44 years old then, and was suddenly faced with the responsibility of maintaining a household and raising 13 children… by herself. Difficult as things may seem, she chose to fight.

(L-R standing)) Ma. Katrina B. Licudine (1), Enrico C. Belen, Jr. (2), Ria B. Trillo(3), Rachel B. Salapa (6) Eve Stella B. Valdez(grand daughter 8), Susana M. Ipapo (VIP client), Eric C. Belen(5), Estela C. Belen, Kris C. Belen (7), Kristal C. Belen (11), Ma. Estela B. Valdez(12), Maura Luz c. Belen (13). (Kneeling center) Francis C. Belen (9), (Kneeling L-R) Dan Louie O. Salapa(son in-law to #6), Rick Jared C. Belen (8), Charles C. Belen (10), James Y. Sunico (Personal Secretary). 
All throughout her married life, Estela has always been a housewife. While she managed most of their domestic affairs, she had no job experience whatsoever, and was relying on her husband for their household’s financial resources. When her husband suddenly passed away, she knew she had to provide the financial support that was now lacking. She needed a source of income, especially since 11 of her kids were still going to school then. 

In her search for employment, a good friend led her to become a financial advisor for Philam Life, the largest insurance company in the Philippines. She went through the motions and found that her natural management aptitude, with running her 13-plus-one household, was helpful to the job.

It was, of course, a rough start because she had no background on the insurance industry, but she trudged on and learned what she could as quickly as possible. She also had to make the transition from being a housewife to a career woman, which was no small feat. She struggled to balance her new working life with her family life, but she persevered -- selling insurance policies and providing very good service to her clients for her clients. Eventually, through hard work and pure grit, Estella was able to work her way up to become a bona fide top earner, an achiever in her industry.

(L-R) Ma. Katrina Belen-Licudine, Enrico Belen, Jr., Ria belen-Trillo,Richard Belen,Eric Belen,Rachel Belen-Salapa,Kris Belen,Rick Jared Belen,Francis Belen,Charles Belen,Kristal Belen,Ma. Estela Belen-Valdez,and Maura Luz Belen.
Fast forward to the present -- twenty one years after taking on the job, Estella was awarded with one of the company’s highest and most elusive honors: Top Associate of the Year. This accolade is given to the financial advisor with the highest premiums in one year

Her exceptional work ethic and her positive outlook contributed a lot to her success. Through her earnings and performance bonuses, she was able to financially support her children, all of whom are grown up and some of whom chose to work with her at Philam Life. Thanks to the schedule flexibility of being a financial advisor, she did not have to take too much time away from her family.

Estella is proud of how far she has come in the company, but remains humble, choosing instead to focus on the good that her work brings to her clients. “More than anything, it feels fulfilling,” Estella said. “I get to help my clients with their financial planning, to give them peace of mind and security about their financial future, at the same time, I also get to help my family. It’s a happy, win-win situation for all,” she concluded. 

Estella has proven to be the personification of perseverance, tenacity, and determination and she is eager to continue her work with Philam Life for years to come.


Coca-Cola brings safe drinking water to earthquake-stricken communities

As the people of Surigao recover from the devastation wrought by the 6.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Surigao Province last Friday, the Coca-Cola System offered quick and ready assistance to the families. 

At least 11 towns including the provincial capital and two major bridges essential were damaged. The earthquake and its aftershocks have left an estimated 601.8 million in damage in its wake. 
In light of this, the beverage company immediately arranged to send aid in the form of a vital resource--safe and clean drinking water. 

On February 11 – the day after the quake, 100,000 worth of Wilkins Distilled water were unloaded at Surigao City Hall. The drinking water was distributed through the efforts of the local government, with the assistance of Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines pre-sellers, 301B personnel of the Philippine Army, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development. 

In addition to the products, Coca-Cola Philippines, Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines, and the Coca-Cola Foundation are working with the local government of Surigao for the deployment of the SETA Potable Water Machine – a mobile drinking water facility with the capability to treat and produce 3000 l/h of potable drinking water a day – to sustainably ease the community's need for this resource, and will continue to support the rehabilitation efforts in the province. 




February 16, 2017

Presidential Security Group launches PSGTroopers.com website


The Presidential Security Group (PSG) launched its official online site PSGTroopers.com aimed at strengthening the command’s credibility through online presence and to manifest its ability in technology trends to reach local and global communities. 

PSGTroopers.com was launched in a simple ceremony at the PSG Officers’ Clubhouse, Malacañan Park on Tuesday, February 7, 2016.


(In photo seated from left) BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO DELIZO BAUTISTA AFP, COMMANDER, PSG and PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS OPERATIONS OFFICE SECRETARY MARTIN ANDANAR explore the features of PSGTroopers.com online news portal during the site’s launch at the PSG Officers’ Clubhouse, Malacañan Park on Tuesday, February 7, 2016.




“This is one of the significant milestones of the Command as it will give a better appreciation to effectively and efficiently address interests, issues and challenges in the area of operations in carrying out the Command’s mission. PSGTroopers.com will illustrate the command’s best efforts toward the achievement of the Armed Forces of the Philippine’s ultimate vision of becoming “A World-Class Armed Forces and Source of National Pride,” said BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO DELIZO BAUTISTA AFP, designated by PRESIDENT RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE as PSG’s 31st Commander on July 2, 2016.


PSGTroopers.com “would pave way to a meaningful form of communication to members of the Office of the President – Events Management Cluster (OP-EMC), the AFP and PNP units, and other agencies and stakeholders. This would mean aligning not only to the Command’s mission but also to higher headquarters, as we are able to establish a platform that would make communications easier and paint a picture of how PSG really is,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.

“I commend the Presidential Security Group for being abreast with the changing media landscape and keeping up with technology,” PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS OPERATIONS OFFICE SECRETARY MARTIN ANDANAR said in his keynote message as Guest of Honor and Speaker during the launch of PSG’s news portal.

As the President’s close-in security, ANDANAR said “the PSG members know how unconventional the President is as he defies structure and definition. Hindi po de-kahon si Pangulong Duterte. Thus, strategic communication under the Duterte administration has never been as challenging.”

Noting PSG members are a special group of people, ANDANAR said they were chosen from thousands of military and police personnel to protect the President because the chief executive trusts them. He encouraged the PSG to help the President push his agenda for genuine change.

“Together, let us help the President as he traverses the road towards a nation without crime, without drugs and without corruption. Together, let us deliver what has to be communicated and we thank you for taking the extra step towards understanding.”

Operated under the watch of LTC MICHAEL T AQUINO (INF) PA, PSG Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations, G7, PSGTroopers.com is dedicated to the activities of the Presidential Security Group in collaboration with other government agencies. Emphasizing on the program’s theme of “Strength in Credibility, Numbers and Online Presence, LTC AQUINO said: “The more credible information you disseminate online, the stronger your organization will be.”


Essentially the digital version of PSGTroopers print magazine, PSGTroopers.com will showcase all the news, photos, videos and updates of PSG’s undertakings here and abroad in collaboration with other government agencies. 

“This news portal that can help in disseminating information about security matters and the presidency,” LTC AQUINO said.

As smartphone and tablet adoption rapidly increases, PSGTroopers.com recognizes the importance of mobile-friendly design. The website features the latest responsive design technology to provide optimal user-experience across various devices and screen sizes.

The content of PSGTroopers.com is optimized for social media sharing. “With just a click of a button, PSGTroopers.com content can be shared with popular social media networks,” LTC AQUINO said. 

The social media accounts of PSGTroopers.com include Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram with the account name: @PSGTroopers.
“Information dissemination is one of our objectives in creating this website. Over the years, we have conducted several dental missions, Brigada Eskwela and the like that reached out to the community around Malacañang complex. Through this, we are able to change the mindset of the general public that we, soldiers can do good and that we are able to carry out genuine change,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.

“From the start of this administration, we have worked hand in hand with the President’s projects especially his fight against drugs and corruption. This website would be an efficient platform to disseminate what we do—that we are not only here to ensure the safety and security of the Commander in Chief and the President but also assist him and the Filipino in positively changing as well as uniting this country,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.

La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel: The Vacationers and Celebs Choice Resort

The Poolside

La Carmela de Boracay, the iconic resort/hotel owned by Boy So is the answer to every vacationers' needs. The resort hotel has everything anybody needs when on a holiday in the paradise island of Boracay.


Ocean View Suite

La Carmela de Boracay is known by both local and foreign tourists for its affordable rates, homey interiors, pleasant staff and crew and accessibility. It is also the most suitable choice for occasions like birthdays, holidays, wedding anniversaries, and other events because of its affordable rates and the amenities necessary in celebrating such occasions.

The Premiere West Lobby

La Carmela de Boracay is frequented by local celebrities, including Boy Abunda and his celebrity friends. The resort hotel has been featured in some of ABS-CBN's shows. It is no surprise if one spots a local celeb in the pool or having breakfast or dinner in its dining room.

La Carmela de Boracay is centrally located at Station 2, near the Tourist Center, in the heart of Boracay. It is at the center of the island, only a few meters walk to the shopping mall or the market.

The Celebrity Suite

Making room reservations in La Carmela is easy. It's staff and crew will offer answers to every reservation question.

Facade of La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel
The hotel offers beachfront convenience at affordable rates on Holidays. It also has special package rates for groups, barkadas and families.

La Carmela which was built in 2011, has now five buildings.

The Main Building houses Standard, Semi Deluxe, Main Deluxe, Panorama Deluxe and Super Deluxe rooms.

The Executive Wing includes Executive Deluxe, Panorama Deluxe, Family-room Wing, and Panorama Super Deluxe rooms.

The Premiere East and West building offers Premiere Deluxe and Premiere Super Deluxe rooms.

The Ocean View building has Premier Ocean View, African Safari Suite, Greco Roman Suite, and Celebrity Suite.


Hospitality among the hotel staff and cleanliness in the hotel are of utmost importance. La Carmela de Boracay sees to it that its guests are comfortable and happy in their stay at the hotel resort.

Since 2011, La Carmela has been frequented by both local and foreign the tourists. It has a steady stream of guests from all walks of life. Everyday is peak season for the hotel-resort.

"We want our guests to feel at home while vacationing. It is important to us that they have a happy and wonderful experience in La Carmela," says Boy So.

This year, La Carmela De Boracay has lined up a series of activities for guests to enjoy.

"We will be more active in engaging the public in our entertainment activities. Gusto namin mas mapasaya pa sila," adds Boy.

For more information visit La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel's official Facebook page


Ultimate Valentine’s SURPRISE: m&m’s® Fun First Move Project WINNER TAKES THEIR LOVE TO A DIFFERENT HEIGHT

Jessa and Froilan on their way to Tagaytay lunch date via helicopter

Love is literally in the air as M&M’s treat a lucky couple with a breath-taking helicopter ride to the scenic city of Tagaytay to enjoy the most romantic date this Valentine’s.

Traditionally, men are the ones who shower women with flowers and chocolates but this year with the help of #MMsFunFirstMove project, Jessa Bernales was the one who surprised her husband with a bouquet of flowers and an epic helicopter ride to an unforgettable date in Tagaytay. 

This romantic surprise will surely take them, and their love to different heights, just ask the chopper pilot!

M&M’s surprise date for the Bernales couple

Move over Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele. Jessa and Froilan Bernales’ ride is M&M’s -sweet!





A moment of confusion followed by the euphoria of realizing his wife’s surprise

Jessa and Froilan surprised by M&M’s Red, Yellow and Green in Tagaytay.



Aside from our grand winner, nineteen other romantics surprise their loved ones with the help of M&M’s Red, Green and Yellow.

M&M’s Red and his boy band make the winners’ significant others swoon and blush with their ‘kilig’-infused songs and charming demeanor. M&M’s Yellow, on the other hand delivers a big surprise, with the perfect cuddle buddy that will always remind them of the feeling of being in love - a giant teddy bear! And to take it up a notch, M&M’s Green brings along a hot real-life cupid! The hottie with the arrows shower the winning couples with gifts and affection. 

Congratulations to all the lucky winners of M&M’s Fun First Move Project.

And don’t fret, you can still spoil your loved ones this Valentine’s day, show how sweet you are and gift them with M&M’s and your undying adoration.

The Promo ran from January 9 to February 5 2017. For more updates, visit www.facebook.com/MMsPhilippines.

February 15, 2017

Pinoy Cooking With Chef Anton Amoncio In “Home Cooked Asia: Philippines”

Chef Anton Amoncio

After winning the Asian Food Channel's Food Hero competition held in Singapore last year, Pinoy Chef Anton Amoncio, now hosts his own cooking show, “Home Cooked Asia: Philippines”. 

The program, one of the newest cooking programs in the Asian Food Channel (AFC), premiered December last year. It airs on Thursdays at 9 o’clock in the morning, with replays on the same day, at 2 and 10 o’clock in the afternoon.

Chef Anton cooks different traditional Filipino recipes, and provides his own techniques. Chef Anton says he wants to teach those who want to know more about Filipino food.
“I hope my bit of Home Cooked creates awareness of what Filipino food is about. I want people outside the Philippines to ask questions about the way we cook and the passion we have for it. For Filipinos I make sure to make the dishes easy-to-make and accessible so they can try doing it themselves.”  -  Chef Anton 

Home Cooked Asia: Philippines is another Filipino pride. It showcases the Filipinos' love for food and cooking and how they are able to make the best out of simple recipes. 

Chef Anton says the show encourages viewers to embrace the truth that everyone can cook, and can create his/her own personal touch to cooking. 

“For me Filipino food is the next big thing and I hope the show will be appreciated by people everywhere,” says Chef Anton Amoncio.

Chef Anton Amoncio is managed by Asian Artists Agency Inc. For more information visit the AAAI official Facebook page or email info@asianartistsagency.com

Get that perfect artsy selfie with the Vivo V5 Plus’ bokeh effect

Selfies can now have the aesthetic bokeh effect of the Vivo V5 Plus, with the details of the selfie sharp and clear, and the background blurred beautifully.

In this age of selfies, netizens enthusiastically take self-shots with camera-focused phones and continually seek ways of enhancing these through filters and editing—deemed essential for creating beautiful, share-worthy selfies. 

Now comes Vivo V5 Plus from top five premium global brand1 Vivo. Called the perfect selfie phone, it is equipped with the world’s first dual front camera, which helps you shoot artsy selfies with ease. 

The perfect selfie phone features a primary 20-megapixel Sony IMX376 dual front camera and a secondary camera at 8 megapixels, which collects depth-of-field information. 

Because of its dual front camera, the Vivo V5 Plus is able to create a true “bokeh” effect. 

Bokeh, favored by photography- and selfie enthusiasts, is the aesthetic quality produced when out-of-focus parts of an image are blurred.

You can now take selfies anywhere with the Vivo V5 Plus’ bokeh effect, able to blur any background creatively. 

The term “bokeh” is of Japanese origin, from the word “boke,” which means blur or haze. Creating a “good” bokeh—or a blur that is pleasing to the eye—is tough. In the past, the technique required the use of an advanced digital camera with special lens, according to photography website photographylife.com. 

Smartphone-camera-wielding selfie enthusiasts eventually resorted to editing for adding a beautiful blur effect to photos.


With the Vivo V5 Plus perfect selfie phone now rocking the selfie generation, producing a good bokeh effect in your selfies and other photos is as easy as a single tap on the capture button. 

With its dual front camera, the Vivo V5 Plus can perfect the bokeh effect, the art of blurring the background of a photo artistically. 

Vivo V5 Plus’ bokeh effect will soon be a highly covetable feature. At least 200 engineers from Vivo and its partner organizations spent eight months studying the algorithm behind blurring effects to develop a highly accurate algorithm ideal for portrait shots. This defines objects in such a way that the details in focus are artfully separated from the background. 

The Vivo V5 Plus from top five premium global brand Vivo is equipped with a 20-megapixel dual front camera co-engineered with Sony, able to produce the best possible selfies to date. 
The Vivo engineers also did research on the blurring effects of 96 types of large aperture SLR camera lenses and simulated each of these lenses in the algorithm of the Vivo V5 Plus dual front cameras. Then special enhancements were added to achieve good results in various lighting situations.

With Vivo’s research and development centers, the brand continually studies and improves selfie technology and other smartphone aspects. In fact, in its effort to improve smartphone technologies for its consumers, Vivo has two new research centers in California—one in Silicon Valley and another in San Diego.

Now, with Vivo V5 Plus’ advanced selfie technology, your artsy selfies will look like they were captured by a professional photographer. 

For inquiries about Vivo V5 Plus, visit the Vivo website at vivoglobal.ph, or check out their Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/VivoPhil), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/vivophil/) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/vivophil) accounts.


1according to International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker (http://www.idc.com/promo/smartphone-market-share/vendor;jsessionid=7595C1498F4F0FBF496CC767E273121B)


Anne Curtis finds “The One” in Jollibee

PH’s top fast-food brand welcomes Fil-Australian actress to the growing Jollibee family



Where did Anne Curtis—actress, TV host, and all-around performer—find ‘The One?’

In her latest TV commercial for the country’s number one fast-food brand Jollibee, Anne reveals the one meal she will never get tired of: Jollibee Burger Steak.

With a well-seasoned burger patty made with 100% real beef, the Jollibee Burger Steak delivers spectacular flavors and textures to the table. The patty is generously poured with Jollibee’s signature mushroom gravy and is then topped with mushroom slices to bring a delicious and delightful spoonful that Anne—as well as millions of Filipinos—keep falling in love with.
“Decade after decade, Jollibee Burger Steak has never failed to deliver a beefy-ever-after experience to Filipino diners. This year, we’re renewing our commitment to continually improve our products—including the best-selling Burger Steak—to guarantee unparalleled flavors and dining experiences for those who have fallen head over heels with Jollibee, including our newest celebrity endorser, Anne Curtis.” --- said Francis E. Flores, Jollibee Global Chief Marketing Officer and Philippines Head of Marketing. 

‘Full circle’

2017 marks Anne’s 20th year in Philippine show business, where she had made waves through a slew of TV shows, critically acclaimed blockbuster hits, and in recent years, sold-out concerts at some of the country’s most prestigious event venues.

Her journey to stardom began exactly twenty years ago, at a Jollibee store along Boni Avenue in Mandaluyong City. A 12-year-old balikbayan visiting relatives from her mother’s side, Anne was discovered by a talent scout while she was enjoying Jollibee’s signature offerings. .

“I wouldn’t be the star I am today if I was not eating at Jollibee 20 years ago. This endorsement is really a big dream come true for me. I feel like I’ve come full circle in my career,” said Anne.
‘It’s like love at first bite’

Anne shares unforgettable childhood Jollibee encounters with millions of Filipino kids, across generations.
“At a young age, my mother introduced me to the Pinoy happy place: Jollibee,” she said. “This is where I got to taste the Filipino version of steak: the Burger Steak with rice!”
This special, truly Pinoy meal has captivated Anne’s taste buds from the very first time she tasted it. 

“It’s like love at first bite! And what’s great about the Burger Steak is that it’s still has the same savory, delicious, beefy flavors that I’ve loved ever since.”

The actress added that she never gets tired of the Burger Steak. 

“It hits all the right spots. The combination of real beef, sauce, and rice is just something that reminds me of comfort, of home.”

Catch Anne’s beefy ever after with Jollibee Burger Steak in a new TV commercial, which will premiere on February 12, 2017.

The Jollibee Burger Steak is available for dine-in, take-out, delivery, and drive-thru transactions in all Jollibee stores nationwide. Prices start at P50.00*.


*Prices may vary across different locations.

Visit these videos on Facebook: #BeefyEverAfter #JollibeeBurgerSteak




February 14, 2017

Say it with Red Ribbon Valentine Mamon Red Ribbon launches the sweetest treat for Valentine’s Day

"Team Hugot" Red Ribbon Valentines Mamon & ""Team Kilig" Red Ribbon Valentines Mamon



Say it with Red Ribbon Valentine Mamon Red Ribbon launches the sweetest treat for Valentine’s Day Love is one of the hardest emotions to express. That is why, oftentimes, it is hard to either show or say it.

But, what if you can do both ways for your loved ones this Valentines? 

This February, Red Ribbon, one of the most loved bakeshop chains in the Philippines, joins its customers in celebrating 

Valentine’s Day with its new limited edition “Team Kilig” and “Team Hugot” Valentine Mamons that are guaranteed to make this Love Month more memorable. 

The Red Ribbon Valentine Mamons are made with moist white chiffon Mamon topped with Valentine-themed designs. 

It comes in two variants, the “Team Kilig” and “Team Hugot.” 

The “Team Kilig” Mamons are for those who want to give their special someone with Valentine messages that will surely make them feel the warmth of love. On the other hand, the “Team Hugot” Mamons, which are decorated with witty “hugot” lines, are perfect for those who choose to happily celebrate the occasion even without a special someone. 

“We know how important Valentine's Day is to our loyal customers whether they are single or not. These two new Valentine Mamons are our way of making the day for them more memorable and sweeter,” said Ned Bandojo, Head of Marketing of Red Ribbon. Both Team Kilig and Team Hugot Valentine Mamons are topped with unique designs and are packaged in a Valentine’s Day gift box of threes. It is available in all Red Ribbon stores nationwide for P100 per box only.

As one of the fastest growing bakeshop chains in the country, Red Ribbon is dedicated to making every celebration more special by offering new, exciting, and delicious lineup of cakes, breads, and pastries. 

To know more about Red Ribbon’s many delights, visit www.redribbonbakeshop.com.ph


Rex Smith Live at Estancia: a magical evening of love songs dear and familiar at top-tier Estancia Mall


Picture a most romantic post-Valentine’s Day evening at Estancia, a topnotch retail facility where you can find an array of fine international fashion brands and retailers. Estancia is nestled regally within Capitol Commons, a 10-hectare mixed-use development located along Meralco Avenue corner Shaw Blvd. in Ortigas Center, Pasig City. The area used to be the Rizal Provincial Capitol. 

Owing to Ortigas & Co.’s expertise in transforming some of the country’s most iconic places to destinations that provide unique experiences without losing their historical charm, Capitol Commons is poised to set a new standard for modern urban development. The benchmark has become all about a confluence of modern living spaces, office facilities, and commercial areas that showcase premium retail and entertainment options. 


On February 15 at 7 p.m., families, young people, residents of Capitol Commons and visitors alike, and lovers will converge at the Estancia Bridgeway. It will be the venue of a free concert featuring the timeless tunes of Rex Smith; Smith is an American actor-singer who was a teen idol during the poster-plastered wall era of the late ‘70s. He performed live at the 1982 Miss Universe pageant held in Lima, Peru. Among Rex Smith’s hits are “Simply Jessie,” “Forever,” “Everlasting Love,” “You Take My Breath Away,” “Don’t Give Up On Us,” and “Let’s Make A Memory.” 

Rex Smith Live at Estancia will be a walk down memory lane when music sounded soothing and soft rock and pop was king. Featured artist is JV Decena of “Showtime’s” popular segment Tawag Ng Tanghalan.

The air will be filled with love songs that even in the age of social media will never grow old. At the Rex Smith Live at Estancia concert, love will be the order of the day while taking in the whole breadth of Capitol Commons with its tall buildings and the lovely park between Estancia and Royalton Condominium. The park is a welcome sea of green, like an oasis right in the middle of a business district. Rex Smith Live at Estancia is a free concert but with limited seating. 


February 13, 2017

Celebrate the day of love with a Valentine's dinner at the stunning Palazzo Verde


Love is in the air! Want to do something special on Valentine’s Day with a significant other, family or friends?




Why not book a reservation at Palazzo Verde, one of the most romantic events venue in the metro, set to hold a Valentine’s dinner show featuring a unique gastronomic experience on the evening of February 14?

Located along Daang Reyna, Vista Alabang, in Las Piñas City, the enchanting Palazzo Verde will treat its Valentine guests to a delicious five-course set menu that will consist of a fusion of distinct Filipino cuisine and a touch of European flavors prepared by celebrity chefs Rolando and Jackie Laudico.

Chefs Rolando and Jackie Laudico.

One of the country’s well-loved crooners, Markki Stroem, will serenade guests during the special affair.
Markki Stroem

A stunning events venue, Palazzo Verde is a top choice for weddings, anniversaries, birthday celebrations, and life’s other milestones.



Encompassing more than 2.3 hectare of lush, vibrant greenery, Palazzo Verde offers beautiful ceremony venues: the gorgeous Notre Dame De Vie Chapel; the Gazebo Garden, perfect for couples who want a lovely outdoor event; and the magnified Grand Conservatory for a touch of grandeur.

Palazzo  Verde also offers other striking venues for ceremonies, parties or event receptions, and for celebrations with 150 to 500 guests.

For instance, the Colonial Ballroom is a stateroom adorned with Renaissance paintings and magnificent chandeliers, a designed inspired by the Buckingham Palace.

The Palazzo also has two Byzantine garden venues – one has glass walls for a picturesque view of Palazzo’s outdoor surroundings, a small alfresco garden and Koi pond, and the other has indoor gardens nestled in waterfalls.





For an atmosphere of royalty, bridal couples or celebrants can choose between the two Victorian rooms – one with gold-plated leaf pillars and beautiful ceiling paintings, ideal for a young bride’s fairytale wedding or a debutante’s grand celebration, and the other with an extensive indoor garden area and elements influenced by the Victorian era.

Both the Byzantin and Victorian venues can be put together to create one venue that accommodate grander celebrations.

Amenities that can make events more memorable include a gondola, horse-drawn carriages, dance panels and suite rooms.

For Instagram-worthy photos, Palazzo Verde features hilltop and pocket gardens.

Without doubt, Palazzo  Verde is one of the best venue choices for intimate or grand celebrations.

To avail of Palazzo Verde’s Valentine’s dinner, check out MetroDeal for special deals of only P2,499, inclusive of all applicable taxes.

Please contact (917) 870 3838 or email info@palazzoverde.com.ph for table reservations. Tables will be set up by couple or by group, and the Valentine’s dinner will start at 7 p.m.

For more information about Palazzo  Verde , visit palazzoverde.com.ph.

LinkWithin

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...
enjoying wonderful world