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September 9, 2017

Ian Veneracion’s best-kept secret to showbiz longevity

Veteran actor Ian Veneracion started his showbiz career at the tender age of five and continues to flourish at age 42. What is his secret in keeping the magic alive in this country’s competitive and fast-evolving entertainment landscape?

To begin with, Veneracion took a long, circuitous route to leading man status. He started in the TV sitcom Joey and Son, headlined by funnyman Joey de Leon. After his stint at the longtime variety show That’s Entertainment, he began to tackle more mature roles and eventually transitioned from child actor to action star, becoming one of the most sought-after artists of his generation.

Teaming up with Jodi Sta. Maria and Bea Alonzo in the hit ABS-CBN soap operas Pangako Sa ‘Yo and A Love to Last, his gorgeous good looks cranked up the kilig factor and before showbiz watchers knew it, Veneracion’s popularity was off the charts. 

But what does it take to endure in an industry that is teeming with equally good-looking, younger, and more aggressive actors? How does one stay in the radar without being a scandal magnet?

Without the slightest hesitation, Veneracion declares that he owes his longevity to hard work, kindness, and “pakikisama” with his colleagues and peers.

Ian Veneracion takes Ascof Forte Menthol Sugar Free Syrup with him even during shoots and tapings to make sure he gets relief from his cough because of ASCOF’s ‘hagod-menthol’ soothing effect to his throat.

“Kindness and pakikisama are key. Starting off as an outsider showbiz neophyte compelled me to be professional, to always come on time, to know my lines by heart, and to be kind to people,” says Veneracion, whose father Roy Veneracion is a renowned painter.

“I was forced to do the hard work and I would not have wanted it any other way,” he stresses.

An excellent work ethic is just one of his assets. Veneracion also believes he owes it to his fans to constantly present his best self each time he faces the camera by maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. Behind the camera, Ian makes sure that he keeps a balanced diet and engages himself in regular exercise and physical activities like football, boxing, scuba diving, paragliding, and skydiving.

On top of that, during the rainy season, he also takes all precautions to protect himself from respiratory ailments like cough so he can fulfill his work commitments.

Fortunately, Veneracion has found a trusted ally in Ascof Lagundi (Vitex negundo L. Lagundi Leaf), the pioneering and innovative natural medicine for cough in the Philippines. Ascof Lagundi is made from 100 percent organically grown Lagundi leaves, making it a natural remedy for cough and bronchial asthma. 

“Balance is key to wellness. You need to work, but you also need to seek recreation. You need alone time, pero dapat may balance pa rin, so you need physical activities and spiritual interests,” Veneracion points out. “Try to get enough sleep and to eat foods that strengthen your immune system. Pero kapag tinamaan kayo ng cough, take Ascof Lagundi.”

Veneracion prefers using the variant Ascof Forte Menthol Syrup, which comes in sugar-free or regular, owing to its ‘hagod-menthol’ soothing effect on his throat. 
“My personal habit is when I start to feel the onset of cough, umiinom na agad ako ng ASCOF Forte Menthol Sugar Free Syrup kasi natural s’ya and safe. Agad-agad kong nararamdaman ‘yung ginahawa sa lalamunan. Nakatutulong s’yang paginhawain ang aking ubo habang ito ay gumagaling,” he says.

Veneracion relates that he takes Ascof Lagundi with him even during tapings and shoots to ensure that when he starts feeling the early symptoms of cough, he can get instant relief from its cooling effect to the throat. 

“It’s something that I bring with me everywhere. When my manager informed me that Ascof was signing me up as an endorser, I said, ‘Perfect, just last week I had Ascof Lagundi in my bag. I definitely believe in the product. Kasi safe and natural s’ya. During the shoot I actually drank it,’ ” Veneracion reveals.
“You can trust Ascof Lagundi. Because it’s a natural remedy, you can take it even at the first signs or symptoms of cough. Hindi ka matatakot because it’s safe,” he adds.
With his cherished values of professionalism, kindness, camaraderie and hard work, and with the aid of good health habits, Veneracion is set to keep his star shining and affirms his status as a respected name in the local entertainment industry.

Pascual Laboratories, the manufacturer of Ascof Lagundi, has its own lagundi farm in Nueva Ecija that organically grows the plant and uses a GMP-certified production process. Ascof Lagundi Forte Menthol is a product of scientific research and clinical studies. 

For inquiries and more details about Ascof Lagundi Forte Menthol Syrup, visit their official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ASCOFLagundi or their official website at http://www.pascuallab.com/index.php/ascof.

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.




September 8, 2017

Filipina Singer Gaga Lord Impresses The X Factor UK Judges


Gaga Lord, 40, from the Philippines, impressed all four judges of The X Factor UK with her rendition of the James Bond theme Diamonds Are Forever sung by Shirley Bassey on the second episode of the show today. Gaga started her performance showcasing her full and brassy voice that immediately brought smiles to the judges’ faces. Simon raised his hand and stopped the audition quipping, “Right now, I feel like James Bond.” He then asked Nicole Scherzinger and (sitting in for Sharon Osbourne) guest judge Alesha Dixon to dance and pose with Gaga as if they were Bond girls.

The lady judges obliged and Gaga proceeded with her audition showing off her powerful voice while moving along with Nicole and Alesha. After the performance, Simon said, “That was it! We are in our own James Bond movie. That was amazing. You are fantastic. I love you. I absolutely love you.”

Judge Louis Walsh gushed, “You have a powerful voice and you are fun!”

Alesha said, “You’re a force of nature. You’ve got an amazing energy.” Nicole agreed and said, “You have a really big voice. Really robust.”


Before she began to sing, Louis asked her what the big dream was. Gaga Lord responded, “To be honest with you, sing in front of you. This is already a dream.”

Gaga Lord, her real name, is married and works as a dinner lady at a primary school. She says that the students there know that she loves to sing and they would often ask her to sing for them. She, however, did not tell them she would be auditioning for the competition.

Gaga Lord moves on to the next round of The X Factor UK. 

The X Factor UK airs first and exclusive on RTL CBS Entertainment same day as the UK on Sundays and Mondays at 10:30 am with primetime encores Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays at 9:00pm. 

RTL CBS Entertainment is available on SKYcable channels 53(SD) and 196(HD), SKYdirect channel 35, Destiny Cable channel 53, and Cablelink channels 37(SD) and 313(HD).

September 7, 2017

Singapore inspires with its new “Passion Made Possible” brand


The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) jointly unveiled recently a unified brand, Passion Made Possible, to celebrate Singapore and showcase it as a home to many places, people, and experiences that inspire. This new destination brand puts forth Singapore’s unique attitude and mindset: a passionate, never-settling spirit of determination and enterprise that constantly pursues possibilities and reinvention. 

Singapore Tourism Board Chief Executive Lionel Yeo introduces “Passion Made Possible” Campaign



“With Passion Made Possible, STB is presenting a brand that can tell a fuller Singapore story beyond just tourism. This brand articulates what we stand for as a country and supports the telling of many stories about this destination and its people. It will allow us to build a deeper and more personal connection between Singapore and our fans and friends, even when they are not actively thinking about travel. This brand is in line with Quality Tourism as it will appeal to the more sophisticated tourists who are seeking more aspirational value propositions in their travel” said Mr Lionel Yeo, Chief Executive of STB. 


Dr. Beh Swan Gin, Chairman of EDB, added, “Singapore is making the shift from being primarily an investment-driven economy to one that will be led by innovation. In particular, local and international companies are seeking to create new products, services and solutions that will have a stronger impact in Asia. It is timely to send a strong and clear signal that companies can do this successfully from Singapore and turn possibilities into reality. Singapore and Singaporeans are where we are today because we pushed the limits of what’s possible, and did not allow constraints to hold us back.” 




 The Passion Made Possible Global Campaign



Following its debut, Passion Made Possible will be unveiled worldwide in various cities throughout Asia-Pacific, Europe and the United States of America through consumer launches, trade events, industry partnerships, and global marketing campaigns featuring campaign films and visuals to bring to life how Singapore is Passion Made Possible.


For the Philippines, a Singapore Travel Showcase will be held in Manila at the SM Megamall Fashion Hall from September 15 – 17. 


The showcase will feature collaborations between Singapore – Passion Made Possible brand personalities and Filipino key opinion leaders and personalities. It will also serve as a platform to share how Singapore can enable Filipino travelers and visitors to realize their passions and dreams. Aside from attractive airfare and travel deals for Singapore, visitors to the 3-day fair can also expect an exciting line up of activities, performances and programmes featuring some of Singapore’s best offerings, attractions and brands such as Irvin’s Salted Egg, Naiise, and Benjamin Barker. 



The Chainsmokers Memories Asia Tour 2017 : The Chainsmokers in Manila Concert this September 13!

MMI Live announced Grammy-nominated artist/producer duo, The Chainsmokers, is returning to Manila on September 13 at the Mall of Asia Arena. The group, comprised of Drew Taggart and Alex Pall, is set to bring their Memories Asia Tour 2017 to the country following the release of their latest album “Memories…Do Not Open.” 

The concert is presented by Globe Telecom and brought to you by MMI Live.



Touted as the hottest young American EDM DJ/producers, the group held their first headlining sold-out concert at the Mall of Asia Arena last August 2016. This year, the release of the new album, “Memories… Do Not Open”, comes alongside the announcement of The Chainsmokers’ biggest ever tour to date now, which includes The Philippines.

The Chainsmokers have evolved into dominating musical force that has led to become today’s hottest young artist/producer duo. Luminous tracks such as the double-platinum “Roses” featuring Rozes (which Stereogum hailed as one of the “10 best songs of the year”) and the chart-topping ‘Bouquet’ EP have fueled their ascent as a breakout duo with an unparalleled ability to craft undeniable pop gems.

“Roses” which reached the Top 5 at Pop Radio and Top 5 on the iTunes Top Songs chart, was followed by “Don’t Let Me Down” featuring Daya marking their third No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart. The double-platinum track ruled the airwaves, hitting No. 1 at Pop Radio for three straight weeks and Top 5 on the iTunes Top Songs chart. The Chainsmokers single “Closer” featuring vocals from rising star Halsey and the duo’s own Drew Taggart marked their first No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and their third Top 10 on the chart, shooting to the #1 spot on iTunes and Spotify upon release and bringing their worldwide streams to over 1.5 billion.

The chart-topping duo has also been nominated for two Billboard Music Awards, two Teen Choice Awards and two MTV Video Music Awards. They have performed all over the world to sold-out crowds at their own headline shows and major festivals including SXSW, Ultra and Coachella, where their set was ranked as one of Billboard’s “11 Best Moments” of the festival.

Fans can expect a night of partying to the The Chainsmokers’ hits including “Closer”, “Roses”, “Paris”, “Don’t Let Me Down” and “Something Just Like This” and featuring new production from the new album “Memories… Do Not Open.” The Chainsmokers will be joined by American musician, Nick Martin, as special guest.

Official presenter Globe, gave its customers the chance to be closer to The Chainsmokers with first dibs on an exclusive pre-sale to “Memories Asia Tour 2017” last June 27, 2017.

“After a sold-out concert last year, Globe is partnering with MMI to once again bring The Chainsmokers to show Manila a good time. The Mall of Asia Arena will be turned into one giant dance floor as the hottest name in EDM will give us another memorable experience. As a treat to our customers, we’re doing another pre-sale so they can get first dibs on tickets before anyone else,” says Globe SVP for Consumer Mobile Business, Issa Cabreira.

For more details, visit go.globe.com.ph/GlobeChainsmokers.html. Follow the Globe official Facebook page or @enjoyGlobe on Twitter and Instagram for more updates.

The Chainsmokers Memories Asia Tour 2017 tickets are now available at all SM Tickets outlets or visit www.smtickets.com or by calling 470-2222. For VIP table inquiries and reservations, please call (02) 846-9450. For more ticket information, follow MMI Live (on Facebook), and @mmilive (on Instagram, and Twitter) or visit mmilive.com.


7th Jollibee Family Values Awards reveals 15 new finalists

Jollibee has revealed a new batch of hero families vying for the 7th Jollibee Family Values Awards (JFVA). The annual search for outstanding families has named 15 finalists, from hundreds of entries submitted from all over the country and abroad.
CELEBRATING THE HEROISM OF FAMILIES. The 7th Jollibee Family Values Awards Judges (sitting, from left) Jollibee Group Foundation Executive Director Gisela Tiongson, actress and host Dimples Romana, columnist Audrey Tan-Zubiri, parenting and relationship consultant Maribel Dionisio, Coca-Cola Philippines Public Affairs and Communications Manager Sam Sanchez (representing Atty. Adel Tamano), (standing, from left) inspirational speaker Francis Kong, Jollibee Global Brand Chief Marketing Officer Francis Flores, co-chairs Sen. Sonny Angara and Fr. Jett Villarin, news anchor Edric Mendoza, and Jollibee Philippines Human Resources Head George Wang III.

After a rigorous screening process, five families from Luzon, five from Metro Manila, two from the Visayas, one from Mindanao, and two from the United States were handpicked to complete JFVA’s finalist slate.

Among the finalists are: Acula Family (Taguig), Felix Family (Pasay City), Lumbao Family (Pasig City), Matti Family (Taguig City), Rodriguez Family (Quezon City), Arquiza Family (Camarines Norte), Casaje Family (Rizal), Dickson Family (Abra), Macalintal Family (Oriental Mindoro), Mallari Family (Rizal), Caballero Family (Negros Oriental), Drake Family (Bohol), and Borela Family (General Santos City). 

Two OFW families, Castro Family (San Jose, California), and Salangsang Family (Sacramento, California), are also included in JFVA’s top nominees.

The finalists will vie for the six JFVA Family Awards and six Special Citations during the Gabi ng Parangal para sa Pamilyang Pilipino, the search’s culminating event, on October 11 at Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Jollibee’s 11-member panel of judges, co-chaired by Senator Sonny Angara and Father Jett Villarin of Ateneo de Manila University, will determine the winners of this year’s search. The body is also tasked with confirming the JFVA partners’ recommendations for special citations.

First-time judge Fr. Villarin shares, “This is an eye opener for me. I have worked with Jollibee on several fronts, but this one, it’s heartening. I think that Jollibee is on target when it comes to values being honed, not only in individuals or groups, but as a family.”

His co-chair, Senator Angara, agrees: “Fr. Jett is man of the cloth and I’m a man of the law, but in both areas, the family is (considered) the basic unit. You want to build a better society? Start with the family.”

Actress Dimples Romana and Jollibee Group Foundation Executive Director Gisela Tiongson also join the JFVA this year. Completing the panel are returning judges - children’s advocate and columnist Audrey Tan-Zubiri, ANC news anchor Edric Mendoza, international speaker and author Francis Kong, Coca-Cola Philippines Vice President for Public Affairs and Communications Atty. Adel Tamano, parenting and relationship consultant Maribel Dionisio, Jollibee Philippines Human Resources Head George Wang III, and Jollibee Global Brand Chief Marketing Officer and Jollibee Philippines Marketing Head Francis Flores.

Jollibee’s Flores says, “It is a monumental task for us to identify the JFVA’s winners, but a joyful one nonetheless. We are grateful for all families who have joined us over the years and have, no doubt, poured their heart and resources into their advocacies.”
Co-chairs Sen. Sonny Angara and Fr. Jett Villarin preside over the 7thJollibee Family Values Awards deliberations.


Five exemplary families and one OFW family will each receive a P300,000 cash prize, Jollibee gift certificates worth P10,000, and a trophy designed by renowned sculptor Michael Cacnio. A P50,000 cash prize, Jollibee gift certificates worth P3,000, and a special plaque will also be conferred by Jollibee along with its citation partners to families with the following advocacies: Education (co-presented with National Bookstore), Environment (Maynilad), Children (Children’s Hour), Youth Empowerment (AIESEC) and PWDs (National Council for Disability Affairs.

A veteran JFVA judge, Coca-Cola Philippines’ Vice President for Public Affairs and Communications Atty. Adel Tamano probes into the entries.

The Jollibee Family Values Awards continues to sound the call for heroism among families on its 7th year. The search is made possible with the support from co-presenter Coca-Cola Philippines, official hotel partners Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn, and campaign sponsors Devant and Hisense.



New GetGo partners make daily spend, hotel stays, adventure trips even more rewarding

Flying for free will become much easier for more GetGo members as Cebu Pacific’s lifestyle rewards program welcomes its newest rewards points earn and conversion partners.

Now, everyday transactions with Bank of Commerce and EastWest Credit Cards, as well as a stay at Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, Crowne Plaza Galleria or SM Hotels, or a hiking trip with Trail Adventours or Klook can bring GetGo members closer to their rewarding dream destinations, for free!

Stay at the deluxe rooms of the Holiday Inn Manila Galleria (left) or Crowne Plaza Galleria to earn 250 GetGo points for every qualifying stay.



Turn rewards to GetGo points!

Bank of Commerce Mastercard cardholders can look forward to flying for free when they start earning and collecting GetGo points by converting a minimum of 3,000 Rewards Plus points for Platinum and 6,000 Rewards Plus points for Classic and Gold to 500 GetGo points (Platinum: 6 Rewards Plus points = 1 GetGo point and Classic and Gold: 12 Rewards Plus points = 1 GetGo point).

EastWest Gold Visa/Mastercard and EastWest Classic Visa/Mastercard cardholders can also start planning their next local or international vacation when they convert a minimum of 1,200 Limitless Rewards points to 500 GetGo points (2.4 Limitless Rewards points = 1 GetGo point).




The more you relax, the greater the rewards!

Aside from experiencing wonderful accommodations at Holiday Inn Manila Galleria or the Crowne Plaza Galleria, guests can look forward to turning hotel nights into free flights as they earn 250 GetGo points for every qualifying stay in a Deluxe Room. All they have to do is present their GetGo cards or proof of membership upon check-in to avail of the promo.

Outside of Manila, GetGo members can enjoy amazing experiences and up to 500 GetGo points when they stay at Taal Vista Hotel, Radisson Blu Cebu, Park Inn by Radisson Davao, Park Inn by Radisson Clark, or Pico Sands Hotel. 

Convert credit card rewards points to GetGo points, to earn free flights from Cebu Pacific


Adventures can be rewarding!

GetGo members can also look forward to flying for free and conquering the great outdoors locally and abroad as every hiking adventure with Trail Adventours earns them 1 GetGo point for every P100 spend.
Turn adventures into free trips by earning 1 GetGo point for every P100 spend on bookings with Trail Adventours.

Travellers can also earn 1 GetGo point for every P100 spent on Klook, Asia’s leading in-destination travel services booking platform. Simply visit www.klook.com/getgo, choose the destination and adventure to experience, and provide the GetGo membership number. Newly registered GetGo members can also earn an extra 250 GetGo points on their first booking with Klook. Promo runs until November 20, 2017 only.

As more partners join the program, earning GetGo points truly becomes much easier so members can redeem free flights sooner! Turn everyday transactions into new travel experiences. Watch out for more exciting partners to be added to this growing lifestyle program.

Not yet a member? Simply visit www.GetGo.com.ph, click JOIN, fill out the application form, and for only a P150 membership fee, have your personalized GetGo card delivered to your doorstep.

For more information on memberships and partners, visit www.getgo.com.ph, or call +632 71-GETGO (43846). Stay updated on the latest promos by liking GetGoPH's official pages on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

September 6, 2017

JDI launches Tytanit Biostimulant nationwide

The launch of Tytanit Biostimulant in various areas across the country was warmly received by farmers.
Jardine Distribution, Inc. goes into high gear with its Tytanit launch across the Philippines.

Jardine Distribution, Inc. (JDI) continues the launch activities for its latest product offering – Tytanit Biostimulant. 


JDI’s latest biostimulant product Tytanit is selling fast during the Bogo City launch.

The first product launch was held in March 2017 for Rice farmers in Urdaneta, Pangasinan and has since covered several other areas including Mindoro, Palawan, Iloilo, Antique, Negros Occidental, North Cotabato, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Naga, Laguna, Tarlac, Pampanga, Ormoc and Dipolog. The jampacked launch events showed the farmers very warm reception for Tytanit, JDI’s latest biostimulant product with titanium as its key ingredient. When used, Tytanit becomes a pivotal tool in the uniform flowering of rice plants resulting to increased number of grains per panicle that when filled brings about higher yield. Such benefit proves to be much desired by Rice farmers who are finding ways to increase their chances of recovering their investment in farming and earning more.

Farmers intently listen and learn how JDI’s Tytanit Biostimulant can be beneficial to their crops.

The launch of Tyanit in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro was attended by farmers who bought the new JDI biostimulant on the spot.

Farmers in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro learn about the benefits of Tytanit Biostimulant and how it brings higher yield.

“The farmers are seeing the potential benefits of biostimulants on their crops. With Tytanit being the only one of its kind in the Philippines, I am not surprised that we’ve been selling out our Tytanit stocks during these events.” exclaimed Kathleen Aguilan, Product Manager, Agro Products Division of JDI. 

Stocks of Tytanit Biostimulant are getting sold out during the on the spot selling in MLang, North Cotabato.

Participants and attendees of the Tytanit launch in MLang, Cotabato pose for a group photo.

Farmers flock to the launch of Tytanit Biostimulant in Pototan, Iloilo.


“Tytanit currently enjoys 95% acceptance rating in Vietnam amongst farmers who tried it during a 2-year study involving field tests and demonstration plots. I am confident that that statistic will carry over to the Philippines,” Aguilan adds.


Gold Seas bento lunches that will make kids crave for more

It can be quite frustrating for moms to find out that their kid’s school lunch was mostly left uneaten. Not only do spoiled leftovers translate to a waste of food, time and resources, it also deprives growing kids of the nutrition they badly need.



Fortunately, there is now a fun, delicious and nutritious way to persuade fussy eaters to clean off their packed lunches and that’s by preparing meals bento box style. All it takes is bit of creativity, basic cooking tools like cookie cutters, and a hearty and wholesome food base or viand like Gold Seas Tuna Chunks.



Bento box expert Kat Maderazo, @bentobyKat on Instagram, came up with several easy-to-prepare recipes using Gold Seas Tuna Chunks to help busy work-at-home moms find a way to encourage their little ones to finish their meals whether they’re away at school or at the comfort of their own homes. 

Gold Seas Tuna Chunks is an ideal ingredient in making bento lunches and also an excellent source of protein and energy for developing kids. Made only of the finest ingredients, it is rich in Omega 3 and DHA, packed with more lean tuna meat and has lesser oil content compared to other brands which means more wholesome, chunky goodness for the entire family. Gold Seas Tuna Chunks is also responsibly fished, Halal-certified and packed in lithograph cans using a strict canning process to ensure that each can is as safe as it is appetizing. 



Serve nourishing yet delicious bento box lunches to your kids that they will surely enjoy. Choose among the 6 Gold Seas Tuna Chunks variants -- Yellowfin Tuna Chunks in Olive Oil, Olive Oil with Chili, Springwater, Tuna Chunks in Herb and Garlic, Lemon and Pepper and Mild Indian Curry for your other healthy recipes.


Gold Seas Tuna Nuggets



Serves: 8 medium sized nuggets

Ingredients:

1 can of Gold Seas Tuna Chunks in Herb and Garlic 185g

1/2 cup flour

Japanese breadcrumbs (to coat nuggets)

salt to taste



Dip: ketchup and mayonnaise

Steps:

1. Drain 1 can of Gold Seas Tuna Chunks in Herb and Garlic. 

2. Transfer to a mixing bowl and break the tuna chunks with a fork.

3. Mix 1/2 cup of flour and season with salt.

4. Mold into nuggets.

5. Generously coat nuggets with breadcrumbs. 

6. Bake or air fry for 10-15mins until slightly brown. 

7. Arrange in bento box with rice, vegetables and fruit. 




Gold Seas Tuna Mayo Sandwich (snack bento)


Serves: 2 big sandwiches 

1 can of Gold Seas Yellowfin Tuna Chunks in Springwater 185g

3/4 cup of mayonnaise

Salt to taste


Bread slices

1. Drain 1 can of Gold Seas Yellowfin Tuna Chunks in Springwater.

2. Mix the chunks with mayonnaise. Add some salt to taste.

3. Spread generously on bread. 



Gold Seas Tuna Chunks
Gold Seas Tuna Chunks is the pure, healthy, and chunky tuna choice for you and your family! With only premium tuna caught through sustainable fishing practices, every can of Gold Seas Tuna Chunks is filled with wholesome tuna goodness you will enjoy to the last bite. Gold Seas Tuna Chunks is available in all leading supermarkets, groceries and convenience stores and are offered in 90g (solo) and 185g (sharing) variants. To get the latest news and updates, like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram @goldseastunachunks 




September 5, 2017

Solaire welcomes Martin Nievera home

Martin Nievera sings at Oasis Garden Café. 


Solaire Resort & Casino has announced its new celebrity endorser, the Philippines’ Concert King, Martin Nievera. The renowned singer - songwriter stars in a music video of a song he co-wrote with Moy Ortiz entitled “Follow the Sun”, showcasing Solaire with Martin singing and swinging all around his new home.

If the casinos along the world-famous Las Vegas strip had Sinatra, we at Solaire have Nievera!

Solaire, the only Filipino-owned integrated resort located in the rapidly evolving Entertainment City, provides a grand venue for luxurious accommodations, gaming, dining, entertainment, and recreation, all with the magnificent view of the Manila Bay sunset. 

Martin Nievera enjoys his signature burger at the Solaire Pool Bar & Grill.


It made its mark as a world-class destination when its Sky Tower was awarded 5 Stars by Forbes Travel Guide. 
“Martin embodies who Solaire is – he is a homegrown star, known for his many talents. Nievera, a multi-awarded, world-class performer definitely knows the finer things in life. He’s a perfect match for Solaire,” said Cyrus Sherafat, Senior Vice President for Casino Marketing.
In his own words Nievera says, “Having traveled around the world performing and experiencing world-class service wherever I go, Solaire certainly stands out among the best. What makes me gleam with pride the most is that around the world, the Filipino talent is imported to smoothly operate their resorts and casinos. In Solaire, that same world-class service I get is here, making my every stay a true five-star experience.”

Prior to the announcement, Nievera has performed various sold-out shows at The Theatre and hopes to continue performing there like it was his own “home theater,” and at the same time personally invite some of his already famous friends to do the same.

“Performing at The Theatre at Solaire is a world-class experience. We have housed some of the most popular Broadway productions and continue to give Filipino audiences a chance to see some of the biggest names internationally known, not to mention keeping OPM alive by showcasing outstanding performances by our own homegrown talents. Every time I perform in The Theatre, I feel so proud to be a Filipino artist and I am excited to show off The Theatre’s amazing facilities to anyone and everyone who steps inside. The show better be good, because the venue is already awesome!”
Martin Nievera at The Shoppes at Solaire


Throughout his two-year endorsement, Nievera will be doing more shows for Solaire that are both open to the public and exclusive to its VIP guests.



ABOUT SOLAIRE RESORT & CASINO
Solaire Resort & Casino is a US$1.2 billion integrated destination resort on an 8.3-hectare site in Manila, Philippines. With a spectacular view of the famed Manila Bay sunset, Solaire is the first premier integrated resort among the four players in the 120-hectare Entertainment City - known as the country’s rising new tourism hotspot primed to rival the success of integrated resorts in Macau, Singapore, and Las Vegas.

Solaire’s features 800 luxurious rooms, suites, and bay side villas in two distinctive towers, the Bay Tower and the Sky Tower, 15 extensive dining options, from casual cafés to restaurants, and dynamic and energetic lounges and entertainment venues, as well as lively karaoke, whisky and cigar bars, 18,500 square meters of impressive gaming facilities, with 399 gaming tables featuring Baccarat, Blackjack, Casino War, Craps, Money Wheel, Pontoon and Roulette, as well as 1,883 slot machines and electronic table games. Its state-of-the-art lyric theatre with 1,760 seats has changed the way people view resort casinos in Manila. It also has a luxurious spa of 2,500 square meters and an outdoor swimming pool with 3 cabañas and 3 Jacuzzis. There’s also the Sky Range Shooting Club, a sprawling 20-lane indoor shooting range and exclusive luxury hub for gun enthusiasts and shooting aficionados, 41 retail shops, 2,920 square meters of meeting facilities that include a grand ballroom that offers a flexible pre-function area to accommodate 1,000 for table seating or 1,300 for a reception, and may be divided into five parts for smaller events. 8 additional meeting rooms and 2 boardrooms will also be available, along with full banquet and catering facilities.

With #TropangReady and #SafePH campaign, Smart program strengthens youth’s disaster resilience

Mr. Wo Rosete of Smart / TNT 
Internationally recognized Smart program strengthens youth’s disaster resilience. Through its #SafePH campaign, Smart reinforces its mandate to help build more resilient communities and reduce disaster-related casualties through technology.

BatSU students conduct their own Tropang Ready disaster preparedness training for parents of scholars of the government’s Pantawid Pamilya Program in their community.




The series of earthquakes that hit Batangas in April caused injuries to some residents and damage to property. Students of Batangas State University (BatSU), however, were able to teach their families to assume the duck, cover and hold position while the tremors were ongoing, and later led them to safe locations after the shaking stopped. 

BatSU was the venue of the first-ever Tropang Ready Disaster Preparedness Caravan, a series of campus tours of PLDT wireless subsidiary Smart Communications (Smart), designed to educate the youth on disaster readiness. A few months after the caravan, the teacher education students of BatSU themselves conducted their own preparedness training for parents of scholars of the government’s Pantawid Pamilya Program in their communities. 

Through its value brand, TNT, Smart initiated the Tropang Ready Disaster Preparedness Caravan in recognition of the youth as vital contributors in their communities. It is an enhancement of Smart’s ongoing series of nationwide trainings which started in 2013, featuring lectures and activities done “infotainment”-style for families, communities and members of the clergy. 

Following BatSU, the caravan had been to the following universities: Bulacan State University, Southern Leyte State University, University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines–Cagayan de Oro, University of Baguio and Isabela State University. On Aug. 25, the caravan will be heading to Eastern Visayas State University in Tacloban City, Leyte. The province has been recovering from the effects of a magnitude 6.5 earthquake that hit Jaro town on July 6.

“It is said that the youth are the members of the society who are most vulnerable to calamities. But here at Smart, we believe in the capability of the youth to mobilize their communities in times of emergencies, through their knowledge of the latest technology,” said Ramon R. Isberto, PLDT and Smart public affairs group head. “We believe in empowering the youth by educating them and making technological and communication tools available to them.”

Smart representatives and USTP-CDO officials pose for a photo with students during the TNT Tropang Ready Disaster Preparedness Caravan held at the university in Cagayan de Oro City.

Local, international citations 

In recognition of its impact in the community, TNT Tropang Ready has been shortlisted as Best Engagement Campaign of the Year at the Responsible Business Awards by Ethical Corp., a UK-based group which provides intelligence to businesses around the world.

Smart’s disaster preparedness initiatives have also been cited in the Humanitarian Connectivity Charter (HCC) annual report of GSMA, an organization of more than 800 mobile companies worldwide. Smart is one of the four founding signatories of the HCC, which has since grown to over 100 mobile operator members and six humanitarian partners across more than 75 countries.

Among Smart’s disaster preparedness programs cited in the report are the Emergency Cell Broadcast System, which sends location- and hazard-specific alerts; the ICT Bayanihan series of regional summits organized to institutionalize rapid emergency telecommunications teams, and the Batingaw disaster management app by the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, Tudlo, and Smart, which has been replicated in the Horn of Africa.

Smart's  #SafePH  campaign presentation on the #TropangReady disaster preparedness at the Media/Bloggers conference last August 17, 2017, Century City Mall, Makati City:






Through its #SafePH campaign, Smart reinforces its mandate to help build more resilient communities and reduce disaster-related casualties through technology.


Christian Bautista Launches Much Awaited album “Kapit” on September 29 at the Music Museum!

“This album is a journey to find my next music path, a challenge to write more songs and to continue writing songs for others,” revealed Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, Christian Bautista, as he was in the process of concocting yet another masterpiece.



This September 29, Christian Bautista is poised to unveil his 7th album under Universal Records entitled Kapit, duly named after his famed song. The Kapit album launch, happening at the Music Museum, will also serve as a concert treat for his listeners. For only PHP 500, fans can get their hands on Kapit while watching Christian Bautista and renowned performers like The CompanY, plus other surprise guests, live!

The single, Kapit’s success, bolstered by constant radio airplays and a spot as Koreanovela Innocent Defendant’s theme song, led Stages and Universal Records to produce the event for the OPM icon’s latest album. “[Kapit is] a song about holding on despite the many hardships of any relationship,” shares Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, Christian Bautista.

With numerous critically-acclaimed hits and several acting stints (including popular GMA-7 show, My Love From The Star), Christian has already made an indelible mark in the entertainment industry. The Kapit album, co-written and co-produced by Christian himself, features his duet with Encantadia star, Gabbi Garcia, for the hit TV program’s theme song, Maghihintay. Aside from his originals, the album also features Huling Harana, Christian’s “hugot”-filled single that embraces an acoustic ballad style; his duet track, Suddenly, with My Love From The Star co-actor, Jennylyn Mercado; Ikaw Lamang with The Voice’s Morissette Amon; and Two Forevers duet with international artist and American Idol runner-up, Jessica Sanchez.

Kapit promises lyrical masterpieces, original melodic ballads, and a pristine voice only Christian Bautista can offer. Fans and music enthusiasts alike must mark their calendars for Christian Bautista’s Kapit album launch/concert on September 29, 2017 at Music Museum in Greenhills, at 8 pm. Buyers can also have their CDs autographed at the show. The event is produced by Universal Records and Stages, sponsored by Blue Water Day Spa, Converse, Watsons, Toni & Guy, Chef Noodles, Black Water, GAOC, Gold’s Gym, Swatch, and the following media partners; GMA-7, MYX, 97.1 Barangay LS FM, Mellow 947, Manila Concert Scene and Philippine Concerts.

Pre-order Kapit Album Launch exclusive concert pass and CD bundle now for only PHP 500 via Ticketworld outlets (891-9999) and online at www.ticketworld.com.ph.


Towards a Safer Future at the first-ever WOSAS

WSI, the country’s leading events and exhibitions organizer, to host the country’s biggest safety and security trade show

The world is evolving in an unprecedented rate and along with these changes are growing threats to both public and private security. In line with its efforts to elevate the quality of life in the Philippines by empowering its various economic sectors and bringing within reach the most sophisticated products and technologies to Filipinos, Worldbex Services International – the country’s leading events and exhibitions organizer – proudly presents the first-ever World of Safety and Security Expo or simply WOSAS 2017: “Towards a Safer Future”.



Happening on September 21 to 24, from 10:00am to 8:00pm at the World Trade Center Manila, WOSAS envisions to become the country’s biggest safety and security trade show. By gathering the widest array of safety and security innovations under one roof, WOSAS believes that it can lead the way “Towards a Safer Future” by making the spaces they work, play, and live in a lot safer and more secure through state-of-the-art safety technologies and advanced security systems.

Off to a strong start, the first-ever WOSAS will be occupying a total of 15,000 sqm of exhibition space as it is expected to house over 100 exhibitors from 11 countries including China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and the US in fields of commercial security, emergency and rescue, fire and protection, homeland security, information security, safety and health, smart home/office/city, training and consultation, as well as in transport safety and security.

Pioneering in nature, WOSAS is easily one of the most anticipated trade show of the season. To ensure that all these visitors experience a seamless and systematic trade show visit, WOSAS will be divided into four themed areas – Security and Surveillance; Fire Protection; Smart Home and Building; Energy Saving & Electric Automation.

Within these areas, visitors can find a diverse product profile which include intelligent security solutions that may be seamlessly integrated into existing systems; a comprehensive selection of fire prevention, fire protection, rescue, as well as advanced recovery solutions; the latest in energy saving systems; and a heady selection of smart home technologies among many others.

Beyond your usual trade show, WOSAS likewise seeks to become a platform for the exchange of relevant industry information. In effect, also headlining the WOSAS are a series of event highlights that aim to supplement visitor experience with programs and seminars that aim to impart timely and insightful information to industry professionals. Among these include live demonstrations and seminars on industrial, electrical, and civil electrical factory management, fire and safety; product launches; and even self-defense classes. 

The first of its kind, WOSAS is seen to usher in a new era for the safety and security industry in the country as it leads at the forefront of enhancing the country’s state of safety and security. Moreover, it proves to be a game changer in the field of events and expo management as it fosters another ideal environment for exhibitors and investors alike who are looking to expand their business horizons in the emerging industry of safety and security.

The first-ever World of Safety and Security Expo will be co-located with the first-ever World of Consumer Electronics Expo. 

For more information, visit www.wosas.ph or follow wosas.ph on Instagram and Facebook.