Asia's biggest superstar Lee Min Ho in "Gangnam Blues"

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Korean's  biggest superstar Lee Min Ho now proves that he is more than just a pretty face in "Gangnam Blues." In an action and drama role, something that fans used to loving him in romance comedy and action roles will be pleasantly surprised to see — and love Min-ho all the more.

Lee Min Ho is a superstar in the hearts of Filipino fans, with his hit Koreanovelas like Boys Over Flowers (2009), the breakthrough tele-drama that won him several awards including Best New Actor at the 45th Baeksang Arts Awards; City Hunter (2011) for which he was honored as Most Popular Actor at the 48th Baeksang Arts Awards and Outstanding Korean Actor at the 7th Seoul International Drama Awards; The Heirs (2013) for which he earned a nomination for Most Popular Actor at the 50th Baeksang Arts Awards; and Faith, which recently aired on ABS-CBN. He has released two albums, My Everything in 2013 and Song For You in 2014.

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Gangnam Blues, directed by the iconic Yoo Ha, is the third part of his Gangnam Trilogy. The stories of these movies revolve around Gangnam, the street and the youth.

In Gangnam, the southern part of Seoul, during the height of political corruption, Gangnam Blues is an action "gangster noir" that tells the story of different political organization's clash. The movie has been described as a "gangster noir" set in the 1970s, when Seoul’s Gangnam district was still under development and “political powers and darker organizations collide as they seek to grab control of the influential and exclusive area. During the 70s, Gangnam was being transformed from a vast agricultural area into the modern hub that it is now.

Min-ho and co-star Kim Rae-won play orphans in a slum area, growing up like brothers. When their homes are bulldozed, they get separated, only to meet again years later as heads of rival gangs hired by powerful groups fighting over dominance of Gangnam.

It has scenes reminiscent of Coppola’s The Godfather. Watch this different movie this Wednesday, March 4, released in Tagalized version by Viva Films.

The movie is directed by Yoo Ha. Lee Min Ho plays the character of Kim Jong Dae, who gets caught up in the power struggles and ends up in a battle against his childhood friend and he treated as his brother Yong Ki, played by Kim Rae Won.

We heard this classic hit over and over again, Freddie Aguilar’s OPM classic “Anak” was used in the trailer of Korean superstar Lee Min Ho’s latest movie Gangnam 1970,” which was also titled “Gangnam Blues.”

Anak is played whole twice (the original version), first in the series of scenes showing Min-ho and his gang demolishing their rivals with a haul of bullets) and in the end as the credits roll.

SineAsia Theater is the first Asian tagalized theatre in the country and Lee Min Ho’s Gangnam Blues film is the official grand attraction for the theater’s grand launch and it's red carpet premiere this Tuesday,  March 3 held at the SM Megamall. 

The theatre will have an exterior that will show the authenticity of the oriental flicks to be played on the big-screen. The movie will be dedicated to the viewing of never-before-seen, premiere and commercial Asian films.

These films will be “tagalized” for audience to have easier viewing plus the Filipino family will be provide different movie platforms that are exclusively SM Cinema and Walter Mart Cinemas.

SineAsia is a collaboration of two of the country’s entertainment giant to pave the way for the rapid rise in popularity of these films. Presenting the best of Asian Cinema has to offer, Viva International Pictures provide films to show exclusive Asian tagalized films from the biggest studtios in Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand & Taiwan such as CJ Entertainment, Showbox,TOEI Company LTD, 9ers Entertainment, Showgate, Megavision Pictures, EDKO Films Ltd., Wada Lote, Sahamongkol, TOHO, Kadokowa Pictures TBS and Star Alliance.

SMLEI reinvents one dedicated theater in 8 of its SM Cinema branches to make way for SineAsia Theater. Among the chosen malls are SM Megamall, SM Sta. Mesa, SM Fairview, SM Ilo-ilo, SM Bacoor, SM Cebu, SM Manila, and SM North Edsa.

Don't miss the chance to see a completely diffeect Lee Min Ho and find a new reason to admire him even more.

Brought to you by Lee Min Ho's trusted brand, Samsonite Red.
Visit their website at http://www.samsonitered.com

Fly Singapore Airlines and SilkAir to enjoy a suite of unparalleled travel experience at Exceptional All-In Fares

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“Singapore Airlines and SilkAir have always been focusing on bringing the best travel experience at great value to our customers here in Philippines. The Filipino market is important to us and we remain committed in bringing Philippines to the world and the world to Philippines. These exceptional airfares are a way for us to say thank you to our supportive customers here. ” -  SIA General Manager Carol Ong

As one of the Top 10 Safest airlines in the World for 2015 (airlineratings.com,) Singapore Airlines (SIA) offers travel fair at an exceptional All-In Fares.

Singapore Airlines (SIA) and SilkAir (MI), in partnership with Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), Ayala Malls, Globe, Singapore Tourism Board and Changi Airport Group, are launching an exciting and exclusive array of travel opportunities to passengers where they get to enjoy both airlines’ much coveted on-board comfort and impeccable service at exceptional value fares.

Exclusive to BPI Credit Cardholders, Globe Platinum and Globe Blue Customers, Glorietta, Ayala Center Cebu and Abreeza Mall Davao Shoppers and KrisFlyer Members, SIA and SilkAir are offering exceptional, all-inclusive fares to Singapore as well as a host of destinations around the world.

These promotional fares are for sale until 28 February 2015 and for travel from 1 February to 31 December 2015.

Customers will get a chance to experience traveling in style at all-in Economy Class fares starting from USD145 to Singapore, USD210 to Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam, USD690 to India, USD700 to Australia, and USD 899 to Europe. In addition to those mentioned, passengers can also travel to Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Dubai, Maldives, New Zealand and South Africa. All Economy Class fares come with complimentary 30kg baggage allowance, gourmet cuisines and KrisFlyer miles that can be used for future travel.

For elevated comfort, customers can also choose to avail all-in Business Class fares to Singapore and Southeast Asia at USD800, to Australia at USD 2,500, to South Africa at USD 3,200, Europe at USD 3,500, and New Zealand at USD 3,800. In addition to that, there are also special Business Class fares to Maldives and Dubai. All Business Class passengers will enjoy complimentary 40kg baggage allowance, gourmet cuisines, lounge access and 125% KrisFlyer miles that can be used for future travel. 

On top of these great fares, customers can also look forward to a series of exciting travel fairs across the country from 6 – 8 February 2015:

Featuring the exclusive Singapore Airlines Suites product, the Singapore Airlines Showcase and Travel Fair will be held at the Glorietta Activity Center, Palm Drive, Makati City while the SilkAir Travel Fair will take place at Ayala Center Cebu. 

There will also be a SilkAir booth at Abreeza Mall Davao. 

At these fairs, customers will be able to book flights at the aforementioned promotional fares. Customers who purchase itineraries beyond Singapore at these travel fairs or at Singapore Airlines and SilkAir ticket offices from 6 – 8 February can also redeem a complimentary SGD20 Changi Dollar Voucher, with no minimum spend required, that can be used at participating shops at Singapore Changi Airport. 

To make payments more convenient, BPI is offering a Real 0% special installment plan of up to six months. Glorietta, Ayala Center Cebu and Abreeza Mall shoppers may also avail of the exceptional all-in fares by simply showing proofs of purchase worth P 1,000.00 single or accumulated from 21 January to 28 February. 

Every PHP 1, 000-receipt can purchase one ticket. Globe Platinum and Blue customers can also avail of these fares by showing their cards. 

For more details, visit www.singaporeair.com and www.silkair.com.

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Michael Bublé releases “To Be Loved – Asian Tour Edition”

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Michael Bublé’s highly acclaimed studio album “To Be Loved” has been released with 5 new bonus tracks which is entitled “To Be Loved – Asian Tour Edition”. 

Bublé’s sixth studio album “To Be Loved” follows his “Christmas” CD which sold seven million copies internationally and was the number two biggest selling album of 2011 (after Adele).

“To Be Loved” produced by Bob Rock was recorded in Vancouver and Los Angeles and includes a mix of standards as well as four original songs all co-written by Bublé. “After All” one of the four originals was co-written and performed by fellow Canadian Bryan Adams. The new album also includes hits previously recorded by some of Buble’s musical heroes including the Bee Gees hit “To Love Somebody”, Dean Martin’s “Nevertheless (I’m In Love With You”), the Jackson 5 early ‘70’s smash “Who’s Loving You”, Jackie Wilson’s “To Be Loved” and the Elvis Presley classic “Have I Told You Lately”. Bublé is joined by actress Reese Witherspoon on the classic Frank and Nancy Sinatra duet “Something Stupid”. 

“My new record is about love, happiness, fun and yummy things. Getting to work with my friend and longtime collaborator Bob Rock (“Call Me Irresponsible”, “Crazy Love” and “Christmas”) who produced the entire album was very exciting. We’re a good team. I love the songs we selected this time out. It was also terrific working once again with my songwriting partners” commented Bublé. 

To commemorate Michael’s upcoming 2015 Tour in Asia, a deluxe Asian Tour Edition of To Be Loved has been released. Additional songs include, ‘Softly As I Leave You’, ‘Mack The Knife’, ‘These Foolish Things (Remind Me Of You)’ and more that has never been released in Asia.

Tracklist:

1. You Make Me Feel So Young

2. It's A Beautiful Day

3. To Love Sombody

4. Who's Lovin' You

5. Something Stupid (feat. Reese Witherspoon)

6. Come Dance With Me

7. Close Your Eyes

8. After All (feat. Bryan Adams)

9. Have I Told You Lately That I Love You (with Naturally 7)

10. To Be Loved

11. You've Got A Friend In Me

12. Nevertheless [I'm In Love With You] (feat. The Puppini Sisters)

13. I Got It Easy

14. Young At Heart

15. Be My Baby - Bonus Track

16. It's A Beautiful Day - Swing Mix

17. My Melancholy Baby - Bonus Track

18. Dream A Little Dream Of Me

19. Mack The Knife

20. Softly As I Leave You

21. I'm Beginning To See The Light

22. These Foolish Things [Remind Me Of You]

This 22 song Special Edition CD is available in Astroplus and Odyssey stores nationwide. Also available on iTunes and Spotify. To get the Close Your Eyes as your ringback tone, Text YOUREYES to 2447 for SMART and 2370 for GLOBE subscribers. Special thanks to 105.1 Crossover Radio. 

On January 31, Michael Bublé will sweep Manila off its feet. Catch the Canadian crooner at the Mall of Asia Arena, 8 PM, as Wilbros Live in cooperation with Dainty Group and FOX International Channels presents Michael Bublé LIVE in Manila. Tickets available at SM Tickets via smtickets.com or call 470-2222. Special thanks to Warner Music Philippines, ABS CBN, MYX, RX 93.1, Play FM 99.5, Natural 97.9, 103.5 KLite, Mellow 94.7, The Philippine Star, Business World, Business Mirror, HDI Admix Inc, Philstar.com, PEP.PH Inquirer.net, Philippine Concerts, SoundChecMNL and Manila Concert Scene. 

Spotify – http://spoti.fi/1Iuihee

iTunes - http://bit.ly/1BmTAhA

Philippines hosts Chef de Mission meeting for 2014 ASEAN Schools Games

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The Department of Education (DepEd) and the City Government of Marikina met with the delegation heads of participating countries to ensure the readiness and safety of playing facilities for the 2014 ASEAN Schools Games (ASG), which will be held from November 29 to December 7, 2014 in Marikina City.

The “Chef de Mission” meeting is intended to finalize billeting arrangements and to allow the countries’ representatives to inspect the playing facilities.

“This meeting allows us to settle all issues months before the conduct of the games,” says DepEd Assistant Secretary Tonisito Umali, adding that it is important for all delegations to be on the same page.

Umali emphasized that ensuring the readiness and safety of the facilities is integral in safeguarding the welfare of the ASG delegates. He said that guaranteeing such environment for the athletes would provide a venue for creating champions. He added, “We want to create a community of champions—not just in the Asian Games or the Olympics, but champions in discipline, teamwork, and leadership.”

“We are excited to see how our young athletes are growing to be our ASEAN champions,” Jolly Gomez of the Philippine Sports Commission said.

This is the 6th ASEAN Schools Games and the first time for the Philippines to host although last year the country already hosted the golf tournament of the 2013 games, which were held in Vietnam.

Participating countries are Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and the Philippines. The events in the ASG are athletics, swimming, badminton, golf, tennis, sepak takraw, gymnastics, table tennis, basketball, volleyball and wushu. The Philippine delegation will be composed of student-athletes from both public and private schools, as selected by a separate selection committee.

FYI™ coming to Asia in Fall 2014

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FYI stands for ‘For Your Innovation, For Your Inspiration, and For Your Imagination’. FYI is all about inspired, improvised, creative living and we believe that every individual is entitled to living their life by design, shows and series that ‘inspire, not instruct’ today’s audience.

FYI will come to Asia this fall and is set to launch in the Philippines on October 6, 2014.

On October 6, BIO™ Channel will rebrand to FYI™, a contemporary lifestyle network reflecting how people live their lives today, across Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia, Myanmar, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, the Pacific Islands, Singapore, Thailand and Taiwan. The announcement was made today by Alan Hodges, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, A+E Networks.

A+E Networks Asia rebrands BIO Channel to FYI in Southeast Asia, Hongkong and Taiwan.  BIO was also rebranded to FYI in the US on July 8th. 

FYI’s shows cover the main lifestyle pillars namely Fashion and Style (For Your Style), Travel (For Your Journey), Food (For Your Taste), and Home and Decoration (For Your Space).

For your inspiration, for your imagination or for your innovation, FYI will be a personalized experience for each viewer. The network embraces the way audiences really live their lives – proudly-hyphenated and not constrained by one passion or interest. Never an instruction manual and always an inspiration engine, FYI offers viewers a more adventurous, personalized and non-prescriptive approach to programming with a range of stories that reflect how people actually live their lives today, not defined by just one passion or interest. 

“FYI’s mission is to inspire personal creativity that emphasizes improvised living, while reflecting our authentic slate of programming,” says Michele Schofield, Senior VP, Programming & Marketing at A+E Networks Asia. “And with its rich mix of inspirational content, the new channel’s Asian premiere is sure to bring its viewers a season of quality entertainment.”

FYI will feature over 300 hours of original content each year across four programming genres - taste, space, look, and journey. FYI will include locally-commissioned productions and local acquisitions. 

FYI’s primetime premiere line-up in Asia includes: 

In Tiny House Nation, renovation experts and hosts, John Weisbarth and Zack Giffin, travel across America to show off ingenious small spaces and the inventive people who live in them. They also help families design, construct and prepare to downsize into their own mini-dream homes no larger than 300 square feet!

Rowhouse Showdown featuring renovation expert, Carter Oosterhouse as he leads three teams who battle it out to transform dilapidated homes. The team that increases the appeal of their home the most, wins the grand prize of $50,000. 

Destination Flavour: Japan: From the frozen ponds of Hokkaido in the north to the southern multicultural island of Okinawa, we savour the cuisine from local legends and master chefs while watching Adam Liaw immerse himself in a vibrant food culture that embraces innovation and cherishes tradition. 

Destination Flavour: Down Under: Host Adam Liaw continues to unearth hidden flavours, this time those nestled in the Australian and New Zealand landscapes.

Travels with the Bondi Vet features Dr. Chris Brown, a charismatic vet who leaves his practice in Sydney to begin his exploration of the world’s most beautiful and bizarre places, cultures and animals!

About A+E Networks Asia

A+E Networks™ Asia is owned by the award-winning, global media content company, A+E Networks™, which is dedicated to offering consumers a diverse communications environment ranging from television networks to websites, to home videos/DVDs to gaming and educational software. A+E Networks Asia is comprised of Lifetime®, HISTORY®, FYI™ (formerly bio.®), H2™ and Crime & Investigation™. A+E Networks Asia operates and distributes its portfolio in Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Fiji, Macau, Taiwan, Korea, Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Palau, Myanmar, Laos and Thailand. Globally, A+E Networks’ channels and branded programming reach more than 330 million households in over 160 countries.

Philippines investors look far and wide for opportunities, but stay close to home for investment and advice – Manulife Survey

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·      Philippines investors favor developed economies over emerging Asia and show least home-market bias of any investors in Asia

·      Personal networks, bricks and mortar dominate approach to investing

·      Philippines investors remain most optimistic in Asia

Investors in the Philippines are among Asia's most optimistic and most outward-looking, given their willingness to invest outside the Philippines to gain returns, according to the latest Manulife Investor Sentiment Index* covering the second quarter of 2014.

Philippines investors reach across emerging Asia to mature markets

When asked which region they think is best to invest in, Philippines investors point to developed Asia, Australasia and North America over emerging markets, including emerging Asia and the Middle East and North Africa.

Fig. 1 – Philippines investors favour developed and distant markets over China and emerging Asia

Philippines investors seem less affected by home-market bias than any other investors in the survey. Given a selection of single markets, they show most enthusiasm for Canada (76 points) and Japan (73) above the Philippines itself (51), and show least for China (44), which most other Asia investors rank relatively higher.

When it comes to growth, Philippines investors are also most optimistic about Japan and Canada, with 19 percent believing that Japan’s economy will be the fastest growing in the next two years, followed by Canada, China and Australia. This contrasts markedly with the average Asia investor, 27 percent of whom expect China’s economy to grow fastest, followed by much lower expectations for Japan Australia and Canada.

Fig. 2 – Philippines investors’ views of which markets will grow fastest

contrasted markedly with investors elsewhere in Asia

"Our research suggests that Philippines investors’ preference for Japan is likely related to Japan’s first quarter GDP growth which came in at 6.7 percent on strong consumer demand ahead of the implementation of a new goods and services tax," said Aira Gaspar, CFA, Chief Investment Officer of Manulife Philippines.

“It's also interesting that Philippines investors seem so keen on Canada. We think there is a sound basis for this given that Canadian equities outperformed their developed market peers in the first quarter."

Philippines investors rely on friendly advice, ‘bricks and mortar’ approach to portfolios

Despite their international outlook, Philippines investors place their faith closer to home when it comes to making investment decisions, with 88 percent relying on or referring to family, friends or colleagues as a source of advice – the highest level in the region and well above the regional average of 58 percent. They are less dependent on industry staff, mass media or online sources of investment advice.

Philippines investors also have a very ‘bricks and mortar’ approach to portfolio composition, with 61 percent saying they own investment property (against the Asian average of 19 percent) and 75 percent owning their own home (against an Asian average of 50 percent). Cash and property together make up the bulk of their portfolios. Conversely, they have much lower ownership of stocks (15 percent versus the Asian average of 48 percent) and mutual funds (6 percent versus 23 percent) – even though their sentiment towards equities is the highest in Asia.

“Philippines investors rely largely on their own networks for their investment decisions" said Ryan Charland, CEO of Manulife Philippines. "While it is comforting to speak with family and friends for investment advice, investors would benefit from consulting investment professionals, who could help them build a sound and diversified portfolio that meets their medium to long-term financial goals.”

Philippines investors are Asia's most optimistic

In addition to their positive views about investing overseas, Philippines investors remain optimistic about investing at home with the sentiment index for domestic investment at 59, the highest in Asia. This optimism was spread across all asset classes in the survey, which all saw increases except cash. Fixed income saw the biggest increase, up 5 points to 50; followed by stocks, up 4 to 45. Mutual funds rose 1 point to 36. Property has taken the lead as the most favored asset class, with home property highest at 75, up 1 in the quarter, while investment property rose by 4 points to 74. Cash was the only asset class to see a decline, down 9 to 73, but still remains high.

”Filipino respondents were generally upbeat, despite weaker-than-expected first quarter 2014 GDP growth and uninspiring corporate earnings for the same period,” confirmed Ms. Gaspar. “We believe sentiment was boosted by a credit rating upgrade from Standard & Poor’s and an increase in government spending on much-needed infrastructure projects. The country’s resilient private consumption, rising investment cycle, recovering manufacturing industry and favorable consumer and business confidence bode well for economic activity and a positive earnings growth story. However, investors’ sentiment could turn sour if policy reforms aimed at addressing infrastructure deficiencies and fostering inclusive economic growth stall.”

For more findings and related information from the Manulife Investor Sentiment Index in Asia, please visit www.manulife-asia.com.

David Blaine ‘Real or Magic’ LIVE in Manila, September 12

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Ovation Productions presents David Blaine ‘Real or Magic’ LIVE in Manila, September 12, 2014, 8:00pm at Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City.

One of the world's best magicians of all time. He is best known for his high-profile feats of endurance, and has made his name as a performer of street and close-up magic. Now he's coming to Manila for one-night-only show as part of his Asia Tour on September 2014.

Is he for real? Or is he a con job? Filipinos can decide for themselves when the world’s most intriguing magician hits Manila for a one-night-only live show.Magician David Blaine, who has been wowing and spooking audiences worldwide with his trailblazing brand of magic for almost two decades, is set to cast a spell on Philippine audiences in a 90-minute live show on September 12 at the Araneta Coliseum, according to promoter Renen de Guia of Ovation Productions.

This is not an entirely new venture into the world of magic by Ovation Productions, having promoted another very popular magician also by the name of David in Manila in 1989, David Copperfield!

Dubbed Real or Magic, Blaine’s first ever show in the Philippines will feature a slew of tricks that have blown the minds of anyone who has ever seen videos of his ‘street magic’ performances. The 41-year-old magician’s Manila stopover is part of his first Asian tour.

The show’s title references Blaine’s TV special last year in which he performed inexplicable tricks to the stupefaction of celebrities such as Will Smith, Kanye West, Ricky Gervais, Katy Perry, and a very freaked-out Harrison Ford — who jokingly told Blaine to “Get the f*** out of my house.”

Born in New York to Puerto Rican-Italian and Russian parents, Blaine became an overnight success at 24 when he debuted his Street Magic in 1997. The show, in which he performed minimal yet enigmatic tricks for impromptu audiences on the street, was a success.

Eschewing the glitzy Vegas-style showmanship of magicians like David Copperfield, Blaine’s less-is-more approach, lazy Brooklyn drawl and ultra-cool manner — not to mention his dark, brooding looks — won him a great league of fans across the world who just can’t seem to believe what they see.

Later, Blaine expanded his magical repertoire by featuring himself in a series of spectacularly staged death-defying endurance performances, some of which were inspired by his idol Harry Houdini. These endurance performances have seen Blaine: sealed in a coffin-like box at the bottom of a three-ton tank of water for a week; encased in ice for 63 hours; standing unsecured on top of a 30m high narrow pillar for 53 hours; and dangled in a plastic cube above the Thames for 44 days with only water to sustain him. He even managed to break a Guinness World Record in 2008 live on The Oprah Winfrey Show when he held his breath underwater for 17 minutes and 44 seconds — the record has since been broken. Meanwhile, the last spectacle saw him being zapped by a million volts of electricity produced by eight Tesla coil towers for 72 hours. 

While the magician who’s been called our generation’s greatest probably won’t replicate such endurance tests for his live show, audiences can be assured that they’ll be feted to other head-scratching Blaine specialities — from how-did-he-do-that card tricks to pushing needles through his arm to twisting off a chicken’s head and putting it back on. But is it magic? Is it real? You decide.

David Blaine ‘Real or Magic’ LIVE in Manila, September 12, 2014 at the Araneta Coliseum is presented by Ovation Productions in cooperation with AXN, Philippine Star, Manila Bulletin, BusinessWorld, ABSCBN, MYX ,Philstar.com, Inquirer.net, Manila Concert Scene, Philippine Concerts, WhenInManila.com, Rappler.com, SoundCheckManila, Pep.ph, 105.1 Crossover, 96.3 EasyRock, Retro 105.9, Monster Radio 96.3, and Mellow 947. 

 Available at Ticketnet outlets or online www.ticketnet.com.ph or call 911-5555.

TICKET PRICES(inclusive of Ticketnet service charges)

VIP - P6,865 (Reserved Seating)

PATRON - P5,810 (Reserved Seating)

BOX PREMIUM - P4,755 (Reserved Seating)

BOX REGULAR - P3,700 (Reserved Seating)

UPPER BOX - P2,115 (Free Seating)

GENERAL ADMISSION - P1,060 (Free Seating)

2014 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees Announced

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The Board of Trustees of the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF) today announced that this year five individuals and one organization from Afghanistan, China, Indonesia, Pakistan, and the Philippines will receive Asia’s premier prize, the Ramon Magsaysay Award.

The Magsaysay awardees of 2014 are truly beacons of progress in Asia, as they boldly building hopeful lives in daunty times. We have much to learn from them, and much to celebrate about their greatness of spirit.

Here are the 2014 Awardees:

Hu Shuli, from China. She is being recognized for “her unrelenting commitment to truthful, relevant, and unassailable journalism, her fearless promotion of transparency and accountability in business and public governance, and her leadership in blazing the way for more professional and independent-minded media practices in China.”

Saur Marlina Manurung, from Indonesia. She is being recognized for “her ennobling passion to protect and improve the lives of Indonesia’s forest people, and her energizing leadership of volunteers in SOKOLA’s customized education program that is sensitive to the lifeways of indigenous communities and the unique development challenges they face.”

Omara Khan Masoudi, from Afghanistan. He is being recognized for “his courage, labor, and leadership in protecting Afghan cultural heritage, rebuilding an institution vital for Afghanistan’s future, and reminding his countrymen and peoples everywhere that in recognizing humanity’s shared patrimony, we can be inspired to stand together in peace.”

The Citizens Foundation, from Pakistan. The organization is being recognized for “the social vision and high-level professionalism of its founders and those who run its schools, in successfully pursuing their conviction that, with sustained civic responsiveness, quality education made available to all—irrespective of religion, gender, or economic status—is the key to Pakistan’s brighter future.”

Wang Canfa, from China. He is being recognized for “his discerning and forceful leadership—through scholarly work, disciplined advocacy, and pro bono public interest litigation—in ensuring that the enlightened and competent practice of environmental law in China effectively protects the rights and lives of victims of environmental abuse, especially the poor and the powerless.”

Randy Halasan, for Emergent Leadership, from the Philippines. He is being recognized for “his purposeful dedication in nurturing his Matigsalug students and their community to transform their lives through quality education and sustainable livelihoods, doing so in ways that respect their uniqueness and preserve their integrity as indigenous peoples in a modernizing Philippines.”

Established in 1957, the Ramon Magsaysay Award is Asia’s highest honor and is widely regarded as the region’s equivalent of the Nobel Prize. It celebrates the memory and leadership example of the third Philippine president after whom the award is named, and is given every year to individuals or organizations in Asia who manifest the same selfless service that ruled the life of the late and beloved Filipino leader.

RMAF President Carmencita Abella says “the Magsaysay awardees of 2014 are truly beacons of progress in Asia. All of them are creating bold solutions to deeply-rooted social problems in their respective societies, problems which are most damaging to the lives of those trapped in poverty, ignorance, and unjust systems. Their inspiring and path-breaking leadership addresses very diverse areas -- education for the poor and marginalized, environmental justice for pollution victims, increased transparency and accountability in corporate and public governance, and the restoration of cultural pride – and yet it is clear that each of this year’s Magsaysay awardees is building more hopeful lives among their people -- one smart, responsible, and persistent step at a time."

“While their solutions are distinctively their own, there is one thing this year’s Magsaysay laureates all share: a greatness of spirit that infuses their leadership for change. They are all unafraid to take on large causes; they all refuse to give up, despite meager resources, daunting adversity and strong opposition. They are all deeply anchored in hope. We have much to learn from them, and much to celebrate about their greatness of spirit.”

The six 2014 Magsaysay awardees join the community of 301 other Magsaysay laureates who have received Asia’s highest honor to date. This year’s Magsaysay Award winners will each receive a certificate, a medallion bearing the likeness of the late President, and a cash prize.

They will be formally conferred the Magsaysay Award during formal Presentation Ceremonies to be held on Sunday, 31 August 2014 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, to which the public is cordially invited.                                                       

The 1st International Business Summit on Mindanao

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First International Business Summit on Mindanao, the frontrunner summit on Mindanao to be held at The Manila Hotel on June 28, 2014 as marks a significant milestone in the history of Mindanao as business leaders all over the world.

In line with the vision "RESTORE THE LOST GLORY OF MINDANAO", the summit aims to showcase Mindanao to the world business community and to encourage global investors as well as businessmen to personally interact with local community leaders and entrepreneurs.

Trade from here and abroad will attend the 1st International Business Summit on Mindanao. Shariff Ibrahim Albani, head of summit organizer Unity for Revival Foundation, said delegates from Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Japan, China, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Indonesia and European countries led by Russia are attending the summit along with some 500 local leaders, including governors, mayors and lawmakers from Mindanao.

The panelists to the summit will include, but not limited to, persons and entities which have more than enough exposure and experiences about Mindanao and have plans of further improving the overall development of the region.

Mindanao, with its rich mineral resources, ecological value, human talents and skills, and economic potentials was, in the past, regarded as one of the richest regions not only in the Philippines, but in the whole world.

The recent signing of the much awaited and historic Bangsamoro Agreement has tremendously enhanced the investment climate of Mindanao and has paved the way both for domestic and international investors, businessmen and entrepreneurs.

Events changed the prosperity once enjoyed by Mindanao and its people. Diversities led to divisions and the unity of the people of Mindanao in the past was disrupted by selfish motives. Business was corrupted by the desire to make profits in dishonorable ways and means. The rich became richer and the poor became poorer.

However, recent events have altered this unwanted environment. With globalization, Mindanao has started to change for the better. Mindanao is now stable and ready to cultivate and nourish intensive and harmonious business links and investment tie-ups with the global community.

Summit organizer, Unity For Revival Foundation (URF) Chairman Shariff Ibrahim Albani is confident that, with the active and productive participation of various sectors in the summit, bright and achievable ideas will emerge to make Mindanao PROGRESSIVE AND UNITED ONCE AGAIN.

Globe-linked Southeast Asia-Japan Cable system begins network upgrade

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Network upgrade delivers an increase of 6.5 terabits per second data capacity 

The Southeast Asia-Japan Cable system, operated by an international consortium of leading telecommunications and technology companies that includes Globe Telecom, began implementing a network upgrade to further enhance capacity amid steady growth in bandwidth demand in the region.

The upgrade to the undersea cable system brings an increase of 6.5 terabits per second of capacity utilizing the latest 100 gigabits per second transmission equipment. The sharp increase in transmission technology from the usual 10 gigabits per second, followed by 40 gigabits per second technology, underscores the upsurge in internet usage especially mobile internet. Once completed, the upgrade will set a new benchmark in global data and information connectivity. 

“The upgrade runs parallel with Globe Telecom’s network transformation initiative. As we optimize our modernized network to further build capacity, the SJC upgrade allows better network availability and delivery, providing additional support for expanding business requirements for data,” Globe Chief Operating Officer Gil Genio said.

TE SubCom, an industry pioneer in undersea communications technology, was commissioned by the SJC consortium to carry out the network upgrade. Full system construction of the SJC cable system was completed in June of last year at a project cost of $400 million. Globe Telecom’s interconnection with the SJC cable system, which strengthened the country’s connectivity with the region and the rest of the world, was formally launched in inauguration rites led by President Benigno Aquino and Globe Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala in September last year. 

The undersea cable project consists of 6 fiber pairs with an initial design capacity of up to 28 terabits per second, one of the fastest speeds an undersea cabling system can provide, to meet bandwidth-intensive applications such as internet TV, online games and enterprise data exchange. To illustrate, the cable’s design capacity can support simultaneous streaming of up to 3 million high-definition videos.

The SJC is an 8,900-kilometer cable system, which could further extend to 9,700 kilometers. The cable system links 7 territories that include Brunei, mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore and the Philippines, including the option to link with Thailand. 

Aside from Globe, the SJC consortium is composed of Brunei International Gateway Sendirian Berhad (BIG), China Mobile International Ltd. (CMI), China Telecommunications Corporation (China Telecom), China Telecom Global Limited (CTG), Donghwa Telecom Co. Ltd (DHT) (a subsidiary of Chunghwa Telecom, Co., Ltd.), Google, KDDI Corporation, Singapore Telecommunications Limited (SingTel), PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia International (Telin a subsidiary of PT. Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk), and TOT Public Co., Ltd. (TOT).

Meteor Garden is back !

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Meteor Garden returns on ABS-CBN this March 31!  We will see again Shan Cai, Dao Ming Si, Hua Ze Lei,  Xi Men and Mei Zuo.

The Meteor Garden is the  2001 Taiwanese TV adaptation of the hit Japanese shōjo manga series, Boys Over Flowers (Hana Yori Dango), written by Yoko Kamio.

The said drama starred Barbie Hsu as Shan Cai, Jerry Yan as Dao Ming Si, Vic Zhou as Hua Ze Lei, Ken Chu as Xi Men and Vanness Wu as Mei Zuo.

First aired in the Philippines last year 2013,  and went on to be the highest-rating Asianovela in the country. 

Meteor Garden returns on ABS-CBN this March 31 airing after It's Showtime. There will also be a primetime telecast on Jeepney TV at 8:00 pm. 

Call for Entries: UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation

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Entries are now being accepted for the 2014 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation. The Awards highlights the achievements of private or public-private initiatives for the restoration and conservation of heritage building properties in the Asia-Pacific Region. Since its establishment in 2000, the Awards have received over 500 entries from the region.

Outstanding restoration works shall be given the following recognitions: Award of Excellence, Award of Distinction, Award of Merit, and Honorable Mention. On the other hand, the “Jury Commendation for Innovation” award shall recognize newly-built structures which demonstrate outstanding architectural design that have been well-integrated into historic contexts. The awardees would have conclusively demonstrated excellence in the Understanding of the Place, and Social and Policy Impact.

Last year’s awardees include the Great Serái in Kabul, Afghanistan and the Tai O Heritage Hotel in Hong Kong, China. In the Philippines, the Nielson Tower and art deco buildings of the Far Eastern University have both been given the Honorable Mention Awards in 2001 and 2005, respectively.

Interested parties may nominate their projects by submitting the following requirements before 30 April 2014:

1) Official entry form

2) Project Description, using the official format

3) Occupant’s Comments

4) Owner Consent Form

5) Rights Authorization Form

6) Drawings (A4 Format) and 7) CD-ROM of the aforementioned documents.

You may download the official forms, brochures and guidelines at www.unescobkk.org/culture/heritageawards.

Nominations may be sent to UNESCO Bangkok through postal mail or courier to: Culture Unit, UNESCO Bangkok, 920 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110, Thailand, with a copy furnished to the UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines via email at secretariat@unesco.gov.ph

For more information, interested parties may contact the Culture Unit of UNESCO Bangkok through email:culture.bgk@unesco.org or telephone: (66 2) 391-0577 ext. 509

Tourism Malaysia launches ‘Tara Na Sa Malaysia’ travel brochure

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“Tara Na Sa Malaysia” holiday packages brochure truly befits its campaign which also hopes to entice Filipinos to visit other key cities in Malaysia other than Kuala Lumpur.

Recently special event held, Tourism Malaysia launched its campaign with the introduction of the “Tara Na Sa Malaysia” Holiday Packages Brochure on February 14, 2014 at the 2014 PTAA Travel Tour Expo.

Tourism Malaysia has certainly beefed up its promotional efforts through the launch of the “Tara Na Sa Malaysia” holiday packages brochure wherein setting its sights on enjoying a big chunk of the tourism industry this year.

Having dubbed 2014 as “Visit Malaysia Year,” it hopes to attract more visitors to this bustling, energy-filled melting pot of cultures that is filled with wondrous events, amazing festivals and exciting activities all-year round.

Carrying the theme “Celebrating Malaysia Truly Asia,” Tourism Malaysia’s efforts for the year are positioned to make the country a premier Southeast Asian destination for both leisure and business travelers.

The brochure features special Malaysia tour packages that have been put together with valued local travel agents from the Philippines.

(From left) Tourism Malaysia-Manila deputy director Trecey Tojuka, MATRADE Manila trade counselor Har Man Ahmad, Malaysian Ambassador Mohd Zamri Mohd Kassim, Tourism Malaysia-Manila acting director Mohd Akbal Setia, and Malaysia Airlines area manager (Philippines) Flora Loh unveil the ‘Tara Na Sa Malaysia’ travel brochure at the recently concluded 2014 PTAA Travel Tour Expo at the SMX Mall of Asia.

The “Tara Na Sa Malaysia” holiday packages brochure offers a range of unique packages that highlight the following destinations for the travel period of March to December 2014:

Photo credit to Travelight group 

• Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s capital city is a bustling metropolis with unique landmarks that are instantly recognizable worldwide. Iconic skyscrapers grace the city’s skyline, co-existing with remnants of history. KL is also a melting pot of races and cultures brimming with diverse entertainment options, exciting attractions and a comprehensive transportation system.

• Putrajaya: Known as Malaysia’s administrative capital, it is also nicknamed as the country’s “Intelligent Garden City.” Possessing a refreshingly different urban landscape, the city is a clever combination of nature and state-of-the-art infrastructure.

• Malacca: The birthplace of the nation’s historical and cultural heritage, Malacca has a long and illustrious past. Its remnants are well preserved and can still be seen today, earning it the prestigious title of UNESCO World Heritage City in 2008.

• Johor: Situated at the southernmost part of peninsular Malaysia, it is the country’s southern gateway. The state is blessed with a diversity of natural attractions, including verdant rainforests, cascading waterfalls, thriving wetlands, and beautiful tropical islands off its coasts.

• Penang: One of the world’s top holiday destinations, Penang is a delightful fusion of nature, culture and history. Home to a UNESCO World Heritage City and one of the world’s longest bridges, Penang leaves an indelible mark on each visitor, leaving them wanting more with each visit.

• Sabah: Also known as the “Land Below The Wind,” Sabah is made up of enchanting tropical islands, lush virgin rainforests, and over 30 different ethnic communities. It is most well known for its icon, Mt. Kinabalu, while its island of Sipadan is internationally recognized as one of the world’s best diving destinations.

• Lankawi: This city is part of an archipelago made up of 99 islands and is one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations. It boasts some of the region’s best natural attractions, earning it a UNESCO Global Geopark status in 2007. 

It also puts into focus the wide range of activities available to visitors in Malaysia: theme park visits, shopping, nightlife, gastronomic adventures, honeymoon and romantic getaways, golfing, beach, cultural immersions, and many others.

For more information, visit www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my or like Tara Na Sa Malaysia on Facebook.

Malaysia Airlines, Philippine Airlines, PAL Express, Cebu Pacific and Air Asia Zest fly direct from Manila to Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu. 

For flight schedules, refer to the following links:

www.malaysiaairlines.com,

www.philippineairlines.com, 

www.palexpress.com, 

www.cebupacificair.com

www.airasiazest.com.