Health and happiness in a convenient package for employees

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Happy and healthy employees lead to improved morale and higher productivity. This is why providing attractive medical benefits for a company’s workforce is essential. It is also one of the key considerations of employees in choosing which company to work for.

While providing employee medical benefits is a sound investment for employers, many are still daunted by the cost and challenges of medical insurance application for their employees. Luckily, there are companies that provide medical benefits to large groups that don’t cost as much as employers think.

Philam Life, the country’s premier life insurance company, recently launched a comprehensive Group Medical Insurance plan through its Corporate Solutions arm. Employers can now avail of flexible and extensive medical insurance for their employees depending on their need and budget.

Philam Life CEO Axel Bromley discussing the benefits of the Group Medical Insurance during the launch.

“Companies need to take care of their workforce if they want them to be efficient and productive,” said Philam Life CEO Axel Bromley. “With the new Group Medical Insurance plan, Philam Life empowers employers with the right solution to address the real life needs of their employees,” Bromley emphasized. 

In partnership with Medilink, the pioneer in state-of-the-art technology solutions in the healthcare industry, Philam Life introduced Health Link, a packaged plan for micro and small businesses that gives employees the best of both HMO and medical reimbursement programs while providing life insurance benefits. 

"We believe that healthcare is a universal human need. It should be affordable, accessible and efficient," explained Medilink President and CEO Esther Go. "We are pleased to support Philam Life's newest product. Trust that our commitment to quality services and innovation will remain as strong as ever."

Employers can choose from any of Health Link’s basic benefits like Basic Medical/Inpatient Benefits, Group Life Insurance, Accidental Death, Dismemberment & Disability Benefit and Total & Permanent Disability Income Benefit. 

They can also add optional medical benefits such as Annual Physical Exams, Dental Benefits and Outpatient Benefits which include physician/specialist consultations and x-ray and laboratory tests. The benefits and premiums of Philam Life’s Health Link can be customized depending on the budget or needs of the employer.

Philam Life’s Health Link is available for small business owners with at least five regular employees. Employees may also enroll their legal spouse, children, parents and siblings as their dependents. For large companies or non-employee-employer groups, Philam Life can customize a plan specific to their requirements, too.

Insured members who need financial and medical assistance must simply present their Philam Life membership card to any hospital, clinic or doctor accredited by Medilink. In case their preferred hospital, clinic or doctor is not accredited with Medilink, members can still avail of their services and subsequently, reimburse the expenses incurred. All benefits will be subject to their plan limits.

To know more about Group Medical Insurance or Health Link, contact Philam Life Corporate Solutions via phone at (02) 528-5363, or email at PHI.PAL-CSNewBiz@aia.com. 

You may also visit www.philamlife.com.

On secrets to inner strength and happiness by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

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Here's an inspiring talk by world renowned humanitarian Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on secrets to inner strength and happiness.

He travels to nearly 40 countries a year and has started programs and organizations that have touched the lives of over 300 million people in over 150 countries and on the 8th of April 2015, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, one of the world’s icons for human values and peace, will be visiting the Philippines, to inspire the public for one night only with his globally recognized wisdom.

Art of Living BeST program for survivors of Yolanda

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar believes that a peaceful society starts with the peaceful mind of every individual. He started organizations such as “The Art of Living Foundation” to share best practice techniques and ancient Wisdom to help people from all over the world manage their mind and negative emotions - thereby helping them lead healthier and happier lives. 

The Art of Living's programs include breathing techniques, Yoga, Meditation and simple yet profound life guiding principles. The core technique known as the Sudarshan Kriya, is a powerful and revitalizing breathing technique scientifically proven to be beneficial for the mind and body. Art of Living’s global website, http://www.artofliving.org, states that “Sudarshan Kriya incorporates specific natural rhythms of the breath which harmonize the body, mind and emotions,” It has been proven to be very effective in managing stress, fatigue and negative emotions such as anger, frustration and depression.

Founded in 1981, Art of Living Foundation – is now one of the largest international volunteer-based, non-profit, educational, charitable and humanitarian organizations having a special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

In the Philippines, the Art of Living has conducted numerous courses and workshops. In 2009, Bienvenido “Donnie” Tantoco, President of Rustan’s Supercenters Inc., was quoted saying, “Once you know proper breathing, it is effortless to be in the present moment. I’m calmer, my mind is more lucid. Basically, I don’t feel so stressed and I have been sleeping better now than I have in years.” 

The Art of Living programs benefit all sectors of society – people from all backgrounds and all walks of life have enjoyed the various courses and techniques offered by the foundation. Apart from addressing the stress and negative emotions of the general public, Art of Living also includes poverty alleviation, women empowerment, environmental sustainability and conflict resolution in their mission. 

In the Philippines, the service arm of the Art of Living deploys volunteers and teachers to conduct workshops free of charge to various sectors of society. One such workshop, BeST (Breath & Sound Therapy) is for marginalized, depressed or traumatized people and communities including victims of calamities in the wake of Typhoon Yolanda and Ondoy. The BeST program is effective regardless of the number of participants, making it recognized by other NGO’s as an effective psychosocial remedy to address deep trauma in large communities where one-on-one sessions are impractical and costly. 

BeST has been conducted throughout the Philippines from Metro Manila, through Visayas and Mindanao working occasionally with other NGO’s such as the Red Cross and Save the Children. The Service arm has also conducted regular workshops for prisoner rehabilitation in Bilibid Prison, Muntinlupa City as well as Makati City Jail – over 1000 inmates have been through the program till date. 

In light of the recent violence and tragedies that have befallen the nation, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s visit complements the national and global call for peace and harmony. “Difficult and unpleasant times come in everyone’s life,” he says, “What is important is to keep the faith intact. On a completely dark night, even a flickering lamp can help you find the way.” 

Sri Sri’s visit to Manila marks the end of his Asian Tour where he is expected to inspire thousands of people across Cambodia, Malaysia, Japan, Thailand and Indonesia. 

In Manila on April 8, the public speaking engagement of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will be held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. 

Tickets are available at Php 300 and P100 for Students, seniors, teachers, NGO workers, Gov. Employees. Group rates are also available.

For more information about this event as well as courses offered, contact the Art of Living Foundation at 09178400049 09178484898 or (632) 6222-566/63, info@artofliving.org. To learn more or register online visit www.artofliving.org

Happiness helps overcome life-long pain

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For Winston Maxino, happiness is a choice. It is never more evident in the fact that the 51-year-old family man has been spreading joy around with his infectious smile and sunny disposition despite continuously suffering from a rare and extremely painful genetic disorder.

In 2000, Maxino was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis, an incurable debilitating disease that causes swelling in his spine and constant pain in his lower back.Instead of surrendering to depression and dwelling on the negative impact of his illness, he chose to graciously accept his condition and was determined to carry on with everyday life, with the help of pain relievers and a huge dose of happiness.

“No matter what our circumstances in life, we can choose to be happy. It does not mean we should never feel sadness. It just means we don’t stay sad or wallow in misery. We have to rise above the negativity and do what needs to be done to bring out the best in any situation — we get help and we learn to manage the difficulties,” Maxino said.

Laughter is the best medicine

For the 51-year-old chief operating officer of an aluminum manufacturing company, making children laugh with his balloon knotting talents and magic tricks has become sort of a therapy. “I have always believed in joy from the simple things — giving someone a warm hug, cracking a funny joke and laughing out loud, smiling at people, surprising loved ones with small gifts and telling people you love them.” Being profoundly happy, sharing this unconditionally with other people and having a positive outlook in life despite his painful health condition has earned for Maxino the first Search for the Happiest Pinoy award in 2010 and the grand cash prize of P250,000. “Winning the Search for the Happiest Pinoy in 2010 was not only a prestigious honor for me, it has also enriched my life so much because it has given me more opportunities to reach out to, teach, and learn from a wider variety of people in many parts of the globe,” said Maxino.

The Search for the Happiest Pinoy is a flagship campaign of Cebuana Lhuillier which aims to find and recognize the country’s most optimistic and resilient Filipinos despite life’s challenges in the hopes of inspiring other people to do the same. For this year’s edition, 1M pesos grand prize are up for grabs.

Four years since winning the Happiest Pinoy crown, Maxino is still in the habit of inspiring people and making them happy. “My lifelong suffering from an incurable debilitating disease may be hard but it bears good fruits for many people. God indeed has a purpose for each of our problems and when we discover what that purpose is, the problem ceases to be a burden and turns out to be a blessing.”

Nowadays, this father of three girls is just happy and proud to see his children growing up to become responsible young women, with his eldest daughter graduating from college and his youngest graduating from elementary school with first honors. Last year, his second daughter who has Down syndrome, spoke at a White House dinner with President Barack Obama, as a Special Olympics Global Youth Ambassador.

“My daughters’ accomplishments make me feel so fulfilled. They say that I have inspired them, that despite my condition and problems, I strive to be always happy and content with my life.” 

To know more about this year’s Search for the Happiest Pinoy, visit www.happiest-pinoy.com, and like Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/happiestpinoy.

Maintaining a healthy relationship, Happy Wife, Happy Life

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Maintaining a good and healthy relationships require care and work to maintain closeness. Common components found in successful relationships include - communication, respect, trust, love, sharing, individuality and self-care.

Do your best to treat your partner in a way that says, "I love you and trust you, and I want to work this out."

Express wants and needs. A clear message involves a respectful but direct expression of your wants and needs.

Always I believe, to be aware of what you and your partner want for yourselves and what you want from the relationship.

Realize that your partner will not be able to meet all your needs. Some of these needs will have to be met outside of the relationship. Be willing to negotiate and compromise on the things you want from one another.  You don't have to demand that a partner change to meet all your expectations. Work to accept the differences between your ideal mate and the real person you are with.

Try to see things from the other's point of view. This doesn't mean that you must agree with one another all the time, but rather that both of you can understand and respect each other's differences, points of view, and separate needs. Where critical differences do exist in your expectations, needs, or opinions, try to work honestly and sincerely to negotiate. Seek professional help early rather than waiting until the situation becomes critical.

Emotional support involves accepting your partner's differences and not insisting that he or she meet your needs only in the precise way that you want them met.

Respect your partner's rights. In healthy relationships, there is respect for each partner's right to have her/his own feelings. Resolving conflicts requires honesty, a willingness to consider your partner's perspective even if you don't fully understand it, and lots of communication.

Healthy communication is critical, especially when there are important decisions regarding sex, career, marriage, and family you made.

Now, let's talk about sexual intimacy

Intimacy is always important, always a key factor in a partnership. 

When it comes to sexual intimacy, couples need to be more open with their partners about what satisfies them.

Given that the two of you share a special bond, there's no reason for you to not be comfortable about discussing what you like - and don't like about sex. After all, an activity that is meant to be enjoyed, should provide fulfillment for both parties.

Last Saturday, January 10, I was invited, and attended an interesting event for wives, and husbands, a launch of an advocacy campaign regaring sexual intimacy. Menarini Philippines who continues to promote its Community to Control PE advocacy campaign this 2015 with its Happy Wife, Happy Life event.

Menarini Philippines together with the Philippine Urological Association, boldly launched its Commit to Control PE Advocacy campaign last year to address one of the more pressing issues regarding sexual intimacy - premature ejaculation.

The campaign is meant to make couples more comfortable about discussing their intimacy concerns with each other, without it being a cause of insecurity or dissatisfaction.

This is because premature ejaculation can gravely affect one's relationship when left undiscussed - and untreated.

In relation to this, Menarini Philippines held a talk, aptly called Happy Wife, Happy Life, which was held last January 10 at the Satin Room of the Seda Hotels in BGC, hosted by popular celebrity columnist RJ Ledesma and was attended by local bloggers. It aimed to shed better insight about what premature ejaculation is all about, and that it is not something to be embarrassed about because it can be controlled.

And this advocacy campaign event featured a very insightful talk from sex and relationship guru, Dr. Margarita Holmes. It was the first time I met in person, Dr. Margie Holmes, with a very lively insightful talk - "Love and lust that last." I have watched and admire her in many TV guestings she had. 

Dr. Dennis Serrano

Also present at the event was Dr. Dennis Serrano, who talked about the “basics” of premature ejaculation to help the guests have a better understanding of this condition. 

Menarini Philippines strongly believes in this advocacy which is often left untreated because it is a topic that is usually considered taboo even in these modern times.

The pharmaceutical giant hopes to make a stronger impact among Filipino couples on their campaign this year with more events like this.

Really, intimacy is always important. It doesn't matter if you're 18 or 88, intimacy is always a key factor in a partnership. Couples stay intimate long into their 80s and 90s. In fact, many couples have increased satisfaction the older they get, because they are more and more skilled! Keep learning and experimenting - the best is yet to come.

About the Menarini Group

Menarini is the world’s largest Italian biopharmaceutical company with a heritage of over 128 years and over 16,000 employees in over 100 countries. Here in Asia-Pacific, Menarini’s vision is to be a leading provider of important healthcare brands to improve the lives of people in the region. Menarini Asia-Pacific operates across the entire commercial value chain, from regulatory approval and product launch to lifecycle management with a diverse portfolio of proprietary and partnered brands in key therapeutic fields, including Dermatology, Primary Care, Allergy/Respiratory, Cardiovascular, Select Specialty Care, Men’s Health and Consumer Health.

For further information, please visit: www.menariniapac.com.

Making people happy with Happiest Pinoy Search

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Cebuana Lhuillier's Search for the Happiest Pinoy aims to find and recognize the country’s most optimistic and resilient Filipinos despite life’s challenges in the hopes of inspiring other people to do the same. 

Here's featuring one winner who is very thankful for being recognized by Cebuana Lhuillier as the Happiest Pinoy two years ago and shares that nowadays, his loved ones and endeavours are what keeps him inspired, thankful and happy in life. Still happy to make people happy.

Rommel Arellano with General Manager of Cebuana Lhuillier
Insurance Solutions Jonathan Batangan

Rommel Arellano is not your average person. At the age of 1, he was stricken withpoliomyelitis. Since then, his only means of walking and moving about were his arms and hands covered with slippers. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, Rommel brushed off discrimination and determined to accomplish feats even able-bodied people would find challenging. This included becoming successful in different jobs—from working as aninsurance agent, disc jockey, emcee, singer and musician, to being a call center agent, resource speaker and school guidance counselor. But these accomplishments pale in comparison to the greatest achievement Rommel has so far done—help other people despite his condition, influencing them to be optimistic despite problems and infecting them with a positive attitude and a profound sense of happiness. 

Rommel Arellano during his acceptance speech at the 2nd Happiest Pinoy awards

“My family, friends, and my organization are truly the things that I am thankful for. These are the things that keep me doing and loving what I do.” Today, the 37-year-old native of Limay, Bataan still works as a counsellor at the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, providing guidance and advice for abused, neglected, battered, and disabled people. He is also the president of the Organization of Persons with Disability in his community. 

“I still make people happy by sharing my life’s struggles and victory. Every time I talk to people, and I see them smile, I know that I have somehow eased their burden and that smile could be a sign of hope.” With the upcoming Cebuana Lhuiller’s Search for the Happiest Pinoy 2014, Rommel believes there will never be a shortage of nominees to the country’s happiest competition. 

“Filipinos are known for being survivors despite various circumstances. We also have an unwavering faith in God that lets us move mountains. These are enough inspiration to make us happy.”

This feat has won for Rommel the Search for the Happiest Pinoy award in 2012 and the grand prize of P250,000 cash.

#BetterTogether ! Let's Celebrate real-world connections with McDonald’s and Coca-Cola!

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Partners McDonald’s and Coca-Cola celebrates with us in the real-world connections! People nowadays have a lot of options when it comes to interacting with one another. All the advancements in technology, smartphones and gadgets allow us to communicate online via messaging apps and social networking sites. 

And more often than not, more connections start happening in the digital world than in the real one. 

This is why these two iconic, global brands and long-time partners, McDonald’s and Coca-Cola, which champion happiness, enjoyment and togetherness, are taking a stand and encouraging people to stay offline a little longer and enjoy real-world connections.

And as embracing online connections, McDonald’s and Coca-Cola believe it is our physical interactions which make our digital lives more meaningful—that real-life moments, such as hearing a story in person, receiving a warm hug and sharing a McDonald’s meal and Coke drink face-to-face, are those which create lasting memories.

“McDonald’s and Coca-Cola have been partners for close to 60 years, together providing millions of customers great tasting food and beverages best shared together”, said McDonald’s Philippines President and CEO, Kenneth Yang. “Today, together as well, McDonald’s and Coca-Cola are taking a stand that real-life connections fuel our digital lives and enrich our relationships”, added Coca-Cola Philippines President and General Manager, Guillermo Aponte.

We really have fun and enjoyed with real-connections last Monday, April 7, 2014 as McDonald's and Coca-Cola celebrates with bloggers and celebrities and treats us with BFF Bundles, held at McDonald's Eton Centris Quezon Ave. Edsa. 

Inviting people to create these genuine moments of connection, McDonald’s and Coca-Cola are introducing the new BFF Bundles, an exciting menu offering designed to be shared among friends and family.

With the BFF Bundles for just Php 399 for a group of three or Php 559 for a group of four, customers can customize their bundled offers, choosing between their favorite McDonald’s products. 

With the BFF Burger Bundle, customers can choose from seven of their favorite McDonald’s Burgers and enjoy them with the new BFF Fries, big enough for the entire gang to enjoy together, and a refreshingly ice-cold Regular Coke for each one.

Friends who prefer Chicken McDo can opt for the BFF Chicken Bundle and choose between 1pc Chicken McDo and McSpaghetti or 2pc Chicken McDo with rice, complete with BFF Fries and Regular Coke.

For a delicious shared snack, those who constantly find themselves wanting to get their hands on McDonald’s World Famous Fries paired perfectly the Coke McFloat, Coca-Cola drink topped with soft serve vanilla and chocolate syrup, the BFF Fries and Float combo is theirs to enjoy for an affordable price of only Php 150. 

So what are you waiting for? Head to the McDonald’s store nearest you, call 86-2-36 or log on to www.mcdelivery.com.ph to enjoy quality time with your friends over the newest BFF Bundles. 

Tell us how you’re celebrating real-world connections by using the hashtag #BetterTogether.

Join the Philippines’ Biggest Music Event of the Year – the 7107 International Music Festival!

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7107 International Music Festival will be rocking the Philippines this February 22-23, 2014.

7107, which represents the number of islands in the Philippines is organized by a team spearheaded by individuals who are well-versed in the entertainment, events and music industries.

7107 International Music Festival is a two-day outdoor music festival happening at the Global Gateway Logistics City in Clark, Pampanga.

According to Mr. Jeff Pradhan, GGLC Vice President for Sales & Marketing, the event will be a wonderful opportunity to showcase Clark and Central Luzon as an alternative venue for major events and activities outside Manila. He also said that GGLC with CDC is in support to “putting the best show in a site that is accessible”, noting that Clark has a land area that could accommodate events of this magnitude. 

The said music festival is expected to draw a crowd of 20,000 to 30,000 coming from the region and different parts of the country.

The organizer, 7107 posted in their official Facebook page the line-up of the artists performing in the two-day music festival which includes: Red Hot Chili Peppers, Empire of the Sun, The Asteriods Galaxy Tour, Red Jumpsuit Aparatus, and local bands like Up Dharma Down, Radio Active Sago Project, among others. According to Mike Pio Roda, Co-Founder of 7107, the crowd should expect “…something they haven’t seen in the Philippines”. He added that they are inviting around 20 international acts to perform in the festival. The event organized by 7107 in coordination with the Clark Development Corporation will take place at the Global Gateway Logistics City in Clark.

7107 International Music Festival is the music event of the year, with all your favorite bands and performers all in two days with one ticket purchase. Everything you will need to satisfy your music cravings will be in the festival, making it a once in a lifetime music event that you should not miss. 

The Philippines has recently seen the influx of concert parties—music lovers as well as partygoers come together to witness their favorite acts from all over the globe perform their favorite hit songs. With the crazy line-up of exciting bands and artists performing in the country, it is hard to choose which ones one should prioritize to see. The biggest enemy, in this case, will be limited time or resources, but fret no more because we have the solution.

7107 International Music Festival will be rocking the Philippines this February 22-23, 2014. 7107, which represents the number of islands in the Philippines is organized by a team spearheaded by individuals who are well-versed in the entertainment, events and music industries.

“It has been our personal mission to promote the Philippines; the islands, its talent, its culture and its music throughout the world,” shares Tina Herrera, the festival’s Executive Producer. “We are thrilled that 7107 International Music Festival will serve as unique platform for our local artists to shine side by side with legendary performers. Through this International Music Festival, we are able to push our local talent on to the world stage and open up avenues for local artists to collaborate with international acts, further pushing their music to a global audience.”

The festival is not just a night of performances but a two-day outdoor music festival featuring a spectacular line-up of bands from around the world. If you are not yet sold with the idea of a two-day concert, here are other reasons why 7107 IMF is the must-see concert party of the year:

It’s in Clark, Pampanga. You read that right. This festival will not be in the Metro so you won’t have to worry about the traffic, hustle and bustle going in and out of the venue. The festival will be held in Global Gateway Logistics City, a modern, state-of-the-art compound in Clark.

“We wanted enough room to play around with,” says Herrera. “With over 100 hectares of land, it is the perfect canvas to start the 7107 International Music Festival. Because we had tourism in mind when we started this project, we wanted to take concert goers away from their usual environment and give them a chance to do a bit of travelling.” 

Two days of international and local acts. Get ready to see international acts like Red Chili Peppers, Kaskade, Empire of the Sun, and Kendrick Lamar, plus performances from local artists such as Up Dharma Down, Kjwan and Radioactive Sago Project. With the spectacular and diverse lineup, we are sure that we have something to satisfy anyone’s musical craving!

Experience the tastes of the world. By taste, we mean food. There will be something for all kinds of taste buds; even those of the picky ones, as the festival will also house different concessionaires from all over. It brings together foodie favorites to the country’s culinary capital.

It boosts the country’s tourism. With different performances from around the globe packaged into two days, the festival will not only be attended by Filipinos but by people all over the world as well. The festival is slated to attract more than 20,000 concertgoers across Asia and Europe. 

“Tickets have sold well, even before the phase 2 lineup,” shares Herrera. “We’ve had sales from Canada, USA, Mexico, Spain, Germany, Turkey, India, Pakistan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, Taiwan, Beijing, New Zealand and others.” 

It’s for a good cause. Part of the proceeds of the festival will be used to rebuild, rehabilitate, and fund relief projects for the Typhoon Yolanda victims. This is a guilt-free concert party as the proceeds will go to HelpPH and the EJ Litton Foundation. 

According to Herrera, “We want 7107 International Music Festival to be a reminder to our countrymen that music moves, and help is on the way.”

With all these amazing things going on in the festival, you might get lost in your schedule or worse, in the venue. The 7107 team found a solution to your worries by introducing the 7107 International Music Festival smartphone application. 

“Our team has developed an app for the festival wherein attendees can keep track of what’s going on as well as get to know all the bands that will be present in the event,” shares Mike Pio Roda, Co-Founder and Producer. “Features of the app include tidbits about the performers, food and beverage, as well as the festival’s schedule of activities. Because there are two separate stages in the event, having this app makes it easier to track the bands you don't want to miss—where they’ll be, which stage, and at what time.”

The app allows you to create your own personalized schedule of your favorite acts and performers. You can also check out the vendors, retailers and attractions that will be present in the festival. All the things you will need to know will be right at your fingertips.

Proceeds from the event will go to survivors of the Super Typhoon Yolanda. - See more at: http://www.clarkisit.com/international-music-fest-set-clark-feb-2014/#sthash.tbQxSjkd.dpuf

Here are the ticket prices: 

General Admission: PHP 10000.00 

VIP ADMISSION: PHP 25000.00 

+Parking Pass: PHP 300.00 per day / PHP 600.00 for the weekend 

General Admission – Gets you access to all general areas for the entire weekend. 

VIP Admission – Gets you access to all general areas plus VIP bars, lounges, view deck and additional bathrooms for the entire weekend. 

VIP Table Packages: 

Php 300k table package + VAT include the following: 

10 VIP passes 

Exclusive toilets 

Php 50k consumable for both days

Premium bottle service 

Bar chow

Premium view of main stage 

Limited edition merchandise

Getting to Pampanga 

From Ninoy Aquino Airport to Pampanga: 1.5 hour drive

From Clark International Airport to Pampanga: 15-minute drive

From Angeles City to Pampanga: 15-minute drive 

Once You Arrive in Pampanga//Going to the Festival 

Complimentary shuttles will be provided by participating hotels, going to and from the venue. Please see Accommodations for a complete list.

Celebrate Happiness with McDonald’s at the BABY & FAMILY EXPO 2013

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Join the biggest family celebration at the BABY & FAMILY EXPO 2013 on December 06-08, 2013 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex. For more than three decades, McDonald’s has been the Filipino family’s first choice when it comes to sharing great tasting meals and creating memorable moments with one another. A huge part of the enjoyable experience McDonald’s creates for families is because of one of its most loved icons: the Happy Meal.

This coming Baby & Family Expo Philippines 2013, McDonald’s will bring this delightful experience to the biggest family event of the year.

After the successful first round of #BibongBaby photo contest, which gathered 300 entries, Baby & Family Expo 2013 will be capturing kid’s happiness through the #BibongBabyKiddie Edition. Entries can be submitted through the online photo contest application found at the Baby Expo Philippines Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/babyexpoph/app_599788450050788). The photo entry must show the kid ages 3-6 years old, holding the iconic McDonald’sHappy Meal Red Box. Weekly winners will be determined through online voting, while the grand winner will be judged based on the criteria identified by McDonald’s and a percentage from the number of likes. The winners will receive a McCelebrations package from McDonald’s.

Chief Happiness Officer Ronald McDonald, together with friends Grimace, Hamburglar and Birdie will be in attendance to play with the kids during the first day of the Baby & Family Expo 2013. Exciting games and prizes awaits the expo visitors. Across the three-day expo, McDonald’s will be exhibiting new themes of the McCelebrations.

Organized by MediaCom Solutions Inc. and co-presented by Cordlife, the country’s premier biggest family event of the year to nurture family development and child care dubbed as “Welcoming Life, Love and Care” will cover the stages of family growth from pregnancy, maternity, newborns, toddlers and early childhood. The event will also feature educational talks and seminars, fun-filled activities and exclusive discounts from over 200 exhibitors. 

Join the biggest family celebration for by registering for free at the Baby& Family Expo Philippines 2013 website http://babyexpo.ph/registration.php. 

For queries and updates, you can call +632.843.2174, 

email info@babyexpo.ph and join the community at 

http://www.facebook.com/babyexpoph and 

http://twitter.com/BabyExpoPH.

Blue Market : Weekend Markets at Ateneo

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Here's fun, festive, exciting, and enriching experience, and many things to different people!

In celebration of our silver jubilee, we, the Ateneo de Manila High School Class of 1987, bring you the Blue Market - a weekend fair with a twist. Not unlike the usual Saturday-Sunday bazaars full of great deals, curious finds, and gastronomic delights, the Blue Market serves up all that, and so much more. It is a special batch fundraising project, in support of social entrepreneurs, student business initiatives, and similar micro enterprises, for the benefit of the Tulong-Dunong Foundation and the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus.

Beyond providing a venue for buyers and sellers to come together, the Blue Market is a vehicle for helping social enterprises and student ventures take off at minimal cost, with a ready clientele. As a natural draw for members of the Ateneo community, as well as residents of neighboring villages such as Xavierville, La Vista, and the like, the Blue Market easily assures these incubating endeavors of a constant and loyal customer base. This gives them instant access to a large group of shoppers with tremendous purchasing power, and affords them a unique opportunity to understand, interact and build relationships with a broader spectrum of consumers they would otherwise have little chance of tapping.

For some, an innovative product or a particularly worthy advocacy may find favor with benefactors willing to throw their full support to see such ideas and undertakings to fruition. Aside from this, the Blue Market is also a valuable marketing resource. It can provide significant exposure to the various social enterprises via its website, and promote their products and services to an infinitely wider audience.

For market-goers, this is a chance for spending time with family, touching base with old friends, forging new partnerships, relaxing, unwinding, and sharing blessings while making great new finds and savoring the joys of shopping. It is a simple yet effective outlet for lending support to young companies and apostolate communities, and in so doing, taking part in nation-building and the empowerment of the less fortunate.

The Blue Market is many things to different people. It is a unique and solid launch pad for young, commercial undertakings. It is a practical learning lab for budding entrepreneurs. It is an arena for giving back to the community. It is a fun, festive, exciting, and enriching experience, where everyone can answer the Ignatian call towards being men and women for others.

The Blue Market, a fundraiser by the Ateneo de Manila High School Batch of `87, takes place November 17-18, and 24-25, between gates 1 and 2 of the Ateneo de Manila parking lot in front of the Blue Eagle Gym, right along Katipunan Avenue in Quezon City.   

Mr. Universe 1952 Turns 100, Manohar Aich Credits Healthy Lifestyle and Happiness

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Aich won the Mr. Universe international bodybuilding championship in 1952. He celebrated his 100th birthday on Sunday surrounded by children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren in Kolkata, an eastern city in India. Standing just 4 feet, 11 inches tall, Aich earned the nickname "Pocket Hercules," the Associated Press said in a report.

His lifestyle and a simple diet of milk, fruits and vegetables along with rice, lentils and fish have kept him healthy.  The bodybuilding trainer told the AP that he doesn't drink or smoke, and centenarian Manohar Aich credits his longevity to a healthy lifestyle in which he minimizes stress and focuses on happiness.

Aich turned to bodybuilding while he was imprisoned in the 1940s for opposing Britain's continued colonial rule of India. When he was released, he went on to compete as a bodybuilder, earning success in international competition that culminated with his taking the Mr. Universe title. On his return to India, he trained future bodybuilding champions. Aich traveled, competed and made a living. He has led a fulfilled life, while his wife took care of their children. 

Aich regrets never having met his fellow Mr. Universe, former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. He's seen many of the Governator's films. "I like the incredible stunts he does in the movies," Aich told the AP.

There is not much money in bodybuilding. "I didn't become rich, but there is respect. And for that, I wouldn't mind being a bodybuilder in my next life as well," he told the Indian Express newspaper.

(AP Photo/Bikas Das)

Billion-dollar Oreo cookie celebrates 100th birthday

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On its 100th birthday, Oreo, the world famous comfort food showed how a brand could withstand the test of time and forge an emotional connection with consumers.

People in at least 5 countries celebrated the centenary of the cookie with 2 black biscuits with a white (or cream) filling via flash mobs featuring "Happy Birthday!" songs. The first Oreo cookies were baked at the Nabisco factory Chelsea, New York on March 6, 1912.

Kraft Foods, which owns Nabisco, sells around 500 billion Oreo cookie every year generating $2 billion revenues and making it part of the elite roster of billion-dollar brands worldwide. (Philip Morris Companies, Inc. acquired Nabisco and merged it with Kraft Foods, Inc. in 2000. Kraft announced it was splitting making the snack food business a separate company in 2011)

In business schools, Oreo is a classic case study of a successful brand and is considered a "true innovation."

It allows consumers to "take ownership of the cookie" by encouraging consumers to be creative when eating them.

Through advertisements, Oreo was peddled as a cookie that could be dunked in milk, twisted apart, its cream slowly nibbled, or quickly gobbled as a whole. The idea that the cookie is ideal for sharing during precious moments with loved ones was also nurtured. 

It has the texture and flavors that appeal to all ages. An Oreo cookie is 29% creme and 71% cookie, according to one report.

"The simple act of enjoying an Oreo cookie and glass of milk continues to speak to a universal, human truth: inside of us, there's a kid that deserves to be set free every once in a while, John Ghingo, senior director for Oreo Global at Kraft, told BBC.

But it's not just food. In some schools, preschoolers learn to count as 10 little Oreos are dunked, nibbled and stacked one by one. To teach math, trivia questions are used. For example: If an Oreo cookie is 8 mm in height, how tall is a stack of 10 Oreos? 20 Oreos? All 51 Oreos (there are 51 in the standard 20-oz pack)?

Oreo's ads revolved around the “twist, lick, and dunk” ritual to support the integrated marketing strategy behind the brand. Below are some of the Oreo ads through the years.

Photo from http://www.nabiscoworld.com/oreo

A weekend of everything that flies at 17th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2012!

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Colors spread across the sky once again during the four days having fun at the 17th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2012!

The baloon fiesta starts at February 9 but we were joining the last day, Sunday February 12, excitingly got there at Clark Freeport Pampanga at 2:00 am but entrance starts at 4:00 am. Watching different designs and shapes of hot air balloons get inflated starts 5:30 am,  burst with fire and finally fly up up  and away to the sky! It is fun and thrilling!


At around 6 am  the Philppine National anthem was played with a sky jumper carrying a Philippine Flag.
There were hot air balloons designs from a panda,  dog, a huge ice cream, pretty big flower and looking yummy beautiful cake!

This event features not just the most colorful hottest balloons but also different aerial exhibitions such as sky diving , aircraft flight demonstration , Aerobic Airshow, aeromodelling, ultralights, paragliding, kite flying, airsoft speedball and more.

Exciting seeing endless paraglider of commercial planes and light plane flybys and sky diving.

Many groups of families, groups of friends, kids, couples, people had their picnic and enjoying and flying their kites.


The air field was full with stalls selling mostly memorabilia, miniature hot air balloons, shirts, and many more. There were photo booths,  tattoo booths and even dressed-up cars. There were exhibits from Canon and Caltex.

We witnessed the  15th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2010  We missed the 16th Fiesta but we will assure to be back next year for the 18th !

It’s a fun and enjoying weekend of everything that flies!