Saint Teresa of Calcutta Awards recognizes Fr. Peter Geremia, missionary for 47 years of saintly work

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The Saint Teresa of Calcutta Awards (STCA), one of the most celebrated award giving bodies in the country, has culminated this year’s search for the most impactful humanitarian with the awarding of Fr. Peter Geremia. 

An annual Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Award (BTCA) is given to selfless individuals who have served the poorest of the poor as inspired by the life of the late Mother Teresa of Calcutta. 

The awards ceremony, which centered on theme “30 years of Saintly Selflessness,” was held in conjunction to STCA’s 30th anniversary at the RCBC Plaza Yuchengco Tower in Makati. It was attended by representatives from non-government organizations, philanthropists, public servants, as well as members and officers of JCI Manila and the AY Foundation. 

Formerly known as the Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Awards, the STCA recognizes individuals who have devoted at least 25 years of their lives to serve underprivileged and underserved Filipinos. Aside from their work, awardees are also judged based on their character and adherence to Saint Teresa’s principles of integrity and simplicity in lifestyle.

Fr. Peter Geremia

This year’s STCA awardee is Fr. Peter Geremia, a 78-year old Italian missionary from the Pontifical Institute for Foreign missions or Pontificium Institutum pro Missionibus Exteris (PIME) who has been instrumental in promoting the rights and living conditions of both marginalized and indigenous people’s for 47 years. He relocated to the Philippines in 1972 and was initially assigned in Tondo. 

Early in his service, Fr. Geremia already supported and fought for the needs of minority groups beginning with informal settlers who protested during the La Tondena strike. Fearless for his life, he also stood up against the Manero brothers and their group of North Cotabato who were known to commit atrocities against people connected to the New People’s Army. 

Later on, Fr. Geremia and his group also spearheaded efforts to elevate the living conditions of indigenous tribes who were oftentimes deprived of their ancestral land. His group ensured that these tribes were trained in agricultural production so they could sustain themselves, provided with food and land security, and had peace in their immediate communities.

His compassion and determination to help these minorities soon garnered him the Aurora Aragon Quezon Peace Award for Peace through Paritcipatory Development in 2001. Fr. Geremia has helped thousands of people through his efforts, particularly the Lumads. His invaluable contribution even earned him the nickname the “Living Saint of the Lumads.”

He is currently the president of the Fr. Fausto “Pops” Tentorio Foundation Inc. which enables people to have access to education, health services, agricultural production, environmental protection and the sustainable building of multicultural communities that espouse mutual respect, justice, peace and solidarity. 

Through this recognition from STCA, Fr. Geremia will be able to expand his organization’s reach and help improve the lives of more underprivileged Filipinos. He will receive a cash grant of one million Pesos (PHP1,000,000.00), at least half of which will be donated to his charitable institution of choice.

Through selfless individuals like Fr. Geremia, STCA hopes to inspire more people, particularly the youth, to be more involved and active in their communities.

“It is through selfless individuals like Fr. Peter Geremia that we at STCA believe we can truly impact change in the community. By looking outside of ourselves and reaching out to others, we can truly uplift the spirits of those who are not only in need but of the entire country as well,” said Jerrold Ong, 2017 Chairman of the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award. 

Vivo Ph launch Vivo V5 Plus - the world's first smartphone with 20mp dual-front camera

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Top five premium global brand Vivo taps Stephen Curry to endorse V5 Plus, with the world’s first 20MP dual front camera

Vivo Philippines finally launched the Vivo V5 Plus in a star-studded event last January 21 at the SM Mall of Asia Atrium.

After months of speculation and leaks on specifications of the newest and most advanced selfie phone in the market, Vivo V5 Plus was  unveiled and has brought excitements to all to experience the most advanced selfie technology. Full specifications of the much-awaited selfie phone were released during the much-awaited launch.

The perfect selfie phone is the newest flagship model of Vivo, the top five global smartphone premium brand, ideal for today’s selfie age, when millennials and even adults enjoy sharing beautifully-captured self-shots with the world of social media.

The Vivo V5 Plus is Vivo’s newest flagship model, equipped with the world’s first 20-megapixel dual front camera, and advanced selfie features. 

Stephen Curry, NBA basketball superstar, is the official endorser of all Vivo phones, including the Vivo V5 Plus perfect selfie phone. 

Basketball superstar Stephen Curry is the official endorser of all Vivo phones, including the Vivo V5 Plus. The NBA star earlier said he believes in the brand’s values—energy, professionalism and pleasure—all embodied in its newest flagship model. 

Most advanced selfie-technology to date

Equipped with what is, so far, the most advanced selfie technology, Vivo V5 Plus has the world’s first-ever dual front-facing cameras.

The primary front camera, a 20-megapixel IMX376, was co-engineered with top electronics company, Sony, while the secondary 8-megapixel camera was designed to collect depth-of-field information for improved self-portrait quality. 

The Vivo V5 Plus boasts an advanced selfie technology that features a ‘bokeh’ effect—a background-blurring photography filter. This is complemented by Vivo’s enhanced face beauty algorithm that allows users to take radiant selfies with no need for editing or correction, and ‘selfie soft light’ which makes selfie-taking possible even in poor lighting conditions. 

As for its rear camera, Vivo V5 Plus features an impressive 1/2.8-inch 16-megapixel sensor for ultra-clear and high-quality photos.

Sound, speed and style

Aside from its stunning camera features, the Vivo V5 Plus boasts a superior sound system, using the same Hi-Fi system of Vivo’s recent flagship models, and perfected in over two years—the AK4376. 

Equipped with 4GB RAM, 64GB ROM, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 processor, the new Vivo model is capable of performing multiple phone tasks in a speedy and efficient manner. For a unique touch, the phone runs on Vivo’s very own Funtouch 3.0 operating system, based on Android 6.0.

The Vivo V5 Plus also features an updated fingerprint recognition technology, allowing users to unlock the phone in just 0.2 seconds. Its fast-charging feature is also expected to come in handy for most users. 

Style-wise, the Vivo V5 Plus has a 5.5-inch large display, with an ultra-slim bezel technology, and is made of 5th generation Coring Gorilla glass with enhanced resistance. 

Finally, the V5 Plus has a dome-style, 1.8 mm wide u-shaped antenna for better signal reception and, at the same time, a more stylish exterior design. 

Celebrity-filled launch

The big reveal was attended by Vivo executives and partners, local celebrities, and top technology, lifestyle and fashion bloggers. Likewise, representatives from the top print, television and online media attended the much-awaited big reveal.

Singer KZ Tandingan and Pinoy Boyband Superstar’s Tony Labrusca and James Ryan Cesena entertained guests with lively music during the event.

Pinoy Boyband Superstar’s Tony Labrusca and James Ryan Cesena 

KZ Tandingan entertained guests 

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

PH largest drugstore chain Mercury Drug opens stores to FINE Japan’s Premium HyC150

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Premium HyC150, the secret weapon every woman or man desires to keep looking young, physically fit and feeling good, continues to expand its reach to make it accessible to more Filipinos. 

This modern-day “fountain of youth” is now sold at selected Mercury Drug stores in Metro Manila. As an exclusive offer, Premium HyC 150 comes with an additional one free sachet worth P 125 when you buy at selected Mercury Drug stores.

Made by FINE Japan Co. Ltd., one of Japan’s most trusted manufacturing firms, HyC150 is an award-winning food supplement that effectively combines Collagen with the hydrating power of Hyaluron for younger and healthier looking skin. 

Collagen is HyC150’s age-defying ingredient that helps keep the skin young looking, supple and smooth by slowing down the aging process and fights the negative effects of too much exposure to sunlight and pollution. Hyaluronic Acid, meanwhile, helps lubricate the bones, joints and eye tissues and maintains healthy gums. It also complements Collagen by nourishing and hydrating the skin, and even the scalp to promote healthy and glossy hair, plus regulates protein for faster wound healing.

HyC150 also contains other active ingredients such as Ubiquinol, Vitamin C, Biotin, Elastin and Pearl Coix. These nutrients are needed by the body to complete HyC150’s youthful effects all over the body. In clinical trials conducted in Japan, North America and Europe, about 93 percent of users of Premium HyC150 reported improved hair, nails and skin with continued use.

Aside from Premium HyC150, other products of FINE Japan Co. Ltd. include the revolutionary FINE Etiquette Rose, an oral perfume supplement that is very effective in removing body odor – whether for men or women. It is more cost effective than buying expensive perfumes in the market and the effects of smelling good from within is longer. Another FINE product is FINE Turmeric Extract that helps keep the liver healthy against cholesterol. Turmeric is also widely known to help control blood sugar levels especially for people suffering from diabetes. 

FINE also boasts of its unique whitening food supplement that is 100% organic with FINE Organic Pearl Coix. Purely made from Adlay seeds, also known as Job’s Tears, this product is the only one of its kind in the market today, used by many Japanese men and women for many years to keep skin fair, smooth, and luminous. For teenagers, FINE Pearl Coix helps control acne for blemish-free skin. For young adults, 100% Organic Pearl Coix has more health benefits aside from brightening the skin. This food supplement also aids digestion and is known to help prevent cancer. 

Visit the HyC 150 website and go Ask A Doctor to know more about beauty and wellness from our medical experts. 

For more information, log on to www.HyC150.com; 

“Like”  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HyC150; 

follow Twitter #HyC150 or Instagram @HyC150, or 

call (02)546-7297, (02)861-6298, or 0917-7750779.

3rd SEASON OF FOOD HERO SET TO RAISE THE BAR IN 2016! : Be the next food host on Asian Food Channel and Food Network Asia!

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Asian Food Channel and Food Network’s hunt for the next food host is expected to draw fierce competition across Asia-Pacific.  Now looking for a great host with a passion for food and travel, who also has outstanding skills in the kitchen.

The digitally-enabled competition expects to surpass past seasons’ participation numbers and increase engagement among food lovers in the region

Food Hero is a digitally-enabled campaign by Asian Food Channel and Food Network Asia to looking for talent that is passionate about food and travel, and aspire to be on television! Interested participants can download the Food Hero mobile app from either the App Store (on Apple) and Google Play (on Android) to submit their entries for selection. All you need to do is to shoot a 3-minute video of yourself either cooking or introducing a dish and upload it onto the Food Hero mobile app. Submissions close August 21. Share your food story today! 

The search for the region’s best home cook and host kicks off in Asia as Food Hero returns in its third season. Building upon the momentum and success from previous seasons, the digitally-enabled competition will look to crown one winner who will go on to host his or her own Asian Food Channel and/or Food Network programme. 

“As the leader in lifestyle programming with two dedicated regional channels focused on food, we are always looking to grow our pool of on-air and digital talent. Continuing the Food Hero competition is not only a great platform to uncover fresh talent, it is also a great way for our viewers to connect over the common passion point around the love for food,” said Carl Zuzarte, Senior Vice President of Programming and Production at Scripps Networks Interactive, Asia-Pacific.

Food Hero 2016 – 5 Simple Steps to Participate! 

1- Interested participants can download the Food Hero mobile app from either App Store (on Apple) or Google Play (on Android).  

2- After downloading, participants will be prompted to register their information to sign in. 

3- The mobile app provides instructional videos and tips on how to shoot and submit a winning entry. Participants can also draw inspiration from various recipes from past contestants and watch previous Food Hero winners share their food story.  

4- Participants can record their entry that best demonstrates their cooking and hosting skills.  

5- They can then upload their video entry and also view submissions by other participants. 

Upon closing of competition on 21st August (three months period to submit entries), a panel comprising of production and creative experts will evaluate the entries based on the participant’s personality, on-screen appeal and their creativity in producing original and engaging content. Top entries will be shortlisted to participate in a series of culinary and travel-related challenges to better evaluate them in ‘live’ scenarios. 

Last year, Ili Sulaiman from Malaysia and Debbie Wong from Hong Kong overcame fierce competition and was crowned Food Hero 2015 champions, joining the likes of TV hosts Sarah Benjamin (Singapore) and Michele Lean (Malaysia) who won the first edition of the competition. 

“The moment I realized I wanted to make a career out of food was probably when I saw Martin Yan on TV and I remember thinking that’s exactly what I want to be. Someone who’s passionate about food and sharing their food story with the world,” said Wong, who has since hosted a number of Food Network productions like Food Wars Asia Season 2 and Kitchen Quickies.

“I took part the first time around and I didn’t get through but being the winner for Food Hero last year has opened many doors for me and given me the confidence to host my own shows and better run my own establishment,” said Sulaiman who owns ‘DISH by Ili’, a food delivery service providing wholesome and nutritious meals in Malaysia.

Starting today, interested participants can visit www.foodhero.asia and sign up for the Food Hero mailing list to receive the latest updates and exclusive content leading up to the competition.

www.asianfoodchannel.com 

www.facebook.com/asianfoodchannel

www.foodnetworkasia.com 

www.facebook.com/foodnetworkasia

Double Sticky Awards for TPB

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The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) received two Sticky Awards from Travel Trade Gazette (TTG) Asia Media at the recently concluded Incentives Travel & Conventions, Meetings Asia (IT&CMA) and Corporate Travel World (CTW) Asia-Pacific 2015 held in Bangkok, Thailand. 

TPB won the Stickiest National Pavilion Bronze Award for its impressive pavilion during the three-day event and the Stickiest Function Award for hosting the grandest dinner for the delegates. 

The Sticky Awards recognizes the most exciting, creative, innovative, and effective products, promotions and personalities at the IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific. The winners were chosen by the delegates using the official voting forms.

The IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific is the world’s only double-bill event in meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) and corporate travel. IT&CMA aims to foster MICE growth opportunities for the Asia-Pacific and beyond while CTW Asia-Pacific is dedicated to cultivating Travel & Entertainment (T&E) best practices among Asia-Pacific’s corporate travel professionals. IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific is held in Bangkok, Thailand every year to provide delegates an unparalleled platform to network, do business and discuss travel and tourism issues.

To learn more exciting and award-winning events happening this year, check out www.visitph2015.com. 

The "King of Talk" Boy Abunda joins GoodAh!!! family

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Photo: https://instagram.com/msmyrnz/

The first-ever and only all-native Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) in the country,  Goodah!!! is the one coined the term Tapsi to refer to an order of tapa and sinangag. The addition of a fried egg to a rice meal resulted in the staple that is now commonly known as tapsilog.

Here's the latest news, the "King of Talk" in local show business, Boy Abunda is now a member of GoodAh!!! family.

Goodah!!! is welcoming the Philippine television host, publicist, talent manager, celebrity endorser and well known Boy Abunda into Goodah!!!, where he was a regular customer since was just starting his career in the 1980s. He shared that this 25-hour quick-service restaurant that served rice meals and congee has been his favorite restaurant.

Boy’s favorite at GoodAh!!! has always been its bistek, the favorite Pinoy dish of stir-fried tender beef marinated in soy sauce and citrus.

Last Wednesday, September 16, 2015, Boy share his secret food recipe to media guests held in Goodah!!! at Metrowalk, Ortigas, Pasig City.  He knows his way around the kitchen, has his own recipe for bistek that he is sharing with GoodAh!!!. In fact, the restaurant has adopted Boy’s version of bistek for its restaurants and is renaming it as GoodAh!!! Boy’s Bistek in his honor. 

GoodAh!!! was a concept ahead of its time in the local dining industry when it opened 33 years ago. In fact, its tagline “Open 25 hours” is an assurance that people from all walks of life, from office workers to jeepney drivers, had a place to go to no matter the time of day or night for their fix of lugaw and goto, and popular breakfast fare, namely tapa, tocino and longanisa.

Through the years, its menu expanded to include a variety of Filipino favorites that are now staples in eateries and restaurants throughout the country. Aside from tapsilog, there is tosilog, longsilog, adsilog (adobo, sinangag at itlog), and bangsilog (daing na bangus, sinangag at itlog). 

That’s why when Boy was invited to become a business partner of Goodah!!!, he did not hesitate in accepting the offer. In a way, it was his life coming full circle: from regular customer to business partner at the restaurant he loved.

Goodah!!! is now being reintroduced to a new market of Pinoy diners who seek value-for- money meals.

After 33 years, GoodAh!!! is set to redefine the restaurant landscape with its patented brand of quick meals and personalized service with a casual dining ambience. It is a dining institution that today’s millennials will surely embrace with its delicious value-for-money meals, just as many Pinoy food lovers have in the past.

GoodAh!!! already has six branches located at the following: 

-  129 Doña Soledad Ave., Better Living Subd., Brgy. Don Bosco, Parañaque City; 

-  Eastwood located at Unit 10 2nd Floor, Eastwood Citywalk 2, E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Quezon City;

- Gate 5 located at Caltex Station EDSA Cor. Connecticut, Greenhills, San Juan; 

-  Market Market located at Unit 8 and 9 Ground Floor, Fiesta Market, Ext 3 32nd St corner C5, Brgy. Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City;

-  Metrowalk located at D9 Bldg. D South Drive, Metrowalk Compound Meralco Ave., Ortigas, Pasig City and at 

-  Sucat located at Block 5 Lot 25 Presidents Ave., Teoville Subd., Brgy BF Homes, Parañaque City. 

GoodAh!!! also delivers. Call 4-707070 for your order of tapsilog and GoodAh!!! Boy’s Bistek. 

You may also visit our website www.goodah.com.ph/, like our Facebook page at facebook.com/GoodahPh and follow us on Twitter (twitter.com/GoodahPh) and IG (instagram.com/GoodahPH). 

For franchise inquiries, call 09279095897 or email us at franchising@goodah.com.ph.

Leon Gallery's Magnificent September Auction 2015 highlights early works with fascinating histories; Rare finds, Objet d'art, and Contemporary pieces

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Early works with fascinating histories; Rare finds, Objet d'art, and Contemporary pieces highlight Leon Gallery's Magnificent September Auction 2015.

For the Magnificent September Auction 2015 of Leon Gallery located at the G/F, Eurovilla 1, Rufino corner Legazpi Streets, Legazpi Village, Makati City, happening on Saturday, September 12, 2015, at 2 PM, art pieces with fascinating histories, early works from first solo-exhibitions, Objet d'art, and cutting-edge contemporary works highlight this much-awaited sale.

Two artworks from the respective early shows of Anita Magsaysay-Ho – “Boti! Garapa!” circa 1946 – and Benedicto Cabrera – “Scavenger” from 1966 – each with fascinating histories and back stories, are sure to delight discriminating collectors.

As part of the post-war rehabilitation efforts of the Commonwealth government of President Sergio Osmena, with the aim to reconstruct our damaged cultural institutions and the “renascent vigor of Philippine culture,” an exhibition of paintings of Anita Magsaysay-Ho – 47 artworks in all, including the oil on wood work “Boti! Garapa!” – was held at the United States Information Library in Intramuros on February 23 to March 10, 1946 with First Lady Esperanza Osmena as Guest of Honor during the opening reception. 

Galo B. Ocampo, who at that time was the Chief of the Art Section, Office of the President, and incidentally, her classmate at UP, described the choice of Anita thus: “In the paintings of Miss Magsaysay, one sees an exceptionally gifted artist who will go on hurdling the obstacles that stand on the way.”

Meanwhile in 1966, all of 24 years old, Benedicto Cabrera – or Bencab as the artist is more popularly known – together with his brother Salvador and friends Bibsy Carballo and Francisco Navarro, opened the Indigo Gallery in Mabini with his first solo show of some sixteen artworks, including this piece “Scavenger”. 

Debuting as well at this juncture was "Sabel" – the most recognized subject to appear in Bencab's canvas, a real life vagabond who used to roam around Bambang district in Sampaloc where the artist grew up. 

It is fascinating to note that Magsaysay-Ho's “Boti! Garapa!” was retrieved from a garage sale for the trifling sum of 20 US dollars and Bencab's “Scavenger” was found at a Salvation Army sale for 4.99 US dollars! 

An untitled work by Juan Luna – signed and dated 1884, oil on canvas – and featuring a comely European lady depicted in full figure in the formal dress of the time, bares importance. It was acquired by National Artist Carlos Quirino, then the aid-de-camp of President Elpidio Quirino, during the latters State Visit to Spain in 1951.

Two pieces by Romulo Olazo, preeminent modernist master, from his Diaphanous series, whose recent passing surprised the art word, stand as testaments to his indomitable commitment and devotion to his craft. 

“Sin Titulo”, Fernando Zobel's stunning oil on canvas work from 1963 is one of the largest and more complex art pieces by Zobel to come out of this period. The resulting work presents a totally different approach to canvas, all the more ethereal and sophisticated. 

A pair of silver Paliteras (Palilleras) from the Suarez-Joven family of Bacolor Pampanga, harkens to bygone, halcyon era – the 1850's – of refined and elegant living. 

Capping our survey is a powerful round-up of contemporary art pieces led by Ronald Ventura with his untitled work from 2010 and a series in mixed media from 2005 and 2006. Jigger Cruz's “Wandering Carnival” signed and dated 2015 bares his trademark agitated, viscous style of deliberate defacement. 

Rodel Tapaya with his “The Fairy's Flower Garden” is a powerful narrative where his vivid renditions give to form what we ourselves imagine. 

Truly, regardless of appreciation, inclination, and persuasion, there are artworks and pieces certain to delight various collectors in our Magnificent September Auction 2015.

The Leon Gallery Magnificent September Auction 2015 will be held on September 12, 2015, Saturday, 2 PM at the G/F, Eurovilla 1, Rufino corner Legazpi Streets, Legazpi Village, Makati City. For more details, visit http://leon-gallery.com/ | info@leon-gallery.com | +632 856 2781

Some Photos : Arts & Travel Magazine

PLDT, Voyager launch concierge service of social commerce platform TackThis!

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Online store creator to help more Filipino businesses go digital

Most businesses in the Philippines - large and small - recognize the potential of eCommerce, but only few are ready for the unique challenges that come with selling to customers online.

To address this gap, Voyager Innovations (Voyager), the digital unit of PLDT and Smart, together with PLDT Alpha and PLDT SME Nation, has launched today its premium concierge service for online store creator TackThis! to over a thousand partner businesses so they can quickly and efficiently build their own branded digital commerce footprint that incorporates a seamless social shopping experience for customers.

As a platform, TackThis! enables businesses to set up their online shops in just a matter of minutes. They can then “tack” their store to Facebook and other websites and the platform facilitates the customer’s entire digital commerce journey - beginning from the point of order, through the management of inventory, and ending with fulfillment and payment.

The premium concierge service aims to enable larger retailers who need a more comprehensive suite of features on top of the basic offerings of TackThis! Together with the wide array of solutions from PLDT Alpha and PLDT SME Nation, TackThis! is seen to further boost digital commerce in the country. 

“At Voyager, we believe that eCommerce is one of the building blocks of the digital economy. TackThis! is already changing eCommerce as it integrates the social shopping experience. Meanwhile, our partners can benefit from the one-stop solution that TackThis! provides, including our enhanced concierge service,” said Mitch Padua, vice president and head of digital commerce at Voyager Innovations.

“The premium concierge service gives retailers an end-to-end service that streamlines their online store requirements. This way, businesses don’t have to allocate huge resources in maintaining their online stores. TackThis! allows them to focus on what they know best: selling their products,” said Kat Luna-Abelarde, First Vice President and Head of PLDT SME Business.

The advanced features that come as a part of the concierge service include professional services for an effortless online store creation as well as hassle-free store management of logistics, payments and customer service via a team of TackThis! Ambassadors.

The concierge service also includes store marketing via placement on Takatack, the sister site of TackThis! Takatack is now the largest online shopping discovery platform that aggregates and promotes not only offerings from the thousands of merchants who have established their online shops through TackThis!, but also products from other online stores and retailers in the country including Rocket Internet-backed Zalora and Lazada.

Tackthis! has over 30,000 merchants in Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines with more than 400 merchants already part of the premium Tackthis! Concierge Program - an end to end solution tailored to get retailers selling online quickly.

An industry trend analysis released by BMI Research last July estimated that 82% of all Internet users in the country or around 22 million Filipinos shop online. Retail sales account for USD207 billion but only 0.6% accounts for online retail.

The growth rate for eCommerce is high. A 2014 study by Ken Research estimates that Philippine eCommerce can expect a 101.4% annual growth rate from 2013 through 2018 due to increasingly heavier Internet usage and mobile penetration.

Out of the over one million registered businesses in the country, it is estimated that only 1% have a website. In the past, a company would have had to hire a large development and operations team to establish their digital footprint. TackThis! provides the simplicity and ease of having an online store. TackThis! aims to help businesses tap into this huge opportunity to reach more Filipinos going and shopping online. 

To know more about TackThis!, please visit: www.tackthis.com.ph/

To know more about Takatack, please visit: www.takatack.com/

Vanness Wu delighted fans during the launch of Levis'Women’s Denim Collection 2015

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Asian Superstar Vanness Wu gave an unforgettable performance at the launch of the new Levi’s Women’s Denim Collection for Fall 2015 on Friday, July 31, held at the Valkyrie in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Amazing night for everybody, Mei Zuo, one of the F4 in Taiwanese series “Meteor Garden”, Vanness Wu, and judge of “Asia’s Got Talent” is back in Manila after 11 years to grace the Levi's launch. 

The 36-year-old Taiwanese-American pop star Vanness Wu delighted fans on Friday with his answer to one of the questions thrown at him after the first performance for a local fashion show.

After his pandemonium performance and when he was asked how he describe his fans in three words,  he surprisingly replied in Filipino - "‪‎maganda‬ ‪, masarap‬‪ and mahal ko‬."

Vanness said "You guys are just so amazing, you are some of the most warmhearted people I've really met. And every time I meet Filipinos and Filipinas, they are just super, super awesome."

Fans were over joyed and cheers as he continued his song performances with dance moves.

Discover Southeast Asia’s top backpacking destinations with Cebu Pacific

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Cruise the mighty Mekong River in Laos and discover the cities, towns and temples along its shores.

More than just an inexpensive way to travel, backpacking is an exhilarating and enriching way to truly experience a destination. It compels travelers to go beyond their comfort zones, deviate from the usual tourist route, live the way locals do, and make friends along the way.

Cebu Pacific Air, with its low fares and network, empowers travel enthusiasts to satiate their wanderlust and explore the best backpacking destinations of Southeast Asia. The airline offers multi-city tickets that allow you to fly to one country and depart from another, maximizing your trip.

Bangkok, the backpackers’ hub.

A backpacker favorite, Bangkok consistently lives up to its reputation as one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world. Eclectic in its offerings and highly accessible from other destinations, it is the usual starting point for many travelers who crisscross the region. Spending at least two nights here should be enough to explore the city’s lively street markets, spectacular temples, and the nightlife in the famed Khao San Road.

Sunny beaches and party nights at Thailand’s south.

Koh Phi Phi, often referred to as Thailand’s most beautiful island, is located in Krabi province around 12 hours from Bangkok or a two-hour ferry ride from Phuket. The island shot to fame among adventure seekers when the film “The Beach” was shot there more than a decade ago. Accommodations start from as low as 50-100 baht a night. Another Southern Thailand hotspot among budget travelers is Krabi, a group of islands off the Andaman Coast. From Phi Phi, it takes about 1.5 hours by ferry. It is a town visited by those looking for nature activities such as rock climbing. Khao Kanab Nam, the most iconic of its attractions, is composed of two karst rocks situated next to each other.

Once among the most powerful kingdoms in Southeast Asia, Ayutthaya in Thailand is now a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws tourists in because of its magnificent ancient structures. 

The cultural and laidback North Thailand. 

Complementing the vivacious energy of the South, the Northern part of Thailand offers a more laidback charm with its cultural attractions, relaxing vibe, and cooler weather. Just two hours by bus from Bangkok is Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand and a stunning city filled with ancient temples and religious structures. Three rivers—the Chao Phraya, the Lopburi, and the Pa Sak Rivers—converge here. The most enjoyable way to get around the ancient ruins is by bicycle, although tuk-tuks are also available to take visitors around the complex. The largest and most culturally significant city in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai can be reached directly by train from Bangkok. Aside from its quiet and relaxing atmosphere that contrasts the hustle and bustle of the capital, a lot of people come here for jungle trekking, elephant encounters, and adventurous activities.

Scenic small-town life in Laos. Laos’ appeal lies in its vast wilderness and rich culture. 

This country used to be isolated after years of war, but is now gaining cult status among travelers from all over the world. Vientiane, the capital, is accessible from Bangkok by train or by bus from Chiang Mai. The city serves as the starting point to other destinations in Laos. Spending one night here should be enough to recharge one’s energy because of the relaxing small town atmosphere. After doing a round of the temples, a great way to experience this river town is to watch the sun set by the Mekong River.Meanwhile, Luang Prabang is a colorful hodgepodge of traditional Lao wooden houses and what remains of its French colonial past. Set underneath a temple-topped hill, Luang Prabang is also known for its monks who line the streets to collect their only meal for the day. A bit farther away from Bangkok, it is a great take-off point for travelers who want to proceed to Hanoi in Vietnam.

The last and most enduring capital city of the Khmer empire, Angkor Thom in Cambodia is filled with grand Buddhist structures. These include the Bayon Temple, which features 216 massive stone faces and impressive bas reliefs.

Charming Cambodia. Cambodia no longer evokes images of just majestic ruins and lost empires. 

From unspoiled beaches to a distinctive cuisine, the old Khmer kingdom continues to unearth more attractions for tourists and nomads alike. There are several borders in Thailand that provide crossing to Cambodia, the busiest of which leads to Aranyaprathet/Poipet in Northwestern Cambodia. Siem Reap provides access to the Angkor Archeological Park, a 400 square kilometer forested complex of the magnificent ruins of the ancient Khmer empire. The major temples like the Angkor Wat and the Bayon Temple of Angkor Thom can be explored within one day, but to visit the other smaller and hidden ones will require a couple of days more. Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, can also be reached by bus from Siem Reap. The city, with its many museums, memorials, and pagodas, gives visitors a powerful glimpse of the country’s rich history and culture. Other activities to try are river cruises, cooking classes, and checking out the street markets. From Phnom Penh, Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam can already be reached by bus.

There are many routes and ways to take when exploring these Southeast Asian gems, depending on the time each traveler has and how much they want to immerse themselves in every place they visit. The best way to make the most out of every trip is to plan ahead and plan well. 

Aside from booking flights early, securing the necessary travel permits or visas (if required), and packing efficiently, exciting things happen when one travels with an open-mind. Cebu Pacific allows every Juan to maximize their backpacking adventures as it flies from Manila to Bangkok, Phuket, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh and Siem Reap, the gateways to many other exciting destinations.

Make that dream escapade happen now and book flights atwww.cebupacificair.com.

Excellence is in the details - Walk down memory lane so vividly and clearly with LG’s Super ULTRA HD TV series

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Is it possible to go back through time? Maybe not, but what’s possible is to relive memories so vividly and clearly—it’s as if you’re experiencing these moments live all over again.

A young man discovers this and watches a memory from his wedding day come alive with none other than LG’s Super Ultra High-Definition 4K TV.

Watch the video here: http://bit.ly/GreaterDetails

LG’s Super UHD TV’s lets viewers see greater details than ever before, boasting of premium Tru-4K Engine Pro technology which allows image upscaling to near 4K quality, as well as the latest in IPS screen technology for true-to-life vibrant image viewing pleasure. With LG’s latest TV series, they bring about TV viewing experience in a whole new way.

To learn more about LG SUPER UHD TV lineup, visit www.LG.com/ph;

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Just keyword search “LG Philippines”.

Call for Entries: The Epson International Pano Awards 2015

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Professional and amateur photographers around the world are invited to enter The Epson International Pano Awards to compete for over $50,000 in cash and prizes. Early-bird entries are open now until July 12, 2015.

Last year, Manila-born Dennis Ramos from the USA was the overall winner of the 2014 Open competition. His winning image was also first in the Open – Built Environment category.

The Epson International Pano Awards showcases the work of panoramic photographers worldwide and is the largest competition for panoramic photography. Advances in digital photography and editing software has resulted in a surge in the popularity of image stitching, especially in the panoramic format. Panoramic film photography also remains alive and well.

“Over the years we have been delighted to see this world-class photographic competition grow to the point where it now attracts thousands of entries from hundreds of photographers from around the world. Each year the photographs are more and more impressive and the outstanding quality of both image capture and print astounds me,’ said Craig Heckenberg, General Manager Business Division, Epson Australia.

“Epson is very proud to continue our support of this global competition and, as always, we look forward to seeing this year’s entries and the winners for each category,’ said Craig.

The 2014 competition saw 3,971 images submitted from 870 photographers in 54 countries. This year’s competition is open to all professional and amateur photographers with a combined pool of more than US$50,000, including $20,000 cash.

Prizes include an Epson Stylus Pro 7900 printer, an Epson Stylus Pro 4900 printer, and an Epson EB-1775 Ultra-Slim Projector.

The judging panel includes some of the world's top photographers and industry professionals, including Jeff Mitchum, Timo Lieber, Arild Heitmann, Lauren Bath, Joshua Holko, Julie Fletcher, Marcio Cabral, Stefan Hefele, Mark Gray, Mel Sinclair, Denis Gadbois, Aaron Spence, and Bill Bailey.

Interested photographers should visit https://thepanoawards.com.

Food trip this Independence Day Weekend! Mercato Centrale and Glorieta presents the BELLYSIMA ! Food Festival 2015

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Enjoy food trip this Independence Day Weekend!

From the organizers of the popular night food market Mercato Centrale comes the BELLYSIMA! Food Festival 2015. It is a launch pad for passionate up-and-coming food entrepreneurs to share their artisanal food creations alongside healthy and organic food products with equally passionate food enthusiasts!

From flavored flans to artisan sausages to edible cookie dough to carabao chicharon to twisted gelato flavors to chili-flavored coffee syrups to organic detox juices to chocolate-flavored surprises! And that’s just the tip of the taste buds.

Set your tummies free this June 12 and 13 at the Glorietta 5 Atrium and be one of the lucky 500 participants to taste and evaluate some of the most exciting gourmet, healthy, artisan and organic food creations from over 30 local vendors.

Bring the whole family to enjoy heirloom recipes, regional delicacies, innovative pastries and desserts, experimental dishes, organic and all-natural healthy food alternatives, and more! Note: Remember to wear adjustable waistbands because you’re going on a revolutionary food trip!

Here is a list of the participants to look out for:

BACH’S BANGUS DAGUPAN

Frozen bangus, daing na bangus, rellenong bangus

BLUSH PASTRIES

Cheesecake, Oreo cookies, flavored cupcakes

BRAVO DELI

Baked products

CHOCO LOCCO

Chocolates, cacao, tablea

COCOA MONSTERS

Chocolate and cocoa-related products, including chocolate-coated dried mangoes

COOKIE STICKS

Cookies in stick form

DELICANE

Fresh sugarcane juices

FRIGGIES

Healthy fruits and vegetable juices

GAVIENS NATIVE CAKES

Traditional Filipino rice cakes

GOOD FOOD

Handcrafted items and organic produce

GORBY BALLS

Graham balls

HEALTHY MONSTERS PH

Salad in a jar

HEALTHY SHOTS MANILA

Detox and cleansing juices

HOMEGROWN ORGANICS

Fresh vegetables, organic kale pesto, atchara

IRRI – PHILIPPINE HEIRLOOM RICE

Heirloom rice varieties from the Cordilleras

JACOB’S PRALINE PEANUT BUTTER

Praline peanut butter

KURIKIPU

Hot and iced brewed coffee, pasta, healthy juices, brownies

LOKALITEA

Turmeric tea

LOTUS POD PH

Fresh vegetables

MADE BY MAX

Nut butter spreads

MILETTE KAKANIN

Various homemade traditional Filipino rice cakes and other delicacies

MILEA BEE FARM

Organic honey and other honey-based products

MILKMAN DAIRY BAR

Edible cookie dough and cereal milk

MIO GELATI

Fresh and authentic Italian ice cream

MR. MONTY

Tofu with veggies siomai and various special sauces like chili and chili garlic in coconut oil

PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY

Imported goodies

PIPER’S PAN

Mini cakes

PURE ENERGY

Kalabasa and beet delicacies, beet healthy drinks

PURPLE BUDS

Red velvet crinkles and other baked products

REYSONS FOOD

Dolci bottled coffee jelly

RITZY PINK SHOPPE

Baked chicken embutido, banana cupcakes and oatmeal cookies

SALATA PH

Salad dressings and sauces, healthy snacks

TOUCH OF ELLEHCAR

Cupcakes

TREATS OF TRIX

Cheesecakes in a jar

WISE EATS FOODS

Artisan sausages, chorizos, vegetable preserves, salad dressings, etc.

The BELLYSIMA! Food Festival is brought to you by Mercato Centrale in partnership with Glorietta and is co-presented by OurAwesomePlanet.com and Ayala Malls, together with our media partners The Philippine Star, Entrepreneur Magazine, Yummy Magazine, GoNegosyo, WhenInManila.com, Solar Entertainment, 103.5 KLite and Globe My Business.

For more information, contact us through any of the following:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/mercatocentrale 

Email: admin@mercatocentrale.ph 

Contact: 0917-8401152