Zoocobia at Clark, Pampanga Tour Operators Day

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 Zoomanity Group, the leader in Theme Parks and Zoo Management in the Philippines welcomed 500 Travel & Tour Operators and the media last  May 26, 2015 at Zoocobia, Clark, Pampanga.

This is to acknowledge them with their contributions and loyalty in bringing quality destination and education to patrons and clients of Zoomanity Group. Zoomanity Group handles 5 theme parks; Zoobic Safari at Subic, Zambales, Zoocobia at Clark, Pampanga, Zoocolate Thrills at Loboc, Bohol, Residence Inn & Zoo at Tagaytay and Paradizoo at Mendez, Cavite. The company is managing different hotels and restaurants too in the Philippines and abroad. 

CEO Robert Yupangco, COO Del De Jesus and different Operations Managers under Zoomanity Group welcomed the media too who are helping the company in dissemination of information. 

According to Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas of TAG Media and Public Relations, "Zoomanity Group likes to give back the blessings to our partners who are the travel & tour operators and the media. Without them, the ever increasing customers and clients who are visiting and patronizing the different theme parks under Zoomanity Group will not be possible. We are thankful and grateful and to acknowledge them, Zoomanity Group are doing events like these annually." 

Zoomanity Group gave away lots of souvenirs to everyone and hailed the operators who have exceeded their expectations with a very generous cash gifts. 

Zoocobia Theme Farm is a 5 hectares facility at Clark, Pampanga and a tourist destination. To visit the theme parks, please contact Grace at grace@asiadigitalmarketing.ph and for more information, please visit http://www.zoomanity.com.ph

MediCard opens new clinic in SM City Clark

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MediCard Philippines, a leading HMO provider in the country, brings health and wellness closer to the Kapampangans with the opening of its free-standing clinic at SM City Clark in Angeles City, Pampanga. 

Photo shows (L-R) Analiza C. Pulido senior executive vice president, Bank of Florida, Inc. (A Rural Bank); Dr. Honorato C. Salazar III, MediCard Clark clinic manager; and Dra. Concepcion S. Montoya, MediCard chairman.

Situated inside the mall’s Wellness Zone, the clinic’s convenient location helps many locals gain access to prompt, attentive and affordable medical care. The MediCard Clark clinic offers comprehensive out-patient services for all ages, including consultation on various medical concerns; imaging, laboratory and ancillary diagnostics; health check-up and physical examinations; immunization; and minor surgery. It also provides dental services, like oral prophylaxis, light cure filling, tooth extraction, and gum treatment. 

Lubao International Balloon Festival 2015

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The flying experience continues! 

The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival, as also called as Lubao International Balloon Festival 2015, which will take place in Pradera Verde, Barangay Prado Siongco on March 26 to 29,

The biggest international and most colorful twin events for early 2015, one in Clark and another in Lubao Pampanga.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) in Central Luzon has scheduled two separate hot air balloon festivals in Clark and Lubao town this year.

DOT Central Luzon Director Ronnie Tiotuico said the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta was set on February 12 to 15 here. The other event -- Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival  scheduled on March 26 to 29 in Lubao town, according to Tiotuico.

“Both are pet projects of the Department of Tourism,” he said.

Now on its second year, the balloon festival, which will take place in Pradera Verde, Barangay Prado Siongco on March 26 to 29, is expected to showcase 40 hot air balloons from Germany, Malaysia, Europe and the United States. It will also raise 12 special shaped balloons like Darth Vader, Yoda,Obelix, Frog, and Humpty Dumpty.

The event is organized by Pilipinas International Balloon Festival Inc. (PIBF) in cooperation with the Arts, Culture and Tourism Office of Pampanga (ACTO) and with support from the Provincial Government of Pampanga.

The event will include balloon flights (fly in and fly out cum night glow), air sporting events like aerobatics, flag jump/sky diving, balloon bursting, paragliding, aero modeling, wakeboarding, local tours, among others. 

According to the organizers, this year's festival was "localized" in order to further promote the town of Lubao and the province of Pampanga.

Historic Weekend of Everything That Flies: 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival on Feb 12-15

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Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival marks 19th year is now all set for another historic Weekend of Everything That Flies!

The Philippines’ first, foremost and longest-running gathering of aviators and aviation enthusiasts from around the globe is back for another great festival Weekend of Everything That Flies.

This year’s Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival (PIHABF) is set on February 12 to 15 at the Philippine Air Force ADAC Hangar in Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga.

Earlier this year, a memorandum of agreement to hold the annual balloon fiesta was signed by Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president Arnel Casanova, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) president Arthur Tugade, Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) president, (then) chief executive officer Victor Jose Luciano, and Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Foundation Inc. (PIHABF) president Capt. Joy Roa at the Asian Air Safari hangar in Pasay City.

Four full days of flying activities—including hot air ballooning, aerobatic exhibitions, skydiving, powered paragliding, aviation formation, search and rescue flight demonstrations, and balloon bursting, among other aviation spectacles—await attendees and participants to the highly anticipated event.

This year’s highlights include a total of 32 hot air balloons participating from all over the world, with special-shaped balloons featuring Old MacDonald’s Farm, Maximus the Beagle Dog, Burnie the Little Devil, Upside Down Balloon, Miss Daisy, Old Lady & the Shoe, Little Girl and Little Boy, Pink Elephant, Octopus, and Vincent Van Gogh, among a host of colorful traditional balloons.

After the 6:00 AM balloon launch, attendees can also look forward to non-stop flying exhibitions which include skydiving, motorized paragliding, aerobatics, formation flying, radio-controlled model flights, kite-flying, and rocketry, before the balloons fly in again at 5:45 in the afternoon, weather-permitting.

I'ts more fun flying in the Philippines!

Breitling Jet Team Aerobatic Exhibition 18th Hot Air Balloon Festival OMNI Aviation

Activities are not only limited skyward, as the festival grounds are also brimming with fun for the whole family. Watch car-drifting exhibitions while airplanes try to drop flour bombs overhead; catch firefighting and safety demonstrations by the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC); discover unique goods and food finds at the “Fly Market”; see your favorite OPM bands perform onstage courtesy of Radio Republic; for would-be aviators, visit the displays of various aviation schools; learn more about birds and other animal species at the Zoocobia mini zoo; and for lovers, attend a free Valentines Concert staged by Jeepney TV on the 3rd Fiesta night, which falls on Valentine’s Day. A fireworks display and nightglow culminates the four-day event the following evening.

Beauty for a cause

As part of this year’s activities, PIHABF also launched the search for Miss Aviation. First staged in the 1970s, this one-of-a-kind beauty pageant aims to promote, advocate and inspire the youth to take up a career in aviation, and support the country’s local tourism efforts. Twenty (20) female aviation students and professionals will vie for the title which will be awarded onFebruary 10, 2015 during the Annual Aviator’s Ball to be held at the Manila Peninsula.

An outstanding pilot will also be receiving the Aviator of the Year Award during the Annual Aviator’s Ball which is a recognition given to aviators who have made outstanding contributions in upgrading the standards of safety and aviation interests in their regions. Other recognitions to be awarded during the event are: Fixed Wing Pilot of the Year, Helicopter Pilot of the Year, Flight Instructor of the Year, Female Pilot of the Year, CAAP Check Pilot of the Year, CAAP Controller of the Year and Aircraft Mechanic of the Year.

According to Captain Joy Roa, event director, the fiesta is a platform for improving the country’s aviation standing through collaboration and interaction with international aviators. “We have so much to learn from our foreign counterparts, and this fiesta is an opportunity to share and exchange cultures and ideas. Of course, this is also a chance for us to showcase the world renowned Filipino hospitality,” he said.

The PIHABF organizing committee is composed of volunteer aviation experts and industry practitioners who make sure that the fiesta is carefully planned and safety-oriented.

Roa added, “Despite the challenges and the setbacks, we are dogged in our determination to mount this event year after year because more than a spectacle, this is an advocacy for us. We want to educate everyone, especially the youth, about the beauty of aviation and the many life lessons we can learn from it.”

The PIHABF 2015 was made possible with the support of the Bases Conversion Development Authority, Clark Freeport, Clark International Airport, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, together with media partners the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Malaya Business Insight, Business World, Business Mirror, Pilipino Mirror, Natural 97.9 FM, DWIZ, ABS CBN, and sponsors, SM City Clark, UPS, Prudential Guarantee, Hotdog on Stick, CDO Bibbo Hotdog, Segway, Qube, Kopiko, Rudy Project, The Medical City, Yellow Cab, Tempra, Snow Cone, Flanax, Bonamine, Garant Group and Radio Republic.

Entrance tickets are at Php300 each, which is a donation to the PIHABF Foundation Scholarship Fund, granting scholarships to deserving but underprivileged students pursuing an aviation career in partnership with Air Link International Aviation School and the Philippine Air Transport and Training Services.

Tickets may be purchased at the fiesta’s official website, at Ticketnet outlets, or at the event gates.

For more information and updates on the 19th PIHABF, visit www.philballoonfest.net or its official Facebook page, at http://www.facebook.com/pihabf.

Here's the 19th PIHABF Schedule of Activities

Other related Post : 
A Weekend of Everything that Flies at 17th International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2012

The 17th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival
Everything Flies ! Hot Air Balloons at Pampanga

Official Statement of PIHABF Organizing Committee

18th Philippine Intenational Hot Air Balloon

K Brosas and Pooh Live at Casino Filipino Angeles on January 28

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The stage is ready for the much-awaited special show of K Brosas and Pooh at Casino Filipino Angeles on January 28. If you want fun and comedy, then Casino Filipino is the way to go.

The comic tandem will surely bring the house down with their side-splitting punch lines and riotous performances. K promises a night of pure entertainment, “Sinisiguro kong walang uuwing luhaan sa audience. Lahat tayo ay mage-enjoy sa show… pangako iyan.”

Pooh adds, “Thankful ako dahil until now ay marami pa rin ang sumusuporta sa amin ni K. Nakakataba ng puso kapag may napapasaya kang tao. Ibang level ng happiness iyon.”

For inquiries, call the Entertainment and Bingo Department at (02) 708-2046. 526-0337 loc 2401 or 2403.

EMPIRE Golf & Sports Shop Now Open in Sm City, Clark Pampanga

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EMPIRE GOLF & SPORTS SHOP is a Filipino-owned global sporting goods company that markets and sells golf equipment, golf accessories and golf lifestyle-related products in more than 5 cities all over the Philippines – Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Bulacan, and Pampanga. Empire Golf & Sports Shop sells Titleist, the world’s #1 maker of golf balls, putters, drivers as well as FootJoy, the world’s #1 maker of golf shoes.

Empire Golf & Sports Shop, also sells its products through golf retailers or pro-shops and sporting goods retailers. It also licenses its name, trademarks and service marks for golf lifestyle products including golf apparel, golf shoes, golf bags, headwear, practice aids and travel gear. 

Empire Golf & Sports Shop was founded by businessman and trader Mr. Christopher Tang, now the company’s President & CEO. The very first company store was named Dynamic Sports Corporation with it’s early beginnings at 18th Kamuning Road, Quezon City. It was only in the year 2011 when they opened the very first Mall outlet at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City and christened the store EMPIRE GOLF & SPORTS SHOP.

Now, Dynamic Sports Corporation is the exclusive distributor of Global Sporting Brands like Titleist, FootJoy, SKLZ, Pinnacle, HEAD, Toalson, Gamma, Ashaway, Mares/Scuba Academy Manila, Deuter, Ultimate Direction, Zoggs, and Hardcourt.

“With the opening of the 12th outlet of EMPIRE GOLF & SPORTS SHOP outlet in the northern side of Manila, in the SM City Clark Pampanga, we promise to bring the golf enthusiasts and golf professionals more exciting products, activities and promos, and to create the excitement for non-golfers to come and try out our very dynamic designs in apparel and shoes that can go beyond the fairways and be your next lifestyle brand,” says Ms. Fatima Salvedia , the Empire Golf & Sports Shop Store Operations Manager.

Empire Golf & Sports Shop is located at the Ground Floor of SM City Clark Pampanga,

For product inquiries you may call the Manila Office at (+632) 9251578, or email at dynamicsportscorp.marketing@gmail.com or send us a message via https://www.facebook.com/pages/Empire-Golf-Shop/430426383671932

Filipina bags Global Educator’s Award of UN affiliated body

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Teacher Sam handing out some IamSAM ballers to the gleeful Aeta children of Pampanga.

Filipina educator and international lecturer Rayla Melchor Santos received the prestigious Global Education Motivators (GEM) Award for 2013-2014 for her advocacy on the empowerment of children in schools under the I Am SAM Foundation. 

Rayla Melchor Santos, of Muntinlupa, Philippines, accepts the GEM Global Educator Award at the 9th Annual United Nations Conference on Teaching Peace and Human Rights on Saturday morning, April 4, 2014. Wayne Jacoby, President of Global Education Motivators looks on as Santos thanks the people and organizations who helped make her, I AM S.A.M Foundation, successful. 

Santos co-founded the I am SAM foundation in 2010 following her mother Merci Melchor’s long years of advocacy to help abused women and children to be aware of their rights and be able to rebuild lives after suffering from various forms of abuse.

The teachings of the I am SAM foundation are based on two fundamental UN treaties- the Universal Declaration on Human Rights (UDHR) and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Their flagship program, IamSAM Prevent-to-Empower Protocol (PEP), was created to teach children and women the values of self worth and uniqueness, respect and responsibility for self and for others. 

SAM stands for Shakers and Movers whose campaign was launched in 28 public elementary and high schools in Muntinlupa City. A similar campaign will soon be launched in all 38 public elementary and high schools in Makati City. 

Shakers And Movers, according to Santos, is a person that makes things happen, anchored on the belief that one takes full responsibility for his/her own evolution as a person. 

Afton Beutler of Mother’s Legacy, Bill Yotive of UN Global Teaching & Learning Project, Rayla Melcho Santos of I am SAM Foundation and Ellen Firestone of Youth for Human Rights at the UN HQ on April 4, 2014.

Wayne Jacoby, president of Philadelphia based GEM Inc. surprised Santos by presenting her the Global Educator Award at the 9th annual United Nations Teachers Conference on Human Rights and Peace held last April 4 at the UN Headquarters in New York.

Jacoby said Santos and the I am SAM Foundation have been successful in “making its mark in helping and protecting the world’s children.”

“I have seen you expand from the Philippines and now working with teachers and children in Canada, China, United States and Taiwan. It is important for you to bring your message back to the UN,” said Jacoby in his letter of invitation to Santos.

Now fondly called by her students and fellow teachers as Teacher SAM, Santos said she “feels honored to have received the prestigious award from GEM that has a long history of affiliation with the UN.

She did not realize that her advocacy would be recognized at the UN Teachers Conference on Human Rights and Peace event.

“It was a moving experience to receive such a prestigious award from GEM which is a partner of the UN in promoting human & child rights and peace at the global education level,” said Santos.

GEM is a Philadelphia-based non-government organization founded by a group of educators in 1981 to put a global perspective in all aspects of learning.

The NGO started working with the UN Department of Public Information in 1986 and received the prestigious UN Peace Messenger Award in 1989 for its work on behalf of UN promoting world peace and human rights.

For Santos, empowering a child with awareness of her inherent rights has a far reaching impact to grow as fulfilled individual.

“Self-worth is the greatest tool we can give a child,” she said.

Inner strength and the realization that every child is special, precious and unique is deeply expounded and made easy to understand in the campaigns of the I Am SAM Foundation.

Santos said every child should realize the meaning of two powerful Tibetan words: “Tashi deley” which means ‘I honor the greatness in you’. Each child should recognize the greatness in himself/herself and the greatness in each other. 

When teaching this as an official greeting of the foundation said in schools where the IamSAM works with, Santos recalled one high student shared his amazement, “How can two words mean so much and do so much upliftment!” 

The foundation provides schools covered by its campaign some educational posters written in Filipino that state: “I am special, unique and precious because I am a human being.” The message encapsulates the soul of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The campaign message further expounded in succeeding banners that carry the messages: “I am special, unique and precious because I am a child”; and, “And because I am a unique, special and precious, no one can abuse me, even my parents.” 

Santos said the banners capture the whole message of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. She pointed out that is necessary to teach against abuse because of the staggering incidences of violence in schools. The focus of the IamSAM protocol is the development of self-worth and the restoration of human dignity. 

Santos believes that it is important to spread the values of self-worth to children as it has far reaching impact in their development as respectful, responsible and compassionate persons and citizens.

She says schools should not just be a place for academic excellence, but a safe ground for children to develop inner strength.

The I Am SAM Foundation also honors guidance counselors who are often neglected in their critical role of protecting the rights of children while at school. She said various forms of abuse happen in schools, particularly through bullying and teacher abuse against students.

Santos fell in love with the teaching profession and children when she worked as a pre-school director of the Family School of Manhattan in New York.

She pursued advanced studies and training on early childhood education in the United States and London and later became the head of the Institute for Child Advancement in Magallanes, Makati City.

She set up her own preschool, Center for Little Learners in her Mom’s house and also co-wrote beginning reading books with her mom, who also illustrated these. She founded Stonyhurst School and used CSR (corporate social responsibility) to build its first building. 

Her stint as global educator inspired her to partner with the Calvert School of Maryland to set up the McKinley Hill International School and Academy for Children in Batangas.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in the United Kingdom cited the McKinley Hill International School as one of the UNICEF UK Rights Respecting Schools outside the UK in November 2011 when Santos was invited to speak at the UNICEF UK Conference for Rights Respecting Schools in London. 

IamSAM hosts two annual UN conferences convened by GEM. These are the UN Teacher Conference on Human Rights and Peace and the UN Student Leadership Conference on Development. 

Santos felt the need to engage her fellow Filipino teachers in the UN initiatives of teaching human rights and peace and involve Filipino students on global issues with veritable global institutions like the UN. 

This has helped Filipino educators and students interact with their global partners while in the Philippines.

Last year, she also spoke to a global audience of civil-society groups organized by the United Nations in Geneva where she tackled the foundation’s advocacy which has led to serious consideration and current discussion for IamSAM in Africa. 

Santos says every teacher has a special passion to fulfill, that is seeing a child grow in love and peace and achieve her dreams.

Make the best Happen when BPI Family Brings Housing Madness to Pampanga

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BPI Family Housing Loan is set to bring excitement in Pampanga when it holds the 3-day Housing Madness on April 25-27, 2014 at the activity area of Marquee Mall, Ayala Center. 

During the Madness event, the Bank will be putting together under one roof eight (8) residential developers featuring their local projects, each one backed with exclusive home acquisition packages to offer. Real estate developers participating at the Housing Madness include Alveo Land, Inc, Avida Sales Corp (Avida Towers Vita), Avida Land (Madera Grove Estate), Ayala Land, Inc., Central Country Estate (Lakeshore), Filinvest, Hausland Development Corp. and St. Catherine Realty. 

This housing madness is even more exciting this year with BPI Family Housing Loan’s summer special offers which include: BPI’s guaranteed best rates at 5.5% p.a. fixed for 1 year and 6.88% p.a. fixed for 5 years and waived processing fee. These offers are valid for loan applications received during the BPI Family Housing Madness event and loan proceeds released on or before June 30, 2014. Clients will also get a FREE BPI Gold Master Card with their approved and availed housing loan.

“The influx of real estate property developers in Pampanga and nearby provinces is a good indicator that potential for growth of the area is high and there is a continuing demand for modern communities in the local market. Thus, harnessing the real estate prospects in a province such as Pampanga is one of the goals of BPI Family Savings Bank. This is why we are bringing our Housing Madness here so that our fellow Kapampangans could take advantage of our very competitive rates and exclusive offers. The heart of the Bank is not just about giving out loans to our target market, but more on providing the best financial advice to guide them as they make a major decision in their lives such as owning their own home. We are coming in with our trusted partner developers’ projects that our clients could explore and choose from. We are here to ’Make the Best Happen’ in the lives of our kababayans,” says TG Limcaoco, President of BPI Family Savings Bank. 

Join BPI Family’s 3-day Housing Madness invasion and know more about what you could own. Make your best decision now. Visit www.bpiloans.com. 

House of Kipling opens at SM Clark and North Point

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The new Kipling concept store is the new home for bag lovers as the House of Kipling opens at SM Clark and North Point.

The House of Kipling will you call it a haven, consider it a hang-out and now you will see and found a new home. This place where shoppers can dwell in the fashion and spirit that has made Kipling bags a well-loved global brand. 

The new concept store applies a domestic approach that elevates the customers’ retail experience. 

Inside the House of Kipling, guests are greeted with warm, homey interiors made from an eclectic mix of natural and clean textures, surrounded by the signature tile wall with the iconic monkey print. The color palette plays along the shades of taupe and greys, plus an occasional pop of orange and pink.

Flemish inspired wall tiles and “Kipling Monkey” table legs bring to life the playful spirit and the European heritage of the brand. 

Nestled on sleek ceramic and wooden frames, drawers and gondolas are the store’s main attraction – the hottest collection of handbags, totes, carry-alls, backpacks and luggage in various shapes, sizes and prints. 

Nearby are clusters of colorful mirrors helping customers envision themselves strutting away with their favorite Kipling bags.

Bright, polychromatic poufs are likewise on hand offering a comfortable seating should customers get a little tired from bag fitting and shopping. 

Reflecting Kipling’s desire to encourage discovery and exploration, the concept store also features a ‘Whimsy Wall’, where ideas, inspirations, special moments, and messages can be posted and shared so the store and customers can connect and become an engaged community.

The House of Kipling has put together all these elements and details to allow shoppers to have a personal and intimate feel of Kipling bags, which will be their companions as they work, play and travel.

But what Kipling Monkey is all about? Here's some history of this what we call, the monkey business.

Kipling brand is named after Rudyard Kipling, the English author of the classic read, “The Jungle Book?” The brand named after an imaginative author who wrote a series of inspiring stories about adventures in a jungle filled with clever animals – monkeys included! To both celebrate this history and represent our fun-loving and adventurous brand the Kipling Monkey was born and is now our furry, little mascot. We attach a Kipling Monkey to each product we make and even offer boxed collectibles with fun themes such as the Royal Baby Monkey, Country Monkeys, and more. Then, we name each and every, individual monkey sold with our products after one of our amazing employees from around the world.

Come visit the monkey at its new concept stores at SM Aura in Bonifacio Global City, SM Clark in Pampanga and The District North Point in Talisay City, Negros Occidental. 

Here's what we call the ‘dressing room’ where customers can experiment with the brand. Colorful poufs are also located here where you can sit and relax after shopping. Surrounded by mirrors to check on your latest look with our new styles and colors.

Whimsy wall behind a kitchen table-turned-counter/cash desk to give a homey feel to the interiors.

Upon entering the store, the customer is greeted with an exciting feast of product stories and seasonal presentations.

Applying domestic charm to retail, “The House of Kipling” takes a fresh perspective on everyday things. Mundane and familiar objects are put in new surprising contexts that create an unexpected visual story and showcase the product ranges.

Can you feel the season’s Latino rhythms? Kipling’s SoSalsa and PartyLicious collection presents a bold new print for the style season and the heat of the Brazilian carnival.

Put a spring in your step and learn some new SoSalsa moves with a collection set to bring a little fiesta to your fashion look, inspired by the vibrant deckchair stripes as seen on the catwalks.

Earn your stripes with these trendy bags in striped print and dramatic black accents to offset the brighter hues. Compact but not less colour packed – try the Joana, a ‘petite’ shoulder bag that’s perfect for all your little essentials in the daily cha cha cha of city living. For something more spacious, check out the collection’s stand out shoulder tote with removable strap, the Alezia. 

You’ll be feeling the orange crush with key style Partylicious in Dazzling Beige. Zigzag chevron accents and a cute tassel front zipper complete the carnival vibes of this summer-ready shopper.

With room for all your day-to-night gear, our signature removable shoulder strap and functional fabric, this is the bag to bring a whole lot of sunshine to your daily look.

From peppery reds to a different beige, create your own colour code with bags that are all designed to inject a little crackle and pop to your daily wardrobe and bring out the city señorita in you!

More photos Here.

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.

19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in 2015

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OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL HOT AIR BALLOON FIESTA (PIHABF) ORGANIZING COMMITTEE

The organizers of the longest running balloon event in Asia – the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF): “A Weekend of Everything that Flies,” maintains its decision not to hold the 19^th PIHABF this year, but instead, prepare for a bigger event scheduled for February 12-15, 2015.

Amidst reports of a balloon event taking place in Clark, Pampanga in April 2014, spearheaded by Mr. Ronnie Tiotuico of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Office, the PIHABF Organizing Committee has issued the following statement:

Preparation for the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is a major undertaking.

The decision not to hold a Fiesta this year was not undertaken lightly. From the perspective of the PIHABF organizers, our 2013 event (featuring more balloons than ever, the highly impressive Breilting Jet Acrobatic Team, and the myriad of other flying, ground and static events) would be a hard act to follow without allowing sufficient time to plan, prepare and book new and interesting activities.

We believe that by suspending the 2014 Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, allowing our organizing committee more time to secure a suitable venue for the fiesta and investing more time in planning, securing sponsorships and implementing enhancements, we can offer our public spectators a truly safe and world-class event in 2015.

The summer weather is not suitable in hot air balloon safety.

PIHABF will not be part of the April 2014 event in Clark, Pampanga. We will not participate in the planning, organization or staging of the event. We disclaim any association with the organization or management of the said event.

                                                                                                                                

Safety concerns raised by PIHABF pending approval of CAAP for ‘The Philippine International Friendship Balloon Festival 2014’

We hope that the organizers of the April 2014 event, headed by Mr. Ronnie Tiotuico, have carefully looked into the many safety requirements and issues involved in staging an event of this scale. PIHABF is concerned that the length of time allocated for them to learn the processes and preparations for this kind of activity is too short. We also hope they are not misrepresenting their expertise in implementing an airshow to prospective sponsors, participants and especially the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

The PIHABF organizers have worked hard to develop operational and safety procedures.  With an admirable safety record, we have built trust with event participants and other valued partners.  We value this reputation, built on a foundation of 20 years of experience. 

We recognize that the balloon fiesta is an activity that the international aviation community looks forward to.  Any untoward incident would impact on the good name of PIHABF organizers and damage the reputation of the Philippines.

We assure the public that we are already working hard on the planning and preparation for a bigger and even better 19^th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in 2015.  We are excited for everyone to be a part of it.

The Philippine Friendship Balloon Festival 2014

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The 19th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival will be on April 10 - 13, as Department of Tourism supported the colorful festival dubbed as "The Philippine Friendship Balloon Festival 2014.”

Department of Tourism Region III Director Ronnie Tiotuico revealed that DOT is spearheading the new hot air balloon festival and is set to feature more activities not only limited to aviation. In a planning session attended by tourism stakeholders, Tiotuico launched the hot air balloon festival as an answer to the public’s clamor for one of biggest aviation sports event in the Philippines.

This 2014 festival theme, “It’s more than just hot air. It’s a celebration of life in times of adversity”, and more colorful and inspirational, the proceeds will go to the rehabilitation of the Eastern Visayas region affected by the Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) and various charity missions.

The event is supported by Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr., and will be organized by Philippine Exhibits and Themeparks Corporation (PETCO). Tourism stakeholders and organizations expressed their support for the project.

Every year, Hot Air Ballon Festival is being held at the month of February, but as we recalled, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival (PIHBF) did not push through and decided to cancel the PIHBF that was set supposedly on February 2014.

DOT, the pioneer organizer of the ballooning event 18 years ago (1994) before it was transferred to another group, did not tethered flying and still pushed for a smaller scale event in Bayanihan Park to continue the legacy.

With the theme “It’s more than just hot air. It’s a celebration of life in times of adversity”, proceeds will go to the rehabilitation of the Eastern Visayas region affected by the Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) and various charity missions.

This three to four day hot air balloon event is considered as the biggest aviation sports event in the Philippines.

A very remarkable yearly event in Clark Airbase, Angeles, Pampanga. The PIHABF is the longest running balloon event in Asia. An estimated 60,000 visitors from the country and from around the world come annually to see the event.

The festival features hot air balloons from Philippines and other countries, aerial shows, and other exhibitions.  Ths is really another colorful and exciting festival. It's More Fun in The Philippines! Enthusiasts expect a more grandiose and bigger hot air balloon festival in 2014.

Photos : Exciting and Colorful 18th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Aetas Blanket Weaving Center at Pampanga Visited by Villar

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‘Katutubong kababaihan’ (Aetas) belonging to thousands of Filipinos who are beneficiaries of  her livelihood projects was visited yesterday by former Las Pinas Rep. Cynthia Villar, who is running for senator under the Nacionalista Party-Team PNoy.

She visited the handloom weaving center to check on the sustainability of the project given a year ago to Aetas from the towns of Porac, Mabalacat and Florida, Pampanga. Popularly known as “Misis Hanep Buhay” due to her programs of giving opportunities to our countrymen, especially women, to earn a living, checks on the woven blanket made by women Aetas, who were beneficiaries of her livelihood projects.

Villar has been going around the country to share her livelihood projects. For being consistently entered the “winning circle” of senators preferred by voters in the coming May elections based on various election surveys, has obtained recognition from the United Nation for her livelihood projects from wastes. In running for senator, the three-term congresswoman, said she wants to bring her projects nationwide. “Mas malawak ang maaabot ng aking mga proyekto kung ako’y magiging senador,” assured Villar.
 

Even before she decided to run for senator, Villar has already handed six handloom equipment for blanket making to these Aetas. She likewise helped them acquired the necessary training and skills needed for this particular livelihood project.

Together with Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda, Villar handed certificates to the Aetas attesting to the fact that they have finished their training in blanket making.

Ibon Ebon Festival February 1-5, 2012

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Ibon Ebon Festival, one of the biggest festivities in Pampanga is set to happen this February. The Ibon Ebon Festival, dedicated to the famous Candaba Swamp which serves as the temporary home of thousands of birds and stop over as they migrate in different parts of the world.


Local officials, festival organizers and the residents of Candaba in Pampanga are now busy preparing for the annual celebration of the Ibon-Ebon Festival 2012 (Birds and Eggs Festival)


2012 Ibon Ebon Festival Activity Schedule:
Feb. 1 – Harvest fest, (Barangay Salapungan)and Grand dress rehearsal of main street dancers (Poblacion)
Feb. 2 – Trade fair and tiangge, (Poblacion) and Jamming with “Ibon” dancers (Genuino Park)
Feb. 3 – Grand Street Dancing Parade
Feb. 5 – Dragon Boat Race

One of the most attended activities are the Ibon-Ebon grand street dancing parade which will start from Poblacion going to Ms. Earth Park in Barangay Mandasig; bird watching, (Dona Simang Wildlife Reserve); river cruise, (Pampanga River); kite flying, (Barangay Mandasig) and concert of Sandwich Band; (East Park in Barangay Bahay Pare) on Feb. 3.

Other highlights of the celebration are the street dancing, (Barangay Pulongplazan to Bahay Pare), “itik” (duck) cooking contest, itik race, best itik dressed contest and free concert by SpongeCola (Ms. Earth Park in Barangay Mandasig).

The Ibon Ebon Festival 2012 makes the town a favorite destination for tourists, bird lovers, watchers and bird enthusiasts from all over the world.

The popular wetlands of Candaba Swamp in Pampanga is known as a sanctuary of at least 14,000 registered migratory birds in the 2010 Asian census, consisting of at least 40 species from different parts of the world. The Candaba Swamp serves as the birds’ home and stop-over point as they migrate from point to point in Asia and other parts of the globe.

Ibon Ebon Festival is a yearly celebration for another year of bountiful harvest. This was first celebrated on Feb. 1 and 2 in 1998.