Reimagining ‘ever after’ for Beauty and the Beast’s finale

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Only a few episodes remain before Beauty and the Beast’s series finale and time is running short for Cat Chandler (Kristin Kreuk) and Vincent Keller (Jay Ryan).

Pursued on all fronts by evil forces, the unlikely pairing of Cat and Jay has viewers wondering what ending awaits these fairytale-inspired characters.

The familiar fairy of the same title revolves around a prince who needed to break a fairy’s curse. The prince would only break this spell if a woman would come to love him despite his hideous form. And as he lay dying, the Beast received the love he needed so he could return to his human form. 

A 1987show inspired by the fairy tale had no such ending. Instead of having a princely human form, the Beast remained as he was so his inner qualities could stand out. This beloved show was the inspiration of the new series starring Kreuk and Ryan.

If the original series ended that way, what ending awaits Cat and Vincent this time?

A spell that must be broken

Like the fairy tale’s Beast, Vincent also faces a curse. This time, however, he is not dealing with an enchantress. Vincent struggles with the effects of an experiment which caused mutations in his body and gave him superhuman strength.

Vincent and many others used for the experiment were to be sent to Afghanistan to win the war in that country. When the experiment turned awry, the government ordered the immediate deaths of the experiment’s subjects.

While struggling with the beastlike qualities brought about by the experiment, Vincent is then forced to run from those who would kill him.

If one would follow the fairy tale’s original plot, reversing the mutation’s effects could be Vincent’s own transformation and redemption. In the show however, Vincent found himself asking if he in fact wanted to reverse the experiment’s effects or not, when finally faced with a cure.

Not a damsel in distress

One compelling element of the show is how it inverts the tired ‘Beauty’ trope of the old stories. While the fairy tale portrayed Beauty as a prisoner, Kristin Kreuk’s Cat Chandler is anything but a typical damsel in distress.

A detective working for the New York Police Department, Cat is trying to solve the mystery of her mother’s murder—a case that is linked to the experiment performed on Vincent. This unsolved mystery then led Cat to Vincent and the two developed a romance.

But while the two came to love each other, a bitter undercurrent of conflict runs throughout the relationship. Overcoming the odds, Cat and Vincent married despite their personal clashes and the outside forces threatening to pull them apart.

The marriage of the prince and his lady is often the beginning of an idyllic ‘happily ever after’ in fairytales. This was not so for Vincent and Cat as they continued their flight from Vincent’s would-be captors and killers.

Finding themselves on the opposite side of the law, Cat has to find ways to lead these hostile away from Vincent.

‘Love is a battlefield’

This refusal to stick to old fairy tale conventions is the beating heart of the new show. Much like real life, there are no tidy endings, and no single character coming to the rescue of another.

‘Ever after’ then is not just about a prince rescuing a distressed damsel or a princess breaking away from an evil curse. The show doesn’t shy away from the many dangers that a forbidden love brings.

The big question remains: will Vincent finally reclaim his humanity by the series’ end? Yet while this moment has yet to happen, one can say his humanity had already been restored when Cat came into his life.

Perhaps the change that mattered most was not the cure to his condition but Cat’s willingness to love him, flaws and all.

Catch Beauty and the Beast’s series finale on August 31, 9:00PM at RTL CBS Entertainment HD.

Comedian Kakai Bautista searches for leading man for her first starring film

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From playing perennial sidekick or loyal best friend in assorted TV shows and movies, singer-comedian Catherine “Kakai” Bautista finally takes on the role of lead actress in a romantic comedy film, to be directed by critically acclaimed filmmaker Lemuel Lorca.

It’s a break that’s been waiting to happen. With her extraordinary acting ability, a knack for making people laugh, amazing hosting skills, and a mesmerizing singing voice, Kakai Bautista’s time to shine has come. The much-awaited film will be produced by Insight 360 Films in partnership with Manco Productions Inc. and iPR PLUS Consulting Group.

“Kakai is the next big thing in Philippine comedy,” Cahilig says of the multi-talented artist who started out as a singer-comedian in various comedy bars until her impressive performance in a play caught the attention of industry bigwigs. She then worked her way through simple but noteworthy supporting roles in TV and film productions, engaging the hearts—and funny bones—of viewers

“Kakai has always been a bright star,” Cahilig enthusiastically asserts. “I believe now is the time for her light to start shining the brightest.”

On her part, Kakai Bautista is raring to give the project her best shot. “I’m elated and ecstatic about working on this flick. Sobrang saya ko and as always, I promise to give my all to this role,” she enthuses.

Meantime, the producers of the film are looking for the perfect leading man for Kakai.

Baka Siya Na

“Baka siya na pala ang the one ko, ‘di ba? After all the heartache, baka siya na pala ang magpapasaya ng puso ko. Kung sino ka man, I’m very open to being more than friends, more than best friends—alam niyo ‘yan—charot!” Kakai relates.

“Kidding aside, mabigat ang role ng leading man ko sa pelikula kaya kailangan bongga umakting,” she adds.

According to Kakai, while having her first starring role in a film is a dream-come-true, she cannot help but feel a bit pressured by the demands of her role, which she says is a very unique character.

“Hindi basta-basta pagpapatawa ang gagawin ko dito. Level up na Kakai ang mapapanood niyo dito—just the right mix of funny and madrama,” she says.

She also feels that working with an award-winning director is a challenge, but she is willing to take this challenge on.

“Excited talaga ako to work with Direk Lem. I’m very happy na for my first movie, award-winning ang director ko. ‘Yun nga lang, and’yan ang pressure to be the best. But I’m ready,” Kakai adds.

For now, the search is on for Kakai’s male lead.

“The role is open to newbies and big stars. We want to find the best male lead for the movie and for Kakai,” iPR president and veteran publicist Hanzel Villafuerte says. He adds that this film may even be a big break in showbiz for the chosen leading man.

Aspirants must be in their late 20s to mid-30s, with a matinee idol or serious type vibe, and a remarkably fit body. Interested applicants may send their profile and demo reel to chriscahilig@gmail.com.

Cloverleaf Balintawak: Bringing modern comforts within reach

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Entrance Semi Aerial Artist Perspective

Ayala Land’s newest urban oasis will bring modern comforts within reach at Cloverleaf Balintawak.

Envisioned to become one of Metro Manila’s master-planned, contemporary green urban developments, Ayala Land’s Cloverleaf Balintawak is an 11-hectare estate that offers a balanced lifestyle, bringing residential towers, commercial and open spaces, office complexes, and a medical facility in one setting that is conveniently connected to northern Metro Manila’s major roads—EDSA-Balintawak, A. Bonfacio Avenue, and the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX).

At the crossroads of some of the metro’s busiest thoroughfares, the mixed-use township will be home to safe, secure, and organized communities that offer privacy and serenity amidst the chaos of the city, without sacrificing accessibility.

Estate Aerial Artist Perspective

Located near the EDSA-NLEX intersection and directly connected to the LRT Balintawak station, Cloverleaf Balintawak will be one of the most accessible establishments in Quezon City.

Cloverleaf Balintawak is situated at the intersection of EDSA and NLEX to bring the best of the metropolis and the rest of Luzon together. It is also directly connected to the LRT Balintawak station and close to the soon-to-be-completed Skyway Stage 3 extension project along A. Bonifacio Avenue which will cut Makati-Balintawak travel time to a 20-minute drive. With its strategic location, Cloverleaf Balintawak will be one of the most accessible establishments in the northernmost tip of Quezon City.

Headlining the amenities are Ayala Land’s residential projects, Avida and Alveo, with a total of five towers in more than a hectare of land that brings a promise of new beginnings. The construction of a regional mall is also in full swing. With 2.2 hectares fully-equipped with a supermarket, a six-screen cinema complex, and a department store for leisure; local and foreign fashion brands for optimum shopping; and a wide array of dining options—elements that provide a new lifestyle experience for nearby and potential residents to enjoy.

Cloverleaf Balintawak will also be packaged as an urban haven with a work-conducive core, featuring office spaces—for various enterprises that will provide local employment and retail business opportunities—and lush foliage that will envelope open areas and mixed-use components of the city’s newest urban development.

To further address a growing trend of healthcare needs, as well as to solidify Cloverleaf Balintawak’s holistic approach to urban development, the 250-bed Qualimed Hospital—a flagship medical facility of Ayala Land’s hospital brand—will also be constructed within the vicinity, offering quality, affordable, and accessible medical care services.

With simultaneous constructions ongoing, Cloverleaf Balintawak is on track to opening Ayala Malls Cloverleaf and launching Avida Towers Cloverleaf Tower 2 in 2017. The Qualimed Hospital is expected to open in the next two years, while the Avida Towers Cloverleaf Tower 1 will be completed in 2019.

Indeed, exciting and promising new experiences are bound to unfold with the fast development of Cloverleaf Balintawak. Located at the heart of the metro’s busiest thoroughfares, Ayala Land’s urban haven brings modern comforts of living within reach.

To get a taste of this up-and-coming urban haven, visit the Avida Towers Cloverleaf Sales Pavilion, open daily, from 8AM to 5PM. 

For more details on Cloverleaf Balintawak, visit the official website www.Cloverleaf.ph, official Facebook page Cloverleafph.

The Samsung Curve It Up Promo is back with bigger offers, grander discounts

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Back by popular demand, the Samsung Curve It Up promo brings grander and more generous treats for everyone’s viewing pleasure. 

From August 17 to September 4, customers will get a chance to take home a second TV or as much as Php 46,000 worth of gifts with every purchase of select Samsung Curved TV. Here are the exciting offers that customers can choose from:

• Get a free 40-inch Full HD TV if you buy a 65-inch Samsung Curved TV 
• Get a free 32-inch Smart TV if you buy a 55-inch Samsung Curved Full HD TV
• Get a free 32-inch LED if you buy a 49-inch Samsung Curved TV
• Get a free 24-inch LED TV if you buy a 40-inch Samsung Curved TV

To sweeten the deal further, the promo comes with up to 12,000 Mabuhay Miles from Philippine Airlines or a one-year subscription iflix, giving access to thousands of hit TV series and blockbuster movies anytime and anywhere.  

Now is the perfect time to switch to a Samsung Curved TV. Unlike flat screens, curved TVs provide a much more immersive feel as it delivers a sense of depth to the picture, drawing viewers deeper into the show they are watching.  This wrap-around effect allows viewers to see more on screen, making TV viewing a more enjoyable experience. The curved screen also follows the natural curve of the eye, reducing eye strain even after hours of TV viewing.

The Samsung Curved TV features an elegant 360-degree design, making it a stunning centerpiece in any room. A work of art in itself, the Samsung Curved TV combines art and technology in its stunning design and powerful features.

Why wait if you can curve it up to a Samsung Curved TV today? Head over to the nearest Samsung participating dealer to see how Samsung Curved TVs can make TV viewing even more exciting. Don’t miss out on this chance to curve up to a Samsung Curved TV. 

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.

A behind the scenes look at the latest LBC TV commercial - Aming Ligaya

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LBC Express comes out of their newest TVC entitled 'Aming Ligaya' endorses Kris Aquino. The Anthem for the Joy of Moving it for Filipinos all over the world. This anthem reassures everyone that with LBC’s pride and joy in moving.

Aming Ligaya, draws inspiration from this same passion and perseverance because, more than anything else, LBC values the Filipino family and the importance of connecting each and every member wherever in the world they may be.

Aming Ligaya seeks to remind everyone that there is nothing easy about LBC’s daily deliveries, be it in the city, the provinces or from every part of the world.

A behind the scenes look at the latest LBC TV commercial - Aming Ligaya

To Filipinos all over the world, LBC is synonymous with dependability. It has after all, a 66-year history of delivering to the Filipino, literally and figuratively. After its “We like to move it” rebranding a few years back, LBC needed to evolve further to move itself even closer to its customers. They would come up with a new campaign, one that didn’t have to look far for inspiration––The Joy of Moving. It would talk about LBC’s team, the passionate, hardworking men and women who tirelessly served and touched people through their efforts. This led to the creation of the newest anthem and campaign material. 

Ito ang Aming Ligaya. 

You’ve seen it by now, the epic in scale LBC TV commercial that looks like it was shot across the entire archipelago. While there’s some truth to that (parts of it were actually shot in the far-flung reaches of Tanay, Rizal), one thing you can be sure of is that like many LBC deliveries, it was no easy feat. But just like all these deliveries, it was a labor of love––shot, sealed and delivered with joy. 

The production made use of very little CGI. Filmmaker Jessel Monteverde helmed 90% of the shots on location, with real talents and real people. The kids happily running behind the LBC truck were an active bunch of locals who were more than eager to be part of the shoot. Monteverde made sure that this authentic joy and excitement came out in each of the material’s major moments, from the mother and her child receiving a package from his OFW father, to the old man in the outer limits of a barrio, getting the money his daughter sent. 

Monteverde’s vision for the film was inspired by his own experience growing up with the brand. “I grew up with LBC. The happiness that you feel when that balikbayan box arrives and is opened––it’s like Christmas morning.”, he said. Veteran Director of Photography Rody Lacap utilized a lot of natural lighting to bring out these genuine reactions and also highlight the beautiful landscapes, many of which were captured through a series of long shots that contributed to the film’s bigness. 

“This is the first time that we are doing something of this scale. The idea is to highlight how LBC does the legwork so that we continue to bring happiness into people’s lives. We take pride in the joy of moving—whether it’s for our customers or our team members,” says Mr. Javy Mantecon 

Talented production designers made use of existing structures and dressed them up to transform them into authentic looking homes and even LBC branches. Familiar bright red LBC trucks maneuvered through tight city streets as they would normally do on a regular run. The hardiness of these vehicles (and its drivers) were also shown and tested on the backroads and makeshift bridges featured in the other scenes that they were shot. 

Uncontrolled elements during the production such as unforeseen rainfall were creatively included in the shots, making the scenes even more difficult for LBC’s delivery crew talents. It was a welcome development, as regular delivery crews would normally go through the same difficulties, if not worse. 

“What LBC employees do isn’t easy. But they do what they do with joy in their hearts and love for their job--people on the receiving end of this, the customer, feel this,” Monteverde added. 

The booming beats of an urban hip-hop influenced anthem (arraged by Tomas Vinoya and Digitrax) fleshed out the film’s voice, expressing the brand’s joy and enthusiasm through well-meaning lyrics and an arrangement that rouses the spirit of serving. 

Aming Ligaya seeks to remind everyone that there is nothing easy about LBC’s daily deliveries, be it in the city, the provinces or from every part of the world. 

A package arrives in the hands of the recipient because of the hard work and total dedication that LBC’s team members commit to each day.

Amaia Steps Sucat partners with BAGA Manila for exciting weekend cook-outs

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Amaia Steps Sucat offers homeowners happy vibes, bright lights and delicious grilled specialties as it partners with Barbecues and Grillers Association (BAGA Manila) to set-up cook-outs and food and drink stalls in its retail area.

Bright lights, happy vibes and a friendly gathering of foodies and families laughing and bonding over delicious dishes. Such is the delightful scenario at Amaia Steps Sucat on Thursdays to Sundays with Amaia Land’s partnership with Barbecuers and Grillers Association (BAGA Manila) to set up grilled cook-outs for home-owners, workers and and passers-by in the area.

Food stalls offering mouth-watering grilled specialties set up in the retail area of Amaia Steps Sucat, awaiting homeowners and visitors.

Providing convenience and a fun lifestyle to its residents, Amaia Steps Sucat offers its retail area as the venue for the week-end event for the next couple of months until year-end. Retail shops will likewise be opened within the second half of this year to provide a mix of food and service selections.

BAGA Manila is a well-known association of food stall vendors that serve good barbecues, grilled specialties, and quality regional dishes and delicacies. The group is a fixture at different gastronomic events and at leading weekend and night markets in the metro.

A visitor purchases a drink from one of BAGA Manila’s food stalls at Amaia Steps Sucat. BAGA Manila is a famous food stall vendors association, known for delectable barbecues and other delightful cuisin

Kristel Manalo, Project Development Manager for South Projects, describes the event as a simple treat for residents that also serves to showcase the vibrant lifestyle Amaia offers its community.

Manalo likewise points out, “Occasions like this promote stronger family bonds and camaraderie within the community.”

Residents and guests have fun dining alfresco style, savoring grilled delights and other sumptuous cuisine, while enjoying the company of family and friends at Amaia Steps Sucat’s retail area.

During this open-for-all weekend activity, interested guests can view Amaia Steps Sucat’s model units and retail area. Innovatively and uniquely designed, units in this mid-rise residential project range in size from 23 to 42 square meters.

Visitors at this open-for-all activity can check out the model units of Amaia Steps Sucat, after enjoying a hearty meal, from Thursday to Sunday.

Situated along Dr. A. Santos Avenue, Brgy. San Antonio, in Sucat, Parañaque, this mid-rise residential project offers easy access to the commercial areas in the South. While it is close to Makati, Pasay, and Las Piñas, residents need not venture far for fun dining, quick errands and bonding activities given Amaia Steps Sucat’s retail strip. The strip has 37 retail units that will house both food and service merchants.

For leasing inquiries, you may call 09175092044 or email amaialandretail@gmail.com. 

Globe keeps growth momentum in 1H; posts double-digit growth in revenues

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Globe Telecom sustained its growth momentum in the first half of the year, delivering a double-digit hike in revenues, reaching a total P59.6 billion, up 11% from P53.8 billion a year earlier. Despite heightened competitive intensity, the robust revenue growth was underpinned by the rise in data-related service revenues across mobile, home broadband and corporate data, driven by efforts in providing market-relevant data offers and the sustained investments in the company’s data network.

Globe recorded net income of close to P9.0 billion, up by 3% against the P8.7 billion reported in the same period of 2015. Core net income, which excludes the impact of nonrecurring charges, foreign exchange gains and mark-to-market charges, stood at P8.8 billion, higher by 2% year-on-year. EBITDA stood at P25.6 billion for the first six months of the year, a robust 13% increase from the P22.7 billion reported a year ago. Total operating expenses and subsidy grew by 9% year-on-year to P34.0 billion from P31.1 billion last year, to support the growing customer base and the expansion of the data network. EBITDA margin stood at 43%, slightly higher than last year’s margin of 42% and in line with the full-year guidance of 40%.

“We are proud that the company’s overall results in the first half remained robust amidst the heightened competitive intensity and the unique challenges and opportunities posed by increasing levels of smartphone penetration and mobile postpaid ownership in the market.” Globe President & CEO Ernest L. Cu said. “We believe that with the aid of the additional frequencies that we have recently acquired, Globe Telecom’s leadership as the preferred brand for Filipinos’ digital lifestyle choices will be strengthened moving forward. Our commitment in making continuous investments and the aggressive expansion of our network capacities are all geared towards addressing the public’s clamor for better internet service and creating wonderful experiences for our valued customers and shareholders.” Cu added.

Globe Telecom’s mobile revenues grew by 3% year-on-year, reaching P45.7 billion for the first half of 2016 from the P44.5 billion reported a year ago, driven by strong revenue performances of Globe’s prepaid brands. TM, the company’s mass-market brand, increased revenues by 5% year-on-year while Globe Prepaid revenues posted a solid year-on-year growth of 3%. Complementing the growth of the prepaid segment, Globe Postpaid revenues posted a 2% growth from the same period of 2015.

From a product perspective, the growth in mobile revenues was spurred by the sustained rise in mobile data service revenues, which grew to P17.8 billion in the first half of 2016, 46% higher than the P12.2 billion reported a year ago. The robust revenue growth was driven by the rise in smartphone penetration, on the back of increasing affordability and range of devices, and the popularity of Globe’s data-driven products and applications as more customers shift towards digital lifestyles. The growth in mobile data services offset the declines in mobile voice (-11%) and mobile SMS revenues (-16%), which are consistent with the trends in other telecom companies in the region and worldwide. Mobile data services comprised 39% of total mobile revenues, up from 27% in the first six months of 2015.

The company’s home broadband business likewise sustained its growth trajectory, significantly increasing both in revenues (+49% year-on-year) and subscriber base (+38% year-on-year). Total home broadband service revenues reached P7.0 billion for the six months just ended, with total subscriber base now reaching 1.14 million customers. The growth in revenues was driven by subscriber expansion in both fixed wireless and wired broadband solutions, due to the continued rise in demand for internet and data connectivity and the popularity of entertainment and other content-driven applications, such as HOOQ and NBA League Pass, among others.

Globe Telecom’s corporate data business surged by 55% to P4.9 billion for the first six months of 2016, from the P3.1 billion in the same period a year ago. This was primarily driven by the sustained demand for digital services across Philippine enterprises given the strong take-up of various data connectivity solutions, managed services, mobility solutions and cloud-based services. Traditional fixed line voice revenues likewise posted a 29% increase year-on-year to P1.9 billion as of the end of June 2016 from P1.5 billion a year ago following the growth of bundled home broadband plans.

Globe Telecom submits 3-year coverage rollout plan to NTC

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95% of cities, municipalities to have mobile services by end of 2018

Globe Telecom submitted its 3-year coverage rollout plan to the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and committed to provide mobile services, including voice, SMS and data, to 95% of municipalities and cities in the country by the end of 2018, using the additional spectrum it acquired from San Miguel.

The rollout plan is one of the conditions set by the NTC in approving the co-use agreement covering the spectrum resources that Globe acquired from the joint buy out of San Miguel Corp.’s telco assets.

In a letter, dated July 29, 2016, addressed to NTC Commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba, Globe General Counsel Froilan Castelo said Globe started to implement the rollout plan in June and will be deploying about 4,500 multiband, multimode software defined radio base station equipment and capacity upgrades to improve overall customer experience in terms of speed and reliability of its mobile services.

Currently, Globe provides mobile broadband services across its entire network, having fully upgraded to 100% 4G network while more than 60% of its sites are now equipped with LTE for mobile broadband services, Castelo said. Just after two months of gaining access to the spectrum assets, Globe has already upgraded over 25 cell sites with LTE 700 megahertz and more than 600 cell sites with additional 2600 MHz spectrum and about 1,500 cell sites with additional 1800 MHz spectrum as part of the company’s commitment to improve mobile internet speeds within 1 year.

Castelo explained the 3-year coverage rollout plan took into consideration certain conditions that include priority areas with substantial existing demand and high traffic growth trends; key development areas to further promote the country’s overall economic development; maximum use of Globe assigned frequencies for the 700 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2300 MHz and 2600 MHz. By yearend, the company expects that about 2,200 of the company’s existing cell sites representing over 30% if its network nationwide would be upgraded using the additional spectrum from the co-use agreement, Castelo said.

“We would like to assure the commission that we are utilizing all available resources and doing all we can to improve the mobile experience of our customers. We are committed to pursue our aggressive mobile broadband coverage and capacity expansion programs in order to meet mobile data traffic growth and increasing demand for mobile connectivity. We are confident that our strategy of combining new site builds with efficient use of spectrum resources and adopting new broadband wireless technologies such as LTE-Advanced will allow us to satisfy the changing needs of our mobile customers,” Castelo said.

Globe is also pursuing its fixed broadband expansion program to propel the Philippine internet index to a comparative level within the region, he said, adding that the company is committed to provide ultra fast internet in 2 million households over 20,000 barangays by 2020.

Samsung’s Latest Galaxy Note Unpacked 2016

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On August 2nd, Samsung Electronics will unveil the Galaxy Note7.

With added functionality of the S Pen and large screen, the Galaxy Note7 is a powerful instrument for achievement and self-expression, and is made for those who want to get the most from their phones – and their lives. Galaxy Note7 will help people do more in work, at home and everywhere in between. We can’t wait to tell you more about it!

First and foremost though, you might be curious as to why it’s called Galaxy Note7 instead of Galaxy Note6. There are a couple reasons why.

First, the Galaxy Note7 will complement our Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, and unify our product portfolio.

Second, the Galaxy Note7 will minimize confusion about the latest mobile technology from Samsung, and provide full alignment with Galaxy S smartphone.

To celebrate the launch of the Galaxy Note7, the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event will take place at 11:00 a.m. EDT in New York on August 2, 2016.

Simultaneous, launch events will take place in Rio de Janeiro at noon and in London at 4:00 p.m.

Live streaming of the New York event will be available at www.samsung.com and Samsung Newsroom (news.samsung.com/global)

Ethiopian Airlines Anticipates its Dreamliner Service with 787 Dream Adventure Treat

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Roundtrip Fares Start from 787 for Economy and 1787 for Business Class

In time for its 70th anniversary globally and first in the Philippines, Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline and aviation technology leader, is about to welcome its 787 Dreamliner, a new generation Boeing aircraft, to service the Manila – Addis Ababa Route. To celebrate this milestone, Ethiopian Airlines is offering travel deals from Manila to dream destinations in Africa, America and Europe via Ethiopian Airlines 787 Dream Adventure Treat. 

For a minimum spend of $787 [US Dollar] for Economy Class and $1787 [US Dollar] for Business Class, passengers from Manila are given roundtrip travel opportunities to over 90 international destinations all over the world including Addis Ababa, Cairo and Capetown in Africa; Paris, Rome, Madrid, London and Frankfurt in Europe; and Los Angeles, New York, Washington, Toronto and Sao Paulo in the Americas.

For flights with long layovers, Ethiopian Airlines provides a free stopover to Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, which covers meals and transit visas. 

Ethiopian Airlines also provides travel time-out opportunities to passengers who would like to break their journey to explore and stay longer in Addis Ababa for an additional fee. Tour recommendations are generously provided to those interested to explore the country. 

Ethiopian Airlines has won various awards for its exceptional international services, playing a significant role in connecting Africa to the rest of the globe. Winning the 2016 and 2013 Skytrax Award for Best Airline Staff Service in Africa, and the Passenger’s Choice Award for Best Airline, it operates new, ultra-modern, and environment-friendly aircraft and provides exceptional in-flight service for both economy class and “Cloud Nine” (business class) passengers. 

For its exclusive 787 Dream Adventure promo, Economy Class flyers get to enjoy a total of 46kg baggage allowance, inclusive of fresh and varied meals of the highest quality, and a complete range of beverages including a choice of excellent red and white wine.

Ethiopian Airlines passengers flying on “Cloud Nine”, its Business Class service, are entitled to 64-66kg baggage allowance, a personal in-flight entertainment system, full-course meals made by proficient and experienced chefs, and a selection of signature drinks that can be enjoyed as aperitif or compliment to their meals. 

For flight bookings, please visit www.ethiopianairlines.com or call the Ethiopian Airlines Reservations Office (632)8489878/79, (632)5222095 or (632) 5224869. For more information on destination packages to Ethiopia, please visit https://www.ethiopianholidays.com/ 

Promo period is from 15 July 2016 to 15 August 2016. Travel period is from 1 August 2016 to 1 August 2017. 

About Ethiopian

Ethiopian Airlines (Ethiopian) is the fastest growing Airline in Africa. In its seven decades of operations, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success.

Ethiopian commands the lion’s share of the Pan-African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern fleet to 92 international destinations across five continents. Ethiopian fleet includes ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as the Boeing 787, Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 777-200LR, Boeing 777-200 Freighter, Bombardier Q-400 double cabin with an average fleet age of five years. In fact, Ethiopian is the first airline in Africa to own and operate these aircraft.

Ethiopian is currently implementing a 15-year strategic plan called Vision 2025 that will see it become the leading aviation group in Africa with seven business centers: Ethiopian Domestic and Regional Airline; Ethiopian International Passenger Airline; Ethiopian Cargo; Ethiopian MRO; Ethiopian Aviation Academy; Ethiopian In-flight Catering Services; and Ethiopian Ground Service. Ethiopian is a multi-award winning airline registering an average growth of 25% in the past seven years.

RISING EXPO 2016 AWARDS NIDA ROOMS AS “BEST START UP” IN SEA

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Malaysian-Based Nida Rooms Beats 11 Participants In SEA

(LR): Abraham Viktor, founder of Taralite; Kaneswaran Avili, NIDA Rooms CEO; Takahiro Suzuki, CEO of CyberAgent Ventures Indonesia

CLEAR road map to achieve market leadership, mobile application focus, more than 3,500 hotel network traction in a short time span, and brand and product positioning were the main elements that solidified and secured votes for NIDA Rooms from 50 Venture Capital firms and corporations enabling the nine month old company to bag the prestigious Best Start Up Award at the recent Rising Expo 2016 that was held in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Established in Japan in 2012 and South East Asia in 2014, Rising Expo is an event coveted by start-ups, however, only those with good business potential are selected to participate in the event. Rising Expo has a reputation to showcase leading start-ups that has the ability of becoming the next generation successful internet business in Asia. Its main aim is to introduce selected innovative, creative and marketable internet-based business ideas that need capital injection or funds, to accelerate their growth, to Venture Capital firms worldwide.

This year, only 12 start-ups qualified to compete in the event. Only 1 company qualified from Malaysia, which is NIDA Rooms. The balance 10 companies were from Thailand (Two companies), Philippines (One company), Vietnam (Two companies), Japan (One company) and Indonesia (Five companies).

“Winning the Best Start Up Award at the Rising Expo 2016 is an acknowledgement of NIDA Rooms’ business model potential from the Venture Capital business community. We are honour to have received such a recognition,” said Kaneswaran Avili, Chief Executive Officer, NIDA Rooms.

“Although we have been experiencing a substantial growth month-on-month, securing more than 3,500 hotel partners in less than nine months throughout Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia, this award has given us the boost needed,” He said, adding that NIDA Rooms was excited to participate in the Rising Expo 2016 finale.

Held annually, Rising Expo 2016 was held in Jakarta and Korea recently. Winners of both events will participate at Rising Expo 2016 finale in Japan on 2 September. The finale event will house over 100 Venture Capital firms located worldwide. 

Established in September last year, NIDA Rooms has changed the playing field in the hospitality industry in Asia with a fresh new business model. The company partners with selected hoteliers and secures certain number of rooms. Those rooms are branded as NIDA Rooms and are offered through various online channels mainly their website and mobile applications in Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Rooms sold under the NIDA Rooms brand name has certain criteria that hoteliers need to adhere to namely quality and services that make a hotel stay comfortable.

“We have grown strategically throughout Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia. We will be continuously expanding our reach in Asia with immediate plans to penetrate markets like Vietnam,” Avili said, adding that the company’s main aim is to offer customers various types of accommodation throughout Asia at the Right Location, for the Right Price with the Right Quality.

About NIDA Rooms

As Asia’s largest and fastest growing “Virtual Hotel Operator (VHO)”, NIDA Rooms remains committed in its value proposition of 3Rs - Right Location, Right Price and Right Quality to its customers. This is in keeping with the “A Good Night, Every Night” spirit promoted by NIDA Rooms through a comprehensive range of facilities available in all NIDA Rooms, including complimentary wi-fi, hot showers, air conditioned rooms, and high quality amenity kit. Through NIDA Rooms, customers can instantly navigate and book thousands of affordably priced rooms in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Philippines through www.nidarooms.com and NIDA Rooms mobile applications available at Google Play Store or Apple App Store. NIDA Rooms’ commitment to its hotel partners are to increase their 3Rs - Reach, Revenue and Recognition. To date, NIDA Rooms has over 3,500 hotels partners with over 800 hotels in Malaysia, over 1,500 hotels in Thailand, over 1,000 hotels in Indonesia, and over 200 hotels in the Philippines.

Cordillera vegetable farmers find an ally in Exalt 60 SC

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Farmers on their way to discover a new insecticide by Dow AgroSciences, Exalt 60 SC, fortified with an ingredient called Spinetoram, effective in eradicating plant pests.

Cordillera farmers are touted to be some of the largest vegetable producers in the country, belying the fact that from time to time they need to grapple with the biggest challenge to their livelihood: the damages wrought by pests and plant diseases. 

This explains why farmers and agriculture officials in the region continuously look for products that eradicate these pests without sacrificing the quality of their crops and increasing the costs of production. 

To this end, Jardine Distribution Inc. (JDI) recently introduced the Exalt 60 SC, a powerful but economical insecticide that is specifically effective against the Diamond Black Moth.

Cordillera farmers are known as one of the country’s best vegetable producers, although sometimes faced with problems on pests and plant diseases.

Reiterating the company’s committment to helping local farmers eliminate such threats to their sustainable livelihoods, Sandra De Guia , Senior Product Manager, reveals that “the Exalt 60 SC is now aiding farmers in the Cordilllera region, especially in Benguet.”

The Diamond Black Moth is reportedly the most destructive insect pest in the world, especially for brassica crops such as cabbages, cruciferous vegetables, and mustard plants. Much of the damage to crops is caused by moth caterpillars tunnelling into the heads of plants such as cabbage and Brussels sprouts. 

The Diamond Black Moth likewise causes the contamination of produce by pupating inside broccoli florets and cauliflower curds.

Manufactured by Dow AgroSciences, Exalt 360 SC was formulated to arrest this insidious process through its active ingredient called Spinetoram, the newest molecule in the spinosyn class. Spinetoram professes fast knockdown and good residual control of the Diamond Black Moth.

Cordillera farmers learn about Exalt 60 SC, an economical insecticide that can eradicate pest problems without sacrificing the quality and nutrients of vegetable crops. 

While the Exalt 360 SC is considered a very strong insecticide, it is harmless to the environment and does not expose our local farmers to health hazards.

What’s more, reliance on chemicals as a control measure for the Diamond Black Moth may result in the development of resistance to many insecticides. 

However, pests have no cross resistance to Exalt 360 SC, making it a very effective agent against pest infestation even after several years of use. 

These Exalt 60 SC bottles guarantee a quick extermination and control of the dreaded Diamond Black Moth and other pests, without any health or environmental hazards, unlike other pesticides. 

A winner of the 2008 US Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award, the Exalt 360 SC is distributed by JDI nationwide.

Jardine Distribution Inc. (JDI) reaffirms their commitment to providing assistance to local farmers by introducing Exalt 60 SC to Cordillera farmers, as an aid in combating pest infestation, a daily threat to their livelihood.

Jardine Distribution Inc., a member company of Jardine Matheson Group, represents a number of leading brands in crop protection, local and foreign-made pesticides, plant growth regulators, hybrid rice seeds, and vegetable seeds.

Don’t Let the Rain Dampen Your Style with GAS Jeans

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After a seemingly endless summer, the rainy season is here to freshen things up – especially our wardrobes. While we trade tank tops for sleeves, one part of our ensemble remains the same: GAS Jeans denim that comes in the perfect fit.

The premium Italian denim brand breathes new life into the most stylish Filipinos’ favorite blue fabric with hand-dyed washes and tapered cuts that complement their equally varied lives. 

Through the downpour, GAS Jeans in relaxed cut, straight cut, slim, skinny, and boot cut are your all-weather closet staples. Dress as bright or as dark as the ever-changing Manila skies with jeans that come white-washed and in various shades of blue.

Made with 98% cotton and 2% elastic, GAS Jeans are the perfect match for sudden changes in weather and sartorial tastes.

Grab this season’s latest pieces at GAS Jeans in Greenbelt 3. 

For more information, visit www.gasjeans.com and www.facebook.com/gasjeans.

About GAS Jeans

Founded in 1984, Gas Jeans is an Italian premium denim brand that caters to the fashion-forward youth with high-quality denim apparel in versatile and functional pieces. Exclusively distributed in the Philippines by Green Tee Inc., GAS Jeans is available in Greenbelt 3, Makati City. Globally, it operates in 56 countries through more than 3,000 stores.

For branch locations and collection updates, follow www.facebook.com/gasjeans and visit www.gasjeans.com. 

Celebrity Family Feud, first and exclusive on RTL CBS Entertainment HD, premieres July 4

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Make No Mistake About It - Steve Harvey Hosts Celebrity Family Feud on RTL CBS Entertainment HD

Celebrity Family Feud premieres July 4, Monday at 9:55pm (8:55pm JKT/BKK)

Hosted by the highly popular, multi-hyphenate stand-up comedian, actor, author and Emmy Award-winning talk and game show host Steve Harvey.

Join celebrity families as they compete against each other on Celebrity Family Feud, a prime time star-studded version of the iconic game show Family Feud.

Each team is made up of a celebrity captain with four relatives or friends playing along.  The winning celebrity team will be given a chance to win up to $25,000 to donate to a charity of their choice. With such a worthwhile prize at stake, Celebrity Family Feud brings you your favourite celebrities as you’ve never seen them before!

Premiere Episode Synopsis

The series premiere of Celebrity Family Feud features actor Anthony Anderson’s (black-ish) family versus  seven-time Grammy Award-winning artist Toni Braxton and her sisters; and in a separate game, family members from Australian celebrity chef Curtis Stone and actress Monica Potter (Parenthood) spar off against each other to win money for a charity of their choice. 

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IPC upholds enterprise digitization at 2016 Philippine Cloud Summit

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​​​Local cloud computing pioneer IPC (IP Converge Data Services, Inc.) called on enterprises to pivot to digitization at the 2016 Philippine Cloud Summit held Wednesday (June 29) at the SMX Convention Center at SM Aura Premier, BGC, Taguig. The event, dubbed “IoT: The Pinnacle of Digital,” showcased the global shift towards a digital mindset, fueled by the growing use of the Internet of Things (IoT).

PH Cloud Summit. Local cloud computing pioneer IPC (IP Converge Data Services, Inc.), an ePLDT company, hosts this year’s 2016 Philippine Cloud Summit. IPC President Reynaldo R. Huergas (in photo) opens the discussion dubbed as “IoT: The Pinnacle of Digital” that showcased the global shift towards a digital mindset, fueled by the growing use of the Internet of Things (IoT).

“Digitization itself has changed. By definition, it used to refer to business tools that drive operational efficiencies. Today, it is more than that. Digital is a frame of mind that allows organizations to create and engage markets in a disruptive manner and redefine the economy,” said Reynaldo R. Huergas, IPC President.

This is supported by recent data about IoT spending. In the Philippines, latest estimate (of Frost and Sullivan put the spending) at $55.1M in 2014, growing to $766.8M in 2020, an annual spending growth of around 55 percent for six straight years. Huergas noted, “This could still be larger; it is possible that local enterprises are not yet sold to the value of IoT or find the service risky in light of high-profile hacking incidents. But all of that, we believe, will be dispelled.”

King-Yew Foong, Research VP and Chief of Research for Communications Service Providers at Gartner, an information technology research and advisory company, made a bold prediction that in the next 30 years, changes will be more dramatic that they will surpass the changes of the past 300 years. He stressed that enterprises have to continuously innovate to sustain their growth, citing industries such as insurance and automotive as early adopters of IoT globally.

According to Foong, among the benefits that enterprises will get from embracing IoT are the reduction of operating costs, capability to provide a differentiated customer experience, and finding new business models and income streams. But while these are attractive enough, adopting an IoT ecosystem has its fair share of challenges, including but are not limited to cybersecurity, integration, and unclear business benefits. For Foong, it is imperative to educate all stakeholders and to choose the right IoT partner for it to take off in a big way.

Speakers in the afternoon breakout sessions were from CloudSigma, Nexusguard, Imperva Incapsula, CR8V Web Services, Salesforce, Time Doctor, PLDT Enterprise, PayMaya, and FireEye.

Apart from bringing together an elite lineup of speakers to tackle various aspects of enterprise IT, IPC also formally launched at the event the Cloud Community of the Philippines (CloudComPH), a vendor-agnostic community for cloud users and enthusiasts. According to IPC, it will serve as a venue for the sharing of ideas and best practices, whether technical or operational, among individuals who build, develop, maintain, and use cloud computing infrastructure, platforms, and applications in the country.

While IoT is still continuously developing, experts claim that it is here to stay. As digital is the new norm for enterprises and beyond, the cost of doing it is still a lot less than the cost of not doing it. Pivot or perish, as they say.