"The Calling Live!” on Nov. 11 at Mall of Asia Arena

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Subterranean Ideas Entertainment is bringing “The Calling, Live at the Mall of Asia Arena!” for the first time ever on Nov. 11, 2016, making it, hands down, the biggest rock concert of the year!

Alex Band, its vocalist/songwriter is one of the most successful singer/songwriters in the new millennium and he is fresh from the studio doing new songs. Band, actually, has never left the scene as he embarked on a successful solo career in Los Angeles, California where he is based. 

This year, in an engagement special only to the Philippines, Band and his rock cohorts are bound to capture everyone's hearts once again in a one-night concert backed by Smart, Wish 107.5, New World Manila Bay Hotel, Red Fox, DeVant, Eurotel, When in Manila, Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Business Mirror, Home Radio, iFM, WhenInManila.com, United Neon, Sprinto, McVitie's, Go Ahead, Odyssey, Pulp Magazine, Philippine Concerts, Manila Concert Scene, Nanogen, Village Connect and Bren Media. 

The Calling will be singing their countless hits such as Adrienne, Stigmatized, Could It Be Any Harder, Things Will Go My Way, Our Lives, Anything, Why Don’t You and I?, For You (theme song of the movie DareDevil), Tonight, Euphoria, Only One, and the mega-hit song Wherever You Will Go, dubbed by Billboard 100 as the Song of the Decade and is the No. 3 Greatest Adult Pop Song of All Time. In youtube, the song boasts of 160 million hits and counting, not to mention its hundreds of iterations, covers and other related video content.

In the Philippines, it is a staple in almost all videoke renditions, a song young and old alike, may have sung in their lifetime a countless times.

The Calling - Wherever You Will Go 

The Calling - Our Lives 

The Calling - Adrienne

The Calling - Anything 

TICKET PRICES

VIP (Standing) - P6,900

Patron - P5,800

Lower Box - P3,900

Upper Box - P2,400

General Admission - P960

Tickets are available at SM Tickets outlets and through online at www.smtickets.com. Call 470.2222 for ticket inquiries.

Concert : Lifehouse Live in Manila

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Catch another remarkable and heartfelt performance and fall in love once again with Lifehouse. The series of hits of this group captured the pulse of the Filipino’s love for love songs. Though Lifehouse songs are radio friendly rock songs, their kind of music centers on love, losing someone, faith, life and survival. It is not surprising that this American rock band was able to maintain a solid fan base in this country.

With their first hit single “Hanging by A Moment”, the band was catapulted into commercial recognition. Followed by “You and Me” from their self-titled album “Lifehouse.” and strings of hits followed through these years.

Songs in their earlier albums also talks about faith and believing, which also added to their allure as Christian music. Their lyrics it “Take Me Away”, “Everything” and “Breathing” may be interpreted as an ode to God but their words were not imposing, it’s sweet, sentimental and moving. Their strength lies in their ability to effectively speak of feelings, without sounding force. This songwriting style gave them the edge over other alternative rock bands.

Since then, Lifehouse has released 7 albums. The latest “Out of the Wasteland” (released May 2015) was what Jason Wade referred to as “returning to our roots.” Even music critic Stephen Thomas Erlewine described it as an “immaculately constructed record, easing between insistent midtempo anthems and power ballads...” and Christian Media Cross Rhythm’s Philip Laing describing it as “overall an impressive return to form by the mainstream stalwarts.” Stalwarts, what an apt description for a band that can deliver so much emotion and meaning in their music.

Whatever It Takes, Lifehouse is one of the most played artists in the history of Hot AC with over 1.4 billion Pandora Plays to date.

Lifehouse is composed of Jason Wade in rhythmn guitar and vocals, Ben Carey in lead guitar, Rich Woolstenhulme Jr on drums and Bryce Soderberg on bass guitar.

Generating rave reviews on Ticketmaster for all their live concerts, one can’t help but be excited once again, see the band in action. Lifehouse brought the house down before and now they are coming back to a bigger stage at Mall of Asia Arena on the 8th of October, 2015 as brought to you by CCA Live Productions and Midas.

Set aside those YouTube videos and grab your coats and concert tickets! No heavy rains and extreme heat can stop this now, Lifehouse is coming!

Spandau Ballet concert in Manila on September

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One of the most successful and influential British bands of the 1980s, Spandau Ballet, will bring their ‘Soulboys of the Western World Live’ Concert to Manila for one night only on 21 September 2015 at Mall of Asia Arena.

All five original band members of Spandau Ballet, Tony Hadley, John Keeble, Gary Kemp, Martin Kemp and Steve Norman will come together to perform their smash-hit anthems for Philippine audiences for the first time.

Having sold over 25 million records worldwide, scored numerous multi-platinum albums and amassed 23 hit singles across the globe which have endured for more than three decades. Spandau Ballet’s hits include True, Gold, Through The Barricades, I’ll Fly For You, Lifeline, Round And Round, Communication, Highly Strung, and Only When You Leave, among many others.

Tickets prices at P6750, 5750, 4750, 3750, 2750 available starting July, 2015 at all SM tickets outlets and online at www.smtickets.com.

Spandau Ballet’s Soulboys Of The Western World Tour 2015 live in Manila is presented by Ovation Productions in association with Dainty Group Asia.

Ariana Grande Live in Manila 2015 : The Honeymoon Tour

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MMI Live presents: Ariana Grande Live in Manila 2015 on August 23, 2015 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

American singer and actress, Ariana Grande has appeared in theatre, television and film roles and lent her voice to animated television and films. Grande has been featured on the cover of numerous teen and music magazines.

Few acts had a bigger year in 2014 than pop’s new diva, Ariana Grande. With 2 albums to date; Yours Truly (2013) and My Everything (2014), Ariana has become a household name. Both albums topped the Billboard chart and went viral all over the world. Some of her most popular songs include “Problem”, “Break Free”, “Bang Bang”, “The Way”, “Baby I”, “Right There”, and “Love Me Harder”. She has collaborated with artists like Zedd, Mac Miller, Jessie J, Nicki Minaj, The Weeknd, Big Sean, and Iggy Azalea.

With her incredible vocals and catchy hits, Ariana rose to the top as one of the best new artists in the music scene. She is definitely one pop diva you should check out live in Manila, because her career will definitely stay for a long time.

Ariana Grande Live in Manila 2015 Ticket Prices:

VIP A – P15,999

VIP B – P12,999

Patron A – P13,999

Patron B – P11,999

Lower Box A – P9,999

Lower Box B – P7,999

Upper Box – P4,999

General Admission – P2,099

Get ready for the Material Girl! Madonna’s Concert in Manila on February 2016

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Madonna in Manila to hold Rebel Heart concert in Manila on February 2016. Music Management International presents Rebel Heart World Tour MADONNA LIVE IN MANILA on February 24, 2016, 8:00pm at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City. 

MMI Live has confirmed the news on Twitter. Madonna will perform February 24, 2016, at the MOA Arena. Months back, Madonna announced her Rebel Heart tour which will start in the US and Canada this September.

Madonna will visit Manila for the first time as part of her Rebel Heart World Tour. Queen of Pop Madonna’s Manila concert has been set for two nights on the last week of February at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena.

Madonna is best known for numerous timeless hits such as “Like a Virgin,” “Papa Don’t Preach,” “Like a Prayer,” and “Vogue.” 

Well known for her ever-evolving musical styles and looks, Madonna, during her colorful career spanning over three decades, the seven-time Grammy Award-winner has sold more than 300 million records worldwide. 

Madonna marked a new world record by becoming the only artist to have 45 No. 1 songs on any chart in Billboard history.

Madonna holds the title of being the best-selling female recording artist of all time by Guinness World Records. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), she is the best-selling female rock artist of the 20th century and the second best-selling female artist in the United States, with 64.5 million certified albums. Billboard ranked her at number two, behind only The Beatles, on the Billboard Hot 100 All-Time.

The song is part of Madonna's latest album Rebel Heart.

Under her new album last March 2015, Madonna released her 14-track album Rebel Heart that contained hit singles, “Living for Love,” “Ghosttown” and “Bitch, I’m Madonna”,with a new video "Bitch I'm Madonna" which featured stars like Nicki Minaj, Beyonce, Miley Cyrus and Katy Perry.

The 56-year-old pop superstar will kick off The Rebel Heart World Tour in Montreal, Canada this September. 

Tickets to the Rebel Heart concert in the Philippines will be available at SM Tickets starting July 26, 2015.

First time in the Philippines! #‎MADONNAinManila concert at MOA Arena in 2016 and the VIP tickets starts at P50,000.

Tickets will be available starting July 26, 2015 at SM Tickets outlets and online www.smtickets.com. Call 470-2222 for inquiries.

LINKS

http://www.madonna.com/

http://livenation.com/

#MadonnaLiveInManila Special Ticket Pre-Sale for Globe Customers.*

Text REBELHEART<space>MNL to 8888 for your Pre-Sale access. First come, first served. Limited slots only: http://www.globe.com.ph/rebelheart

*July 24, 2015 10:00 AM-5:00 PM - Globe Platinum, and Globe Business and Globe myBusiness preferred clients

July 24 2015 12:00 NN-5:00 PM - Globe Postpaid, Globe Prepaid, TM, Globe Business and Globe myBusiness

Angelia Ong from Manila is Miss Philippines Earth 2015

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Angelia Gabrena Ong

From the City of Manila,  Angelia Gabrena Ong has been crowned as the Miss Philippines Earth 2015 at the grand finals held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, hosted by Robi Domingo and Miss Earth 2008 Karla Henry, and Ginger Conejero.

 

Now the new Earth Warrior, Marketing Management student Angelia, 24 years old will serve as the Ambassador to environmental protection campaigns in the country, and represent the Philippines to one of the biggest international beauty competitions - the Miss Earth Pageant. 

Carousel Productions, Inc. believed beauty queens would be a good and effective advocate of worthy causes. Together with the Miss Earth Foundation, Miss Philippines - Earth  aims to give a strong emphasis on environmental awareness programs.

Here is the full list of winners:

Miss PH Earth: Manila, Angelia Ong

Miss PH Air: San Antonio, Nueva Ecija, Chanel Thomas

Miss PH Water: Bago City, Catherine Joy Marin

Miss PH Fire: Siniloan, Lagunam Carla Angela Valderrama

Miss Eco Tourism: Iloilo City, Jona Sweett

This is the list of top 15:

City of Manila, Angelia Ong

Baguio, Sofia Deliu

Cabanatuan, Diana Mackey

Dinalupihan, Bataan, Myle Reyes

San Antonio, Nueva Ecija, Chanel Thomas

Guinobatan, Albay Jian Salazar

Lipa City, Paris Silva

Santa Cruz, Laguna, Alyanna Mikaela Cagandahan

Siniloan, Lagunam Carla Angela Valderrama

Bago City, Catherine Joy Marin

Iloilo City, Jona Sweett

Mandaue City, Mhon Theress Menaling

Cagayan De Oro City, Beatrice Alvarez

Iligan City, Jocehl Cristoria

Misamis Oriental, Mitsume Aguilar

Winners of the special awards:

Best cultural costume: Lipa City, gown designed by Chico Estiva

Best eco video: Ipil Zamboanga Sibugay, Maria Loraine Macay Grengia.

Miss SM Markets: Bago City, Catherine Marin

Miss Hana 2015: Manila, Angelia Ong

Congratulations to Miss Philippines Earth 2015 winners ! 

Photo: Missology/ Miss Philippines Earth

Demi Lovato to Mesmerize Filipino Lovatics in Demi World Tour in Manila

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Wilbros Live ushers in 12-time Teen Choice Awards winner, American actress, singer, and songwriter Demi Lovato to Manila to perform a one-night only show on April 30, 2015, 8PM at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Demi Lovato is widely known for her incomparable vocal prowess, the various television shows she starred in, her role as Mitchie in Disney film Camp Rock which elevated her to fame, and as one of the prominent judges of the American X Factor. 

In her previous and third tour, Neon Lights, Demi reached out to the fans all the more by imparting with them the trying times of her life. Billboard considers Demi’s sharing of her past struggles the “most interesting aspect” of the show. The singer-songwriter and actress conveyed to the audience her withdrawal from a world tour to enter a treatment facility due to “physical and emotional issues”. Billboard adds, “As much as Lovato has evolved as a performer since that scary period in her life, however, she has admirably made that past the visible bedrock of her artistry”. 

For this tour, musician, singer-songwriter, actor, and Demi’s old friend, Nick Jonas, took on the role of creative and musical director. 

On May 29, 2014, Demi announced the “Demi World Tour”, her fourth headlining concert tour and her second tour supporting her fourth studio album, Demi. The multi-talented artist says that she will be adding new songs and new covers to the Demi World Tour, and she will be doing things she did not get to do in her previous tour, Neon Lights. 

In Demi’s performance at Mohegan Sun Arena, MassLive.com expressed that she “offered up a genuine, artistic, and insightful 90-minute performance before the sold-out house”. 

Backed by a full band, a dance team, and two back-up singers, Demi set the stage ablaze with “Really Don’t Care” as her first song. 

The multi-faceted singer exhibited versatility in this tour as she shifted “Catch Me” and “Don’t Forget” into acoustic, alt-folk ballads, and deviated from the pop path of “My Love Is Like A Star” and bent more on R&B. 

The Guardian narrated that Demi showcased her collection of pop hits in Barclays Center in Brooklyn while magnificently expressing the themes of love, independence, and acceptance.

Demi effortlessly communicated with the audience in between songs. Orlando Sentinel shares that in the star’s show at the Amway Theater, she told her beloved Lovatics, “I want you to lose yourself in the music. Music is the most beautiful thing in the world.”

Her song “Warrior” which voices out the theme of empowerment was a brilliant coalescence of the mood and the message of the song. MassLive.com illustrated that the set’s centrepiece was built around the piano ballad “Warrior” which followed her journey to Kenya. Orlando Sentinel stated that Demi played an intricate piano introduction and assured the audience that it was okay to make mistakes. 

Demi Lovato naturally captivates the audience not only with her electrifying voice, but also her genuine character and enthralling charisma. 

“For her fans, Demi is a hero, an inspiration, and a lifesaver. Filipino Lovatics had experienced her care and passion for her fans during her first concert in 2013,” affirms a Lovatic Demi Lovato Philippines, the Demi Lovato fan community in the country. “[We] can't wait to see [our] hero perform more songs and hits such as Let It Go, Skyscraper, and Neon Lights in Manila!" he adds.

Experience this and more at Demi Lovato LIVE in Manila at the Mall of Asia Arena on April 30, 2015, presented by Wilbros Live co presented by Fox and Star World in cooperation with MYX, Mellow 947, RX 93.1, 99.5 Play FM, Home Radio 97.9 Natural, Barangay LS FM, 106.7 Energy FM, Philstar.com, Inquirer.net, ClickTheCity.com, Pep.PH, Rappler, Manila Concert Scene, Philippine Concerts, Soundcheck Manila, Business World, The Philippine Star, Astroplus, Odyssey, Business World, Chalk, Star Studio, Total Girl, Candy, HDI Admix and MCA Music Inc. 

Get your tickets now at SMTICKETS.COM or call 4702222.

Angels Walk For Autism aim high, fly high! The world’s biggest gathering of winged angels!

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THE Autism Society of the Philippines made its attempt to be recognized as the world’s biggest gathering of winged individuals with its “Angels Walk for Autism 2015” held at the SM  Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Sunday, January 25.

“We are vying for the most number of people with wings which stands at only 1,200,” President of the Autism Society of the Philippines (ASP) Malou Magno Veluz said. 

The Angels' Walk for Autism 2015 successfully gathered its participants who literally wore "angels wings".An estimate of over 12,000 people wearing a pair of wings on their backs gathered at the SM MOA Arena for the Angels Walk For Autism 2015.

This community is also to set a Guinness Book of World Record on the largest crowd wearing wings on this occasion.

The current world record holder for the ‘largest crowd wearing wings’ is Germany with a total of 1,200 people. Mona Magno-Veluz, said that the number is already covered by ASP’s contingent from the province of Cavite and they have a total of 25 chapters that participated in the event.

Sunday’s event kicked off the National  Autism Consciousness Week, which has various activities for the entire week.

Donning an angel’s wings, SM Prime Holdings Inc. President Hans Sy led an estimated 12,000 participants, including people with autism and their families in marching around the MOA complex.

Carmel Almendrala, a member of the ASP’s board of trustees, said the annual gathering intended to raise consciousness on the autism disability as global statistics had projected one million autism cases in the Philippines.

“Autism Inclusive Philippines: Aim High! Fly High!” is the theme of the 2015 Philippine National Autism Consciousness Week. The Autism Society Philippines continues to inspire awareness, acceptance and inclusion of persons with autism (PWAs) in society and to promote action by the public and private sectors towards enabling PWAs to live with dignity, enjoy equal rights and access, function independently and contribute productively.

Sunday’s event kicked off the National  Autism Consciousness Week, which has various activities for the entire week.

The program last Sunday, started with the induction of officers of the stakeholder organizations - Autism Society Philippines (ASP), Philippine Association for Speech Pathologists (PASP) and the Occupational Therapists Association of the Philippines (OTAP).

This was followed by a special Autism-Inclusive dance presentation from The Heart At Play Foundation performers, the CUBS, DTOUR and the KIDZ LIGHTNING CREW.

Certified Zumba and Piloxing Trainer Donna Lim, ASP Chair Emeritus Dang Koe, SM Program on Disability Affairs Head Bien Mateo together with the executives of SM Cares led the crowd of thousands inside the Arena to an Auti-Zumba dance exercise.

Autism-Inclusive Dance Presentation with The Heart At Play Foundation

National anthem with children and adults with Autism

Opening remarks by ASP Chair Emeritus Ms. Dang Koe, and ASP National President Ms. Mona Magno-Veluz

Engr. Bien C. Magno, SM Program on Disability Affairs

Also present during the event were SM Prime Holdings President Hans T. Sy, ASP Immediate Past President Ms. Jan Pena, Diwa Representative Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, Mandaluyong City Mayor Benhur Abalos Jr., National Council on Disability Affairs Director Carmen Zubiaga, Governor Paul Daza and wife Gigi.

SM President Hans T. Sy with the people from SM Cares

ASP Immediate Past President Ms. Jan Pena for the invocation

SM Program on Disability Affairs Head Bien Mateo for the Opening Remarks

Special message from Diwa Representative Emmeline Aglipay-Villar

Special Message from Mandaluyong City Mayor Benhur Abalos Jr.

After the walk, more than half of the participants were  treated to a show featuring children with autism.

But beyond the Angels Walk for Autism’s attempt for a world record title is an underlying message of hope for an ‘Autism OK’ Philippines.

It is estimated that 1% of the world’s population has autism, that translates to around 1 million Filipinos but sadly, only 10% of people with autism are diagnosed properly and only around 5% receiving appropriate intervention. The over-all challenge being faced by people with autism are and have always been – acceptance and inclusion.

The Angels Walk has been conducted in partnership with SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, since 2009.

The largest gathering ever recorded in support for the National Autism Consciousness Week that began in January 1996. The first-ever Angels Walk For Autism event was held in Roxas Boulevard in 2007 with less than a thousand participants.

What is Autism?

Autism is a sensory processing disorder. It affects how a person perceives what he sees, hears, touches, tastes, smells and therefore how hereacts to what he perceives. It is an organic disorder of the neural development because it affects the brain, an abnormal brain development from early infancy. It is a PHYSIOLOGICAL, not a PSYCHOLOGICAL condition.

The cause of Autism is still unknown, but scientific research sugest it is a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Autism is also a lifelong disability, no cure but it can be managed. Many individuals with autism have actually lived rich and fulfilled lives.

Repetitively stacking or lining up objects is a behavior sometimes associated with individuals with autism.

As autism is a spectrum disorder, skills and capabilities vary among individuals who are affected by this condition. With early intervention, passion and dedication, many have achieved success, while continuously managing challenges brought by their autism.

Filipino artists like Gabby Atienza, Lance ‘Tikoy’ Basilio, Tomas Perez Diaz, JA Tan, and Tumtum Mendoza, and from other countries, like Dan Akroyd (Canadian comedian, singer, actor from films like Ghostbusters and Satuday Night live); Daryl Hannah (American actress in Splash).

ASP President Mona Magno-Veluz and ASP Chair Dang Koe

“For the welfare of a maturing population of Filipinos with on the spectrum, care fro persons with autism must transition from the confines of the home and school to universities, businesses and workplaces. We hope to inspire awareness, acceptance, accommodation and appreciation of autism in all sectors of Philippine society.” said Mona Magno-Veluz, President of Autism Society of the Philippines

Veluz presented during the opening program ASP’s policy agenda which talks about basic principles of equality. Goals that ASP hope leaders in government and the private sector can consider seriously: 

A Law on Mandatory Developmental Assessment, institutionalized alongside newborn screening procedures.

Inclusive Education, most especially in the public education sector.

Public servants with special skills like occupational, speech and behavioral modification therapists and transition specialists (for public schools) and developmental specialists (for public hospitals).

Community Based Rehabilitation and Autism-Friendly Spaces.

Comprehensive Sensitivity Training for schools and workplaces.

Livelihood Opportunities

Creative reforms to help families to fund interventions for family members with autism like PhilHealth-supported therapy and 100% tax-deductibility of intervention expenses. 

After the program, the angels led by ASP Chair Dang Koe and SM President Hans Sy marched and paraded the grounds of SM Mall of Asia.

“Autism Inclusive Philippines: Aim High! Fly High!” is the theme of the 2015 Philippine National Autism Consciousness Week.

The Autism Society Philippines continues to inspire awareness, acceptance and inclusion of persons with autism (PWAs) in society and to promote action by the public and private sectors towards enabling PWAs to live with dignity, enjoy equal rights and access, function independently and contribute productively.

In a symbolic gesture of solidarity and hope, participants of the Angels Walk for Autism -- which kicks off the NACW commemoration -- are encouraged to wear angel wings. Our community will attempt to set the world record for the largest crowd wearing angels wings. The largest registered contingent wearing angel wings will win P25,000!

Aside from the Mall of Asia activity, similar gathering were held at Baluyan Towers in Tacloban and over at SM City Cebu.

Walk for autism. Autistic people with angels’ wings parade at the Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday to celebrate “Angels Walk for Autism 2015.” - Photos HERE.

Asp chairwoman emeritus Dang Koe said they were extremely thankful to SM for accommodating their cause.

“We cannot thank SM and SM Cares enough because through the years, they have never gotten tired  of being our partners,” Koe said. She said SM and its many malls and stores had become the most autism-friendly establishment. “We can say that SM is the most autism friendly center in all of the Philippines,” Koe said.

Bien Mateo, SM’s vice president for operations and head of the SM Disability Program, said SM shared the same advocacy with ASP.

It was an incredible sight! Kids and adults with autism with their families and friends, all wearing wings and even halos, marching together as one.

The Angels Walk For Autism was organized by the Autism Society of the Philippines and SM Cares.

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of persons with autism spectrum disorder. The ASP has been in the forefront of providing services and training to families living with autism.

Photos HERE.

Pope Francis' Meeting with Families at MOA

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Pope Francis met with Filipino families, including those representing OFWs and PWDs, at the “Meeting with Families” at the Mall of Asia Arena, his day 2 , January 16, 2015.

During his homily, he reminded the Catholic faithful to “protect the family”, and noted that economic challenges are tearing families apart as more people migrate in search of better employment. 

Pope Francis with the theme of his visit to the Philippines, "The Holy Family's Journey, The Pilgrimage of Every Family", as he calls for respect for life. Pope Francis quotes Saint John Paul II and says the future of humanity passes through the family. He calls for respect for life and reminds the audience of the sacredness of every human life from conception to natural death.

Pope Francis reminds listeners to make time to pray. He says we must make time to pray and that rest is essential for our spiritual health, so that we can better hear God's voice and understand His message.

Pope Francis reminds the crowd not to lose the capacity to dream. "When you lose the capacity to dream, you lose the capacity to love."

Below is the full text of the prepared speech of Pope Francis, which he delivered during the Meeting with Families at the Mall of Asia Arena

Below is the full text of the prepared speech of Pope Francis, which he delivered during the Meeting with Families at the Mall of Asia Arena, Friday, January 16.

Dear Families,

Dear Friends in Christ,

I am grateful for your presence here this evening and for the witness of your love for Jesus and his Church. I thank Bishop Reyes, Chairman of the Bishops’ Commission on Family and Life, for his words of welcome on your behalf. And, in a special way, I thank those who have presented testimonies and have shared their life of faith with us.

The Scriptures seldom speak of Saint Joseph, but when they do, we often find him resting, as an angel reveals God’s will to him in his dreams. In the Gospel passage we have just heard, we find Joseph resting not once, but twice. This evening I would like to rest in the Lord with all of you, and to reflect with you on the gift of the family.

Joseph’s rest revealed God’s will to him. In this moment of rest in the Lord, as we pause from our many daily obligations and activities, God is also speaking to us. He speaks to us in the reading we have just heard, in our prayer and witness, and in the quiet of our hearts. Let us reflect on what the Lord is saying to us, especially in this evening’s Gospel. There are three aspects of this passage which I would ask you to consider: resting in the Lord, rising with Jesus and Mary, and being a prophetic voice.

Resting in the Lord. Rest is so necessary for the health of our minds and bodies, and often so difficult to achieve due to the many demands placed on us. But rest is also essential for our spiritual health, so that we can hear God’s voice and understand what he asks of us. Joseph was chosen by God to be the foster father of Jesus and the husband of Mary. As Christians, you too are called, like Joseph, to make a home for Jesus. You make a home for him in your hearts, your families, your parishes and your communities.

To hear and accept God’s call, to make a home for Jesus, you must be able to rest in the Lord. You must make time each day for prayer. But you may say to me: Holy Father, I want to pray, but there is so much work to do! I must care for my children; I have chores in the home; I am too tired even to sleep well. This may be true, but if we do not pray, we will not know the most important thing of all: God’s will for us. And for all our activity, our busy-ness, without prayer we will accomplish very little.

Resting in prayer is especially important for families. It is in the family that we first learn how to pray. There we come to know God, to grow into men and women of faith, to see ourselves as members of God’s greater family, the Church. In the family we learn how to love, to forgive, to be generous and open, not closed and selfish. We learn to move beyond our own needs, to encounter others and share our lives with them. That is why it is so important to pray as a family! That is why families are so important in God’s plan for the Church!

Next, rising with Jesus and Mary. Those precious moments of repose, of resting with the Lord in prayer, are moments we might wish to prolong. But like Saint Joseph, once we have heard God’s voice, we must rise from our slumber; we must get up and act (cf. Rom 13:11). Faith does not remove us from the world, but draws us more deeply into it. Each of us, in fact, has a special role in preparing for the coming of God’s kingdom in our world.

Just as the gift of the Holy Family was entrusted to Saint Joseph, so the gift of the family and its place in God’s plan is entrusted to us. The angel of the Lord revealed to Joseph the dangers which threatened Jesus and Mary, forcing them to flee to Egypt and then to settle in Nazareth. So too, in our time, God calls upon us to recognize the dangers threatening our own families and to protect them from harm.

The pressures on family life today are many. Here in the Philippines, countless families are still suffering from the effects of natural disasters. The economic situation has caused families to be separated by migration and the search for employment, and financial problems strain many households. While all too many people live in dire poverty, others are caught up in materialism and lifestyles which are destructive of family life and the most basic demands of Christian morality. The family is also threatened by growing efforts on the part of some to redefine the very institution of marriage, by relativism, by the culture of the ephemeral, by a lack of openness to life.

Our world needs good and strong families to overcome these threats! The Philippines needs holy and loving families to protect the beauty and truth of the family in God’s plan and to be a support and example for other families. Every threat to the family is a threat to society itself. The future of humanity, as Saint John Paul II often said, passes through the family (cf. Familiaris Consortio, 85). So protect your families! See in them your country’s greatest treasure and nourish them always by prayer and the grace of the sacraments. Families will always have their trials, but may you never add to them! Instead, be living examples of love, forgiveness and care. Be sanctuaries of respect for life, proclaiming the sacredness of every human life from conception to natural death. What a gift this would be to society, if every Christian family lived fully its noble vocation! So rise with Jesus and Mary, and set out on the path the Lord traces for each of you.

Finally, the Gospel we have heard reminds us of our Christian duty to be prophetic voices in the midst of our communities. Joseph listened to the angel of the Lord and responded to God’s call to care for Jesus and Mary. In this way he played his part in God’s plan, and became a blessing not only for the Holy Family, but a blessing for all of humanity. With Mary, Joseph served as a model for the boy Jesus as he grew in wisdom, age and grace (cf. Lk 2:52). When families bring children into the world, train them in faith and sound values, and teach them to contribute to society, they become a blessing in our world. God’s love becomes present and active by the way we love and by the good works that we do. We extend Christ’s kingdom in this world. And in doing this, we prove faithful to the prophetic mission which we have received in baptism.

During this year which your bishops have set aside as the Year of the Poor, I would ask you, as families, to be especially mindful of our call to be missionary disciples of Jesus. This means being ready to go beyond your homes and to care for our brothers and sisters who are most in need. I ask you especially to show concern for those who do not have a family of their own, in particular those who are elderly and children without parents. Never let them feel isolated, alone and abandoned, but help them to know that God has not forgotten them. You may be poor yourselves in material ways, but you have an abundance of gifts to offer when you offer Christ and the community of his Church. Do not hide your faith, do not hide Jesus, but carry him into the world and offer the witness of your family life!

Dear friends in Christ, know that I pray for you always! I pray that the Lord may continue to deepen your love for him, and that this love may manifest itself in your love for one another and for the Church. Pray often and take the fruits of your prayer into the world, that all may know Jesus Christ and his merciful love. Please pray also for me, for I truly need your prayers and will depend on them always! 

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Singer Jamie Rivera ends the program at the Mall of Asia by singing We Are All God's Children. Pope Francis leaves the Mall of Asia Arena and heads to the Apostolic Nunciature to rest.

SM's advisory on Pope's visit to MOA Arena

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SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena management issues advisory reminding the public that its gates will open at 11 a.m. on Friday, January 16, during the visit of Pope Francis.

His Holiness Pope Francis is expected to arrive at the MOA Complex at 5:15 p.m. SM MOA Arena management said gates will be closed at 3:30 p.m. The South Open Parking will open at 9 a.m. and also close at 3:30 p.m.

Pope Francis will celebrate the Liturgy of the Word, which will involve a reading of the Holy Gospel, reflection, prayer, and blessings for all families present.

Dubbed “Encounter with the Families,” selected families will also be sharing testimonies on poverty, migration, and disability, with the Pope and the public. This event is expected to end at 7 p.m.

SM MOA management said all tickets are free and issued by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), which organized the event.

Local dioceses will also issue free tickets for the 16 cinemas that will show live streaming of the Pope’s MOA appearance, namely SM City North Edsa, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM City Manila, SM City Sta. Mesa, SM City San Lazaro, SM City Fairview, SM City Marikina, SM City Bacoor, SM City Dasmariñas, SM City Clark, SM City Pampanga, SM City Cebu, SM City Iloilo, SM City Davao, and SM City Lanang.

Those who are in the vicinity of the MOA Arena can also see the Pope during the motorcade, as well as the proceedings inside the MOA Arena through LED screens with speakers at the MOA complex.

SM management said the MOA Arena Annex building, located in front of MOA Arena, will open at 4 a.m. onwards (on a first come first served basis).

Only those who will present official Papal visit 2015 IDs and the red-colored Arena tickets (for the pre-seated delegates inside the MOA Arena) will be allowed entry, and white colored Arena tickets (for the seated delegates in the South Open Parking between MOA Arena & SMX).

Michael Bublé To Take Manila On A Pre-Valentine’s Date

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There is no doubt that critically-acclaimed singer-songwriter Michael Bublé always gives his audience a night they will never forget. With his unsurpassed charm, splendid stage presence, and enchanting vocals, he transforms his concert into a date with his fans. During his full house show in Value City Arena in Ohio, Bublé mentioned that he didn’t want it to be treated like an ordinary concert. He added, “It’s more like a first date. I start nice and slow, because I know some of you haven’t seen me before.”

Bublé’s electrifying performance is complemented by his natural ability to please the crowd. The Telegraph writes, “On [Bublé’s] first concert of a 10-night run at London's 02 Arena, part of the Canadian singer’s 2013 To Be Loved worldwide tour, he high-fived male fans, blew kisses to adoring women and stood atop a 20-foot structure while blasting out jazzy takes on the old standards.” The Canadian crooner, donning a full tuxedo and shiny shoes, had sold out the O2 Arena on those 10 nights. He was backed by a full orchestral band which he grandiosely introduced as their information such as their respective hometowns, colleges, and draft dates were flashed on screen. He rendered the crowd astonished with his versions of classics, but it was his chart-topping hits “Hold On” and “Haven’t Met You Yet” that got the crowd on their feet.

The multi-Grammy Award winner connects exceptionally well with his audience through his effortless humor, hip dance moves, and strikingly infectious charisma. This global entertainer performed in 18 sold out shows in UK, 31 in Europe, 12 in Canada, and plenty sold out shows in the US, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand for his To Be Loved Tour.

On January 31, Michael Bublé will sweep Manila off its feet. Catch the Canadian crooner at the Mall of Asia Arena, 8 PM, as Wilbros Live in cooperation with Dainty Group and FOX International Channels presents Michael Bublé LIVE in Manila. 

Tickets available at SM Tickets via smtickets.com or call 470-2222. Special thanks to Warner Music Philippines, ABS CBN, MYX, RX 93.1, Play FM 99.5, Natural 97.9, 103.5 KLite, Mellow 94.7, The Philippine Star, Business World, Business Mirror, HDI Admix Inc, Philstar.com, PEP.PH and Inquirer.net.

All We Want for Christmas is Michael Bublé, coming in Manila on January 31, 2015

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All we want for Christmas is Michael Bublé, and he’s coming to Manila on January 31, 2015 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Michael Bublé, the Canadian 4-time Grammy Award winner, delivers a full-length Christmas album with an old-fashioned taste, done in the best possible way.

The album, entitled “Christmas”, is a beautiful coalescence of swing and contemporary pop that satisfies lovers of music. Regardless of one’s music genre choice, Michael Bublé’s Christmas will surely hype up the holiday cheer. 

With Christmas fast approaching, Bublé’s smooth and flawless vocals will definitely tug the hearts of Yuletide season-embracing Filipinos. Bringing together the most popular Christmas songs such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, “Silent Night”, “Jingle Bells”, and “All I Want for Christmas is You”, this 16-track album perfectly encapsulates the holiday season vibe. An evident standout is his rendition of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” as he injects a pop ballad touch to the Motown-influenced original. A Bublé original, “Cold December Night” is also included in the album. 

Christmas, produced by David Foster, Bob Rock and Humberto Gatica, includes guest performances. Fellow Canadian Shania Twain joins the crooner on "White Christmas", The Puppini Sisters add swing on "Jingle Bells", and Latin star Thalia offers a grand closing by joining Bublé in “Feliz Navidad”. 

Bublé commented, "Christmas has always been my favorite time of the year for me and my family, so naturally, it's been a dream of mine to make the 'ultimate' Christmas record. Even though it was summer and 95 degrees in LA, we totally got into the spirit of the holiday.” 

Over the years, Michael Bublé has already made an indelible mark in the international music scene. His phenomenal albums which has spawned chartbusting hits like “Fever”, “Home”, “How Can You Mend A Broken Heart”, “Sway”, “To Love Somebody” and many more are testaments of his caliber as an artist.

Pinoy Big Band enthusiasts will once again catch a glimpse of his stellar performance as multi-awarded crooner, Michael Bublé graces the Mall of Asia Arena stage. 

Have yourself a very Bublé Christmas. Catch Michael Bublé Live In Manila on 31 January 2015 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Michael Bublé - It's A Beautiful Day [Official Music Video]

Presented by Wilbros Live and Dainty Group

Tickets are now available at www.smtickets.com or call 470-22-22 or 374-22-22.

Here's All I want for Christmas Michael Bublé  with Mariah Carey. 

Michael Bublé – Live in Manila 2015

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Michael Bublé – Live in Manila 2015 presented by Wilbros Live with Dainty Group International, to be held at the Mall of Asia Arena on January 31st 2015.

Michael had several hit singles that Filipinos love, including “Home”, “Sway”, “Everything”, “Haven’t Met You Yet”, and the 2013 smash song, “It’s A Beautiful Day.” 

Michael Bublé, the four-time Grammy award winner and Canadian superstar, is returning to Manila as part of his World Tour.

It’s been more than 10 years since Michael’s last concert in Manila and he is very excited to come back and serenade Filipino fans with his much loved, chart-topping songs.

Michael Bublé has been selling out Arenas across the globe, making this show one of the year’s hottest concert tickets. In London, he was originally slated to do six nights at the London’s O2 Arena, but had to add four extra shows when the first run sold-out in just five minutes!

“No one can accuse Michael Bublé of being anything but a crowd-pleaser,” The Telegraph raved, adding that the Canadian superstar “had the audience shrieking in appreciation”.

“This feel-good show was complete. Maybe nice guys don’t finish last, after all,” the London Evening Standard concluded.

Besides Europe, America, Australia and New Zealand, Michael will now extend his fifth concert tour and biggest ever to Asia – to include stops in Manila, Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Seoul, Tokyo, and for the first time ever, Shanghai.

But, of course, it’s all about the music, with the tour celebrating Michael’s latest chart-topping album. 

“My new record is about love, happiness and fun,” Michael says. 

Released in April 2013, To Be Loved debuted at number-one on the Billboard 200, becoming the crooner's fourth consecutive number-one album on the chart. Produced by fellow Canadian Bob Rock, To Be Loved features the hit single “It’s A Beautiful Day” – co-written by Michael – plus his interpretations of the Bee Gees’ “To Love Somebody”, Elvis Presley’s “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You?” and Randy Newman’s “You’ve Got A Friend In Me”. Reese Witherspoon also joins him for a delicious version of “Something Stupid”.

“I think it’s the best album I’ve ever made,” Michael says. “I know every artist on earth says that when their new album is coming out but, really, this time it’s true. I swear. You can ask my mother.”

Michael’s Christmas album was in the first place on the Billboard 200 for the final four weeks of 2011 and the first week of 2012, totaling five weeks atop the chart. It also made the Top 5 in the United Kingdom. With this, Christmas became his third consecutive number-one album on the chart.

Michael Bublé is always striving to make better albums and do better shows.

“Do not think I take my success these last 10 years for granted. I was anything but an overnight sensation, which inspires me to deliver big time for my fans – maybe even make some new ones this time out.

“Trust me, there’s no sitting back, no phoning in for me.”

The multi-awarded singer adds “I just love getting in front of people. It’s so important to be in touch with your audience. They’ve paid their money; I want them to be entertained. If they want to cry or laugh or dance or sing or yell, they can do whatever they want. My responsibility is just to take them away.”

Tickets to Michael Bublé – Live in Manila 2015 will be on-sale on November 14, 2014 via www.smtickets.com or call 470-2222 or 374-22222.