UFC Gives Back to Families in Need With 50 Acts of Kindness

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The year 2020 has turned out to be a shining moment for UFC, which is celebrating their 50th anniversary as an essential part of the Filipino culinary experience. With deep gratitude for this major milestone, UFC chose to give back—to families in need—with their 50 Acts of Kindness campaign. As part of the event, UFC asked several celebrity endorsers to nominate families who have lost their livelihoods due to the pandemic. 

Among the select celebrities were power couple Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli, who nominated 53-year-old Salvador R. Tiburcio as their beneficiary. Before the pandemic, Salvador had a regular income as a maintenance man. When the government instituted measures to curb the spread of the virus, Salvador found himself stranded at home, unable to travel to his job site. Since then, Salvador has been making ends meet by doing freelance maintenance work around his apartment building. 

“Apektado ang buong pamilya ko. Meron nga sila mga trabaho pero apektado pa rin sila sa sitwasyon ngayon,” Salvador laments as he recalls the debilitating effects of the pandemic. 

Last December 19 and 20, Salvador, along with five other families, received a Sama-samang Sarap ng Pamilya bundle from UFC. The bundle came with a sari-sari store package that included brand-new signage as well as various NurtiAsia products and grocery items. They also received a bicycle with a basket for groceries and a laptop with pocket Wi-Fi. These gifts sought to give the beneficiaries the means to sustain their families in the new year.

Another nominee of Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli was 47-year-old Myra B. Togalon. An experienced seamstress, Myra lost her sewing projects at schools when these shut down in response to the pandemic. With a husband, child, and a PWD sibling at home to support, Myra had to take on work as a cleaning lady around her neighborhood. 

The past year has left an unforgettable mark on Myra. “Hinding-hindi ko po malilimutan itong pandemya na ito,” said Myra. “Sunod-sunod po ang trahedya lalo na po nung nawala ang aking mother. Ilan po kami sa bahay na kumakain tapos kaming dalawa lang po mag-asawa ang nakayod."

Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli’s third and last nominee was Rowel Seranias, a 32-year-old company tailor who’s been struggling to feed his family ever since the pandemic hit. 

The famed Guerrero siblings also participated in this campaign. Together they nominated 48-year-old Vilma Sedaya, the Guerrero family’s longtime laundry lady who also works at a local market. 

Award-winning chef Tatung Sarthou also helped with UFC’s 50 Acts of Kindness. He nominated 35-year-old Billy Ray A. Pascual, a cook who prepared and sold kimchi to help support his family when he lost his job during the pandemic. Chef Tatung also nominated 31-year-old April Sioson, a sales clerk who toils to support her child’s education. 

Salvador and his fellow beneficiaries could barely contain their joy upon receiving UFC’s Sama-samang Sarap ng Pamilya packages. They are profoundly grateful to UFC for sharing their goodies with them this holiday season, as well as providing them with a sustainable source of income for the new year. 

These beneficiaries’ heartwarming stories give us a glimpse of the intrepid Filipino spirit which shines through even in the darkest times. UFC honors and celebrates these people who continue to embody the meaning of sama-samang sarap ng pamilya every day. 

Inspiring story of the enduring Filipino spirit wins grand prize in UFC Reel Life short film competition

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The first ever UFC Reel Life: Nagsasama-samang Sarap Short Film Competition, an event meant to celebrate UFC’s 50^th anniversary as well as highlight the talents of local filmmakers, has officially selected its top three winners.

 

UFC Reel Life Best Film “Cancelled” about how ordinary Filipinos rise up and find hope despite the odds

The competition focused on sharing stories about how ordinary Filipinos rise up and find hope despite the odds. Together, UFC celebrates these special moments of triumph, inspirations of courage, and resiliency for the coming year.

The daunting task of selecting the prize-winning films from the 57 entries that came in fell upon an esteemed panel of judges. This panel included Kip Oebanda, writer and director of Liway, Bar Boys, and Nay; Noel Teehankee, a prolific cinematographer from blockbuster films including The Hows of Us, A Second Chance, and Crazy Beautiful You; Victor Kaiba Villanueva, the director behind films Patay na Si Hesus, My Paranormal Romance, and Ang Nanay ni Justin Barber; and representatives of UFC marketing.

Crismel Gida won Best Film, Best Director, and Best Cinematography for his short film “Cancelled”

Directed by Crismel Gida, “Cancelled,” a hopeful story of two resilient Filipinos working their hardest to make ends meet after their livelihoods were affected by recent events, took home the P100,000 grand prize for Best Short Film. Gida also took home the P15,000 Best Director Prize as well as the P5,000 Best Cinematography award.

In second place, and winning P50,000, was Ken Leviste’s “How’s my Driving,” which tells the engaging narrative of a jeepney driver turned deliveryman. Meanwhile, the third place prize of P20,000 went to Marco Paulo Castro’s “Budjoy,” a light hearted story about a forgetful boy who misses his OFW mother as his family tries to make ends meet.

“How's My Driving” is UFC Reel Life's second best film

Director Ken Leviste's “How's My Driving” bagged the contest's second best film

Aside from the top winners of the competition, excellent performances both on and off screen were given special credit. Acting citations were given to outstanding performers from the competition’s entries. The Best Actor prize of P5,000 goes to none other than young talent Sean Angelo Tutanez for “Budjoy”. Meanwhile the Best Actress prize of P5,000 goes to Andrea del Mundo for “Prank” (directed by James Edward Golla), a short film that tells the story of an innocent prank between husband and wife that takes a dramatic turn.

“Kambal” by Yves Publico is among the competition's honorable mentions

The competition likewise gave recognition for technical skills to highlight the immense talent that filmmakers showed behind the scenes. The Best Screenplay prize of P5,000 went to Jojo Livelo and Miko Livelo for “Anana”, a comedic tale of cheesy dad jokes made real.

“Ma,” by Dexter de Jesus won Best Mobile Short Film, Best Editing, and honorable mention

The Best Editing prize of P5,000 went to Dexter de Jesus for “Ma,”, a beautifully animated film about a young man missing the comfort of his mother’s home cooking.

Special awards were also given in response to the overwhelming amount of talent on display during the competition. Best Mobile Short Film was given to the filmmaker who made the best use of simple equipment such as their very own cell phone cameras. The People’s Choice Award rewards the most popular film in the competitions as determined by the number of YouTube views. Seven honorable mentions were also selected from the shortlist of 30 as their skill and quality could not go unrecognized. 

The winner of Best Mobile Short Film was Dexter de Jesus for “Ma,”. The awardee will receive a mobile filmmaking kit that includes a Kase Four Lens Kit V2, a Zhiyun Crane M2, a Kase Phone case, a Phone Cage 2990, and a Synco Shotgun Mic M1. Lexter Taganas’s “Uli” snagged the People’s Choice Award and the P15,000 prize for getting over 22,000 views.

UFC also awarded a P10,000 consolation prize to each of the seven honorable mentions: “Ma,” by Dexter de Jesus; “Kambal” by Yves Publico; “Rico” by Ronald John Mendenilla-Teodosio; “Tatalon” by Don Ralph Diaz; “Bato-Bato Pik” by Alejandro “Bong” Ramos; “Uli” by Lexter Taganas; and “Anana” by Quentin Tolentino.

Prize winner or not, however, each and every entry in this contest placed the prodigious talents of local filmmakers on full display. The organizers of UFC Reel Life: Nagsasama-samang Sarap Short Film Competition takes great pride in having been able to shine a spotlight on these excellent works. Congratulations go out to all the winners and to the rest of the filmmakers who showcased their abilities for the competition.

All thirty short films that were shortlisted as finalists can be watched right now on YouTube.

 

UFC Reel Life short film competition names finalists

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UFC’s first-ever Reel Life: Nagsasama-samang Sarap Short Film Competition has officially selected thirty (30) finalists from the vast field of submitted entries.

Launched as part of UFC’s 50^th anniversary celebration, the competition seeks to provide a platform for gifted Filipino artists to showcase their filmmaking potentials and tell their stories.

The Filipino creative spirit was on full display by the entrants for this contest, making it incredibly difficult to narrow down the entries to only 30 finalists.

The finalists are as follows: “Almusal” by John Renz Cahilig, “Anana” by Quentin Tolentino, “Ang Pagsibol” by Ramil Lantican, “Asam-asam” by Michael Angelo Hernandez Valencia, “Bato-Bato Pik” by Alejandro "Bong" Ramos, “Budjoy” by Marco Paolo Castro, “Byahe Natin” by Rusty Palacio Guarin, “Cancelled” by Crismel Gida, “Crush” and “New Normal” by Niokz Arcega, “Gift Box” by John Kenneth Paclibar, “How's My Driving?” by Ken Leviste, “Ina'Ko” by Michael John Tuclaud, “Kambal” by Yves Publico, “Ma,” by Dexter De Jesus, “Mabote Na Lang” by John Verlin Santos, “Magpadayon” by Jose Carlo Gloria, “Module Legends: Papa Sir” by Renel Ian Gacayan, and “Modules (Info Sheet)” by Marienel Calma.

Completing the list are: “Panahon” by Lawrence Lagdameo, “Pasko sa Pandemya” by Armilane Jarin, “Prank” by James Edward Golla, “Project Blessy” by Norman Mark Boquiren, “Reges (The River)” by Jamal Baulo, “Rico” by Ronald John Mendenilla-Teodosio, “Spaghetti ni Mamu” by Raymark Estael, “Stick” by FJ Cancino, “Tatalon” by Don Ralph Diaz, “Uli” by Lexter Taganas, and “Unexpected” by Ron Garcia.

“Asam-asam” by Michael Angelo Hernandez Valencia is an arresting  family drama

“Bato Bato” Pik by Alejandro Ramos tells a touching survival story of a senior couple
at onset of the lockdown

“Budjoy” by Marco Paulo Castro is a funny narrative about a forgetful boy with an openly gay dad

“Cancelled” by Crismel Gida is depicts the stories of survival amidst the economic challenges
 of the lockdown

“How's My Driving” by Ken Leviste is a short about how a senior jeepney is coping with the pandemic

“Ina'Ko” by Michael John Tuclaud is about a medical frontliner missing his mom

“Modules” by Marienel Calma tackles the difficulty of online learning

 

Kambal” by Yves Publico recounts the story of a twin who were miles apart during the lockdown

 

Rusty Palacio Guarin's “Byahe Natin” is a compelling story about how a taxi driver found his missing brother

The short film "Tatalon" by Ron Ralph Diaz is a story about how two strangers met in an unusual situation

In partnership with CinemaBravo and Mobile Filmmakers Philippines, all entries incorporated one of the following UFC products as an organic part of the narrative: UFC Tamis Anghang Banana Catsup, UFC Sweet Chili Sauce, UFC Tomato Sauce, UFC Gravy, UFC Hot and Spicy Banana Catsup, UFC Hot Sauce, UFC Spaghetti Sauce, UFC Ready Recipes, and UFC Fresh Selections. The entries came in a variety of genres and mediums, proving yet again that there is an enormous reserve of local talents out there waiting to be tapped.

The 30 listed finalists have automatically won a gift pack from UFC. All are eligible to win the following prizes: 1st Prize (P100,000); 2nd Prize (P50,000); 3rd Prize (P20,000); Best Actor (P5,000); Best Actress (P5,000); Best Cinematography (P5,000); Best Screenplay (P5,000); Best Editing (P5,000); Best Director (P15,000); and People’s Choice Award (P15,000).

Members of the public are encouraged to vote for the People’s Choice Award by watching their favorite short film online on YouTube.

A panel of judges will choose winners from the finalists through a deliberation. Results will be announced on December 14.

Cash prizes await winners of the first UFC Reel Life short film competition

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Deadline looms for filmmakers interested in joining the UFC Reel Life: Nagsasama-samang Sarap Short Film Competition. A highlight of UFC’s 50th anniversary celebration, the ongoing competition serves to shine a light on the prodigious talents of local filmmakers known for creating inspiring and meaningful stories that Filipinos can relate to. 

The Filipino creative spirit has always endured, reflecting the same resiliency and strength our country has shown in the face of tremendous challenges. This competition celebrates filmmakers whose stories highlight the positivity and hope that UFC has provided for the last 50 years. 

Filmmakers from all over the country only have two weeks to turn in their entries as the competition closes on November 25. From all the entries received, 30 finalists will be announced on December 3 and winners will be awarded on December 7, 2020. 

All entries must creatively depict the above-mentioned values of optimism and positivity that Filipinos of all ages manifest in times of difficulty. These should also portray the integral role of UFC products in empowering Filipinos to create nagsasama-samang sarap moments every day. 

Thus, all submitted videos should use at least one UFC product as an organic part of the narrative. UFC products include: UFC Tamis Anghang Banana Catsup, UFC Sweet Chili Sauce, UFC Tomato Sauce, UFC Gravy, UFC Hot and Spicy Banana Catsup, UFC Hot Sauce, UFC Spaghetti Sauce, UFC Ready Recipes, and UFC Fresh Selections. 

The festival is open to all filmmakers in the Philippines. Entries must have a maximum length of five (5) minutes, including the opening and closing credits. All videos submitted should be recorded in horizontal format, and edited in not less than 720 HD format. Using 1080 HD, however, is highly recommended. 

Submissions will be screened by a panel of judges, which will determine the finalists and winners through a deliberation. Thirty finalists will be chosen based on the following criteria: Thematic Storytelling (40%), Creativity and Originality (40%), and Technical Execution (20%). The results will be final and irrevocable. 

Each of the 30 finalists will automatically receive a gift pack from UFC. Likewise, they will be eligible for the following prizes: 1st Prize (P100,000); 2nd Prize (P50,000); 3rd Prize (P20,000); Best Actor (P5,000); Best Actress (P5,000); Best Cinematography (P5,000); Best Screenplay (P5,000); Best Editing (P5,000); Best Director (P15,000); and People’s Choice Award (P15,000). 

All entries must be emailed to ufcreellife@gmail.com and must include your name, title of the film, contact number, names of cast and crew, and a photo of the director. For larger files, you may use wetransfer.com to create a shareable link that you can include in your email. 

No film entry shall be an imitation or plagiarized version of any copyrighted work. UFCine Presents: Nagsasama-samang Sarap Short Film Competition and its organizers will not be responsible for any copyright infringement committed by the participants. 

The organizers reserve the right to post all entries on their various social media accounts, namely Sarap UFC, Sarap Pinoy, NutriAsia, and its agency, Insight 360 Consultancy Services, Inc. 

UFC and AirAsia deliver first-time Octagon(R) Branding for UFC(R) 229: Khabib vs McGregor Partnership

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SEPANG, 1 October 2018 - UFC® the world's premier mixed martial arts organisation continues to push the boundaries with AirAsia as its brand partnership takes on new life via the biggest fight in MMA history, as UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov (26-0, fighting out of Dagestan, Russia) battles former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor (21-3, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland) in the main event of UFC® 229: KHABIB vs. McGREGOR, presented by Harley-Davidson, on Saturday, October 6 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. 

The match-up is the most anticipated in MMA history, the event will see UFC and AirAsia deliver unprecedented branding inside the world-famous Octagon®. The famed red corner will be taken over by AirAsia creating unparalleled visibility for the airline brand on fight night.

"AirAsia is one of the most widely recognized brands throughout Asia – Pacific and they are a perfect partner to help us build positive brand awareness for UFC,” UFC President Dana White said. “This partnership is a great fit and we look forward to launching more exciting experiences for our fans.”

In the lead up to this colossal event, AirAsia's cabin crew will join UFC's Octagon Girls on stage during the official ceremonial weigh-ins, as one of the many highlights of a UFC fight week which sees thousands of fans in attendance and millions watching around the world.

Through this multi-facetted partnership, AirAsia will extend its brand presence on a global scale with asset integration across UFC's social, digital, and Pay-Per-View broadcast of the event. 

"We are thrilled to be part of a UFC world first," said Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, Group Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia. "AirAsia and UFC share the same values and vision, and we see the weigh-in and Octagon takeover as a perfect opportunity to leverage this affinity and connect with MMA fans around the world. We look forward to having amazing athletes fight out of the AirAsia red corner."

Beyond UFC 229, AirAsia will continue to activate across UFC properties including the organisation’s inaugural event in Beijing later this year, when UFC returns to China for UFC® FIGHT NIGHT: BLAYDES vs. NGANNOU 2, presented by General Tire. To further cement its status as the first Official Airline partner of UFC, the AirAsia Airbus 330-300 decorated with UFC branded livery will fly to Beijing during fight week.

Earlier this year, AirAsia announced its support to develop the next generation of MMA athletes in Asia, by sponsoring Indonesia's One Pride strawweight champion, Linda Darrow, as the inaugural recipient of the first UFC Training Scholarship, for a month-long program at the UFC Performance Institute®, the world’s first mixed martial arts multi-disciplinary research, innovation and performance center. 

UFC’s commitment to the Asia-Pacific region is driving exponential brand growth with increases seen in fandom, live events and athletes as the organization continues its investment across the MMA ecosystem. Fans across Asia can tune in to watch UFC® 229: KHABIB vs. McGREGOR, presented by Harley-Davidson, on Sunday, October 7, please check local TV listings for more information.

For more information on UFC, please visit UFC.com. Follow us on, WeChat, Youku, QQ, Facebook (UFC Asia), Twitter and Instagram (@ufc).

For more information on AirAsia, please visit airasia.com or follow AirAsia on Facebook and YouTube (AirAsia), Twitter and Instagram (@airasia), Weibo (@亚航之家) or WeChat and Zhihu (@亚洲航空).

About UFC®

UFC® is a premium global sports brand and the largest Pay-Per-View event provider in the world. Celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2018, UFC boasts more than 284 million fans worldwide and has produced over 440 events in 22 countries since its inception in 1993. Acquired in 2016 by global sports, entertainment and fashion leader Endeavor (formerly WME | IMG), together with strategic partners Silver Lake Partners and KKR, UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas with a network of employees around the world. UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe, while programming is broadcast in over 160 countries and territories to 1.1 billion TV households worldwide in 40 different languages. UFC FIGHT PASS®, a digital subscription service, delivers exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content to fans around the world. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

UFC Fight Night: Brown vs Silva to be shown via satellite on Balls Channel

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Strike first mentality on UFC Fight Night: Brown vs Silva to be shown via satellite on Balls Channel

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) comes to Cincinnati this Sunday (May 11) as two offensive welterweight juggernauts meet in the Octagon in UFC Fight Night: Brown vs Silva to be shown via satellite on Balls Channel. 

Erick Silva (via UFC.com)

Ohio native Matt “The Immortal” Brown faces Brazilian rising star Erick Silva who is out to prove that home-cage advantage is merely a myth.

Matt Brown (via UFC.com)

Brown returns to his home state riding an impressive six-fight win streak – five coming off a knockout. He is up against the dynamic Silva, who has finished all of his UFC victories in the first round. Silva’s most recent victory lasted only 52 seconds against Takenori Sato in February.

Plus, middleweight standouts meet in the Octagon™ when Costas Philippou battles rising star Lorenz Larkin. Don’t miss UFC Fight Night: Brown vs Silva this Sunday (May 11), 10:30 AM on Balls Channel, the home of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.