E!’s Fashion Police returns with comedienne Kathy Griffin as host

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Kathy Griffin 

Two-time Emmy and Grammy Award Winning comedienne Griffin takes the throne alongside new panelist, Brad Goreski, and returning stars Kelly Osbourne and Giuliana Rancic when the comedy series returns with Golden Globes coverage on 13 January 2015 at 9PM

Melissa Rivers continues on as executive producer.

E! Entertainment recently announced Fashion Police will be in good – and very funny – hands with actress and comedienne Kathy Griffin as host.  Joining Griffin will be Kelly Osbourne and Giuliana Rancic, who return to the panel along with a new face: celebrity stylist and television personality Brad Goreski (It’s A Brad Brad World). 

Fashion Police – made famous by the iconic and indelible Joan Rivers – will air 17 style-studded episodes throughout the year, focused exclusively on the excitement surrounding the biggest red carpet and fashion events of 2015 including the Oscars, Grammys, Emmys, New York Fashion Week and more.  E!’s Fashion Police returns on 13 January 2015 at 9PM with Golden Globes coverage.

“Not only was Joan a trailblazer, she was also a dear friend and mentor to Kathy, who will no doubt continue her legacy and do the series justice by bringing her own unique comedic style and tell-it-like-it-is personality to the host chair,” said Jeff Olde, Executive Vice President, Programming and Development, E!

"Plus, the addition of trendsetting stylist Brad completes the panel as the show begins its next chapter, which will focus on covering the major award shows and fashion events throughout the year.” 

Brad Goreski

Executive Producer Melissa Rivers added, “Kathy just feels right, and Brad brings a fun, new voice to join Giuliana and Kelly in this ensemble. I’m excited to see where this panel takes this series my mother so adored in this next incarnation.”

For her part, Griffin said, "I get it! These are some big shoes I'm going to fill. Joan was truly one of a kind.  Now I hope you will accept me for me.  I'm just Kathy. 

Two-time Emmy and Grammy award-winning comedian Kathy Griffin is a towering figure on television, on tour, and in publishing. She breaks through the entertainment clutter with her universally recognized brand of pull-no-punches comedy.  This year, Kathy made history with her 6th consecutive Grammy nomination and first win for Best Comedy Album (Kathy Griffin: Calm DownGurrl), as one of only three female comedians to ever win Grammy awards for Best Comedy Album. 

Brad Goreski is a fashion stylist and lifestyle expert. He is the former star of Bravo’s It’s a Brad, Brad World and currently serves as the Brand Stylist for Kate Spade New York for which he has styled a number of print and digital campaigns, as well as numerous fashion presentations at New York Fashion Week.  His celebrity clients have included Jessica Alba, Demi Moore, Christina Ricci and Rashida Jones. 

E! Channel airs on Channel 57 for Sky Cable and Destiny Digital, Channel 25 for Cignal and Channel 33 on Cable Link.

PH bloggers form group, PBNet inducts 1st set of officers

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A group of Filipino Bloggers is setting up a formal organization with the induction of its officers and members on December 18.

Philippine Bloggers Network or PBNet (http://bloggers.net.ph/), is formed by a group of 15 online publishers, bloggers from travel, tech, lifestyle, business, entertainment, food and more. The PBNet aims to professionalize the blogging industry by conducting seminars and fora that are designed to help bloggers in taking online publishing to professional levels. 

Louis Casambre, Department of Science and Technology undersecretary and executive director of Information and Communications Technology Office (DOST-ICTO), inducted the officers and members of PBNet.

Louis Casambre, Department of Science and Technology undersecretary and executive director of Information and Communications Technology Office (DOST-ICTO)

“2015 will be very special. It will be the first year of Philippine free wi-fi and hopefully TV whitespace, which have the power to bring what all of us have been enjoying for so long. With these two, next year is our chance to fix the digital divide in our country and provide Internet in unserved areas. We should all rally behind it for next yaer to make it work,” Casambre said in his keynote address as PBNet looks for a brighter year ahead.

Raffy Pedrajita, PBNet President

In his message during the officers’ induction, Pedrajita said, “As PBNet aims to develop and enhance the skills toward responsible blogging of its members, the organization will be gearing up to spearhead in educating Filipino bloggers on ideal manners and proper ethics in delivering digital publication.

“Being at the forefront of providing significant and credible information, PBNet will become the premier bloggers’ organization in the country,” Pedrajita said.

The induction of PBnet officers and members is also the group's Christmas Party held at the Sagabay Office, Liberty Center, Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong City.

Azrael Coladila, PBNet Director

Hosted by Azrael Coladilla,  open the event with a prayer and Marlon Magtira share the history of Philippine Bloggers Network through his opening remark.

Marlon Magtira, PBNet Director

PBnet 1st General Membership meeting last May 17, vOffice, Bonifacio Global City.

PBNet members have been forging activities since 2013. This year, during its first general membership meeting last May 17 held at its Official Headquarters at vOffice, Bonifacio Global City, the following were elected as officers:

Raffy Pedrajita (http://digitalspidey.com/), president;
Ian Irving Bacungan (http://theroguewriter.net/), vice president internal;
Ron Villagonzalo (http://wahpinas.com/), vice president external;
Rafael Pekson II (http://miniphilippines.cm/), secretary;
Arabelle Jimenez (http://arabellejimenez.com/), treasurer;
Marlon Magtira (http://techTV.ph/) and

Azrael Coladilla (http://azraelcoladilla.com/), directors.

Other members of the group include:
Enzo Luna (http://juanmanilaexpress.com)
GianCarlo Viterbo (http://gadgetpilipinas.net/)
Eli Villagonzalo (http://elifestylemanila.com)
Ted Claudio (http://wazzup.ph)
Irene Enriquez (http://girlygeek.ph)
Mary Anne Barbieto (http://buhaykuneho.net)
Edel Santiago (thekitchengoddess.blogspot.com)
and Myrna Roman (http://myrnaroman.com) and also known as Enjoying Wonderful World.

With their own respective niche followers as online publishers, PBNet members cover travel, food, lifestyle, technology, business, and entertainment industries.

Pedrajita, Magtira and Bacungan promote blogging insights in Bloggers’ Hour radio program every Friday, 11:00AM-12:00NN at DWDD 1134lHz Katropa Radio with live streaming over http://dwdd.com.ph/ .

Villagonzalo, Pekson, and Enriquez are advocating freelance and work at home employment and etreprenuership through a series of seminars.

ALL DOLLED UP

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As the competition progressed with only seven girls remaining, Diva’s SupermodelMe: Sirens heats up the weekly challenge with this coming episode's topsy-turvy task. 

The Philippine representative, 21-year-old Jasmine Ng, found herself tumbling head-over-heels at Kuala Lumpur’s newest and largest trampoline park. Jasmine and the rest of the girls learn the basic techniques of jumping off trampolines in an effort to channel their inner gymnasts. 

During the photo challenge, the aspiring models were turned into eye-catching window display mannequins behind a glass shop fronting a busy street. They were challenged to keep their body in control and maintain their balance as a living mannequin. 

Guest judge and Philippine celebrity Ruffa Gutierrez graces the judging panel this round for choosing those who are worthy to stay in the competition. Who goes home and who stays? Find out in yet another fashionably fun episode. 

Supermodel Me Season 5, episode 6 will air on December 29, Monday at 8PM. See it first and exclusive on Diva Universal. 

Diva airs on Channel 37 for Sky Cable, Channel 40 for Destiny Digital, Channel 110 for Cignal and Channel 32 on Cable Link. #supermodelme and #DIVAasia are the official hashtags of SupermodelMe: Sirens.

About Universal Networks International

Universal Networks International, the international channels division of NBCUniversal, is one of the world’s premier entertainment portfolios, delivering quality content and compelling brands to over 176 territories across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia Pacific. The brands in the portfolio include Universal Channel, Syfy, 13th Street, Studio Universal, E! Entertainment Television, The Style Network, DIVA, Telemundo and Golf Channel. These unique brands deliver a full range of entertainment experiences to local audiences across the globe. 

Universal Networks International also operates Movies 24. Further, NBCUniversal News Group, one of the most influential and respected portfolios of on-air and digital news properties in the world, operate CNBC and NBC News internationally.

Universal Networks International is a division of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks, and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.

McDonald’s Ph Launches First Multiple Card Payment Facility

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McDonald’s enables a more convenient way to pay for dine-in, take-out, and drive-thru transactions. Customers can now use their credit and reloadable cash cards to purchase McDonald’s products.

“We never stop working towards an easier and more convenient way fo r customers to order and enjoy their McDonald’s favorites. We first changed the game with online and 24 hour McDelivery then came our McDo PH App, making our products available anytime, anywhere with the same goal in mind, we’re introducing contactless payment,” said Kenneth Yang, McDonald’s Philippines President and CEO.

“The technology is another first in the local quick service restaurant industry, as it uses a single terminal to accept cards from different issuers. Through this, we have also formed partnerships with trusted brands to offer only the best service to our customers.” 

This payment facility aims for better customer experience by reducing payment service time in a safe and more convenient way. The improved efficiency in store operations also reflects the company’s continuing innovation and commitment to fast service.

Close to 30 McDonald’s restaurants in Metro Manila are now equipped with a terminal to accept contactless card payments from Mastercard PayPass, VISA Paywave, e-Plus Tap To Pay Card, and Sweep Card.

This allows customers to do card transactions without having to enter a PIN or sign a receipt through the radio frequency identification (RFID) technology that ensure secure payments.

In 2015, more restaurants both in Metro Manila and provincial areas will be equipped with this technology. Customers can also look forward to contactless payment in Drive-Thru counters and McDelivery.

You can try paying for your McDo goodies using your card now!

Share it on McDonald’s official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/McDo.ph or tag @McDo_PH on Twitter or Instagram.

2014 Metro Manila Film Festival Winners

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“Bonifacio ang Unang Pangulo” is the best picture for Metro Manila Film Festival 2014 awards night held this Saturday, December 27 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.

Derek Ramsay and Jennylyn Mercado were awarded best actor and best actress for their performance in the romantic-comedy film "English Only Please."

The 40th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) organizers announced the full list of winners and awardees for the 2014 film competition in the awards night which was hosted by comedian-host Edu Manzano and 'Feng Shui 2' star Kris Aquino. Father Larry Faraon opened the 40th MMFF awards night ceremony with a prayer.

Eight (8) official entries have competed for the 2014 MMFF major award categories such as best picture, best actor, best actress and best director.

Entries to MMFF 2014 include Kubot: The Aswang Chronicles, Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo, Muslim Magnum .357, Praybeyt Benjamin 2, Feng Shui 2, My Big Bossing's Adventures, Shake, Rattle & Roll XV, and English Only, Please.

Here is the list of winners at the 40th Metro Manila Film Festival:

Best Actress: Jennylyn Mercado for "English Only Please"

Best Actor: Derek Ramsay for “English Only Please”

Best Picture: “Bonifacio ang Unang Pangulo”

2nd Best Picture: “English Only Please”

3rd Best Picture: “Kubot: The Aswang Chronicles 2”

Best Supporting Actress: Lotlot de Leon for “Kubot: Aswang Chronicles 2”

Best Supporting Actor: Joey Marquez for “Kubot: Aswang Chronicles 2”

Best Child Performer: Ryzza Mae Dizon for “My Big Bossing's Adventures”

Best Director: Dan Villegas for “English Only Please”

Best Screenplay: “English Only Please”

Best Original Story: “English Only Please”

Best Cinematography: Carlo Mendoza for “Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo”

Best Editing: Marya Ignacio for “English Only, Please”

Best Production Design: Ericson Navarro for “Kubot: The Aswang Chronicles 2”

Best Visual Effects: “Kubot: The Aswang Chronicles 2”

Best Makeup: “Kubot: The Aswang Chronicles 2”

Best Original Theme Song: Von de Guzman for “Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo”

Best Musical Score: Von de Guzman “Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo”

Best Festival Sound Engineer: “Bonifacio Ang Unang Pangulo”

Best Float: “Bonifacio Ang Unang Pangulo”

New Wave:

New Wave Best Picture: “Magkakabaung”

New Wave Special Jury Prize: “M: Mother's Maiden Name”

New Wave Best Actor: Allen Dizon “Magkakabaung”

New Wave Best Actress: Zsa Zsa Padilla for “M: Mother's Maiden Name”

New Wave Best Director: Jason Paul Laxamana “Magkakabaung”

New Wave Best Supporting Actor: Kristoffer King for “Maratabat”

New Wave Best Supporting Actress: Gloria Sevilla “M: Mother's Maiden Name”

New Wave Short Film Special Jury Prize: “Kalaw” by Asia Pacific Institute

Special Awards:

Commemorative Award: Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito-Estrada

Gatpuno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award: “Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo”

FPJ Memorial Award for Film Excellence: “Bonifacio Ang Unang Pangulo”

Youth Choice Award: “Bonifacio Ang Unang Pangulo”

Female Face of the Night: Nadine Lustre

This year's MMFF also includes 5 full-length entries under New Wave category. Official entries which were launched last November at Resorts World Manila are Ato Bautista's Gemini; Zig Dulay's M. (Mother's Maiden Name); Jason Paul Laxamana's Magkakabaung (The Coffin Maker); Arlyn Dela Cruz's Maratabat (Pride and Honor), and Diane Ventura's Mulat (Awaken). Independent films were screened from December 16 to 24, 2014 at SM Megamall and Glorietta 4 cinemas.

The mainstream festival has kicked-off on Thursday, December 25, 2014 and will have ongoing nationwide screening until the first week of January 2014. During the festival, no foreign films are shown in Philippine cinemas in order to showcase locally produced films.