ABRA's self-titled debut album released

Tweet

“Mambulabog ng mga isip, to inspire, and to change the world one step at a time.”

Raymond Abracosa a.k.a ABRA, finally releases his first solo album under Artifice Records and Ivory Music & Video.

Dubbed the “Makatang Hibang” by his fans, Abra’s exceptional lyricism, extensive vocabulary, ingenious literary technique, speed and lucidity of delivery, and fiery stage presence made him a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

His 4 nominations at the 2014 MYX Music Awards including Favorite Male Artist, Favorite Music Video, Favorite Urban Video and Favorite MYX Celebrity VJ would be a clear verification.

The “Gayuma” star is nothing but ecstatic with what’s happening with his career, most specially that the fruit of his hardwork is finally out, “Hindi kapani-paniwala [yung feeling]. Overjoyed, overwhelmed, and overflowing with excitement,” he says, adding “Kulit nga e, pagkahaba-haba na ng biyahe pero parang simula pa lang din. Maraming salamat ulit sa lahat ng tumulong, sumuporta, gumabay at nagduda.”

After months of waiting and anticipation, the album was released and features 14 tracks including star-studded collaborations with Chito Miranda of Parokya Ni Edgar, Arci Munoz of Philia, KZ Tandingan, Loonie, Ron Henley and LDP. 

“Magic. Isang malaking karangalan na makasama ang mga idol ko sa aking album,” he shares, adding “Isinasalaysay at inilalarawan ng album na ito yung mga nakikita, nararamdaman at naiisip ko.” 

Abra opted magic-related single titles but each with a theme of its own. “Yung ‘Gayuma’ [ay] pseudo-love song, yung ‘Ilusyon’ [ay] sociopolitical, yung ‘Bolang Kristal’ [ay] kakaibang kwento tungkol sa tatlong pinakakinaaadikan ng tao, yung ‘Diwata’ naman [ay]  tunay na love song, tapos yung ‘Cerberus’ [ay] epitome ng Pinoy rap yung datingan,” he narrates. “Kasama rin sa album yung Alab ng Puso, OST ng primetime teleseryeng Juan dela Cruz, Isang Jeep (Radio Version) at saka 3 LDP tracks. Meron pang booklet with artwork + lyrics + photos + Artifice ID. Sulit ang P280.”

From his heart to yours, Abra says “Maraming, maraming salamat sa walang sawa at ‘hibang’ klaseng suporta. Sana magustuhan niyo itong kauna-unahang magnum opus ko. Say p*kyu to piracy.”

His promise to CD buyers? “Kung wala kang nagustuhang kanta sa album, malamang hater ka lang. Promise.”

TRACKLISTING:

01.  PANIMULA                                                                          

02.  GAYUMA (feat. Thyro & Jeriko Aguilar)                                         

03.  BOLANG KRISTAL (feat. KZ Tandingan)                     

04.  PATALASTAS                                                                       

05.  ILUSYON / NOYSULI (feat. Arci Munoz of Philia)                                   

06.  DIWATA (feat. Chito Miranda of Parokya ni Edgar)                          

07.  PROPESIYA                                                                          

08.  CERBERUS (feat. Loonie & Ron Henley of Stickfiggas)                

09. PANGWAKAS (feat. Josef Amarra of Beatbox Philippines)

Bonus Tracks:

10.  ISANG JEEP

11.  ALAB NG PUSO (OST for “Juan dela Cruz”)

12.  WHEN THE BEAT DROPS - Lyrically Deranged Poets     

13.  PSYCHOPATHS ON THE LOOSE (2009) - Lyrically Deranged Poets

14.  HERE TO OWN IT 2 (feat. Quest) - Lyrically Deranged Poets

Abra’s debut album is now available in major record stores for only P280.00. Also available on iTunes at http://smarturl.it/AbraAlbum.

Be updated with your favorite local and international artists! Visit Ivory Music & Video’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ivorymusicandvideophilippines.

Binibinis rock the big dome with annual Fashion Show

Tweet

Much anticipation is in the air, as 40 of the loveliest women from all over the country gear up for the Binibining Pilipinas 2014 Fashion Show at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on March 6, 7 PM.

All eyes are set on who will follow the fabulous footsteps of Shamcey’s Tsunami Walk, Janine’s Cobra Walk, Ariella’s Ariba Walk and Johanna’s Salagubang walk, and sashay their way into representing the Philippines in the world’s most prestigious beauty pageants.

It’s a fashion extravaganza like no other, with a display of elegance and grace from the 40 Binibining Pilipinas 2014 candidates donning cultural dresses in the National Costume competition. Then the girls will show off their fierce walk and strut down the Big Dome’s catwalk clad in sexy JAG jeans and accessories from the Binibini collection.

The Fashion Show is only one of the many exciting activities on the lead up to the Binibining Pilipinas Grand Coronation Night on March 30. The ladies will be launching their Swimsuit Photo Exhibit at the Gateway Cinema Lobby on March 15 and will be holding the much-awaited Parade of Beauties around the Araneta Center on March 22.

The 40 candidates will also take part in various charitable missions and outreach programs under Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc and its partners.

The Binibining Pilipinas 2014 fashion show opens its doors to the public, and pageant aficionados can fan girl over their favored bets and purchase tickets, priced Php 110 for Patron A, Php 90 for Patron B, and Php 60 for Box. To purchase tickets, visit Ticketnet Online www.ticketnet.com.ph or call 911-5555 for inquiries.

The Binibining Pilipinas 2014 pageant is presented by the Araneta Center, ABS-CBN, PLDT Home, Jag Jeans, Avon, Megaworld Properties, Manhattan Garden City, Titan Watches, Pizza Hut, Sofitel Hotel, David’s Salon, J.A.C Motors, Picture City, Gold’s Gym, Dale Carnegie Training, Charter Ping An, Entrepreneur School of Asia and Raymond Saldana Photography.

Max's Restaurant to Share World-Class Experience at Bruno Mars Concert Live in Manila

Tweet

Bruno Mars returns to the Philippines for the Moonshine Jungle Tour 2014 and slated to take the stage on March 22, 2014, 8:00 pm at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, the "Nothin' On You" half-Filipino vocalist is expected to draw in thousands of Filipino "brunofanatics" and concert enthusiasts.

Global Filipino brand Max's Restaurant boosts its support for international recording artist and two-time Grammy awardee, Bruno Mars by announcing that it is the official restaurant of The Moonshine Jungle Tour: Bruno Mars Live in Manila concert.

Mars' much-awaited stop in Manila is part of his ongoing world tour to promote his second studio album, "Unorthodox Jukebox." Part of the proceeds from his concert will be donated to helping Yolanda victims.

Bruno Mars, born as Peter Gene Hernandez, grew up in a musical family. His father, Peter Hernandez, was a Latin percussionist while his Filipino mother, Bernadette "Bernie" San Pedro Baluyot, was a singer in Hawaii. Mars wrote and performed music at a very young age and was exposed to a diverse mix of reggae, rock, hip hop and R&B music. He had his share of hurdles early on in his career, but his persistence to succeed and remarkable gift in music helped catapult him to worldwide fame. It was only a matter of time before he captured the world's attention after helping popularize hits like "Nothin on You" by B.o.B, and "Billionaire" by Travie McCoy.

"Max's, a global Filipino brand, believes in showcasing the exceptional talent of Filipinos. We are very proud to support a multi-awarded international artist like Bruno Mars. As the official restaurant of his Moonshine Jungle concert in Manila, we share Bruno Mars' love for great music and world-class food. It is an experience that we would love to share with every Filipino," shared Bobby Simborio, Corporate PR and Media Manager for Max's Group of Companies.

Bruno Mars is one of the most respected and in-demand artists today. He has sold over 115 million records all over the world as a singer, producer and songwriter. A recipient of a number of prestigious awards, Mars has also catalogued 22 Billboard "Hot 100" hits. He was named as one of the top 100 most influential people in the world by Time Magazine in 2011, and was ranked number 1 on the Forbes 30 under 30 list in 2014. 

Watch Bruno Mars live on March 22, courtesy of Max's Restaurant.

Just 'like' Max's on Facebook and fill up the online entry form to win free concert tickets. Every day, one fan will be chosen to win 2 Moonshine Jungle tickets for free! For more updates, visit Max's Restaurant's Facebook fan page or log on to www.maxschicken.com.

About Max’s Restaurant

Max’s, one of the country’s leading fast-casual dining restaurant traces its roots to a family’s generosity and passion for good food. Max’s, “the house that chicken built,” continues to innovate and expand worldwide with plans to open branches outside the United States. Today, Max’s Restaurant has established itself as a household name, an institution, and a proud Filipino tradition, zealously upholding the values passed on from its early beginnings in 1945 to the present –day generation of food aficionados.

Tourism Malaysia launches ‘Tara Na Sa Malaysia’ travel brochure

Tweet

“Tara Na Sa Malaysia” holiday packages brochure truly befits its campaign which also hopes to entice Filipinos to visit other key cities in Malaysia other than Kuala Lumpur.

Recently special event held, Tourism Malaysia launched its campaign with the introduction of the “Tara Na Sa Malaysia” Holiday Packages Brochure on February 14, 2014 at the 2014 PTAA Travel Tour Expo.

Tourism Malaysia has certainly beefed up its promotional efforts through the launch of the “Tara Na Sa Malaysia” holiday packages brochure wherein setting its sights on enjoying a big chunk of the tourism industry this year.

Having dubbed 2014 as “Visit Malaysia Year,” it hopes to attract more visitors to this bustling, energy-filled melting pot of cultures that is filled with wondrous events, amazing festivals and exciting activities all-year round.

Carrying the theme “Celebrating Malaysia Truly Asia,” Tourism Malaysia’s efforts for the year are positioned to make the country a premier Southeast Asian destination for both leisure and business travelers.

The brochure features special Malaysia tour packages that have been put together with valued local travel agents from the Philippines.

(From left) Tourism Malaysia-Manila deputy director Trecey Tojuka, MATRADE Manila trade counselor Har Man Ahmad, Malaysian Ambassador Mohd Zamri Mohd Kassim, Tourism Malaysia-Manila acting director Mohd Akbal Setia, and Malaysia Airlines area manager (Philippines) Flora Loh unveil the ‘Tara Na Sa Malaysia’ travel brochure at the recently concluded 2014 PTAA Travel Tour Expo at the SMX Mall of Asia.

The “Tara Na Sa Malaysia” holiday packages brochure offers a range of unique packages that highlight the following destinations for the travel period of March to December 2014:

Photo credit to Travelight group 

• Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s capital city is a bustling metropolis with unique landmarks that are instantly recognizable worldwide. Iconic skyscrapers grace the city’s skyline, co-existing with remnants of history. KL is also a melting pot of races and cultures brimming with diverse entertainment options, exciting attractions and a comprehensive transportation system.

• Putrajaya: Known as Malaysia’s administrative capital, it is also nicknamed as the country’s “Intelligent Garden City.” Possessing a refreshingly different urban landscape, the city is a clever combination of nature and state-of-the-art infrastructure.

• Malacca: The birthplace of the nation’s historical and cultural heritage, Malacca has a long and illustrious past. Its remnants are well preserved and can still be seen today, earning it the prestigious title of UNESCO World Heritage City in 2008.

• Johor: Situated at the southernmost part of peninsular Malaysia, it is the country’s southern gateway. The state is blessed with a diversity of natural attractions, including verdant rainforests, cascading waterfalls, thriving wetlands, and beautiful tropical islands off its coasts.

• Penang: One of the world’s top holiday destinations, Penang is a delightful fusion of nature, culture and history. Home to a UNESCO World Heritage City and one of the world’s longest bridges, Penang leaves an indelible mark on each visitor, leaving them wanting more with each visit.

• Sabah: Also known as the “Land Below The Wind,” Sabah is made up of enchanting tropical islands, lush virgin rainforests, and over 30 different ethnic communities. It is most well known for its icon, Mt. Kinabalu, while its island of Sipadan is internationally recognized as one of the world’s best diving destinations.

• Lankawi: This city is part of an archipelago made up of 99 islands and is one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations. It boasts some of the region’s best natural attractions, earning it a UNESCO Global Geopark status in 2007. 

It also puts into focus the wide range of activities available to visitors in Malaysia: theme park visits, shopping, nightlife, gastronomic adventures, honeymoon and romantic getaways, golfing, beach, cultural immersions, and many others.

For more information, visit www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my or like Tara Na Sa Malaysia on Facebook.

Malaysia Airlines, Philippine Airlines, PAL Express, Cebu Pacific and Air Asia Zest fly direct from Manila to Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu. 

For flight schedules, refer to the following links:

www.malaysiaairlines.com,

www.philippineairlines.com, 

www.palexpress.com, 

www.cebupacificair.com

www.airasiazest.com.

Witness kilig-talk with KakaoTalk from the KathNiel love team!

Tweet

There's no stopping today's hottest young love team of Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla to bring more sweetness and as what we call "kilig!"

The love team, more charmingly known as “KathNiel” prove to be the most effective on-screen (or even offscreen?) partners right now, teaming up in blockbuster movies and high-rating TV series, acquiring massive fan bases across diverse audiences and reaping significant endorsements left and right. 

“KathNiel” by their beaming fans, was recently spotted hanging around online, in what’s known to be the latest free instant messenger to take the country by storm - KakaoTalk. 

In ABS-CBN 2’s kilig-serye “Got to Believe,” Chichay and Joaquin, (Kathryn and Daniel’s characters, respectively) are seen exchanging emoticons to express their warmth for each other. At 29.7% national TV ratings (as reported by Kantar Media/TNS on February 12 and 13.), “Got to Believe” downright dominates its timeslot with the right mix of a good plot, an amazing play of cast and innovative audience offerings. 

Like KathNiel, KakaoTalk is all about being fun, fresh and exciting. It is perfect for those who are in love, whether young or old. If you want to be unlimitedly reachable to your special someone, KakaoTalk assures you reliable messaging without having to spend all your allowances. Moreover, KakaoTalk has a wide range of emoticons that will surely capture anything you want to say to your special someone.

Teenagers can take advantage of KakaoTalk’s features like free messaging and calls, voice messages, adorable emoticons and photo sharing. With these features teenagers can surely be updated with their friends whenever and wherever they go. KakaoTalk is everything you need. 

Like Chichay and Joaquin’s s love for each other, it’s fun, it’s spirited, and more importantly, it’s free!

KakaoTalk is available in iOS, Android, Blackberry, Windows, Bada and PC. For more information, visit KakaoTalk’s website at http://www.kakaotalk.com.ph/