Mobile learning package Text2Teach celebrates 10th Anniversary

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Ayala Foundation, DILG, DepEd, ULAP, Microsoft and Globe sign commitment to bring tech innovation to all Philippine public elementary schools.

Mobile learning package Text2Teach celebrates its 10th year Thursday June 19, 2014. In line with the anniversary, Ayala Foundation, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Education (DepEd), Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) , Microsoft, and Globe Telecom have signed a commitment to mainstream Text2Teach, implementing it in all 38,000 public schools across the country. Text2Teach uses Lumia Devices installed with the Microsoft Education Delivery (MED) software application. MED harnesses mobile devices, networks, applications and cloud technology to deliver more than 300 educational video materials on grade 5 and 6 Math, Science, English, and Values Education even in remote communities. It comes with a Globe prepaid SIM and a 32-inch LED Toshiba TV that will play the videos for classroom use.

To mainstream the program, Text2Teach works closely with ULAP and the DILG in advocating and sharing the program with local government units. ULAP will hold advocacy workshops with LGUs and highlight the benefits of Text2Teach.

In addition to this, Ayala Foundation, with its aim to reach all public elementary schools in the Philippines, will conduct capability-building training sessions for all 203 local DepEd divisions, which in turn will train teachers in their respective areas to implement the Text2Teach program.

In celebration of Text2Teach's 10th anniversary, representatives from the Text2Teach Alliance sign a commitment to mainstream the project into the public elementary school system. From left: Czarina Medina-Guce, Executive Director, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines; Ana Bonagua, Director, Bureau of Local Government Development, Department of Interior and Local Government; Dina Ocampo, Undersecretary for Projects and Programs, Department of Education; Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Chairman and CEO, Ayala Corporation; Ernest Cu, President and CEO, Globe Telecom; Sanna Eskalinen, Global Lead for Social Solutions, Microsoft; and Rowena Lopez, Senior Director for Programs, Ayala Foundation.

As part of its mainstreaming efforts, Text2Teach will also have all its materials and content available for DepEd teachers, through DepEd’s Learning Resource Management and Development System (LRMDS) portal. Videos, teaching guides, and other Text2Teach materials will be made available online as supplemental guides for teachers.

Text2Teach will also receive a system upgrade using Microsoft’s new devices. Text2Teach schools will be using Lumia Devices, which run on Windows OS8.1. The MED application where the Text2Teach videos are sent and stored will be updated with a new user-friendly interface. Additional features also include the ability to comment and ask questions about the media files. Text 2Teach will also make use of the mirroring function of the Lumia Devices, with the help of a dongle connected to the television. This means that teachers no longer need to hook up the phone to the 32-inch LED Toshiba television through a cable connector. Through its mirroring function, teachers can wirelessly connect their phones to the television and play the Text2Teach videos.

Text2Teach is the Philippine name of the global program BridgeIT conceptualized by Nokia, Pearson, the International Youth Foundation, and the United Nations Development Programme. The Philippines has the longest-running Bridge IT program from among 12 countries in the world. Last year it was hailed by Nominet Trust, a UK funder for tech projects, as one of the 100 most inspiring social tech innovations. It was also identified as one of the ten “Exemplary Information Communications Technology Innovations for Education” at the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Forum on ICT in Education held at Shenzhen, China last 2013. This year, Text2Teach received a Merit Award for Best Community Program at the 6th Annual Global CSR Summit and Awards in Bali, Indonesia.

The use of Text2Teach has shown improvement in student’s performance and National Achievement Test scores. It has fostered positive attitudes towards learning and the use of technology for teaching. The program’s impact can be seen in disadvantaged schools, thus helping bridge the social gap. To date, Text2Teach has served over 300, 000 students from 1,103 schools nationwide, covering a total of 78 cities and municipalities.

The mainstreaming of Text2Teach marks the fifth phase of the program, led by the partnership among DepEd, DILG, Microsoft, Globe, ULAP and the Ayala Foundation. The success of Text2Teach is also credited to Toshiba and Pearson Foundation who have supported the program in its earlier phases. Text2Teach also thanks the teachers, students, and volunteers who continue to believe in the program.

Be a part of Text2Teach! The program is open to groups and organizations who wish to become a partner in mainstreaming the program.

For more information on Text2Teach visit http://www.text2teach.org.ph/

or email info@ayalafoundation.org

About AYALA FOUNDATION

Ayala Foundation Inc. (AFI) envisions communities where people are productive, creative, self-reliant, and proud to be Filipino. As a believer in creating shared value and inclusive business, it has four key program areas— Education, Youth Leadership, Sustainable Livelihood, and Arts and Culture. AFI is a member of the Ayala group of companies.

Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ayalafoundation 

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ayalafoundation

The 8th MegaBrands Sale comes back at the Megatrade Halls

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Experience shopping like never before! Shop at the 8th MegaBrands Sale happening on June 27 to 29, 2014 at the Megatrade hall 2 & 3, 5th Level, Mega B, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City from 10:00am to 9:00pm.

MegaBrands Sale is considered as one of the most anticipated events where shoppers buy their favorite brands at reduced prices, and as an effective venue for exposure and promotion for great and upcoming brands in the market.

Once again, MCT Events Management will stage the 8th MegaBrands Sale on June 27-29, 2014 from 10am to 9pm at the Megatrade Hall 2 & 3, 5th Level, Mega B, SM Megamall with its bank partner, RCBC Bankard. Soft Selling starts on June 26, 2pm-8pm, to catch the first wave of sale items.

This 3-day Mid Year / Back to School Sale will showcase more than 120 leading brands, both domestic and international. Price cuts are up to 70% discount from shoes, bags, men’s and ladies’ fashion, sporting goods and accessories, personal care, gadgets, computer parts and accessories.

Some of the participating brands are Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Rockport, Levi’s, Roos, RRJ, Petrol, Philips, Rudy Project, Ray Ban, Coleman, Hawk Bag, CMG, Figlia, Sebago, and many others will surely delight the shoppers with their offerings and promos.

RCBC Bankard cardholders are also in for a treat! You can enjoy 0% interest for up to twelve (12) months on your purchases at the 8th MegaBrands Sale. 

Groupon Philippines will also offer exciting promos and give-aways to every shopper who will visit their booth during the 3-days event.

Admission is Free and all major credit cards are accepted.

For more details about the event, please call 239-3807/ 502-1546/ 399-2935 or email mctevents@gmail.com.

You may also follow us through Facebook Fanpage: www.facebook.com/MCT-Events-Management or in twitter: @mcteventsmngmnt for more updates on this event.

True beachfront condo living at NAUTILUS, perfect resort lifestyle

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Nautilus Building (artist’s rendering).  Nautilus is the first condo building of Playa Calatagan Residences, located in the prime beachfront property in Playa Calatagan Estate, just 80 meters away from the beach.

Just 80 meters away from Nautilus is Calatagan's pristine white sand beach. A seaside home, opening up to the invigorating dawns and the tranquil, nostalgic sunsets that form an everyday spectacle at the West Philippine Sea; a tropical existence close to the beauty and rhythms of nature—such a vision of the perfect resort lifestyle is now within our reach thanks to Nautilus in Playa Calatagan Residences, Batangas.

Nautilus residents have easy access to the world-class Aquaria Water Park. Aquaria Water Park offers summer fun and leisure all-year-round with its cabanas, swimming pools, pool bar, and 3-storey giant slide.  

Trailblazing concept and premier leisure amenities

According to Alfred Xerez-Burgos III, President and CEO of Landco Pacific Corporation, Nautilus is a unique concept to the property market. “It’s a trailblazing concept because it’s the only true beachfront condominium in Batangas. The beach is just 80 meters away from the building. Nautilus is a low-density condominium—with only 95 units—that offers a truly privileged lifestyle in a tropical beach paradise.

Nautilus is the premier residential beachfront condo for the privilege few. Nautilus perfectly blends convenience, comfort and seaside living in the master planned community of Playa Calatagan: 525 meters of fine white sand beach; the best seaside view; and Aquaria, a water park that offers refreshing pools, cabanas, a three-storey water slide, a pool bar and a beachfront dining outlet that offers delicious local cuisine. A home in Nautilus combines exclusivity, comfort, relaxation, fun, and excitement altogether.

Colors of light clay, shale, sandstone, and beach sand create a relaxing palette of hues for your Nautilus kitchen. Decorative plants, earthenware plates and cups, and sea green glass bottles blend both functionality and aesthetic design. The warm wood paneling plus the metal fixtures create a refreshing contrast. (Photo of Nautilus Model Unit).

Stress-free seaside living

Nautilus is a blend of the condominium and tropical beach lifestyle where residents enjoy the conveniences of seaside living. Condo living is definitely a stress-free alternative to building a house from scratch. It is also hassle-and-maintenance-free because the management takes care of maintaining the quality and security of the building.

“Since Nautilus is located in the most prime beachfront of Playa Calatagan, residents will never feel boxed in: all they have to do is step out of their building to enjoy fresh ocean breezes, beautiful sunsets, and leisurely strolls at the beach. Taking a swim whenever they choose, of course, is part of the perks,” said Alfred Xerez-Burgos III. Nautilus residents are assured of their privacy, safety, and security. The property is secured 24/7 by biometrics technology.

Take the seashore’s serenity back to bed for better relaxation. Use beige and sandy shades for your bed and linens and paint the room a soft aqua blue. Add a few beach-themed accents like seashells, decorative cacti, and books you’d like to curl up in bed with. This design goes well with your Nautilus bedroom. (Photo of Nautilus Model Unit).

Convenience and proximity

Nautilus is only a two-and-a-half hour drive away from Metro Manila. Residents don’t need to fly or take a boat trip to spend a weekend in a seaside tourist destination. Just hop into a car and, in less than three hours, they can have all the fun in the sun. Those looking for some quiet time can enjoy a romantic or meditative escape at Calatagan's white sand beach.

The warmth of wood paneling is contrasted with light colored walls and the gleam of metal fixtures. Adding some greenery via a houseplant matched with earthenware plates and cups turns your Nautilus kitchen into a place for sharing delicious meals, conversation, and memories. (Photo of Nautilus Model Unit)

Blending modern design with nature's tropical paradise

With its Asian Tropical design, Nautilus is a perfect fit for those who long for their very own seaside haven. Residents have a choice between a unit with a view of the beach or a view of the Aquaria water park.

Go for a cozier living room set-up to match your view of the beach out your terrace. Sandy shades of paint or wallpaper, wicker chairs and footrests, and a comfy couch with throw pillows all come together in a blend elements that spell modern tropical hideaway.  (Photo of Nautilus Model Unit).

The Nautilus model units may be viewed at The Lifestyle Center located in Tribeca Private Residences, Sucat, Muntinlupa. Nautilus is the first of four condominium buildings set to rise at Playa Calatagan Residences in Calatagan, Batangas. For more information, please call Landco Pacific Corp., at (02) 836-5000.

Playa Calatagan is a development of Landco Pacific Corporation. The developer of high-end leisure communities, resort-inspired condominiums and luxury home communities. For more than 20 years, the company has made its mark in Philippine real estate, and is widely acknowledged as one of the leading leisure developers.

As the purveyor of resort living experiences, Landco is committed to consistently create innovative and outstanding lifestyle products that revolutionize the way you live...Life at your leisure.

The International Museum Day on June 27, 2014

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The ICOM International Museums Day Celebration (IMD), ICOM-PH and Habitat for Humanity Philippines imvites you to an event entitled “IMD2014 Forum” echoing he ICOM theme, “Museum Collections make Connections” to be held on Friday, the 27th of June 2014 in Manila, Philippines.

The International Museum Day of the International Council of Museums-Philippines (ICOM-Philippines), is an international organization of museums and museum professionals committed to the conservation, continuation and communication to society of the world’s natural and cultural heritage, present and future, tangible and intangible. ICOM has a unique professional network of institutions and museum professionals worldwide collaborating and participating in discussions and reflections concerning museum development.

The International Museum Day is in partnership with the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, Habitat for Humanity Philippines, University of the Philippines – Diliman, International Federation of Social Science Organizations, Philippine Association of Museums Inc, International Movement for Development Managers, Hiniraya Cultural Heritage and Development Foundation, GULF AIR, and other institutional partners.

The Philippine TOYCON 2014

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The Philippine TOYCON 2014 starts today June 20 and will be on June 21 - 22, 2014 at the SM Megatrade Halls 1, 2 and 3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

Buy your tickets in advance via SM Tickets. 

visit: https://www.smtickets.com/event/details?event_id=2485 or buy tickets at the event gate (June 20-22)

For more information on schedule of activities and event details please visit:

www.toyconph.com

www.facebook.com/toyconph

This is co-presented by Collectibles Unlimited and the SM Megatrade Halls, and sponsored by Maxi Collector, Toy Kingdom, Toy Empire, Warner Brothers Pictures and Pacific Licensing. With special thanks to Big Boys Toy Store, Great Toys, Arigatoys, Authority Hoodie, Transfer It, Otaku Asia, War Gaming, Uplink, Level-Up, Cubizone, Canon, Level-Up, Cherry Credits, CIIT, Loctite, Walt Disney Studios, gaming Library and Resorts World Manila. With media partners, ABS-CBN, Flip Geeks, Reimaru Files, WheninManila.com, Chalk Magazine, UNO Magazine, Manila Bulletin, Inquirer.net and 99.5 PLAY FM. Also supported by Anime Alliance and World Cosplay Summit.

The Philippine Toys, Hobbies and Collectibles Convention, or TOYCON as it’s more widely-known, is Asia’s biggest and longest running convention for collectibles, toys, anime, comics, cosplay, gaming and anything and everything related to hobbies and collections. The convention has been ongoing since 2002 so it is now on its 13th year of thrilling fans and aficionados alike. It is, simply put, the biggest pop culture event in the country. 

This year’s TOYCON will highlight the 75th Anniversary of DC Comics’ caped Crusader, Batman with a huge Batman display area, a life size Batpod, a kids’ activity area, exciting new Batman merchandise, and a gallery of art and collectibles of the Dark Knight Detective. 

Also catch the Samurai X fever as Warner Brothers previews the Rurouni Kenshin live-action film trilogy Parts II and III with a display of original costumes from the sensational Japanese hit movie. 

Get ready to be blown into space with Marvel’s latest epic movie, The Guardians of the Galaxy, with awesome displays, sneak peeks at the movie’s trailers and behind-the-scenes, special fan activities, and the Marvel roster of superstar artists like Leinil Yu, Carlo Pagulayan, Stephen Segovia, Roy Allan Martinez and Kim Jacinto. 

The TOYCON also gives you the biggest gathering of toy collections with the following prominent toy exhibits – The G.I. Joe 50th Anniversary exhibit, Philippine Lego Users Group exhibit, the Coca-Cola Collectibles exhibit, One Sixth Republic and Pinoy Sixth Scale collectors exhibit and the awesome Toycon Gallery exhibit area which showcases the best of the local toy group community.

Fans of a galaxy far, far away unite with the 10th Anniversary of the Star Wars 501st Philippine Outpost. Enjoy a parade of your favorite Star Wars characters, Stormtroopers, Jedi Knights and droids and, of course, the Dark Lord of the Sith himself, Darth Vader as they invade the Philippine ToyCon stage. 

The TOYCON also features the biggest in Cosplay with the Philippine Finals of the World Cosplay Summit happening at the event and TOYCON’s own Cosplay Universe unleashes a barrage of individual and group cosplayers led by Asia’s Cosplay queen, Alodia Gosiengfiao. 

Gaming takes center stage also at the TOYCON with the biggest game companies, like Level-Up, War Gaming, Cherry Credits and Uplink releasing the latest versions of their top games. 

TOYCON would not be complete without the biggest exhibitor floor of all pop culture merchandise in terms of apparel, collectibles and memorabilia, graphic novels and comics, cosplay paraphernalia, and toys, toys, TOYS!